Author: Benjamin T.

Gwen’s Garden: A Living Tribute at Del Mar’s Dog Beach Removed

UPDATE: In February 2025 construction crews started removing and breaking down the garden spaces for an upcoming bridge project south of North Beach. It has yet to be determined what has happened to the painted memorial rocks that were placed at Gwen;s Garden.

Sometimes, the most special places aren’t grand landmarks, but small pockets of community heart, grown organically from love and dedication. For years, Gwen’s Garden, also known as the Dog Beach Memorial Garden, was exactly that – a unique and touching oasis located not in Solana Beach itself, but right at the entrance to the famous Del Mar North Beach (Dog Beach), which sits just south of the Solana Beach border.

While visitors flocked to the wide sands for off-leash fun (seasonally permitted!), many discovered this unexpected gem near the access path. But like many grassroots projects, its story has recently taken an uncertain turn.

The Story Behind the Garden

Gwen’s Garden wasn’t designed by a committee; it was born from the love of one man for his dog. Local Del Mar resident Jimmy Joe Gooding started the garden in memory of his beloved yellow Labrador, Gwen, who adored her daily visits to Dog Beach.

Seeing the entrance area as neglected, Mr. Gooding took it upon himself to clean it up and plant flowers and succulents, initially using his own resources. What started as a personal tribute and a beautification effort under Del Mar’s “Adopt a Spot” program blossomed into something more.

A Tapestry of Love and Remembrance

Over the years, Gwen’s Garden became a cherished landmark. It featured:

  • A Winding Path: Guiding visitors through the small plot.
  • Lush Greenery: A mix of succulents, wildflowers, and eventually, efforts to include native species.
  • Whimsical Touches: Visitors often found little statues – dogs, angels, gnomes – tucked among the plants.
  • Painted Rocks: This became the garden’s most poignant feature. Hundreds of smooth stones, lovingly painted by visitors with the names and paw prints of their own departed canine companions, lined the path and filled the spaces.
  • A Sense of Peace: It was a quiet spot for reflection, remembrance, and appreciating the simple, powerful bond between humans and their pets.

An Uncertain Present

Gwen’s Garden represented community spirit, but it also faced challenges. Located on state land, the garden ran into permitting issues with the Coastal Commission, particularly regarding non-native plants and unpermitted structures like pathways.

Crucially, reports surfaced in early 2025 suggesting the garden had been significantly altered or possibly removed.Reasons cited included these ongoing permitting issues, potential safety concerns, and the land possibly being needed for future construction related to a nearby bridge project.

While the exact status today is difficult to confirm without visiting, photos and discussions from that time indicated the area may have been cleared, with the fate of the hundreds of memorial rocks uncertain (perhaps moved to storage or an exhibit).

The Enduring Spirit

Whether Gwen’s Garden exists today in its previous cherished form or not, its story remains a testament to:

  • The Love for Pets: A powerful motivator for creating beauty and community.
  • Individual Action: How one person’s dedication can create something meaningful for many.
  • Shared Remembrance: The comfort found in sharing grief and happy memories in a dedicated space.

Visiting Del Mar Dog Beach Today

If you visit Del Mar North Beach (Dog Beach), the beautiful stretch of sand where dogs can run free (seasonally off-leash, check rules!) is still there. However, be prepared that the specific memorial garden area at the entrance may look very different from photos and descriptions from previous years.

Gwen’s Garden was a special place born from a simple idea: honoring a beloved companion. While its physical form may be subject to change, the love and memories it represented undoubtedly linger in the sea air for all who knew it.

