Californian Adventurer

California Academic Decathalon

2009-03-16T17:13:00.001-07:00

March 15, 2009 - Sacramento:

More than 500 competitors from 60 California high schools, with their coaches and parents, filled the cavernous Sacramento Memorial Auditorium for the last event in a grueling two-day match to select the brainiest team of high schoolers in the state.

Moorpark High School took top honors in the 30th Annual California Academic Decathlon on Monday, setting the stage for the reigning national champion team to defend its title next month. Moorpark High set a record last year for the highest score in the statewide competition.

El Camino Real High School placed second this year in the state competition.

Prop 1A- Special Elections 2009

2009-03-16T17:09:00.001-07:00

Largest State Tax Increase or Responsible Budget Management?

California Proposition 1A, also known as the Budget Stabilization Act, will appear on the special, statewide May 19, 2009 ballot in California as part of a package that state legislators believe will fix the state's budget problems.

Proposition 1A will extend for as long as four years the approximately $16 billion tax increase that is part of the budget deal struck in Sacramento. It will also impose a limit on the amount the state can spend each year.

Although six of the seven statewide ballot propositions on the May ballot (1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, 1E and 1F) are intended to close an approximately $42 billion budget gap. A new report by the California Legislative Analyst's Office said in early March that tax revenues flowing into the state treasury are "well below" the projections it used earlier in the year, and that California's government now faces an additional $8 billion gap in addition to the earlier $42 billion gap.

More Snow in California Ski Resorts

2009-01-28T08:39:00.000-08:00

It was just in the nick of time, as warm temperatures had been threatening mountain resorts' snow conditions for two weeks. The weather let up Monday (for an amazing powder day, I might add) with just a few snow flurries and is expected to return to crisp, sunny skies Tuesday. Here's how some west coast resorts stacked up on Monday:

Mountain High reported two inches of natural snowfall matched with overnight temperatures in the teens, which enabled the resort to make more snow.

Over the hill at Bear Mountain natural accumulation was four inches. Snowmaking is expected to continue for several days.

Mammoth Mountain reported five feet of fresh snow accumulated over the last four days.

Northstar-at-Tahoe reports a seven-day snowfall total of two feet at the summit.

There was plenty of shredding to be had at Sierra-at-Tahoe, too, where 34 inches were recorded at the summit over the weekend.

Nearby Kirkwood Mountain Resort was graced with up to 39 inches of snow, reporting that the top foot of snow is lighter than the snow underneath it.

Fiscal Aid to California

2009-01-28T05:48:00.000-08:00

An economic stimulus package working its way through Congress could provide $10 billion in federal relief over the next two years for California's public schools, raising optimism among educators that it might ease cutbacks caused by the state's budget crisis.

The money is part of an $825 billion stimulus package the House of Representatives is expected to vote on today. It contains about $140 billion for schools nationwide.

The package would provide millions of dollars to most school districts in the Bay Area and across the state for construction, special education and help for low-income students.

"This does not solve the fiscal crisis, but it does throw us a lifeline," state Superintendent of Public Instruction Jack O'Connell said Tuesday.

Although no package has been approved, California educators are salivating over what could be the largest infusion of one-time federal cash for schools in the state's history.

California is facing a $42 billion budget gap over the next 18 months, and state lawmakers have yet to agree on how to close it. With the state on the brink of running out of cash, California hopes to borrow money to keep short-term cash flowing.

Stay in Crescent City

2009-01-09T09:04:00.000-08:00

Crescent City Comfort Inn

100 Walton St, Crescent City, CA 95531;

Location: Southside near Crescent City Harbor

This 100 percent non-smoking hotel is located at Gateway to the Redwood Forest and offers large rooms, some with partial ocean views.
Many of the rooms and suites have a balcony and a large whirlpool bath.
Guestroom Amenities at the Comfort Inn include in-room coffee service, 25-inch TV, microwave, refrigerator, ironing board,
iron, clock radio, hair dryer, cable and HBO.

Ski Season is Booming

2009-01-07T11:37:00.001-08:00

Big Bear Mountain Tour
Wrightwood, CA - Mountain High Resort in Wrightwood is reporting a record-breaking holiday season, with skier visits up more than 40% over last year for the two-week Christmas period.

