Tag: balboa park

Signs of the holiday season appear in San Diego!

Signs of the holiday season have sprung up around San Diego a week or two before Thanksgiving.
Signs of the holiday season have sprung up around San Diego a week or two before Thanksgiving.

The holidays are almost upon us! Four days until Thanksgiving!

While walking around San Diego this weekend, I noticed some signs of the coming holiday season. So I took pictures!

Ushers file past the Dr. Seuss Grinch Christmas Tree at the Old Globe Theatre in Balboa Park.
Ushers file past the fun Dr. Seuss Grinch Christmas Tree in front of the Old Globe Theatre in Balboa Park.
Holiday lights are up in the courtyard of Balboa Park's House of Hospitality.
Holiday lights are up in the courtyard of Balboa Park’s House of Hospitality.
Poster in Balboa Park advertises New Direction at the North Pole! Joyful music will fill San Diego during the holiday season.
Poster in Balboa Park advertises New Direction at the North Pole! Joyful music will fill San Diego during the holiday season.
The Spreckels Organ Pavilion in Balboa Park is almost ready for December Nights, which will be held December 4 and 5 this year.
The Spreckels Organ Pavilion in Balboa Park is almost ready for December Nights, which will be held December 4 and 5 this year.
Frosty the Snowman painted on a store window in San Diego's sunny East County.
Frosty the Snowman painted on a store window in San Diego’s sunny East County.
The Salvation Army will be serving Thanksgiving dinner to the homeless in Golden Hall at the Civic Center.
The Salvation Army will be serving Thanksgiving dinner to the homeless in Golden Hall at the Civic Center.
White Christmas opens Friday at the Spreckels Theatre.
White Christmas opens Friday at the Spreckels Theatre.
Kansas City Barbeque is offering active military a free Thanksgiving dinner.
Kansas City Barbeque is offering active military a free Thanksgiving dinner.
The San Diego Run For the Hungry takes place Thanksgiving morning.
The San Diego Run For the Hungry takes place Thanksgiving morning.
Traditional holiday garland and colorful ornaments festoon the famous Donut Bar in downtown San Diego.
Traditional holiday garland and colorful ornaments festoon the Donut Bar in downtown San Diego.
One of many beautiful wreaths hung all around the Horton Plaza shopping center in downtown San Diego.
One of many beautiful wreaths hung all around Horton Plaza in San Diego.  Christmas shopping is about to really get started on Black Friday!
Surfing Santa poster in a window of the Seaport Cookie Company.
Surfing Santa poster in a window of the Seaport Cookie Company.
Some shiny Christmas tree ornaments and festive entertainment near the Seaport Village carousel.
Some shiny Christmas tree ornaments and festive entertainment near the Seaport Village carousel.
Jolly old Saint Nick is being hung with care near stockings and candy cane pillars at the front door of a Seaport Village shop.
Jolly old Saint Nick is being hung with care near stockings and candy cane pillars at the front door of a Seaport Village shop.

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Terror victims remembered at House of France.

French flag and Eiffel Tower as a peace sign. A memorial for the victims of the Paris terror attack.
French flag and the Eiffel Tower turned into a peace sign. Part of a touching memorial for the victims of the Paris terror attack.

A candlelight vigil was held last night at the House of France in Balboa Park. The House of France is a member of the peace-loving House of Pacific Relations International Cottages.

During the vigil, the victims of Friday’s ISIS terror attack in Paris were remembered, and loving support was displayed in San Diego for the good people of France.

I walked by the House of France early this morning. The candles were still lit.

A candlelight vigil was held last night in front of the House of France in San Diego's Balboa Park.
A candlelight vigil was held last night in front of the House of France in San Diego’s Balboa Park.
Candles remain lit the morning after the vigil. Signs, messages, flowers and letters show support for France and love for those who died during the Paris terror attack.
Candles remain lit the morning after the vigil. Signs, messages, flowers and letters show support for France and love for those who died during the Paris terror attack.
Pray for Paris.
Pray for Paris.
Je suis Paris.
Je suis Paris.
Personal sentiments are written down by San Diegans with ties to France. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Personal sentiments are written down by San Diegans, many with ties to France. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Sending our love to Paris and the rest of the world.
Sending our love to Paris and the rest of the world.
La France est la joie de vivre. A memorial for the innocent victims of the Paris terror attack. Hope, love and beauty cannot be conquered.
La France est la joie de vivre. A memorial for the innocent victims of the Paris terror attack. Hope, love and beauty cannot be conquered.

A colorful dance of art history in Spanish Village!

The San Diego Potter's Guild in Spanish Village recently created this artistic tribute to the 1915 Panama-California Exposition and Balboa Park's centennial.
The San Diego Potter’s Guild in Spanish Village recently created this artistic tribute to the 1915 Panama-California Exposition and Balboa Park’s centennial.

A fun exhibit debuted today in Spanish Village’s large outdoor patio courtyard. It’s called Dance through the Decades of Art! Colorful works by local artists jut out of various planters, representing the history of art styles over the past century. It’s another creative offshoot resulting from Balboa Park’s centennial, which is being celebrated throughout this year! The cool exhibit lasts through November 25.

