It's Christmas time in the city, but if all the bright lights and busy streets (or maybe that marathon series of “It's a Wonderful Life” you couldn't pass up) have you yearning for a small-town Christmas, there's no better destination than Nevada City, California, and its annual Victorian Christmas celebration. This gingerbread-decorated hamlet in the Sierra foothills, about a 2 ½-hour drive from San Francisco, is like a portal back in time. Read on to find out where to stay, eat, and play.

Before Christmas, two WednesdayFor the three Sundays in December, most of downtown is closed to through traffic and opened to a bustling activity. Carolers, wandering minstrels, jugglers, costumed characters, horse-drawn carriage rides, local musicians, including many children, and other local talent perform in the streets while families stroll from vendor to vendor sampling, sipping, snacking and purchasing their wares. The atmosphere is warm and inviting as locals and tourists alike are there.

SantaBaby
At the bottom of Broad Street (the main drag), Santa will be available for photo ops. For $5, children and groups can have their picture taken with Santa. The money goes to a local charity – and photos are not required. If your little ones are camera shy or want to cross seeing Santa twice off their list, any child can chat with old Santa.

Bonus: There's also balloon art and a bouncy castle for the kids. Also, keep an eye out for jugglers and magicians.

Roasting chestnuts over an open fire
In addition to spiced cider, mulled wine and barbecued food, there will be chestnuts roasted over a real open fire every night. Cecil Snow, the city's favourite Victorian chimney sweep, will be stoking the fire and selling the chestnuts. This is not to be missed.

Decorate the halls
In addition to the unique gifts sold throughout the streets by local artists and artisans, the United Methodist Church at the top of Broad Street hosts an open house and craft market. It's the perfect place to escape the cold, enjoy the festive atmosphere with Santa, apple cider, cookies and music, beautiful decorations, and use the restroom! Or visit the Nevada City Craft Fair on Sunday, December 11 In the historic Miners Foundry you will find a wide selection of artisan gifts.

Photo by Erin Thiem, outsideinn.com

Park your car
Parking is very limited and it can be frustrating when a whole troupe of carolers is ready to hit the road, so drop them off and park your car at the Nevada County Government Center, then take the shuttle back to town. There is a $5 fee on the ride into town, but it's free on the way back to the car! Check out the Nevada City Chamber of Commerce website for more information.

Good night everyone
There are many bed and breakfasts, hotels and motels in this area. The Outside Inn is a family and pet friendly motel style accommodation that is within walking distance of all of downtown Nevada City. Or if you'If you're looking for something unique, rent an RV and try the new Inn Town Campground, less than two miles from downtown Nevada City.

The Northern Queen Inn offers reasonable rates and its own Christmas lights – plus you can choose between traditional rooms or little cabins in the pines! It's a little further away than the Outside Inn, but it's still within walking distance of downtown.

What to wear
Dress for the occasion, but wear your warmest clothes. It's not unusual for snow to fall this time of year! Wool coats and capes and top hats are also appropriate! Bring gloves, hats and scarves for the kids, and wear good walking shoes. Most activities are outdoors, and Nevada City is hilly. The main street, Broad Street, is a long, rolling hill, so wear comfortable shoes.

When: Sundays, December 411th and 18th of 1:30 p.m.–6:00 p.m. and Wednesdays 14 and 21 December out of 5pm-9pm

A fairy tale about two cities
The neighboring town of Grass Valley, which is equally charming, celebrates a similar Cornish Christmas that begins the Friday after Thanksgiving and runs through December 20th. Mill Street and Main Street are closed off and the cool mountain air is filled with the scent of roasted chestnuts, kettle corn and pasties. Make it a weekend of super-retro Christmas celebrations and have the best time – experience both events in one weekend. For more information on Cornish Christmas, visit the Grass Valley Chamber of Commerce website.

Have you ever celebrated the season in Nevada City? Tell us about it in the comments below!

–Erin Thiem and Amber Guetebier

All photos courtesy of Nevada City Chamber of Commerce unless otherwise noted

The post Victorian Christmas Celebration in Nevada Metropolis, CA appeared first on DAILY SAN FRANCISCO BAY NEWS.

It’s Christmas time in the city, but if all the bright lights and bustling streets (or maybe the marathon of It’s a Wonderful Life you couldn’t resist watching) have you hankering for a small town Christmas, there is no better destination than Nevada City, California and its annual Victorian Christmas celebration. This gingerbread-trimmed hamlet in the Sierra foothills, about 2 ½ hour drive from San Francisco, is like a portal back in time. Read on to find out where to stay, eat and play.

Leading up to Christmas, two Wednesdays and the three Sundays in December, the better part of the downtown area is closed to through traffic and open to a bevy of activity. Carolers, roving minstrels, jugglers, costumed characters, horse-drawn carriage rides, local musicians including many children, and other local talent perform throughout the streets, while families wander from vendor to vendor sampling, sipping, noshing, and buying their wares. Equally attended by locals and tourists alike, the atmosphere is warm and welcoming.

Santa Baby
On the lower end of Broad Street (the main drag) Santa will be available for photo ops. For $5 kids and groups can take their photo with Santa. The money goes to local charity—and photos are not a requirement. If your little ones are camera-shy, or want to check Santa sighting off their list twice, any child can chat it up with Ol’ Saint Nick.

Bonus: There will also balloon art and a bouncy house for the kids, plus keep your eyes out for jugglers and magicians.

Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire
In addition to the spiced cider, mulled wine, and grilled delights, each night features chestnuts roasted over a real open fire. Cecil Snow, the town’s favorite Victorian chimney sweep, will tend the fire and vend the chestnuts. Not to be missed.

Deck the Halls
In addition to one-of-a-kind gifts for sale by local artists and crafters throughout the streets, at the top of Broad Street the United Methodist Church will host an open house which includes a Craft Faire. It’s the perfect place to come in from the cold, enjoy the festive atmosphere with Santa, cider, cookies, and music plus beautiful decorations, and use the restroom! Or stop by the Nevada City Craft Fair on Sunday, December 11th in the historic Miners Foundry for a great selection of artisans gifts.

Photo by Erin Thiem, outsideinn.com

Park Your Carriage
Parking can is very limited and can be frustrating with a crew full of carolers ready to hit the streets, so drop them off and then park your car at the Nevada County Government Center, then hop the shuttle back into town. There is a $5 fee when going into town, but free for all heading back to the car! Visit the Nevada City Chamber of Commerce website for more details.

To All a Good Night’s Sleep
This area is rife with bed and breakfasts, hotels, and motels. Family and pet-friendly, The Outside Inn is a motel-style lodging within easy walking distance to all of Nevada City’s downtown.  Or if you’re looking for something unique, rent a RV and try the new Inn Town Campground, less then 2 miles from downtown Nevada City.

The Northern Queen Inn has reasonable rates and their own show of holiday lights—plus you can choose from traditional rooms or little cabins in the pines! Though it’s a little farther afield that The Outside Inn, it is still reasonable walking distance to downtown.

