101 Cafe

Back to the Future

2012-01-05T17:12:00.000-08:00

This is the 84th year the 101 Café has conducted business along the Historic Highway 101 in Oceanside. One reason for our longevity is that we have adapted to our customer’s needs since 1928. Beginning Friday January 6 we will have new Winter Hours from 7:00 AM until 2:00 PM every day and will continue until we announce our new Summer hours later in the Spring.
We have made some important changes in our kitchen and will provide the best customer service possible. We expect to make some menu changes soon and are working to make your experience at the Café a most pleasurable one.

Choices on how to get to the 101 Cafe and the Flying Pig in Oceanside

2011-07-06T06:44:00.000-07:00

There are many great choices that will get you to the 101 Cafe or the Flying Pig at Coast Highway and Wisconson Street in Oceanside. If you are lucky enough to live along the Coast in Oceanside or Carlsbad you can also walk to the food or drink of your choice.

Klaus comes to Oceanside

2011-06-04T10:58:00.000-07:00

Last year when I got a request for information about the Top Gun House I didn't give it much thought. I had to ask why they wanted the dimensions of the house so I did.
In response I was told that he was going to build a model of the house since it was going to be the 25Th Anniversary of the Top Gun Movie in 2011. At first I didn't think of the possibilities, but soon thought about the good PR our community could enjoy if we did a good job with it. Soon community leaders met to decide what to do. The rest as they would say is history. I sent the dimensions to Klaus Sonnenschein and began to plan what would become the 25Th Anniversary of the Top Gun Movie in Oceanside. We agreed that showing the movie in the Pier Amphitheater was a must and a Beach Volleyball Exhibition would round out two days of Top Gun. Once we decided on the Memorial Day weekend to produce the event then Klaus planned to be here in Oceanside to check it all out. What a pleasure to meet my new German friend. He was so much fun to learn everything about the Top Gun film. He claimed to have seen it 35 times before he came to Oceanside. As you might see we had over for a Beer-Butt Chicken BBQ. His command of English made it really easy to share our community and friends. My thanks to Klaus for his getting the Top Gun adventure going, I hold him responsible...

25th Anniversary of the Top Gun Movie Oceanside

2011-05-17T14:02:00.000-07:00

It gets more exciting everyday. Now there will be a Fighter Jet Flyover on Friday the 27th 7:00 PM just before the Free Top Gun Movie is shown at the Pier Amphitheater in Oceanside fight after the Marine Corps Band finishes its concert. We will see and feel the 'Need for Speed' first hand at this Friday night movie.
Saturday starts with Top Gun Beach Volleyball Exhibition/Tournament beginning at 11:00 AM next to the Top Gun House. There will be Beach Volleyball Pros like Karch Kiraly and Sinjin Smith, Marines, Navy and Local players all making up the teams for this Top Gun Tournament. Beginning at 2:00 PM there will be a Kids Clinic put on by the Pros until 4:00 PM. Keeping with the Movie Kansas City BBQ will be selling not only their great food, but also Top Gun Memorabilia.
Saturday night at 7:00 PM the Free Top Gun Movie will be shown again in the Pier Amphitheater. What a great way to begin your Memorial Day Weekend. For information call 760-721-1101

101 Cafe recycles in a big way

2011-05-11T08:57:00.000-07:00

The 101 Cafe's waste/recycle hauler Waste Management now takes all of our recyclable items in our bins. This completely changes the amount we can now recycle. We will go from three trash bin pick ups per week to just one and we will pick up our recycle bin three times instead of just one. This effectively increases our recycling to seventy-five percent of our waste an amount of which makes us happy.
Oceanside has been in the forefront of recycling and now commercial recycling will help bring it closer to our new goals.
The following Businesses at El Corazon provide more recycling opportunities;
Moodys accepts concrete, asphalt and dirt.
Agri Service Incorporated accepts all green waste and provide mulch and wood chips to the community

History Walk Downtown Oceanside

2011-05-11T08:10:00.000-07:00

It is that time of year where the Oceanside Historical Society host their walks in Historic Downtown Oceanside. There is no better way to learn about our community.

They are on the second Saturday of each month:
May 14
June 11
July 9
August 10
September 11

Beginning at 9:00 AM

Starting from the front of the Downtown Library at 300 North Coast Highway

It is a moderate walk that last a couple of hours. We always encourage question.

Easter Dinner for you at the 101 Cafe

2011-04-18T12:42:00.000-07:00

The 101 Cafe is serving two traditional Easter Dinners; Turkey and Ham each with all the trimmings including Mashed Potatoes and Gravy, Cranberries, Stuffing, Veges, a Roll and choice Soup or Salad all for only $ 9.95. Available after 4:00 PM through Easter. Here's our Easter Card for you:

Lets walk

2010-05-04T07:50:00.000-07:00

It is that time of year where the Oceanside Historical Society host their walks in Historic Downtown Oceanside. There is no better way to learn about our community.

They are on the second Saturday of each month:
May 8
June 12
July 10
August 14
September 11

Beginning at 9:00 AM

Starting from the front of the Downtown Library at 300 North Coast Highway

It is a moderate walk that last a couple of hours. We always encourage question.

Fun at the 101 Cafe

2009-11-18T12:02:00.000-08:00

Everyday brings new cars into the 101 Cafe. Some bring back memories of yesterday while others are just Mom & Dads bringing their kids in to begin a new tradition for their families. Keep your eyes out for the ride of your life.

Thanksgiving Turkey Dinner at the 101 Cafe

2009-11-10T14:09:00.000-08:00

The 101 Cafe is proud to offer our Thanksgiving Turkey meal for the 81st year in a row. That a lot of Turkey. Our meal consist of turkey breast, mashed potatoes and gravy, sweet potatoes, vegetables, roll, salad and pumpkin pie all for only $9.95. We will serve it from 4:00 pm everyday through Thanksgiving. If you need your meal on Thanksgiving day you can get it beginning at 10:00 am until closing at 2:00 pm.

In case you want to look for other choices I want to show you some good ones.

2009 Thanksgiving Brunch

1. Addison at the Del Mar Grand $ 98
2. 333 Pacific 49.95
3. The Crossings at Carlsbad 3 7.50
4. Argyle Steakhouse Four Seasons 85.00
5. El Camino Country Club 25.99

Where to shop at Halloween

2009-10-13T05:36:00.001-07:00

Vintage Sanctuary located at 625 South Coast Highway, Oceanside, next door to the 101 Cafe is the place to find the perfect outfit for your spooky good time. The proprietor, Stephanie will help you with all of your needs. Open from Noon the 8:00 PM everyday... (760)439-4535

Vintage Sanctuary is your Halloween Costume Headquaters

2009-10-08T16:37:00.000-07:00

Vintage Sanctuary on Coast Highway Oceanside, next to the 101 Cafe is THE Place to find your clothes and or costume for Halloween. Stephanie the owner has worked for over tens years to make her store the place to go for you vintage clothing needs and gives hundreds of possibilities for your spooky wear. Check out her reviews to see how she treats her customers. It is worth seeing everything she has to offer.

Vintage Sanctuary

625 South Coast Highway

Oceanside, CA 92054

760-439-4535

Map

Mandy and Jordan 'Who'

2009-10-08T06:16:00.000-07:00

We are happy to announce we have found Mandy & Jordan. Mandy assure us they will be in to retrieve their Wedding photo album soon. It turns out the 101 Cafe is one of their favorite places.

OK there is a twist to our story. It turns out the Jordan of Mandy and Jordan is Jordan Pundik

of New Found Glory . We received a call from someone who let us know that indeed that Jordan was Jordan Pundik. We also had it confirmed by Diane Bell a columnist for the San Diego Union-Tribune who's story led to Mandy's call. It is a story that I think will continue.

Oceanside High School Foundation Celebrates at the 101 Cafe

2009-10-07T11:17:00.000-07:00

OHS Foundation Homecoming Weekend 2009

Friday, October 16Th an All Class Reunion Sundowner at the 101 Cafe from 4:30 till 8:00 PM.

Come see your Friends support OHS and plan on spending some money on Beverages and Raffles. Check out great sounds and all the cool Hot Rods driven by Alumni and Teachers. The Cafe was known as Graham's Drive-In back in the day and brings back lots of fun memories. Come join the fun.

Help us find Mandy and Jordan

2009-09-30T07:52:00.000-07:00

Almost everyday one or more of our guest leave things after they have dined at the 101 Cafe. We look for the obvious things to help identify the guest if possible. We have gotten more items than we can descriobe here, but we hold onto them so when a guest returns looking for them we will have it.

