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Click here to contribute your comments!! Or email us directly at beachclub@thebeachcombermotel.com August 4, 2010 Golf Tournament The Beachcomber Team Mark your clanedars for the Fort Bragg Lions 4th Annual Golf Tournament August 22nd! Hole sponsors and players welcome! Contact Rand Scott for more info 964-7556 or visit www.fortbragglionsclub.org. All proceeds go towards local eyecare. July 28, 2010 Mendocino Stories & Music Series . . . and Dancing! The Beachcomber Team Mendocino Stories & Music Series will be held this Friday, 7/30. Enjoy Samba Jamba, a Latin Jazz – Brazilian - Samba band. This will be held as usual at The Hill House Inn of Mendocino. Doors open - 6:30PM, dancing starts at 7:30PM. For more info visit www.mendocinostories.com or call 937-1732. July 21, 2010 Horseback Riding on The Coast The Beachcomber Team Enjoy spectacular summer sights and scenes while riding a beautiful horse on a deserted beach with someone special. $80.00 each for private rides. Get in touch: 707-964-7669 or www.horse-vacation.com. July 14, 2010 Music Festival The Beachcomber Team Hi BeachNuts! It's that time of year again! The Mendocino Music Festival has everything from Opera, Big Band,Jazz and Rock and Roll! The dates are July 10th thru July 24th! Plan your fun...go to www.mendocinomusic.com. Come see our newly remodeled beautiful rooms!!! And share your great photos with us on facebook! We love to see your family mementos! See you soon and be sure to Catch a wave~~~ July 9, 2010 Chocolate Sampling The Beachcomber Team Stop by for a chocolate sampling Saturday July 10 at The Mendocino Chocolate Company in Fort Bragg (10-5:30) or Mendocino (11-5:30) for free tastes of our Truffles, Originals or Fudge. They are located at 232 N Main St in Fort Bragg or Ukiah Street east of Lansing in Mendocino. For more info call 707-964-8800. July 5, 2010 Saturdays: Marine Mammal Series The Beachcomber Team Every Saturday partake in the Marine Mammal Programs by California State Parks. Free, interpretive programs at 11:00 a.m., 1 1/2 hours, at the MacKerricher Visitor Center. Learn about harbor seals, sea lions, and the California gray whale. MacKerricher State Park is located along California’s north coast on Highway 1, 3 miles north of the city of Fort Bragg. Day use admission is free. Open seven days a week for day use from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. June 28, 2010 Stories & Music Series Martha, The Beachcomber Team Don't miss the Mendocino Stories & Music Series. The upcoming event is entitled "The Smokin’ Mirrors" with dancing, music, Strong blues, rock and funky beats. This takes place Friday July 2, 7:30PM at the Hill House Inn. For more info call 937-1732 or visit www.mendocinostories.com/events. June 23, 2010 Mendocino Art Center Martha, The Beachcomber Team Come to the Mendocino Art Center's Gallery Exhibits, June 9-July 5. This is a members' juried, all-media exhibit featuring Wine Country Saddle Trees of Middletown, and more. The center is located at 45200 Little Lake, Mendocino. For more info call 707-937-5818. June 17, 2010 4th of July Parade!! Martha, The Beachcomber Team 4th of July Parade will be held on Sun July 4th. The parade will start at 1pmNote: When the 4th falls on a Sunday, the start time of the Parade is 1pm, out of respect for Sunday church services that take place in the village of Mendocino. Applications available now! Pick one up at the Chamber office at 217 S. Main St. Fort Bragg. June 12, 2010 Mendocino Stories & Music Series Martha, The Beachcomber Team Enjoy the Hit and Run Theater at the Mendocino Stories & Music Series. Improv Comedy will be the order of the evening, with fun, games and skits. This will take place Friday and Saturday, June 18 & 19, 7:30PM at Hill House of Mendocino. For more info call 937-1732 or visit www.mendocinostories.com . June 9, 2010 Mendocino Film Festival The Beachcomber Team Challenge Films, the local film company who helped make the feature film, Henry's Future (now in post production) is once again selling those yummy cheesecake mixes in all 21 flavors. "Summer" flavors include Banana Strawberry, Cherry, Strawberry, Key Lime, Lemon Chiffon, Creamsicle, Kiwi-Strawberry, Peaches-n-Cream, Pina-Colada, and Tropical Fruit. Imagine the possibilities with all the wonderful fresh, summer fruits available as extra-special toppings to make dessert even more special! To order online visit: challengefilms.com. June 3, 2010 Mendocino Film Festival The Beachcomber Team Come join us here on the coast June 4th to the 6th as the Mendocino Film Festival presents a celebration of independent films by the sea. For more information on this event visit www.mendocinofilmfestival.org May 29, 2010 Rhododendrons, Salmon and Catching Waves! The Beachcomber Team Hi BeachNuts!!! The rhoadies and spring flowers are in bloom! Take a walk in the beautiful Botanical Gardens on the coast and see the spectacular flowers! Memorial Day is this weekend and the Skunk Train is having their Barbecue train again! Fresh Salmon when available! Bring your family, it promises to be fun for everyone! Be sure to Catch a Wave! May 25, 2010 Mendocino Music Festival The Beachcomber Team Now is the time to mark your calendars for the 2010 Mendocino Music Festival, to be held from July 10-24 on the beautiful headlands in Mendocino. Book your rooms early at The Beachcomber Motel (and check out our package deals for the festival). For more info and schedules visit www.mendocinomusic.com. May 16, 2010 Navarro Beach Groundbreaking The Beachcomber Team Groundbreaking Ceremony: Stabilization Project to Save the Inn. Captain Fletcher's Inn at Navarro Beach will offer speeches, tours and refreshments. This event will take place on Saturday May 29 at 2pm. For more info call Jim Martin at 707-877-3477 or visit www.navarro-by-the-sea-center.org. May 8, 2010 Fun in Westport Michelle, The Beachcomber Team Westport's Famed, Great Rubber Ducky Race, Every May on Mother's Day, May 9th 2010. What to bring: Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, Sleeved shirt or jacket, your favorite ducky (or buy one at the race), and Mom! For More Information call 964-2872. May 1, 2010 Rhododendron Show Michelle, The Beachcomber Team The Noyo Chapter hosts its show the first full weekend each May. The 33rd Annual John Druecker Memorial Rhododendron Show & Plant Sale will be held at Dana Gray Elementary School, 1197 Chestnut Street, Fort Bragg, California on May 1 & 2, 2010. The show then opens to the public until 5:00 on Saturday, and from 10:00 to 3:30 on Sunday. April 28, 2010 Mothers Day at the Botanical Gardens Michelle, The Beachcomber Team Forget a bouquet of flowers, give your mother an entire garden of them for Mother's Day this year! Bring your mom to the Gardens and she will receive free admission. HOURS: We are open daily all year except for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and the Saturday following Labor Day in September. For more info call (707) 964-4352. April 23, 2010 Arts For The Parks Michelle, The Beachcomber Team Come to the celebration on Saturday May 1 at Pentecost Hall, 822 Stewart St., Fort Bragg. Arts For The Parks from 1-4pm (no admission fee), and Picnic In The Parks from 5:00 to 8:30pm ($25 per person for picnic and glass of wine). More than 100 works of art expressing the beauty of our 17 Mendo State Parks. Art Show. Live Auction. Silent Auction. Raffle of 3 works of art. Delicious cuisine by our finest chefs. Excellent Mendo Wines. April 17, 2010 Second Chance Prom Night! Amanda, The Beachcomber Team Who wouldn't want another chance at their PROM NIGHT? Well Eagles Hall, here in Fort Bragg is offering that second chance. When: May 29th 7pm til midnight. "Remember the night you and your friends hyped up for months? The dress, the date, the night to remember before leaving high school. It sucked didn't it? Well, that's what most of our friends said. That's why we've decided it's time to have a do-over as an adult! And if your prom was awesome, even better reason to have another. Get ready to dress up, get down and get it right the second time around!!" The night will include dancing, prom photos, crowning of Prom King and Queen (it could be you this time around) , full bar, music from all the decades. The night will NOT include : charperones and anyone under 21. For more information on this event visit www.secondchanceprom.weebly.com. April 8, 2010 Upcoming April- Events The Beachcomber Team Chamber Music Concert: Duets and arias from the operatic repertoire. 