#Bay Area Cultural Heritage

[epadosi1]

https://www.epadosi.com/bay-area/religious-places

Discover the Best Religious Places in Bay Area with ePadosi

If you’re looking to explore religious places in Bay Area, ePadosi is your ultimate resource. The Bay Area is a cultural and spiritual hub, with diverse religious communities offering a range of services, events, and celebrations. Whether you're seeking a temple for worship, a mosque for prayers, a gurudwara for seva, or a church for community service, ePadosi simplifies the process by providing an extensive directory of religious places in Bay Area.

With ePadosi, you can:

Easily find religious sites: Our platform features temples, mosques, gurudwaras, churches, and more, making it a one-stop solution for anyone looking to connect with their faith in the Bay Area.

Stay updated on events: From Diwali and Eid celebrations to Christmas services, ePadosi provides detailed information about cultural and religious events happening at different religious venues.

Connect with communities: Whether you're looking for a place to worship, join a spiritual group, or participate in local religious activities, ePadosi helps you find the right community that shares your values.

Explore the rich spiritual and cultural landscape of the Bay Area with ePadosi and find the religious places in Bay Area that resonate with your beliefs. Start your spiritual journey today!

[trapangeles]

Kendrick Lamar’s "Squabble Up": A Visual Masterpiece of Cultural References and Homage

Kendrick Lamar has once again cemented his place as a visionary artist with the release of his "Squabble Up" music video. Packed with cultural nods, historical tributes, and impactful cameos, the video is a layered exploration of Black culture, West Coast pride, and hip-hop legacy. Here’s a deep dive into the elements that make this visual a masterpiece.

1. Ice-T's Power Album Cover

Kendrick pays homage to Ice-T’s 1988 album Power, one of the foundational pieces of West Coast rap history. By referencing this album, Kendrick honors a pioneer who paved the way for artists to merge raw storytelling with mainstream appeal.

2. David Hammons’ “African-American Flag”

The reinterpretation of the U.S. flag by David Hammons, featuring red, black, and green colors, symbolizes Black identity and resilience. Kendrick’s inclusion of this flag is a nod to empowerment, heritage, and the ongoing fight for equality.

3. Soul Train Scramble Boards

Kendrick incorporates the scramble boards made famous by Soul Train, the iconic Black dance and music show. This nostalgic reference celebrates Black excellence and the cultural impact of the show, which gave countless artists a platform.

4. Trunk Boiz “Scraper Bike” Video

The video nods to the 2007 “Scraper Bike” video by Trunk Boiz, a Bay Area anthem celebrating creativity and individuality. This homage reflects regional pride and highlights how grassroots movements have shaped urban culture.

5. Menace II Society Reference

The tricycle scene is a direct reference to the 1993 urban classic Menace II Society. This moment reminds viewers of the gritty realities of inner-city life and ties Kendrick’s storytelling to a legacy of authentic cinema.

6. Isaac Hayes’ Black Moses Album Cover

Kendrick recreates the cover of Isaac Hayes’ 1971 album Black Moses. This nod pays tribute to a soul music legend whose work represented strength, vulnerability, and empowerment.

7. The Roots’ "The Next Movement" Video

Visual parallels to The Roots’ 1999 “The Next Movement” video highlight Kendrick’s connection to progressive hip-hop storytelling, showing his appreciation for fellow innovators.

8. Nate Dogg Tribute

Kendrick subtly honors West Coast legend Nate Dogg, whose smooth hooks defined an era of hip-hop. This tribute ties the video to the golden age of West Coast rap and acknowledges Nate Dogg’s lasting influence on the culture.

9. “Jesus Saves Gangsters Too” Outreach Ministry

This reference to the grassroots ministry founded in 2000 emphasizes themes of redemption and transformation. By including this, Kendrick underscores his message that no one is beyond saving.

10. Statue of a Black Panther

A striking statue of a Black Panther symbolizes resistance, unity, and empowerment. This imagery connects Kendrick’s work to the legacy of the Black Panther Party and its role in advocating for justice.

11. Ese’s Partying Scene

Kendrick includes a scene of Ese’s partying, highlighting the intersection of Black and Chicano cultures in L.A. This moment is a celebration of diversity and community, integral to the West Coast lifestyle.

12. Big and Curvy Women Dancing

The inclusion of big and curvy women dancing challenges societal beauty standards and celebrates body positivity. Kendrick has long been an advocate for authenticity, and this scene is a bold statement of inclusivity and empowerment.

13. Dog Trainer Bitten by a Pitbull

The scene of a pitbull biting its handler carries layered symbolism. It could represent the struggle between control and rebellion or speak to the unpredictability and survival instincts that define life in the streets.

14. Westside Traffic’s Hoover Stomp

Schoolboy Q’s artist Westside Traffic performs the Hoover Stomp, bringing raw, authentic energy to the video. This moment is a vibrant nod to L.A. street culture and its unique contributions to hip-hop.

15. Storm DeBarge’s Stunning Moves

Choreographer and dancer Storm DeBarge brings dynamic energy to the video with her captivating performance, further showcasing Kendrick’s commitment to highlighting Black artistry.

16. Black Panther Movie Connection

Kendrick subtly nods to his work on the Black Panther movie soundtrack. This acknowledgment reinforces his role as a cultural leader bridging the worlds of art, music, and activism.

17. Cameos from L.A. Stars

The video features appearances by Taz Arnold, G Perico, RJMrLA, and Cuzzos, bringing together a community of creatives who embody the vibrant spirit of L.A.’s music scene.

A Celebration of Culture and Legacy

From its rich cultural references to powerful imagery and standout cameos, Kendrick Lamar’s "Squabble Up" is a layered visual masterpiece. It’s not just a music video—it’s a celebration of resilience, identity, and the enduring legacy of hip-hop.

