Summer’s here, and the time is right for al fresco dining. At the end of May, Saltbreaker opened The Yard, an outdoor space in front of the restaurant. In addition to East Bay sunshine, this more casual venue serves cheeseburgers, beer, cocktails and clam chowder. A few weeks before The Yard’s grand opening, Saltbreaker posted an image of a large crane in action as it set down a forest-green trailer on the edge of a dusty lot.
Now that empty space is covered in fancier gravel and sand. On top of it, patio furniture and umbrellas create the feeling of a seasonal cafe, easily packed up when the weather gets cold. At the far end of the lot, Humble Sea Brewing hosts its own set of outdoor tables. While the space is shared up to a dividing line, the menus do not overlap. For now, none of Humble Sea’s beers—or Almanac’s, the other nearby brewery—show up on The Yard’s menu.
Since opening in 2023, Saltbreaker continues to make fine-dining meals. Steak frites in 2023 cost $30; the 2025 equivalent, a butter-poached steak, costs $45. For both diners and restaurateurs, it’s tough to beat the high cost of rent in the Bay Area. Apart from 24 oysters raw on the half-shell for $82, the most expensive dish at The Yard is a crispy and delicious plate of fish and chips for $24, and worth it. Even though the cooking is taking place inside the kitchen “trailer,” the quality of this more casual menu is on a par with what’s taking place inside the restaurant at night.
There are subtle differences. Outside, a $24 smashburger is made with double patties. The ingredients are all-American, including the cheese. With toma cheese, truffle aioli and a cognac onion jam, Saltbreaker’s more high-falutin’ truffle burger ($26) gestures toward Europe. Both come with fries tossed in garlic, parmesan, old bay and parsley.
The “yard” dog ($16), a ball-park hot dog, lists seaweed and sesame as ingredients. It’s gigantic and smothered in an umami mayo, a Chinese grain mustard, peppers and onions. I definitely preferred the burger and the fried fish, but the hot dog might be one of the most kid-friendly dishes on the menu. Parents at a couple of nearby tables seemed to love the contained outdoor space. Their children roamed freely, at maximum volume, while always remaining within earshot.
The Yard has set up a QR code menu at each table to easily create an open tab. But a long bar set up directly in front of the trailer also allows diners to place orders. The staff sometimes stands behind it to greet and guide customers, but they disappear while pouring beverages and grabbing food from the kitchen.
When I wrote about Saltbreaker’s opening, that corner of the island was still holding on to its identity as a former naval air station, with the nose of its jet airplane gate guardian pointed at the sky. At the time, many of the streets were closed down due to construction, with signs rerouting drivers willy-nilly. The arrival of beer, food and baked goods a couple of years later altered the neighborhood.
After the meal, we walked around the corner past the stretch of connected warehouses. We wanted to check out the breads and desserts at Firebrand’s Alameda headquarters. Along the way, I noticed an affordable housing development that had been completed along Atlantic Avenue just a couple of blocks away from a supportive housing community, the Alameda Point Collaborative. Those older apartment blocks stand as a distinctive reminder of the island’s naval history, but for how much longer?
Firebrand has tables inside the bakery and out front. The umbrella-ed tables fill up fast. Next door, the Almanac Brewery’s patio and parking lot spilled over with scores of cheerful inebriates who enjoyed a bit more overhead shelter there from the sweltering sun.
Published in cooperation between Omnia Agency and the East Bay Express
We’re living in an increasingly digital world … which has made it so much easier for millions of people to enjoy the thrills and spills of spinning reels or playing cards from the comfort of home, or wherever they are if they have their mobile at hand (and who doesn’t?). But because there are so many options out there, it’s important that you choose an online casino site that’s not only entertaining but safe.
The laws surrounding online casinos vary by region—so you need to be aware of the laws in your area. And for players who live in regions where online casinos sit in a legally gray area, it’s even more important that you know exactly what to look for to keep your money and personal details secure.
Here, you’ll find some very helpful tips on how you can choose a safe … but fun … online casino.
Always Check Licensing and Regulation
One of the biggest red flags is when an online casino doesn’t clearly display its license. A safe casino will be fully licensed by a respected gaming authority, such as the UK Gambling Commission, Malta Gaming Authority or the Gibraltar Regulatory Authority. Any UK online casino has to be regulated by the UKGC … known for its super strict standards. And even if you aren’t playing in the UK, it’s still a good idea to go for a site that operates under such strict regulations. A licensed casino means that it’s fair, keeps your money separate from business money and is audited regularly by third parties.
Before you sign up, scroll to the bottom of the homepage and look for its licensing info. And don’t be afraid to click through and check its authenticity.
Make Sure It Offers Secure Payment Methods
A good casino will make sure it offers secure and reputable payment methods for deposits and withdrawals. Look out for well-known names like Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, Neteller or bank transfers with solid encryption—and double-check it has SSL encryption technology by looking for a padlock next to the URL address.
It should also clearly explain how deposits and withdrawals work, and the withdrawal times should be reasonable, with minimal (preferably no) fees. It’s good to read reviews and make sure there aren’t any horror stories about them not paying out winnings.
Check Game Providers and Software Quality
Reputable casinos work with reputable software developers. If it has big names like Microgaming, NetEnt, Pragmatic Play or Evolution Gaming on its books, it’s a good sign that the games it offers are fair and properly tested for randomness. These companies have reputations to protect—and definitely won’t want to be associated with any dodgy operators.
If you only find low-quality, unrecognisable games from providers you’ve not heard of, you might want to move on.
Read the Bonuses Terms and Conditions
The right bonuses can be great—but there are some dishonest casinos out there that hide the terms and conditions, because they’re so restrictive that it makes it practically impossible for you to withdraw winnings.
Before you claim any welcome bonus, free spins or any other perks, read the wagering requirements carefully. A decent casino will be completely transparent about the rules, so there are no nasty surprises when you go to withdraw your wins.
Check Out Customer Support
A reliable casino will make sure there are plenty of ways to contact customer support, such as live chat, email, phone and even social media. If the casino has a 24/7 live chat feature, that’s ideal, especially for players who are playing on a casino with a different time zone.
Before you make a deposit, test the support yourself. Ask about things like licensing, payout times or bonus terms, and a trustworthy site will give you clear and quick answers.
Check Player Reviews and Blacklists
One of the best ways to judge an online casino’s safety is to see what other players are actually saying about it. Their honest, real experiences. Look at reputable review sites and player forums for any feedback you can find on the casino’s reputation, payouts and overall fairness.
It sounds obvious, but if it pops up on any blacklists or has a pattern of unresolved complaints, then it’s worth avoiding. It’s not worth risking your money when there are so many great alternatives out there.
Safety First
Casinos are fun, but it’s always safety first. Check the licence and payment methods, read the bonus terms and test the customer support before you part with any of your hard-earned dollars. Those extra few minutes of research could be all the difference between a smooth gaming experience and a stressful, potentially costly one.
I used to go to Half Price Books with my mom when I was a kid. We spent hours roaming the aisles—me flipping through beat-up Goosebumps paperbacks or digging through the CD bins, her browsing for cookbooks or a novel to unwind after work. Now, as an adult and still very much a bookworm, I find myself at the Berkeley location at least once a month, drawn by the scent of old paper and the quiet thrill of stumbling into stories I didn’t know I needed. So, when I heard this location will close on Nov. 30, I was devastated.
