Big Symphony Gift + 1st-Gen Student College President: Saturday Smiles

BAY AREA — Summer's officially here, and with long days, warm nights, and summer programming in full swing, there's plenty of good news to go around. Here's some of the week's lighter news we think you'll enjoy.

Philanthropist Gives $1.5M Gift To Berkeley Symphony

The gift will support Berkeley Symphony's future growth as it heads into its 52nd season.

Walnut Creek's Bedford Gallery Moves To Pay-What-You-Can Admission

By removing barriers to entry, the journey continues toward "making Bedford Gallery and Lesher Center a place where everyone belongs."

Alameda County Eateries Awarded $5K Grant For Upgrades, Bonuses

Nearly 80 restaurants across NorCal will get money from the Restaurants Care Resilience Fund to help with upgrades, training and more.

Dougherty Valley Seniors Create Speech Coaching App

Neel Kondapalli and Shreyas Sambara created Speech Splendid, which provides real-time feedback to people struggling with public speaking.

Free Concerts Held In San Francisco

"This is free, it's great, and you don't have to deal with thousands and thousands of people."

Abigail Munn And Circus Bella Go 'Bananas' In 2023

"I'm the wizard behind the curtain," Abigail Munn said.

City Of Napa Banner Program Promotes Local Identity, Transforms Downtown Area

The program managed by the Economic Development team is a catalyst for enhancing community spirit and showcasing Napa's unique character.

1st-Generation Student Named Permanent President Of Contra Costa College

Dr. Kimberly Rogers is the 15th permanent president of Contra Costa College. The 4CD Governing Board voted June 14 to ratify her contract.

Walnut Creek Restaurant Among Top Burmese Restaurants: Bay Area List

Not only is Burma 2 one of the best Burmese restaurants in the Bay Area, but it is also one of the best restaurants in Walnut Creek.

Graton Resort & Casino Breaks Ground On $1B Expansion Project

"We’ve been working on these plans for several years, and we’re excited to create new job opportunities here in Sonoma County."

Upcycled Beer, The Toast Of Petaluma, Now Available At Lagunitas

Lagunitas Brewing Company and Toast Ale partnered for the limited carbon footprint brew that also prompted a donation to Sonoma Family Meal.

Winners Announced For Napa County Water Conservation Video Contest

Lydia Zhou of American Canyon High School took the top prize of $1,500.

Local Murals Supported By City Of Napa Fund

Recently, Parks & Rec and Planning staff sought applications from muralists and selected one to enhance the site at First and Main Street.

3 Petaluma Eateries Awarded $5K Grants

Nearly 80 restaurants across the region will get money from the Restaurants Care Resilience Fund to help with upgrades, training and more.

SF Bay Area Weekend: Vette-O-Rama Car Show; Beaver Festival; SF Pride

Looking for events & things to do this weekend, June 24-25, in the San Francisco Bay Area? Patch has you covered.

Special Olympics Torch Passes Through Livermore

Livermore welcomed the torch with its annual Torch Run.

San Ramon Doggy Daycare To Host Adoption, Grand Opening Event

Camp Bow Wow, which offers daycare, boarding and grooming, will host an event Saturday with adoptable dogs, trainer Q&A, and more.

Danville Announces Summer Public Art Movie Series

A series of movies related to the "Bound For Books" project will debut Friday at the Village Theatre and Art Gallery.

Livermore To Host July 4 Celebration At Robertson Park

The city said it is returning to Robertson Park instead of the Railroad Avenue garage for "better crowd management and safety."

Dublin To Host Backyard Block Party

Enjoy kickball, a curry cook-off, and block party at Don Biddle Community Park.

Summer Music & Movies Come To Danville

Enjoy free family movies and concerts on Friday evenings at the Town Green and Oak Hill Park.