Kevin V. Nguyen

Every local knows Salesforce has made a lasting impression on the city, especially with its massive tower dominating the skyline—but what exactly does it do again?&nbsp;

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<p>Every local knows Salesforce has made a lasting impression on the city, especially with its massive tower dominating the skyline—but what exactly does it do again?&nbsp;</p>

Tuesday saw the return of the company’s <a href="https://sfstandard.com/business/dreamforce-is-back-and-sfs-tourism-industry-couldnt-be-more-thrilled/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">annual mega-tech convention, Dreamforce</a>, bringing around 40,000 convention attendees—and a temporary “national forest” near the Moscone Center—into San Francisco.&nbsp;

<p>Tuesday saw the return of the company’s <a href="https://sfstandard.com/business/dreamforce-is-back-and-sfs-tourism-industry-couldnt-be-more-thrilled/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">annual mega-tech convention, Dreamforce</a>, bringing around 40,000 convention attendees—and a temporary “national forest” near the Moscone Center—into San Francisco.&nbsp;</p>

But with the company fast-approaching household name status, The Standard wanted to find out if anyone actually knew what the tech behemoth does. So we asked Dreamforce attendees and passersby.

<p>But with the company fast-approaching household name status, The Standard wanted to find out if anyone actually knew what the tech behemoth does. So we asked Dreamforce attendees and passersby.</p>

“It’s got to be something to do with finance right?” said a first-time security worker at the event, Jose Gonzales. “I mean, it’s got ‘sales’ in its name, so it has to be finance related…”  

<p>“It’s got to be something to do with finance right?” said a first-time security worker at the event, Jose Gonzales. “I mean, it’s got ‘sales’ in its name, so it has to be finance related…”  </p>

San Franciscans who spoke to The Standard had heard the company is the biggest private employer in town, but found it hard to pinpoint exactly what Salesforce does.

<p>San Franciscans who spoke to The Standard had heard the company is the biggest private employer in town, but found it hard to pinpoint exactly what Salesforce does.</p>

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<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-tiktok wp-block-embed-tiktok"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.tiktok.com/@sfstandard/video/7145971482194382126?is_copy_url=1&amp;is_from_webapp=v1&amp;lang=en
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<blockquote class="tiktok-embed" cite="https://www.tiktok.com/@sfstandard/video/7145971482194382126" data-video-id="7145971482194382126" data-embed-from="oembed" style="max-width:605px; min-width:325px;"> <section> <a target="_blank" title="@sfstandard" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@sfstandard?refer=embed">@sfstandard</a> <p>Salesforce has over 148,000 employees globally and owns the tallest building in San Francisco, though what the company actually does seems to be a bit ambiguous. With Dreamforce 2022 in full swing, we wanted to ask people in their own words, “What does Salesforce do?” Many people had the right idea, though they expressed it in different ways! <a title="salesforce" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/salesforce?refer=embed">#salesforce</a> <a title="dreamforce" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/dreamforce?refer=embed">#dreamforce</a> <a title="dreamforce2022" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/dreamforce2022?refer=embed">#dreamforce2022</a> <a title="techtok" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/techtok?refer=embed">#techtok</a> <a title="techconference" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/techconference?refer=embed">#techconference</a> <a title="convention" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/convention?refer=embed">#convention</a> <a title="sf" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/sf?refer=embed">#sf</a> <a title="sfnews" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/sfnews?refer=embed">#sfnews</a> <a title="sanfrancisco" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/sanfrancisco?refer=embed">#sanfrancisco</a> <a title="sfstandard" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/sfstandard?refer=embed">#sfstandard</a> <a title="tiktok" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/tiktok?refer=embed">#tiktok</a> <a title="fyp" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/fyp?refer=embed">#fyp</a> <a title="foryou" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/foryou?refer=embed">#foryou</a> </p> <a target="_blank" title="♬ Lofi Vibes - Gentle State" href="https://www.tiktok.com/music/Lofi-Vibes-7124892429840304130?refer=embed">♬ Lofi Vibes &#8211; Gentle State</a> </section> </blockquote> <script async src="https://www.tiktok.com/embed.js"></script>

“Do I know exactly what they do? No,” said SFPD officer Jahn Kim with a laugh. “I think it might have to do with some sort of recruiting for businesses?”&nbsp;

<p>“Do I know exactly what they do? No,” said SFPD officer Jahn Kim with a laugh. “I think it might have to do with some sort of recruiting for businesses?”&nbsp;</p>

Industry insiders, on the other hand, spoke of the firm’s all-encompassing technology and business community, which has grown massively in the 20 years since the convention was founded.&nbsp;

<p>Industry insiders, on the other hand, spoke of the firm’s all-encompassing technology and business community, which has grown massively in the 20 years since the convention was founded.&nbsp;</p>

A common set of buzzwords such as “CRM,” “SaaS” or “customer-centric” were voiced again and again as people tried to answer the question, with the order of the phrases shifting depending on who was asked.&nbsp;

<p>A common set of buzzwords such as “CRM,” “SaaS” or “customer-centric” were voiced again and again as people tried to answer the question, with the order of the phrases shifting depending on who was asked.&nbsp;</p>

