Community Corner
Player Wins Jackpot + Restaurant Week Returns + Zoo Wins Rose Parade Award: Saturday Smiles
Rescued dog gets home with hero cop; rock icon cuts check for boy injured in crash; MistleToad shenanigans; and more nice SoCal news.
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
25 Most Memorable CA Animal Stories Of 2025
Patch has curated some of this year's most adorable and interesting animal stories.
Find out what's happening in Santeefor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Dog Rescued From Trash Can Gets Home With South Bay Cop Who Saved Him
On Christmas Eve, the dog — now named Flan — found his "happy ending."
Find out what's happening in Santeefor free with the latest updates from Patch.
OC Launches New Large-Animal Emergency Rescue Team: Report
The team is designed to coordinate with emergency responders when disasters threaten stables and ranches across Orange County.
San Diego Humane Society Sponsors 5 New Laws To Protect Animals, Boost Veterinary Care
Officials with the organization said the new laws are the result of lobbying efforts by a coalition of advocacy groups.
San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance Named Grand Marshal Award Winner In Rose Parade
The award-winning float, "Giant Strides Together," transported viewers to the all-new Denny Sanford Elephant Valley.
Arts and Entertainment
Disney On Ice Skating Back Into San Diego With Jam-Packed 'Let's Dance!'
The all-new show will feature beloved characters and chart-topping tunes at Pechanga Arena San Diego.
Rock Icon Cuts $10K Check For OC Boy Injured In Helicopter Crash: Report
The 12-year-old boy was presented Saturday with a $10,000 check from a charity foundation run by music icon Sammy Hagar.
Business
Frangipani Estate Winery Is For Sale In Temecula Valley
Located on the De Portola Wine Trail, the family-owned winery has operated since 2006.
Newport Beach Restaurant Week Returns In 2026 After 4-Year Pause
More than 40 Newport Beach eateries will have exclusive, multi-course menus on offer in January.
Community
25 CA Guinness World Records Set Or Broken In 2025
Californians made and broke world records in 2025, while others were lost due to the January wildfires, like one in Altadena.
25 CA Stories From 2025 That Will Make You Smile
Californians received awards, saved lives, won lotteries and more. Patch curated some of this year's positive and uplifting stories.
The town of Danville has unveiled a commemorative plaque to honor School Street, which holds a deep cultural legacy.
A holiday game of "Find the Inflatable MistleToad" in a local neighborhood led to an inflatable theft caper this holiday season.
Vista Murrieta HS Student To March In New Year's Day Rose Parade
Joseph Livingstone is a VMHS junior who plays the clarinet. He will march alongside fellow musicians in the "Bands of America Honor Band."
Restaurant
Newport Beach Restaurant Week Returns In 2026 After 4-Year Pause
More than 40 Newport Beach eateries will have exclusive, multi-course menus on offer in January.
Player Wins Nearly $100K Jackpot Ahead Of Holidays At Sycuan Casino Resort
The winner played on a slot machine called the Mayan Chief Boosted Great Stacks, according to the El Cajon-based casino.
Sports
Monster Jam Returning To San Diego For Stadium Championship Series West
This year's event includes the Southern California debut of three new trucks: Bailey Circuit, Sparkle Smash and Tech Deck Wreck Deck.
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.