4/18 3pm. Mendocino Presbyterian Church. Tickets at Fiddles and Cameras, Moore's Books, and artsmendocino.org/html/boxoffice.htm Arena Theater presents Terry Hanck: Part of the Blues on the Coast series, sponsored by Gualala Chevron and the Pier Chowder House and Brew Pub. 4/24. 8pm. April 1, 2010 Easter on The Coast Kristin, The Beachcomber Team Come on over to the coast and take the kids on the annual Easter Egg Express. Enjoy the scenic ride through the coastal mountains into the Redwood forest. Make your reservations with us and enjoy our newly renovated rooms. Michelle March 28, 2010 Whale and Beer Festival Weekend Kristin, The Beachcomber Team We could not ask for a better weekend than this to celebrate the Whale and Beer festival. It was absolutely gorgeous and it still is not over yet. We had tons of people down on Pudding Creek beach, out on the bluffs, walking the Ten Mile Coastal Trail, watching the whales, barbecuing on our deck here at The Beachcomber, and just enjoying this spectacular day. It was so nice to see everyone enjoying themselves out there this weekend and it makes it even better having this wonderful weather. What more could we ask for? It is always nice to have this kind of weather during such popular events and it makes it a wonderful experience for all our visitors. And what an exciting morning it was watching all the people running by who joined in on the Whale Run. That was a wonderful sight to see here from The Beachcomber Motel. Thank you to all who chose to stay with us and we hope that everyone enjoyed their weekend here on the coast. March 24, 2010 Easter Egg Express Michelle, The Beachcomber Team Come on over to the coast and take the kids on the annual Easter Egg Express. Enjoy the scenic ride through the coastal mountains into the Redwood forest. Visit www.skunktrain.com. Make your reservations with us and enjoy our newly renovated rooms. March 18, 2010 Whale Run & Walk Michelle, The Beachcomber Team Saturday March 20 starting at 8:30am ~ The 26th Annual Whale Run and Walk starts and finishes in the heart of Fort Bragg on West Laurel St. The race course continues for a short distance on city streets before crossing the Pudding Creek Trestle onto the all-time favorite course—the Ten Mile Haul Road. Whale Run/Walk, 2...6th Annual 10K, 5K Run, 5KCW, 5KFWfor a schedule go to www.soroptimistfortbraggca.org March 16, 2010 Alice In Wonderland The Beachcomber Team The Gloriana Musical Theatre presents Alice in Wonderland Jr. Starting April 9th until the 25th. Performances will be held at Eagles Hall Theatre in Fort Bragg: Fridays & Saturdays @ 7:30pm & Sundays @ 3pm. Tickets are 17$ General, Youth (12 & younger): 8$. For tickets and more information: www.gloriana.org or 707-964-SHOW. March 11, 2010 Fishermen's Cioppino Dinner Michelle, The Beachcomber Team The North Coast Fishing Association, in conjunction with the California Fisheries Coalition, will be hosting a family-style Cioppino dinner on Saturday, March 13th at Portugese Hall (822 Stewart St.,) in Fort Bragg. Doors open at 5pm, and dinner is served at 6pm, with a raffle, auction and a full no-host bar. Support your sustainable seafood providers and sample locally caught seafood. For more info call 707-964-3710. Tickets ($35 per person) are available at the Noyo Fishing Center and Redwood Liquors in Fort Bragg. Cost: $35 per person March 7, 2010 Whale Watching by kayaks The Beachcomber Team Instead of whale watching by boats, liquid fusion kayak offers a different kind of experience. Come explore the pacific ocean along the coast of Fort Bragg, where you will watch for migrating whales and other marine mammals.They will be offering whale watching by kayak daily through March & April from 8:30am to 11:30am. This event will depend on the conditions of the sea. No experience is needed. Child 8 and up. For more information visit www.liquidfusionkayak.com March 5, 2010 Haircuts for Haiti at The Third Court Day Spa The Beachcomber Team Get a stylish haircut and help the Haiti survivors too!!!! Each haircut is only $20.00 which includes a cut and style and all funds will be donated to "Doctors without Borders." If you would like to show your support show up March 7, 2010 between 10:00 am and 4:00 pm at The Little River Inn. March 3, 2010 Whale Festival Paul, The Beachcomber Team The 28th annual whale Festival is just around the corner March 6th and 7th . This year the festivities will include wine tasting on Saturday the 6th from 12pm to 4 pm , Cajon dinner from in Fort Bragg at the senior center for $25 and a concert at Cotton Auditorium at 8 pm which is right next to the senior center featuring the Subdudes. Tickets can be purchased at www.mendowhale.com. Other activities include: Chowder tasting , Marine and wildlife exhibit at Mendocino Art Center, and whale watch expeditions from Trek II (707)964-4550 or All Aboard Adventures (707)964-1881 . We still have rooms left but are booking up fast so reserve your room today . February 24, 2010 Time for Whale Watching The Beachcomber Team Whale Watching season is here, so come on over to The Beachcomber Motel and watch the whales migrating north to their winter homes. We have fabulous ocean view rooms that are just steps away from the beautiful Pacific Ocean. We also have our captains deck, which is perfect for sitting and relaxing while watching the whales stroll on by. Be sure to bring your camera to capture this magnificent experience! February 17, 2010 Here Come the Whales! Martha, The Beachcomber Team Mark your calendars for the upcoming Whale Festivals on the Mendocino Coast and book your room now at the centrally located Beachcomber Motel on the beach! Mendocino Whale Festival ~ March 6 & 7, 2010 Little River Whale Festival ~ March 13 & 14, 2010 Fort Bragg Whale Festival ~ March 20 & 21, 2010 February 10, 2010 Filming in Mendocino County Martha, The Beachcomber Team Debra De Graw Film Liaison of the Mendocino County Film Office was invited to give a short presentation to the attendees of the Producers Guild of America during their weekend tour to Mendocino County, October 9-11, by Hype House and Visit Mendocino. Hype House and Visit Mendocino organized the tour and itinerary which brought a group of about 25 producers and their guests from San Francisco to Mendocino County. Filming is alive and well on The Mendocino Coast! To read more history visit our movies page. February 5, 2010 Come Over Here Martha, The Beachcomber Team Enjoy our Valentine package special, our "Beachie Love Basket" including Champagne or Sparkling Cider, Chocolates, a Red Rose, and an Area Activities List for Valentine's Day. Only $22 in addition to your room fee. Happy Valentine's Day! January 31, 2010 Coastal Furniture Artisans Martha, The Beachcomber Team College of the Redwoods will present its 21st annual