I walked about and took these photos…

Spanish Village in Balboa Park has a new Dance through the Decades of Art exhibit in their patio courtyard. It celebrates the evolution of art over the last hundred years. This bold piece represents the graffiti art style!
Spanish Village in Balboa Park has a new Dance through the Decades of Art exhibit in their patio courtyard. It celebrates the evolution of art over the past hundred years. This bold piece represents the graffiti art style!
I was allowed to photograph these works of art being created on Saturday (the day before the exhibit opened) in a hidden Spanish Village work area!
I was allowed to photograph these works of art being created on Saturday (the day before the exhibit opened) in a hidden Spanish Village work area!
This artwork represents the 1930s, when the Works Progress Administration provided artists with employment during the Great Depression.
This artwork represents the 1930s, when the Works Progress Administration provided artists with employment during the Great Depression.
This work loosely represents photorealism, a distinctly American genre of painting that originated in the late 1960s.
This work very loosely represents photorealism, a distinctly American genre of painting that originated in the late 1960s.
This fun art in Spanish Village contains elements of steampunk, a sub-genre of science fiction that highlights 19th century Victorian and industrial themes.
This fun art in Spanish Village contains elements of steampunk, a sub-genre of science fiction that highlights 19th century Victorian and industrial themes.
Visitors to Balboa Park look into a double kaleidoscope! This wildly colorful sculpture represents psychedelic art, which originated from 1960s counterculture.
Visitors to Balboa Park look into a double kaleidoscope! This wildly colorful sculpture represents psychedelic art, which originated from 1960s counterculture.
Here's a photo I took after turning a dial of the kaleidoscope.
Here’s a photo I took after turning a dial of the kaleidoscope.
I turned the dial again!
I turned the dial again!
These splashes of bold color are a tribute to Abstract expressionism, which originated in the late 1940s, the first specifically American movement to achieve international influence.
These splashes of bold color are a tribute to Abstract expressionism, which originated in the late 1940s, the first specifically American movement to achieve international influence.
Someone sits on a planter which contains artwork representing minimalism, a literalist movement that arose during the 1960s.
Someone sits on a planter which contains artwork representing minimalism, a literalist movement that arose during the 1960s.
This panel celebrates the Art Deco style with images of musical instruments popular in the Jazz Age.
This panel celebrates the Art Deco style with images of musical instruments popular during the Jazz Age.
This creation for the exhibit represents Cubism, an early 20th century avant-garde movement, which revolutionized painting and other art forms.
This creation for the outdoor exhibit represents Cubism, an early 20th century avant-garde movement, which revolutionized painting and other art forms.
Dance through the Decades of Art enlivens Spanish Village. Painted pieces trace art's history and development over the past 100 years.
Dance through the Decades of Art enlivens Spanish Village! Painted pieces trace art’s history and development over the past 100 years.

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Veteran’s Day celebrated in Balboa Park.

Getting ready for the Veteran's Day Memorial Program at the House of USA Cottage in Balboa Park.
Getting ready for the Veteran’s Day Memorial Program at the House of USA Cottage in Balboa Park.

Today I enjoyed a special Veteran’s Day program in Balboa Park. It was held on the lawn at the House of Pacific Relations International Cottages. The City Guard Band of San Diego played some great music, including a composition titled San Diego Exposition March, written by Gunner Tolbert for the 1915 Panama-California Exposition held in Balboa Park. Some other pieces I heard were selections from South Pacific, Victory at Sea, and, of course, the Star Spangled Banner.

I took a number of photos, and ventured into the House of USA Cottage to absorb some of the atmosphere. I thought you’d might like to have a look. Please read the captions for some more interesting information.

The band is ready to play as people gather around the stage in the lawn area of the International Cottages. It's a Sunday afternoon in San Diego's beautiful Balboa Park.
The band is ready to play as people gather around the stage in the lawn area of the International Cottages. It’s a Sunday afternoon in San Diego’s beautiful Balboa Park.
City Guard Band of San Diego plays during a special Veteran's Day program. The band originated in 1880, when members were part of a local volunteer militia.
City Guard Band of San Diego plays during a special Veteran’s Day program. The band originated in 1880, when members were part of a local volunteer militia.
Old plaque at base of large tree in the middle of the surrounding cottages. Dedicated in honor of Arthur E. Vest, Department Commander of the Grand Army of the Republic.
Old plaque at base of large tree near the center of the surrounding cottages. Dedicated in honor of Arthur E. Vest, Department Commander of the Grand Army of the Republic.
A small Veteran's Day gathering in Balboa Park's friendly House of Pacific Relations International Cottages.
A relaxed Veteran’s Day gathering at Balboa Park’s peaceful House of Pacific Relations International Cottages.
Folks at a table in front of the House of USA Cottage listen to the band play patriotic and other popular tunes.
Folks at a table in front of the House of USA Cottage listen to the band play patriotic and other popular tunes.
These fine ladies smiled for my camera! Those treats on the table are well known to this blogger!
These fine ladies smiled for my camera! Those treats on the table are well known to this blogger!
American flag and a Welcome at the front door of the USA cottage in Balboa Park.
American flag and a Welcome at the front door of the USA cottage in Balboa Park.
Inside the USA cottage. Welcome home all the brave men and women of the United States Armed Forces.
Inside the USA cottage. Welcome home all the brave men and women of the United States Armed Forces.
Famous portraits and memorabilia from American history cover walls and fill shelves in the House of USA Cottage.
Famous portraits and memorabilia from American history cover walls and fill shelves in the House of USA Cottage.
Playing the piano for anyone who wanders in on another perfect sunny San Diego day. Someone was whistling nearby.
Playing the piano for anyone who wanders in on another perfect sunny San Diego day. Someone was whistling nearby.
The Stars and Stripes and books concerning Americana.
The Stars and Stripes and various books celebrating Americana.
Playing joyful music, from marches to musicals, celebrating those who've served to protect our freedom.
Playing sparkling music, from marches to musicals, celebrating those who’ve served to protect our freedom.

