News across Alameda County

Decoding Fragrance Dupes and What Makes a Quality Alternative
This article was contributed by TheDuaBrand.com Fragrance dupes have become a significant part of contemporary scent culture, sparking as much debate as enthusiasm among perfume fans. With the rising popularity of alternatives to high-profile fragrances, many shoppers are seeking…

5Q4: Brandy Cristelle
“I think a lot of people in the industry feel a lot of judgement from outsiders behind pole dancing/stripping—which are two very different things, by the way,” Brandi Cristelle told Gene Kahane in a recent interview. “… I want the world to see and embrace the beauty in both.”

Blues, Brews & BBQ Brings the Fun to Washington Park
Cloudy skies couldn't scare away thousands of enthusiastic visitors from the ninth annual Blues, Brews & BBQ on Sunday, September 20. Vivian Delchamps Wolf takes a trip to Washington Park to soak up the sounds, sights, and smells of the festival that draws crowds from throughout…

Volunteers Remove 200 Pounds of Trash from Crown Beach on Coastal Cleanup Day
Small pieces of difficult to spot “microtrash” on Crown Beach pose risks to the local environment. “On the surface, the beach looks okay,” volunteer Rose Nieh told Desmond Bracken. “But if you dig deep, you’ll see little pieces everywhere.”

Letters to the Editor for September 25, 2026
In this week's Letters to the Editor, Airbnb host Michael Fisher objects to the City Council's significant new regulations on unhosted short term rentals, and Steven Smith asks voters to "consider Malia Vella’s record when deciding on a mayor this November."

Math Puzzle for September 25, 2026
Jeff Smith's Math Puzzle for September 25, 2026 – Say goodbye to cold weather, hello to the first week of autumn.

Alameda PostCast for September 25, 2026
In Episode 221, Scott Piehler's topics include: Alameda has a new Communications Manager. Election season heats up. Getting to the ferry gets cheaper, but the ferry may get pricier. Cleaning up the beach. And the first weekend of autumn features lots of events.

Black Men’s Chess League Builds Brotherhood in West Oakland
An Oakland chess league gives Black men and families space to compete, connect and grow.

Doulas Are Helping Black California Moms Navigate Pregnancy–Even as High Mortality Rates Persist
In California, Black women experience the highest pregnancy-related mortality rate — about four times greater than other women, according to statistics. From 2021 to 2023, the leading causes of pregnancy-related deaths included cardiovascular disease, COVID-19, hemorrhage,…

John Aldon Fruge, 1947 – 2026
John Aldon Fruge passed away peacefully on September 19, 2026, in Alameda. "Aldon had a quiet way of noticing what people needed and making their lives better, often through small acts that required no recognition... What you saw was who he was: genuine, calm, and kind."

Erick Bell Appointed to AUSD Board of Education
After considering three finalists, the AUSD Board of Education has appointed Erick O. Bell to fill the seat left vacant when Board Clerk Jennifer Williams resigned. Susan Davis also announced that a groundbreaking ceremony for the new Otis Elementary School is set for September…

AUSD Board Candidates Talk AI, Budget, Youth Civic Engagement During Public Forum
Newcomer Sarah Putnam, returning candidate Joyce Boyd, former board member Mike McMahon, and current incumbents Gary Lym and Carrie Hahnel are all vying for seats on the AUSD Board of Education. Desmond Bracken relays their discussions on AI, budget, and youth civic engagement at…