Kristina Houck

1 day ago | patch.com | Kristina Houck

SAN DIEGO, CA — San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is often recognized for its work with wildlife, but the nonprofit conservation organization was recently recognized for its work with plants. The American Public Gardens Association named San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, which operates the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park, the recipient of the Garden Excellence Award.

1 day ago | patch.com | Kristina Houck

CHULA VISTA, CA — Four people were injured early Thursday in a suspected DUI crash in the South Bay area of San Diego County. The crash happened at 12:13 a.m. Thursday in the area of 900 Marina Parkway in Chula Vista, according to the Chula Vista Police Department. A black BMW 335i traveling eastbound drove off the roadway and hit a concrete pillar, causing the vehicle to roll over multiple times.

1 day ago | patch.com | Kristina Houck

SANTEE, CA — A new restaurant is coming to Santee Lakes. Topwater Grill will celebrate its grand opening June 14-15 at the dining deck overlooking Lake 4. The menu at Topwater Grill will feature California cuisine and drinks from local breweries and wineries. "We are proud to welcome Pacific Dining Group as our food and beverage partner," said Park and Recreation Director Cory Kading.

1 day ago | patch.com | Kristina Houck

ESCONDIDO, CA — Authorities arrested a man accused of robbing a bank in northern San Diego County. A masked man handed a demand note to a teller at 10:37 a.m. Wednesday at the U.S. Bank at 2369 East Valley Parkway in Escondido, according to the Escondido Police Department. The message stated that he had a gun and demanded money. "The teller complied and the suspect fled with the money," Escondido police Lt. Ryan Hicks said. Witnesses said the suspect was driving a black Toyota Prius.

1 day ago | patch.com | Kristina Houck

LA JOLLA, CA — Thirteen high school students in San Diego County, including a student from La Jolla, received college-sponsored National Merit Scholarship awards, the National Merit Scholarship Corporation announced Wednesday. The San Diego area winners were among more than 2,900 high school seniors nationally who won awards financed by about U.S. colleges and universities. The awards range from $500 to $2,000 annually for up to four years at the institution financing the scholarship.