Johnson's body was found at a homeless encampment next to Compton Creek on Jan. 21. His cause of death was listed as "blunt head trauma" and "stab wounds," and the manner of death was ruled a homicide, according to L.A. County Medical Examiner records.
According to sources close to the investigation, the string of murders in the Compton Creek area began on Oct. 5, 2025, when a woman, identified as 52-year-old Michelle Steele, was shot in the head. She died in the hospital on Nov. 12, 2025.
26 Nov 1995: Defensive lineman Kevin Johnson of the Philadelphia Eagles moves down the field during a game against the Washington Redskins at RFK Stadium in Washington, D. C. Otto Greule Jr. /Allsport
Three weeks later, on Dec. 4, a homeless man identified as 52-year-old Octavio Arias was murdered in the same area. According to L.A. County Medical Examiner records, Arias died from head and neck trauma.
The fourth victim, following the murder of Kevin Johnson, was identified as Mauro Alfaro, also in his 50s. According to sources, Alfaro was killed on Jan. 26, and the cause of death was blunt force trauma.
Sources inside the L.A. County Sheriff's Homicide Bureau tell KABC that investigators are now looking into the possibility that all four murders were done by the same killer. A suspect has not been identified.
Detectives are still trying to determine motives in the killings and trying to figure out if the suspect is someone who is upset with homeless people being in that area, or if drugs or gangs may be involved. Sources say there is no concrete evidence linking the cases together.
Anyone with information should call homicide detectives at 323-890-5500.
Investigators believe the former football player had been living at the encampment.
Friends say Johnson had health issues later in life that led him to live on the streets, but they called him a wonderful friend who still made an impact on his community.
"He was my best friend. I was best man at his wedding. Great guy, fun-loving. The community is going to miss him," Bruce Todd told KABC-TV.
His friends said Johnson had health problems that they believe might have been the result of CTE.
Johnson, a native of Los Angeles, played for the Philadelphia Eagles and Oakland Raiders from 1995-1997.
After his career in the NFL ended, he played in the Arena Football League with the Orlando Predators and L.A. Avengers.
Urban Air Adventure Park, the largest indoor adventure park operator in the U.S., continues to grow in the national market with four lease agreements. These new parks, located in Georgia and California, showcase continued consumer interest in multi-generational, family-oriented entertainment. As the franchise develops new outdoor locations, it is establishing parks in primary markets that it will position as hubs for fun, adventure, and community.
This new development is part of Urban Air’s parent company, Unleashed Brands ‘ most recent initiative to provide high-energy family experiences throughout the U.S. With parks opening in Georgia and California, Urban Air is not only fortifying its market position but also establishing meaningful relationships with communities in need of stimulating entertainment. With these additions, families throughout the U.S. will have access to new indoor adventure experiences.
The Continuity of Growth in California: New Parks in Tracy, Fairfield, and Fresno
Urban Air’s growth into California shows the developing interest in family entertainment centers in the state. Urban Air will open three new centers in the state, one of which will be in Tracy, and will be the first of its kind in this market. The new openings are supported by seasoned franchise partners who are adding new specialized business knowledge to the franchise system.
In Tracy, Anil Madahati and the Wave Wealth Team will lead the construction of the park. Both have close to 20 years in the tech industry and are poised to create a park that will give a premium experience to its visitors. Their knowledge in business and management will be a tremendous tech value to families who are looking for premium entertainment.
In Fairfield, there will be Urban Air’s unique offerings with the seasoned franchisees, who are the other two partners of this transaction, Sanj Purewal and Pinder Sangha. These two will be gaining a total of 33 years of experience, improving the quality of ownership in small businesses, and improving the quality of service to families in the area.
Parag Laddha, a successful multi-unit franchisee, will open the first-ever Urban Air location in Fresno. This location will expand Urban Air to a new market with a growing demand for family entertainment.
