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The meaning behind the reversal of long-term rates

Market sentiment has shifted abruptly in the last seven weeks, as fears ease over an extended era of higher borrowing costs.

Economy

September and October featured a remarkable surge in longer-term interest rates, a development that <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="policymakers," data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/10/20/jerome-powell-bond-rout" data-vars-content-id="abc254d0-9465-4f71-9808-4cc54e25332d" data-vars-headline="The meaning behind the reversal of long-term rates" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/10/20/jerome-powell-bond-rout" target="_self">policymakers,</a> <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="market mavens" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/10/23/interest-rates-bond-vigilantes" data-vars-content-id="abc254d0-9465-4f71-9808-4cc54e25332d" data-vars-headline="The meaning behind the reversal of long-term rates" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/10/23/interest-rates-bond-vigilantes" target="_self">market mavens</a>, and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="economics newsletter writers" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/09/28/real-rates-bond-market-inflation-growth" data-vars-content-id="abc254d0-9465-4f71-9808-4cc54e25332d" data-vars-headline="The meaning behind the reversal of long-term rates" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/09/28/real-rates-bond-market-inflation-growth" target="_self">economics newsletter writers</a> alike scrutinized for what it might say about the future.<ul><li>Nevermind. Since then, it has mostly reversed.</li></ul>Why it matters: Market sentiment has shifted abruptly in the last seven weeks as fears have eased that the U.S. is getting locked into an era of much higher borrowing costs. <ul><li>That means a bit of relief — relative to October, at least — for homebuyers, corporate borrowers and the government&#x27;s fiscal position.</li></ul>

Teaching BLM movement optional in updated AP African American studies class

The course will officially launch in the 2024-25 school year.

Politics & Policy

The College Board updated its AP African American <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="studies curriculum" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/02/03/college-board-ap-african-american-studies" data-vars-content-id="bb5d0bd5-d4a0-4d22-a04d-44caa0b1c60f" data-vars-headline="Teaching BLM movement optional in updated AP African American studies class" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/02/03/college-board-ap-african-american-studies" target="_self">studies curriculum</a>, removing the Black queer experience and making instruction on the Black Lives Matter movement optional. Why it matters: The nonprofit behind the course removed facets that were <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="criticized" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/01/20/desantis-florida-ap-african-american-studies" data-vars-content-id="bb5d0bd5-d4a0-4d22-a04d-44caa0b1c60f" data-vars-headline="Teaching BLM movement optional in updated AP African American studies class" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/01/20/desantis-florida-ap-african-american-studies" target="_self">criticized</a> by Florida&#x27;s Department of Education — a choice that drew national attention.

Taylor Swift is Time's person of the year

She's the first entertainer ever to be a solo honoree.

Business

Taylor Swift&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="record-setting year" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/11/01/taylor-swift-2023-billionaire-eras-tour-movie" data-vars-content-id="03572a55-56d7-404f-a515-a61b94003aca" data-vars-headline="Taylor Swift is Time&#x27;s person of the year" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/11/01/taylor-swift-2023-billionaire-eras-tour-movie" target="_self">record-setting year</a> just got a little bit bigger: She was named Time magazine&#x27;s person of the year, the first entertainer ever to be a solo honoree.The big picture: Swift&#x27;s Era&#x27;s Tour <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="was a national phenomenon" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/05/12/taylor-swift-economy-eras-tour" data-vars-content-id="03572a55-56d7-404f-a515-a61b94003aca" data-vars-headline="Taylor Swift is Time&#x27;s person of the year" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/05/12/taylor-swift-economy-eras-tour" target="_self">was a national phenomenon</a>, she dominated the charts, had multiple albums hit No. 1 in a single year, and released a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="blockbuster" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/10/16/taylor-swifts-eras-tour-concert-movie-box-office-record" data-vars-content-id="03572a55-56d7-404f-a515-a61b94003aca" data-vars-headline="Taylor Swift is Time&#x27;s person of the year" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/10/16/taylor-swifts-eras-tour-concert-movie-box-office-record" target="_self">blockbuster</a> concert film to boot.