Bookstores in Berkeley are vanishing at an unsettling pace. Earlier this year, the city lost its Books Inc. location. In 2023, the Asian American–focused Eastwind Books shuttered. Now, Half Price Books joins the growing list of casualties as rising rents, shifting consumer habits and pandemic-era disruptions continue to reshape the city’s commercial landscape. The closure underscores the fact that even national chains struggle to stay rooted in local communities.
“We have been unable to come to a lease agreement with our landlord,” said Emily Bruce, public relations manager for Half Price Books.
The store first opened in 2005 after relocating from Solano Avenue, eventually settling into the 8,000-square-foot ground floor of the historic Kress Building, built in 1933, according to SFGATE. With a massive inventory—roughly 100,000 titles—spanning books, vinyl, VHS tapes, comics and collectibles, the shop became a haven for students, collectors and families, offering both new and used media, along with buy-back services.
Thirteen employees at the Berkeley location were notified of the closure, according to local reporter Nathan Dalton, and have been encouraged to apply for roles at the chain’s remaining Bay Area stores in Concord, Dublin and Fremont. Some will receive severance if they stay through the final day.
For those of us who grew up visiting independent bookstores, their disappearance feels like more than just another retail shift. It signals the erosion of places where people slow down, explore ideas and connect across generations. Half Price Books wasn’t flashy, but it offered something increasingly hard to find: a shared, low-pressure space to be curious, to wander and to think. In a city like Berkeley, long defined by its intellectual and cultural life—those places matter.
In an era where much of life feels flattened into screens and algorithms, places like Half Price Books offered a kind of analog magic. One could strike up a conversation with a stranger over a shared author, stumble across a childhood favorite they hadn’t seen in decades or walk out with a stack of books for under $20. It was imperfect, a little dusty and absolutely irreplaceable.
And the community is feeling the loss. As a Half Price Books regular myself, I know that bookstores aren’t just retail, they’re sensory spaces. Unlike the sterile click of an online cart, physical stores offer the tactile joy of discovery: the weight of a book in one’s hands, the rustle of turning pages, the smell of print and dust and time.
“That bookstore was my lifeline,” said UC Berkeley student Gabriel Husain.
Another Berkeley resident, Aashna Bhatia, voiced concern about the larger trend. “So sad,” she said. “I don’t get what’s happening in our town.”
I’ve walked out of Half Price Books empty-handed plenty of times, and yet I never felt like I’d wasted a trip. The browsing itself was the point: The joy of finding a book I wasn’t looking for, the grounding quiet of a space built for lingering. It was one of the few places in downtown Berkeley that didn’t ask browsers to rush, spend or perform. Just to be curious. That kind of place is rare, and getting rarer.
For now, there’s still time to visit. Half Price Books plans to remain open until Nov. 30. The store will maintain regular hours and continue to offer sales, trade-ins and buy-back deals. Sadly, no reopening is planned.
Half Price Books, 2036 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley. Mon-Thu 11am to 8pm, Fri-Sun 10am to 10pm. 510.526.6080. hpb.com.
ARIES (March 21-April 19): The Tagalog word gigil refers to the urge to squeeze or pinch something adorable. It’s an ecstatic tension that verges on overflowing the container of decorum. In the coming weeks, you Aries could feel gigil for the whole world. Everything may seem almost too vivid, too raw, too marvelous and altogether too much. I advise you to welcome these surges and allow them to enhance your perceptions. Laugh hard. Cry freely. Invite goosebumps. Please note: But don’t actually squeeze anyone without their permission.
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): In Japan’s Snow Country, artisans practice yuki-sarashi. It involves laying woven cloth on snow under sunlight to bleach, brighten, purify and soften the fibers through the effects of snow, sunlight, cold and ozone. Because this process doesn’t require harsh chemicals, it helps maintain the fabric’s strength and prevents it from yellowing over time. I propose you make yuki-sarashi a useful metaphor, Taurus. Something fragile and fine is ready to emerge, but it needs your gentle touch and natural methods. You are often grounded in the adept manipulation of raw material—what works, what holds, what can be relied on. But this burgeoning treasure needs maximum nuance and the blessings of sensitive care.
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): When African-American dancer Josephine Baker arrived in Paris in 1925 at age 19, she was seeking refuge from her home country’s racism. Her electrifying performances soon made her a celebrity. Author Ernest Hemingway said she was “the most sensational woman anyone ever saw.” As she grew wealthy, she donated generously to French charities, hospitals and schools. Her compassionate works evolved further, too. During World War II, she worked as a spy for the French Resistance against the Nazi occupation. Later, she became a civil rights activist in the U.S. Can you guess the astrological sign of this multi-faceted star? Gemini! I hope you will be inspired by her in the coming weeks. May you, too, use your natural gifts and stylish flair to serve the greater good. Look for opportunities to mentor, encourage and advocate for those lacking your advantages.
CANCER (June 21-July 22): When a glacier moves, it doesn’t rush. It presses forward incrementally, reshaping mountains, carving valleys and transporting boulders. In a metaphorical sense, Cancerian, you are now in glacier time. A slow, relentless and ultimately magnificent process is afoot in your life. Others may not yet see the forward momentum. Even you may doubt it. But the shift is real and permanent. Trust the deep, inexorable push. Your soul is hauling whole landscapes into new configurations.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): In the Arctic, the sun shines for 24 hours a day during midsummer. There is no night, only the surreal glow of prolonged gold. The human body, confused by the unending day, may be confused about when to sleep. For some, this creates disorientation, and for others, a strange euphoria. In my astrological opinion, Leo, you have entered a metaphorical version of this solar dreamscape. Your creative powers are beaming like a relentless sun. There may be little darkness in sight. So how will you rest? How will you replenish under the glow of fervent possibility? Be wisely discerning with your energy. Don’t mistake illumination for invincibility. Bask in the light, yes, but protect your rhythms.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Now is an excellent time for you to swear sacred oaths. I suggest you get less comfortable with transitory arrangements and short-term promises. The near future will also be a ripe phase to make brave commitments that require you to go farther and deeper than you’ve dared to before. I recommend you forgo the cheap thrills of skipping along from one random moment to the next. Embrace a game plan. Finally, I urge you to cast magic spells on yourself that will release your unconscious mind from old fixations that subtly drain your power to fulfill your dreams. Please please please surrender trivial obsessions that distract you from your life’s key goals.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): In West African traditions, griots are key figures in their communities. They serve as storytellers, oral historians, poets, genealogists and advisors. Their presence is often central to events like weddings, funerals and ceremonies. In the coming weeks, Libra, I hope you will embrace a role that resembles the griot. Your ability to enhance and nurture your network is at a peak. You have extra power to weave together threads that have become frayed or unraveled. Given your potential potency as a social glue, I advise you to avoid gossip and instead favor wise, kind words that foster connection.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): The phrase “elegant sufficiency” is an old English expression meaning “just enough” or “a sufficient amount in a refined or tasteful way.” I am expanding it to also mean “the simplest solution that solves a problem completely without unnecessary complexity.” It’s your power phrase, Scorpio. What you need is not intricate perfection, but elegant sufficiency: enoughness. I suggest you welcome this gift with enthusiasm—not in a resigned way, but with a quiet triumph. Maybe your plan doesn’t need more bullet points. Maybe the relationship doesn’t require further analysis. Maybe your offering is already thorough. Allow yourself the sweet satisfaction of having just the right amount. What you have created may be more organically whole than you realize.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): How do you become a maestro of desire? What must you do to honor your beautiful yearnings and cull your mediocre ones? What’s the magic that will help you fulfill your life’s purpose by trusting your deepest cravings? Here are some tips. First, jettison your inessential desires and cherish the precious yearnings that are crucial. Second, dispose of outmoded goals so you can make expansive space for robust goals that steer you away from the past and guide you toward the future. These are challenging tasks! The very good news is that the coming weeks can be a turning point in your quest to claim this birthright.
