tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28645475970631733042024-03-13T11:46:28.296-07:00OC OdditiesA look into the underbelly of Orange County: What you didn't see on The OC.OC Odditieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05933145197847072705noreply@blogger.comBlogger12125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2864547597063173304.post-67807321696283774332010-01-21T17:03:00.000-08:002010-01-21T18:04:08.151-08:00Mission San Juan Capistrano - SJC<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLVR14XTj6Su3Oxjf1DQ13iV76SwW3LMa1hLL6p97FnBZF4uYBmLYXS3DEk3lj23TdI9EBNFDXc-0WTaeMvj00imE5qtbNyxMKfpNrTotZ_idngxumkzEXQzvgEBWin617k8vqAg7DCjUo/s1600-h/IMG_6445.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLVR14XTj6Su3Oxjf1DQ13iV76SwW3LMa1hLL6p97FnBZF4uYBmLYXS3DEk3lj23TdI9EBNFDXc-0WTaeMvj00imE5qtbNyxMKfpNrTotZ_idngxumkzEXQzvgEBWin617k8vqAg7DCjUo/s320/IMG_6445.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429364318746480594" border="0" /></a>Being a New England girl, I missed out on all those riveting California history lessons in which "My Darlin' Clementine" was given context and children had the opportunity to pan for gold with varying degrees of success.<br /><br />All is not lost, however! Far from it! The Mission San Juan Capistrano, located in - you guessed it - San Juan Capistrano, offers unfortunate souls like myself, as well as California natives wishing to relive their childhoods, the opportunity to journey back to a time when many men sought their fortune in the wicky-wild-wild west.<br />Until March 31st, visitors to the mission can experience the <a href="http://missionsjc.com/activities/GoldFever.php">Gold Fever</a> gold rush exhibit. The traveling exhibition gives history buffs the chance to read background, details, and first-hand accounts of this period in history, and gives kids (or kids-at-heart) the chance to dress up in authentic gold rush gear and see what it would have been like to camp out in relative squalor while awaiting a promised fortune. On Saturdays from noon-2pm, you can even pan for gold!<br /><br />Aside from this eccentric exhibit, visitors can also embark on a sweet audio tour that details the mysterious return of the swallows to San Juan Capistrano on the same day each year, and the earthquake that collapsed the mission on 40 unsuspecting worshipers and left some ruins that look like they should be in Rome, not Orange County.<br /><br />It's fun, it's odd, and if you want to dress up like a 49er, you'd better get there by March 31st!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUrGsaqagvAt99iJjEoaHTyF17DpiyltgoLRTSaZaPtiypZ9mFX7KjV6rt5nCfkIYvsrOUdmTYvxXMfsp6opZtervC6ChRWyHXb8dCC2mQ7hk_l7eYmTbkWNhrZ1274NPoNGdvqJg2dIfo/s1600-h/IMG_6456.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUrGsaqagvAt99iJjEoaHTyF17DpiyltgoLRTSaZaPtiypZ9mFX7KjV6rt5nCfkIYvsrOUdmTYvxXMfsp6opZtervC6ChRWyHXb8dCC2mQ7hk_l7eYmTbkWNhrZ1274NPoNGdvqJg2dIfo/s320/IMG_6456.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429368682488273938" border="0" /></a>OC Odditieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05933145197847072705noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2864547597063173304.post-41099788505615695692010-01-21T16:59:00.001-08:002010-01-21T17:01:17.751-08:00There's WEATHER here?<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrkt75O5anxwG7JqppfqcrjQ5QKwQAZ2zysu8Agyp_6zGeGB9oRGApAesKO44yHB-N9eZt4hGONgR7qWboAI69IONiUdxYWBuX1nZVg7XfC4ZoYKLBYYWk6W_wVquikmDOdPNb1LQ0KUFf/s1600-h/downsized_0118001642b-798344.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrkt75O5anxwG7JqppfqcrjQ5QKwQAZ2zysu8Agyp_6zGeGB9oRGApAesKO44yHB-N9eZt4hGONgR7qWboAI69IONiUdxYWBuX1nZVg7XfC4ZoYKLBYYWk6W_wVquikmDOdPNb1LQ0KUFf/s320/downsized_0118001642b-798344.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429362641712475970" border="0" /></a></p>Tree down at Brentwood Park in Costa Mesa. El Nino is not messin' around this week!OC Odditieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05933145197847072705noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2864547597063173304.post-73027366881497430482009-12-13T02:04:00.001-08:002009-12-13T02:05:57.093-08:00COMING SOON: MORE ODDITIESFriends, Romans, OC Oddballs,<br /><br />January 2010 marks the dawning of a new age of OC Oddities. Expect more blogs, more adventures, more interaction, and more downright weirdness! I look forward to seeing you all on the underbelly!OC Odditieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05933145197847072705noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2864547597063173304.post-19219348262280746632009-01-20T20:30:00.000-08:002009-01-20T21:07:56.620-08:00The Nixon Library & Museum - Yorba Linda<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA6PPC1iJ2oVILGK9qdiVm4W_vK3dH_nhqf0h2r7CA8prePG027OzEY0Ormv7iz8R6-pd9oER1qBZgUah3-045Sh-byACE7SPUU56P1za_PzTOY55EEQIwZy9k3xHnRtCuNoDP4EdIfYTa/s1600/yorbacemeteryca69.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 435px; height: 319px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA6PPC1iJ2oVILGK9qdiVm4W_vK3dH_nhqf0h2r7CA8prePG027OzEY0Ormv7iz8R6-pd9oER1qBZgUah3-045Sh-byACE7SPUU56P1za_PzTOY55EEQIwZy9k3xHnRtCuNoDP4EdIfYTa/s1600/yorbacemeteryca69.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>After watching <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0870111/">Frost/Nixon</a> today, it seems fitting to add an oddity pertaining to good ol' Tricky Dick. And if you're in <a href="http://vanguard.edu/faculty/dmarley/">Dr. Marley</a>'s U.S. History class, this one's a twofer 'cause you have to go there anyway.<br /><br />According to SoCalSpooks.com, the Nixon Library gets a little eerie when the lights go out. Unexplained tapping noises are heard, and the infamous Watergate tapes are said to play on a continuous loop, whether shut off or not. The L.A. Times also mentioned the apparently noisy spirit, reporting that "a night watchman heard strange tapping coming from the Watergate display room."<br /><br />I visited the museum myself as a wee freshman at Vanguard, and, while I didn't hear any mysterious tapping or hear the tapes run when they shouldn't have, I did get to see an entire miniature replica of the White House. That and the picturesque landscape were worth the $5.95 college student admission.<br /><br />While you're in the neighborhood, check out the Old Yorba Linda Cemetery, where, according to the L.A. Times, on June 15th of every even-numbered year a lady in pink can be seen crying over an unmarked grave. SoCalSpooks.com claims that the apparition may be Alvina de Los Reyes, daughter of Bernardo Yorba. The Yorba Linda History website states that Alvina died in childbirth on December 2, 1910. However, legend has it she died in a carriage accident on the way back from a high school dance. It's possible that there WAS, in fact, a girl who died under such circumstances, but Alvina's name was mistakenly attached to the tragedy. Let's be real, though: The truth of the legend isn't what's important. We all just want a harmless scare, and a nite at the cemetery is sure to deliver.<br /><br />Links:<br /><a href="http://articles.latimes.com/2000/jan/07/local/me-51724">L.A. Times Article</a><br /><a href="http://www.yorbalindahistory.org/gsdl/cgi-bin/library?e=d-000-00---0tescol--00-0-0--0prompt-10---4------0-1l--1-en-50---20-home---00031-001-1-0utfZz-8-00&a=d&cl=CL1&d=HASH07d520a2a8cd2648307d0b.9#start">Yorba Linda History </a><br /><a href="http://socalspooks.com/04/the-richard-nixon-library-yorba-linda/">SoCalSpooks</a><br /><br />To the Nixon Library from VU:<br /><div id="ddr0"><table class="ddr_steps" id="ddr_steps_0"><tbody><tr class="dirsegment firststep" id="step_0_0"><td class="num">1.