# Alameda Peeps — Full Content > Connecting neighbors since 2010 A community for people living in Alameda, California. Connecting neighbors and making a difference since 2010. --- --- title: About Alameda Peeps description: Learn about Alameda Peeps' mission, culture, and community traditions. Discover what makes our community special and how we connect neighbors across Alameda. --- ## About Alameda Peeps Alameda Peeps is **Alameda's digital town square** — a space where civic activism, humor, and community spirit blend seamlessly. Founded on **October 11, 2010**, we've grown from a small private Facebook group into a vibrant community with over **20,400 members** on Facebook and **25,800+ members** on [Alameda Reddit](https://www.reddit.com/r/alameda). While we started on Facebook, we've evolved beyond just a single platform. We work closely with our sister community, the Alameda Reddit, organizing campaigns together, supporting local causes, and connecting neighbors across different platforms. For a detailed history of our community, see our [History page](/history). ## Our Mission Alameda Peeps exists to connect neighbors, support our community, and make Alameda an even better place to live. We believe in the power of community and the importance of neighbors helping neighbors. Whether it's organizing food drives, supporting local businesses, advocating for safer streets, or simply providing a space for neighbors to connect, we're committed to strengthening the bonds that make Alameda special. Alameda Peeps embodies _"kindness with edge."_ It's a place where people can disagree, meme, mobilize, and give — all in the same hour. From Keanu Reeves sightings to Food Bank fundraisers, from LimeBike memes to civic debates — Alameda Peeps reflects the best and funniest parts of small-town life in a digital age. ## Community Traditions Over the years, Alameda Peeps has developed its own unique culture and traditions: - **#FIF – Fuck It Friday:** Weekly tradition where Peeps post memes, vent, or celebrate the weirdness of Alameda. - **#ClassicPeeps:** Used to tag posts that perfectly encapsulate the spirit of the group: funny, dramatic, uniquely local, and unmistakably Alameda. - **#Caturday & Sun Dog Day:** Saturdays filled with cat photos, and Sunday's canine equivalent — a community favorite that balances out midweek arguments. - **#WhatIsThatNoise:** The eternal Alameda mystery tag — used for unexplained sounds, lights, or events. ### Parking Shaming Few Alameda Peeps traditions were as infamous — or as effective — as parking shaming. What began as lighthearted accountability for bad parallel jobs or red-zone offenders evolved into one of the group's longest-running forms of civic comedy. Members would post photos (license plates blurred, of course) with captions ranging from "creative interpretation of a curb" to "this masterpiece brought to you by Alameda's finest." While some took offense, most Peeps embraced the humor — even admitting they'd re-park to avoid ending up "on Peeps." Over time, it became part of Alameda culture itself: a funny, self-policing reminder that small acts of courtesy still matter. _"Literally this page is about parking shaming… as a frequent member, how could you not think twice before you park in a fire lane?" — JMK, 2017_ ### Self-Promo Mondays To balance the teasing with community uplift, JMK introduced **Self-Promo Mondays** — a once-weekly thread where residents and local businesses could share their work without the usual "no ads" rule. It became a way to highlight artists, small shops, and side hustles while keeping the rest of the week ad-free and conversational. That structure — one day for self-promotion, six for community — helped preserve Peeps' balance of utility and authenticity. These two traditions together summed up the Peeps spirit: humor, accountability, and local pride — a mix of "don't be that guy" and "support your neighbors." ### The Weekly Schedule Over the years, Alameda Peeps developed a weekly rhythm that balanced community support, humor, and local engagement: - **Monday – Self-Promo Day:** Own a business, self-employed, provide a service? Let us know. You can post every Monday. - **Tuesday – Twin Peaks Tuesday:** "Cuz where is Laura Palmer?" — a playful weekly mystery. - **Wednesday – Westside Wednesday:** A day where Peeps try to visit a west end business and shed some light on Webster St and other places located on the West End. - **Thursday – TBT (Throwback Thursday):** Post old stuff about Alameda — or your pics. - **Friday – FIF (Fuck It Friday):** Mods don't moderate. Post anything you like (but nothing crass). - **Saturday – #Caturday:** Cats are by far the better between cats and dogs. (This is not up for debate.) - **Sunday – #Sundogday:** Dogs and lizards and phish and spiders and hamsters and so on... Dogs are not assholes like cats and they have no problem sharing. _Also worth noting: We're now all about the [Oakland Ballers](https://www.oaklandballers.com/) — the A's are dead to us. #FJF_ ## Philanthropy & Activism Alameda Peeps is widely recognized for neighbor‑led philanthropy and rapid community mobilization. Over the years, members have organized fundraisers, awareness campaigns, and mutual‑aid efforts that have been covered by regional media including Alameda Magazine, East Bay Times, Alameda Sun, Alameda Post, and others ([Alameda Magazine](https://www.alamedamagazine.com/alameda-peeps-are-unstoppably-generous), [Apartment Therapy](https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/alameda-california-guide-32251881)). ### Annual Turkey Drives Every year, Alameda Peeps organizes Turkey Drives to support the Alameda Food Bank. These drives have become a beloved community tradition, bringing together neighbors to help those in need during the holiday season. Annual Thanksgiving drives benefit the Alameda Food Bank, frequently raising tens of thousands of dollars to support local families ([East Bay Times](https://www.eastbaytimes.com/2016/11/15/alameda-alameda-food-bank-in-need-of-turkeys-for-thanksgiving), [Mercury News](https://www.mercurynews.com/2014/12/10/alameda-letters-thanks-for-aiding-scouts-food-drive)). Recent examples include campaign totals such as $25,885 in 2021 and ongoing multi‑week efforts in 2022 ([AFB 2021 Drive](https://alamedafoodbank.networkforgood.com/projects/143690-alameda-peeps-thanksgiving-drive-2021), [AFB 2022 Drive](https://alamedafoodbank.networkforgood.com/projects/172868-alameda-peeps-thanksgiving-drive-2022?fbclid=IwAR3ZCOwPZ0lizYeh5CuWwdaPEPWpihWScqcac74HhwkmY5PbpF14hZcuJLE)). These annual drives continue to be one of our most successful and impactful community initiatives. ### Cash Mob Efforts A Peeps creation: spontaneous shopping events to support local businesses. Alameda Peeps organizes "Cash Mob" efforts to help local businesses and causes. These initiatives encourage community members to support local businesses by shopping at specific locations on designated days. "Cash mob" efforts to surge support for local merchants and causes — first as flash‑mob style meetups, later expanding online — helped keep dollars circulating in Alameda ([East Bay Times](https://www.eastbaytimes.com/2014/08/27/alameda-cash-mobs-come-to-island-to-aid-local-merchants)). Notable examples include The Local Café (2019) supporting Coast Guard families during the federal shutdown, Hobnob Restaurant (2020) with a downtown dine-out support event, Rocket Reuse (2020) with a "distanced" pandemic-era cash mob, Café Jolie (2020) hosting the first-ever virtual cash mob, Island Savoy Market (2023) boosting a new local grocer, Kids' Science Programs (2023) raising funds for school camps, and Rooted in Alameda (2023) providing instant 24-hour Kickstarter support for historian Rasheed Shabazz. When local Coast Guard families went unpaid during the 2018–2019 federal government shutdown, Peeps organized donation drives, supply collections, and emotional support threads that received hundreds of comments. The outpouring became one of Peeps' proudest community moments. ### Blood Drives Members regularly partner with the Red Cross on blood drives, boosting supply during critical shortages ([Alameda Sun – Critical Need](https://web.archive.org/web/*/https://alamedasun.com/news/red-cross-has-critical-need-type-o-blood), [Alameda Sun – Blood Drive Set](https://web.archive.org/web/*/https://alamedasun.com/news/blood-drive-set)). ### Slow Down in Town Campaign In May 2016, after a number of pedestrian accidents, Alameda Peeps organized a "Slow Down in Town" campaign in cooperation with the City of Alameda. This safety initiative aimed to raise awareness about the importance of driving safely in residential areas. The campaign encouraged motorists to drive at safe speeds, particularly in town, to protect pedestrians and cyclists. This effort demonstrated our community's commitment to safety and collaboration with city officials. ### Northern California Wildfires Support In 2017, when the October 2017 Northern California wildfires devastated communities, Alameda Peeps stepped up to help. We rented and filled a truck with supplies for victims of the fires. This effort showcased our community's willingness to help not just our own neighbors, but also those in surrounding areas during times of crisis. ### What's Open Alameda During the COVID-19 pandemic in May 2020, Alameda Peeps members created a directory of local businesses still open and offering takeout and delivery food. This resource helped community members support local businesses during a challenging time. The City of Alameda recognized the value of this resource and took ownership and maintenance of the list, making it a public resource for the entire city. This collaboration between our community and city government helped support local businesses throughout the pandemic. ## Community Shoutouts Not every local business or cause fits the full "cash mob" treatment — sometimes all that's needed is visibility. Peeps use **Community Shoutouts** to spotlight local shops, makers, and service providers who need a boost — whether because of construction slowdowns, tough seasons, or new openings. These posts invite members to stop by, share, or simply spread the word. They often generate hundreds of comments, recommendations, and photos from neighbors supporting each other in everyday ways. From a small maritime boutique to a struggling café, these shoutouts keep Alameda's local economy personal, showing that Peeps support doesn't always have to mean a fundraiser — sometimes it's just about showing up and saying something nice. ## Group Guidelines & Culture Alameda Peeps is a place to share information about what's happening in town: community info and events, endorsements of favorite places, things to do, helpful neighborly advice and requests, lost pets, local politics, and more. While non-related Alameda articles, memes, and funny comics are sometimes posted, the focus remains on local community connection. **Important Guidelines:** - **Blocking admins or mods will get you removed.** Blocking admin accounts creates bugs in Facebook for moderating the group and makes it impossible for you to see announcements and messages. If you're wondering why you were removed, check your block list. - **No direct PMs to Peeps about disagreements.** If you don't agree with someone's opinion or think a post is offensive, PM the mods with a screenshot instead. We'll review and take action if necessary. - **Do not post pictures of kids unless they belong to you.** This is a strict rule to protect children's privacy. - **Be respectful.** Disrespectful language and personal attacks will not be tolerated. - **Small businesses welcome.** If you're a small business owner with a special event or announcement, feel free to post. (And remember: Self-Promo Mondays are your day!) Keep in mind that we are highly sarcastic and like to poke fun at our first-world problems. The group is not for everyone, and that's okay. In the midst of all the community work that we do, the page tries to be entertaining in between those efforts. _"Thanks for contributing to this community and there is so much here that I love."_ --- --- title: Data Deletion Request description: Request deletion of your personal data from Alameda Peeps --- # Data Deletion Request **Effective Date:** November 30, 2025 At Alameda Peeps, we value your privacy and your right to control your personal data. In accordance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), you have the right to request the deletion of your personal information held by us. ## How to Request Deletion If you would like to request the deletion of your account and associated personal data, please follow one of the methods below: ### Method 1: Email Request Send an email to our Data Protection Officer with the subject line "Data Deletion Request". **Email:** zac@zacbowling.com Please include the following information in your email to help us verify your identity and locate your account: - Full Name - Email Address associated with your account - Username (if applicable) ### Method 2: Written Request You may also submit a written request by mail to: **Alameda Peeps** Attn: Data Deletion Request 1531 Sherman Street Alameda, CA 94501 United States ## Processing Your Request Upon receiving your request, we will: 1. **Verify your identity:** We may contact you to confirm that you are the owner of the account. 2. **Process the deletion:** Once verified, we will permanently delete your account and personal information from our active databases. 