Mid-Winter Fine Furniture Exhibition 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Friday, February 5. For more details visit www.crfinefurniture.com. "Fine things in wood are important, not only aesthetically, as oddities or rarities, but because we are becoming aware of the fact that much of our life is spent buying and discarding, and buying again, things that are not good. Some of us long to have at least something, somewhere, which will give us harmony and a sense of durability." -James Krenov, A Cabinetmaker's Notebook January 26, 2010 Wine & Crab Weekend Martha, The Beachcomber Team Come to Fort Bragg on The Mendocino Coast and enjoy our Wine & Crab Days Finale weekend! Some of the events on the coast this weekend include: BARRA of Mendocino Winemaker Dinner at Silver’s at the Wharf, Rendezvous Restaurant and Greenwood Ridge Vineyards Winemaker Dinner, Skunk Train activities, and much more ~ view details here. For a delicious getaway, join the festivities and book a room at The Beachcomber Motel by calling 1-800-400-7873 (SURF!) January 21, 2010 Huge Hail & Pounding Waves Gaby, The Beachcomber Team Monday night, all Fort Bragg residents received a series of storms and woke up on Tuesday to learn we were out of power. Good thing we had some breaks throughout the day on Tuesday, which allowed crews time to repair damage before the next set of storms were due. The power had been flickering from time to time, but has stayed on...even through our hail we received which was quarter-size and even bigger in many areas! Quite an amazing sight! I have NOT seen hail that size, in our town of Fort Bragg! This set of storms have caused closure of MacKerricher state park's Lake Cleone picnic area, due to the water rising. You could see picnic tables sticking up from the water after the lake rose about two feet! We are seeing many "storm chasers" enjoying the view and the rain all along the bluffs in front of the Beachcomber. From our office, we can see how amazing the spray is, shooting 20-30 (or maybe even more) feet in the air. The waves sure are pounding out there! Yesterday, I enjoyed the thunderstorm, which happened right as it was getting dark. Such a beauty! Hopefully mother nature is letting us go back to sunshine soon! The Beachcomber is a great location to do your storm chasing! Call us to reserve your room for an exciting California winter getaway! (800) 400-7873 January 19, 2010 This Friday ~ Wine and Crab Days The Beachcomber Team More events for Wine and Crab Days: Art Center of Ukiah Salutes the Crab and Wine Industry - 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. As a tribute to the to the history of crab fishing and wine making in Mendocino County, the artists of inland Mendocino County present works of art, photographs, glass works, mosaics, silk painting demonstration, live music with the Schlep Tones, crab appetizers, and wine pouring by Jaxon Keys Winery & Distillery. 201 S. State St., Ukiah | 707.391.8057. St. Anthony's - Knights of Columbus "Crabs Crabs Crabs" 6:00 p.m. No Host Bar; 7:00 p.m. Dinner. Attend the “Meanest 2-Night” Crab Feed on the Coast - All you can eat Crab, Salad, Bread & Wine! A full evening of entertainment. $40/person. Get your tickets early as this event sells out every year. Crown Hall, Mendocino | 707.937.2406 | kccrabfeed@mcn.org. January 14, 2010 Wine and Crab Day Festivities The Beachcomber Team Friday, January 22nd is the start of Mendocino Crab and Wine Days 2010! Lots of great events starting this great Festival! Rack and Riddle Tasting Room-11AM-4PM Throughout the Festival, stop by Rack & Riddle's Tasting room and get your passport stamped while you enjoy some Rack & Riddle Sparkling and still wines. Both weekends of the Festival experience our sparkling and still wines paired with selected crab appetizers. 14100 Mountain House Road, Hopland-707-744-8100 Cioppino Dinner-A Benefit for Mendocino Coast Clinics! Three Seatings: 4:30PM, 6PM, & 8PM Feast on steaming bowls of Cioppino brimming with Dungeness crab and local seafood! This family-style dinner includes salad, fresh-baked bread, dessert & locally-roasted Thanksgiving cofee. Bibs & napkins are plentiful! Mendocino County wines & beer from North Coast Brewing Co. Available! Silent Auction & Raffle Prizes! Support MCC's Mission to provide quality health care to all Coastal residents. $35/adult; $15/kids under 12. Historic Pentecost Hall-822 Stewart Street, FB. (707) 961-3463 January 11, 2010 Fort Bragg Gets Coastline Martha, The Beachcomber Team For the first time in 150 years, the city of Fort Bragg can claim its own coastline. On January 5, 2010, the Mendocino County community of 7,000 acquired 92 acres of the former Georgia‐Pacific mill site, which stretches for 3½ miles along most of the city’s oceanfront. The city’s newly acquired property will be used for a park and a long‐awaited stretch of the California Coastal Trail. Congratulations and thank-yous to all who worked so hard to make this possible! January 7, 2010 Winer & Crab Days Michelle, The Beachcomber Team Discover Mendocino County Crab & Wine Days. Visit us in January and check out the Calender of Events from crab themed dinners to family style crab or cioppino feeds. For more information go to our Facebook page and become a fan! Visit Us Here! January 4, 2010 I just saw a spout! Gaby, The Beachcomber Team The great gray whale migration has begun. Females are heading to the winter calving lagoons in the warm waters of Mexico to give birth, while the males and teens tag along. This happens every year between December and April and right now spouts and tails are everywhere along the Coastal Trail right behind The Beachcomber (and up and down the California Coast of coarse..) Some 20,000 gray whales are expected the next few months as they travel 10,000-12,000 miles round trip — the longest known migration of any mammal. There will be plenty of whales to see during the 2010 Fort Bragg Whale Festival, March 20 & 21. Now’s the time to book a room. For more information on the migration, check out Learner.Org and follow the migration. Remember...We offer Whale Watching Packages! Stay with us "On the Beach!" December 28, 2009 FBHS Ranks High In U.S. News Survey Martha, The Beachcomber Team We are pleased to announce Fort Bragg and Anderson Valley earned Silver Medal status in a U.S. News World and Report nationwide survey. Solid learning by minority students at Fort Bragg and Anderson Valley high schools helped boost both into the top tier of a nationwide school survey. Fort Bragg and Anderson Valley earned Silver Medal status in a U.S. News World and Report nationwide survey. Congratulations to the schools on The Mendocino Coast - a great place to live, work and learn! December 23, 2009 Mendocino County's very own Crab and Wine Days in Coastal Living Magazine! Gaby, The Beachcomber Team Read all about Mendocino County's very own Crab and Wine Days! We got mentioned in Coastal Living Magazine as one of the Top 10 Seafood and Wine Festivals in America! Beachcomber is having it's own first ever Crabulous Cioppino Sunset Soup Supper on the Captain's Deck! Our event is on January 28th! you can check out our event on www.gomendo.com. And come stay with us on the beach during Wine & Crab Days! December 19, 2009 Christmas Activities The Beachcomber Team This is the time of year the Skunk Train has the Christmas Train! It is so much fun to ride through the forest on weekends with Santa's Elves, Hot Chocolate and Cookies! If that is not enough action for you, get ready to Watch the Whales running to Cabo for the winter!... and the most exciting event is the Mendocino Art Center showing the photo exhibit of a Blue Whale that