Google fired 28 employees who protested against an Israeli defense contract, citing policy breaches and workplace disruption. The controversy has sparked debate over the company's ethics and employee rights.

Abbott Laboratories is set to close its manufacturing plant in Fairfield, impacting about 200 workers, with layoffs beginning May 18. This aligns with the discontinuation of ZonePerfect bars and broader cost-cutting measures.

Instagram is rolling out a feature to automatically blur nudity in direct messages to protect teens from sextortion. The feature will be default for underage users.

Here's a brief roundup of recent changes to Castro area businesses. In this edition, two new businesses have recently opened in the Castro and two more are on the way including an acai shop, a clothing store, a small grocery store, and a massage business.

The Port of Oakland reports a surge in cargo volume, with a 32.1% increase in imports and a 24.2% rise in exports in February, indicating strong consumer spending and demand in Northern California and Asia.

A San Ramon man, Rashad Shambray-Jones, received a 40-month prison sentence for illegal gun and ammo possession after pleading guilty and violating a second chance program.

Airbnb bans indoor security cameras in listings and enforces new rules for outdoor cameras to prioritize guest privacy, effective April 30, following consultations with hosts, guests, and privacy experts.

PG&E bills in California will rise again following CPUC approval, an increase that adds roughly $3.65 to average customer bills starting in April to cover wildfire mitigation and system improvements.

A new Grocery Outlet opened in Marin City, offering local employment and easier access to groceries where a CVS once was, with festive launch promotions.

Two major California business groups, the Bay Area Council and the Silicon Valley Leadership Group, are discussing a merger to create a powerful business organization for regional innovation and policy influence.

San Francisco's largest shopping center, formerly Westfield San Francisco Centre, rebrands to Emporium Centre San Francisco, aiming to attract diverse tenants and revitalize its retail environment.

Macy's plans to close its Union Square flagship store in San Francisco amidst declining sales and retail shifts, impacting the city's downtown recovery efforts.

Castro area plant shop Plant Therapy (2095 Market Street) faces an uncertain future after the store has remained closed for nearly four months.