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SFGATE •

‘Joy as resistance’: San Francisco Pride 2025 marches back to its roots

“Pride, from its origin, is not only a celebration, it’s also a protest,” Sharat Lin, a longtime activist from San Jose who was at the parade for Dance with Pride, told SFGATE. “Here in San Francisco, where almost everybody supports LGBTQ rights, it’s easy to forget that. But it wasn’t always that way. It was part of a struggle.”

“Pride, from its origin, is not only a celebration, it’s also a protest,” Sharat Lin, a longtime activist from San Jose who was at the parade for Dance with Pride, tol...
SFGATE •

'A cautionary tale': Family-owned SF businesses told to vacate after 30 years

The Khoury brothers were recently informed by their landlord, the Nasser family, owners of the Castro Theatre, that their leases will not be renewed —  a decision they say was made at the behest of Berkeley-based Another Planet Entertainment, the concert promoter overseeing the Castro Theatre’s transformation into a multipurpose venue. They must vacate by June 30.

The Khoury brothers were recently informed by their landlord, the Nasser family, owners of the Castro Theatre, that their leases wil...
SFGATE •

New 'razor blade throat' COVID subvariant quickly gains ground in California

Officially called NB.1.8.1, the variant was labeled a “variant under monitoring” by the World Health Organization on May 23, according to a recent report. That means it’s not currently a major threat; however, it’s spreading fast enough to raise flags. As of late April, it made up 10.7% of global COVID-19 samples, a jump from 2.5% just a month earlier.

Officially called NB.1.8.1, the variant was labeled a “variant under monitoring” by the World Health Organization on May 23, according to a rece...
SFGATE •

Signs to police 'negative' history went up at Manzanar. Historians are nervous.

Displayed on a site where American citizens were held against their will for more than three years, the signs encourage visitors to report any depictions of U.S. history that “inappropriately disparage Americans past or living” or fail to highlight the “beauty, abundance or grandeur” of the landscape, according to a Manzanar official.

Displayed on a site where American citizens were held against their will for more than three years, the signs encourage visitors to report any depictions of U.S....
SFGATE •

2 UC Berkeley student journalists caught in SFPD ICE protest crackdown

Aarya Mukherjee and Sam Grotenstein, juniors and rising reporters for UC Berkeley’s the Daily Californian, said they were detained on both nights while documenting demonstrations in the Mission District and downtown San Francisco that were protesting ongoing raids by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The students said they were detained even though they were wearing marked press credentials.

Aarya Mukherjee and Sam Grotenstein, juniors and rising reporters for UC Berkeley’s the Daily Ca...
SFGATE •

SF tech culture takes the joke in biting new show

What if “Hamilton” collided with HBO’s “Silicon Valley” and decided to rap its way through the Bay Area’s startup grind? That’s the vibe of “Co-Founders” — a buzzy new musical serving up the Lin-Manuel Miranda-ification of the tech world, remixing elevator pitches, artificial intelligence avatars and a whole lot of hustle.

What if “Hamilton” collided with HBO’s “Silicon Valley” and decided to rap its way through the Bay Area’s startup grind? That’s the vibe of “Co-Founders” — a buzzy new musica...
SFGATE •

Thousands gather in SF for 'epic battle' against ICE amid Calif. raids

An estimated 9,000 protesters gathered for a rally and march that started at San Francisco’s 24th & Mission BART Plaza around 6 p.m. to protest the recent raids carried out by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement across California. Tracks like YG’s “FDT” and Kendrick Lamar’s “Alright” rang out on Mission Street, along with chants like “Move ICE, get out the way!” echoing through the crowd in a nod to Ludacris. Protesters rolled through on scooters and skates, some draped in keffiyehs, others...
SFGATE •

Woman swept away in Calif. river while trying to save sister

A 26-year-old woman from Los Angeles went missing on May 25 after she was swept away in a river in Sequoia National Park over Memorial Day weekend.

A 26-year-old woman from Los Angeles went missing on May 25 after she was swept away in a river in Sequoia National Park over Memorial Day weekend.

Jomarie Calasanz had been enjoying a day trip with family and friends near the foothills area of the park when she disappeared, according to her family’s GoFundMe page, titled “Honoring Jomarie — A Sist...
SFGATE •

Shark bites surfboard, knocks surfer into water off Bay Area beach

He said the animal’s nose hit his foot, knocking him off his board and into the water. When Heller resurfaced, the first thing he saw was the shark head clamped onto his board — and its black eye seemingly staring straight at him. Flushed with adrenaline, Heller said the only thing he could do was react.

He said the animal’s nose hit his foot, knocking him off his board and into the water. When Heller resurfaced, the first thing he saw was the shark head clamped onto his board — and its black e...
SFGATE •

ICE stormed SF court to arrest 4 asylum seekers, denounced as unlawful

According to the San Francisco Bar Association, the individuals were arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in two separate sweeps, one in the morning and one in the afternoon, while attending hearings to claim asylum. All four had pending asylum applications.

According to the San Francisco Bar Association, the individuals were arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in two separate sweeps, one in the morning and one in the afternoon, while attending hearings to claim...
SFGATE •

National parks ordered to police 'negative' history under Trump directive

The Trump administration is enlisting national park visitors into the Republican president’s fight to rewrite American history, with a new directive that forces all park units to display signs that encourage guests to report any information that is critical of American history.

The Trump administration is enlisting national park visitors into the Republican president’s fight to rewrite American history, with a new directive that forces all park units to display signs that encourage guests to re...
SFGATE •

7 caught poaching red abalone during Calif. low tide patrol

Seven people were cited for illegally harvesting red abalone during recent low tides on the Sonoma, Mendocino and Humboldt county coastlines, according to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Seven people were cited for illegally harvesting red abalone during recent low tides on the Sonoma, Mendocino and Humboldt county coastlines, according to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

The citations came during a beefed-up patrol meant to crack down on poaching during extremel...
SFGATE •

Santa Cruz woman 'traumatized' after being freed from weekslong ICE detention

A longtime Santa Cruz County resident has finally returned home after being detained by U.S Customs and Border Protection at San Francisco International Airport and then sent to an Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention center in Washington state.

