Some cool photos from Comic-Con Preview Night.

Hundreds of cool Star Wars collectibles are on display and for sale during San Diego Comic-Con.
Many cool Star Wars collectibles are on display and for sale during San Diego Comic-Con.

I’ve got a glut of cool photos from 2015 San Diego Comic-Con Preview Night. But it’s getting late and I’m getting sleepy. So here’s just the first batch for now…

Star Trek Ugly Dolls graphics at Preview Night in the San Diego Convention Center.
Star Trek Ugly Dolls graphics at Preview Night in the San Diego Convention Center.
An extraterrestrial and Medusa. There are many fantastic, detailed models exhibited at Comic-Con on the convention floor.
An extraterrestrial and Medusa. There are hundreds of fantastic, detailed models at Comic-Con on the convention floor.
Imaginative t-shirts featuring Edgar Allan Poe and Nikola Tesla.
Imaginative t-shirts featuring Edgar Allan Poe and Nikola Tesla.
A super cool Batman towers above the crowd in the Funko area.
A super cool Batman towers above the crowd near the Funko sign.
Scooby and the gang are in San Diego with the Mystery Machine!
Scooby and the gang are in San Diego with their Mystery Machine!
This zombie was getting a little too close for comfort.
This zombie was getting a little too close for comfort.
It seems the walking dead at 2015 San Diego Comic-Con were having problems with these revolving doors.
It seems the walking dead at 2015 San Diego Comic-Con are having problems with these revolving doors.
This is getting pretty darn frightening.
This is becoming pretty darn frightening.
I forgot this guy's clever name. Something like Screw Head.
I forgot this guy’s clever name. Something like Screw Head.
This monstrous orc with a hammer is from the awesome Warcraft exhibit.
This monstrous orc with a hammer is from the awesome Warcraft exhibit.
Adult Swim had fun and games, and prizes slid out of the cat's mouth.
Adult Swim has fun and games, and prizes slide out of the cat’s mouth.
Kuato from Total Recall was making the rounds at Comic-Con, unconcerned about staying hidden, it seems.
Kuato from Total Recall was making the rounds at Comic-Con, unconcerned about staying hidden, it seems.
R2-D2 looks kind of lonely.
R2-D2 looks kind of lonely.
Jabba the Hutt figurine on display at San Diego Comic-Con.
Jabba the Hutt figurine on display at San Diego Comic-Con.
I saw several angry Hulks on the verge of smashing something.
I saw several angry Hulks on the verge of smashing something.
Spiderman has his own awesome Hot Wheels car!
Spiderman has his own awesome Hot Wheels car!
This proud Batman just has to suck it up, surrounded by lesser figures.
This proud Batman just has to suck it up, surrounded by lesser figures.
In addition to full-size Batman and Superman costumes for sale, these cool creations can be yours to wear as you please.
In addition to full-size Batman and Superman costumes for sale, these fantastic creations can be yours to wear as you please.
Looks like Predator ripped the skull and spine right outa somebody.
Looks like Predator ripped the skull and spine right outa somebody.
Yeah, Iron Man is always pretty popular.
Yeah, Iron Man is always pretty popular.
Penguin figurine on display at 2015 San Diego Comic-Con.
Penguin figurine on display at 2015 San Diego Comic-Con.
Pop culture fan with camera records all sorts of cool sights in one display case.
Pop culture fan with camera records all sorts of cool sights in one display case.
The large Star Wars area has film clips playing overhead from the classic movies.
The large Star Wars area has film clips playing overhead from the classic movies.
This speeder is used by the character Rey in the upcoming Star Wars film.
This speeder is used by the character Rey in the upcoming Star Wars film.
R2-D2, C-3PO, a stormtrooper, Boba Fett and the Millennium Falcon are busting through a wall.
R2-D2, C-3PO, a stormtrooper, Boba Fett and the Millennium Falcon are busting through a wall.
Fresh from the pages of Shonen Jump, a super popular manga.
Fresh from the pages of Shonen Jump, a super popular manga.
The extensive LEGO area at Comic-Con contains lots of cool LEGO models.
The extensive LEGO area at Comic-Con contains lots of cool LEGO models.
Perhaps the coolest LEGO model is of the epic battle in Avengers II between Hulk and Iron Man in his Hulkbuster armor.
Perhaps the coolest LEGO model is of the epic battle in Avengers II between Hulk and Iron Man in his Hulkbuster armor.

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San Salvador galleon to be launched on barge!

San Salvador, an approximate reproduction of explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo's historic galleon, undergoes final preparation at Spanish Landing in San Diego.
San Salvador, a close reproduction of explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo’s historic galleon, undergoes final preparation at Spanish Landing in San Diego.

San Salvador’s masts and bowsprit have been installed!