Yashar Moayedian, a Dreamforce attendee, poses for a portrait outside of the conference being held at Moscone Center in San Francisco on Tuesday, September 20, 2022. This is Moayedian’s second Dreamforce conference and his first since the pandemic. | Morgan Ellis/The Standard


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/WillowStreet09222022_INLINED2-2500x1668.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-77408"/><figcaption>Yashar Moayedian, a Dreamforce attendee, stands outside of the Moscone Center in San Francisco on Tuesday, September 20, 2022. This is his second Dreamforce conference and his first since the pandemic. | Morgan Ellis/The Standard</figcaption></figure>


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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/WillowStreet09222022_INLINED2-2500x1668.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-77408"/><figcaption>Yashar Moayedian, a Dreamforce attendee, stands outside of the Moscone Center in San Francisco on Tuesday, September 20, 2022. This is his second Dreamforce conference and his first since the pandemic. | Morgan Ellis/The Standard</figcaption></figure>

“They kind of have their hands in everything, but everyone knows they started as a CRM (customer relationship management) tool,” said product manager Yashar Moayedian. This is his second time attending Dreamforce, after returning this year with his company Adyen. “It’s taken over internal and external systems for a bunch of major companies.”&nbsp;

<p>“They kind of have their hands in everything, but everyone knows they started as a CRM (customer relationship management) tool,” said product manager Yashar Moayedian. This is his second time attending Dreamforce, after returning this year with his company Adyen. “It’s taken over internal and external systems for a bunch of major companies.”&nbsp;</p>

The Standard pressed him to explain in plain English.

<p>The Standard pressed him to explain in plain English.</p>

“It basically helps you shop online,” Moayedian said with an amused look. “It’s [an all-in-one system] where you can place orders, pay your bills and track how your business is doing in sales and marketing.”&nbsp;

<p>“It basically helps you shop online,” Moayedian said with an amused look. “It’s [an all-in-one system] where you can place orders, pay your bills and track how your business is doing in sales and marketing.”&nbsp;</p>

As for what Salesforce actually does, Moayedian is not too far off. Its <a href="https://www.salesforce.com/products/what-is-salesforce/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">website</a> says it is a cloud-based software company headquartered in San Francisco. It provides customer relationship management software and applications on its web platform Salesforce.com. Companies access and can build atop the platform by purchasing subscriptions and licenses.

<p>As for what Salesforce actually does, Moayedian is not too far off. Its <a href="https://www.salesforce.com/products/what-is-salesforce/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">website</a> says it is a cloud-based software company headquartered in San Francisco. It provides customer relationship management software and applications on its web platform Salesforce.com. Companies access and can build atop the platform by purchasing subscriptions and licenses.</p>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-view-from-out-of-state">The View From Out of State</h2>


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<h2 id="h-the-view-from-out-of-state">The View From Out of State</h2>

Even though in-person attendance to this year’s convention is down by over 100,000 people, Dreamforce still marks the largest conference the city’s <a href="https://sfstandard.com/business/san-francisco-braces-for-epic-commercial-real-estate-crash/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">struggling downtown core</a> and hospitality industry has seen since before the pandemic.&nbsp;

<p>Even though in-person attendance to this year’s convention is down by over 100,000 people, Dreamforce still marks the largest conference the city’s <a href="https://sfstandard.com/business/san-francisco-braces-for-epic-commercial-real-estate-crash/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">struggling downtown core</a> and hospitality industry has seen since before the pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

Latané Conant is the chief marketing officer of 6sense, an artificial intelligence sales company. Conant said that she often travels to San Francisco from her home in Chicago and that this is her sixth Dreamforce, a conference she described as “the most important event of the year.”&nbsp;

<p>Latané Conant is the chief marketing officer of 6sense, an artificial intelligence sales company. Conant said that she often travels to San Francisco from her home in Chicago and that this is her sixth Dreamforce, a conference she described as “the most important event of the year.”&nbsp;</p>

In what felt like a nod to earlier times when Dreamforce attendees used to flood downtown and snap up all of the good tables, 6sense returned this year and rented out an entire nearby Mexican restaurant just to host its customers and partners who were coming and going from the convention themselves.

<p>In what felt like a nod to earlier times when Dreamforce attendees used to flood downtown and snap up all of the good tables, 6sense returned this year and rented out an entire nearby Mexican restaurant just to host its customers and partners who were coming and going from the convention themselves.</p>

“San Francisco used to be so vibrant and full, even without Dreamforce,” Conant said. “Then it became almost deserted. It was so sad. This time, I was excited to fly in and actually see a line at the cab stand and people waiting for tables at restaurants.”&nbsp;

<p>“San Francisco used to be so vibrant and full, even without Dreamforce,” Conant said. “Then it became almost deserted. It was so sad. This time, I was excited to fly in and actually see a line at the cab stand and people waiting for tables at restaurants.”&nbsp;</p>

Yoana Velikova, a Dreamforce attendee, poses for a portrait outside the conference in San Francisco on Tuesday, September 20, 2022. This is Velikova’s firt Dreamforce, and she traveled from Ruse, Bulgaria. | Morgan Ellis/The Standard


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/WillowStreet09222022_INLINED1-2500x1667.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-77405"/><figcaption>Yoana Velikova, a Dreamforce attendee, outside the conference in San Francisco on Tuesday, September 20, 2022. She traveled from Ruse, Bulgaria. | Morgan Ellis/The Standard</figcaption></figure>


Yoana Velikova traveled to San Francisco all the way from Ruse, Bulgaria—a journey that took her almost an entire day. The systems administrator was excited to be attending her first ever Dreamforce but admitted that she had some apprehensions about the city based on what she’d heard.

