Postmark California

San Luis Obispo: Bubble Gum Alley – Sticky Attraction

2012-01-24T05:00:00.000-08:00

A business card among layers of chewed gum at Bubble Gum Alley

When it comes to attractions in San Luis Obispo, Bubble Gum Alley is one site where you’ll want to look, but not touch. Stuck to the walls of this downtown passageway, you’ll find layers upon layers of chewed bubble gum deposited by passers-by over the years. It’s both unique and fascinating - albeit gross and disgusting.

You'll want to look....but not touch!

Nobody knows exactly how this gum graffiti began. Some attribute it to a high school graduating class event after World War II. Others claim it started as a rivalry between high school and college students in the 1950s. Oh, those crazy kids!

Chewed gum in a variety of shapes decorate the alley walls

You’ll notice a lot of creative uses for gum along the alley’s 70-foot long, 15-foot high walls. The chewed glop is used to attach coins, bottle caps, business cards and notes to the brick walls. You’ll also see gum artistically stretched to draw letters, shapes, and pictures (lots of smiley faces). And let’s not forget to mention the aroma of the outdated Bazooka chewy stuff, which grows more intense during the summer months when the temperatures rise. Just giving you fair warning.

Bubble Gum Alley in San Luis Obispo

Over the years the alley walls have been hosed down, scraped, and steam cleaned, but the gum keeps returning. For every person who thinks it’s an unsanitary eyesore, there are an equal number of people who see the attraction as a moneymaker to the surrounding businesses. What do you think?

Bubble Gum Alley is located in downtown San Luis Obispo on Higuera Street, between Broad and Garden streets. Look for it between 733 and 734 Higuera Street.

ABC Wednesday, Round 10

Paso Robles: February Hotel Month – 3rd Night Free

2012-01-21T06:00:00.000-08:00

Paso Robles Wine Country (photo: TPRA)

Throughout the month of February 2012, visitors to the Paso Robles Wine Country who stay two nights will get the third night free at selected hotels, resorts and inns. It’s part of the inaugural “Paso Robles Hotel Month,” sponsored by the Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance. Guests will also receive a complimentary bottle of Paso Robles wine (one bottle per room) and amenities exclusive to each property, such as dining discounts and special pricing on spa services.

Participating properties include Adelaide Inn, Best Western Black Oak Lodge, Courtyard by Marriott, Hampton Inns & Suites, Holiday Inn Express Suites, La Bellasera Hotel & Suites, La Quinta Inns & Suites and Paso Robles Inn.

Paso Robles Wine Country is situated on California’s Central Coast, about half way between Los Angeles and San Francisco. Set against the backdrop of gently rolling hills, it’s an ideal getaway for wine touring. Its 200 wineries produce more than 40 premium winegrape varieties, including its heritage varietal Zinfandel. Other attractions include olive oil tasting, historic downtown Paso Robles and the nearby hilltop estate, Hearst Castle located in San Simeon.

More information on Paso Robles may be found at http://www.travelpaso.com/.

Anaheim: Disneyland Open 24 Hours on February 29, 2012

2012-01-03T07:00:00.000-08:00

To celebrate Leap Year 2012, Disneyland will stay open for 24 hours straight. From 6am on February 29 to 6am on March 1, guests can enjoy a Leap Day filled with endless magic and fun. The “One More Disney Day” promotion is the first of its kind and will also be offered at the Walt Disney Resort in Florida.

Both regular priced tickets and annual passes can be used to enjoy the 24-hour memory-maker marathon. The current cost of one-day tickets to the Disneyland Resort theme parks are $74 (ages 3 to 9) and $80 (ages 10 and up). Disney also offers a selection of multi-day and park hopper tickets at a discounted price.

In addition, Disney is offering a sweepstakes from January 1, 2012 through February 29, 2012. Guests can enter each day for a chance to win one of 60 Disney Parks vacation packages for four. You can enter online or text the word DISNEYDAY to 347639 (DISNEY) on your mobile device. More information about the sweepstakes and special discounted hotel packages can be found at the Disneyland site.

More Information: Disneyland (recorded guest information) 714-781-4565

New Year’s Resolutions: 7 Airline Travel Tips

2012-01-01T08:00:00.000-08:00

Let’s face it. Airline travel isn’t what it used to be. Gone are the days of dressing in your Sunday best to fly to Grandma’s. Saggy pants, sweat pants and short shorts are the common thread these days. A hot meal, even if it tastes like it was forgotten on the tarmac for a week, is a thing of the past. Surcharges for luggage, seats, movies and food are enough to bankrupt your vacation spending even before you take off. And what about the traveling public – did politeness get thrown out with the lavatory water? Maybe you can’t solve all the woes of airline travel, but you can resolve to make it more comfortable for yourself and others. Exercise a little patience. Enjoy a sense of humor. Guzzle a dose of common sense. Follow these tips next time you travel to help suppress your anxiety and ease the frustration of others.

1. High Alert: Daydreaming about Brad Pitt or Lady Gaga is not allowed while waiting in line at the TSA Security checkpoint. Wake up and smell the x-ray machines! Kick off those shoes, start disrobing and remove those electronic devices before you get to the head of the line so you don’t make others wait.

2. What’s Yours, is Mine: Carrying on a 32 ounce bottle of shampoo? Unless you want it confiscated by TSA, pack liquids in travel size bottles. Pack cattle prods, sabers and baseball bats in checked luggage. In other words, know what is and is not allowed to be carried on so you don’t encounter delays or embarrassment going through security.

3. Relax, sit awhile! It’s not necessary to crowd the airport gate in anticipation of your row being called. Cool your heels. You can hear the announcement just as clearly from a relaxed, sitting position. Board when your zone is called. And once on board, for goodness sake, remain seated until the fasten seat belt sign is no longer illuminated. Is retrieving your bag from the overhead bin so urgent that it’s worth being humiliated over by the flight attendant via the PA system?

4. Can You Hear Me Now? Has anybody read the book on cell-phone etiquette? Is there one? Speak in quiet voices. The endless chatter you’re broadcasting to everyone within earshot could be unflattering Facebook fodder from an unseen rival. Let’s keep it down, folks.

5. Oh, Behave! Onboard your flight, turn off electronic devices when instructed. Don’t test the flight attendants to see how many times they ask before you get kicked off the aircraft. C’mon, we’ve got places to go, people to see, things to do. Follow the rules.

6. You’re In My Space: Here’s a thought. If everyone backed away from the baggage carousel a foot, then we could all see our bags and we wouldn’t take out dear Aunt Mildred when swinging the bag off the platform. Everyone, if you can’t see an object without being right on top of it, get yourself a new set of peepers.

7. Friendly Skies: Start a trend for the New Year. Be pleasant. Be courteous. Be helpful. Be kind. Even on your worst day.

Southern California: Holiday Boat Parades 2011

2011-12-09T07:00:00.000-08:00

2010 Award Winner "Seafarer" (San Diego Bay Parade of Lights)

In Southern California - land of surf and sand - it’s only fitting that holiday parades take to the water. Dressed up in colorful lights with amazing animation and original themes, boats large and small glide along the bays, channels and marinas to delight holiday onlookers. Here are four aquatic light fests worthy of a mention. Admission is free to all.

San Diego Bay Parade of Lights – Dec. 11 & Dec. 18, 5:30pm – 9:00pm

The San Diego Bay Parade of Lights celebrates its 40th year with the theme “Our 40th Anniversary, Back to the Future.” Held on two consecutive Sundays, it features more than 80 decorated vessels. Festivities begin with fireworks at 5:30pm, immediately followed by the parade. The parade takes approximately one hour to one and one-half hours to pass any given point along the parade route. The approximate arrival times of the parade at various locations are: Shelter Island (start of parade): 5:30pm, Harbor Island: 6:00pm, The Embarcadero: 6:30pm, Seaport Village: 7:00pm, Ferry Landing on Coronado: 7:30pm

Santa Barbara Parade of Lights – Dec. 11, 5:30pm

A magical day awaits those attending the Santa Barbara Parade of Lights. The merriment starts at 3pm at Santa’s Village on the City Pier where children can play in 10 tons of snow and have their photo taken with Santa Claus. Holiday elves will delight the little ones with goody bags from the Maritime Museum. Starting at 5:30pm, boats decorated to the theme of “Candy Cane Holidays” will cruise the waterway. The boat parade concludes with a short fireworks display launched from West Beach. Best viewing locations include Stearns Wharf where holiday music accompanies the announcement of boats as they pass by.

Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade – Dec. 14 through Dec.18, 6:30pm – 9pm

The granddaddy of all boat parades may very well be the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade. Attracting more than a million viewers, it’s been a holiday tradition for over 100 years. You’ll see brilliantly decorated yachts, boats, canoes and other watercraft wind their way through the harbor, starting and ending the 14-mile journey at Bay Island. The parade takes place over five consecutive nights beginning Wednesday, December 14. A fireworks display closes out the parade on the final night, Dec. 18, starting at 9pm. As an added bonus, the celebrated “Ring of Lights” decorating contest treats spectators to an eyeful of beautifully decorated homes and businesses surrounding the harbor. The competition is robust, featuring everything from roof-top animated scenes to dancing Christmas trees.

Ventura Harbor Parade of Lights – Dec. 16 & Dec. 17, 7pm

The Ventura Harbor Parade of Lights is more than just a boat parade. It’s a two-day celebration dipped in holiday cheer. In addition to the boat procession each night, there will be a Winter Wonderland on Saturday, Dec. 17 from 1-5pm complete with live reindeer, Victorian Carolers, holiday characters and boutique shopping. Fireworks follow the parade of lights each evening with “Santa and his sleigh crossing the sky” on Saturday evening. This year’s theme, “California Dreamin,” is sure to generate imaginative ideas for the lighted boat displays. Parking is free in Ventura Harbor Village and along Spinnaker Drive.

Mammoth Mountain: Night of Lights – December 17, 2011

2011-12-02T06:00:00.000-08:00

Mammoth Night of Lights at Canyon Lodge

Get ready for a spectacular light show when the Night of Lights at Canyon Lodge returns to Mammoth Mountain on Saturday, December 17, 2011. The hugely popular outdoor party and light show begins at 5:30 p.m. against the backdrop of the snow packed ski slopes. Festivities include a torchlight parade, fireworks display, live music, food and drink concessions and more. Admission is free; however to sit in VIP premium viewing areas, tickets must be purchased (starting price is $35 per adult). Attendance of 15,000 is expected, so you’ll want to get there early. Avoid the hassle of parking by taking one of the shuttles offered at various locations around town. The Village Gondola to Canyon Lodge is complimentary to guests of all ages, with the last gondola departing for the village at 10 p.m.

Mammoth Information and Reservations: 800-MAMMOTH (800-626-6684).

San Francisco: Macy’s SPCA Holiday Windows – Adopt a Pet

2011-11-30T08:00:00.000-08:00

Macy's Holiday Windows (SF SPCA)

Make your way to Macy’s in San Francisco’s Union Square this holiday season for a most unique shopping experience – window shopping, that is. In what has become an annual event, Macy’s Holiday Windows feature adoptable animals from the San Francisco SPCA in its decorative window displays. From now until January 1, 2012 you can see adorable cats and dogs lounging and playing, hoping to win hearts and get a second chance at finding a loving home. The animals on display change daily, allowing a variety of would-be pets to be spotlighted. SPCA volunteers will be at Macy’s to greet visitors, answer questions and assist with the adoption process. Last year nearly 300 animals featured in Macy’s Holiday Windows found new homes and more than $70,000 was raised for the SF SPCA.

Macy's Holiday Windows (SF SPCA/Jennifer Jameson Photography)

The cats and dogs will be in Macy's windows seven days a week, except for Christmas. A schedule of hours is located here. You may also view streaming video of the animals throughout the holiday season.

Macy’s Union Square is located at 170 O’Farrell Street in San Francisco.

Hotel Offers: Black Friday and Cyber Monday Hotel Deals

2011-11-25T01:00:00.000-08:00

Pacifica Hotels' FogCatcher Inn located in Cambria

The biggest sales of the holiday shopping season aren’t just for electronics, toys, or gadgets. Hotels are offering incredible deals when you book on Black Friday and Cyber Monday. So, take advantage of discounted rates and special perks available during this time to plan your ideal getaway.

Here’s a list of hotel deals you can book online. As always, read the fine print for any restrictions. Happy traveling!

Hilton Hotels & Resorts: Save up to 33% during the “December Sale.” In addition, Hilton HHonors™ members earn 1,000 Bonus Points for each stay of at least two nights.

Reservations: Book between November 25, 2011 and January 1, 2012. Stay between December 8, 2011 and January 8, 2012. Must book at least seven days prior to arrival.

Website: Hilton Hotels

Details: Located in Long Beach, Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego and San Francisco.

Loews Hotels: Get 20 percent off Loews Best Rate plus free in-room Internet access.

Reservations: Book November 28, 2011 between 12:01 a.m. and 11:59 p.m. Travel between November 29, 2011 and March 31, 2012.

Website: Loews Hotels

Details: Located in Santa Monica and San Diego.

Omni Hotels: “Holiday Treat” package offers rooms ranging from $79 to $119.

Reservations: Book Black Friday, November 25 through Cyber Monday November 28, 2011. Stay through January 31, 2012.

Website: Omni Hotels

Details: Located in Los Angeles, San Diego and San Francisco

Pacifica Hotels: Get $50 off room rates with the “Cyber Monday Deal.”

Reservations: Book Cyber Monday, November 28, 2011 from 12 a.m. until 11:59 p.m. PST. Stay through February 16, 2012. Enter promo code CM2011.

Website: Pacifica Hotels

Details: 24 hotels, inns and cottages in and around Los Angeles, San Francisco, the Central Coast, Orange County and San Diego.

Shell Vacations Hospitality: Discounts up to 50%.

Reservations: Book Black Friday, November 25 from 12 a.m. through midnight November 28, 2011.

Website: Shell Vacations Hospitality

Details: Located in San Francisco (Inn at the Opera, Suites at Fisherman’s Wharf, The Donatello), San Diego (Harbor Vacations Club, Inn at the Park), Anaheim (Peacock Suites) and Napa (Vino Bello Resort)

Starwood Hotels: “One Day Wonder” package saves up to 40 percent off regular rates.

Reservations: Book November 28, 2011. Facebook and Twitter followers get early access to booking site on Sunday, November 27 at 6pm EST. Travel January 1 through April 30, 2012.

Website: Starwood Hotels (special booking site – effective on Monday, November 28)

Details: Sheraton, Westin and W Hotels throughout California

Shopping for Luggage: Express Your Own Style

2011-11-23T06:00:00.000-08:00

There’s no need to blend in with the crowd when it comes to luggage. There are way too many choices to settle for basic black. Show off your style with these bags that add fun and originality to your travels.

Café Luggage (Nicole Lee)

Reminiscent of an earlier time, the Café Luggage leatherette carry-on features a hard body trunk adorned with travel themed illustrations. It has a durable cotton lining on the inside and sound reducing rubber wheels on the exterior. Dimensions – 18 3/4” H x 13 3/4” L x 7” W. Cost: $120 at Baker Shoes.

Butterfly 4-Piece Set (Britto Collection by Heys USA)

Sure to draw looks from envious travelers, the Britto Collection by Heys USA has several outstanding designs for the fashion-conscious vacationer. The interior is fully lined and customized to complement the exterior high-luster art. The 4-piece set includes 22", 26", 30" spinner case and 12” beauty case. Cost: $1060 at QVC.

Los Angeles Lakers Carry-On (Denco Sports Luggage)

Show your loyalty for your favorite NBA, NHL or NCAA team with the Denco sports luggage collection. This 21” carry-on proudly displays the Los Angeles Lakers logo. Cost: $119.99 at eBags.

Travel Buddies Archie Alien (TrendyKid)

Aliens have invaded! Kids will look forward to sleepovers with Travel Buddies Archie Alien by their side. The 2-piece luggage set features an upright 18” wheelie case and a 12” backpack with adjustable back straps. Other designs include Percy Penguin and Lola Ladybug. Cost: $89.99 at TrendyKid.

Trunki Sunny (Melissa & Doug)

How ingenious – a carry-on that carries your kid, too. The lightweight and colorful Trunki suitcase doubles as a riding toy. Durable and strong, it holds up to 75 pounds and has integrated wheels and stabilizers to prevent toppling over. Cost: $39.99 at Melissa & Doug.

Grande Dots 4-Piece Luggage Set (American Flyer)

Follow the dots to easily identify your luggage at the baggage carousel. This 4-piece set from American Flyer includes a 20”, 25” and 28” bag plus a boarding tote. Available in brown/pink, brown/apple green, or brown/blue. Cost: $224.99 at eBags.