</td><td class="dirsegtext" id="dirsegtext_0_0">Head <b>east</b> on <b>Fair Dr</b> toward <b>Newport Blvd</b></td><td class="cbicon"><img id="cbicon_0_0" src="http://maps.google.com/intl/en_us/mapfiles/cb/camera_dr1.png" style="visibility: hidden;" height="14" width="17" /></td><td class="sdist"><div id="sxdist" class="nw">0.3 mi</div></td></tr><tr class="dirsegment" id="step_0_1"><td class="num">2.</td><td class="dirsegtext" id="dirsegtext_0_1">Continue on <b>Del Mar Ave</b></td><td class="cbicon"><img id="cbicon_0_1" src="http://maps.google.com/intl/en_us/mapfiles/cb/camera_dr1.png" style="visibility: hidden;" height="14" width="17" /></td><td class="sdist"><div id="sxdist" class="nw">371 ft</div></td></tr><tr class="dirsegment" id="step_0_2"><td class="num">3.</td><td class="dirsegtext" id="dirsegtext_0_2">Turn <b>left</b> at <b>Newport Blvd</b> (signs for <b>CA-55 N</b>)</td><td class="cbicon"><img id="cbicon_0_2" src="http://maps.google.com/intl/en_us/mapfiles/cb/camera_dr1.png" style="visibility: visible;" height="14" width="17" /></td><td class="sdist"><div id="sxdist" class="nw">167 ft</div></td></tr><tr class="dirsegment" id="step_0_3"><td class="num">4.</td><td class="dirsegtext" id="dirsegtext_0_3">Take the ramp on the <b>left</b> onto <b>CA-55 N</b></td><td class="cbicon"><img id="cbicon_0_3" src="http://maps.google.com/intl/en_us/mapfiles/cb/camera_dr1.png" style="visibility: visible;" height="14" width="17" /></td><td class="sdist"><div id="sxdist" class="nw">14.2 mi</div></td></tr><tr class="dirsegment" id="step_0_4"><td class="num">5.</td><td class="dirsegtext" id="dirsegtext_0_4">Merge onto <b>CA-91 E</b></td><td class="cbicon"><img id="cbicon_0_4" src="http://maps.google.com/intl/en_us/mapfiles/cb/camera_dr1.png" style="visibility: visible;" height="14" width="17" /></td><td class="sdist"><div id="sxdist" class="nw">1.8 mi</div></td></tr><tr class="dirsegment" id="step_0_5"><td class="num">6.</td><td class="dirsegtext" id="dirsegtext_0_5">Take exit <b>36</b> for <b>CA-90/<wbr>Imperial Hwy/<wbr>State Hwy 90</b></td><td class="cbicon"><img id="cbicon_0_5" src="http://maps.google.com/intl/en_us/mapfiles/cb/camera_dr1.png" style="visibility: visible;" height="14" width="17" /></td><td class="sdist"><div id="sxdist" class="nw">0.3 mi</div></td></tr><tr class="dirsegment" id="step_0_6"><td class="num">7.</td><td class="dirsegtext" id="dirsegtext_0_6">Turn <b>left</b> at <b>CA-90</b> (signs for <b>Yorba Linda</b>)</td><td class="cbicon"><img id="cbicon_0_6" src="http://maps.google.com/intl/en_us/mapfiles/cb/camera_dr1.png" style="visibility: visible;" height="14" width="17" /></td><td class="sdist"><div id="sxdist" class="nw">3.0 mi</div></td></tr><tr class="dirsegment" id="step_0_7"><td class="num">8.</td><td class="dirsegtext" id="dirsegtext_0_7">Turn <b>left</b> at <b>Yorba Linda Blvd</b> <div class="dirsegnote note_SIDE_OF_ROAD">Destination will be on the right</div></td><td class="cbicon"><img id="cbicon_0_7" src="http://maps.google.com/intl/en_us/mapfiles/cb/camera_dr1.png" style="visibility: hidden;" height="14" width="17" /></td><td class="sdist"><div id="sxdist" class="nw">0.3 mi</div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><table class="ddwpt_table"><tbody><tr><td class="ddptlnk"><img src="http://maps.google.com/intl/en_us/mapfiles/icon_greenB.png" height="38" width="24" /></td><td class="ddw_addr"><div id="ddw_addr_area_1" class="value"><div id="sxaddr"><div dir="ltr" class="sa">18001 Yorba Linda Blvd</div><div dir="ltr" class="sa">Yorba Linda, CA 92886</div></div></div></td></tr></tbody></table><br />To the Old Yorba Linda Cemetery from the Nixon Library:<br /><table class="ddr_steps" id="ddr_steps_0"><tbody><tr class="dirsegment firststep" id="step_0_0"><td class="num">1.</td><td class="dirsegtext" id="dirsegtext_0_0">Head <b>west</b> on <b>Yorba Linda Blvd</b> toward <b>Eureka Ave</b></td><td class="cbicon"><img id="cbicon_0_0" src="http://maps.google.com/intl/en_us/mapfiles/cb/camera_dr1.png" style="visibility: hidden;" height="14" width="17" /></td><td class="sdist"><div id="sxdist" class="nw">335 ft</div></td></tr><tr class="dirsegment" id="step_0_1"><td class="num">2.</td><td class="dirsegtext" id="dirsegtext_0_1">Make a <b>U-turn</b> at <b>Eureka Ave</b></td><td class="cbicon"><img id="cbicon_0_1" src="http://maps.google.com/intl/en_us/mapfiles/cb/camera_dr1.png" style="visibility: visible;" height="14" width="17" /></td><td class="sdist"><div id="sxdist" class="nw">0.4 mi</div></td></tr><tr class="dirsegment" id="step_0_2"><td class="num">3.</td><td class="dirsegtext" id="dirsegtext_0_2">Turn <b>right</b> at <b>CA-90</b></td><td class="cbicon"><img id="cbicon_0_2" src="http://maps.google.com/intl/en_us/mapfiles/cb/camera_dr1.png" style="visibility: visible;" height="14" width="17" /></td><td class="sdist"><div id="sxdist" class="nw">2.3 mi</div></td></tr><tr class="dirsegment" id="step_0_3"><td class="num">4.</td><td class="dirsegtext" id="dirsegtext_0_3">Turn <b>left</b> at <b>E Orangethorpe Ave</b></td><td class="cbicon"><img id="cbicon_0_3" src="http://maps.google.com/intl/en_us/mapfiles/cb/camera_dr1.png" style="visibility: visible;" height="14" width="17" /></td><td class="sdist"><div id="sxdist" class="nw">49 ft</div></td></tr><tr class="dirsegment" id="step_0_4"><td class="num">5.</td><td class="dirsegtext" id="dirsegtext_0_4">Continue on <b>Esperanza Rd</b></td><td class="cbicon"><img id="cbicon_0_4" src="http://maps.google.com/intl/en_us/mapfiles/cb/camera_dr1.png" style="visibility: visible;" height="14" width="17" /></td><td class="sdist"><div id="sxdist" class="nw">0.2 mi</div></td></tr><tr class="dirsegment" id="step_0_5"><td class="num">6.</td><td class="dirsegtext" id="dirsegtext_0_5">Turn <b>left</b> at <b>Fairlynn Blvd</b></td><td class="cbicon"><img id="cbicon_0_5" src="http://maps.google.com/intl/en_us/mapfiles/cb/camera_dr1.png" style="visibility: visible;" height="14" width="17" /></td><td class="sdist"><div id="sxdist" class="nw">476 ft</div></td></tr><tr class="dirsegment" id="step_0_6"><td class="num">7.</td><td class="dirsegtext" id="dirsegtext_0_6">Turn <b>right</b> at <b>Woodgate Dr</b></td><td class="cbicon"><img id="cbicon_0_6" src="http://maps.google.com/intl/en_us/mapfiles/cb/camera_dr1.png" style="visibility: visible;" height="14" width="17" /></td><td class="sdist"><div id="sxdist" class="nw">0.1 mi</div></td></tr><tr class="dirsegment" id="step_0_7"><td class="num">8.</td><td class="dirsegtext" id="dirsegtext_0_7">Turn <b>left</b> at <b>Parkwood Ct</b> <div class="dirsegnote note_SIDE_OF_ROAD">Destination will be on the left</div></td><td class="cbicon"><img id="cbicon_0_7" src="http://maps.google.com/intl/en_us/mapfiles/cb/camera_dr1.png" style="visibility: visible;" height="14" width="17" /></td><td class="sdist"><div id="sxdist" class="nw">72 ft</div></td></tr></tbody></table><table class="ddwpt_table"><tbody><tr><td class="ddptlnk"><img src="http://maps.google.com/intl/en_us/mapfiles/icon_greenB.png" height="38" width="24" /></td><td class="ddw_addr"><div id="ddw_addr_area_1" class="value"><div id="sxaddr"><div dir="ltr" class="sa">6749 Parkwood Ct</div><div dir="ltr" class="sa">Yorba Linda, CA 92886</div></div></div></td></tr></tbody></table>OC Odditieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05933145197847072705noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2864547597063173304.post-25143417424183839362008-10-21T16:13:00.000-07:002008-10-21T16:31:30.792-07:00Knott's Scary Farm - Buena Park<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://a960.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/45/l_f67b9cd6eb78168201001dc1a9268757.