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): I’m writing a fairy tale about an ancient land whose queen regards poetry as essential to the public good. She often invites poets to perform for her and her court. When they finish a stirring passage, they bow—not to the queen or other observers, but to the silence they mined to access their inspiration, to the pregnant chaos from which the poem was born. The pause is a gesture of gratitude and acknowledgment. I invite you to partake in similar acts of appreciation, Capricorn. Bow toward the mysteries from which your blessings flow. Honor the quiet sources that keep you fertile. Praise the treasures in the dark that fuel your intense activities.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): When I advise you to get naked, I’m not necessarily suggesting that you doff your clothes. What I primarily mean is the following: Shed the armor around your heart; strip off your defense mechanisms; discard knee pads you wear while kissing butt or paying excessive homage; recycle shoes, jackets, pants and opinions that don’t fit you; and discard pride-spawned obstacles that impede your communions with those you love.
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): The Finnish word sisu describes a radical, unglamorous persistence. Those who possess sisu can summon extraordinary determination, tenacity and resilience in the face of confusion or difficulty. It’s not about bravado or flair, but about soulful gutsiness. I suspect it’s time for you to draw on your sisu, Pisces. It will empower you to tap into reserves of strength that have previously been unavailable. You will activate potentials that have been half-dormant.
Musical magic comes to town this week in the form of Helen Gillet and Reed Mathis. Gillet, who hails from Belgium, is a genre-bending cellist with a penchant for intricate looping and a voice as smooth as fine wine. Mathis joins her to add his bass-playing prowess, honed over many years touring with everyone from jam bands to classical symphonies. Gillet calls New Orleans her home, and the city’s melting pot of sounds and cultures has had a profound impact on her collaboration with Mathis. Audiences can expect a mix of French and English lyrics, improvisational charm and, of course, that infectious, festive Big Easy vibe. – ADDIE MAHMASSANI
INFO: Thu, 8pm, Ivy Room, 860 San Pablo Ave., Albany. $23. 510.526.5888.
FRIDAY, AUG. 1
ROCK
NOVOS BAIANOS
File this concert under “better late than never.” A product of the creatively fecund music scene in Salvador, the Brazilian rock band Novos Baianos emerged in the late ’60s as a radical collective that built on the experiments of their Tropicália predecessors while sharing a passion for the sublime music of João Gilberto. Packed with talent, the band broke up in the late ’70s after creating a kaleidoscopically encompassing and pervasively influential body of music, with several members thriving as solo artists. They’ve reunited several times over the years and will make their first North American appearance, thanks to Jazz Is Dead, the L.A. production house responsible for bringing a glittering roster of Brazilian legends to the U.S. – ANDREW GILBERT
INFO: Fri, 8pm, The UC Theatre, 2036 University Ave., Berkeley. $55. 510.356.4000.
FRIDAY, AUG. 1
COMEDY
LEANNE MORGAN
Morgan’s comedy overflows with Southern charm mingled with upfront, mainstream humor: raising mean teens, wearing slingshot panties, the love-kill of egg salad sandwiches, braving Crossfit and date nights with Chuck, her spouse. Morgan’s Netflix special, I’m Every Woman, propelled her into the big leagues of standup comedy. Her memoir, What in the World?!, became an instant New York Times bestseller. Knowing she honed her ha-ha capabilities selling jewelry at house parties lends sparkle to her history. When Morgan dances out under the stagelights to spin her magic, expect a tissue night. Meaning, come armed with Kleenex. Tears of joy and tenderness will surely flow and if laughter rises to the level of a snort, all will be well. – LOU FANCHER
Is anyone lighter on their feet than Ben Schwartz? The comedian would surely have a hilarious, off-the-cuff response to that question. At the moment he’s on the road with his friends, improvising a unique show on the spot for every city. From his iconic role as Jean-Ralphio in Parks and Recreation to his elaborate voiceover work as Sonic the Hedgehog, Schwartz has honed his craft by rolling up his sleeves and walking through the fire to develop a balance of impeccable timing, heart and wit. A night like this won’t happen twice. – AM
40 Watt Sun is the quieter aftermath of something heavier. Formed by Patrick Walker after his time fronting the influential doom band Warning, the project carries the emotional weight of that earlier work but strips away the volume. What’s left is stark and slow: Songs built from textured guitar tones, the space between chords and the gravity of Walker’s voice. His latest album, 2004’s Little Weight, moves even further into this new tone; still melancholic, but hopeful, warm and essentially focused on healing and love. – SONYA BENNETT-BRANDT
INFO: Sat, 8pm, Eli’s Mile High Club, 3629 Martin Luther King Jr. Way, Oakland. $20. 510.808.7565.
SUNDAY, AUG. 3
JAZZ
DICK WHITTINGTON TRIO
Dick Whittington was still an undergraduate in the mid-’50s when he landed a plum gig at the Lighthouse, the jazz club that served as an essential showcase for the burgeoning Southland jazz scene. Relocating to Berkeley after a tour with tenor sax legend Dexter Gordon, he went on to turn Maybeck Recital Hall into an international brand via a vaunted solo piano series on Concord Records. Whittington makes an all-too-rare return to the East Bay for a trio session with veteran bassist Robb Fischer, who earned a Grammy Award, and ace drummer Leon Joyce Jr., a consummate accompanist. – AG
Whoa. David J at the Ivy Room? The same David J who co-founded the legendary post-punk godfathers of goth, Bauhaus—and later, Love and Rockets?? Yes, it is indeed! For those who might not know the name David J, for the love of Bela Lugosi, don’t tell anyone because he’s made some of the most influential underground music of the last five decades. Now’s the time to dive into the darker side of music and do the St. Vitus Dance with a possibly once-in-a-lifetime experience as he plays music from his new album, along with some classics from both Bauhaus and Love and Rockets. – MAT WEIR
INFO: Sun, 7pm, Ivy Room, 860 San Pablo Ave., Albany. $23. 510.526.5888.
TUESDAY, AUG. 5
INDIE
SUPERCRUSH
Supercrush is Mark Palm’s sharp left turn from hardcore into something sunnier. Rooted in Seattle heavy rock, but aesthetically closer to the fuzz-forward corners of ’90s indie, the band steers toward high-saturation, shoegazy guitar pop. Known for his work in punk and metal bands like Go It Alone and Devotion, Palm brings a hardcore veteran’s discipline to pop songwriting: tight arrangements, precise layered guitars and no wasted motion. Turns out hardcore training pairs well with ’90s pop; the sweetness is always balanced with weight. – SBB
Long before Trent Reznor was an acclaimed Oscar-winning composer writing soundtracks for Disney and Pixar, he was a troubled, tortured artist for a little band called Nine Inch Nails. Anyone who had an iota of a teenage angst-fueled goth phase knows NIN. While Throbbing Gristle might be recognized as the first industrial music band, Nine Inch Nails cracked the genre wide open to generations of people who felt out of place in the world and were fascinated by the darker underbelly of the shiny, plastic culture. And the videos, dear god. Every NIN video is a piece of art unto itself, capturing the feel of the song; a whole different world springing from Reznor’s mind. – MW
Combo Chimbita is a quartet of first-generation New Yorkers steeped in Colombian culture. Their authentic Afro-Caribbean music traditions are infused with additional energies: heavy metal, psychedelic funk and soul. Original and in touch with their cornerstone influences, yet their ears ever set to the future, the band is supreme and chock full of talent. Carolina Oliveros brings the transcendent vocals, Dilemastronauta is a human dynamo on drums, catch-it-all guitarist Niño Lento es fuego and Prince of Queens reigns on bass and synthesizers. – LF
At 95, Dolores Huerta could rest on her laurels with no reproaches. Labor leader, tireless fighter for immigrant rights and civil rights, as well as a feminist, Huerta has continued her work for decades.
