Popular Mediterranean Chain Expands + Oktoberfests + New (Adorable) Police K9: Saturday Smiles

Another week has come and gone. Take a moment out of your weekend to catch up on some uplifting news from Patch sites across Northern California.

Meet Hazel, the San Francisco Police Department's newest police dog, and find out how emergency crews rescued a parrot stuck between panes of glass in a building under construction.

Popular Mediterranean Chain Expands To Stanford

• The Bay Area-born fast-casual chain is opening its first non-traditional restaurant as it plots further expansion.

New Mexican Restaurant Opens In Danville

• Rancho Cantina opened its second location on Hartz Avenue. The restaurant features a wood grill and focuses on Mexican-Californian cuisine.

Fashion Brand Opening New Store In Contra Costa

• The Walnut Creek fashion brand VICI will celebrate its 2,200-square-foot store with Sept. 12 grand opening.

Meet Hazel, San Francisco Police's Newest K9

• "Sometimes the most important thing a K9 can do is be there," police said.

Wild Parrot Freed After Getting Head Stuck Between Glass At SF Building

• Authorities say the building the bird was stuck in is undergoing construction.

Paw-rade, Costumes, Furry Friend Adoptions Return To Downtown Walnut Creek

• The 26th annual event brings live music, adoptable animals, a Paw-rade, and costume contest downtown.

Napa Vintners Donate $1.8 Million For Wellness In Napa County Schools

• Five nonprofits will expand counseling, screenings, peer support, and wellness services throughout Napa County schools.

These Oktoberfests Will Raise The First Stein In Contra Costa

• Two Contra Costa celebrations promise German beer, music, and surprises, but one starts the season weeks earlier.

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.