3. **Confirmation:** We will send you a confirmation email once the deletion process is complete. Please note that some information may be retained in our backups or archives for a limited period as required by law or for legitimate business purposes (e.g., fraud prevention, legal compliance). ## Questions? If you have any questions about our data deletion process, please contact us at zac@zacbowling.com. --- --- title: Legal Notice description: Legal Information and DBA Statement for Alameda Peeps --- # Legal Notice **Effective Date:** November 30, 2025 ## Data Requests If you need to request the deletion of your personal data, please visit our **[Data Deletion Request](/pages/delete-request)** page. ## Business Information **Alameda Peeps** is a fictitious business name (DBA) operating under the laws of the State of California. **Principal Place of Business:** 1531 Sherman Street Alameda, CA 94501 United States **Contact Email:** zac@zacbowling.com ## Ownership Alameda Peeps is owned and operated by **Zac Bowling**. ## Disclaimer The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only. All information on the Site is provided in good faith, however we make no representation or warranty of any kind, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, availability, or completeness of any information on the Site. ## External Links Disclaimer The Site may contain (or you may be sent through the Site) links to other websites or content belonging to or originating from third parties or links to websites and features in banners or other advertising. Such external links are not investigated, monitored, or checked for accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, availability, or completeness by us. We do not warrant, endorse, guarantee, or assume responsibility for the accuracy or reliability of any information offered by third-party websites linked through the site or any website or feature linked in any banner or other advertising. We will not be a party to or in any way be responsible for monitoring any transaction between you and third-party providers of products or services. --- --- title: Privacy Policy description: Privacy Policy for Alameda Peeps --- # Privacy Policy **Effective Date:** November 30, 2025 ## 1. Introduction Welcome to Alameda Peeps ("we," "our," or "us"). We are committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring you understand how we handle your personal information. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you visit our website [alamedapeeps.com](https://alamedapeeps.com) (the "Site") and use our services. ## 2. Information We Collect We collect information that you provide directly to us, as well as information collected automatically when you use our Site. ### A. Information You Provide - **Account Information:** When you register for an account, we collect your email address, name, and password (if applicable). - **Profile Information:** You may choose to provide additional information for your profile, such as a profile picture or bio. - **Content:** We collect content you create, such as blog posts, comments, and other contributions. - **Communications:** If you contact us, we collect the information you provide in your message. ### B. Information Collected Automatically - **Usage Data:** We collect information about your interactions with our Site, such as pages visited, time spent, and links clicked. - **Device Information:** We collect information about the device and browser you use to access our Site, including IP address, browser type, and operating system. - **Cookies and Tracking Technologies:** We use cookies and similar technologies to enhance your experience, analyze usage, and remember your preferences. ## 3. How We Use Your Information We use the information we collect for the following purposes: - To provide, maintain, and improve our Site and services. - To process your registration and manage your account. - To communicate with you, including sending updates, security alerts, and support messages. - To monitor and analyze trends, usage, and activities in connection with our Site. - To detect, investigate, and prevent fraudulent transactions and other illegal activities. - To comply with legal obligations. ## 4. Sharing of Information We do not sell your personal information. We may share your information in the following circumstances: - **With Service Providers:** We share information with third-party vendors who perform services on our behalf, such as hosting, analytics, and email delivery. - **Legal Requirements:** We may disclose information if required to do so by law or in response to valid requests by public authorities. - **Protection of Rights:** We may disclose information to protect our rights, property, or safety, or that of others. ## 5. Your Rights and Choices ### A. Account Information You may update or correct your account information at any time by logging into your account settings. ### B. Data Deletion You have the right to request the deletion of your personal information. You can submit a deletion request by visiting our **[Data Deletion Request](/pages/delete-request)** page or contacting us directly. ### C. Cookies Most web browsers are set to accept cookies by default. You can usually choose to set your browser to remove or reject browser cookies. ## 6. GDPR Compliance (European Users) If you are located in the European Economic Area (EEA), you have certain rights under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), including: - The right to access your personal data. - The right to rectify inaccurate data. - The right to erasure (right to be forgotten). - The right to restrict processing. - The right to data portability. - The right to object to processing. To exercise these rights, please contact our Data Protection Officer at the address below. ## 7. California Privacy Rights (CCPA/CPRA) If you are a California resident, the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) and California Privacy Rights Act (CPRA) provide you with specific rights regarding your personal information: - **Right to Know:** You have the right to request details about the categories of personal information we collect, use, and share. - **Right to Delete:** You have the right to request the deletion of your personal information, subject to certain exceptions. - **Right to Opt-Out:** We do not sell your personal information, so the opt-out right does not apply to sales. - **Right to Non-Discrimination:** You have the right not to be discriminated against for exercising your privacy rights. ## 8. Data Security We implement appropriate technical and organizational measures to protect the security of your personal information. However, please be aware that no method of transmission over the Internet or method of electronic storage is 100% secure. ## 9. Contact Us If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy or our data practices, please contact us: **Data Protection Officer:** Zac Bowling **Email:** zac@zacbowling.com **Address:** 1531 Sherman Street, Alameda, CA 94501, United States ## 10. Additional Legal Information - **[Legal Notice](/pages/legal)** - **[Terms of Service](/pages/tos)** --- --- title: Terms of Service description: Terms of Service for Alameda Peeps --- # Terms of Service **Effective Date:** November 30, 2025 ## 1. Acceptance of Terms By accessing or using the Alameda Peeps website [alamedapeeps.com](https://alamedapeeps.com) (the "Site"), you agree to be bound by these Terms of Service ("Terms"). If you do not agree to these Terms, please do not use our Site. ## 2. Description of Service Alameda Peeps provides a community platform for residents of Alameda, California, to connect, share information, and engage in civic discussions. ## 3. User Accounts To access certain features of the Site, you may be required to register for an account. You agree to provide accurate, current, and complete information during the registration process and to update such information to keep it accurate, current, and complete. You are responsible for safeguarding your password and for all activities that occur under your account. ## 4. User Conduct You agree not to engage in any of the following prohibited activities: - Violating any applicable law or regulation. - Infringing upon the rights of others, including intellectual property rights. - Harassing, threatening, or intimidating other users. - Posting harmful, obscene, or defamatory content. - Distributing spam or malicious software. - Attempting to interfere with the proper functioning of the Site. ## 5. Content Ownership and License You retain ownership of the content you create and post on the Site. However, by posting content, you grant us a non-exclusive, worldwide, royalty-free, perpetual license to use, reproduce, modify, adapt, publish, and display such content in connection with the operation of the Site. ## 6. Termination We reserve the right to suspend or terminate your account and access to the Site at our sole discretion, without notice, for conduct that we believe violates these Terms or is harmful to other users, us, or third parties, or for any other reason. ## 7. Disclaimers The Site is provided on an "as-is" and "as available" basis. We disclaim all warranties, express or implied, including merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, and non-infringement. We do not guarantee that the Site will be error-free or uninterrupted. ## 8. Limitation of Liability In no event shall Alameda Peeps, its owners, or affiliates be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages arising out of or in connection with your use of the Site. ## 9. Governing Law These Terms shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of California, without regard to its conflict of law principles. ## 10. Changes to Terms We reserve the right to modify these Terms at any time. We will notify you of any material changes by posting the new Terms on the Site. Your continued use of the Site after such changes constitutes your acceptance of the new Terms. ## 11. Contact Information If you have any questions about these Terms, please contact us at: **Alameda Peeps** **Email:** zac@zacbowling.com **Address:** 1531 Sherman Street, Alameda, CA 94501, United States ## 12. Additional Legal Information - **[Legal Notice](/pages/legal)** - **[Data Deletion Request](/pages/delete-request)** --- --- title: Zac Bowling description: Software engineer, housing advocate, and lead administrator of Alameda Peeps and r/alameda. --- I am the lead administrator and owner of this website, and I serve as the primary administrator for the **Alameda Peeps** community and the **r/alameda** subreddit. **While I am the person who runs this technical infrastructure and sets the overall direction for these platforms, I am part of a dedicated team of administrators and moderators who work together to keep our community safe and vibrant.** ## Community Leadership in Alameda Since **2017**, I have been the primary administrator and owner of **Alameda Peeps**, Alameda's digital town square. While the community was originally founded in 2010 by Chrissy Collins, I took over leadership to help it grow and modernize. Today, I lead a team of moderators across both Facebook and Reddit (where I moderate **[r/alameda](https://www.reddit.com/r/alameda)**) to ensure we have a cohesive and well-moderated space for our island city. My work with Alameda Peeps focuses on: - **Rapid Community Mobilization**: Organizing annual Turkey Drives for the Alameda Food Bank (raising tens of thousands of dollars each year). - **Supporting Local Business**: Creating "Cash Mob" initiatives to boost merchants and neighborhood favorites. - **Civic Engagement**: Advocating for traffic safety (Vision Zero), transparency, and neighbor-to-neighbor support. ## Civic & Housing Advocacy Beyond digital moderation, I am deeply involved in the future of our city and state: - **Elected Executive Board Member**: Serving in the California Democratic Party and as an ADEM delegate for AD-18. - **Open Government Commissioner**: Serving the City of Alameda to promote transparency and accountability. - **YIMBY Leader**: A co-founder of **East Bay YIMBY**, advocating for sustainable urban development, zoning reform, and affordable housing. I was a key leader in the campaigns for Alameda's Measure A (2019) and Measure Z (2020). - **Legal Advocacy**: Successfully sued the State of California's Department of Housing and Community Development to ensure housing laws are applied fairly, specifically regarding jobs-to-housing ratios. ## Professional Experience I am currently a **Staff AI Software Engineer at Meta**, where I spearhead the development of AI-powered developer tools at Reality Labs for Horizon OS, Quest VR, and wearables. My career has spanned some of the most influential companies in tech: - **Google (2015-2023)**: Early member of the **Fuchsia OS** team, working on system libraries, drivers, and toolchains. I notably enabled Apple’s Swift language to run natively on Fuchsia. - **Modular (2023-2024)**: Building high-performance machine learning infrastructure. - **Startup Veteran**: Held senior roles at **Apportable** (acquired by Google), **SeatMe** (acquired by Yelp), **doubleTwist**, and **Match.com**. ## Connect with Me I'm a firm believer in the IndieWeb and open connection. You can find more about my professional work, patents, and latest projects at **[zacbowling.com](https://zacbowling.com)**. - **Twitter/X**: [@zbowling](https://twitter.com/zbowling) - **GitHub**: [@zbowling](https://github.com/zbowling) - **LinkedIn**: [in/zbowling](https://www.linkedin.com/in/zbowling) - **Substack**: [sub.zacbowling.com](https://sub.zacbowling.com) --- --- title: Best of Alameda 2025: Results, New Websites, and What's Next description: Announcing the results of the first-ever Best of Alameda community vote, plus the launch of alameda.best and alameda.city — new websites from Alameda Peeps to help you find the best businesses and resources in Alameda. pubDate: 2026-02-15T20:00:00.000Z --- We did it, Alameda! The first-ever **Best of Alameda** community vote is in the books, and the results are in. Over the course of just three weeks, More than **1000 Alamedans** cast a combined **29,695 votes** across **129 categories** — from Best Coffee Shop to Best Pizza to Best Parking Spot. That's hundreds of people showing up to champion the local spots they love. Not bad for our very first go at this. Thank you to every single person who voted, shared the link, and rallied their neighbors. You made this happen. ## The Winners Head over to the full results page to see every category winner and runner-up: **[View the Best of Alameda 2025 Results →](/vote/best-of-alameda-2025/results)** Congratulations to all the winners and nominees. Every business and perosn on that list earned real votes from real neighbors — that means something. ## Introducing alameda.best Along with the vote, we're launching **[alameda.best](https://alameda.best)** — a dedicated website for discovering the best businesses in Alameda. It's a community-powered business directory where you can: - **Browse businesses by category** — restaurants, shops, services, and more - **See vote results and award history** — know which spots your neighbors love - **Find addresses, phone numbers, and websites** — all in one place - **Explore on a map** — see what's near you We're building this to be the go-to place for answering the question that gets asked in our Facebook group every single day: *"What's the best \_\_\_\_\_ in Alameda?"