Theme Park Hiring Hundreds + Say 'I Do' In Front Of Iconic Ride + Cat Rescued From Chimney: Saturday Smiles

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.

Animals

Birch Aquarium Marks Milestone With First Parent-Reared Penguin Chick

For the first time, a penguin chick has been raised and reared by its penguin parents on habitat at Birch Aquarium.

San Diego Humane Society Hosts Virtual Wildlife Baby Shower Ahead Of Spring

"The supplies donated are used every day to stabilize, feed and house fragile young animals until they're ready to return to the wild."

Senior Cat Stuck In Chimney At Seal Beach Home: OCFA

Orange County firefighters were hard at work this weekend rescuing a cat named "Franny" who was stuck in a chimney in Seal Beach.

Arts and Entertainment

Actor Kristen Stewart Plans New Life For 100-Year-Old LA Theater

The actor plans to bring the century-old movie palace back to life.

Comedian Jamie Lissow Coming To Sycuan Casino Resort

Fans can make it a staycation with Sycuan's hotel package, offering two show tickets and a one‑night stay.

Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival Kicks Off 78th Year With 'Return To Oasis'

The festival runs February 12-March 1, 2026, at the Riverside County Fairgrounds in Indio.

Trisha Paytas Invites You To Spend The Evening With Her At Fantasy Springs Resort

Viral media star Trisha Paytas is bringing her “An Evening with Trisha Paytas” show to the Special Events Center at Fantasy Springs Resort.

Business

New Fragrance Boutique Prepares To Open In Laguna Beach

A new fragrance crafting experience is opening in Laguna Beach, and residents were invited to join in on the ribbon-cutting celebration.

OC Theme Park Seeks Hundreds Of New Hires

The Southern California theme park will be hiring hundreds of workers for the 2026 season.

Weddings, Large Parties Planned For Redhawk Golf Course

The golf course is surrounded by single-family homes. Weddings/large events will bring more noise and traffic to the community, some say.

Community

Dana Point Residents Invited To Debut Of Interactive Water Exhibit: What To Know

The exhibit's grand opening takes place on Saturday, Feb. 7 at the Moulton Museum.

Disneyland To Allow Lovers To Say 'I Do' In Front Of Iconic Ride

Disneyland will soon allow patrons to hold wedding ceremonies at one of the park's most well-loved backdrops.

War Hero, San Diego Man To Be Awarded Congressional Medal Of Honor

Korean War fighter pilot and Escondido resident Royce Williams will be awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor, it was announced Wednesday.

Restaurants

3 San Diego County Restaurants Among Most Romantic In Country, New List Says

Just in time for Valentine's Day, OpenTable has released its annual list of the most romantic restaurants in America.

Denny's To Celebrate San Diego Remodel With Special Deals And Giveaways

As part of the celebration, customers can enjoy one-day-only deals on classic Denny's menu items.

Popular Restaurant And Seafood Market Opens New Location In San Diego County

The restaurant on S. Coast Highway features the same menu, from build-your-own plates and salads to signature tacos, shrimp and poke bowls.

Wildomar McDonald's Grand Opening This Weekend

The first 100 guests will receive a free Big Mac or cone. Saturday events include a petting zoo and family fun. See all that's planned.

Schools

Beaumont High School Wins 2026 Riverside County Academic Decathlon

"Every student who participated in this year’s ... Decathlon is a powerful example of academic excellence and focused collaboration."

Great Oak High School Wins 3rd Place In 2026 Riverside County Academic Decathlon

"Every student who participated in this year’s ... Decathlon is a powerful example of academic excellence and focused collaboration."

San Diego County Students Eligible For Wheelhouse College Scholarships

Wheelhouse Credit Union offers two programs that combined will provide $10,000 in scholarships to students in San Diego County.

Sports

18th Annual Temecula Special Games To Be Held At Great Oak High School

"This free, family-friendly event celebrates inclusion, community, and the abilities of athletes of all ages with disabilities."

Legendary Boxer Takes Helm As Captain For San Diego Boxing Team

Famed boxer Manny Pacquiao will serve as a team captain and compete as an active fighter for the San Diego TJ's.

Mt. San Jacinto College Foundation Launches Tribute Campaign Honoring Dr. Roger W. Schultz

Superintendent/President Dr. Roger W. Schultz will retire in June 2026 after 25 years of service to Mt. San Jacinto College.

Rams' Matthew Stafford Named NFL MVP

In accepting the award, Stafford announced plans to return to the game next year, quelling questions about a possible retirement.