Tag: photography

Photos of good times at Chula Vista’s HarborFest!

Kid enters an inflatable floating cylinder walk-inside thingy on a narrow beach on San Diego Bay.
Kid enters an inflatable floating cylinder walk-inside thingy on a narrow beach on San Diego Bay.

Shame on me. After all these years, I’d never once visited Chula Vista’s Bayside Park, down in San Diego’s South Bay. When I saw that HarborFest would be held there today, I instantly decided to go. I’m glad that I did!

I’ll let the captions of these photographs tell the story of what I saw…

So much was going on at 2015 HarborFest at Chula Vista's Bayside Park, a really big sign was required!
So much was going on at 2015 HarborFest at Chula Vista’s Bayside Park, a really big sign was required!
Thousands turned out to just chill, enjoy the sunshine, devour food, listen to live music and have fun at HarborFest.
Thousands turned out to just chill, enjoy the sunshine, devour food, listen to live music and have fun at HarborFest.
The big annual South Bay event had lots of fun activities on the water, including paddleboarding, kayaking and Seal and Swift Boat tours of the bay.
The big annual South Bay event had lots of fun activities on the water, including paddleboarding, kayaking and Seal and Swift Boat tours of the bay.
These gents in festive old-fashioned costumes were providing music in one corner of the park by the water.
These gents in festive old-fashioned costumes were providing music in one corner of the park by the water.
Colorful canopies with vendors, community organizations and businesses were up and down the Chula Vista public park's walkways.
Colorful canopies with vendors, community organizations and businesses attracted attention up and down the Chula Vista public park’s walkways.
The Birch Aquarium, of Scripps Institution of Oceanography up in La Jolla, had lots of marine exhibits for folks to explore.
The Birch Aquarium, of Scripps Institution of Oceanography up in La Jolla, had lots of marine exhibits for folks to explore.
This tiny but proud Burrowing Owl was greeting humans over at the Living Coast Discovery Center tent. I've yet to go to the nature refuge, which is nearby. One day soon...
This tiny but proud Burrowing Owl was greeting humans over at the Living Coast Discovery Center tent. I’ve yet to go to the nature refuge, which is nearby. One day soon…
A boy helps slice lemons at one food vendor's tent.
A boy helps slice lemons at one food vendor’s tent.
And this kid is flying high courtesy of some bungee cords!
And this kid is flying high courtesy of some bungee cords!
I walked to the extreme north end of Bayside Park, where nobody else was. I took this photo of a massive travelift which hoists ships out of the water at Marine Group Boat Works.
I walked to the extreme north end of Bayside Park, where nobody else was. I took this photo of a massive travelift which hoists ships out of the water at Marine Group Boat Works.
I could glimpse the masts of the San Salvador and HMS Surprise, two ships of the Maritime Museum of San Diego, which are being worked on at this Chula Vista shipyard.
I could glimpse the masts of the San Salvador and HMS Surprise, two ships of the Maritime Museum of San Diego, which are being worked on at this Chula Vista shipyard.
Adults were sampling tacos and spirits in one area of the festival.
Adults were sampling tacos and spirits in one area of the festival.
I didn't know Rockin' Baja had a mascot!
I didn’t know Rockin’ Baja had a mascot!
Live music could be heard from several stages scattered along the length of HarborFest.
Live music could be heard from several stages scattered along the length of HarborFest.
A BMX stunt bike guy with Wheels in Motion went upside down to the delight of many onlookers!
A BMX stunt bike guy with Wheels in Motion went upside down to the delight of many onlookers!
A cool car show had a bunch of hot rods and vintage automobiles out on display.
A cool car show had a bunch of hot rods and vintage automobiles out on display.
Walking happily along, checking out some awesome cars.
Walking happily along, checking out some awesome cars.
Kids could practice casting a fishing rod from the pier at the south end of Bayside Park.
Kids could practice casting a fishing rod from the pier at the south end of Bayside Park.
A little guy lets the line fly!
A little guy lets the line fly!
These young fishermen are enjoying the water and a view of the Chula Vista Marina.
These young fishermen are enjoying the water and a view of the Chula Vista Marina.
This big heron sculpture at Bayside Park is titled The Fisherman by Stephen Fairfield. It was originally part of the Embarcadero's third Urban Trees art exhibition.
This great egret sculpture at Bayside Park is titled The Fisherman, by Stephen Fairfield. It was originally part of the Embarcadero’s third Urban Trees art exhibition.
Youth, grown-ups, or anybody at all were invited to paint on this canvas!
Youth, grown-ups, or anybody at all was invited to paint on this canvas!
On the Community Stage, a bunch of kids competed in a cooking contest hosted by SeaWorld's Executive Chef Axel Dirolf.
On the Community Stage, a bunch of kids competed in a cooking contest hosted by SeaWorld’s Executive Chef Axel Dirolf.
The most fun, in my opinion, was to be had by the water. It's HarborFest, after all!
The most fun, in my opinion, was to be had by the water. It’s HarborFest, after all!
I really am glad I went down to Chula Vista's HarborFest and finally explored the very cool Bayside Park.
I really am glad I went down to Chula Vista’s HarborFest and finally explored the very cool Bayside Park.