Whale Watching is Back

2009-01-07T05:45:00.000-08:00

California Whale Watching Tours : Jan-Mar

From January through March, some 28,000 Pacific Gray Whales make their annual migration up along
the coast to their summer Alaska feeding grounds. During the summer Blue and Humpback Whales also
come to visit the local waters delighting visitors with upclose encounters.

California has several major world class aquarium exhibits and a number of lessor ones with a major emphasis on exploring life and habitat of the California Coastline.

The several major aquariums can provide a lot more info about guided VIP whale watching tours.

Tour Monterey Bay Aquarium - Monterey CA

Since it first opened in 1984, this facility has quickly evolved into one of the most unique and most popular attractions in America. It features many award-winning exhibits that are rich in information about the many animals, plants and natural habitats of our oceans with a special emphasis on the Pacific Ocean.

Aquarium of the Pacific - Long Beach CA

It takes more than an ordinary aquarium to lead you on journey of discovery of the world's largest ocean. Special exhibits let your dive into a unique exploration of sunny Southern California and Baja, the frigid waters of the North Pacific, and the colorful reefs of the Tropical Pacific.

California Coastal National Monument

Established in 2000, the California Coastal National Monument runs the entire length of the California coast (1,100 miles) between Oregon and Mexico, extends 12 nautical miles from the shoreline, and encompasses thousands of BLM administered islands, rocks, exposed reefs, and pinnacles above mean high tide.

Cooperatively managed with other federal, state, local overnment, universities, and private interests, the primary purpose of the Monument is to protect important biological and geological values. The islands, rocks, reefs, and pinnacles provide forage and breeding grounds for significant populations of birds and sea mammals.

Joshua Tree in Wintertime

2009-01-06T05:47:00.000-08:00

Joshua Tree National Park

I went out with the Boy Scouts to visit Joshua Tree last week. They love the place with all the abundance of its giant rock formations. Never mind that the temperature dropped by 25 degrees right at sunset.

Standing nearly 40 feet tall, the Joshua Tree is not really a tree at all but the largest member of the Yucca family of plants. It was so name by early Mormon pioneers crossing the desert who found the angular branches to resemble the outstretched arms of Joshua leading the Israelites into the Promise Land.

Of particular note are the many unusual plants found here including Joshua trees, cactus,
ocotillo, smoke treess, palo verdes, pinon pins, yucca plants. The best
time to visit is early spring when a big array of desert wildflowers
reach full bloom.

San Diego Chargers Advance

2009-01-06T05:44:00.000-08:00

AFC Divisional Game Tickets

11-Jan-2009 : San Diego Chargers at Pittsburgh Steelers

Sunday / 4:45 PM @ Heinz Field in Pittsburgh, PA,

Chargers running back LaDainian Tomlinson’s status for Sunday’s Divisional Playoff game in Pittsburgh is uncertain due to his sore groin,
but Darren Sproles and Michael Bennett will be prepared to carry the load if needed just as they did against the Colts on Saturday.
But the weather in Pittsburgh is going to be oh so cold!

La Jolla Classic Car Show

2009-01-05T21:14:00.000-08:00

Tour La Jolla Classic Car Show - Jan 11, 2009

Over 140 classic vintage automobiles will be on display at the 5th Annual La Jolla Motor Car Classic on January 11th. Come admire the breathtaking views of La Jolla Cove and the coastline as you view the range of fine cars, and make sure to stroll up to La Jolla Village for a taste of the exceptional dining and stylish shopping on offer.

New California Legislature Starts Session

2008-12-03T20:17:00.000-08:00

Oh Man! Did a lot happen on the first day of the new California Legislature on Dec 1st. The governor declares a fiscal state of emergency as revenue shortfalls continue to plunge.

The same day Congress starts working a proposal to bailout state and local governments. This proposal will only encourage politicians to continue their terrible fiscal policies instead of cleaning up wasteful programs.

I hate when politicians resort to dump tricks.

Carlsbad Vacation Getaway

2008-11-19T21:38:00.000-08:00

We have a new special featuring vacation opportunities in Carlsbad California.

California Home School

2008-11-15T10:42:00.000-08:00

Open Up School in the Great California Outdoors for your children

Home School offers dramatic opportunities for students to research and expand their horizons in vocations of their choice. Much of this can happen in the great California Outdoors.

California home schooling opportunities are constantly improving.
See the special report Here and Here.

Another big part of this is the great Scouting Adventures available in California.