<p>Yoana Velikova traveled to San Francisco all the way from Ruse, Bulgaria—a journey that took her almost an entire day. The systems administrator was excited to be attending her first ever Dreamforce but admitted that she had some apprehensions about the city based on what she’d heard.</p>

“It’s an incredible place, but it’s definitely not a Hollywood scene,” Velikova said. “The homelessness on the streets is heartbreaking and it is not something you’d see in my country.”&nbsp;

<p>“It’s an incredible place, but it’s definitely not a Hollywood scene,” Velikova said. “The homelessness on the streets is heartbreaking and it is not something you’d see in my country.”&nbsp;</p>

She added that when she arrived late on Monday night, she found that her hotel wasn’t as nice as the pictures online suggested, so she scrambled at the last minute to find another.

<p>She added that when she arrived late on Monday night, she found that her hotel wasn’t as nice as the pictures online suggested, so she scrambled at the last minute to find another.</p>

“Hotels were charging $900 for the same room that they listed for $200 the night before,” Velikova said. “You know that thousands of people are coming into town to boost tourism. You don’t need to jack up the prices on them. We will spend enough money here.”

<p>“Hotels were charging $900 for the same room that they listed for $200 the night before,” Velikova said. “You know that thousands of people are coming into town to boost tourism. You don’t need to jack up the prices on them. We will spend enough money here.”</p>

With Dreamforce back in SF, we asked people what Salesforce actually does

Morgan Ellis

Mike Ege

It’s that time of the year again—the season that allows us to see which companies spent the most to influence policy at City Hall. This time, overall billings are down, but there are still some familiar names, including at the top.

<p>It’s that time of the year again—the season that allows us to see which companies spent the most to influence policy at City Hall. This time, overall billings are down, but there are still some familiar names, including at the top.</p>

The spending trends indicate that attention turned away from certain sectors like residential real estate to commercial property and jobs, which is likely one reason why a labor union—the Teamsters—made the latest list.

<p>The spending trends indicate that attention turned away from certain sectors like residential real estate to commercial property and jobs, which is likely one reason why a labor union—the Teamsters—made the latest list. </p>

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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-1-recology-412-500"><br>1. Recology—$412,500</h2>


<h2 id="h-1-recology-412-500"><br>1. Recology—$412,500</h2>

Much like <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/2021-top-ten-lobbying-clients-san-francisco-city-hall/">last year</a>, the city’s favorite rapscallion waste management contractor is way ahead of other companies in lobbyist expenses, and while it spent slightly less this year, its expenses were still <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/recology-lobbyists-city-hall-san-francisco-corruption-scandal/">significantly more than other firms&#8217;</a>.&nbsp;

<p>Much like <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/2021-top-ten-lobbying-clients-san-francisco-city-hall/">last year</a>, the city’s favorite rapscallion waste management contractor is way ahead of other companies in lobbyist expenses, and while it spent slightly less this year, its expenses were still <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/recology-lobbyists-city-hall-san-francisco-corruption-scandal/">significantly more than other firms'</a>.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Much like <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/2021-top-ten-lobbying-clients-san-francisco-city-hall/">last year</a>, the city’s favorite rapscallion waste management contractor is way ahead of other companies in lobbyist expenses, and while it spent slightly less this year, its expenses were still <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/recology-lobbyists-city-hall-san-francisco-corruption-scandal/">significantly more than other firms&#8217;</a>.&nbsp;</p>

Recology’s lobbyist, Noyola Piccini Group, has been shepherding the company through the political fallout of an <a href="https://sfstandard.com/city-hall/sf-investigates-recology-for-more-overbilling-after-95-million-payout-tied-to-corruption-scandal/">overbilling scandal</a> that erupted in late 2021, and is itself part of the fallout from the company’s involvement in the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/indicted-executive-fingers-ex-boss-in-san-francisco-nuru-corruption-case/">Mohammed Nuru/Department of Public Works corruption scandal</a>.&nbsp;

<p>Recology’s lobbyist, Noyola Piccini Group, has been shepherding the company through the political fallout of an <a href="https://sfstandard.com/city-hall/sf-investigates-recology-for-more-overbilling-after-95-million-payout-tied-to-corruption-scandal/">overbilling scandal</a> that erupted in late 2021, and is itself part of the fallout from the company’s involvement in the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/indicted-executive-fingers-ex-boss-in-san-francisco-nuru-corruption-case/">Mohammed Nuru/Department of Public Works corruption scandal</a>.&nbsp;</p>

Noyola Piccini partner David Noyola is a former chief of staff to Supervisors Aaron Peskin and David Chiu.