A longtime Santa Cruz County resident has finally returned home after being detained by U.S Customs and Border Protection at San Francisco International Airport and then sent to an Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention center in Washing...
SFGATE •

2 California campers accuse software giant of illegal 'drip pricing'

The lawsuit, filed on Thursday in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, alleged that Texas-based software company Tyler Technologies designed its interface to mislead users by advertising an initial price, only to add an undisclosed reservation fee at checkout — a practice known as “drip pricing.”

The lawsuit, filed on Thursday in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, alleged that Texas-based software company Tyler Technologies designed its...
SFGATE •

On May the Fourth, a themed ride transformed a BART train for 90 minutes

“It’s about showing that our stations are safe, clean and spaces for building community — and making sure that we are attracting folks back, but also celebrating one of the most iconic pieces of film we’ve seen over the last couple generations,” BART Director Victor Flores said.

“It’s about showing that our stations are safe, clean and spaces for building community — and making sure that we are attracting folks back, but also celebrating one of the most iconic pieces of film we’ve seen over the...
SFGATE •

Bay Area parent calls for baseball season to end after anti-Asian taunts

Parents in the East Bay are calling for swift action from their local school district, including canceling the rest of the baseball season, after a high school player was subjected to racist taunts during a varsity game.

Parents in the East Bay are calling for swift action from their local school district, including canceling the rest of the baseball season, after a high school player was subjected to racist taunts during a varsity game.

The taunts, apparently from Pinole Valley High School pl...
SFGATE •

Massive earthquake could sink parts of Pacific Northwest coast within minutes

Running offshore from northern California to British Columbia, the Cascadia subduction zone marks the boundary where the Juan de Fuca plate dives under the North American plate. It’s also capable of producing one of the most powerful earthquakes on Earth, and in a new study, scientists estimate there is a 15% chance of a magnitude 8 or greater quake occurring on the fault in the next 50 years — and a 29% chance by 2100.

Running offshore from northern California to British Columbia, the Cascadia...
SFGATE •

California State Bar used AI to draft exam questions. Lawyers are not happy.

“This information was not disclosed to anyone — including, most astonishingly, the California Supreme Court,” he said. “The entire roll out of the February bar exam, from its creation to administration, has proven to be an unmitigated disaster. Each new revelation raises more concerning questions. Questions about the decision-making process of the State Bar; questions about the performance of current leadership; and questions about if the State Bar acted within its authority as granted by the Ca...
SFGATE •

'Unfathomable': Calif. woman faces deportation for decades-old conviction

Cliona Ward, a 54-year-old green-card holder, was returning from Ireland after escorting her stepmother overseas to reunite with her father, who has dementia, according to a GoFundMe campaign launched by her sister, Orla Holladay.

Cliona Ward, a 54-year-old green-card holder, was returning from Ireland after escorting her stepmother overseas to reunite with her father, who has dementia, according to a GoFundMe campaign launched by her sister, Orla Holladay.

“My sister was escorting our step-mo...
SFGATE •

Bison-straddling Wild West Jesus crowned this year's Hunky Jesus in SF

The main stage kicked off at noon, featuring emcees Honey Mahogany, Alex U. Inn and Sister Roma. In keeping with this year’s theme — “No Easter Without the T” — the event paid tribute to trans joy, protest and performance as only San Francisco can.

The main stage kicked off at noon, featuring emcees Honey Mahogany, Alex U. Inn and Sister Roma. In keeping with this year’s theme — “No Easter Without the T” — the event paid tribute to trans joy, protest and performance as only San Francisco can....
SFGATE •

Bay Area's oldest prison is getting a Scandinavian makeover

California’s oldest and most infamous prison, San Quentin Rehabilitation Center, is undergoing a groundbreaking transformation into a Nordic-inspired rehabilitation hub. Spearheaded by Gov. Gavin Newsom, the $239 million renovation is expected to be finished by January 2026.

California’s oldest and most infamous prison, San Quentin Rehabilitation Center, is undergoing a groundbreaking transformation into a Nordic-inspired rehabilitation hub. Spearheaded by Gov. Gavin Newsom, the $239 million re...
SFGATE •

'Deeply unsettling': Stanford, Berkeley students hit by mass visa revocation

Four current Stanford students and two recent graduates were among those impacted, the university said in a statement. Stanford discovered the cancellations during a “routine check” of the federal Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), according to the statement. As of now, federal authorities have not given any official reason for the revocations.

Four current Stanford students and two recent graduates were among those impacted, the university said in a statement. Stanford di...
SFGATE •

Virus that killed Betsy Arakawa, wife of Gene Hackman, kills 3 in Mammoth

Three people in the Eastern Sierra town of Mammoth Lakes have died from hantavirus, Mono County health officials confirmed on Thursday. The deaths — all occurring within the first few months of 2025 — mark an unusual spike in hantavirus activity and have raised alarm among public health experts.

Three people in the Eastern Sierra town of Mammoth Lakes have died from hantavirus, Mono County health officials confirmed on Thursday. The deaths — all occurring within the first few months of 2025 — m...
SFGATE •

Calif. officials brace for legendary rager at America's No. 1 party school

The No. 1 party school in America is about to host its big oceanfront soiree, and local agencies say they’re standing by as students get ready to kick off the annual celebration.

The No. 1 party school in America is about to host its big oceanfront soiree, and local agencies say they’re standing by as students get ready to kick off the annual celebration.

Santa Barbara County announced Wednesday it will use county Code Section 26-11, which authorizes the county Community Services Department to...
SFGATE •

'Today, we celebrate': Judge says National Park Service must reinstate employees

A federal judge in San Francisco has ordered the National Park Service and five other federal agencies to immediately reinstate probationary employees who were fired en masse last month, ruling that the Office of Personnel Management had no legal authority to mandate their terminations.

