At the left edge of this piece of paradise, is its long and unique jetty, extending thousands of yards, and one may walk it without too much trouble, because its well worn rocks and boulders are fairly close, and traversing it just requires paying attention.

To the right of the South Mission Jetty, the waves mostly break large to the right, making it one of the more exciting waves in the world to ride. But for those that don’t know the break, when it’s breaking large, you should paddle out next to the jetty to get to the breakers.

Many a surfer has gotten hurt on a big day paddling out in the middle just to get pulled and then slammed against the foreboding jetty when the waves are large.

Another trick is that after you ride the larger and longer waves to the north, the best way to paddle back out is to literally walk back to the jetty again and start the process one more time.

Another little known fact about South Mission is that in less than an hour the surf can change from flat to 14 or more feet—so if you surf here you always have to be on guard.

Situated at the southernmost tip of Mission Beach, the area is tony, fun, and there’s always something to do here for everyone—catch some rays, go for a bike ride along the boardwalk, play some hoops or volleyball, or just enjoy the beach and its park.

The greatest thing about most of San Diego’s beaches is that they’re easy to get to,there’s typically plenty of free parking, the people are friendly, and for all of you you horn dogs out there—the women are undeniably attractive.

If you surf, however, I must warn you that guys at South Mission have been surfing here for literally decades, and its localism is notorious. Be that as it may, show respect, let the more experienced surfers get the larger waves, and over time, prove your abilities.

There are plenty of hotels and other inns to stay in and around South Mission, so what’s your excuse for not experiencing a bit of paradise in Travelin’ Local’s backyard.

Albeit, there’s always some new store, building and development that’s built in and around the area, one thing is for sure—Pacific Beach’s character and inviting waters never waiver to those that are its local beach lovers.

Above we can clearly see the famous PB Pier and its delicious aquatint water and waves from the coast.

Looking further to the north, we can see the beach’s coastline and beach extend all the way to the furthermost tip, and to the north of that would be Tourmaline. (You could actually paddle your way there, but why bother).

The beach is notoriously mellow—in its break, its inhabitants, and its reputation, so it’s not hard to see its allure for beach lovers year round.

In 1902, when Pacific Beach was in its infancy, beach front lots measuring 25 usually sold in pairs for between $350 – $700; but if you wanted to live two to five blocks from the ocean, the prices started at $150. By 1950, the population of Pacific Beach reached 30,000, and the average home sold for $12,000.

Today, some of the very same homes sell for millions.

It’s located just off Mission Blvd from either Grand or Geffner, and I used to surf here for years—among the many other fine San Diego Beaches.

Although typically a predictable beach break where there’s usually some surf–occasionally it awakes from its slumber and the entire beach becomes a surfer’s paradise—with the entire coastline breaking into circular, high, and endless lines of offshore ‘glassy” surf.

Nonetheless, even when the surf isn’t breaking here, PB has a particular draw unlike most other San Diego beach towns. The local’s are friendly, there’s always a cool pub, restaurant, or other attraction to go to; and the beach is always a cool place to hang and to catch some rays.

Its picturesque location and beach also hold true for its world famous Pier—routinely photographed, pictured, and traversed by all that pass by.

So the next time you’re visiting San Diego’s Pacific Beach, be sure to remember these 3 important tips:

1. Have Fun
2. There’s always something to do in the area
3. Go for a swim, surf, or dip in the waters here, as its allure will always be something you’ll cherish and remember.

A tiny bit to the south of Windansea Beach, Tourmaline is a favorite for both both seasoned wave riders and the less experienced. Its rolling mellow waves and large beach, make it a favorite for mostly longboarders of all ages.

Although its waves are typically temperate, when a large swell hits the place, it explodes into a surfrers paradise. Indeed, that’s when the northern tip of Tourmaline creates waves that only the most seasoned surfers are able to navigate.

Surrounded by 75 foot cliffs which create its natural break, Tourmaline Beach, in 1963, became the first surfing park in the USA–which means that lifeguards don’t use blackball flags to reserve any area for swimmers because at Tourmaline Canyon Surf Beach, surfers are able to use the entire beach, year-round.

With a small, dedicated group of locals looking out for it, Tourmaline Beach has seen several improvements over recent years.

First, the mural on the public bathroom was revitalized, after that, a memorial bench honoring Skeeter Malcolm, a legendary local waterman who surfed throughout his life until his death in 1993, at age 70; and most recently, the installation of the “monument honors the past and present surfers at Tourmaline Canyon Surfing Park who have embraced its beach, surf and camaraderie.”

Raising money by selling dedication bricks, the Tourmaline Tailgaters Surfing Association mission is:

committed to the betterment of Tourmaline Canyon Surf Park and to the people who surf there. To that end, we have banded together to provide assistance in maintaining the park, offer help to member of the Tourmaline community who are in need and contribute to the social interaction between club members and the extended tribe of Tourmaline surfers

To that end, they have also helped raise funds for several people who are faced with immediate and severe medical problems. Considering they’ve never been “formalized,” yet, the Tailgaters are doing great work.

Lastly, we’ll leave you with this tag line from Tourmaline Beach’s monument,

Surf Well, Spread Aloha, Share Waves Without Judgment

Originally constructed in 1946 by Woody Ekstrom, Fred Kenyon and Don Okey, this palm covered shack aka "The Surf Shack at Windansea Beach" was designated as a historical landmark by the San Diego Historical Resources Board (PDF) on May 27, 1998.

Extending north of Palomar Avenue and south of Westbourne Street, Windansea Beach is a surfer’s paradise with winter waves as high as six to eight feet, if not frequently larger. Indeed, this Point Break, is one of the few beaches in the world where the waves resemble the larger Hawaiian North Shore surf.