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Fishermen unroll a huge net onto Tuna Harbor pier.

Crew of live bait-catching commercial fishing boat Cougar work to unspool immense net onto the G Street Pier at Tuna Harbor.
Crew of live bait catching fishing boat Cougar works to transfer an immense net onto the G Street Pier at Tuna Harbor.

Late this morning I went down to HarborFest in Chula Vista. I’ve got to sort through a couple hundred photos–so I’ll blog about that cool event later. But first, here are some interesting pics which I took during a walk along San Diego’s Embarcadero this afternoon. As I strolled along Tuna Harbor, between Seaport Village and the USS Midway Museum, I noticed a lot of activity beside one of the live bait boats which docks at the G Street Pier. So I investigated.

Turns out, fishermen were removing a huge seine net from the Cougar, a commercial fishing boat which catches live bait.  The bait is then distributed to local sportfishing vessels. I don’t claim to be an expert on these matters or to thoroughly understand what I saw, but I believe the captions I wrote are correct. I hope so! If a correction is required, leave a comment!

A crane is utilized to help transfer the heavy net from the boat's big cylinder-like winch drum at its stern to the pier.
A crane is utilized to help transfer the heavy net from the boat’s big cylinder-like winch drum at its stern to the pier.
Lots of seagulls were attracted to this picturesque scene on San Diego Bay. Perhaps they expected to spot some fish.
Lots of seagulls were attracted to this picturesque scene on San Diego Bay. Perhaps they expected to spot some fish.
Wrestling with the huge live bait seine net, which is lined at the edges with yellow and white floats.
Wrestling with the huge live bait encircling seine net, which is lined at the edges with yellow and white floats.
Commercial fishing requires a lot of hard physical work on land, as well as water.
Commercial fishing requires a lot of hard physical work on both land and water.
Winch and crane operators work in tandem to keep the net moving from boat to pier smoothly and neatly.
Winch and crane operators work in tandem to keep the net moving from boat to pier smoothly and neatly.
Working with a smile on a sunny summer Saturday on San Diego's busy Embarcadero.
Working with a smile on a sunny summer Saturday on San Diego’s busy Embarcadero.
Just a great photo of nets, gulls and human activity on a working public pier.
Just a great photo of nets, gulls and human activity on a working public pier.

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Early morning activity in downtown San Diego.

Delivery man with fresh bread awaits morning opening of restaurant in the Gaslamp Quarter.
Delivery man with fresh bread awaits morning opening of restaurant in the Gaslamp Quarter.

I woke up earlier than usual today. During the summer it’s pleasantly cool outside at daybreak, so I decided to take a long walk.

The city, at the six o’clock hour, had just begun to blink open its sleepy eyes. But a few signs of life were already evident downtown.

