The Pittsburgh City Paper has shut down after 34 years, leaving a void in the city's alternative news scene. Financial challenges and a turbulent industry led to its closure by owner Block Communications.

As 2025 comes to a close, here's a brief roundup of recent changes to Castro area businesses. In this edition, a cafe prepares to open, a Thai spa opens, a barbershop moves, and a former coffee shop hits the market.

Tokyo Central is opening a new store in Emeryville, offering a range of Japanese products and embodying the philosophy of Omotenashi hospitality. The grand opening includes a $10 gift certificate giveaway and other festivities.

Sanofi plans to acquire Dynavax Technologies for $2.2 billion, offering a 39% premium on the latter's shares, which may stimulate further biotech deals in the Bay Area.

San Jose's Hyphen is scaling AI-powered makelines to build digital orders, with backing from Chipotle and Cava. Pilots and factory ramping are already underway.

South Milwaukee had a robust economic development year, including 13 new businesses and a $52 million Bucyrus Campus redevelopment. The city updated its zoning code, adopted a long-term plan, and negotiated for a new Piggly Wiggly store.

Minnesota businesses are encouraged to apply for a new grant offering funds for cargo bikes and e-bikes to promote green transport for commercial use.

Michigan sees an 8-cent increase in gas prices, with the average now at $2.81 per gallon, according to AAA. Despite the uptick, prices remain lower than last month and the previous year.

Oak Creek is promoting itself as an event-hosting destination with its "MOMENTUM MONDAY," encouraging potential event planners to view their promotional video and consider the city's facilities for their gatherings.

Mercedes-Benz agrees to a $150 million settlement over allegations of emissions fraud, including defeat devices in diesel models, with adjustments and compensation for affected vehicles. Hawaii receives a portion for consumer protection efforts.

Design Within Reach and Johnston & Murphy have landed at The Shops at Clearfork, Oak & Eden’s whiskey lab is back, and Grown Brilliance and Suitsupply are on the way. The move keeps Clearfork positioned as Fort Worth’s upscale retail destination.

Most Las Vegas Strip hotels are sold out for New Year’s Eve; remaining rooms command premiums, with sample rates from the low hundreds to over $1,000.

Buc-ee's opening of new locations in Fayette County and West Memphis has been delayed to May 2027 and June 2028 respectively, due to unspecified logistical issues. The stores promise economic growth and job opportunities for the region.