San Diego Chargers Football

2008-11-07T16:24:00.001-08:00

The Bolts have a firm grip on 2nd place in the AFC West and still have a shot to overtake Denver for a NFL Playoff Berth:

If San Diego wants to keep pace with Denver, all they have to do is take care of business against the 1-7 Chiefs this weekend. The NFL odds for this game find San Diego as a 15-point favorite of Kansas City with the total set at 47.

After firing their defensive coordinator - the Chargers are more confident that they can shut down the opposition. Ron Rivera, formerly with the Bears, will take over.
This weekend's opponents, The K.C. Chiefs have had troubles of their own.

All games are QualComm Stadium:

11/9/08 SUN - vs. K.C. Chiefs
11/23/08 SUN - vs. Indianapolis Colts
11/30/08 SUN - vs. Atlanta Falcons
12/04/08 THU - vs. Oakland Raiders
12/28/08 SUN - vs. Denver Broncos (Will this game decide the winner of the AFC West?)

For Chargers Game Tickets visit HERE or hit the banner below:

Trans-Siberian Orchestra Visits California

2008-11-07T16:09:00.000-08:00

This is a unique opportunity to hear some great holiday music.

TSO is a rock orchestra renowned for their renditions of traditional Christmas songs. They have been touring every year since 1996 and include musical style influences of progressive rock, symphonic metal, heavy metal, and classical music.

Some of their most well-known works include such songs as Christmas Eve/Sarajevo 12/24 (a rendition of Carol of the Bells, originally featured on Savatage's 1995 album, Dead Winter Dead), and Wizards in Winter, both of which are popular selections of radio DJs during the Christmas season.

The Trans-Siberian Orchestra has been joined by big-name artists on their popular seasonal tours. Here are the 2008 concert dates:

11/14/08 FRI - Reno Events Center - Reno NV
11/15/08 SAT - ARCO Arena - Sacramento CA
11/16/08 SUN - HP Pavillion - San Jose CA
11/19/08 WED - Save Mart Center - Fresno CA
11/20/08 THU - MGM Grand Garden Arena - Las Vegas NV
11/21/08 FRI - Honda Center - Anaheim CA
11/22/08 SAT - San Diego Sports Arena

To order your tickets click HERE or hit this banner:

Lost Voter Power

2008-11-07T12:26:00.000-08:00

Here is our tally for the election turnout for the Nov 2008 Presidential Race. We compared the voter turnout to the census population of each county. The state average was 30.5%.

The top 5 counties are as follows with % of the total population that voted:
- Alpine 57.2%
- Sierra 55.4%
- Plumas 52.9%
- Mariposa 51.6%
- Amador 49.9%

The bottom 5 counties were:
- San Benito 18.2%
- Imperial 20.4%
- Tulare 21.4%
- Monterey 22.6%
- Sutter 23.0%

What do we see here? The counties on the top list got about 2.6 times more votes per resident than the bottom list. Why would that be? Do the bottom counties suffer from voter apathy? Illegal aliens? Extra children?

Los Angeles County deserves special mention. They have just over over 28% of the total population of California - but only registered less than 26% of the total vote of the state. That was 233,000 lost votes which could have swung some of the proposition issues and especially some local races.

Look up your county and see how civic minded your neighbors are.

Voting to Improve California Beaches

2008-11-05T10:52:00.001-08:00

I found the results for Prop D in San Diego to be of interest.
From KGTV 10 News:

Beach Alcohol Ban Close To Being Permanent
SAN DIEGO -- San Diego voters appear to have approved a permanent ban on alcohol at San Diego beaches and coastal parks.

With 46.5 percent of precincts counted, 57.6 percent, or 133,805 people, voted in favor of Proposition D, while 42.4 percent, or 98,497 voters, were opposed.

Proposition D makes the consumption of alcohol unlawful at all city beaches, Mission Bay Park and other coastal recreation areas.

Councilman Kevin Faulconer, who represents the beach areas, spearheaded a one-year trial ban on alcohol at San Diego's beaches and coastal parks following a Labor Day melee in Pacific Beach. More than a dozen people were arrested during the fracas for throwing beer cans at police clad in riot gear.

In response, the City Council enacted a temporary ban on alcohol at city beaches in November. The prohibition would have expired Jan. 14 if voters didn't adopt Proposition D.

Proponents of the ban argue it has made the beaches safer.

