Measles Outbreak; Hippo Spanker Wanted: Top CA Stories

CALIFORNIA – It was another busy news week across California. Missed the headlines on Patch? Whether you're looking for breaking or bizarre news, or sweet or silly features, we've rounded up some of the most share-worthy stories from the past week.

Take a look back at the top 10 news stories across the state over the past week. (Get Patch real-time email alerts for the latest news from your California neighborhood. Also, download the free Patch iPhone app or free Patch Android app. Also, be sure to follow your local Patch on Facebook!)

1. California's Emergency Firefighting Budget Is Quickly Dwindling

The state has already spent $230 million on emergency firefighting since July 1.

• Also see: Another Reason To Love Firefighters: They'll Feed Your Fish

2. Measles Outbreak In 21 States, Including California: CDC

More than 100 cases have been identified across the country, according to the CDC.

• Also see: California's Best Hospitals: New Rankings Released By U.S. News

3. Utah Firefighter Dies Battling Largest Fire In California History

The 42-year-old battalion chief leaves behind a wife and a young son. He's the 11th person to die this California fire season.

4. 'Dave Dave' Set On Fire By His Dad At O.C. Motel Passes Away

The former David Rothenberg was 6 in 1983 when promised a theme-park vacation, but instead set aflame in Buena Park due to custody dispute.

5. 'Mommy Fell Into The Pool!' 5-Year-Old Saves Mom From Drowning

"Please hug your loved ones a little closer tonight," a Claremont husband and father said of his brave sons who saved their drowning mother.

6. Donald Trump's Star A Tempting Target In Hollywood

The latest protester to go after the president's star on the Walk of Fame faces prison time, but he doesn't think it should be a crime.

7. Baby Elephant Born At Safari Park On World Elephant Day

The calf, named Umzula-zuli, was born just before midnight on Sunday.

8. Happier Than A Humpback Whale; Watch This Guy Play In The Pacific

What's happier than a baby humpback whale? Not much, according to resident whale watching Captain Dave Anderson. Watch this guy jump!

9. Watch: Hippo Spanker Wanted By The LAPD

After first figuring out what crime he committed, police are looking for a man caught on camera spanking LA Zoo's Rosie, the hippopotamus.

10. Watch: Rattlesnakes Duke It Out For Love In California Mountains

The snakes were seen in Cheeseboro Canyon, wrestling to prove their strength and dominance.

FOR THE WEEKEND:

• Art, Wine & Beer Festival|VegFest|Art In The Park: NorCal Weekend
• Pacific Wine & Food Classic; ¡Latin Food Fest!: SoCal Weekend

Photo courtesy of the Los Angeles Zoo