This time someone left a beautiful Photo Book of Mandy and Jordans' Wedding and Reception. It was given to them by Diana & Mark and has a personal card to them left inside an Apple box. We have had it for a long time and hope you can help us find it's newly wed owners, Mandy and Jordan. Call John at (760)439-1319

SURFMonkey Oceanside August 8, 2009 Sights and Sounds

2009-08-08T08:42:00.000-07:00

The annual SURFMonkey event in Oceanside CA has something for everyone at the beach. The 5K run goes along The Strand up on the Pier and then down the beach and returns at the Historic Bandshell for a picture finish. The run, swim paddle event is a moving beach festival. If you missed it this year then mark next August for its return.

The Art of Milk Shake at the 101 Cafe

2009-07-19T07:53:00.000-07:00

Untold millions of Milk Shakes have been enjoyed by our guest at the 101 Cafe. Here is a sped up version on how to make them. Stop by from 7 am till Midnight everyday , but Christmas to enjoy the shakes and comfort foods we have served for over 81 years.

Cruising the Oceanside Strand and going under the Pier

2009-07-16T14:22:00.000-07:00

Some of us locals have been cruising The Strand six we could sip up in a car. I enjoy it anytime of the year. The beach is full of surf camps and kids as well as families camping out for a long sunny day. You can't get more picturesque that having the Pier as your backdrop. The present Pier is the latest rendition of our first Pier that was finished before we incorporated as a city in 1888. Enjoy the cruise which is just blocks from the 101 Cafe.

Sunday Cruisers at the 101 Cafe

2009-07-14T09:19:00.000-07:00

The 101 Cafe is blessed with cool rides everyday. We will try to document more for your enjoyment. We do a new T-shirt design each year and will be looking for just the right vehicles to put into our design. Bring your ride down and take a photo of it and either leave it at the Cafe or email it to OsideNow@gmail.com

See you at the Cafe...

Cruising Oceanside Beaches on a Sunday

2009-07-14T07:58:00.000-07:00

Being a Local I have cruised Oceanside's Beaches since I was small. Of course the ultimate cruise is along The Strand. No matter what time of year it is there is always the beauty of the blue Pacific and people enjoying the sun and surf. Riding, jogging, walking or laying on the sand it is people watching at its best.

See you at the Beach...

Scooters at the 101 Cafe

2009-07-06T05:40:00.000-07:00

Given time we see so many cool rides at the Cafe. I came up from the beach on the 4Th of July and found that a group of scooters had brought their owners to the Cafe. It just so happens the Highway 101 Association wants to put on a Scooter Cruise this August along the Historic Highway between Oceanside and La Jolla. Maybe they already know how cool the Highway is to cruise?

2009 Race Across America Get Ready and GO!

2009-06-17T13:24:00.000-07:00

It is and incredible feat to participate in the Race Across America. No matter what you do for the race it is a big commitment to either put on the race, crew for the riders or ride. Everyone deserves KUDOS. Today the elite men, women and some teams began their journey of three thousand miles to Annapolis. You will be able to follow them online. RAA teams will start Saturday at 2:00 pm. It should be a great day since the City has closed The Strand to cars for a bikes only day, its only fitting.

2009 Graduation Oceanside

2009-06-13T08:05:00.000-07:00

Every year we look to our local high schools graduation ceremony to mark two important aspects of our lives, one the beginning of summer and two a reminiscent look back at our own graduation so many years ago. I am proud to say I graduated from Oceanside High School in 1967.

Riding my bike along The Strand yesterday was a trip. I saw thousands of student, parents, family members and friends waiting for the graduation ceremony to begin at the Bandshell next to the Pier. Good times or bad graduating students will make their way into the world as they have for 103 years at Oceanside High School.

Good luck to them all.

San Luis Rey River Trail Just About Connected to Beach

2009-06-10T11:44:00.000-07:00

It is really good news for bicyclist that the entrance from Pacific Street to the San Luis Rey River Trail will be open Saturday the 13Th. It will make it easier to get to the trail from along the beach and harbor. There is more work to be done to the train under crossing, but that will be later and should done quickly.

The San Luis Rey River Trail affords a flat paved surface next to open water, trees and greenery for about seven miles. It is a well traveled path safe for riders of all ages.

Ride on.

Summer has Begun

2009-06-08T15:52:00.000-07:00

There is an actual date given to the beginning of Summer, but I would argue that it really begins in your community when certain things begin to happen. In Oceanside, first the beach needs to fill with goers who are coming no matter what the weather, second all of the easy parking becomes sparse in the morning hours and third when I5 going South backs up by 11:00 AM in the morning. This last weekend combined all three of the necessary ingredients to announce the beginning of Summer 2009. We are ready for the increase of guest and look forward to another great Summer.
I forgot the great Rock Concert by 94.9 yesterday. It sold out within hours. The Bandshell at the Pier is a HOT venue again.

What is wrong with this Picture

2009-05-26T15:47:00.000-07:00

There are few things that remain the same over long periods of time. Along Oceanside's beaches you can depend upon the Pier, the Bandshell, The Strand and Robert's Cottages. Roberts was built in the 1920's as an Auto Court and provide beachfront housing albeit about 200 square feet since then. In the 1950's the cottages became one of California's first condominiums. Exactly the date and when they decided upon the salmon(pink) color and roof material is unknown, but for my lifetime you could depend upon it. Checkout the video view then look at the colors on three units. One can only assume that the homeowners have decided upon a change. I am not sure what to say?

What??????

2009-05-20T14:34:00.000-07:00

I still remember buying my first computers for my office Oh so many years ago. You would have to check with my friend Rainer Mueller who sold me the computers and set them up for me and my secretary Kristi Hawrthorne. I am not sure if I really understood where the digital era would take me. All I know is we did not even have email back then. Certainly could not surf the web. I did learn to do a little typing with the Word Perfect program and since our computers were connected I learned how to harass Kristi some. I cannot believe we now have Social Networks. Remember when networks were just ABC, NBC and CBS. Today even their days are numbered. I have been trying to get up to speed with things like My space, Face book, Twitter and Blogging for awhile now. There are even more sites, but I am trying to get these down before I venture on. I wanted to mention the My space according to many experts is now a waste of time unless you are looking to hire a band, are in a band or maybe following a band.

I hope I live long enough where we will be using our voices to communicate with whatever replaces the computer. It is going to be an extremely exciting world we will live in the future. If I fall behind please kick me in the butt and remind me while I love heritage of the past, but you relish the future for its excitement.

So if you want to stay up please follow me on the Social Networks and if you are leading me send me some tips.

The Souther California Beach Soccer Championships begin with a huge Clinic for the kids

2009-05-15T17:40:00.000-07:00

Eddie Soto, who was recently named head coach of the U.S. Beach Soccer National Team will lead todays clinic and receive assistance from U.S. National team players along with other famous soccer stars & coaches from all over Southern California. The National team will also play a Pro team on Sunday. Check out this event including the schedule and parking at:

http://www.beachsoccerusa.org/beachSoccer/ The volunteers who have built this event should be very proud of their accomplishments.

Beach Soccer returns to Oceanside

2009-05-14T06:33:00.000-07:00

The Southern California Beach Soccer Championships returns to Oceanside May 16th and 17th. They will have "one of the Largest Free Soccer Clinics in the World former U.S. Beach Soccer National Team Player Eddie Soto has been in charge of this clinic and has grown it to be one of the largest Beach Soccer clinics in the world. It will be held Friday May 15, from 4-6 PM at the Oceanside Harbor Beach Stadium. It is open to all participants in the event.
If you have never see Beach Soccer this will be a chance to see at is its best.

New Art Solution along the 101 in Oceanside

2009-05-13T13:28:00.000-07:00

Problem: Utility box behind the 101 Cafe was an eyesore. Grafittied often, faded with chipped paint it posed a challenged to beautify.

Solution: Cover all five sides with Historic photos(art) after first painting the box.

I think when you see this you might wonder why it was not done before. It seems like a cool solution to an ongoing problem.

Beach Cities 101 Cruise

2009-05-10T07:54:00.000-07:00

The Highway 101 Association produced the Beach Cities 101 Cruise May 3rd. The route followed the Historic Highway 101 between Oceanside and La Jolla. Cruisers seemed to enjoy the idea of a drive with no registration($$) and judging, but the fun of seeing and being seen along one of the world's most beautiful roads. We want to thank the North County Times and the San Diego Union Tribune for getting the word out. It was the Association's first attempt to promote an event with only the use of the Internet, a first for a cruise! We learned a few things from this attempt and hope to do more cruises in the future.

We will promote the Beach'n 101 Cruise the traditional way with fliers, posters and car council meetings as well as the Internet. The Fourth Beach'n 101 Cruise will be September 7, 2009 this year. It promises to be bigger and more fun than ever.

Cruising the 101 Cafe

2009-04-29T14:01:00.000-07:00

It is so cool to have friends that will bring their cars by the Cafe when we need them for TV, this time the Larry Himmel Show on channel 8, KFMB. These guys have the best cars in their class and are generous with their time. You can see their cars cruising by the 101 Cafe on the Historic Highway 101. Turned out to be a chamber of commerce day today. A good day to show off the 101 and the Cafe.

