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April 23.2026
2 Minutes Read

Explore Vibrant Events in Berkeley: Celebrate Earth Day and Culture

Celebrate Earth Day events in Berkeley with a diverse musical gathering.

Celebrate Earth Day with Spirit and Community

As the trees blossom and the air turns crisper, Berkeley gears up to celebrate Earth Day in a big way this April 26, 2026. Berkeley’s Sacred Music Fellowship is hosting an interfaith holiday celebration at Cedar Rose Park from 4-7 p.m., bringing together diverse music leaders from varied cultures and faiths. Expect an afternoon filled with heartwarming performances and community jam sessions where attendees can even create their own musical instruments from reclaimed materials!

Fundraising for the Future: Taste of BYA

On the same day, an important fundraiser hosted by Berkeley Youth Alternatives (BYA) promises to delight foodies and supporters alike. This event at Tilden Park’s Brazilian Room will take place on April 23 at 6 p.m., with proceeds going directly to initiatives that assist underserved children and families in our community. Tickets are priced between $125-$150, and attendees will enjoy food and drinks while making a difference.

Exciting Events You Won’t Want to Miss

Mark your calendars for a variety of events happening throughout the weekend! The East Bay-raised Hogan Brothers will be performing at Jupiter on April 24 at 7 p.m., reflecting the vibrant music scene Berkeley is known for. If classical music is more your speed, catch the New Century Chamber Orchestra performing at the First Presbyterian Church at 7:30 p.m. on the same day, featuring a blend of groundbreaking compositions and classical staples.

Indie Bookstore Day and Local Markets

Fans of literature can rejoice as Pegasus Books celebrates Indie Bookstore Day on April 25 with exciting prize drawings and promotions all day long. Don’t miss out on the Asian Night Market on April 27, organized by UC Berkeley’s East Asian Union. From food to performances highlighting Asian culture, this market is open to all community members and promises to be a lively celebration.

More Reasons to Get Involved!

With activities spread across various interests—from fundraising events to cultural celebrations— the upcoming weeks are packed with opportunities to connect with your community while having fun. Whether you're enjoying the performances or trying out new culinary delights, there’s something for everyone to cherish. Berkeley fosters a unique spirit of togetherness, and this Earth Day marks the perfect opportunity to dive into local culture while supporting meaningful causes.

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04.22.2026

Changes to Muni Pricing: $18 Cable Car Rides and Parking Meter Price Hikes

Update Cable Car Fare Hikes: What You Need to KnowThe San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) has recently approved its new budget, imposing significant changes to public transport fees that will affect everyday commuters. Effective January 4, 2028, cable car fares will see a notable increase from the initially proposed flat fare of $15 to a two-tier pricing scheme. Riders can choose between a $12 one-way fare or an $18 'Cable Car Plus' pass offering unlimited travel across all Muni services for one day for one adult and up to two children. This change represents an effort to generate necessary revenue amid a staggering projected budget shortfall. Understanding the Financial LandscapeThe SFMTA has been navigating a financial crisis with a deficit that exceeds $300 million and is forecasted to grow to $434 million over the next five years. This has led to decisive measures in the newly approved two-year, $4.3 billion budget plan, which also includes the elimination of some fines and a reliance on a $200 million state loan to stabilize operations. In a bid to manage expenses, the agency plans to cut over 500 vacant positions, aiming for $246 million in savings while boosting fare enforcement and reviewing contracts.Impacts on Local CommutersThis fare increase inevitably raises questions among locals who depend on the Muni system to navigate the city. Current ridership stands at around 70% of pre-pandemic levels, highlighting the continuing struggle to attract more commuters back to public transport. Board members, like Steve Hemminger, emphasize that cutting bus routes is not a sustainable solution to the budget crisis. Instead, they call for new tax measures to maintain and improve services.Parking Ticket Adjustments: A Double-Edged Sword?Meanwhile, while fares are increasing, some parking ticket fines are actually being reduced. For example, fines for violations like not curbing one's wheels will drop from $73 to $43. This reduction is a strategic response to the reality that certain fines generate minimal revenue yet face numerous customer complaints, thus the agency is attempting to balance enforcement with public satisfaction.A Broader Conversation About TransportationThe current developments surrounding SFMTA's budget are part of a larger conversation about public transportation's role in urban sustainability and community well-being. With more San Franciscans looking for alternatives in a post-pandemic landscape — like biking, walking, or potentially driving — the agency must adapt to ensure that public transport remains a compelling option. Discussions about tax measures could potentially lead to enhanced services and routes, keeping San Francisco connected and vibrant.Final Thoughts and Community EngagementIn light of these changes, it becomes essential for community members to engage in the discussion about the future of public transportation in San Francisco. Attend local meetings, take part in feedback processes, and share your thoughts with the SFMTA. As users of the system, your voice plays a vital role in shaping the services you rely on.