New Park Opening in Georgia: A New Destination in Douglasville
Outside of California, Urban Air has also been expanding in the South, with a new park now open in Douglasville, Georgia. This location will be run by experienced multi-unit operators Alison McReynolds and her husband, Uwezu “Lonnie” McReynolds. Urban Air anticipates that the McReynolds’ business strategy and operational efficiency will translate to successful park operations and a growing customer base in the region.
With the opening of the new location in Douglasville, families will have access to new entertainment options, and Urban Air will continue to cultivate its relationship with the community. Urban Air anticipates the new park will be highly trafficked, serving as a key anchor in the retail location.
Urban Air’s Business Model and Community Impact
Urban Air Adventure Park has a business model that focuses on establishing a safe and fun environment for family bonding activities. Urban Air parks feature over 20 attractions, including laser tag, obstacle courses, and ropes courses, and cater to a large array of ages. Whether guest children seek thrills and adventure, or parents seek a relaxed, family fun afternoon, there is always something to do.
While there are many attractions for guests to enjoy, each Urban Air park has a fast-casual café that serves park patrons. The café allows guests to take a break without having to leave the park, and contributes to additional revenue streams for the park locations.
Consumer demand for Urban Air has been high, and for good reason. The parks create new job opportunities in the communities and add value to surrounding commercial centers by increasing foot traffic. Urban Air’s memorable experience and value offerings foster long-term relationships and loyalty with customers.
The Momentum of Urban Air and Success of its Franchise
Adding to its national momentum, Urban Air recently ranked as the Number 1 entertainment franchise in Entrepreneur Magazine’s Annual Franchise 500 list. Urban Air’s business model, as well as its entertainment options, are rapidly growing and being recognized for the demands of its services nationwide. Urban Air is continuing to pioneer the family entertainment business with 400+ parks that are currently open or being built.
The brand’s continued entry into prime markets highlights the increased attention and need for indoor adventure parks within community frameworks. Urban Air offers an unmatched experience to families through its diverse options, including climbing walls, interactive games, and high-energy activities, and it allows families to have fun in a safe, controlled environment.
The inexplicable charm of family entertainment parks like the Urban Air Adventure Park is how the touches of every family member make the visit special. While one might sneak a jump on the trampolines, others might take a seat in the restaurant, do a small run of the Park, or find a quiet corner. While the purpose of a visit is to entertain the kids, every element of the experience is infused with the experience thinking and design of Urban Air theòs franchise partners. Every Urban Air Adventure Park visit is intended to be unique and deliver an experience no other family entertainment center can match.
Urban Air Adventure Park, a leading global family entertainment center, is accelerating its growth with the signing of four new lease agreements. These agreements highlight the increasing consumer demand for high-energy, all-ages entertainment and underscore Urban Air’s ability to deliver large-format, immersive experiences in prime retail locations. The new parks will be located in key cities across California and Georgia, furthering Urban Air’s nationwide expansion.
Expanding in California with Three New Locations
Urban Air’s growth in California includes three new parks planned for Tracy, Fairfield, and Fresno. This marks the brand’s debut in Fresno, with a strong team of franchise partners ready to deliver the signature Urban Air experience. The new parks in California will expand Urban Air’s presence in the state, joining the five existing locations already operating, with additional parks under development.
The new California franchisees bring a wealth of experience to the brand:
Tracy, CA – Led by Anil Madahati and the Wave Wealth team, with nearly two decades of tech industry experience.
Fairfield, CA – Partners Sanj Purewal and Pinder Sangha, bringing over 33 years of small business ownership experience.
Fresno, CA – Parag Laddha, an experienced multi-unit franchisee, will oversee the brand’s entry into this new market.
These new additions reinforce Urban Air’s growing presence in California, a key market for the brand, and demonstrate the continued success of its franchise model.