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px;" src="http://a960.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/45/l_f67b9cd6eb78168201001dc1a9268757.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />It probably comes as no surprise to anyone that someone who writes a blog like OC Oddities might watch a pretty good amount of Travel Channel. Thus, I expect no gasps of disbelief when I reveal to you that this post was inspired by some couch time in front of everyone's favorite shameless plug channel on the Discovery Network.<br /><br />Recently a show aired detailing the scariest Halloween attractions in the United States. You can hold your heads a little higher, my dear OC friends, because your county is home to one of the Travel Channel's top picks: Knott's Scary Farm.<br /><br />For about $50, you can have the pants scared right off of you by over 1,000 actors in stage makeup and masks who love nothing more than to see you jump into the arms of an unsuspecting passerby from fright. You can also enjoy one of the delightful mazes with such names as Cornstalkers, the Slaughterhouse, Club Blood, Killer Clown Kollege, Axe Murder Manor, and Alien Annihilation! Described as a "160 acre horror movie" by the amusement park's MySpace, Knott's Scary Farm is guaranteed to have you in tears of either laughter or terror. Care to see which?<br /><br />Links:<br /><a href="http://haunt.knotts.com/">Knott's Scary Farm website</a><br /><a href="http://www.travelchannel.com/Video_%26_Photos/Video_Detail?videoRef=TITLE1405">The Travel Channel segment</a><br /><a href="http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=28523359">KSF on MySpace</a> - proof that absolutely EVERYONE is on MySpace<br /><br />Directions from VU:<br /><table class="ddr_steps" id="ddr_steps_0"><tbody><tr class="dirsegment firststep" id="step_0_0"><td class="num">1.</td><td class="dirsegtext" id="dirsegtext_0_0">Head <b>east</b> on <b>Fair Dr</b> toward <b>Newport Blvd</b></td><td class="cbicon"><img id="cbicon_0_0" src="http://maps.google.com/intl/en_us/mapfiles/cb/camera_dr1.png" style="visibility: hidden;" height="14" width="17" /></td><td class="sdist"><div id="sxdist" class="nw">0.3 mi</div></td></tr><tr class="dirsegment" id="step_0_1"><td class="num">2.</td><td class="dirsegtext" id="dirsegtext_0_1">Continue on <b>Del Mar Ave</b></td><td class="cbicon"><img id="cbicon_0_1" src="http://maps.google.com/intl/en_us/mapfiles/cb/camera_dr1.png" style="visibility: hidden;" height="14" width="17" /></td><td class="sdist"><div id="sxdist" class="nw">371 ft</div></td></tr><tr class="dirsegment" id="step_0_2"><td class="num">3.</td><td class="dirsegtext" id="dirsegtext_0_2">Turn <b>left</b> at <b>Newport Blvd</b> (signs for <b>CA-55 N</b>)</td><td class="cbicon"><img id="cbicon_0_2" src="http://maps.google.com/intl/en_us/mapfiles/cb/camera_dr1.png" style="visibility: visible;" height="14" width="17" /></td><td class="sdist"><div id="sxdist" class="nw">167 ft</div></td></tr><tr class="dirsegment" id="step_0_3"><td class="num">4.</td><td class="dirsegtext" id="dirsegtext_0_3">Take the ramp on the <b>left</b> onto <b>CA-55 N</b></td><td class="cbicon"><img id="cbicon_0_3" src="http://maps.google.com/intl/en_us/mapfiles/cb/camera_dr1.png" style="visibility: visible;" height="14" width="17" /></td><td class="sdist"><div id="sxdist" class="nw">5.6 mi</div></td></tr><tr class="dirsegment" id="step_0_4"><td class="num">5.</td><td class="dirsegtext" id="dirsegtext_0_4">Slight <b>left</b> at <b>I-5 N</b></td><td class="cbicon"><img id="cbicon_0_4" src="http://maps.google.com/intl/en_us/mapfiles/cb/camera_dr1.png" style="visibility: visible;" height="14" width="17" /></td><td class="sdist"><div id="sxdist" class="nw">9.3 mi</div></td></tr><tr class="dirsegment" id="step_0_5"><td class="num">6.</td><td class="dirsegtext" id="dirsegtext_0_5">Continue straight to stay on <b>I-5 N</b></td><td class="cbicon"><img id="cbicon_0_5" src="http://maps.google.com/intl/en_us/mapfiles/cb/camera_dr1.png" style="visibility: hidden;" height="14" width="17" /></td><td class="sdist"><div id="sxdist" class="nw">1.7 mi</div></td></tr><tr class="dirsegment" id="step_0_6"><td class="num">7.</td><td class="dirsegtext" id="dirsegtext_0_6">Take the <b>La Palma Ave/<wbr>Brookhurst St</b> exit</td><td class="cbicon"><img id="cbicon_0_6" src="http://maps.google.com/intl/en_us/mapfiles/cb/camera_dr1.png" style="visibility: visible;" height="14" width="17" /></td><td class="sdist"><div id="sxdist" class="nw">0.4 mi</div></td></tr><tr class="dirsegment" id="step_0_7"><td class="num">8.</td><td class="dirsegtext" id="dirsegtext_0_7">Turn <b>right</b> at <b>N Brookhurst St</b> (signs for <b>La Palma Ave/<wbr>Brookhurst St N</b>)</td><td class="cbicon"><img id="cbicon_0_7" src="http://maps.google.com/intl/en_us/mapfiles/cb/camera_dr1.png" style="visibility: visible;" height="14" width="17" /></td><td class="sdist"><div id="sxdist" class="nw">0.2 mi</div></td></tr><tr class="dirsegment" id="step_0_8"><td class="num">9.</td><td class="dirsegtext" id="dirsegtext_0_8">Turn <b>left</b> at <b>W La Palma Ave</b></td><td class="cbicon"><img id="cbicon_0_8" src="http://maps.google.com/intl/en_us/mapfiles/cb/camera_dr1.png" style="visibility: hidden;" height="14" width="17" /></td><td class="sdist"><div id="sxdist" class="nw">2.2 mi</div></td></tr><tr class="dirsegment" id="step_0_9"><td class="num">10.</td><td class="dirsegtext" id="dirsegtext_0_9">Turn <b>left</b> at <b>Beach Blvd/<wbr>CA-39</b> <div class="dirsegnote note_SIDE_OF_ROAD">Destination will be on the right</div></td><td class="cbicon"><img id="cbicon_0_9" src="http://maps.google.com/intl/en_us/mapfiles/cb/camera_dr1.png" style="visibility: visible;" height="14" width="17" /></td><td class="sdist"><div id="sxdist" class="nw">262 ft</div></td></tr></tbody></table><table class="ddwpt_table"><tbody><tr><td class="ddptlnk name link"><div><br /></div></td><td class="ddw_addr"><div id="ddw_addr_area_1" class="value"><div id="sxaddr"><div dir="ltr" class="sa">8039 Beach Blvd</div><div dir="ltr" class="sa">Buena Park, CA 90620</div></div></div></td></tr></tbody></table>OC Odditieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05933145197847072705noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2864547597063173304.post-78816170443498526292008-10-21T15:44:00.000-07:002008-10-22T16:40:24.634-07:00The Dreger Clock - Buena Park<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.dregerclock.org/history/historyimages/clock1998.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 193px; height: 473px;" src="http://www.dregerclock.org/history/historyimages/clock1998.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a>If you've ever wondered, "Gee, why hasn't anyone created a clock that can tell me the time, date, phase of the moon, and solar time in major cities worldwide," I've got some fantastic news for you: Someone did!<br /><br />That's right. In the 1930's Andrew Dreger built such a clock and installed it on East Anaheim Street in Long Beach. The four-sided clock stood approximately fifteen feet tall, with each of its faces measuring three feet in width. Dreger would mount a ladder every day to polish the clock, which ran on a small electric motor and used a system of 19 synchronized dials to operate. After his passing in 1952, his daughter attempted to donate the clock to the city, but was shocked to learn that no one was interested. When the property on which the clock stood was later sold, the clock disappeared. Its new home? Knott's Berry Farm in Buena Park.