Oakland residents – owners and renters – can schedule curbside pickup of bulky waste with Waste Management's trash collection services at no additional charge.

What: You can unload as much as 4 cubic meters (3 ft x 3 ft x 12 ft) of bulky waste and a spread of huge items equivalent to household appliances, mattresses, consumer electronics and tires. However, additional fees may apply if the allocated amount is exceeded. Here are some examples:

Garbage items

• Furniture and carpets (roll up and tape all carpets)
• Non-hazardous, non-recyclable items (loose items in boxes or bags)
• Painted wood/doors, reconstruction rubble.

You may also add these large items (arrange individually):

• 2 devices
• 4 mattresses or box spring beds
• 4 automotive tires or smaller (rims okay)
• 4 computer monitors, CPUs or televisions
• Consumer electronics
• scrap metal
• Cardboard box (flattened and bundled)
• Plant residues (packed in paper bags)
• Tree branches (4 feet long, 6 inches wide) and clean wood (must be bundled)

What is forbidden?

• No hazardous or medical waste. No rocks, dirt, concrete or fiberglass.

How: Call 1-888-WM-BULKY (1-888-962-8559) to schedule a pickup or schedule an appointment online.

When: Place items curbside by 6 a.m. on the day of your appointment (typically trash pickup day) to make sure pickup. Do not leave items curbside greater than sooner or later before your scheduled pickup time or chances are you’ll face a high quality.

Frequency: One collection per 12 months is included within the regular service. Single-family home residents can schedule a second free curbside pickup 45 days after the primary curbside pickup.

Originally published: October 8, 2024 at 1:15 p.m

Of course, Bay Area libraries attract book lovers who frequent these literary spaces to read and borrow novels, nonfiction, and movie books. But these halls offer rather more. They offer free lending programs and have all the things from Wi-Fi hotspots to vegetable seeds, hammers, and climbing backpacks that locals with library cards can use.

Whether you're searching for equipment for a brand new hobby or pursuit, or to expand an existing one, listed here are some options, from tool libraries to seed collections, outdoor gear, park passes, and more.

Tool rental

If you go to Home Depot to check out home, carpentry or electrical equipment, consider adding this library service to your toolbox.

To reduce the fee barriers related to home improvement projects, tool lending libraries provide the community with free or low-cost access to tools and equipment. Some libraries, just like the Oakland Public Library, also offer workshops on plumbing repair 101 and power tool safety. And others, just like the Irvington Library in Fremont, have “makerspaces” where guests can tinker and construct.

“Libraries with tool rentals capture the public’s imagination and expand the boundaries of what public libraries can do for our communities,” says Jill Tokutomi, chief librarian of the Berkeley Public Library’s southern branch.

Tool lending libraries like Berkeley's, which exhibit mechanical tools, power tools, and cooking utensils, amongst other items, have existed for the reason that late Seventies.

“Even after 45 years, people are still speechless when they learn that they can use their library card to borrow tools – both home improvement and kitchen tools,” Tokutomi said.

Where: Tool collections may be present in many Bay Area libraries, including the Santa Clara Municipal Library, Oakland Public Library, Berkeley Public Library And Alameda County Library Branches.

What is obtainable: Everything from caulking guns and warmth guns to thermal imaging cameras, extension cords, drills, chainsaws, sledgehammers, ladders, baking pans and more.

Seed libraries

Do you will have a green thumb? At libraries in Moraga, Mountain View and beyond, you'll find drawers stuffed with free flower, fruit and vegetable seeds.

With greater than 500 seed lending libraries worldwide, it's a preferred solution to get people enthusiastic about gardening. According to librarians on the San Jose Public Library, which has stations in six branches, local gardens may help combat climate change and preserve genetic diversity.

In addition to distributing seeds, some libraries — resembling those in Clayton and Mountain View — welcome donations of seeds from private or public gardens to assist the gathering proceed to grow. These seeds often thrive higher than store-bought varieties because locally harvested seeds have adapted to the Bay Area's microclimate and soils, in keeping with librarians on the Contra Costa County Librarywhere 16 branches have a seed rental collection.