7th Annual Native Plant Home Tour

2009-04-20T09:20:00.000-07:00

It could not haver been a more beautiful day to see all the wonderful native plant gardens in the Seaside Neighborhood. The tours started at 2:00 PM and were led by knowledgeable docents who answered questions about the plants seen. It was a treat to walk among the older custom homes to see the gardens , but also to look at the archicecture. Many of the homes were in the Plumosa Heights Subdivision which was developed from 1924 till about 1930. This exclusive subdivision required that the homes be valued at least $ 4,000. Some of what B.C. Beers(Developer) did was way ahead of the times and has left these lots with large setbacks, wide streets and the distictive street lights.

We a blessed to have an active neighborhood group to spearhead such a great project.

Beach season begins when certain things happen in Oceanside

2009-04-16T15:13:00.000-07:00

It may be a little simplistic, but you can bet that Spring is in full bloom in Oceanside when dredging begins and the kids hit the beach. It might not be the Spring Break capital of California, but it usually a good place to bring the kids and enjoy our temperate climate and the locals like that just fine. In weeks the dredging will wind up and the beach will sport a new wide look and the weather will continue to warm for our out of town guest.

Oceanside Happenings

2009-03-12T08:30:00.000-07:00

It is the time of year where event schedules begin to blossom. From Iron Man Races to the Yacht Club Opening Day Ceremony there is something for everyone in Oceanside to see and do. Many calendars note what's happening.

Here are a few:

City of Oceanside

Oceanside Chamber

Oceanside Museum of Art

California Welcome Center Oceanside

You can always cruise The Strand down by the Pier to see what's happening on the beach.

Shooting a commercial for the 101 Cafe

2009-03-11T08:43:00.000-07:00

The 101 Cafe is known for many things; its the oldest cafe on highway 101 on the West Coast, it has great food, it has friendly service and now it is going to have a commercial. It is being made exclusively for the internet where you will be able to see it on Youtube and other video outlets. We are excited about it an hope it works well for us.

Mater II comes to the 101 Cafe

2009-03-09T10:53:00.000-07:00

Pixar's Cars movie was a big hit with kids of all ages. It was fun and easy to watch. I was quite surprised to see Mater at the 101 Cafe. This affable tow truck's voice is Larry the Cable Guy and was one of my favorites in the movie. OK so it was really Mater II an old Chevy tow truck. The owner was on his way to Disneyland with his son.

I enjoy seeing the cool cars, trucks and motorcycles that cruise into the 101 Cafe on a regular basis.

One of the highlights of promoting the Cafe and Historic Highway 101 is seeing all the people cruising and enjoying themselves.

Oceanside Adventure

2009-03-04T08:32:00.000-08:00

It has been many months since the idea was first pitched to Leslee Gaul, Director of Tourism California Welcome Center Oceanside about doing an Internet commercial. Once the concept was approved by the other sponsors the Oceanside Lodging Association work began. Not a small undertaking from concept to finished product it was released yesterday for the world to see. Produced by Anna-Marie Abell of Big Head Marketing this is a great example of how the Internet is and will be a place where our guest will look and see us. This is the future. Dubbed the Oceanside Adventure you can go on YouTube:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rslnyJgNDCU and check it out. Please pass it on so it will travel far and wide on the net.

Just a car guy: Car Show Calendar of San Diego for 2009 events

2009-03-03T09:54:00.000-08:00

Just a car guy: Car Show Calendar of San Diego for 2009 events

Beach'n 101 Cruise IV

The 4th Annul Beach'n 101 Cruise will roll out September 27, 2009 9:00 AM till 3:00 PM this year. It Promises to be bigger than ever. Cruise through Classic California Beach Cities; Oceanside, Carlsbad, Encinitas, Solana Beach, Del Mar and La Jolla. Cruise inches from the sand and enjoy classic Pacific Ocean views all along the route of the Historic Highway 101. One mandatory Pit Stop at the Historic Del Mar Race Track, 'Where the Surf Meets the Turf' you have your car photographed, judged and maybe awarded. Also registered car owners will have a chance at the drawing of cash prizes totalling $ 1,000.00. Truly the Cruise to see and be seen, a showcase of all cars and trucks. Check it out and sign up at: www.beachn101cruise.com or call John Daley at (760)439-1319 OsideNow@gmail.com

Marathons are Us

2009-03-02T10:19:00.000-08:00

There is a group of Marathoners that have walked marathons together for many years and cumulatively have done over six hundred races. They have never referred to themselves as a group so I might call them the Marathon Misfits for now. The Misfits is made up of Artist Weber, the God of Sod, the Architect of Wet and Mr. 101. Now that is the hardcore group, but it sometimes expands into many more. Some of the group have been doing races for over twenty years.

Since the group did almost all sanctioned marathons like the LA Marathon for many years it seemed only natural that we would put together our own routes and races. The first was the Highway 101 Marathon from the 101 Cafe to the beach North of the La Jolla Tennis Club . It was a winter time favorite close to home we had our own t-shirts, numbers and medals. Well it didn't take long before we did more of our own races: Sprinter, El Camino Real, Yosemite, San Luis Rey, Pacific Coast and our last creation the FleaDick. OK so why the FeaDick name? This race begins at the off ramp to Camp Las Pulgas on Camp Pendleton also known as El Camino Real. A popular place for Bicyclist to begin a ride going North to the San Onfre State Park and further North to San Clemente. Our route continued around the Dana Point Harbor and then to the San Juan Capistrano Mission. What a beautiful race. Oh yeah why FeaDick? Las Pulgas means 'the flea' and I did not mention after we pass the San Onfre Nuclear power plant we proceed by the site of Richard Nixon's Western White House, walla, flea Dick.

I look forward to every race and enjoy everyone who races with us. This is as close as it will come to me be a club member.

Minis come to the 101 Cafe

2009-02-18T14:14:00.000-08:00

The 101 Cafe was excited to be The Cafe for BMW's release of the new Mini Convertible . Publishers, writers and photographers drove their new Mini Convertibles from the swanky beach Tower 23 Hotel in San Diego's PB. The minis followed the Historic Highway 101 through the seven communities(PB, La Jolla, Del Mar, Solana Beach, Encinitas, Carlsbad and Oceanside) to cruise into the 101 Cafe.

It is very fitting that the 101 Cafe host so many automobile related activities since it was opened and named for the Historic Highway 101. Look forward to more cars cruising into the Cafe soon.

2009 Amgen Tour of California

2009-02-13T07:22:00.000-08:00

The largest cycling event in America, the 2009 Amgen Tour of California is a Tour de France-style cycling road race presented by AEG that challenges the world’s top professional cycling teams to compete along a demanding, recently expanded, 750-mile course from Sacramento to Escondido from February 14-22, 2009.

How exciting to be able to see the International event unfold here in San Diego North and finish in Escondido. It has become evident that we are becoming more bicycle savvy here in the Sunshine state. Oceanside has been designated as a 'Bicycle Friendly City' by the League of American Bicyclist and years ago initiated the Dasani Blue Bikes Program for their community members and guest. There are over 72 miles of class 2 bike lanes in the community and The Strand affords the opportunity to ride inches from the sand.

We salute Lance Armstrong for his return to cycling and his efforts with LIVESTRONG.COM

San Diego North Convention and Visitor Bureau has taken the lead in doing the local promotion for the event and has worked to provide accommodations for the thousands of participants, crews and spectators.

This promises to be a world-class event.

You may want to check out the 101 Cafe's contribution to cycling, our ten foot bicycle we use for a bike rack.

Rain at the 101

2009-02-09T12:32:00.000-08:00

So we don't get much rain here in Oceanside, CA along the Historic Highway 101 which can be good and bad. Good is the endless amount of sunny days we can enjoy outside, bad is the few days we have to put up with our fire season. It seems like the last few years we have been reminded about the threat of fires in our backcountry. Even that would not be so bad if we had not allowed people to build their homes in these inland areas that you would bet would burn.

I guess most of us realize we live in an area that can be volatile. We trade off these concerns for the absolute beauty of our coast, mountains and desert. I love to read the predictions in the media about our weather because it seems as if they cannot get much right. Just last week I read where we were not getting much rain this season, yet our current storm has come to us about the same time as we might expect our rainy season to begin. I'll be the first to admit we don't get a lot of precipitation, but when you live in a desert you might expect that.

There will be a visit by the Mini Cooper Company this month at the 101 Cafe to let the press preview new models. The prospects of hosting them with about forty writers/photographers is so cool. These little cars have rolled onto asphalt in 1959 and eventually were manufactured and sold by BMW in 2002. The Cafe will be a part of a cruise the cars will make from Tower 23 along the Historic Route of the 101 to the 101 Cafe. The Cafe will be closed to the general public from 10:00 AM till 2:00 PM. You can Cruise by February 18Th and see all the cool Minis though.