A federal judge in San Francisco has ordered the National Park Service and five other federal agencies to immediately reinstate probationary employees who were fired en masse last month, ruling that the Office o...
SFGATE •

A casual in-flight chat exposed a Calif. 'trophy room' of illegal wildlife

A casual conversation on a flight led to the unraveling of a sprawling case of hunted protected and endangered animals, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife announced Tuesday.

A casual conversation on a flight led to the unraveling of a sprawling case of hunted protected and endangered animals, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife announced Tuesday.

The case, which resulted in guilty pleas, fines and probation for three California residents, began in November 2023 when two...
SFGATE •

Northern Calif. wildlife sanctuary investigated over alleged animal neglect

A Butte County wildlife sanctuary is under criminal investigation by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife over allegations of animal welfare violations. The probe follows mounting concerns from animal advocates and state and federal officials regarding the care provided to both native and exotic species.

A Butte County wildlife sanctuary is under criminal investigation by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife over allegations of animal welfare violations. The probe follows mo...
SFGATE •

Protests against Elon Musk and mass layoffs spread across California

Demonstrators in cities and small towns across California are targeting Tesla dealerships in a growing wave of protests against the aggressive push from Tesla CEO Elon Musk and the White House to sharply downsize the federal government.

Demonstrators in cities and small towns across California are targeting Tesla dealerships in a growing wave of protests against the aggressive push from Tesla CEO Elon Musk and the White House to sharply downsize the federal government.

On Wednesday night, hund...
SFGATE •

Dire situation in Joshua Tree and Yosemite leads to weekend protests

Protests erupted at two of California’s most iconic national parks over the weekend as demonstrators in Yosemite and Joshua Tree rallied against sweeping layoffs they say will cripple park operations.

Protests erupted at two of California’s most iconic national parks over the weekend as demonstrators in Yosemite and Joshua Tree rallied against sweeping layoffs they say will cripple park operations.

In Joshua Tree, locals and business owners, including photographer Casey Kiernan and climbing gu...
SFGATE •

Court rules bakery violated civil rights by refusing same-sex wedding cake

A three-judge panel in the 5th Appellate District Court unanimously ruled that Cathy Miller’s policy of denying the cake was intentionally discriminatory, reinforcing that businesses cannot deny services based on sexual orientation under the state’s Unruh Civil Rights Act. The ruling overturned a 2022 decision by Kern County Judge Eric Bradshaw, who had found in Miller’s favor. Another appeal is now headed to the California Supreme Court.

A three-judge panel in the 5th Appellate District Court...
SFGATE •

One of the strictest homeless camp bans in the U.S. just passed in the Bay Area

Fremont has enacted one of the most restrictive homeless encampment bans in California, sparking backlash from advocates and nonprofits who fear the ordinance could criminalize efforts to help those who are unhoused.

Fremont has enacted one of the most restrictive homeless encampment bans in California, sparking backlash from advocates and nonprofits who fear the ordinance could criminalize efforts to help those who are unhoused.

The move follows a landmark U.S. Supreme Court ruling this past...
SFGATE •

Bay Area wakes to rare snowfall as a surging atmospheric river moves in

Video from the 4,265-foot peak around 4:45 a.m. showed icy roads and snow-covered vehicles near the James Lick Observatory as blustery winds and dense fog turned the summit into a winter wonderland. But the cold snap wasn’t just a fleeting sight at higher elevations. Chilly conditions continue across the Bay Area, with temperatures dipping into the 30s and 40s in some inland valleys — a sharp contrast to the stormy weather ahead.

Video from the 4,265-foot peak around 4:45 a.m. showed icy roads...
SFGATE •

Denmark wants to buy California. The perks? Free healthcare and pastries

First, President Donald Trump floated the idea of buying Greenland.  Now, Denmark is flipping the script with its own offer for one of America’s richest and most populous states.

First, President Donald Trump floated the idea of buying Greenland.  Now, Denmark is flipping the script with its own offer for one of America’s richest and most populous states.

A satirical petition making the rounds in Denmark suggests that if the United States is in the business of acquiring its Greenland territory...
SFGATE •

SF Zoo's giant panda job listing has locals bamboozled

The job has a low salary range for the Bay Area — $67,000 to $72,000 per year — but the qualifications required are far from small. Applicants must have at least five years experience in giant panda care at an Association of Zoos and Aquariums-accredited institution, specifically working with small and large carnivores and other high-priority conservation species. A degree in zoology, biology, wildlife management or a related field is also required. Whoever secures the role may find themselves l...
The Independent •

RFK Jr wants to promote raw milk as HHS secretary – experts say it’s dangerous

Robert F Kennedy was announced as Donald Trump’s Department of Health and Human Services secretary on Thursday (November 14), alarming public health experts who have questioned his stance on vaccines, chronic disease and chemicals in food.Days before the presidential election, Kennedy shared his wish list for the FDA, which included ivermectin, stem cell therapy and raw milk.In recent months, public figures from Marjorie Taylor Greene to “trad wife” influencer Hannah Neeleman, have joined the ra...
The Independent •

What is South Korea’s 4B movement? Interest spikes after US election

The South Korean 4B movement has seen a spike in interest amid the results from the 2024 US presidential election.On Wednesday (November 6) morning, Republican candidate Donald Trump claimed victory over Vice President Kamala Harris. Throughout his 2024 reelection campaign, the former president has celebrated the Supreme Court’s 2022 decision to overturn Roe v Wade, a ruling that ended a nationwide right to abortion. It was also reproductive rights that propelled many women to the polls on Elect...
The Independent •

There was no second date after I found his MAGA Instagram: Dating and politics

There was something off about my date. A flinch at a Trump joke, a strange look when I mentioned my immigrant parent. I had a sinking feeling that he was on the opposite end of the political spectrum. When I got home, I did the natural thing and checked his Instagram. Sure enough, the accounts he followed were a veritable who’s who of MAGA pundits. Let’s just say that as a progressive woman who values her rights, he didn’t make it past the first date.As the 2024 presidential election looms, poli...
The Independent •

Drag brunch continues to reign as a go-to Pride activity

For bartender Justine Musselman – who’s worked at Dromedary: Coming Out in Bushwick, Brooklyn, for the past four years – the bar’s weekly drag brunch is the only reason she will wake up early on a Sunday. “I have been working at drag brunch for as long as I’ve worked at Dromedary, and despite the inconvenience of that shift, I refuse to give it up,” she told The Independent.