* ### Business Owners: Claim Your Listing If you own or manage a local business, you'll soon be able to **claim your listing** on alameda.best. This will let you update your business information, respond to the community, and make sure your details are accurate. We'll announce when claims go live — stay tuned. ## Introducing alameda.city We're also launching **[alameda.city](https://alameda.city)** — a curated directory of Alameda community resources, government services, and local organizations. If you've been in Alameda Peeps for a while, you might remember the **"Who to Call Instead of 911" poster** that we put together during the COVID era. It was one of those things born out of a real community need — people wanted to know where to turn for non-emergency situations, mental health crises, noise complaints, and other issues where calling 911 wasn't the right move. That poster got shared thousands of times and became a genuine resource for people. **alameda.city** is the spiritual successor to that idea — a comprehensive, always-up-to-date collection of links and resources for living in Alameda. Government offices, community organizations, emergency services, local media, schools, and more — all organized and easy to find. ## A Family of Websites These new sites join [alamedapeeps.com](https://alamedapeeps.com) as part of a growing family of community websites: - **[alamedapeeps.com](https://alamedapeeps.com)** — Our home base. The blog, community news, and the hub that ties everything together. - **[alameda.best](https://alameda.best)** — Business directory and Best of Alameda vote results. Find and support local businesses. - **[alameda.city](https://alameda.city)** — Community resources, government links, and local organizations. Your guide to Alameda. All three are built by me, to be completely free resources, for our community to use. ## More Votes Coming The Best of Alameda 2025 was our first vote, but it won't be our last. We're planning to run **more community votes throughout the year** — including smaller, more focused votes on specific topics. Think best seasonal or holiday picks. If you have ideas for what we should vote on next, let us know in the [Facebook group](https://www.facebook.com/groups/alamedapeeps). ## Thank You None of this works without the community. Fifteen years in, Alameda Peeps continues to be one of the most engaged and generous community groups anywhere. Every vote, every share, every recommendation in the group — it all adds up. Here's to the next vote. Here's to supporting local. Here's to Alameda. — Zac --- --- title: December 2025 Community Recap: A Changing Alameda description: From street redesign debates and ferry parking to Christmas Tree Lane magic and wild turkey encounters, December was a month of change, community support, and festive spirit in Alameda. pubDate: 2025-12-21T20:00:00.000Z --- December always feels like the emotional wrap‑up of the year, and 2025 ended precisely how Alameda tends to: with a mix of change, holiday magic, and neighbors showing up for each other. ## The Island Is Changing — and People Are Paying Attention If you want to know whether people care about Alameda's future, you can see it in the street redesign conversations. Central Avenue, Pacific, Webster, red curbs, ferry parking, bike lanes, and more recently Gibbons and High Street changes, dominated engagement in both Alameda Peeps and r/alameda. What stood out this month was how those online conversations translated directly into real‑world participation. Even when a topic wasn't blowing up on Facebook or Reddit, folks were still showing up loudly at City Council. The rapid‑build roundabout on Gibbons, with potential changes to the intersection of High Street and Gibbons, brought in dozens of callers, with neighbors debating safety, cut‑through traffic, and what these safety improvements actually mean for day‑to‑day commutes when they land on your block. Yes, all of this change came with venting. Parking feels tighter as we implement Vision Zero goals and make streets safer. Lane changes can be confusing at first. Folks don’t understand roundabouts. The incomplete nature of the work has left people unsure what’s a valid parking spot, when to yield, and whether a project is finished or still in flux. Paid ferry parking rolled out at Harbor Bay, with it soon coming to the Seaplane Lagoon ferry terminal. Bay Farm also lost its only gas station after it couldn’t afford to upgrade its underground tanks. Add in the slow, sometimes hard‑to‑read pace of construction on Central and Encinal, and it’s not surprising that patience is wearing thin. That impatience also showed up when Councilmember Tony Daysog floated a 15 mph speed limit for bikes on specific paths, framed as a way to deal with kids riding non‑street‑legal electric mopeds. The response was immediate and decisive: advocates, commuters, and everyday riders pushed back, and the rest of Council clearly wasn’t sold on the idea that such a limit could be enforced or would meaningfully improve safety. Most people understood the real danger isn’t a handful of fast bikes, but cars — especially where we already have dedicated bike infrastructure like the Cross Alameda Trail. What all of this shows is that change can be uncomfortable, especially when it shows up all at once. But here’s the part that doesn’t always get said out loud: none of this comes from apathy. These threads come from people who live here, walk here, bike here, commute here, raise kids here, and want Alameda to work better than it did before. What I saw again and again was residents swapping real, practical information while also pushing the city to explain itself more clearly. That’s what civic engagement looks like in real life. It’s not always tidy, but it’s very real. ## Holiday Light, Literally December wouldn't be December in Alameda without Christmas Tree Lane lighting up Thompson Avenue. For anyone new to town or visiting family, this is one of those traditions that makes Alameda feel like a small town in the best possible way. The lights came on December 1 and run every night through New Year's Eve. It's been great to see folks sharing photos, tips on when to go to avoid crowds, and stories about taking kids, grandparents, or just walking it with a hot drink. Even in a year full of debates, this was a reminder that we still do magic well here. Sunsets had a moment too. A couple of especially dramatic evenings turned into full‑on photo threads across both platforms. It's great to see Alamedans all agreeing that we're lucky to live by the water. ## Looking Out for Each Other Some of the most engaged posts this month on Peeps and Reddit had nothing to do with infrastructure or policy. They were about people who needed help and got it. There were lost pets found thanks to hundreds of eyes. Stolen items that sparked outrage and support. A kid who had to cancel a small business fair after losing a beloved pet, only to have neighbors line up to buy his jewelry anyway. Even the tougher posts — about theft, safety scares, or a daycare incident — turned into information‑sharing and people checking in on one another. Alameda Peeps works because it's not just a feed; it's a crowd that responds. ## Wildlife, Turkeys, and Peak Alameda Energy Only in Alameda does a post about aggressive turkeys become one of the most popular discussions of the month. The turkey deterrent thread was funny. People genuinely want to coexist with wildlife, even when those animals are pecking cars or blocking doorways. The same went for gull rescues, backyard kittens, lost cats, and mysterious "exotic pet" sightings. It's chaotic, but it's also kind of wonderful. The island is alive — with people and everything else. ## Reddit vs. Facebook, Same Heart The vibe between r/alameda and Alameda Peeps is different, but December showed the overlap clearly. Reddit skewed more skeptical, Facebook more emotional, but the top posts on both leaned toward community, not conflict, this holiday season. Holiday lights, sunsets, ferry excitement, and shared concern about local issues cut across platforms. Even when the tone changes, the underlying care for Alameda is the same. ## Wrapping Up the Year Watching these communities all month reinforced something I feel every year: Alameda argues because it cares. People complain because they're invested. And when it matters, neighbors show up. As we head into the new year, the streets will keep changing, the debates will keep coming, and the turkeys will probably still be here. But if December is any indication, this island is paying attention — and that's a good thing. — Zac --- --- title: November 2025 Community Recap: Trees, Turkeys, and Traffic description: A round-up of what Alameda was talking about this month. From the Central Avenue transformation and Prop 50 results to heartwarming acts of kindness and that mysterious coyote. pubDate: 2025-11-29T20:00:00.000Z --- November 2025 has been a busy month for Alameda. Between the election, holiday preparations, and some major changes to our streetscapes, the online chatter on both the Alameda Peeps Facebook group and the r/alameda subreddit has been lively. Here is a look at the conversations that defined our community this month. ## The Changing Face of Our Streets The biggest topic of conversation this month—and perhaps the most contentious—has been the transformation of **Central Avenue**. Photos comparing the "before" and "after" sparked a massive debate about the loss of the street's iconic trees. While many residents are mourning the change in the street's character, it’s important to recognize the goal behind these changes. The redesign is part of a broader move toward a safer, more pedestrian- and bike-friendly island. Change is often difficult, especially when it involves removing mature greenery, but the trade-off is a piece of infrastructure designed to protect our most vulnerable road users. Similarly, the new roundabout construction at **Pacific and Chestnut** has drawn mixed reactions. While roundabouts are statistically safer than traditional intersections, the "slow streets" initiatives continue to be a flashpoint for debate regarding island congestion. As we adjust to these new traffic patterns, the hope is that the long-term safety benefits will outweigh the growing pains. ## Civic Engagement & Prop 50 Alameda showed up at the polls this November! The community is celebrating the victory of **Proposition 50**, which passed with over 60% approval. On Reddit, a deep dive into the election results showed just how engaged Alamedans are. The data highlighted an 83.9% "yes" vote citywide on key measures and a voter turnout of 51.4%—notably higher than the statewide average. It’s clear that when it comes to the future of our city, Alamedans are paying attention and making their voices heard. ## The Heart of Alameda: Neighbors Helping Neighbors If the street debates show our passion, the requests for help show our heart. This month gave us several beautiful examples of why this community is so special: - **A Seat at the Table:** A newcomer to the US from Ukraine reached out to the community, hoping to find a family to share Thanksgiving with. The response was overwhelming, with numerous families opening their homes. It was a touching reminder of our town's inclusive spirit. - **Moms' Night Out:** When local moms went looking for a venue for a 90s/00s dance night, the community flooded the comments with welcoming suggestions like Improv Central and The Fireside Lounge. - **Generosity:** We saw posts offering free help with cooking, cleaning, and organizing for overwhelmed moms, and the **Alameda Scouts** collected a massive **9 tons of food** for the Alameda Food Bank—exceeding last year's haul by 1.5 tons! ## Wildlife on the Island (Real and... Not) It wouldn't be Alameda without some wildlife commentary. - **Turkeys:** Our local wild turkeys have apparently been listening to The Beatles. A humorous post captured them using crosswalks, looking remarkably like the _Abbey Road_ album cover. It seems even the wildlife appreciates our pedestrian infrastructure! - **The Coyote:** A photo of a "coyote" at the soccer field caused quite a stir about wildlife safety. However, it turns out the Peeps were having a bit of fun—the "coyote" in question was a well-placed statue/decoy. While it gave us a laugh, it did spark a real conversation about living near natural habitats. ## Local Business Buzz We Alamedans care deeply about our local shops—even down to the freezer handles. - **Trader Joe's:** The switch from open-air to closed-door freezers at Trader Joe's became a surprisingly hot topic. While some miss the ease of browsing, others applauded the energy efficiency. - **Pagano's & Project Burger:** Residents expressed concern over the trajectory of Pagano's Hardware, noting stock issues, while over on Reddit, the "mystery" of Project Burger continues: how does a prime location with visible staff never seem to have customers? - **The Mylar Debate:** A proposed ban on Mylar balloons sparked a discussion balancing environmental protection with the livelihoods of local balloon artists. It’s a complex issue that highlights our community's struggle to be sustainable while supporting small businesses. ## Looking Out For Each Other Finally, safety remains a priority. A video of a scooter theft near Washington and Post resonated with parents across the island, serving as a reminder to stay vigilant. There was also significant discussion about the **USS Hornet Museum's** proposal to move the ship to San Francisco, leaving many to wonder what that cultural loss would mean for Alameda Point. --- --- title: 2025 Turkey Drive Update: Thank You to Our Generous Donors! description: An update on the 2025 Alameda Peeps Turkey Drive, recognizing our generous community members who stepped up to support the Alameda Food Bank this holiday season. pubDate: 2025-11-28T20:00:00.000Z --- Hi Peeps! We wanted to share an update on this year's Turkey Drive and give a huge **THANK YOU** to everyone who donated. ## This Year's Results As of today, we've raised **$5,000** for the Alameda Food Bank through this year's Turkey Drive. We're incredibly grateful for every single donation. The Alameda Food Bank continues to need our support, especially during the holiday season when so many families are struggling. **You can still donate!