Discover Balboa Park’s Resident Free Days: A Guide for San Diego Locals

Balboa Park, the cultural heart of San Diego, offers a unique opportunity for residents to explore its world-class museums without the usual admission fees. Through the Resident Free Days program, local residents and active-duty military personnel can enjoy complimentary access to select museums on designated Tuesdays each month. Here’s how you can make the most of this fantastic offering.​

First Tuesday:

  • Fleet Science Center (exhibits only; films not included)
  • San Diego Natural History Museum (exhibits only; films not included)
  • San Diego Model Railroad Museum

Second Tuesday:

  • San Diego Air & Space Museum (exhibits only; special exhibitions not included)
  • Comic-Con Museum (excluding November and December)
  • The Veterans Museum at Balboa Park

Third Tuesday:

Note: Schedules are subject to change, and some museums may have exclusions or blackout dates. It’s advisable to check the official Balboa Park Resident Free Days schedule for the most current information.​

Animals on the Bay Day : Living Coast Center

Animals on the Bay Day 2025

Animals on the Bay Day is back! For just $5 per person, you can spend the day with the Living Coast while engaging with animal ambassadors, meeting the faces of our partner organizations, exploring the wildlife refuge, participating in educational activities, enjoying food trucks, and more!

Visit https://www.thelivingcoast.org/programs-events-upcoming-events/animals-on-the-bay-day-2025/ to purchase the reduced $5 tickers.

New for 2025 are timed Entry Tickets in 4 different time blocks

10am-11am, 11:30am-12:30pm, 1pm-2pm, 2:30pm-3:30pm

ATTENDING PARTNER ORGANIZATIONS

From Desert Blooms to Rainforest Trails: Inside the San Diego Botanic Garden

Located around 27 miles north of downtown San Diego in Encinitas lies the San Diego Botanic Garden (SDBG). The property offers a lush escape into a world of diverse plant life and natural beauty. Spanning 37 acres, this vibrant garden showcases over 5,000 plant species across 29 uniquely themed gardens, providing visitors with a global botanical experience.

Planning Your Visit

  • Location: 300 Quail Gardens Drive, Encinitas, CA 92024​
  • Hours: Open Wednesday through Monday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. (closed on Tuesdays, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day) .
  • Admission: Adults $18; Seniors, Military, Students $12; Youth (3–17) $10; Children under 3 free; Members enjoy free admission .​
  • Tickets: Reservations are strongly recommended, especially during peak times, to ensure entry .​
  • Accessibility: The garden offers accessible pathways and facilities to accommodate all visitors .​
  • Check what is in Bloom before you go via their website

Throughout the year different events are held at the garden. Some personal highlights include the World of Orchids, extended evening hours every Thursday with special events, concerts, and the serene beauty of the Garden at dusk. During the winter holiday season the garden turns into a luminous wonderland with artistic and sound installations along a one-mile trail.

Welcome to the Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center in Chula Vista

Set to open on May 15, 2025, the Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center is poised to become a landmark destination on the West Coast. Located in Chula Vista, California, this $1.3 billion development is the largest hotel built on the West Coast and the sixth addition to the Gaylord Hotels portfolio under Marriott Bonvoy. The Gaylord Pacific Resort is expected to generate significant economic benefits for Chula Vista and the broader San Diego region. The Bayfront Developement project includes upgrades to parks, open spaces, retail shops, and restaurants, preserving coastal resources and honoring local heritage.

To learn more about the Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center in Chula Vista visit their website https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/sange-gaylord-pacific-resort-and-convention-center/overview/

New South Bay Park Grand Opening

Discover Your New Favorite Park: Features Galore!

This isn’t just a patch of grass; Sweetwater Park is thoughtfully designed to blend recreation with the unique natural beauty of our bayfront environment. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Play Naturally: Kids (and the young at heart) will love the nature-themed playgrounds. These aren’t your average swings and slides; they incorporate educational elements about local wildlife, making playtime both fun and informative.
  • Walk, Bike, Explore: Lace-up your sneakers or grab your bike! The park boasts 2.5 miles of new pathways, some paved and some with softer surfaces, perfect for a leisurely stroll, a morning jog, or a family bike ride. Plus, it connects seamlessly with the existing Sweetwater Bicycle and Pedestrian Path.
  • Connect with Nature: True to its location next to the Sweetwater Marsh National Wildlife Refuge, the park features sand dunes, meadows, mounded grasslands, and specialty gardens filled with native plants. It’s a fantastic spot for bird watching, enjoying stunning bay views from scenic overlooks, or simply finding a quiet moment. Keep an eye out for the Kumeyaay signage integrated throughout the park, honoring the area’s original inhabitants.
  • Art on the Bayfront: Look for the striking “Rigors of Flight” public art sculpture by Roberto Salas. This impressive 25-foot-tall piece, resembling a wishbone, pays tribute to the abundant birdlife of the region.
  • Relax and Gather: Plenty of seating areas and picnic spots are strategically placed for you to relax, enjoy a snack, and soak in the beautiful surroundings.