To just walk the beach, hearing its waves crashing and feeling the cool ocean breeze makes for a fabulous day.

Within the vicinity of Windansea Beach there are various sections of reefs including Middles, Turtles, and Simmons, named after Bob Simmons (who died at the northern break in 1954), and Big Rock.

Windansea’s Beach contribution to the development of modern surfing as we know it, is stranger than fiction:

It’s where Bob Simmons, who tragically died at the northern reef named after him posthumously, was the first person to develop resin and polyurethane in lieu of the extremely heavy balsa wood surfboards, changed the nature of surfboards forever.

It was home to the notorious Butch Van Artsdalen (January 31, 1941 – July 18, 1979), a legendary surfer, a pioneer of surfing 25-foot waves at such North Shore locations as Waimea Bay and Sunset Beach; and tube riding in Hawaii during the early 1960-1970s. He was a member of the Duke Kahanamoku Surf Team.

But, beyond all these accomplishments, he was the first surfer to ride Pipeline on the North Shore of Oahu, thought unsurfable. The challenging waves of Oahu’s North Shore soon became Van Artsdalen’s home. He was among the first to master the powerful, hollow waves at Ehukai Beach known as the Banzai Pipeline. This, along with his reputation for riding switchfoot in the large surf at Waimea Bay, earned him the nickname “Mr. Pipeline.”

The Pump House Gang” a book by author, Tom Wolfe, chronicled the wild anti-establishment surfers, and its legendary surfers along with their wild antics.

Windansea served as home break to Pat Curren, Mike Diffenderfer, Chris O’Rourke, Joey Cabell, Mickey Munoz and Butch Van Artsdalen. Steve Pezman, former publisher of Surfer magazine and current publisher of The Surfer’s Journal, called Windansea locals in the early 1960s–”the heaviest surf crew ever.”

The Windansea Surf Club was founded by Chuck Hasley in 1962, and included members such as The Endless Summer star and first Vice President Mike Hynson, Skip Frye, Joey Cabell, Del Cannon, Mike Purpus and Rusty Miller, Andy Tyler, Tom Ortner, Brew Briggs, Chris O’Rourke, Richard Kenvin, Miko Fleming, Debbie Beacham, Peter King, Saxon Boucher, Karl Engstrom, Randy Lind, “Big Steve” Jones, Ian Rotgans, “Big George” Felactu & Longboard Larry.

Many of these surfers were later to appear in the seminal surf movie of all time, Bruce Brown’s, “The Endless Summer.”

Isn’t it time for a visit?

I decided that before anyone awoke, that it was a perfect time to put on my hiking shoes on and go exploring.

On previous visits to La Jolla, I passed by the entrance to Marian R. Bear Memorial Park, a few times; and because it’s close to where I was staying, the timing this Sunday morning was perfect to get in a little sight-seeing and for a bi of exercise.

Marian R. Bear Memorial Park, is part of San Clemente Canyon, which over 40 million years ago was covered by ocean. How times have changed because now it’s home to a population of resident wildlife including raccoons, skunks, rabbits, amphibians, reptiles, and birds, and serve as a pathway for coyote, fox, and other mammals.

Although I only was able to glimpse a few birds this morning, I’m not alone in knowing and appreciating my love of this place.

Along the length of the canyon are oak, sycamores, and willow trees alongside with their ever attendant undergrowth of native and other plant species. The canyon has an intermingling of native plant communities, some of whose range is restricted to Southern California and Northern Baja California.

The hillsides contain coastal sage scrub and chaparral, two plant communities characterized by their adaptation to survive prolonged drought and periodic brush fires.

Named after Marian Bear, an active San Diego community leader and environmentalist, who worked to preserve the canyons in their natural state, the Park consists of 467 acres. Indeed, she was the driving force behind realigning the highway from the canyon floor to the north hillsides.

Thank you, Ms. Bear for your efforts. In the name of progress, we often forget just how important saving Nature can be.

From this point, Marian R. Park, will show you her beauty:

San Clemente Canyon Hike

On Sunday, September 26^th, the show filled the Horton Event Space with Indie clothing lines, trendy music, luscious mixed drinks, stunning artwork installations, beautiful jewelry, and multiple runway shows featuring both Men’s and Women’s fashion.

Thread Show decked out Horton Event Space in luxe décor and hot brand names including 949®, Diesel®, Bumble and Bumble®, Smirnoff®, Hpnotiq®, and Red Bull®.

The event drew hip, young crowds–rocking a plethora of different styles.

Creativity and artistry maintained a strong theme throughout the event. The clothes, jewelry, and décor exhibited an impressive array of some current perspectives in fashion.

Designers and attendees alike each displayed his or her own unique stylistic stance.

The Thread Show in San Diego was a vibrant melting pot of differing fashion opinions affecting surprise and excitement for all the guests. Excited shoppers filled their bags with exquisite one-of-a-kind items.

Guests could sign up for complimentary hairstyling at the Style Lounge, featuring Bumble and Bumble® brand hair products. Specialists from the Diesel® Salon of San Diego cheerfully worked their clients’ hair into artistic designs, originating from the stylist’s own imagination.

The creative hair styles ranged from sophisticated glam to Avant-Garde.

There were many freebies offered up at the event including free mixed drinks from Hpnotiq®, Pop Chips®, and drink tastings from Smirnoff®.

I was fascinated with how the designers’ arranged their breathtaking wares. Each display was as eye-catching and creative as the merchandise therein.

The designers came prepared with steep discounts to celebrate the event. I bought two beautiful necklaces at a tremendous discount.