Expanding to Georgia with New Location in Douglasville
In addition to its California growth, Urban Air is also making strides in Georgia, with a new location opening in Douglasville, GA. This new park will be led by Alison McReynolds and her husband Uwezu “Lonnie” McReynolds, both experienced multi-unit operators. The Georgia expansion comes at a time when demand for family-oriented entertainment continues to grow across the Southeast, offering a fun and exciting destination for families in the region.
Strong Demand for Family Entertainment Drives Growth
Ryan Slemons, Chief Development Officer at Unleashed Brands, expressed his excitement about the new openings, noting that they reflect strong consumer demand for Urban Air’s unique offerings. “Urban Air delivers a fun, memorable experience that families return to again and again,” said Slemons. He emphasized that the brand’s continued success in attracting families and franchise partners demonstrates the value of offering high-quality family entertainment in accessible retail destinations.
The new parks in California and Georgia will bring Urban Air’s innovative attractions to more communities, creating jobs, boosting local economies, and activating retail centers. Urban Air’s unique offerings, including obstacle courses, laser tag, dodgeball courts, and more, continue to be a draw for families seeking active, engaging entertainment.
Urban Air’s Success in the Franchise World
Urban Air Adventure Park’s success as a franchise is evident in its recent recognition as the No.1 entertainment franchise in Entrepreneur Magazine’s Annual Franchise 500 list. This accolade highlights Urban Air’s leadership in the family entertainment sector and its ability to scale quickly across the nation. With more than 400 parks either open or under development, the brand continues to lead the way in transforming indoor adventure parks into destinations where families can have fun, stay active, and make lasting memories.
Urban Air Adventure Park Continues to Grow and Innovate
The brand demonstrates its ongoing success through Urban Air Adventure Park’s four new lease signings in California and Georgia which show increasing demand for family entertainment that provides immersive experiences. Urban Air will expand its adventure-based attractions through new park openings which will reach additional communities throughout the United States. The expansion not only strengthens Urban Air’s position in the industry but also enhances its ability to create vibrant, engaging spaces where families can connect and have fun together.
Kimpton Everly Hollywood, the stylish hillside hotel that offers sweeping views of the Los Angeles skyline and the Hollywood Hills, has announced the appointment of Robert Boyd as its new General Manager. With more than two decades of experience in luxury hospitality, Boyd’s appointment marks a new chapter for the property, as he is set to lead the hotel’s operations and elevate the overall guest experience.
A Seasoned Hotelier with Proven Leadership
Boyd brings extensive expertise to Kimpton Everly Hollywood, drawing from a career that spans over 20 years in the luxury and lifestyle sectors. His experience includes notable senior leadership positions at some of the most acclaimed hotels in the U.S., such as Chateau Marmont, Terranea Resort, Fairmont El San Juan Hotel and Canyon Ranch destinations. In his previous role as the general manager at Hotel Greystone in Miami Beach, Boyd guided the property to achieve the prestigious two-MICHELIN Key distinction, underscoring his ability to enhance luxury service and hospitality standards.
Boyd’s appointment comes at a time when Kimpton Everly Hollywood aims to further its reputation as a vibrant, creative hub for both travelers and locals. His leadership style, which prioritizes a people-first approach, aligns with Kimpton’s brand values of making every guest feel personally welcomed and connected to the local community. This approach is expected to strengthen the hotel’s appeal and improve its standing as a destination for those seeking authentic, high-quality experiences.
Commitment to Enhancing the Guest Experience
As the new General Manager, Boyd will be responsible for overseeing all hotel operations at Kimpton Everly Hollywood. His primary goal is to amplify the guest experience, ensuring that the hotel maintains its distinctive blend of personalized service and local immersion. Boyd has expressed a commitment to maintaining the high standards that Kimpton is known for, while continuing to focus on the personal connections that make every stay memorable. He believes that engaged and inspired colleagues are the cornerstone of exceptional service and plans to emphasize team development as a key aspect of his management.