<br /><br />The quirky timepiece stood in the park until 2007 when, after yet another mysterious disappearance, it was spotted on eBay. The Buena Park Historical Society purchased the clock, and now hopes to be able to proudly display it once more. Dreger's descendants have started <a href="http://www.dregerclock.org/index.php">a website</a> in order to raise money to get this OC oddity put back in the public eye.<br /><br />According to Dreger Clock Restoration Project task-force leader Glenn Frank, "The Dreger Clock is currently undergoing renovation at a clock shop in Fullerton and we hope to have the clock completed and put back on public display in spring or summer of next year."<br /><br />Links:<br /><a href="http://www.dregerclock.org/index.php">The Dreger Clock Website</a><br /><a href="http://www.ocregister.com/news/clock-frank-park-1927616-knott-year">Article in the OC Register</a>OC Odditieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05933145197847072705noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2864547597063173304.post-51813101712560271932008-02-14T11:15:00.000-08:002008-02-14T11:40:11.486-08:00Angelo's & Vinci's Ristorante - Fullerton<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.angelosandvincis.com/images/polaroid/images/14.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px;" src="http://www.angelosandvincis.com/images/polaroid/images/14.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />It's like Buca Di Beppo on steroids... and if you were already under the impression that Buca was on steroids, be prepared to meet the Jose Canseco of Italian joints. <a href="http://www.angelosandvincis.com/">Angelo's & Vinci's</a> in downtown Fullerton is wall-to-wall with crazy photos and artwork, acrobatic mannequins, and even a giant altar honoring, well, SOMEONE's dead family. I'm not entirely sure whose. Opened as a restaurant 36 years ago, the building once served as a marketplace for local farmers. In its current form, it bares closer resemblance to a circus than to a market. Without a doubt, the strangest part of the establishment is the Monster Wine Cellar. The dungeon-like room is several degrees colder than the rest of the building and houses a few broken arcade games, various caged nightmare creatures, and an assortment of mannequin body parts strewn about the ceiling, among other charms and delights.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdokpobhUP1ssLsLfiVdH4OSbIOgsRuo5ud6dTvHqnnN0l-eT_ICyHkuO64hRE-0pxvvGixykUawd4DAtj9cP_ce6BVlPH-wfy-bBb7eXRsdLmZSAFSCR2WLXmd4W9_83KGHs8ORH5ox6_/s1600-h/Skeleton.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdokpobhUP1ssLsLfiVdH4OSbIOgsRuo5ud6dTvHqnnN0l-eT_ICyHkuO64hRE-0pxvvGixykUawd4DAtj9cP_ce6BVlPH-wfy-bBb7eXRsdLmZSAFSCR2WLXmd4W9_83KGHs8ORH5ox6_/s320/Skeleton.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5166921017638683682" border="0" /></a><br />Unusual atmosphere aside, there ain't nothing strange about the food. If you're like me and have a penchant for the splendor that is Italian cuisine, Angelo's & Vinci's will not disappoint. Reasonably priced and complete with all the Italian favorites, the eccentric ristorante is a gustatory treat appropriate for any occasion.... Valentine's Day for example! That said, have a wonderful Hallmark holiday, everyone! May you all be blessed with enough candy to keep you satisfied till Easter.<br /><br />Links:<br /><a href="http://www.angelosandvincis.com/menus_dinner.html">Dinner Menu</a><br /><br />Getting there from VU:<br /><table id="maneuvers" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr><td class="rs"><img src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mqsite/icon-dirs-start" border="0" height="17" width="32" /></td> <td class="num">1:</td> <td>Start out going EAST on FAIR DR toward NEWPORT BLVD.</td> <td class="nowrap">0.2 miles</td> <td class="textc"><a name="ManAnchor0" href="javascript:showManMap('0','http://www.mapquest.com/apart/loadmanmap.adp?id=4739e843-00361-01d4a-89c10c40:1203017855:1:2:0');">Map</a></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="manmap" colspan="5" id="mmaprow0"><img id="mmIMG0" name="mmIMG0" style="display: none;" src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mq/space_white" height="0" width="0" /><br /></td> </tr> <tr class="bgc"> <td class="rs"><img src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mqsite/rs_left" border="0" height="32" width="32" /></td> <td class="num">2:</td> <td>Turn LEFT onto NEWPORT BLVD.</td> <td class="nowrap"><0.1> <td class="textc"><a name="ManAnchor1" href="javascript:showManMap('1','http://www.mapquest.com/apart/loadmanmap.adp?id=4739e843-00361-01d4a-89c10c40:1203017855:1:2:1');">Map</a></td> </tr> <tr class="bgc"> <td class="manmap" colspan="5" id="mmaprow1"><img id="mmIMG1" name="mmIMG1" style="display: none;" src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mq/space_white" height="0" width="0" /><br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="rs"><img src="http://mqsigns.aolcdn.com/?s=rs&t=RS00003BW&n=55&d=NORTH&v=" /></td> <td class="num">3:</td> <td>Merge onto CA-55 N via the ramp on the LEFT.</td> <td class="nowrap">6.2 miles</td> <td class="textc"><a name="ManAnchor2" href="javascript:showManMap('2','http://www.mapquest.com/apart/loadmanmap.adp?id=4739e843-00361-01d4a-89c10c40:1203017855:1:2:2');">Map</a></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="manmap" colspan="5" id="mmaprow2"><img id="mmIMG2" name="mmIMG2" style="display: none;" src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mq/space_white" height="0" width="0" /><br /></td> </tr> <tr class="bgc"> <td class="rs"><img src="http://mqsigns.aolcdn.com/?s=rs&t=RS00001CO&n=5&d=NORTH&v=" /></td> <td class="num">4:</td> <td>Merge onto I-5 N via EXIT 10B toward LOS ANGELES.</td> <td class="nowrap">4.1 miles</td> <td class="textc"><a name="ManAnchor3" href="javascript:showManMap('3','http://www.mapquest.com/apart/loadmanmap.adp?id=4739e843-00361-01d4a-89c10c40:1203017855:1:2:3');">Map</a></td> </tr> <tr class="bgc"> <td class="manmap" colspan="5" id="mmaprow3"><img id="mmIMG3" name="mmIMG3" style="display: none;" src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mq/space_white" height="0" width="0" /><br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="rs"><img src="http://mqsigns.aolcdn.com/?s=rs&t=RS00003BW&n=57&d=NORTH&v=" /></td> <td class="num">5:</td> <td>Merge onto CA-57 N via EXIT 107A toward POMONA.</td> <td class="nowrap">4.8 miles</td> <td class="textc"><a name="ManAnchor4" href="javascript:showManMap('4','http://www.mapquest.com/apart/loadmanmap.adp?id=4739e843-00361-01d4a-89c10c40:1203017855:1:2:4');">Map</a></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="manmap" colspan="5" id="mmaprow4"><img id="mmIMG4" name="mmIMG4" style="display: none;" src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mq/space_white" height="0" width="0" /><br /></td> </tr> <tr class="bgc"> <td class="rs"><img src="http://mqsigns.aolcdn.com/?s=rs&t=RS00003BW&n=91&d=WEST&v=" /></td> <td class="num">6:</td> <td>Merge onto CA-91 W toward LOS ANGELES.</td> <td class="nowrap">2.7 miles</td> <td class="textc"><a name="ManAnchor5" href="javascript:showManMap('5','http://www.mapquest.com/apart/loadmanmap.adp?id=4739e843-00361-01d4a-89c10c40:1203017855:1:2:5');">Map</a></td> </tr> <tr class="bgc"> <td class="manmap" colspan="5" id="mmaprow5"><img id="mmIMG5" name="mmIMG5" style="display: none;" src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mq/space_white" height="0" width="0" /><br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="rs"><img src="http://mqsigns.aolcdn.com/?s=rs&t=RSEXITRIGHTNUM&n=28&d=&v=" /></td> <td class="num">7:</td> <td>Take the LEMON ST exit- EXIT 28- toward ANAHEIM BLVD / HARBOR BLVD.