San Diego, CA

Get a Sneak Peek of San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance’s Float for the 135th Rose Parade® Presented by Honda

Published

6 months ago

December 28, 2023

Get a Sneak Peek of San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance’s Float for the 135th Rose Parade® Presented by Honda

Float Highlights Include a Resilient Orangutan, a Young-at-heart Polar Bear and the Lion Who Started It All

SAN DIEGO, Dec. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — For the third consecutive year, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance will partner with the Tournament of Roses in Pasadena and participate in the 135th Rose Parade® presented by Honda on New Year’s Day. San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance’s parade float theme— “It Began with a Roar”—will feature a myriad of heartwarming stories from the San Diego Zoo that have inspired generations to care for and protect wildlife.

Sneak Peek of San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance’s Float in the 135th Rose Parade.
Float Commemorates the San Diego Zoo’s 107-Year History and Features Iconic Wildlife, Including the Lion Who Started It All

The Rose Parade is one of the world’s most storied traditions, celebrating the hope and optimism a new year brings. The “It Began with a Roar” float will bring to life the vibrant sounds and rhythms of nature, offering a global symphony of music and a resounding way of connecting all of us—wildlife, people and the planet we share.

“For 107 years, we’ve experienced the spirit of Rex the Lion’s mighty roar, which sparked a dream to bring our world-renowned organization to life—right in the heart of San Diego,” said Paul A. Baribault, president and chief executive officer, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance. “Over the past century, we’ve evolved to meet the growing needs of wildlife, offering millions of guests who visit our two leading zoos every year the opportunity to explore immersive conservation experiences and connect with the world’s wildlife. The Rose Parade is near and dear to many, and we want to share our stories of nature and conservation with the world.”

From the animated calls of flamingos to the soulful heartbeats of an orangutan and the soothing sounds of century-old tortoises, the float will represent the harmonious music of wildlife that echoes across our planet. Rex the lion will stand tall on a ridge overlooking the rest of the 55-foot float, letting out a thunderous roar—akin to the one that sparked a dream more than a century ago and inspired the world-renowned San Diego Zoo. A Sumatran orangutan, inspired by Karen at the San Diego Zoo Lost Forest habitat, will watch intently as a Quino checkerspot butterfly dances on her finger. Karen the orangutan, now 31 years old and thriving, was born with a heart defect. She was cared for by San Diego Zoo veterinarians and received lifesaving open-heart surgery from a surgeon experienced in treating people with heart issues.

Leading the way at the front of the float, a polar bear—designed after Chinook at the San Diego Zoo Polar Plunge—glides through the ocean. Disappearing sea ice threatens the survival of polar bears, and evidence shows that loss of sea ice is correlated with declines in a polar bear’s body condition, reproductive success, and survival. For many years, polar bears at the San Diego Zoo have participated in scientific studies and conservation efforts to help save the species in the face of climate change.

The San Diego Zoo’s own Matt Akel will be riding on the float with his wife Courtney, and their daughter Meadow. Matt joined San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance in 2002 as a wildlife care specialist on the polar bear team, where he cared for 7-year-old Chinook. Now, 21 years later, Matt is the associate curator of mammals who leads the polar bear program and the team caring for 28-year-old “young at heart” Chinook.

“When I was 10 years old growing up in New Jersey, I visited the San Diego Zoo with my family,” said Matt. “Visiting the zoo as a child was part of my inspiration to pursue a lifelong career in wildlife care and conservation. Every time I have the opportunity to interact with Chinook, it brings back special memories from my time with her at the start of my career, and why we work so hard to protect these incredible animals. Polar bears are near and dear to my heart, and I have an extreme passion to want to protect their wild Arctic environment before it’s too late.”

The purposefully designed float incorporates the stories of the San Diego Zoo and represents the mission of San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, utilizing mesmerizing plants and a dazzling array of flowers—featuring, of course, roses. The floral array on the float will also illustrate that both the San Diego Zoo Safari Park and San Diego Zoo are accredited botanical gardens—and serve as a reminder of San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance’s dedication to plant conservation through its many efforts, including the Wildlife Biodiversity Bank.

In the 2023, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance’s Rose Parade float celebrated the San Diego Zoo Safari Park’s 50th anniversary. The float’s theme, “Celebrating 50 Years of Conservation,” won the Animation Award for most outstanding use of animation. The giraffes and rhinos on the float were animated, with the rhinos seemingly coming to life as they turned their heads and the giraffes moving their long necks and bending down for a cool drink of water from a flowing waterfall.