04.22.2026

Berkeley City Council Faces Transformation: Incumbents Rashi Kesarwani and Cecilia Lunaparra Won't Seek Re-Election

Update New Faces in Berkeley Politics: A Shift on the City Council This November, the Berkeley City Council will see two significant changes as Councilmembers Rashi Kesarwani and Cecilia Lunaparra announce they will not seek re-election. This development means that two of the four races will lack incumbents, marking a pivotal moment in the city’s local governance. Rashi Kesarwani: A Legacy of Housing Advocacy Kesarwani, who has served District 1 since 2018, is recognized for her unwavering commitment to housing issues. One of her hallmark projects was championing the development of hundreds of apartments above parking lots at the North Berkeley BART station. Kesarwani's tenure was characterized by her aggressive push for zoning and policy changes aimed at increasing the housing stock amid chronic shortages across California. Her efforts were not without contention. Kesarwani advocated policies that allowed the city to clear homeless encampments, which stirred debate among community members about the balance between public safety and compassion for those experiencing homelessness. She reflects on her time in office with pride, citing tangible results in advancing housing and fiscal responsibility. Cecilia Lunaparra: A Progressive Voice for Students In contrast, Lunaparra, who filled the District 7 seat during a tumultuous time in early 2024, brought a unique student perspective to the council. Her campaign was notably influenced by activism surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, positioning her as a leading progressive voice advocating for accountability in policing and housing development. Throughout her two-year term, Lunaparra emphasized the need for more significant accountability for the police and expressed her opposition to the technology used in surveillance, setting her apart from some of her colleagues. In reflecting on her service, she noted the importance of being a representative for her community and being part of crucial discussions about the future of Berkeley. A Changing Landscape: What Lies Ahead for Berkeley Both Kesarwani and Lunaparra have stated they do not intend to endorse successors, opening the floor to a fresh wave of candidates come the August filing deadline. With several individuals already expressing interest in the vacant seats, the upcoming elections could lead to a council that more accurately reflects the changing demographics and priorities of Berkeley residents. The absence of incumbents offers an exciting opportunity for voters to engage with new ideas and perspectives that could shape Berkeley's future, particularly as the city grapples with pressing issues like housing affordability and public safety. The Bigger Picture: Local Politics and Community Engagement This shift in representation underlines a broader trend in local politics where younger voices and diverse perspectives are becoming increasingly vital in city governance. As cities evolve, so do the needs of their constituents which requires elected officials who can address contemporary challenges with innovative solutions. The November council elections are not just about filling seats; they represent a crucial moment for the Berkeley community to advocate for its values and vision. With voter engagement at the forefront, citizens have a chance to reflect on what they desire from their elected leaders and how they can contribute to building a more inclusive and progressive city narrative. This upcoming election year serves as a reminder of the power of local governance and the importance of each individual’s voice in shaping their community. As the City of Berkeley prepares for significant change, the question remains: how will local voters respond to the unique opportunities presented by this political turnover?

04.21.2026

Native American Remains Found in UC Berkeley: What’s Next for the Community?

Update Unearthing History: The Discovery at UC Berkeley Recently, the discovery of Native American remains at the UC Berkeley campus near Bancroft Way and Fulton Street has sparked significant attention and concern within the community. Construction crews, who were in the midst of building a new beach volleyball court, unearthed the remains, which were later identified by the Alameda County coroner as likely Native American. UC Berkeley is situated atop the ancestral lands of the Ohlone people—a reminder of the rich history and culture that once thrived in this area. The Role of Heritage Commissions and Tribal Engagement Following such discoveries, California law mandates that the county coroners report the finds to the California Native American Heritage Commission, which works to identify likely descendants and notify them. Corinna Gould, chair of the Confederated Villages of Lisjan, has expressed her group's commitment to collaborating with UC Berkeley to ensure the remains are treated with respect. The next steps, including the possibility of repatriation or preservation in situ, will be decided in consultation with the university. This process underscores the importance of recognizing and honoring ancestral connections—highlighting the power and responsibility that institutions have in preserving cultural heritage. Community Perspectives: Healing Through Repatriation The discoveries of remains at UC Berkeley are not isolated incidents; they are part of a pattern that reflects the historical injustices faced by Indigenous peoples. Gabriel Duncan from the Alameda Native History Project emphasizes that the rich cultural heritage of the Ohlone has seen disruptions due to developmental activities over time. “The idea of finding remains close to an Ohlone village speaks volumes about the deep roots of our community in the East Bay,” Duncan highlights. The past practices of excavating burial sites in the name of science have left scars within the community, and proper engagement with tribes is essential in healing these wounds. Challenges in Identification and Repatriation However, the path to respectful repatriation can be fraught with challenges. For instance, tribal identity can be contentious, as highlighted by concerns from the Muwekma Ohlone Tribe, which asserts they should be consulted due to their federally recognized status. The lack of space for reburial further complicates matters. Bernadette Quiroz, the executive director for the Muwekma Ohlone Tribe, reminds us that, despite the legal frameworks in place, the emotional toll these decisions take on communities often goes overlooked. Current Climate and Future Implications The recent discovery has reignited conversations about the ramifications of development on sacred lands and has drawn parallels to past incidences in the Bay Area. With UC Berkeley reportedly holding one of the largest unrepatriated collections of Indigenous remains in the country, the cries for justice grow louder. As we move forward, it is essential for institutions to not only comply with the legal protocols but to also actively engage in conversations about ethical considerations regarding Indigenous rights and heritage. A Call to Action: Supporting Local Journalism The unfolding narrative of the Native American remains reflects broader societal issues surrounding history, identity, and respect for Indigenous cultures. As these critical discussions continue, local journalism plays a vital role in keeping the community informed and engaged. Supporting platforms that shed light on such stories ensures that voices are heard and histories are honored. Each contribution strengthens our collective commitment to understanding our shared past.

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