What to Don
Dress festive, but don your warmest of apparel. It is not unusual for snow to fall this time of year!  Woolen cloaks and capes and top-hats are appropriate, too! Do bring mittens, hats, and scarves for the kids and wear good walking shoes. Most of the activities are outside, and Nevada City is hilly. The main street, Broad Street, is one long gradual hill so wear comfy shoes.

When:  Sundays, December 4th, 11th, & 18th from 1:30-6 p.m. and Wednesdays December 14th & 21st from 5–9 p.m.

A Tale of Two Cities
The neighboring town of Grass Valley which is equally charming has a similar Cornish Christmas celebration, beginning the Friday after Thanksgiving and continuing through the 20th of December. Mill and Main Streets are closed off and the chilly mountain air is filled with the smell of roasting chestnuts, kettle corn, and pasties. Make it a weekend of uber-retro Christmas celebrations and enjoy the best of times–take in both events over a weekend. Check out the Grass Valley Chamber of Commerce website for more details on Cornish Christmas.

Have you ever celebrated the season in Nevada City? Tell us about it in the comments below!

–Erin Thiem and Amber Guetebier

All photos courtesy of Nevada City Chamber of Commerce unless otherwise noted

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WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden welcomed hundreds to the White House on Saturday for a postponed Pride Month celebration aimed at showing LGBTQ+ people his administration at a time when advocates warn of a rise in discriminatory legislation , particularly against them, has its back strengthened by the transgender community sweeping through state houses.

The event, which the government has described as the largest Pride event at the White House, was originally scheduled for Thursday but was postponed due to poor air quality from hazardous air pouring in from Canadian wildfires. But the haze that blanketed much of the east coast last week had lifted over the nation’s capital, allowing the president and first lady Jill Biden to hold their South Lawn party.

“So today I want to send a message to the whole community – especially to transgender children: You are loved. you will be heard You understood. And you’re part of it,” Biden said.

According to the Human Rights Campaign, a group that campaigns for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer rights, Pride Month is celebrated this year as state legislators introduced at least 525 bills and 78 bills have passed that restrict the rights of LGBTQ+ people.

This tally includes a number of recent bills affecting transgender people, including legislation recently passed by Republican governors vying for the 2024 presidential nomination.

In Florida, Gov. Ron DeSantis recently signed a bill banning sex-specific medical care such as puberty blockers or hormone therapy for transgender youth. Earlier this week, a federal judge temporarily blocked portions of a law DeSantis signed into law just before announcing his presidential candidacy.

In North Dakota, Gov. Doug Burgum signed a bill last month that would ban public schools and government agencies from requiring teachers and staff to refer to transgender people by the pronouns they use. Burgum, who, like DeSantis, has made cultural issues a central part of his tenure as governor, joined the White House primary.

Josh Helfgott, an LGBTQ+ activist and social media influencer from New York City, said celebrating Pride Month at the White House was one of the most important moments of his life. But he said the wave of legislation added another dimension to this year’s celebrations.

“Pride is so important this year because we cannot remain silent in the face of hate and bigotry,” Helfgott said. “The other side is so loud, incredibly loud.” ”

Anjali Rimi, from San Francisco, attended the White House event with her mother, who recently immigrated from India.

Rimi came to the United States more than 20 years ago because, as she says, as a transgender person, she was shunned by family and society.

Times are also difficult in the United States, she said. After coming out, she was forced out of the job, was homeless for a time, and sought asylum in Canada for about a decade before returning to the United States.

“It’s a moment that we will cherish for a lifetime,” said Rimi, an LGBTQ+ community activist in San Francisco. “It’s a happy moment, but it’s also a reminder that we still have so much work to do.”

Originally published June 10, 2023 at 1:30 p.m

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Dee Snider, lead singer and songwriter for metal band Twisted Sister, released a statement on Facebook on Friday defending himself as a longtime supporter of the trans community, days after the San Francisco Pride organization dropped him from its upcoming celebration. Snider replied, “So, I heard I’m transphobic, really?”

Snider came under fire earlier this week after quoting and tweeting KISS singer Paul Stanley’s statement of his own thoughts on the trans community and gender-biased child care. “You know what? There was also a time when I felt pretty. I’m glad my parents didn’t jump to conclusions,” he wrote.

Snider’s comment reached the San Francisco Pride organization, who announced they were parting ways with the artist for their upcoming event. The organization said “We’re Not Gonna Take It” was to be the celebration’s unofficial rallying cry before Snider tweeted his support for Stanley. But not anymore.

“When we were notified of the tweet in which Dee expressed his support for Kiss’ Paul Stanley’s transphobic remark, we were heartbroken and angry,” the organization wrote. “The message sustained by this tweet casts doubt on the ability of young trans people to self-identify their gender.”

SF Pride acknowledged that Snider “has always been a vocal supporter of LGBTQ+ rights” and that the decision to split was mutual.

Also read:
Kiss’ Paul Stanley sparks fury for calling gendered child nurturing a ‘sad and dangerous fad’: ‘It’s not a game, you’re a hole’

“[We] I appreciate that Dee sees this as an educational moment and a reminder that even allies need to be educated to ensure they are not casually promoting transphobia,” SF Pride said.

But the farewell surprised Snider. “So I heard I’m transphobic, really?” The 68-year-old musician captioned the statement posted to Facebook on Friday. He wrote that while he’s spent his life defending the rights of the trans community, he double-emphasised that he doesn’t “believe young children are ready to make decisions about their gender.”

The story goes on

“I don’t think children have the mental capacity to make rational, logical decisions about things of a magnitude that will affect them for the rest of their lives,” he wrote. “I don’t think they’re mentally advanced enough.”

Snider, who has identified as politically moderate or “purple,” said in his statement that he would continue to support the trans community, signing himself “your ally for cisgender and cross-dressing.”

You can read Snider’s entire statement by clicking here.

Also read:
Dylan Mulvaney Ends Social Media Silence After Transphobic Bud Light Backlash: ‘I Still Have My Faith’ (Video)

The post Musician Dee Snider Responds After Being Dropped From San Francisco Delight Celebration appeared first on DAILY SAN FRANCISCO BAY NEWS.

But water experts believe the next 100 years of providing millions of people with a finite resource will be far more complicated than storing water in a mountain bathtub and channeling it into the bay. Water authorities need to save more and possibly make technical improvements to allow the system to store more water.

The Hetch-Hetchy system has been able to handle recent severe droughts and this winter’s powerful storms, but Newsha Ajami, the president of the SFPUC, said “some of it was luck driven.”

“We have one of the lowest water usage rates in the state,” she said. “San Franciscans consume about 40 gallons per person per day, which is very little.”

The SFPUC operates the reservoir and expects the Hetch Hetchy system to be tested by even more extreme drought and flooding.

“This year was one of the wettest years we have ever seen. Just before we had the driest three-year sequence we’ve ever seen,” Graham said. “We’re seeing what the climate models are predicting, wetter rainy seasons and drier dry spells, which makes managing all of that a little more difficult.”

Water supplies may appear stable in a wet year, Graham said, but managing runoff from a massive Sierra snowpack requires constant attention, especially with no guarantee future years will be wet either. In August, he said, the reservoir will remain glassy and brimming.