January 10, 2009

2009-01-10T08:45:00.000-08:00

What a beautiful day. When I took off from the Cafe for my morning walk It seemed a little special. It was a bit warmer, but clearer than usual. I had seen the papers prediction of warmer weather ahead, but as it happens often it can be overstated. When I had gotten to the Harbor I could feel a gentle gust of warm air. I mean warm air at 5:00 am in the morning. Did I say how big and bright the Moon was? I have walked in my community Oceanside along the beach, the Harbor and Highway 101 for over thirty-five years now and must say I truly enjoy each walk. The Moon was so cool I grabbed my camera at my office when I got back so I could get a picture of the moon setting over the Pier. I have hundreds of photos of the sun setting over the Pier, but not one of a Moon setting. So now I have some. Unless you get out early in the morning you miss it's incredible tranquility and beauty. You can also witness unbelievable sunrises, yes the opposite of the sunsets you do enjoy.

See you on the beach.

Any Reason is a good reason to come into the 101 Cafe

2008-11-22T12:09:00.000-08:00

Since the 101 Cafe opened in 1928 people have stopped in for more reasons than we can count. About the time you think you seen it all some Else comes in for a new reason or using a new mode of transportation. I thought I'd share some images of folks and their rides at the Cafe.

Thanksgiving Day Meal is HOW much?

2008-11-22T11:38:00.000-08:00

It may occur to you that we have reached a place in time that people are giving more thought to their daily budget than ever before.

That may not be true or at least some restaurants here in San Diego North are hoping its not.Much to surprise I spotted an ad in that touted a Thanksgiving day offerings for only $ 47.50 adults and $ 22.95 for children under 12 at a public golf course in Carlsbad. OK, if it was the Lodge at Torrey Pines I would not of have blinked, but, come on now. I did some checking to see if it was a little let's say aggressive so below are some offerings on Thanksgiving Day:

Adults and Kids prices;

Aviara $ 85 $ 42.50

La Costa $ 58 $ 27

The Lodge at Torrey Pines $ 75 $30

The Crossing $ 47.50 $ 22.95

El Camino Counrty Club $ 31.99 $ 11.99

Mimi's $ 14.99 $ 6.99

It is commonly known the first three have Chef's of known reputation.

For three years nowhttp://101cafe.net/has served a full Holiday Turkey dinner including everything for just $ 9.99 from now until January1.

We have been in the business of providing meals for over twenty years and now does not compare to anytime before when it comes to our business. So I may have just given you your choices for where to eat this Turkey day, but I hope it at least gives you cause for thought.

Comfort Food for our times

2008-11-06T12:45:00.000-08:00

It is the perfect time to discover why Comfort Food appeals to us. Some people do no like the definition of Comfort Food; food prepared in a traditional style having a usually nostalgic or sentimental appeal, Merriam Webster Dictionary online Dictionary, Food that is simply prepared and associated with a sense of home or contentment, Answers.com,but it is clear that many people seek this type of food when facing uncertainty and trying times.

Trying times defines our now.

I have observed over the last twenty years that people often times come to the 101 Cafe after the death of a family member or a friend. This is probably the one event that made me think about people coming into the Cafe to seek comfort. Taking it to an extreme 911 brought thousands in seeking the solace, contentment and comfort for months afterwards. I felt a little guilty about our crowds when other businesses were challenged by the huge disruption brought about by terrorist

Comfort Food has accounted for a substantial number of our guest. It is clear that nostalgia is a big draw and over the years people have come back to see the Cafe. We get guest who's parents have brought them from the North on their way to San Diego from as early the 1920's and every decade since. We get veterans from the military who have come here since we've opened in 1928. We get returning Marines from Iraqi seeking the foods they have missed and the smiles from our staff. It is great to see the returning vacationers from all around the world bring family and friends to see the Cafe that they so love.

What ever you call it these foods help form an attraction to a place like the 101 Cafe we hope will never end.

Season Change in Oceanside

2008-09-19T08:52:00.000-07:00

I like all the seasons, but I must admit I enjoy the change we make here in Oceanside as August ends and September begins. We have many humid days in June, July and August and our temperature only varies about eight or nine degrees. I like cool mornings and evenings and warm days and wait patiently for our September change into dry warm days with the cool evenings and mornings. OK we do get Santa Anas from now until whenever, but day in and day out this is our Best Beach weather. I think this month we started the change later than some and it felt like the change is imminent. I felt it as I rode my Schwinn cruiser along The Strand this morning. Today the skies cleared by mid-morning and Hot has returned. Lets hope the humidity leaves us soon.

Another sign of this change is the Woodies that cruise South along Highway 101 to Wavecrest in Encinitas where hundreds of these wooded wheeled Beach icons come to celebrate California's' Beach and Car culture. It is hard to describe how many different and totally unique vehicles are to be seen. A must see California original

Surf Monkey Swimming Running & Paddle Boarding

2008-08-02T11:45:00.000-07:00

I guess I should of looked at the Special Events Calendar the City has, but I didn't so I was surprised to see the crowds at the Pier this morning. I was told it some surfmonkey thing? The Xterra WetSuits' SurfMonkey is a collection of events that has something for every endurance sports monkey. They say that "Only the chosen elite will ever consider that they might, one day, touch the monkey." It was way cool to see the different athletes compete in these three events and the combos including the 3 Event Stage Race combining the Run, Swim & Paddleboard Race to crown the King & Queen Monkey! Includes entry in the 5km run, the 1mi swim, and the 8mi paddleboard race. How cool .

Close yet so far away

2008-07-19T13:18:00.000-07:00

A couple of months ago the city posted that the bridge crossing the San Luis Rey River into the Harbor would be done in June 2008. If you have checked lately you will see that there is still plenty of work to do. Regardless of all the finger pointing we will have to wait till it done before we can resume our complete cruise of Oceanside's coastline. No matter how you do it cruising has been a sport that began with the first wheeled vehicles that showed up. I certainly am guilty of doing it and I now walk, ride and drive Pacific Street, The Strand and Harbor Drive for fun at least once a day if I am in town.

Thanks to anyone who helped this bridge become a reality.

New Eats & Brews in Oceanside

2008-07-09T14:13:00.000-07:00

If you are like me you get a little excited about a new eating and or drinking place in our community. We have watched two new places with some patience, but come on now open.

Harney Sushi has opened in Oceanside at the corner of Mission Avenue and Cleveland Street Downtown. Check out there web site and you'll see this is not you traditional sushi place. I think it is going to be a very popular place for sushi, music and entertainment.

The Breakwater Brewery at Coast Highway and Seagaze is scheduled to open this weekend. Looking inside it promises to be a hip brew pub with some good eats. Their website is not up yet, but look for it soon. Easy parking for both new places, park in the lots on Cleveland Street for easy access.

Sand Challenge 2008

2008-07-03T13:17:00.000-07:00

Since the late 1920's Oceanside has been blessed with The Strand. During that period of time it has let us document how wide our beaches have been. Now in July of 2008 we can see the past reoccurring as it does often times. I put a number if images up show you back in the 60's when the surf lapped on the Northern most portion of The Strand. It has happened in the late seventies and to some degree about every ten years.

The Federal Government has taken responsibility for clearing our harbor channel since the 1960's and has dredged millions of cubic yards of sand directly onto our beaches usually between the Pier and Wisconsin Street. Dredging this year made a noticeable improvement in the area South of the Pier and short of Wisconsin Street and almost ever bit of the material has now gone into the surf line, under water. Today's photos show that the surf broke on The Strand and deposited sand. This is an ominous sign for our future. It shows we are not replacing enough sand in order to protect The Stand and homes next to it. This erosion is predictable and if action is taken quickly we can avoid all of the dire consequences. I hope our City officials are doing everything they can to keep this from happening. If you question this just ask anyone who has been here for more than thirty years.

How to tell our Story at the 101 Cafe

2008-06-21T13:48:00.000-07:00

Early on I learned that in order to get exposure for a retail business it was important to seek help in the media through PR. It doesn't take long to learn that when you attach the term PR to media you have found a no cost way of exposing your business, group or community. I attached a few photos that were in International, regional and local magazines or calendars and did not attempt to list all of them. I found it very help full to offer the media some trade offs in order to get what some think is my unfair exposure. I am a third generation Oceansider who is well versed in local history, business and politics so I have much to offer and it helps believe me. I have used my self taught skills in PR for all the projects I have taken on in our community. I am proud of my 'Shameless Self Promoter' moniker because I really promote my business, my non profit groups and my community which makes it a lot less self-centered than it sounds. Maybe one of these days I'll figure out how to put a few of my TV appearances online. It will probably take the help of a twelve year old to do it. Part of my drive is to keep the 101 Cafe going for its second eighty years. You may have noticed it is the oldest business in Oceanside and the oldest Cafe on Highway 101 on the entire West Coast. Oops there I go promoting again. Stay Cool.