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Thriller flash mob scares Balboa Park visitors!

Zombies and ghouls gather for a scare at Balboa Park Halloween Family Day.
Zombies and ghouls gather for a scare at Balboa Park Halloween Family Day.

At first today’s Balboa Park Halloween Family Day seemed uneventful. A lot of park visitors out enjoying a sunny late October day. What could possibly go wrong?

The San Diego Police could not stop the frightening scene to come. Their skeleton crew was taking a lazy Saturday nap in the park.
The San Diego Police could not stop the frightening scene to come. Their skeleton crew was taking a lazy Saturday nap in the park.
Everything seemed peaceful and normal. A baby stroller headed down El Prado, carrying a sunflower.
Everything seemed peaceful and normal. A baby stroller headed down El Prado, carrying a sunflower.
The San Diego Zoo was showing a two-toed sloth to costumed kids eating candy for Halloween.
The San Diego Zoo was showing a two-toed sloth to costumed kids eating candy for Halloween.
This MTS lady seemed happy and so did the pumpkin behind her. But little did the visitors to Balboa Park know...danger was lurking nearby...
This MTS lady seemed happy and so did the pumpkin behind her. But little did the visitors to Balboa Park know…danger was lurking nearby…
The Doggie Costume Contest in Spanish Village promised to be a fun, tail-wagging affair.
The Doggie Costume Contest in Spanish Village promised to be a fun, tail-wagging affair.
This witch assured me she was a nice witch. Not one of those wicked ones. But I don't know about all those spooky symbols on the sign beside her.
This witch assured me she was a nice witch. Not one of those wicked ones. But I don’t know about all those spooky symbols on the sign beside her.
The glassblowers were making beautiful pumpkins. There's nothing very spooky here, right?
The glassblowers were making beautiful pumpkins. There’s nothing very scary here, right?
Now wait a minute. I see Godzilla strolling near the reflecting pool. Perhaps he emerged from deep waters to wreak havoc on San Diego. I hope not.
Now wait a minute. I see Godzilla strolling near the reflecting pool. Perhaps he emerged from deep waters to wreak havoc on San Diego. I hope not.
More nice pumpkins. These are arranged among pretty flowers and various exotic plants in the Botanical Building.
More nice pumpkins. These are arranged among harmless, pretty flowers and various exotic plants in the Botanical Building.
A lady, with a skull face painting, poses in a beautiful Dia de los Muertos dress. What could possibly go wrong today?
A lady, with a skull face painting, poses in a beautiful Dia de los Muertos dress. What could possibly go wrong today?
Oh, no! Here come the evil clowns! Now we asked for it!
Oh, no! Here come the evil clowns! Now we asked for it!
And now zombies are converging on the Plaza de Panama! One is limping horribly toward an undead bride in a wedding gown!
And now zombies are converging on the Plaza de Panama! One is limping horribly toward an undead bride in a wedding gown!
And now look! A crowd of limp, staggering figures is assembling in the plaza. What are they going to do?
And now look! A crowd of limp, staggering figures is assembling in the plaza. What are they going to do?
They're going to dance! It's Michael Jackson's Thriller!
They’re going to dance! It’s Michael Jackson’s Thriller!

It’s close to midnight and something evil’s lurking in the dark

Under the moonlight you see a sight that almost stops your heart

You try to scream, but terror takes the sound before you make it

You start to freeze as horror looks you right between the eyes

You’re paralyzed…

A scary flash mob, brought together by the San Diego Civic Dance Association, performs Thriller during Balboa Park Halloween Family Day.
A scary flash mob, brought together by the San Diego Civic Dance Association, performs Thriller during Balboa Park Halloween Family Day.

‘Cause this is thriller, thriller night

And no one’s gonna save you from the beast about to strike!

What a bunch of spooky fun! So much fun, they did it again and again!
What a bunch of spooky fun! So much fun, they did it again and again!

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Glowing clouds at day’s end in Balboa Park.

Glowing orange clouds at day's end, and the California Tower in silhouette. Photo taken from Plaza de Panama in San Diego's Balboa Park.
Glowing orange clouds at day’s end, and the California Tower in silhouette. Photo taken from Plaza de Panama in San Diego’s Balboa Park.

Days are rapidly becoming shorter. My evening walks after work have magically changed. Bright sunshine has become twilight. Clouds glow like embers as darkness descends.

Here are two photographs I took this evening during a short stroll through the heart of Balboa Park.

A dramatic end to an October day. Photo of iconic California Tower in San Diego's Balboa Park as night falls.
A dramatic end to an October day. Photo of iconic California Tower in San Diego’s Balboa Park as night falls.

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A beautiful, hidden fountain forgotten by time.

Looking north at steps that lead down from the quiet, stately Balboa Park Administrative Building Courtyard.
Looking north at steps that lead down from the quiet, stately Balboa Park Administrative Courtyard.

A few weeks ago I meandered about Inspiration Point in Balboa Park. Walking slowly, pausing often, going nowhere in particular. Just seeing what I might see.

At the south edge of the Balboa Park Administrative Courtyard, I stood and gazed down the hill toward a corner of downtown San Diego. You might remember my blog about the courtyard. It’s a place that very few people know about. It’s peaceful, green, a bit of heaven. A place of solitude.

As I stood, I glanced down some steps leading toward a seemingly unremarkable patch of trees. A dusty lot next to the trees contained dozens of parked city Park and Recreation trucks. I wondered to myself if the public was permitted to walk down those steps, into what appeared to be a city work area.