Girls On Tour 3-Piece Luggage Set (Picture Case)

Girls who just want to have fun will love this 3-piece hard shell luggage set from Picture Case. The whimsical design on a pink background is perfect for a ladies’ weekend getaway. Set includes 28”, 24” and 20” Upright. Cost: $319.99 at eBags.

Loews Hotels: Halloween 'Spooky Suites' - Hauntingly Fun

2011-10-16T06:00:00.000-07:00

Loews 'Spooky Suite' for Halloween fun

Loews Hotels is inviting guests to scare up some fun in one of its ‘Spooky Suites’ this Halloween. The ghostly getaway is offered at Loews’ 13 properties nationwide and includes a stay in a Halloween-themed suite, loot bag filled with tricks and treats, and a ghoulish amenity upon check-in. A costume concierge from Party City will assist in styling adults, children and even pets with bewitching outfits from an exclusive Costume Catalog.

The ‘Spooky Suite’ package is valid October 25-31, 2011 and must be booked at least five days in advance. Rates start at $205.

Loews has two properties in California, both situated on the waterfront - The Loews Coronado Bay in San Diego and the Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel.

For reservations, call 1-800-235-6397 or visit the Loews website.

San Diego: Kids Free at the Zoo & Safari Park in October

2011-10-14T05:00:00.000-07:00

Bai Yun, the panda (photo: San Diego Zoo)

Children ages 3 to 11 get free admission to the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Safari Park when accompanied by an adult during the month of October. All month long there will be special children’s activities, animal encounters, keeper talks, and the opportunity for kids to meet their favorite costumed characters. Normal children’s ticket price is $30, so bring the family and save a bundle.

The San Diego Zoo is located at 2920 Zoo Drive in Balboa Park, just north of downtown San Diego. The Safari Park is located about 35 miles north of San Diego at 15500 San Pasqual Valley Road in Escondido. Both parks are open daily from 9am to 5pm.

Catalina Express: Ride to Catalina for Free on your Birthday

2011-06-24T07:00:00.000-07:00

Catalina Express celebrates 30 years of service

Catalina Express celebrates 30 years of service by giving a free round-trip pass to anyone who would like to visit Catalina on their birthday - a savings of up to $71.50. Now, that’s a nice present! Travel must begin on your actual birth date, but you may stay on the island up to 30 days.

To take advantage of the offer, register online with Catalina Express. You’ll receive a confirmation email with instructions on how to download and print the free pass, which includes a birthday promotion code. Enter the code when making reservations online or mention the code if securing reservations over the phone at 800-995-4386. Proof of your birth date and a valid photo ID must be presented when picking up tickets. Boats depart from Long Beach, San Pedro and Dana Point on the mainland and arrive at Avalon or Two Harbors on Catalina Island. The offer is good through April 30, 2012.

Catalina Express has carried over 22 million passengers between the mainland and Catalina over the past 30 years. Its current fleet of eight high-speed vessels ferries guests to Catalina in about an hour, with up to 30 departures daily, year round.

Southwest Airlines: Celebrating 40 Years with $40 Fares

2011-06-21T09:00:00.000-07:00

Act fast to take advantage of Southwest Airlines’ super low fares to destinations in California and throughout the country. The airline commemorates 40 years of service with fares of $40, $80 and $120 one way, based upon mileage between cities. For travel up to 450 miles, fares are $40. For travel between 451 and 1250 miles, fares are $80. For travel of 1251 miles or more, fares are $120 . Travel is valid every day except Friday and Sundays. Purchase tickets by 11:59pm PDT on June 23, 2011 for travel beginning August 23 through November 16, 2011.

Visit http://www.southwest.com/ for complete terms and conditions and a list of available cities and fares.

Santa Cruz: Friday Night Bands on the Beach – Free Concerts

2011-06-17T05:00:00.000-07:00

Friday Night Bands on the Beach in Santa Cruz

The Bands on the Beach summer concert series brings music icons from the ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Two free shows are featured every Friday night from June 17 to September 2, 2011 at 6:30pm and 8:30pm, spotlighting a different Top 40 band each week. Concerts take place on the Beach Bandstand – arrive by 4pm for the best seating. Alcohol, glass and smoking are not permitted.

Bands on the Beach – 2011 Concert Season Line Up

June 17: Starship starring Mickey Thomas - “We Built This City”
June 24: Eric Burdon & The Animals - “The House Of The Rising Sun”
July 1: The Family Stone - “Thank You”
July 8: Great White - “Once Bitten, Twice Shy”
July 15: Loverboy - “Working For The Weekend”
July 22: Average White Band - “Pick Up The Pieces”
July 29: The Edgar Winter Band - “Free Ride”
Aug 5: Gin Blossoms - “Hey Jealousy”
Aug 12: Berlin featuring Terri Nunn - “Take My Breath Away”
Aug 19: Santana original lead singer Gregg Rolie - “Black Magic Woman”
Aug 26: Eddie Money - “Take Me Home Tonight”
Sept 2: Papa Doo Run Run “Santa Cruz” Beach Party

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is located at 400 Beach Street and can be reached by taking Hwy 17 or Hwy 1 to Santa Cruz and following the signs to Santa Cruz Beach. It’s about a 75-minute drive from San Francisco and 30 minutes from San Jose.

San Diego: SeaWorld’s Newest Exhibit – Turtle Reef

2011-06-15T06:00:00.000-07:00

Turtle Reef opens at SeaWorld San Diego June 18

SeaWorld San Diego’s newest attraction, Turtle Reef, opens June 18, 2011 and promises to be the largest exhibit in the world dedicated to sea turtles. The multi-level attraction leads guests on an interactive journey through the life cycle of sea turtles, where they learn about the creature’s habitat and threats faced in the wild. Visitors will also learn how trash and pollution can affect the turtles and what they can do to help these threatened and endangered species. An impressive 300,000-gallon aquarium with an underwater viewing gallery allows visitors an up-close look at the turtles, some more than 50 years old, and you’ll marvel at the thousands of tropical fish on display. Also at Turtle Reef is a touch screen map, Turtlelink, that educates guests on sea turtle tracking and SeaWorld’s rescue efforts. The park’s rescue team has rescued more than 1,500 threatened or endangered sea turtles over 30 years. A new ride, Riptide Rescue, takes passengers on an exciting rescue mission of their own.

To coincide with the opening of Turtle Reef and to raise awareness of the dangers of plastic pollution (a threat to sea turtles), SeaWorld will discontinue using plastic bags at its gift shops. Instead, paper and reusable bags will be used, a move that will save more than 1 million plastic bags from circulation each year.

More Information: SeaWorld San Diego

500 Sea World Drive, San Diego, CA 92109

Summer Hours: Monday-Friday 9am to 10pm, Saturday-Sunday 9am to 11pm.

Admission: $69.99- ages 10 and older, $61.99- ages 3 to 9, Free- ages 2 and under

Parking: $14 per car, $19 RV or camper, $10 motorcycles

Phone: 800-25-SHAMU (800-257-4268)

Summer Travel: 8 Fuel Saving Tips

2011-06-08T05:00:00.000-07:00

With summer right around the corner, road trips are on the agenda for many travelers wishing to experience California. We all know the cost of gas has skyrocketed, so it’s more important than ever to keep your car in top running condition to maximize your fuel mileage. Here are some tips to help steer you in the right direction.

Junk in the Trunk: Does the inside of your trunk look like a rental storage unit? Loose the junk. An extra 100 pounds in your vehicle could reduce your mileage by up to 2 percent, guzzling up to an extra 20 gallons of fuel a year.

Oh, The Pressure: Keeping your tires properly inflated can improve your gas mileage by about 3 percent. Check your car’s owner manual or label attached on the driver’s side door for recommended pressure – don’t go by what’s printed on the tire itself.

Lead Foot: What’s your hurry? Slow down and you’ll conserve fuel. Each 5 mph you drive over 60 mph is like paying an additional $0.24 per gallon for gas. Fuel efficiency also drops – as much as 33 percent on highways and 5 percent in town - when you drive aggressively by speeding, accelerating rapidly and braking hard. Also, stay in one lane unless passing; weaving uses up more fuel.

Tune In, Tune Up: Keep your engine tuned. A well-maintained car can improve gas mileage by an average of 4 percent. On the flip side, fuel consumption can increase by as much as 10 to 20 percent on a poorly maintained vehicle.

It’s A Drag: Trinkets hanging from the antenna and equipment bolted to the car rooftop creates drag, which can affect your vehicle’s fuel consumption. Opened windows can reduce your gas mileage by as much as 10 percent. And when was the last time you washed your car? A clean car is more aerodynamic than a dirty one.

Idle Time: Avoid excessive idling. If your car will be idling for more than a minute, turn the engine off to avoid wasting gas.

APP-solutely: Make use of one of the many smart phone apps to track road conditions – you can find alternate routes to avoid congestion rather than waste fuel sitting in traffic. There are apps to help you find cheap gas and others to map out driving directions. Some apps worth mentioning are TripTik, Google Maps Navigation, Road Trip and GasBuddy.

An Ounce of Prevention: Keep your car in top-running condition to improve your gas mileage and ensure a safe trip. Have your vehicle inspected before you take your road trip. Preventative maintenance is less expensive than costly repairs caused by a break down on the road.

Los Angeles: Six Flags Magic Mountain – $25 Ticket Savings

2011-06-03T06:00:00.000-07:00

Superman: Escape from Krypton ride at Magic Mountain

Save $25 on tickets to Six Flags Magic Mountain with the “Everyone Pays Kids Price” online special. The discount allows adults to pay the child’s rate of $34.99 (instead of $59.99). Simply book online and print tickets at home.

Celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, Magic Mountain provides thrills for the fearless on its 18 coasters, the most of any theme park in the world. Be sure to check out Superman: Escape from Krypton, which reopened this spring. The exhilarating ride powers visitors 100mph backward and 41 stories into the sky. Opening this month is Green Lantern: First Flight, the first vertical spinning coaster in the country.

Six Flags Magic Mountain is located north of Los Angeles in Valencia. From I-5, exit at Magic Mountain Parkway and follow the signs to the park.

More Information: Six Flags Magic Mountain

26101 Magic Mountain Parkway, Valencia, CA 91355

Phone: 661-255-4100

Coronado Beach: One of the Top Ten Beaches in America

2011-05-31T05:00:00.000-07:00

Coronado Beach (photo: Diamond Resorts)

It’s official. Southern California’s Coronado Beach is one of the best. The wide, sandy beach that beckons sun worshipers and sunset addicts to its shore has placed 2nd on the Top Ten Beaches in America list for 2011. It’s the only California beach to make the list and deservedly so. Coronado Beach is a scenic, impeccably clean, family-friendly beach with bike paths, fire pits, shower/restroom facilities and ideal conditions for swimming, surfing and sailing. Million dollar homes line the streets surrounding the beach and the historic Hotel Del Coronado graces the shoreline in all her grandeur, providing the perfect backdrop for photo memories of your day at the seashore. Visit January through March and you’ll see whales migrating to Baja California. Any other time of the year, you might see a seal or two – Navy SEALS, that is. The Naval Air Station is located north of Coronado Beach and the SEALS are often seen making their morning run along the water’s edge. Lifeguards are posted year-round. Plenty of dining facilities, shops and boutiques are within walking distance of the beach.

Hotel Del Coronado on Coronado Beach

To reach Coronado Beach from I-5, take the Coronado Bridge exit just south of downtown San Diego. You’ll enter Coronado Island on 3rd Street. Turn left on Orange Avenue and proceed toward the Hotel Del Coronado. Making a right turn on almost any street intersecting Orange Avenue will lead you to the beach. Parking along Ocean Blvd. fills up quickly during summer months. Get there early to avoid the crowds. Alcohol is not allowed on the beach.

The Top Ten Beaches list is published annually by Dr. Stephen P. Leatherman and released each Memorial Day weekend. Dr. Leatherman, a 30-year veteran of coastal science, uses 50 different criteria to evaluate more than 650 public beach facilities in the United States. Factors such as beach access, water temperature, views, sand softness and number of sunny days are rated to determine which beaches make the cut. Since 1991, Dr. Leatherman has released his list and destinations landing at #1 can easily expect a 10 to 20 percent surge in visitors. This year’s top beach is Siesta Beach in Florida. The complete list is featured below.

Top Ten Beaches in America 2011

1. Siesta Beach in Sarasota, Florida

2. Coronado Beach in San Diego, California

3. Kahanamoku Beach in Waikiki, Oahu, Hawaii

4. Main Beach in East Hampton, New York

5. Cape Hatteras in the Outer Banks of North Carolina

6. St. George Island State Park, Florida panhandle

7. Beachwalker Park Kiawah Island, South Carolina

8. Coast Guard Beach in Cape Cod, Massachusetts

9. Waimanalo Bay Beach Park on Oahu, Hawaii

10. Cape Florida State Park in Key Biscayne, Florida

Free Museum Day – Discover the Arts in California

2011-04-22T06:00:00.000-07:00

Yankee Driver by Thomas Hart Benton at The Huntington (huntington.org)

Anyone looking to save money on museum entrance fees needs to know about Free Museum Day. It’s an admission-free day offered at hundreds of museums across the country. Just by knowing which day of the week is free at your chosen museum, you can enjoy art and culture without having to spend a dime. For instance, The Huntington in Los Angeles is free the first Thursday of each month. The Exploratorium in San Francisco is free the first Wednesday of each month and The San Diego Museum of Art is free the third Tuesday of each month. With a little planning, you could visit a different museum almost every day – free of charge.

Visit freemuseumday.org to see when admission fees are waived at museums in Los Angeles, San Diego and the San Francisco Bay Area. While some museums’ free days are offered to the general public, some require you to live locally or within a particular zip code. Many museums, however, never charge an entrance fee, no matter which day you choose to visit.

American Airlines - 30 Deals, 30 Days Promotion

2011-04-19T12:00:00.000-07:00

American Airlines is celebrating the 30th Anniversary of its frequent flyer program by offering 30 days of deals. From April 18 through May 27, 2011, you can score bonus miles, flight deals and big discounts on American Airlines, Avis, Hertz, Starwood Hotels and more. Visit aa.com/AAdvantage30th each weekday to view the daily deal and to register to win 30,000 AAdvantage miles. Incredible prizes are up for grabs, including a 2012 Chevrolet Camaro. Read more about the promotion here.

Los Angeles: TV Talk Show Tapings – Be In the Audience

2011-04-16T08:00:00.000-07:00

Jimmy Kimmel, Ellen DeGeneres, Jay Leno

Visitors to Los Angeles - here’s a sightseeing suggestion. Attend a live taping of your favorite television talk show. It’s fun, it’s free and there are many entertaining shows to choose from.

As a member of the studio audience, you’ll experience Hollywood in action and see what goes on behind the scenes before, during and after a broadcast. You’ll get to watch entertainers perform, listen to newsmakers speak, and experience the banter between talk show guest and TV host. In most cases, you’re sitting just feet from the stage, allowing for a birds-eye view of your favorite personality. In some instances, you may be put on camera and become part of the show.

Some tips:

Tickets for studio tapings should be ordered well in advance and some shows limit the number of tickets you may request.
Most shows have a minimum age requirement of 16-18 yrs for audience members.
Arrive early, even if you’re holding confirmed tickets. Just like the airlines, studios overbook and you could be “bumped”.
If you’re unable to plan ahead, some shows have a limited number of standby tickets available the day of taping.
Dress in layers – studios tend to be cold. Dress stylishly if you want that front row seat and a chance to be on camera.
Security will check all bags. Make certain you're aware of any prohibited items, such as video and audio recording devices, and leave them at home or at your hotel.

To order tickets, click on the name of your favorite TV show. Some tickets are distributed via ticket suppliers such as 1iota.com and on-camera-audiences.com, which are legitimate agencies offering free tickets.

Chelsea Lately - Digital Media Center, Los Angeles
Conan with Conan O’Brien - Warner Bros. Studios, Burbank
The Ellen DeGeneres Show – Warner Bros. Studios, Burbank
Jimmy Kimmel Live – El Capitan Theater, Hollywood
Lopez Tonight - Warner Bros. Studios, Burbank
The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson – CBS Television City, Los Angeles
The Talk – CBS Studio Center, Studio City
The Tonight Show with Jay Leno – NBC Studios, Burbank

Stockton: Asparagus Festival – April 15-17, 2011

2011-04-12T08:00:00.000-07:00

California is the nation’s top agricultural state, producing more than 350 crops, so why not have a party to celebrate one of its beloved products - asparagus. The 26th Annual Asparagus Festival takes place April 15-17, 2011 in downtown Stockton and is expected to draw nearly 100,000 people. The food fest features everything from appetizers to main dishes to sauces and dressings, incorporating asparagus as a key ingredient. From deep-fried asparagus to asparagus burritos, there will be no shortage of dining delights along with a selection of fine wines. Also on the agenda during the three-day event will be cooking demonstrations, arts, crafts, entertainment, and children’s activities. Musical headliners include the California rock band, Smash Mouth and Country Music favorite, Little Texas.