“Right now I’m just trying to maximize what we have and the storage capacity that we have,” he said. “Climate change will make managing this water supply significantly more difficult.”

San Francisco Mayor London Breed looks out over the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir from O’Shaughnessy Dam during Tuesday’s centenary celebrations. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)

While San Franciscans don’t use much water, other parts of the Bay Area overuse the resources. Laura Feinstein of the nonprofit political group SPUR analyzed water use within the system and found that communities like Hillsborough in San Mateo County that receive water from the Hetch Hetchy system use 190 gallons of water per person per day.

“Even in winter when it rains, they use water liberally,” she said of the residents, who continue to water large yards and landscapes regardless of the season. “This kind of inefficiency puts a lot of pressure on the system. Making communities like this more water efficient would mean a lot of savings and make the whole system more climate resilient.”

Hetch Hetchy’s success will depend on how it’s used

Susan Leal wants to ensure that Hetch Hetchy exists as a thriving water resource in the face of human-caused climate change. She is a former executive director of the SFPUC.

She sees three possibilities for the future of water from Hetch Hetchy: it becomes more expensive over time, the authorities start recycling it on a large scale, or they increase the level of the reservoir.

Regarding water recycling, Leal said there was “no alternative,” and city officials need to give serious thought to creating more recycled water facilities this year. Treated water, she said, costs more but could take some strain off the system.

“To discourage people from bottled water, we kept telling them how good their Hetch Hetchy water was,” she said. “We need to make people understand that recycled water is like distilled water. It is very pure water.”

O’Shaughnessy Dam holds back the Tuolumne River and forms the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir in Yosemite National Park. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)

Another way to increase the water supply is to raise the dam to store more water. In 1938 officials increased it from 227 feet to 312 feet. Leal said the O’Shaughnessy Dam, which will hold back the Tuolumne River, could be built 55 feet higher than it is today.

“We may have to build the dam higher to hold more water,” she said. “We have to take that into account because we never planned the extreme storms.”

Raising the dam and increasing the storage capacity of the reservoir would likely face significant opposition from environmentalists and likely face lawsuits.

“I don’t know if it’s being considered, but if it’s recycling or impounding more water at Hetch Hetchy or other dams, all of those things have had to be thought about since yesterday,” she said.

100 years marks the “victim of the environment”

The story of Hetch Hetchy isn’t just about free-flowing, clean drinking water, and its construction sparked one of the first major U.S. struggles over land use and conservation. When officials were building Hetch Hetchy, the reservoir cut off waterways to fish, plants, and other animals that depended on running water, most of which is now stored behind a cement wall deep in the Sierra Nevada.

UC Davis’ Sandoval Solis said the construction of the reservoir, while good for many people in the Bay Area, has destroyed the freshwater ecosystems on the shores.

“The environment has been at risk for 100 years,” said Sandoval Solis. “The centenary also marks the centenary of endangering or sacrificing the environment and some of the Indigenous communities who were displaced for the benefit of the people living in San Francisco.”

Hetch Hetchy is the ancient home of up to a dozen indigenous peoples; Throughout Yosemite, many were forcibly displaced or killed in the mid-1800s.

The Hetch-Hetchy Valley has been inundated with water since the construction of the O’Shaughnessy Dam 100 years ago. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)

Damming rivers in the Sierra Nevada, such as the Tuolumne River at Hetch Hetchy, have bifurcations into the river systems that join the San Joaquin River, empty into the San Joaquin-Sacramento Delta, and enter the Bay.

The large amounts of fresh water that once flowed helped mix natural algae into the salty water. Still, lower inflows into the bay mean the seaweed sits atop the water, creating the perfect habitat for toxic algal blooms. Olivia Yip, an associate professor at San Jose State University who studies algal blooms, said the latest eruption, which killed thousands of fish, was partly due to reduced freshwater flows.

“Imagine some seaweed floating around in the bay,” Yip said. “With more mixing, it’s less likely to just sit on top and grow like crazy.”

The future of the system must include an equitable use of water, proponents say

The Hetch-Hetchy Pipeline runs through communities in the Central Valley and Bay Area that need clean drinking water of their own. UC Davis’ Sandoval Solis said access to safe drinking water “should not be a luxury because it is a human right.”

“The pipes run right through their communities, but they can’t use them,” he said. “I don’t think providing clean water to disadvantaged communities should be a problem.”

About two-thirds of the Bay Area’s pure Hetch-Hetchy water is used outside of San Francisco’s borders.

The post Celebration and Concern: Hetch Hetchy Reservoir Turns 100, However Local weather Change Complicates its Future appeared first on DAILY SAN FRANCISCO BAY NEWS.

Note: GJEL Accident Attorneys regularly sponsors coverage on Streetsblog San Francisco and Streetsblog California. Unless noted in the Story, GJEL Accident Attorneys will not be consulted for the content or editorial direction of the Sponsored Content.

induced demand? What is that?

Pretending that induced demand—a well-documented phenomenon—didn’t exist was the unintended theme of Saturday’s celebration of the opening of the “Managed Lanes” project at 101 in San Mateo County (aka freeway widening). More details on KQED’s $600 million project:

The San Mateo 101 Express Lanes Project officially opened with a dedication ceremony on Saturday. The 22-mile express lanes, stretching along Highway 101 from the San Mateo/Santa Clara county line to Interstate 380 in South San Francisco, are designed to reduce traffic congestion and encourage carpooling and the use of public transit along one of the busiest thoroughfares on the peninsula Promote San Francisco. “The opening of the freeways in San Mateo County has been in the pipeline for years [and] it finally came to fruition,” said San Mateo Rep. Kevin Mullin, representing District 15. “It’s good for the economy, it’s good for the environment, and it’s a win-win for everyone involved who’s taken the years to get this project off the ground.”

Of course, Mullin’s claim that it’s “good for the environment” is complete nonsense. If officials wanted to help the environment, they could have converted existing lanes into toll, HOV, and bus lanes instead of adding more lanes.

Most advocates would probably rather be somewhere else on a Saturday than standing in the middle of screeching lanes full of car pollution. But Mike Swire, a peninsula advocate and member of the San Mateo County Transit Authority’s Citizen’s Advisory Committee, Max Mautner, co-lead of Move San Mateo, and Darryl Yip, who is leading opposition to further 101 expansion between 380 and 101 San Francisco, went down to try and fight off the gaslights.

Mautner, Swire and Yip came to protest the ribbon cutting: image from Swire’s Photostream

And since KQED quoted Swire as saying the 101 project was “the worst local environmental decision in recent memory” and “the highway widening has never worked,” it had the desired effect.

Officials, meanwhile, “discussed the environmental and equity impacts of the project,” Swire wrote in an email to Streetsblog. “No mention of global warming, air pollution, traffic violence, or induced demand. Many prominent politicians are there and speak – e.g. B. Newly-elected Congressman Kevin Mullin, Progressive County Supervisor David Canepa, and Newly-elected Rep. Diane Papan (the main sponsor of the project).”

Sure, as long as people in these low-income communities hold their breath.