recently beached on our coast! You may have read about it! Stay On The Beach at the Beachcomber to watch the big winter waves! Merry Christmas to you and your families during this joyous season! December 15, 2009 Glass Beach Named one of World’s 10 Most Amazing Beaches! Gaby, Beachcomber Team A blog called Shore Beauty included Glass Beach in their list of most amazing beaches, explaining that “the mighty Pacific finished the clean-up by gradually grinding down tons of broken glass into pretty, rounded pebbles.” The clean-up they mention is the transformation of an abandoned dump into a sparkling, easily accessed beach. that is just great! I love hearing about our very own beaches! If you haven't visited, you must do so! Stay with us on the beach at The Beachcomber Motel ~ just a short walk to Glass Beach!! December 10, 2009 Mendo Bistro's "Christmas in January!" Gaby, Beachcomber Team When you come in for dinner during the month of December, THe Mendo Bistro will give you a sealed envelope. Bring that envelope in during the month of January, open it at the table and see what they've given you. It could be dinner for everyone at the table, a free dessert, appetizers for everyone, or something else... Isn't that just great?! What a great gift to give. I will definitely be giving them a visit for dinner... Gaby-stay with us on the beach! December 7, 2009 Fridays on Franklin St. Robyn, Beachcomber Team From Thanksgiving to Christmas shops and restaurants will be open on N. Franklin street until 7:30P.M. every Friday for your shopping and eating pleasure. There will also be free gift wrapping, music and festivities, instore events and promotions. For a list of participating merchants and restaurants please call the Chamber of Commerce at 707 961-6300. November 30, 2009 Skunk Christmas Train Robyn, Beachcomber Team Skunk Christmas Train Returns / A local tradition continues when the Christmas Train returns to the Skunk Train. This year the Christmas Train will be departing both the Ft. Bragg and Willits Depot. The 2009 schedule from Fort Bragg for this 90-minute ride is offered at 4pm Saturday & Sunday December 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, and 20. For more information and reservations, call 707-964-6371 from 9am-3pm daily or visit www.SkunkTrain.com. November 25, 2009 Candlelight Inn Tour Robyn, Beachcomber Team Come and visit our local inns during the Candlelight Inn Tours from December 9 to December 11, 2009. Enjoy snacks and beverages at each participating inn. The cost will be $25 per adult and $10 for kids under 10. Tickets cover all 3 nights. Tickets are available at Harvest Market, Spunky Skunk and The Chamber of Commerce. NIGHTLY SCHEDULE IF AS FOLLOWS: DECEMBER 9 - LITTLE RIVER DECEMBER 10 - MENDOCINO DECEMBER 11 - FORT BRAGG FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CALL 707 964-1228 November 21, 2009 Save the Date: Jan. 22 - 31st, 2010 Mendocino County Crab & Wine Days Gaby, Beachcomber Team Every January, Mendocino County in Northern California celebrates locally harvested Dungeness crab and locally grown and produced wines with a festival that delights foodies and oenophiles alike! From gourmet, crab-themed dinners in four-star restaurants, to family-style cioppino feeds, a countywide Passport wine tasting, to the ever popular Crab-cake Cook Off featuring local Mendocino chefs, this festival has something for everyone! Visitors will enjoy a multitude of dinners, events and lodging specials over the course of the ten days -- so head to Mendocino County come January and enjoy good food, fine wines, and family-friendly fun! November 19, 2009 We are in National Geographic TWICE!! Gaby, Beachcomber Team National Geographic Travel Magazine named the California Northern coast #11 in the World's Greatest Places. This includes everywhere from Marin County to Eureka, which means FORT BRAGG is included! How exciting! The article states: "Legendary for its wineries and scenic coastline, this region also entices with the calm and quiet of small towns, farms and ranches. Despite suburban sprawl in Sonoma and Marin, development appears to be within reason and consistent with the environment." November 17, 2009 50 Best American Adventures by National Geographic Gaby, Beachcomber Staff How exciting! Our very own, "LOST COAST" ranked #8 on National Geographic magazine "Top 10 list of 50 great American Adventures"! Take the magazine's advice and look to your own spectacular backyard when dollars are stretched and time is short. There is plenty to see and do!! November 14, 2009 Caspar Inn's Nightly Music Beachcomber Staff While visiting Fort Bragg, join in the fun at the historic Caspar Inn with a good meal and some rock music every night from Oct. 22 to Dec. 31, 2009. The Caspar Inn is located off highway just south of Fort Bragg in the quaint village of Caspar, CA at 14957 Caspar Road. For times and bands please call 707 964-5565. November 12, 2009 Claudia Springs Winery Event Robyn, Beachcomber Staff Visit Claudia Springs Winery for Wine and Mushroom pairings from November 7, 2009 through November 14, 2009. Claudia Springs Winery is located at 1810 Hwy 128 in Navarro. For more information call 707 895-3993. November 10, 2009 Holiday Lights Celebration and Parade 2009 Gaby, Beachcomber Staff We are happy to hear the Fort Bragg Holiday Lights Celebration and Parade WILL BE happening this year!! This year, it is planned for Saturday, December 5th. The Celebration is sponsored by the Fort Bragg Volunteer Fire Department and the North Coast Rodders Car Club. EVENTS: 5pm: Festivities begin when Santa and Mrs. Claus visit with the children and pass out cookies and candy at the Guest House Museum. 6 pm:Tree Lighting Ceremony - Local musicians and community groups entertain with carols and traditional Christmas music. The Mayor officially lights the giant tree on the lawn of the Guest House Museum. 7pm: The Holiday Lights Parade begins! SEE YOU THERE! November 8, 2009 Cliff House Restaurant Mushroom Festival Menu Gaby, Beachcomber Staff How exciting! The Cliff House has prepared a Mushroom Festival Menu, for the County's Wine and Mushroom days! It will be served daily starting November 6th-15th this year. Featuring Lobster Risotto with Porcinis, Porcini Ravioli, Rib Eye Steak with Chanterelles, Grilled Halibut with Porcinis, Filet Mignon with Chanterelles, Grilled Chicken and Portobellos, Pan Seared Salmon with Morel Mushrooms. EVERYTHING SOUNDS AMAZING! November 7, 2009 "WINE-'SHROOMS" DINNER AT THE RENDEZVOUS INN Robyn, Beachcomber Staff On November 7, 2009 at at 6:30p.m. The Rendezvous Inn will host a Wine Maker Dinner with Cole Bailey Vineyards. It will be a four course meal with wine pairings. Cost of $87.50 Plus tax and gratuity. The Rendezvous Inn ~ 647 N. Main St., Fort Bragg, CA 95437. For more information and reservations please call 707 964-8142. November 5, 2009 Magic Mushrooms Hors D'oeuvres and Cooking Demonstration! Gaby, Beachcomber Staff The Beachcomber Motel's Magic Mushroom Hors D'oeuvres and Cooking Demonstration is right around the corner!We are all so excited and cannot wait to be tasting those yummy Hors D'oevres prepared by the wonderful Julia! Being held on Thursday, November 12, 2009 from 4PM-6:30PM on our very own Captain's Deck! Enjoy a delicious selection of Wild mushroom appetizers and small plates accompanied by local Mendocino County wines, and one of the best ocean views in town, just in time for the sunset! $10 per person or $15 per couple. Call us and book soon! We are hoping for great weather! (800) 400-SURF(7873) www.thebeachcombermotel.com November 2, 2009 MUSHROOM ID WORKSHOP & WALK 1 Robyn, Beachcomber Staff Mendocino Coast