More Than Just a Park

Part of a Grand Vision (The Chula Vista Bayfront Master Plan): Sweetwater Park wasn’t just a standalone idea. It’s a key piece of the massive 535-acre Chula Vista Bayfront redevelopment project. This ambitious plan, a joint effort between the Port of San Diego and the City of Chula Vista, has been in the works for decades. The goal has always been to transform our underutilized industrial waterfront into a vibrant destination with resorts (like the adjacent Gaylord Pacific), convention space, housing, retail, and crucially, significant new public parks and improved access to the bay.

Why You Need to Visit ASAP!

  • It’s BRAND NEW! Be among the first to explore this fantastic addition to Chula Vista.
  • Something for Everyone: Whether you want active play, peaceful nature walks, or a spot for a picnic with a view, this park has it.
  • Beautiful Setting: The focus on native plants and natural design makes it a truly lovely place to spend time, with great views of the bay.
  • It’s FREE! Access to this amazing community resource costs absolutely nothing.
  • It’s Ours! This is a wonderful new asset for all Chula Vista residents to enjoy.

Planning Your Visit

Ready to check it out? Here’s the essential info:

  • Location: You’ll find it on the Chula Vista Bayfront, just north of the Gaylord Pacific Resort. The Port lists the address as 845 E St, Chula Vista, CA 91910 (near the Gunpowder Point Drive area).
  • Hours: The park is open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:30 PM.
  • Parking: Good news! There’s ample public parking available (around 219 spaces).
  • Cost: Free!

Go Explore Sweetwater Park!

Have you visited Sweetwater Park yet? Let us know what you think in the comments below!

Celebrating Día del Niño in Chula Vista

Get Ready for Joy! Celebrating Día del Niño in Chula Vista

Spring is in the air in Chula Vista, and that means one of the most vibrant and joyful community celebrations is just around the corner: Día del Niño (Day of the Child)! Traditionally celebrated near the end of April (often close to April 30th), this special day is all about recognizing, honoring, and celebrating children. And here in Chula Vista, the community typically comes together for a fantastic, family-friendly event filled with fun, laughter, and learning.

Date: Saturday April 19th, 2025 Memorial Park and 3rd Avenue from 10am to 3pm

What is Día del Niño?

Originating in Mexico and celebrated widely across Latin America and increasingly in the US, Día del Niño is a day dedicated to the little ones in our lives. It emphasizes the importance of children in society, promotes their well-being, and provides a wonderful occasion for families to spend quality time together. It often intertwines literacy and learning with pure fun!

What to Expect at Chula Vista’s Celebration (Based on Past Events)

Chula Vista’s Día del Niño events are typically a feast for the senses, designed to bring smiles to children’s faces. Based on past celebrations, families can often look forward to:

  • Loads of Activities: Think colorful craft stations where kids can get creative, exciting games to play, engaging story times, and maybe even face painting or balloon artists.
  • Live Entertainment: Often, there’s music or performances geared towards a young audience, adding to the festive atmosphere.
  • Community Connections: Various city departments (like the Library, Parks & Rec, Police, and Fire) and local organizations often participate, setting up informational booths, offering activities, and sometimes bringing cool vehicles like fire trucks or police cars for kids to see up close.
  • Focus on Literacy: In line with the spirit of Día del Niño/Día del Libro, many events include free book giveaways or reading-related activities, promoting a love for books and learning.
  • A Vibrant Atmosphere: Expect parks or community centers buzzing with energy, laughter, and families enjoying a day dedicated entirely to kids. Best of all, these events are usually free to attend!

Stay Tuned for 2025 Details!