Interesting Asparagus Facts

Asparagus is a member of the Lily family.
Asparagus has no fat, no cholesterol and is low in sodium. It’s high in folic acid and a good source of potassium, fiber, vitamins A, C, B6, and thiamin.
An asparagus spear can grow up to 10" in a 24-hour period.
White asparagus is the same plant as green asparagus. Its spears are covered to block sunlight, thus preventing photosynthesis and the development of chlorophyll - the green color found in regular asparagus.
Some say eating asparagus can help ease hangovers.
The larger the diameter of the asparagus, the better the quality.

More Information: Stockton Asparagus Festival

221 North Center Street, Stockton, CA 95203

Dates/Hours: April 15-17, 2011, 10am-7pm daily

Phone: 209-644-3740

Tickets: $12 Adults, $7 Seniors, Teens (ages 13-17), Active Military & College Students. Children 12 & under are free with paying adults.

Long Beach: Toyota Grand Prix – Start Your Engines

2011-04-08T06:00:00.000-07:00

Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach 2010 (Photo: Samuel Lippke)

The roar of race cars will echo through the city of Long Beach when the 37th Annual Toyota Grand Prix comes to town April 15-17, 2011. The ear-splitting race is the third stop of the 2011 IZOD IndyCar Championship Series, and the single largest event held in Long Beach. More than 200,000 people are expected to attend the 3-day event that features driving pros such as Dario Franchitti, Danica Patrick, Helio Castroneves and the 2010 defending race champion, Ryan Hunter-Reay.

Long Beach downtown street course (Photo: Samuel Lippke)

Drivers will battle it out on the 1.97-mile, 11-turn street course that winds around the Long Beach Convention Center and along the palm-lined waterfront. Grandstands along scenic Shoreline Drive afford a picture-perfect California view of the wheel-to-wheel racing action down the straightaway. There are plenty of additional viewing spots along the circuit and video screens, strategically placed, will broadcast the live action.

2010 Toyota Grand Prix Winner, Ryan Hunter-Reay (Photo: Samuel Lippke)

Excitement isn’t limited to IndyCars; other racing events at the Toyota Grand Prix include the American Le Mans Series, Firestone Indy Lights, Team Drift Challenge and the prestigious Toyota Pro/Celebrity Race, where popular personalities square off against professional racers on a 10-lap sprint around the course. The 2011 celebrity roster includes AJ Buckley (CSI: NY), Frankie Muniz (Malcom In the Middle), Kevin Jonas (Jonas Brothers), Megyn Price (Rules of Engagement), and last year’s celebrity winner, Brian Austin Green (Beverly Hills, 90210).

In between races, you might want to visit the Auto Club Lifestyle Expo, where exhibitors showcase the latest products for the active-minded. A Family Fun Zone has interactive games, simulators, race cars, rock climbing, and a video arcade. Other weekend activities include autograph sessions, car displays, live concerts, dining and dancing.

Ticket prices for the Toyota Grand Prix range from $26 for Friday general admission up to $130 for a three-day ticket that includes upper-level reserved seats in the grandstands on Saturday and Sunday.

National Park Week – Free Entrance April 16-24, 2011

2011-04-06T06:00:00.000-07:00

Sequoia National Park (Photo: Zrim)

More than 100 U.S. national parks will waive entrance fees during National Park Week April 16-24, 2011, including several in California. Focusing on the theme “Healthy Parks, Healthy People,” folks are encouraged to get outdoors and embrace a healthy lifestyle while appreciating the value of keeping our nation’s parks healthy and alive.

As part of National Park Week, there will be ranger talks, nature hikes, guided tours, and family-friendly activities. There will be special events, such as an organized walk through Muir Woods on April 21 in observance of John Muir's birthday and festivities celebrating Junior Ranger Day on April 23. Park concessioners will offer specials and discounts on food, transportation, lodging and souvenirs throughout the week.

If you’re unable to visit a park during the fee-free week, additional 2011 free days are scheduled for June 21, September 21, and November 11-13. Let us know which parks you plan to explore!

National Parks in California

Cabrillo National Monument
Death Valley National Park
John Muir National Historic Site
Joshua Tree National Park
Lassen Volcanic National Park
Lava Beds National Monument
Muir Woods National Monument
Pinnacles National Monument
San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park
Sequoia National Park
Whiskeytown Unit National Recreation Area
Yosemite National Park

San Francisco: Cherry Blossom Festival – Springtime Tradition

2011-04-02T06:00:00.000-07:00

Gakei Jitodai Koto Group (Photo: nccbf.org)

Celebrate Japanese culture and the diversity of the Japanese-American community at the annual Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival. It takes place in San Francisco’s Japantown (Post & Buchanan Streets) over two weekends - April 9 & 10 and April 16 & 17, 2011. A dazzling display of cultural performances and Asian traditions are showcased in this event that attracts more than 200,000 people each year - the second largest festival of its kind in the nation. You’ll see live performances of Japanese music and dance, martial arts demonstrations, a traditional arts and crafts fair, flower arranging, tea ceremonies and plenty of Japanese culinary cuisine. A Grand Parade with colorful floats, dancers and local dignitaries closes the festival on Sunday, April 17. Most events during the festival are free.

Peace Pagoda

San Francisco’s Japantown encompasses about six square city blocks and is one of only three remaining Japantowns in the United States. It’s known as Nihonmachi or Little Osaka, a moniker earned because San Francisco's oldest sister city is Osaka, Japan. Within Japantown is the Japan Center, a five-acre shopping and restaurant complex and site of the landmark five-story, 100’ tall Peace Pagoda - donated to Japantown by the city of Osaka in 1968. Along the streets and within the Center, you’ll see fine displays of Japan’s (unofficial) national flower – the cherry blossom. A delicate flower that blooms for a very short time, the cherry blossom is said to represent the transience of life and the belief that life is short and beautiful, not unlike the life span of the cherry blossom itself.

In response to the recent devastation in Japan caused by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, The Northern Japan Earthquake Relief Fund has been established on behalf of the Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival. Visit the Cherry Blossom home page and watch the video for details on how you can contribute. In addition, a charity concert to benefit the fund will take place on Saturday, April 16 at the Sundance Kabuki Theater in San Francisco.

Santa Clara: California’s Great America – Discount Tickets

2011-03-27T06:00:00.000-07:00

The Demon thrill ride at California's Great America

Thrill-seekers rejoice! Today is opening day of the 2011 season at California’s Great America amusement park in Santa Clara. From now until the end of October, visitors can spin, whirl, loop, drop, twist and fly on an assortment of rides – the most thrill rides of any park in Northern California. Fun for the entire family, there’s also a water park (opening May 28, 2011), a kid’s zone, family rides and Planet Snoopy, a place where kids can meet and play with their favorite Peanut’s characters. Live shows entertain guests and a variety of restaurants provide a broad dining experience.

A visit to California’s Great America doesn’t have to be a strain on your wallet. Save money by using current discount and coupon offers listed below. Many discounts require you to book online and print your own tickets – click the links for details.

One-day General Admission

Adults: $54.99 ages 3-61 and 48” or taller

Juniors: $34.99 ages 3-61 and under 48” tall

Seniors: $34.99 ages 62+

Save $9 when you purchase a single day ticket online. $45.99 per ticket.

Save $22 when you purchase two tickets online. $65.00 for two tickets. Valid March 27 to June 12, 2011 only.

Save $19 when you purchase tickets three days in advance. $35.99 per ticket.

Save $49.00 when you purchase a two-day pass. Valid any two days during the 2011 season. $59.99 for two days.

Save $21.99 when you purchase your ticket through the Santa Clara Convention & Visitors Bureau, located at 1850 Warburton Avenue in Santa Clara. $33.00 per ticket.

Save $15 off each adult general admission ticket with this coupon. Valid March 27-October 30, 2011, up to six people.

Save $5 when you show your AAA membership card at the gate.

Season Pass - It’s the same price as a single day ticket! A great deal if you intend to visit the park more than once during 2011. Adult season passes start at $54.99.

California’s Great America is on Facebook and Twitter. Discounts and specials are often posted.

California’s Great America is located in Santa Clara, about 45 miles from San Francisco. From US 101 north or south or HWY 237, exit at Great American Parkway.

More Information: California’s Great America

4701 Great America Pkwy, Santa Clara, CA 95054

Phone: 408-986-5866

Hours: See Park Calendar

Parking: $12 per vehicle

Carlsbad: Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch – Blooming Now

2011-03-25T08:00:00.000-07:00

Photo: Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch

One of the best indicators of spring is the burst of color splashed across the rolling hillside at the spectacular Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch. Located halfway between Orange County and San Diego, this popular site attracts thousands of visitors eager to see Giant Tecolote Ranunculus flowers during blooming season, which runs from early March through early May. Brilliant ribbons of orange, yellow, magenta, purple and white cover nearly 50 acres of the working flower farm – the only commercial ranunculus grower in the world that allows the public to walk the fields and experience the flowers up-close. Very few of the flowers here are actually sold – about 1 –2%. The flowers are primarily grown to harvest the ranunculus bulbs. Approximately 6-8 million bulbs are harvested each year and sold to nurseries and garden centers across the country.

Colorful blooms at the Flower Fields

Visitors can wander through the fields at their leisure or take a tractor wagon ride for a birds eye view of the brilliant display of flowers and the Pacific Ocean beyond. Benches, picnic tables and chairs offer spots to rest and dine - food and vending machines are on the premises. Other highlights at the Flower Fields include a 1,500 square foot greenhouse filled with rare and unusual varieties of poinsettias, a sweet pea maze, a 1-acre Orchid showcase, and a special nursery, garden and gift shop by Armstrong Garden Centers. Special events throughout the season encourage visitor participation and include photography workshops, arts and crafts fairs, musical entertainment and more.

To reach the Flower Fields, take I-5 and exit at Palomar Airport Road. Head east on Palomar Airport Road, then turn left on Paseo Del Norte. Make an immediate right into the parking lot.

More Information: Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch

5704 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, CA 92008

Phone: 760-431-0352

Hours: Open daily, 9am – 6pm (Season runs through May 8)

Admission: $10 Adults, $9 Seniors 60+, $5 Children 3-10, children 2 and under are free

Wagon Rides: $5 for Adults, $3 for Children 3-10

Parking: Free

Southern California: Grunion Run – Spawning on the Sand

2011-03-20T08:00:00.000-07:00

If your date invites you on a moonlight stroll along the beach, but asks you to bring a flashlight, bucket and sense of adventure – it can mean only one thing. It’s grunion season. A uniquely strange phenomenon on Southern California beaches, grunion runs occur from March until August from Point Conception to Baja California. It’s quite a sight to see.

For the unfamiliar, the grunion is a toothless, smelt-like fish about 5 to 6 inches long. For four consecutive nights, beginning on the nights of the full and new moons, thousands of the silvery fish wiggle their way to the shore at high tide for a most interesting mating ritual. The females dig themselves into the sand, twisting and turning to create a nest, and deposit their eggs. The males wrap around the females and release milt, which flows down the female’s body to fertilize the eggs. After spawning, the grunion ride the next big wave back to sea while the breaker covers the roe with sand. The eggs incubate in the sand during the lower tides and hatch about 10 days later during the next high tide series. Females can lay up to 3,600 eggs during one spawn and can spawn up to six times in one season. The life span of a grunion is two to three years.

Grunion runs are fun and fascinating to observe, but you may also catch these feisty creatures. A fishing license is required for anyone 16 years and older. The fish may only be caught with bare hands – no other tools may be used and no holes may be dug in the beach to entrap the fish. There is no limit to the amount that may be caught. Grunion season is closed April and May.

Visit the California Department of Fish & Game to see a list of expected dates and times of 2011 Grunion Runs.

Ten California Cities – An Abundance of Capitals

2011-03-03T15:00:00.000-08:00

Can you name California’s state capital? If you guessed Sacramento, you’re right on the mark. But, how well do you know California’s other capital cities? Take a look at these ten cities located in our Golden State and their popular nicknames. Bet you didn’t know California had so many capitals!

Auburn: Endurance Capital of the World
Bakersfield: California’s Country Music Capital
Bishop: Mule Packer Capital of the World
Fallbrook: Avocado Capital of the World
Forestville: Poison Oak Capital of the World
Gilroy: Garlic Capital of the World
Palmdale: Aerospace Capital of America
Pearsonville: Hubcap Capital of the World
San Jose: The Capital of Silicon Valley
Solvang: Danish Capital of America

Plenty of other California cities take credit for being a “capital.” How many can you name?

San Juan Capistrano: Swallows Return on March 19

2011-02-28T16:00:00.000-08:00

Swallows return to Mission San Juan Capistrano on March 19

Few things in life are predictable, but you can always count on the swallows returning to the historic Mission in San Juan Capistrano, just as they’ve done for more than a century. Although their numbers have declined in recent years, the swallows’ return is still celebrated with frill and fanfare.

Each year on or around St. Joseph’s Day, March 19, the steadfast birds complete their 6,000-mile journey from their winter home in Argentina to their summer retreat in coastal San Juan Capistrano. The “scout swallows” precede the main flock by a few days, seemingly to make sure accommodations are up to par. The masses follow, arriving by the thousands, to the sound of church bells ringing and the welcome cheers of visitors witnessing the popular event. The cliff swallows methodically go to work rebuilding their nests under the eaves and on the arches of the ancient stone church, Mission San Juan Capistrano, and other locations in the valley. They continue to build nests and raise their young until October 23, when they take to the southern sky in unison and head back to their winter residence in Argentina.

Commemorating the return of the swallows to San Juan Capistrano will be the Swallow’s Day Parade, the largest non-motorized parade in the country. It takes place downtown on Saturday, March 26, 2011 beginning at 11 am. After the parade, make your way to the Swallow’s Day Mercado, a street fair and market place where you can wine, dine and shop at over 100 booths and dance to live music.

Mission San Juan Capistrano is located at 26801 Ortega Highway, west of Interstate 5, and is open daily from 8:30 am to 5 pm (closed Thanksgiving & Christmas Day). Phone: 949-234-1300.

GIVEAWAY – Win a $30 Gift Certificate to CSN Stores

2011-02-24T18:00:00.000-08:00

The CSN Giveaway ended at 6pm PST on March 6, 2011.

The winner of the $30 CSN stores gift certificate is Mandy (#137).

Congratulations!

It’s time for another giveaway! CSN Stores is offering one of our readers a $30 gift certificate to use at any of its specialized online stores. They have more than 200 shopping sites to choose from. You’ll find an wide assortment of items for home, work, travel and leisure - from modern bar stools and top brand cookware for the kitchen to stylish luggage and travel accessories for the road. So many possibilities! The giveaway is open to residents of the U.S. and Canada.

To enter the $30 CSN Stores giveaway, just leave a comment telling us about your favorite item(s) from the CSN shopping site. Receive additional entries by doing any of the following and leaving a separate comment after doing so.

- Follow Postmark California

- Follow PostmarkCA on Twitter and tweet about this giveaway

- Share this article link on Facebook

This giveaway ends on Sunday, March 6, 2011 at 6:00 p.m. PST. One winner will be chosen via random.org and the winner's name will be posted on this website on March 7, 2011. An email will be sent to the winner and they will have 48 hours to respond, otherwise a new winner will be chosen.

Buena Park: Knott’s Berry Farm - 2 for 1 Admission

2011-02-20T06:00:00.000-08:00

You’ll have to hurry if you want to take advantage of Knott’s Berry Farm’s two-for-one special on general admission – it ends February 28, 2011. The Two-gether Is Better promotion allows two guests to gain admission to the park for only $28.50 each. So grab a friend and get ready to enjoy world-class thrill rides, exciting shows and attractions and endless fun – all at savings of 50% off the cost of a normal adult ticket. Admission for children ages 3-11 and seniors 62 and over is $24.99.

Knott’s Berry Farm is located in Buena Park, two miles south of the I-5 freeway and ten minutes from Disneyland. Park hours vary each day; check the schedule before you go.