Exclusive: Inside a Beijing-linked Chinese help center in Tanzania

China's government helps citizens abroad while replicating tools of repression

World

This story is <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="part of a series" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/world/china-news-us-world-order" data-vars-content-id="45504491-59f5-4ada-8f51-ec5d5d555a0f" data-vars-headline="Exclusive: Inside a Beijing-linked Chinese help center in Tanzania" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/world/china-news-us-world-order" target="_self">part of a series</a> supported by the Pulitzer Center.DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania — A rare glimpse inside a Chinese service center in Dar es Salaam reveals a dual strategy for Beijing: helping citizens abroad while replicating the tools <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="China" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/american-military-chinese-competition-micronesia" data-vars-content-id="45504491-59f5-4ada-8f51-ec5d5d555a0f" data-vars-headline="Exclusive: Inside a Beijing-linked Chinese help center in Tanzania" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/american-military-chinese-competition-micronesia" target="_self">China</a> uses elsewhere to keep tabs on them.Why it matters: The center and dozens of others around the world illustrate the long arm of Beijing&#x27;s influence. They operate under the auspices of a Chinese Communist Party bureau tasked with amplifying political support for the party and marginalizing dissent, raising concerns about the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="CCP&#x27;s authoritarian reach" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/chinese-communist-party-training-school-africa" data-vars-content-id="45504491-59f5-4ada-8f51-ec5d5d555a0f" data-vars-headline="Exclusive: Inside a Beijing-linked Chinese help center in Tanzania" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/chinese-communist-party-training-school-africa" target="_self">CCP&#x27;s authoritarian reach</a> into overseas Chinese communities, analysts say.

Photo illustration of Dar es Salaam in Tanzania, a photo of a Tanzanian marketplace, a photo of a sign outside the service center, and the center’s director, Zhu Jinfeng

Hybrid cars are having a moment amid electric car skepticism

Many consumers making the jump from gasoline cars are opting for hybrids rather than all-electric vehicles.

Technology

As automakers push their <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="flashy new electric vehicles (EVs)" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/11/07/electric-vehicles-ev-market-tesla" data-vars-content-id="86dd123e-2a2e-456f-86b0-67abc45760b8" data-vars-headline="Hybrid cars are having a moment amid electric car skepticism" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/11/07/electric-vehicles-ev-market-tesla" target="_self">flashy new electric vehicles (EVs)</a>, many consumers making the jump from gasoline cars are opting instead for hybrids as they tiptoe toward electrification.Why it matters: Car buyers — not politicians, regulators or carmakers — will dictate the pace of the electric transition.

How 20-year-old FuncheapSF stays relevant

The site highlights hundreds of events in San Francisco and other parts of the Bay Area every week.

Five holiday markets to visit in San Francisco

There are spots all over the city to get your festivities on.

Things to Do

Idyllic lake in Golden Gate Park gets new name options

The popular destination is currently named after an antisemitic politician from the 19th century.

News

APEC yields mixed results with local businesses

Local officials call it a success for San Francisco's image, but questions remain over long-term maintenance of city streets.

California's falling undocumented immigrant population

San Francisco has long held itself as a sanctuary city; concern over fentanyl trafficking could be turning the tide.

California still has the largest population of undocumented immigrants in America, according to a new study by the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Pew Research Center" data-vars-click-url="https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2023/11/16/what-we-know-about-unauthorized-immigrants-living-in-the-us/" data-vars-content-id="07b34c4d-a314-4d5f-897a-29faa78fb1f5" data-vars-headline="California&#x27;s falling undocumented immigrant population" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2023/11/16/what-we-know-about-unauthorized-immigrants-living-in-the-us/" target="_blank">Pew Research Center</a>.<ul><li>But the state experienced the biggest decrease — a loss of 150,000 immigrants — between 2017 and 2021, per the study&#x27;s estimates.</li></ul>

Hundreds block San Francisco roads to protest APEC

Demonstrations highlighted a range of demands, from a ceasefire in Gaza to accountability for human rights abuses.