The runway shows were the highlight of this event. The lines featured included Women’s sportswear, bathing suits, and evening wear, as well as Men’s casual and sophisticated attire.

Models strutted down the runway to the DJ’s superbly mixed pop music. The designs were fresh and inspiring.

The Thread Show, San Diego was a trendy fashion frenzy full of excitement and intrigue.

I had an absolute blast and plan to attend the show when it visits Los Angeles in early December. I recommend it to everybody else that’s into fashion!

Sarah is the author of brokeintheOC.

It also served to mark the establishment of the sister city relationship between San Diego and Yokohama, which was the first such affiliation on the West Coast.

Standing 6 feet high and weighing in at almost two and one-half tons, the Friendship Bell is rung by being struck with the large wooden ram that’s pictured.

Added to the Friendship Bell Pavilion, The Girl in the Red Shoes, pictured on the bottom left, was presented as a gift to the citizens of San Diego to commemorate the 150^th anniversary of the opening of the Port of Yokohama, Japan.

At the dedication ceremony, on June 27, 2010, the Chairman of the Yokohama-San Diego Friendship Committee, Masayuki Suzuk, said, “It is our hope that the statue will continue to strengthen bonds between our ports, cities and countries.”

Sculpted by artist, Munehiro Komeno, the three foot tall young girl is holding a rose, which represents Yokohama and a carnation–which symbolizes San Diego.

With history, culture, creativity, and symbolism as part of the human experience, public art is everywhere–you just have to look for it.

Located just as you enter Shelter Island, this 15-foot steel sculpture by Fallbrook artist, Alber de Matteis, describes the sculpture as "inspired by the interconnection of the moon, sun and the ocean and where all these forces come into play within the shelter of the bay."

Ocean Song was funded by the Bartell Hotels as the public art component of its $3.5 million renovation project.

The amazing thing about public art and the businesses that are involved is that people are naturally drawn to it, which creates more “traffic” for the business, which in turn creates more business. It’s a circle of success.

"Ocean Song went beyond our expectations," said Richard Bartell, general manager of Bartell Hotels. "The shape and form of the piece is attracting much positive attention. It represents the quintessential Shelter Island experience."

Inscribed on the name plaque is this quote by artist, Alber de Matteis:

This sculpture is inspired by the waves breaking on the shores of the bay. It reflects the play of sunlight throughout the day on the surface of the ocean. It recalls the connection of the moons and the tides. So as the waves on the ocean it also portrays waves of sound. The mass of the sculpture transforms itself from baritone to soprano creating the song that tells the story of the place where we found shelter.

Standing 12 feet tall, she’s the creation of San Diego artist, Frank Mando. Made of welded steel sheets, she stands guard, silently watching over her domain.

She’s the substance from mythical imagination, and also part of the very first Urban Trees project.

Urban Trees is a public art program in San Diego that brings together the imagination and creativity of artists, and allows them to share their vision with the public.

Since starting in 2003, Urban Trees offers local artists a unique opportunity to showcase their original sculptural works to a broad public audience. It also provides the public with an opportunity to closely engage the artists and at the same time experience awesome and outstanding examples of contemporary art.

Part of the requirements for the artist’s public art designs are that they must be about 12 feet high, have a 6 inch diameter pole, which is the “tree trunk,” and they must fit into a special 48-inch square, 3-foot high concrete planter base.

Designed as a temporary exhibit, Urban Trees’ 30 artists, in exchange for a loan fee, agree to loan their trees to San Diego for one year, after which the artists may sell or remove them.

In fact, Urban Trees is now in its 6^th edition.

You can see the Urban Trees 6 at intervals along Harbor Drive, from Broadway Pier to Hawthorn Street.

Here’s a map to help you find them:

View Urban Trees 6 in a larger map

Because Mini the Mermaid’s Urban Trees time has passed, she’s been relocated to the end of Harbor Island Drive close by Tom Ham’s Lighthouse.

With the water, sun, sky, boats, and ambiance of Harbor Island as the backdrop, it creates the perfect place to enjoy Urban Trees, San Diego style!
]]> http://www.travelinlocal.com/urban-trees-san-diego-style/feed/ 0 http://www.travelinlocal.com/september-is-officially-arts-month-san-diego/ http://www.travelinlocal.com/september-is-officially-arts-month-san-diego/#comments Mon, 23 Aug 2010 14:14:23 +0000 Lisa Newton http://www.travelinlocal.com/?p=19184 If you love art, this upcoming September will no doubt be an extraordinary time to celebrate the creativity of others while being able to explore your “inner collector,” aficionado, pleasure attendee, or a combination of all three.

I’m not just talking about those fabulous painting hanging in a gallery, but add to that, a Spanish Village, Photographs, fiber art, and Industrial, just to name a few.

Yes, this is just the beginning of Arts Month San Diego during September.

Leaders from numerous arts organizations in San Diego joined together to launch of Arts Month San Diego/September 2010. Arts Month San Diego will unite a broad array of the city’s arts and performance entities under one marketing umbrella. A diverse cross-section of arts and culture programs will be showcased throughout the month with participating galleries, artist-run initiatives, public art museums, performing arts events, and festivals.

From the Sight & Sound Concert at the Bay to the ART SAN DIEGO Contemporary Art Fair to the 5th Annual University Heights Arts Open, September proves to be an art lovers dream.

And don’t forget the planned ArtWalk on the Bay.

One event I’m really looking forward to is the Art Splash in Carlsbad. I’m a big fan of hands-on art-making, great food, sand sculpting, juggling, and live music.

The piece de resistance at this particular event, is the chalk art replicas of famous museum pieces, created by professional and amateur artists right on the street.