Photo by Caltrans of their latest expansion project

As Streetsblog previously reported, stakeholders in widening the 101 (and other roads) sometimes even tacitly admit that their projects aren’t working — and are actually making things worse. Despite this, they continue to do the work, knowing full well that it will harm the environment and lead to more accidents and other destructive effects. Advocates must keep challenging this evil until they stop.

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“Chance nothing – gain nothing.” So said Helgi Tomasson in his typically succinct fashion as he stood onstage at the War Memorial Opera House surrounded by over a hundred cheering dancers, choreographers, artistic directors, musicians and other artists whose careers he has so profoundly impacted. The man clearly knows whereof he speaks. Way back in 1985, San Francisco Ballet took a huge chance of hiring Tomasson into his very first leadership position as Artistic Director. In turn, Tomasson perhaps took an even greater chance in coming to lead this well-established, if rather scrappy, regional ballet company that was ripe for a new direction. 37 years later, I think it’s safe to say Tomasson and SFB chanced everything and gained everything.

As he steps down as Artistic Director of SFB, Tomasson leaves behind a company of internationally renown. His transformation of the company is truly one of the great success stories in American arts. Back in the mid-80’s, even those of us who enjoyed SFB eagerly awaited the annual visits by American Ballet Theater or whatever Russian company was touring so we that we could get a fix of some “real” ballet. While we loved cheering on our home team, they just didn’t dance with the sophisticated technique of the higher-profile ballet companies. Within a few years of Tomasson’s tenure at SFB, it was clear that this was no longer the case. He had an uncanny knack for attracting promising young dancers from around the world and then developing their individual talents to help them become the supremely distinctive dancers they were meant to be.

On Sunday, April 24th, SFB hosted a gala, “Helgi Tomasson: A Celebration” to honor Tomasson for his astonishingly successful tenure at the helm. It was an evening of gratitude, congratulations, more than a few tears and above all spectacular, spectacular dancing. The program consisted entirely of works choreographed by Tomasson, but the focus throughout was squarely on the remarkable SFB dancers, and I presume this is as Tomasson would have it. While his choreography may indeed live on, his dancers and the immense pleasure they have given audiences around the world are his true legacy.

Frances Chung and Wei Wang in Helgi Tomasson’s “Chaconne for Piano and Two Dancers”
(photo by Erik Tomasson)

The performances kicked off with Wei Wang moving in spotlight on a darkened stage to some glorious Handel music in “Chaconne for Piano and Two Dancers.” Wang is a shining example of a Tomasson discovery, one of so many we’ve been treated to over the years. The Chinese-born and trained dancer was visiting family in Northern California a dozen or so years ago when he auditioned for SFB on a whim and immediately accepted into the school. Wang soon became an apprentice and worked his way up through the company’s ranks to become one of its best all-around dancers. Wang danced the opening solo of “Chaconne” with such clean, unfussy technique and sensitive musicality that it took my breath away. Then the ever-sensational Frances Chung (another Tomasson protégée who rose through the ranks at SFB) took over and possibly raised the bar even higher. As the two danced together in the final section, perfectly matching each other beat for beat and seeming to float across the stage as they responded spontaneously to the music, the effect was heart-stopping. In a nutshell, this is exactly the kind of refined artistry and deep connection to music that Tomasson has brought to SFB for almost four decades.

Lonnie Weeks in Helgi Tomasson’s “Concerto Grosso”
(photo by Erik Tomasson)

And from there, the dancing continued at a spectacularly high level. One moment, we had Lonnie Weeks and Mingxuan Wang amazing us with their impeccable line, superior extension and perfect air positions in “Concerto Grosso.” The next, we had a beguilingly rakish Isabella Devivo and Esteban Hernandez romping through the astringently percussive “Two Bits.” And Sasha De Sola and Joseph Walsh saucily tearing through excerpts from “Blue Rose.” Then it was on to Yuan Yuan Tan and Tiit Helimets breaking our hearts with the sheer beauty of their tender, melancholic pas de deux from “The Fifth Season.” Throughout the evening, every dancer onstage seemed to be performing at the peak of their powers, perhaps not wanting to be the one who might let the proceedings down.

Tiit Helimets and Yuan Yuan Tan in Helgi Tomasson’s “The Fifth Season”
(photo by Erik Tomasson)

When the dancing was finished, Tomasson was escorted center stage by his senior ballerina Yuan Yuan Tan and then gradually surrounded by the entire company, plus many former SFB dancers who in no small part owe their remarkable careers to him. It was incredibly moving to see the amazing current SFB roster sharing the stage with much-missed stars from the past such as Tina LeBlanc, Gonzalo Garcia, Damian Smith, Joanna Berman and Gennadi Nedvigin. But perhaps the most heartfelt moment came earlier in the evening at the top of the show. Ashley Wheater, an especially gallant former SFB principal dancer who then apprenticed under Tomasson when his dancing career was over and eventually became Artistic Director of the Joffrey Ballet, broke down in the middle of his spoken tribute to Tomasson and struggled to regain his composure. Those of us in the audience could easily empathize with Wheater’s feeling of emotional overwhelm. After all, how do you adequately thank a person who has had such a profound impact on the trajectory of your life? How can you possibly put that into words? For me as a relative ballet neophyte who has who has come to cherish the artform so dearly, I would just like to say, “Bravo, Mr. Tomasson!” Because of what you brought to SFB, so many of our lives have been made all the richer these past 37 years.

San Francisco Ballet Artistic Director & Principal Choreographer Helgi Tomasson
(photo by Erik Tomasson)

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SAN FRANCISCO (CBS SF) – The annual 4/20 celebration in Golden Gate Park is returning Wednesday after a two-year hiatus, but San Francisco officials said there would be differences compared to pre-pandemic gatherings on Hippie Hill.

The city announced Monday that regulated and tested cannabis would be sold for the first time at the event. As a result, no one under 21 would be allowed at the celebration.

READ MORE: Over A Century Later, Point Reyes Trail Still Shows Where 1906 Earthquake Left Mark

City officials said the celebration area at Hippie Hill would be surrounded by fences and event staff would check identification and bags.

“This year marks an important moment in the history of 420 at Hippie Hill,” said Nikesh Patel, who directs the city’s Office of Cannabis. “For the first time, regulated cannabis will be available for sale and consumption at this year’s event. This novel opportunity showcases the strength of San Francisco’s vibrant cannabis community and brings new requirements to help create a safe, clean, and enjoyable experience for everyone who attends.”

dr Grant Colfax, the city’s director of health, offered advice to revelers. “Know where the substances you’re consuming come from and only trust reputable vendors. Support yourself and those around you by being on the lookout for signs of breathing difficulty or unresponsiveness,” he said.

READ MORE: San Jose Police Arrest 6 Suspected Members of ‘Prolific’ Smash-and-Grab Jewelry Store Robbery Crew

Mayor London Breed said Monday, “I look forward to another successful 420 in Golden Gate Park, but we need everyone to remember to pick up after themselves, stay respectful, keep things peaceful, and of course, have a good time.”

Officials said 40 park rangers and private security will manage safety of the event. The fire department will be fully staffed, EMS services would be provided and police will have an increased presence outside the venue.