Have you been spending all your money and time on making music and shooting videos, but still not getting any exposure? Tired of just spinning your wheels? You know to get exposure you need to get featured on blogs, radio stations, playlist, and get your music e-mail blasted out to the masses. Need help getting all that done? Then check out the Package we’ve made available for you below!

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[pinoy-culture]

✨️ I'm coming to the Bay Area and Las Vegas in November! Interested in doing a cultural heritage photoshoot and are in the NYC, San Francisco, or Las Vegas area? Then DM or contact me via my website!

https://thepinayphotographer.mypixieset.com/contact/

I also do travel and have future plans next year for Texas, Chicago, Toronto, and Oregon! So if interested, send an inquiry! Would love to work with you in celebrating and honoring your heritage and ancestors through cultural portraits.

📸 I am also available for graduation and senior portraits, engagements, weddings, events, debuts, dance and theater performances, cosplay, fashion, and family portraits.

[shannendoherty-fans]

Shannen's Native American Descent

We all know Shannen Doherty was of Irish descent through the paternal side of her family.

The Doherty / O’Doherty family is an Irish clan based in County Donegal. The O’Dohertys are named after Dochartach (c. 10th century), a member of the Cenél Conaill dynasty which in medieval Irish genealogy traced itself to Niall of the Nine Hostages. The O’Doherty clan and family name is one of the most ancient in Europe. The clan traces its pedigree through history, pre-history, and mythology to 2BC. (Source)

Shannen and her dad, John Thomas Doherty, in Ireland ca. 1996/97.

Shannen was also from English and Scottish descent through her mother Rosa Elizabeth née Wright. The red-haired Southern belle also has Native American ancestry, most concretley the Chumash people (Source), and thus has Shannen (Source).

Shannen and her mum spending time in nature, ca.2024.

Shannen explained that she wasn't able to be with her dad when he passed away on the 4th of November of 2010. Her best friend Chris Cortazzo told her to spend some quality time with her mother and him at his ranch in Tennesse, which is surrounded by Native American ground. When she was there suddenly the wind shaked the plants and trees and she felt her father’s arms go around her and say “It’s ok baby, I love you. I’m here" (Source) (Source).

Her mother Rosa said that one of her great-great-grandmothers (she doesn't know the grade) was forced to move in the called "Trail of Tears", the forced displacement of approximately 60,000 people of the "Five Civilized Tribes" [Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Muscogee (Creek), and Seminoles] between 1830 and 1850, and the additional thousands of Native Americans within that were ethnically cleansed by the United States government (Wiki). Furthermore, she said her ancestor was from the Chumash people and was forced to move from Mississipi to Oklahoma (Source).

Rosa also said about Shannen's Native American's heritage:

"The whole Indian heritage to Shannen was very, very important ... Shannen swore when she bought this property [a ranch in Malibu to live with her mum, her friends, and to do a shelter for horses]… she says, I just feel it. She says, I know that this is where I'm supposed to be. And she just felt that whole Indian."

Also she was proud of having directed "Charmed"'s episode "The Good, The Bad and The Cursed" that features a storyline involving American's First Nations people's and Native actors Kimberly Guerrero (from Colville and Salish-Kootenai native peoples from Alaska) and Michael Greyeyes (Nêhiyaw (Plains Cree) from Muskeg Lake Cree Nation in Saskatchewan, Canada).

Shannen Doherty (R) with First Nations' actors Kimberley Guerrero and Michael Greyeyes.

The Chumash are a Native American people of the central and southern coastal regions of California (Wiki), in portions of what is now Kern, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Ventura and Los Angeles counties, extending from Morro Bay in the north to Malibu in the south to Mt Pinos in the east. Their territory includes three of the Channel Islands: Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, and San Miguel; the smaller island of Anacapa was likely inhabited seasonally due to the lack of a consistent water source.

Modern place names with Chumash origins include Malibu, Nipomo, Lompoc, Ojai, Pismo Beach, Point Mugu, Port Hueneme, Piru, Lake Castaic, Saticoy, Simi Valley and Somis. Archaeological research demonstrates that the Chumash people have deep roots in the Santa Barbara Channel area and lived along the southern California coast for millennia.

The Chumash lived in over 150 independent villages, speaking variations of the same language. Much of their culture consisted of basketry, bead manufacturing and trading, cuisine of local abalone and clam, herbalism which consisted of using local herbs to produce teas and medical reliefs, rock art, and the scorpion tree. The scorpion tree was significant to the Chumash as shown in its arborglyph: a carving depicting a six-legged creature with a headdress including a crown and two spheres. The shamans participated in the carving which was used in observations of the stars and in part of the Chumash calendar. The Chumash resided between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the California coasts where a bounty of resources could be found. The tribe lived in an area of three environments: the interior, the coast, and the Northern Channel Islands. Some researchers believe that the Chumash may have been visited by Polynesians between AD 400 and 800, nearly 1,000 years before Christopher Columbus reached the Americas.

Chumash Family by American sculptor George S. Stuart

The maritime explorer Juan Cabrillo was the first European to make contact with the coastal Alta Californian tribes in the year 1542. Spain claimed what is now California from that time forward, but did not return to settle until 1769, when the first Spanish soldiers and missionaries arrived with the double purpose of Christianizing the Native Americans and facilitating Spanish colonization. The Chumash people moved from their villages to the Franciscan missions between 1772 and 1817.