I swung by the amazing ship’s build site this morning after doing a couple errands in Point Loma.  Additional work was underway on the bowsprit, and the hull appears almost finished. One gentleman was painting white Roman numerals on the bow which will indicate the ship’s depth.

Complications and unforeseen difficulties have delayed the launch of the Spanish galleon, but now the full-scale, seaworthy replica of explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo’s historic ship is almost ready to be placed into San Diego Bay!

As I write this, very little updated information can be found concerning the upcoming launch of San Salvador. When the ship was weighed some months ago, it came in at 20 tons more than expected. Due to logistics, plans to use a crane to transport the ship to Broadway Pier were necessarily altered, then ultimately discarded.

I received some info on the museum’s new plan during a short conversation with Al Sorkin, aka Captain Swordfish, a few days ago while I was walking along the Embarcadero. He indicated the San Salvador will be turned, then rolled over a temporary bridge onto a barge behind Harbor Island. The barge will then transport the galleon to a local shipyard, where a crane will finally hoist San Salvador into San Diego Bay.

The plan, as I understood it, is to add ballast and complete the ship’s rigging while it’s docked by the Maritime Museum. I also heard that the museum hopes San Salvador is ready to lead other tall ships into San Diego Bay for the ceremonial parade at this year’s Festival of Sail!  That would be very cool!

Maritime Museum of San Diego volunteers work on the bowsprit, before San Salvador is eventually moved onto a barge, then hoisted at a local shipyard into the bay.
Maritime Museum of San Diego volunteers work on the bowsprit, before San Salvador is eventually moved onto a barge, then hoisted at a local shipyard into the bay.
A temporary bridge will be built in the coming weeks to allow the large San Salvador Spanish galleon to be rolled onto a barge.
A temporary “bridge” will be built across this path in the coming weeks to allow the large San Salvador Spanish galleon to be rolled onto a barge.
While the masts are now in, yards are still being prepared. As I understand it, they'll be installed along with the ballast, once San Salvador is afloat near the Maritime Museum.
While the masts are now in, yards are still being prepared. As I understand it, they’ll be installed along with the ballast, once San Salvador is afloat near the Maritime Museum.
Guys work on the bowsprit in early July 2015. The hope is that San Salvador leads this year's Festival of Sail's parade of tall ships into San Diego Bay!
Guys work on the bowsprit in early July. The hope is that San Salvador leads the 2015 Festival of Sail’s parade of tall ships into San Diego Bay!

UPDATE!

As of 7/29/15, the San Salvador is afloat on San Diego Bay! A week ago a barge transported the replica galleon to Chula Vista in our South Bay, where today it was lifted into the water. I learned this afternoon that in fact the ballast will be added and rigging completed in Chula Vista, in a place that is closed to the public. The ship will have to undergo extensive testing by the Coast Guard before being declared seaworthy. It’s still hoped everything will be completed in time for the Festival of Sail, which takes place in a little over a month!

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Photos of San Diego Comic-Con preparation: 2 days to go!

Stunning white face stares from Petco Park across Harbor Drive. Nobody attending 2015 San Diego Comic-Con could possibly miss this!
Stunning white face stares from Petco Park across Harbor Drive. Nobody attending 2015 San Diego Comic-Con could possibly miss this advertisement!

Now just a bit over two days to go until 2015 San Diego Comic-Con officially opens!

I walked early and late yesterday around the convention center and Gaslamp. Workers were busy all over the place getting stuff ready.

For your enjoyment, I present another batch of photos showing all sorts of cool sights!