The celebration of all things cannabis has drawn large crowds to Golden Gate Park for years, long before the state legalized recreational use.

An estimated 14,000 people attended the most recent 4/20 celebration at Hippie Hill in 2019. Officials anticipate up to 20,000 for this year’s event.

MORE NEWS: Investigators Identify Mummified Body Found In Former Oakland Convention Center

The celebration, which will include live DJs, comedy and food sales, is scheduled from noon to 5 pm Gates open at 10 am

The post San Francisco 420 Celebration Returns To Golden Gate Park With On-Web site Hashish Gross sales, Solely 21+ Allowed – CBS San Francisco appeared first on DAILY SAN FRANCISCO BAY NEWS.

Join anchor Kristen Sze for ABC7’s daily interactive newscast about the novel coronavirus outbreak in the Bay Area and other hot topics. You can check here to stream the show Monday-Friday at 3 p.m.

Here are the latest developments on the respiratory illness in the U.S.:

April 20, 2021

11 a.m.
No annual 4/20 celebration on SF’s Hippie Hill again this year
The annual 4/20 celebration on Hippie Hill has been canceled and the city is telling people to stay home. Crews put up fences around Robin Williams Meadow in Golden Gate Park. This is the second year 4/20 has been canceled because of pandemic restrictions on large gatherings.

5:25 a.m.
Maryland plant temporarily plant halts J&J vaccine
A Maryland plant has temporarily stopped the production of Johnson and Johnson’s COVID-19 vaccine. The FDA is looking into a mistake at the facility. It comes less than a week after the distribution was paused to investigate a handful of cases of a rare blood clotting disorder.

April 19, 2021

8 a.m.
Oakland Unified reaches tentative agreement for all students to return this fall
Oakland Unified has reached a tentative agreement for all students to return to in-person learning this fall. The district announced a deal with its teachers union late last night. Teachers still have to vote to approve the plan. The announcement comes as more students return to the classroom. Starting today, in-person learning is available for pre-K through grade 6 and priority students in higher grades. Previously, in-person learning was happening for pre-K through second grade. Families can opt out of sending their child and continue distance learning.

April 18, 2021

11 a.m.
Breed says SF music, entertainment venues can apply for grants starting April 21
Mayor London Breed announced that applications for San Francisco’s $3 million music and entertainment venue fund will open April 21. Venues can apply here.

1:30p.m.
More than 10 million fully vaccinated in CA, 7-day positivity rate 1.5% in CA

More than 10 million people have been vaccinated in California, according to the California Department of Public Health.

The CDPH says 10,149,469 people have been fully vaccinated as of Saturday, April 17. The 7-day positivity rate in California is 1.5%.

California has 3,616,779 confirmed cases to date. There were 2,667 newly recorded confirmed cases Saturday. The 7-day positivity rate is 1.5%. There have been 57,733,460 tests conducted in California.

12:30p.m.
Oakland A’s and Minnesota Twins game on Monday postponed

The Oakland A’s announced on Sunday its game against the Minnesota Twins on Monday has been postponed. The A’s tweeted it will allow for continued COVID-19 testing and contract tracing involving members of the Twins organizations.

April 17, 2021

7:05 a.m.
CA COVID positivity rate is now down to 1.7%
California’s COVID-19 positivity rate is now down to 1.7% and more than 52% of residents in the state have been at least partially vaccinated. According to federal numbers, California ranks 11th among all states in vaccinations.

April 16, 2021

12:28 p.m.
San Jose Sharks set date to welcome fans back to SAP Center
The San Jose Sharks announced today that SAP Center at San Jose will re-open to a limited number of fans beginning Mon., April 26 when the Sharks host the Arizona Coyotes. It will mark the first time since March 8, 2020 that SAP Center has hosted an event with members of the general public in attendance. Everyone 24 months and older entering SAP Center is required to provide proof of a negative COVID test or proof of receiving a complete COVID-19 vaccination, with the final dose received at least two weeks prior to the day of the game.

6:45 a.m.
Contra Costa Co. plans to open pop-up walk-in vaccination sites
Contra Costa County is planning several pop-up walk-in vaccination sites over the next few weeks. The sites will be held at Antioch Community Center on Lone Tree Way in Antioch and the Veterans Memorial Hall on 23rd Street in Richmond. Anyone over the age of 16 who lives or works in the county can go. Up to 700 vaccinations a day will be given.

April 15, 2021

12:45 p.m.
Alameda County Fair being rescheduled for October
The Alameda County Fair has been rescheduled for Oct. 22 through Oct. 31 this year with safety measures in place amid the ongoing pandemic. It’s anticipated that guests will be required to purchase tickets in advance and there will be attendance limits. Guests will also most likel ybe required to wear masks and have their temperature checked when entering the fair.

The fairgrounds will continue to be the site of a community COVID-19 vaccination site through the end of June.

8:15 a.m.
It’s a big day for California in the fight against COVID-19 — anyone 16 and older is now eligible to receive a vaccination. Officials say the appointment website has been upgraded to handle an influx of users.

April 14, 2021

10:45 a.m.
SF to reopen and expand additional businesses and activities
Starting tomorrow, San Francisco will reopen and expand additional activities that are allowed by the state for counties assigned to the orange tier. These activities include indoor live-audience events and performances and private events such as conferences and receptions. In alignment with the State’s guidelines, San Francisco will also expand the number of individuals allowed to participate in indoor and outdoor social gatherings and will loosen some restrictions on other activities, including dining, outdoor bars, retail, and recreation.

8:20 a.m.
A mass COVID-19 vaccination clinic will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Salinas Sport Complex, 1034 North Main St., Salinas, officials announced. The clinic, sponsored by the Salinas Fire Department in conjunction with Pinnacle Health Care, will offer the Moderna vaccine. Participants must pre-register for a time slot and bring a completed COVID-19 vaccine screen and consent form, a valid driver’s license and a copy of their health insurance card (both front and back). Appointments for the second dose will be handled in the same manner and will occur 28 days later at the same location. To register for the first dose click here.

April 13, 2021

3:00 p.m.
Santa Clara County expands vaccine eligibility to 16+
Santa Clara County officials announced Tuesday afternoon that they have opened up thousands of additional vaccine appointments and expanded eligibility to people 16 and older effective immediately. Those interested in getting vaccinated are encouraged to schedule appointments through the County’s website sccfreevax.org.

2:30 p.m.
SF expands vaccine eligibility to 16+
San Francisco health officials announced that people 16 and older are now eligible to get the COVID-19 vaccine, two days ahead of the state expanding eligibility to that group. Newly-eligible people are encouraged to visit this page to find links to schedule appointments.

12 p.m.
4/20 celebration in SF”s Golden Gate Park canceled
This year’s 4/20 celebration in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park has been canceled this year amid the ongoing pandemic, the mayor announced. Hippie Hill and Robin Williams Meadow will be fenced off.

11:15 a.m.
California orders pause of Johnson & Johnson vaccine on US recommendation
California state officials directed counties and other providers to pause use of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine as recommended by the federal government as agencies examine a possible and rare side effect that can cause blood clots. The governor’s office also said on social media that vaccine supply “will not be significantly impacted” and that the pause will not affect plans to open vaccination to all eligible teens and adults as scheduled on Thursday or its broader plan to reopen California’s economy in mid-June.