Mexico seized control of the missions in 1834. Tribespeople either fled into the interior, attempted farming for themselves and were driven off the land, or were enslaved by the new administrators. After 1849 most Chumash land was lost due to theft by Americans and a declining population, due to the effects of violence and disease. The remaining Chumash began to lose their cohesive identity. In 1855, a small piece of land (120 acres) was set aside for just over 100 remaining Chumash Indians near Santa Ynez mission. This land ultimately became the only Chumash reservation, although Chumash individuals and families also continued to live throughout their former territory in southern California.

No native Chumash speak their own language since Mary Yee, the last Barbareño speaker, died in 1965. Today, the Chumash are estimated to have a population of 5,000 members.

Map of the Trail of Tears

Chumash worldview is centered on the belief "that considers all things to be, in varying measure, alive, intelligent, dangerous, and sacred." "They assume that the universe with its three, or in some versions five, layers has always been here."

Human beings occupy the Middle Region, which rests upon two giant snakes. Chronological time is unimportant, though the past is divided into two sections: the universal flood that caused the First People to become the natural world and, thereafter the creation of human beings, the arrival of the Europeans, and the devastating consequences that followed."

The middle region (sometimes referred to as 'antap), where humans and spirits of this world live and where shamans could travel in vision quests, is interconnected with the lower world (C'oyinahsup) through the springs and marsh areas and is connected to the upper world through the mountains. In the lower world live snakes, frogs, salamanders. The world trembles or has earthquakes when the snakes which support the world writhe.

Water creatures are also in contact with the powers of the lower world and "were often depicted in rock art perhaps to bring more water to the Chumash or to appease underworld spirits' at times of hunger or disease." Itiashap is the home of the First People. Alapay is the upper world in Chumash cosmology where the "sky people" lived, who play an important role in the health of the people. Principle figures of the sky world include the Sun, the Moon, Lizard, Sky Coyote, and Eagle. The Sun is the source of life and is also "a source of disease and death." The Sky Coyote, also known as the Great Coyote of the Sky or Shnilemun, is considered to be a protector and according to Inseño Chumash lore, “looks out for the welfare of all in the world below him”. During the creation of mankind, the Sky Coyote was present among the other important cosmological figures. The Eagle, also known as Slo’w, is the force that maintains momentum and order among the other stars so that they do not fall down on and destroy earth.

Chumash pictographs.

The Chumash cosmology is also centered around astronomy. Rock art and arborglyphs that have been found within Chumash sites are thought to have depicted Polaris (the North Star) and Ursa Major (the Big Dipper). These two astrological entities were paramount to the Chumash belief system as well as their perception of time. It is believed that the Chumash used these constellations to determine what time of the year it was depending on the position of Ursa Major around Polaris.

***

I love that Shannen showed her respect to her ancestry in some "Charmed" episodes, like in 2x10 "Heartbreak City" (click to see if bigger):

Charmed 3x01 "The Honeymoon is Over" (click to see bigger):

And the already mentioned 3x14 "The Good, The Bad and The Cursed" (click to see bigger). Her love for horses also comes from that connection:

[rjzimmerman]

Excerpt from this press release from the Department of the Interior:

Today, the Biden-Harris Administration announced that NOAA is designating 4,543 square miles of coastal and offshore waters along 116 miles of California’s central coast as America’s 17th national marine sanctuary. Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary will conserve the area’s diverse range of marine life and celebrate Indigenous peoples’ connections to the region. It is the third largest sanctuary in the National Marine Sanctuary System.

The sanctuary designation advances President Biden’s ocean conservation legacy and his America the Beautiful Initiative, which supports locally-led collaborative conservation efforts across the country and sets a national goal of protecting, conserving and restoring at least 30% of U.S. lands and waters by 2030. With this designation, the Biden-Harris Administration has now conserved more than 45 million acres of lands and waters.

Stretching from just south of Diablo Canyon Power Plant in San Luis Obispo County to the Gaviota Coast in Santa Barbara County, the sanctuary will bring comprehensive community- and ecosystem-based management to nationally significant natural, historical, archeological and cultural resources — including kelp forests, rocky reefs, sandy beaches, underwater mountains and more than 200 NOAA-documented shipwrecks.

The sanctuary’s boundaries exclude areas where future subsea electrical transmission cables and floating offshore substations could be installed outside the sanctuary to connect the Morro Bay Wind Energy Area to the electrical power grid at Morro Bay and Diablo Canyon Power Plant, ensuring that the sanctuary meets both conservation and clean energy goals. NOAA will consider a potential expansion of the sanctuary in the coming years, after transmission cables have been laid. 

This sanctuary designation is the result of a decade of work by Tribes, Indigenous Peoples, community leaders, organizations, businesses, state and local officials, and members of Congress — including then-Senator and now Vice President Kamala Harris — to develop and advance the vision for the Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary.

[pozechka]

a monthly digest of jewish events, focused on the grassroots, politically progressive, inclusive, queer and trans-positive, and anti-racist. canadian events will be primary, but virtual things & international retreats open to canadian jews will also be included. there’s simply too much happening at once, and i need your help. submit cool jewish events & happenings at bit.ly/submit-to-shtetl. questions? comments? ideas? email me at shtetlcrier@substack.com.

some events and announcements i'd highlight from the 15th issue (june 2024):

Iyyar Circle (A Queer Nigun Project). Join us for A Queer Nigun Project's Iyyar Circle, moving through the introspective Omer period and through the healing month of Iyyar in sweet melody and in community. June 2, 8-9pm ET / 5-6pm PT.

What Do I Do With All This Heritage? (The LUNAR Collective & The Braid). What Do I Do with All This Heritage? dives into our multicultural Jewish future with witty, insightful, and heartbreaking true stories in the first-ever theatre show about the lives of Asian American Jews. June 6 or 9, 7pm ET / 4pm PT or June 9, 2pm ET / 11am PT. Los Angeles, Bay Area and Zoom.