Every Sunday afternoon, drag performers Emi Grate and Nancy Nogood put their chemistry on full display for both Bushwick
The Independent •

Gen Z and millennials are more likely to experience ‘money dysmorphia,’ study says

A new report indicates almost half of young adults experience “money dysmorphia”.

According to a report from Qualtrics commissioned by Intuit Credit Karma, 29 per cent of Americans say they often find themselves comparing their financial situation to others, sparking feelings of inadequacy and insecurity. While surveying 1,006 US adults above the age of 18 from 18 to 26 December 2023, researchers found that these feelings were found predominantly among younger adults, specifically 43 per cent o
The Independent •

Will the TikTok ban spell the death of the influencer?

Craving what we don’t have has been a compulsion long before the surge in social media marketing-fueled consumption. Once upon a time, our material desires were cultivated through in-person interactions, in-store shopping, or word-of-mouth. Not long after, face-to-face became face-to-catalog, with consumers flipping endlessly through product pages, before television ads intensified their appetite for more, using fictional characters and celebrity actors as aspirational models for who the custome
The Independent •

Met Gala 2024: Best dressed stars on the red carpet

Fashion’s biggest night is here, with famous faces showing up and showing out at the 2024 Met Gala with their best takes on this year’s theme: “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion.”

On Monday evening, The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City will be flooded with celebrated musicians, transformative designers, actors, and influencers to honour The Costume Institute’s spring 2024 exhibit. This year’s gala will co-chaired by stars including Zendaya, Chris Hemsworth, Jennifer Lopez, and B
The Independent •

The battle against IVF isn’t protecting children. It’s devastating families

When you’re a teenager, you have a basic understanding of how you came into the world. You don’t tend to ask your parents questions about your conception. At least, I didn’t because I wasn’t inclined to die of mortification.

Growing up, I’d only heard that my parents had tried for a child for a long time, so when my 70-something-year-old grandmother made a passing comment about how I’d had a twin in the womb, I took it as another one of her jokes. Offbeat and out there, but classic grandma.

I
The Independent •

The Los Angeles edition of the Willy Wonka Experience was an absurdist fever dream

Standing outside a graffitied warehouse in Los Angeles’ Arts District, I didn’t know what to expect from a recreation of Glasgow’s disastrous Willy Wonka event. I had heard a lot about the bungled children’s experience, which included AI-generated characters, sparse and low-budget sets and costuming, and a sad Oompa Loompa who had become somewhat of a local celebrity since the event. Unlike what happened in Glasgow, this event was primarily marketed to grown adults, capitalising off of the meme
The Independent •

Researchers find that ‘superpowers’ are real - they’re just not what we expect

Researchers have found that superpowers may be real, but they may not be what we expect.

In research collected for her upcoming book Superpowered, author Erika Engelhaupt revealed that scientists have found what can be considered “superpowers” in humans. Although they may not be endowed with the ability to run faster than the speed of sound or fly high up in the sky, research indicates that some humans possess abilities far beyond the norm that may be considered “super.”

From the Sherpa people
The Independent •

What is a Brat summer? How Charli XCX’s album became part of presidential race

It’s a Brat Summer, and the vice president’s newly launched presidential campaign is the latest to join the fun.“Kamala IS brat,” the singer - born Charlotte Aitchison - shared with her 3.6 million followers on X, referencing her blockbuster sixth studio album, Brat. With the album sparking the “Brat summer” trend on social media, it is no surprise that the 21 July post went viral among Gen Z, garnering over 18 million views and 244,000 likes.But what does a Brat summer mean?When Charli XCX’s si...
The Independent •

Why America’s third places are making a comeback

In the past year, loneliness, isolation, and a lack of connection have all been declared as causes of a major public health crisis, with the US Surgeon General being one of many to raise the alarm that Americans are more disconnected now than ever. Some believe that this crisis - an aftershock of the Covid-19 pandemic - is symptomatic of a decline in physical community spaces where quality connections can blossom.

Sociology professor Ray Oldenburg dubbed these physical community spaces as “thir
The Independent •

Why does Gen-Z prefer soft-launching their relationships?

As summer comes to a close, be prepared to see a wave of soft launches on your social media feeds.

“Soft launch September” was dubbed by The Cut back in 2021 as the natural precursor to “cuffing season,” defined as the period between fall and winter when lonely singletons get “cuffed” or “tied down” by a serious relationship or at least a relationship long enough to last the cold weather. But unlike cuffing season, the soft launch trend is specific to social media, as summer flings take things
The Independent •

Woman named Barbie Oppenheimer encounters difficulties amid Barbenheimer craze

A woman named Barbara “Barbie” Oppenheimer is reportedly having a tough time checking into hotels.

Barbara Oppenheimer - a retired Boston University professor and grandmother of five based in Newton, Massachusetts - has had quite the summer amid this year’s “Barbenheimer” frenzy.

In an interview with Slate, Oppenheimer revealed that numerous people thought she was joking when she would say her name outloud. The retiree recalled a specifically confusing moment during a recent vacation, saying:

Recent Articles

SFGATE •

‘Joy as resistance’: San Francisco Pride 2025 marches back to its roots

“Pride, from its origin, is not only a celebration, it’s also a protest,” Sharat Lin, a longtime activist from San Jose who was at the parade for Dance with Pride, told SFGATE. “Here in San Francisco, where almost everybody supports LGBTQ rights, it’s easy to forget that. But it wasn’t always that way. It was part of a struggle.”