11 a.m.
Marin, Alameda counties pause use of Johnson & Johnson vaccine
Marin County is joining San Francisco, Contra Costa, and San Mateo counties in pausing use of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. Officials say that J&J accounts for less than 3% of their cumulative vaccine allocation. This temporary halt will impact mobile operations, which will resume use of the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines. Alameda County also announced its pausing the use of the vaccine.

9 a.m.
SF health officials pause use of Johnson & Johnson vaccine
Following today’s announcement from the CDC and FDA, San Francisco announced it will pause the use of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. The city says that, to date, they have administered 31,831 doses of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine to SF residents with no known cases of blood clotting.

8:30 a.m.
Contra Costa Co., San Mateo Co. officials pause use of Johnson & Johnson vaccine
Contra Costa County health officials announced they’re temporarily pausing the use of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine after six reported U.S. cases of a rare and severe type of blood clot. “Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) vaccine is a very small part of Contra Costa’s vaccine allocation from the state and federal governments and CCHS does not anticipate cancelling any of its vaccination appointments at this time,” officials said Tuesday in a press release.

Officials also added, “CCHS is not aware of any reported cases of adverse reactions to COVID-19 vaccine in the county that were inconsistent with those documented during the extensive clinical trials conducted to ensure the safety of all vaccines used in the U.S.”

San Mateo County officials also announced on Tuesday that they’re pausing the use of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

Read more about the halt in distribution here.

6 a.m.
Vaccination site to open at Marin Co. Fairgrounds
A new vaccination site is opening today at the Marin County Fairgrounds. Health officials hope to vaccinate up to 3,600 people a day, depending on supply. Appointments are required.

5 a.m.
FDA and CDC call for ‘pause’ on Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine
The CDC and FDA are calling for a pause on the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine. It comes after six reported cases of a rare and severe type of blood clot.

April 12, 2021

8 a.m.
Salesforce to reopen SF office in May
Salesforce announced Monday that it will be reopening Salesforce Tower for employees starting in May. At the same time, Salesforce will open offices in Palo Alto and Irvine, with more in the coming months. Employees will still have the option to work from home through at least Dec. 31. The company will also donate$1.5 million to address homelessness

April 11, 2021

1 p.m.
7-day positivity rate drops slightly to 1.6% in California
COVID-19 cases continue to go up in California but the positivity rate has gone down again, dropping slightly to 1.6% according to new statistics released by the state health department. There were 4,954 newly recorded confirmed cases Saturday, adding to 3,600,178 confirmed cases to date. There are 1,799 hospitalized while 434 are currently in the ICU. On the vaccine front, 22,777,893 vaccine doses are administered statewide, with 28,121,700 doses delivered to state entities, according to the CDC.

April 10, 2021

12:30 p.m.
Positivity rate down again to 1.7% in CA

The positivity rate has decreased again to 1.7% in the state, according to the California Department of Public Health. But there are nearly 4,500 new cases statewide.

Cases: 4,466 (3,595,224 total)
4.8 cases per 100k

Deaths: 170 (59,113 total)
7-day positivity rate: 1.7%

Other numbers:

216,028 COVID-19 tests processed
1,854 hospitalized
456 in ICU

Vaccinations:
8,619,032 Full Vaccinated (26.6% of roughly 32 million)
377,537 average doses administered per day
5,023,697 doses on hand (13 days of inventory, was 14 yesterday)

Track the latest on vaccination numbers with our California COVID-19 tracker.

April 9, 2021

11 a.m.
Pfizer asks FDA to expand use of COVID-19 vaccine to younger teens
Pfizer announced Friday that it submitted a request to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to allow emergency use of its COVID-19 vaccine to children as young as 12. Get the full story here.

5 a.m.
BART to re-expand train schedules later this year
BART will re-expand its train schedules later this year, offering more frequent trips and later service as riders are expected return to public transit as the COVID-19 pandemic wanes, agency officials said Thursday. Since March of last year, the agency stopped both weekday and weekend train service at 9 p.m. in an effort to cut costs in the face of a 90% drop in ridership during the pandemic.

April 8, 2021

10:50 a.m.
San Francisco to allow concerts, sports and other live events to resume
San Francisco announced it’s planning to issue guidelines that will allow indoor live events to resume on April 15 with capacity limits.

“We know that much of what makes San Francisco special are the live performances and events where people can come together for music, sports and cultural performances, and graduations,” said Mayor London Breed in a press release.

The city plans to “generally align” with the guidelines outlined by the state. Indoor ticketed and seated events will be capped at 35% capacity. More details on the city’s health guidelines will be made public on April 14.

5 a.m.
Alameda Co. expands COVID-19 vaccine eligibility
Alameda County is going to jump ahead of the state and open up vaccinations today to residents 16 and up — but only for those living in certain ZIP codes. The county has selected 12 ZIP codes that have been hardest hit by COVID-19 and decided to target them now: 94601, 94603, 94605, 94606, 94607, 94621, 94541, 94544, 94545, 94577, 94578, 94580

All Californians 16 and older will be eligible in a week, but the county says there is no time to waste in these ZIP codes so they are taking action now.

The ZIP codes include areas of Oakland, Hayward, San Leandro and San Lorenzo. Officials say this is where many frontline workers live, people who have not been able to work from home.

Contra Costa County has also opened up vaccinations to everyone 16 and up. They did not select ZIP codes, they opened it up to the whole county. Everyone 16 and up will be eligible in California next week.

April 7, 2021

8:30 a.m.
Moderna vaccine protects against COVID-19 for at least 6 months: study
New research suggests the protection the Moderna vaccine gives against COVID-19 lasts for at least six months. The report Tuesday in the New England Journal of Medicine echoes what Pfizer said last week about its vaccine, which works in a similar way. Get the full story here.

5:30 a.m.
Walgreens changing timing between Pfizer vaccine appointments
Walgreens is changing the timing between appointments for Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine. The drug store chain has been giving the second dose four weeks after the first — which is a week later than federal guidelines suggest. According to the NY Times, the company’s chief medical officer said Walgreens was doing this because it made it easier in their scheduling system, because Moderna doses are four weeks apart. Now Walgreens says it will change its scheduling to meet the CDC recommendation of three weeks between Pfizer doses.

5 a.m.
3 Bay Area counties move to orange tier
Sonoma, Napa and Contra Costa counties are officially moving into the orange tier today, which means they will be able to reopen with higher capacities. See more details about what’s different in the orange tier here. That leaves Solano County as the Bay Area’s only red tier.

April 6, 2021

10:30 p.m.
SF votes to full reopen schools
In the latest board meeting Tuesday night, the San Francisco School Board voted “yes” on a resolution pledging to reopen schools in the fall, 5 days a week for in-person learning.

11:15 a.m.
More Bay Area counties move to orange tier
California health officials announced that Contra Costa, Sonoma and Napa counties are officially moving into the orange tier on Wednesday.