** The campaign page remains open, and every dollar helps. **[Donate to the Alameda Peeps Turkey Drive →](https://alamedafoodbank.networkforgood.com/projects/263528-alameda-peeps-turkey-drive)** ## Thank You to Our Generous Donors We want to recognize and thank everyone who stepped up this year. Some folks chose to remain anonymous, and we respect that choice—your generosity is just as meaningful whether your name is listed or not. ### Major Donors We want to give special recognition to our major donors who made significant contributions: - **James Derouin** - $1,000 - **Gretchen Hoff Varner** - $500 - **Zac Bowling** - $250 - **Heather Manes** - $200 (In memory of my dad and father in law) - **Amy Griffith** - $150 ### All Our Generous Supporters Thank you to everyone who donated, whether your contribution was large or small. Special thanks to the following donors: James Derouin, Jason Bernstein, Megan & Thushan Amarasiriwardena, Krystal LoPilato, Heather and Robert Padgette, Amy Griffith, Basia Pomorska, Lana DeTomaso, Raven Halderman, Heather Manes, Rosanna Roxas, Gretchen Hoff Varner, Meredith Hoskin, Ezra Denney, Laurie Nash, Jason Biggs, Heather & Andrew Kilroy, Alice Myerhoff, Kristin Thiel, Michelle Fuller, Zac Bowling, Marla Phoumivong, Ketzia Walsh, Tiffinie Tang, Sarah Leslie, Gregory Hunt, Jennifer Peters, and Laura Gamble And to all our **anonymous donors**—thank you for your generosity! We know many of you chose to give without recognition, and we're deeply grateful. ## You Can Still Help The campaign page is still open, and donations are still being accepted. Every $1 you donate provides $7 worth of food to families in need through the Alameda Food Bank. **[Donate Now: Alameda Peeps Turkey Drive](https://alamedafoodbank.networkforgood.com/projects/263528-alameda-peeps-turkey-drive)** Even though this year's drive didn't match some of our previous totals, we're so grateful for the community members who stepped up. We know this year is a bit more difficult than most but your generosity, whether you donated $25 or $1,000, makes a real difference in the lives of families in our community. Thank you for being part of what makes Alameda Peeps a special community that cares and shows up for each other, especially during the holidays. **THANKS PEEPS!** --- --- title: 2025 Alameda Peeps Turkey Drive: Let's Feed Our Community! description: Join us in supporting the Alameda Food Bank this holiday season. Every $1 donated provides $7 worth of food to families in need. pubDate: 2025-11-10T20:00:00.000Z --- Hi Peeps! We're kicking off the **2025 Alameda Peeps Turkey Drive** today, and we need your help to make sure every family in our community can enjoy a hearty holiday meal. ## The Impact of Your Donation The Alameda Food Bank is more important than ever, and your support makes a huge difference. Here's what makes your donation so powerful: **For every $1 you donate, the Alameda Food Bank can purchase $7 worth of food.** That means even small donations have an incredible impact on families in need. ## How You Can Help With Thanksgiving right around the corner, please consider joining us in donating to help local families. We know that it's an incredibly difficult time for many people, and asking for money is really not easy. We understand not everyone is able to give financially—and that's completely okay. **If you're able to donate**, you can do so directly through our campaign page: **[Donate to the Alameda Peeps Turkey Drive →](https://alamedafoodbank.networkforgood.com/projects/263528-alameda-peeps-turkey-drive)** **If you're not able to give financially**, you can still make a big impact by sharing this link and encouraging those in your network to consider a donation. Every share helps spread the word and reach more people who might be able to help. ## Together, We Can Make a Difference Your support helps the Alameda Food Bank provide turkeys and holiday groceries for families across our community. Every donation, big or small, makes a difference and brings comfort to those who rely on us most. Thank you for giving generously this season and helping ensure that every family can enjoy a special holiday meal. **THANKS PEEPS!** [Donate Now: Alameda Peeps Turkey Drive](https://alamedafoodbank.networkforgood.com/projects/263528-alameda-peeps-turkey-drive) --- --- title: 2025 Year in Review: Community Organizing and Civic Engagement description: A look back at 2025 for Alameda Peeps, including the Alameda Food Bank legal victory, No Kings rallies with thousands of participants, the 4th of July parade, community response to ICE activity at Coast Guard Island, and other community events. pubDate: 2025-11-09T20:00:00.000Z --- ## Community Organizing and Civic Engagement 2025 has been a remarkable year for the Alameda Peeps community, marked by powerful demonstrations of civic engagement, community organizing, and collective action. From massive rallies that drew thousands of participants and national media attention, to rapid community responses protecting vulnerable neighbors, to celebrating victories for vital community resources, 2025 showcased how Alameda Peeps serves as a platform for meaningful community action and connection. ## Alameda Food Bank Legal Victory On April 22, 2025, Judge Michael Markman of the Alameda County Superior Court ruled in favor of the Alameda Food Bank project, dismissing a frivolous lawsuit that had tried to stop construction of the Food Bank's permanent home at 677 W. Ranger Ave. in Alameda Point. The Alameda Food Bank (AFB) has combated food insecurity by providing food to Alameda families for several decades. Founded in 1977 when it was operating out of a church, AFB has relocated several times to temporary locations over the years. In 2022, AFB approached the City about establishing a permanent home for the food bank, and subsequently purchased the site at 677 W. Ranger Ave. in Alameda Point from the City. In July 2024, AFB received its final City approvals and began construction of its new home. Following this collaborative multi-year process, Petitioners Shelby Sheehan and Tod Hickman brought a lawsuit trying to stop construction of this vital community resource. The lawsuit claimed that the new foodbank would have negative impacts on a "historic parking lot" and that the City violated the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) by approving the project. These allegations had no merit. In response, the City and AFB filed a motion seeking to dismiss the lawsuit based on the Petitioners' failure to comply with the basic requirements for challenging projects under CEQA. The Court heard oral arguments on the motion in January of 2025, and on April 22, 2025, the Honorable Judge Michael Markman granted the motion in the City's and AFB's favor and disposed of all of Petitioners' baseless claims. This positive outcome demonstrated the City's unwavering commitment to support community partners and fight back against abusive and wasteful litigation threats. The Food Bank can now move into its forever home and continue to carry out its critical mission of bringing food security to all Alamedans. ## No Kings Rallies: Community Organizing in Action 2025 saw Alameda Peeps members come together to organize and participate in powerful community demonstrations that drew thousands of participants and national attention. ### June No Kings Rally In June 2025, the Alameda community organized a massive No Kings rally that brought together an estimated **4,700 people** to stand up peacefully against authoritarianism. The rally, which was organized through the Alameda Peeps Facebook group, demonstrated the power of community organizing and civic engagement. The event was so significant that it garnered coverage on **MSNBC**, bringing national attention to Alameda's commitment to democratic values and peaceful protest. Community members came together to create flags, signs, and organize logistics, showing how social media platforms like Alameda Peeps can serve as powerful tools for community mobilization. ### October No Kings Day Rally Building on the momentum from June, the community organized another No Kings rally on **October 18, 2025** (No Kings Day). The event began with a community gathering at Chochenyo Park from 10:00 to 11:30 AM, followed by a march to Alameda City Hall, where a rally took place from 12:00 to 12:45 PM. Thousands of community members turned out for the October rally, with many taking photos from elevated vantage points in parking garages to capture the scale of the gathering. The peaceful demonstration at City Hall showcased Alameda's commitment to civic engagement and democratic participation. ### 4th of July Parade: Activism and Community Celebration The Annual City of Alameda 4th of July Parade in 2025 became another platform for community activism and expression. Alameda Peeps members organized flag-making work parties, assembling hundreds of "No Kings Since 1776" flags to distribute at the parade. Community members came together for work parties, creating flags that combined patriotic symbols with messages of democratic values. The parade served as both a celebration of community and a point of activism, with participants showcasing floats and displays that reflected Alameda's values. Members of the Alameda Peeps community shared photos and stories of their favorite floats, using the event as an opportunity to connect with neighbors and express shared values. These events demonstrated how Alameda Peeps serves as more than just a social media group—it's a platform for community organizing, civic engagement, and bringing neighbors together around shared values and causes. ## ICE Activity at Coast Guard Island and Community Response In October 2025, Alameda's Coast Guard Island was used as a staging area for federal immigration enforcement operations. When community members learned that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents were being deployed to the Bay Area and staging from Alameda, the Alameda Peeps community quickly organized a response. Community members organized vigils and monitoring efforts to keep track of ICE activity and help keep the community safe. Vigils were held at the entrance to Coast Guard Island, and community members worked together to share information, provide support, and ensure that residents were aware of the situation. The community's rapid response demonstrated how Alameda Peeps serves as an effective platform for organizing community safety efforts and protecting vulnerable community members. This incident also renewed discussions about data privacy and surveillance technology. Community members, including those with technical expertise, raised concerns about the City of Alameda's use of Flock automatic license plate reader (ALPR) cameras, which had previously been found to share data with ICE and other federal agencies. These concerns had been raised in 2022, and the 2025 ICE activity brought renewed attention to the importance of ensuring that surveillance technology used by the city does not compromise community safety or share data with federal immigration enforcement. ## Annual Turkey Drive Our annual Turkey Drive continued in 2025, raising **$5,000** to support the Alameda Food Bank. We're incredibly grateful to the community members who stepped up to support families in need during the holiday season. The drive saw generous contributions from community members, with donations ranging from $25 to $1,000. Many donors chose to remain anonymous, while others shared heartfelt messages about why they give. The campaign page remains open for those who want to continue supporting the Food Bank's mission. Every dollar donated provides $7 worth of food to families in need, making even small contributions incredibly impactful. The Turkey Drive has become one of our most important annual traditions, demonstrating the community's commitment to supporting neighbors during the holidays. ## Trader Joe's Freezer Renovation In November 2025, Alameda Peeps members were abuzz about a major change that had everyone talking: the complete renovation of the Trader Joe's freezer section. The transformation was so dramatic that longtime customers found themselves completely disoriented, with many community members sharing their experiences of not recognizing the store they'd shopped at for years. The new freezer layout became a hot topic of conversation in the Alameda Peeps Facebook group, with members sharing photos and stories about navigating the newly redesigned space. It was a perfect example of how even the smallest changes in our community can bring neighbors together to share experiences and support each other through the adjustment period. ## Looking Forward As 2025 comes to a close, we reflect on a year that demonstrated the power of community organizing, civic engagement, and collective action. The Alameda Peeps community showed time and again that we can come together to support each other, protect vulnerable community members, celebrate our values, and make our voices heard. From the massive No Kings rallies that brought thousands to City Hall, to the rapid response protecting our community from ICE operations, to the successful defense of the Alameda Food Bank's permanent home, 2025 proved that when neighbors work together, we can achieve remarkable things. We look forward to 2026 with continued commitment to community support, civic engagement, and bringing neighbors together around shared values and causes. The Alameda Peeps community remains a vital platform for connection, organizing, and making a difference in our island city. --- --- title: 15 Years of Alameda Peeps: Thank You, Chrissy Collins description: A celebration of Alameda Peeps' 15th anniversary and a heartfelt thank you to Chrissy Collins, who started this amazing community in 2010. pubDate: 2025-10-11T19:00:00.000Z --- Today marks 15 years of Alameda Peeps! It's hard to believe that what started as a simple Facebook group has grown into such a vibrant, caring, and impactful community. As we celebrate this milestone, I want to take a moment to thank **Chrissy** **Collins**, who started Alameda Peeps on October 11, 2010. Without her vision and initiative, none of this would exist. She created a space where neighbors could connect, share information, support each other, and build genuine friendships. Over these 15 years, we've seen our community grow from a small Facebook group to a multi-platform community with over 20,400 members on Facebook and 25,800 on Reddit. But more importantly, we've seen countless acts of