More Information: Knott’s Berry Farm

8039 Beach Boulevard, Buena Park, CA, 90620

Phone: 714-220-5200

Los Angeles: FIDM – Oscar-Nominated Costumes on Display

2011-02-19T05:00:00.000-08:00

Costumes designed by Jenny Beavan for The King's Speech (FIDM)

Get a first-hand look at this year’s Oscar-nominated costumes at the 19th Annual Art of Motion Picture Costume Design Exhibit, on view now through April 30, 2011, at the Los Angeles Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising (FIDM). Original costumes from over 20 feature films released in 2010 are on display, along with nearly 100 other movie costumes. You’ll see prominent examples of the intricate attention to detail by some of the most note-worthy costume designers in the movie industry. Such designers include past Oscar winners Collen Atwood (Chicago – 2002), Sandy Powell (The Aviator – 2004), and Jenny Beavan (A Room With A View – 1986) – all who are competing for this year’s Costume Design award. Collections on display include ravishing outfits worn by Christina Aguilera in “Burlesque”, Helen Mirren's Elizabethan dress from "The Tempest” and outstanding period pieces from “The King’s Speech.” Other ensembles showcased at the exhibition include those from “Alice in Wonderland”, “Clash of the Titans,” “The Kids are All Right,” “True Grit,” and many more.

The exhibition is free to the public and open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The FIDM Museum & Galleries will be closed April 22 through April 25 for Spring Recess.

More Information: 19th Annual Art of Motion Picture Costume Design Exhibit

FIDM Museum & Galleries

919 S. Grand Avenue

Los Angeles, CA 90015

Phone: 213-623-5821

California: Kimpton Robe-mance Package - Snuggle Up

2011-02-13T05:00:00.000-08:00

Still looking for the perfect Valentine’s Day getaway? Kimpton Hotels thinks it has the perfect “spots” for romance and is offering a “robe-mantic” retreat at its 12 boutique hotels in California during the month of February.

The Robemance Package, destined to bring out the animal in you, is all about reclining, wining and dining. It includes a deluxe room, a $25 dining credit and two leopard-print robes. Meow! The super soft robes (an $180 value) are perfect for cuddling with your sweetheart, and yours to keep as a reminder of your romantic rendezvous. Rounding out the package is a Kimpton hosted wine hour, where you can sip vino with your Valentine in an idyllic setting.

Reservations can be made by calling 1-800-KIMPTON and requesting the Robemance Package or by visiting http://www.kimptonhotels.com/ and entering ROBES in the rate code box. Promotion is valid through February 28, 2011.

Kimpton hotels are located in Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco and the Silicon Valley.

Anaheim: 2-Day Disneyland Pass $99 - SoCal Residents

2011-02-09T06:00:00.000-08:00

Disneyland's 2-day $99 offer is good until May 14, 2011

If you live in Southern California, now’s the time visit Disneyland. Southern California residents can purchase a 2-day Disneyland Resort pass for just $99. The ticket can be used for two days at Disneyland Park or Disney California Adventure Park or one day at each park. If you want to visit both parks on the same day, you can add the Park Hopper ticket upgrade for $10. Considering the normal one-day ticket price is $76, getting two days for $99 is an incredible deal. Pick your park and enjoy your adventure!

The 2-day tickets are valid only for Southern California residents within ZIP Codes 90000–93599 and Northern Baja California residents within ZIP Codes 21000–22999. Proof of residency is required for purchase and admission. Tickets must be purchased by April 14, 2011 and used by May 14, 2011.

More Information: 2-Day Disneyland Resort Pass

San Francisco: Chinese New Year Parade– February 19

2011-02-07T05:00:00.000-08:00

Celebrate the Year of the Rabbit at the 2011 Chinese New Year Parade on Saturday, February 19 in San Francisco. Named one of the top ten parades in the world, it’s the largest celebration of its kind outside of Asia and one of the most magnificent night illuminated parades in the country. It features elaborately decorated floats, many highlighting the theme of this year’s Chinese zodiac sign, the rabbit. You’ll see intricate costumes, lion dancers, stilt walkers, Chinese acrobats, folk dancers, marching bands, and more. Accompanied by the ear-popping sound of over 600,000 firecrackers, the grand finale of the parade is the 201-foot long Golden Dragon, which takes a team of 100 men and women to carry it through the streets of the city.

The Chinese New Year Parade runs from 5:15pm to 8:00pm and is free. The parade route starts on Market and Second Street, goes up Geary and down Post, ending on Kearny at Columbus. Public transportation is suggested. If taking BART, exit at the Montgomery or Powell Street stations.

More Information: 2011 Chinese New Year Parade

Sacramento: Museum Day 2011 – February 5

2011-02-04T10:00:00.000-08:00

Photo: Sacramento Museum Guide

When was the last time you visited a museum? If the cost of admission was keeping you away, you’ll enjoy this offer. Twenty-six (26) museums in the greater Sacramento area will be offering free admission on Saturday, February 5, 2011 for the 13th Annual Sacramento Museum Day. Designed to encourage folks to experience the Capital City’s abundance of art, history, science and wildlife, it’s an ideal time to delve into the wide variety of museums the area has to offer. More than 85,000 guests took advantage of the offer last year, so start early and visit a museum new to you or return to one of your favorites.

Sacramento’s Museum Day is presented by the Sacramento Association of Museums (SAM), and supported by Umpqua Bank. Museum Day hours are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with the last guest admitted at 4 p.m. Free shuttles will operate throughout the day with stopping points located adjacent to many participating museums.

Participating Museums – Sacramento Museum Day 2011

Aerospace Museum of California

California Automobile Museum

California Foundry History Museum

The California Museum

California State Military Museum

California State Capitol Museum

California State Indian Museum

California State Railroad Museum

Crocker Art Museum

Discovery Museum Science and Space Center

The Don and June Salvatori California Pharmacy Museum

Fairytale Town

Folsom History Museum

Governor’s Mansion State Historic Park

Heidrick Ag History Center (Woodland)

Leland Stanford Mansion State Historic Park

Museum of Medical History

Old Sacramento Schoolhouse Museum

Old Sacramento State Historic Park

Sacramento Zoo

Sacramento Historic City Cemetery

Sacramento History Museum

Sojourner Truth Multicultural Arts Museum

Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park

Wells Fargo History Museum (Old Sacramento and Downtown locations)

Los Angeles: Snow Days at the Zoo – February 5 & 6

2011-02-02T06:00:00.000-08:00

Snow Days at the Los Angeles Zoo

Sunshine may be predicted for Southern California this weekend, but a snowstorm is blowing into the Los Angeles Zoo. The local attraction celebrates Snow Days, a two-day event February 5 & 6, 2011, where visitors have the rare opportunity to watch animals cavort and frolic among a winter snowfall. A blanket of white will cover the habitats of the Sumatran tigers, American black bears, snow leopards, Asian elephants and giant otters, allowing guests to see how these creatures adapt to their new environment. It’s certain to be an educational and entertaining experience for the entire family.

The Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens is located at 5333 Zoo Drive in Griffith Park at the intersection of the 5 and 134 freeways. It’s been around since 1966 and is home to more than 1,100 mammals, birds, amphibians and reptiles representing more than 250 different species. The Zoo’s botanical collection includes over 800 different plant species with over 7,400 individual plants. Admission is $14 for adults and $9 for children (ages 2 to 12). Zoo hours for Snow Days are 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. For more information, call 323-644-4200 or visit lazoo.org.

Squaw Valley: Ski Free – Free Lift Ticket for Flyers

2010-12-31T06:00:00.000-08:00

Squaw Valley USA (Photo: Hank DeVrie)

Record snowfall isn’t the only reason for skiers to hop on a flight to the Lake Tahoe area this winter. The Squaw Valley USA ski resort has an unbeatable offer for anyone traveling to the area by plane. Ski or snowboard for free! Just present your same-day boarding pass, printed itinerary or baggage claim check from any commercial airline along with matching photo I.D. to the Squaw Valley’s Season Pass Office or Special Tickets Office to receive a complimentary lift ticket good for the rest of the day. The half-day tickets are valid from 1pm until 7pm mid-week or 1pm until 9pm Fridays & Saturdays, while night operations are in progress. Tickets normally cost $67, so it’s a significant savings!

Squaw Valley USA is located off Highway 89, between Truckee and Tahoe City, on the North Shore of Lake Tahoe. Although the Reno/Tahoe airport (42 miles) is the closest to Squaw Valley, the free lift ticket offer applies to any commercial airport. Sacramento Airport (96 miles) and even the three San Francisco Bay Area airports offer convenient morning flights that, when added to drive time, make it possible to ski the slopes the same day. The ski-free offer is valid throughout the 2010/11 season and there are no blackout dates, so start booking those flights and enjoy an afternoon or night of skiing!

For more information, contact Squaw Valley USA at 800-403-0206.

San Francisco: Holiday Lights Walking Tour – Razzle Dazzle

2010-12-18T06:00:00.000-08:00

Visitors to San Francisco (and locals, too!) can feast their eyes on all that glitters, sparkles and twinkles when they take a Holiday Lights Walking Tour on Thursday, December 23 or Thursday, December 30, 2010. The 2-hour guided excursion, operated by On The Level Tours, covers about a mile of walking over flat terrain – no steep hills on this outing! You’ll see a dazzling display of lights at uniquely decorated hotels, office lobbies and festive retail locations on the walk. In addition, you’ll discover intriguing facts and fun trivia about the city from your well-informed tour guide. It’s a fabulous holiday experience for persons of any age, and who knows… perhaps it will inspire you to create a colorful holiday lights display of your own!

The San Francisco Holiday Lights Walking Tour meets at 5:00 p.m. at the Palace Hotel on New Montgomery Street and takes in downtown sights, including Yerba Buena Gardens, Bloomingdales, the Westfield Shopping Center and Union Square. Cost is $25 per person. Reservations can be booked online, via email, or by calling 415-921-1382.

California: Total Lunar Eclipse - December 20, 2010

2010-12-13T06:00:00.000-08:00

2007 Lunar Eclipse (Photo: Joshua Valcarcel, US Navy)

The last total lunar eclipse of the decade happens on Monday, December 20, 2010. Californians can look to the sky starting at 9:29 p.m. PST to see the full moon pass into the Earth’s shadow and be blocked from the rays of the sun that normally illuminate it. As the Sun, Earth and Moon maneuver into a nearly straight line, skywatchers can expect to see a reddish glow as the total eclipse occurs.

The first noticeable change in the moon’s appearance will happen at 10:33 p.m., as the partial phase of the eclipse begins. At 11:40 p.m., the total eclipse phase begins, lasting 72 minutes from start to finish. The moon will appear at its dimmest at 12:16 a.m.

If you live in the San Francisco Bay Area and want to experience the lunar eclipse with other astronomy lovers, visit the Chabot Space & Science Theater in Oakland. In Southern California, you can visit Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles. Both facilities offer informative presentations, and telescope viewing.

You won’t want to miss this total lunar eclipse – another won’t be visible in its entirety from North America until 2014!

Newport Beach: Christmas Boat Parade – Strike A Pose

2010-12-10T06:00:00.000-08:00

“Lights, Camera, and Christmas in Newport Beach!” That’s the theme of the 102nd Annual Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade. Dubbed “one of the top ten holiday happenings in the nation” by the New York Times, this year’s floating spectacle of lights pays tribute to the city’s popular movie and film heritage. For five nights beginning on Wednesday, December 15 and ending Sunday, December 19, 2010, viewers can watch brightly decorated vessels, ranging from kayaks to multi-million dollar yachts, light up the harbor.

The parade begins the 14-mile route each evening at 6:30pm off Bay Island and ends at the same site around 9:00pm. Over 200 entrants will dazzle and delight and even homes, estates and businesses along the harbor front join in the merriment by decorating and putting on a light display of their own. Holiday music will fill the air and a special fireworks celebration will close out the parade on Sunday.

This premier Southern California event attracts thousands of spectators each night, so arrive early to secure a prime viewing spot. One such spot is the Fun Zone, where admission is free and parking is plentiful. No matter what your viewing location, the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade is a festive, colorful way to ring in the holidays.

California Events: Things To Do November 19-21, 2010

2010-11-15T12:00:00.000-08:00

2010 Mandarin Festival is Nov. 19-21 in Auburn

Each Monday you’ll find a selection of events for the upcoming weekend. For more information, click on each individual event.

Friday, Nov. 19 San Diego – San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival

The 7th Annual San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival is an international showcase of the world's premier wine and spirits producers, chefs and culinary personalities, and gourmet foods. Over 170 wineries, 70 of San Diego’s top fine dining restaurants and 30 gourmet food companies and exhibitors will participate this year. Various venues, Nov. 17-21.

Saturday, Nov. 20 Auburn – 2010 Mandarin Festival

Come celebrate the harvest of locally grown Mandarin oranges in Placer County. There will be three stages of live entertainment, hundreds of quality crafter's, cooking demonstrations by professional chefs, children’s activities, and local citrus farmers selling their seasonal fruit. Gold County Fairgrounds, Nov. 19-21.

Sunday, Nov. 21 Los Angeles – NBA Basketball

Which California team will you root for? See the Los Angeles Lakers take on the Golden State Warriors at the Staples Center. Game starts at 6:30pm.

If you’d like to submit your event for consideration, please email postmarkcalifornia(at)gmail(dot)com. Please include: Date, Location, Name of Event, Description, and website.

Southwest Airlines Winter Sale – Red Hot Airfares

2010-11-11T05:00:00.000-08:00

Southwest Airlines is taking the chill out of winter with its red-hot Winter Sale airfares. Fly to select destinations nationwide for as low as $59 each way. Just purchase tickets by Nov. 22, 2010 and travel between Dec. 1, 2010 and Feb. 16, 2011. Seats are limited and require 14 days advance purchase. Fares are blacked out for holiday travel (December 17 - January 3, 2011), but there are plenty of dates available to sneak in a fabulous winter vacation or weekend getaway.

Sample one way airfares to California include $139 from Baltimore to Los Angeles, $159 between Boston and San Francisco and $89 from Denver to San Diego. Within California you can fly between San Diego or Los Angeles and Oakland, San Francisco, San Jose or Sacramento for as low as $59 each way. Don’t forget that your first two bags fly free on Southwest. That’s an additional savings of $25 or more per bag over other airlines, making these winter fares even sweeter.

Go to southwest.com to make reservations and see a complete list of cities, fares, rules and restrictions.

You Can Quote Me: 10 Great Travel Quotes

2010-11-09T12:00:00.000-08:00

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning a trip for the first time, here are 10 lighthearted travel quotes to provide wit and humor for your journey ahead.

1. "When preparing to travel, lay out all your clothes and all your money. Then take half the clothes and twice the money." ~Susan Heller

2. “I told the doctor I broke my leg in two places. He told me to quit going to those places." ~Henny Youngman

3. “I have found out that there ain't no surer way to find out whether you like people or hate them than to travel with them.” ~Mark Twain

4. "If you look like your passport photo, you're too ill to travel." ~Will Kommen

5. “Thanks to the Interstate Highway System, it is now possible to travel across the country from coast to coast without seeing anything.” ~Charles Kuralt

6. “Kilometers are shorter than miles. Save gas, take your next trip in kilometers.” ~George Carlin

7. “Most travel is best of all in the anticipation or the remembering; the reality has more to do with losing your luggage.” ~Regina Nadelson

8. “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a cash advance.” ~Unknown

9. “I never travel without my diary. One should always have something sensational to read in the train.” ~Oscar Wilde

10. "Like all great travelers, I have seen more than I remember, and remember more than I have seen." ~Benjamin Disraeli

Participating in ABC Wednesday. For more “Q” themed posts, please click here.

** Don’t forget to enter our giveaway to win a $35 CSN Stores gift certificate **

California Events: Things To Do November 12-14, 2010

2010-11-08T12:00:00.000-08:00

Body Worlds Vital at the Tech Museum in San Jose

Each Monday you’ll find a selection of events for the upcoming weekend. For more information, click on each individual event.

Friday, Nov. 12 Monterey - Great Wine Escape Weekend

Indulge in wine from over 40 world-class Monterey wineries. Experience a weekend filled with tasting events, cooking classes, tours and wine-oriented dinners with nationally and locally recognized chefs. Nov. 12-14.

Saturday, Nov. 13 San Jose – Body Worlds Vital Exhibition

Body Worlds Vital, in its first-ever showing, celebrates the potential of the human body and the body in motion. Featuring authentic human bodies, the exhibition shows the body in health, distress and disease. Limited engagement at the Tech Museum.

Sunday, Nov. 14 San Francisco - Holiday Ice Rink in Union Square

Skate into the Holidays at San Francisco’s #1 shopping destination – Union Square. 90-minute skating sessions start on every even hour. Open daily through Jan. 17, 2011.

If you’d like to submit your event for consideration, please email postmarkcalifornia(at)gmail(dot)com. Please include: Date, Location, Name of Event, Description, and website.

GIVEAWAY – Win a $35 Gift Certificate to CSN Stores

2010-11-06T05:00:00.000-07:00

The CSN Stores Giveaway ended at 6pm PST on November 14, 2010.

The winner of the $35 CSN stores gift certificate is #55, Debbie at Suburb Sanity. Congratulations!