Here is a photos of some of the cars that joined the 2025 car show

Heritage of the Americas Museum

 

https://www.heritageoftheamericasmuseum.com

12110 Cuyamaca College Drive West El Cajon, CA Hours: Tuesday – Friday 10am-3pm Closed Sunday/Monday

The Heritage of the Americas Museum, is located on the campus of Cuyamaca College in El Cajon, Ca. It is a  cultural & educational facility showcasing the prehistoric and historic art, culture, and natural history of the Americas through four wings of exhibits: Natural History, Archaeology, Anthropology and Art. The Tropical Garden Patio, the Desert Garden Patio, and the surrounding landscaping may be considered a fifth wing. At the heart of the museum is their unique gift shop. Come and enjoy a “Journey Through Time” at this amazing museum, which invites visitors of all ages to experience a journey through time.

Every second Friday of the month, both the Heritage of the Americas and the Waster Conservation Garden next door grants visitors  FREE Admission

Beacon of the Bay: The Timeless Charm of Cabrillo Lighthouse

Perched high atop the rugged cliffs of Point Loma, overlooking the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean and the bustling San Diego Bay, stands the iconic Cabrillo National Monument and its crowning jewel: the Old Point Loma Lighthouse. This historic beacon, a silent sentinel of the sea, offers not just breathtaking views but a glimpse into the rich maritime history of Southern California.

A Light in the Darkness:

Built in 1855, the Old Point Loma Lighthouse was one of the earliest lighthouses on the West Coast. Its purpose was simple yet vital: to guide ships safely into San Diego Bay. For 36 years, its powerful beam cut through the darkness, warning sailors of the treacherous coastline.

However, its elevation, while scenic, proved problematic. Fog and low clouds often obscured the light, rendering it ineffective. In 1891, the lighthouse was decommissioned, and a new, lower-elevation lighthouse was built closer to the water’s edge.

More Than Just a Lighthouse:

Today, the Old Point Loma Lighthouse stands as a museum, offering visitors a fascinating look into the lives of the lighthouse keepers and their families. Stepping inside, you’re transported back in time, experiencing the simple yet demanding life of those who dedicated themselves to keeping the light burning.

  • The Keeper’s Quarters: Explore the restored living quarters, furnished as they would have been in the late 19th century. Imagine the isolation and the constant vigilance required to maintain the light.
  • The Tower Climb: Venture up the winding staircase to the lantern room, where the Fresnel lens once shone brightly. While the original lens is now on display at the visitor center, the panoramic views from the tower are nothing short of spectacular.
  • The Panoramic Views: Beyond the historical significance, the Cabrillo National Monument offers some of the most stunning vistas in San Diego. From the lighthouse grounds, you can see the city skyline, Coronado Island, the vast Pacific Ocean, and even migrating whales during certain seasons.

Cabrillo National Monument: A Broader Historical Perspective:

The lighthouse is just one part of the Cabrillo National Monument. The monument also commemorates Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, the first European to set foot on what is now the West Coast of the United States. In 1542, Cabrillo’s expedition landed in San Diego Bay, marking a significant moment in California’s history.

  • The Cabrillo Statue: A large statue of Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo overlooks the bay, a testament to his historic voyage.
  • The Tidepools: Down the hill from the lighthouse, the rocky tidepools offer a unique opportunity to explore the diverse marine life that thrives in this coastal ecosystem.
  • The Bayside Trail: This trail offers fantastic views of the bay and the city.

Planning Your Visit:

  • The Cabrillo National Monument is open daily, with varying hours.
  • There is an entrance fee to the monument.
  • Be prepared for windy conditions, especially at the higher elevation.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as there is some walking involved.
  • Bring a camera to capture the breathtaking views.

A Timeless Treasure:

The Cabrillo Lighthouse is more than just a historical landmark; it’s a symbol of perseverance, dedication, and the enduring connection between humanity and the sea. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a stunning view, a visit to the Cabrillo National Monument and its iconic lighthouse is an experience you won’t soon forget. It’s a reminder of the past, a celebration of the present, and a window to the vast and ever-changing beauty of the Pacific Coast.