ShavuotLIVE: a 24-hour Festival of Jewish Learning (Judaism Unbound). We don’t just want all-night… we want all-night AND all-day! So we offer an event called ShavuotLIVE, which creates a marathon of 24 straight hours of learning, for FREE, available anywhere on the planet with internet access. 24 hours beginning on June 8, 5pm ET / 2pm PT / 10pm UK.

SVARA's Summer Zman Courses! (SVARA). Summer Zman kicks off with online offerings on June 17th through July 9th. We can’t WAIT to get back to the bet midrash! June 17 through July 9.

Yiddish Neopronouns Workshop (Rad Yiddish & Queer Yiddish Camp). We will start with a crash course on how various nonbinary pronouns are currently used grammatically in Yiddish. Then, you'll get to workshop your own Yiddish pronouns, including translating your English (or other language) neopronouns into Yiddish! June 20, 7:30-9pm ET / 4:30-6pm PT.

Queer Yiddishist Shmueskrayz (Rad Yiddish & Queer Yiddish Camp). Queer Yiddishist Shmueskrayz (conversation practice) is a chance to build rad Yiddish community, learn how to speak about issues we care about in Yiddish, and co-create contemporary Yiddish culture while improving (and improvising) our Yiddish. July 9, 7:30-9pm ET, 4:30-6pm PT.

[shamandrummer]

Environmental Victory for Alaska Natives

On January 8th, the U.S. Supreme Court rejected the State of Alaska's bid to fast-track the legal process, overrule the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and gain approval for the Pebble Mine -- slated to extract enormous amounts of copper, gold, and molybdenum from the pristine and sensitive ecosystem known as Bristol Bay. Located in a remote, wild, and generally uninhabited part of Southwest Alaska, Pebble is the largest known undeveloped copper ore body in the world.

The populations in the area rely heavily on wild resources for subsistence, harvesting moose, caribou and salmon. Wild resources play an important part in the region's cultural heritage. There are more than 30 Alaskan native tribes in the region that depend on salmon to support their traditional subsistence ways of life, in addition to other inhabitants and tourists in the area. A diverse coalition led by Alaska Natives has consistently fought against the proposed mine for more than two decades. It eventually gained support from the EPA, which ultimately blocked the mine proposal in January 2023 over concerns it would threaten an aquatic ecosystem supporting the world's most prolific sockeye salmon fishery.

This decision is significant, particularly considering the current High Court's tendency to support states' rights, limits on regulation -- especially of the environmental variety -- and corporate concerns. Alaska's request, filed in June, was unusual in that it sought to skip lower appeals courts to challenge the EPA's decision on the basis that it violated Alaska's state sovereignty.

Under the law, alleged violations of state sovereignty are one of the few categories of cases that grant the Supreme Court original jurisdiction -- meaning a state can bypass the usual state/federal court appeals process and file straight with the High Court. The justices could easily have decided to hear the case and decide in favor of the mining company, which has shown no qualms about engaging in some shady business practices over the years.

As the single most productive sockeye salmon fishery in the world, Bristol Bay contains biodiversity and abundant wild fish populations which present a stark contrast to many other fisheries in the Pacific Northwest (and worldwide). All five Eastern Pacific salmon species spawn in Bristol Bay's freshwater tributaries. Most have experienced severe depletion over the last few decades. Sockeye salmon, like all Pacific Salmon, are a keystone species, vital to the health of an entire ecosystem. Of course, salmon also provide a sacred food source for Indigenous communities up and down the West Coast.

Kudos to the United Tribes of Bristol Bay, a consortium of Alaska Native tribes fighting to preserve the traditional Yup'ik, Dena'ina, and Alutiiq ways of life in Southwest Alaska, for leading the charge. The Supreme Court's decision confirms all the hard work put in by tribes and allies, including the Save Bristol Bay Coalition. It remains to be seen whether Alaska's conservative leadership will continue with legal challenges at a lower court level -- but, for now, Indigenous People have won a big battle in this decades-long fight to protect their homelands.

[notwiselybuttoowell]

They have weathered the elements for hundreds of years and historians have described them as part of a landmark moment in the cultural history of Siam. They not only made temples more attractive, but also relayed moral lessons. Now Phra Maha Natee fears the designs on the walls of Wat Prasat could disappear completely within a couple of decades.

Murals in temples across Thailand face the risks of flooding, pollution and poor planning but conservationists say the main danger is another, more existential threat: saltwater intrusion from rising sea levels sparked by the climate crisis.

Wat Prasat is in Nonthaburi a low-lying province less than 60km from the coast, and is especially vulnerable. Drought and rising sea levels are increasingly causing saltwater from the Gulf of Thailand to intrude into the Chao Phraya river, the main source of water in central Thailand. The saltwater can destroy crops, at huge cost to farmers, and render tap water unsafe. It is also threatening to degrade historic temples, by seeping up from the ground, causing concrete walls to crumble, and their paintings to flake and disappear forever.

Thailand’s Fine Arts Department, the government body responsible for heritage conservation, said that salt moisture is the biggest issue it finds in the temples it has been called to survey for damage. The effects are gradual and can take decades to show, but it is feared the problem will only get worse.

“With the sea water level getting higher, the salt[water] is coming into the land more,” says Kiriya Chayakul Sitthiwang, an academician at the department. “[It] means that in the future more heritage sites will be impacted from this salt moisture,” says Kiriya, who added the problem was now affecting areas as far away as Chai Nat province, more than 200km north of the Bay of Bangkok.