Hundreds of protesters blocked streets near the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-francisco/2023/11/02/apec-sf-2023-map-location-dates" data-vars-content-id="31b4d9ad-6dc0-46f6-93d8-8c25c79cdc9c" data-vars-headline="Hundreds block San Francisco roads to protest APEC" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-francisco/2023/11/02/apec-sf-2023-map-location-dates" target="_self">Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation</a> (APEC) summit Wednesday in a bid to disrupt and prevent attendees from entering the conference building.Driving the news: Groups came together to rally across Market Street, Geary Boulevard and Powell Street throughout the day — many pressed up against <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="police lines and security roadblocks" data-vars-click-url="https://abc7news.com/amp/san-francisco-protest-apec-summit-demonstrations-sf/14060567/" data-vars-content-id="31b4d9ad-6dc0-46f6-93d8-8c25c79cdc9c" data-vars-headline="Hundreds block San Francisco roads to protest APEC" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://abc7news.com/amp/san-francisco-protest-apec-summit-demonstrations-sf/14060567/" target="_blank">police lines and security roadblocks</a>, while others attempted to swarm delegates.

Photo of protesters yelling at a delegate on the streets

Mashed potatoes dominate the Thanksgiving table

We asked, and you answered — mashed potatoes reign as king.

Food and Drink

Thanks to the responses of 6,000+ Axios readers, the winners of Axios&#x27; <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="favorite Thanksgiving sides poll" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/11/15/thanksgiving-2023-favorite-sides" data-vars-content-id="741f11f6-fd0f-42c0-9439-b6f2321b4ef5" data-vars-headline="Mashed potatoes dominate the Thanksgiving table" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/11/15/thanksgiving-2023-favorite-sides" target="_self">favorite Thanksgiving sides poll</a> have been selected. <ul><li>If you were to have Thanksgiving dinner with other Axios readers, you&#x27;d be having mashed potatoes, dressing, green bean casserole, dinner rolls, cranberry relish and pumpkin pie.</li></ul>

Illustration of an assortment of Thanksgiving sides with the word "winners" over it

The 5 best burritos in the Mission District

There&#x27;s a new &quot;<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="best burrito" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-francisco/2022/11/17/best-san-francisco-burritos" data-vars-content-id="0b51f3c3-b3d0-496c-b19b-ddf9998f279f" data-vars-headline="The 5 best burritos in the Mission District" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-francisco/2022/11/17/best-san-francisco-burritos" target="_self">best burrito</a>&quot; in town, according to San Francisco Chronicle food critic Cesar Hernandez.What&#x27;s happening: After &quot;consuming an alarming number of burritos,&quot; Hernandez has <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="declared the top five burritos" data-vars-click-url="https://www.sfchronicle.com/food/restaurants/article/best-mission-burrito-sf-18457256.php" data-vars-content-id="0b51f3c3-b3d0-496c-b19b-ddf9998f279f" data-vars-headline="The 5 best burritos in the Mission District" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/food/restaurants/article/best-mission-burrito-sf-18457256.php" target="_blank">declared the top five burritos</a> in the Mission District, ranked.

One in seven San Francisco Bay Area homeowners selling at a loss

Across the nation, the highest proportion and largest losses were in Bay Area.

Real Estate

A growing share of San Francisco Bay Area homeowners are selling their houses at a loss, per data Redfin shared with Axios.Why it matters: The Bay Area&#x27;s housing market is undergoing a course correction, but potential homebuyers are still finding <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="home prices to be out of reach" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-francisco/2023/10/23/housing-affordablity-income-san-francisco" data-vars-content-id="012acf2d-abfd-43e0-b773-0d8e49737355" data-vars-headline="One in seven San Francisco Bay Area homeowners selling at a loss" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-francisco/2023/10/23/housing-affordablity-income-san-francisco" target="_self">home prices to be out of reach</a> due to high interest rates.

Illustration of a real estate sale sign shaped like a downward point arrow

Google's project to build 15,000 homes in Bay Area hits snag

The company committed to the project in 2019 but has now ended agreements with its developer.