Here are photographs of early morning activity that I snapped while meandering randomly about, before I finally boarded the trolley for work…

Life in the city stirs into action as another weekday begins in downtown San Diego.
Life in the city stirs into action as another weekday begins in downtown San Diego.
City employee checks parking meters before the streets become much busier.
City employee checks parking meters before the streets become much busier.
Brad Perry, of KUSI News, had finished a segment on Good Morning San Diego when he spied a silly guy with a camera walking by.
Brad Perry of KUSI News had finished a segment on Good Morning San Diego when he spied a silly guy with a camera walking by.
A dog also noticed that same curious guy, who just sauntered on by down the sidewalk.
A dog also noticed that same curious guy, who just sauntered on by down the sidewalk.
Early morning commuters await separately at the Convention Center trolley station.
Early morning commuters wait separately at the Convention Center trolley station.
One guy has most of this quiet patio to himself as he enjoys a morning read and coffee. A hungry dog peers into the doorway.
One guy has most of this quiet patio to himself as he enjoys a morning read and coffee. A hungry dog peers into the doorway.
A lone jogger heads down Martin Luther King Jr. Promenade while many San Diegans are still in bed.
A lone jogger heads down Martin Luther King Jr. Promenade while many San Diegans are still lying in bed.

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Fishing, friendship and life on a downtown pier.

Another easy, carefree day of fishing at the Embarcadero Marina Park Pier in downtown San Diego.
Another easy, carefree day of fishing at the Embarcadero Marina Park Pier in downtown San Diego.

I have lots of favorite places. One is the small public fishing pier in downtown San Diego, located at Embarcadero Marina Park South. I walk there quite frequently. When I stand on this short pier, leaning against the rail above the bay’s gently lapping water, I feel my mind and spirit expand.

I walked past the pier last Saturday morning. I’d seen a sign announcing a Kiwanis fishing tournament, and thought it might be fun to take a few photos. But when I arrived, nobody seemed to be there. Perhaps I was too early.

When I got home and reviewed all the photos on my computer, I figured I’d blog about the pier anyway!

I casually know a few of the regulars. Back when JJ’s Sunset Deli by the Bay was open, we’d eat, sit and talk on JJ’s patio at the foot of the pier. Jim had the best ribeye steak sandwiches. I even blogged about it. But I deleted that post when he shut down and retired at the end of last year. It’s a very big shame a new tenant hasn’t taken over the cafe. It’s a small gem that adds unique charm to San Diego and thousands of fond, priceless memories.

The Embarcadero Marina Park Pier extends less than a hundred feet from the shore, but the T-shaped end is about 300 feet long. At times many fish can be caught here. It’s possible to catch mackerel, bass, croaker, halibut, guitarfish, bat rays, leopard sharks and many more local species. Kids love the place. There’s grass nearby and picnic benches, and curving paths for running and riding, and rocks to climb down that are covered at the waterline with tiny, quick crabs.

There are homeless people scattered about the park. But they’re generally just hanging out, talking, sleeping, trying to enjoy the sea breeze, some shade or warm sunshine.

Know what’s really cool? No fishing license on the pier is required! That’s the case with all public pier fishing in San Diego.