Botanical Garden Naturalist Mario Abreu will conduct a workshop on Mushroom identification on November 7, 2009 from 10:00a.m. to 4:00p.m. This workshop is a must for adventurists wishing to know more about our local fungi. For more information please call 707 964-4352 or go to www.gardenbythesea.org. October 30, 2009 Day of the Dead Dinner in Caspar Gaby, Beachcomber Staff There will be a Day of the Dead Dinner at the Caspar Community Center. Being held on November 1st at 6:00PM, by reservation only. You get your choice of chicken breasts stuffed with roasted corn in a poblano cream sauce, pork loin in a dark coloradito mole, or vegetarian spicy lentils with plantains and fresh pineapple. All meals include tamales, rice, beans, salad, rolls and dessert. Beer, wine and margaritas will also be available. It costs $25/person, children under 12 are at 1/2 price. For entertainment, there will be music by Michael and Leslie Hubbard. Be sure to check out the community altar.All the food sounds delicious! Call (707)964-4997 to make reservations! or email caspar@mcn.org October 21, 2009 Pumpkin Carving contest Gaby, Beachcomber Staff Hello there! Be sure you visit our lobby and vote for the MOST CREATIVE PUMPKIN. Our Beachcomber Team will be entering their pumpkins on Wednesday, October 28th to be displayed in our lobby. Our very own BEACHNUTS (guests) will be voting for those 4 days, and the winner will be announced on Saturday, October 31st at NOON. The winner will win a $50 certificate for the Grand Prize! Halloween is one of our favorite holidays, we are working on our lobby to look festive! We will be getting creative, so keep an eye out for those pumpkins! October 19, 2009 Emerald Dolphin Mini Golf Kristin, Beachcomber Staff The Emerald Dolphin Mini Golf has an 18 hole miniature Golf Course featuring fun but also challenging mix of holes. It is fun and exciting for all ages. They also have a delicious snack bar and a gift shop with wonderful souvenirs. If you have children or teenagers they will have a blast in the arcade featuring top video games, pool, air hockey, and much more. Emerald Dolphin Mini Golf also offers complete theme parties if you want to have a birthday party or special event with them in their private party meeting room. A variety of packages are available for any party you can imagine. For more information please call 707-964-6699. October 15, 2009 A Very Haunted House! Gaby, Beachcomber Staff The Fort Bragg Leo Club presents "A Very Haunted House!" 2 nights, Friday October 30th and Saturday October 31st. Times are from 6PM-9PM, the first hour will be less scary for young kids! Located at The Fort Bragg Lion's Hall, 430 E. Redwood Ave. Admission is $4.00 in advance, $5.00 at the door. Tickets are available at Harvest Market, Safeway, and La Bamba. This is a VERY scary haunted house! Not recommended for children under 10 years of age! Be prepared to be "scared to death!" *The Fort Bragg Leo Club is a youth group sponsored by the Fort Bragg Lions Club. The purpose of this event is to prevent teen violence. Proceeds from this event will go towards vocational scholarships, prevention of violence and support the Lions In Sight Program. For more info call (707) 964-0921 October 10, 2009 Mole at the Standford Inn Robyn, Beachcomber Staff Come to the Standford Inn on October 29, 2009, and learn to make Mole and Tortillas while sipping Sangria. Also offered will be: sugar skull painting, coloring and face-painting. Festivities will begin at 3:00p.m and end at 4:00p.m. A donation of $15 is requested. By Robyn and the Beachcomber Staff October 7, 2009 Wine and Mushroom Festival! Gaby, Beachcomber Staff Be prepared for The Beachcomber Motel's Magic Mushroom Hors D'oeuvres and Cooking Demonstration! Being held on Thursday, November 12, 2009 from 4PM-6:30PM on our very own Captain's Deck! Enjoy a delicious selection of Wild mushroom appetizers and small plates accompanied by local Mendocino County wines, and one of the best ocean views in town, just in time for the sunset! $10 per person or $15 per couple. Call us and book soon! (800) 400-SURF(7873) October 4, 2009 Liquid Fusion Bird & Sunset Paddle Paul , Beachcomber Staff Liquid Fusion Kayaking is having a sunset bird paddle on Oct. 12, 2009 at the Noyo River. They also have several other Kayak adventures that are very exciting . No experience required you can visit their web site at www.liquidfusionkayak.com or call (707)962-1623 for more information . Join us at the Beachcomber Motel for some awesome sunsets and some outdoor adventures On The Beach . October 2, 2009 Chocolate Sampling Paul , Beachcomber Staff Mendocino Chocolate Company is having a free truffle and Fudge tasting on Oct 10, 2009. It will be held at Mendocino Chocolate Company in Fort Bragg 250 N. Main St. from 10 am to 5:30 pm and in Mendocino at Ukiah St. East of Lansing from 11 am to 5:30pm . Come stay with us at the Beachcomber Motel and enjoy our beautiful sunsets and local favorite chocolates On The Beach . September 29, 2009 Rendezvous' Tastes of Early Fall and Local Wines Gaby, Beachcomber Staff Rendezvous Restaurant's seasonal tasting menus have been extremely popular...I hear! They are now offering "Tastes of Early Fall & Local Wines." The three-course tasting menu begins with heirloom tomatoes oven-roasted with olive oil, garlic and fresh thyme, with tomato "pearls" and basil oil, follows with butter-poached sablefish on a friture of leeks and shallots with a Daube-style sauce, and winds up with grilled medallions of venison on braised red cabbage with a juniper berry sauce. Local wines are paired with each course. The tasting menu alone is $52.50. With a glass of each suggested wine, $78.00. Sounds Scrumptious! September 26, 2009 Halloween Festival at Botanical Gardens Michelle, Beachcomber Staff Bring the kids for games and fun at the Botanical Gardens on Saturday October 24 2009 starting at noon. Come in costume and get in FREE! Enjoy games, delicious snacks and pumpkins! You can decorate your trick or treat bag or carve a pumpkin. Make sure to bring your pumpkin carving tools. Bring the whole family for an afternoon of fun at the Veggie Garden! September 25, 2009 Day of the Dead Festival Gaby, Beachcomber Staff The Beachcomber Motel still has availability for the Day of The Dead Festival. Art displays, cooking classes, dance lessons and dinners will be held county-wide from October 23 to November 2nd. Visit gomendo.com and print a brochure with a list of where to go! The Beachcomber will be having a FIESTA! Appetizers, chips & salsa, guacamole from the Purple Rose and Sangria! Get your photo taken with Pancho Villa 3-5PM. See you there! September 23, 2009 Mendocino Theatre Co. Beachcomber Staff How Far Would You Go For Love? A modern re-imagining of a timeless love story!!! The Mendocino Theatre Co is presenting "eurydice" thursdays through sundays until October 25th. www.mendocinotheatre.org Many people know we have "best" theatre on the Mendocino Coast! Indian Summer is absolutely beautiful with gorgeous sunny days in the 70's. Be sure to catch many waves...see you soon at the Beachcomber! Don't forget to bring your BeachNuts Club Card! September 21, 2009 Simply Succulent Nursery Gaby, Beachcomber Staff Simply Succulent Nursery is sponsoring a fundraiser for Safe Passage Family Resource Center. Five yards in Fort Bragg will be open on Sat. Sept. 26 from 10 – 2 (rain or shine!) to anyone interested in drought tolerant gardening. Finish up the tour with a trip to Simply Succulent, a half-mile out Airport Road. Present your yard tour ticket, and Rella will give you a free plant. These yards will be sure to give you good ideas for your own yard. Tickets