Google&#x27;s pledge to construct 15,000 new homes at a range of income levels <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="across the Bay Area" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2019/11/06/housing-crisis-california-apple-facebook-google" data-vars-content-id="c33d85ed-d46e-4ce0-9e80-0c8a6da019ca" data-vars-headline="Google&#x27;s project to build 15,000 homes in Bay Area hits snag" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2019/11/06/housing-crisis-california-apple-facebook-google" target="_self">across the Bay Area</a> could face new hurdles now that the company has cut ties with its developer.Why it matters: Google committed to an <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="ambitious ​​$1 billion project" data-vars-click-url="https://realestate.withgoogle.com/bay-housing/" data-vars-content-id="c33d85ed-d46e-4ce0-9e80-0c8a6da019ca" data-vars-headline="Google&#x27;s project to build 15,000 homes in Bay Area hits snag" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://realestate.withgoogle.com/bay-housing/" target="_blank">ambitious ​​$1 billion project</a> in 2019 to help address the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Bay Area&#x27;s housing crisis" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-francisco/2022/08/02/san-francisco-housing-tech-hubs" data-vars-content-id="c33d85ed-d46e-4ce0-9e80-0c8a6da019ca" data-vars-headline="Google&#x27;s project to build 15,000 homes in Bay Area hits snag" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-francisco/2022/08/02/san-francisco-housing-tech-hubs" target="_self">Bay Area&#x27;s housing crisis</a>. Construction on the project had been expected to begin in the 2026 fiscal year.

Photo of protesters holding signs calling on Google for affordable housing

Warriors' arena transit options could be better, could be worse

The Chase Center has a transit score of 73 out of 100.

Sports

The Chase Center, home to the Golden State Warriors, ranks in the middle of the pack for transit scores among NBA arenas, according to a new survey.What&#x27;s happening: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Walk Score" data-vars-click-url="https://www.walkscore.com/about.shtml" data-vars-content-id="e6ee7e4c-1291-44d8-9c66-80f9db21c312" data-vars-headline="Warriors&#x27; arena transit options could be better, could be worse" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.walkscore.com/about.shtml" target="_blank">Walk Score</a>, a Redfin company that promotes walkable neighborhoods, measured how well NBA arenas are served by public transportation.

A table showing the transit scores of NBA stadiums. Four cities rank up at the top with a perfect score: Boston, D.C., New York City, and Toronto. San Antonio ranks at the bottom at 35.

How much it costs to attend a Warriors game

Amid high demand for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Golden State Warriors" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-francisco/2023/10/25/golden-state-warriors-game-recap-suns" data-vars-content-id="59c7d444-93f6-484d-aa13-bc9449ea2204" data-vars-headline="How much it costs to attend a Warriors game" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-francisco/2023/10/25/golden-state-warriors-game-recap-suns" target="_self">Golden State Warriors</a> tickets, games at the Chase Center are some of the priciest to see this winter.Why it matters: The Warriors, led by Stephen Curry, will always be a sight to see.

"Entwined" light installation returns to Golden Gate Park

The vibrant, expansive art installation will feature a 30-foot metal sculpted tree with shade covering.

The vibrant, expansive art installation that first debuted during the dark days of the pandemic is returning to Golden Gate Park.What&#x27;s happening: In partnership with local artist Charles Gadeken, &quot;Entwined: Elder Mother&quot; will light up the area in front of Peacock Meadow beginning Thursday through the last weekend of April 2024.

New Muni app looks to provide better real-time predictions

MuniMobile 2 offers live maps and detailed routes via multiple modes of transportation.

Transit

The San Francisco Municipal Transportation Authority (SFMTA) released <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="a new Muni app" data-vars-click-url="https://www.sfmta.com/blog/new-munimobile-app-available-today" data-vars-content-id="a6199ae4-8456-4899-9e97-22846fe4f5f3" data-vars-headline="New Muni app looks to provide better real-time predictions" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.sfmta.com/blog/new-munimobile-app-available-today" target="_blank">a new Muni app</a> this week aimed at helping riders plan trips with service alerts and real-time transit predictions.Driving the news: The app offers live maps and detailed routes via multiple modes of transportation, including rail, BART, Muni Metro, bus and cable car.

Screenshots of the MuniMobile 2 app showing route planning and ticket purchase options

California prepares for xylazine influx in illegal drug supply

Xylazine is a powerful veterinary sedative that has contributed to the surge in fatal overdoses in recent years.