"Frankly, I think the people of San Diego have spoken that they want safe beaches, they want police in the neighborhoods and not babysitting drunks at the beach," Jim Lantry, with the group SafeBeachesSanDiego.org, told 10News at San Diego's Golden Hall.

His position was backed up by a recent police report that found alcohol-related crimes overall dropped this year in San Diego's beach areas following the implementation of the booze ban.

There were 3,438 alcohol-related citations given in 2007, compared to 2,855 so far this year, a decline of nearly 17 percent, according to a report presented to the Public Safety and Neighborhood Services Committee.

Opponents argued that other factors contributed to a decline in crime in the beach areas, including a decrease in visitors.

They pledged to keep up the fight.

"The city has voted on this twice before, we have defeated this twice before," Jacob Pyle, with the group FreePB.org, told 10News. "So you know what if we loose this battle, and I don't think we will, we still have two more strikes to go."

Attempts to prohibit drinking at city beaches have failed twice in the past. There was a thwarted attempted to ban booze at the beach in 1991. In 2002, voters narrowly rejected a proposition to prohibit alcohol at the beach.

California Election Results

2008-11-05T09:38:00.000-08:00

Voting Results for the state elections yesterday

YES : Prop 1A - High Speed Rail Bond - $40 Million.
(But where are they going to build it?)
YES : Prop 2 - Farm Animal Protection -
(We already pay $9/dozen of organic free range eggs.)
YES : Prop 3 - Children's Hospital Bond -
(Who could say no to a commercial full of special needs children?)
NO : Prop 4 - Abortion Notification
(Could have been a tool to stop child predators.)
YES : Prop 5 - Non-violent criminal rehab
(Voters yank away the get out of jail free card to Meth Dealers)
NO : Prop 6 - Criminal Just Bond
(No funding in this tight economy.)
N0 : Prop 7 - Renewable Energy
YES : Prop 8 - Marriage Initiative
(But is it retroactive?)
YES : Prop 9 - Crime Victims Rights
NO : Prop 10 - Alternative Fuels
(Very poorly written)
? : Prop 11 - Redistricting
(At this time leads slightly but too close to call)
YES : Prop 12 - Veterans Home Loan Bond Act
(Costs the state nothing - all paid back by Mortgage holders)

Berkeley Tree-Sitters hit with Massive Fines

2008-09-22T16:16:00.000-07:00

I guess actions have consequences:
This in today's S.F. Gate:

Tour Lava Beds National Monument

2008-09-22T06:57:00.000-07:00

This region covers Siskiyou County is famous several popular natural attractions
including Mt Shasta, at 14,197 ft, is the tallest volcano in California; Lava Beds National Monument,
and Klamath River wilderness area.

Lava Beds National Monument

This region has witnessed many violent volcanic eruptions over the last half-million years.
Many diverse and fascinating volcanic features now mark the landscape.
Park features include more than 700 caves, Native American rock art sites,
and historic battlefields. An exciting California high desert adventure.

Tour Yreka CA
Discover Historic Yreka when gold was found in 1851.
Today, the spirit of gold rush era lives on in the buildings
on within the Yreka Historic District.

Tour Klamath Falls OR

Located in a geographically diverse area east of the Cascade Mountains and north of the
Oregon/California border, the Red Lion Inn Klamath Falls is close to snow-capped mountains,
sunny high desert and "The Klamath", Oregon's largest lake.

Tour Weed CA

The historic lumber town of Weed in south Siskiyou County with a breathtaking
view of beautiful Mt. Shasta, is a haven for the outdoor recreation enthusiast.

Tour Scott Valley

Explore the scenic Scott River Valley and the eastern approach to Marble Mountain Wilderness Area.
Includes the historic villages of Fort Jones and Etna.

Tour Happy Camp

The wild, scenic western region of Siskiyou County where the main highway (SR-96) follows
the Klamath River through dense forest.

Tour McCloud CA

The town of McCloud is proud of its varied and fascinating history. We welcome you to take a look back to its timber and railroad
beginnings and forward to what the future may hold for this historic lumber community.

Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Klamath Basin National Wildlife Refuge Complex

Encompasses 39,116 acres of mostly open water and
croplands. Approximately 17,000 acres are leased by farmers under a program administered
by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation. These crops, together with the waste grain and potatoes from
the lease program are a major food source for migrating and wintering waterfowl.