Across the bay from the pier (which is located behind the San Diego Convention Center) is beautiful Coronado Island.
Across the bay from the pier (which is located behind the San Diego Convention Center) lies beautiful Coronado Island.
The small pier is a favorite spot for fishermen and families, especially on weekends and during the summer.
The small pier is a favorite spot for fishermen and families.  It’s an affordable way for many locals to enjoy their beautiful (but sometimes expensive) city.  The pier is most popular on weekends and during the summer.
This friendly pier regular drags the bottom of the bay hoping to snag lost fishing poles and other sunken treasure!
This friendly pier regular drags the bottom of the bay hoping to snag lost fishing poles and other sunken treasure!
Someone caught a small mackerel, which flops around on the wooden pier.
Someone caught a small mackerel, which flops around on the wooden pier.
Another beautiful San Diego day on the Big Bay. The pier is located at Embarcadero Marina Park South.
Another wonderful San Diego day on the Big Bay. The modest pier is located at Embarcadero Marina Park South.
Two brown pelicans perch on a rail hoping for a handout from sympathetic fishermen.
Two brown pelicans perch on a rail hoping for a handout from sympathetic fishermen.
Fishing poles in a line on a hazy day. Across the gentle water to the south stretches the San Diego–Coronado Bridge.
Fishing poles in a line on a hazy day. Across the gentle water to the south stretches the long San Diego–Coronado Bridge.
Joggers, bicyclists, skaters, picnickers, tourists, people attending Summer Pops concerts nearby...almost everyone likes to visit this pier for great peaceful views.
Joggers, bicyclists, skaters, city residents, tourists, people attending Summer Pops concerts nearby…almost everyone likes to visit this pier for great peaceful views.
Just spending some time on the pier, relaxing, talking, enjoying life among friends and fellow fishermen.
Just spending some time on the pier, relaxing, talking, enjoying life among friends and fellow fishermen.
Birds are plentiful on San Diego Bay...
Birds are plentiful on San Diego Bay…
And so are boats, of every kind!
And so are boats, of every kind!
Walking along the path that encircles Embarcadero Marina Park South. The small structure which housed the pier cafe, unfortunately, has been vacant this year.
Walking along the path that encircles Embarcadero Marina Park South. The small structure which housed the pier cafe, unfortunately, has been vacant this year.
Kids look excitedly into the blue water. Maybe the big one is down there just waiting to be caught!
Kids look excitedly into the blue water. Maybe the big one is down there just waiting to be caught!

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Sailboats fly before the wind on blue San Diego Bay.

Sailboats fly before the wind on blue San Diego Bay.
Sailboats fly before the wind on blue San Diego Bay.

I’m getting some photos ready for a blog I’ll post in a couple days. But this image seemed perfect for a sunny blue Sunday. So here it is!

Now it’s time for an afternoon walk…

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Twain and classic literary characters roam Old Town!

Mark Twain uses his cane to point out his classic novel The Adventures of Tom Sawyer. Many 19th century authors and fictional characters were seen walking about during TwainFest.
Mark Twain uses cane to point out his classic novel The Adventures of Tom Sawyer. Many 19th century authors and fictional characters were seen walking around during TwainFest.

TwainFest last summer was awesome. So today I had to go again!

A uniquely wonderful cultural event, TwainFest celebrates Mark Twain and other famous 19th century authors. Held every year in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, the event includes games and activities for the entire family, including Costume and Liar’s contests (the latter as a tribute to Twain’s tall tales), vintage dancing, and all sorts of historical performances and reenactments. TwainFest is presented by Fiesta de Reyes and created by the literature-loving folks at Write Out Loud.

I walked about randomly for about an hour just aiming my camera at familiar old classics that I love come to life. I saw lots of San Diegans in period costume, many portraying well known characters from literature.