<p>Noyola Piccini partner David Noyola is a former chief of staff to Supervisors Aaron Peskin and David Chiu.</p>

By spring, Recology had another issue on its hands, as it emerged that the then-director of the city’s Department of the Environment, Debbie Raphael, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/sfs-environmental-agency-director-recology-25k-trash-contract/">had solicited a $25,000 donation from the company</a> back in 2015, despite it being an active contractor with the agency.&nbsp;

<p>By spring, Recology had another issue on its hands, as it emerged that the then-director of the city’s Department of the Environment, Debbie Raphael, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/sfs-environmental-agency-director-recology-25k-trash-contract/">had solicited a $25,000 donation from the company</a> back in 2015, despite it being an active contractor with the agency.&nbsp;</p>

Recology also spent the year engaging in <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/recology-trash-monopoly-ballot-measure-sam-francisco/">ballot measure brinksmanship</a> with the city over its monopoly on refuse services.&nbsp;

<p>Recology also spent the year engaging in <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/recology-trash-monopoly-ballot-measure-sam-francisco/">ballot measure brinksmanship</a> with the city over its monopoly on refuse services.&nbsp;</p>

Both parties eventually <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/recology-backtracks-on-fighting-garbage-rate-reform-in-sf-will-now-back-june-ballot-measure/">settled on a compromise measure</a> that was approved by voters, which <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/recology-charged-sf-23-million-more-than-allowed-heres-how-supes-plan-to-get-it-back/">still opens the door</a> to chipping away at the company’s monopoly on refuse services in San Francisco.&nbsp;

<p>Both parties eventually <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/recology-backtracks-on-fighting-garbage-rate-reform-in-sf-will-now-back-june-ballot-measure/">settled on a compromise measure</a> that was approved by voters, which <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/recology-charged-sf-23-million-more-than-allowed-heres-how-supes-plan-to-get-it-back/">still opens the door</a> to chipping away at the company’s monopoly on refuse services in San Francisco.&nbsp;</p>

By year end, Recology and the city agreed on <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/sf-lands-25m-from-recology-to-stabilize-trash-hauling-rates/">another settlement that balances costs</a> for Recology’s customers.&nbsp;

<p>By year end, Recology and the city agreed on <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/sf-lands-25m-from-recology-to-stabilize-trash-hauling-rates/">another settlement that balances costs</a> for Recology’s customers.&nbsp;</p>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading">2. Crown Castle—$228,000</h2>


The cell-tower giant spent a little more this year, but is now No. 2 on the list.&nbsp;

<p>The cell-tower giant spent a little more this year, but is now No. 2 on the list.&nbsp;</p>

Crown Castle engaged with the Office of Economic and Workforce Development on an industry workshop and other matters over the course of the year, continuing to work with Platinum Advisors on its regional 5G expansion strategy.&nbsp;

<p>Crown Castle engaged with the Office of Economic and Workforce Development on an industry workshop and other matters over the course of the year, continuing to work with Platinum Advisors on its regional 5G expansion strategy.&nbsp;</p>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading">3. Golden State Warriors—$208,496</h2>


<h2>3. Golden State Warriors—$208,496</h2>

The Warriors paid out to multiple firms, including New Deal Advisers, on different initiatives. Their lobbyists met with public officials including San Francisco Police Chief Bill Scott to share information on <a href="https://sfstandard.com/arts-culture/photos-warriors-fans-celebrate-as-victorious-dubs-return-to-san-francisco-for-victory-parade/">their victory parade in June</a>.&nbsp;

<p>The Warriors paid out to multiple firms, including New Deal Advisers, on different initiatives. Their lobbyists met with public officials including San Francisco Police Chief Bill Scott to share information on <a href="https://sfstandard.com/arts-culture/photos-warriors-fans-celebrate-as-victorious-dubs-return-to-san-francisco-for-victory-parade/">their victory parade in June</a>.&nbsp;</p>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading">4. Prologis—$182,367</h2>


Prologis is a real estate firm with global assets specializing in warehouse space, particularly near major cities where land is at a premium, so it&#8217;s no surprise its headquarters is in San Francisco. One of its biggest tenants is Amazon, which also shows up on this year’s list.&nbsp;

<p>Prologis is a real estate firm with global assets specializing in warehouse space, particularly near major cities where land is at a premium, so it's no surprise its headquarters is in San Francisco. One of its biggest tenants is Amazon, which also shows up on this year’s list.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prologis is a real estate firm with global assets specializing in warehouse space, particularly near major cities where land is at a premium, so it&#8217;s no surprise its headquarters is in San Francisco. One of its biggest tenants is Amazon, which also shows up on this year’s list.&nbsp;</p>

Lighthouse Public Affairs contacted city departments on Prologis’s behalf throughout 2022, mainly the Planning Department and the Office of Economic and Workforce Development. A major project is the <a href="https://www.prologis.com/prologis-san-francisco-gateway">San Francisco Gateway</a>, a gigantic site in the Bayview aimed at hosting last-mile delivery services, light industrial and other similar uses.&nbsp;

<p>Lighthouse Public Affairs contacted city departments on Prologis’s behalf throughout 2022, mainly the Planning Department and the Office of Economic and Workforce Development. A major project is the <a href="https://www.prologis.com/prologis-san-francisco-gateway">San Francisco Gateway</a>, a gigantic site in the Bayview aimed at hosting last-mile delivery services, light industrial and other similar uses.&nbsp;</p>

