Shoppers flocked to San Francisco's Union Square for last-minute Christmas gifts, enjoying holiday festivities and the charm of in-person shopping amidst increased security measures.

R&B icon Sugar Pie DeSanto has died in her sleep at the age of 89, leaving a legacy of vibrant performances and hits like "I Want to Know."

A rare Krugerrand gold coin was donated to Napa's Salvation Army, contributing to the Kiwanis of Greater Napa's win in a charity challenge. The coin's donor remains unknown.

San Francisco Hyatt hotel workers end a three-month strike with a new contract, echoing a recent agreement at Marriott, offering wage increases and workload protections.

Marriott hotel workers in San Francisco ratified a new contract with Mayor-elect Daniel Lurie's support, improving wages and working conditions through 2028.

The Oakland City Council has approved budget cuts to address a $130 million shortfall, impacting the police, fire services, housing, and cultural programs, with potential future revenue through a proposed sales tax increase.

San Francisco will revitalize Union Square with 200 planned events to boost retail and hospitality, as part of Mayor Breed's HEART Action Plan with support from BRV starting in 2025.

Calistoga employees found and returned a lost fanny pack containing over $2,000 in cash, earning them praise from local police for their community-minded action.

Alameda County reported a 3% drop in homelessness, the first decrease since 2013, with unsheltered residents down by 11% according to the 2024 Point in Time count.

The San José Police Department introduced a new feature to its crime dashboard, providing local crime data by City Council Districts for better public awareness and engagement.

The California Hall of Fame inducts an all-female class, with notable figures like Tina Turner, Julia Child, and Dian Fossey, highlighting their achievements across various fields.

San Francisco's Cole Valley may become an entertainment zone which could boost the local economy and community cohesion through outdoor events that include sales of alcoholic beverages.

The world's largest psychedelic church in San Francisco is closing due to tensions with the city's Planning Department over costly upgrades. Its Oakland branch remains open.