kindness, community support, and neighbors helping neighbors. We've organized Turkey Drives that have raised tens of thousands of dollars for the Alameda Food Bank. We've supported local businesses through Cash Mobs. We've helped families in need, organized community events, and worked with the City of Alameda on important initiatives. We've laughed together, shared memes, and built real connections across our island community. None of this would have been possible without Chrissy's initial spark. She created something special, and all of us who have been part of this community over the years have helped it grow and evolve into what it is today. So thank you, Chrissy, for starting Alameda Peeps 15 years ago. Thank you to all the moderators who have helped guide and nurture this community over the years. And most importantly, thank you to every single member of the Alameda Peeps community—past and present—who has made this such an amazing place to be. Here's to 15 years, and to many more years of neighbors helping neighbors, sharing laughs, and making Alameda an even better place to live. — Zac Bowling --- --- title: 2024 Year in Review: Loss and Community Resilience description: A year marked by loss and community resilience, including the passing of Alameda Peep and Fire Fighter Patrick Michael Corder, and continued community support efforts. pubDate: 2024-12-31T20:00:00.000Z --- ## Loss and Community Resilience 2024 was a year that tested our community's strength in the face of profound loss. It was also a year that showed how our community comes together to support each other during difficult times. ## Remembering Patrick Michael Corder On February 1, 2024, Alameda Peep and Alameda Fire Fighter Patrick Michael Corder passed away following a difficult battle with Post Traumatic Stress Injury (PTSI). Patrick was 43 years old and had served the citizens of Alameda with honor and distinction for 15 years as a Firefighter/Paramedic, retiring in 2023. Patrick was instrumental in the success of the fire department's Community Paramedic program, in which he was one of the first Community Paramedics in California. He served in this role for seven years, devoted to helping community members, including the unhoused, in meeting their basic medical needs. Throughout his career, Patrick was extremely involved in Alameda Firefighters Association IAFF Local 689, serving on the union's Executive Board as Trustee, Recording Secretary, and President. He was a staunch advocate for the mental health of his fellow firefighters, sharing his story on a podcast and returning to the City of Alameda to educate recruits following his retirement. Patrick was embraced by many community members as a public servant who had an amazing personality that allowed for positive engagement with everyone he encountered. He organized and spearheaded the Alameda Firefighters' annual Toy Program, participated in children's reading programs, and the fire safety town for Alameda schools. He was also involved with other community programs such as Meals on Wheels. His death deeply affected the Alameda Peeps community. Patrick was not just a first responder—he was one of us, a member of our community who had given so much to help others. His passing was a stark reminder of the importance of mental health support for first responders and the need to continue conversations about PTSI and mental health in our community. Even beyond his death, Patrick continued his legacy of serving others and giving them a second chance at life with the donation of his organs. The community came together to honor Patrick's memory and support his family during this difficult time. A memorial service was held at the USS Hornet on February 17, 2024, with uniformed personnel participating in a Sea of Blue. ## City Council Election and Community Discussion The 2024 City Council election brought significant change to Alameda's leadership. The election saw two new councilmembers elected: **Michele Pryor**, a special education teacher, and **Greg Boller**, an Alameda County prosecutor. Both candidates won seats in the November election. The election season was marked by extensive community discussion in both the Alameda Peeps Facebook group and on the Alameda Reddit subreddit. A particularly notable topic of discussion involved then-Councilmember Trish Herrera Spencer, a former mayor of Alameda, who was the subject of media coverage following an incident that occurred while she was attending a League of California Cities conference in Long Beach in October 2024. According to [KTVU reporting](https://www.ktvu.com/news/alameda-declines-admonish-councilmember-police-say-was-drunk-city-business), Long Beach police responded to a call regarding an intoxicated person, and the incident became a subject of public discussion in the weeks leading up to the election. The Alameda City Council later declined to take formal action regarding the incident. Spencer, who was running for re-election, ultimately lost her bid for one of the two open council seats, finishing in third place behind Pryor and Boller. Her tenure on the council came to an end with the election results. The extensive community discussion around these events highlighted how Alameda Peeps and Alameda Reddit serve as important platforms for civic engagement and community dialogue about local governance and public service. ## Community Support Despite the profound loss we experienced and the political discussions that unfolded, the Alameda Peeps community continued to support each other and our neighbors throughout 2024. Our annual Turkey Drive continued, though final totals are still being compiled. ## Looking Forward As 2024 came to a close, we carried Patrick's memory with us and were reminded of the importance of supporting each other, especially those who serve our community. We looked forward to 2025 with a renewed commitment to community support and mental health awareness. --- --- title: 2023 Year in Review: Weathering Storms and Change description: A challenging year that included the closure of the Alameda Sun, severe flooding and storms, and the AUSD decision to phase out grades at Bay Farm Middle School. pubDate: 2023-12-31T20:00:00.000Z --- ## Weathering Storms and Change 2023 was a year of significant challenges and changes for Alameda. From natural disasters to institutional changes, our community faced multiple tests of resilience. ## Alameda Sun Closes The long-standing local newspaper, the Alameda Sun, published its final edition in 2023, leaving the Alameda Post as the only local news organization reporting and publishing news in Alameda. This was a significant loss for the community, as local journalism plays a crucial role in keeping residents informed about city affairs, local events, and community issues. The closure of the Alameda Sun highlighted the challenges facing local journalism and the importance of supporting remaining local news sources. ## Severe Flooding and Storms January 2023 began with massive atmospheric river storms that caused widespread flooding, downed trees, and power outages throughout Alameda. The severity of the storms led the City to proclaim a State of Emergency. FEMA and the state opened disaster recovery centers to assist residents and businesses with the damage. Alameda Peeps members shared information about resources, safety tips, and ways to help neighbors who were affected by the storms. The community came together to support each other during this difficult time, demonstrating once again the strength of our community network. ## AUSD School Closure Decision After significant community opposition, the AUSD Board of Education voted to phase out sixth through eighth grades at Bay Farm Middle School starting in August 2023. This decision generated extensive discussion in the Alameda Peeps community, with members sharing information, perspectives, and concerns about the impact on students and families. The decision highlighted the importance of community engagement in educational policy decisions and the value of platforms like Alameda Peeps for facilitating community dialogue. ## Looking Forward 2023 was a challenging year, but it also showed the resilience of the Alameda community. As we looked ahead to 2024, we were ready to face whatever challenges and opportunities lay ahead, knowing that our community would continue to support each other. --- --- title: 2022 Year in Review: Reopening and Remembrance description: A year of reopening and remembrance, including COVID-19 reopenings, the dedication of Constitution Way in honor of Supervisor Wilma Chan, the launch of the Alameda Outdoor Cat Map, and the annual Turkey Drive. pubDate: 2022-12-31T20:00:00.000Z --- ## Reopening and Remembrance 2022 was a year of transition as we began to emerge from the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic. It was also a year of remembrance as we honored a beloved community leader. ## COVID-19 Reopenings As COVID-19 restrictions began to ease, Alameda started to reopen. Businesses welcomed customers back, community events resumed, and neighbors began to gather in person again. Alameda Peeps members shared information about reopening businesses, events, and opportunities to reconnect with the community. This transition back to more normal activities was welcome, though we remained mindful of the challenges that many in our community continued to face. ## Constitution Way Dedication In 2022, the City of Alameda dedicated Constitution Way in honor of Supervisor Wilma Chan, who had died in Alameda. Supervisor Chan was a dedicated public servant who had worked tirelessly for the East Bay community, and her loss was deeply felt. Alamedans turned out in large numbers for the dedication ceremony, showing the respect and appreciation the community had for Supervisor Chan's service. The dedication was a fitting tribute to someone who had given so much to our region. ## Alameda Outdoor Cat Map One of the most delightful community projects to emerge in 2022 was the **Alameda Outdoor Cat Map**, created by community member Zack Ohren. What started as a personal project to map cats spotted during runs and walks quickly became a beloved community resource. The map, which is publicly accessible on Google My Maps, grew from just 50 cats at launch to over 400 unique cats by the end of the year. Community members enthusiastically contributed cat locations, photos, and names, making it a true collaborative effort that captured the quirky, neighborly spirit of Alameda. The Alameda Outdoor Cat Map became a symbol of how our community comes together to celebrate the small, everyday moments that make our island special. You can explore the map [here](https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/viewer?mid=1S6WkW8HuNgqdGWJMGI0Iyyu69XlhcDNl&ll=37.76027024371597%2C-122.2611419&z=13). ## Turkey Drive Our annual Turkey Drive continued in 2022, raising $17,305 as of November 2nd (final total to be updated). Once again, the Alameda Peeps community showed its generosity and commitment to supporting the Alameda Food Bank and families in need. ## Looking Forward As 2022 came to a close, we were grateful for the opportunity to reconnect with each other and continue our community traditions. We looked forward to 2023 with hope and anticipation. --- --- title: 2021 Year in Review: Continuing Community Support description: Reflecting on Alameda Peeps' continued community support in 2021, including the official renaming of Jackson Park to Chochenyo Park, community response to the death of Mario Gonzalez, the annual Turkey Drive that raised $25,885 for the Alameda Food Bank, and ongoing conversations about police accountability. pubDate: 2021-12-31T20:00:00.000Z --- ## Continuing Community Support 2021 was a year of continued adaptation and community support as we navigated the ongoing challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Alameda Peeps continued to find ways to help our neighbors and support local causes. ## Death of Mario Gonzalez and Community Response On April 19, 2021, 26-year-old Mario Gonzalez died while in police custody in Alameda. According to [publicly available information](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Death_of_Mario_Gonzalez), Gonzalez was approached by Alameda police officers in a park, and body camera footage showed him being restrained for more than five minutes before becoming unresponsive. His death was later ruled a homicide. This incident occurred amid ongoing national attention around police violence and accountability, and it deeply affected the Alameda community. The incident generated significant discussion in the Alameda Peeps community, with members sharing information, expressing concern, and engaging in conversations about police accountability, community safety, and the need for transparency in law enforcement. The Alameda Peeps community served as a platform for community members to process this tragedy, share information about the investigation, and discuss the broader implications for our community. The incident highlighted the importance of transparency, accountability, and community dialogue around public safety and law enforcement practices. ## Jackson Park Officially Renamed to Chochenyo Park In January 2021, after years of community organizing and discussion that began in 2018, Jackson Park was officially renamed to **Chochenyo Park**. The new name honors the Chochenyo people, who are part of the Ohlone people, the original inhabitants of the land that became Alameda. This renaming represented the culmination of a multi-year community effort that had been a major topic of discussion in the Alameda Peeps community. The process involved extensive community engagement, including the "Give Us a Sign" project that invited community members to propose new names reflecting values of inclusion, diversity, equity, and social justice. The renaming of Jackson Park to Chochenyo Park was a significant step toward healing and justice, as community members had long advocated for removing symbols honoring figures like Andrew Jackson, who was responsible for the Indian Removal Act and the Trail of Tears, and who enslaved hundreds of people. The new name honors the original inhabitants of the land and represents a more inclusive and respectful approach to how we name our public spaces. This achievement demonstrated the power of sustained community organizing and the importance of platforms like Alameda Peeps in facilitating long-term community conversations and advocacy