11 a.m.
Newsom announces plan to fully reopen California’s economy on June 15
Gov. Gavin Newsom Tuesday announced a plan to fully reopen California’s economy on June 15 if current trends hold. The full reopening is contingent on two conditions, the state said — if vaccine supply is sufficient for Californians 16 years and older who wish to be inoculated and if hospitalization rates are stable and low. Get more details here.

6:30 a.m.
Biden moving US COVID-19 vaccine eligibility date to April 19, official says
President Joe Biden is set to announce Tuesday that he is shaving about two weeks off his May 1 deadline for states to make all adults eligible for coronavirus vaccines. Get more details here.

5 a.m.
Newsom could announce new green reopening tier as soon as today
Governor Newsom could be announcing a new “green” tier of reopening as soon as today. It comes as more Californians are getting vaccinated and COVID-19 cases drop. Here in the Bay Area, Sonoma County could take another step forward into the orange tier today

April 5, 2021

5 a.m.
‘Double mutant’ COVID-19 variant found in Bay Area
Stanford researchers confirmed one case of a “double mutant” variant in the Bay Area, believed to be the first of its kind in the United States. It carries two mutations of the virus that helps it latch itself onto cells. The researchers do not know yet if the variant is more infectious or resistant to vaccines. They say it originated in India, and could be partially responsible for a new surge of cases in that country.

April 3, 2021

11:30 a.m.
Nearly 4,900 new confirmed cases reported in CA, according to state health officials

California has 3,577,951 confirmed cases to date, according the California Department of Public Health.

There were 4,877 newly recorded confirmed cases Friday. Today’s data includes some tests and cases that were reported during the past two weeks but not counted due to a delay in data processing.

The 7-day positivity rate is 1.8%.

There have been 54,895,447 tests conducted in California. This represents an increase of 341,529 during the prior 24-hour reporting period.

There have been 58,404 COVID-19 deaths since the start of the pandemic.

April 2, 2021

1 p.m.
CA to loosen restrictions on indoor concerts, theater performances
California will allow indoor concerts, theater performances and other private gatherings at limited capacity starting April 15. The California Department of Public Health announced the changes as the rate of people testing positive for COVID-19 nears a record low. Get more details here.

6:25 a.m.
Vaccination site to open in East Palo Alto
A new COVID vaccination site will open later today at Cesar Chavez Ravenswood Middle School in East Palo Alto. Local leaders say the site will bridge the equity gap for the city, which has the lowest vaccination rates in the county.

April 1, 2021

2:30 p.m.
California expands vaccine eligibility to people 50 and older
Californians ages 50 and older can now make an appointment for a COVID-19 vaccine on the state’s MyTurn site. Details on how to make an appointment here.

12 p.m.
Santa Clara Co. health officials warn of increase in COVID-19 variants
Santa Clara County health officials warned of an increase in variant cases of COVID-19. All four of the variants of concern have been found in Santa Clara County, according to health officials. Hear more from health officials here.

7:30 a.m.
Fremont students to remain in distance learning
Kids in Fremont will remain on distance learning for the rest of the school year. Fremont Unified’s superintendent explained in a newsletter yesterday that the school district and the teachers union could not reach an agreement on how to return to the classrooms. He says the district is walking away from negotiations after months of talks. Last night, the teachers union president said she hopes the district will return to the bargaining table.

March 31, 2021

7:20 a.m.
Alameda Co. enters orange tier
Orange tier rules take effect in Alameda County today. Indoor gym capacity can expand to 25%, restaurants, movie theaters and churches can increase capacity to 50%. Bars can reopen outdoors without food.

March 30, 2021

5:45 p.m.
Oakland A’s to offer more seats on Opening Day
The Oakland A’s tweeted Tuesday night that they would be offering more seats for Opening Day on Thursday. This comes after the state announced that Alameda County is allowed to move into the orange tier starting Wednesday.

12 p.m.
SF’s Moscone Center to reopen for conferences in September
San Francisco’s Moscone Center is going to reopen for conferences at the end of September. The American Society for Surgery of the Hand is booked for September 30 through October 2. Organizers say they expect just about everyone who attends will be vaccinated by then. The last conference at Moscone was in February 2020.

Lollapalooza pushes for in-person music festival in August
The organizer of Lollapalooza is pushing for an in-person return of Chicago’s massive music festival. Co-founder Perry Farrell told iHeartRadio he wants to bring the festival back in August in one capacity or another. This would only happen if coronavirus cases in Illinois continue to drop.
This comes after Outside Lands in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park announced earlier this month that they’re moving the annual 3-day event to Halloween weekend.

SJ city officials consider extending Al Fresco program
The San Jose City Council will vote Tuesday to possibly extend Al Fresco through Sept. 30, but some are hoping the program will last longer — or even become permanent.

“We wish it was a longer extension,” said Nate LeBlanc, business development manager with the San Jose Downtown Association. “We feel that this has been a great program and we really appreciate the city being flexible with this. It’s had a tangible benefit.”

He said SJDA is advocating for an extension through December. Even with Santa Clara County this month moving into the less-restrictive orange tier, restaurants can still only seat customers indoors at 50% capacity, making Al Fresco an essential part of recouping lost business.

10:30 a.m.
Contra Costa Co. opens vaccine eligibility to 16+
Contra Costa County health officials are now encouraging everyone who lives or works in the county age 16 or older to request an appointment to receive a COVID-16 vaccine. The move will expand eligibility to another 375,000 county residents who have not yet been vaccinated. Officials say that Contra Costa County will no longer refer to eligibility phases or tiers in determining who gets the vaccine and doses are available to anyone the FDA has approved for use of the vaccine. Here’s the full story and more information about making an appointment.

5 a.m.
Oakland Unified begins in-person learning today
Oakland Unified students begin returning to in-person learning today. It will begin with pre-k to 2nd grade. So far, Oakland Unified says about 60-percent of families have said they’ll return to in-person learning.

March 29, 2021

11 a.m.
Biden: 90% of adults will be COVID vaccine-eligible in three weeks
President Joe Biden announced on Monday afternoon that 90% of adults will be eligible to get a coronavirus vaccine within the next three weeks as well has have a vaccination site within five miles of where they live. “For the vast, vast majority of adults, you won’t have to wait until May 1. You’ll be eligible for your shot on April 19,” Biden said. Read more about his remarks here.

9 a.m.
San Mateo County Event Center announces return of county fair
The San Mateo County Event Center announced they’re hosting an in-person county fair this summer after being forced to cancel last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The fair will be held from Saturday, June 5 to Sunday, June 13.

There will be some changes this year, including scheduled timed entry for all visitors. All tickets will be sold online and digital tickets will be scanned at the gate to provide a touchless experience. All guests will be required to wear masks while attending this event.

5 a.m.
Calif. to expand vaccine eligibility later this week
On Thursday, the state is allowing anyone 50 and up to get their COVID-19 vaccine. Two weeks after that, eligibility expands to anyone 16 and up. Contra Costa County has already been vaccinating those 50 and up and are preparing for those 16 and older later this week.

March 28, 2021

1:30 p.m.
California’s 7-day positivity rate drops slightly to 1.7%
California’s 7-day COVID-19 positivity rate dropped slightly to 1.7%, according to data reported by state health officials.