are $20, and can be purchased at Simply Succulent or at Safe Passage, 208 Dana Street. September 19, 2009 Abalone Cook-off October 3 Robyn, Beachcomber Staff The Abalone Festival and Cook-off will begin October 3, 2009. Great fund and food please come and join us at the Noyo Harbor between 10:00a.m. and 4:00p.m. Admittance is free but judging tickets cost $60.00 each. You also may purchase Bread, Clam Chowder, Dessert and Beverages. September 17, 2009 Wine & Mushroom Fest in Oprah Magazine Martha, Beachcomber Staff Hot off the presses, here's what Oprah Magazine has to say about one of our most popular coastal festivals: "6 Food Festivals That Are Worth the Trip - Your summer grill may soon go cool for another year, but the nation's fall food festivals are just heating up. Are We Having Fungi Yet? Northern California's Mendocino County is an internationally renowned wine terroir—and when the autumn rains hit, the region comes alive with wild mushrooms..." Read full article September 10, 2009 C.V. Starr Community Center Gaby, Beachcomber Staff I remember being a little girl, going to the Rec. Center to swim or skate, and wondering when the "New Aquatic Center" would be built. They used to have a poster on the wall of the plans they had for this new aquatic center....Our dream has came true! The NEW AQUATIC CENTER is now open! The whole community celebrated the GRAND OPENING on August 22, 2009. The C.V. Starr Community Center has much to offer for all ages! It has a fitness room with brand new state of the art equipment, 2 indoor pools, 8 lane competition & leisure pool, water slide and lazy river. They offer drop-in classes and recreation activities, and also have a meeting room, birthday rooms, and conference facilities available. They are located on 300 S. Lincoln St., Fort Bragg. (707) 964-9446 What an amazing place! Give them a visit when you're on the coast! September 5, 2009 Winesong! Gaby, Beachcomber Staff Winesong! is just right around the corner on September 11 & 12 at The Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens.! For those of you who have never been, Winesong! is a nationally recognized charity wine auction and tasting attended by more than 1,100 guests from 28 states, who come together to make this one of the most spectacular events on the West Coast. The popularity of this event guarantees a sell-out crowd every year, and creates a festive atmosphere in the gorgeous Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens. Get you tickets today! Call (707) 961-4909 www.winesong.org. Last year I was lucky enough to attend, the weather was an amazing 75 + in the gardens, we walked around, sipped on great wine, ate delicious hors d'oeuvres...I had an amazing time! Beachcomber has several rooms left, so book with us soon! September 4, 2009 Noyo Harbor Jacqueline, Beachcomber Staff Noyo Harbor is one of the west Coast's most scenic harbors! The harbor is located at the south end of the adorable port community Fort Bragg. The harbor offers excellent fishing. Charters are available and accomidate almost any fishing need. Kayaking is a great way to take in the views of spectacular sea lion caves, or even abalone diving! Visitors can wake allong the Noyo Jetty and fish their with no fishing license required. The harbor has a virety of dining options where you can taste the catch of the day. At the end of your day you can relax in you room at the Beachcomber motel, located only about 2 miles north of the harbor. You can reserve you room here or call 800-400-surf to begin your adventure today! August 29, 2009 Paul Bunyan Days 2009 Kristin, Beachcomber Staff This year will be the 70th anniversary of celebrating Paul Bunyan Days here on the north coast. During Labor Day weekend do not miss out on seeing guys throwing axes, climbing trees, climbing poles and bucking logs. The logging expo takes place at Todd's point on Sunday. The rest of the weekend will include the Ugliest Dog Contest, a parade, the Blue Ox Beer Festival, the Belle of the Redwoods Competition, a Crafts Fair, a Classic Dress Review, the Big Brothers Big Sisters BBQ, a Gem, Mineral and Fossil show, and a Firefighters water fight. Come enjoy all the exciting events going on during Labor Day here on the Mendocino Coast and don't forget to watch all the old timers and youngsters competing in Sundays Logging Expo. August 28, 2009 Mendo Fun Time Jacqueline, Beachcomber Staff Please come join us in beautiful, Fort Bragg Ca. where the sunsets and memories are unforgetable! Enjoy dining, shoping, or a stroll on the beach. Watch the sea lions, seals, otters and countless other wildlife animals. Or just relax and listen to the sound of summer at the coast! Please visit us or call today for reservations: 800-400-surf! August 26, 2009 Go Mendo Arts Jacqueline, Beachcomber Staff Enjoy the 7th annual CasparFest, an annual celebration of community artists, crafts, music, food and fun for the whole family! The event is locted 15051 Caspar Road, in Caspar. The fun begins 8/29. For more information visit www.casparfest.org. Or go to www.ArtsMendocino.org! For a great place to stay durring this event, Reserve your room at the Beachcomber motel in Fort bragg, only a few miles from Caspar. For reservatons call 800-400-surf! August 25, 2009 Rendezvous Inn's "Taste of Summer and Local Wines" Kristin, Beachcomber Staff July 15 - September 30 There will be a three course summer tasting menu paired with optional local wines by glass. The menu also includes heirloom tomatoes, butter poached fresh Maine lobster, and home grown red currant sauced grilled medallions of venison. The Rendezvous has had the highest Zagat food rating for Mendocino County in every San Francisco survey since 2006. Hours are from 5:30-9:00pm Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday then 5:30-9:30pm Friday and Saturday. Rendezvous is located 647 North Main Street in Fort Bragg. For more information visit www.rendezvousinn.com. The Rendezvous is located only about a half mile from The Beachcomber Motel so come enjoy a room with a spectacular view of the ocean then head on over to the Rendezvous and enjoy wonderful wines and a fabulous meal. August 24, 2009 Essential Kayaking Skills Class Kristin, Beachcomber Staff Learn how to kayak or learn to kayak a little better with Liquid Fusion Kayaking. This kayaking skills class focuses on the basics of an efficient stroke, effective maneuvering, and injury prevention which is always a good thing to know about. No kayaking experience is necessary for the class so everyone is welcome. Join them September 12 - September 13 for one session or both. $75/person for one 3 hour session or $125 for two 3 hour sessions. Hours are from 9-12 or 1-4. For more information visit www.liquidfusionkayaking@gmail.com or call 707-962-1623. August 23, 2009 Summertime Sunday at the Beachcomber! Jacqueline, Beachcomber Staff It's a beautiful summer afternoon in Fort Bragg California. The sun is shining, the waves are crashing, the sound of the seals mix with the laughter of the familys enjoying an afternoon walk across the tressel. Be our guest and come stay at the scenic Beachcomber motel! We are looking forward to sharing the beauty of summer at the coast in historic Mendocino county! Visit us at www.thebeachcombermotel.com or call 800-400-surf for reservations today! August 17, 2009 Tastes of Summer & Local Wines The Beachcomber Team We wanted to let you know about the "Tastes of Summer & Local Wines" at the Rendezvous in Fort Bragg. The three-course tasting menu begins with a granite of heirloom tomatoes with fresh mozzarella and basil, follows with butter-poached Maine lobster with corn and summer squash, and winds up