Prologis, also a big spender on lobbying in 2021, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/board-of-supervisors-preview-new-rules-for-cops-new-digs-for-firefighters/">sold a 5-acre site in the Bayview to the city last year for $38 million</a> for use as a training facility by the San Francisco Fire Department.&nbsp;

<p>Prologis, also a big spender on lobbying in 2021, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/board-of-supervisors-preview-new-rules-for-cops-new-digs-for-firefighters/">sold a 5-acre site in the Bayview to the city last year for $38 million</a> for use as a training facility by the San Francisco Fire Department.&nbsp;</p>

The company’s CEO, Hamid Moghadam, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/business/mayor-london-breed-real-estate-business-leaders-campaign/">has become increasingly vocal</a> about the nexus of drug use, homelessness, crime and street conditions that has become a major pain point for city businesses—especially <a href="https://www.bizjournals.com/sanfrancisco/news/2022/07/27/prologis-ceo-hamid-moghadam-armed-robbery-crime.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">after</a> Moghadam <a href="https://www.bizjournals.com/sanfrancisco/news/2022/07/27/prologis-ceo-hamid-moghadam-armed-robbery-crime.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">himself got mugged outside his house last summer</a>.&nbsp;

<p>The company’s CEO, Hamid Moghadam, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/business/mayor-london-breed-real-estate-business-leaders-campaign/">has become increasingly vocal</a> about the nexus of drug use, homelessness, crime and street conditions that has become a major pain point for city businesses—especially <a href="https://www.bizjournals.com/sanfrancisco/news/2022/07/27/prologis-ceo-hamid-moghadam-armed-robbery-crime.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">after</a> Moghadam <a href="https://www.bizjournals.com/sanfrancisco/news/2022/07/27/prologis-ceo-hamid-moghadam-armed-robbery-crime.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">himself got mugged outside his house last summer</a>.&nbsp;</p>

5. Jacobs (formerly CH2M Hill)—$180,099


<h2 class="wp-block-heading">5. Jacobs (formerly CH2M Hill)—$180,099</h2>


<h2>5. Jacobs (formerly CH2M Hill)—$180,099</h2>

Lighthouse Public Affairs engaged with the Board of Supervisors for the construction engineering firm, which is currently in contract with the Port of San Francisco for the ongoing Embarcadero Seawall Resilience Project.&nbsp;

<p>Lighthouse Public Affairs engaged with the Board of Supervisors for the construction engineering firm, which is currently in contract with the Port of San Francisco for the ongoing Embarcadero Seawall Resilience Project.&nbsp;</p>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading">6. Amazon—$180,000</h2>


Amazon made a big splash in local news this year, starting with the Board of Supervisors putting the brakes <a href="https://sfstandard.com/business/amazon-soma-san-francisco-zoning-labor/">on its proposed delivery hub project in SoMa</a>.&nbsp;

<p>Amazon made a big splash in local news this year, starting with the Board of Supervisors putting the brakes <a href="https://sfstandard.com/business/amazon-soma-san-francisco-zoning-labor/">on its proposed delivery hub project in SoMa</a>.&nbsp;</p>

The project caught the attention of housing kingpin John Elberling, who in short order targeted the online shopping Goliath with a tax measure that was botched so badly it wound up <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/judge-amazon-tax-prop-k-ballot-meaure-todco/">being tossed from the ballot.</a>&nbsp;

<p>The project caught the attention of housing kingpin John Elberling, who in short order targeted the online shopping Goliath with a tax measure that was botched so badly it wound up <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/judge-amazon-tax-prop-k-ballot-meaure-todco/">being tossed from the ballot.</a>&nbsp;</p>

Noyola Piccini Group contacted multiple agencies on Amazon’s behalf in 2022, including the Office of Economic and Workforce Development (whose director <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/london-breed-appointee-potential-conflict-interest-amazon-project/">had previously been a booster</a> of the SoMa project), the SF Municipal Transportation Agency and the Recreation and Park Department.&nbsp;

<p>Noyola Piccini Group contacted multiple agencies on Amazon’s behalf in 2022, including the Office of Economic and Workforce Development (whose director <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/london-breed-appointee-potential-conflict-interest-amazon-project/">had previously been a booster</a> of the SoMa project), the SF Municipal Transportation Agency and the Recreation and Park Department.&nbsp;</p>

The developer continued to work with Reuben and Junius and Noyola Piccini Group to engage with the Planning Department and the Board of Supervisors on projects, including <a href="https://sfyimby.com/2021/12/new-renderings-for-som-designed-offices-at-424-brannan-street-soma-san-francisco.html">its Brannan Street office</a> complex.&nbsp;

<p>The developer continued to work with Reuben and Junius and Noyola Piccini Group to engage with the Planning Department and the Board of Supervisors on projects, including <a href="https://sfyimby.com/2021/12/new-renderings-for-som-designed-offices-at-424-brannan-street-soma-san-francisco.html">its Brannan Street office</a> complex.&nbsp;</p>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading">8. Salesforce—$180,000</h2>


The software platform is often used by its big kahuna, Marc Benioff, as another kind of platform—to promote <a href="https://sfstandard.com/business/marc-benioff-calls-to-restructure-sf-downtown-adding-more-housing/">his ideas on how to run the city</a>.&nbsp;

<p>The software platform is often used by its big kahuna, Marc Benioff, as another kind of platform—to promote <a href="https://sfstandard.com/business/marc-benioff-calls-to-restructure-sf-downtown-adding-more-housing/">his ideas on how to run the city</a>.&nbsp;</p>

But Benioff and Salesforce had a bumpy 2022, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/business/salesforce-axes-752-employees-in-san-francisco/">laying off workers</a> and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/business/heres-how-much-office-space-salesforce-dumped-last-year/">shrinking the company’s office footprint</a>. Nevertheless, they still had Lighthouse Public Affairs regularly contact Mayor London Breed’s office on a number of issues.

