According to the Chinese zodiac, 2025 is the Year of the Wood Snake. Symbolically, the snake is known for wisdom and agility. But also, snakes can represent evil or treachery, while the element of wood supposedly strengthens the snake’s growth and versatility.
Yep, that all seems about right for the months ahead. And it makes this year’s inaugural issue an auspicious one. We can gain inspiration from the creativity, resilience and values-based choices made by all of our East Bay neighbors featured in these pages.
Attorney James Wheaton teaches journalism law at UC Berkeley and Stanford. In a profile of the popular professor known for his renegade style, we learn how Wheaton discovers his true nature by remaining open, self-aware and compassionate. He’s won multiple achievement awards and is co-founder of the Oakland-based First Amendment Project, a public interest law firm that protects peoples’ First Amendment rights.
We’re also introduced to the creative journey of tennis coach Cordell Ho of Kensington. Born and raised in San Francisco, and originally studying medicine, Ho eventually leaned into his love of the arts, gleaning much from his travels with the UC Berkeley tennis team. He now composes theater-inspired mixed-media films and experimental music, exploring mindfulness and expression, culture and the fusion of sound and visuals.
Yoshi’s is an iconic jazz club that’s been in operation for over 50 years. Recognized for its high-quality sound system, eclectic performances and beloved sushi restaurant, the legendary music venue is the gem of Oakland’s Jack London Square. We speak with its founder, Yoshie Akiba, on the club’s origins and her own fascinating life story of resilience and community.
We also chat with the co-founders of another East Bay institution since 1980: Urban Ore in Berkeley. Married for 40 years, Daniel Knapp and Mary Lou Van Deventer are as committed to Zero Waste advocacy as they are to each other; their “salvage yard” is a treasure trove of houseware delights.
Speaking of delights, we also feature a story on the artisanal food-craft workshops of Preserved, a culinary shop in Temescal specializing in traditional methods of preserving and fermenting. Plus, we offer advice on how to determine if your child needs a tutor, and tips to find the right one. And we celebrate the Native American photography of Dugan Aguilar.
May your ongoing wisdom be ever-agile and transformative in the year ahead!
