Temperatures rising. Check.

People need a break from work. Check.

Charities deserve a financial boost. Check.

Being one of the first to plunge into 2009’s season at Hurricane Harbor : Priceless

Local nonprofits and schools are benefiting from heat this weekend as Six Flags Hurricane Harbor opens its 15th season on Saturday.

“We donate tickets to opening weekend to the Sunrise Rotary Club and the SCV Boys and Girls Club,” said park spokeswoman Sue Carpenter. “They distribute them to schools and other groups to raise money. We’re honored to be able to do that.”

The park features more than 23 slides and attractions such as a funnel ride, multi-storied enclosed slides, activity pools and wave pools.

Carpenter said the park has been donating the tickets for at least the last 10 years to help local nonprofits.

“We’re excited about the park and people enjoy it,” she said.

She also hinted that some new treasures may have been uncovered at Shipwreck Shores while the park was closed for the winter, adding that Six Flags California is also introducing a dual-park pass good for admission to both Hurricane Harbor and Magic Mountain.

“I think people are in for a bigger, better adventure,” Carpenter said.

Magic Mountain, will open a new roller coaster, “Terminator Salvation” over the holiday weekend as well. Carpenter pointed out that Magic Mountain is the only park in Southern California that is unveiling a new coaster in 2009.