The daffodils are usually the first to arrive in my backyard. After a very cold and rainy winter, I’m delighted by the sudden appearance of their delicate white petals and bright orange center—the closest thing to a sun I’ve seen in days at this point—along with the hopeful signifier that spring is on the way.
It’s also Women’s History Month, which this year carries the theme “Moving Forward Together! Women Educating & Inspiring Generations.” According to the National Women’s History Alliance, this theme celebrates the influence of “women who have dedicated their lives to education, mentorship, and leadership.”
How appropriate then to feature local powerhouse vocalist, organizer and educator Tiffany Austin on our cover. In this month’s issue, we speak with Austin about how her law background informs her advocacy for artists, her inspiring musical career as an acclaimed vocalist, her Wyldflwr Arts hub in Oakland and the many projects she leads.
Speaking of artists, we also showcase how Creative Growth Art Center has provided a gallery and a studio space in Uptown Oakland since 1974 for people with disabilities to advance their artistic endeavors. This month continues an exhibition curated by the center’s Black artists’ group, titled “Soul Food,” to honor Black History Month.
Speaking of food, in these pages we heed the call of Sirene, a new seafood and fried chicken restaurant that recently opened on Grand Avenue in Oakland. Restaurateur Paul Einbund and chef Gavin Schmidt are the duo behind highly popular neighborhood gem The Morris in San Francisco. Expect nightly craveable dishes.
When it comes to neighborhood gems in the East Bay, Donkey & Goat deserves accolades for pioneering natural winemaking in Berkeley’s Gilman District. Founder Jared Brandt also supported multiple other winemakers to set up shop in the area. We traverse his unconventional enological path in this issue.
Lastly, to round out these beginning-of-spring vibes, we talk with two local architects who provide vital information on making our homes more fire-resilient without skimping on aesthetics. And we gain interior inspiration from Pantone’s Color of the Year, “Mocha Mousse,” because although the vernal equinox is near, chocolate is year-round.