[traveltricksblog]

Ultimate Guide to Unforgettable Travel Experiences with the Best Travel Agency for Dubai

Embark on a journey of exploration and discovery as we delve into vibrant destinations around the world, each offering unique cultural experiences and hidden treasures waiting to be uncovered. From the dazzling cityscape of Dubai to the timeless traditions of Japan, the multicultural charm of Singapore, and the breathtaking landscapes of Vietnam, let's embark on a travel adventure like no other, guided by the expertise of the best travel agency for Dubai.

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Singapore for Travel Enthusiasts: Unravelling the Lion City's Best-Kept Secrets

Singapore, the Lion City, entices travelers with its modern skyline, lush green spaces, and multicultural allure. Explore futuristic skyscrapers, serene botanical gardens, and vibrant cultural enclaves, guided by insider recommendations for foodie delights, shopping districts, and family-friendly activities. Unravel hidden gems and immerse yourself in Singapore for travel diverse attractions for an unforgettable travel experience.

Waterfront Gems: Explore Singapore's waterfront areas beyond Marina Bay. Visit Labrador Nature Reserve for coastal walks, Sentosa's hidden beaches, and Pulau Ubin's mangrove forests and secluded coves.

Historical Treasures: Discover Singapore's historical treasures, including hidden heritage trails in Chinatown, the lesser-known Civilian War Memorial, and Kampong Buangkok, the last surviving village in Singapore.

Adventure Seekers: For adventure enthusiasts, try out unique experiences like indoor skydiving at I Fly Singapore, kayaking through mangrove forests, or cycling along the scenic East Coast Park Connector.

Navigating Vietnam's Cultural Wonders: A Travel Escapade

Vietnam's breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage beckon travelers on an unforgettable escapade. Explore bustling cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, wander through ancient temples in Hoi An, and cruise through the natural wonders of Ha Long Bay. Travel itineraries for Vietnam offer insights into local cuisine, transportation, and cultural etiquette, ensuring a seamless and enriching journey across this land of contrasts.

Embark on a Global Adventure: Travel Around the World

As you embark on a global adventure, let these destinations inspire your wanderlust and ignite your passion for travel. Discover the best tours and travels in Dubai, immerse yourself in Japan's rich culture, explore Singapore's hidden gems, and navigate Vietnam's cultural wonders. With the best travel agency by your side, embark on a journey around the world filled with unforgettable experiences and cherished memories.

[gladiatorplumbingrepipe]

Explore San Jose: Top Things to Do and Where to Find a Reliable Plumber

Discover the Best of San Jose

San Jose, California, is a vibrant city known for its rich cultural heritage, diverse culinary scene, and thriving technology industry. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor exploring the area, there's no shortage of exciting activities to enjoy in San Jose. From exploring world-class museums and parks to sampling delicious cuisine and attending live performances, there's something for everyone to experience in this dynamic city.

Top Things to Do in San Jose

Visit the Tech Museum of Innovation: Dive into the fascinating world of technology and innovation at this interactive museum, where you can explore hands-on exhibits, learn about groundbreaking inventions, and even participate in STEM workshops.

Explore Santana Row: Shop, dine, and unwind at Santana Row, a premier shopping and entertainment destination in San Jose. From upscale boutiques and gourmet restaurants to lively bars and cafes, Santana Row offers a unique blend of luxury and sophistication.

Discover History at the Winchester Mystery House: Step into the mysterious world of Sarah Winchester's eccentric mansion, known for its maze-like architecture, secret passages, and rumored hauntings. Take a guided tour to uncover the fascinating history and legends surrounding this iconic landmark.

Relax in San Jose Municipal Rose Garden: Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature at the San Jose Municipal Rose Garden. With over 3,500 rose bushes and various other flowers, this peaceful oasis is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a romantic picnic.

Catch a Game at SAP Center: Cheer on the San Jose Sharks or catch a live concert at SAP Center, the premier sports and entertainment venue in the Bay Area. With its state-of-the-art facilities and diverse lineup of events, there's always something exciting happening at SAP Center.

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[mulaasritha]

Exploring the Serene Majesty of Bishops Beach, Homer, Alaska

Introduction: Nestled along the shores of Kachemak Bay in Homer, Alaska, Bishops Beach stands as a hidden gem awaiting discovery by travelers seeking tranquility amidst breathtaking natural beauty. With its sweeping views of snow-capped mountains, pristine sandy shores, and abundant wildlife, this coastal haven offers an immersive experience into the rugged charm of Alaska's wilderness.

A Natural Oasis: Bishops Beach beckons visitors with its unspoiled natural landscapes and serene ambiance. Stretching along the coastline, the beach provides a peaceful retreat where one can unwind, explore tide pools teeming with marine life, or simply soak in the majestic vistas of the surrounding wilderness.

Wildlife Encounters: As part of the rich ecosystem of Kachemak Bay, Bishops Beach offers ample opportunities for wildlife encounters. Visitors may spot bald eagles soaring overhead, seabirds skimming the water's surface, or even sea otters playing in the waves. Keep an eye out for the occasional glimpse of whales breaching offshore, adding to the enchantment of this coastal paradise.

Seasonal Splendor: Throughout the year, Bishops Beach undergoes a transformation, each season painting its own unique tableau of colors and textures. In the summer months, wildflowers carpet the dunes in vibrant hues, while autumn brings a symphony of golden foliage along the shoreline. Winter casts a serene blanket of snow, creating a picturesque landscape reminiscent of a winter wonderland.

Outdoor Adventures: Beyond its tranquil shores, Bishops Beach serves as a gateway to outdoor adventures in the Homer area. Explore the nearby Homer Spit, a bustling hub of activity offering fishing charters, seafood eateries, and artisan shops. Embark on a kayaking excursion to explore the waters of Kachemak Bay, or venture into Kachemak Bay State Park for hiking, wildlife viewing, and overnight camping.

