Economy

Energy innovators shine at Solar Hackathon ’13

Amid the clacking of keys and the slurping of Red Bull energy drinks, about 30 computer hackers recently gathered in Oakland. Their goal: to make solar energy easier, cheaper and more fun to use. The hackers –- mostly web developers, engineers and solar energy entrepreneurs –- descended last weekend on the sprawling 12,000-square-foot headquarters of SfunCube LLC in Jack London Square.  The solar energy incubator and accelerator nurtures enterprising young solar ventures and shelters startups in the industry. Its mission…

Oakland barbers give school kids a literal head start

Oakland barbers pitched in with free haircuts and backpacks to give kids a literal head start for the first day of school. The event at the E Cuts salon in Temescal was one of a group of back-to-school events to help ease low income families into fall and display community good will.