Boyd’s hospitality philosophy revolves around thoughtful leadership that balances the complexities of day-to-day operations with a genuine dedication to making every guest experience special. His passion for mentorship and staff development is expected to resonate throughout the hotel, as Boyd views these elements as integral to building a cohesive and dynamic team. As a Certified Hospitality Educator (CHE), Boyd continues to focus on fostering the growth of his colleagues and ensuring they are empowered to offer the best service possible.
A Vision for the Future of Kimpton Everly Hollywood
Robert Boyd’s leadership is poised to bring new energy to Kimpton Everly Hollywood, which is already known for its innovative atmosphere and artistic appeal. Boyd’s diverse background in overseeing luxury properties, transforming hotel operations and delivering high-end guest experiences will play a key role in shaping the hotel’s future. His prior experience as the opening general manager at The Brant in Nantucket, where he led a multi-million-dollar transformation, has equipped him with the strategic vision needed to navigate and lead hotels through evolving landscapes.
The appointment of Boyd as General Manager is an exciting development for Kimpton Everly Hollywood, as it continues to establish itself as a prime destination for travelers looking for a blend of sophistication, style and authentic local experiences. Boyd’s leadership will be instrumental in guiding the hotel to new heights and continuing to attract both international visitors and local guests seeking creative, high-end hospitality in the heart of Los Angeles.
As Kimpton Everly Hollywood looks to the future, the appointment of Robert Boyd signals a strong commitment to enhancing every aspect of the guest experience, reaffirming the hotel’s position as one of LA’s premier lifestyle destinations.
The rugged shores of the Monterey Peninsula now hold a new treasure for every weary traveler. The Kimpton Mirador Pacific Grove has opened its doors to the world. It is not just a building made of stone and wood. This hotel feels like a warm embrace from the California coast. It sits quietly among historic homes and ancient trees. You can smell the salt air from your balcony. The soft light of the Pacific sunset fills every corner. It is a place where your soul can finally rest. This opening marks a bright new chapter for local tourism. It invites you to slow down and breathe again.
A New Era for Monterey Tourism
Local officials see this opening as a major win for the region. The Monterey County Convention & Visitors Bureau highlights the area’s natural beauty. New luxury stays bring more visitors to these protected shores. This hotel creates jobs for the local community. It also encourages guests to shop at small businesses nearby. More travelers will now discover the “Butterfly Town, U.S.A.” The city of Pacific Grove values sustainable growth and high-quality hospitality. This project aligns perfectly with those local government goals.
Spanish Charm Meets Modern Comfort
The hotel features a stunning Spanish Revival design. It honors the deep history of the California coast. Guests will find a beautiful firelit courtyard at the heart of the property. Local artists have filled the halls with their creative work. The building offers 99 guestrooms and luxury suites. Many rooms have private balconies for watching the waves. Some suites even feature cozy fireplaces for chilly coastal nights. The design is simple yet very elegant. It creates a sense of peace for every visitor.
Dining with a Local Heart
The Caledonian serves as the hotel’s signature restaurant. It offers modern American food with a local twist. The kitchen uses fresh ingredients from Central Coast farms. This supports the regional agricultural economy. Diners can enjoy their meals by the fireplace or on the patio. The hotel also hosts daily social rituals. Guests gather for coffee in the morning. They share cocktails and stories in the evening. These moments build a sense of community among travelers.
Wellness and Coastal Adventure
Tourism in Pacific Grove is about more than just sight-seeing. It is about physical and mental health. The hotel partners with Monterey Bay Moves for daily wellness. Guests can join yoga sessions or calming sound baths. The property provides bikes for exploring the scenic coastline. You can ride to the Point Pinos Lighthouse in minutes. The Monarch Grove Sanctuary is also just a short walk away. These activities encourage visitors to connect with nature. The hotel even welcomes pets, so no family member stays behind.
