$100 EV Leases | Feds Target Hard-To-Cancel Gyms | Flying Taxis On The Way: CA Business News

This week in California business news: Dealers are offering dirt-cheap deals on electric vehicles, the federal government is going after LA Fitness over hard-to-cancel gym memberships, and air taxis are becoming a reality thanks to California-based companies.

Additionally, one SoCal city just banned the sale of live animals — and advocates say a statewide prohibition could be coming soon.

But before getting to the biggest business stories in the Golden State, here are some of the best consumer deals of the week:

• In what auto industry experts are calling a truly "unprecedented" moment, it's certainly a buyer's market for those looking to pick up a shiny new electric vehicle. EVs are leasing for under $100 per month at some dealerships, and while the deals might not be that extreme in most of California, there's plenty of bargains to be found. The environment is due, in part, to a $7,500 federal tax credit that's set to expire next month. Read all about it here.
• Labor Day sales are already upon us, including REI's sale, which runs from August 22 through September 2. Everyone can save up to 30% off on select outdoor gear and apparel, while members get an extra 20% off an outlet item. Wired has a rundown of some of the best deals.

Freebies, Deals And Steals

Check out this week's top headlines for California business news on Patch:

• Uber Of The Sky? Air Taxis Are On The Way, And CA Companies Are Leading The Effort
• Hybrids Outsell Electric Vehicles In California
• Animal Rights Activists Want Trader Joe's To Cut Ties With CA Poultry Company
• Gavin Newsom Warms To Big Oil In Climate Reversal
• Feds Sue LA Fitness For 'Exceedingly Difficult' Gym Cancellation Policies
• Authorities Dismantle SoCal Cargo Theft Ring That Sold Millions In Stolen Tools, Appliances
• With Live-Animal Sales Banned In West Hollywood, Advocates Turn Their Attention Statewide

The Bottom Line

• Forget chicken nuggets. One Southern California school district is getting a big upgrade to its student lunch program courtesy of Everytable, the Los Angeles-based chain that sells ready-made meals. The company, starting this month, is the official meal provider for 31 schools in the Compton Unified School District, offering dishes like Mediterranean chicken couscous, cage-free egg and cheese sandwiches, and pollo asado. The move taps into the multibillion-dollar school food market and aims to bring healthier meals to underserved communities through scalable pricing models.
• This summer’s sugar beet harvest could be California's last. The owner of the 78-year-old Spreckels Sugar Company factory in the Imperial Valley earlier this year announced plans to close facility, which will mean a loss of some 700 jobs and California's exit from the sugar beet industry, which accounts of half of the sugar produced in the U.S.

More Restaurant News

New Sichuan Restaurant Opening Soon In San Mateo

A restaurant known for its popular fast-casual dining experience will open its first full-service concept nearby.

Popular Local Bakery Closes 2 SoCal Locations

Blackmarket Bakery, largely favored among Orange County residents, has closed its Costa Mesa and Oceanside locations.

Popular Danville Italian Restaurant Closing

Isola Osteria, which opened just over a year and a half ago, will close due to family health complications, owner Angelo Dalo said.

Rose Bakery Cafe To Open 3rd OC Location

A 27-year-old bakery that started in Corona Del Mar just announced plans to open a third eatery.

More Retail News

SeaWorld San Diego To Debut All-New Shark Encounter In 2026

The current Shark Encounter has closed to begin work on the renovation.

Long Beach Cultural Hub Closes Its Doors: 'Will Be Dearly Missed'

"We close with gratitude and pride in what we have accomplished together," a representative from Compound told Patch.

Sports, Entertainment Project Planned Near 60/91/215 Interchange In Riverside

The project would feature homes, retail space, soccer fields, a "central park," hotel, sports stadium, and space for festivals.

More Business News

Residents Of Senior Mobile Home Park In Financial Battle With City Of Novato: Report

Residents have nearly paid off a loan to own the mobile home park but said the city wants more money.

Pleasanton Retail Theft Arrest: Driver Arrested On Suspicion Of Stealing Large Amounts Of Nike & Adidas Shoes

California Highway Patrol officers said a car on I-680 near the Stoneridge Shopping Center contained numerous items with security tags.

8 Charged With Felony Wire Fraud In Scheme That Stole Over $1M From Online Shopping Companies

All are free on bail.

Lake Elsinore Spotlights 67-Year-Old Skydiving Business

Skydive Elsinore is described as a "must-visit" for thrill-seekers and first-time jumpers alike.

Nobu Malibu Wins Dismissal Of Wrongful Termination Suit Filed By Former Employee

The lawsuit alleged co-workers showed the then-19-year-old explicit images and called her derogatory names before she was fired.