Once again, CSN Stores is offering one of our readers a $35 gift certificate to use at any of their specialized online stores. With more than 200 shopping sites, you’ll find an assortment of items for home, work, travel or leisure. Consider a drop leaf table for casual or elegant entertaining during the holidays or peruse the selection of luggage if your family gatherings take you away from home. The possibilities are endless and the selection is spectacular. The giveaway is open to residents of the U.S. and Canada.

To enter the $35 CSN Stores giveaway, just leave a comment telling us about your favorite item(s) from the CSN shopping site. Receive additional entries by doing any of the following and leaving a separate comment after doing so.

- Follow Postmark California
- Follow PostmarkCA on Twitter and tweet about this giveaway
- Share this article link on Facebook

This giveaway ends on Sunday, November 14 at 6:00 p.m. PST. One winner will be chosen via random.org and the winner's name will be posted on this website on November 15, 2010. An email will be sent to the winner and they will have 48 hours to respond, otherwise a new winner will be chosen.

Lake Elsinore: Wagon Wheel Country Music Festival

2010-11-04T05:00:00.000-07:00

Dwight Yoakam to perform at the Wagon Wheel Country Music Festival

The 2nd Annual Wagon Wheel Country Music Festival returns to Lake Elsinore November 13 - 14, 2010. Get ready for two days of non-stop, world-class entertainment by some of the hottest acts in country music. Scheduled to appear are country music headliners Dierks Bentley and Dwight Yoakam, along with Sara Evans, Randy Houser, Emerson Drive, LeeAnn Womack and many more. The gates to Diamond Stadium, where the festival is held, open at 12:45pm on Saturday and Sunday. General admission tickets are $65 each day or $100 for the weekend. Members of the military who purchase tickets by Nov. 7 can buy one ticket and get one ticket free.

In addition to music, there will be plenty of activities to keep fans occupied throughout the weekend. There will be country superstar meet & greets, Western games, food and retail vendors, arts & crafts, a BBQ cookoff and much more. A portion of proceeds from the Wagon Wheel Country Music Festival will be donated to three different charities, including the Loma Linda Veterans Hospital.

More Information: Wagon Wheel Country Music Festival

Lake Elsinore Diamond Stadium, 500 Diamond Drive, Lake Elsinore, CA 92530

Phone: 951-656-0862 (Just Cruzin’ Productions)

Burlingame: Museum of Pez Memorabilia – Pezheads Unite!

2010-11-02T12:00:00.000-07:00

If you’re a Pezhead or just have a penchant for candy, you’ll want to visit the Museum of Pez Memorabilia, the only place in the world where you can see every Pez dispenser ever made – over 500 of them. Located in Burlingame, just 5 minutes south of the San Francisco Airport, the Pez Museum is filled with an amazing assortment of the imaginative dispensers that pump out little bricks of candy. It’s not an extravagant place, just a small, two-room gift shop/museum with trove of treasures relating to Pez.

Rare Elvis Presley Pez dispensers at the Pez Museum of Memorabilia

Eduard Haas, an Austrian inventor, first began making Pez in 1927. The original candy bricks were peppermint and marketed to adults as a breath mint and alternative to smoking. Pez, from the German word for peppermint (Pfefferminz), was sold in small tins at the time. It wasn’t until 1952, when the candy maker started marketing the product to children in the United States, that the familiar character heads were added to the tops of the dispenser. Fruit flavors were created to appeal to children’s tastes and the company had a winning product on its hands. Today, over 3 billion Pez candies are consumed each year in the USA alone. Current trends dictate which new character dispensers are introduced. Along with past favorites such as Snow White, Batman, Hello Kitty, and Pink Panther, collecting them has become a hobby for many. Pez dispensers have even appeared in movies such as Stand By Me and The Client and the TV comedy hit, Seinfeld.

World's biggest Pez dispensing machine

In addition to the miscellaneous Pez memorabilia, Pez dispensers and current and classic toys for purchase at the museum shop, you’ll find the world’s biggest Pez dispensing machine. Standing at 7’10”, it weighs 85 pounds and is over 20 times the size of a normal Pez dispenser. It actually works, with the flip of its head, pumping out a clear plastic capsule that can hold 6,480 Pez candies or a standard size Pez dispenser.

Each Thursday, admission to the Museum of Pez Memorabilia and the neighboring Classic Toy Museum is free.

More Information: Museum of Pez Memorabilia

214 California Drive, Burlingame, CA, 94010

Phone: 650-347-2301

Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10am-6pm (closed Sun, Mon & major holidays)

Admission: Adults: $3.00 Children 4-12: $1.00 Seniors: $1.00

Participating in ABC Wednesday. For more "P" themed posts, please click here.

California Events: Weekend Selections October 29-31, 2010

2010-10-25T17:00:00.000-07:00

Concours d'Elegance in Santa Barbara Oct. 29-31

Each Monday you’ll find a selection of events for the upcoming weekend. With so much to do in California, this is just a small sampling. Click on each event for additional information.

Friday, Oct. 29 Santa Barbara – Concours d’Elegance

The “crème de la crème” in automobiles, food and wine, the latest haute fashions and art. See a collection of more than 200 antique, vintage, classic, exotic and modern American & European automobiles and motorcycles from around the world. Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club, Oct. 29-31.

Saturday, Oct. 30 Big Bear Lake – 40th Annual Oktoberfest

Celebrate 40 years of friends, family and good times at California’s #1 rated Oktoberfest. Enjoy German beer, bratwursts, sauerkraut, and apple strudel and plenty of festivities - from stein holding matches to log sawing competitions. Shop for handmade arts, crafts and collectibles and be entertained by German bands and polka dancers. Lots of family-friendly activities. Bear Lake Convention Center.

Sunday, Oct. 31 Los Angeles - West Hollywood Halloween Costume Carnaval

It’s the largest Halloween celebration in the world. The 23rd annual Costume Carnaval expects to attract nearly half a million people to Santa Monica Blvd. for games, live music and costume contests. Between La Cienega Blvd. and La Peer Dr., 6pm to midnight.

If you’d like to submit your event for consideration, please email postmarkcalifornia(at)gmail(dot)com. Please include: Date, Location, Name of Event, Description, and website.

San Jose: Fairmont Hotel for $95 – Savings of 55%

2010-10-23T05:00:00.000-07:00

Fairmont San Jose

Travelzoo is promoting an incredible deal at the luxurious Fairmont San Jose. Guests can book a room at the elegant hotel any Thursday-Sunday through Dec. 30 for just $95. That’s a savings of more than $100 per night off the normal room rate. Reservations must be booked by Nov. 2 and require the code PATZ when booking online or DNIS 4772 when calling the hotel at 877-226-9961. Some blackout dates apply.

The Fairmont name has been synonymous with luxurious lodging, extraordinary service and convenient facilities. The AAA 4-Diamond and Mobile 4-Star Fairmont San Jose is no exception. With 805 comfortably furnished guest rooms, a selection of dining options, rejuvenating health club and spa and countless other amenities, guests will want to act fast on this getaway opportunity.

More Information: Fairmont San Jose

170 South Market Street, San Jose, CA 95113

Phone: 408-998-1900

Newport Beach: Newport Sports Museum – Collectibles!

2010-10-19T05:00:00.000-07:00

The idyllic seaside community of Newport Beach has it all – fabulous restaurants, trendy shopping, elegant hotels, sparkling beaches and one of the world’s most picturesque harbors. With a multitude of outdoor activities - ranging from sailing, surfing, swimming and golf to hiking, biking, and fishing - it’s a recreational paradise.

Sports-minded enthusiasts now have another reason to visit this Southern California beachside treasure - The Newport Sports Museum. Located a mile from the Pacific Ocean near Fashion Island, the museum showcases an impressive collection of authentic sports memorabilia. Over 10,000 items are featured, covering the sports of football, hockey, basketball, baseball, golf, soccer and more. The many exhibits will awe even the most casual sports fan. See Babe Ruth’s last homerun ball which is signed, along with baseballs signed by Lou Gehrig, Ty Cobb, Joe DiMaggio and Mickey Mantle, to name a few. See autographed football helmets and jerseys from players such as Joe Montana, Jerry Rice, Bart Starr, Walter Payton and Dan Marino. Game balls signed by Super Bowl champions are displayed. You’ll find Muhammad Ali’s boxing gloves from a championship fight and golf clubs from Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer and Tiger Woods. Other notable items include hockey great Wayne Gretzky's 900th goal puck and shoes autographed by basketball superstars Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Bill Russell, and Shaquille O’Neal. If you grow weary from gawking at the collectibles, you can rest your bones on stadium seats salvaged from ballparks such as Yankee Stadium. Once re-energized, you can shoot a few hoops on the small basketball court in the middle of the museum.

Babe Ruth & Nolan Ryan autographed baseballs (Newport Sports Museum)

In addition to the multitude of sports memorabilia, the Newport Sports Museum has a Youth Outreach program which aims to keep kids in school and off drugs by involving them in athletics. Partnering with well-known athletes and sports figures, the museum has a number of different programs designed specifically to teach children self confidence, discipline, courage, teamwork and dedication.

More Information: Newport Sports Museum

100 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, CA 92660

Phone: 949-721-9333

Hours: Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm.

Admission: Free

Participating in ABC Wednesday. For more “N” themed posts, click here.

California Events: Weekly Selections October 22-24, 2010

2010-10-16T05:00:00.001-07:00

Actor Sean Penn will receive an award at Hollywood Film Festival

Each Monday you’ll find a selection of events for the upcoming weekend. With so much to do in California, this is just a small sampling. Click on each event for additional information.

Friday, Oct. 22 Hollywood – Film Festival

A pre-Oscar showcase. Fourteenth annual Hollywood Film Festival features screenings, premieres, seminars and star-studded awards ceremony. ArcLight Cinemas, Oct. 22-25.

Saturday, Oct. 23 Mecocino County – Fall Passport Weekend

Experience 16 Mendocino County wineries. Hopland area wineries show their finest in Rhone, Italian, Burgundian, and Bordeaux varietals ranging from Arneis to Zinfandel. Live music, barrel tasting, barbecues, book signings and more. Hopland, Oct. 23 & 24.

Sunday, Oct. 24 Costa Mesa – Gem Fair

World renowned marketplace for the finest in gemstones, beads, jewelry, minerals, fossils, and much more at the lowest prices. Over 150 exhibitors. OC Fair & Event Center/Building 10, Oct. 22-24.

If you’d like to submit your event for consideration, please email postmarkcalifornia(at)gmail(dot)com. Please include: Date, Location, Name of Event, Description, and website.

Ramona: Oasis Camel Dairy – Far From Ordinary

2010-10-16T05:00:00.000-07:00

Oasis Camel Dairy in Ramona, California

When you think of a dairy farm, you probably think of cows, but at the Oasis Camel Dairy, you won’t find cows grazing on its 34 sprawling acres. Instead, as the name suggests, this dairy is devoted to camels. Unusual - yes. In fact, it’s the only camel dairy in the United States.

Located in rural Ramona, about forty five minutes northeast of downtown San Diego, the dairy is run by founders Gil and Nancy Riegler, who have worked with camels for more than 20 years. They share their love of these fine animals and work to educate the public about the amazing nature of camels and their milk. Camel’s milk, by the way, reportedly has triple the amount of vitamin C found in cow’s milk and 10 times the amount of antibacterial and antiviral properties found in cow’s milk. In the U.S., however, law forbids the selling of camel milk – only people who own camels can consume the milk. For now, the Rieglers incorporate the milk into other products such as homemade soap, which they sell at the dairy as well as online.

The dairy has been featured on two episodes of Discovery Channel’s Dirty Jobs with Mike Rowe. Once a month, the Oasis Camel Dairy opens its gates to visitors from around the world. The next scheduled tour date is Sunday, October 24, 2010. You’ll be able to see the facilities and pastures where the camels live, learn about the friendly creatures, and be close enough to touch the gentle giants. Camel rides are sometimes offered, as well. Tour ticket prices are $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and $7 for kids ages 4 to 14 years. Besides camels, the Rieglers have donkeys, sheep, horses, turkeys, exotic birds, cats and dogs.

Oasis Camel Dairy is located between the towns of Ramona and Santa Ysabel on rural Highway 78 in San Diego County. For more information, call 760-787-0983.

San Francisco: Hometown Hideouts Contest – Win A Trip!

2010-10-14T05:00:00.000-07:00

Think you know San Francisco? Where would you take out-of-towners? What would be the ultimate 3-day tour of must-see spots, beyond the typical tourist traps and major landmarks?

Virgin America will reward one California resident a super prize package for submitting a winning essay (under 400 words) describing a 3-day San Francisco city itinerary of not-to-be-missed spots. The winner and 9 friends will receive round trip airfare to Toronto, Canada, accommodations at the Hilton Toronto and a private concert with Broken Social Scene on Halloween. Hurry, the contest ends October 20, 2010. Complete details, rules and regulations can be found at Virgin America’s Hometown Hideouts contest page.

San Jose: Genghis Khan – The Exhibition

2010-10-12T17:00:00.000-07:00

Time is running out. You have until October 24, 2010 to see Genghis Khan – The Exhibition at the Tech Museum in San Jose. Making its only Bay Area appearance, the blockbuster exhibition moves on to Singapore in December.

The interactive exhibition tells the fascinating true story of the famous 13th century Mongol who conquered half the known world. A ruthless leader and fierce warrior, Genghis Khan was also an innovative statesman who motivated his followers, rewarded loyalty and brought unity and stability to his people. The most powerful man of his time, he is also credited for bringing us passports, printed money, the pony express, and even pants.

The exhibition features more than 200 rare artifacts from Genghis’ reign, including gold jewelry, silk robes, musical instruments and other relics never before seen outside of Mongolia. Visitors can see a life-size "ger," a traditional Mongolian dwelling, and a mummy of a Mongolian woman from the 13th or 14th century. There will be several engaging, family-friendly activities, as well as live cultural performances of Mongolian singers, contortionists and musicians.

More Information: Genghis Khan – The Exhibition

Location: The Tech Museum, 201 South Market St., San Jose

Phone: 408-294-TECH

Admission: $25 Adults, $15 Children (ages 3-17)

Hours: Sun.-Wed. 10am - 5pm, Thurs.-Sat. 10am - 8pm

California Events: Weekly Selections October 11-17, 2010

2010-10-10T17:00:00.000-07:00

Half Moon Bay Art & Pumpkin Festival is Oct. 16-17, 2010

Each Sunday you’ll find a selection of events for the upcoming week. With so much to do in California, this is just a small sampling. Click on each event for additional information.

Monday, Oct. 11 San Francisco – Chocolate Tour

The 3-hour walking tour along a flat route makes 7 stops with generous tastings of chocolates at each. Begins at Justin Herman Plaza, ends at Westfield Centre. $49.

Tuesday, Oct. 12 Los Angeles – Falcon Crest: A Look Back

Relive the decadent eighties when nighttime soap creator, Earl Hamner, and the cast of Falcon Crest look back on one of the most popular shows of the decade. 7:00pm at the Paley Center for Media. $15.00.

Wednesday, Oct. 13 Anaheim – International Film Festival

Five spectacular days and nights of film screenings, industry panels, workshops, tributes and star-studded gala events. Anaheim GardenWalk, Oct. 13-17.

Thursday, Oct. 14 Auburn – Art Walk

Over 40 artists showcase their work in photography, paintings, ceramics, clay, and mixed media. Venues range from Art Galleries to Specialty Shops. Ride the free shuttle bus between venues. Downtown and Old Town Auburn. 6:00-9:00pm.

Friday, Oct. 15 Ventura - 2010 Harvest Festival

Shop, eat, be entertained, and win prizes. Still the best craft show around featuring American, handmade arts and crafts in hundreds of booths. Oct. 15-17. Seaside Park at the Ventura County Fairgrounds.

Saturday, Oct. 16 Half Moon Bay – Art & Pumpkin Festival

This world-famous event draws hordes of visitors to the “World Pumpkin Capital” for an epic festival on historic Main Street. See titanic weigh-off champion pumpkins on display and remarkable pumpkin carvers in action. Enjoy harvest-inspired crafts, blockbuster entertainment, home-style foods, a parade, Haunted House, and 3,000 tons of pumpkins waiting to be picked. Oct. 16-17, 9am-5pm. Admission is free.

Sunday, Oct. 17 Pismo Beach - Clam Festival

The 64th Annual Pismo Beach Clam Festival, Surfin' Safari, promises to be better than ever with a link back to 60 years ago and the birth of a surf town. Food, entertainment, contests, beer garden. Oct. 15-17.

If you’d like to submit your event for consideration, please email postmarkcalifornia(at)gmail(dot)com. Please include: Date, Location, Name of Event, Description, and website.