But, said Nicolás Lell Benavides, composer of the new opera, Dolores, Huerta knows there is always more to do. The fight for justice is ongoing. And even when a life-altering tragedy occurs, Huerta does not give up, but finds a way to persevere.
That is one of the main themes of Dolores, which has its world premiere with West Edge Opera in Oakland this August. Knowing there was no way to fully depict such a life as Huerta’s, Benavides, who is her third cousin, and librettist Marella Martin Koch chose to focus on one pivotal episode, its prequel and its sequel, that epitomizes Huerta’s courage: the assassination of Robert F. Kennedy, a major ally.
“Dolores as a person is so monumental,” Benavides said. “But there are people who know little or nothing about her. The opera doesn’t work unless you care about her.” Thus, he said, he and Koch picked the time when she lost one of her greatest supporters as the opera’s setting.
Koch said they focused “on who she is becoming over the series of events she endured in 1968.” Huerta had spent months canvassing for RFK. She was present at the Ambassador Hotel on June 6, when his primary victory party turned into an American tragedy. “[Fellow farm labor leader] César Chavez was just recovering from his fast, and [fellow organizer] Larry Itliong had left the party early,” she said. “But she was right there, facing an unimaginable loss.”
She added, “There are relatively few women in acknowledged leadership roles. But she was named by RFK … she intersected with so many movements going on at the time.” Unlike powerful women in other operas—Violetta, Susanna, Angelica, Carmen—“Dolores’ love is not a romantic love. It’s about the wholeness of the human family.”
East Bay Magazine has followed the opera’s journey since WEO chose it through its “Aperture” development project, which ran from 2020-2022, when live performance was not possible. (See eastbaymag.com/si-ella-puede.)
“We created an online platform to fund, develop and commission new works—a milestone, not just for us but for the process of making new opera. Dolores was the first winner of the program. In 2027, we will have Claude and Marcel, the second winner,” said WEO’s general director, Mark Streshinsky.
“There was a lot of positive energy around us throughout the process,” Koch said. “The first draft [of the libretto] was much too short,” but WEO curators had faith she would find a way to align the characters with their emotional truth and honor the history. “We were creating a piece about someone who is real and who means a great deal to many people,” she added.
“We both felt [Dolores] would happen one day,” Benavides said, “but we were floored [when it was chosen by Aperture] … there is a lot of trust involved in a commission.”
Koch and Benavides saluted their collaborators in the years-long process, including mezzo-soprano Kelly Guerra, who plays Dolores, music director Mary Chun and, more recently, director Octavio Cardenas. “Mary comes from a San Gabriel family and knows the world of itinerant farm workers,” Benavides said.
In composing and evolving the music, he hears the singers’ voices. “With music, we can do all the inflections,” he said.
Speaking of the music, “I can smell the dirt and see the grapes,” Koch said.
With a new project, the evolution continues. For example, at one point, Koch and Benavides cut back the role of RFK, because the opera is not primarily about him. “It’s all about balance … we recently added a new intro,” Benavides said. Dolores is already slated for 2025 productions at San Diego Opera, BroadStage and Opera Southwest.
Asked about the timeliness of this piece, Koch said, “I feel like people connect to [her] struggles. My hope is that people will be inspired no matter what side of the dialogue they’re on. Dolores doesn’t think of just herself. She is part of a massive ecosystem.”
Asked the same question, Benavides responded, “I don’t know if it’s more relevant right now. History is so cyclical.” But, he said, Huerta is an inspiration to “take up the mantle of civil rights leaders to protect and fight.”
Streshinsky spoke about the production design. “The concept was inspired by the strike picket line. Slogans and chants are a big part of the opera, and we wanted that reflected in the design. Also important is the propaganda against the movement, so we wanted to create a design where that duality was represented,” he said.
“One of the reasons I wanted to do the opera is that right after my parents got married in 1966, my father, who was a photojournalist, flew to Delano with my mom to cover the grape strike. They got to know both César and Dolores. Dad’s photos were used in the John Dunne book, Delano. I grew up hearing about these people and how impressed my parents were with them. The photos are archived at the Bancroft Library at Cal Berkeley, and we have chosen many of them to be projected during the production,” he added.
“In the end,” Streshinsky said, “bringing Dolores Huerta’s activism to life on the grand scale that only opera can do will be an experience that will resonate in the history of West Edge Opera. It shows that we can create pieces that speak to our time. The energy around the opera is electric.”
‘Dolores’ debuts Aug. 2 and Aug. 10 at 2pm & Aug. 16 at 8pm at West Edge Opera, Oakland Scottish Rite Center, 1547 Lakeside Dr., Oakland. westedgeopera.org
The players in Ryli came together when the band’s singer, Yea-Ming Chen, met guitarist Rob Good. “I was just setting up my studio at the time,” Good said. “Bobby Martinez, the head of our label, Dandy Boy Records, asked me to contribute a track to Tales of a Kitchen Porter, a tribute album he was putting together for Cleaners from Venus.”
Cleaners from Venus, a semi-obscure band, pioneered the DIY movement in Scotland. “Bobby suggested singing harmonies with Yea-Ming on the song ‘Night Starvation,’” Good said.
“We looked at each other as our harmonies blended, and something clicked,” Good continued. “After the session, I was playing something and she started singing over it. A song called ‘Downtown’ came out of it, so we thought we should start a group. That’s how Ryli happened.”
Chen and Good enlisted the rhythm section of Luke Robbins (Latitude) on bass and Ian McBrayer (Healing Potpourri) on drums. Everyone in the band contributes harmonies to the backing vocals. The new band’s debut, Come and Get Me, dips into many styles. Chen said the band allows arrangements to evolve without following any particular thread.
The songs on Come and Get Me took shape over several months. Chen also writes songs and performs with the band she fronts, Yea-Ming & the Rumours. They’ve released three albums since their formation 10 years ago, including I Can’t Have It All (2024).
“I think the Rumours songs are weird, lo-fi indie songs,” Chen said. “Ryli songs are a little more hi-fi and accessible. In most cases, I show the basic vision to Rob, who helps flesh it out. Then we bring it to Ian and Luke who help complete it.”
The band honed the songs in live performance, then went into Good’s studio in Oakland to track the album. It’s a small space, but has a nice, open sound, with booths that allow the amps and singers to be isolated. The rhythm section was tracked live, with guitars and vocals slowly layered up to expand on the band’s live sound.
Chen produces the albums she makes with the Rumours, so co-producing Ryli with Good was a welcome change. “It’s wonderful to have someone take control and be confident about their choices. He’s a great-sounding board, which is missing when I produce on my own. Plus, Rob is a professional audio engineer. He’s teaching me new production skills,” she said.
“Yea-Ming is a formidable producer,” Good said. “Even though I’m turning the knobs and tuning up the mics, it’s a collaboration and a conversation. It wouldn’t be the same without her being in there, talking about how to layer the vocals, keys, extra guitars and all that stuff.”
