History of Spanish Village artists in Balboa Park.

Sign outside the Spanish Village history exhibit, which is open to the public in Gallery 21.
Sign outside the Spanish Village history exhibit, which is open to the public in Gallery 21.

Anyone in San Diego who loves art must visit Spanish Village Art Center in Balboa Park. Some of the region’s finest local artists occupy its 38 working studios. By strolling around the large, colorful courtyard and poking a nose here and there, the public can see (and purchase) finished artwork of every kind, watch the creative process, and talk to the friendly artists themselves.

While at Spanish Village–if you’re the curious sort–you might also check out a small but fascinating history exhibit. Just step into Gallery 21.

Earlier this summer I was graciously given a tour of the exhibit by one of the resident artists. Here are a few photos and captions describing what I saw. Of course, it’s much better to experience Spanish Village and these memories of its history firsthand. So I encourage everyone to head on over.

The exhibit reviews how, a century ago, Balboa Park (originally called City Park) was developed and transformed into a dreamlike landscape for the 1915 Panama-California Exposition. Many fantastic buildings were created, using a variety of influences from Spanish, Mexican, European Renaissance and Moorish origins. This unique mixture became what is known as Spanish Colonial Revival architecture.

Later, the successful California Pacific International Exposition of 1935 was promoted to boost San Diego during the Great Depression. It used existing buildings from the Panama-California Exposition and exhibits from the recent Chicago Century of Progress Expo. New construction designed by master architect Richard Smith Requa added a variety of buildings to Balboa Park, including those of Spanish Village. Spanish Village, as its name implied, originally recreated life in Spain, with “shops that sold art, curios, flowers, music and wine. It had a children’s theater, a Chinese Bazaar, a cocktail lounge called Cafe Granada and other restaurants. The Village was at the entrance to the Fun Zone which contained a Midway, a midget zoo, and an Indian Village.”

Today, this exhibit’s historical photographs, newspaper articles and ephemera relating to Spanish Village help visitors understand and appreciate the cultural contributions over many decades of hundreds of participating artists.

Doorway inside Gallery 21 leads to an unexpected treasure trove of Balboa Park and San Diego history.
Doorway inside Gallery 21 leads to an unexpected treasure trove of Balboa Park and San Diego history.
Beautifully painted mural in the small exhibit room pleases the eyes of curious visitors.
Beautifully painted mural in the small museum pleases the eyes of art-loving visitors.
The walls, like a scrapbook, contain images and articles chronicling the history of Spanish Village and its many fine artists.
The walls, like a scrapbook, feature a mosaic of images and articles chronicling the history of Spanish Village.
Old photographs show Spanish Village buildings, which were erected for the 1935 California Pacific Exposition in Balboa Park. They housed shops and restaurants during the expo.
Old photographs show Spanish Village buildings, which were erected for the 1935 California Pacific Exposition in Balboa Park. They housed shops and restaurants during the expo.
The California Pacific Exposition closed September 9, 1936, and the idea for Spanish Village Art Center was soon realized. Artists completed their studios and had a public opening on April 7th.
The California Pacific Exposition closed September 9, 1936, and the idea for Spanish Village Art Center was soon realized. Artists completed their studios and had a public opening on April 7th.
Display details Spanish Village's artist founders, including newspaper clipping's Officers of Culture Project--Sherman Trease, Mina Schultz Pulsifer, and Henry Long.
Display lists Spanish Village’s artist founders.  Newspaper clipping’s “Officers of Culture Project” included Sherman Trease, Mina Schultz Pulsifer, and Henry Long.
Old San Diego Union newspaper announces first Art Fiesta, a festival held September 3-6, 1937. Spanish Village hosted all forms of visual art, plus theater groups, writers and musicians.
Old San Diego Union newspaper announces first Art Fiesta, a festival held September 3-6, 1937. Spanish Village hosted all forms of visual art, plus theater groups, writers and musicians.
Visitor to the Spanish Village history exhibit learns about the rich heritage of this very unique and wonderful place.
Visitor to the Spanish Village history exhibit learns about the rich heritage of this very unique and wonderful place.
Another display tells of the coming of World War II, and how the Army took over Spanish Village. Many departing artists would serve in the military. Some later returned to renew their art.
Another display tells of the coming of World War II, and how the Army took over Spanish Village. Many departing artists would serve in the military. Some later returned to renew their art.
After the Army left, a financial dispute with the City of San Diego was resolved. Artists would pay affordable rent for each studio. A jury would decide on qualified renters.
After the Army left, a financial dispute with the City of San Diego was resolved. Artists would pay affordable rent for each studio. A jury would decide on qualified renters.
Samples of past Spanish Village publications, including a quarterly. Today the artists promote their work online using websites, e-newsletters and social media.
Samples of past Spanish Village publications, including a quarterly. Today the artists promote their work online using websites, e-newsletters and social media.
Do you have a memory or story about Spanish Village Art Center Experiences are being collected and added to this show. Thanks for the community spirit!
Do you have a memory or story about Spanish Village Art Center? Experiences are being collected and added to this show. Thanks for the community spirit!
Spanish Village in amazing, historic Balboa Park. Art grows here.
Spanish Village is located in amazing, historic Balboa Park. Art grows here.