<p>But Benioff and Salesforce had a bumpy 2022, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/business/salesforce-axes-752-employees-in-san-francisco/">laying off workers</a> and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/business/heres-how-much-office-space-salesforce-dumped-last-year/">shrinking the company’s office footprint</a>. Nevertheless, they still had Lighthouse Public Affairs regularly contact Mayor London Breed’s office on a number of issues.</p>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading">9. Uber Technologies—$169,000</h2>


Noyola Piccini Group contacted the Board of Supervisors and the Office of Economic and Workforce Development several times on the rideshare pioneer’s behalf. In 2022, Uber joined a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/transportation/if-you-cant-beat-em-join-em-will-ride-hailing-tech-save-the-taxi-industry/">pilot program to work with taxicabs</a> amid a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/technology/san-francisco-birthplace-of-ridehailing-becomes-the-center-of-its-decline/">Covid-driven drop in rideshare use</a>, but ended the year facing <a href="https://sfstandard.com/transportation/uber-san-francisco-hq-swarmed-by-workers-launching-new-statewide-union/">labor woes</a>.&nbsp;

<p>Noyola Piccini Group contacted the Board of Supervisors and the Office of Economic and Workforce Development several times on the rideshare pioneer’s behalf. In 2022, Uber joined a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/transportation/if-you-cant-beat-em-join-em-will-ride-hailing-tech-save-the-taxi-industry/">pilot program to work with taxicabs</a> amid a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/technology/san-francisco-birthplace-of-ridehailing-becomes-the-center-of-its-decline/">Covid-driven drop in rideshare use</a>, but ended the year facing <a href="https://sfstandard.com/transportation/uber-san-francisco-hq-swarmed-by-workers-launching-new-statewide-union/">labor woes</a>.&nbsp;</p>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading">10. Teamsters Joint Council 7—$165,000</h2>


<h2>10. Teamsters Joint Council 7—$165,000</h2>

The Joint Council actually includes a multitude of Teamsters Union locals throughout Northern California, representing workers in settings ranging from San Francisco International Airport and AutoReturn to Recology.&nbsp;

<p>The Joint Council actually includes a multitude of Teamsters Union locals throughout Northern California, representing workers in settings ranging from San Francisco International Airport and AutoReturn to Recology.&nbsp;</p>

The Teamsters <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/union-amazon-shop-sf-mayor-breed-broad-support-private-meeting/">partnered with Mayor Breed on Amazon’s SoMa Project</a> in an effort to both win approval for the project and make it a union-friendly shop. They also had multiple bargaining agreements up this year, including with Recology.

<p>The Teamsters <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/union-amazon-shop-sf-mayor-breed-broad-support-private-meeting/">partnered with Mayor Breed on Amazon’s SoMa Project</a> in an effort to both win approval for the project and make it a union-friendly shop. They also had multiple bargaining agreements up this year, including with Recology.</p>

They kept New Deal Advisers&#8217; Chris Gruwell very busy in 2022 contacting the Board of Supervisors as well as SFMTA.

<p>They kept New Deal Advisers' Chris Gruwell very busy in 2022 contacting the Board of Supervisors as well as SFMTA.</p>

<p>They kept New Deal Advisers&#8217; Chris Gruwell very busy in 2022 contacting the Board of Supervisors as well as SFMTA.</p>

Warriors spent big lobbying City Hall—see which other players topped the list

Alexandra Kenin

Sometimes a long holiday weekend of friends, family and feasting can become too much of too many good things.&nbsp;

<p>Sometimes a long holiday weekend of friends, family and feasting can become too much of too many good things.&nbsp;</p>

What to do when the belly and the house feel too full? Head outside! Getting some fresh air and scenery can ease stress and get your metabolism firing again.&nbsp;

<p>What to do when the belly and the house feel too full? Head outside! Getting some fresh air and scenery can ease stress and get your metabolism firing again.&nbsp;</p>

Got folks in town who aren’t used to SF’s hills? Head to one of these eight walks on flat, easy terrain found all throughout the city.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<p>Got folks in town who aren’t used to SF’s hills? Head to one of these eight walks on flat, easy terrain found all throughout the city.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

8 Flat and Easy Places to Walk in San Francisco


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-8-flat-and-easy-places-to-walk-in-san-francisco">8 Flat and Easy Places to Walk in San Francisco</h2>


<a href="https://sfturkeytrot.wixsite.com/sftt">The SF Turkey Trot</a>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-sf-turkey-trot"><a href="https://sfturkeytrot.wixsite.com/sftt">The SF Turkey Trot</a></h2>


The SF Turkey Trot is a Golden Gate Park tradition held on the park’s Polo Fields. On the race’s Thanksgiving “menu” are a timed 5-mile trail run, an untimed 3-mile walk and a kids’ “Gobbler Chase” that clocks in at just 100 meters. Not a runner? Join the spectators who sit on the sidelines and watch the fun. It’s a great way to spend the morning before you fill your plate.