Once Upon a Time building wrap on Petco Park. Evil isn't born. It's made.
Once Upon a Time building wrap on Petco Park. Evil isn’t born. It’s made.
A local television news reporter stands near entrance to the Gaslamp, previewing 2015 Comic-Con on camera.
A local television reporter stands near entrance to the Gaslamp, previewing 2015 Comic-Con on camera for the evening news.
Is that legendary cartoonist and animator Chuck Jones? No. But it's his namesake gallery on Fifth Avenue, open and ready for fans of classic pop culture and cool art.
Is that legendary cartoonist and animator Chuck Jones? No. But it’s his namesake gallery on Fifth Avenue, open and ready for fans of classic pop culture and cool art.
Analog in the Gaslamp Quarter has a 20 percent discount on food for Comic-Con attendees with badge.
Analog in the Gaslamp Quarter has a 20 percent discount on food for Comic-Con attendees with badge.
More Analog fun . . . Cosplay Super Karaoke! I didn't know Han, Luke and Leia had formed a musical trio.
More Analog fun . . . Cosplay Super Karaoke! I didn’t know Han, Luke and Leia had formed a musical trio.
Half of a large wrap applied to Hard Rock Hotel building. Resembles the Ascension graphics from last year.
Half of a large wrap applied to Hard Rock Hotel building. Resembles the Ascension graphics from last year.
Other half of the cosmic, purple wrap. I see an asteroid field and spaceship.
Other half of the cosmic, purple wrap. I see an asteroid field and spaceship.
I see Lego Dimensions characters Superman, Batman and Gandalf in this graphic on the Hard Rock Hotel.
I see Lego Dimensions characters Superman, Batman and Gandalf in this graphic on the Hard Rock Hotel.
More Lego Dimensions images on the south side of the Hard Rock Hotel. You're gonna need a bigger imagination.
More Lego Dimensions images on the south side of the Hard Rock Hotel. You’re gonna need a bigger imagination.
The wrap on the west wall of Petco Park is finished. Vikings on the History Channel. May the Norse be with you!
The wrap on the west wall of Petco Park is finished. It promotes Vikings on the History Channel. May the Norse be with you!
The Ubisoft Assassin's Creed obstacle course is half-completed. It appears slightly different from last year.
The Ubisoft Assassin’s Creed obstacle course is half-completed. The configuration appears slightly different from last year.
Looks real. Or it is real, and those workers have super strength.
Looks realistic. Or is it real, and those workers have super strength?
Hannibal. Savor the Hunt. Creepy banners hung at the Gaslamp trolley station.
Hannibal. Savor the Hunt. Creepy banners hung at the Gaslamp trolley station.
The complex and interesting Heroes Reborn venue was being erected throughout the day Monday.
The complex and interesting Heroes Reborn venue was being erected throughout the day Monday.
As evening approached, guys were attaching some kind of black canopy to the steel structure.
As evening approached, guys were attaching some kind of black canopy to the steel structure.
Banners at Gaslamp trolley station promote Heroes Reborn, on NBC.
Banners at Gaslamp trolley station promote Heroes Reborn, on NBC.
The Tin Fish restaurant is decked out with NBC Blindspot graphics.
For 2015 the Tin Fish restaurant is decked out with NBC Blindspot graphics.
Behind the San Diego Convention Center, workers prepare a scary looking building, part of the FX Fearless Arena Experience.
Behind the San Diego Convention Center, workers prepare a scary looking building, part of the FX Fearless Arena Experience.
A second, larger building is also rising, across the grass of Hilton Bayfront Park.
A second, larger building is also rising, across the grass at Hilton Bayfront Park.
The Strain building wrap on the Hilton is nearing completion, two days before Comic-Con begins.
The Strain building wrap on the Hilton is nearing completion, a couple days before Comic-Con begins.
Another long structure is being set up nearby, and it appears there are many prop trees that go with it.
Another long structure is being set up nearby, and it appears there are many prop trees that go with it.
These smiling folks were heading along the bay walkway with a sign containing Comic-Con shuttle information.
These smiling folks were heading along the bay walkway with a sign containing Comic-Con shuttle information.
Lastly, Adult Swim is hosting a huge play area behind the convention center.
Lastly, Adult Swim is hosting a huge play area behind the convention center.
Here's a bunch of colorful stuff that must be unpacked and set up before 2015 San Diego Comic-Con begins on Thursday.
Here’s a bunch of colorful stuff that must be unpacked and set up before 2015 San Diego Comic-Con begins on Thursday.
Looks like a life-size version of Rick and Morty's flying saucer!
Looks like a life-size version of Rick and Morty’s flying saucer!

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Photos of San Diego Comic-Con preparation: 4 days to go!

Distinctive San Diego Comic-Con International sign is hung on convention center for the 2015 pop culture mega-event.
Distinctive San Diego Comic-Con International logo is hung on convention center for the 2015 pop culture mega-event.

Wow! This morning I saw that preparation for Comic-Con has pushed into high gear! 2015 San Diego Comic-Con comes very shortly after the Fourth of July, so as soon as the fireworks ended, workers have come out in droves to erect outdoor venues and complete a large number of impressive building wraps. There still isn’t much to see in the Gaslamp, where restaurants, bars and shops have been concentrating on drawing Independence Day crowds. I guess in the next day or two that will rapidly change!

