Tag: photography

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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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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Cool photos of fun, funky Ocean Beach Street Fair!

Cool skateboard bench by the 36th Annual Ocean Beach Street Fair and Chili Cook-Off Festival on Newport Avenue.
Cool skateboard bench by the 36th Annual Ocean Beach Street Fair and Chili Cook-Off Festival on Newport Avenue.

Late this morning I spent a little time at one of the coolest summer events in Southern California!

The 36th Annual Ocean Beach Street Fair & Chili Cook-Off Festival was being held along Newport Avenue, drawing a huge crowd from all around San Diego. Many consider OB their favorite beach community. Once you see these photos, you might understand why!

A masked street performer shakes hands with a kid on a scooter. The Ocean Beach Municipal Pier stretches in the background.
A masked street performer shakes hands with a kid on a scooter. The Ocean Beach Municipal Pier stretches in the background.
San Diegans and Obetians check out a street vendor selling colorful t-shirts.
San Diegans and Obetians check out a street vendor selling colorful t-shirts.
Fun, unusual art all over the place. Lots to see at this legendary summer street festival in a laid-back, funky Southern California beach community.
Fun, unusual art all over the place. Lots to see at this legendary summer street festival in a laid-back, funky Southern California beach community.
Creative people had cool stuff on display and for sale in the Artists' Alley.
Creative people had cool stuff on display and for sale in the Artists’ Alley.
Kids were invited to express themselves with pottery, painting and chalk art.
Kids were invited to express themselves with pottery, painting and chalk art.
Young artists use their imaginations as they work behind a utility box decorated with parrots in Ocean Beach.
Young artists use their imaginations as they work behind a utility box decorated with parrots in Ocean Beach.
Public art mural on one wall depicts the annual Ocean Beach Street Fair and Chili Cook-Off.
Public art mural on one wall depicts the annual Ocean Beach Street Fair and Chili Cook-Off.
Just a typical scene from this awesome street festival.
Just a typical scene from this awesome street festival.
Someone checks out large works of colorful art in OB.
Someone checks out large works of colorful art in OB.
One booth had all sorts of awesome, unique decorative surfboards!
One booth had all sorts of awesome, unique decorative surfboards!
And, of course, food was everywhere!
And, of course, food was everywhere!
Ocean Beach is the scene of many different happy lifestyles and diverse, life-affirming interests.
Ocean Beach is the scene of many different happy lifestyles and diverse, life-affirming interests.
It wasn't even lunchtime and some folks were already chowing down.
It wasn’t even lunchtime and some folks were ready to chow down.
If these cookies don't make you drool, nothing will!
If these cookies don’t make you drool, nothing will!
All sorts of cool surf shops line Newport Avenue, where the festival was held.
All sorts of cool surf shops line Newport Avenue, where the festival was held.
Rock and Roll San Diego was teaching kids how to play drums, electric guitar and more!
Rock and Roll San Diego was teaching kids how to play drums, electric guitar and more!
A young man is training to be a rock superstar!
A young man is training to be a rock superstar!
Street musicians in OB next to a storefront on a summer day.
Street musicians in OB next to a storefront on a summer day.
Young and old were practicing maintaining balance on a board that mimics surfing.
Young and old were practicing maintaining balance on a board that simulates surfing.
Yeah, another photo of food getting ready...
Yeah, another photo of food getting ready…
Ocean Beach is jam-packed with amazing urban art, almost anywhere you walk!
Ocean Beach is jam-packed with amazing urban art, almost anywhere you walk!
People were just getting started with the community mural project!
People were just getting started with the community mural project!
Anyone could participate in painting a small square in this large mural!
Anyone could participate in painting a small square in this large mural!
Another street mural on a wall above a station where people could park their bikes.
Another street mural on a wall above a station where people could park their bikes.
Surfboards on top, cool decals plastered around. Let's walk past the Hodadmobile and check out something amazing...
Surfboards on top, cool decals plastered around. Let’s walk past the Hodadmobile and check out something amazing…
Burgers are famous at Hodad's, and so is the skateboarding demonstration beside their restaurant.
Burgers are famous at Hodad’s, and so is the skateboarding demonstration beside their restaurant.
Skater catches huge air as he performs trick from a ramp, wowing everybody watching!
Skater catches huge air as he performs trick from a ramp, wowing everybody watching!
Lots of skilled skateboarders were taking turns on this small half-pipe.
Lots of skilled skateboarders were taking turns on this small half-pipe.
Oh, man--lots of very cool action!
Oh, man–lots of very cool action!
Legendary Hodad's had a burger-eating competition!
Legendary Hodad’s had a burger-eating competition!
Some guys walking along near porta-potties by the beer garden.
Some guys walking along near porta-potties by the beer garden.
Guy chills with a Starbucks by funky sculptures on Newport Avenue near the beach. He's listening to a really great concert.
Guy chills with a Starbucks by funky sculptures on Newport Avenue near the beach. He’s listening to a really great concert.
The local band Markland performs on the Main Stage at the 2015 Ocean Beach Street Fair.
The local band Markland performs on the Main Stage at the 2015 Ocean Beach Street Fair.
Justin Markland peers at me over drums while Randy Jones entertains the Ocean Beach crowd with irrepressible vocal and physical energy.
Justin Markland peers at me over drums while Randy Jones entertains the Ocean Beach crowd with irrepressible vocal and physical energy.
Just a pic to provide some flavor of what I saw this morning.
Just a pic to provide some flavor of what I saw this morning.
Surfers come up across the beach while a guy relaxes on the sea wall.
Surfers come up across the beach while a guy relaxes on the sea wall.
People walk behind the Main Stage along the beach, toward the Ocean Beach lifeguard station. An overcast day with a few sprinkles, but it didn't matter!
People walk behind the Main Stage along the beach, toward the Ocean Beach lifeguard station. An overcast day with a few sprinkles, but it didn’t matter!
People buy tickets to sample special concoctions at the famous chili contest!
People buy tickets to sample special concoctions at the famous chili contest!
This tent featured one of the chili cook-off contestant teams.
This tent featured one of the chili cook-off contestant teams.
Stirring and scooping from one big pot of hot chili!
Stirring and scooping from one big pot of hot chili!
Unfortunately, this poor dog can't participate without a ticket. And it seems like he knows it.
Unfortunately, this poor dog can’t participate without a ticket. And it seems like he knows it.
Perhaps this chili was the winner. Looks tasty, if you don't mind that it's served from a toilet!
Perhaps this chili was the winner. Looks tasty, if you don’t mind that it’s served from a toilet!