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The grand, extravagant Sheldon House in East Village.

The Sheldon House is a very cool sight at the corner of 13th and Island in San Diego's East Village.
The Sheldon House is a very cool sight at the corner of 13th and Island in San Diego’s East Village.

Like most cities, San Diego has its share of cool old houses. Here’s an example of one that’s located in downtown’s East Village neighborhood.

Standing at the corner of 13th Street and Island, the 1886 Sheldon House was designed by the famous architects Comstock and Trotsche, and is an amazing example of the flamboyant Queen Anne style. The grand, extravagant Victorian mansion was built for Dr. F. C. Sheldon and his family, and included a multiple-gabled roof, a large, elegant front porch, and stained glass features in every window. Unfortunately, the doctor died soon after the mansion’s construction. To support the large surviving family, his wife converted the home into a successful boarding house.

Lots of decorative details include an elaborate porch and stained glass crowning every window.
Lots of decorative details include an elaborate porch and stained glass crowning every window.
View of the sunlit Sheldon House from the east. A skeleton stands in one window!
View of the sunlit Sheldon House from the east. A skeleton stands in one window!
The 19th century Victorian mansion seen from the north, with modern residential buildings behind.
The 19th century Victorian mansion seen from the north, with modern residential buildings behind.

UPDATE!

Years later, I noticed this old photograph projected on a wall at the San Diego History Center. It is of the Sheldon Residence being moved by the Palmer Brother House Movers from 11th and D Streets to Island Street in 1913…

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White whale glimpsed from deck of world’s oldest sailing ship.

San Diego County Supervisor Dave Roberts begins the Moby Dick Marathon Reading on the poop deck of the Star of India.
San Diego County Supervisor Dave Roberts begins the Moby Dick Marathon Reading on the poop deck of the Star of India.

The Star of India is the world’s oldest ship that sails. It’s docked in San Diego Bay. Yesterday, from the barque’s 150 year old deck, a rare white whale was glimpsed like a snowy hill in the air, far, far away. The whale was just visible, a dim revelation, at the edge of human sight.

Mysterious and sublime, the elusive Moby Dick was seen by a fortunate few in the imagination’s eye, as readers took turns speaking words on pages that were written over a century ago by the great American author Herman Melville.

The wonderful Moby Dick Marathon Reading commenced at noon, and continued far into the dark night. The event was put on by the Maritime Museum of San Diego and Write Out Loud. I swung on by a few times, breathed in the mood, the salt air. I love the novel. It might be my favorite. I love the idea of reading atop the swelling sea, about a bright phantom moving darkly below, down in the unfathomable depths.