Everywhere around the San Diego Convention Center there's activity. Tents are being sent up to shelter Comic-Con attendees who will wait in long lines.
Everywhere around the San Diego Convention Center there’s activity. Tents are being set up to shelter Comic-Con attendees who will wait in long lines.
Party rental workers hustle to get everything ready for 2015 San Diego Comic-Con, shortly after the Fourth of July.
Party rental workers hustle to get everything ready for 2015 San Diego Comic-Con, shortly after the Fourth of July.
The Last Ship building wrap on the Marriott hotel is finally finished several days before Comic-Con opens.
The Last Ship building wrap on the Marriott hotel is finally finished several days before Comic-Con opens.
Ubisoft is returning this year with the popular Assassin's Creed obstacle course. It's under construction at the same spot as last year.
Ubisoft is returning this year with the popular Assassin’s Creed obstacle course. It’s under construction at the same spot as last year.
Conan O'Brien building wrap is visible beyond crane erecting framework of Assassin's Creed obstacle course.
Conan O’Brien building wrap is visible beyond crane erecting framework of Assassin’s Creed obstacle course.
According to what I read, Gaslamp Square in front of the Tin Fish restaurant will be the scene of NBC's Heroes Reborn, where visitors will discover their own pyro-kinetic ability.
According to what I read, Gaslamp Square in front of the Tin Fish restaurant will be the scene of NBC’s Heroes Reborn, where visitors will discover their own pyro-kinetic ability!
Guys build steel structure near entrance to the Gaslamp Quarter, the hub of Comic-Con activity.
Guys build steel structure near entrance to the Gaslamp Quarter, the hub of Comic-Con activity.
NBC's Heroes Reborn cool venue for Comic-Con fans is rapidly under construction.
NBC’s Heroes Reborn elaborate venue for Comic-Con fans is under construction on July 5.
The Strain building wrap on the Hilton Bayfront is making great progress since I posted a photo two days ago.
The huge The Strain building wrap on the Hilton Bayfront is making great progress since I posted a photo two days ago.
FX Fearless Arena is being built in the Hilton Bayfront Park. Attractions will include The Strain, American Horror Story Hotel, The Simpsons, Fargo, and The Bastard Executioner.
FX Fearless Arena is being built in the Hilton Bayfront Park. Attractions will include The Strain, American Horror Story: Hotel, The Simpsons, Fargo, and The Bastard Executioner.
There's going to be more cool stuff than ever at 2015 San Diego Comic-Con!
There’s going to be more cool stuff than ever at 2015 San Diego Comic-Con!
Another section of the FX Fearless Arena under construction, with a big Minority Report banner in the background.
Another section of the FX Fearless Arena under construction, with a big Minority Report banner in the background.
Close up photo of Minority Report image on the Hilton parking garage.
Close up photo of Minority Report image on the Hilton parking garage.
Once Upon a Time returns this year. A huge wrap is being applied on a high section of Petco Park even now as I type!
Once Upon a Time returns this year. A huge wrap is being applied on a high section of Petco Park even now as I type!
It appears Petco Park will be the site of Galactic Army Boot Camp!
It appears Petco Park will be the site of Galactic Army Boot Camp!
Who will be in booth 437. Answer that, and we'll know what this wrap is on the west side of Petco Park, beside Tony Gwynn Drive.
Who will be in booth 437? Answer that, and we’ll know what this wrap is advertising on the west wall of Petco Park, beside Tony Gwynn Drive.
And, finally, I love this huge wrap on Petco Park, facing the convention center. It's The Muppets! Yeah!
And, finally, I love this huge wrap on Petco Park, facing the convention center. It’s The Muppets! Yeah!

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Lots of photos from Coronado’s Fourth of July parade!

Color guard leads the way during the Coronado Independence Day parade on Orange Avenue.
Color guard leads the way during the Coronado Independence Day parade on Orange Avenue.

While this blog post contains a whole bunch of photos, they only represent a small fraction of today’s Independence Day parade in Coronado. This Fourth of July parade is one of the biggest and best in the nation. Coronado is about as apple pie as a town can get, as it’s home to two very important military bases: Naval Air Station North Island and the Naval Amphibious Base.

Before the parade began, I walked about checking out the sights, smells and sounds. Hopefully I captured a bit of the experience with these photographs…

