It’s hard to keep things business as usual with the devastating fires that have hit the Los Angeles area this week. Seeing the disaster that has unfolded when many of us have friends and family in the region is gut-wrenching and yet another reminder of how precarious life can be.
What can we do when things feel like they’re so out of control? We can help others, donating our time and money to supporting those in need and checking in with loved ones. We can also be kind to ourselves by making time for self-care and moments of tranquility; for me, that means excursions outdoors, even if it’s just to my backyard, a home-cooked meal and extra cat-cuddling sessions. Give yourself permission to give yourself a break.
Sending love to SoCal,
Julia Brown
Six Fifty Editor
editor@thesixfifty.com
The must-see astronomy events in 2025 visible from Silicon Valley
We spoke with Foothill College astronomy instructor Geoff Mathews about the biggest highlights on the astronomical calendar, why we could see more aurora borealis action on the Peninsula and the best tips for stargazing.
Peninsula sound healers strike a calming tone
You may be seeking tools for relaxation and healing as you start the new year. Taking a sound bath is one practice that some locals say can be helpful in fostering mind and body health.
A new San Mateo ice cream cafe is a hub for dairy-free varieties and community events
For Maggie de Vera, ice cream is much more than a sweet treat – it’s a way to build community. The Burlingame resident has fond memories of her grandparents’ ice cream parlor and pharmacy, which was located in the basement of her family home in the Philippines.
Congrats to Bruce M. of Portola Valley, who was the first reader to correctly identify where last week’s photo was taken (it’s South San Francisco City Hall!).
The first person to reply to this email with the correct place where the below photo was taken will win a prize from The Six Fifty and a shoutout in our next newsletter!
Rachmaninoff and the Tsar: Jan. 10-Feb. 9 Pianist/writer/actor Hershey Felder returns to TheatreWorks, along with actor Jonathan Silvestri, exploring the life of Sergei Rachmaninoff.
San Mateo On Ice: Through Jan. 12 Central Park’s seasonal outdoor ice skating rink is open for one more weekend.
Yan Can Cook Live: Jan. 14 Beloved chef Martin Yan demonstrates how to cook dishes from his two new cookbooks, followed by a meet-and-greet and book signing.
Schuylar Bailar: Jan. 17 Athlete and trans rights activist Schuylar Bailar comes to Kepler’s to discuss his book “He/She/They.”
Maryna Krut: Jan. 18 Ukrainian singer and bandura virtuoso Maryna Krut performs at Stanford.
The Beatles White Album Live: Jan. 18 Laurence Juber, Tal Bachman and more perform The Beatles’ “White Album” live in concert.
A John Williams Celebration: Jan. 18-19 Peninsula Symphony pays tribute to the movie-score maestro John Williams, including selections from “ET,” “Jaws,” “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” and more.
Harajuku Lumpia Fest: Jan. 18 Check out what’s billed as “the Bay Area’s cutest foodie marketplace.”
Tia Fuller: Jan. 19 Grammy-nominated saxophonist Tia Fuller and her quartet come to Half Moon Bay.
Umoja Pranayama: Breathwork Fundamentals: Jan. 19 and Feb. 16 Take a guided breathwork class to learn techniques for relaxation and stress release.
Plan Ahead
Singles Speed Dating: Jan. 24 Alhambra Irish House hosts an evening of speed dating geared toward ages 35-49.
Yoga Flight/Wellness Expo: Jan. 24 The Hangar in South San Francisco hosts a free yoga class and wellness expo.
Palo Alto Lunar New Year Fair: Jan. 26 Celebrate the year of the snake at Mitchell Park Community Center.
We Are a Family: Generations of Music by African American Composers: Feb. 1-2 The annual concert by the African American Concert Initiative explores the multigenerational scope of musical traditions.
Redwood City Lunar New Year Celebration: Feb. 1 Find musicians, dancers, free admission to the San Mateo County History Museum and more at this annual celebration.
Are We Alone in the Universe?: Feb. 4 Planetary scientist Pascal Lee of the SETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence) Institute will discuss the hunt for signs of other advanced civilizations in the universe.
Valentine Grainbakers Breadmaking Class: Feb. 14 Learn to make artisan bread dough from fresh, spent brewer’s grain and customize it with flavor options including ube, cinnamon raisin or rosemary and sea salt.
Apparel Swap Party: Feb. 16 Palo Alto Art Center hosts a free clothing, shoes and accessories swap.
Facing climate change, Peninsula environmental groups brace for new battles
As they hit milestones, four organizations reflect on the past and look to the future.
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