This mysterious path seems to lead to a jumble of trees and a dusty parking lot full of city Park and Recreation trucks.
This mysterious path seems to lead to a jumble of trees and a dusty parking lot full of city Park and Recreation trucks.

Then I saw the blue among the trees. Was that water?

No sign indicated I couldn’t investigate. So I did.

And what I found took my breath away.

Beautiful Bird of Paradise in a section of Balboa Park where the public almost never goes.
Beautiful Bird of Paradise in a section of Balboa Park where the public almost never goes.
Entering a magical hollow in the trees, where a shining blue pool and small fountain await.
Entering a magical hollow in the trees, where a shining blue pool and small fountain await.

The trees seemed a forgotten oasis. At their center shined a lonely pool and a small fountain in the form of a child. The cherub seemed to be holding open the mouth of a carp, or perhaps reading a book–I don’t know.

The strange fountain appeared to occupy a magical place, entirely removed from the surrounding world.

What was it?

An email to the Friends of Balboa Park, an organization whose office is in the nearby Balboa Park Administration Building, provided a bit of information.

The person who replied parks her car in the lot not far from the pool and fountain, and she was completely amazed. She’d didn’t know of its existence.

Ranger Kim, who also works in the building, and who knows volumes about the history of Balboa Park, indicated that the fountain was left over from the 1920’s when the U.S. Navy built a large hospital campus in the immediate area.

In the 1980’s, the land was given to the city in exchange for acreage in Florida Canyon, where the new Naval Medical Center San Diego was built. The buildings from the 1920’s were eventually demolished, except for a Navy chapel, the administration building and its stately courtyard, and a nearby medical library and auditorium building. Today the chapel contains the Veterans Museum and Memorial Center; the administration building contains Balboa Park’s headquarters.

And, of course, magic remains where very few people go: a small fountain that healed spirits at the old Navy complex. A beautiful, hidden fountain forgotten by time.

The lonely fountain is in the form of a child. A few empty benches surround the tiled pool.
The lonely fountain is in the form of a child. A few empty benches surround the tiled pool.
This fountain is left over from the Navy hospital campus built in this area in the 1920's.
This fountain is left over from the Navy hospital campus built in this area in the 1920’s.
The figure seems to be holding open the jaws of a fish, or perhaps reading a book.
The figure seems to be holding open the jaws of a fish, or perhaps reading a book.
A beautiful, hidden fountain forgotten by time.
A beautiful, hidden fountain forgotten by time.

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Amazing Balboa Park chalk art at Little Italy’s Festa!

Friendly artist at 2015 Festa in San Diego's Little Italy shows me the source material for her Balboa Park themed chalk art creation!
Amazing artist at 2015 Festa in San Diego’s Little Italy.  Smiling, she shows me the source material for her Balboa Park themed chalk art!

Brace yourself! Here come dozens of super cool photos! Check out the amazing chalk art created today for 2015 Festa in San Diego’s Little Italy!  The special theme this year is the centennial of Balboa Park!

Gesso Italiano chalk art is a tradition at Little Italy’s Festa, and every year I’m blown away by all the colorful creations. Most of the images this year are inspired by beautiful Balboa Park, or paintings or artifacts contained in its museums. I arrived to take photos about an hour before the event opened, and many artists were still hard at work. I spoke to one who said their masterpiece took about seven hours to complete. Now that’s dedication to art!

I’ve inserted the team name at the beginning of each caption. Enjoy!