Health

California&#x27;s Department of Public Health (CDPH) is warning health care facilities and providers in the state to brace themselves against the rise of a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="powerful sedative in the U.S. illegal drug supply" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/06/30/xylazine-death-rates-overdose-fentanyl" data-vars-content-id="46be7574-5af3-4893-a9b2-44167e20f89d" data-vars-headline="California prepares for xylazine influx in illegal drug supply" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/06/30/xylazine-death-rates-overdose-fentanyl" target="_self">powerful sedative in the U.S. illegal drug supply</a>.Why it matters: Xylazine is a veterinary sedative not intended for humans, but fatal overdoses involving the drug, which CDPH says is almost exclusively combined with fentanyl, have surged nationwide in recent years.

SF State teachers plan to strike Tuesday

Thousands of teachers across the California State University system began participating in one-day strikes this week.

San Francisco State University educators <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="plan to strike" data-vars-click-url="https://www.calfac.org/strike/" data-vars-content-id="19eaff93-a23b-4cd5-9031-e9da36e81fab" data-vars-headline="SF State teachers plan to strike Tuesday" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.calfac.org/strike/" target="_blank">plan to strike</a> Tuesday to push for raises.Driving the news: Thousands of teachers across the California State University system have scheduled one-day strikes throughout the week.

Bay Area leads the nation in electric vehicle use

Areas with high EV activity are generally those with better-developed charging infrastructure.

Electric vehicles are a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="common sight in the Bay Area" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-francisco/2023/04/07/evs-tesla-dominate-san-francisco-market-brand-choices-expand" data-vars-content-id="634ba8a5-2295-4a20-b384-d01acec7428b" data-vars-headline="Bay Area leads the nation in electric vehicle use" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-francisco/2023/04/07/evs-tesla-dominate-san-francisco-market-brand-choices-expand" target="_self">common sight in the Bay Area</a> — more so than in most other metro areas in the country, new data shared with Axios confirms.Driving the news: San Francisco County saw an estimated 434 EV miles driven per 1,000 residents on a typical weekday in the second quarter of 2023.

What's next for reparations in San Francisco

Reparations for Black people are still on the table, but the path forward remains unclear.

Culture

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Reparations for Black people" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-francisco/2023/07/13/san-francisco-reparations-committee-final-report" data-vars-content-id="df677ced-0a10-456c-b6eb-c4ace2665dae" data-vars-headline="What&#x27;s next for reparations in San Francisco" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-francisco/2023/07/13/san-francisco-reparations-committee-final-report" target="_self">Reparations for Black people</a> are still on the table in San Francisco, but the path forward remains unclear.The big picture: San Francisco is among a growing number of places looking to atone for slavery.

Photo illustration of a silhouette of a Black woman with collaged archival photos, fragments of dollar bills and a redlining map.

BART's 2023 ugly holiday sweater is a hot commodity

The sweater comes with LED track lights, which are accompanied by the sound of the iconic BART legacy car horn.

If you&#x27;re looking for an ugly holiday sweater to win your neighborhood contest, BART&#x27;s got your back.Driving the news: The transit agency&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="2023 ugly holiday sweater" data-vars-click-url="https://www.railgoods.com/bart-2023-ugly-holiday-sweater.html" data-vars-content-id="02c94ec8-d8b0-4222-8071-c8fbe993200c" data-vars-headline="BART&#x27;s 2023 ugly holiday sweater is a hot commodity" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.railgoods.com/bart-2023-ugly-holiday-sweater.html" target="_blank">2023 ugly holiday sweater</a> is loaded with LED track lights and accompanied by the sound of the iconic BART legacy car horn.

Graphic showing a white sweater with blue snowflakes and a BART train with reindeer antlers

Bay Area car owners still face catalytic converter theft concerns

A crime ring busted earlier this year had targeted Bay Area cars, leading to the theft of 240 catalytic converters.

Catalytic converters are a hot commodity in the Bay Area. The anti-pollution devices located underneath <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="cars" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/11/15/mercedes-electric-car-charging" data-vars-content-id="7eba13de-dd27-4b1e-a2bb-d2110afcbba1" data-vars-headline="Bay Area car owners still face catalytic converter theft concerns" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/11/15/mercedes-electric-car-charging" target="_self">cars</a> — packed with rare precious metals — have been stolen in record numbers in recent years.State of play: Busts this year have highlighted crime networks built around the devices.

Photo of a catalytic converter under a car

How plant hardiness is changing California landscaping

Warming temperatures increasingly impact where and when different plant varieties can grow most successfully.