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More awesome street art at SILO in Makers Quarter.

Large blue female face looks out from SILO wall at passing traffic on F Street.
Large blue female face looks out from SILO wall at passing traffic on F Street.

SILO in Makers Quarter keeps evolving.  New murals are painted over old, and once-blank walls fill up with life. This unique event venue in East Village was pretty cool when I photographed it over a year ago, but now it’s simply awesome. (I did observe, sadly, the funny Bart Club art I documented here has vanished.)

A hummingbird seems attracted to a jogger coming down an East Village sidewalk.
A hummingbird seems attracted to a jogger coming down the 15th Street sidewalk.
A bather, a turtle, a frog and KAABOO, an upcoming major music festival to be held in Del Mar up the coast.
A bather, a turtle, a frog and KAABOO, an upcoming major music festival to be held in Del Mar up the coast.
Graffiti faces are all squinched up on the wall between SILO in Makers Quarter and F Street in East Village.
Graffiti faces are all squished up on the wall between SILO in Makers Quarter and F Street in East Village.
Various street art designs where a branch of the Bart Club used to reside.
Various street art designs where a branch of the Bart Club used to reside.
Napping white female outline and some geometric crystals.
Napping white female outline and some geometric crystals.
A wall just inside SILO is jammed with cool urban art.
A wall just inside SILO is jammed with cool urban art.
This hip event venue has benches, tables and other items scattered about a wide open space.
This hip event venue has benches, tables and other items scattered about a wide open space.
Endless Bummer, big cat, third eye in purple face, fantastic creature, and a ton of other awesome stuff.
Endless Bummer, big cat, third eye in purple face, fantastic creature, and a ton of other awesome stuff.
Super colorful artwork jammed onto this low wall almost appears like panels in a comic book or graphic novel.
Super colorful artwork jammed onto this low wall almost appears like panels in a comic book or graphic novel.
Want to book an event? Here's the info!
Want to book an event? Here’s the info!
Two more faces which materialized since I last walked past SILO.
Two more faces which materialized since I last walked past SILO.
Latino lovers and a guy who looks like an elf.
Latino lovers and a guy who looks like an elf.
A very fun, funky place in San Diego's happening East Village!
A totally fun, funky place in San Diego’s happening East Village!

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Art tiles painted by East Village neighbors.

Exotic mask with horns painted on a tile.
Exotic mask with horns painted on a tile.

The other day I walked down 11th Avenue through East Village. For a few moments I paused to again enjoy The Power of Collective Thought urban art tile mosaic. I took a few photos of individual tiles hand-painted by creative San Diego neighbors. Many caught my eye…

Robert and his mom hold hands beneath trees.
Robert and his mom hold hands beneath trees.
I large open eye gazes at people passing down the sidewalk.
I large open eye gazes at people passing down the sidewalk.
Another eye on a fiery, dazzling art tile.
Another eye on a fiery, dazzling art tile.
A sun painted on a tinted sky.
A sun painted on a tinted sky.
Smiling sun and blue moon fused into one.
Smiling sun and blue moon fused into one.
Cool cat dances under a crescent moon.
Cool cat dances under a crescent moon.
A dinosaur among dots.
A dinosaur among dots.
Ghostly figures rise like swirls of color.
Ghostly figures rise like swirls of color.
One cool painted tile in The Power of Collective Thought.
Cool painted tile in The Power of Collective Thought.
A blue peacock and two fruit trees.
A blue peacock and two fruit trees.
A fun dragonfly with a human-like face.
A fun dragonfly with human-like face.
Female head with curly hair and yellow flowers.
Female head with curly hair and yellow flowers.
A kimono and umbrella.
A kimono and umbrella.
Two people connect on a purple tile.
Two people connect on a purple tile.
A mysterious monster rises from the deep!
A mysterious monster rises from the deep!
A colorful abstract design.
A colorful abstract design.
A sailboat and shell in San Diego.
A sailboat and shell in San Diego.
A smiling face peers back at you!
A smiling face peers back at you!

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