efforts. ## Turkey Drive Success One of the highlights of 2021 was our annual Turkey Drive, which raised $25,885 for the Alameda Food Bank. This was a significant achievement, demonstrating our community's continued commitment to supporting families in need, especially during a time when food insecurity was affecting more families than usual. The Turkey Drive has become one of our most important annual traditions, and the 2021 drive showed that even during difficult times, our community could come together to make a real difference. ## Looking Forward As 2021 came to a close, we were grateful for the ways our community had continued to support each other throughout another challenging year. We looked forward to 2022 with hope for continued recovery and community connection. --- --- title: 2020 Year in Review: Adapting and Supporting During Crisis description: How Alameda Peeps adapted to support the community during the COVID-19 pandemic, including the What's Open Alameda directory, porch concerts, trademark filing, major progress on renaming Jackson Park, and community discussions about racial justice and police accountability. pubDate: 2020-12-31T20:00:00.000Z --- ## Adapting and Supporting During Crisis 2020 was a year unlike any other. The COVID-19 pandemic changed everything, but Alameda Peeps adapted quickly to continue supporting our community in new and innovative ways. ## What's Open Alameda Directory In May 2020, as businesses struggled to adapt to new health guidelines and restrictions, Alameda Peeps created the "What's Open Alameda" directory. This community-driven resource helped residents find local businesses that were open for delivery, takeout, or modified services. The directory became so popular and useful that it inspired the City of Alameda to create their own official business directory page. This was a great example of community innovation leading to official city resources. ## Porch Concerts In April 2020, as social distancing measures were in full effect, Alameda Peeps members organized "porch concerts" where local musicians would perform from their porches or driveways, and neighbors could enjoy the music from a safe distance. These events brought joy and connection during a time when people were feeling isolated. The porch concerts became a beloved tradition, bringing the community together while respecting public health guidelines. They showed that even in difficult times, we could find creative ways to connect and support each other. ## Jackson Park Renaming: A Major Step Forward After years of community organizing and discussion that began in 2018, 2020 saw significant progress in the effort to rename Jackson Park. In July 2020, the Alameda Parks and Recreation Commission voted unanimously to rename the park and remove the sign. Later that month, the Alameda City Council voted unanimously to rename Jackson Park, located at Park Avenue and Encinal Avenue. The Park Renaming Committee launched a "Give Us a Sign" project, inviting community members to submit name suggestions that reflected values of inclusion, diversity, equity, social justice, human rights, and anti-racism. The community engagement process generated extensive discussion in the Alameda Peeps community, with members sharing historical context, proposing new names, and participating in community forums. The physical sign bearing the name "Jackson Park" was removed in July 2020, marking a visible step in the renaming process. This effort, which had been a major topic of discussion in Alameda Peeps for years, reflected the community's commitment to addressing historical injustices and creating public spaces that better represent our values. ## "Dancing While Black" Incident In 2020, an incident occurred in Alameda that drew national attention and highlighted ongoing concerns about racial profiling and police practices. According to [ABC7 News reporting](https://abc7news.com/post/i-team-black-man-handcuffed-for-dancing-in-the-street-in-alameda/6234241/), a Black man was handcuffed by Alameda police for dancing in the street, an incident that became known as the "dancing while black" case. This incident occurred during a year when national conversations about racial justice and police accountability were at the forefront of public discourse. The incident generated significant discussion in the Alameda Peeps community, with members sharing information, expressing concern, and engaging in important conversations about racial profiling, police practices, and the need for accountability and reform. The Alameda Peeps community served as a platform for community members to discuss these difficult issues, share perspectives, and work toward understanding and change. These conversations reflected our community's commitment to addressing issues of racial justice and ensuring that all members of our community are treated with dignity and respect. ## Trademark Filing In 2020, Alameda Peeps filed for trademark protection, recognizing the value and importance of our community brand. This was a significant step in formalizing our identity and protecting the work we had built over the past decade. ## Looking Forward 2020 was a challenging year, but it also showed the resilience and creativity of the Alameda Peeps community. As we looked ahead to 2021, we were hopeful that better days were coming, and we were ready to continue supporting our community in whatever ways were needed. --- --- title: 2019 Year in Review: Supporting Our Community description: Reflecting on Alameda Peeps' community support efforts in 2019, including Coast Guard shutdown support and school lunch debt cash mobs. pubDate: 2019-12-31T20:00:00.000Z --- ## Supporting Our Community 2019 was a year that demonstrated Alameda Peeps' commitment to supporting our community members, whether they were federal employees affected by a government shutdown or families struggling with school lunch debt. ## Coast Guard Shutdown Support When the federal government shutdown affected Coast Guard members and their families in early 2019, Alameda Peeps quickly organized to help. As a Coast Guard City, Alameda has a special connection to the Coast Guard community, and our members stepped up to provide support during this difficult time. Community members organized donation drives, fundraisers, and other support efforts to help Coast Guard families make ends meet during the shutdown. This effort showed our community's commitment to supporting those who serve our country. ## School Lunch Debt Cash Mob Building on the success of our 2017 school lunch debt initiative, Alameda Peeps organized another cash mob to help clear school lunch debt for families in the Alameda Unified School District. Once again, community members came together to ensure that no child would go hungry at school due to financial hardship. This continued commitment to supporting families and children in Alameda demonstrated that our community values education and the well-being of all our neighbors. ## Looking Forward As 2019 came to a close, we were proud of the ways our community had come together to support each other. We looked forward to 2020 with anticipation, though we couldn't have predicted the challenges that lay ahead. --- --- title: 2018 Year in Review: Growth and Change description: A year of growth and change for Alameda, including cannabis ordinance adoption, new Alameda Point businesses, the Ocean Cleanup launch, the Measure K election, and the beginning of the Jackson Park renaming effort. pubDate: 2018-12-31T20:00:00.000Z --- ## Growth and Change 2018 was a year of significant change and growth for both Alameda and Alameda Peeps. As our community continued to evolve, we saw new businesses, policy changes, and important civic engagement. ## Cannabis Ordinance The City Council adopted a cannabis ordinance and launched a process to bring qualified cannabis businesses to Alameda. This was a significant policy shift that generated much discussion in the Alameda Peeps community, with members sharing information, asking questions, and engaging in thoughtful dialogue about the implications for our city. ## New Alameda Point Businesses Alameda Point continued to develop as a hub for new businesses. The Rake at Admiral Maltings opened, bringing a new dining and drinking destination to the area. This was part of a broader trend of revitalization at Alameda Point, and Alameda Peeps members were among the first to support these new local businesses. ## Ocean Cleanup Launch 2018 saw the launch of the Ocean Cleanup, the world's first ocean cleanup system. While this was a global initiative, it had special significance for Alameda, given our proximity to the Bay and our community's environmental consciousness. Alameda Peeps members followed the project with interest and shared updates about its progress. ## Measure K Election The November 2018 election included Measure K, which would have amended the City Charter to incorporate the rent stabilization ordinance with modifications. The measure failed, with 60.31% voting no. The election generated significant discussion in Alameda Peeps, with members sharing information about the measure and its potential impacts. The defeat of Measure K meant that Alameda's Rent Stabilization Ordinance 3148 remained in place as originally adopted. This election demonstrated the importance of civic engagement and informed voting, values that Alameda Peeps has always encouraged. ## Jackson Park Renaming Effort Begins In 2018, a community effort began to rename Jackson Park, Alameda's first public park, which had been named after President Andrew Jackson in 1909. Community members raised concerns about Jackson's legacy, including his role in the Indian Removal Act and the Trail of Tears, as well as his ownership of enslaved people. The effort gained momentum with a Parks and Recreation Commission meeting in May 2018, where community members advocated for renaming the park. This began what would become a multi-year community organizing effort that generated extensive discussion in the Alameda Peeps community about historical memory, racial justice, and how we choose to honor figures in our public spaces. The Jackson Park renaming effort would become a recurring topic of discussion in Alameda Peeps over the coming years, demonstrating the community's commitment to addressing difficult questions about our history and working toward a more inclusive and just representation in our public spaces. ## City Council Dynamics 2018 also saw ongoing discussions in the Alameda Peeps community about city council proceedings and governance. Community members actively engaged in conversations about council decisions, public service, and local leadership, reflecting the community's commitment to staying informed and involved in local government matters. ## Looking Forward As 2018 came to a close, we reflected on a year of growth, change, and continued community engagement. We looked forward to 2019 with anticipation for what the new year would bring. --- --- title: 2017 Year in Review: Unity and Response description: A year of unity and community response, including Hands Across Alameda, North Bay fire relief efforts, and school lunch debt cash mobs. pubDate: 2017-12-31T20:00:00.000Z --- ## Unity and Response 2017 was a year that tested our community's resilience and demonstrated our capacity for coming together in times of need. From local celebrations to disaster relief, Alameda Peeps showed what a connected community could accomplish. ## Hands Across Alameda In celebration of Earth Day, Alameda Peeps organized "Hands Across Alameda," a community event that brought neighbors together to show unity and environmental awareness. The event highlighted our commitment to both community connection and environmental stewardship. ## North Bay Fire Response When devastating wildfires swept through the North Bay in October 2017, Alameda Peeps quickly mobilized to help. Community members organized donation drives, collected supplies, and raised funds to support fire victims. The response was overwhelming, showing that when our neighbors in the region needed help, Alameda Peeps was ready to step up. This disaster response effort demonstrated the power of our community network to quickly organize and provide meaningful support during emergencies. ## School Lunch Debt Cash Mob One of the most heartwarming initiatives of 2017 was when Alameda Peeps organized a "cash mob" to help clear school lunch debt for families in the Alameda Unified School District (AUSD). Community members came together to donate funds, ensuring that no child would go hungry at school due to financial hardship. This effort showed our community's commitment to supporting families and children in Alameda, and it set a precedent for future philanthropic initiatives. ## Looking Forward 2017 proved that Alameda Peeps could be a force for good in our community, whether through celebration, disaster response, or supporting families in need. As we looked ahead to 2018, we were excited to continue building on these efforts. --- --- title: 2016 Year in Review: Safety and Community Action description: Reflecting on Alameda Peeps' partnership with the City of Alameda on the "Slow Down in Town" traffic safety campaign in 2016. pubDate: 2016-12-31T20:00:00.000Z --- ## Safety and Community Action 2016 marked a significant milestone for Alameda Peeps as we began to work more closely with the City of Alameda on community initiatives. Our focus on traffic safety led to one of our most impactful partnerships yet. ## Slow Down in Town Campaign The "Slow Down in Town" campaign was a collaborative effort between Alameda Peeps and the City of Alameda to promote safer driving speeds throughout the island. The campaign encouraged drivers to follow the "Drive 25" initiative, emphasizing the importance of driving at safe speeds in residential areas. This partnership demonstrated how a community group could work effectively with local government to address shared concerns. The campaign raised awareness about traffic safety and helped make Alameda's streets safer for pedestrians, cyclists, and all residents. ## Community Impact The success of the "Slow Down in Town" campaign showed that Alameda Peeps could be more than just a social media group—we could be a force for positive change in our community. This partnership set the stage for future collaborations and community initiatives. ## Looking Forward As we moved into 2017, we were excited to build on this momentum and continue finding ways