Where: Check out seeds on the San Jose Public Library, Santa Clara City Library, Oakland Public Library, Hayward Public Library, Menlo Park Public Library, Mountain View Public Library, Palo Alto Public LibraryContra Costa County Library, San Mateo County Public Library and more.

What is obtainable: Seeds for native wildflowers, vegetables, fruits, heirloom varieties and hybrids from California

Library of Things

Browsing a Library of Things collection is like shopping in a colourful mall—except all the things is free.

The term was popularized by a grassroots experiment that began in London in 2014 and was inspired by the concept of tool lending libraries. Over the last decade, such collections have sprung up in places like Palo Alto, Berkeley, and Brentwood.

Rather than household appliances or tools, these libraries are inclined to offer more unexpected items. At the Milpitas Library, which opened its Library of Things in November, cardholders can borrow medical equipment, karaoke equipment, specialty cake pans, telescopes, and sewing machines, amongst other things. For example, Fremont resident Elizabeth Leong borrowed a blood pressure monitor, sous-vide equipment, and a hot pot and grill from the library this spring.

Where: Milpitas Library, Palo Alto Library, Berkeley Public Library and a number of other branches of the Contra Costa County Library

What is obtainable: Sewing machines, Go Pros, Raspberry Pis, ukuleles, children's toys, reading sets, bike locks, bocce sets, Wi-Fi hotspots, Chromebooks and more

Hiking sets and park passes

Several library districts, including San Mateo and Contra Costa County, offer California State Park day passes that allow visitors to park without spending a dime at greater than 200 participating parks — though funding for them is shaky for 2024-25. The Santa Clara County Library offers free passes for automotive entry to twenty-eight regional parks, and locals can borrow the passes for a three-week period.

“We want to make sure that people who like to hike and get out into nature can do that,” said Rachel Hughes, Santa Clara city librarian. “They won't have to worry about the money. It won't be a barrier for them to go out there.”

Like many other Bay Area libraries, Santa Clara City offers climbing backpacks that hold fun and practical items like binoculars, bird and wildflower guides, a compass, magnifying lenses and more. But the fluffy, bear-shaped food storage container is exclusive to this library—and surprisingly popular, in keeping with Hughes.

“You put all your perfumed things in there and then the bears can't open them,” she said. “Sometimes people can't open them either.”

Where: Santa Clara City Library, Santa Clara County Library District, San Jose Public Library, San Mateo County Library, Alameda County Library, Contra County Library and more.

What is obtainable: Binoculars, field guides, climbing poles, magnifying glasses, compasses, backpacks and parking permits for the state and region of California

Whether it's aiming for the “quiet luxury” or “old money” look that's taking on TikTok or shying away from the “ridiculously roomy bag” scene in the ultimate season of “Succession,” designer clothes and Accessories were a hot topic in 2023. But with continued sales growth in Designer fashionand concerns about purchasing more sustainableIt's value interested by investing your money in products that last more.

Sales of luxury fashion have increased significantly because the pandemic. Louis VuittonFor example, sales have increased since 2019. And British luxury brand Burberry reported sales growth 86% higher within the 12 months after the pandemic (although there have been). one other decline in sales newer).

The Rise of athleisure in fashion and designer collaborations corresponding to Manolo Blahnik for Birkenstock, Gucci x Adidas And Burberry x Supreme have made luxury more available. But prices are still high. So how do you understand whether a purchase order will stand the test of time and develop into an investment or a fashion flop? Here are 4 key aspects to contemplate when purchasing a designer piece.

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This article is an element of Quarter Life, a series about issues that affect us in our twenties and thirties. From the challenges of beginning a profession and caring for our mental health, to the thrill of beginning a family, adopting a pet, or simply making friends as an adult. The articles on this series explore the questions and supply answers as we move through this turbulent period of life.

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1. Resale Value

A high purchase price may not guarantee that your product will retain its value. An vital factor to contemplate is the resale value of your purchase, as this may provide a sign of the item's investment potential.

A fashion investment piece is generally a luxury product with a better price tag. Luxury fashion prices have increased over the past decade. Have Chanel bags for instance almost doubled In the worth. Chanel's iconic medium flap bag has grown £7,550 in 2022 to £8,530 in 2023 and is taken into account one of the vital sought-after designs on this planet resale market.