The Maritime Museum of San Diego and Write Out Loud created a cool event that hopefully becomes a yearly tradition.
The Maritime Museum of San Diego and Write Out Loud created a cool event that hopefully becomes a yearly tradition.
Diagram of Bark Star of India, launched as Euterpe on November 14, 1863 at Ramsey, Isle of Man. The world's oldest active sailing ship and oldest merchantman afloat.
Diagram of Bark Star of India, launched as Euterpe on November 14, 1863 at Ramsey, Isle of Man. The world’s oldest active sailing ship and oldest merchantman afloat.
An ageless volume of classic literature, published in 1851, shortly before the construction of this ship, was shared by many readers, many voices.
An ageless volume of classic literature, published in 1851, shortly before the construction of this ship, was brought to life by many readers.
Call me Ishmael. Some years ago—never mind how long precisely—having little or no money in my purse, and nothing particular to interest me on shore, I thought I would sail...
Call me Ishmael. Some years ago—never mind how long precisely—having little or no money in my purse, and nothing particular to interest me on shore, I thought I would sail…
Listeners follow Melville's words with their own beloved books, or gaze out at the water on a fine summer day on San Diego's Embarcadero.
Listeners follow Melville’s words with their own beloved books, or gaze out at the water on a fine summer day on San Diego’s Embarcadero.
Kids walk up onto Star of India's high poop deck. Perhaps the eyes of youth, probing the horizon, can discern the strange wonder of Moby Dick.
Kids walk up onto Star of India’s high poop deck. Perhaps the eyes of youth, probing the horizon, can discern the strange wonder of Moby Dick.
Or age with its wisdom, staring into thin pages, might glimpse the white whale.
Or age with its collected wisdom, staring into thin pages, might glimpse the white whale.
White sails, yards, shrouds, ropes and blue sky.
White sails, yards, shrouds, ropes and open blue sky.
Illustration on plaque found on main deck, showing a Pull on the Lee ForeBraces. The sails must be kept to the wind.
Illustration on plaque found on main deck, showing a Pull on the Lee ForeBraces. The sails must be kept to the wind.
Passionate reader turns the pages of Moby Dick. Melville describes many large cetaceans in the oceans of the world, but only one great white whale, nemesis of Captain Ahab.
Passionate reader turns the pages of Moby Dick. Melville describes many large cetaceans in the oceans of the world, but only one great white whale, nemesis of Captain Ahab.
Painting of Star of India under sail by marine artist Frederick Wetzel. The historic three-masted bark is shown clearing Point Loma during a festive event back in 1984.
Painting of Star of India under sail by marine artist Frederick Wetzel. The historic three-masted bark is shown clearing Point Loma during a festive event back in 1984.
Steering wheel and binnacle, instruments of navigation used by generations of restless, active seafaring men.
Steering wheel and binnacle, instruments of navigation used by generations of restless, active seafaring men.
The stern of our beautiful Star of India. A large American flag billows in the sea breeze.
The stern of our beautiful Star of India. A gigantic American flag billows in the sea breeze.
A reader awaits his turn. Ishmael recalls his strange voyage side by side with varied characters, representatives of the human race. Including a humane cannibal and a tyrannical captain.
A reader awaits his turn. Ishmael recalls his strange voyage side by side with varied characters, representatives of the human race, including a humane cannibal and a tyrannical captain.
The sun's horizontal rays turn gold as day nears an end.
The sun’s horizontal rays splash sails with gold as another day nears an end.
Ahab addresses Starbuck and crew: ...it was Moby Dick that dismasted me...I’ll chase him round Good Hope, and round the Horn..and round perdition’s flames before I give him up...
Ahab addresses Starbuck and crew: …it was Moby Dick that dismasted me…I’ll chase him round Good Hope, and round the Horn..and round perdition’s flames before I give him up…
Vengeance on a dumb brute! cried Starbuck, that simply smote thee from blindest instinct! Madness! To be enraged with a dumb thing, Captain Ahab, seems blasphemous...
Vengeance on a dumb brute! cried Starbuck, that simply smote thee from blindest instinct! Madness! To be enraged with a dumb thing, Captain Ahab, seems blasphemous…
Photo taken from wooden bench, over a skylight which provides filtered daylight for the ship's elegant cabin below.
Photo taken from wooden bench, over a skylight which provides filtered daylight for the ship’s elegant saloon below.
Reading on into the twilight. Once begun, the great novel drives onward, pulling readers into its tragic quest for an unpredictable, dangerous unknown.
Reading on into the twilight. Once begun, the great novel drives forward, pulling readers into its tragic quest for an unpredictable, dangerous unknown.
Shadow moves across the deep.
Shadow moves across the deep.
As the sun sets, by sheer chance it seems, Chapter 37 of Moby Dick is read, which is titled Sunset.
As the sun sets, by sheer chance it seems, Chapter 37 of Moby Dick is begun, titled Sunset.
Light shines from behind the figurehead of the beautiful Star of India, a favorite attraction on San Diego Bay.
Light shines from behind the figurehead of the beautiful Star of India, a favorite attraction on San Diego Bay.
Is that lone bird an albatross flown from Melville's great novel. No, just a gull in the dying light.
Is that lone bird an albatross flown from Melville’s great novel? No, just a common gull in the dying light.
The sky through ship's rigging is tinged orange, red, purple and gold.
The sky through ship’s rigging is tinged orange, red, purple and gold.
Night comes on. Melville has already referenced the blackness of darkness. He now speaks about the whiteness of the whale, and the majestic, pure, terrifying color white.
Night comes on. Melville has already referenced the blackness of darkness. He now speaks about the whiteness of the whale, and the majestic, pure, terrifying color white.
It was the whiteness of the whale that above all things appalled me.
It was the whiteness of the whale that above all things appalled me.
Before inevitable night falls and stars emerge, glowing color paints the world.
Before inevitable night falls and stars emerge, glowing color paints the world.
Masts of tall ship Californian, of the Maritime Museum of San Diego, and a brilliant sunset. Unlike a fictional whale, these beautiful things are quite easily seen.
Masts of tall ship Californian, of the Maritime Museum of San Diego, and a brilliant sunset. Unlike a fictional whale, these profoundly beautiful things are quite easily seen.

