‘Save it or sell it’: Berkeley asks Sutter for a concrete plan for Alta Bates
A new health impact assessment examines the possible effects of the closure or relocation of Alta Bates.
Natalie Orenstein joined the Berkeleyside staff in early 2017, and has contributed reporting to the site since 2012, when she started as an intern. She previously wrote about public policy and social science research for a number of national nonprofits and foundations. Her journalism has also appeared in the San Francisco Chronicle, the J Weekly, the San Francisco Bay Guardian, and elsewhere. Natalie is a proud Berkeley native and has only strayed from the Bay Area once, to attend Pomona College.
Why does your December electricity bill look different?
In November, most residents were switched over to the new East Bay Community Energy provider.
Would Berkeley residents pay to create fire escape routes from the hills?
The City Council has allocated $200,000 to move toward the expensive task of undergrounding power lines — which experts say can prevent fires and help with evacuation.
All the Berkeley election results: Finalized counts confirm month-long leads
Voter turnout significantly eclipsed that of the last mid-term election in Berkeley. See all the results in one place.
UC Berkeley and College Republicans settle free-speech case
Both sides said they consider the outcome a victory.
Beloved Downtown Berkeley BART newspaper vendor in hospice care
Station agents and customers say John Allen is personable, witty and kind. Cards and letters for him can be sent to an address posted on his newspaper stand.
Old City Hall to become emergency winter homeless shelter
As the City Council moves out of the property, homeless people will move in, for up to 45 nights this winter.
Watch: Outgoing School Board members say passionate goodbyes
Karen Hemphill gave a forceful speech and Josh Daniels reflected on his tenure through a data-driven presentation.
Pacific School of Religion startled by anti-Semitic incidents
Someone entered the campus chapel and drew a swastika inside a bible on display. A piece of paper with the words 'Adolph Hitler' scribbled on it was tacked onto a nearby bulletin board.
North Berkeley Senior Center set to close for construction in January
Renovations, which includes a major seismic retrofit, are expected to take 12-18 months.
Berkeley High celebrates 50 years of African-American studies
The department is still the only one of its kind at a high school.
