Socially Distant Recital | Unique Student Murals: Saturday Smiles

Are you craving some lighter news? We have twelve uplifting stories we think will make your weekend a bit more special. Take a look at these sweet Northern California stories.

Winchester Mystery House Launches ‘Spirits’ Tour

• The Winchester Mystery House has launched a new tour that aims to bring the estate’s supernatural lore to outdoor evening visitors.

77 Students Awarded Napa Valley Community Foundation Scholarships

• Nearly $250K in scholarships went to local students; some are military veterans, others are the first in their families to attend college.

SEE: Tri-Valley Dancers Perform Socially Distant Summer Recital

• With some curtains hung and a virtual audience, Livermore School of Dance performers gave it their all amid unusual times.

Waitress Who Booted Disgraced Tech CEO Gains Hero Status

• Disgraced former tech CEO Michael Lofthouse invokes Donald Trump in a racist rant that's been seen more than a million times on Instagram.

Student Murals Installed In Benicia As Public Art

• "I am so grateful for this opportunity to be able to bring a smile to someone’s face through my art in these uncertain times."

Alameda Families Strengthen Quarantine Bond With Backyard Mural

• A colorful mural in Alameda is bringing joy to several families as they stay safe during the coronavirus pandemic.

Virtual Volunteers: Local Teens Create Bilingual Education Org.

• Two local high school students have found a way to continue helping those in need by creating virtual volunteer opportunities.

Teens' Podcast Encourages Peers To Broaden Their Horizons

• From police reform to teenage mental health amid the pandemic, two students started a podcast to explore major current issues with peers.

Tri-Valley Youth Performing Arts Center Slated To Open This Year

• The Danville center is also set to offer a student café and hangout spot, family karaoke nights, youth classes on yoga and more.

Pacific Commons Welcomes Two New Restaurants

• Two new businesses have opened in Pacific Commons: Haidilao Hot Pot and Mas Fuego.

Weekly Drive-Up Food Bank Opens In Fremont Friday

• A drive-up food bank program will take place in Fremont starting Friday and will continue through the end of August.

Watermelon Meets Wine & Cognac: A Cocktail Recipe Share

• A sweet sip to complement summer.

If you have an idea for a nice news story in your town, let us know. Email your story tips to autumn.johnson@patch.com.