Warming temperatures are changing where and when different <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="plant varieties" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/10/28/apple-variations-climate-change-heat" data-vars-content-id="3bded733-926f-450d-b186-10cbc3af32dc" data-vars-headline="How plant hardiness is changing California landscaping" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/10/28/apple-variations-climate-change-heat" target="_self">plant varieties</a> can grow most successfully, according to a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) map released last week.Why it matters: The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Plant Hardiness Zone Map" data-vars-click-url="https://planthardiness.ars.usda.gov/" data-vars-content-id="3bded733-926f-450d-b186-10cbc3af32dc" data-vars-headline="How plant hardiness is changing California landscaping" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://planthardiness.ars.usda.gov/" target="_blank">Plant Hardiness Zone Map</a> is a kind of bible for farmers and gardeners, helping them understand which plants can thrive in their area — and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="when to plant them" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/11/17/2023-plant-hardiness-map" data-vars-content-id="3bded733-926f-450d-b186-10cbc3af32dc" data-vars-headline="How plant hardiness is changing California landscaping" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/11/17/2023-plant-hardiness-map" target="_self">when to plant them</a>.

Oakland station among Greyhound stations closed across nation

The firm is infamous for its acquisition and gutting of American newspapers.

Greyhound bus stations nationwide, including in Oakland, are closing and relocating outside central business districts after being acquired by an investment firm that rose to infamy for its <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="acquisition and gutting of American newspapers" data-vars-click-url="https://www.npr.org/2021/10/18/1046952430/the-consequences-of-when-a-hedge-fund-buys-newspapers" data-vars-content-id="eb80ea4d-1fd3-492d-b74b-664e575a4900" data-vars-headline="Oakland station among Greyhound stations closed across nation" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.npr.org/2021/10/18/1046952430/the-consequences-of-when-a-hedge-fund-buys-newspapers" target="_blank">acquisition and gutting of American newspapers</a>.Why it matters: Greyhound has long been the brand most closely associated with intercity bus travel in the U.S. Its stations, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="often architecturally and culturally significant" data-vars-click-url="https://clevelandhistorical.org/items/show/467" data-vars-content-id="eb80ea4d-1fd3-492d-b74b-664e575a4900" data-vars-headline="Oakland station among Greyhound stations closed across nation" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://clevelandhistorical.org/items/show/467" target="_blank">often architecturally and culturally significant</a>, occupy prime downtown real estate considered ripe for commercial and residential development.

Fostering cross-cultural opportunities during APEC

Titled "The Future Starts in California," the conference will feature programming on topics such as AI, energy and food security.

A companion event to the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit this week aims to connect local businesses with overseas networks and highlight California&#x27;s role in advancing global policy conversations.Driving the news: Titled &quot;The Future Starts in California&quot; and organized by economic development organization Global:SF, the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="full-day event" data-vars-click-url="https://web.cvent.com/event/259b2962-2881-4486-bae0-ba9520e70b44/websitePage:3f41aa91-e054-4d4c-994c-2918f5d47a85" data-vars-content-id="334fd568-ed9f-4bc4-96e0-4be73db86c2f" data-vars-headline="Fostering cross-cultural opportunities during APEC" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://web.cvent.com/event/259b2962-2881-4486-bae0-ba9520e70b44/websitePage:3f41aa91-e054-4d4c-994c-2918f5d47a85" target="_blank">full-day event</a> Tuesday is set to feature programming on topics such as sustainability, AI, energy, life sciences, health care and food security.

Photo of an "APEC is going to be EPIC" sign on a lamp post along the street 

Dreamforce is coming back to San Francisco next year

Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff and Mayor London Breed announced the news on Tuesday.

