Community Corner
Kitten Rescued From Fire + Toy Donations Needed: Saturday Smiles
Celebrity chef opens new chicken restaurant; popular winery sold; "Tree of Hope" decorated with origami cranes and more nice NorCal news.

If you are taking a break from the holiday hustle and bustle to catch up on some of the lighter news you may have missed, Patch is here to help. We have gathered some uplifting stories from across Northern California we think you'll enjoy.
Fire Breaks Out In Livermore, Kitten Rescued: LPFD
- A two-alarm fire on Pacific Avenue caused "major" damage to some units and minor firefighter injuries.
Guy Fieri's Chicken Guy! Restaurant Opens In American Canyon
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- The 2,800-square-foot restaurant at 200 American Canyon Road has a drive-through and ample seating.
Fremont Has A New Police K-9 Team
- Nala is trained to detect gunshot residue and explosives.
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- The 230-acre Concannon Vineyard was sold to Lemmons Family Vineyards and Darcie Kent Winery, the vineyards announced.
World Tree Of Hope Decorated With Nearly 20,000 Origami Cranes In Downtown San Francisco
- "There's so many cranes it looks like it's snow flocked. That's what's so amazing," said Linda Mihara, the tree's head designer.
- The police department holds a Stuff the Cruiser event. If you miss it, then what?
Orinda Police Department Hosting Holiday Toy Drive
- The toys are for the Contra Costa County Family Justice Center, which served nearly 4,000 children last year.
- The Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter is participating in the annual Empty the Shelter program.
Widmer World Open For 25th Season
- The iconic Pleasanton holiday lights display opened Sunday for its 25th season.
Let us know if you have an idea for a nice news story in your town. Email your story tips to autumn.johnson@patch.com.
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