to make Alameda an even better place to live. --- --- title: 2014 Year in Review: Building Community description: A look back at Alameda Peeps' early community-building efforts in 2014, including the Christmas tree theft response that brought neighbors together. pubDate: 2014-12-31T20:00:00.000Z --- ## Building Community 2014 was a year of growth and community building for Alameda Peeps. As we continued to establish ourselves as a digital gathering place for Alameda residents, we saw our community come together in meaningful ways. ## Christmas Tree Theft Response One of the most memorable moments of 2014 was when the community rallied together after a Christmas tree theft in the West End neighborhood. When a family's Christmas tree was stolen from their front yard, Alameda Peeps members quickly organized to help. The community came together to replace the tree and show support for the affected family, demonstrating the power of neighbors helping neighbors. This incident highlighted what Alameda Peeps was becoming: not just a Facebook group, but a real community network where people could count on each other in times of need. The response showed that even small acts of kindness could make a big difference in someone's day. ## Looking Forward As 2014 came to a close, we were excited about the future. The community was growing, and we were seeing more and more examples of neighbors connecting, sharing information, and supporting each other. We knew we were building something special that would continue to grow in the years ahead. --- ## External News & Media Coverage --- title: Alameda Peeps are Unstoppably Generous description: An article highlighting the generosity and community spirit of Alameda Peeps members. source: Alameda Magazine url: https://www.alamedamagazine.com/alameda-peeps-are-unstoppably-generous/ --- An article highlighting the generosity and community spirit of Alameda Peeps members. Source: Alameda Magazine URL: https://www.alamedamagazine.com/alameda-peeps-are-unstoppably-generous/ --- --- title: Elks, Eagles, Peeps, Others Step up in Support of North Bay's Fire Victims description: Coverage of Alameda Peeps' efforts to support victims of the October 2017 Northern California wildfires. source: Alameda Sun url: https://web.archive.org/web/20231126052140/https://alamedasun.com/news/elks-eagles-peeps-others-step-support-north-bay%E2%80%99s-fire-victims --- Coverage of Alameda Peeps' efforts to support victims of the October 2017 Northern California wildfires. Source: Alameda Sun URL: https://web.archive.org/web/20231126052140/https://alamedasun.com/news/elks-eagles-peeps-others-step-support-north-bay%E2%80%99s-fire-victims --- --- title: West End Restaurants Still Open for Take Out description: Article about West End restaurants during COVID-19 shutdown, mentioning Peeps Cash Mobs supporting local businesses. source: Alameda Sun url: https://web.archive.org/web/20231126052140/https://alamedasun.com/news/west-end-restaurants-still-open-take-out --- Article about West End restaurants during COVID-19 shutdown, mentioning Peeps Cash Mobs supporting local businesses. Source: Alameda Sun URL: https://web.archive.org/web/20231126052140/https://alamedasun.com/news/west-end-restaurants-still-open-take-out --- --- title: Blood Drive Set description: Coverage of blood drive efforts, with Alameda Peeps members participating in community blood drives. source: Alameda Sun url: https://web.archive.org/web/20231126052140/https://alamedasun.com/news/blood-drive-set --- Coverage of blood drive efforts, with Alameda Peeps members participating in community blood drives. Source: Alameda Sun URL: https://web.archive.org/web/20231126052140/https://alamedasun.com/news/blood-drive-set --- --- title: Red Cross Has Critical Need for Type-O Blood description: Article about critical blood shortage, with Alameda Peeps members organizing and participating in blood drives. source: Alameda Sun url: https://web.archive.org/web/20231126052140/https://alamedasun.com/news/red-cross-has-critical-need-type-o-blood --- Article about critical blood shortage, with Alameda Peeps members organizing and participating in blood drives. Source: Alameda Sun URL: https://web.archive.org/web/20231126052140/https://alamedasun.com/news/red-cross-has-critical-need-type-o-blood --- --- title: Caught in the Act description: Coverage of Alameda Peeps organizing a Cash Mob to help victims, demonstrating the community's rapid response to support those in need. source: Alameda Sun url: https://web.archive.org/web/20231126052140/https://alamedasun.com/news/caught-act --- Coverage of Alameda Peeps organizing a Cash Mob to help victims, demonstrating the community's rapid response to support those in need. Source: Alameda Sun URL: https://web.archive.org/web/20231126052140/https://alamedasun.com/news/caught-act --- --- title: Proceed with Caution description: Coverage of traffic safety efforts, mentioning the Alameda Peeps Facebook group's citywide public awareness campaign with the slogan 'In town, slow down.' source: Alameda Sun url: https://web.archive.org/web/20231126052140/https://alamedasun.com/news/proceed-caution --- Coverage of traffic safety efforts, mentioning the Alameda Peeps Facebook group's citywide public awareness campaign with the slogan 'In town, slow down.' Source: Alameda Sun URL: https://web.archive.org/web/20231126052140/https://alamedasun.com/news/proceed-caution --- --- title: When Times Get Tough, Alameda Gets Going description: Article about community support during difficult times, highlighting Alameda Peeps and other local groups setting up fundraisers to help the food bank feed neighbors. source: Alameda Sun url: https://web.archive.org/web/20231126052140/https://alamedasun.com/news/when-times-get-tough-alameda-gets-going --- Article about community support during difficult times, highlighting Alameda Peeps and other local groups setting up fundraisers to help the food bank feed neighbors. Source: Alameda Sun URL: https://web.archive.org/web/20231126052140/https://alamedasun.com/news/when-times-get-tough-alameda-gets-going --- --- title: Sweet Home Alameda description: A thank you letter mentioning Alameda Peeps members who donated and provided ideas, demonstrating the community's supportive spirit. source: Alameda Sun url: https://web.archive.org/web/20231126052140/https://alamedasun.com/news/sweet-home-alameda --- A thank you letter mentioning Alameda Peeps members who donated and provided ideas, demonstrating the community's supportive spirit. Source: Alameda Sun URL: https://web.archive.org/web/20231126052140/https://alamedasun.com/news/sweet-home-alameda --- --- title: Peeps Urge Motorists to Slow Down in Town description: Coverage of our 'Slow Down in Town' campaign in cooperation with the City of Alameda. source: Bike Walk Alameda url: http://bikewalkalameda.org/2016/07/06/peeps-urge-motorists-to-slow-down-in-town/ --- Coverage of our 'Slow Down in Town' campaign in cooperation with the City of Alameda. Source: Bike Walk Alameda URL: http://bikewalkalameda.org/2016/07/06/peeps-urge-motorists-to-slow-down-in-town/ --- --- title: Why Alameda Is the Coolest San Francisco Suburb description: An article mentioning Alameda Peeps as part of what makes Alameda a special community. source: Apartment Therapy url: https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/alameda-california-guide-32251881 --- An article mentioning Alameda Peeps as part of what makes Alameda a special community. Source: Apartment Therapy URL: https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/alameda-california-guide-32251881 --- --- title: Thieves steal Girl Scout cookies from young troop in Alameda description: Community rallies to support a new Girl Scout troop after thieves stole four cases of cookies. Alameda Peeps helped raise over $200 in donations. source: CBS San Francisco url: https://www.cbsnews.com/sanfrancisco/news/thieves-steal-girl-scout-cookies-from-young-troop-in-alameda/ --- Community rallies to support a new Girl Scout troop after thieves stole four cases of cookies. Alameda Peeps helped raise over $200 in donations. Source: CBS San Francisco URL: https://www.cbsnews.com/sanfrancisco/news/thieves-steal-girl-scout-cookies-from-young-troop-in-alameda/ --- --- title: In Search of the Perfect Thanksgiving Pie description: Alameda Post feature exploring local Thanksgiving traditions and pie culture in Alameda. source: Alameda Post url: https://alamedapost.com/features/alameda-life/in-search-of-the-perfect-thanksgiving-pie/ --- Alameda Post feature exploring local Thanksgiving traditions and pie culture in Alameda. Source: Alameda Post URL: https://alamedapost.com/features/alameda-life/in-search-of-the-perfect-thanksgiving-pie/ --- --- title: Mysterious messages of love and kindness appear on Alameda sidewalks description: An anonymous Alameda artist known as 'Carry Chalk' spreads joy with positive sidewalk messages. The story gained attention on the Alameda Peeps Facebook page. source: ABC7 News url: https://abc7news.com/post/mysterious-messages-of-love-and-kindness-appear-on-alameda-sidewalks/4014877/ --- An anonymous Alameda artist known as 'Carry Chalk' spreads joy with positive sidewalk messages. The story gained attention on the Alameda Peeps Facebook page. Source: ABC7 News URL: https://abc7news.com/post/mysterious-messages-of-love-and-kindness-appear-on-alameda-sidewalks/4014877/ --- --- title: Kids In Alameda Given Fast-Food Sauce Packets as Trick-or-Treating Treats description: A humorous Halloween story about Alameda residents handing out unconventional treats, with the father noting 'Alameda peeps don't have a great sense of humor.' source: SFist url: https://sfist.com/2023/11/02/kids-in-alameda-given-fast-food-sauce-packets-as-trick-or-treating-treats/ --- A humorous Halloween story about Alameda residents handing out unconventional treats, with the father noting 'Alameda peeps don't have a great sense of humor.' Source: SFist URL: https://sfist.com/2023/11/02/kids-in-alameda-given-fast-food-sauce-packets-as-trick-or-treating-treats/ --- --- title: Tesla Takeover Event Not Happening at Alameda Point description: News coverage about a Tesla event that was planned but ultimately did not take place at Alameda Point. source: Alameda Post url: https://alamedapost.com/news/tesla-takeover-event-not-happening-alameda-point/ --- News coverage about a Tesla event that was planned but ultimately did not take place at Alameda Point. Source: Alameda Post URL: https://alamedapost.com/news/tesla-takeover-event-not-happening-alameda-point/ --- --- title: The Morning Bun Now With Your Comments description: An update from The Morning Bun blog about adding comment functionality to their Alameda-focused news and commentary site. source: The Morning Bun url: https://www.themorningbun.com/the-morning-bun-now-with-your-comments-eek/ --- An update from The Morning Bun blog about adding comment functionality to their Alameda-focused news and commentary site. Source: The Morning Bun URL: https://www.themorningbun.com/the-morning-bun-now-with-your-comments-eek/ --- --- title: Alameda Peeps Fight for Traffic Safety description: Coverage of Alameda Peeps' traffic safety campaign, including informational pickets and city council meetings. The group made traffic safety its No. 1 priority, working with the city, police, fire department, and Bike Walk Alameda. source: Alameda Magazine url: https://www.alamedamagazine.com/alameda-peeps-fight-for-traffic-safety/ --- Coverage of Alameda Peeps' traffic safety campaign, including informational pickets and city council meetings. The group made traffic safety its No. 1 priority, working with the city, police, fire department, and Bike Walk Alameda. Source: Alameda Magazine URL: https://www.alamedamagazine.com/alameda-peeps-fight-for-traffic-safety/ --- --- title: Stepping up to help our pets description: Letter to the editor mentioning Alameda Peeps Caturday posts, demonstrating how the community's traditions are recognized beyond the group itself. source: Alameda Sun url: https://web.archive.org/web/20231126052140/https://alamedasun.com/letters/14476 --- Letter to the editor mentioning Alameda Peeps Caturday posts, demonstrating how the community's traditions are recognized beyond the group itself. Source: Alameda Sun URL: https://web.archive.org/web/20231126052140/https://alamedasun.com/letters/14476 --- --- title: Preserve our community by voting Yes on Z description: Letter to the editor from Zac Bowling discussing the Alameda Peeps Facebook group's membership requirements and the impact of rising rents on the community. source: Alameda Sun url: https://web.archive.org/web/20231126052140/https://alamedasun.com/letters/13511 --- Letter to the editor from Zac Bowling discussing the Alameda Peeps Facebook group's membership requirements and the impact of rising rents on the community. Source: Alameda Sun URL: https://web.archive.org/web/20231126052140/https://alamedasun.com/letters/13511 --- --- title: AEF tips its hat to generous community description: Letter to the editor from the Alameda Education Foundation thanking the community, including Alameda Peeps, for their support of the Equipped4Success school supply drive. source: Alameda Sun url: https://web.archive.org/web/20231126052140/https://alamedasun.com/letters/7926 --- Letter to the editor from the Alameda Education Foundation thanking the community, including Alameda Peeps, for their support of the Equipped4Success school supply drive. Source: Alameda Sun URL: https://web.archive.org/web/20231126052140/https://alamedasun.com/letters/7926 --- ## Alameda Links & Resources ### Official & Government Resources - **AC Transit** — Alameda-Contra Costa Transit District providing bus service throughout the East Bay, including Alameda. Maps, schedules, trip planning, and real-time bus information. URL: https://www.actransit.org - **Alameda Animal Shelter (FAAS)** — Adopt a pet or volunteer with the Alameda Animal Shelter. Find information about animal services and rescue operations. URL: https://www.alamedaanimalshelter.org - **Alameda CERT** — Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program for Alameda. Get trained to help your community during disasters and emergencies. URL: https://veoci.com/v/p/dashboard/vd2s63khje - **Alameda County** — Official government website for Alameda County. Access to services, departments, and public records. URL: https://www.acgov.org - **Alameda County Health Care Services** — Public health services for Alameda County