Swimmer Makes History To Protect Ocean + Girl Scout Helps People With Dementia: Saturday Smiles

Need a little good news to kick off your weekend? We've rounded up some uplifting stories from across Northern California that are sure to make you smile. Discover how one student is spreading kindness, one sticky note at a time, and meet the trailblazing woman who made history by swimming the length of the California coast to help protect our oceans.

Swimmer Makes History On California's Ocean Coast: 'Grit Is My Superpower'

• Catherine Breed completed the coastal journey Sunday, raising money and awareness for conservation.

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A Redwood City Wall Is Covered In Sticky Notes, The Messages Could Change Someone's Day

• A 16-year-old student's kindness project is coming to the government center during United Against Hate Week.

Students Win Cash Prizes In SMC, South Bay For Art Honoring Overlooked Innovators

• Local students were among the artists recognized in a national competition awarding $24,000 for works celebrating unsung heroes.

San Ramon Student Helps Teach Kids About Cancer

• San Ramon teen Keerthi Eraniyan founded Fight for the Cure to teach children about cancer through hands-on workshops and educational kits.

Student Essay: How A Pleasanton Girl Scout Is Helping People With Dementia

• Foothill High freshman Dhanvi Shah shares what she learned while working toward her Girl Scout Silver Award.

331 Acres Of Tri-Valley Wildlife Habitat, Open Space Permanently Protected

• New easements in Doolan Canyon and Springtown protect rare species and offset habitat loss from a Dublin housing development.

Mr. Stroopwafel Reopens Its Doors In Petaluma

• The shop welcomes customers back today with warm stroopwafels and special hours for reopening day.

Livermore Rotary Fundraiser To Support New Domestic Violence Shelter

• An Oct. 29 event at 3 Steve's Winery will raise money for Tri-Valley Haven's new shelter, which is estimated to finish in January.

Scarecrow Stroll Returns To Danville

• Dozens of decorated businesses are all over Danville for the month of October. Visitors can vote for their favorite and enjoy special deals.

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.