A Powerful Boost for the Economy
Vicki Poulos spoke about the brand’s vision for the property. She noted that the design reflects the artistic spirit of the region. She stated that the hotel captures the laid-back sophistication of the coast. According to her, the goal was to create a place that feels authentic. Economic reports from the state show that tourism is a top industry. New developments like this increase tax revenue for public services. It helps maintain the beautiful parks and roads of Pacific Grove. This hotel is a vital engine for local prosperity.
The Heartbeat of Pacific Grove
As the sun dips below the horizon, the Kimpton Mirador Pacific Grove begins to glow. It stands as a beacon of hope for the future of travel. This is where your best memories will be made. You will remember the sound of the ocean and the warmth of the fire. Every staff member greets you like an old friend. The town of Pacific Grove is ready to show you its magic. Come and find your peace at the edge of the sea. Your heart will thank you for the journey. This is more than a stay; it is a homecoming.
Since the opening of Disneyland in California in 1955, visiting Disney theme parks has become significantly more expensive. What was once an affordable family destination, where adult tickets were priced at only $1, has transformed into an increasingly costly experience for families worldwide. Both Disneyland and Walt Disney World in Florida have seen consistent price increases, making it harder for many to visit. These hikes reflect a broader trend within the entertainment and tourism industries, where prices rise to meet the demand for premium services and exclusive attractions. This growing cost of visiting Disney parks has profound implications on the global travel industry, as the pricing strategies implemented by Disney are setting the standard for pricing in major entertainment locations worldwide.
Soaring Ticket Prices
When it comes to admission, the cost of visiting Disney parks has escalated dramatically in recent years. For example, a single-day ticket to Walt Disney World can now reach up to $199 during peak times. This surge in ticket prices is largely due to the introduction of dynamic pricing in 2016, where ticket prices are adjusted based on factors like demand, the season, and crowd levels. This pricing model has resulted in significant price fluctuations, especially during busy periods, making it difficult for families on a budget to plan their visits.
Similarly, the cost of a one-day ticket to Disneyland in Anaheim now starts at around $104, a notable increase from the earlier years when Disney parks were more affordable for families. Additionally, annual passes, once viewed as a more budget-friendly option for frequent visitors, have almost doubled in price over the past decade. This shift has led to greater financial strain on those who wish to visit Disney regularly, especially for families who once relied on the pass to save money on repeat visits.
Paid Services Replacing Free Offerings
Over the years, Disney parks have shifted from providing many free services to charging for various premium add-ons. For instance, the FastPass system, which allowed visitors to bypass long lines for certain rides without extra charge, has been replaced with Lightning Lane, a paid service. Visitors can expect to pay up to $429 extra depending on how many rides they wish to skip the lines for. This shift to paid services has led to a significant change in the park experience, as many conveniences that were once included in the ticket price are now available only for an additional fee.
Moreover, services that were once complimentary, like the Magic Express shuttle (which provided free transportation from Orlando International Airport to Walt Disney World Resorts), have now been eliminated. As a result, visitors must arrange and pay for alternative transport, such as rideshares or private taxis, adding to the overall expense of their visit. This trend of charging for previously free services has led to a more expensive experience for park-goers, who are now paying for the same level of convenience that was once part of the standard Disney experience.
Increased Food and Snack Costs
In addition to rising ticket prices, the cost of food and snacks within the parks has increased significantly. For example, a simple Mickey ice-cream bar, which once cost around $2.75 in 2009, now costs approximately $6.50. This represents a more than double increase in price over the past decade. On top of this, visitors can expect to spend $50–$60 per day on food, an amount that has also seen a sharp rise in recent years. These higher food prices have become a significant burden for families who are already spending a large portion of their budget on tickets, accommodation, and other expenses.
The rising prices of food and snacks in Disney parks are forcing families to rethink their spending habits, and in many cases, visitors are opting for cheaper food options or limiting the number of meals they purchase inside the parks. This, in turn, may affect the overall experience for families, who may feel they are no longer able to indulge in all the park has to offer without overspending. Furthermore, these cost increases are also being felt across the global tourism industry, as other theme parks and tourist destinations are likely to follow Disney’s lead in raising their own prices for food and services, leading to higher overall travel costs.