The result captures the band’s live sound. “Downtown” opens with a shimmering guitar line and Chen’s wistful vocal describing a nighttime walk through the city, contemplating the end of a relationship. Robbins and McBrayer add a subtle R&B groove to Good’s atmospheric guitar.
“Bad July” rides a rolling surf beat, laid down by Robbins and McBrayer and Good’s brittle lead line. Chen sings the chorus with a carefree tone that contrasts with the forlorn lyric. “I Think I Need You Around” is a great pop tune with a haunting melody. Good’s sinuous guitar line dances around Chen’s vocal, as she describes the longing she feels for a departed lover.
“We’re really babies/toddlers as a band,” Chen said. “There are drastic differences between the songs on this record, because we’re still figuring out what our sound is. I realized recently the forte of Rob, Luke and Ian might be their ability to create and relieve tension.
“We’re working on the next record already,” Chen continued. “It will be our teenager record—knowing where our strengths are and how to hone in on them and use them well.”
In addition to the upcoming dates with Ryli, Chen will continue playing with Yea-Ming & the Rumours. “I’m currently working on a new recording with the Rumours,” Chen said. “We should have a new album from that band early next year. I’m also a music teacher. If I could write and perform all day long, I’d love it. But teaching is fun in its own way. It helps keep me sharp.”
The Bay Area music scene is as alive as it’s ever been, notes Andy Pohl. “But at the same time, there is no money to be made at all.” This isn’t a revelation to anyone who’s paid attention to the local cultural landscape over the past 25 years. The cost of living is high, corporate interests constantly look for innovative ways to consolidate an even bigger piece of the pie and the advent of streaming services has decimated media sales. But this isn’t a story about the grim state of affairs, either.
Despite the mounting odds against creatives living here, the Bay Area remains a persistent hub for new music, lively concerts and a cultural attitude of supporting the local scene. This is in part thanks to the determination of people who believe in the necessity of the independent and the underground. People like Pohl, the founder and one-man force behind Sell The Heart Records, a small label in El Cerrito that seeks creative partnerships with local bands and is about to celebrate its 15th anniversary.
Born in the Richmond area, Pohl moved to a small town in the Sierra Nevadas while in the third grade. He describes the area as “jam band country” and says there was a disconnect between his environment and any sort of DIY music scene. That’s until high school when a local skate shop started throwing punk shows and bringing in bands from around the state. Nestled in the Gold Country foothills, Pohl was able to see live performances by MXPX, Citizen Fish and the Voodoo Glow Skulls. Perhaps because this sort of event was a bit of a rarity where he lived, he grew to value the power of live, fringe music immensely.
Fast forward to 2010, and Pohl now lives in the North Bay. He’s been in a couple of bands and is now even more steeped in the DIY scene than he was in his days in the mountains.
“I realized there were all these really great bands in my area,” Pohl says, “and no one was documenting it.”
He decided to start a record label and call it Sell The Heart Records. A few friends joined the endeavor at first, but within the first year they ended up moving on to other things, leaving Pohl solely responsible for keeping the lights on and the records spinning.
His first release was his own band, called the Snipers. The first artist he signed went by the name of Good Riddler. He made partnerships with acts not based on economic viability—though he planned to at least break even on every release—but rather on whether the music excited him and whether he felt Sell The Heart would make for a supportive partner in the act’s endeavors.
Some years into the label Pohl moved to the East Bay, which was a bit of a rinse-and-repeat. He worked with bands like Middle-Aged Queers and Unconditional Arms. He put out a Fugazi tribute record that did surprisingly well. Pohl explains that none of this has ever been motivated by money.
“There’s something to be said about the joy you get from the act of doing it,” Pohl says. “I like doing this. Simple as that.” He does his best to cover operating costs and support the bands he works with, but 15 years later, Sell The Heart continues to operate out of his love for the game.
Pohl admits that it can be somewhat thankless work, especially here. “The idea of continuing to make music in the Bay Area is, itself, challenging,” he says. But he has no plans to close down any time soon. In fact, Sell The Heart will celebrate its 15-year anniversary on Aug. 1-2 at 924 Gilman, another DIY institution. Headliners for the shows are Death By Stereo and Tsunami Bomb, and each night will feature supporting performances by bands signed to Sell The Heart.
As famous as the Bay Area is for its hostile cost of living, it’s equally well known for its resilience and determination. Artists continue to stubbornly create, musicians stubbornly play and folks like Pohl keep stubbornly trying to open lanes for folks to make their voices heard. Despite the sometimes grim reality of late-stage capitalism, this is worth celebrating. Even if it wasn’t, Pohl would probably keep putting out records.
Published in cooperation between Lust Panther and the East Bay Express
When it comes to casual hookups, you always want to be discreet.
Discreet, anonymous, and scandalous—that’s what Ashley Madison promises, and in this article, we’re going to consider Ashley Madison reviews, sign instructions, FAQs and how much it costs.
When I heard of the “affair dating site” and how touted it is for discreet and anonymous hookups, I had to try it.
But privacy was key. I don’t need people from work, my neighbors or my aunt all up in my business. Especially not my aunt. Heck, sometimes I don’t even need my friends to know what I’m up to.
Let’s just preface this by reiterating that I am a woman. Usually, I’m not the type to leave reviews.
But I was so alarmed this time, I decided to share my first-hand experience with all willing to read.
Here’s my honest, no-BS Ashley Madison review you should read before joining the hookup site.
The TikTokization of the new generations is a real thing, and we all have the attention span of a goldfish nowadays. So here’s the bottom line on the Ashley Madison app upfront for all of you skim readers out there.
The Ashley Madison app often offers all kinds of promo codes and coupons you can use to save a buck (or more). Here are some active promotions as of this time of writing:
Free unlimited inbox messaging
50 percent off 1,000 credits
Appear first in search results
20 percent off any purchase
Ranking 4.8/5
Ashley Madison was founded in 2002 as a hookup site for MBA (married but available) relationships (affairs), and it has been going strong ever since. Today, it counts over 80 million members, 32 million of those in the United States alone.
This did sound promising to me, and I was happy to discover that the user base is pretty vibrant and active, too. Now, I am not married, but I do appreciate some discretion when it comes to casual encounters, like many other unmarried people on the Ashley Madison app.
The site does have more men than women, which is a yay for me, but the male readers may not be as happy about it. But, hey, they say that competition builds character.
Another huuuge plus for me is that the site is 100 percent free for women.
Men, on the other hand, aren’t so lucky, and they have to pay for messages and other features through Ashley Madison’s credit system. Depending on how big of a player you are, it can get a bit pricey.
But, there’s a way around it—and a way to use the Ashley Madison app and hook up with gorgeous women for cheaper.
A Detailed AshleyMadison Review—My Experience
All right, let’s waste no time and space and delve into my own experience with AshleyMadison.com.
Signing Up to Ashley Madison.com
Most Ashley Madison reviews agree that signing up for the site is pretty easy and straightforward, and that’s how I found it.
You need to provide the site with your basic information, like your age, marital status, what kind of hookup you’re up for, height, weight and location—all so you can get suggested local matches. You also get to choose your username and password.
The act of signing up for the Ashley Madison app itself is completely free, and you won’t need to insert your credit card information at this point. The site will, however, ask for your email. I used a separate account just so the Ashley Madison messages don’t come to my main one.
Though, Ashley Madison hasn’t spammed me much thus far.
All that was left was to spruce up my profile. I uploaded a body shot and chose to blur it for anonymity (you can do that). But you don’t have to upload a photo at all if you don’t want to.
I also added some stuff to better present myself, like my hobbies and interests.