Local Culture and Community: Bishops Beach is more than just a scenic destination; it's a reflection of the vibrant local culture and community of Homer. Visitors can immerse themselves in the town's artistic spirit by visiting galleries and studios showcasing the work of local artists, or savoring fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants overlooking the bay. Be sure to check out the Homer Farmers Market for a taste of Alaska's bounty and a glimpse into the community's agricultural heritage.

Conclusion: Bishops Beach in Homer, Alaska, epitomizes the rugged beauty and untamed wilderness that defines the Last Frontier. Whether you're seeking solitude amidst nature, thrilling wildlife encounters, or exciting outdoor adventures, this coastal oasis offers a haven for exploration and discovery. So, pack your sense of adventure and embark on a journey to Bishops Beach, where the untamed spirit of Alaska awaits on its pristine shores.

[fleurcareil]

Nova Scotia: North and West shores

Before heading to Nova Scotia, I'm visiting the Hopewell Rocks which are at almost high tide this morning so that people kayak around the flowerpots rather than walk on the ocean floor. The Bay of Fundy is infamous for its fog so many viewpoints did not have much to show but the walk along the cliffs was still a great way to start the day!

After having rounded the end of the bay through Moncton (which I visited a few years ago but didn't find interesting), I dove into Acadian history at the Monument-Lefebvre National Historic Site in Memramcook and at the Fort Beauséjour – Fort Cumberland National Historic Site. The first time I had heard about the Acadian people and their horrible deportation by the English had been in Cape Breton many years ago, so I knew their story but it was interesting to learn more... many of the original settlers came apparently from the area of La Rochelle in France, which is close to where my grandparents lived! The Lefebvre monument is at the first French college in the Maritimes, which allowed Acadians to get educated in their own language, which in turn spearheaded efforts to reclaim their identity. It was also the location of the first Acadian Convention in 1881, which continues to be held every 5 years celebrating Acadian culture across the world. Driving along Nova Scotia's north and west shores, the display of the Acadian flag everywhere shows that people remain proud to this day! 👌 The visit to the fort gave pretty views over the bay but also sobering thoughts as this was the site where the English deported many Acadians after having taken over the fort from the French (who had forced the Acadians to fight with them despite having proclaimed neutrality) ... It makes me shudder to be reminded time & time again of how brutal humans can be against each other!

A completely different type of history is told at the Joggins Fossil Cliffs, which is a UNESCO world heritage site recognised for its preserved sequence of Carboniferous sediments and, due to the high tides continuously exposing more rock face, a tremendous collection of fossils from the Coal Age. Not only are there tons of fossilized trees (the 3 pics below are from left to right of the outer cast of a tree trunk, a tree root embedded in the rock, and a trunk that tumbled down from a rockslide), but it is here that a fossil was found of the first reptile which could reproduce on land and which therefore is the ancestor of all land-based animals, including the dinosaurs and ourselves 😃. A guided walk along the beach allowed us to pick up random rocks and ask whether it contained a fossil, and most of the time it did! 😁 It was a shame that we were not allowed to take anything home (I already have a little fossil collection from Oman), but that's what conservation is about.

Final activity of the day is setting up my tent at Five Islands Provincial Park, close to the highest tides in the world (up to 16 meters!) in the Minas Basin, where I arrived at low tide so that I could walk over the seafloor to the first of the islands and have a look at the magnificent red cliffs (that don't contain any fossils). No single mosquito meant that I could watch the sun set over the bay in peace 😊. Next morning, the usual fog wasn't too bad so that I still had a bit of a view over the rocks from up high on a hiking trail.

Driving around Minas Basin the next morning, I tried to see the tidal bore that happens when the high tide water rushes into a shallow river but missed it twice (at the first place in Truro I was an hour too early and at the next place along the Shubenacadie River it had just passed), but to watch the speed of the water coming in was impressive nevertheless (I had taken a video but sadly only one is allowed per post & I got a cooler one further down).

Having spent enough time on the high tides, I drove slightly more inland and had a great time wine tasting at Luckett Vineyards in the Annapolis Valley. Similar to around Niagara, this region has many different wineries who have tasting rooms, restaurants and little trails for visitors. The highlight here is the red telephone booth, from which you can call free to anywhere in North America, so I made a call to my colleague Kathryn who had recommended the place! 😍

Before leaving town, I also visited the Grand-Pré National Historic Site, which was the largest Acadian village before the deportation and where a statue of Evangeline graces the grounds in front of a memorial church. Evangeline was a fictious character from a poem that became to symbolize the Acadian plight so she's quite a heroine around here with streets, shops and everything in between named after her! The Celtic cross indicates the place where the villagers boarded the deportation ships before the town was burned down.

On that gloomy note, it started to rain and it didn't stop for two days 😒 the delicious chowder (seafood soup) at a harbour restaurant in Digby helped to warm up after which I was very happy having booked a hotel for 2 nights!

Despite the crappy weather I still had a great day at Digby Neck, which is a series of 2 islands jutting out into the Bay of Fundy, connected by two little ferries whose timetables are aligned so it's one drive through. I had however left an hour early so that I could hike to Balancing Rock on the first island, where a large piece of granite hangs precariously over the edge of the sea. It's a beautiful, rugged coastline and also the boardwalk to it (with big-leafed skunk cabbage around the trail) was pretty so well worth braving the rain!