“Pride, from its origin, is not only a celebration, it’s also a protest,” Sharat Lin, a longtime activist from San Jose who was at the parade for Dance with Pride, tol...
SFGATE •

Gavin Newsom sues Fox News for $787 million

The complaint, filed in Delaware Superior Court on Friday and obtained by SFGATE, alleges Fox News knowingly fabricated statements and doctored footage to falsely brand Newsom a liar. The governor is seeking $787 million in punitive damages, a nearly identical figure to what Fox paid Dominion Voting Systems in its 2023 settlement, as well as a court order barring Fox from continuing to post or broadcast the contested segments.

The complaint, filed in Delaware Superior Court on Friday and obtain...
SFGATE •

Bay Area county votes to remove first female sheriff from office

The 5-0 vote marks the first time the board has used its authority under Measure A, a 2025 charter amendment approved by 84% of voters in a special election in response to alleged misconduct by Corpus. The measure allows the board to remove an elected sheriff for cause with a supermajority vote through Dec. 31, 2028.

The 5-0 vote marks the first time the board has used its authority under Measure A, a 2025 charter amendment approved by 84% of voters in a special election in response to alleged...
SFGATE •

'A cautionary tale': Family-owned SF businesses told to vacate after 30 years

The Khoury brothers were recently informed by their landlord, the Nasser family, owners of the Castro Theatre, that their leases will not be renewed —  a decision they say was made at the behest of Berkeley-based Another Planet Entertainment, the concert promoter overseeing the Castro Theatre’s transformation into a multipurpose venue. They must vacate by June 30.

The Khoury brothers were recently informed by their landlord, the Nasser family, owners of the Castro Theatre, that their leases wil...
SFGATE •

SF coffee heir faces felony charges after high-speed police chase

A San Francisco socialite, former mayoral candidate and heir to a coffee fortune has been charged with three felonies after allegedly ramming an occupied vehicle and leading police on a high-speed chase last week, court records show.

A San Francisco socialite, former mayoral candidate and heir to a coffee fortune has been charged with three felonies after allegedly ramming an occupied vehicle and leading police on a high-speed chase last week, court records show.

Austin Hills, 45, pleaded not...
SFGATE •

New 'razor blade throat' COVID subvariant quickly gains ground in California

Officially called NB.1.8.1, the variant was labeled a “variant under monitoring” by the World Health Organization on May 23, according to a recent report. That means it’s not currently a major threat; however, it’s spreading fast enough to raise flags. As of late April, it made up 10.7% of global COVID-19 samples, a jump from 2.5% just a month earlier.

Officially called NB.1.8.1, the variant was labeled a “variant under monitoring” by the World Health Organization on May 23, according to a rece...
SFGATE •

Signs to police 'negative' history went up at Manzanar. Historians are nervous.

Displayed on a site where American citizens were held against their will for more than three years, the signs encourage visitors to report any depictions of U.S. history that “inappropriately disparage Americans past or living” or fail to highlight the “beauty, abundance or grandeur” of the landscape, according to a Manzanar official.

Displayed on a site where American citizens were held against their will for more than three years, the signs encourage visitors to report any depictions of U.S....
SFGATE •

2 UC Berkeley student journalists caught in SFPD ICE protest crackdown

Aarya Mukherjee and Sam Grotenstein, juniors and rising reporters for UC Berkeley’s the Daily Californian, said they were detained on both nights while documenting demonstrations in the Mission District and downtown San Francisco that were protesting ongoing raids by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The students said they were detained even though they were wearing marked press credentials.

Aarya Mukherjee and Sam Grotenstein, juniors and rising reporters for UC Berkeley’s the Daily Ca...
SFGATE •

SF tech culture takes the joke in biting new show

What if “Hamilton” collided with HBO’s “Silicon Valley” and decided to rap its way through the Bay Area’s startup grind? That’s the vibe of “Co-Founders” — a buzzy new musical serving up the Lin-Manuel Miranda-ification of the tech world, remixing elevator pitches, artificial intelligence avatars and a whole lot of hustle.

What if “Hamilton” collided with HBO’s “Silicon Valley” and decided to rap its way through the Bay Area’s startup grind? That’s the vibe of “Co-Founders” — a buzzy new musica...
SFGATE •

Thousands gather in SF for 'epic battle' against ICE amid Calif. raids

An estimated 9,000 protesters gathered for a rally and march that started at San Francisco’s 24th & Mission BART Plaza around 6 p.m. to protest the recent raids carried out by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement across California. Tracks like YG’s “FDT” and Kendrick Lamar’s “Alright” rang out on Mission Street, along with chants like “Move ICE, get out the way!” echoing through the crowd in a nod to Ludacris. Protesters rolled through on scooters and skates, some draped in keffiyehs, others...
SFGATE •

Teens suspected of hate crime after throwing fireworks at Bay Area Pride

Two teenagers were arrested on June 5 in connection with an alleged hate crime at a Redwood City Pride celebration, police said.

Two teenagers were arrested on June 5 in connection with an alleged hate crime at a Redwood City Pride celebration, police said.

Five minutes before a Progress Pride Flag Raising and Proclamation Ceremony for the city’s official Pride Month celebration was set to begin at 6 p.m., two 13-year-old boys launched fireworks into the crowd while shouting “discriminatory an...
SFGATE •

Black market caviar trafficking operations busted along Bay Area river

Caviar traffickers operating along the Sacramento River were busted as part of a ramped up enforcement effort by state wildlife officers against illegal sturgeon and salmon poaching, officials said.

Caviar traffickers operating along the Sacramento River were busted as part of a ramped up enforcement effort by state wildlife officers against illegal sturgeon and salmon poaching, officials said.

