San Francisco's library system has hired a full-time social worker to help find housing and other services for the homeless men and women who've set up camp among the stacks.
There's been a bit of a cat fight over who would host the nation's first cat cafe. Purina One is sponsoring a pop-up cafe in New York City. Similar cafes are in the works in California.
The skirmish continues between Sriracha and Irwindale, Calif. Irwindale's city council declared that owner David Tran must curb his hot sauce factory's smelly fumes or they'll do it themselves. Tran is considering relocating, and he has already received several offers.
In Colorado, where recreational pot is now legal, stores are working hard to stand out — marketing to fans of organic, locally grown produce and trying to liken using pot to enjoying a glass of wine.
California farmers produce an enormous proportion of American produce, but the state is now experiencing a record-breaking drought that is being felt throughout the U.S.
Palchohol is powdered alcohol — just mix with water to create an instant cocktail. The creators of Palcohol pitched their idea as a solution to the soaring price of alcohol.
Airbnb and other rental websites have made billions marketing existing housing to tourists, without hotel tax. Soon, Airbnb will start collecting tax in New York City, San Francisco and Portland, Ore.