Top 17 California Stories Of 2017

CALIFORNIA – The year has almost come to a close, so we're taking a look back at some of the top stories across California over the past year.

As we pause to reflect on 2017, we remember the lives lost and honor the heroes of the deadly shootings and devastating wildfires that impacted our state. But we also recall stories that brought smiles to our faces and filled us with pride, from the Golden State Warriors clinching another Championship in Northern California, to learning that the Olympics will return to Southern California.

From breaking news to heartwarming features, take a look back at some of our top stories from California Patch sites. They are listed in no particular order.

1. Las Vegas Shooting: 'I Will Find You, Mom' Facebook Search Shared Over 17,000 Times

A Facebook post seeking Diane Hill was shared 17,000 times. Someone somewhere can help identify my mom! Social media has power. Please help.

• Also see:
  • Las Vegas Shooting Victims: The Stories Of The California Lives Lost
  • Rancho Tehama Shootings Death Toll Rises To 6
  • Heartbreaking Letter Describes Teaching In Mass Shooting Era

2. Thomas Fire Now Largest Wildfire In CA History

The fire in Southern California has grown to 273,400 acres. It's only 65 percent contained.

• Also see:
  • Lilac Fire Burns Out Of Control In San Diego County
  • Horse Community Aids Equine Victims Of Lilac Fire
  • The Hero Who Saved Bunny From CA Blaze Comes Forward

3. 11 Dead As Fires Devastate Sonoma, Napa Counties

Authorities confirmed two more fatalities in Sonoma County, where some 150 missing person reports have been received.

• Update: Death Toll Rises To 44 In Northern California Wildfires

4. Thousands Donate To Family Of Fallen San Diego Firefighter

Cory Iverson, an engineer from Cal Fire's San Diego unit, died fighting the Thomas Fire in Ventura County.

• Previous: Cal Fire Engineer From San Diego County Dies Fighting Thomas Fire

5. Partying In 'Panties': Snapchat Video of Beaumont High Teacher With Students Led To Arrest

Samantha Ciotta was a "good mother," but now she faces felony charges, divorce and a school community that's shocked and disappointed.

• Update: Samantha Ciotta, Accused Beaumont High Teacher, Makes Appearance

6. Kevin Spacey's Brother Describes Abuse-Filled Childhood

Kevin Spacey's brother Randy B. Fowler said his childhood was a dark one filled with rape and violence at the hands of their father.

7. Heartbreaking: Murrieta Valley Graduate Dies From Rare Bacterial Infection While Away At College

Lianne Dennstedt was just 19 years old and was attending school at Northern Arizona University.

8. Jailed After Psychotic Break: California's Mental Health Care Nightmare Becomes Mother's Reality

Sara Feldman, wife and mother of three, sat in jail for months awaiting a bed at Patton State Hospital after starting a fire in her bathtub.

9. Hate No More: A White Supremacist Transforms

He was a skinhead for 15 years, covered in 33 swastika tattoos. Thanks to an unlikely friendship, he's renouncing the hate he once espoused.

10. Community Mourns Loss Of Arlie Smith, Beloved 'Costco Guy'

Smith, who was a greeter, battled Multiple Sclerosis and terminal bone cancer. He will be missed.

11. 'Dear Mr. Google Manifesto': Epic Response From Chemical Engineer, Corp VP, Mom Of 5

"Women in science and engineering fields need to start telling their stories," she says.

12. Cancer Survivor Celebrates By Dancing With Doctor In La Jolla

Scripps Health oncologist Dr. Irene Hutchins and cancer patient Steve Valentine celebrated Cancer Survivors Day with a special dance.

13. Blind Dog Missing In Santa Cruz Mountains Rescued By Off-Duty Firefighter On Hike

In quintessential firefighter style, he the hoisted dog, who was too weak to stand, across his shoulders and started the mountain ascent.

14. Swimming Rattlesnake Panics Folsom Lake Boaters

The laughing quickly subsided and the screaming started when they realized the poisonous snake was trying to slither onto the boat.

15. Golden State Warriors Win NBA Championship

They defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers 129-120 in Game 5.

16. Los Angeles To Host The 2028 Olympics

Los Angeles will host the 2028 Olympics thanks to a tentative deal with the International Olympic Committee.

17. The Top Misspelled Word In California Is...

Google compiled a list of what word each state struggles with the most, and California's entry may surprise you.

• Also see: Is California One Of The Happiest States In The Country?

We know there were many more memorable moments and share-worthy stories in 2017. Tell us about your favorite stories in the comment section below.

ALSO SEE:

• 2017's California Beach Report
• 2017's Best Restaurants In California
• 2017's Top Dog Names In California
• 2017's Best & Worst Places To Raise A Family In California
• 2017's Best & Worst Places To Retire In California
• 2017's Best & Worst California Cities For Driving
• 2017's Fastest-Growing Cities In California
• 2017's Safest, Least Safe Cities In California
• 2017's Best Foodie Cities In California

Image via Patch