I hope you enjoy these photos…

A random writer helps to pen one of three endless stories at the family friendly event. ...And, lo, from out of the mist stepped a phantom it was the ghost of Mark Twain!
A random writer helps to pen one of three endless stories at the family friendly event. …And, lo, from out of the mist stepped a phantom: it was the ghost of Mark Twain!
Mr. Samuel Clemens, American author of many famous books and stories, relaxes under a tree in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park during 2015 TwainFest.
Mr. Samuel Clemens, American author of many timeless books and stories, relaxes under a tree in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park during 2015 TwainFest.
Mark Twain's beloved character Aunt Polly is looking around for Tom Sawyer and Huck, who are probably running about engaged in mischief once again.
Mark Twain’s beloved character Aunt Polly is looking around for Tom Sawyer and Huck, who are probably running about engaged in mischief once again.
Some lively Irish music dating from the Old West is played during TwainFest on the Fiesta de Reyes stage. Laughter. Levity. Literature.
Some lively Irish music dating from the Old West is played during TwainFest on the Fiesta de Reyes stage. Laughter. Levity. Literature.
A storyteller making the rounds at TwainFest asks the audience between musical performances to solve humorous riddles.
A storyteller making the rounds at TwainFest challenges the audience between musical performances to solve humorous riddles.
This elegantly-dressed gentleman informed me he would be reading classic fiction to the crowd later today.
This elegantly-dressed gentleman informed me he would be reading classic fiction to the crowd later today.
Not to miss this history and literature-inspired event, a couple of fun-loving pirates come shuffling along through Old Town's central plaza.
Not to miss this history and literature-inspired event, a couple of fun-loving pirates come shuffling along through Old Town’s central plaza.
Oh, goodness! It's one of the most famous fictional, rascally pirates of all! Long John Silver! What's that in the bottle
Oh, goodness! It’s one of the most famous fictional, rascally pirates of all! Long John Silver! What’s that in the bottle?
Captain Swordfish, representing the Maritime Museum of San Diego, and a really big harpoon. Perhaps it was once used to hunt Moby Dick.
Al Sorkin, aka Captain Swordfish, represents the Maritime Museum of San Diego. That’s a really big harpoon! Perhaps it was once used to hunt Moby Dick.
These two friendly folks in period costume were greeting visitors at the entrance to the Casa de Estudillo.
Two friendly people in period costume were greeting visitors at the entrance to the Casa de Estudillo.
This funny guy said he was a sort-of Mad Hatter with a Bowie knife! He looked more like a 19th century Willy Wonka to me!
This funny guy said he was a sort-of Mad Hatter with a Bowie knife! He looked more like a 19th century Willy Wonka to me!
Uh oh. While no one was looking Henry David Thoreau got out of his jail cell!
Uh oh. While no one was looking Henry David Thoreau got out of his jail cell! That was awfully disobedient!
These two snake oil salespeople were selling Ether of Muse. One whiff of the potent elixir and writing literature is a snap.
These two snake oil salespeople were selling Ether of Muse. One whiff of the potent elixir and writing literature is a snap.
This mild, ordinary lady in a bonnet demonstrated what happens when one sniffs essence of Emily Dickinson. She recited breathless poetry for minutes on end.
This mild, ordinary lady in a bonnet demonstrated what happens when one sniffs essence of Emily Dickinson. She recited breathless poetry for minutes on end.
Girl greets large puppet Mark Twain and Emily Dickinson at 2015 TwainFest in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park!
Girl greets large puppet Mark Twain and Emily Dickinson at 2015 TwainFest in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park!

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Photos of art come to life at CityFest in Hillcrest.

Artist creates live street art during 2015 CityFest in Hillcrest.
Artist creates live street art during 2015 CityFest in Hillcrest.

This afternoon I walked with my camera through CityFest. The annual street festival attracts an enthusiastic crowd of about 150,000 people to Hillcrest, a community directly north of downtown San Diego. Hillcrest might be considered one of San Diego’s bohemian neighborhoods, where free-spirited artists mingle with happy-go-lucky youth and a sizable LGBT population. Everybody I saw was just out enjoying a good time.

CityFest is a very popular summer festival held in Hillcrest along Fifth Avenue, south of University.
CityFest is a very popular summer festival held in Hillcrest along Fifth Avenue, south of University.
Main stage at CityFest features live music from noon until almost midnight.
Main stage at CityFest features live music from noon until almost midnight.
Lots of artwork was being created while the public watched.
Lots of artwork was being created while the public watched.
Another big canvas brought to life by urban artists.
Another big canvas brought to life by urban artists.
Cans of paint in many colors.
Cans of paint in many colors.
Funky art could be spotted all around CityFest, as well as the usual street festival stuff including lots of food.
Funky art could be spotted all around CityFest, as well as the usual street festival stuff, including lots of food.
I don't know the name of this tall guy with the rainbow wings and multiple carnival mask faces. Lots of people were posing for photographs.
I don’t know the name of this tall guy with the rainbow wings and multiple carnival mask faces. Lots of people were posing for photographs.
The most crowded tent seemed to belong to the Rad Hatter, where young and old could craft unique paper hats for free.
The most crowded tent seemed to belong to the Rad Hatter, where young and old could craft unique paper hats for free.
Many local artists had their work on display and for sale at CityFest in Hillcrest.
Many local artists had their work on display and for sale at CityFest in Hillcrest.
Colorful pop art seems to be a favorite at this annual street festival.
Colorful pop art seems to be a favorite at this annual street festival.
I see Batman and Marilyn Monroe, among other boldly painted faces.
I see Batman and Marilyn Monroe, among other boldly painted faces.

