2022 Year in Review: Reopening and Remembrance
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.
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.