Rancho Cuyamaca State Park

2008-09-13T22:33:00.000-07:00

Visit Rancho Cuyamaca State Park -

The beautiful park offers camping and hiking in an oak woodland forest, with a sprinkling of pines and lovely meadows with creeks.
There are over 100 miles of trails which accommodate hikers, bikers, and equestrians.

At Cuyamaca look for the waterfalls near Green Valley Campground, headwaters to the Sweetwater River. There are also hidden meadows near Granite Springs or Milk Ranch Road. And great views from the top of Cuyamaca Peak or Stonewall Peak.

Park Wildlife:
The most commonly seen wildlife includes mule deer, gray squirrels, raccoons and striped skunks. Predators such as gray foxes, coyotes, bobcats and mountain lions are also present.

Park Campgrounds:
The two family camps, Paso Picacho and Green Valley, are open and on the reservation system spring through fall. Call for availability during the remainder of the year.

Theme Park Summer Crowds have gone.

2008-09-06T20:53:00.000-07:00

Kids are back in school and that means the big crowds have disappeared from area theme parks.

Six Flags Magic Mountain - The Xtreme Park

Magic Mountain is a 260 acre theme park and entertainment complex located a short distance north of Los Angeles
There are over 100 rides (including 16 super-scream roller coasters), shows and attractions.

A Story from Little Red Hen

2008-09-05T08:48:00.000-07:00

Allow me to share the latest story to hit my mailbox. However, I've changed the names to protect the guilty.

Once upon a time, on a farm in Texas , there was a little red hen who scratched about the barnyard until she uncovered quite a few grains of wheat.

She called all of her neighbors together and said, 'If we plant this wheat, we shall have bread to eat. Who will help me plant it?'

'Not I,' said the cow.

'Not I,' said the duck.

'Not I,' said the pig.

'Not I,' said the goose.

'Then I will do it by myself,' said the little red hen, and so she did. The wheat grew very tall and ripened into golden grain.

'Who will help me reap my wheat?' asked the little red hen.

'Not I,' said the duck.

'Out of my classification,' said the pig.

'I'd lose my seniority,' said the cow.

'I'd lose my unemployment compensation,' said the goose.

'Then I will do it by myself,' said the little red hen, and so she did.

At last it came time to bake the bread.

'Who will help me bake the bread?' asked the little red hen.

'That would be overtime for me,' said the cow.

'I'd lose my welfare benefits,' said the duck.

'I'm a dropout and never learned how,' said the pig.

'If I'm to be the only helper, that's discrimination,' said the goose.

'Then I will do it by myself,' said the little red hen.

She baked five loaves and held them up for all of her neighbors to see. They wanted some and, in fact, demanded a share. But the little red hen said, 'No, I shall eat all five loaves.'

'Excess profits!' cried the cow.

'Capitalist leech!' screamed the duck.

'I demand equal rights!' yelled the goose.

The pig just grunted in disdain.

And they all painted 'Unfair!' picket signs and marched around and around the little red hen, shouting obscenities.

Then the farmer came. He said to the little red hen, 'You must not be so greedy.'

'But I earned the bread,' said the little red hen.

'Exactly,' said the farmer. 'That is what makes our free enterprise system so wonderful. Anyone in the barnyard can earn as much as he wants. But under our modern government regulations, the productive workers must divide the fruits of their labor with those who are lazy and idle.'

And they all lived happily ever after, including the little red hen, who smiled and clucked, 'I am grateful, for now I truly understand.'

But her neighbors became quite disappointed in her. She never again baked bread because she joined the 'party' and got her bread free. And all the Democrats smiled. 'Fairness' had been established.

Individual initiative had died, but nobody noticed; perhaps no one cared...so long as there was free bread that 'the rich' were paying for.

IS THIS A GREAT BARNYARD OR WHAT?

Camp Pendleton Race Series

2008-09-04T11:16:00.000-07:00

Camp Pendleton near Oceanside California Features a very active racing schedule year round. This year's famous mud run is all sold out - but watch for the next one.