Memories

2008-06-20T13:18:00.001-07:00

When I read that Dorothy Satten had died I remember a photo in the Oceanside Historical Society's archives. It was donated years ago by Randy Mitchell and was of the Opening of the New Bridge Motor Inn on Highway 101 in Oceanside. The 1965 image included one of my classmates at Oceanside High School Barbara Mandrell . Barbara was Miss Oceanside in 1965 and as most of us know she was a Country Mega Star. From left to right in the photo are; Jerome Jones, City Councilman and eventually Mayor, Dorothy Satten, Barbara Mandrell, her husband Frank Satten and Harold Andrews, the builder.
The Bridge still stands, but is being planned for a multi-storied hotel in the future. Until then you can still eat at Dorothy's restaurant, the Flying Bridge. While she has not owned it for many years most of the old timers think of her when they think of the restaurant.
I wish I could tell you more about Dorothy, but I never even met her, my loss.
One of the best parts of staying in your community like I have is all the memories that surround you. I am a lucky guy.

What an Incredible Day

2008-06-19T10:29:00.000-07:00

I could not get enough when I walked this morning. Even cruising on Oceanside Blvd. on the way to work the Moon showcased what an incredible day it would be. So clear even after yesterday where the overcast cooled the sun in the afternoon. I hopped on my beach cruiser and headed down Wisconsin Street from the 101. I get an ocean view as soon as I look West and cruise down to The Strand. The first picture is of my beach at the bottom of my hill. Since this was late most of our regular surfers had already gone to work so few got to enjoy this days waves. I found only a few enjoying Swings at the Pier, picture two. It is always cool to see the Moms and their three wheelers exercising along The Strand, but it warms my heart to see Dads, picture three. I guess I am jealous of them since the only three wheelers around when my kids were small were either motorcycles of old folks bikes. And of course there were many fishermen at the beach today. Today is going to be tough to stay at work.

Warm Summer Days are upon Us

2008-06-17T13:25:00.001-07:00

The beach is filling up with visitors. More each day and its the June Gloom month wait until the real heat begins. Everything tells us that this will be a great visitor season for our guest. It is the time to check out the suits along the Famous Strand where Tom Cruise rode his motorcycle up to the now highly recognized Top Gun House on Pacific Street. Don't forget sunscreen.

Woodies find their way to the 101 Cafe

2008-06-13T11:02:00.000-07:00

Woodies at the Cafe are not an unusual sight, but it is always exciting for our guest to see them. These reject station wagons of days gone by have found a place in the visual landscape of the California Surf Culture and have made their owner's the elite of the road. The surf connection was strongest in the fifties and sixties when surfers used these inexpensive used wagons to haul their long boards. Bruce Brown's epic Surf Movies including 'The Endless Summer' emblazoned the wood sided cars as a surf vehicles in our minds. Now wherever they cruise they are noticed in a big way. The 101 Cafe has been a part of the Woodie's heritage since 1928 when the Model A was massed produced. From the beginning, these were specialty vehicles used for many reasons including hauling guest from trains and to resorts. Maybe you will see or bring a Woodie to the Cafe and make us happy.

We are blessed to have the Greatest Woodie Show in the country just off the Historic Highway 101 in Encinitas, Wavecrest . Make a point to check out the coolest cars on the Coast September 20th. If you check them all out you may get 'Wood Burn'.

Blessing or Curse at the 101 Cafe

2008-06-11T10:56:00.000-07:00

The 101 Cafe is 80 years old this year. It is not hard to imagine that it must have been painted maybe 15 or twenty times in its life on the 101. For the last twenty years we have either painted or touch up every year for the twenty years David and I have owned it. In the beginning we hired or traded food for painting, but in the last ten I have been mainly responsible for the bright white walls surrounding the Cafe. I have come to learn that no matter what season I paint the sun will come out and beat down on me. Today is a perfect example. This morning was the beginning of the perfect(yuk) June gloom day. After yesterday's gloom which included light showers and drizzle I never even gave a thought to today being a Hot Sunny Day. I guess you can thank me for the sun, because if I choose not to paint the gloom probably would have continued all day. I guess the San Diego Chamber of Commerce will hope I paint all week so the US Open at Torrey Pines will have the 'Perfect Chamber of Commerce Weather'. Call me if you need sun at least along the 101. Check out the perfect blue sky and surf right down the street from the Cafe

US open in San Diego at Torrey Pines

2008-06-10T10:13:00.000-07:00

For the first time ever the US Open will be played on a public golf course, yes only in San Diego. Torrey Pines was built in 1957 and has hosted many Professional events including the Buick Invitational. It is over sixty years ago that the open was even played in California. Tens of thousands are expected to follow the players around the course along the bluffs above the Pacific Ocean. The Open is being played along the Historic US Highway 101 and next to Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve where the rare Torrey Pine tree flourishes. Speculation is that this years open is Tiger Woods to lose. It will be his first tournament since his surgery. Clearly this will be great for San Diego North.

101 Cafe Old, but New

2008-06-09T16:44:00.001-07:00

In 1928 the Ekegren family opened a small twenty seat cafe along the new US Highway 101 in Oceanside, California and named it the 101 Cafe. Little did they know that it would survive through a depression, World War, many other Military confrontations to become the oldest Cafe on the Historic Highway 101 on the entire West Coast. The 101 was bypassed to the present location of the present day Interstate 5 in 1953.
Many of the traditions presented by previous owners are carried on today. The Cafe was last remodeled in 1954 and we strive to keep the look which was then Graham's Drive-In the same as then. The booth and counter seating remains and while the old jukebox has worn out many times we play XM Radio's oldies music all day.
You can imagine how many of the items on our menu are drawn from menus of days goneby. Our burgers and breakfast menu is steeped in the past while we have add healthy choices for today's world. Hand-packed milk-shakes put smiles on our guest faces and the classic beer battered onion rings are the absolute best we can offer.
Many of the items on our menu have been donated by cooks from another time, they will be honored by the smiles on your face while enjoying their food.
We hope all will enjoy our classic Cafe, the food and the service we put forward for everyday.

Summer is here early in Oceanside California

2008-06-07T14:39:00.000-07:00

It may only be June 7, but the beach is where to be. Mid 70's and beautiful blue sky and cool water make the beach the number one hangout. Swimming, surfing, building sand castles are only some of the activities to partake in. Go down and check for yourself if you question wether its really Beach Time.

It's Here the Race Across America Starts Tomorrow

2008-06-07T14:35:00.000-07:00

"The gateway to San Diego, Oceanside is the classic California beach community with its warm sandy beaches, scenic wooden pier and Cape Cod-style harbor village complete with unlimited water sports and recreation. Its central location provides the perfect launching point for your Southern California getaway."
This quote is from the Race Across America website. This race has been starting for years on the beach below the Pier in Oceanside and continues to be one the best long distant race in North America. Come down to the beach and check out the athletes and their bikes. Also cheer them on to this great race. The Solos start 12:00pm (PDT) Sunday June 8th, 2008. The Teams start 2:00pm (PDT) Wednesday June 11th, 2008.

Visitor from the Past

2008-06-03T09:11:00.000-07:00

It is a very good day when I get contacted by someone about the past. I was contacted by Mary Ellen Jones who taught third grade at Ditmar school in 1957. Of course it was my shy partner David who referred her to me in the first place. It was great to meet Miss Johnson as she was known by her class then. She was hoping to put together a reunion of this particular class since she only taught that year before she left for awhile. This of course is timely since Ditmar will close this year as an elementary school. The District says it will keep the site for a educational purpose more suitable for its size and location. Miss Jones is hoping to get everyone together later this month. It will be trip to see what these cute third graders look like now.

Race Across America

2008-05-30T07:59:00.000-07:00

This quote is from the Race Across America website. This race has been starting for years on the beach below the Pier in Oceanside and continues to be one the best long distant race in North America. Come down to the beach and check out the athletes and their bikes. Also cheer them on to this great race. The Solos start 12:00pm (PDT) Sunday June 8th, 2008. The Teams start 2:00pm (PDT) Wednesday June 11th, 2008.

Operation Appreciation 2008

2008-05-17T11:27:00.000-07:00

Operation Appreciation is one of the Events that the Oceanside Chamber of Commerce began many years ago to let the Military Personnel and their families how much we appreciate their service to our Country. Over ten thousand attended last years event. The posted photos are before they are expected to come to the beach. great free food, entertainment and carnival rides will make this a remarkable day for all who attend. God Bless our Military.