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is an international nonprofit conservation organization that operates two world-class parks—the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park—and empowers people to connect with plants and animals, develop an appreciation for nature and contribute to the safeguarding of wildlife everywhere by becoming Wildlife Allies. The two wildlife parks are home to over 17,000 rare and endangered animals, representing more than 1,000 species and subspecies. Both parks also host more than 2 million individual plants representing close to 13,000 specimens, and close to 7,000 species. Welcoming nearly 6 million guests and touching countless others each year, the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park inspire wildlife allies from around the globe. Here, conservation comes to life as generations experience the magnitude and wonder of the world’s wildlife. Guests are invited to take part in exciting educational experiences and create lasting memories, while supporting San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance’s conservation efforts worldwide—and it all started with a roar.

About San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance
San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, a nonprofit conservation leader, inspires passion for nature and collaboration for a healthier world. The Alliance supports innovative conservation science through global partnerships. Through wildlife care, science expertise and collaboration, more than 44 endangered species have been reintroduced to native habitats. Annually, the Alliance reaches over 1 billion people, in person at the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park, and virtually in 150 countries through media channels, including San Diego Zoo Wildlife Explorers television programming in children’s hospitals in 13 countries. Wildlife Allies—members, donors and guests—make success possible.

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San Diego, CA

4th of July Fireworks in Seattle, New York, Dallas, San Diego and more: Top locations to explore

Published

22 mins ago

July 4, 2024

Press Room

4th of July Fireworks in Seattle, New York, Dallas, San Diego and more: Top locations to explore

The Fourth of July is approaching, just hours away, and one thing we absolutely cannot forget are the fireworks, one of the biggest form of celebration to mark America’s Independence Day. We all have cherished memories of oohing at the sky filled with dazzling lights and colors. This year, why not make some new memories that will last a lifetime? We’ve got a guide to the hottest spots across the country to witness incredible fireworks displays. From iconic cityscapes to stunning waterfront locations, there’s something for everyone.

US Independence Day celebrations conclude with a spectacular evening fireworks show above the National Mall. (AP)

Where to watch Fourth of July fireworks in Seattle

From the picturesque San Juan Islands, where you can catch a glimpse of Anacortes’ spectacular fireworks show from a distance, to the beloved tradition of Seafair’s fireworks, here are few top places to explore.

Seafair Fourth of July celebration

The Seafair Fourth of July festival is preparing to light up Lake Union’s heavens with an amazing 20-minute fireworks show provided by Western Display Fireworks. This year’s celebration in Seattle will feature more than 7,000 pounds of fireworks.

Also read: Washington D.C. fireworks for 4th of July 2024: Top Spots to Celebrate

Parks and heights

While Bhy Kracke Park and Kerry Park are popular choices, a lesser crowded park may offer you a memorable experience. Other places to explore are Hood Canal, Lake Union etc.

Friday Harbor

The island of Friday Harbor holds a unique fireworks celebration over its harbor. The celebration includes Pig War Picnic, a nod to an odd period in Northwest history.

Where to watch Fourth of July fireworks in Dallas

Dallas has a variety of exciting options to celebrate America’s independence day.

Klyde Warren Park

Looking for a fun-filled family outing? Klyde Warren Park is the place to explore. Spread out your picnic blanket and enjoy live music, delicious food vendors, and a dance party before the grand finale – a spectacular fireworks display that will leave you awestruck!

Downtown Arlington:

Craving a vibrant, patriotic atmosphere? Head over to downtown Arlington! Soak up the sunny vibes and festive energy throughout the day, then settle in for a magnificent fireworks display that will illuminate the night sky.

Also read: Los Angeles 4th of July fireworks 2024: where to watch the best displays

Kaboom Town

Kaboom Town is legendary for its incredible fireworks shows. This year, witness a dazzling 25-minute display preceded by an exhilarating airshow featuring skydivers, historic warplanes, and daring stunt pilots taking flight!

Liberty By The Lake Festival

Kick things off with a 5k or a one-mile fun run early in the morning. Then, cheer on the participants of the parade at 9:15 am. End your day with a relaxing festival featuring delicious food trucks and lively music at The Athletic Club starting at 6 pm.

Other options: Independence Day at Reunion Tower, Fair Park Fourth, Lone Stars & Stripes Fireworks Festival.

Where to watch Fourth of July fireworks in San Diego

San Diego County provides a lively array of choices for commemorating Independence Day with fireworks and parades.