</td> <td class="nowrap">0.2 miles</td> <td class="textc"><a name="ManAnchor6" href="javascript:showManMap('6','http://www.mapquest.com/apart/loadmanmap.adp?id=4739e843-00361-01d4a-89c10c40:1203017855:1:2:6');">Map</a></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="manmap" colspan="5" id="mmaprow6"><img id="mmIMG6" name="mmIMG6" style="display: none;" src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mq/space_white" height="0" width="0" /><br /></td> </tr> <tr class="bgc"> <td class="rs"><img src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mqsite/rs_right" border="0" height="32" width="32" /></td> <td class="num">8:</td> <td>Turn RIGHT onto S LEMON ST / N LEMON ST.</td> <td class="nowrap">0.3 miles</td> <td class="textc"><a name="ManAnchor7" href="javascript:showManMap('7','http://www.mapquest.com/apart/loadmanmap.adp?id=4739e843-00361-01d4a-89c10c40:1203017855:1:2:7');">Map</a></td> </tr> <tr class="bgc"> <td class="manmap" colspan="5" id="mmaprow7"><img id="mmIMG7" name="mmIMG7" style="display: none;" src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mq/space_white" height="0" width="0" /><br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="rs"><img src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mqsite/rs_left" border="0" height="32" width="32" /></td> <td class="num">9:</td> <td>Turn LEFT onto E ORANGETHORPE AVE.</td> <td class="nowrap">0.2 miles</td> <td class="textc"><a name="ManAnchor8" href="javascript:showManMap('8','http://www.mapquest.com/apart/loadmanmap.adp?id=4739e843-00361-01d4a-89c10c40:1203017855:1:2:8');">Map</a></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="manmap" colspan="5" id="mmaprow8"><img id="mmIMG8" name="mmIMG8" style="display: none;" src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mq/space_white" height="0" width="0" /><br /></td> </tr> <tr class="bgc"> <td class="rs"><img src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mqsite/rs_right" border="0" height="32" width="32" /></td> <td class="num">10:</td> <td>Turn RIGHT onto S HARBOR BLVD.</td> <td class="nowrap">1.0 miles</td> <td class="textc"><a name="ManAnchor9" href="javascript:showManMap('9','http://www.mapquest.com/apart/loadmanmap.adp?id=4739e843-00361-01d4a-89c10c40:1203017855:1:2:9');">Map</a></td> </tr> <tr class="bgc"> <td class="manmap" colspan="5" id="mmaprow9"><img id="mmIMG9" name="mmIMG9" style="display: none;" src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mq/space_white" height="0" width="0" /><br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="rs"><img src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mqsite/icon-dirs-end" border="0" height="17" width="32" /></td> <td class="num">11:</td> <td colspan="2">End at <span class="adr"><span class="street-address"><b>550 N Harbor Blvd</b></span><br /><span class="locality">Fullerton, CA 92832-1516, US</span></span> </td> <td class="textc"><a name="ManAnchor10" href="javascript:showManMap('10','http://www.mapquest.com/apart/loadmanmap.adp?id=4739e843-00361-01d4a-89c10c40:1203017855:1:2:END');">Map</a></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="manmap" colspan="5" id="mmaprow10"><img id="mmIMG10" name="mmIMG10" style="" src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mq/space_white" height="0" width="0" /></td> </tr> <tr class="bgc"> <td colspan="5" class="totals"><b>Total Est. Time:</b> 24 minutes <b>Total Est. Distance:</b> 20.18 miles</td></tr></tbody></table>OC Odditieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05933145197847072705noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2864547597063173304.post-8762464738220650372007-12-07T21:45:00.000-08:002007-12-17T15:09:01.430-08:00The Isamu Noguchi Garden Museum - Costa Mesa<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.noguchi.org/images/cascen1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 400px;" src="http://www.noguchi.org/images/cascen1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />While perusing Facebook lately (don't give me that look. You do it, too), I've been noticing a sudden trend of people having pictures in front of this enormous shadow wall. Now, I let it go for a little while, figuring maybe it had been a GYRAD or something and that's why everyone had been there, but as time went on, MORE of these pictures showed up. So finally I inquired about the location of this thing so that I, too, could be hip and silhouetted. Turns out there's a whole lot more to this place than a wall that makes you look ginormous.<br /><br /><span class="entryBodyText"><a href="http://www.landliving.com/articles/0000000291.aspx">The Isamu Noguchi Garden Museum</a> California Scenario in Costa Mesa is located in a rather inconspicuous location, which is what I'm going to blame for the fact that I've lived here for four years and have never noticed it. The landscape is representative of the many different landscapes of the state of California. Wet, dry, forested - it's all in here somewhere. Seriously, this place is LEGIT. Czech it out.<br /><br />More Info:<br /><a href="http://www.landliving.com/articles/0000000576.aspx">Land & Living: California Scenario</a><br /><a href="http://www.noguchi.org/">The Noguchi Museum</a><br /><br />Getting There From VU:<br /></span><table id="maneuvers" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr><td class="rs"><img src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mqsite/icon-dirs-start" border="0" height="17" width="32" /></td> <td class="num">1:</td> <td>Start out going EAST on FAIR DR toward NEWPORT BLVD.</td> <td class="nowrap">0.2 miles</td> <td class="textc"><a name="ManAnchor0" href="javascript:showManMap('0','http://www.mapquest.com/apart/loadmanmap.adp?id=4739e843-00361-01d4a-89c10c40:1197932921:1:2:0');">Map</a></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="manmap" colspan="5" id="mmaprow0"><img id="mmIMG0" name="mmIMG0" style="display: none;" src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mq/space_white" height="0" width="0" /><br /></td> </tr> <tr class="bgc"> <td class="rs"><img src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mqsite/rs_left" border="0" height="32" width="32" /></td> <td class="num">2:</td> <td>Turn LEFT onto NEWPORT BLVD.</td> <td class="nowrap">0.8 miles</td> <td class="textc"><a name="ManAnchor1" href="javascript:showManMap('1','http://www.mapquest.com/apart/loadmanmap.adp?id=4739e843-00361-01d4a-89c10c40:1197932921:1:2:1');">Map</a></td> </tr> <tr class="bgc"> <td class="manmap" colspan="5" id="mmaprow1"><img id="mmIMG1" name="mmIMG1" style="display: none;" src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mq/space_white" height="0" width="0" /><br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="rs"><img src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mqsite/rs_left" border="0" height="32" width="32" /></td> <td class="num">3:</td> <td>Turn LEFT onto BRISTOL ST / SE BRISTOL ST. Continue to follow BRISTOL ST.</td> <td class="nowrap">1.4 miles</td> <td class="textc"><a name="ManAnchor2" href="javascript:showManMap('2','http://www.mapquest.com/apart/loadmanmap.adp?id=4739e843-00361-01d4a-89c10c40:1197932921:1:2:2');">Map</a></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="manmap" colspan="5" id="mmaprow2"><img id="mmIMG2" name="mmIMG2" style="display: none;" src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mq/space_white" height="0" width="0" /><br /></td> </tr> <tr class="bgc"> <td class="rs"><img src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mqsite/rs_right" border="0" height="32" width="32" /></td> <td class="num">4:</td> <td>Turn RIGHT onto ANTON BLVD.