residents. Information on programs, clinics, and health alerts. URL: https://www.achhd.org - **Alameda County Industries** — Residential, commercial, and industrial waste collection services for recyclables, organics, and garbage in Alameda and surrounding areas. URL: https://alamedacountyindustries.com - **Alameda County Office of Education** — Supporting students, schools, and the community through educational leadership and programs. URL: https://www.acoe.org - **Alameda County Public Health Department** — Public health services for Alameda County residents, including disease prevention, health promotion, and community health programs. URL: https://www.acphd.org - **Alameda Municipal Power** — Your local electric utility providing reliable, affordable power to Alameda. Learn about rates, services, and energy efficiency programs. URL: https://www.alamedamp.com - **Alameda Unified School District** — Serving Alameda's students with quality education. Information about schools, enrollment, events, and district services. URL: https://www.alamedaunified.org - **Alameda Water Shuttle** — Water shuttle service connecting Alameda to San Francisco and other Bay Area destinations. A convenient alternative to driving across the bay. URL: https://watershuttle.org - **City of Alameda** — Official website for the City of Alameda. Find information about city services, permits, events, and government resources. URL: https://www.alamedaca.gov/Home - **City of Alameda Rent Program** — Resources and information on Alameda's rent stabilization ordinance, tenant rights, and landlord responsibilities. URL: https://www.alamedarentprogram.org - **Harbor Bay Shuttle to BART** — Free shuttle service connecting Harbor Bay Business Park and surrounding Alameda areas to BART stations for convenient transit connections. URL: https://altrans.net/hbbp - **Housing Authority of the City of Alameda** — Providing affordable housing opportunities for low-income individuals and families in Alameda through housing programs, rental assistance, and affordable housing communities. URL: https://www.alamedahsg.org - **Oakland International Airport** — The primary airport serving the Alameda area, offering domestic and international flights with convenient access for Bay Area travelers. URL: https://oaklandairport.com - **San Francisco Bay Ferry** — Ferry service connecting Alameda and other East Bay cities to San Francisco. Fast, scenic, and convenient public transportation across the bay. URL: https://sanfranciscobayferry.com - **StopWaste** — Helping Alameda County residents and businesses reduce waste. Information on recycling, composting, and sustainability. URL: https://www.stopwaste.org ### Business & Chamber Resources - **Alameda Chamber of Commerce** — Supporting local business growth and economic development in Alameda. Join the chamber for networking and business resources. URL: http://alamedachamber.com - **Downtown Alameda Business Association** — Promoting vibrant downtown businesses and community. Support local shops, restaurants, and services in downtown Alameda. URL: https://downtownalameda.com - **Greater Alameda Business Association** — A comprehensive resource for Alameda businesses. Networking, advocacy, and business support across the island. URL: https://www.thealamedabusinessassociation.com - **Harbor Bay Business Park** — Premier business park in Alameda offering office space, retail, and commercial services in a well-maintained campus setting. URL: https://www.harborbay.com - **Marina Village Alameda** — Business park and commercial center in Alameda offering office space, retail, and dining in a waterfront location. URL: https://www.marinavillagealameda.com - **West Alameda Business Association** — Supporting businesses on Alameda's west side. Connect with local merchants and community initiatives. URL: https://westalamedabusiness.com ### Civic & Community Organizations - **AAUW Alameda** — The Alameda branch of the American Association of University Women, advancing equity for women and girls through advocacy, education, and research. URL: https://alameda-ca.aauw.net - **Active Alameda** — Promoting active transportation and sustainable mobility in Alameda through community engagement and advocacy for walking, biking, and transit. URL: https://activealameda.org - **Alameda Backyard Growers** — A grassroots organization that encourages Alamedans to grow their own food and donate the excess to the Alameda Food Bank. URL: https://www.alamedabackyardgrowers.org - **Alameda Education Foundation** — Supporting educational excellence in Alameda public schools through grants, programs, and community involvement. URL: https://www.alamedaeducation.org - **Alameda Kiwanis Club** — A community service organization dedicated to improving the lives of children in Alameda and around the world. URL: https://www.alamedakiwanis.org - **Alameda Parks Foundation** — Supporting Alameda's parks and recreation facilities through fundraising, advocacy, and community engagement to enhance public spaces. URL: https://www.alamedaparks.org - **Alameda Transportation Management Association** — Promoting sustainable transportation options in Alameda. Learn about transit, biking, carpooling, ferries, and the water shuttle. URL: https://www.alamedatma.org - **Bike Walk Alameda** — Advocating to make Alameda a safe and enjoyable place to bike and walk. Learn about campaigns, events, and resources for active transportation. URL: https://bikewalkalameda.org - **City of Alameda Democratic Club** — Alameda's official grassroots Democratic organization founded in 1985. Join a diverse coalition of Democrats advancing progressive ideals and civic engagement in Alameda. URL: https://alamedademocraticclub.org - **Community Action for a Sustainable Alameda (CASA)** — Dedicated to raising awareness and mobilizing community action for sustainability. Join initiatives for clean energy, climate action, and zero waste. URL: https://casa-alameda.org - **League of Women Voters of Alameda** — A nonpartisan political organization encouraging informed and active participation in government. URL: https://www.lwvalameda.org ### Local Entertainment & Dining - **Alameda Farmers Market** — Fresh local produce and goods every Tuesday and Saturday, 9am-1pm at 710 Haight Ave. Support local farmers and artisans while getting fresh food for your table. URL: https://www.instagram.com/alamedafarmersmarket - **Alameda Museum** — Showcasing the history and culture of Alameda through exhibits on local history, notable residents, and community heritage. URL: https://www.alamedamuseum.org - **Alameda Point Antiques Faire** — The largest antiques show in Northern California, held on the 1st Sunday of every month with over 800 dealer booths featuring vintage and antique items. URL: https://alamedapointantiquesfaire.com - **Alameda Pride** — Organizing and promoting LGBTQ+ community events, celebrations, and advocacy in Alameda to foster inclusion and visibility. URL: https://alamedapride.com - **Alameda South Shore Center** — A shopping center in Alameda featuring a variety of retail stores, restaurants, and services in a convenient location. URL: https://alamedasouthshorecenter.com - **Alameda Theatre & Cineplex** — Catch the latest movies at Alameda's historic theatre. Features cinema grill dining and a classic movie-going experience. URL: https://www.alamedatheatres.com - **Books Inc.** — An independent bookstore in Alameda offering a curated selection of books, author events, and community literary programs. URL: https://booksinc.net - **Corica Park Golf Course** — Premier golf facility in Alameda featuring two championship courses, driving range, and golf instruction. A beautiful public golf destination. URL: https://www.coricapark.com - **Crab Cove Visitor Center** — East Bay Regional Park District visitor center at Crab Cove in Alameda, featuring educational programs, exhibits, and access to the shoreline. URL: https://www.ebparks.org/parks/visitor-centers/crab-cove - **Crown Beach** — Beautiful beach park in Alameda managed by East Bay Regional Park District, perfect for swimming, picnicking, and enjoying the San Francisco Bay. URL: https://www.ebparks.org/parks/crown-beach - **Fleet Week San Francisco** — Annual celebration of the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard featuring ship tours, air shows, and military demonstrations, with events in Alameda. URL: https://fleetweeksf.org - **Frank Bette Center for the Arts** — A non-profit art gallery, learning center, and cultural hub in Alameda that supports local artists and provides creative programs for the community. URL: https://www.frankbettecenter.org - **Pacific Pinball Museum** — A nonprofit museum dedicated to the preservation and promotion of pinball, with over 90 playable machines from different eras. URL: https://www.pacificpinball.org - **PEERS (Period Events & Entertainment Re-Creation Society)** — A nonprofit dedicated to preserving and re-creating historical and vintage dance and music. URL: https://www.peersdance.org - **Ploughshares Nursery** — A local nursery in Alameda offering native plants, gardening supplies, and expert advice for sustainable landscaping and gardening. URL: https://ploughsharesnursery.com - **Rhythmix Cultural Works** — A community arts center in Alameda that presents a wide range of high-quality art, performance, and cultural experiences. URL: https://www.rhythmix.org - **Spirits Alley** — Alameda's vibrant distillery and spirits district featuring local craft distilleries, tasting rooms, and spirits-related businesses. URL: https://www.alamedaca.gov/RESIDENTS/Visiting-Alameda/Attractions-in-Alameda/Spirits-Alley - **Studio 23 Gallery** — A local art gallery in Alameda featuring works by Bay Area artists and hosting exhibitions, workshops, and community art events. URL: https://studio23gallery.com - **USS Hornet Museum** — A National Historic Landmark, the USS Hornet Sea, Air & Space Museum is a retired aircraft carrier offering tours, exhibits, and educational programs. URL: https://www.uss-hornet.org ### Local Nonprofits & Services - **Alameda Food Bank** — Providing nourishing food assistance to Alameda residents in need since 1977. Shop with dignity in a compassionate, respectful environment. Now serving over 1,200 families each week. URL: https://www.alamedafoodbank.org - **Alameda Hospital** — Part of the Alameda Health System, providing comprehensive medical services including emergency care, surgical services, and specialized programs to the Alameda community. URL: https://www.alamedahealthsystem.org/locations/alamedahospital - **Alameda Meals on Wheels** — Delivering hot, nutritious meals to homebound residents of Alameda. A vital service for seniors and those with disabilities. URL: https://www.alamedamealsonwheels.org - **Alameda Point Collaborative** — Working to end homelessness by providing housing and services to create communities where formerly homeless families and individuals can flourish. Supporting our unhoused neighbors since 1999. URL: https://apcollaborative.org/ - **California Historical Radio Society** — A nonprofit educational organization founded in 1974 dedicated to preserving and promoting early radio, wireless communication, and broadcasting history. Museum located in Alameda. URL: https://californiahistoricalradio.com - **Friends of the Alameda Free Library** — A nonprofit organization supporting the Alameda Free Library through fundraising, volunteerism, and advocacy. URL: https://www.alamedafree.org - **Girls Inc. of the Island City** — Inspiring all girls to be strong, smart, and bold through direct service and advocacy. Programs focus on leadership development, education, and empowerment. URL: https://www.girlsincislandcity.org - **Jewish Alameda** — Connecting the Jewish community in Alameda through events, resources, and information about Jewish life, culture, and organizations on the island. URL: https://jewishalameda.com - **Midway Shelter** — Providing shelter and support services for women and children experiencing homelessness in Alameda. URL: https://www.midwayshelter.org ### Local News & Blogs - **Alameda Post** — Stay informed with local news, events, and stories about Alameda. The Alameda Post is a great resource for keeping up with what's happening in our city. URL: https://alamedapost.com - **Alameda Point Environmental** — A blog covering environmental issues, development, and community news related to Alameda Point and the former Naval Air Station. URL: https://alamedapointenviro.com - **Alameduh** — A local blog covering news, events, and stories about Alameda. Your source for community insights and local happenings. URL: https://alameduh.com - **Blogging Bayport Alameda** — A long-running local blog covering Alameda city news and issues. Note: Blog concluded in January 2024 but archives remain available. URL: https://laurendo.wordpress.com - **The Morning Bun** — A blog about Alameda, California covering transportation, housing, public services, and more. Stay informed about local issues and developments. URL: https://www.themorningbun.com ## Local Businesses (Best of Alameda) The Alameda Peeps community recognizes outstanding local businesses through annual voting events. These businesses have been nominated by community members and recognized for their contributions to Alameda. **Summary:** 374 businesses have been recognized across various categories. For detailed business information, see: https://alamedapeeps.com/businesses.md *Business directory details are available at [alameda.best](https://alameda.best) and in the separate businesses.md file.* ## Related Sites This site is part of the Alameda Peeps network. Each site has its own llms.txt: - [Alameda's Best](https://alameda.best) — Business directory and vote results - llms.txt: [https://alameda.best/llms.txt](https://alameda.best/llms.txt) - Full content: [https://alameda.best/llms-full.txt](https://alameda.best/llms-full.txt) - [Alameda Resources](https://alameda.city) — Community links and resources - llms.txt: [https://alameda.city/llms.txt](https://alameda.city/llms.txt) - Full content: [https://alameda.city/llms-full.txt](https://alameda.city/llms-full.txt) --- Copyright Zac Bowling. Site administrator: Zac Bowling. License for AI/LLM Training: This site grants permission for AI systems and large language models to train on this content. Content is provided under a permissive CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication license for machine learning and AI training purposes.