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Trades That Shaped the West live on in Old Town.

A ship's purser greets the friendly wheelwright in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park during Stagecoach Days: Trades That Shaped the West.
A merchant ship’s purser greets a wheelwright in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park during Stagecoach Days: Trades That Shaped the West.

This afternoon I took a short easy stroll through Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. My trusty little camera captured some interesting photos of history come to life!

During summer Saturdays, Old Town hosts a cool event called Stagecoach Days. Each weekend there’s a different theme. Today it was Trades That Shaped the West.

As you might imagine, I witnessed historical reenactments of working life in San Diego when the town was a small outpost of civilization surrounded by mostly undeveloped wilderness. In those days life was often difficult, but the people were from hardy stock. Let’s see a small sample of what 19th century San Diego might have been like…

Stagecoach Days, Celebrating the West on the Move, is open free to the public. The weekly event is held on summer Saturdays in Old Town's historic central plaza.
Stagecoach Days, Celebrating the West on the Move, is open free to the public. The weekly event is held on summer Saturdays in Old Town’s historic central plaza.
Preparing an old Stanhope Park Phaeton, parked with other buggies and carriages in front of the Robinson-Rose House Visitor Information Center.
Preparing an old Stanhope Park Phaeton, parked with other buggies and carriages in front of the Robinson-Rose House Visitor Information Center.
A ladies basket trap carriage, circa 1900. This simple horse-drawn vehicle was often used for comfortable country travel, complete with wicker basket seat.
A ladies basket trap carriage, circa 1900. This simple horse-drawn vehicle was often used for comfortable country travel, complete with wicker basket seat.
The wheelwright had many tools on display and explained how wheels in the 19th century were skillfully created of wood and iron.
The wheelwright had many tools on display and explained how wheels in the 19th century were skillfully created of wood and iron.
A welded ring of bent iron would be expanded with heat, then placed around the wheel's ash wood circumference.
A welded ring of bent iron would be expanded with heat, then placed around the wheel’s ash wood circumference.
A cool woodworker demonstrates and provides the names of his many tools to the delight of watching kids.
A cool woodworker demonstrates and provides the names of his many tools to the delight of watching kids.
A sneaky peek into the blacksmith shop behind Seeley Stable Museum before the event officially begins outside in the plaza.
A sneak peek into the blacksmith shop behind Seeley Stable Museum before the event officially begins outside in the plaza.
A patient blacksmith bangs away on some hot metal as he fashions a thin, pointed nail.
A blacksmith bangs away on some hot metal as he fashions a thin, pointed nail.
This sliver of red hot iron with some hammering will be turned into a nail with a flat head, ready to be used for 19th century construction.
This sliver of red hot iron with some hammering will be turned into a nail with a flat head, ready to be used for 19th century construction.
These folks in historical costume are busily preparing some biscuits, a common food in the early days of San Diego.
These folks in historical costume are busily preparing some biscuits, a common food in the early days of San Diego.
A smiling someone is tending the campfire. What's cooking?
A smiling someone is tending the campfire. What’s cooking?
Looks like a bubbling stew!
Looks like a bubbling stew!
Printing press demonstration underway at the San Diego Union Museum print shop in Old Town.
Printing press demonstration underway at the San Diego Union Museum print shop in Old Town.
Wells Fargo employee, from the agent’s office museum in the Colorado House, helps Old Town visitors into a stagecoach for a photograph.
Wells Fargo employee, from the agent’s office museum in the Colorado House, helps people into a stagecoach for a photograph.
Of course, a good historical reenactment of the Old West requires lively music and enthusiastic dancing.
Of course, a good historical reenactment of the Old West requires lively music and enthusiastic dancing.
Two ladies prepare to dance the polka.
Two ladies prepare to dance the polka.

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Beauty is everywhere, simple, seldom perfect.

Every moment in life is beautiful. Simply see it.
Every moment in life is beautiful. Simply see it.