Higher Merchandise Prices
The rising costs at Disney parks aren’t limited to admission tickets and food. Merchandise—a major part of the Disney experience—has also seen significant price increases. Popular souvenirs such as Mickey ears now cost between $20 and $50, depending on the style. This price increase reflects a broader trend within the entertainment and tourism sectors, where what was once considered an affordable keepsake is now priced at a premium. For visitors, this creates yet another financial burden, as they have to consider whether to purchase souvenirs or forgo them to avoid adding extra costs to their trip.
Disney merchandise, once an easily affordable item for families to bring home as a reminder of their trip, is now becoming part of the broader trend of rising costs in the theme park experience. This has forced many families to either scale back on souvenir purchases or seek out cheaper alternatives outside of Disney parks.
The Full Vacation Cost Has Increased Exponentially
As the prices of admission tickets, food, transportation, and merchandise have all risen, the overall cost of a trip to Disney has increased exponentially. A family of four planning a multi-day vacation to Walt Disney World or Disneyland can expect to spend anywhere between $6,000 to $15,000, depending on choices such as accommodations, meals, and extra services. This steep increase in cost is especially significant when compared to previous decades, when Disney vacations were considered a more affordable option for families looking to experience the magic of the parks.
As a result, many families are opting for shorter trips, cutting back on add-ons such as Lightning Lane, or choosing cheaper alternatives for meals and merchandise in an effort to stay within budget. These price increases have forced families to rethink their plans, as more and more visitors find it difficult to afford the once affordable experience. For many families, Disney parks have become an exclusive destination, accessible only to those with significant disposable income.
Impact on the Travel Industry
The rising prices at Disney theme parks represent a broader shift in the global travel industry. As Disney continues to increase prices, other theme parks and tourism destinations may follow suit, leading to even higher prices for family vacations. With the rising cost of transportation, lodging, and meals affecting the overall cost of travel, many families may find themselves priced out of top tourist destinations.
The impact of these rising prices will be most noticeable for middle-income families, who were once able to afford a trip to Disney but are now finding it increasingly difficult to do so. The pricing changes at Disney parks could result in fewer middle-class families visiting the parks, as higher-income visitors are more likely to be able to absorb the price hikes. This could lead to a shift in Disney’s visitor base, making the parks less accessible to a wider range of families, which could have long-term effects on the tourism industry.
Shifting Family Vacation Planning
As Disney park prices continue to climb, families are being forced to become more strategic in their vacation planning. Many are cutting back on add-ons, opting for shorter trips, or seeking out alternative travel destinations that offer similar experiences at a lower cost. Families are also focusing on essential experiences, avoiding additional expenses, and looking for ways to make their trip more affordable.
This shift toward premium services and higher prices is likely to result in a more exclusive visitor base at Disney parks, with fewer middle-class families able to afford the increasingly expensive experience. As a result, there could be a decline in the diversity of visitors, limiting access to the magic of Disney parks for those who may not have the financial resources to afford the higher prices.
The Future of Disney Parks
Looking toward the future, the question remains whether Disney parks will continue to raise prices or find a balance between offering premium services and maintaining affordability. While it is unclear whether prices will ever decrease, the rising costs are pushing Disney parks further out of reach for many families. This trend could lead to a long-term shift in how people plan their vacations and the types of destinations they choose to visit.
As Disneyland and Walt Disney World become less affordable, families may reconsider their vacation choices and opt for alternative destinations that offer a similar experience but at a lower cost. Disney parks risk alienating a significant portion of their visitor base, which could ultimately alter the landscape of family tourism.
Adapting to the New Reality
For travelers, this rising cost is likely to change how vacations are planned and which destinations are prioritized. With Disney parks no longer accessible to the broad range of visitors they once attracted, many families will have to adjust their expectations, making strategic decisions about where to spend their money. While Disney will likely remain a top destination for many, the increasing costs could force families to consider other, more affordable options when planning their trips.