State Championship Interscholastic Surfing Federation Oceanside

2008-05-17T11:01:00.000-07:00

May 17 18 is the home to the State Championships for the Interscholastic Surfing Federation at South Harbor Jetty in Oceanside CA. What a great day for these kids to determine the Statewide Championship Series. The CSF California Surf Series-#8 Championships is schedule May 31st at the Oceanside Pier begins at 6:30 AM. Surfs Up!!!!!

Paddle Surfing Makes it Debut in Oceanside

2008-05-17T08:56:00.001-07:00

Before 9:00 AM this morning over twenty adventurers left Wisconsin Beach in Oceanside to start what will undoubtedly be the beginning of a huge sport along our local shores. These fearless watermen will swim and paddle their way to Moonlight Beach in Encinitas, approximately 12 miles before they finish. Covered by the local press North County Times and the San Diego Union-Tribune as well as Fox Channel 6. About fifty supporters and passer-bys enjoyed the start while soaking up the beautiful sunshine predicted to reach 90 degrees today. If this is global warming then I love it.

Rachael Ray is my Favorite

2008-05-16T10:43:00.000-07:00

Rachael Ray is my favorite Food Network star. She is upbeat and cute and has become a big star.
I received a call from a fact-checker ( a person who verifies the facts of a story usually for magazines for correctness ) who was calling from New York City to verify information about an upcoming story about the 101 Cafe in the magazine "Everyday with Rachael Ray". I was stoked to say the least. She said it would be in the August issue, how cool. A nice thing to help celebrate the eightieth year of the Cafe.

Ruben Galvan Fox Channel 6 at the 101 Cafe

2008-05-13T10:18:00.000-07:00

Tuesday morning bright and early Ruben Galvan Fox Cannel 6 showed up with his film crew to film some local kids and show San Diego the 101 Cafe once again. Ruben can brighten even a dreary day, but today with all the sunshine and kids he was in his element. Hamming it up with morning waitress Julie G he showed the audience what was hot on the menu and how cool the oldest Cafe on the Historic Highway 101 really was. Over the twenty years we have run the Cafe we have had the good fortune to be shown on TV more times than we can remember.

Merrill's Classic 1957 Mercury Turnpike Cruiser

2008-05-08T07:55:00.000-07:00

What fun to come across a 1957 Turnpike Cruiser in the parking lot of the 101 Cafe. At first Glance I thought it was an Edsel. I soon learned from its owner Merrill that this was a car made primarily for the East Coast market. There are only 39 known to still exist. This one is really cherry. When he decided to buy his first one here on the West Coast he had to special order it. He tells me his wife sold to get a station wagon for the family so this is not his original one. He bought this one and had all the restoration work done in Oceanside. Happy to say he is already signed up to do the Third Annual Beach'n 101 Cruise.

Cars at the 101 Cafe

2008-05-03T11:54:00.001-07:00

Chris stands next to his ride after eating at the 101 Cafe. No day goes by without seeing hot rods, rat rods, classics or custom cars at the Cafe. The cars remind us of the Cafe's 80 year history and the eras it has lived through. Keep on Cruising.

Southern California Beach Soccer Championship

2008-05-03T11:39:00.000-07:00

What a great day for the kids at Harbor beach in Oceanside California. I cruised down to the beach from the Cafe on my classic Schwinn beach cruiser that I trader for cheeseburgers years ago. I took my trusty Fuji camera to document the day. Perfect weather for this tournament makes it even more competitive and brings the crowd to enjoy the perfect Chamber of Commerce type of day in Southern California. There were thousands of spectators, yes mom and dad, grandma and grandpa, aunts and uncles, cousins and friends with plenty of sports fans just to watch. What a day.

Huell Who

2008-05-03T08:03:00.000-07:00

I came into the 101 Cafe yesterday to enjoy lunch with Leslee Gaul, who heads the California Welcome Center in Oceanside. Leslee has done a remarkable job creating new opportunities for bringing in more guest into our community. I am lucky enough to call her a longtime friend. I came into the Cafe just before we were to meet and noticed and employee giggling about something so I walked over to check it out. Well there was Mr. California Gold himself, Heull Howser in all of his glory. Huell had done a show on the Cafe years before and had been a repeat customer many times without his cameraman. After I greeted the King of the California Roads I soon discovered that the giggling waitress had not believed it was Huell even after he suggested he leave message to me from Huell Howser. He was having good fun with her not believing it was him. It was good for a laugh as Leslee came into the Cafe as all this was happening and greeted Huell in front of the sceptical waitress.
I think the fact the Huell chooses the Cafe as a favorite eating place while in San Diego County speaks well since he has been to hundreds of eating establishments throughout California.

How Hot is Hot?

2008-04-28T13:10:00.000-07:00

I am not sure I can remember a day in April reaching 95 degrees. I was slow enough to be recruited to do the Second Annual San Luis Rey Marathon yesterday. Since my friends approached me a few weeks ago it seemed OK. Their caveat was I could pick the start time. As the time came closer I choose a 3am start thinking how hot could it be before ten in the morning. I found out quickly Sunday it could be really hot. Maybe mid eighties by 9am. We finished up at the Cafe, shortly after I drove home to discover that it was 95. Like most Coastal Californians we have no air conditioning so it was a tough afternoon.

Being hopeful that today might be better I have had my cool bubble burst. Even Yahoo calls for it being 90 and usually they are low. The best part is the beach is calling and I am going to cool off.

The photo shows three of the participants of the 2ND Annual San Luis Rey Marathon just before the start. I took the photo.

1954 Ford Crown Victoria Visits the Cafe

2008-04-26T09:18:00.000-07:00

Cool Cars cruise into the 101 Cafe with regularity. It is not unusual to see a T-bucket, Cobra or a vintage Model A on any one day. Leaning about the car culture that we live in is always a treat. Jim 'JT' O'Connor drove his 1954 Ford 'Vic' into the 101 on the way to a Plate Show on Camp Pendleton later in the morning. JT, Jim gave me a primer on old license plats and his car's was a good example of what they looked like. The California plates looked brand new, but were purchased by a family member for Jim's Vic. He showed me a trick he invented to hide the modern stickers which are required by DMV, but he makes disappear for car shows. Simple and way cool his ingenuity will help make the plates even more attractive to car collectors.
JT tells me you can expect to pay $ 300 to $ 400 per plate for these collectibles.

Junior Seau Pays Forward

2008-04-26T08:42:00.000-07:00

Oceanside's Junior Seau does his share of payback to his community, but continues to step up and give big to the kids of Oceanside. He spends time at our beach in his beautiful home, surfs, swims, runs and walks our Strand with family and friends. You can also see him spending time with kids showing them how to workout to improve their lives. He spends time at our Boys and Girls Club and gives back more than any of Oceanside's successful citizens. He has a small business empire including Seau's "The Restaurant"which keeps him busy when he is not playing in the NFL. Junior is a favorite son to be most proud of.

New Lights at the 101 Cafe

2008-04-24T11:39:00.000-07:00

It seems like there is never a time that some road work is being done around the Cafe. When it was first built the road (Highway 101) was already paved and the sidewalks were put in that
same year in 1928. Since we have had the Cafe for over twenty years of its 80 year history the projects are too numerous to count. Needless to say that the present project to put left turn signals on Coast Highway in order to turn onto Wisconsin Street is welcome. They are projecting completion in a few months so you can experience an important part of our history at the Cafe, change.
We will commit to provide you the best food and service in this new atmosphere which will provide some entertainment for the big and little kids in your family. If you happen to just want to check out the workers then come in between 7:00am and 3:30pm Monday through Friday and of course you want to avoid them come in any other time.

Two Headed Cow Questions

2008-04-24T08:46:00.000-07:00

Ever wondered where the Two Headed Cow was displayed in Oceanside or what the name of an early hotel that used the Mission San Luis Rey as its promotion? How about how many piers there have been, well then you only need the assistance of the Oceanside Historical Society. For over twenty years the Society has dedicated itself to find these and many more local history answers. Volunteer driven they have helped publish two books on our history and given assistance to untold number of fact seekers. They have helped school kids with their assignments and college students track the history of local agriculture. They have helped families find out about their Oceanside heritage and have put on some wonderful history programs. The last program in February on Trains was a big hit and the next program yet scheduled about our Piers will be very popular.

Kristi Hawthorne leads the organization as their President and the most hard working advocate of saving our heritage. She also acts as our Archivist and has complied an endless amount of our history. She authored the very popular local history Oceanside "Where Life is Worth Living" in 2000. Our community owes a big thanks to her for her continuing contribution.