It's the same story with Hermès' famous Birkin and Kelly bag designs, that are known for his or her quality undoubtedly investment pieces. Despite the high ticket price Birkin bags are in demand. With a median retail price of $10,000 (£8,237), they’re essentially the most collectible and classic designer bags. which might double on the resale market.

Luxury fashion resalt wardrobein addition to online marketplaces corresponding to eBay are useful sources for researching and calculating the worth of your purchase on the resale market. While designer bags can retain their value after purchase, Clothing could be less easy and depends upon the opposite following aspects.

2. Quality and magnificence

A Report 2023 has stated that the open use of logos has increased in recent times by brands corresponding to Balenciaga and Louis Vuittonwas replaced by an interest in quiet luxury.

Quiet luxury means simpler, more classic and timeless design. The concentrate on exquisite fabrics and design conveys a way of fashion that’s non-disposable and long-lasting. A cashmere sweater from Lorna Piana It may cost over £1,700, but its quality and classic design make it an investment that transcends the style trend cycle.

Considering fabrics, style and design aesthetics is crucial to the longevity of your fashion investment.

3. Brand authenticity

Heritage and authenticity can secure the worth of fashion purchases. Brands with a robust heritage – which were around for a very long time and are respected – make higher investments. especially within the watch, jewelry and handbag categories. Rolex watches are considered investment pieces, with the rarest models having a better value.

In the clothing sector, Burberry's iconic trench coat, which has remained largely unchanged when it comes to design for over 100 years, is taken into account wardrobe investment Fashion. The trench coat's timeless design and long history have secured it its place as an investment product.

However, when purchasing, it is crucial to participate Burberry's original designand never the fashion-focused versions, which might decrease in value as seasonal trends progress.

4. Product suggestion

Celebrity endorsement is a preferred branding technique to increase the worth of fashion products. While it might boost sales, it is crucial to contemplate the impact it should have on investment quality.

A recent example was the British pop star Harry Styles wore that Luxury Adidas x Gucci Gazelle sneakersduring his 2023 tour, leading to a 100% reported Increase in trainer sales.

While sneakers previously had a lift resale marketthat’s now decliningThis raises the query of whether these will proceed to be positive assets. Celebrities can create hype – but their endorsement doesn't at all times be certain that a product's value lasts.

In 1999, Dior's saddle bag was shown in US television series Sex and the Cityand thereby secures his place as iconic designer bag. While this increased its value and desirability on the time, the bag eventually disappeared from view until Maria Grazia Chiuri, Dior's current design director, relaunched it in 2018. This led to a frenzy of interest in the unique Galliano design.

Advertising creates hype and desirability, but also can occasionally produce a classic. However, this takes time and it’s best to contemplate other aspects corresponding to brand authenticity, quality and magnificence when planning an investment purchase.

In addition, the worth doesn’t at all times should be assigned a price. In the world of designer fashion, it is crucial to not overlook the importance of the emotional durability of our purchases and the way we will thereby ensure lasting value and a protracted service life.

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A loyal customer base

Bestsellers and “Returns”

whoever finds it could keep it

This way you don't lose your luggage

The Victoria and Albert Museum in London has announced the opening of a brand new David Bowie Center for the Performing Arts in 2025 on the V&A East Storehouse in east London. This follows news the museum received – through donation – the artist’s legendary archive.

This collection of over 80,000 objects formed the premise of the museum's 2013 exhibition David Bowie is. It includes personal correspondence, lyric sheets, photographs, costumes, sets, music awards, movies, album covers, instruments and plans for unrealized projects.

The exhibition's curators, Victoria Broackes and Geoffrey Marsh, described it as “one of the most comprehensive, if not the most complete, archives of any popular music artist” of all time.

In 2020 it was me instructed after much research to publish David Bowie's Cambridge Companion The artists (often ghostly) presence in each contemporary theater And Current cinema.

Here are my five Bowie treasures, with a playlist that expresses his playful curiosity about how we occupy our bodies and genders, his delicate sensitivity to our need for beauty, and his passionate respect for style.