For a complete listing of all the events, click here. I’m sure you’ll find one or several that catch your eye.

Art is made in and on many forms, crafts, and materials, so let’s not forget the physical and moving aspect represented by dance, film, music, and of course, street performers.

One of the most exciting aspects of Art Month San Diego is its Art 4 Kids:

• ArtReach mission is to address the issues the lack of art education in San Diego County elementary schools. They’ll be featuring many art projects at the ArtWalk on the Bay, which were created by San Diego youths that have that creative flair that keeps them focused..
• Art Splash is a family friendly event with hands-on art-making opportunities.
• Bravo School of Art will provide workshops and classes in art for adults–and children–to explore their creativity in a safe, supportive and fun environment.
• Animal Art at the New Children’s Museum will include contemporary art installations by 11 artists that will explore the powerful relationship between humans and animals.

In honor of Art Month San Diego, I’ll be featuring a public art piece from the harbor in San Diego each day this week.

Although often not known for it’s Public Art, it should be– because the amount and quality of their commitment to Public Art for the public’s domain and enjoyment is not a big secret if you happen to live in San Diego.

Soon Travelin’ Local, will be letting the proverbial “Cat out of the Bag!”

Christened in 1966 with the stated purpose of being a fishing spot, the Ocean Beach Pier quickly became a tourist destination.

Before the completion of the Pier, fisherman needed a way to prevent their fishing lines and lures from getting tangled in the vast kelp and rock beds that lie near the surface of the water near the shores.

The Ocean Beach Pier solved this problem by providing fisherman 25-30 feet of water to avoid the shoreline kelp, thereby enabling them to catch various species of fish that lives in deeper waters.

Extending 1971 feet into the ocean it’s the second longest pier on the west coast. The Ocean Beach Pier is purported to be the longest concrete pier in the world. With its unique T-shape at the end, it adds an additional 360 feet to the south and 193 feet to the north. Naturally, the Ocean Beach Pier has become a popular tourist destination.

If you’re a surfer, surfing here requires a fair amount of skill as the rip tides can be significant, and unless you’re an expert surfer, don’t “shoot the pier.” It could potentially be a matter of life and death.

When Travelin’ Local in San Diego, especially during the summertime, hanging out in the OB, is part of the laid back culture down here.

So, when you plan your next trip to San Diego, be sure to include Ocean Beach and its Pier in your itinerary.  Oh, by the way, of course, you can walk to the end.  I haven’t included any photos of that yet, so keep coming back for that  surprise.

Here’s a few more interesting facts about the Ocean Beach Pier:

• Ocean Beach Pier was originally named the San Diego Fishing Pier. The original plaque is still there.
• The pier has over 500,000 visitors per year.
• Many people believe the Ocean Beach Pier is the longest pier in CA. It isn’t. At 1971 feet it is the longest concrete pier on the west coast. The pier at Santa Cruz is 2745 feet.
• The 1st fish caught on the pier was an 8-inch perch, first thought to be a type of sunfish. The 2nd and 3rd fish caught were a gray shark and a crab.
• The most common fish you may witness being caught from the pier are herring (often called queenfish). Currently, there’s no limit on how many you can catch.
• Then CA governor Edmund G. Brown, made the first cast off the OB Pier and reportedly fished for 5 minutes. As he fished, a large cabin cruiser with a banner reading “Reagan for Governor” circled the corner of the pier. Brown caught nothing and was defeated in November. (Coincidence?)
• Currently, no fishing license is required on the pier.
• In 1991 over $2 million was spent on the pier to repair damages caused by winter storms. Source: Ocean Beach MainStreet Association

Providing a home for sea stars, mussels, and clams, tide pool inhabitants must be hardy organisms. Fluctuations in water temperature, salinity, and oxygen levels, huge waves, exposure to the midday sun, strong currents, and predators are only a few of the hazards survivors of the tide pools must endure.

The OB Tide pools tide attract many visitors, both young and old.

Here’s a close up of the small ocean life that live in OB’s numerous tide pools:

Since it’s a real world living science reality, it’s a great place for kids to learn about nature in all its glory:

Although you have to look for them, treasures can be found in the Ocean Beach tide pools in San Diego.

All the more reason that the latest oil leak in the Gulf is such a grievance tragedy for the nation.

Be that as it may—the series presented herein by Travelin’ Local about Ocean Beach must have motivated you to go to the beach, asap!

After all, some times, life’s a beach!

Located at the end of Newport Avenue in San Diego, Ocean Beach isn’t only a beach, it’s an experience and way of life.  The beach here is a deeply inset by sand and length of width–in fact there was the World Surfing Championship held here a few decades ago, won by the Aussie, Nat Young—and both swimmers and surfers enjoy it year round. It also features numerous tide pools, a long pier, and an original Dog Beach to name but a few of its attractions.

Just the motto of the Ocean Beach Main Street Association sets it apart:

To find a unique balance of economic development, within a neighborhood setting and through special events, to contribute to the health, welfare, and pride of our coastal community!

In the picture above, besides the great beach, waves, and blue skies, you’ll see the famous Ocean Beach Pier. I’ll tell you more about that in an upcoming article, but as you can see, there’s a lot to see and do here. In fact, the sign in the photo says, “Surfing Only.” Further down the beach, there’s swimming galore.

Even before you reach the beach, traveling down Newport Avenue, you’ll notice shops and restaurants like this:

Hodad’s Burgers is one of the many examples of this free thinking community that encourages Mom and Pop type of businesses. "No Shirt – No Shoes – No Problem," sums up Newport Avenue’s attitude.