I was struck by the strange beauty of these two photographs. Both had been forgotten. They’re just small glimpses of the world that were stored in my computer; I don’t recall where or when I took them.

What is perfection? To be perfect is to exactly match a defined ideal. So it’s illuminating that in a world where almost nothing is considered perfect, beauty can be seen everywhere. At every moment, throughout life. Age, wear, a wrinkle, a missing petal: and the beauty persists, flourishes. For beauty to be seen, just open eyes. Open them wide. This world’s beauty is even more simple than a lifeless ideal. And more substantial.

Sticking together. One easy way to add a few petals.
Stick together. An easy way to add a few missing petals.

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Letters home from troops: love, loss, reflection.

War Comes Home: The Legacy. A collection of letters written by veterans and their families.
War Comes Home: The Legacy. A collection of letters written by veterans and their families.

A poignant exhibit is now on public display at San Diego’s downtown Central Library. It’s titled War Comes Home: The Legacy. Through a number of emotionally charged letters to and from troops abroad, one can begin to feel how war changes lives. Included is personal correspondence, including email, from almost every major conflict in United States history. This exhibition is put on in partnership with Cal Humanities, and its stated purpose is to promote greater understanding of our veterans and explore the impact of war on communities.

The exhibit can be found on the first floor of the library and will run through August 16.

I'm coming home! I'm looking forward to seeing you again...but I'm in no hurry to see the expressions on your faces when you see me. You might even ask me for proof that I'm your son.
I’m coming home! I’m looking forward to seeing you again…but I’m in no hurry to see the expressions on your faces when you see me. You might even ask me for proof that I’m your son.
U.S. wars are mostly fought abroad, allowing many Americans distance from the personal implications. The war experience, however, remains with veterans for the rest of their lives.
U.S. wars are mostly fought abroad, allowing many Americans distance from the personal implications. The war experience, however, remains with veterans for the rest of their lives.
Now that it is all over, what is there to look back upon? The fifteen months in France have been like a book with strange chapters...
Now that it is all over, what is there to look back upon? The fifteen months in France have been like a book with strange chapters…
Although most people think that they are War Conscious, are they really? So far removed from the battle fronts, can they be?
Although most people think that they are War Conscious, are they really? So far removed from the battle fronts, can they be?
Those of us coming back from Iraq or Afghanistan are not looking for sympathy. We might be reluctant at first to talk about what we've been through, good or bad...
Those of us coming back from Iraq or Afghanistan are not looking for sympathy. We might be reluctant at first to talk about what we’ve been through, good or bad…
You cannot imagine, I believe, what thoughts came over me as I thought of all those who stood there on that day--and what it was all for, and what would come of it...
You cannot imagine, I believe, what thoughts came over me as I thought of all those who stood there on that day–and what it was all for, and what would come of it…
Not a day goes by that I don't think of you. I never know that love could hurt so much.
Not a day goes by that I don’t think of you. I never know that love could hurt so much.
Enduring Loss: The Costs of War.
Enduring Loss: The Costs of War.
The things that I am going to say in this letter are about twenty years and a whole lifetime late, but maybe that won't matter once they've been said.
The things that I am going to say in this letter are about twenty years and a whole lifetime late, but maybe that won’t matter once they’ve been said.
Coming home to normal life from a war zone can be a jarring experience for many troops.
Coming home to “normal” life from a war zone can be a jarring experience for many troops.
Ultimately, your loved one should start to feel normal after about five to six months--just in time to be deployed again.
Ultimately, your loved one should start to feel “normal” after about five to six months–just in time to be deployed again.
Let me be the first to tell you that we have a rough road ahead of us, kiddo. The life of a soldier isn't an easy one.
Let me be the first to tell you that we have a rough road ahead of us, kiddo. The life of a soldier isn’t an easy one.
My son: you are missed in our home. There is a silence and a sadness because of your absence.
My son: you are missed in our home. There is a silence and a sadness because of your absence.
Hearing grown men speak with wavering voices, some shedding tears, was more than I could bear.
Hearing grown men speak with wavering voices, some shedding tears, was more than I could bear.
You ask if the boys have changed much. Some, having had experience enough for a lifetime, are older...and yet, they have a greater zest for life...
You ask if the boys have changed much. Some, having had experience enough for a lifetime, are older…and yet, they have a greater zest for life…
Sketch of servicemember in military hospital with amputated leg, reading or writing a letter.
Sketch of servicemember in military hospital with amputated leg, reading or writing a letter.

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Old train posters between Santa Fe Depot and MCASD.