Oceanside Surfing Events

2008-04-21T16:32:00.000-07:00

Oceanside has been the Surf Contest Capital for many years. There were so many contest the City Staff had to finally put a limit on how many there could be. Here are the contest already on the City's Calendar for this year:

April 26
Oceanside P.D. Annual Pal Surf Contest for Middle School Students
South Pier 7am - 1pm

April 26 27
NASSA Open #10
South Jetty 6:30am - 6:30pm

May 7 - 11
KOASTAL KAOS.COM PRO
North Jetty 8am - 4pm

May 17 18
Interscholastic Surfing Federation
South Harbor Jetty 7am - 4pm

May 17
Moonlight Beach Paddle & Swim
South of Pier 8am - 11am

May 31
CSF California Series #8 Championships
Oceanside Pier 6:30am

August 14 17
Oceanside Longboard Surfing Club
South of Pier 6am - 5pm

November 1 2
NSSA Open Season
South Harbor Jetty 7am - 6pm

November 15
Volcom's Blowfish Surf Series
South Harbor Jetty 7:30am - 5pm

Spectators are always welcome and free. Great fun watching these classic performances on the beach.

The Soccer Kids are coming to Harbor Beach in Oceanside CA

2008-04-14T13:56:00.000-07:00

Harbor Beach is one of the most beautiful and wide beaches on the West coast. Protected by the Harbor jetties it makes the perfect home for Southern California Beach Soccer Championships May 3 + 4, 2008.
Harbor Beach got its team sports beginning when the Beach and Harbor Athletic Association ( BAHA ) produced the first Over-the-Line Tournament, the Harbor Beach OTL over twenty years ago. In just a couple of years the tournament was the second largest in the world, but never rivaled the games that OMBAC still produces for San Diego on Fiesta Island at Mission Bay.
The soccer event is more of a family event and promises to be a huge success with thousand playing and viewing. What could be better than kids at the beach.

Sprinter Folks Keep Coming to the 101 Cafe

2008-04-10T14:15:00.000-07:00

The Westminster Presbyterian Church group from Escondido was a pleasure to lead today. They came to have a good time and it appears an historic tour of downtown Oceanside and a meal at the 101 Cafe was just what they wanted. They seemed to enjoy reaching back into their own lives to compare some of our local history with theirs.

They discovered how much fun an adventure on the Sprinter can be. They all said they would be back.

Oceanside's Wide Sandy Beaches

2008-04-09T09:49:00.000-07:00

Most visitors to Oceanside do not know how our beaches stay so wide, but if you lived in town for almost any time you would have seen that there is dredging of our Harbor mouth more years than not. Built in the early 1960's it was predictable that sand would fill the mouth our our Harbor and the Camp Pendleton's boat basin next door.
We are fortunate this year to have a very capable company, Manson Construction completing our project in just a few weeks. The last company failed to get the job completed and by the time another contractor was hired the dredging was completed in the summer.
It would be easy to guess that over five million cubic yards of sand has been deposited on our beaches since 1963.
While other communities grapple with sand erosion on their community's beaches we have had an endless supply. It makes our Harbor safer and our beaches wider, a win-win for us all.

Unintended Consequences

2008-04-07T11:06:00.000-07:00

Saturday was a day for something new at the 101 Cafe. After eighty years of doing business that is saying something.
This Saturday in rolled a fire truck filled with passegers at the Cafe who had begun their journey in Valley Center. Of course we have had many guest from Valley Center over the years, but none had made the trip beginning in a fire truck followed by a Sprinter ride to Downtown Oceanside and a finally another fire truck ride to the Cafe. Yes the Papa Bear Breakfast Club had made the historic trip to make their Sprinter ride even more unique.
Ron Powell made the arrangements to come to the Cafe with his breakfast club friends plus one, Christa their favorite waitress from Papa Bears, a Valley Center Cafe. Kevin Johnson drove the completely restored classic 1954 Ford Crown fire truck for the days outing. A good time was had by all.

Later this week an Escondido church group is meeting me at the Sprinter Station in Downtown Oceanside to continue their adventure. I will walk them around some of the historic sites including the Pier and then lead them to the Oldest Cafe on US Highway 101 on the West Coast, the 101 Cafe.

It looks as if the unintended consequences of the New Sprinter service is good for business.

From here to There

2008-04-03T09:45:00.000-07:00

It seems so long ago that two towns, Oceanside and Escondido were connected by a train that brought passengers and products to market. Of course that changed so many years ago few remember it. But, now 'Sprinter' rail service has begun passenger service again and these two cities now are bracing for a success few envisioned. Already the numbers of eight thousand a day are being reached and with each new day records may fall. Primarily setup for commuters the new 'Sprinter' is carrying more Explorers than anyone envisioned and its not even Summer yet. These Explorers are your Aunts and Uncles, Sisters and Brothers, Moms and Dads as well as vacationers who have found the $ 4.00($ 2.00 for Seniors) for all day riding a great deal.
We can already see the riders in town looking for things to do and where to eat.
We have received phone calls letting us know that groups are coming to the 101 Cafe for a meal. Just a few blocks South on Coast Highway from the Depot it is an easy walk for anyone wishing to take their trip back in time. The Cafe offers a free brochure on the Historical buildings in the downtown. It is open from 6:30 AM till Midnight everyday, Christmas.
The new Sprinter is a great ride, new, quiet and smooth and offers views of the four cities (Escondido, San Marcos, Vista and Oceanside) along the route few have ever seen. Make plans now for this great ride.

Downtown Oceanside, A busy place

2008-04-01T11:06:00.000-07:00

Over 120 year ago Oceanside began as a train town when the railroad came from the East in Colton to San Diego via Oceanside. The early train builders knew the Coastal Plain was ideal to build the rail on because of the narrows where the rivers and streams hit the coast. Yes they were saved money.

So what has gone on Downtown, well I think a lot of credit should be given to the thousands of Downtown Merchants themselves. After the train era ended in the 1920's with the advent of the automobile businesses thrived and tried hard to keep up with their owners needs and growth was impressive.

Our community had growth spurts and downturns as would be expected in the new West. Stock market crashes, a depression and World Wars slowed and accelerated our growth, but after WWII our growth seem to never stop.

Lets skip forward to today. MainStreet Oceanside (MSO) began as the Downtown Business Association in the 1990's. It was formed to help promote the Downtown and solve some of its problems. Through partnership with the City, School District and businesses the Association became a shaper of a New Downtown. Many years later the Association took their organization to a new level and applied for and became a Main Street Association. Under this moniker it has grown to become the Downtown Business connection that facilitates its programs and help operate some typical City functions to continue the improvement of Downtown. Dedicated business people and volunteers work tirelessly to keep making our Downtown the jewel next to the shore. And yes you can still visit it by train, Amtrak , Metrolink , Coaster and Sprinter

Bicycling in Oceanside California

2008-03-31T16:02:00.000-07:00

Ever since I got my first Bike I have ridden the streets of Oceanside. Now called a beach cruiser I rode my Schwinn fat tired bike in 1958 up and down The Strand and Hill Street (Coast Highway) to explore all a nine year old could. By the time I was twelve I was cruising a non-descript ten speed. I made my first cross-county trip OK to Escondido and back alone. I was wheeling wherever I could. I rode bikes until I could drive in 1965. It wasn't until about twenty years ago that the Bike bug hit me again. I rode borrowed beach cruisers until I started going inland and up lots of hills away from the flat coastal plain. I looked into and bought a Schwinn beach cruiser with a seven speed hub. It was a perfect match, I could cruise The Strand and climb inland no sweat.
Oceanside is like many other beach communities with lots of traffic when the sun is shining. it also has some pretty cool trails
The City also a has a Dasini Blue Bike Program that loans out bike at no cost to the rider. One of Oceanside's best trails is the San Luis Rey River path a Class one trail. Of course our beach area and primarily The Strand and Harbor are great areas for the occasional rider and kids to ride.
The 101 Cafe has the Coolest Bike Rack which is a ten foot long bicycle for two ( see above ) where you can leave your bikes and enjoy all the eighty year old joint has to offer. Its sits at Coast Highway and Wisconsin Street where you can cruise directly to the Beach .
Enjoy your ride.

Looking good for the Ford Ironman Tomorrow along the beach in Oceanside

2008-03-28T09:07:00.001-07:00

Every racers dream is cool weather on race day. Today, the day before the Ford Ironman in Oceanside it was 51 degrees at 5:30 AM and 56 degrees at 8:45 AM and that should mean good things for tomorrows race. I have some experience in marathons and know how much I dreaded hot race days. The course hugs the coast for the most part and should finish up under 67 degrees tomorrow.
It is awesome looking over the setup for an Ironman. The huge tents for changing after the swim along side the bike racks setup for thousands participants. This is quite a spectacle and if you can you should go and check it out. Look to the Ironman website for information about where to view the race best. If you want to experience a Carbo Load meal like the participants you can check out the Spaghetti at the 101 Cafe.

2008-03-27T19:24:00.000-07:00

Oceanside History

2008-03-27T07:55:00.001-07:00

Oceanside became a town because the extension of the Transcontinental Railroad was planned to come from the Colton, Riverside area to San Diego.

