NorCal Hotel Voted World's Best + Scarecrow Stroll: Saturday Smiles

It was a hot, busy week in the Bay Area. As you settle into the weekend, take a moment to catch up on some of the lighter news from across Northern California.

Livermore Woman Hosts Make-A-Wish Fundraiser To Honor Son

• Veronica Johnson has raised over $394K for Make-A-Wish in honor of her late son.

Bay Area Hotel Voted World's Best In New Survey

• A lodge on the Sonoma coast was named the best place to stay in the world by international readers of Condé Nast Traveler.

Future Of Iconic Bay Area Landmark Secured

• The prominent property where the Lafayette Hillside Memorial resides was put up for sale last year.

Fall Job Fair Bringing Over 50 Employers To Pleasanton

• The fair is open to employers and job seekers.

Community To Honor 'Petaluma Pete' With Bench Dedication

• The Petaluma Downtown Association invites the public for one last fond farewell to Petaluma Pete, aka John Maher, of piano fame.

Scarecrow Stroll Coming To Danville

• Creatively decorated scarecrows will be placed all over downtown Danville.

Dublin Harvest Fair Set For October

• Enjoy wagon rides, a hay maze, a petting zoo, and even lessons from a dancing cowboy at the annual event.

Pleasanton Ghost Walk Tour Tickets On Sale

• Experience some of the city's spookiest historic sites along this popular tour.

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.