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Photos of San Diego Chargers 2015 FanFest.

A kicked football flies into the stands during the 2015 Chargers FanFest.
A kicked football flies into the stands during the 2015 Chargers FanFest.

Today I took the trolley over to Qualcomm Stadium to check out the 2015 Chargers FanFest. San Diego’s NFL team is getting ready for the regular season, and during the popular FanFest a practice session was held in the presence of thousands of fans. Veteran players and those who are striving to make the team demonstrated their skills for coaches and fans alike!

In addition to action on the field, the annual FanFest also included a performance by the San Diego Charger Girls cheerleaders, and autograph sessions with many past and current players.

I didn’t want to miss this event. It’s possible the Chargers might soon leave San Diego and move to Los Angeles. I hope not.

Thousands line up outside San Diego's Qualcomm Stadium to enjoy this year's Chargers FanFest. I saw many Seau jerseys being worn today.
Thousands line up outside San Diego’s Qualcomm Stadium to enjoy this year’s Chargers FanFest. I saw many Seau jerseys being worn today.
Save Our Bolts advocate holds up a San Diego Chargers banner for my camera. There's a chance the NFL team will soon leave San Diego.
Save Our Bolts advocate holds up a San Diego Chargers banner for my camera. There’s a chance the NFL team will soon leave San Diego.
San Diego Charger Girls cheerleaders smile as fans enter Qualcomm Stadium for FanFest.
San Diego Charger Girls cheerleaders smile as fans enter Qualcomm Stadium for FanFest.
Chargers faithful line up at a concession stand to get ready for an enjoyable FanFest.
Chargers faithful line up at a concession stand to get ready for an enjoyable FanFest.
Crowd fills field level seats, anticipating a good team practice on a perfect August summer day.
Crowd fills field level seats, anticipating a good team practice on a perfect August summer day.
The old Jumbotron reads Welcome to Chargers FanFest 2015.
The old Jumbotron reads Welcome to Chargers FanFest 2015.
As Chargers fans watch football action on the field, vendors circulate with cotton candy, lemonade and other treats.
As Chargers fans watch football action on the field, vendors circulate with cotton candy, lemonade and other treats.
Today NFL legend Junior Seau was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. A banner honoring number 55 hangs high and proudly in Qualcomm Stadium.
Today NFL legend Junior Seau was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. A banner honoring number 55 hangs high and proudly in Qualcomm Stadium.
Players on offense, defense and special teams were practicing all over the field, getting ready for the regular season.
Players on offense, defense and special teams were practicing all over the field, getting ready for the regular season.
Cornerback Richard Crawford on the Chargers practice squad catches a kicked ball.
Cornerback Richard Crawford on the Chargers practice squad catches a kicked ball.
Footballs were flying everywhere, including through the goal posts. Rookie kicker Josh Lambo nailed it.
Footballs were flying everywhere, including through the goal posts. Rookie kicker Josh Lambo nailed it.
Awesome field goal wizard Nick Novak limbers up his leg with some easy kicks.
Awesome field goal wizard Nick Novak limbers up his leg with some easy kicks.
Stretching out this valuable player's leg muscles involves professional sports medicine expertise.
Stretching out this valuable player’s leg muscles involves professional sports medicine expertise.
Shirt declares that all grandmas are created equal, but only the coolest wear blue and gold!
Shirt declares that all grandmas are created equal, but only the coolest wear blue and gold!
Superstar quarterback Philip Rivers provides leadership for the team during stretching exercises.
Superstar quarterback Philip Rivers provides leadership for the team during stretching exercises.
Here comes a line of Chargers stepping high during the warm up routine.
Here comes a line of Chargers stepping high during the warm up routine.
Some scrimmaging begins as players face each other and test their skills on the field.
Some scrimmaging begins as players face each other and test their skills on the field.
The pigskin bounces crazily on the grass as Chargers vie for possession.
The pigskin bounces crazily on the grass as Chargers vie for possession.
An animated fan in the stands gestures during the preseason practice session.
An animated fan in the stands gestures during the preseason practice session.
An exciting play near the end zone has players scrambling at full speed.
An exciting play near the end zone has players scrambling at full speed.
After a good workout, players offer some mutual congrats and encouragement.
After a good workout, players offer some mutual congrats and encouragement.
Practice is over, and King Dunlap signs autographs for thrilled fans in the stands.
Practice is over, and King Dunlap signs autographs for thrilled fans in the stands.
Chargers FanFest 2015 was a whole lot of fun. I hope San Diego's NFL team has a great season!
Chargers FanFest 2015 was a whole lot of fun. I hope San Diego’s NFL team has a great season!

