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News & Features
May 2025
Fighting for a better future: the DEI gap in climate policy
This article explores the disconnect between climate policy and the real-world impacts of climate change on vulnerable communities in San Mateo County. Through interviews with local environmental advocates and officials, the piece shows the urgent need for more equitable and inclusive environmental planning, especially for low-income and BIPOC residents who are disproportionately affected.
April 2025
UC Berkeley rallies to defend higher education and DEI Initiatives
This article examines the surge in antisemitic incidents on college campuses following the October 2023 Hamas attacks on Israel. The article shows how universities, including UC Berkeley, are facing federal scrutiny for their responses to these incidents. It talks about the Trump administration's increased efforts to fight campus antisemitism, which include potential lawsuits against institutions that fail to protect Jewish students and staff. The piece shows the tension between safeguarding free speech and ensuring campus safety in the face of rising hate crimes.
April 2025
Doodles to dollars: the fight to make art a career
Doodles to Dollars won the Best of Sno Award
This feature explores the financial challenges artists face and how passion can drive them forward. The article follows Carlmont High School sophomore Michelle Peng, who dreams of turning her love for art into a sustainable career. Despite the uncertainty and low pay often associated with creative fields, Peng remains determined to pursue digital art, illustration, and design. With support from her family, she plans to combine multiple creative paths to make her passion viable. The piece also features insights from professional artists and educators, highlighting the emotional and economic realities of the art world and the resilience needed to thrive in it.
This feature examines the surge in antisemitic incidents on college campuses following the October 2023 Hamas attacks on Israel. The article shows how universities, including UC Berkeley, are facing federal scrutiny for their responses to these incidents. It talks about the Trump administration's increased efforts to fight campus antisemitism, which include potential lawsuits against institutions that fail to protect Jewish students and staff. The piece shows the tension between safeguarding free speech and ensuring campus safety in the face of rising hate crimes.
"Cracking down on campus hate: universities under investigation for antisemitism" won the Best of Sno Award
Every March, millions in the U.S. observe Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month (DDAM) to promote inclusion and recognize the contributions of people with developmental disabilities. In 2025, the campaign theme “We’re Here All Year” encouraged year-round appreciation. Events nationwide helped raise awareness, including at Carlmont High School, with staff like behavior analyst Mo Ying Tsui highlighting its importance. Carlmont High School students with developmental disabilities shared their stories and personal experiences. This article shows how awareness can lead to greater understanding, inclusion, and empowerment on campus.
Rising travel costs are limiting students' opportunities for educational and personal growth. With increasing expenses for flights, accommodations, and daily necessities, many students find it challenging to afford study abroad programs or even local trips. These financial barriers can prevent students from gaining valuable life experiences and cultural exposure. The article shows the need for more accessible travel options and financial support to ensure all students can benefit from these enriching opportunities.
Vivace Ristorante, located in Belmont, California, offers a warm and inviting atmosphere where guests can enjoy authentic Northern Italian cuisine. Known for its exceptional service and flavorful dishes, Vivace has become a beloved spot for both locals and visitors. The restaurant's resilience during the pandemic, including adapting to outdoor dining, showcased its commitment to the community. With a menu featuring traditional favorites like Fettuccine Alfredo and a selection of fine wines, Vivace continues to be a place where people come together to share meals and create lasting memories.
This article explores how foodborne illnesses can cause serious health risks and widespread consequences. It highlights common causes, such as poor food handling and contamination, and emphasizes the importance of food safety practices to protect public health and prevent outbreaks.
November 2024
Phone apps stimulate lucid dreaming
This article explores how phone apps are helping users achieve lucid dreaming—when a person becomes aware they’re dreaming and can sometimes control the dream. By using sound cues, sleep tracking, and dream journaling, these apps tap into neuroscience by targeting brain activity during REM sleep. Researchers believe this technology could have medical potential, offering new ways to treat conditions like PTSD, anxiety, and sleep disorders through dream control and self-awareness.
October 2024
Tree-devouring beetles threaten Bay Area wildlife
This article discusses how invasive beetles are destroying trees across the Bay Area, putting local ecosystems at risk. As these beetles kill native trees, they disrupt habitats for birds and other wildlife, contributing to biodiversity loss. The issue highlights a larger environmental concern: how invasive species and climate change together can damage ecosystems and weaken natural defenses.