Biking, running, triathlons, obstacle courses, mud run - through the scenic rolling hills of the Camp Pendleton USMC Base.
Camp Pendleton Bulldog Bike Race [MAR] - 26 mile race with ocean views are throughout the majority of the course; this is one of four opportunities to ride on base.
Camp Pendleton Devil Dog Duathlon [APR] - 5K Run / 30K Bike / 5K Run through Area 43 along Las Pulgas Rd.
Camp Pendleton Mountain Warfare Challenge Bishop CA [MAY] - a challenging 10K off-road run at high altitude with obstacles such as tire course, low crawl, five-foot wall climb, and tunnel crawl.
Camp Pendleton Mud Run [JUN] - world famous mud run on the USMC base - a challenging 10K run with hills, tire obstacles, river crossings, two 5-foot walls with mud on both sides, tunnel crawl, slippery hill climb, and the final 30-foot mud pit.
Camp Pendleton International Triathlon [July 4th] - The 1.5K swim is in the boat basin / out & back 40K ride / 10K double loop run.
Camp Pendleton Sprint Triathalon [AUG] - The venue area will be at ACU-5, Home of the Swift Intruders - 500M swim / 30k Bike Ride / 5K Run.
Heartbreak Ridge Half Marathon - Camp Pendleton [SEP] - This race draws over 1,000 runners who compete for awards in 50 categories on a 13.1 mile all gravel off-road course.
Buffalo Alley 10K - Camp Pendleton [NOV] - formerly the "Horno Ridge Run" - is the ultimate in Hard Corps Competition in a cross-country 10K.

Imperial Valley Winter Escape

2008-09-02T14:35:00.000-07:00

Tour California Imperial Valley Vacation Resorts :

Located in the remote southeastern corner of the State of California, this desert area presents great adventure opportunities for the non-summer months. Hiking, exploring, wildlife, fishing and river treks along the Lower Colorado River and Salton Sea. Imperial Valley is also home to several great off-road vehicle sand dune recreation areas.

El Centro is the commercial hub for the agriculturally rich Imperial Valley. Irrigation successfully transformed a barren desert into productive farmland. Best crops are tomatoes, sugar beets, melons and lettuce. Most of El Centro is located at elevation 45 feet below sea level.

Borrego Springs is certainly one of the most scenic desert resort areas of California. The desert valleys are bordered by 9,000 foot mountain peaks. Some have said that Borrego Springs is what Palm Springs was 50 years ago - peaceful, quiet, relaxing. There are no stoplights in Borrego.

600,000 acre Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, the largest state park in the contiguous United States and voted the #1 state park in California by National Geographic. This area was first traversed by Spanish explorer Juan Batiste de Anza in 1774. Visitors can traverse canyons full of desert palms, ancient pictographs,
majestic cactus and early spring wildflowers.

Cibola NWR is located in the floodplain of the lower Colorado River and surrounded by a fringe of desert ridges and washes. The refuge encompasses the historic Colorado River channel and several important backwater areas that are home to many wildlife species. Because of the river’s life sustaining water, wildlife here survive in an environment that reaches 120 degrees in the summer and receives an average of only 2 inches of rain per year.

Anza-Borrego SP *
Borrego Springs *
Brawley *
Calexico *
Calipatria *
El Centro *
NAF El Centro *
Holtville *
Imperial *
Lower Colorado *
Salton Sea *
Winterhaven

Explore the Redwood Coast

2008-08-28T13:13:00.000-07:00

Explore the California Redwood Coast.
Since the early 1930's, Klamath has been the secret vacation retreat for outdoor adventurers. Find over 1200 RV and camping sites, one of the states largest river, Redwood National and State parks and miles of uncrowded beaches.

The Redwood National and State Parks (RNSP) features an impressive diversity of nature. Considered as one of the most unique ecosystems on our planet where there is a serene balance between ancient coast redwood groves, gray whales, black bears, banana slugs and much more. Includes Del Norte, Jedediah Smith and Prairie Creek Redwoods State Parks. Visit the world famous Redwood groves containing the largest redwoods.

In the late 1800's western expansion and development threatened the continued existence of these majestic trees. By 1900 the future of old growth redwood forests was in jeopardy. Both state and federal government started to come forward to create parkland reserves to protect the trees and associated habitat in the 1920's.

Today, visitors to RNSP will find not only old-growth redwood groves but open prairie lands, two major rivers, and 37 miles (60 km) of pristine California coastline. The redwoods thrive in a temperate ecosystem and require lots of precipitation. The climate is 40 - 60 degrees year round along the wild redwood coastline.

One unique highlight is Trees of Mystery. This is an 8/10ths of a mile groomed interpretive trail through the awe-inspiring Redwoods of Northern California. Part of the trail (The Trail of Tall Tales)is devoted to the myth and mythology of Paul Bunyan, America's larger-than-life logger from the turn of the century.