Every Wednesday, Ocean Beach hosts a Farmer’s Market, which unlike many other markets that start at the crack of dawn, Ocean Beach’s Farmer’s Market doesn’t start until 4:00pm.

More than the businesses and the attractions, it’s the people of Ocean Beach that make this place special:

The boy in the photograph above found a new use for his father’s skateboard. 

Coming here, you’ll instantly be relaxed and at ease, surrounded by the waves, water, and even a few bikes.

The allure of Ocean Beach is classic Southern California, San Diego style………………………….

Back in the day, there weren’t any steps, and people who wanted to get to the bottom, mostly surfers, had to trudge carefully on the cliff’s edge. It was manageable, but not without much difficulty. A surfboard isn’t exactly the easiest thing to carry, let alone scaling down a steep cliff side at the same time.

Indeed, after you reach the bottom, the surfer’s have to navigate entering the ocean first by getting past the small and large treacherous rocks and reef–and the waves when large, are unforgiving at the unusually distant set horizon; and upon completion of your surf session, you have to navigate back along the same obstacles as when you first entered.

Thus—the Ladera Steps came to be It assists the locals with avoiding the most difficult problem of getting to the beach—the Cliffs.

The Ladera Street Steps have a total of 100 steps (Yes, I counted them.), and have a fairly steep down grade, located at the corner of Ladera Street and Sunset Cliffs Blvd. They’re regularly used by the area’s surfers, beach walkers, and sightseers.

Going down has a lot of twists and turns, but the scenery is perfect

He made it to the bottom, but watch out, it looks slippery down there

At the bottom a small pool of rocks surround you

Messages carved into the soft rock are mysterious, cryptic, and intriguing

Let’s take one quick look at the surf before we head back up

The beauty of the Sunset Cliffs close up

On Sunset Cliffs Blvd., at the top, I’m greeted by a group of cyclists preparing to ride into the wind.

At Ladera Steps, half of the fun of going to the beach is experiencing and discovering the beauty that lies at the top and at the bottom of the stairs.

What began 26 years ago as a way to bring attention to the corner of San Diego known for its small shops, trattorias, Sunday afternoon stickball and talk around the dinner table about the old country, Mission Federal ArtWalk 2010 can now boast being the “largest open-air fine arts festival in southern California.”  So, if you’d like to join in this year’s fun, mark your calendar for April 24 and 25, from 11am-6pm. 

For decades, ArtWalk has been trusted by artists and art lovers alike as the San Diego event that brings together all genres of visual and performing arts. More than 300 national and international painters, sculptors, photographers, and multi-media artists will populate 16 city blocks, selling, demonstrating, and promoting their craft. Performers will take to 16 stages offering everything from jazz to reggae, blues to Appalachian folk.

To keep the event fresh and unique, several special features will be added to this year’s weekend event including the; ArtReach Silent Auction, where visitors can bid on the chance to win an original portrait of themselves, their families, and/or pet from 14 participating artists, and KidsWalk, which gives children and their parents a chance to discover their “inner artist” through interactive activities such as ocean art, animal masks, kite making, and creating art projects from recycled and reclaimed items.

KidsWalk is always a huge hit for kids and their families because it gives them an opportunity to actually get involved in the art process after walking around the festival and seeing thousands of works from the artists in their booths,” said Sandi Cottrell, managing director for Mission Federal ArtWalk. “The activities at KidsWalk are endless – from painting, sculpture, and drawing, to a drum circle– there is truly something for everyone!  Source:  KidsWalk Brings Family Fun to Mission Federal ArtWalk 2010!

Organizers of the 2010 Mission Federal ArtWalk suggest the following to ensure a pleasurable experience at the event: Bring Your Check Book.

Some artists do not accept credit cards. There are ATMs all around Little Italy, but a personal check may be more convenient for purchasing art.

Organizers strongly recommend taking the MTS Trolley to get to the festival. The Trolley stops right at the western edge of the event area, between Cedar St and Beech St (the "County Center/Little Italy" stop). Walk east on Cedar or Beech to begin your exploration. (For routes and fares, visit http://transit.511sd.com.

Limited street parking and pay lots are available throughout the area. The largest parking venue is the ACE Parking lot located at the County Administration Building, 1600 Pacific Highway. It’s three blocks west of the festival area. You can also park at Horton Plaza and catch the Old Town Trolley from Broadway Circle to shuttle to the event. You may validate your parking inside Horton Plaza at one of the Kiosks located throughout the mall.

Directions to Mission Federal ArtWalk 2010:

From the North: Take Interstate 5 South, Exit Sassafras/Kettner .Look for parking after you cross Grape St.

From the South: Take Interstate 5 North, Exit Hawthorne St. /Airport Exit. Keep left at the fork in the ramp. Turn left onto Kettner and look for parking.

I’m still learning my way around the laid back city of beautiful San Diego.

During my recent stay in Pacific Beach–where I had an incredible view of Mission Bay–I didn’t know what my plans were, what places I was going to, or even what I was going to do.

Little did I know that I would find a place that was new to town also; an Irish pub that opened its doors the same day I drove down.

Talk about the luck of the Irish!

On Saturday night my friends and I down one of PB’s main streets, Garnet, the other being Grand, and headed west toward the ocean.

Our mission was simple–to find a place to kick back and have a brew, and have some good conversation. We literally stumbled upon Brewley’s Pint. After seeing the different throngs at other local hangouts–we wanted no drama to have good karma–so it seemed totally natural to pick Brewley’s Pint because of its cool vibe, the mellow people that were outside, and what was inside.

There were enough places that were charging cover that it seemed their long lines were because they were giving out free beer inside.  So that was a no-go for us needless to say.