Dreamforce, Salesforce&#x27;s annual takeover of downtown San Francisco, is returning next year, Mayor London Breed <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="announced Tuesday" data-vars-click-url="https://twitter.com/LondonBreed/status/1721904447948038477?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1721904447948038477%7Ctwgr%5Ec60c1c764bbcd2331375f61044cb89732c20cd12%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&amp;ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fsfstandard.com%2F2023%2F11%2F07%2Fsalesforce-dreamforce-san-francisco-2024%2F" data-vars-content-id="b1329c12-60d2-4f65-b2ca-fe40a62f5d5b" data-vars-headline="Dreamforce is coming back to San Francisco next year" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://twitter.com/LondonBreed/status/1721904447948038477?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1721904447948038477%7Ctwgr%5Ec60c1c764bbcd2331375f61044cb89732c20cd12%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&amp;ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fsfstandard.com%2F2023%2F11%2F07%2Fsalesforce-dreamforce-san-francisco-2024%2F" target="_blank">announced Tuesday</a>.Driving the news: Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff raised some alarms in August when <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="he said" data-vars-click-url="https://www.sfchronicle.com/sf/article/marc-benioff-dreamforce-could-leave-s-f-18337259.php" data-vars-content-id="b1329c12-60d2-4f65-b2ca-fe40a62f5d5b" data-vars-headline="Dreamforce is coming back to San Francisco next year" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/sf/article/marc-benioff-dreamforce-could-leave-s-f-18337259.php" target="_blank">he said</a> this year&#x27;s Dreamforce could be the last one in the city.

Downtown San Francisco's recovery is better than we thought

The city now ranks 38 out of more than 50 major U.S. cities in terms of post-pandemic downtown recovery.

San Francisco&#x27;s downtown recovery ranks higher than before, but it&#x27;s still nothing to brag about.The big picture: San Francisco&#x27;s rank among major U.S. cities changed from 52 to 38 — with a 67.3% recovery rate — following a methodology shift by University of Toronto researchers <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="tracking" data-vars-click-url="https://downtownrecovery.com/charts/rankings" data-vars-content-id="e5ffec54-6226-4dec-9cb7-1afda295d7ba" data-vars-headline="Downtown San Francisco&#x27;s recovery is better than we thought" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://downtownrecovery.com/charts/rankings" target="_blank">tracking</a> how cities are emerging from the depths of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Survey: California small-business owners more optimistic

Those in the Bay Area are less likely to feel more stressed now than compared to a year ago, per the survey.

Despite lingering challenges from <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="the pandemic" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-francisco/2023/08/08/downtown-san-francisco-foot-traffic-pandemic-recovery" data-vars-content-id="a3818d7d-dc34-4fc8-8fff-7088846c3c36" data-vars-headline="Survey: California small-business owners more optimistic" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-francisco/2023/08/08/downtown-san-francisco-foot-traffic-pandemic-recovery" target="_self">the pandemic</a>, small-business owners in California are more likely to say their business is successful and that they are optimistic about the future compared to overall U.S. small-business owners, a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="new U.S. Bank survey finds" data-vars-click-url="https://ir.usbank.com/news-releases/news-release-details/new-us-bank-report-reveals-small-business-owners-are-feeling" data-vars-content-id="a3818d7d-dc34-4fc8-8fff-7088846c3c36" data-vars-headline="Survey: California small-business owners more optimistic" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://ir.usbank.com/news-releases/news-release-details/new-us-bank-report-reveals-small-business-owners-are-feeling" target="_blank">new U.S. Bank survey finds</a>.Driving the news: About a third of California small-business owners reported experiencing negative emotions related to their business — versus 46% for U.S. small-business owners.

Photo of a worker in a succulent shop filled with green plants and leaves

Bi-Rite set to open next year in Russian Hill

The specialty grocer recently signed a lease for two adjacent retail spaces on Polk Street.

Bi-Rite Market&#x27;s previously announced <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="third location" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-francisco/2022/10/24/bi-rite-new-market-polk-street" data-vars-content-id="cd830cd8-305d-4820-b779-139feb8f94c0" data-vars-headline="Bi-Rite set to open next year in Russian Hill" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-francisco/2022/10/24/bi-rite-new-market-polk-street" target="_self">third location</a> in San Francisco is scheduled to open next spring, according to the grocery store.State of play: The specialty grocer recently signed a lease for two adjacent retail spaces on Polk Street between Broadway and Vallejo streets in Russian Hill.

Downtown pop-ups coming this week

A key piece of San Francisco's plans to revitalize downtown San Francisco is coming to fruition.

