Fleeing the unescapable Alcatraz has been part of the collective consciousness since the prison island’s inauguration in 1939, up until today. Conquering the temperamental, frigid waters separating shackles from sweet freedom have been the fodder for movies, books, video games, and songs. However, is planning your escape from Alcatraz impossible?

When the weather is nice enough to go outside, the best thing I have felt I can do for myself is to get out there and see the beauty of The Bay Area from a trail with my dog, Jasper. I feel at ease when I change my perspective by

‘Tis the season once more, and we find ourselves looking for thoughtful gifts for our favorite people. Explore this gift guide featuring small businesses and local artists showcasing their work in the East Bay. We’ve uncovered unique treasures perfect for gifting while also supporting the heartbeat of our local community.

Below are some highlights, lowlights and oddities from this week in local news. A recipe for destruction What do you get when you mix a bottle of Hennessy, meth and loaded guns? Nothing good, ever. But two people found out Sunday that such a cocktail can definitely get you arrested.

Hey, I’m a grown-ass woman, and I still love watching a good fireworks show on the 4th of July. Unfortunately, our options in the East Bay are limited. For reasons unbeknownst to me, Jack London Square is not hosting a display this year. And Alameda supposedly has a huge parade

THREE kites? Show off! Spring has almost sprung in the Bay Area, and you know what that means: prepare to fight for a plot on the beer-soaked, bohemian-smattered lawn of Dolores Park.  But it doesn’t have to be so.  Why not reconnect with nature in the beautiful and boundless Berkeley