Old poster highlights points of interest reached by past San Diego streetcar and railroad lines. Depicted are orange groves, Mexican bullfighting, an ocean liner and Balboa Park.
Old poster highlights points of interest reached by past San Diego streetcar and railroad lines. Depicted are orange groves, Mexican bullfighting, an ocean liner and Balboa Park.

When I catch the trolley at downtown San Diego’s Santa Fe Depot, I often walk through an outdoor passageway that separates the hundred year old train station’s enormous waiting room from it’s original baggage terminal. The latter building was converted years ago into an interesting space used by the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego (MCASD).

Recently, while strolling through the passageway, I paused to examine three eye-catching graphics created by the museum to promote one of its current exhibitions. Two of the images incorporate old train posters from San Diego history, which I find to be very cool.  I thought you might enjoy a look!

MCASD’s exhibition titled “John D. Spreckels and The Impossible Railroad” concerns a railway project undertaken a century ago by one of San Diego’s most prominent entrepreneurs and benefactors.  Perhaps Spreckels’ greatest accomplishment was to complete the logistically difficult San Diego & Arizona Railroad, our nation’s southernmost transcontinental railroad route.  I haven’t visited the exhibition, but according to what I’ve read it utilizes interesting visual devices to demonstrate the near impossibility of building Spreckels’ railroad, which had to wind around and over deep mountain gorges.  (Spreckels was also responsible for a large network of electric streetcars which traversed San Diego decades before our modern day trolleys.)

Outdoor passage between the Santa Fe Depot and Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego (MCASD) downtown Jacobs Building, which used to be the historic train station's baggage terminal.
Outdoor passage between the Santa Fe Depot and the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego’s downtown Jacobs Building, which years ago was the train station’s baggage terminal.
John D. Spreckels and the Impossible Railroad is one of the current art exhibitions at MCASD.
John D. Spreckels and the Impossible Railroad is one of the current art exhibitions at MCASD.  These interesting promotional graphics also incorporate historical newspaper articles.
Old advertisement for the San Diego and Arizona Railway, the Carriso Gorge Route, which included possible destinations Chicago, New Orleans, Kansas City, El Paso, San Diego.
Old advertisement for the San Diego and Arizona Railway, called the Carriso Gorge Route, which included possible destinations Chicago, New Orleans, Kansas City, El Paso, San Diego.

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Fun, sun and extreme sports action at Supergirl Pro!

Camera aims toward surfing action from the Oceanside Pier during 2015 Supergirl Pro World Surf League (WSL) competition.
Camera aims toward surfing action from the Oceanside Pier during 2015 Supergirl Pro World Surf League (WSL) competition.

Here’s my second blog post about yesterday’s huge Supergirl Pro event near the Oceanside Pier. If you haven’t already, check out these super cool photos of the surfing action which I posted last night!

The 2015 Supergirl Pro was a three day event with a record 108 female surfing contestants. It’s the largest professional women’s surfing competition in the world. But it’s also a big fun festival celebrating women who participate in extreme sports. Amazing young women were skateboarding on a halfpipe, and visitors could learn about snowboarding.  There was also a beauty contest, and the crowd along Oceanside Beach had plenty of cool sights, sounds, delicious food and fun.