San Diego: Rancho Bernardo Inn – Sensational Savings

2010-10-02T06:00:00.000-07:00

Guest Room at Rancho Bernardo Inn Golf Resort & Spa

Act fast to take advantage of a fantastic deal at the Rancho Bernardo Inn Golf Resort & Spa. For just $99 per night, guests can enjoy a midweek stay (Sun.-Thurs.) at the sprawling resort, located 30 minutes north of San Diego. Most weekends are just $30 more. Regular rates are $229 per night, so that’s an incredible savings. The hotel is also including free valet parking and wireless Internet service, a $30 value. The $99 rate is good through December 2010, but must be booked by October 7. Call Rancho Bernardo Inn at 877-517-9340 and mention Travelzoo to obtain the discounted rate. Rates are subject to availability and blackout dates apply.

The Rancho Bernardo Inn is situated on nearly 300 acres of lush gardens and has 287 newly renovated guest rooms and suites. Its 18-hole championship golf course has hosted a PGA and LPGA tournament and its luxurious spa is a tranquil oasis. It boasts an award winning restaurant, El Bizcocho and is just minutes from popular attractions such as the Wild Animal Park, Legoland, Sea World and the San Diego Zoo.

Pleasanton: Antiques & Collectibles Faire – Oct.10, 2010

2010-09-29T17:00:00.000-07:00

One of the finest outdoor Street Fairs in Northern California returns to the Bay Area on Sunday, October 10, 2010. The Antiques & Collectibles Faire takes place on Main Street in downtown Pleasanton, with over 400 dealers selling antiques and collectibles. All items will be twenty years or older and the selection of merchandise is endless. Shoppers can find vintage jewelry and clothing, retro home furnishings, antique books, paintings, decorations, collectibles and much more. As an added bonus, noted appraiser and journalist, Steve Yvaska will be available from 10:00am to 1:00pm to give free appraisals of your personal treasures. There is a limit of three items per person. Free Admission. Faire hours: 8:00am to 4:00pm, rain or shine.

California Events: Weekly Selections Sept. 27 - Oct. 3, 2010

2010-09-26T17:00:00.000-07:00

Blue Angels perform at MCAS Miramar in San Diego Oct. 1-3

Each Sunday you’ll find a selection of events for the upcoming week. With so much to do in California, this is just a small sampling. Click on each event for additional information.

Monday, September 27 Orange County – Restaurant Week

Enjoy a three-course meal at participating restaurants in Orange Country at tiered pricing: lunch $10, $15 or $20; dinner $20, $30 or $40. Sept. 26-Oct. 2.

Tuesday, Sept. 28 Pomona – Los Angeles County Fair

The largest fair in North America features carnival rides, animal exhibits, horse races, live music and over 300 food choices. Concert headliners include Hall & Oates and Bad Company. Ends Oct. 3.

Wednesday, Sept. 29 San Diego – Film Festival

5 days of film. 5 nights of parties. 9 years strong. The San Diego Film Festival in downtown’s Gaslamp District features independent feature films, documentaries and shorts.. Reading Gaslamp Cinemas, Sept 29-Oct. 3.

Thursday, Sept. 30 Santa Margarita – Savor The Central Coast

You won’t want to miss Sunset Magazine’s Savor The Central Coast, the largest Food & Wine event on the Central Coast. Santa Margarita Ranch and venues in San Luis Obispo County, Sept. 30-Oct. 3.

Friday, Oct. 1 Carpenteria – 24th Annual Avocado Festival

Fabulous food, terrific music, family fun & lots of avocados! Linden Ave. in Carpenteria, Oct. 1-3. Free.

Saturday, Oct. 2 San Francisco - The Sandcastle Classic

The 27th annual Sandcastle Contest is Northern California's largest sandcastle building event, bringing together teams of architects, engineers, contractors, designers and local elementary school students in a spirited competition. Ocean Beach. Free.

Sunday, Oct. 3 San Diego – Blue Angels

See precision flying at its best. Watch as the US Navy’s magnificent Blue Angels perform breathtaking acrobats across the sky. MCAS Miramar, Oct. 1-3.

If you’d like to submit your event for consideration, please email postmarkcalifornia(at)gmail(dot)com. Please include: Date, Location, Name of Event, Description, and website.

San Luis Obispo County: Sunset Savor the Central Coast

2010-09-24T21:00:00.000-07:00

More than 8000 people are expected to attend Sunset Savor the Central Coast, the first major food and wine event at the Santa Margarita Ranch in San Luis Obispo County. The four-day culinary adventure is scheduled for September 30 through October 3, 2010 and will celebrate the talents of California's Central Coast winemakers and chefs with unique culinary tours, celebrity chef demonstrations and one-of-a-kind winemaker dinners. Guests can meet and get harvest updates from more than 100 wineries from San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Monterey and Ventura counties and experience as many as 500 wines.

Food Network's Chef Tyler Florence

Notable appearances include Food Network’s popular celebrity chef, Tyler Florence who will showcase his culinary expertise at scheduled cooking demonstrations Saturday, October 2 and Sunday, October 3. Grammy nominated singer-songwriter Chris Isaak will headline a special concert and fireworks finale on Sunday, October 3.

General admission tickets for the event at Santa Margarita Ranch are $85 per day. A $10 discount is being offered by the LA Times. Mention LA Times Special by phone (805-541-8000) or enter LAT discount code at online checkout.

Santa Margarita Ranch is located on California’s Central Coast, midway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, just off the 101 freeway.

California: Free Night of Theater - October 1-31, 2010

2010-09-23T05:00:00.000-07:00

Looking for something to do in October? Free Night of Theater is offering free tickets to a variety of live performances between October 1 - 31, 2010. Over 700 theaters in 120 cities across the United States will open their doors free of charge as a way of introducing audience members to the excitement of live theater. California regions include Los Angeles, Sacramento, San Diego, Orange County and the San Francisco Bay Area. Ticket release dates vary by region and are available now for some cities. Tickets go fast, so check availability and reserve tickets for a theater near you!

Julian: Julian Apple Days – Let Them Eat Pie

2010-09-21T14:00:00.000-07:00

Fall is the season for apples and there’s no better place to enjoy them than Julian, the historic mining town famous for the fruit. Located in the Cuyamaca Mountains an hour east of San Diego, the rustic village salutes its award winning Julian apple with its annual Apple Days celebration now through November 15, 2010. The wooden sidewalks will be lined with visitors browsing the cafes, shops and eateries in search of the perfect apple delight. You’ll find gourmet candy apples, apple cider, tarts, fritters, jams, and jellies and of course, homemade apple pies – all with fruit from local orchards.

As part of the Apple Days celebration, the entire family can enjoy two days of fun at the Apple Days Festival October 2nd & 3rd at the Menghini Winery in Julian. The event will feature apple displays, carnival games, a beer and wine garden, food and merchandise vendors, a pie eating contest, live music and more. Admission is $5 for adults and free for children ages 12 and under.

Julian is a delightful place to visit year round, but especially enchanting during Apple Days when hillsides and tree lined roads are ablaze with the colors of autumn. It’s the perfect “Sunday drive” destination – scenic, relaxing, artful and historic.

Be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends during apple season, but don’t let that deter you. There’s plenty of pie to go around. Just follow the aroma of apples and cinnamon to lead you to a welcoming slice.

Don't forget to enter our giveaway for a $35 CSN Stores gift certificate.

Participating in ABC Wednesday. To see more "J" themed posts, click here.

California Events: Weekly Selections Sept. 20-26, 2010

2010-09-19T17:00:00.000-07:00

Dragon boats come to San Francisco Sept. 25 & 26 (photolulu)

Each Sunday you’ll find a selection of events for the upcoming week. With so much to do in California, this is just a small sampling. Click on each event for additional information.

Monday, Sept. 20 San Diego – Restaurant Week

Choose from over 180 of San Diego's best restaurants and enjoy a 3-course meal for $20, $30 or $40 per person, depending on the restaurant. Discover new restaurants and enjoy all your favorites at a discounted price! Sept. 19-24.

Tuesday, Sept. 21 Santa Monica – Neil Sedaka Book Signing

Singer and songwriter Neil Sedaka has topped the charts for six decades with hits like "Breaking Up Is Hard to Do" and "Love Will Keep Us Together." He'll be signing his first children's book and album, Waking Up Is Hard to Do. Barnes & Noble, 7:00 p.m.

Wednesday, Sept. 22 Bakersfield - Kern County Fair

Opening day at the Kern County Fair. Come enjoy carnival rides, food booths, animal exhibits, contests, entertainment, concerts and more. Fairgoers receive free admission today from 3 p.m. until 5 p.m. Kern County Fairgrounds through Oct. 3.

Thursday, Sept. 23 Monterey – Paws For A Cause

Paws for a Cause invites you to bring your dog and dine in the Fireplace Lounge Patio at the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. 15% of food and beverage sales will be donated to the SPCA. Adoptable dogs will be there, too!

Friday, Sept. 24 Santa Barbara – West Beach Music Festival

Rock, reggae, and jam bands will perform on three stages at the West Beach Music & Arts Festival – the only one of its kind held beachside. Over 40 artists including UB40, and more than 75 arts, crafts and food vendors. Chase Palm Park, Sept. 24 & 25.

Saturday, Sept. 25 San Francisco – Dragon Boat Festival

It’s a weekend of world-class dragon boat racing, spectacular cultural performances, and fun-filled activities for the whole family at the largest competitive dragon boat festival in the United States. Over 110 dragon boat teams. Admission is free. Treasure Island, Sept. 25 & 26.

Sunday, September 26 Los Angeles - Sid the Science Kid Day

Free event for kids to explore, investigate and discover with Sid the Science Kid from the award-winning PBS KIDS TV series. California Science Center, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

If you’d like to submit your event for consideration, please email postmarkcalifornia(at)gmail(dot)com. Please include: Date, Location, Name of Event, Description, and website.

Monterey: Ansel Adams – Portrait of America

2010-09-16T05:00:00.000-07:00

Art enthusiasts have until October 3, 2010 to view “Portrait of America,” an impressive collection of images by the legendary master of landscape photography, Ansel Adams. The collection is currently on display at The Monterey Museum of Art, the only West Coast venue for this exhibition. Visitors will see more than 70 breathtaking images photographed by the California born photographer and environmentalist and chosen by the artist as his most important works. This rare opportunity is presented in collaboration with Ansel Adams’ heirs and promises to be a highlight for anyone who is interested in fine art or the work of this great American artist.

More Information: Monterey Museum of Art - La Mirada

720 Via Mirada, Monterey, CA 93940

Phone: 831-372-3689

Hours: Wed.-Sat. 11 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sun. 1 p.m. – 4 p.m., Closed Mon. & Tues.

Admission: $5.00

San Francisco: Hotel Triton – Ice Cream Inspired Suite

2010-09-14T13:00:00.000-07:00

The ingenious folks at Hotel Triton in San Francisco have a winning recipe to lure visitors to its fabulous 140-room boutique hotel in Union Square - a custom-designed room inspired by ice cream. It’s one of four designer celebrity suites at the hotel.

The Haagen-Dazs “Sweet Suite” is a luxurious room coated in warm vanilla and caramel colors and decorated with flavorful details such as ice cream scented candles. The bed’s rich, handcrafted headboard is shaped like the Haagen-Dazs cartouche and atop the bed is a waffle-textured throw. Red leather ottomans with logo’d pillows provide a place to relax and guests can curl up in specially made bathrobes. Books on ice cream are even available for leisurely reading. The focal point of the room, however, is the “Sweet Spot,” a chilled cabinet filled with Haagen-Dazs ice cream and ice cream bars. The cabinet is also stocked with bowls, scoops and spoons – everything required for guests to enjoy the frozen treats. Here’s the best part – guests can indulge in as many pints as they desire. It's complimentary and there's no limit! So go ahead, eat until you are unable to waddle to the cabinet for more. You can always walk off the calories climbing the hilly streets of San Francisco.

The Haagen-Dazs "Sweet Suite" at Hotel Triton in San Francisco

The “Sweet Suite” was designed by local Bay Area interior design firm, Marsh & Clark Design. A portion of each “Sweet Suite" guest’s tab will be donated to the Haagen-Dazs ice cream charity of choice, Delancey Street Foundation. Guests can also purchase the custom Haagen-Dazs bathrobes and ice cream scented candles, with all proceeds benefiting the charity. Hotel Triton is part of the Kimpton family of hotels, one of nine in San Francisco.

More Information: Hotel Triton

342 Grant Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94108

Phone: 800-800-1299 (Reservations)

Rates: Contact the hotel - rates vary. (In the $300-$400/night range)

Don’t forget to enter our giveaway for a $35 CSN Stores gift certificate!

Participating in ABC Wednesday. For more “I” themed posts, click here.

California Events: Weekly Selections Sep.13-19, 2010

2010-09-12T17:00:00.000-07:00

Take part in Sonoma Valley Crush September 15-19

Each Sunday you’ll find a selection of events for the upcoming week. With so much to do in California, this is just a small sampling. Click on each event for additional information.

Monday, Sep. 13 Orange County: Canstruction

Visit South Coast Plaza and see giant structures made entirely out of canned foods. Bring a canned food item to the concierge and ride the carousel for free. All canned food will be donated to the OC Food Bank at the end of the exhibition. Sep. 4-26.

Tuesday, Sep 14 San Francisco: Fringe Festival

The 19th Annual San Francisco Fringe Festival showcases the best of national and international experimental theatre. Performances are rare, raw, raucous and remarkable. Over 250 performances play at the EXIT theater complex and other venues downtown. Runs through Sep. 19.

Wednesday, Sep. 15 Sonoma Valley: Sonoma Valley Crush

Have you ever romanticized about getting involved in a wine harvest & crush? Find out what it's like September 15-19 in the Heart of Sonoma Valley.

Thursday, Sep. 16 Stockton: Barnum’s FUNundrum

The Greatest Show on Earth returns to the Stockton Arena when Ringling Bros. & Barnum & Bailey Circus presents Barnum’s FUNundrum. It’s a super-sized spectacle so massive you just can’t miss it. Sep. 16-19.

Friday, Sep. 17 Monterey: Monterey Jazz Festival

More than 500 top jazz artists perform on 8 stages throughout the weekend in the longest running jazz festival in the world. Now in its 53rd year, the festival is held annually on the 20-acre, oak-studded Monterey Fairgrounds. Sep. 17-19.

Saturday, Sep. 18 San Diego: ArtWalk on the Bay

Come enjoy an extraordinary fine art festival at a beautiful bayside setting. Visit with the artists, discover the inspiration behind their creations and purchase original works of art. More than 100 artists will showcase paintings, glassworks, sculptures, jewelry and photography. Live entertainment and interactive art for children at Kidswalk. Hilton Bayfront Park, Sept. 18 & 19, 10am - 5pm. Free.

Sunday, Sep. 19 Pleasanton: 2010 Harvest Festival

Eat, drink and be entertained while you shop for one of a kind handmade arts & crafts. You’ll find unique products – from eye-catching jewelry, colorful glassware and ceramics, hand-woven and embellished clothing, photography, specialty foods, home décor and much more. Alameda County Fairgrounds, Sep. 17-19.

If you’d like to submit your event for consideration, please email postmarkcalifornia(at)gmail(dot)com. Please include: Date, Location, Name of Event, Description, and website.

San Diego: Bayfair – Thunderboats Return to San Diego

2010-09-11T14:00:00.000-07:00

The peaceful waters of Mission Bay will resonate with thunder when the H1 Unlimited Hydroplanes return to San Diego’s Bayfair September 17-19, 2010. Absent for a year, the thunderboats have long been the featured attraction at the action packed competition. Reaching speeds over 200 miles per hour, the lightning-fast powerboats will race across the Bill Muncey Memorial Race Course, the fastest course in the Unlimited Hydroplane Racing Circuit. Other racing classes joining the H1s include Grand Prix and offshore boats, PWC, Cracker Boxes and tunnel boats. Over 160,00 spectators are expected to attend the 3-day event that also includes live entertainment, vendors, specialty foods, beer gardens, family activities and fireworks.

More Information: San Diego Bayfair on Mission Bay

Viewing Areas: Crown Point, Ski Beach, Fiesta Island (west side)

Phone: 619-434-8260 or 619-434-8263

Admission: $20 Friday, $25 Saturday, $30 Sunday, $45 3-day Super Pass.

Children 6yrs & under are free. Active duty military & reservists are free with ID.

GIVEAWAY – Win a $35 Gift Certificate to CSN Stores

2010-09-10T10:00:00.000-07:00

The CSN Giveaway ended at 6pm PDT on September 23, 2010.

The winner of the $35 CSN stores gift certificate is heartnsoulcooking.