When you finish completing your profile with how many details you see fit, it’s off to the matches.
Ashley Madison Dating Reviews of the Matchmaking System
If you are a woman living in a metropolitan area, you can expect your inbox to be swamped with messages and virtual gifts right off the bat.
Or you can head over to the “see your matches” button, and you’ll be presented with folks who are nearby (if you entered your location). You can also use the search function to find just the kind of matches you like.
I presume guys usually don’t get that many messages and gifts right away (unless they’re super hot or super rich), so as a man, you’d be subject to these devices.
Ashley Madison Filters and Categories
No other hookup app can even come close to Ashley Madison when it comes to available search filters.
Now, some Ashley Madison reviews don’t like the number of categories available, but I would have to disagree. Hey, I like options. I love the fact you can find matches that fit your preferences and tick all your boxes.
It’s not like you have to fill them all out.
Besides the usual age and location, you can search based on potential matches’ stature and build, their ethnicity, marital status and what they’re looking for. Remember all that info you were asked to fill out?
Look how handy it comes in now that people can find you based on it.
Ashley Madison Review of Special Features
Unlimited Browsing
Unlike some other hookup sites, Ashley Madison doesn’t put a cap on how many profiles you can match with daily.
Winks
Winks work kinda like Facebook pokes used to back in the day—a subtle way to let someone know you noticed them. And they’re free for all.
Virtual Gifts
You can send and receive gift cards from pretty much any place. Starbucks, Home Depot, Walmart, Best Buy—almost anything goes.
Video Chat
Surprisingly, many hookup apps lack this entertaining and useful feature. Have some video fun, or use it to make sure the people you’re talking to are who they say they are and not a catfish.
Priority Man
With six women for 10 men, the odds seem stacked against the male members. Paying for the Priority Man feature will significantly boost your profile and chances of getting laid.
Private Photos
Paying members get to make their steamy photos private and can see others’ private photos, too.
Blurred Pics
You can also choose to blur your photo for maximum discretion.
Favorites List
This feature will let you stack up a list of 100 hottest profiles you can always return to when in hunting mode. It is completely free for all members to use.
Disappearing Chat
The disappearing chat feature is a favorite among the attached folks as it clears all your messages.
Inconspicuous App Icon
This is another favorite among the married and taken crowd—the Ashley Madison app on your phone can be disguised as a completely different app, so no one knows you’re on the site.
Travel Feature
Allows you to share your travel plans with up to 30 folks who live in the area you’re visiting. You get to finesse them before you get there. Great for traveling business people.
Panic Button
Last but certainly not least, the panic button allows you to exit the hookup app ASAP when in a pickle.
Ashley Madison Collect Message
Much like a “Collect Call,” Ashley Madison has a feature that allows users to “collect call” a new contact without using any credits.
This feature is specifically designed for users who may lack the credits to initiate a new conversation but may be interested in answering a message from a regular member.
Once someone sends you a Collect Message, Ashley Madison allows you to accept or decline. Once both users agree, the conversation starts without spending opening credits.
Ashley Madison Mobile App
You can download the Ashley Madison app on both Apple and Android devices. The mere downloading is free, and then later, you can decide if and how much you want to pay for it.
There are over 43K Ashley Madison reviews on the App Store, and the hookup app holds an impressive 4 out of 5 stars rating. It’s the most popular hookup app on the App Store.
When it comes to Google Play, the situation is slightly different. There are “only” around 15K Ashley Madison reviews, and the overall rating of the app sits at 3 out of 5 stars.
Safety and Security
Many people heard of Ashley Madison’s security breach that happened back in 2015 when members’ data was released online. That was unfortunate, to say the least, especially for the married folks on the site.
Yikes.
But the company soldiered through and fixed the mistake in its security system. So much so that Ashley Madison is now considered one of the safest hookup apps.
More power to them.
As anyone can see on the Ashley Madison Privacy Policy, the site uses firewalls, encrypted transmission through SSL (Secure Socket Layer) and powerful data encryption for all users’ personal and financial data.
What You Get With the Free Version
Ashley Madison is very much a pay-to-play kind of hookup app unless you’re a woman seeking men. We get it all for free.
I know, I know—it’s not fair. But it’s also the reason why you can meet and hook up with real women on Ashley Madison and not send messages to bots.
Men got the shorter stick when it comes to what they can do for free. Basically, they can browse to their hearts’ desires and wink. That’s about it. If men want to interact with other Ashley Madison users, they have to pay through the site’s credit system.
What You Get With the Premium Version
The premium version is where it’s at. For each of Ashley Madison’s features, you would have to pay separately, through the site’s credit system. There’s no option to pay a monthly fee and then get access to all.
Premium users on Ashley Madison get access to the following:
Messages
Video chat
Access to private photos
Ability to blur photos
Boost their profile
Why the Premium Version’s Worth It
Simply put—the premium version is worth it because the free version sucks for men. There, I said it. If you’re not willing to pay for a hookup app, and you’re a man, Ashley Madison is definitely not for you.
But if you are, you will find that the app has tons of attractive women and men who are down for some discreet pleasure. You’ll also find that the app itself is bustling with activity.
Most importantly—it works.
Payment and Billing
The “bad and ugly” part of Ashley Madison is its credit payment system. Now, I am a woman, which means I get all the features for free, just like all other women. That’s great for us.
But chatting can get kind of expensive for men.
For example, one message will set you back nine credits or 14 if you want to skip all other messages in a woman’s inbox and climb to the top. That’s without even knowing if she will respond, much less want to hook up.
The only way around it is to hunt for AM promotions and try to switch the convo to social media when you feel confident enough.
When it comes to billing, there’s not much to worry about, and Ashley Madison gets a huge plus on that one. True to its affairs site reputation, Ashley Madison’s billing is anonymous.
But there’s a catch. The number is traceable in a way. If you type it into Google, you can find forums and support lines for the Ashley Madison app. So, there’s that.
Ashley Madison Reviews From AshleyMadison.Com Users
Enough with what I have to say—let’s see what other folks have said through their Ashley Madison reviews online.
TL;DR: People are mostly happy with the app itself. What they do complain about is the cost of using it.
Is there an Ashley Madison Success Story?
Of course, many people have used Ashley Madison and have a success story to tell about it today.
Check out what some users are saying about Ashley Madison on Reddit.
How to Spot Fake Profiles on Ashley Madison
Ashley Madison does occasionally have fake profiles.
You may encounter Ashley Madison scams, catfishers, spammers and escorts. While these all go against the terms and conditions of the site, it’s hard to catch them early on.
The best thing to do is “report” suspicious profiles for investigation.
Look for these red flags:
Vague profiles with fashion model-quality photos
Members who ask for money or for you to click on a link
Members who discuss money in exchange for dating or sex
Members who never share video offsite or chat on the phone
Always be cautious and use good judgment when trusting someone new inside your bedroom.
Ashley Madison is not a sugar daddy dating site. However, if that’s your thing, you can always find dating sites that encourage sugar daddy dating.
Top Ashley Madison Alternatives and How They Compare
The online dating sites industry is valued at around 9 billion dollars, and that’s a whole lot of competition for Ashley Madison. So, let’s see how it fairs with some of its biggest competitors.
AshleyMadison vs. AdultFriendFinder
AdultFriendFinder is another great hookup app for one-night stands. Much like Ashley Madison, it’s a pay-to-play app that won’t let you message for free. The difference is that with an AdultFriendFinder review, you pay through monthly subscriptions.
It’s also great for couples looking for unicorns, swingers and group sex.