After we parked, we walked along Garnet but noticed that most places were too crowded , while others were just not what we had in mind.

But there’s always something comforting about familiarity, and for me that familiarity was an Irish pub, aptly named, Brewley’s Pint, on 1261 Garnet Ave.

The pub was comfortable, not overly crowded, and I found a place for two at the bar quickly. The Pub is shaded in a hues of dark mahogany, has one giant barroom, and has sports on the tube (10 HD widescreens), The patrons were cool–some college students (and marines) hanging around.

I ordered a beer on tap, 22 ounces for $7.25.  They offered a variety of Irish beers that are less recognizable than Guinness on tapl (offering 16 taps in all). Our bartender, Jess, was quick and super attentive, and brought the beers quickly.  We paid cash, but they also take plastic.   

After arriving, having imbibed a beer or two, and a few questions later, I found out Brewley’s Pint has been a long time in the planning, but a short time in the opening.

So what differentiates Brewley’s Pint from the other establishments on Garnet? First, it’s the only Irish pub in the area, and it’s definitely a pub, no booths, just bar stools and standing space.  Walking down the street, each bar had a different feeling, and each person had a different ideal of "The Bar" for the night. 

Brewley’s Pint, relatively unknown and just starting their tenure on Garnet, seemed like a good place to get a drink, as you could have a conversation with your friends, without being overpowered by a reveler’s karaoke. (Yeah, you hate them too?)

There wasn’t a crowd out the door, but this might have more to do with the fact that they just opened, and still have time to build local recognition. There’s no cover charge at Brewley’s Pint and they have super quick bar service–every time my beer started to get a little light, someone was asking if I needed a refresher.   (“But of course,” I replied!)

I spoke with their manager Declan Roche, a genuine Irishman who has lived in San Diego for 4 years; he seemed excited and ready to navigate the lure and competition lurking for Brewley’s Pint in Pacific Beach.

You might recognize the space as being the former Tropicoso, a Brazilian themed bar which used to be known for its dancing and reggae.

Now the bar has since gone green, Irish that is, and is preparing to develop a reputation for live music, a local hang out to have a relaxing pint, and a monthly St. Patrick’s Day celebration on the 17^th of every month.

If you find yourself visiting Pacific Beach, give Brewley’s Pint a visit and be sure to tell them that you read about them on Travelin’ Local!

And, before you know it, you’re there–at the doorsteps of Downtown San Diego, and the sun is shining.

Taking the Amtrak definitely has a lot of advantages, whether it’s to experience the terrain on your way to the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics, or taking the Amtrak Cascades from Seattle—either way it reduces the carbon emissions on your trip from one place to the next.

And, of course, this gives travelers the extra advantage of really being able to enjoy, and to actually see the landscape of our state–in its entire beautiful entirety.

But the No. 1 perk in my book is that there’s no driving required. Yep, that means no weary eyes on the road or frustrating delays in traffic jams. Just sit back and take in the scenery. In fact, California has the highest Amtrak usage for any state in the country. Its rich railroad history still stands as a reminder of a past era–in time and place–that once was California’s historical and cultural way of life.

One of the most popular rail lines is the Pacific Surfliner, which travels the coastal corridor from San Diego, to Los Angeles, to Santa Barbara, and to San Luis Obispo. It’s the second busiest corridor in the country, with 2.5 million riders just in 2009.

The Amtrak seems to be reviving to accommodate the swath of new passengers who take the train on a more regular basis. The state and federal government have even recently announced plans to spend upwards of $49.5 million for major upgrades to Amtrak maintenance facilities in Los Angeles and Florida. This adds to the newly proposed idea of building an electronically powered high-speed rail system in California by 2020, as a way to create more jobs and cut down on polluting carbon emissions from heavy freeway traffic. The project will cost nearly $2.3 billion, funded from Federal Stimulus money authorized from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

But until that project becomes a reality, the railroad transportation we have today still does the job. So, here’s a guide to some of the sights, spots, and costs where to go if you’re planning on escaping Los Angeles any time soon and hopping on the Amtrak train to San Diego.

Where can I get on Board?

We start our journey at the Los Angeles Union Station, an architectural achievement, steeped in American history. It was originally known as the Los Angeles Passenger Terminal, a grand historic facility widely recognized as one of the first major terminals in the country.

It was built in 1939 by John and Donald Parkinson, who also designed City Hall and Bullock’s Wilshire, using architectural styles of Spanish Colonial Revival and Art Deco.

When you walk into the entrance you might think you are in a church, since the floor plan was made to look like a cathedral. Inside there are virtually no echo sounds because the walls are lined with cork.

Outside there are waiting rooms, tiled fountains, and patio areas. It cost about $11 million to build the Union Station back in 1939, pooling together funds from the Southern Pacific, Union Pacific, and Santa Fe railroads.

Union Station the Rolls Royce of Train Stations

Originally opened in May 1939, Union Station is now the central stop for Amtrak, along with three rail lines– the Red, Purple, and Gold.

With about 400 train departures every 24 hours, thousands of people make their way through Union Station each day. Partially designed by the Parkinsons Architecture Group, who also designed LA City Hall, Union Station passengers are greeted upon their arrival and departure via the gardens.

Also interesting to note, as Paisley commented on during the Los Angeles Historical Walks, Union Station has also been featured in several films and television programs, including Blade Runner, Speed, Star Trek: First Contact, Pearl Harbor, The Italian Job, and the Fox television series 24.