In conclusion, the growing financial burden of visiting Disney parks is reshaping the global tourism industry, forcing visitors to weigh the increasing costs against their travel priorities. As families continue to adjust to this new reality, the impact on Disney and the broader tourism sector will likely be felt for years to come.
San Diego, California, is making waves in climate action with a bold Climate Action Blueprint that sets the city on course to reach net-zero emissions by 2035. This ambitious plan is a part of San Diego’s strategy to create a more sustainable, eco-conscious city, not just for its residents, but also for its growing number of eco-conscious tourists. With an eye on reducing its carbon footprint and enhancing the quality of life for its residents, the city’s climate goals also create new opportunities for travelers to engage with its green transformation.
San Diego’s vision for a sustainable future isn’t just about reducing emissions. It’s about creating an integrated, climate-friendly ecosystem that fosters clean energy, sustainable transport, and eco-friendly tourism. The city’s commitment to environmental responsibility makes it an attractive destination for travelers seeking to experience a city that is not only vibrant but also mindful of its ecological footprint.
The Climate Action Blueprint: San Diego’s Path to Net-Zero by 2035
San Diego’s Climate Action Blueprint, officially adopted in 2022, sets a community-wide goal of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2035. This comprehensive strategy integrates multiple sectors including energy, transportation, buildings, and land use to create a sustainable urban ecosystem.
A central component of this blueprint is clean energy. San Diego aims to source 100% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030. The city is also focusing on energy efficiency in buildings, requiring existing structures to move towards electrification, eliminating the use of natural gas for heating and other purposes. As a result, visitors will see a city that embraces solar panels, wind turbines, and other renewable technologies integrated into its infrastructure.
Sustainable Mobility: Reducing Emissions from Transportation
One of the major contributors to San Diego’s carbon footprint is transportation, but the city is leading efforts to reduce emissions in this sector as well. By 2035, the city plans to have 50% of all trips made by walking, biking, or public transit. San Diego’s focus on electric vehicles (EVs), electric buses, and biking infrastructure is transforming the way people move around the city, making it easier and more sustainable for residents and visitors to travel.
The city’s transportation initiatives aim to decrease vehicle emissions, expand the electric vehicle charging network, and improve public transit services — all of which will make it easier for tourists to explore San Diego without a reliance on fossil fuel-powered vehicles. Eco-friendly modes of transport are rapidly becoming a key feature of the San Diego visitor experience.
San Diego’s Sustainable Attractions: Eco-Friendly Spots to Explore
As San Diego works to meet its climate goals, it has also created a number of eco-friendly attractions for tourists to enjoy. These attractions not only highlight the city’s commitment to sustainability but also provide opportunities to explore its natural beauty in a responsible way. Here are a few notable spots:
Balboa Park: One of the largest urban parks in the U.S., Balboa Park is a sustainable destination that showcases green spaces, sustainable architecture, and eco-conscious museums. The park is home to many of San Diego’s world-class museums, gardens, and cultural institutions, making it the perfect place for eco-friendly exploration. The park is also committed to water conservation and sustainable landscaping.
USS Midway Museum: This iconic aircraft carrier turned museum, located on the San Diego Bay, is now a part of the city’s green initiatives. The museum emphasizes sustainability education through exhibits on clean energy and green technology used in the military and commercial sectors. Visitors can also enjoy the breathtaking bay views while learning about the USS Midway’s history and its role in climate change conversations.
Mission Bay Park: Mission Bay is one of the largest man-made aquatic parks in the world, and it’s also eco-conscious. The park is home to numerous water sports activities, such as kayaking and paddleboarding, which are promoted as environmentally responsible ways to enjoy the city’s natural beauty. Its proximity to Scripps Institution of Oceanography also ensures that marine conservation efforts are at the forefront of the park’s activities.