And then I had the most awful but also the coolest whale watching tour I've done so far... we spent about 3 hours off the coast of Brier Island in the driving rain on an open boat on a rolling sea looking for whales and seabirds... About a 1/3 of the tourists vomited and although I kept it in and was warm & semi-dry due to my many layers, it sucked!! There was nothing to see for a long long time apart from a few swimming seals and shearwater birds so the mood wasn't great, until two humpback whales called Foton and Litte Spot (according to the marine biologist) showed up right next to us!! They kept coming close to the boat and flapped their pectoral flipper on & on the water for some 20 minutes...something I've never seen before, really special! Swimming so close by, you could see their massive, grooved bodies and ofcourse their tails when they were diving deeper. On the way back, when the rain briefly stopped & the waves subdued closer to the shore, everyone was smiling 😃 however never been so happy to sit dry in my car waiting for the ferry ;)

The next day there was rain nor fog (woohoo!) so had a pretty drive along the west shore, where there's mostly small Acadian villages, the bigger town of Yarmouth where I got some beers from the local microbrewery and many, many lighthouses of which I chose three to visit. The first one was at Gilbert's Cove where you can walk up a ladder to stand next to the old light (now decommissioned). Outside, there were male eider ducks close by the shore so that you could see how truly large they are.

The second lighthouse I visited was at Cape Saint Mary, a tiny square (still active) building that you can't enter, but which has impressive rocks around it. Nearby Mavillete beach has pretty dunes and would be a great place to chill if it were warmer!

The third lighthouse that I saw is at Cape Forchu, southwest of Yarmouth, which is called the "apple core light" because of its shape. I can't imagine living on such an outcrop during a winter storm!

On the final stretch to my camp cabin for the night, I passed through badly burned forest west of Shelburne, which had been doused only the week prior... The fire had grown to more than 235 square kilometres and forced more than 6,000 people from their homes, destroying over 200 houses and other structures. It was very sad to see the "apple green" trees turned into all this black, stinking mess... That night, the smoke alarm in the cabin went off from time to time, which I was later told is due to remaining ash in the air.

Just before turning into the campground, I walked briefly around Shelburne's historic district, which was built largely by British Loyalists who fled from the US and started a new life here. It only being 4pm, the town was deserted apart from a few prom photo shoots which was funny to watch as they are still soooo young :)

Wildlife: 3 seals & 2 humpback whales (Digby Neck), 15 male Eider ducks. There's ofcourse also lots of shore birds all around the Maritimes, but whose name I don't know apart from gulls and cormorants which I'm not fond of, so ignoring those 😉

SUPs: none

Hikes: two at Five Islands PP, one at Digby Neck

[magicofsimplestories]

The City of Inspiration and the Waking Light Geography

In the universe of “The City of Inspiration” and “The Waking Light” there are 4 countries. 

The Old World and The New World are two big countries located on different continents and separated by the ocean. 

The Island Country and The Archipelago Country are somewhere in between the continents, with the former closer to The Old World and the latter closer to The New World. 

The capital of The Old World is San Myshuno, a huge stylish city of businessmen, fashion and opportunities. The closest town to San Myshuno is Brindleton Bay, a calm medium-sized fishing area and a surfing destination for the most rich capital inhabitants. 

To the north of San Myshuno lies Britechester, the scholar center of The Old World, a home to the worldwide famous university. 

The second biggest city of The Old World - the Windenburg agglomeration - is located on the board of the Western ocean. The agglomeration consists of the old city (the actual Windenburg), the new woodland neighbourhood of Copperdale and a tiny rural area of Henford-on-Bagley. 

The Island Country with its only city and capital Mount Komorebi is the most popular touristic destination with the best ski resorts, hiking locations and a vast cultural heritage. 

The capital of The New World is Del Sol Valley. Like Windenburg it is now an agglomeration that consists of the downtown (Del Sol Valley itself + the center of cinematograph Simlywood), the calm but prestigious boardwalk area of San Sequoia, the beach area of Tartosa and the cheap outskirt neighbourhood of Evergreen Harbour. 

To the south from Del Sol Valley lies Oasis Springs, the second biggest city of The New World, a home to the worldwide famous hi-tech center. Its satellite town of Strangerville was built a decade ago further in the desert, but the science lab there was abandoned for unknown reasons leaving the town half-deserted by the time of the Waking Light story taking place. 

A wast forestal area that lies to the north from Del Sol Valley is called Granite Falls. Its popularity as the camping location has been growing lately. 

Last but not least - the Archipelago Country. Its capital Sulani is the most beloved vacation place of all the Simlywood celebrities. Further in the mountains lies a tiny ethnical village of Selvadorada, a destination attracting all the adventurous hearts from all around the world. 

[Back to The Waking Light. Prologue] [Next]

Prequel - The City of Inspiration

[victorysp]

Visit to Caribbean part of the Kingdom 

Bonaire, Saturday 28 January

On Saturday morning the governor of Bonaire will receive the Royal Family at his official residence, together with members of the island council and island executive. 

The King and Queen and the Princess of Orange will then visit the slave huts at Witte Pan, which are reminders of the history of slavery in Bonaire. Following this they will travel along the west coast and attend Nos Zjilea at Cultural Park Mangazina di Rei, an event which highlights Bonaire’s cultural and historical heritage. The party will view an exhibition on the island’s history. Young people will tell them about their local area, a family of four generations will bake bread in a stone oven and primary school children will perform with their learning orchestra. This will be followed by a lunch with Bonaire residents at Arawak. 

In the afternoon the party will watch a windsurfing demonstration in Sorobon Bay. Bonaire is reputed for its good windsurfing and the talented windsurfers it produces. The King and Queen and the Princess of Orange will then talk to junior rangers from the STINAPA national park foundation about coastal nature conservation, especially of the mangroves which protect the coast. The party will tour the bay and mangroves by boat.

The visit to Bonaire will draw to a close in Kralendijk with a trip to Taste of Bonaire, a cultural market with local products, culinary offerings and musical performances.

