Kitty Felde says a fictional 'Papa' in her Fina Mendoza mysteries was modeled on Xavier Becerra — a detail that feels timely after Becerra topped the June primary.

The San Francisco DA says Otis Broughton was charged in a human‑trafficking case involving a minor; the case is under active investigation.

AB 2129 would push Cal Fire salaries within 15% of 20 local departments, but Assembly estimates peg the cost at $373M–$609M — forcing a clash between recruitment needs and budget limits. Lawmakers and the governor face a tough choice.

A Moraga mother is in remission after surgeons used a single‑port robotic system at Alta Bates to remove an aggressive breast tumor, a local milestone for the East Bay.

Anna Wintour’s visit has put San Francisco back on Vogue World’s radar; Condé Nast says it is 'exploratory' as the city eyes 2027.

Elastic is cutting roughly 7% of staff — about 281 positions — saying AI and automation will let it operate leaner while it invests in growth areas.

An Oakland immigration attorney says TSA told him he was placed on a watchlist after a 45‑minute SFO screening; his legal team has filed a FOIA to press for answers. Advocates are watching closely.

Gusty onshore winds pick up Thursday and strengthen into a cooler, blustery Friday and Saturday. Small Craft Advisories affect parts of the Bay and Monterey waters.

Cool, damp morning gives way to gusty onshore winds; small craft advisories are in effect for parts of the Bay. Expect gusts through the afternoon and into the weekend.

Sunnyvale's popular Urban Grill buffet has been shut down by Santa Clara County health inspectors for the second time since March — and the closure report reveals that the restaurant's own pest control company documented live mouse activity at the facility just four days before inspectors arrived.

An East Bay woman who admitted to being part of a robbery crew that targeted women who "looked Asian" avoided jail after completing a court-ordered diversion program. Restitution and treatment were part of the deal.

Johnny Doughnuts opened its fifth shop at Santana Row this week, creating about 16 jobs and investing roughly $210K–$240K in the buildout. A sixth location at Napa’s Oxbow Public Market is next.

San Jose’s Fountain Blues Festival returns to Plaza de César Chávez this weekend with Eric Gales and Ronnie Baker Brooks headlining. Expect beer gardens, food vendors and a packed schedule of blues and soul.