with grilled venison with a red currant sauce. Local wines are paired with each course. The tasting menu alone is $52.50. With a glass of each suggested wine, $78.00. Delicious! In a Wonderful historic setting! We know that Beach Nuts would appreciate this extravaganza!!! After your great evening be sure to Catch a Wave~~~ at The Beachcomber! www.thebeachcombermotel.com August 12, 2009 Join the "Beach-Nuts" Discount Club The Beachcomber Team Hi Beach Nuts!!! Great news! We got the new Beach Nuts Club Cards in and they are beautiful!!! You can add up your nights two different ways. Use your 2 for 1's or just stay a regular stay, accumulate your 7 nights at the regular rate and get your FREE night "on the beach"! in an equal value room. We also have many downtown merchants who want to participate and give you discounts or added specials when you show your "Beach Nuts" Club Card. Be sure to email us with your address or ask us next time you are here for your card! Catch a wave~~~they are FABulous! August 5, 2009 “The Circle” at Mendocino Theatre Company Martha, Beachcomber Staff August 6 through September 6th: MTC Presents W. Somerset Maugham’s “The Circle” Directed by Ayn Ruymen. A witty satire of upper class sexual manners. Helen Schoeni Theater, Mendocino 937-4477 http://mendocinotheatre.org. July 31, 2009 Abalone Seafood Dinner Martha, Beachcomber Staff Don't miss the Annual Abalone Dinner fundraiser Saturday August 8 for the Fort Bragg Food Bank. Great food, good company, raffle, auction and music. Catholic Church Parish Hall, 605 Maple, Fort Bragg 964- 9404 July 27, 2009 Mendocino Chocolate Company Gaby, Beachcomber Staff The flavor wizards of Mendocino Chocolate Company are at it again! Visit them, and taste their new Pacific Fire (a bite of cayenne pepper) Ginger Snap (w/real candied ginger), Azteca (hints of cinnamon) and North Coast Bordeaux (brown sugar fudge in chocolate) Absolutely delicious! They're open seven days a week at 232 N Main St. Fort Bragg (In the Bank of America) (707) 964-8800. July 23, 2009 Little River Inn Restaurant Gaby, Beachcomber Staff Enjoy the longer days and still have time for dinner! Little River Inn Restaurant is now open for dinner from 6PM to 9PM every Sunday through Thursday, and from 6PM to 9:30PM on Friday and Saturday nights through Labor Day. July 17, 2009 Music at Headlands Coffeehouse Gaby, Beachcomber Staff Headlands Coffeehouse, the popular local meeting place on Laurel Ave. in Fort Bragg, offers live music every night of the week. This Saturday Night July 18, don't miss the monthly "Friends of Acoustic Music" which features four acts comprised of talented local acoustic musicians, featuring this month "The Bettys" a wild and zany group of women who's comedic music is sure to bring smiles. For more info visit www.headlandscoffeehouse.com. July 10, 2009 Edgewater Gallery Gaby, Beachcomber Staff Christine Schomer is Edgewater Gallery’s featured artist for July for the show entitled "Departure, ceramics inspired by contemporary potters of Japan." Christine has just returned from a potter’s tour of Mashiko and Shigaraki, Japan. While in Mashiko she worked in the studio of the Tao Center, learning to use traditional pottery tools from several local potters. Day trips included visits to Hamada’s studio and museum, the Ibaraki Ceramics Museum, the Mashiko Ceramics Museum, the Miho Museum, the Konde Museum of Kyoto and the National Museum of Japan in Tokyo. The show runs through August 4th. The Edgewater Gallery is located near the corner of Main and Laurel streets in Fort Bragg. For more information please call 707-964-4668. July 3, 2009 Indoor Craft Fair Gaby, Beachcomber Staff An indoor star-spangled craft fair, one of two craft fairs, will be held this weekend, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. 10AM to 4PM each day at Crown Hall, Ukiah Street, in Mendocino. There will be over a dozen vendors, chili dogs, whittling demo and fun! July 1, 2009 Fireworks Gaby, Beachcomber Staff There will be fireworks in Fort Bragg this Friday, July 3, thanks to all the help from our community. Fireworks will be at Pomo Bluffs Park on Todd's Point at dark (around 9PM) All roads on Todd's point will be closed at 5PM for everyone except Todd's Point residents and their guests. Limited parking will be available at the Carlson/Patton property (where the carnival was held) and at College of the Redwoods until they are full. To help with expenses, a $5 parking donation is requested and gets you a pair of later glasses for special fireworks viewing. The fee is to raise funds for next year's fireworks. Fireworks can be viewed from the park, the parking lots, College of the Redwoods, Noyo Beach, the Noyo Bridge pedestrian walkways and many other public spots. See you there! July 1, 2009 Gallery Artists Visually Explore Music Martha, Beachcomber Staff Partners Gallery artists visually explore music with "On a Musical Note" July 2nd through August 3rd. Attend the First Friday Reception on July 3rd, 5-8pm. Through their art, gallery members celebrate music to honor the Mendocino Music Festival this month. Wine is generously provided by Zina Hyde Cunningham Winery. For more info call 707 962-0233 or visit www.partnersgallery.com. June 24, 2009 July 4th Celebration just around the corner Beachcomber Staff Just a reminder for everyone visiting the Coast on 4th of July weekend. Fireworks will be held on Friday July 3 and the Salmon BBQ will be on Saturday July 4. We still have some rooms available so call and book yours today! Catch a wave~~~ June 18, 2009 Rock Cod Fishing! Beachcomber Staff Rock Cod Fishing season is open through August 15th. Book your trip today. Call All Aboard Adventures with Captain Tim and enjoy a day fishing on the Sea Hawk. Finish your evening with grilling your catch on one of our BBQ's while watching the Sunset here "on the beach". Call us to book your room today! Catch a wave~~~ June 11, 2009 More about Liquid Fusion Kayaking Paul, Beachcomber Staff This wednesday Kristin and I had the opportunity to go kayaking with Liquid Fusion Kayaking . They have many different styles or tours to suit everyone. We went on the wet and wild tour which is one of there more intense and demanding tours. Our tour started right on the sand of Noyo Harbor Beach. We then headed out to sea learning how to turn how to stop and how to get back on if you fall out of your kayak. After learning how to play safely it was time for the fun part. We then headed toward the rocks where we surfed the white water from the waves around and over the rocks and when I say over, I mean we actually surfed on a wave with took us over the center of the wash rocks. One of the things that surprised me is how physically demanding it actually was, just staying in one spot required constant rowing forward and backward to correct for the changing currents. After our trip I was drained it was time to go eat and take a nap. I would recommend that you should be in pretty good physical shape if you are wanting to try this kind of tour. I highly recommend trying ocean kayaking if you have a sense of adventure and love the outdoors. To me it was a new, exciting, interesting way to view the beauty and experience and the power of the ocean . You can see our pictures from our trip on the blog below: June 4, 2009 Liquid Fusion Kayaking Gaby, Beachcomber Staff If our front desk staff can do it, so can you! Come stay at The Beachcomber Motel and take a ride out with Liquid Fusion Kayaking. If you want to stay dry, you can go on a sunset bird paddle. June 1, 2009 Little River Market and Deli Gaby, Beachcomber Staff Little River Market & Deli Re-Opening June 8th. Gas, Hot Grill Deli and