1. Jockstraps

During the Ziggy Stardust tour in 1973 Masayoshi Sukita photographed a almost naked Bowie Performing in front of an excited Japanese audience wearing nothing but one jockstrap.

This piece of sports equipment is so reminiscent homosocial energies of sport and from Working class culturecreates an irreverent tension with the androgyny and strangeness of the costumes dressmaker Kansai Yamamoto created for a similar tour.

Bowie was at his best strange in trading images of iconic, traditional (and very vulnerable) masculinity. Other notable accessories include the red boxing gloves he wore during live performances of his 1973 track “Panic” in Detroit and the darker gloves he wears on the quilt of 1983's “Let's Dance.”

2. The Hammersmith Odeon dressing table from 1973

In Ziggy Stardust: The Movie, Donn Alan Pennebaker's 1973 documentary about Bowie's final Ziggy performance, we see the artist preparing for the stage. As he sits in front of a dressing table with a mirror, his make-up artist applies blush, eye shadow and eyeliner, transforming him from a pale young man right into a female icon.

I need the brand new center to copy the dressing table: the 2 bottles of wine (one opened), the white plastic cups, the tissue boxes, the massive can of hairspray, the container of Johnson & Johnson baby powder, the well-used green ashtray.

This gentle display of the on a regular basis paraphernalia of Nineteen Seventies femininity testifies to Bowie's lifelong preoccupation with what English literary expert Shelton Walderp calls “on.” “Aesthetics of self-invention”starting from Bowie back to Oscar Wilde and beyond to Shakespeare and Japanese Kabuki theater.

3. Bowie's copy of George Orwell's “1984” – and other books

An installation within the 2013 V&A show featured a faceless mannequin with arms outstretched, high up within the room. It was wrapped in a cape that Yamamoto designed in 1973, a white, floor-length garment made in Japan Japanese Hikinuki tradition and designed to be ripped off on stage during a fast costume change. It is decorated in red and black Kanji which translates to “one who spits out words fiery.”

That's why, like so many flying birds, there have been around 20 books from Bowie's personal library by authors akin to RD Laing, Vladimir Nabokov and Hubert Selby Jr. hanging on the V&A.

I would really like to see Bowie's copy of George Orwell's 1984 feature film – a novel I read once I was 12 after hearing that Bowie wrote a musical based on it. Also, every thing he owned belonged to the French author Jean Genet, whose name inspired the title of the 1972 single “The Jean Genie” and whose last book, “Prisoner of Love” (1986), inspired the song of the identical name that Bowie recorded with Tin Machine in 1989 .

4. The Hedi Slimane three-piece suit – and other blue suits

On “Sound and Vision” from 1977, Bowie famously sung:

Blue, blue, electric blue
This is the colour of my room

This sentiment agrees with the filmmaker, Derek Jarman's own tackle color (in Chroma: A Book of Color):

Blue, an open door to the soul
An infinite possibility
Become tangible

Bowie greatly admired Jarman, an excerpt from his film Blue, was played in the course of the pre-show music for the 1995 Outside tour. Like Jarman, Bowie loved the colour blue, perhaps because he knew how good he looked in it.

Like he did within the turquoise suit Freddi Burretti designed for his life on Mars in 1973? video, whose vibrant hue reflected Bowie's eye makeup; or Peter Hall's powder blue suit, an everyday on the 1983 Serious Moonlight tour; and the gorgeous Hedi Slimane-designed petrol blue three-piece suit he wore on his 2002 Heathen tour.

5. The white Supro guitar – and other instruments

One of probably the most compelling photos within the David Bowie Is catalog is that this white Supro 1961 Dual Tone Electric guitar that Bowie played on his final tour in support of the 2003 Reality album. The image stays emblematic of Bowie's persistent commitment to the chances and actual music-making.

These could be other notable instruments 12-string acoustic guitar he applied throughout his profession; The Japanese koto he plays on the 1977 track Moss Garden; The saxophone he had played since his youth; and the harmonicas that accompanied him from 1969's Unwashed and Somewhat Slightly Dazed to 2016's I Can't Give Everything Away, the ultimate track on Blackstar, his final album.