</td> <td class="nowrap">0.2 miles</td> <td class="textc"><a name="ManAnchor3" href="javascript:showManMap('3','http://www.mapquest.com/apart/loadmanmap.adp?id=4739e843-00361-01d4a-89c10c40:1197932921:1:2:3');">Map</a></td> </tr> <tr class="bgc"> <td class="manmap" colspan="5" id="mmaprow3"><img id="mmIMG3" name="mmIMG3" style="display: none;" src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mq/space_white" height="0" width="0" /><br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="rs"><img src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mqsite/icon-dirs-end" border="0" height="17" width="32" /></td> <td class="num">5:</td> <td colspan="2">End at <span class="adr"><span class="street-address"><b>611 Anton Blvd</b></span><br /><span class="locality">Costa Mesa, CA 92626-7005, US</span></span> </td> <td class="textc"><a name="ManAnchor4" href="javascript:showManMap('4','http://www.mapquest.com/apart/loadmanmap.adp?id=4739e843-00361-01d4a-89c10c40:1197932921:1:2:END');">Map</a></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="manmap" colspan="5" id="mmaprow4"><img id="mmIMG4" name="mmIMG4" style="" src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mq/space_white" height="0" width="0" /></td> </tr> <tr class="bgc"> <td colspan="5" class="totals"><b>Total Est. Time:</b> 6 minutes <b>Total Est. Distance:</b> 2.69 miles</td></tr></tbody></table>OC Odditieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05933145197847072705noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2864547597063173304.post-22381007856539393492007-11-30T14:19:00.000-08:002007-12-17T14:45:00.120-08:00The Wild Parrots of Orange County<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.travsite.com/uploaded_images/Parrots-0013-747881.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 400px;" src="http://www.travsite.com/uploaded_images/Parrots-0013-747881.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />A couple of days ago, a parrot was spotted in a tree on Vanguard's campus mall. As crowds gathered to observe this unusual occurrence, there was much speculation as to its origins. The general consensus was that it had most likely escaped from an owner's cage somewhere and was simply lost. My curiosity piqued, however, I decided to look into the parrot quandary myself. As it turns out, parrots are actually fairly common residents of Orange County, though no one is quite sure why. One theory suggests that as a local pet store burned down, the panicked owner set the tropical birds free. They managed to thrive in the local climate and their population has grown exponentially since. Another theory posits that there was a more sinister cause involving an underground parrot smuggling ring. Why anyone would want to smuggle parrots is beyond me, but who knows? Whatever the case, the end result is that there are a variety of tropical parrots inhabiting areas like Fullerton, Santa Ana, and Orange. Keep your eyes open for 'em.<br /><br />For more info:<br /><a href="http://www.ocregister.com/ocregister/homepage/abox/article_1177755.php">http://www.ocregister.com/ocregister/homepage/abox/article_1177755.php</a>OC Odditieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05933145197847072705noreply@blogger.com32tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2864547597063173304.post-39532727705218810342007-11-13T09:54:00.000-08:002007-11-13T10:10:56.011-08:00El Adobe de Capistrano - San Juan Capistrano<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.eladobedecapistrano.com/rooms/cellar.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px;" src="http://www.eladobedecapistrano.com/rooms/cellar.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a>It's quaint, it's romantic, and it's haunted... or at least rumor has it that that's the case. El Adobe de Capistrano is located in Southern Orange County and boasts multiple stories of hauntings. The wine cellar area (pictured here) is a converted jail. It is said that guests are often seen turning around suddenly as if tapped by an unseen hand, and the waitstaff experiences unsettling chills and sensations while in that area.<div><br /></div><div>To make things even more interesting, the restaurant even boasts its own headless haunt. Inexplicably, a decapitated monk is seen wandering the streets around the restaurant. While history doesn't point to one incident that could be responsible for the apparition, some posit that military and political troubles in the area, as well as a history of forced religious conversions could be responsible for the wandering souls. </div><div><br /></div><div>Legends aside, if you're looking for a sweet date outside of the Vanguard bubble, El Adobe de Capistrano might be a good option. You'd probably want to save it for an anniversary, or a first date if you're really ambitious. After all, charming atmosphere in Orange County rarely comes cheap. Expect to pay a minimum of about $15 for an entree. Headless ghosts come for free.</div><div><br /></div><div>Links:</div><div><a href="http://www.eladobedecapistrano.com/menus.php">http://www.eladobedecapistrano.com/menus.php</a><br /><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/El_Adobe_de_Capistrano">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/El_Adobe_de_Capistrano</a><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Getting There from VU:</div><div><br /></div>OC Odditieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05933145197847072705noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2864547597063173304.post-39872284351809441822007-11-01T17:52:00.000-07:002007-11-01T18:24:12.470-07:00Blackstar Canyon Road - Irvine<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd2eCb0JCPItw7dyRMRqrU-nLCCOoWx3TI6AoF7awRAwS0rhusa6eUma-KdGD3l2ou33mbtHgYOE8SUHIs_kVbth_iTXLDpqRywKMlFI5dEzsocl0cVB3vI7KewumfQr0BBTjP0bYakATj/s1600-h/foggy+blackstar.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd2eCb0JCPItw7dyRMRqrU-nLCCOoWx3TI6AoF7awRAwS0rhusa6eUma-KdGD3l2ou33mbtHgYOE8SUHIs_kVbth_iTXLDpqRywKMlFI5dEzsocl0cVB3vI7KewumfQr0BBTjP0bYakATj/s400/foggy+blackstar.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5128041085172480338" border="0" /></a>Perhaps it is the local lore that surrounds this spot that is to blame for the eerie vibes one gets upon visiting it, but I would be lying if I said that Black Star Canyon Rd. didn't give me the heebie-jeebies from the get-go.<br /><br />Some legends about the road include a bearded man with no teeth called "Black Star Bill" who chases any visitors he finds away, creatures shrouded in black with a penguin-like gait, witchcraft and KKK rituals, ghost cars, and your regular run-of-the-mill squatters. To be quite honest, it's that last one that worried me the most.<br /><br />Upon my voyage I saw no penguins, toothless men, or pagan rituals, but the consistent chill running up my spine was enough to inspire me to make my visit brief. Black Star is the kind of place where you constantly feel like you're being watched, and if it is true that there are various people residing here, it is quite possible.<br /><br />For more info:<br /><a href="http://www.blackstaradventures.com/ghosts.php">http://www.blackstaradventures.com/ghosts.php</a><br /><a href="http://www.ghosts.org/stories/tales/blackstar-canyon.html">http://www.ghosts.org/stories/tales/blackstar-canyon.html</a><br /><a href="http://www.warriorssociety.org/Blackstar_info.html">http://www.warriorssociety.org/Blackstar_info.html</a><br /><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_Star_Canyon">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_Star_Canyon</a><br /><br />Getting there from VU:<br /><br /><table id="maneuvers" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr><td class="rs"><img src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mqsite/icon-dirs-start" border="0" height="17" width="32" /></td> <td class="num">1:</td> <td>Start out going EAST on FAIR DR toward NEWPORT BLVD.