Community Corner

Jackpot Winner + New Michelin Guide Restaurants + Rent Aid Program + Spelling Bee Winner: Saturday Smiles

Food bank sends emergency aid to Orange County; restaurant offers free meals to first responders; and more nice SoCal news.

E.W. Scripps Company president and CEO Adam Symson, right, holds the trophy over winner of the 2026 Scripps National Spelling Bee, Shrey Parikh, 14, of Rancho Cucamonga, Calif., at DAR Constitution Hall, Thursday, May 28, 2026, in Washington.
E.W. Scripps Company president and CEO Adam Symson, right, holds the trophy over winner of the 2026 Scripps National Spelling Bee, Shrey Parikh, 14, of Rancho Cucamonga, Calif., at DAR Constitution Hall, Thursday, May 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Allison Robbert)

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.

Arts and Entertainment

'Sundresses & Cowboy Boots' Country Concert Planned At This Temecula Winery Friday

Grab your boots and head to wine country Friday to see Jelly Soul, Pushin' Daisies & more! See the full summer tribute concert lineup here.

Find out what's happening in Santeefor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Business

San Diego County Wine Industry Shows Resilience Despite National Slowdown, Report Says

"San Diego wineries prove that great winemaking and real hospitality are what keep a wine region healthy."

Find out what's happening in Santeefor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Community

$6M Rent Aid Program Approved For Santa Monica Residents

The City Council on Tuesday approved funding for the new Santa Monica Renter Aid program.

7 Events To Show LGBTQ+ Support During Pride Month In Southern California

Rainbow flags, live music, family activities and community booths will return to Southern California this June.

Blackjack Player Turns $5 Wager Into $1.09M Payday At Jamul Casino Resort

The jackpot was triggered through the STAX Super 4 side bet during the game, officials said.

City Celebrates Adopt-A-Pet Day With Big Deals

Residents who adopt a pet on national Adopt-a-Pet Day will have their adoption fees waived, officials said.

Murrieta Innovation Center Receives National Recognition

The center has modernized its state-of-the-art lab and technical space, and is seen as a hub for innovators.

San Diego Food Bank Sends Emergency Aid To Orange County After Hazardous Chemical Incident

The San Diego Food Bank said it plans to provide up to 5,000 emergency food boxes per week for as long as the emergency continues.

Restaurants

11 LA County Restaurants Added To Michelin Guide

The new LA County picks include a tiny eight-seat Japanese eatery and a longtime favorite taco destination.

OC Del Taco To Offer Free Meals To First Responders

The deal applies to first responders working long hours as a result of the ongoing hazmat crisis in Garden Grove.

RivCo Restaurant Named In CA Michelin Guide: See Why It's Not To Be Missed

"Settle in for elevated bites, well-made drinks, and live music on select nights. The perfect place to start your evening or end it right."

San Diego Restaurant Added To CA Michelin Guide

New restaurants are added to the Michelin Guide twice a year.

Schools

10 San Diego County Students Win Scholarships From North Island Credit Union Foundation

The students were recognized during a ceremony at the credit union's headquarters in San Diego.

IE Student Wins National Spelling Bee In Speed Round Spell-Off

Rapid-fire spelling is what the contest came down to in 2026. See what this Inland Empire 14-year-old spelled in 90 seconds to win the Bee.

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