Traditional holidays have morphed into something unrecognizable as it's influenced by the lure of social media. Holiday presents were once a form of connection and love, but have since emerged into competition, approval and striving for perceived status. Are the holidays gone as we know it?

Fall trends are abundant, and our staff is here to share their thoughts on the popular — and slightly ridiculous — trends coming our way this spooky season.

It's a sweltering Friday evening in Oakland as I sit on my porch. I'm craving something sweet, creamy and icy. I pull up Google and dig into my recent searches — yes, this is a weekly occurrence —...