Aquarium​ Reopens + Man Wins Over $500K Jackpot + New Restaurants Open: Saturday Smiles

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA — To keep your weekend light, Patch presents some positive Southern California stories from the past week — many that hopefully will brighten your day.

Animals

Black Bear Cubs Found Wandering In Neighborhood Brought To Ramona Wildlife Center

Ramona Wildlife Center is currently the only facility in California that accepts black bear cubs for rehabilitation.

Goats, Sheep Enlisted For Wildfire Prevention In La Cañada

Not far from the Eaton Fire burn area, one foothill city is turning to animals to help harden the community against wildfire risk.

Pet Adoption Fees Waived In August At San Diego County Animal Shelters

All animals adopted from county shelters will be spayed or neutered, vaccinated, microchipped and include a one-year license for dogs.

Refreshed Bayside Aquarium Reopening At SeaWorld San Diego

The revamped space features a range of freshwater and saltwater species, including two axolotls and a California two-spot octopus.

Arts and Entertainment

Brick-Or-Treat Monster Party Creeping Back To Legoland California Resort

The Carlsbad-based theme park will transform into a family-friendly Halloween destination with candy, characters, live shows and more.

Carlsbad Amusement Park Among 20 Best In U.S. In New Ranking

Of 8 million listings, fewer than 1% achieve the "best of the best" milestone, according to TripAdvisor.

Iconic Legend Diana Ross Plans 2 Shows In Riverside County

The "Queen of Motown Records" will perform Dec. 12-13. Tickets go on sale Aug. 8.

South OC Actress Debuts Voice-Acting Chops In New 'Wednesday' Commercial

The south Orange County native voices the new Wendy's "Wednesday" commercial that premiered Aug. 4.

Trina Set To Take The Stage This Weekend At SeaWorld San Diego

Several hip-hop, R&B and rap artists have performed during the 2025 Summer Spectacular Concert Series at SeaWorld San Diego.

Business

Award-Winning Burger Chain To Open Fourth South Bay Location: 'Flavor You Can Taste In Every Bite'

"When it comes to flavor, freshness, and chargrilled quality, Habit delivers," one restaurant official said.

Beat The Heat At Portals Entertainment In Temecula: Take A Peek Inside This All-Ages Play Place

We spent an afternoon inside this indoor mini-golf, laser tag and arcade games collide. Plan an outing for family, parties and team bonding!

Cars, A Childhood Dream, And A New Styling Center. How A Couple Hopes To Leave Their Mark In The South Bay

"It's not your normal garage style shop, it's high-end," an owner of the new South Bay Tint World told Patch. "It's a one-stop shop."

Harvest Season 2025 Begins In Temecula Wine Country

To celebrate the valley's most exciting season, events are planned across the region.

New Chick Fil-A Coming La Quinta: Cows Eat Free On Opening Day

This opportunity may moo-ve you to find a cow costume for opening day of the newest Chick-fil-A in Coachella Valley.

Pechenga Resort Casino To Host 4th Annual Tacos & Tequila Festival

Guests can indulge in "limitless" bites of al pastor, chicken, carne asada and veggie tacos.

Popular Bagel Chain Celebrating New Location By Fundraising For Animal Rescue Non-Profit

Customers who donate at least $5 to the non-profit will receive free food from the bagel chain.

Saint & Second Opens New Location In Manhattan Beach: 'As Thoughtful As It Is Inviting'

"Saint & Second offers a come-as-you-are experience rooted in creativity, community, and California flavor."

Spanish Varietal Albariño Worth A Try At These Temecula Valley Wineries

The grapes are gaining color as harvest approaches. Until then, stop by these Temecula wineries for a taste of this crisp, citrus Albariño.

Specialty Food Market To Open Massive Food Hall, Store In OC

H Mart is opening a 70,000-square-foot supermarket and food hall Thursday, Aug. 7, The Orange County Register reported.

Community

Donate Clothes, Get Free FOA Admission At Runway Fashion Show: What To Know

The Festival of Arts' 16th annual Runway Fashion Show is set for Sunday, Aug. 10 at the Festival Green. What to know.

Manhattan Beach Food & Wine Event Returns September

The event will feature several highly acclaimed chefs from across the country, according to organizers.

Military Heroes Festival To Honor San Diego Military Families

"The Military Heroes Festival is a space to recognize the service and sacrifices military families make every day."

Palm Desert Calls On SoCal Graphic Design Students To Create New City Seal

Up to three student or recent grad finalists will win a $500 honorarium and the opportunity to refine their design.

Poker Player Wins Nearly $600K At Sycuan Casino Resort

The player won a $595,375.26 jackpot after playing at the Face Up Pai Gow Poker table.

'The Best Of California': LA Farmers Market To Host Pop-Up Wine Experience All Month

Guests will also get to enter a special sweepstakes for a chance to win a trip to Paso Robles and experience wine country in person.

Veterans Memorial Park Art Under Consideration This Week In Carlsbad

The city's art commission will review the final recommended design at a Thursday meeting.

Wildomar Area Kids Get 200 Pairs Of Shoes At Nonprofit Event: Report

Ahead of the new school year, children received free athletic shoes thanks to this Nashville-based program.

Sports

Encinitas Surfer Makes Waves, Winning US Open Of Surfing: 2025

The Encinitas-based 22-year-old made bold moves on the last day of the nine-day festival.