Cecelia Ramos Linayao. Face of child riding Balboa Park's hundred-year-old carousel, which debuted in 1915 for the Panama California Exposition.
Cecelia Ramos Linayao. Face of child riding Balboa Park’s hundred-year-old carousel, which debuted in 1915 for the Panama California Exposition.
Lesley Perdomo. Madonna and child, a popular theme of Gesso Italiano artwork.
Lesley Perdomo. Madonna and child, a popular theme of Gesso Italiano artwork.
Robert Guzman. I believe this might be a hippo at the world famous San Diego Zoo in Balboa Park!
Robert Guzman. I believe this might be a hippo at the world famous San Diego Zoo in Balboa Park!
Tonie Garza. The iconic El Cid Campeador statue in the Plaza de Panama. Chalk art celebrating Balboa Park's centennial in 2015.
Tonie Garza. The iconic El Cid Campeador statue in the Plaza de Panama. Chalk art celebrating Balboa Park’s centennial in 2015.
Team Parada. A beautiful face with elaborately styled hair.
Team Parada. A beautiful face with elaborately styled hair.
I didn't get the team name, but this exquisite white chalk portrait was one of my favorite pieces at Festa in Little Italy!
I didn’t get the team name, but this exquisite white chalk portrait was one of my favorite pieces at this year’s Festa in Little Italy!
Before Festa opens, chalk artists work on their creations on two blocks of Beech Street in downtown San Diego.
Before the Festa event opens, chalk artists work to finish their creations.  The art covers two blocks of Beech Street in downtown San Diego.
Squadra Terun. A vividly colorful flower. Perhaps this depicts a scene from Balboa Park's reflecting pool.
Squadra Terun. A vividly colorful flower. Perhaps this depicts a scene from Balboa Park’s reflecting pool.
A bit of random chalk art on the street near the official Festa competition entries.
A bit of random chalk art on the street.  I spotted this near the official Festa competition entries.
Ciao! A chalk image of lilies and koi in the reflecting pool and the Botanical Building in Balboa Park.
Ciao! A chalk image of lilies and koi in the reflecting pool, and the Botanical Building in Balboa Park.
I didn't get the team name. The artist was working from what appeared to be a poster or advertisement with the word Ventimiglia, which is a city in Northern Italy.
I didn’t get the team name. The artist was working from what appeared to be a poster or advertisement with the word Ventimiglia, which is a city in Northern Italy.
Lisa Bernal Brethour. Delicate white blooms formed of chalk.
Lisa Bernal Brethour. Delicate white blooms formed of chalk.
Brianna Cunha. Stylish Gesso Italiano art appears to possibly show bubbles, a glass of beer and wheat.
Brianna Cunha. This stylish Gesso Italiano art appears to possibly show bubbles, a glass of beer and wheat.
Bijan Masoumpanah. This chalk art seems to depict a classic sculpture of a bearded head.
Bijan Masoumpanah. This chalk art seems to depict a classic sculpture of a bearded head.
Valerie Michelle. A super colorful parrot and tropical fish!
Valerie Michelle. A super colorful parrot and tropical fish!
Weenie Kingdom. One of the carved wooden horses from the historic Balboa Park Carousel.
Weenie Kingdom. One of the carved wooden horses from the historic Balboa Park Carousel.
Salgado. Perhaps one can see this big cat at the San Diego Zoo!
Salgado. Perhaps one can see this big cat at the San Diego Zoo!
Killer Queens. Dinosaur skull represents what one is likely to see at the Natural History Museum in Balboa Park.
Killer Queens. Dinosaur skull represents what one is likely to see at the Natural History Museum in Balboa Park.
Cobian. Figure in flowing red dress reclining on a couch.
Cobian. Figure in flowing red dress reclining on a couch.
Team Arcala. Chalk interpretation of the historic Cabrillo Bridge and California Building. The artist had looked for hundred-year-old photos of the bridge under construction, without success.
Team Arcala. Chalk interpretation of the historic Cabrillo Bridge and California Building. The artist had looked for hundred-year-old photos of the bridge under construction, but without success.
Meg. A big smile and a boldly colored work of chalk art taking form on a San Diego street during Festa!
Meg. A big smile and a boldly colored work of chalk art taking form on a San Diego street during 2015 Festa!
Team Pinoy. California Tower and the words Balboa Park Centennial Celebration 2015.
Team Pinoy. California Tower and the words Balboa Park Centennial Celebration 2015.
Team Chalkolate. Another chalk representation of the famous El Cid equestrian sculpture near the center of Balboa Park.
Team Chalkolate. Another chalk representation of the famous El Cid equestrian sculpture near the center of Balboa Park.
Campo Elementary. These gifted students won first place last year! What will this chalk art creation be?
Campo Elementary. These gifted students won first place last year! What will this chalk creation be?
John Vaughn. Chalk version of ornate plaster designs above the west arched entrance to Balboa Park.
John Vaughn. Chalk version of ornate plaster designs above the west arched entrance to Balboa Park.
Two blocks in Little Italy were full of rampant creativity this morning.
Two blocks in Little Italy were full of rampant creativity this morning.
Michael Zamora. Fantastic chalk face based on an Italian painting in the San Diego Museum of Art in Balboa Park.
Michael Zamora. Fantastic chalk face based on an Italian painting in the San Diego Museum of Art in Balboa Park.
Art Within Reach. I thought at first this might be a dog in the lily pond. Then I thought it might be Moby Dick. It's actually a polar bear at the zoo! No ears yet!
Art Within Reach. I thought at first this might be a dog in the lily pond. Then I thought it might be Moby Dick. It’s actually a polar bear at the zoo! No ears yet!
Team Pierre. Vintage images take form as a skilled Gesso Italiano artist takes on the cool theme of Balboa Park's centennial.
Team Pierre. Vintage images take form as a skilled Gesso Italiano artist takes on the cool theme of Balboa Park’s centennial.
Kira Lewis-Martinez. More cool chalk art with a nostalgic feel. The Panama California Exposition marked Balboa Park's debut in 1915.
Kira Lewis-Martinez. More cool chalk art with a nostalgic feel. The Panama California Exposition marked Balboa Park’s debut in 1915.
Lydia Puentes Phillips. Very color koi swimming in the Balboa Park reflecting pool. Great chalk art that captures one of my favorite places!
