OBHS presented: VONN MARIE MAY, Thurs., July 15th, 2010
Vonn Marie May’s memories of OB are filled with humorous and interesting stories about the community and its many characters. Vonn’s mom was one of the “Hotties” during the era when the Arizona and other bars were filled with babes clad in muumuus. Vonn also touched on the woman/nurses in the military and the challenges they faced. Vonn has extensive knowledge of OB, PL and SD histories. Professionally, she has been on the boards of many historical organizations and has helped get some of our most important sites designated. She also helps lead historical walks around the communities of San Diego.

June 17, 2010, OBHS presented: Derek Casady, who gave his perspective on our community of OB and coastal/CA issues. He gave examples of how people could become actively involved community members.  His varied careers include: publishing, politics and natural foods.

OB Exposed Entry FormThe Ocean Beach Historical Society presented:

The 16th Annual OB Exposed! MAY 21st Featured Wonderland Series Documentarian NOAH TAFOLLA This years photo exhibit and contest attracted hundreds of guests.

Winning Photos are now on display at the Ocean Beach Library Winners include:
People’s choice: Michael Allen – “Early morning stroll on a rainy day”, Best color: Michael Allen – “OB Break”, Best black and white: Fran Del Santo – “Pelican flying over the pier”, Best special effects: Bryce Johnson – “Local”, Best vintage (historic): Thomas W. Cairns Sr. – “Sunset Cliffs – WWII Military Housing – 1949”, Best in Show – Kenny James “Wadda You Lookin At? (OB Kelp Village)”

OBHS Presented: OCEAN BEACH COFFEE CULTURE Included was the premier of “Espresso Diaries” a book of Cartoons and Drawings by local animator Ray Blavatt.
(Book available at Newbreak Coffee and Olive Tree)
In March we had our “Tea Party”. In April we celebrated coffee in OB. Ironically, we actually celebrated “TEA” and “COFFEE”!!! OB has a dynamic coffee culture and vibrant history. The OBHS presented an interesting and humorous program about our local coffee houses and who some of the characters are that frequent them. We were joined by owners of these establishments.
We covered many events that were held in our coffee houses, what celebrities came out of our local java joints, and share your favorite Coffee House experiences.

The Ocean Beach Historical Society Annual Wisteria Party held at 4761 Niagara Ave., O.B., in the yard of the early 1900’s home of OBHS Vice Chair Ned Titlow. on the first day of Spring,
It was a lovely and sunny Saturday and couldn’t have been more perfect for Wisteria Tea Party. The event drew a large crowd, having about twice as many attendees as last year.
Thanks to all the recent rain, the yard was covered in Wisteria vines full of lavender blooms. Many flowery hats, outfits, ovely music by John Taffolla and delectables added to the obeisance.

Feb. 18, 2010, Mike Martino, who is a Lifeguard Superviser at Silver Strand State Beach, presented the story of the May 5, 1918, Ocean Beach drownings. He gave analysis and examine some of the characters involved the tragic event.
This sad chapter in Ocean Beach’s history occurred when a large rip current formed off Ocean Beach devastated the community. thirteen people drown including eleven servicemen. Others thought to be missing, but not confirmed. Multiple rescues were performed by lifeguards, police, and military along with civilians. Rescue operations spanned over three hours.
Mike has written the book the Lifeguards of San Diego County published by Arcadia.

OB Photographer Steve Rowell Presented: OUR LOCAL WILDLIFE
Jan 21, 2010. Steve Rowell  discussed our local birds and wildlife. Steve showed his extraordinary bird photos that he has taken over many years. His presentation included his favorite birds, the OB Ospreys, who have set-up permanent residence at Rob Field. He’s tracked their history and photographed them for years. Come hear Steve’s interesting stories about the birds and wildlife in our area. For info. about Steve Rowell and bird slide show: www.oceanbeachphotos.com

Mayor Jerry Sanders proposes eliminating the senior planner position that manages historic districts in San Diego. Mayor Sanders sent a pink slip to Kelly M. Saunders, who holds the position now. This action will terminate historic districts (May hurt OB’s Historical Cottage Program) and slowing down of individual house designations by 50%.
† The historic districts are key to protecting our neighborhoods. Write or FAX  council to save the historic districts by funding the protect Kelly Saunders’ senior planner staff position to continue designating historic houses and protecting our neighborhoods by districts.

The Ocean Beach Historical Society Nov. 19th, 2009 presented:
The OB Elementary School Celebrates Its 100 Year Anniversary
The Alumni Rejoiced in the School’s History from 1909 – 2009
FEATURED JOHN DEBECK & PRESENTED BY ALUMNI THROUGH THE GENERATIONS
San Diego School Board Member John deBeck helped us celebrate the 100th anniversary. Mr. deBeck was joined by many Ocean Beach Elementary Alumni of all ages (From 5 to over 100 yrs. old) as they share their funny and fascinating memories and the history of the school.

Katheryn Rhodes of La Playa Heritage Presented
HISTORIC DESIGNATIONS AND HOW TO WRITE A HISTORIC DESIGNATION REPORT
Oct. 15th, Ms. Rhodes discussed the beautiful historically designated homes in the La Playa neighborhood which was established in 1849.
The City of SD, State, and Federal government all have the same basic guidelines for Historic Designation report. Katheryn Rhodes of La Playa Heritage will give a talk on the required steps and research needed to write your own
Historic Designation Report in order to qualify your home for Mills Act status and a reduction in property taxes. A template for Historic Reports and a Step by Step guide will be available free to anyone who would like to research their home for possible historic designation.
KATHERYN RHODES is a Civil Engineer with a Master of Science in Civil and Environmental Engineering from San Diego State University. Ms. Rhodes has written many geotechnical investigations, and provided forensic research for many projects including the Naval Training Center, Battery Wilkenson, and many building at UCSD. Visit Katheryn’s website at: laplayaheritage.com