Congratulations! Thank you to everyone who entered.

CSN Stores is offering one of our readers a $35 gift certificate to use at any of their specialized online stores. With more than 200 shopping sites, you’ll find an assortment of items for the home, work or play. Recreate the look of a plush hotel suite with modern bedding, pack your clothes in style with trendy luggage sets or ride the California back roads on a two-wheeled bike. There are thousands of items to choose from. The giveaway is open to residents of the U.S. and Canada.

To enter the $35 CSN Stores giveaway, just leave a comment below telling us your favorite vacation destination in California or elsewhere.

Receive additional entries by doing any of the following and leaving a separate comment after doing so.

Follow Postmark California
Follow PostmarkCA on Twitter and tweet about this giveaway
Share this article link on Facebook

This giveaway ends on Thursday, September 23 at 6:00 p.m. PDT. One winner will be chosen via random.org and the winner's name will be posted on this website on September 24, 2010. An email will be sent to the winner and they will have 48 hours to respond, otherwise a new winner will be chosen.

For additional giveaways, please visit our friends at Atticmag.com for Giveaway Friday.

California: Smithsonian Museum Day – September 25, 2010

2010-09-09T11:00:00.000-07:00

Smithsonian Magazine will host its annual Museum Day on Saturday, September 25, 2010. Download your Museum Day Ticket and get free admission for one person, plus a guest at participating museums across California and the country.

Participating museums in California include the Laguna Art Museum in Laguna Beach, California Auto Museum in Sacramento, California Science Center in Los Angeles and many more.

San Simeon: Hearst Castle – Enchanted Evening

2010-09-08T14:00:00.000-07:00

Roman Pool at Hearst Castle - San Simeon

On September 25, 2010, guests can enjoy an Enchanted Evening at Hearst Castle, the magnificent hilltop estate of newspaper publisher, William Randolph Hearst. The elegant evening begins with a sunset wine reception on the Terrace followed by a gourmet dinner of local cuisine. A live and silent auction will offer unique items for bid such as private Castle tours or swims in the Neptune or Roman pools. The evening, reminiscent of Hearst’s glory days, promises to be a night to remember.

Hearst Castle Estate - San Simeon

Perched high atop La Cuesta Encantada (the Enchanted Hill) overlooking the Pacific, Hearst Castle was built between 1919 and 1948 under the direction of William Randolph Hearst. He had inherited the land from his mother and used the wilderness as a place where family members could gather on camping trips. Desiring more comfortable accommodations, he instructed his architect to “build a little something”. That “little something” turned out to be a grand masterpiece estate of 165 rooms and 127 acres of gardens, terraces, pools and walkways.

Gothic Study at Hearst Castle - San Simeon

The estate’s main house, “Casa Grande” (35 fireplaces and 41 bathrooms) and three guest houses are of Mediterranean Revival style while the signature towers gracing the main house drew inspiration from a Spanish cathedral. Interior furnishings include European antiques and art pieces and the landscaped gardens include elaborately decorated pools. An avid animal lover, Hearst even had a private zoo on the property. Frequent galas and parties were held at the estate and included celebrities such as Greta Garbo, Joan Crawford and Harpo Marx and dignitaries Calvin Coolidge and Winston Churchill.

William Randolph Hearst died in 1951. Donated to the state in 1957 by the Hearst Corporation, the Hearst estate was opened to the public on June 2, 1958. Today, millions of people from around the world enjoy its exquisite beauty and historical significance.

More Information: Hearst Castle

750 Hearst Castle Road, San Simeon, CA 93452

Phone: 800 444-4445 (Tour Reservations)

Hours: Open for tours at 8:20 a.m. daily except Thanksgiving, Christmas & New Years

Tour Prices: Adults $20-$30, Youths 6-17 years $10-$15, Children under 6 years free

Participating in ABC Wednesday. For more "H" themed posts, click here.

California Events: Weekly Selections September 6-12, 2010

2010-09-05T17:00:00.000-07:00

Limelight, a Charlie Chaplin musical at Mandell Weis Theater in La Jolla

Each Sunday you’ll find a selection of events for the upcoming week. With so much to do in California, this is just a small sampling. Click on each event for additional information.

Monday, Sep. 6 Berkeley: Scream Machines – The Science of Roller Coasters

A head-spinning, stomach-churning exhibition for thrill-seekers of all ages. Interactive exhibits, artifacts and images invite visitors to explore the physics of roller coasters and the physiology and psychology of thrill-seeking. Lawrence Hall of Science on the UC Berkeley campus, through Jan. 2, 2011.

Tuesday, Sep. 7 La Jolla: Limelight: The Story of Charlie Chaplin

La Jolla Playhouse’s world premier musical and captivating close-up on the legendary actor who changed motion pictures forever. Co-written by Thomas Meehan, the multiple Tony Award-winning playwright of The Producers, Annie and Hairspray. Mandell Weiss Theater, Sep. 7–Oct. 17.

Wednesday, Sep. 8 Monterey: Cherry’s Jubilee

Dubbed the biggest “oldies” party of the year, the 18th annual Cherry’s Jubilee is a family motorsport festival that takes place in many areas of the Monterey Peninsula as well as Mazda Laguna Seca Recreation Area and Raceway. There’ll be hot rods, classic cars, children’s activities, sports bar & food court. Sep. 8-12, 2010.

Thursday, Sep. 9 Banning: Stage Coach Days

Reenact days of the Historical Old West at this 4-day celebration. There will be Wild West shootout shows, rodeo events, barrel racing, musical & dance performances, food & craft booths, petting zoo, carnival and parade. Dysart Park, Sep. 9-12.

Friday, Sep. 10 Lake Tahoe: Autumn Food and Wine Festival

Three full days of food, wine and festivals, grape stomp, wine walks, seminars, cooking demonstrations, culinary competitions, mountain chef cook off, the Tahoe Plein Air art show, live music, kids activities, and more! The Village at Northstar, Sep. 10-12.

Saturday, Sep. 11 San Francisco: Ghirardelli Square Chocolate Festival

Indulge in chocolate delicacies, sip wine and enjoy chocolate inspired family activities. Proceeds benefit Project Open Hand. Tickets must be purchased to taste chocolate; $20 gets you 15 samples. Ghirardelli Square, Sep. 11-12.

Sunday, Sep. 12 Chico: Taste of Chico

The 25th Annual Taste of Chico held in downtown Chico from 12pm-4pm. Features more than 125 participating restaurants, beverage vendors, wineries and breweries - plus an Open Air Art Gallery and shopping. Four main stages feature continuous, live music.

If you’d like to submit your event for consideration, please email postmarkcalifornia(at)gmail(dot)com. Please include: Date, Location, Name of Event, Description, and website.

Encinitas: Wavecrest Woodie Meet - Colossal Car Show

2010-09-04T05:00:00.000-07:00

Woodies everywhere are being dusted off, shined and primed for the Wavecrest Woodie Meet on Saturday, September 18, 2010. Held in the coastal beach city of Encinitas, 15 miles north of San Diego, it’s the largest gathering of wooden-bodied vehicles in the world. Expect to see 250 to 300 wooden cars at this colossal car show.

The automobiles will be displayed at Moonlight State Beach from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., so there’s plenty of time to admire the classic cars, talk to the proud owners and even do some surfing, swimming and barbecuing in the surrounding area. Several trophies will be awarded to Woodie Meet participants, including Best Hot Rod, Best License Plate and Best Sixty Surfer Woodie. For spectators, there will be food, entertainment and a fabulous raffle. Prizes include a custom made surfboard. The event is free.

If you can’t make it to the Wavecrest Woodie Meet on Saturday, you can still catch a glimpse of the cars as they cruise the Coast Highway corridor on Sunday, September 19. The motorcade meets at the Encinitas City Hall at 505 Vulcan Ave. at 8:00 a.m. and will then proceed down Coast Hwy 101.

The Wavecrest Woodie Meet is organized by San Diego Woodies, one of seven National Woodie Club chapters in California.

Oakland: Bicycles Exhibition - Oakland International Airport

2010-09-02T05:00:00.000-07:00

With the Labor Day weekend upon us, many travelers will scurry through airports on their way in and out of town. If your flight plans include Oakland International Airport, you still have time to visit Bicycles, an exhibition from the Oakland Museum of California. The 2-wheel exhibit focuses on Northern California bike culture, especially in Oakland and the East Bay. Visitors can view a diverse and wide array of bicycles from OMCA’s collection and local frame builders. Bike-related clothing, accessories and ephemera are also highlighted, giving you a glimpse of California’s bike history and trends. Don’t mingle too long admiring the bikes – they’re not for rent if you should miss your flight!

The Bicycles exhibit can be found in Terminal 1, the Connecting Walkway, and Terminal 2 of the Oakland International Airport through September 10, 2010.

Southern California: Five Getaways Under $100

2010-08-31T12:00:00.000-07:00

Think you can’t afford to get out of town? Think again. Enjoy a fun getaway to five Southern California destinations with these hot deals from Travelzoo - each for under $100 per night. Click on each hotel for information on booking deadlines, blackout dates, rate codes and travel restrictions. Where will you go?

Los Angeles: Custom Hotel $89 Save more than $100 at this stylish boutique hotel located five minutes from the beach. The nightly rate of $89 includes a continental breakfast and an upgrade to an ocean view room. Designed by the architect of the iconic Capital Records building, all guest rooms include classic and custom-designed furnishings including a signature bed with Percale Italian linens, Egyptian cotton bath towels, complimentary Wi-Fi, flat screen LCD TV's and more.

San Diego: Humphreys Half Moon Inn & Suites $95 A tropical resort-style hotel located on Harbor Island with breathtaking views of a private marina and the San Diego skyline. Minutes from San Diego’s famous attractions. The $95 rate saves you 50% and includes free parking and a two-hour bike rental.

Palm Springs: Palm Canyon Resort $69 Relax in a junior villa at this serene desert resort, just three miles from downtown shopping and dining. Keep your cool in an impressive 1.5-acre swimming pool surrounded by lush grottos, cascading waterfalls and water slides. Pay just $69 per night, saving you 35%. As a bonus, receive the fourth night free.

Buena Park: Radisson Suites $79 Save at least $40 off regular rates at this all-suite hotel located one block from Knott’s Berry Farm and just minutes to Disneyland (free shuttle). The $79 per night rate scores you a guest room with separate living areas, refrigerator, microwave, two flat-screen TVs and complimentary Internet. Also includes free breakfast.

Anaheim: Cortona Inn & Suites $50-$57 Located just 2 blocks from Disneyland, the newly renovated deluxe rooms and suites offer microwave, refrigerator and complimentary high-speed Internet access. Breakfast included daily. Additional amenities include outdoor heated pool, video game room, coin-operated laundry and free parking.

Participating in ABC Wednesday. For more “G” themed posts, click here.

California Events: Weekly Selections Aug. 30-Sep. 5, 2010

2010-08-29T18:00:00.000-07:00

Hello Dolly at San Diego's Starlight Bowl

Each Monday you’ll find a selection of events for the upcoming week. With so much to do in California, this is just a small sampling. Click on each event for additional information.

Monday, Aug. 30 - Buena Park: Knott’s Berry Farm BBQ

Save big and eat big with Joe Cool's Backyard BBQ at Knott’s Berry Farm. One low price gets you into the theme park and an all-you-can-eat BBQ in an exclusive picnic location. Admission is $39.99 Adults, $29.99 Juniors (3-11) & Seniors (62+).

Tuesday, Aug. 31 - Laguna Beach: Festival of Arts

Last day to catch California’s oldest and finest annual art show. Over 150 of Southern California's renowned artists display their works in a scenic six acre canyon park. A Laguna Beach tradition since 1932.

Wednesday, Sep. 1 - Monterey: Monterey County Fair

Opening day at the 74th annual Monterey County Fair. Bring in a new or gently used Children’s book today from Noon to 3pm and receive free admission. All books will be donated to Monterey County Public Libraries. Fair runs through Sep. 6.

Thursday Sep. 2 - San Diego: Hello Dolly

One of America's most beloved musicals at Starlight Bowl in Balboa Park. One of the novelties at the Starlight Bowl is the "freeze frame action" to airplane traffic. The 4,200 seat outdoor amphitheater is in the final approach to San Diego's Lindberg Field.

Friday, Sep. 3 - Sonoma: Wine Country Weekend 2010

Sonoma’s premier epicurean celebration combines two of Sonoma County’s most prestigious wine and food events: Taste of Sonoma and the Sonoma Valley Harvest Wine Auction. More than 200 acclaimed vintners, growers and chefs will participate in the 3-day event.

Saturday, Sep. 4 - San Francisco: Celebrity Chocolate Tour

Do you love chocolate? Tour 7 different fine chocolate boutiques with Chuck Siegal of San Francisco-based Charles Chocolates. The last in a series of “Celebrity Chocolate Tours” by Gourmet Walks. $49 per person. Includes generous chocolate samples.

Sunday, Sep. 5 - Fort Bragg: Paul Bunyan Days

The oldest small-town celebration on the Mendocino Coast. Dedicated to the community’s logging heritage, the highlight of the festival is the Logging Show and Expo. Also includes a craft and food fair, book sale, and gem, mineral & fossil show.

If you’d like to submit your event for consideration, please email postmarkcalifornia(at)gmail(dot)com. Please include: Date, Location, Name of Event, Description, and website.

Idyllwild: Jazz in the Pines – August 28 & 29, 2010

2010-08-27T06:00:00.000-07:00

Jazz pianist David Benoit performs Aug. 29 at Jazz In The Pines

Top jazz and blues artists perform this weekend at the 17th Annual Jazz in the Pines in Idyllwild. The 2-day event takes place August 28 & 29 amid a forest of oak and pine trees on the grounds of the Idyllwild Arts campus. Headliners include Grammy-winning saxophonist Tom Scott, jazz pianist David Benoit, New Orleans jazz vocalist Kenny Washington, and Latin-jazz pianist Oscar Hernandez. In all, there will be 20 musical acts performing on multiple stages throughout the event. A wide array of food concessions will be available and over 65 artisans from across California will be selling handmade items.

The purpose of Jazz in the Pines is twofold; to promote the American Art Form – Jazz, and to raise scholarship funds for the Idyllwild Arts Academy and Summer Program.

Idyllwild is located in the San Jacinto Mountains on Hwy 243, just two hours from Los Angeles or San Diego, and one hour from Palm Springs or Palm Desert.

More Information: Idyllwild Jazz in the Pines

52500 Temecula Dr., Idyllwild, CA 92549

Phone: 951-500-4090

Price: $60 one-day ticket, $120 two-day ticket

Gates open at 10:00 a.m. Music starts at 10:30 a.m.

Anaheim: OC Foodie Fest – Food Trucks a la Gourmet

2010-08-26T06:00:00.000-07:00

Bakerytruck gourmet food truck (Morsels Baking Company)

A new breed of restaurant rolls into the Honda Center in Anaheim this Saturday, August 28 - gourmet food trucks. This latest craze in dining is the focal point of the OC Foodie Fest, Orange County’s first major gourmet food truck event. The one-day event will feature 50 of the most popular and unique mobile eateries, serving up a concoction of cuisine, ranging from exotic dim sum to aromatic bakery items. Special event menus with tasting-sized portions will be priced at $1 to $5, so you can sample a wide assortment of offerings. Participating food trucks include Southern California favorites Taco Dawg and Piaggio on Wheels and Food Network’s Great Food Truck Race contestant, Nom Nom Truck. The festival will also have live entertainment, shopping booths, kid’s activities, a beer and wine garden and free packaged snack samples. It should be noted that the OC Foodie Fest is a CASH-ONLY event.

More Information: OC Foodie Fest

Honda Center: 2695 E Katella Ave., Anaheim, CA 92806

Date/Time: Saturday, Aug. 28, 11:30 AM – 7:00 PM

Tickets: Adult-$12.00 advance, $15 door, Child under 12-$6.00, Child 3 & Under-Free

Clear Lake: Featherbed Railroad B&B – Sleep in a Caboose

2010-08-24T14:00:00.000-07:00

Featherbed Railroad Bed & Breakfast located in Nice, CA

Enjoy a railway adventure where the train never leaves the station. The Featherbed Railroad Bed & Breakfast is a unique resort that allows guests to sleep in one of nine historic railroad cabooses. The railroad cars, built between the 1930s and 1950s, are set among a grove of oak trees overlooking Clear Lake in the town of Nice, located above the Napa & Sonoma Wine Country.