Lydia Puentes Phillips. Very color koi swimming in the Balboa Park reflecting pool. Great chalk art that captures one of my favorite places!
Raney and Talbott. These guys are basing their image on one of the arched walkways along El Prado--specifically the one next to the Timken Museum.
Raney and Talbott. These artists are basing their image on one of the elegant passageways along El Prado–specifically the one next to the Timken Museum.
Coronado High School. A completed portion of what should eventually be a stunning work of art.
Coronado High School. A completed portion of what should eventually be a stunning work of art.
Liberty Charter High School. A fun giraffe and zebra!
Liberty Charter High School. A fun chalk art giraffe and zebra!
Canyon Crest Academy. The most popular inspiration for this year's Balboa Park centennial theme is the reflecting pool with its beautiful koi and lilies.
Canyon Crest Academy. By far the most popular inspiration for this year’s Balboa Park centennial theme is the reflecting pool with its color-splashed koi and lilies.
Lidia F. Vasquez. Wow! This elaborate mask is super inventive! It's formed out of elements from Balboa Park's unique architecture!
Lidia F. Vasquez. Wow! This elaborate mask is super inventive! It’s formed out of elements from Balboa Park’s unique architecture!
Torrey Hills Elementary School. Gesso Italiano artwork is a tradition at the Festa celebration in Little Italy. I look forward to it every year!
Torrey Hills Elementary School. Gesso Italiano artwork is a tradition at the Festa celebration in Little Italy. I look forward to it every year!
San Diego High School. A girl with a camera in the Botanical Building! I love it!
San Diego High School. A girl with a camera in the Botanical Building! I love it!
Faithful Ambassadors Bible Baptist Academy. Cherry blossoms courtesy of the Japanese Friendship Garden! Is this awesome, or what?
Faithful Ambassadors Bible Baptist Academy. Cherry blossoms courtesy of the Japanese Friendship Garden! Is this awesome, or what?
Washington Elementary STEAM Magnet, based right here in Little Italy! Lots of little colorful scenes along the border.
Washington Elementary STEAM Magnet, based right here in Little Italy! Lots of little colorful scenes along the border.
Team Noni. A very colorful tiger comes alive on the street! More zoo chalk art!
Team Noni. A very colorful tiger comes alive on the street! More amazing zoo animal art!
Julyen Ecoffey. Mother and child spending a sunlit day in San Diego's wonderful Balboa Park.
Julyen Ecoffey. Mother and child spending a sunlit day in San Diego’s wonderful Balboa Park.
Cathedral Catholic High School. Lady with umbrella faces the Spreckels Organ Pavilion. Another great image.
Cathedral Catholic High School. Lady with umbrella faces the Spreckels Organ Pavilion. Another great image.
Sycamore Ridge Elementary. Not only are there lily pads in the reflecting pool, but there's an Italian gondola! And an Italian flag over the Botanical Building!
Sycamore Ridge Elementary. Not only are there lily pads and flowers in the reflecting pool, but there’s a Venetian gondola! And an Italian flag over the Botanical Building!
Dos Mustachios. One of the two fountains near either end of the Botanical Building. The actual fountains were recently restored by the Friends of Balboa Park.
Dos Mustachios. One of the two fountains near either end of the Botanical Building. The actual fountains were recently restored by the Friends of Balboa Park.
Torrey Pines High School, National Art Honor Society. I could feast my eyes on this glowing chalk artwork all day long!
Torrey Pines High School, National Art Honor Society. I could feast my eyes on this glowing chalk artwork all day long!
Elisabeth Eckert. Abstract image of Moreton Bay fig tree roots, probably either near the Palm Canyon stairs or Natural History Museum.
Elisabeth Eckert. Abstract image of Moreton Bay fig tree roots, probably either near the Palm Canyon stairs or Natural History Museum.
Mel Clarkston Art. It's a green people mover! I see colored tiles from Spanish Village, flags from the International Cottages, and a butterfly from the Zoro Garden!
Mel Clarkston Art. It’s a green people mover! I see colored tiles from Spanish Village, flags from the International Cottages, and a butterfly from the Zoro Garden!
Mount Miguel High School. Everyone loves the reflecting pool. The calm natural beauty is inspiring.
Mount Miguel High School. Everyone loves the reflecting pool. The calm natural beauty is inspiring.
San Pasqual High School. Classic images from Balboa Park rendered using simple, colored chalk. Fantastic!
San Pasqual High School. Classic images from Balboa Park rendered using simple, colored chalk. Fantastic!
The creativity couldn't be contained! It flowed right out of the specified boundary and onto the nearby asphalt!
The creativity couldn’t be contained! It flowed right out of the specified boundary and onto the nearby asphalt!
Steve Alan and Friends. Simple but captivating.
Steve Alan and Friends. Simple but captivating.
Aaron Hernandez. This is crazy! Looks like Planet of the Apes! I'm guessing these are hip simians who hang out at the San Diego Zoo...
Aaron Hernandez. This is crazy! Looks like Planet of the Apes! I’m guessing these are hip simians who hang out at the San Diego Zoo…
Team Arancio. A portion of this chalk art resembles that cool mural painted earlier this year in Spanish Village for the Balboa Park centennial.
Team Arancio. A portion of this chalk art resembles that cool mural painted earlier this year in Spanish Village for the Balboa Park centennial.
Chalk Riot. Wow! I love this! The nice artist said she incorporated elements from throughout Balboa Park, including the facade of the Museum of Man.
Chalk Riot. Wow! I love this! The nice artist said she incorporated elements from throughout Balboa Park, including the facade of the Museum of Man.
Godfrey's. And finally a stooping giraffe. The San Diego Zoo is a favorite place in amazing Balboa Park.
Godfrey’s. And finally a stooping giraffe. The San Diego Zoo is a favorite place in amazing Balboa Park.
Soon thousands will crowd the street to enjoy this great chalk art. I swung by early and got photos of works in progress!
Soon thousands will crowd the street to enjoy this great chalk art. I swung by early and got photos of works in progress!

