Betty Reid Soskin, the oldest park ranger in America and an activist, died at 104 in Richmond. Her life emphasized civil rights and historical narratives.

Thieves executed a smash-and-grab at a Concord jewelry store, causing panic. No shots were fired, and no injuries reported. Suspects fled, with the police investigation ongoing.

Lu Lu's House says it collected 500+ toys in Los Angeles and will distribute them in a holiday giveaway with city partners. The Oakland nonprofit runs shelters and job programs for people re-entering society.

Oakland officials say a property owner illegally cut 38 protected trees on a Claremont Avenue lot; city staff recommended a $915,135 penalty and froze permits. The council has continued the hearing to February.

Fresh red curbs, new signage and finished striping went up along Central Avenue as crews install roundabout signs and adjust lane markings.

Police and the FBI searched an East Oakland chop‑shop this week as detectives probe the disappearance of two men missing since May. Families now fear foul play after earlier raids recovered stolen vehicles but no remains.

A pedestrian was struck and killed early Thursday near Fremont Boulevard and Delaware Drive. Police say the driver stayed on scene and investigators are seeking witnesses.

A software update and payment‑processor error left roughly 200 Bay Area customers temporarily charged 100x for gas; 7‑Eleven says it will issue refunds plus $500 payouts.

Oakland fire crews and Santa rolled into Kaiser Oakland this week, posing by Engine 15 and Truck 4 and handing out holiday cheer to young patients. The visit was part of the department’s Random Acts outreach.

Maria “Mama Cuca” Marquez has returned to San Jose with her mesquite-charcoal Sonoran tacos, bringing the Taco Yaqui and other standouts back to the street. Expect limited runs and early sellouts.

A man was found dead in Concord during a welfare check, with three others injured, in what is being investigated as a homicide resulting from a domestic dispute.

Oakland authorized talks with Costco and Deca to explore a warehouse at the former Army Base. Cleanup, approvals and neighborhood concerns mean a long road ahead.

Oakland beer bar The Good Hop will close on New Year's Eve after 11 years. Owners cited "insurmountable challenges" and scheduled farewell events this weekend and New Year's Eve.