California has 3,562,191 confirmed cases to date with 2,998 newly recorded confirmed cases Saturday. A total of 209,863 tests were conducted during the prior 24-hour reporting period.
Providers have reported administering a total of 17,136,841 vaccine doses statewide.

March 27, 2021

12:30 p.m.
7-day positivity rate at 1.8%

California has 3,559,193 confirmed cases to date, according to the California Department of Public Health

There were 3,278 newly recorded confirmed cases Friday.

The 7-day positivity rate is 1.8%.

There have been 53,170,348 tests conducted in California. This represents an increase of 200,192 during the prior 24-hour reporting period.

There have been 57,551 COVID-19 deaths since the start of the pandemic.

As of March 27, providers have reported administering a total of 16,775,843 vaccine doses statewide.

March 26, 2021

11 a.m.
Facebook reopening its Bay Area offices starting May 10
Facebook says it’s reopening its Bay Area offices starting May 10. Most employees have been working from home for months. The company will start by opening its Menlo Park headquarters at just 10% capacity. Its Fremont offices will follow on May 17. The Sunnyvale and San Francisco locations will reopen on May 24. Many employees will continue to work from home and some won’t return until September.

Facebook’s work-from-home environment has not hurt the company financially. Its net income is up 58% from the year before.

7:45 a.m.
New vaccination site coming to Contra Costa Co.
A new mass vaccination site will open on Tuesday at the shuttered water park, Six Flags Hurricane Harbor. It is a joint effort between the city of Concord, Contra Costa County and Kaiser, with staff on site mapping out the drive-through set up that will eventually vaccinate 15,000 people a week with the help of the National Guard.

March 25, 2021

11 a.m.
CA to expand vaccine eligibility mid-April for people 16 and older
California is expanding the list of people who are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccination, opening it up to everyone 16 and older starting April 15, it was announced. Speaking at a vaccination site in Orange County, Gov. Gavin Newsom also announced that everyone 50 and over will be able to make an appointment to receive a shot starting April 1 based on an expected increase in vaccine supply, which up until now has been limited. Get more details here.

9 a.m.
Talks underway to keep Oakland Coliseum vaccination site open
The Oakland Coliseum mass vaccination site is scheduled to shut down in the coming weeks, but talks are underway to keep it running. State and federal officials opened up the site in February. Since then workers have administered six-thousand shots a day. Right now the site receives special vaccine allocations directly from the federal government. Alameda County officials say they are discussing transitioning the site to county management.

March 24, 2021

6:15 a.m.
3 more Bay Area counties enter orange tier
Marin, San Francisco and Santa Clara counties are moving into the orange tier today. That means office buildings can reopen at 25% capacity. Restaurants and other attractions can operate at 50% capacity.

For more details on what can reopen in each tier, visit this page.

March 23, 2021

10 a.m.
3 Bay Area counties officially join orange tier
Health officials announced Tuesday that San Francisco, Marin and Santa Clara Counties have officially joined the orange tier. San Francisco Mayor London Breed said during a press conference Tuesday that the city is “proceeding with caution” but she’s hoping the city will reach the yellow tier within a few weeks.

6:20 a.m.
3 more Bay Area counties could join orange tier
State health officials are expected to allow three Bay Area counties to move into the next tier of reopening. San Francisco, Marin and Santa Clara Counties could join San Mateo County in the orange tier.

In the orange tier, indoor operations may begin with 25% capacity or 100 people, whichever is fewer. In the yellow tier, indoor operations may increase to 50% of capacity or 200 people, whichever is fewer.

For more details on what can reopen in each tier, visit this page.

March 22, 2021

11 a.m.
Contra Costa Co. extends vaccine eligibility to those 50 and older
Contra Costa County is extending vaccine eligibility to people who are 50 and older who live or work in the county — regardless of whether they have an underlying health condition. The county says it extended eligibility because of an increase in COVID-19 vaccine supply.

5:10 a.m.
Contra Costa Co. to honor lives lost to COVID-19
Contra Costa County will honor the lives lost to COVID-19 one year since the first known death there. Since March 22 of last year, more than 730 county residents have died. Organizers say the Hope and Healing Virtual Event will honor their memories and promote community healing. There will also be a live musical performance. The virtual ceremony will be broadcast from Contra Costa Regional Medical Center starting at 8 p.m.

March 21, 2021

11 a.m.

California’s 7-day positivity rate is 1.8%, state officials say
State health officials released the most recent statistics on COVID-19 Sunday. California has 3,545,278 confirmed cases to date. There were 3,350 newly recorded confirmed cases Saturday, with 7-day positivity rate of 1.8%. 56,118 COVID-19 deaths have been reported since the start of the pandemic. As of Mar. 21, providers have reported administering a total of 14,520,575 vaccine doses statewide. The CDC reports that 18,234,500 doses have been delivered to entities within the state.

March 20, 2021

4 p.m.
7-day positivity rate in CA remains under 2%
California has 3,541,928 confirmed cases to date, and there were 3,107 newly recorded confirmed cases Friday, according to the California Department of Public Health.

The 7-day positivity rate is 1.9%.

There have been 52,047,615 tests conducted in California. This represents an increase of 211,492 during the prior 24-hour reporting period.

There have been 56,072 COVID-19 deaths since the start of the pandemic.

As of March 20, providers have reported administering a total of 14,180,095 vaccine doses statewide. The CDC reports that 18,234,500 doses have been delivered to entities within the state. Numbers do not represent true day-to-day change as reporting may be delayed

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The post COVID-19 stay updates: 4/20 celebration on San Francisco’s Hippie Hill canceled for 2nd 12 months appeared first on DAILY SAN FRANCISCO BAY NEWS.

People looking for a lawn in San Francisco to celebrate the nationally recognized marijuana holiday on Tuesday won’t find one in Golden Gate Park, where the annual party has been canceled.

In anticipation of April 20th, barriers have been put up around the park when the popular Hippie Hill is usually crowded with crowds.

“While we are in a better place in our fight against COVID-19 than we were last year, we are still not at the point where we can allow large, crowded events,” said San Francisco Mayor London Breed , in a statement. “Please do your part to protect our community and celebrate from home. Anyone traveling to Golden Gate Park or Hippie Hill in search of a party will be disappointed. “

San Francisco is in the orange category of state color-coded restrictions, which means some companies may be working with changes. But instead of singling out the crowd with capacity constraints, the city canceled the event altogether. Police officers and park rangers are ensuring people don’t stay on the grass on Tuesday, and quotes can be issued, according to an announcement from the city.

“Let me be blunt,” said Phil Ginsburg, general manager of San Francisco Recreation and Park, in a statement. “Hippie Hill will be completely inaccessible. Law enforcement agencies will patrol the area. It’s going to be a serious buzzkill. “

Instead of the usual gatherings, the organizers are running a number of online events, including a livestream comedy show. They also encourage people to purchase marijuana or other pot items from local pharmacies and delivery services.

The post COVID-19 restrictions cancel San Francisco’s 4/20 celebration appeared first on DAILY SAN FRANCISCO BAY NEWS.