<p>The SF Turkey Trot is a Golden Gate Park tradition held on the park’s Polo Fields. On the race’s Thanksgiving “menu” are a timed 5-mile trail run, an untimed 3-mile walk and a kids’ “Gobbler Chase” that clocks in at just 100 meters. Not a runner? Join the spectators who sit on the sidelines and watch the fun. It’s a great way to spend the morning before you fill your plate.</p>

The Turkey Trot in Golden Gate Park is a SF Thanksgiving tradition. | Alexandra Kenin 


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/strolls-turkey-trot-sf-1-2500x1667.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-93704"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Turkey Trot in Golden Gate Park is a San Francisco Thanksgiving tradition. | Alexandra Kenin </figcaption></figure>


<a href="https://sfrecpark.org/511/Glen-Canyon-Park">Glen Canyon Park</a>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glen-canyon-park"><a href="https://sfrecpark.org/511/Glen-Canyon-Park">Glen Canyon Park</a></h2>


Glen Canyon Park is one of the best places in the city to feel like you’re <em>not </em>in the city. This 66.6-acre canyon has two flat, wide dirt trails that run along either side of Islais Creek. Those feeling more adventurous can head up to the upper trails to get a closer view of the rock formations. If you’re coming from Glen Park BART, take the <a href="https://sanfranciscoparksalliance.org/glen-park-greenway/">Glen Park Greenway</a>, and don’t miss the newly painted <a href="https://gpmural.com/">Burnside Stairway</a>.

<p>Glen Canyon Park is one of the best places in the city to feel like you’re <em>not </em>in the city. This 66.6-acre canyon has two flat, wide dirt trails that run along either side of Islais Creek. Those feeling more adventurous can head up to the upper trails to get a closer view of the rock formations. If you’re coming from Glen Park BART, take the <a href="https://sanfranciscoparksalliance.org/glen-park-greenway/">Glen Park Greenway</a>, and don’t miss the newly painted <a href="https://gpmural.com/">Burnside Stairway</a>.</p>

<a href="https://sfrecpark.org/1538/JFK-Promenade">The JFK Promenade in Golden Gate Park</a>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-jfk-promenade-in-golden-gate-park"><a href="https://sfrecpark.org/1538/JFK-Promenade">The JFK Promenade in Golden Gate Park</a></h2>


The JFK Promenade is 1.5 miles of paved road in Golden Gate Park is now completely turned over to pedestrians and cyclists after the recent election. Along the Promenade, walkers, bikers and skaters pass by the Doggie Diner heads, various art projects, food trucks, live music and even a beer garden.&nbsp;

<p>The JFK Promenade is 1.5 miles of paved road in Golden Gate Park is now completely turned over to pedestrians and cyclists after the recent election. Along the Promenade, walkers, bikers and skaters pass by the Doggie Diner heads, various art projects, food trucks, live music and even a beer garden.&nbsp;</p>

Artwork lines JFK Drive in Golden Gate Park now that it will be permanently car-free. | Alexandra Kenin 


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/strolls-kenin-jfk-drive-2500x2500.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-93713"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Artwork lines JFK Drive in Golden Gate Park now that it will be permanently car-free. | Alexandra Kenin </figcaption></figure>


Stow Lake is a micro-adventure in Golden Gate Park. Walk around the flat paved path that circles the lake, or use one of the two bridges to walk onto Strawberry Hill where you can circle the island on a dirt trail. Those with extra energy can climb to the top of the hill to reach the highest point in the park—and those wanting to eschew a walk entirely can rent a rowboat or pedal boat and float the route.

<p>Stow Lake is a micro-adventure in Golden Gate Park. Walk around the flat paved path that circles the lake, or use one of the two bridges to walk onto Strawberry Hill where you can circle the island on a dirt trail. Those with extra energy can climb to the top of the hill to reach the highest point in the park—and those wanting to eschew a walk entirely can rent a rowboat or pedal boat and float the route.</p>

<a href="https://www.greathighwaypark.com/">The Great Highway, aka The Great Walkway</a>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-great-highway-aka-the-great-walkway"><a href="https://www.greathighwaypark.com/">The Great Highway, aka The Great Walkway</a></h2>


Like the JFK Promenade in Golden Gate Park, SF voted to keep parts of the Great Highway <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/sf-voters-likely-to-keep-car-free-jfk-drive-according-to-early-returns/">closed to cars at all times</a> and open only to cyclists and pedestrians. Head to the Great Highway between Lincoln Way and Skyline Boulevard to enjoy a 17-acre, 2-mile open space that is flat, paved and makes for a scenic outing on clear days.