</td> <td class="nowrap">0.2 miles</td> <td class="textc"><a name="ManAnchor0" href="javascript:showManMap('0','http://www.mapquest.com/apart/loadmanmap.adp?id=46e47714-0028a-05adf-548d0c40:1193966320:1:2:0');">Map</a></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="manmap" colspan="5" id="mmaprow0"><img id="mmIMG0" name="mmIMG0" style="display: none;" src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mq/space_white" height="0" width="0" /><br /></td> </tr> <tr class="bgc"> <td class="rs"><img src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mqsite/rs_left" border="0" height="32" width="32" /></td> <td class="num">2:</td> <td>Turn LEFT onto NEWPORT BLVD.</td> <td class="nowrap"><0.1> </td><td class="textc"><a name="ManAnchor1" href="javascript:showManMap('1','http://www.mapquest.com/apart/loadmanmap.adp?id=46e47714-0028a-05adf-548d0c40:1193966320:1:2:1');">Map</a></td> </tr> <tr class="bgc"> <td class="manmap" colspan="5" id="mmaprow1"><img id="mmIMG1" name="mmIMG1" style="display: none;" src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mq/space_white" height="0" width="0" /><br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="rs"><img src="http://mqsigns.aolcdn.com/?s=rs&t=RS00003BW&n=55&d=NORTH&v=" /></td> <td class="num">3:</td> <td>Merge onto CA-55 N via the ramp on the LEFT.</td> <td class="nowrap">1.7 miles</td> <td class="textc"><a name="ManAnchor2" href="javascript:showManMap('2','http://www.mapquest.com/apart/loadmanmap.adp?id=46e47714-0028a-05adf-548d0c40:1193966320:1:2:2');">Map</a></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="manmap" colspan="5" id="mmaprow2"><img id="mmIMG2" name="mmIMG2" style="display: none;" src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mq/space_white" height="0" width="0" /><br /></td> </tr> <tr class="bgc"> <td class="rs"><img src="http://mqsigns.aolcdn.com/?s=rs&t=RS00001CO&n=405&d=SOUTH&v=" /></td> <td class="num">4:</td> <td>Merge onto I-405 S via EXIT 6A toward SAN DIEGO.</td> <td class="nowrap">1.8 miles</td> <td class="textc"><a name="ManAnchor3" href="javascript:showManMap('3','http://www.mapquest.com/apart/loadmanmap.adp?id=46e47714-0028a-05adf-548d0c40:1193966320:1:2:3');">Map</a></td> </tr> <tr class="bgc"> <td class="manmap" colspan="5" id="mmaprow3"><img id="mmIMG3" name="mmIMG3" style="display: none;" src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mq/space_white" height="0" width="0" /><br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="rs"><img src="http://mqsigns.aolcdn.com/?s=rs&t=RSEXITRIGHTNUM&n=7&d=&v=" /></td> <td class="num">5:</td> <td>Take the JAMBOREE ROAD exit- EXIT 7.</td> <td class="nowrap">0.3 miles</td> <td class="textc"><a name="ManAnchor4" href="javascript:showManMap('4','http://www.mapquest.com/apart/loadmanmap.adp?id=46e47714-0028a-05adf-548d0c40:1193966320:1:2:4');">Map</a></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="manmap" colspan="5" id="mmaprow4"><img id="mmIMG4" name="mmIMG4" style="display: none;" src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mq/space_white" height="0" width="0" /><br /></td> </tr> <tr class="bgc"> <td class="rs"><img src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mqsite/rs_left" border="0" height="32" width="32" /></td> <td class="num">6:</td> <td>Turn LEFT onto JAMBOREE RD.</td> <td class="nowrap">3.6 miles</td> <td class="textc"><a name="ManAnchor5" href="javascript:showManMap('5','http://www.mapquest.com/apart/loadmanmap.adp?id=46e47714-0028a-05adf-548d0c40:1193966320:1:2:5');">Map</a></td> </tr> <tr class="bgc"> <td class="manmap" colspan="5" id="mmaprow5"><img id="mmIMG5" name="mmIMG5" style="display: none;" src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mq/space_white" height="0" width="0" /><br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="rs"><img src="http://mqsigns.aolcdn.com/?s=rs&t=RS00003BW&n=261&d=NORTH&v=" /></td> <td class="num">7:</td> <td>Stay STRAIGHT to go onto CA-261 N (Portions toll).</td> <td class="nowrap">5.7 miles</td> <td class="textc"><a name="ManAnchor6" href="javascript:showManMap('6','http://www.mapquest.com/apart/loadmanmap.adp?id=46e47714-0028a-05adf-548d0c40:1193966320:1:2:6');">Map</a></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="manmap" colspan="5" id="mmaprow6"><img id="mmIMG6" name="mmIMG6" style="display: none;" src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mq/space_white" height="0" width="0" /><br /></td> </tr> <tr class="bgc"> <td class="rs"><img src="http://mqsigns.aolcdn.com/?s=rs&t=RSEXITRIGHTNUM&n=6A&d=&v=" /></td> <td class="num">8:</td> <td>Take the SANTIAGO CANYON RD / CA-241 S exit- EXIT 6A- toward CHAPMAN AVE.</td> <td class="nowrap">0.2 miles</td> <td class="textc"><a name="ManAnchor7" href="javascript:showManMap('7','http://www.mapquest.com/apart/loadmanmap.adp?id=46e47714-0028a-05adf-548d0c40:1193966320:1:2:7');">Map</a></td> </tr> <tr class="bgc"> <td class="manmap" colspan="5" id="mmaprow7"><img id="mmIMG7" name="mmIMG7" style="display: none;" src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mq/space_white" height="0" width="0" /><br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="rs"><img src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mqsite/rs_gr_exitleft" border="0" height="32" width="32" /></td> <td class="num">9:</td> <td>Take the SANTIAGO CYN RD exit on the LEFT toward CHAPMAN AVE.</td> <td class="nowrap"><0.1> </td><td class="textc"><a name="ManAnchor8" href="javascript:showManMap('8','http://www.mapquest.com/apart/loadmanmap.adp?id=46e47714-0028a-05adf-548d0c40:1193966320:1:2:8');">Map</a></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="manmap" colspan="5" id="mmaprow8"><img id="mmIMG8" name="mmIMG8" style="display: none;" src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mq/space_white" height="0" width="0" /><br /></td> </tr> <tr class="bgc"> <td class="rs"><img src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mqsite/rs_right" border="0" height="32" width="32" /></td> <td class="num">10:</td> <td>Turn RIGHT onto SANTIAGO CANYON RD.</td> <td class="nowrap">5.3 miles</td> <td class="textc"><a name="ManAnchor9" href="javascript:showManMap('9','http://www.mapquest.com/apart/loadmanmap.adp?id=46e47714-0028a-05adf-548d0c40:1193966320:1:2:9');">Map</a></td> </tr> <tr class="bgc"> <td class="manmap" colspan="5" id="mmaprow9"><img id="mmIMG9" name="mmIMG9" style="display: none;" src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mq/space_white" height="0" width="0" /><br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="rs"><img src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mqsite/rs_left" border="0" height="32" width="32" /></td> <td class="num">11:</td> <td>Turn LEFT onto SILVERADO CANYON RD.