Welcome to Coronado . . . A Star Spangled Summer!
Welcome to Coronado . . . A Star Spangled Summer!
I believe these runners raced earlier in the Crown City Classic that started and ended at Tidelands Park, a few blocks away.
I believe these runners raced earlier in the Crown City Classic that started and ended at Tidelands Park, a few blocks away.
Almost everyone I saw was wearing clothing or costumes befitting a Fourth of July celebration!
Almost everyone I saw was wearing clothing or costumes befitting a Fourth of July celebration!
Someone wrote on the sidewalk with chalk: Happy Fourth of July!
Someone wrote on the sidewalk with chalk: Happy Fourth of July!
Tent in front of the Veterans of Foreign Wars on Orange Avenue was raising money selling parade-worthy treats.
Tent in front of the Veterans of Foreign Wars on Orange Avenue was raising money selling parade-worthy treats.
The Lions Club had a stand at Spreckels Park near the center of patriotic Coronado.
The Lions Club had a stand at Spreckels Park near the center of patriotic Coronado.
People check out art on display in Spreckels Park.
People check out art on display in Spreckels Park.
What could be more American than tossing a baseball while waiting for the big parade to begin.
What could be more American than tossing a baseball while waiting for the big parade to begin?
A shop window had a dog with a red, white and blue bow!
A shop window had a dog with a red, white and blue bow!
Humans and canines were all decked out for the occasion!
Humans and canines were all decked out for the occasion!
And what could be more American than a hot dog. A hot dog draped by a flag!
And what could be more American than a hot dog? A hot dog draped by a flag!
The businesses along Orange Avenue had all sorts of Independence Day wares and decorations outside.
The businesses along Orange Avenue had all sorts of Independence Day wares and decorations outside.
There is no greater love than this--that a person would lay down his life for his friends.
There is no greater love than this: That a person would lay down his life for his friends.
Kids with flags follow a big wagon full of lawn chairs, as the parade is almost ready to start.
Kids with flags follow a big wagon full of lawn chairs, as the parade is almost ready to start.
Finishing touches are put on the poop circles. Should a horse poop in your chalk circle, you win a special prize!
Finishing touches are put on the poop circles. Should a horse poop in your chalk circle, you win a special prize!
Tens of thousands are ready now along the entire length of Coronado. I think I hear the parade coming.
Tens of thousands are ready now along the entire length of Coronado. I think I hear the distant parade approaching.
Actually, it's the pre-parade entertainment. These performers are swirling and dancing to the delight of the crowd!
Actually, it’s the pre-parade entertainment. These performers are swirling and dancing to the delight of the crowd!
A colorful costume gets onlookers in the mood for a big, fun parade.
A colorful costume gets onlookers in the mood for a big, fun parade.
These guys are the Emilio Wallace Panamanian Marching Band of California!
These guys are the Emilio Wallace Panamanian Marching Band of California!
The Escondido Mounted Posse carry flags.
The official parade has begun.  The Escondido Mounted Posse carries flags.
Red, white and blue flowery carts are pulled by miniature horses!
Red, white and blue flowery carts are pulled by miniature horses!
The Grand Marshall this year was Vice Admiral Thomas Rowden, Commander, Naval Surface Forces, U.S. Pacific Fleet.
The Grand Marshall this year was Vice Admiral Thomas Rowden, Commander, Naval Surface Forces, U.S. Pacific Fleet.
And here comes the San Diego County tax collector, waving cheerfully to all!
And here comes the San Diego County tax collector, waving cheerfully to all!
Beautifully groomed long-tailed horses and a poodle strut their stuff down the parade route.
Beautifully groomed long-tailed horses and a poodle strut their stuff down the parade route.
A color guard precedes honored Pearl Harbor survivors.
A color guard precedes honored Pearl Harbor survivors.
A veteran who served during Pearl Harbor. He and other fellow heroes received the loudest applause all day.
A veteran who served during Pearl Harbor. He and other fellow heroes received the loudest applause all day.
A Pearl Harbor survivor waves to a crowd. Many were shouting Thank You.
A Pearl Harbor survivor waves to the crowd. Many were shouting “Thank You”.
Applause for the Pearl Harbor survivors as they pass on by for the Fourth of July.
Applause for the Pearl Harbor survivors as they pass on by for the Fourth of July.
Here comes the Marine Corps band!
Here comes the Marine Corps band!
An American military veteran rides his motorcycle down Orange Avenue.
An American military veteran rides his motorcycle down Orange Avenue.
Gold Star Mothers, with signs of loved ones killed in action. The people of Coronado understand that defending freedom can require sacrifice.
Gold Star Mothers, with signs of loved ones killed in action. The people of Coronado understand that defending freedom can require sacrifice.
Wounded Warriors are welcomed home.
Wounded Warriors are welcomed home.
Remembering our local fallen. Some gave all.
Remembering our local fallen. Some gave all.
San Diego Young Marines march. A future generation of heroes.
San Diego Young Marines march. A future generation of heroes.
An avenue of proud, billowing flags.
An avenue of proud, billowing flags.
Reenacting raising the flag at Iwo Jima, The United States Marine Corps War Memorial.
Reenacting raising the flag at Iwo Jima, The United States Marine Corps War Memorial.
San Diego heroes carry a large American flag.
San Diego heroes carry a large American flag.
Here come the Valley Center Rodeo Queens on horseback.
Here come the Valley Center Rodeo Queens on horseback.
Welcome Home Seth. Your country thanks you.
Welcome Home Seth. Your country thanks you.
Welcome Home Rodger. Our returning warrior.
Welcome Home Rodger. Our returning warrior.
Cool old cars from the Avenue of Heroes.
Cool old cars from the Avenue of Heroes.
Now that's an antique.
Now that’s an antique.
Of course, the big parade includes the Wells Fargo stagecoach.
Of course, the big parade includes the Wells Fargo stagecoach.
Even the Coronado Lawn Bowling Club was a part of the big Independence Day parade.
Even the Coronado Lawn Bowling Club was a part of the big Independence Day parade.
Meet the canine Vice Mayor of Coronado. I'm not sure which dog is the Mayor.
Meet the canine Vice Mayor of Coronado. I’m not sure which dog is the Mayor.
It's the Castle Park High School marching band.
It’s the Castle Park High School marching band.
Some medieval knights did battle on the parade route. Seems one has emerged the victor.
Some medieval knights did battle on the parade route. Seems one has emerged the victor.
Pink flamingos greet the crowd. I wonder if they wandered over here from the Marriott Coronado Resort's flamingo pond.
Pink flamingos greet the crowd. I wonder if they wandered over here from the Marriott Coronado Resort’s flamingo pond.
Coronado is one of the most patriotic places you'll find. Naval Air Station North Island and the Naval Amphibious Base where Seals train are located here.
Coronado is one of the most patriotic places you’ll find. Naval Air Station North Island and the Naval Amphibious Base where Seals train are located here.
An unrestored FJ-3 Fury from the Flying Leatherneck Aviation Museum at MCAS Miramar was towed to Coronado for the parade!
An unrestored FJ-3 Fury from the Flying Leatherneck Aviation Museum at MCAS Miramar was towed to Coronado for the parade!
Historic fighter jet heads down Orange Avenue as Fourth of July parade onlookers honor the troops.
Historic fighter jet heads down Orange Avenue as Fourth of July parade onlookers honor the troops.