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Colorful neon words brighten downtown San Diego.

Cool neon sign in shop window of Centre City Sports Collectibles.
Cool neon sign in shop window of Centre City Sports Collectibles.

Over time I’ve collected these photos.  They’re just of colorful neon words that brighten downtown San Diego. I spot all sorts of neon signs during my walks, sometimes in daylight, sometimes at night. Glowing advertisements in windows, on building walls and marquees add life and character to the streets of any city. San Diego is no exception.

Neon words above downtown San Diego cafe door read Pastries Espresso Cappuccino.
Neon words above downtown San Diego cafe door read Pastries Espresso Cappuccino.
Fun neon adds pizzazz to marquee of Ghirardelli Ice Cream and Chocolate Shop on Fifth Avenue.
Patterned neon adds pizzazz to marquee of Ghirardelli Ice Cream and Chocolate Shop on Fifth Avenue.
Bub's near Petco Park has its brilliant red name in this window.
Bub’s near Petco Park has its brilliant red name in this window.
Bright neon in the distinctive Gaslamp Quarter landmark sign, which is well known to locals and tourists.
Neon in the distinctive Gaslamp Quarter landmark sign, which is instantly recognized by both locals and tourists.
Classic neon signage is often seen in pawn shop windows.
Classic neon signage is often seen in pawn shop windows.
The Golden West Hotel near Horton Plaza has a flashy neon sign above its main entrance.
The Golden West Hotel near Horton Plaza has a flashy neon sign above its main entrance.
Glowing neon Bail Bonds advertisement at this open-all-night Inmate Information Center.
Glowing neon Bail Bonds advertisement at this open-all-night Inmate Information Center.
Off the Wall Tattoos has an in the window neon sign.
Off the Wall Tattoos has an “in the window” neon sign.
Lots of super colorful neon at the San Diego Bike Shop on C Street.
Lots of super colorful neon at the San Diego Bike Shop on C Street.
Neon words and their reflections broken up by a security grill in front of one store.
Neon words and their reflections broken up by a security grill in front of one store.
Great Wall Express located on Broadway downtown has yummy Lousisiana Fried Chicken, as you can plainly see!
Great Wall Express located on Broadway downtown has yummy Louisiana Fried Chicken, as you can see! (Admittedly, I eat too much of it.)
Lucky's Lunch Counter has a unique sign that really stands out.
Lucky’s Lunch Counter has a unique sign that really stands out.
Crab Hut invites hungry passersby with its neon logo.
Crab Hut invites hungry passersby with its neon logo.
Eye-catching neon sign informs all who pass by that pizza, chicken wings and sandwiches are on the menu.
Eye-catching neon sign informs everyone that pizza, chicken wings and sandwiches are on the menu.
An ice cream cone creatively rendered using neon.
An awesome ice cream cone creatively rendered using neon.  Okay, I suppose this doesn’t count as a word.
This one quickly got my attention! I hope I have room after the fried chicken!
These words instantly got my attention! I hope I have room after all that fried chicken!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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