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve: This coastal gem in San Diego County is a biodiversity hotspot that promotes environmental stewardship. Torrey Pines offers visitors an opportunity to hike through pristine coastal chaparral, enjoy wildlife viewing, and learn about local conservation efforts. It’s a perfect example of how eco-tourism can help preserve natural spaces while allowing visitors to enjoy them.
The San Diego Zoo Safari Park: An extension of the renowned San Diego Zoo, this conservation-focused safari park offers guests a chance to experience wildlife in a naturalistic setting. The park plays a significant role in sustainable wildlife conservation and is actively involved in breeding programs for endangered species. Visitors can engage in eco-conscious safari tours, providing both entertainment and education on sustainable wildlife practices.
Circular Economy and Waste Reduction Initiatives
San Diego’s commitment to sustainability extends to waste reduction as well. The city has adopted a circular economy model that focuses on recycling, reusing, and reducing waste at every level. The city encourages residents and businesses to minimize their environmental impact through waste diversion programs and composting initiatives. This reduces landfill waste and helps contribute to the circular economy, making the city more sustainable.
Tourists can take part in this initiative by visiting zero-waste shops, participating in eco-friendly activities, and supporting local, sustainable businesses that prioritize environmentally responsible practices.
Global Leadership in Climate Action
San Diego’s Climate Action Blueprint is a model for other cities striving to balance economic growth, urban development, and environmental protection. The city’s collaborative approach with local businesses, environmental organizations, and residents has allowed it to set ambitious, achievable goals for carbon neutrality. San Diego has already made impressive strides in areas like renewable energy adoption, energy efficiency, and eco-tourism, and it is on track to meet its 2035 net-zero target.
For travelers, this commitment means experiencing a city that not only offers exciting attractions but is also investing in a green future. Whether strolling through Balboa Park, biking along Mission Bay, or exploring Torrey Pines, tourists can enjoy all that San Diego has to offer while knowing they are supporting a sustainable, eco-conscious destination.
A Santa Clarita girls hockey team chose to play through their pain after they were involved in a deadly crash in Colorado, and now they're bringing home a trophy.
The Santa Clarita Lady Flyers won the Western Girls Hockey Championship over the weekend, just days after a snowplow lost control, crashing into one of their team vans in Colorado on Thursday.
The father of one of the players, identified as Manny Lorenzana, was killed. He was the driver behind the wheel of the team van.
Several others were taken to the hospital, including one girl who was critically injured. She is expected to be OK. The team says one mother of a player is still in the hospital in Colorado.
A father was killed and several members of a Santa Clarita girls hockey team were injured when a snowplow hit their van in Colorado.
The Santa Clarita Lady Flyers returned to their home rink on Monday night to be celebrated as champions. A memorial outside of the rink celebrates their big accomplishment, but also recognizes the pain of several families who were involved in the deadly crash.
The girls decided they were going to continue on with the tournament and play for their peers who were involved in the crash. They went on to win six games and walked away as Western Girls Hockey Champions.
The team captain said it was about a two and a half hour conversation between the teammates, ages 10 to 13 years old, about whether or not they wanted to proceed.
"We all got around in a circle and we all kind of just talked about if we should play or not, and our decision was that we should play, not for ourselves, but for Manny, who was the father, and for our girls," said Sophia Boyle, the team captain.
The head coach said it was a very special moment when the player whose dad passed away returned to the team.
"We had a short bench, and on the fourth game, the young girl whose father who passed away actually showed up on the bench, game four, scored about 40 seconds into the game. As the girls were cheering, she was walking onto my bench with a helmet on. And all the girls hopped over, were giving her hugs because that was the first time we saw her. And I think that just gave all the girls that inspiration to continue on," said head coach Todd Stelnick.
An online fundraiser to help the victims has been created. A GoFundMe was also set up to cover funeral expenses for Lorenzana and support his family. Collectively, the two fundraisers have raised over $120,000.
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