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Cool Star Wars cosplay in Fourth of July parade!

Kids wave at Star Wars stormtrooper and tie fighter pilot at the Coronado Independence Day parade!
Kids wave at Star Wars stormtrooper and TIE fighter pilot at the Coronado Independence Day parade!

I spent the morning in Coronado. I’ve always wanted to see their huge Independence Day parade, reputed to be one of the very best in America. (And I believe it! I’ll be posting a bunch of pics later–I’ve got a lot of photos to go through!)

One of the biggest sensations of the parade was created when a bunch of San Diego Star Wars Society members passed down the length of Orange Avenue, engaging in elaborate cosplay. Talk about cool! It’s like Comic-Con started early!

San Diego Stars Wars Society members engage in elaborate cosplay for Coronado's Fourth of July parade!
San Diego Stars Wars Society members engaged in elaborate cosplay for Coronado’s Fourth of July parade!
Imperial stormtrooper rides a Segway, an advanced land vehicle from the early 21st century.
Imperial stormtrooper rides a Segway, an advanced land vehicle from the early 21st century.
A biker scout trooper clears a path for the San Diego Star Wars Society with a flag-festooned, red, white and blue patriotic motorcycle!
A biker scout trooper clears a path for the San Diego Star Wars Society with a flag-festooned, red, white and blue patriotic motorcycle!
The Dark Force seems to have a big following. But don't be alarmed. Some fearless Jedi Knights have arrived!
The Dark Force seems to have a big following. But don’t be alarmed. Some fearless Jedi Knights have arrived!
An army of white-armored clones marches down a very crowded Orange Avenue in Coronado. The parade featured a fantastic variety of cool sights.
An army of white-armored clones marches down a very crowded Orange Avenue in Coronado. The parade featured a fantastic variety of cool sights.
Kids have a load of fun as costumed Star Wars enthusiasts participate in the Coronado Independence Day parade.
Kids have a whole lot of fun as costumed Star Wars enthusiasts participate in the Coronado Independence Day parade.

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Getting ready for Fourth of July on the Embarcadero.

Flags are already out up and down San Diego's Embarcadero the day before the Fourth of July.
Flags are already out up and down San Diego’s Embarcadero the day before the Fourth of July.  This gentleman was taking a break near the fishing pier behind the convention center.

I noticed today that folks are already in the Fourth of July spirit. During my walk along the Embarcadero, I saw flags everywhere. Tomorrow the waterfront will be jammed with hundreds of thousands of San Diegans and tourists, especially during the Big Bay Boom fireworks show which takes place at 9 o’clock. I’ll be watching, too! Don’t expect any photos of fireworks, however, because my modest camera isn’t quite up to that task!

Should you happen to stroll through Seaport Village on Saturday, Alamo Flags will be handing out 1000 actual American flags for free! I was once honored to receive one, and they’re great! Giving away flags is a tradition carried on by the owner, Mike Ismail. Because of his personal experiences, he’s very grateful to live in the Land of the Free.