The Coastal Trail runs 25 miles through the combined length of the Redwood National and State Parks. It passes through a variety of spectacular habitat including bluffs, deserted beaches, grasslands, forest covered glades. Access points include Fern Canyon, Crescent Beach and Damnation Creek. Other trails access the wild coastline and provide vistas to rock promonitories that are home to sea lion colonies and overlook whale migration routes. Some trails are suitable for horse and/or bike.

Crescent City *
Crescent City Harbor *
Klamath *
Redwood N.P. *
Six Rivers N.F. *
Smith River

Californians Take Gold in Olympics

2008-08-22T08:37:00.000-07:00

Both the Women's and Men's USA Beach Volleyball Teams captured gold medals in the olympics this week. Both of these two-person teams orginated from California.

First the women's team of Mays and Walsh defeated the home team of China.

Secondly the men's team of Rogers - Dauhalzer defeated a very tough Brazilian team.
beach volleyballers Phil Dalhausser and Todd Rogers have made history by winning the men's gold medal at the Beijing Olympics. The temperature in Beijing was hitting 100 degrees on the giant outdoor thermometer and the players sweat added a lot of extra spin to the ball.

Rogers built a regulation size beach volleyball court in the backyard of his home in Solvang and is expected to be grand marshall at the town's christmas parade.

Volleyball is the second most popular sport in Brazil (after soccer) but the Brazilians lost control when 6 foot 9 inch Calhausser repeatedly blocked shot after shot at the net. While the Americans get the gold - the two Brazilian teams earn both Silver and Bronze medals.

Kerri Walsh and Misty May-Treanor won their second consecutive gold medal Thursday for women's beach volleyball by beating China's Wang Jie and Tian Jia in a driving rain storm which made for very slick ball. Volleyball is played in all weather conditions.

Sea-Life Aquarium opens in Carlsbad

2008-08-11T12:33:00.000-07:00

I just got back from the Grand Opening of the Sea-Life Aquarium opened today on the Legland California property in Carlsbad California. It was neet to see all of the celebrities, civic leaders and executives from Legoland and Merlin Entertainment Group (the owner / operator of Legoland and Sea-Life). Actor Christian La Fuentes was their guest speaker.

Sea-Life is Merlin's Aquarium Theme Park brand from Europe where it is quite popular. This is their first such development in North America. Is is also the first Aquarium of any kind in the San Diego North County region.

The Aquarium has a lively assortment of Reef-Fish, Sharks, and Rays. Most impressive are the colorful displays of Sea-Horses and Clown Fish. Their octopus seemed unusually lively this morning - perhaps from being entertained by the new crowd.

Scattered about facility are number of children's activity stations which certainly jazzes up the place for the young guests. Children ages 2-10 form Legoland's core market group.

Upstairs is a fresh restaurant serving quality lunch fare. This happened to included some nicely grilled fish. (Boy, I hope it didn't come from one of the exhibits below.)

Coastal Commission Approves New Project

2008-08-07T08:35:00.000-07:00

What will become the world's largest drinking water desalination project has been approved by the California State Coast Commission.

The project is slated to go into a former power plant located along the coast in Carlsbad, CA. The San Diego Region has been running short on fresh water supplies for the last decade. It is now seen as economically feasible to build their own drinking water plant.

Poseidon Resources can start construction in 2009 and fresh water should be flowing by 2011.

Fire Copter Crash near Redding

2008-08-06T13:26:00.000-07:00

A large bright yellow Sikorsky S-61 with 13 aboard has crashed. Nine firefighters are presumed dead. The Sikorsky S-61 can transport 18 firefighters and drop up to 1,000 gallons of water via a bucket suspended from the bottom.

Four firefighters were badly burned in the crash, which took place at about 7:30 p.m. Tuesday about 15 miles northwest of Junction City, west of Redding.

The firefighters were hurt when their Sikorsky S-61 helicopter crashed near the north end of the so-called Buckhorn Fire, which has burned nearly 25 square miles.

Ventura County HotSpot hits 812 Degrees

2008-08-06T10:04:00.000-07:00

Fire experts and geologists are baffled by a geological anamoly located in Ventura County. The ground temperatures have soared to over 800 degrees and have caused a small brush fire.

The spot is located in a remote canyon a few miles north of Fillmore.
The anomaly was discovered after the land got so hot that it started a brush fire and burned three acres last month.

