In recent years, gentrification in the Bay Area has surged, leading to the closure of many small, locally owned businesses. As wealthier residents move in, these once-thriving businesses struggle to keep up with rising costs and shifting demographics. Businesses owned by large corporations with deeper pockets often take over, altering not only the business landscape but also the cultural identity of these neighborhoods. This displacement raises concerns about economic equity and long-term community sustainability.
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Explore the vibrant scene of Berkeley’s various cultural centers which have a significant social, cultural, and economic impact on the city! Learn about the various ways these cultural nonprofits are managing financial challenges and how you as a community member can support them in our latest article by Bani Singh, one of our Community Columnists. Continue Reading

Author: Simona Itkin, Graphics: Cindy Chen Music festivals are more than just entertainment – they’re economic powerhouses that drive local growth while generating lasting social connections. From job creation to cultural exchange, these events leave a deep impact that extends far beyond the music, making them vital to the communitiesContinue Reading

Author: Mitali Srinath, Graphics: Anna Szymoniak The BRB Bottomline: Adidas’ recent partnership with Parley has led consumers to question whether their initiatives are truly sustainable or just for marketing purposes. The “Adidas outbreak” has flooded the UC Berkeley campus with thousands of students sporting the brand as their daily footwearContinue Reading

Pickleball, a sport characterized by its low barriers to entry and short learning curve, proved an ideal, low-impact activity for older participants as well as a fun, socially distant activity during the pandemic. This unprecedented surge in popularity, unlike that of any sport to date, marks a profound transformation in America’s larger sporting landscape. The rise of pickleball is projected to continue its remarkable growth, posing exciting business opportunities for brands, investors, and professional and recreational players alike. Continue Reading