Port of San Diego's Big Bay Boom, an Independence Day Spectacular, will take place at 9 o'clock July 4. Several barges on the bay will launch synchronized fireworks.
Port of San Diego’s Big Bay Boom, an Independence Day Spectacular, will take place at 9 o’clock July 4. Several barges on the bay will launch synchronized fireworks.
American flag on a pedicab waiting for passengers by the USS Midway Museum.
American flag on a pedicab.  The driver is waiting for passengers on the Embarcadero, near the USS Midway Museum.
Flagship's Patriot speed boat is ready to take folks on a thrill ride! Get ready to be splashed!
Flagship’s Patriot speed boat is about to take folks on a thrill ride! Get ready to be splashed!
A street performer wears the Stars and Stripes. Looks like he's ready to go this Fourth of July weekend.
A street performer wears the Stars and Stripes. Looks like he’s ready to go this Fourth of July weekend.
Window at Alamo Flags in Seaport Village has patriotic displays. Mike Ismail, the owner, is proud and grateful to be a free American.
Window at Alamo Flags in Seaport Village has a patriotic display. Mike Ismail, the owner, is proud and grateful to be a free American.
Banners near front of Alamo Flags. The shop will give away 1000 free actual United States flags on the Fourth of July!
Banners near front of Alamo Flags. The shop will give away 1000 actual United States flags on the Fourth of July!
Tourists wearing Old Glory have disembarked from a San Diego SEAL Tours cool Hydra-Terra vehicle at Seaport Village.
Tourists wearing Old Glory have disembarked at Seaport Village from a San Diego SEAL Tours cool Hydra-Terra vehicle, after taking a bay cruise.

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Photos of San Diego Comic-Con preparation: 6 days to go!

A new San Diego Comic-Con building wrap going up on Hilton Bayfront today is a bit of a mystery.
A huge new San Diego Comic-Con building wrap going up on the Hilton Bayfront today is a bit of a mystery.

Less than six days to go until 2015 San Diego Comic-Con kicks off!

I walked all around downtown today, looking for signs of preparation. Nothing much has popped up in the Gaslamp yet, but a brand new huge building wrap is now being installed on the Hilton Bayfront near the San Diego Convention Center. After talking to some people, I’ve concluded the wrap will promote The Strain on FX. This would make sense, as the large grassy area in front of the Hilton will be the site of FX’s cool-sounding Fearless Arena Experience.

Stay tuned for more pics of Comic-Con stuff!

Baristas at hotel's Starbucks and a tourist info guy in the Hilton seem to think this graphic will promote The Strain on FX.
Baristas at hotel’s Starbucks and a tourist info guy in the Hilton seem to think this graphic will promote The Strain on FX.
Several Game of Thrones banners were hung on trolley track fences near the Gaslamp a few days ago.
Several Game of Thrones banners were hung on trolley track fences near the Gaslamp a few days ago.
Game of Thrones banners on trolley electrical poles along Martin Luther King Jr. Promenade in San Diego.
Game of Thrones banners on trolley electrical poles along Martin Luther King Jr. Promenade in San Diego.
The huge Conan Live from Comic-Con wrap on the Marriott Marquis is nearly finished.
The huge Conan Live from Comic-Con wrap on the Marriott Marquis is nearly finished.
Swirl Girl has amazing rainbow powers of sweetness, it seems. She appears on the door of Sweet Things Frozen Yogurt.
Swirl Girl has amazing rainbow powers of sweetness, it seems. She appears on the door of Sweet Things Frozen Yogurt.
San Diego Symphony ticket booth at Embarcadero Marina Park South advertises the upcoming Pokeman and Star Trek movie Summer Pops concerts.
San Diego Symphony ticket booth at Embarcadero Marina Park South advertises the upcoming Pokeman and Star Trek movie Summer Pops concerts.
The American Comedy Co. in the Gaslamp has a funny lineup set for Comic-Con, including Jay and Silent Bob.
The American Comedy Co. in the Gaslamp has a funny lineup set for Comic-Con, including Jay and Silent Bob.
Crown Books in Horton Plaza is where you can buy Chewbacca at a nice discount!
Crown Books in Horton Plaza is where you can buy Chewbacca at a nice discount!

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Planes and people on USS Midway’s flight deck.

USS Midway visitor takes photograph with selfie stick next to aircraft launching Shooter mannequin.
USS Midway visitor takes photograph with selfie stick next to aircraft-launching Shooter mannequin.

I hope you enjoy a few photos I took recently of planes and people (and helicopters) on the flight deck of San Diego’s USS Midway Museum. The historic aircraft carrier served longer than any other American carrier in the 20th century, spanning five decades from 1945 to 1992. Countless amazing stories have been lived by thousands serving aboard the USS Midway, and many of those stories continue today as docents and volunteers relate their personal shipboard experiences to visitors from around the world. San Diego’s unique aircraft carrier museum, now over ten years old, hosts over a million visitors a year.

Midway’s large flight deck, enlarged from 2.8 to 4 acres in 1966, today features a couple dozen restored aircraft that represent different eras of modern military history. The internet is jammed with pages showing and describing these aircraft in detail, so I thought I’d just provide a quick flavor of what it’s like to walk out on the flight deck on a typical San Diego day. If you’d like to take the cool self-guided tour of the ship, which I highly recommend, plan to spend at least an hour!