Union Station “mixes two architectural styles, Spanish Colonial Revival and Art Deco. The floor plan is a cross, like in a cathedral. There is no echo inside the building – the walls are lined with cork.” Source: Union Station

Its interior and exterior make plentiful use of travertine marble on both walls and floors, along with the serious yet colorful and playful use of terra cotta.

Union Station’s grand rooms have an air of coolness and style. Although Union Station had heavy traffic during World War II, its ridership dwindled until 1993, when the Metro’s Red and Purple lines were introduced to the historic complex.

Union Station was designed to be a place of relaxation in an otherwise hectic travel environment, symbolizing our fast paced lives, and its inexorable and inextricable connection.

Inside its iconic and transformational “Waiting Room,” travelers find food, comfy chairs, and a path leading to Union Station’s first garden.

Although there was a boon in passenger use when it first opened, after the invention of freeways, usage declined. Today, the Amtrak, Metrolink, and subway trains all leave from the station with train usage increasing by the minute. About 26,000 passengers a day come and go from the Los Angeles station today.

From there, the Surfliner arrives at about a dozen other stations along the coast before arriving in San Diego. Some of the more known stations are in Orange County, from Fullerton, near Cal State Fullerton, to Anaheim, right below Angel Stadium, to Orange, Santa Ana, San Juan Capistrano, San Clemente, and all the way down the line.

Is the Cost worth the Travel?

If you’ve already purchased your ticket online, the transaction is easy. Just go to the nearest Quick Trak machine, scan your printout, and pick up your ticket. The cost to take the Pacific Surfliner is generally about $30 for a one-way, depending on your arrival, destination, and $60 for a round trip. Amtrak offers discounts for seniors, students, veterans and other specials, so taking advantage of cutting your travel cost any way you can, is always a plus. The service also offers guest rewards.

If you’re planning to take more than just one trip, buying a USA Rail Pass could be an option, or buying multi-ride, multi-city or group packages. Amtrak’s website has the latest deals on discounted packages or ticket specials that are updated on a regular basis.

Now, if you’re going anywhere other than the local coastline, than tickets do edge up a bit more in price, and your time on the train could span a couple days and nights.

But again, the advantages of being able to arrive at your destination on time, while being able to take in all the sights to get there, far outweigh the costs, in my opinion.

Pulling out your wallet to spend a little more, means you’re investing in the enjoyment of your vacation–and in my book, that makes all the difference in the world.

Pacific Surfliner Accommodations

• Seating: The unreserved seats are big and comfortable with fold down trays, reading overhead lights, and lots of legroom. Unreserved seats are available to boarding passengers on a first-come, first-serve basis, so it’s important to try and board the train early to get a good seat. And since seating is not guaranteed.  Business Class seats are only available for an extra cost.
• Carry-on: The train offers also offers space for bikes and surfboards.
• Luggage: Luggage is handled at the arrival station, and can be picked up at the destination.
• Food/drinks: Non-alcoholic beverages and snacks are available at the Café Car.

Checkin’ out the sights, scenes, and spots in San Diego

Once you arrive at the Downtown San Diego Station, you land in the heart of one of the greatest–and most beautiful–city’s and tourist spots in the country. There are so many things to do in San Diego, that planning ahead always, makes both the trip and its enjoyment that much better, and easier.

Here are just a few suggestions:

From the Station, you can take the frequent trolleys and electric cars to Balboa Park–and anywhere else you want to go– where there are dozens of museums and attractions.

Not far from there, is the San Diego Zoo, a world-class animal park, that just recently had a new edition to the zoo–a new baby elephant that was born on Valentine’s Day. For nightlife, the Gaslamp Quarter is filled to the brim with restaurants, pubs, and local hot spots including the world famous Hard Rock Café.

Headin’ Back

From this point, it’s a no-brainer. It’s a quick back-track on to the train again, and you’re on your way back home.

So, when you’re Travelin’ Local, taking the Amtrak is a vacation in of itself, making your next break from everyday monotony so much more enjoyable.

The mission of the Museum of Photographic Arts is to inspire, educate and engage the broadest possible audience through the presentation, collection, and preservation of photography, film and video.

Since its founding in 1983, the Museum of Photographic Arts (MoPA) has been devoted to collecting, conserving and exhibiting the entire spectrum of the photographic medium. The museum’s endeavors consistently address cultural, historical and social issues through its exhibitions and public programs.  Source: MoPA

In MoPA’s current exhibition, the work of one of the most well known, and respected photographers in the world—features an overview of Ansel Adams’ extraordinary life, by showcasing his photography of the Sierra Nevada’s and Yosemite Valley, his coverage of the Manzanar Japanese internment camp, his little-known commercial work and color prints, and his famous and iconic signature black and white masterpieces.

Photo courtesy of Wikipedia

As a professional photojournalist, I always try to emulate the process of “visualization” of taking a picture in my mind first, and seeing its end result before the shutter is snapped. Adams’ was perhaps one of the true genius’ of knowing what he wanted from a picture before he took it—and many of his iconic pieces will stand the test of time forever.

The Key to a Photograph from Ansel Adams from SilberStudios.Tv on Vimeo.

The rest of the current exhibit includes pictures from the Museum’s permanent collection– Picturing the Process–which provides a reality backdrop from which—and how– we gauge our current world.

The Photograph as Witness explores the ways photography has evolved as a powerful and poignant tool to document history, culture, and events.

The third component of the exhibit includes Jo Whaley’s beautifully layered and detailed photographs of insects, set against intricately constructed backdrops. Her large installations is multi-hued–with color as the background–drawing the viewer into the various pictures of insects that she photographed and juxtaposed between art, science, and an homage to style and substance.