Organized poaching groups are targeting protected fish using “advanced countersurveillance technique...
SFGATE •

Bay Area newlyweds separated by ICE moments after asylum hearing

The newlyweds, just weeks away from their six-month anniversary, had believed they were nearing the end of a long legal process, according to a GoFundMe page. Shaylyn Ordaz said she and her husband, Anyelo, had just left the courtroom on May 23 when immigration officers arrested him.

The newlyweds, just weeks away from their six-month anniversary, had believed they were nearing the end of a long legal process, according to a GoFundMe page. Shaylyn Ordaz said she and her husband, Anyelo, had jus...
SFGATE •

'Senseless act of violence': Bay Area man shot and killed, suspect at large

The suspected shooter of a 40-year-old man in Sunnyvale remains at large almost one week later, officials said.

The suspected shooter of a 40-year-old man in Sunnyvale remains at large almost one week later, officials said.

Police were dispatched shortly before 7:45 p.m. on May 29 after receiving reports of multiple gunshots, the Sunnyvale Department of Public Safety said in a news release. Once they arrived at the 900 block of South Wolfe Road, officers found a man suffering from gunshot woun...
SFGATE •

Woman swept away in Calif. river while trying to save sister

A 26-year-old woman from Los Angeles went missing on May 25 after she was swept away in a river in Sequoia National Park over Memorial Day weekend.

A 26-year-old woman from Los Angeles went missing on May 25 after she was swept away in a river in Sequoia National Park over Memorial Day weekend.

Jomarie Calasanz had been enjoying a day trip with family and friends near the foothills area of the park when she disappeared, according to her family’s GoFundMe page, titled “Honoring Jomarie — A Sist...
SFGATE •

Shark bites surfboard, knocks surfer into water off Bay Area beach

He said the animal’s nose hit his foot, knocking him off his board and into the water. When Heller resurfaced, the first thing he saw was the shark head clamped onto his board — and its black eye seemingly staring straight at him. Flushed with adrenaline, Heller said the only thing he could do was react.

He said the animal’s nose hit his foot, knocking him off his board and into the water. When Heller resurfaced, the first thing he saw was the shark head clamped onto his board — and its black e...
SFGATE •

Bay Area resident exposed 3 popular stores to highly contagious measles

The individual, who is now recovering in isolation and did not require hospitalization, was contagious during their visits to three locations: the H Mart on 1710 Oakland Road in San Jose on May 21, the Starbucks on 35040 Newark Blvd. in Newark on May 23, and the Trader Joe’s on 1306 Great Mall Parkway in Milpitas on May 25. In Santa Clara and Alameda counties, notices have now been posted at the affected businesses to alert patrons.

The individual, who is now recovering in isolation and did not...
SFGATE •

ICE stormed SF court to arrest 4 asylum seekers, denounced as unlawful

According to the San Francisco Bar Association, the individuals were arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in two separate sweeps, one in the morning and one in the afternoon, while attending hearings to claim asylum. All four had pending asylum applications.

According to the San Francisco Bar Association, the individuals were arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in two separate sweeps, one in the morning and one in the afternoon, while attending hearings to claim...
SFGATE •

Watch deal turned violent in robbery near UC Berkeley hazmat facility

A robbery near UC Berkeley’s hazmat facility on Monday evening left one person injured and three people on the run — including one wearing a Spider-Man T-shirt.

A robbery near UC Berkeley’s hazmat facility on Monday evening left one person injured and three people on the run — including one wearing a Spider-Man T-shirt.

According to a campuswide WarnMe alert, the robbery unfolded at about 5 p.m. on Frank Schlessinger Way, when three people met with another individual to purchase several watche...
SFGATE •

National parks ordered to police 'negative' history under Trump directive

The Trump administration is enlisting national park visitors into the Republican president’s fight to rewrite American history, with a new directive that forces all park units to display signs that encourage guests to report any information that is critical of American history.

The Trump administration is enlisting national park visitors into the Republican president’s fight to rewrite American history, with a new directive that forces all park units to display signs that encourage guests to re...
SFGATE •

Hunger strike at Stanford enters its 11th day

“While we respect the rights of students to express their views in ways within the limits of the university’s viewpoint-neutral time, place, and manner rules, we are urging them to consider forms of expression that do not jeopardize their health and well-being,” Rasmussen said. “Staff from the Office of the Vice Provost for Student Affairs (VPSA) have been checking in with the group since their action began and will continue to check in and offer assistance and resources in the days ahead.”

“Wh...
SFGATE •

'Unthinkable loss': Mechanic dies in SF workplace accident

A longtime Recology mechanic and union member died in a tragic workplace accident in San Francisco last week, prompting an outpouring of grief from co-workers, loved ones and labor leaders.

A longtime Recology mechanic and union member died in a tragic workplace accident in San Francisco last week, prompting an outpouring of grief from co-workers, loved ones and labor leaders.

Alfredo Romero was working his shift at the Tunnel Avenue Recology facility on May 16 when he died, according to his f...
SFGATE •

7 caught poaching red abalone during Calif. low tide patrol

Seven people were cited for illegally harvesting red abalone during recent low tides on the Sonoma, Mendocino and Humboldt county coastlines, according to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Seven people were cited for illegally harvesting red abalone during recent low tides on the Sonoma, Mendocino and Humboldt county coastlines, according to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

The citations came during a beefed-up patrol meant to crack down on poaching during extremel...
SFGATE •

Skier falls 800 feet down famed Sierra couloir

“A friendly reminder to the public: helicopter rescues are rare,” officials wrote. “Even with Mammoth nearby, completing this rescue without one would have been difficult, complex, and time-consuming due to the high altitude, steep terrain and avalanche hazards.”