The area has recorded high temperatures at least five times since 1987, Allen King, a retired geologist with the U.S. Forest Service told the newspaper.

The hot spot is located in steep, rugged terrain a few miles north of the town of Fillmore on land owned by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management and leased by Seneca Resources Corp.

Officials who are familiar with the patch of land, which is near the large Sespe Oil Field, have come up with a few theories as to why the ground soared to 812 degrees fahrenheit on August 1.

One theory is that natural hydrocarbons, such as oil or gas, are burning deep in the earth and seeping out through cracks in the area, causing the surface to rapidly heat and generate smoke.

Fire officials are taking no chances - they have cleared all brush in the area and cut fire lines surrounding the location.

For more Ventura County Adventure News - click here.

More State Paycuts

2008-08-06T09:57:00.001-07:00

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's administration on Tuesday asked state Controller John Chiang to temporarily cut the pay of roughly 180,000 state employees while exempting about 50,000 workers in a patchwork of departments.

Schwarzenegger's formal pay letter moves him closer to a legal battle with Chiang, whose office said Tuesday he will defy the instructions and continue to pay full salaries to state workers.

The governor signed an executive order last week that terminated 10,133 part-time and temporary employees while banning overtime for most workers and attempting to slash salaries until a state budget is approved.

More details follow at the Sacramento Bee

Birding on LA's Ballona Creek

2008-08-06T09:24:00.000-07:00

The LA Times has a new bird watcher:

"Scout for winged creatures along the L.A. waterway. Hikers and bikers get an eyeful: herons, egrets, pelicans. And everywhere, gulls."

"This birding hot spot is not in the Florida Everglades or a remote wilderness. It's right in Los Angeles, along Ballona Creek as it flows west toward Santa Monica Bay, emptying in the Marina del Rey area. I'm seeing all these species while standing near a Marina Freeway overpass where cars whoosh by, their occupants oblivious to nature's bounty below."

Click HERE for this new adventure report by Jane Engell.

Massive ID Theft Ring Busted in San Diego

2008-08-06T09:02:00.001-07:00

Of the 11 suspects arrested, most were from foreign countries.

For three years, San Diego-based Secret Service agents used the Internet to communicate with thieves, part of an investigation that has led to the prosecution of what federal officials call the largest identity-theft ring ever busted.
“The investigation started here in San Diego,” local U.S. Attorney Karen Hewitt said yesterday. “It spread across the country and around the world.”
Three of those charged are U.S. citizens. The others are from Estonia, Ukraine, Belarus and China.
Officials say the full breadth of the conspiracy is staggering – more than 40 million credit and debit card numbers stolen from some of the nation's most popular retail chains.
The thieves hacked into wireless networks of retailers, including BJ's Wholesale Club, OfficeMax, Boston Market, Barnes & Noble, Sports Authority, Forever 21 and DSW, as well as TJX Cos., owners of Marshalls and T.J. Maxx, authorities said.

MLB Baseball Roundup

2008-08-06T06:25:00.000-07:00

The Padres, Giants and Oakland A's are all having one of their worst seasons ever. The only highlight of their games is when they manage to breakup the no-hitter their opponents have started for the prior six innings.

However Angels and Dodgers fans are having a blast cheering for their teams.

The Angels are currently in first place in the American League West with a 10.5 game lead over the Texas Rangers. They are the only team in MLB to have racked 70 wins this season. This week they host the Baltimore Orioles at home. This weekend (Fri-Sun), they host the Yankees at home.

Buy tickets and check their upcoming game schedule Here.

The LA Dodgers are in a hard fight with the Arizona Diamondbacks, currently trailing by just two games. Currently they are on a roadtrip in St. Louis.

Buy tickets and check their upcoming game schedule Here.

Californian Olympian - Valerie Gotay

2008-08-06T06:18:00.000-07:00

She lasted tried to compete in the 1992 Summer Games in Barcelona, but just barely missed the weighin for her weight class but now Temecula resident and Judo Champion, Valerie Gotay is ready to compete in Beijing next week.

Any other Californians in the Olympics?

Being an athlete and training for the Olympics can be challenging enough.

Now, try doing it while juggling the tasks of training with those of being a mom.

Striking that balance between sport and motherhood is a reality for 17 American women competing at the 2008 Olympics.

Her story Here

Blog Launch

2008-08-05T15:59:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the Californian Adventurer Blog where we will post daily the latest news of all fun and exciting things for California that we can find.