<p>Like the JFK Promenade in Golden Gate Park, SF voted to keep parts of the Great Highway <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/sf-voters-likely-to-keep-car-free-jfk-drive-according-to-early-returns/">closed to cars at all times</a> and open only to cyclists and pedestrians. Head to the Great Highway between Lincoln Way and Skyline Boulevard to enjoy a 17-acre, 2-mile open space that is flat, paved and makes for a scenic outing on clear days.</p>

Now that SF voters passed a measure to keep part of the Great Highway car-free, the area makes a great destination for walking, biking and skating. | Alexandra Kenin 


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/strolls-great-highway-1-2500x1667.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-93716"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Now that SF voters passed a measure to keep part of the Great Highway car-free, the area makes a great destination for walking, biking and skating. | Alexandra Kenin </figcaption></figure>


<a href="https://www.presidio.gov/trails/presidio-promenade-trail">The Presidio Promenade Trail</a>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-presidio-promenade-trail"><a href="https://www.presidio.gov/trails/presidio-promenade-trail">The Presidio Promenade Trail</a></h2>


The Presidio Promenade is a 2.1-mile trail that brings you from the Presidio Main Post to the Golden Gate Bridge. On your way, you’ll see the San Francisco National Cemetery, the old Cavalry Stables, Crissy Field from above, and, of course, the bridge. But you might get no farther than the new <a href="https://sfstandard.com/arts-culture/party-on-a-freeway-sfs-much-anticipated-tunnel-tops-park-opens-in-the-presidio/">Tunnel Tops</a> and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/community/battery-bluff-park-opens-up-new-vistas-in-the-presidio/">Battery Bluff</a> parks that greet you at the trail’s start. The route has some elevation up to the bridge but is paved so that even families with strollers or wheelchairs can enjoy it. And of course, prepare for a 4-plus mile walk if you want to make it a round trip.

<p>The Presidio Promenade is a 2.1-mile trail that brings you from the Presidio Main Post to the Golden Gate Bridge. On your way, you’ll see the San Francisco National Cemetery, the old Cavalry Stables, Crissy Field from above, and, of course, the bridge. But you might get no farther than the new <a href="https://sfstandard.com/arts-culture/party-on-a-freeway-sfs-much-anticipated-tunnel-tops-park-opens-in-the-presidio/">Tunnel Tops</a> and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/community/battery-bluff-park-opens-up-new-vistas-in-the-presidio/">Battery Bluff</a> parks that greet you at the trail’s start. The route has some elevation up to the bridge but is paved so that even families with strollers or wheelchairs can enjoy it. And of course, prepare for a 4-plus mile walk if you want to make it a round trip.</p>

The Presidio Promenade trail provides excellent views of Crissy Field and downtown. | Alexandra Kenin 


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/strolls-crissy-field-2500x1875.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-93719"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Presidio Promenade trail provides excellent views of Crissy Field and downtown. | Alexandra Kenin </figcaption></figure>


<a href="https://sfstandard.com/arts-culture/crissy-field-guide-presidio-san-francisco/">Crissy Field Trails</a>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crissy-field-trails"><a href="https://sfstandard.com/arts-culture/crissy-field-guide-presidio-san-francisco/">Crissy Field Trails</a></h2>


This classic San Francisco walk with Golden Gate Bridge and bay views never disappoints. Start your walk at Crissy Field East Beach or west of Crissy Field Marsh and turn around at Fort Point or anywhere before. If it’s a cold day, duck into the Warming Hut for hot chocolate.

<p>This classic San Francisco walk with Golden Gate Bridge and bay views never disappoints. Start your walk at Crissy Field East Beach or west of Crissy Field Marsh and turn around at Fort Point or anywhere before. If it’s a cold day, duck into the Warming Hut for hot chocolate.</p>

<a href="https://salesforcetransitcenter.com/salesforce-park/">The Salesforce Park Gardens</a>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-salesforce-park-gardens"><a href="https://salesforcetransitcenter.com/salesforce-park/">The Salesforce Park Gardens</a></h2>


Salesforce Park brings some much-needed green space to Downtown San Francisco. This 4-block, 5.4-acre rooftop park is reminiscent of New York’s High Line. The park is four floors above the city’s busy streets and landscaped with 600 trees and 16,000 plants in 13 mini botanical gardens that shimmer in the reflection of the surrounding office towers.

<p>Salesforce Park brings some much-needed green space to Downtown San Francisco. This 4-block, 5.4-acre rooftop park is reminiscent of New York’s High Line. The park is four floors above the city’s busy streets and landscaped with 600 trees and 16,000 plants in 13 mini botanical gardens that shimmer in the reflection of the surrounding office towers.</p>

Salesforce Park is an urban oasis South of Market. | Alexandra Kenin 


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/strolls-salesforce-park-2500x2138.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-93707"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Salesforce Park is an urban oasis South of Market. | Alexandra Kenin </figcaption></figure>


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<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><a href="https://sfstandard.com/arts-culture/best-thanksgiving-weekend-san-francisco-food-pies-turkey-wine-activities/"><strong>Read More from Our Guide to the Best of Thanksgiving in San Francisco</strong></a></h2>


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With Dreamforce back in SF, we asked people what Salesforce actually does

Warriors spent big lobbying City Hall—see which other players topped the list

Where to walk off your Thanksgiving feast around San Francisco

Transamerica Pyramid at 50: San Francisco icon enters a new era with $400M redevelopment

49ers, Warriors and Giants off-field real estate plays: an inventory