“A friendly reminder to the public: helicopter rescues are rare,” officials wrote. “Even with Mammoth nearby, completing this rescue without one would have been difficult, complex, and time-consuming due to the high altitude, steep ter...
SFGATE •

'Devastating' fire obliterates cult favorite San Francisco brand's factory

A devastating fire destroyed the Oakland sewing factory where trendy San Francisco fashion brand Nooworks manufactured all its clothing for the past 15 years, according to the company.

A devastating fire destroyed the Oakland sewing factory where trendy San Francisco fashion brand Nooworks manufactured all its clothing for the past 15 years, according to the company.

Although the label known for its limited-run garments with flashy prints did not specify the date or exact location of the fire,...
SFGATE •

Man dies after attempting to rescue dog from surf at SF beach

A man who rushed into the waves off San Francisco’s Ocean Beach to rescue a dog on Thursday afternoon has died, fire department officials confirmed.

A man who rushed into the waves off San Francisco’s Ocean Beach to rescue a dog on Thursday afternoon has died, fire department officials confirmed.

The incident unfolded on May 8 near Lawton Street, where 911 callers reported a fully clothed adult man entering the ocean to help a dog. Moments later, he collapsed in the surf for reasons that remai...
SFGATE •

Santa Cruz woman 'traumatized' after being freed from weekslong ICE detention

A longtime Santa Cruz County resident has finally returned home after being detained by U.S Customs and Border Protection at San Francisco International Airport and then sent to an Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention center in Washington state.

A longtime Santa Cruz County resident has finally returned home after being detained by U.S Customs and Border Protection at San Francisco International Airport and then sent to an Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention center in Washing...
SFGATE •

2 California campers accuse software giant of illegal 'drip pricing'

The lawsuit, filed on Thursday in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, alleged that Texas-based software company Tyler Technologies designed its interface to mislead users by advertising an initial price, only to add an undisclosed reservation fee at checkout — a practice known as “drip pricing.”

The lawsuit, filed on Thursday in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, alleged that Texas-based software company Tyler Technologies designed its...
SFGATE •

Coach suspended after Bay Area high school pitchers targeted with racist taunts

“This is the typical process that is followed for external investigations involving personnel,” district spokesperson Raechelle Forrest said in an email. “... WCCUSD does not tolerate racism or harassment of any kind, and we are committed to identifying those responsible and taking appropriate action in alignment with district policy.”

“This is the typical process that is followed for external investigations involving personnel,” district spokesperson Raechelle Forrest said in an email. “... WC...
SFGATE •

California State Bar accuses testing vendor of 'chaos' and fraud

“Chaos ensued,” the 23-page lawsuit states, describing the widespread issues that disrupted one of the most high-stakes professional licensing exams in the country. “Remote and in-person test takers could not enter Meazure’s platform without significant delays, and once they were in the platform, they often were unable to submit responses, and experienced frequent crashing and freezing.”

“Chaos ensued,” the 23-page lawsuit states, describing the widespread issues that disrupted one of the most...
SFGATE •

On May the Fourth, a themed ride transformed a BART train for 90 minutes

“It’s about showing that our stations are safe, clean and spaces for building community — and making sure that we are attracting folks back, but also celebrating one of the most iconic pieces of film we’ve seen over the last couple generations,” BART Director Victor Flores said.

“It’s about showing that our stations are safe, clean and spaces for building community — and making sure that we are attracting folks back, but also celebrating one of the most iconic pieces of film we’ve seen over the...
SFGATE •

'Blindsided': Press Democrat staff stunned as investment firm takes over paper

On Thursday afternoon, newsroom employees received an email where they learned that Sonoma Media Investments, or SMI, parent company of the Press Democrat and six other North Bay publications, had been sold not to Hearst, which had been in negotiations to purchase the paper, but to MediaNews Group, a subsidiary of investment firm Alden Global Capital. (Hearst is SFGATE’s parent company.)

On Thursday afternoon, newsroom employees received an email where they learned that Sonoma Media Investments...
SFGATE •

Death metal trailblazer identified as shooter in South San Francisco standoff

The founding guitarist of an influential Bay Area death metal band was shot and killed by police in South San Francisco this week following a tense standoff.

The founding guitarist of an influential Bay Area death metal band was shot and killed by police in South San Francisco this week following a tense standoff.

Brian Montana, of the band Possessed, was identified by the South San Francisco Police Department as the armed suspect who opened fire on a neighbor and later at responding officers,...
SFGATE •

Bay Area parent calls for baseball season to end after anti-Asian taunts

Parents in the East Bay are calling for swift action from their local school district, including canceling the rest of the baseball season, after a high school player was subjected to racist taunts during a varsity game.

Parents in the East Bay are calling for swift action from their local school district, including canceling the rest of the baseball season, after a high school player was subjected to racist taunts during a varsity game.

The taunts, apparently from Pinole Valley High School pl...
SFGATE •

Silicon Valley engineer pleads guilty to PG&E bombings

Peter Karasev, a 38-year-old former Zoox engineer, admitted in court that he used homemade explosive devices to blow up the energy facilities in San Jose, the Department of Justice said in a Tuesday press release. He pleaded guilty to two counts of willful destruction of an energy facility in 2022 and 2023.

Peter Karasev, a 38-year-old former Zoox engineer, admitted in court that he used homemade explosive devices to blow up the energy facilities in San Jose, the Department of Justice said in a...
SFGATE •

Massive earthquake could sink parts of Pacific Northwest coast within minutes

Running offshore from northern California to British Columbia, the Cascadia subduction zone marks the boundary where the Juan de Fuca plate dives under the North American plate. It’s also capable of producing one of the most powerful earthquakes on Earth, and in a new study, scientists estimate there is a 15% chance of a magnitude 8 or greater quake occurring on the fault in the next 50 years — and a 29% chance by 2100.

Running offshore from northern California to British Columbia, the Cascadia...
SFGATE •

California State Bar used AI to draft exam questions. Lawyers are not happy.

