BEA county data and a San Diego Union-Tribune analysis show 16 California counties tripled in size from 2001–2024, led by Bay Area growth and small-county percentage spikes.

A proposed Health Code change would ban smoking on outdoor bar patios; health advocates back it while small-business commissioners and bar owners warn of sidewalk spillover and lost customers.

A new Migration Policy Institute report finds immigrant workers contribute roughly $1.5 billion a year — about 11% of Napa County’s output — and anchor much of its farm labor. Simulations show major revenue and job losses if that labor were removed.

Google agreed to a proposed $50 million settlement in a class action alleging systemic racial bias against Black employees; the deal pairs cash with pay‑equity measures. A final fairness hearing was scheduled for Thursday.

Steph Curry and Davidson College will award 5–10 full‑ride Curry Scholars to Bay Area students, with applications due Sept. 21, 2026 and the first class arriving in fall 2027.

Tipping Point Community announced a pivot to reskill low-income workers for an AI-driven economy at its May 8 gala, drawing a $25M pledge from John and Sue Sobrato. The move pairs new tech partnerships with workforce pilots.

Cal Fire staged a hands‑on demo of aircraft, crews and readiness tools as Northern California warms. Officials urged home hardening and defensible space ahead of peak season.

Visit Oakland says 3.2M visitors generated $740M in 2025; day trips rose and new flights and events are giving local businesses a boost.

San Mateo will ban gas-powered leaf blowers starting Jan. 1, 2027. The city is offering rebates to help residents and landscaping businesses switch to electric gear.

Michael Spagna took over Sonoma State in January and now faces the task of stabilizing a campus hit by steep enrollment losses, faculty layoffs and the loss of athletics. One‑time state and CSU funds buy time, but restorations hinge on feasibility plans.

A Monday hiking group started by laid‑off workers has swelled across Bay Area trails, offering peer support, networking and surprising job leads. The outings are both practical and social for people navigating layoffs.

The CPUC set a permanent 4.5¢/minute cap on intrastate jail calls and tightened rules on hidden fees, a change advocates say will ease costs for families.

Bi‑Rite and 18 Reasons teamed with Crankstart to launch Sunnydale Market — a 2,800‑sq‑ft nonprofit grocer planned for 1515 Sunnydale Ave. with deep subsidy aims.