Featherbed Railroad Bed & Breakfast: Easy Rider caboose

Each refurbished caboose has its own distinct theme; Key West styled Tropicaboose, Harley-Davidson themed Easy Rider, Bogie and Bacall era Casablanca (with a piano and bar), bordello styled La Loose Caboose and Celebrations, which changes décor with the season or special occasion. Other sleeping cars include the Orient Express, Wild Wild West, Wine Country and Lover’s Caboose. All caboose suites have luxurious feather beds, coffee makers, refrigerators, private baths and most feature in-room Jacuzzi tubs. All have magnificent views of Clear Lake.

Featherbed Railroad Bed & Breakfast: Boat Dock & Lauch

Included with your stay at the Featherbed Railroad B&B is full and hearty breakfast served in the privacy of your rail car or at the Main Station, a century-old ranch house. The remainder of the day can be spent enjoying the peaceful park like setting, swimming in the outdoor pool, or boating on the lake (the resort has a boat dock and ramp). Innkeepers, Tony and Peggy Barthel, are delighted to offer suggested itineraries for those wishing to venture off property. The surrounding area offers miles of nature trails, fabulous water sports, bass fishing, antique shopping and wine tasting at nearly 30 premium wineries.

More Information: Featherbed Railroad Bed & Breakfast Resort

2870 Lakeshore Blvd, Nice, CA 95464

Phone: 707-274-8378 or toll-free 800-966-6322

Rates: $140 to $220 per night

Participating in ABC Wednesday. For more “F” themed posts, click here.

California Events: Weekly Selections August 23-29, 2010

2010-08-23T06:00:00.000-07:00

Zorro Unmasked exhibit at Mission San Juan Capistrano

Each Monday we'll post a selection of events for the upcoming week. With so much to do in California, this is just a small sampling. Click on each event for additional information.

Monday, Aug. 23 - San Juan Capistrano: Zorro Unmasked

Exhibit showcasing cinematic history of Zorro from past films and television shows. Features original costumes worn by actors, film props and more.

Tuesday, Aug. 24 - Huntington Beach: Surf City Nights

Weekly street fair. Includes a farmer's market, entertainment, sidewalk sales, children’s activities, and specials from local restaurants.

Wednesday, Aug. 25 - Monterey: BLUE Ocean Film Festival

Presented by the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Filmmaking and science come together to create some of the most entertaining and engaging documentaries of our time. Film screenings, master classes, panel discussions, seminars and film awards. Speakers include Jean-Michel Cousteau, Dr. Sylvia Earle & Julie Packard.

Thursday, Aug. 26 - San Diego: The Music of Queen: A Rock Symphony

The San Diego Symphony Summer Pops pays tribute to one of the greatest British exports of all time: Queen and the magic of Freddie Mercury. Hear Bohemian Rhapsody, We Will Rock You, We Are The Champions and Another One Bites The Dust.

Friday, Aug. 27 - Winters: Earthquake Festival

A family event commemorating the rise of the city of Winters from a devastating local earthquake in 1892. Entertainment all evening beginning with children’s performances and continuing with a live band, street dancing, food booths, street vendors, and kids activities.

Saturday, Aug. 28 - Paso Robles: British Invasion

Live concert tribute to the 60s British Rock & Roll. Dance to your favorite 60s hits, view screenings of the Ed Sullivan Show featuring the Beatles and see British cars and vintage motorcycles. A silent auction will feature magnums from local Paso Robles wineries. 1960’s attire encouraged.

Sunday, Aug. 29 - San Jose: Italian American Family Festa

Live music and entertainment, Italian specialty foods, wine, beer, soft drinks, Family Reunion Village, arts and crafts, family fun and children’s activities.

If you’d like to submit your California event for consideration, please email postmarkcalifornia(at)gmail(dot)com. Please include: date, location, name of event, description, and website.

San Francisco: San Francisco Zoo – Kids Free in August

2010-08-21T06:00:00.000-07:00

There’s still time to take advantage of kid’s free admission at the San Francisco Zoo. Children ages 4–14 are admitted free during the month of August when accompanied by a paying adult. Limit four children for each paying adult. As a bonus during the promotion, kids receive a free activity book filled with fun facts and games including a scavenger hunt to discover more about the zoo’s amazing animals.

The San Francisco Zoo is Northern California’s largest zoological park and conservation center. Located next to the Pacific Ocean, it’s home to an extensive botanical collection and 250 different animal species, many of which are highly endangered.

The zoo is open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (closes at 4 p.m. Nov. 6 - Mar. 12). Admission is $15 adults, $12 seniors 65+, $9 children ages 4-14, free for children ages 3 and under. If you’re a San Francisco resident, admission to the zoo is free the first Wednesday of every month and discounted at other times. Valid proof of San Francisco residency must be shown. Parking is $8 (free along Sloat Blvd).

Unable to get to the zoo in August? Here’s a coupon for one free child admission with one paid adult admission valid until December 31, 2010.

More Information: San Francisco Zoo

Location: Sloat Boulevard at the Great Highway

Phone: 415-753-7080

Kimpton Hotels – Cocktail or Breakfast Just $1 More

2010-08-20T06:00:00.000-07:00

What can you buy for a dollar these days? At Kimpton Hotels you can get breakfast for a buck or dollar cocktails. What a deal! Book a room at participating Kimpton Hotels and pay just $1 more than the best available rate and enjoy a continental breakfast or a cocktail for each registered guest (up to 2 room occupants per day). Use promo code DOLLAR when making reservations. The “Cocktail or Breakfast for Just $1” promotion is valid through December 30, 2010 and subject to availability.

California-based Kimpton Hotels has been around since 1981 and is America’s first and largest boutique hotel group. Known for its personalized service, hosted evening wine hour, pet-friendly policy, and one-of-a-kind hotels, Kimpton has the highest customer satisfaction scores of any hotel company in the United States. It has 12 locations in California including Hotel Solamar in San Diego, Hotel Palomar in Los Angeles, Prescott Hotel in San Francisco and Cypress Hotel in the Silicon Valley. If you’re travels take you outside of California, the promotion is valid at Kimpton Hotels in other states as well.

More Information: Kimpton Hotels

Phone: 1-800-KIMPTON (800-546-7866)

Promo Code: DOLLAR

Coastal California: Estero Bluffs – Escape to Nature

2010-08-17T15:00:00.000-07:00

Estero Bluffs along the California coast

California has miles of unspoiled coastline begging for the naturalist to explore. One such place is Estero Bluffs State Park, just north of Cayucos in San Luis Obispo County. You’ll find grasslands blending with wetlands and dunes on the 355 acres of windswept bluffs overlooking the Pacific. The ever-changing scenery produces green vegetation in the winter, multi-colored wildflowers in spring and gold grasses in summer.

Estero Bluffs - harbor seal

Along the coastal waters of Estero Bluffs, you’ll find marine life such as harbor seals, California sea lions, Southern sea otters and brown pelicans.

Estero Bluffs - Western snowy plover and willet

A rich ecosystem provides habitats for several sensitive plant and animal species, among them the Western snowy plover and willet shorebirds.

If you’re looking for rich scenery, abundant wildlife and a multitude of photo opportunities, explore Estero Bluffs and the surrounding area including Morro Bay with its famous Morro Rock. Both can be accessed off California's north/south Hwy 1.

(All Estero Bluffs photos by Michael L. Baird)

More Information: Estero Bluffs

Participating in ABC Wednesday. For more “E” themed posts, click here.

La Jolla: Torrey Pines Gliderport – Soar Like An Eagle

2010-08-15T17:00:00.000-07:00

Paraglider above Black's Beach in La Jolla

The Torrey Pines Gliderport in La Jolla is a must-see attraction that’s as awe-inspiring for the spectator as it is for the participant. Situated next to the famed Torrey Pines Golf Course, bystanders can watch paragliders and hang gliders soar off the ocean bluffs and gracefully float above the Pacific waters below. Grab a bite to eat and enjoy the magnificent view from atop the Cliffhanger Café snack-shack, or wander the cliff side trails for the perfect vantage point to photograph the colorful flyers overhead and the ocean surfers below.

Paraglider above La Jolla Shores

For thrill-seekers wanting to soar like an eagle, the Gliderport offers tandem flights with a certified professional seven days a week, depending on weather conditions. The cost for a 20-25 minute hang gliding flight is $200 and $150 for paragliding. A video and still shots of your exhilarating adventure can be purchased separately.

The Torrey Pines Gliderport was established as a soaring site in 1928 and once served as a training ground for aviator Charles Lindbergh. Today it’s recognized as one of the best flying sites in the world.

More Information: Torrey Pines Gliderport

2800 Torrey Pines Scenic Dr., La Jolla, CA 92037

Phone: 858-452-9858

Linking to Mellow Yellow Monday. For more Yellow posts, click here.

Pebble Beach: Concours d'Elegance – Cars Extraordinaire

2010-08-13T06:00:00.000-07:00

Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance - 1931 Coupe

Motor enthusiasts and automobile collectors from around the world will gather on the famed 18th fairway of the Pebble Beach Golf Links for the 60th Annual Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance on Sunday, August 12, 2010. Showcasing some of the world’s finest collector cars, the Pebble Beach event is the most prestigious classic car event in America and expected to draw thousands to the Monterey Peninsula. The featured marques for this year’s Concours are Alfa Romeo, Pierce-Arrow and Jaguar and will celebrate the designs of Ghia. Also on display will be Hot Rods, particularly lakesters and Bonneville racers, as well as Indy Cars and Prewar American Motorcycles. You won’t wan to miss this event celebrating the craftsmanship and history of such rare and exquisite masterpieces in a setting equally as beautiful.

Tickets for the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance are $150 in advance, $175 day of show and include parking, shuttle service and program. Children under age 12 years are free when accompanied by an adult. Judging begins Sunday at 9 a.m., field opens to spectators at 10:30 a.m., award presentations are 1:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

More Information: Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance

Paso Robles: 7th Annual Olive Festival - August 21

2010-08-12T06:00:00.000-07:00

If you’re in search of olive-inspired recipes, start making your way to California’s Central Coast. The 7th Annual Olive Festival takes place on Saturday, August 21 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Paso Robles, about 30 miles north of San Luis Obispo. From appetizers to entrees, you’ll find award-winning creations to inspire any cook. Admission to the festival is free and features items from olive producers throughout California. You’ll get free samples of olives and olive products, free tastings of olive oil, and even free olive oil ice cream. There will be an olive-inspired cooking competition, beer and wine tastings (for a fee) and a “Culinary Row” of gourmet food vendors serving mouth-watering dishes. Children’s activities, art galleries, and much more round out the day.

A Social Mixer on Friday evening, August 20, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the historic Paso Robles Inn precedes the festival. Enjoy hors d’oeuvres as well as local wine and olive tastings. Tickets are $25 and can be reserved by calling 805-238-4103.

More Information: Paso Robles Olive Festival

Location: Paso Robles Downtown City Park

Date: Saturday, August 21, 2010, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Free Admission, $15 for Wine Tasting

Phone: 805-238-4103

Oakland: Dunsmuir Hellman Historic Estate – Delightful

2010-08-10T14:00:00.000-07:00

Dunsmuir Hellman Historic Estate (Courtesy Oakland Con/Vis Bureau)

Many people are surprised to learn that a distinguished historic home is tucked away in the Oakland hills, east of San Francisco. The Dunsmuir Hellman Historic Estate was built in 1899 as a wedding gift from Alexander Dunsmuir to his bride, Josephine Wallace Dunsmuir. The lush grounds that surround the mansion are perfectly groomed and the house’s interior is filled with architectural details, but it’s the story of the home’s former residents that is most fascinating.

Alexander Dunsmuir

Alexander was the son of Robert Dunsmuir, a wealthy Canadian coal baron. The younger of two sons, Alexander was sent to run the family business office in San Francisco in 1878. It was there that he met Waller Wallace, a bartender in a theater. They’d often share drinks together and quickly became fast friends. Alexander eventually met Waller’s wife, Josephine, and the two instantly fell in love with each other, resulting in a passionate affair and Wallace’s subsequent divorce.

Alexander and Josephine wanted to marry, but Alexander’s parents threatened to disinherit him from the Dunsmuir fortune if he were to marry a divorcee. So the two lived together out of wedlock, which was very scandalous at the time. They kept to themselves and out of the public eye, shunned by other San Francisco’s socialites. Stress weighed heavy on Alexander and he took to drinking, which would prove to be fatal in later years.

Robert Dunsmuir, died in 1889 and ten years later, Alexander’s mother, Joan Dunsmuir, finally gave up control of the family fortune. No longer in fear of being disinherited, Alexander proposed to Josephine and construction began in 1899 on the Dunsmuir Estate. The two wed in December of that year, just days after the beautiful mansion was completed. Sadly, less than two months later, Alexander died of alcohol-related illness while the couple was honeymooning in New York. Josephine, distraught, returned to the Bay Area and lived at Dunsmuir until she died of cancer two years later in 1901.

Gatsby Summer Afternoon at Dunsmuir Estate (Courtesy Art Deco Society of CA)

The Dunsmuir House was designed by J. Eugene Freeman and is one of the best examples of Neoclassical-Revival architecture in the Bay Area. The 16,224 square foot mansion has 37 rooms, 10 fireplaces, inlaid parquet floors and servant quarters designed to accommodate 12 live-in staff. Its panoramic gardens are the setting for concerts and celebrations throughout the year, including the upcoming 26th Annual Gatsby Summer Afternoon on Sunday, September 12, 2010 when guests relive the 1920s and 30s era of elegance, fox trot and Charleston.

The 50-acre grounds of Dunsmuir House are open to the public most of the year free of charge. Guided tours of the estate are given April through September (except July) for a fee. For a complete listing of schedules and prices, visit the Dunsmuir House website.

More Information: Dunsmuir Hellman Historic Estate

2960 Peralta Oaks Court, Oakland, CA, 94605

Phone: 925-275-9490

Participating in ABC Wednesday. For more “D” themed posts, click here.

Oakland: OMCA - Pixar: 25 Years of Animation

2010-08-07T07:00:00.000-07:00

Pixar's Animated Film, Finding Nemo (Pixar)

If you want a glimpse inside the creative process of animation, check out the newest exhibition at the Oakland Museum of California (OMCA) - "Pixar: 25 Years of Animation". More than 500 drawings, paintings and sculptures will be on display, detailing the creative work behind Pixar’s hugely popular computer-animated films, such as Toy Story, Finding Nemo and A Bug’s Life. See your favorite Pixar characters come to life, from Buzz Lightyear to Nemo to WALL-E. The behind-the-scenes experience also includes lectures, talks and workshops with talented Pixar artists as well as screenings of Pixar’s feature and short films.

Pixar's Animated Film, Toy Story (OMCA)

Since its incorporation in 1986, Pixar has been the technology innovator for computer-generated images (CGI) in film. The Bay Area studio has won 22 Academy Awards and its ten films have grossed more than $5 billion at the worldwide box office to date.

Pixar: 25 Years of Animation at the OMCA runs through January 9, 2011.

More Information: Oakland Museum of California

1000 Oak St., Oakland, CA 94607

Phone: 510-238-2200

Admission: $6 - $12 per person, free for children 8 years old and younger

California: World Record Day – Free Game of Bowling

2010-08-06T07:00:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, August 7, 2010, bowling centers in California and across the nation are participating in World Record Day and offering free games of bowling. An attempt will be made to set a record for most games bowled in a single day. The previous record is 741,821 games. Bowlers of all ages and skill levels are encouraged to join the fun and will receive a certificate to verify their participation. If you’d like to be part of the record-breaking event, click here to download a coupon for a free game and then head to your nearest bowling center.

More information can be found at GoBowling.com

California: Know Before You Go – 10 Dumb Laws

2010-08-03T13:00:00.000-07:00

California, the Golden State. . . who wouldn’t want to visit? It’s the 3rd largest state in the U.S. with over 163,000 square miles of magnificent beauty. It offers mountain wilderness, desert tranquility, pounding surf, beautiful beaches and . . .dumb laws. That’s right. California has some crazy laws on the books. So, in the interest of keeping visitors to California safe, amused and out of jail, I present these 10 Dumb Laws found listed for the Golden State and its cities. Enjoy!

Women may not drive in a housecoat.
No vehicle without a driver may exceed 60 miles per hour.
In Chico, driving a herd of goats down a street is against the law.
In Baldwin Park, it’s illegal to ride your bike in a swimming pool.
In Berkeley, you can't whistle for an escaped bird before 7:00 a.m.
In Long Beach, it is illegal to curse on a mini-golf course.
In Palm Springs, it’s illegal to walk a camel down Palm Canyon Drive between the hours of 4:00p.m. and 6:00 p.m.
In Blythe, you’re not permitted to wear cowboy boots unless you already own at least two cows.
In Carmel, women may not wear high heels while in the city limits.
And…. if you disobey any of these laws and end up in a Los Angeles courtroom, it’s illegal to cry on the witness stand.

Participating in ABC Wednesday. For more “C” themed posts, click here.