“This information was not disclosed to anyone — including, most astonishingly, the California Supreme Court,” he said. “The entire roll out of the February bar exam, from its creation to administration, has proven to be an unmitigated disaster. Each new revelation raises more concerning questions. Questions about the decision-making process of the State Bar; questions about the performance of current leadership; and questions about if the State Bar acted within its authority as granted by the Ca...
SFGATE •

'Unfathomable': Calif. woman faces deportation for decades-old conviction

Cliona Ward, a 54-year-old green-card holder, was returning from Ireland after escorting her stepmother overseas to reunite with her father, who has dementia, according to a GoFundMe campaign launched by her sister, Orla Holladay.

Cliona Ward, a 54-year-old green-card holder, was returning from Ireland after escorting her stepmother overseas to reunite with her father, who has dementia, according to a GoFundMe campaign launched by her sister, Orla Holladay.

“My sister was escorting our step-mo...
SFGATE •

Oakland freeway gun ad that lacked required permit taken down

A handgun billboard beside Interstate 880 in Oakland that lacked a required city permit has been taken down after sparking backlash in a city no stranger to gun violence.

A handgun billboard beside Interstate 880 in Oakland that lacked a required city permit has been taken down after sparking backlash in a city no stranger to gun violence.

For a few weeks, the billboard at Fifth Avenue and Embarcadero displayed the Mete MC9, a California-compliant handgun made by Turkish gunmaker Canik. Next t...
SFGATE •

4 teenage girls killed in Bay Area crash identified

Four Marin County teenagers were killed and two others critically injured in an SUV crash Friday night in rural West Marin, California Highway Patrol officials confirmed.

Four Marin County teenagers were killed and two others critically injured in an SUV crash Friday night in rural West Marin, California Highway Patrol officials confirmed.

All six occupants of the vehicle were teenage girls age 14 to 16 who attended Archie Williams High School in San Anselmo. In an email to students and famili...
SFGATE •

Bison-straddling Wild West Jesus crowned this year's Hunky Jesus in SF

The main stage kicked off at noon, featuring emcees Honey Mahogany, Alex U. Inn and Sister Roma. In keeping with this year’s theme — “No Easter Without the T” — the event paid tribute to trans joy, protest and performance as only San Francisco can.

The main stage kicked off at noon, featuring emcees Honey Mahogany, Alex U. Inn and Sister Roma. In keeping with this year’s theme — “No Easter Without the T” — the event paid tribute to trans joy, protest and performance as only San Francisco can....
SFGATE •

'Entirely arbitrary': UC Berkeley student sues over sudden visa termination

Zhuoer Chen, who is set to graduate from UC Berkeley in May with a master’s degree in architecture, is one of four plaintiffs in a federal lawsuit alleging that ICE’s sweeping effort to terminate the federal records of hundreds — possibly thousands — of international students occurred without notice, justification or legal basis.

Zhuoer Chen, who is set to graduate from UC Berkeley in May with a master’s degree in architecture, is one of four plaintiffs in a federal lawsuit alleging that ICE’s...
SFGATE •

Rare mad cow-like brain disease kills 2 in Oregon

Three cases of a rare and fatal brain disorder have been identified in Hood River County, Oregon, local health officials have confirmed.

Three cases of a rare and fatal brain disorder have been identified in Hood River County, Oregon, local health officials have confirmed.

In an April 14 press release, the Hood River County Health Department confirmed one case and identified two probable cases of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, or CJD — a rapidly progressive neurodegenerative condition with a 100%...
SFGATE •

Bay Area's oldest prison is getting a Scandinavian makeover

California’s oldest and most infamous prison, San Quentin Rehabilitation Center, is undergoing a groundbreaking transformation into a Nordic-inspired rehabilitation hub. Spearheaded by Gov. Gavin Newsom, the $239 million renovation is expected to be finished by January 2026.

California’s oldest and most infamous prison, San Quentin Rehabilitation Center, is undergoing a groundbreaking transformation into a Nordic-inspired rehabilitation hub. Spearheaded by Gov. Gavin Newsom, the $239 million re...
SFGATE •

'Deeply unsettling': Stanford, Berkeley students hit by mass visa revocation

Four current Stanford students and two recent graduates were among those impacted, the university said in a statement. Stanford discovered the cancellations during a “routine check” of the federal Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), according to the statement. As of now, federal authorities have not given any official reason for the revocations.

Four current Stanford students and two recent graduates were among those impacted, the university said in a statement. Stanford di...
SFGATE •

Virus that killed Betsy Arakawa, wife of Gene Hackman, kills 3 in Mammoth

Three people in the Eastern Sierra town of Mammoth Lakes have died from hantavirus, Mono County health officials confirmed on Thursday. The deaths — all occurring within the first few months of 2025 — mark an unusual spike in hantavirus activity and have raised alarm among public health experts.

Three people in the Eastern Sierra town of Mammoth Lakes have died from hantavirus, Mono County health officials confirmed on Thursday. The deaths — all occurring within the first few months of 2025 — m...
SFGATE •

Calif. officials brace for legendary rager at America's No. 1 party school

The No. 1 party school in America is about to host its big oceanfront soiree, and local agencies say they’re standing by as students get ready to kick off the annual celebration.

The No. 1 party school in America is about to host its big oceanfront soiree, and local agencies say they’re standing by as students get ready to kick off the annual celebration.

Santa Barbara County announced Wednesday it will use county Code Section 26-11, which authorizes the county Community Services Department to...
SFGATE •

Calif. rejects 'cruel' bill banning trans athletes from girls' sports teams

On Tuesday, California lawmakers blocked a bill that would have banned transgender athletes from playing on girls’ sports teams. Following a debate, the bill failed to pass out of the Assembly’s Committee on Arts, Entertainment, Sports and Tourism on a 6-2 vote, with one member not voting.

On Tuesday, California lawmakers blocked a bill that would have banned transgender athletes from playing on girls’ sports teams. Following a debate, the bill failed to pass out of the Assembly’s Committee on...