</td> <td class="nowrap">0.1 miles</td> <td class="textc"><a name="ManAnchor10" href="javascript:showManMap('10','http://www.mapquest.com/apart/loadmanmap.adp?id=46e47714-0028a-05adf-548d0c40:1193966320:1:2:10');">Map</a></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="manmap" colspan="5" id="mmaprow10"><img id="mmIMG10" name="mmIMG10" style="display: none;" src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mq/space_white" height="0" width="0" /><br /></td> </tr> <tr class="bgc"> <td class="rs"><img src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mqsite/icon-dirs-end" border="0" height="17" width="32" /></td> <td class="num">12:</td> <td colspan="2">End at <span class="adr"><span class="street-address"><b>Black Star Canyon Rd & Silverado Canyon Rd</b></span><br /><span class="locality">Silverado, CA 92676, US</span></span> </td> <td class="textc"><a name="ManAnchor11" href="javascript:showManMap('11','http://www.mapquest.com/apart/loadmanmap.adp?id=46e47714-0028a-05adf-548d0c40:1193966320:1:2:END');">Map</a></td> </tr> <tr class="bgc"> <td class="manmap" colspan="5" id="mmaprow11"><img id="mmIMG11" name="mmIMG11" style="" src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mq/space_white" height="0" width="0" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="5" class="totals"><b>Total Est. Time:</b> 25 minutes <b>Total Est. Distance:</b> 19.47 miles</td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family:Comic Sans MS,Arial,Helvetica;"></span>OC Odditieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05933145197847072705noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2864547597063173304.post-29472899838525092522007-10-15T12:28:00.000-07:002007-10-16T12:43:53.337-07:00Prehistoric Pets - Fountain Valley<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9pjHDYxz4mMymDEyH7h14qykukJ3iUTWZ_KaSCsj9hBbUalLXRrrOVsOM5uoK5JHqfjwpMGjzCTaK18omMFbZSSw5XhgqAphagZ4iW3unH3O1z5_5H9bptJkE7_5LXnxsbUHaALizI9B1/s1600-h/prepets.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9pjHDYxz4mMymDEyH7h14qykukJ3iUTWZ_KaSCsj9hBbUalLXRrrOVsOM5uoK5JHqfjwpMGjzCTaK18omMFbZSSw5XhgqAphagZ4iW3unH3O1z5_5H9bptJkE7_5LXnxsbUHaALizI9B1/s400/prepets.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5122019240613397042" border="0" /></a>If you're like me, you've never had any aspiration to host a "jurassic party," or to get up close and personal with small, hairy insects or large, clawed reptiles. However, if the inclination were to seize you, well, you're in luck. <a href="http://www.prehistoricpets.com/">Prehistoric Pets</a> in Fountain Valley is a truckload of weird with a side order of holy smokes.<br /><br />Boasting a cast of characters that includes various stages of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bearded_Dragon">bearded dragons</a>, all sizes of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monitor_lizard">monitor lizards</a>, and some mischievous and abnormally large catfish (among many other delights), Prehistoric Pets is a treasure trove of unusual and unorthodox creatures. It may not be <a href="http://snopes.com/disney/disney.asp">Disneyland</a>, but on a lazy Saturday afternoon, it could be just as exhilarating... or nauseating.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Getting There from VU:<br /><br /></span><table id="maneuvers" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr><td class="rs"><img src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mqsite/icon-dirs-start" border="0" height="17" width="32" /></td> <td class="num">1:</td> <td>Start out going WEST on FAIR DR toward FAIRGROUNDS.</td> <td class="nowrap">0.3 miles</td> <td class="textc"><a name="ManAnchor0" href="javascript:showManMap('0','http://www.mapquest.com/apart/loadmanmap.adp?id=471513cc-00288-061fa-87c10c40:1192563723:1:2:0');">Map</a></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="manmap" colspan="5" id="mmaprow0"><img id="mmIMG0" name="mmIMG0" style="display: none;" src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mq/space_white" height="0" width="0" /><br /></td> </tr> <tr class="bgc"> <td class="rs"><img src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mqsite/rs_right" border="0" height="32" width="32" /></td> <td class="num">2:</td> <td>Turn RIGHT onto FAIRVIEW RD.</td> <td class="nowrap">0.2 miles</td> <td class="textc"><a name="ManAnchor1" href="javascript:showManMap('1','http://www.mapquest.com/apart/loadmanmap.adp?id=471513cc-00288-061fa-87c10c40:1192563723:1:2:1');">Map</a></td> </tr> <tr class="bgc"> <td class="manmap" colspan="5" id="mmaprow1"><img id="mmIMG1" name="mmIMG1" style="display: none;" src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mq/space_white" height="0" width="0" /><br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="rs"><img src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mqsite/rs_left" border="0" height="32" width="32" /></td> <td class="num">3:</td> <td>Turn LEFT onto MERRIMAC WAY.</td> <td class="nowrap">0.6 miles</td> <td class="textc"><a name="ManAnchor2" href="javascript:showManMap('2','http://www.mapquest.com/apart/loadmanmap.adp?id=471513cc-00288-061fa-87c10c40:1192563723:1:2:2');">Map</a></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="manmap" colspan="5" id="mmaprow2"><img id="mmIMG2" name="mmIMG2" style="display: none;" src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mq/space_white" height="0" width="0" /><br /></td> </tr> <tr class="bgc"> <td class="rs"><img src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mqsite/rs_right" border="0" height="32" width="32" /></td> <td class="num">4:</td> <td>Turn RIGHT onto HARBOR BLVD.</td> <td class="nowrap">0.3 miles</td> <td class="textc"><a name="ManAnchor3" href="javascript:showManMap('3','http://www.mapquest.com/apart/loadmanmap.adp?id=471513cc-00288-061fa-87c10c40:1192563723:1:2:3');">Map</a></td> </tr> <tr class="bgc"> <td class="manmap" colspan="5" id="mmaprow3"><img id="mmIMG3" name="mmIMG3" style="display: none;" src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mq/space_white" height="0" width="0" /><br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="rs"><img src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mqsite/rs_left" border="0" height="32" width="32" /></td> <td class="num">5:</td> <td>Turn LEFT onto ADAMS AVE.</td> <td class="nowrap">1.9 miles</td> <td class="textc"><a name="ManAnchor4" href="javascript:showManMap('4','http://www.mapquest.com/apart/loadmanmap.adp?id=471513cc-00288-061fa-87c10c40:1192563723:1:2:4');">Map</a></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="manmap" colspan="5" id="mmaprow4"><img id="mmIMG4" name="mmIMG4" style="display: none;" src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mq/space_white" height="0" width="0" /><br /></td> </tr> <tr class="bgc"> <td class="rs"><img src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mqsite/rs_right" border="0" height="32" width="32" /></td> <td class="num">6:</td> <td>Turn RIGHT onto BROOKHURST ST.</td> <td class="nowrap">1.1 miles</td> <td class="textc"><a name="ManAnchor5" href="javascript:showManMap('5','http://www.mapquest.com/apart/loadmanmap.adp?id=471513cc-00288-061fa-87c10c40:1192563723:1:2:5');">Map</a></td> </tr> <tr class="bgc"> <td class="manmap" colspan="5" id="mmaprow5"><img id="mmIMG5" name="mmIMG5" style="display: none;" src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mq/space_white" height="0" width="0" /><br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="rs"><img src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mqsite/icon-dirs-end" border="0" height="17" width="32" /></td> <td class="num">7:</td> <td colspan="2">End at <span class="adr"><span class="street-address"><b>18822 Brookhurst St</b></span><br /><span class="locality">Fountain Valley, CA 92708-7304, US</span></span> </td> <td class="textc"><a name="ManAnchor6" href="javascript:showManMap('6','http://www.mapquest.com/apart/loadmanmap.adp?id=471513cc-00288-061fa-87c10c40:1192563723:1:2:END');">Map</a></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="manmap" colspan="5" id="mmaprow6"><img id="mmIMG6" name="mmIMG6" style="" src="http://img.mqcdn.com/mq/space_white" height="0" width="0" /></td> </tr> <tr class="bgc"> <td colspan="5" class="totals"><b>Total Est. Time:</b> 9 minutes <b>Total Est. Distance:</b> 4.83 miles</td></tr></tbody></table>OC Odditieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05933145197847072705noreply@blogger.com0