A key piece of San Francisco&#x27;s plans to revitalize <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="downtown" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-francisco/2023/08/08/downtown-san-francisco-foot-traffic-pandemic-recovery" data-vars-content-id="e99bef2d-8c11-4d24-9159-bfa7af0e55ef" data-vars-headline="Downtown pop-ups coming this week" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-francisco/2023/08/08/downtown-san-francisco-foot-traffic-pandemic-recovery" target="_self">downtown</a> is coming to fruition.Why it matters: Downtown San Francisco became a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="ghost town" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-francisco/2023/05/05/downtown-san-francisco-recovery-pandemic-struggles" data-vars-content-id="e99bef2d-8c11-4d24-9159-bfa7af0e55ef" data-vars-headline="Downtown pop-ups coming this week" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-francisco/2023/05/05/downtown-san-francisco-recovery-pandemic-struggles" target="_self">ghost town</a> during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic as people stayed home.

Things to do in San Francisco this weekend

On the docket are "The Lion King" musical, circus performances and a day of observance for AIDS.

It&#x27;s finally December, and you know what that means — a whole lot going on. <ul><li>Since we compiled a list of notable <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="holiday markets" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-francisco/2023/11/29/holiday-markets-to-visit" data-vars-content-id="c5554804-fb72-432a-ab90-4547bb5d76da" data-vars-headline="Things to do in San Francisco this weekend" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-francisco/2023/11/29/holiday-markets-to-visit" target="_self">holiday markets</a> earlier this week, here are some non-holiday-themed events to check out if you&#x27;re more of a grinch (like myself).</li></ul>

Illustration of the Axios logo drinking a margarita. 

🎨 Hit up the West Coast Craft fair at Fort Mason featuring goods from local artists and designers.

Welcome to the weekend. Here&#x27;s what&#x27;s cookin&#x27;. 🎨 Hit up the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="West Coast Craft" data-vars-click-url="https://www.westcoastcraft.com/west-coast-craft-attend" data-vars-content-id="99fe3e63-c67a-48cb-a121-ca91a2818759" data-vars-headline="Things to do in San Francisco this weekend" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.westcoastcraft.com/west-coast-craft-attend" target="_blank">West Coast Craft</a> fair at Fort Mason, featuring goods from local artists and designers.

Animated illustration of calendar pages with neutral emojis on them being torn off, until you get to Friday, Saturday and Sunday, which have smiling, sunglasses-wearing emojis on them with neon yellow waving lines. 

What's on tap for the weekend in San Francisco

Visit the two-day night market in Chinatown.

The long weekend begins Friday. Here are some ideas for you:🛹 Hit up the new skate park at the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="UN Plaza" data-vars-click-url="https://sfciviccenter.org/event/grand-reopening-of-un-plaza/" data-vars-content-id="2e16eb6b-21ed-43bd-8bbf-eeb357a57ac4" data-vars-headline="What&#x27;s on tap for the weekend in San Francisco" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://sfciviccenter.org/event/grand-reopening-of-un-plaza/" target="_blank">UN Plaza</a>.

Illustration of lit marquee letters spelling "WEEKEND" sitting in a row of theater seats.

San Francisco is getting another holiday ice-skating rink

We&#x27;ve made it past Halloween, which means the holiday season is officially upon us.Driving the news: Thrive City — the community gathering space outside the Chase Center — this week announced special holiday programming, including an ice-skating rink, a tree-lighting ceremony and more.

What to do this weekend in San Francisco

🍿 Catch a documentary at SFFILM's 2023 Doc Stories in the Presidio or Mission district.

Congratulations, you made it to another weekend. And, as always, the city has lots to keep you occupied. Here are a few ideas:🍿 Catch a documentary at SFFILM&#x27;s 2023 Doc Stories in the Presidio or Mission district this weekend.

Why being a clown is a critical art form for Church of Clown

Church of Clown is the latest development for the Bay Area's longtime community of of clowns.

Don&#x27;t expect lopsided red noses or lackluster birthday party performers at Church of Clown — for this nonprofit arts organization, being a clown is a craft that aims to inspire joy and resilience.Driving the news: Founded during the pandemic, Church of Clown serves as a space to train amateurs as well as a stage for more seasoned performers. Programming includes mime classes, clown workshops and a youth circus.

Photo of two clown performers holding their arms out on a stage. The one on the left is in orange clown make-up and clothes.

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