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USS Bennington Memorial Oak Grove in Balboa Park.

A beautiful live oak grove in Balboa Park honors men who died tragically on the USS Bennington in 1905.
A beautiful live oak grove in Balboa Park honors men who died tragically on the USS Bennington in 1905.

Balboa Park is without a doubt one of America’s national treasures. Located just north of downtown San Diego, its 1,200 acres is the home of magnificent museums, gardens, architectural marvels, many recreational facilities and perhaps the world’s most famous zoo. The amazing urban park is so gigantic most visitors see only a small fraction of it. Some out-of-the-way corners of Balboa Park are enjoyed by locals who live nearby; other overlooked areas seem almost forgotten.

The USS Bennington Memorial Oak Grove is one such area. While many drive by it on any given day, as they travel along 26th Street just before it turns into Florida Drive, and a few joggers pass through the shady grove, I’d wager only a handful of San Diegans know of the oak grove’s existence or historical significance.

There are 66 live oak trees in this grove. They were planted to memorialize 66 men killed on the USS Bennington on the morning of July 21, 1905, when the gunboat’s boiler suddenly exploded and the ship nearly sank in San Diego’s harbor. No markers in the grove indicate the significance of the large gnarled oaks. (A 60 foot high granite obelisk stands at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery in Point Loma, a memorial to those sailors who died on the USS Bennington. Most of the dead are buried there.)

The USS Bennington was a warship with a long and proud history. Commissioned in 1891, she was the ship that claimed Wake Island for the United States. After the boiler explosion in San Diego Bay, eleven men were awarded the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism.

Earlier this year, when I visited an exhibit in Balboa Park created by The Daughters of the American Revolution San Diego Chapter, I learned the local DAR would like to place plaques in the grove to memorialize the USS Bennington and the men who tragically died. If you, your business or organization would like information about the project, or to help, you might contact them from their page.  Should this project come to fruition, I’ll be very pleased to blog about it!

View of the Bennington Memorial Oak Grove from Golden Hill Park, located near the southeast corner of Balboa Park. The Balboa Park Golf Club and Naval Medical Center San Diego are also visible.
View of the Bennington Memorial Oak Grove from Golden Hill Park, located near Balboa Park’s southeast corner. Balboa Park’s public golf course and Naval Medical Center San Diego are also visible.
Wooden footbridge along 26th Street leads to a little-used trail through USS Bennington Memorial Oak Grove in Balboa Park.
Wooden footbridge along 26th Street leads to a little-used trail through USS Bennington Memorial Oak Grove in Balboa Park.
Sixty large old oak trees memorialize 60 sailers killed in 1905 when the USS Bennington's boiler exploded in San Diego's nearby harbor.
Beautiful old oak trees memorialize 66 sailors killed in 1905 when the USS Bennington’s boiler exploded in San Diego’s nearby harbor.
Looking up through the leaves of the live oak trees at blue sky and clouds.
Looking up through the leaves of the live oak trees at blue sky and clouds.
These trees, honoring fallen men, remind us of a sudden tragic moment in San Diego history.
These trees, honoring fallen men, remind us of a sudden tragic moment in San Diego’s military history.
A commercial airplane flies overhead as it crosses Balboa Park heading in toward Lindbergh Field.
A commercial airplane flies overhead as it crosses Balboa Park heading in toward Lindbergh Field.
A jogger enjoys the shady old trees on a warm day in early October.
A jogger enjoys the shady old trees on a warm day in early October.

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Super cool photos of San Diego’s first Maker Faire!

Amazing 28 foot tall Robot Resurrection stands in Balboa Park's Plaza de Panama during 2015 Maker Faire San Diego!
Amazing 28 foot tall Robot Resurrection stands in Balboa Park’s Plaza de Panama during 2015 Maker Faire San Diego!

Get ready to see some super cool stuff! Here are a bunch of photos I took at Maker Faire San Diego this morning.  The festival, which celebrates human creativity, with an emphasis on engineering and technology, is being held in Balboa Park all weekend long!