Desert X: Where Art Meets the Arid Landscape

Desert X isn’t your typical art exhibition. It’s a site-specific, recurring exhibition that transforms the Coachella Valley’s vast, arid landscape into an open-air art gallery. Imagine sculptures rising from the desert floor, installations playing with light and shadow against the mountains, and interactive pieces that invite you to engage with the environment in new ways. That’s Desert X.

To learn more about Desert X visit their website https://desertx.org

A Sanctuary in the Desert

Located in Desert Hot Springs, “Soul Service Station” is more than just a visual spectacle; it’s an invitation to pause, reflect, and replenish. Saar reimagines the familiar image of a roadside gas station, transforming it into a spiritual oasis. Here’s what makes it so compelling:

  • Reclaiming and Reimagining:
    • Saar draws inspiration from the gas stations that dot the American West, including those within the Coachella Valley, but she infuses her creation with a profound sense of spiritual nourishment.
    • The station offers “fuel for the soul,” inviting visitors to “get their blues flushed, spirits inflated, hearts charged, and souls filled.”
  • A Space for Healing and Hope:
    • Inside the station, a carefully curated sculptural assemblage, handcrafted by Saar, features a collection of devotional objects.
    • Collaborating with Coachella Valley students, Saar has incorporated foil repoussé medallions, expressing prayers and wishes for healing and hope, adding a vital community element to the installation.
  • Powerful Symbolism:
    • A life-size, hand-carved female figure stands at the center, serving as the guardian and healer of the site, radiating strength and protection.
    • A repurposed gas pump dispenses poetry by Los Angeles–based poet Harryette Mullen, adding a rich layer of literary depth to the experience.
  • Material and Metaphor:
    • Saar’s use of found and salvaged materials is central to her practice. She imbues these objects with new meaning, honoring the histories and cultural memories they carry, particularly those related to Black female identity.

A Unique Artistic Experience

What makes Desert X so captivating is its profound connection to its location. The artists invited to participate are challenged to create works that respond to the unique geological, ecological, and social context of the Coachella Valley. This results in art that isn’t just placed in the desert, but rather, emerges from it.

Here are some key aspects that define Desert X:

  • Site-Specificity: The artworks are designed specifically for the desert environment, taking into account the landscape’s scale, light, and climate. This creates a dialogue between art and nature.
  • Environmental Awareness: Many installations address themes of climate change, water scarcity, and the delicate balance of the desert ecosystem.
  • Exploration and Discovery: Desert X encourages visitors to explore the vastness of the Coachella Valley, leading them on a journey of discovery and reflection.
  • Public Engagement: The exhibition is free and open to the public, making art accessible to a wide audience.

Past Installations: A Glimpse into the Extraordinary

Over the years, Desert X has featured a diverse range of captivating installations. Some notable examples include:

  • Doug Aitken’s “Mirage” (2017): A mirrored house that reflected the surrounding desert, creating a surreal and disorienting experience.
  • Jennifer Bolande’s “Visible Distance” (2019): Billboards displaying images of the mountains, strategically placed to align with the actual mountain range, blurring the lines between reality and representation.
  • Christopher Myers’ “The Art of Taming Horses” (2023): Sculptures and flags that explored the history of the Buffalo Soldiers in the area.
  • Alicja Kwade’s “ParaPivot (sempiternal clouds)” (2023): A sculpture that appeared to be made of large, displaced stones, which created a visually stunning contrast with the desert surroundings.

More Than Just Art

Desert X is more than just an art exhibition; it’s an experience. It’s a chance to:

  • Reconnect with nature in a profound way.
  • Challenge your perceptions of art and landscape.
  • Engage in meaningful conversations about the environment.
  • Discover the beauty and fragility of the desert ecosystem.

Planning Your Visit

If you’re planning a trip to the Coachella Valley, be sure to check the Desert X website for the latest information on upcoming exhibitions. Remember to:

  • Bring plenty of water and sunscreen.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking and exploring.
  • Plan your route carefully, as the installations are spread across a large area.
  • Respect the environment and leave no trace.

Desert X is a testament to the power of art to transform our perception of the world around us. It’s a reminder that even in the most seemingly barren landscapes, beauty and creativity can flourish.