Enjoy some photos…

Spectators filled the beach, boardwalk and Oceanside Pier as people enjoyed many cool things to see at Supergirl Pro.
Spectators filled the beach, boardwalk and Oceanside Pier as people enjoyed many cool things to see at Supergirl Pro.
The annual female sports festival included high flying girls skateboarding a big halfpipe.
The annual female sports festival included high flying girls skateboarding a big halfpipe.
Three day surf competition schedule on a sign near the pier. I viewed the Quarterfinals on Sunday.
Three day surf competition schedule on a sign near the pier. I viewed the Quarterfinals on Sunday.
People watch an athlete defy gravity on the halfpipe at 2015 Supergirl Pro!
People watch an athlete defy gravity on the halfpipe at 2015 Supergirl Pro!
Unlike surfers in the ocean, should a skateboarder fall off their board, there's no soft landing!
Unlike surfers in the ocean, should a skateboarder fall off their board, there’s no soft landing!
Young girl watches female skating athlete at Supergirl Pro. Perhaps what she sees will provide her with inspiration.
Young girl watches female skating athlete complete a trick at Supergirl Pro. Perhaps what she sees will provide her with inspiration.
Just walking along the huge event venue, checking out interesting sponsors, vendors, food, and fun surf-related stuff.
Just walking along the huge event venue, checking out interesting sponsors, vendors, food, and fun surf-related stuff.
The Surf Diva has a big pink canopy on the sand!
The Surf Diva has a big pink canopy on the sand!
A couple of lifeguards watch the huge crowd from their tower on Oceanside's always popular beach.
A couple of lifeguards watch the huge crowd from their tower on Oceanside’s always popular beach.
Some surf graphics on a banner hung beneath the Oceanside Pier.
Some surf graphics on a banner hung beneath the Oceanside Pier.
Youth and a surfboard just north of the pier. It's another perfect sunny weekend in Southern California.
Youth and a surfboard just north of the pier. It’s another perfect sunny weekend in Southern California.
Someone walks past the Supergirl Pro staging tent, where contestants assemble and get ready to compete.
Someone walks past the Supergirl Pro staging tent, where contestants assemble and get ready to compete.
Colorful umbrellas and waders in the water can be seen for miles south along the coast, all the way through Carlsbad.
Colorful umbrellas and waders in the water can be seen for miles south along the coast, all the way through Carlsbad.
Folks in the shade of beach umbrellas look toward the surf, where dueling Supergirls are performing astonishing feats during 25 minute heats.
Folks in the shade of beach umbrellas look toward the surf, where dueling Supergirls are performing astonishing feats during 25 minute heats.
And hundreds are watching from up on the pier, as well.
And hundreds are watching from up on the pier, as well.
Amazing action like this took place for three straight days. The event is all about female strength and empowerment.
Amazing action like this took place for three straight days. The event is all about female strength and empowerment.
Walking farther out on Oceanside Pier to get closer to the powerful Pacific Ocean breakers.
Walking farther out on Oceanside Pier to get closer to the powerful Pacific Ocean breakers.
Guys on the other side of the pier seem more interested in fishing.
Guys on the other side of the pier seem more interested in fishing.
Now this person had the best view of all. A paraglider soars quietly above!
Now this person had the best view of all. A paraglider soars quietly above!
Eyes are fixed on the water below.
Eyes are fixed on the water below.
This year's 2015 Supergirl Pro winner, Tatiana Weston-Webb of Hawaii, rides a wave during the Quarterfinals.
This year’s 2015 Supergirl Pro winner, Tatiana Weston-Webb of Hawaii, rides a wave during the Quarterfinals.
When the competitors return to land, a crowd forms around them for a post-heat interview, photos and autographs.
When the competitors return to shore, a crowd forms around them for a post-heat interview, photos and autographs.
I see a pink Supergirl cape on one superheroic surfing celebrity! The event is in part sponsored by DC Comics, where the fictional character was born.
I see a pink Supergirl cape on one superheroic surfing celebrity! The event is in part sponsored by DC Comics, where the fictional character was born.
Just kicking back and taking in all the cool World Surf League action.
Just kicking back and taking in all the cool World Surf League action.
As I walk back down the pier, ready to go home, I hear something's going on at the outdoor Junior Seau Pier Amphitheatre.
As I walk back down the pier, ready to go home, I hear something’s going on at the outdoor Junior Seau Pier Amphitheatre.
It's an announcement of this year's winner of the beautiful woman contest. Supergirl Pro's main sponsor is Paul Mitchell, maker of beauty products.
It’s an announcement of this year’s winner of the beautiful woman contest. Supergirl Pro’s main sponsor is Paul Mitchell, maker of beauty products.
Blogging about an awesome surf event requires a photo of someone walking along with a surfboard on their head!
Blogging about an awesome surf event requires a photo of someone walking along with a surfboard on their head!

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Photos of cool surfing action at 2015 Supergirl Pro!

Professional World Surf League (WSF) Supergirl Pro Women's Qualifying Series surfer rides the foam in Oceanside, California.
Professional World Surf League (WSL) Supergirl Pro Women’s Qualifying Series surfer rides the foam in Oceanside, California.

Today I headed up the coast from San Diego to watch the 2015 Supergirl Pro surfing competition, which is held every year just south of the pier in Oceanside, California. Wow! The event is bigger than ever and simply incredible!

Supergirl Pro is the only World Surf League 6-Star Female Surfing Competition in the United States. It’s the largest women’s surfing event of its kind in the entire world. And this year there were a record 108 contestants! The ones I saw today, during the Quarterfinals, were almost superhuman. Surfing must be their superpower!