2015 Maker Faire in San Diego offers young and old a glimpse of what creators, dreamers and inventors are up to. Here we see some projects of San Diego City Robotics.
2015 Maker Faire in San Diego offers young and old a glimpse of what creators, dreamers and inventors are up to. Here we see some projects of San Diego City Robotics.
Checking out a 3D printer at the San Diego Public Library table at Maker Faire. The library is about to expand their Innovation Lab and will have nine 3D printers!
Checking out a 3D printer at the San Diego Public Library table at Maker Faire. The downtown library is about to expand their Innovation Lab and will have nine 3D printers!
Four of these funny cupcakes cars were cruising around Plaza de Panama and up and down El Prado.
Four of these funny cupcakes cars were cruising around Plaza de Panama and up and down El Prado.
This guy was showing how he employs magnets in very unique bicycle wheel hubs that he produces.
This guy was showing how he employs magnets in very unique bicycle wheel hubs that he produces.
Photo display shows how guitar building--including cutting, drilling, shaping, sanding and dipping--inspires STEM learning.
Photo display shows how guitar building–including cutting, drilling, shaping, sanding and dipping–inspires STEM learning.
Wow! Maker Faire is about to officially open and Robot Resurrection has begun to shoot flames from its fingers! Let's check it out!
Wow! Maker Faire is about to officially open and Robot Resurrection has begun to shoot flames from its fingers! Let’s check it out!
According to Shane Evans, maker of the giant robot, we humans have all become automatons in a highly controlled world.
According to Shane Evans, maker of the giant robot, we humans have all become automatons in a highly controlled world.
Robot Resurrection has been joined by the famous 17 foot tall mechanical walking Electric Giraffe!
Robot Resurrection has been joined by the famous 17 foot tall mechanical walking Electric Giraffe!
Local company Qualcomm had a large exhibit showcasing their electronic chips, some drones, and this little remote control race course which utilizes smart phones.
Local company Qualcomm had a large exhibit showcasing their electronic chips, some drones, and this little remote control race course which utilizes smart phones.
Another fun part of the Qualcomm exhibit at Maker Faire. Robots stack blocks, then cross a finish line.
Another fun part of the Qualcomm exhibit at Maker Faire. Robots stack blocks, then cross a finish line.
Down by the Balboa Park reflecting pool I discovered something really awesome. It's a Victorian-era whimsical flying machine!
Down by the Balboa Park reflecting pool I discovered something really awesome. It’s a Victorian-era whimsical flying machine!
This fantastic, imaginative creation is called the Strato Sculpin. It's a project of the Starburner Galactic Courier Service, a local steampunk group!
This fantastic, imaginative creation is called the Strato Sculpin. It’s a project of the Starburner Galactic Courier Service, a local steampunk group!
Here are some members of the cool group engaged in steampunk cosplay!
Here are some members of the cool group engaged in steampunk cosplay!
Smiling members of the Starburner Galactic Courier Service. They are the galaxy's only bonded courier service operating throughout time and space!
Smiling members of the Starburner Galactic Courier Service. They are the galaxy’s only bonded courier service operating throughout time and space!
This cool guy with the big wheeled penny-farthing bicycle is often seen around Balboa Park. He has appeared in other blog posts. I spoke briefly with him and he's really nice!
This cool guy with the big wheeled penny-farthing bicycle is often seen around Balboa Park. He has appeared in other blog posts. I spoke briefly with him and he’s really nice!
But his big wheel can't compare to this! Coming down El Prado, this awesome personal transportation doohickey looks like it arrived from another world!
But his big wheel can’t compare to this! Coming down El Prado, this awesome personal transportation doohickey looks like it arrived from another world!
And here comes another cool rolling steampunkish robot thingamajig. How cool is this. Human imagination on display at Maker Faire!
And here comes another cool rolling steampunkish robot thingamajig. How cool is this? Human imagination on display at Maker Faire!
Shortly after 10:30, San Diego Mayor Faulconer welcomed the attendees to the first annual Maker Faire.
Shortly after 10:30, San Diego Mayor Faulconer welcomed the attendees to the first annual Maker Faire.
I couldn't believe how much press was gathered for the event. If you live in San Diego, I'm sure you'll see it on the television news!
I couldn’t believe how much press was gathered for the event. If you live in San Diego, I’m sure you’ll see it on the television news!
Jorge Astiazaran, the Mayor of Tijuana, Mexico speaks about our two cities collaborating in various areas, including technology.
Jorge Astiazaran, the Mayor of Tijuana, Mexico speaks about our two cities collaborating in various areas, including technology.
After the brief ceremony and speeches, I headed down to the fountain by the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center. Lots more cool stuff was attracting a crowd.
After the brief ceremony and speeches, I headed to the fountain by the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center. Lots more cool stuff was attracting a crowd.
Back down El Prado, and now the Electric Giraffe is on the move! This creation has been featured on national media, and even was tickled by President Obama.
Back down El Prado, and now the Electric Giraffe is on the move! This creation has been featured on national media, and even was tickled by President Obama.
Not only do the neck and head move, but it talks! The head is equipped with webcam eyes and special touch-sensitive sensors.
Not only do the neck and head move, but it talks! The head is equipped with webcam eyes and special touch-sensitive sensors.
Russell the Electric Giraffe, also named Rave Raff, heads down El Prado in the heart of Balboa Park!
Russell the Electric Giraffe, also named Rave Raff, heads down El Prado in the heart of Balboa Park!
A costume zone near the Japanese Friendship Garden had stuff that looked like Star Wars steampunk! Chewbacca is wearing some goggles!
A costume zone near the Japanese Friendship Garden had stuff that looked like a combination of Star Wars and steampunk! Chewbacca is wearing some goggles!
The huge Battlepond near the San Diego Air and Space Museum had sea battles taking place! The Western Warship Combat Club makes radio-controlled model ships which engage in real combat!
The huge Battlepond near the San Diego Air and Space Museum had sea battles taking place! The Western Warship Combat Club makes radio-controlled model ships which engage in real combat!
National University's School of Engineering and Computing had a futuristic vehicle on display.
National University’s School of Engineering and Computing had a futuristic vehicle on display.
Some artists by the San Diego Automotive Museum were painting a Prius!
Some artists by the San Diego Automotive Museum were painting a nearby Prius!
Compressed air launched rockets high into the sky, to the delight of kids!
Compressed air launched rockets high into the sky, to the delight of kids!
Holy mackerel! Look at this thing! It's a gigantic robot spider, or something! Wow!
Holy mackerel! Look at this thing! It’s a gigantic robot spider, or something! Wow!
I didn't get the name of this amazing, jaw-dropping contraption, but a close examination shows that it actually walks on those spider-like legs!
I didn’t get the name of this amazing, jaw-dropping contraption, but a close examination shows that it actually walks on those spider-like legs!
Leonardo Da Vinci was the ultimate innovator. The world famous San Diego Air and Space Museum has a special exhibition about the legendary Renaissance inventor.
Leonardo Da Vinci was the ultimate innovator. The world famous San Diego Air and Space Museum has a special exhibition about the legendary Renaissance inventor.
These kids are playing human foosball by the Hall of Champions!
These kids are playing human foosball by the Hall of Champions!
The Drones and Outdoor Play zone had lots of material for young, imaginative creators to assemble.
The Drones and Outdoor Play zone had lots of material for young, imaginative creators to assemble.
A free spirit parked their car nearby. You are more than any mind can or could understand.
A free spirit parked their car nearby. You are more than any mind can or could understand.
A delightfully painted car topped with flower pots!
A delightfully painted car topped with flower pots!
San Diego's first ever Maker Faire is a huge success. There are so many cool things to see, your eyes will pop clean out of your head!
San Diego’s first ever Maker Faire is a huge success. There are so many cool things to see, your eyes will pop clean out of your head!

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