[rjzimmerman]

Excerpt from this press release from the Department of the Interior:

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is awarding more than $6.4 million to federally recognized Native American and Alaska Native Tribes to benefit fish and wildlife resources and their habitats. This year’s funding will support 35 Tribes for conservation projects across 15 states, benefiting a wide range of wildlife and habitat, including species of cultural or traditional importance to Indigenous communities. 

Examples of projects approved this year include:

Sitka Tribe of Alaska (Artificial Intelligence for Subsistence Salmon Monitoring and Management) - $200,000 to install artificial intelligence enabled video that will produce automated real-time counts of Redoubt Lake sockeye salmon, reducing real-time monitoring costs.

Navajo Nation (within Arizona, New Mexico and Utah)(Estimating Abundance, Preserving Traditional Ecological Knowledge, and Resolving Human-Bear Conflict of Black Bears on the Navajo Nation) - $100,000 to assess black bear population on Navajo Nation lands, preserve Traditional Ecological Knowledge in effective habitat management and minimize human-bear conflicts. 

Mooretown Rancheria of Maidu Indians of California (Tribal Wildlife and Postfire Restoration for Habitat Connectivity, Pollinator Species and Traditional Ecological Knowledge Plants around Feather Falls) - $197,300 to restore and manage ancestral lands which were devasted by the 2020 North Complex fire, including hiring staff, expanding the Tribal youth program and developing a restoration plan that incorporates Traditional Ecological Knowledge to prioritize culturally significant and endangered species such as the California spotted owl, bald eagle, Sierra Nevada yellow-legged frog and California red-legged frog.

Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians (within Minnesota) (Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians White-tailed Deer and Golden-winged Warbler Critical Habitat Restoration Project: Setting Back Forest Succession to Promote Early Successional Wildlife Species) - $199,872 to create 350 acres of early successional forest habitat, supporting deer population recovery and increasing habitat for golden-winged warblers during breeding season.

Omaha Tribe of Nebraska (Tallgrass Prairie Resource Management) - $199,965 to hire staff to restore, maintain, and enhance habitat for ecologically and culturally significant wildlife species within the Omaha Tribe of Nebraska reservation, including invasive species removal and buffalo management.

Seneca Nation of Indians (within New York) (Seneca Nation Wood Turtle Survey) - $42,713 to tag wood turtles, a culturally important species, with GPS transmitters to track and map home areas and nesting grounds. 

Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (within North Carolina)(Leveraging DNA Sampling to Understand and Manage Resources) - $200,000 to continue cutting-edge non-invasive resource management techniques and use environmental DNA (eDNA) and a variety of non-invasive methods (camera, trapping, acoustics, etc.) to evaluate and manage bear populations, sicklefin redhorse, native brook trout, bats, otters, fish, aquatic communities, birds, and amphibians.

Shoalwater Bay Indian Tribe (within Washington) (ESA Species Critical Coastal Habitat and Traditional Fisheries Restoration and Monitoring) - $198,928 to continue improving the conservation status of the western snowy plover and streaked horned lark and implement essential fish habitat assessments, eDNA and visual monitoring and restoration actions to support climate resilience and adaptive capacity of these species on Tribal lands.

[leninsilva]

I am in your city and I am in San Francisco, but I do not think you are. I think I am in some amazing dream. - Mark Twain

Ohlone

Friday 27th October 2023

By, Lenin Silva

The Ohlone people, a prominent and enduring indigenous group in the San Francisco Bay Area, inhabited these lands for over an astonishing 10,000 years before the arrival of European settlers. Their deep-rooted connection to the region is a testament to their resilience and profound understanding of the environment.

The Ohlone were not a monolithic entity but a collection of distinct local tribes, each with its own unique territory and language dialects. These divisions, while geographically separate, created a tapestry of cultures and traditions that enriched the broader Ohlone identity.

Their way of life was one of remarkable harmony with the natural world. The Ohlone were skilled hunters and gatherers, attuned to the seasonal rhythms of the Bay Area. They relied on the abundant and diverse natural resources of the region, including acorns, seeds, shellfish, fish, and game. Their expert knowledge of the local flora and fauna allowed them to utilize the land's offerings for sustenance, shelter, and clothing.

In the lush coastal areas, the Ohlone built intricate shellmounds, which served as both habitation and burial sites. These mounds, composed of discarded shells, tools, and other artifacts, provide valuable insights into their daily lives and evolving cultures.

Their dwellings varied depending on the season and location. In the warmer months, they constructed temporary structures made from tule reeds, which were ideal for the Bay's marshy terrain. During the colder and wetter seasons, they sought shelter in more substantial semi-subterranean houses, which offered better protection from the elements.

The Ohlone people's profound understanding of the land extended to their sustainable land management practices. They used controlled burns to shape the landscape, encourage new growth, and maintain the delicate balance between human habitation and the environment. This deliberate approach to land management ensured that the ecosystem thrived, benefiting both the Ohlone and the natural world.

Their intricate knowledge of the region's flora was also evident in their use of medicinal plants for healing purposes. Herbal remedies and traditional healing practices were integral components of their healthcare system.

The Ohlone's complex social structure was built around a network of tribal leaders and spiritual figures, reinforcing their deep-rooted connection to the land. The tribes traded goods and engaged in cultural exchanges, creating a dynamic and interconnected Ohlone society.

The arrival of European settlers and the subsequent waves of colonization brought about immense challenges for the Ohlone people. Yet, their resilient culture endures, and ongoing efforts are being made to revitalize their languages and preserve their heritage. The history of the Ohlone people is not just a tale of the past but a testament to the enduring strength and cultural richness of the indigenous communities of the San Francisco Bay Area.

©LeninSilva