I got so many photos, I’ll break things up into two blog posts. This first post is my modest camera’s photos of the cool surfing action. I had to sharpen and alter the contrast on most images, but I’m surprised how decently many came out. I kept notes on the names of the surfers competing in each heat, but once I looked at my photos I wasn’t too sure who was who. So please excuse the fact that I don’t include the names of contestants in most captions.

Each pairing of surfers is given 25 minutes. Whoever achieves the highest score moves on in the competition, avoiding elimination.
Each pairing of surfers is given 25 minutes. Whoever achieves the highest score moves on in the competition, avoiding elimination.
Amazing athlete in Sunday's competition at the 2015 Supergirl Pro, the largest female surfing event of its kind in the world.
Amazing athlete in Sunday’s competition at the 2015 Supergirl Pro, the largest female surfing event of its kind in the world.
Cool photo of superhuman surfing action at 2015 Supergirl Pro. This year a record 108 contestants entered the huge three day competitive event.
Cool photo of superhuman surfing action at 2015 Supergirl Pro. This year a record 108 contestants entered the huge three day competitive event.
Riding a wave, hoping for glory. Supergirl Pro is the only WSL 6-Star Female Surfing Competition in the U.S.
Riding a wave, hoping for glory. Supergirl Pro is the only WSL 6-Star Female Surfing Competition in the U.S.
Tatiana Weston-Webb, professional WSF surfer from the island of Kaua'i, competes at 2015 Supergirl Pro event in Oceanside, California. She eventually went on to win the final!
Tatiana Weston-Webb, professional WSL surfer from the island of Kaua’i, competes at 2015 Supergirl Pro event in Oceanside, California. She eventually went on to win the final!
Tatiana plunges down the face of a Pacific Ocean breaker like Supergirl!
Tatiana plunges down the face of a Pacific Ocean breaker like Supergirl!
Cool photo of today's surfing champion shredding the crest of a wave.
Cool photo of today’s surfing champion shredding the crest of a wave.
Tatiana has classic form on a relatively smooth curler in choppy conditions.
Tatiana has classic form on a relatively smooth curler in choppy conditions.
Two competitors duel, trying their best to advance in the 2015 Supergirl Pro in Oceanside, California.
Two competitors duel, trying their best to advance in the 2015 Supergirl Pro in the surfing-friendly Southern California city of Oceanside.
Supergirl is flying on a surfboard! (The Silver Surfer doesn't get to have all the fun!)
Supergirl is flying on a surfboard! (The Silver Surfer doesn’t get to have all the fun!)
2015 Supergirl Pro is a super cool competition where every competitor is an absolutely amazing world-class athlete.
2015 Supergirl Pro is a super cool event where every competitor is an absolutely amazing world-class athlete.

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Another ordinary summer day on the Embarcadero.

A pleasure boat, two sailboats, one catamaran--everyone is out on glorious, blue San Diego Bay.
A pleasure boat, two sailboats, one catamaran–everyone is out on glorious, blue San Diego Bay.

Here are some photos taken today during my walk. Nothing too earth-shattering. Just sunshine, birds, people, water, boats, music, love, life . . . and Chewbacca, Tom Cruise and Captain Ahab. Ordinary stuff.

Gull takes flight near fishing pier at Embarcadero Marina Park South.
Gull takes flight near fishing pier at Embarcadero Marina Park South.
Folks relax as they listen to a small concert by a Seaport Village fountain.
Folks relax as they listen to a small concert by a Seaport Village fountain.
These talented kids playing classic rock tunes in Seaport Village form the band Gen-X!
These talented kids playing classic rock tunes in Seaport Village form the band Gen-X!
Chewbacca is hanging out with a Star Wars buddy near the USS Midway Museum.
Chewbacca is hanging out with a Star Wars buddy near the USS Midway Museum.
Looks like Tom Cruise has shore leave after landing his Top Gun fighter jet on that big aircraft carrier docked there behind him!
Looks like Tom Cruise has shore leave after landing his Top Gun fighter jet on that big aircraft carrier docked there behind him!
Two enjoy the sparkling water beside the Cruise Ship Terminal.
Two enjoy the sparkling water beside the Cruise Ship Terminal.
Students prepare to board the Star of India. A cool Moby Dick Marathon Reading is coming next weekend to San Diego's historic tall ship.
Students prepare to board the Star of India. A cool Moby Dick Marathon Reading is coming next weekend to San Diego’s historic tall ship.
Throwing a rope as Maritime Museum of San Diego's restored Swift Boat returns from a harbor cruise.
Throwing a rope as Maritime Museum of San Diego’s restored Swift Boat returns from a harbor cruise.

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