MoPA’s Gift Shop and Membership Information

Not only do I highly recommend becoming a member of MoPA, I also am a huge fan of both their online and onsite unique Gift Shop. They have many interesting things to buy—from books, catalogs, and cards, to lectures, education programs, and curricula, to online prints and other merchandise.

I purchased a Mobile Satellite Photo Clip, which is a photo hanger that hangs from the ceiling. It actually caught my eye as it was literally being used in the Gift Store’s window.

Southern California is home to many of the world’s finest museums, institutions, and arts organizations. As I am Travelin’ Local, today’ story is yet another example of our area’s uniqueness– San Diego’s Museum of Photographic Arts in Balboa Park, is truly one of the greatest museums dedicated to the Art of Photography and Photography as Art in the world.

I’ve always loved flowers, gardens, and the natural habitat of plants, so for me walking through the arboretum and seeing it inside was both enthralling and enchanting.

Before entering this magnificent homage to nature, first you have to pass a few fish along the way at La Laguna– the 43 feet wide by 195 feet long pond—which presages the entrance to the Botanical Building’s entrance.

I wasn’t the only one looking for fish:

And neither of us was disappointed:

Looking at it now, remembering that it was used as a swimming pool during World War I remains a distant remnant from what it resembles now.

From outside, the lath design looks unassuming; but from the inside, the brilliance of the design resonates and radiates its clearness.

Since I’m not a Horticulturist, I don’t know many of the plants names– either the common name or the botanical monikers.

However, if I ever saw a plant where the name fit the plant so well, this is it:

Meet “Medusa’s Head.”

It’s not often that a botanical garden gives visitors the chance to touch the exhibits, but here it’s encouraged:

For many years, the Botanical Garden’s sponsors have been criticized for hosting an enclosed garden in the middle of the City of San Diego’s already established tropical beauty–its climate is temperate so why ensconce a garden inside when they can flourish and grow outside?

Here’s why:

Because by just entering the Botanical Building and being able to walk down its short paths, looking up at its magnificent ceiling, seeing how the landscape architecture was delicately constructed, and being able to bask in the surroundings is priceless and a once in a lifetime opportunity.

San Diego’s Botanical Building is a great place while Travelin’ Local, to relax and just get away from it all, if only for a few minutes.

It’s one of the city’s and nation’s most beautiful and important parks, and a place for individuals, families, organizations, and friends to go and find an incredible and vast array of things to do and see; or to just relax at one of its hundreds of grassy parks, and variety of land uses.

Measuring approximately 1,200 acres, which equates to the size of about 909 football fields including the end zones, Balboa Park, which was “placed in reserve in 1835, is one of the oldest sites in the United States dedicated to public recreational usage.”

To get an idea of the size of Balboa Park in relation to the rest of the city, the Google Map below visually illustrates it:

View Balboa Park in a larger map

San Diego’s Balboa Park is fascinating, mesmerizing, and unbelievable in its beauty and scope. Walking down “El Prado,” the main street that traverses the Park–was and is a weekly and daily ritual for many of San Diego’s residents, and is considered a premier destination for world-wide visitors from across the state, nation, and world.

I literally walked past and into more museums in one day than I could in most cities in a week.

Pictured above is Casa del Prado, home for the San Diego Civic Youth Ballet, the San Diego Junior Theatre, the San Diego Youth Symphony, the San Diego Botanical Foundation, and the San Diego Floral Association.

From its inception dating back to 1916–and several renovations later– the Casa del Prado stands as a testament to San Diego and its citizens working together to keep history vibrant, alive, and as the heart and soul of the city.

The Botanical Building

With construction beginning in August of 1913—almost a century ago–the Botanical Building is today, what it was back in the day– a garden of tropical plants to astonish visitors; and that it does. In front of the Lath House– as it’s popularly called–is La Laguna, a 250,000 gallon pond.

During World War I La Laguna was converted into a swimming pool so sailors at a Naval Training Station, then located in Balboa Park, could learn to swim. A cement liner was placed on the bottom. Source: The Highs and Lows of the Botanical Building in Balboa Park

The Museum of Man

With its Spanish colonial and mission style architecture, the Museum of Man, the only San Diego Museum dedicated to anthropology, the landmark building was originally constructed for the 1915–1916 Panama-California Exposition. Over the years, this building was also known as the California Building, and it has probably been mentioned more often than any other building in San Diego in studies of American architecture. Today, a key focus of the museum is “to create and display dynamic and educational anthropological exhibits about people and places throughout the Americas and around the world. Source: Balboa Park

The Organ Pavilion

Without the generous donation by John D. Spreckels, whose name the Organ and the Pavilion proudly bear, the Spreckels Organ Pavilion might never have been built. Dedicated on New Year’s Eve in 1914, every organ concert at the Pavilion is free, pursuant to John Spreckel’s bequeath.

The Organ was recessed behind the grand arch and into the pediments above. A twenty-foot plus attic between the organ chamber ceiling and the roof acted as an insulator against rapid temperature changes. Flexible cable connected the organ to a movable console. Besides acting as a giant sounding board for the organ, the central structure contained rooms for the organist, chorus and staff, including five bathrooms which soon became godsends for the many people who participated in events at the Pavilion. When the organ was not in use, attendants lowered a 20,000 pound plus corrugated steel curtain immediately behind the arch to conceal and protect the pipes. Source: The Spreckels Organ Pavilion at Balboa Park

Because I was in San Diego on a Saturday, I couldn’t enjoy the Spreckels Organ Pavilion’s weekly Sunday afternoon concert, but as soon as possible, I’ll be heading back on a Sunday to hear the free concert.

Travelin’ Local is a colossal experience when you have the world in your backyard, and Balboa Park is a world within itself.