San Diego’s Big Bay Boom

San Diego’s Big Bay Boom stands out as a major fireworks extravaganza that matches its wild hype on the West Coast, attracting a large expected audience of up to half a million attendees. Fireworks are accessible from a variety of places along the bay, offering many viewing areas.

Drone Spectacle

Broadway Pier in San Diego Bay is set to host a vibrant drone spectacle, featuring the San Diego Legion rugby team, before the Major Fireworks Event.

Mission Bay Viewing Spots

Mission Bay is providing various spots along the waterfront for SeaWorld San Diego’s fireworks show.

SeaWorld San Diego’s Fourth of July

Experience thrilling shows with marine animals and a patriotic fireworks show at SeaWorld.

San Diego County Fair’s Fourth of July Fireworks

Spend a day at the fair before enjoying a spectacular fireworks show. This event is perfect for families.

Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks: Top places in NYC

Manhattan:

1st Avenue and East 42nd Street

1st Avenue and East 34th Street

1st Avenue and East 20th Street

Queens:

Gantry Plaza State Park

Brooklyn:

Transmitter Park

Newton Barge Playground

Marsha P. Johnson State Park

Macy’s fireworks entry points:

Christopher Street and Washington Street

West 11th Street and Washington Street

West 12th Street and Washington Street

West 29th Street and 11th Avenue

West 40th Street and 11th Avenue

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San Diego, CA

Driver dies after head-on crash in Ramona

Published

8 hours ago

July 3, 2024

Press Room

Driver dies after head-on crash in Ramona

A 63-year-old driver died after the Chevrolet pickup he was in swerved into oncoming traffic and caused a head-on crash in Ramona on Wednesday, according to a California Highway Patrol official.

The collision was reported around 3:30 p.m. when the pickup truck, for still unknown reasons, veered across traffic lanes on west state Route 78 near Salmon Road, Officer Jared Grieshaber said.

The pickup entered eastbound lanes and hit the front of an Isuzu box truck, Grieshaber said.

The 63-year-old man died before he could be taken to a hospital. The box truck’s 46-year-old driver was uninjured.

Neither alcohol nor drugs were believed to be factors in the crash, Grieshaber said.

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San Diego, CA

San Diego city offices closed for July 4; some facilities, parks open

Published

14 hours ago

July 3, 2024

Press Room

San Diego city offices closed for July 4; some facilities, parks open

City government offices in San Diego will be closed for Independence Day Thursday and most services will be unavailable, although police and emergency crews will still be on duty.

The following city facilities will be closed: libraries, swimming pools, recreation centers, Miramar Landfill, recycling centers, container sales (for trash and recycling bins), the Mattress Collection Site, Tecolote Canyon Nature Center and public buildings in Balboa Park, including the Municipal Gym, Morley Field and Balboa Park Activity Center.

The city’s Environmental Services Department will not collect curbside trash, recyclables and organic waste on Thursday. Instead, those items will be collected one day later than regularly scheduled, officials said, adding that residents in other cities should check with their waste hauler regarding holiday service.

Other closures are:

— Parks and Recreation Department Open Space, Permit Center and Maintenance Assessment District offices;

— Development Services Department in-person services;

— Personnel Department’s Testing and Fingerprinting offices;

— Your Safe Place — A Family Justice Center.

Those needing help related to domestic violence may call the Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-888-385-4657. People who are in immediate danger or experiencing a medical emergency should dial 911.

Online services will still be available, including permit applications, scheduling inspections, making payments and requesting code enforcement investigations.

The following city facilities will be open on Thursday:

— all city reservoirs except Barrett Reservoir;

— neighborhood parks, joint-use parks and dog off-leash facilities;

— Chollas Lake, if weather permits,

— golf courses, (holiday rates apply;

— Mission Trails Regional Park and Visitor Center;

— Tecolote Canyon Natural Park; and

— city skate parks and the Pacific Highlands Ranch Pump Track at 5977 Village Center Loop Road.

The Mission Bay Golf Course will close at dusk, although its driving range will remain open until 10 p.m.

Typical operations will resume Friday, the city said.

The city will not enforce parking meters, time restrictions for street parking, yellow zones and posted street-sweeping routes in its jurisdiction. It will enforce other parking violations, and rules for Port of San Diego property or other cities may vary.

Thousands of people are expected to attend the Big Bay Boom, billed as California’s largest fireworks show, which starts at 9 p.m. Thursday on the San Diego Bay.

Because parking along the Bay is expected to fill up quickly — and a sewer main project is impacting travel along Harbor Drive — visitors should plan ahead, officials said. More information is available at www.bigbayboom.com/locations/transportation/.

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