AdultFriendFinder is not as discreet as Ashley Madison, so it’s a poorer choice for married folks looking for MBA hookups or those with sensitive jobs.
Alt.com is your local BDSM community’s go-to place and where you want to be if you’re into pleasure through pain. It’s a small but theme-centric hookup app. You’d also need to subscribe to be able to use it functionally.
However, you do get free video chat and the option to watch live streams by members and professional cam performers.
AshleyMadison vs. Victoria Milan
Victoria Milan is like an exclusive club among hookup apps. The membership is expensive, and the members are high-quality.
Similar to Ashley Madison, it also boasts lots of features that guarantee anonymity and discretion. The difference is that Ashley Madison is more popular and has many more members.
Ashley Madison Reviews FAQs
Have questions about finding a hookup on Ashley Madison? Check out some FAQs.
Who is Ashley Madison?
The name Ashley Madison is not based on a real person.
Rather, in the early 2000s, the company went with the two most popular names for women to brand its website.
Yes, Ashley Madison is a goodhookup app with lots of features, options and users.
In fact, it’s one of the best hookup apps for discreet encounters.
Is Ashley Madison Legit?
Yes, Ashley Madison is legit. It’s a real hookup app with real folks.
Does Ashley Madison Work in 2025?
Ashley Madison works in 2025 just as it worked in the years before. It’s the place where people go for MBA relationships and discreet encounters. I, personally, have already found some great matches and had a couple of meetups.
How Much Does Ashley Madison Cost?
Ashley Madison is completely free for women, while men pay through the credit system.
You use these credits to pay for messages and other features. How much it will cost you a month depends on how much you use the features.
If not, you can also use the free version, but you won’t be able to message.
There’s no way to message for free on Ashley Madison if you’re a man. At best, you can be on the lookout for promos and save a buck.
Is Ashley Madison Worth the Money?
Ashley Madison is worth the money if you’re looking for a legit hookup app with real profiles and high-quality users.
If you’re willing to pay the price for that and persist in reaching out to new matches, you’ll be very happy with Ashley Madison.
How Can I Send Messages on Ashley Madison Without Paying?
You can send messages on Ashley Madison without paying if you’re a woman seeking men.
If not, you won’t be able to message without paying. The best you can do is hunt promos so you can pay less. Or switch the convo to social media after you’ve built a rapport.
In closing, I can say that I liked using Ashley Madison—although there is a waiting process that requires persistence and patience.
You won’t click with everyone. It takes a while for a man to find a woman who warms up to him. Likewise, it takes a while for a woman to meet a man who stands out from the crowd and is very attractive.
Overall however, I did find Ashley Madison to have an active user base with some sexy members, as well as advanced features and search options.
I always felt secure and protected thanks to the site’s improved best-in-class security.
It does come with a price, though, if you’re a man. That’s why I recommend you download the free version to get a feel for it. See if you like the site and the crowd at first glance and figure out if it’s worth paying for.
Why not embrace your fantasies and see what’s out there on a trusted hookup site?
Published in cooperation between Panther Sexy and the East Bay Express
Cam 2 cam sites offer the most rewarding premium video chat access money can buy.
From the rousing private sex chats to the secret roleplays and naughty flashes, there is an endless list of adult fun to expect in the cam 2 cam world.
Having said that …
I’ve brought you the top 10-plus best cam 2 cam sites where you can get this and way more sensual pleasure on sexy live streams today.
We’ll also look into how to browse the cam 2 cam platforms safely and use search filters to get the perfect chat room matches for your naughty adventures.
Pink Palace has snaked its way past a lot of camming sitesto emerge as the No. 1 cam 2 cam site where you can find dedicated private cams for intimate pleasure, thanks to its advanced features and active community.
This is the platform of choice if you don’t like waiting out on the curb for your turn to throw some fun into the party, as commonly seen in public or group chats.
Pink Palace offers you exclusive access to its most exquisite private cam rooms for unfettered fun and access.
The platform takes things a notch higher with a cool Private Party Mode, which lets you watch several private chats at the same time. This allows you to follow multiple actions and jump into a room promising a satisfying end, depending on how hot the pot boils.
Adding more fun to the mix, Pink Palace supports several diverse kinks and fetishes, covering everyone’s desires. You can catch spicy camera action serving cuckolds, bondage, voyeurism, sadism, roleplays and so many more experiences.
What’s more …
The HD video chat quality also adds a lot of flavor to the chat rooms. It gives you a clear, consistent stream that keeps you engrossed and invested in the moment.
Though it hosts fewer gay cam 2 cams, the toy interaction feature brings real fun to your hands. You can control what the model feels by tipping from as little as 5 tokens to command their sex toys.
2. StripChat—Best Adult Cam Site for Sexy Stripteases
Pros
Lots of sexy stripteases
Find a local cam 2 cam girl
Save your favorite models
Recordable adult cam chats
Cons
Fewer transgender sex cams
Expensive private video chat
Price
90 tokens: $9.99
200 tokens: $20.99
520 tokens: $49.99
1,050 tokens: $96.99
2,250 tokens: $199.99
StripChat is the ultimate strip hub where you can catch all the hot and talented bunnies engaging in scintillating nude strip teases. It is a grab-a-drink-and-see-where-the-night-goes kind of place you want to bury your head in after a long day hauling at work.
It’s spontaneous, bustling and you’re always just seconds away from a new cam 2 cam with a sleek two-way audio connection that keeps you immersed in the room.
What immediately grabbed my attention after landing on the homepage was the high-traffic activity that bounced off all corners of the cam chat platform.
The diversity ensured a fresh experience every time I logged into a video chat room to air my desires. StripChat has performers from every continent, niche and fantasy you can think of—provided you’ve got the tip to help walk the talk.
It doesn’t matter whether you’re looking for mature performances, cosplay, couples or kink—there’s always someone a click away if you use the handy search tags.
StripChat even gives you steamy recommendations of nearby models offering cam 2 cam shows near you, if your palate prefers the local cuisine more.
The best part?
You can save all your favorite performers on a special list to stay connected and easily locate them next time you log in for real-time interactions.
The only downside of StripChat is that the cam 2 cams are a bit expensive, with private shows costing about 90 tokens per minute. However, the experience accompanying the charge is worth a whole lot more if you value quality one-on-one intimacy.
3. Vidizzy—Best Anonymous Cam 2 Cam Video Chat Site
Pros
Anonymous free cam 2 cam
Gender and location filters available
Fast connection speeds
Works on mobile and desktop
Cons
Limited moderation
Basic features only (no tipping or fan clubs)
Price
Free to use
Vidizzy caters to users looking for a no-frills and NSA playground where you can engage in fast, anonymous and raw, free cam 2 cam action. The site lets you tend to your craving in a minimal time thanks to its “no profiles, no long bios and no paid tokens” policy.
How does it work?
Vidizzy’s platform banks on anonymity for its exciting cam 2 cams. You just need to land on the homepage to immediately start chatting with other users veiled under mysterious profiles.
Given the high number of cam seekers on the platform, you can use the gender and location filters to tailor your preferences. This allows you to narrow down who you see, including same-sex matches.
What sucked was the free cam 2 cam site offered very basic features on account of it being free and all. However, its lightweight design made transitioning from one video chat room to the next very smooth.
4. ChatRoulette—One of the Most Secure Free Sex Cam Platforms
Pros
Highly monitored chats
Enjoy great, meaningful conversations
Hide your face
Supports detailed bios
Cons
Limited free cam chats
Censored adult cam chats
Price
Free to use
ChatRoulette first launched as a free cam 2 cam space to meet and connect with strangers over random video chat calls around the world and got pretty wild down the line.