Before that time Indians once roamed through the coastal plain along the streams and rivers in search of food for thousands of years. It wasn't until Spanish explorers led the expedition up 'Alta' California from Mexico to found the Missions that created a stronghold on this new land in 1769. It marked the beginning when Europeans came to settle our area.

In the 1880's the train was planned and built to accommodate the anticipated travelers from across the country. When these travelers stopped in our community some became owners. Some speculated and others stayed, many built beach cottages. The train remained the dominant transportation link until the time of Henry Ford's Model T. Cars would change the landscape of our community and drive demand for more services and create the need for more housing.

Once drivers discovered the coast route between Los Angeles and San Diego Oceanside became an important stopping place for autoist. The car culture in California drove the need for highways and the coastal route soon became US Highway 101. The popularity of the car has changed our state from a small agricultural based economy to the sixth largest economy in the world and has created endless miles of driving adventures.

Oceanside is now a community of 180,000 and with a harbor, miles of sandy beaches and a storied past is poised to make to make history for many decades to come.

Woodies on the 101

2008-03-26T09:29:00.000-07:00

You soon discover the surf culture in San Diego County when you spot your first Woodie. You are more likely to see a completely restored car than the ones that cruised along the old 101 Highway with surfboards hanging out the back window in the sixties. There is something about their look that takes you back to your youth and makes you long for the beach.

Maybe it is the simpler times or that you could spend more time enjoying your friends that make you reminisce of days gone by.

If you cruise the 101 and see a special bus with an image of a classic Woodie you would be checking out the 101 bus that travels between Oceanside and La Jolla.

The North County Transit District partnered with the Highway 101 Association to put two of these unique rides on the 101. Woodies might not be unique to the coast, but they just fit the picture of the California Surf Culture to a T.

Cities along the US Highway 101

2008-03-19T16:04:00.001-07:00

Where can you find the largest number of photos or post cards of cities along the Historic US Highway 101, at the 101 Cafe's website and you will also find out about the Highway's history. The site is meant to give out as much information as possible and is updated occasionally with new photos and other historic information.
The links it has will take you to sites that speak to, preserve and promote the 101 and will lead you to a site that features El Camino Real Bells
The Cafe's website also features links to major attractions throughout Southern California.

Special Events are part of Oceanside

2008-03-19T07:39:00.000-07:00

The 2008 Ford Ironman Oceanside California begins the season of Special Events in Oceanside March 29, 2008. There is little question the weather and the Pacific Ocean play an important part in the events that are attracted to Oceanside.

I believe there may be more surf contest; youth, Junior High School, High School, religious, fire, police, amateurs, pro, longboard and short board just to mention a few. The surf contest also use many of our beaches; South Pier, North Pier, South Jetty Harbor Beach and North Jetty Harbor Beach to name a few. These events are great eye candy for those wanting excitement.

Spring is the thing this morning

2008-03-18T07:32:00.000-07:00

Spring days in Oceanside bring clear Blue sky's more often than not. As I walked this morning I could not help seeing the change from dark nest to the Spring Blue that I have come to know in Oceanside. It comes with a price, it is pretty cool. Sunrise at the beach is worth dressing warm for and getting up early. At 4:00 AM walking along the Strand next to the sand there are no other joggers or walkers. Not until a little before 5:00 AM do those seeking to exercise or comuning with nature arrive, but from then on you will see lots of folks enjoying the beach including surfers . It is quite a show if you consider all the surf spots in Oceanside 3 1/2 miles of beach, a spot for everyone. Now that Spring Break has begun you will see crowds all during the daylight hours.

Of course our sunsets now coming later with daylight savings time in place are just as spectactular as ever. I know that this is just one more small piece that make me the Californian I am.

Beach'n 101 Cruise Returns for 2008

2008-03-15T09:39:00.000-07:00

Beach'n 101 Cruise III will mark the third year antique, classic, hot rods, muscle cars and customs will cruise along the beautiful coast line of San Diego. This event was started to bring these incredible vehicles to the coast and show off Historic US Highway 101, the "Mother Road of California." The drive between Oceanside and La Jolla affords looks at the very different communities of Oceanside , Carlsbad , Encinitas , Solana Beach , Del Mar and La Jolla .

The Highway 101 Association the sponsor group is dedicated to preserve and promote the Historic Highway in California and has worked hard to make San Diego North a showpiece of accomplishments of their work. The Association depends upon support by the County of San Diego and the communities where they work as well as individuals.

For those interested in the Cruise go to www.drivethe101 website for information and applications. This years event is September 7, 2008. Hope to see you there to be seen or to be seen.

Visiting San Diego North

2008-03-12T07:59:00.000-07:00

It might be overwhelming to visit a new area unless you have the right contacts. I have been to all the places people search out so I can tell you about them. Today we can search for information on the net and do research at our leisure. So I will give you some help finding the right place to go to plan your trip.

If you plan to stay in Oceanside you will find it to be the center of the most popular attractions and going North South and East will be a short drive to these favorite spots.

Every good plan needs to start with a good foundation and the California Welcome Center in Oceanside is that start. You might decide to cruise the Historic 101 from Downtown Oceanside and stop first at the California Surf Museum then you could choose the Quail Botanical Gardens . If you really want a water theme then continue South to the Birch Aquarium . No trip to San Diego would be complete without a stop at SeaWorld , The San Diego Zoo and the Wild Animal Park.

Continuing from Oceanside if you have young children you have to stop at Legoland and depending if your in our area in the summer check out the San Diego County Fair . Maybe you have a need to see our famous Mission San Luis Rey, King of the Missions.

There is no trip to Southern California without a stop at Disneyland about an hour North of Oceanside.

If you need help getting your trip planned then go to San Diego North Convention and Visitor Bureau for help.

Enjoy...............

Old Town San Diego on Historic Highway 101

2008-03-10T16:38:00.000-07:00

It may be hard to believe, but Old Town San Diego had a highway through it. The US Highway 101 went right up San Diego Avenue from the beginning until it was replaced by the new location at Pacific Highway.

In this photo you will see the street improvements that we next to the Estudio House in this picture. It was promoted as Ramona's House after the publication of Helen Hunt Jackson's Book Ramona . Of course there were dozens of properties given the title.

It was not until the State purchased the Old Town property that the street was officially closed to traffic.

Sprinter Rail Service Begins

2008-03-10T05:53:00.000-07:00

What a great ride! The Sprinter ride was quiet and smooth. It takes less than an hour to get from Downtown Oceanside to Downtown Escondido. A group of us decided to try the first day service and boarded the 11:03 AM train. The train pulled into the station practically full. We all got seats, but we rode the trip backwards. We headed for lunch at the La Tapatia Mexican Restaurant which was built in 1937. Margaritas, Coronas and good food were on tap for our leisurely lunch. The La Tapatia is only three blocks from the Station in Escondido. I can see by this first trip the Sprinter will be a nice vehicle for adventures to our neighboring communities. We met a crowded train station upon our return after lunch. We did have top wait for two trains to board for our trip back to the coast. I would not expect the ride in the future to be crowded because each train will hold 176 people sitting and standing. I can see smooth sailing for the Sprinter service in the future and look forward to more adventures.

California's Mother Road

2008-03-07T07:39:00.000-08:00

In 1925 the Federal Government was faced with the dilemma of how to make a national US Highway system easily understood. The trend had been to name Highways after presidents or areas and this muliplied by all the Highways which cross the country would challenge even the best memory. They finally agreed upon a numerical system, which desiginated East-West Highways with even numbers and North-South Highway with odd numbers. This system was adopted, but took years for the signs to appear on most highways. The West Coast US Highway would be designated as US Highway 101. Then as now the large majority of people lived in the coastal area and this new highway would mimic the explosive growth of the Sunshine State.

2008-03-05T06:12:00.000-08:00

Torrey Pines is stunning as it hugs the coastal cliffs between La Jolla and Del Mar. It has always been a place of beauty and enchantment. The oldest image shows a car driving up what is now the park road, but once was the coastal route which made up the early US Highway 101 between San Diego and Los Angeles. The color view to the South leaving Del Mar is almost exactly the same as today. No development has taken place to steal away this view. The same view in black and what shows what happens when to many cars clog the route. The last image is an early photo of the grade leaving Del Mar to the North.

The only section of National Register Designated US Highway 101 is in Torrey Pines State Reserve. It is a narrow ribbon of concrete in the Southern part of the Park.

King of the Missions

2008-03-04T08:58:00.001-08:00

Mission San Luis Rey in the beautiful San Luis Rey Valley of Oceanside draws thousands of visitors each year to enjoy its Majesty. By far this mission was the largest of all built by the Spanish Franciscan Friars. Returned to the church by President Lincoln after it had been seculaized by the Mexican govenment in the 1800's.
It has a museum to explore and a gift shop for those looking for souviniers and religous gifts.