Lady walks past F-14 Tomcat fighter jet on USS Midway aircraft carrier's flight deck.
Lady walks past F-14 Tomcat fighter jet on USS Midway aircraft carrier’s flight deck.
Tourists at USS Midway Museum walk out onto one of the two horns that project over San Diego Bay.
Tourists at USS Midway Museum walk out onto one of the two horns that project over San Diego Bay.
Sign describes how to read Navy flag signals.
Sign describes how to read Navy flag signals.
Man lingers near F-8 Crusader, the US Navy's first supersonic fighter.
Man lingers near F-8 Crusader, the US Navy’s first supersonic fighter.
People sit on benches listening to a docent talk about launching airplanes from Midway's two steam-powered catapults.
People sit on benches listening to a docent talk about launching airplanes from Midway’s two steam-powered catapults.
Guy checks out A-7 Corsair ready to be launched from powerful catapult, which accelerated aircraft to 170 mph in about 3 seconds!
Guy checks out A-7 Corsair positioned to be launched from powerful catapult, which accelerated aircraft to 170 mph in about 3 seconds!
Young couple takes a look at E-2 Hawkeye, an Airborne Early Warning aircraft.
Young couple takes a look at E-2 Hawkeye, an Airborne Early Warning aircraft.
Looking south from atop the flight deck. Seen are the Unconditional Surrender statue, Tuna Harbor, and the Coronado Bay Bridge.
Looking south from atop the flight deck. Seen are the Unconditional Surrender statue, Tuna Harbor, and the Coronado Bay Bridge.
USS Midway visitors enjoy a sunny San Diego day near EKA-3 Skywarrior.
USS Midway visitors enjoy a sunny San Diego day near EKA-3 Skywarrior.
Visitors find out what it's like inside a CH-46 Sea Knight helicopter.
Visitors find out what it’s like inside a CH-46 Sea Knight helicopter.
Peering through cockpit of HO3S utility helicopter at the nearby HUP Retriever.
Peering through cockpit of HO3S utility helicopter at the nearby HUP Retriever.
This HO3S Dragonfly, first helicopter aboard the USS Midway in 1948, is undergoing restoration.
This HO3S Dragonfly, first helicopter aboard the USS Midway in 1948, is undergoing restoration.
Docent veteran talks about how aircraft landed on the flight deck using tailhooks and arresting cables.
Docent veteran talks about how aircraft landed on the flight deck using a tailhook and multiple arresting cables.
Exhibit on Midway's LSO Platform shows how Navy pilots landed in difficult conditions, relying on optical guidance.
Exhibit on Midway’s LSO Platform shows how Navy pilots landed in difficult conditions, relying on optical guidance.
Navy pilot mannequin in flight suit stands near FA-18 Hornet, painted as a TOPGUN enemy aircraft.
Navy pilot mannequin in flight suit stands near FA-18 Hornet, painted as a TOPGUN enemy aircraft.
A-6 Intruder bomber on display near USS Midway's superstructure.
A-6 Intruder bomber on display near USS Midway’s superstructure.
Volunteers work to restore SH-2 Seasprite, beyond orange nose of H-34 Seabat.
Volunteers work to restore SH-2 Seasprite, beyond orange nose of H-34 Seabat.
The huge flight deck of the USS Midway Museum hosts visitors from around the world, special military-related events, decades of history, and never-ending activity on San Diego Bay.
The huge flight deck of the USS Midway Museum hosts visitors from around the world, special military-related events, decades of history, and never-ending activity on San Diego Bay.

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Huge building wraps and banners hung for Comic-Con!

Several huge Minority Report banners have been hung on the Hilton parking garage for 2015 San Diego Comic-Con.
Several huge Minority Report banners have been hung on the Hilton parking garage for the upcoming 2015 San Diego Comic-Con.

I got off work early today, so I took the trolley down to the San Diego Convention Center and walked around looking to photograph cool 2015 Comic-Con preparations. The main thing I noticed was that several gigantic building wraps and banners are being installed at this very moment! One week to go until Comic-Con, and things should soon start getting interesting!

A gigantic orange Conan O’Brien building wrap is being applied to the side of the Marriott Hotel facing the San Diego Convention Center.
A gigantic orange Conan O’Brien building wrap is being applied to the side of the Marriott Hotel facing the San Diego Convention Center.
A suspended platform is used to adhere panels of a The Last Ship building wrap to windows of the shining Marriott Marquis.
A suspended platform is used to adhere panels of The Last Ship building wrap to shining windows of the Marriott Marquis.
Major preparations have begun the week before 2015 San Diego Comic-Con!
Major preparations have begun the week before 2015 San Diego Comic-Con!

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