The site has now become an addictive place where you go to get your dose of social dopamine in unscripted, cam 2 cam moments.
To get started on the free cam 2 cam site, you just need to log in, allow camera access and get paired with the next available chat partner.
What’s more …
ChatRoulette’s clean layout recently introduced Topics that let you pick the conversations you want to engage in on the platform. This includes the classic chat, anime, AI, fitness, college, gaming, movies, life advice and many more chat categories.
Sure—you won’t find the exciting things like tipping, fan clubs or long-term chat options that make cam 2 cams what they are. Still, the omission makes ChatRoulette refreshingly simple.
5. Coomet—Find a Casual Cam 2 Cam Video Chat Partner
Pros
One-on-one cam matches
No registration required
Multi-platform access
Free cam 2 cam access
Cons
No real customization (lacks kinks, tags, search filters, etc)
Infested with trolls
Price
Free to use
Coomet takes after ChatRoulette and also offers fast, face-to-face, casual adult cam connections without the fluff.
All you’ve got to do after landing on the platform is fire up your camera and start chatting with queued users from all over the world in its free cam 2 cam chats.
What sets Coomet apart is the gender filter, which allows you to define your personalized recommendations—whether you want to talk with men, women or couples.
One good thing is that the conversations are one-on-one, meaning no crowds or waiting in line to pitch in your input. It’s just you, your cam chat partner and your chosen topics.
The only bummer is that, being afree cam 2 cam platform, Coomet has a serious problem with trolls becoming a real nuisance to genuine users.
The bottom line is you get what you get, and sometimes, that could be a guy wearing a Pikachu mask. Nonetheless, that’s all you need sometimes.
Bazoocam’s free cam 2 cam platform will hit you with nostalgia, thanks to its old-school webcam vibe that lets you connect and chat with other users free of charge.
In fact, the webcam platform isn’t so invested in flashy features and just delivers raw cam 2 cam conversations.
No bells, no whistles, no distractions ….
Don’t be fooled, though.
Bazoocam has a trick up its sleeve as it lets you choose between having a text or video chat whenever you log in. This is a subtle yet convenient feature that lets you pick a suitable channel to talk with other men and women, depending on your mood.
Apart from users in your local arena, you can explore a free cam 2 cam chat with curious strangers from other parts of the world, ensuring you interact with a highly diverse community.
7. LiveJasmin—Meet People With Attractive Body Types
Pros
Attractive video chat models
Send virtual gifts
Favorite your preferred chat partner
Broadcast schedules available
Cons
Video chat performance varies
Complicated pricing structure
Price
27.99 credits: $35.99
79.99 credits: $67.99
112.99 credits: $97.99
178.99 credits: $157.99
If you’re looking for class, sass and glam, then LiveJasmin is here to enhance your personal webcam experience. Unlike other cam sites that don’t pay much attention to their crop of models, LiveJasmin only deals with the most attractive performing characters.
The models look like they walked off a high-fashion shoot, and the sleek UI serves them up in all deserved glory.
Yes, cam 2 cam is definitely on the menu, but you must have the credits to back you up.
Private shows go for between 98 cents to $3.99 per minute, depending on the model, the model’s ability and your personal fantasies.
That said …
While the performance may vary, opting for intimate, private conversations will give you undivided attention and an unmatched experience, not just clear pixels.
8. CherryTV—Best Site Supporting Seamless Smartphone Video Chat Experience
Pros
Seamless smartphone compatibility
Text and video chat options
Interactive adult games
Send virtual gifts
Cons
Exaggerated for premium services
Limited payment option
Price
$9.99 for 100 tokens
$99.99 for 1,150 tokens
Fancy meeting new people even when on the move? CherryTV offers just that and more, thanks to its mobile-friendliness, which allows you to connect and talk without lag.
CherryTV’s crown jewel is the gamification of its webcam features. Here, you can earn XP, badges and other perks by watching and tipping models.
You can level up and unlock rewards, achievements and even access to special events or webcam performers.
Other than that …
CherryTV’s cam 2 cam vibe (60-120 tokens per minute) leans more towards being flirty than hardcore, as seen in StripChat and SlutRoulette. You will enjoy the buildup, enhance rapport with users/models and be part of a sexy online community.
ImLive is the best place to connect with men, women and adventurous couples looking for a virtual third-wheeler to join their kinky party.
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Summer’s here, and the time is right for al fresco dining. At the end of May, Saltbreaker opened The Yard, an outdoor space in front of the restaurant. In addition to East Bay sunshine, this more casual venue serves cheeseburgers, beer, cocktails and clam chowder. A few weeks before The Yard’s grand opening, Saltbreaker posted an image of a...
Published in cooperation between Omnia Agency and the East Bay Express
We’re living in an increasingly digital world … which has made it so much easier for millions of people to enjoy the thrills and spills of spinning reels or playing cards from the comfort of home, or wherever they are if they have their mobile at hand (and who...
I used to go to Half Price Books with my mom when I was a kid. We spent hours roaming the aisles—me flipping through beat-up Goosebumps paperbacks or digging through the CD bins, her browsing for cookbooks or a novel to unwind after work. Now, as an adult and still very much a bookworm, I find myself at the...
ARIES (March 21-April 19): The Tagalog word gigil refers to the urge to squeeze or pinch something adorable. It’s an ecstatic tension that verges on overflowing the container of decorum. In the coming weeks, you Aries could feel gigil for the whole world. Everything may seem almost too vivid, too raw, too marvelous and altogether too much. I advise...
THURSDAY, JULY 31
EXPERIMENTAL
HELEN GILLET & REED MATHIS
Musical magic comes to town this week in the form of Helen Gillet and Reed Mathis. Gillet, who hails from Belgium, is a genre-bending cellist with a penchant for intricate looping and a voice as smooth as fine wine. Mathis joins her to add his bass-playing prowess, honed over many years touring with...
At 95, Dolores Huerta could rest on her laurels with no reproaches. Labor leader, tireless fighter for immigrant rights and civil rights, as well as a feminist, Huerta has continued her work for decades.
But, said Nicolás Lell Benavides, composer of the new opera, Dolores, Huerta knows there is always more to do. The fight for justice is ongoing. And...
The players in Ryli came together when the band’s singer, Yea-Ming Chen, met guitarist Rob Good. “I was just setting up my studio at the time,” Good said. “Bobby Martinez, the head of our label, Dandy Boy Records, asked me to contribute a track to Tales of a Kitchen Porter, a tribute album he was putting together for Cleaners...
The Bay Area music scene is as alive as it’s ever been, notes Andy Pohl. “But at the same time, there is no money to be made at all.” This isn’t a revelation to anyone who’s paid attention to the local cultural landscape over the past 25 years. The cost of living is high, corporate interests constantly look for...
Published in cooperation between Lust Panther and the East Bay Express
When it comes to casual hookups, you always want to be discreet.
Discreet, anonymous, and scandalous—that’s what Ashley Madison promises, and in this article, we’re going to consider Ashley Madison reviews, sign instructions, FAQs and how much it costs.
When I heard of the “affair dating site” and how touted it...
Published in cooperation between Panther Sexy and the East Bay Express
Cam 2 cam sites offer the most rewarding premium video chat access money can buy.
From the rousing private sex chats to the secret roleplays and naughty flashes, there is an endless list of adult fun to expect in the cam 2 cam world.
Having said that …
I’ve brought you the...