Groceries! Convenience store & deli with ocean view seating. Home-made salads, made to order sandwiches, mexican food, vegetarian, and health consious specialties & much more! Going to the Little River Golf course? Pack a sandwich from the market for your adventure! Address: 7746 N. Hwy 1, Little River, CA 95456 Phone: (707) 937-5133 May 31, 2009 Kite Festival Gaby, Beachcomber Staff Save the date for the Kite Festival! Put on by Habitat for Humanity, being held on June 6th, Saturday at Noon on Todd's Point in Fort Bragg. It is absolutely something you don't want to miss. Bring your kids out there and fly your kites. I will definitely be there! May 30, 2009 Great Rail Escape Gaby, Beachcomber Staff The Rotary Club of Fort Bragg presents the Great Rail Escape. Being held on Sunday, June 28th 2009. Departs from the Skunk Train Depot at 11AM till 4PM. Feast on BBQ, Wine and Brews while enjoying wonderful music from the Steven Bates band. Tickets: $100/person Available at the Skunk Train Depot or by calling (707) 964-6371 May 29, 2009 Big River Walk Gaby, Beachcomber Staff Join everyone on June 6th for the 10th Annual Big River Walk, held in conjunction with the National Cancer Survivors' Day Foundation! By walking, you will show your support of cancer survivors and honor the memory of loved ones. Your participation helps the effort of the Cancer Resource Centers of Mendocino County. The 5K walk will begin at 10AM at the Big River State Park, and this year they're inviting paddlers to join in! The music of "Kevin and the Coconuts" will inspire this celebratory event. May 28, 2009 Dick's Place Gaby, Beachcomber Staff Dicks Place has Happy Hour Monday through Friday from 4 to 6 p.m.! Also, enjoy the sounds of Hanging Chad every Monday night from 9 to 12, great local sound and no cover charge! Main Street Mendocino, look for the neon martini glass! They have a beautiful view of the bay! May 26, 2009 Rock Cod Fishing Season Gaby, Beachcomber Staff Rock Cod Fishing opened Friday, May 15th! Season is through August 15th! Book your trip today! Don’t forget to ask for your “Local Discount” and receive $5.00 off cost of the trip! Call All Aboard Adventures with Captain Tim and enjoy a carefree and fun day of fishing on the Sea Hawk! 707-964-1881 May 25, 2009 Sculpture Gallery in the Gardens Kristin, Beachcomber Staff Sculpture Gallery in the Gardens. The Mendocino Coast Botanical Garden has partnered with the Arts Council of Mendocino County to create a Sculpture Gallery in the garden. Now as you walk through the garden you will see many fascinating sculptures in many different areas. Objectives include expanding opportunities for artists and arts organizations, supporting art education, promoting the role of the arts in the local economy and increasing public awareness of the value of the arts. The Mendocino Coast Botanical Garden is beautiful all year long attracting gardeners, nature lovers, and many more. Come on over to Fort Bragg and enjoy a day exploring The Gorgeous Botanical Garden and all the new fascinating sculptures. May 22, 2009 Taste of Chocolate, Wine & Ale Beachcomber Staff Taste of Chocolate, Wine & Ale. A chocoholic's heaven Memorial Weekend! Chocolate candy, cookies, cakes, pastries, and ice cream with live music, silent auction, and the experience of community spirit is yours for the entire family. Taste wine, beer, ale, and chocolate-all made in Mendocino County. Local wineries, breweries, and chocolate-making businesses donate their best products to make your taste buds happy. Non-alcoholic beverages and coffee available too. On the Kelley House Museum Lawn, Main Street, Mendocino. $20 per person. (707) 937-4041 www.mendocinomusic.com. Benefits the Mendocino Music Festival, July 11-25 May 18, 2009 Partners Gallery 10th Anniversary Martha, Beachcomber Staff Partners Gallery, 355 N. Franklin St., Fort Bragg is proudly celebrating ten years on the Mendocino Coast through June 1st. Since May 1999 the artist owned and run gallery has exhibited many North Coast and a few Bay Area artists in a variety of shows featuring different media and topics of interest including environmental concerns, collaborative and interactive work, inspirational sources, passion, photography, quilts, jewelry, hand woven carpets, as well as more traditional art media. This month Partners is celebrating with a show of over fifty of the many artists who have exhibited in both the Little River and Fort Bragg locations. For more info visit www.partnersgallery.com; or call 707 962-0233. May 11, 2009 Surfing Lost Coast National Geographic Top 10 American Adventures Kendra, Beachcomber Staff Surfing Lost Coast is a "National Geographic Top 10 American Adventure." If a place is Lost, how come it's getting so much attention? I guess that's what happens when National Geographic magazine includes it in their Top 10 list of 50 great American Adventures. Surfing the Lost Coast, just north of Fort Bragg, makes number 8 on the list. Take the magazine's advice and look to your own spectacular backyard when dollars are stretched and time is short. Skip the Himalayas and and the Amazon, and find adventure just up the road. Come stay @ the Beachcomber Motel on the beach and explore the Lost Coast. May 7, 2009 Mothers Day Ideas Gaby, Beachcomber Staff Hi Beach Nuts! Don't forget your favorite Mother and the special Skunk Train where you can sip mimosas and treat mom to brunch in the middle of the redwoods at Northspur. Departs Fort Bragg at 10:00a.m. Sunday May 10, 2009. Another special surprise...bring mom to dinner at Mendo Bistro and her dinner is Free! (excluding alcohol and gratuity) The fine print...there needs to be at least one paying customer per mom. Multiple generations of moms, great! Each mom gets a free dinner as long as there is a paying customer to match each mom. Bring a picture (not for proof of motherhood, but because they are curious)! Many smiles....Be sure to catch many waves at The Beachcomber Motel! We look forward to seeing you and your loved ones! May 4, 2009 Farmers' Market is back! Gaby, Beachcomber Staff Mendocino County Farmers' Markets are opeing this month! How exciting, we sure do miss them over the winter! Mendocino Market began Friday, May 1st, located at Howard and Main St. from 12-2PM. Fort Bragg begins Wednesday May 6th, located at the corner of Main St. and W. Spruce from 3:30-6PM. Join us all as we support our local farmers! April 30, 2009 Cinco de Mayo The Beachcomber Team Here is the update on the Cinco de Mayo Train! They have named it "Margarita Madness", 2 hours for $20! Enjoy chips and salsa and endless beverages, beer, wine and a DJ!!!! Lots of music. Come have fun!!! Bring your loved ones and Catch a Wave! April 28, 2009 2009 Fort Bragg Quilt Show May 22 - May 24, 2009 Kendra, Beachcomber Staff Come stay at the Beachcomber and join the Fort Bragg locals at the 2009 Quilt Show located at in Fort Bragg at the Town Hall and Rec Center, on the corner of Laural and Franklin St. May 22 - May 24. Sponsored & Coordinated by Soroptimist International of Fort Bragg Susan Bivins, Chair and Ocean Wave Quilters. For more information go to:www.soroptimistfortbraggca.org. April 25, 2009 13Th Annual Beer Festival Kendra, Beachcomber Staff On May 2, 2009, The Bonneville Beer Festival is an annual event, that showcases breweries from all over the west to come and share their wares in a pleasant, relaxed, outdoor setting to enjoy well over a hundred brews from fifty-two breweries. One low entry fee gets you admittance to the festival, a snazzy wristband that you have to keep on you to be on festival grounds, a sampling glass, music and the samples you care to enjoy during the four hours the taps are open. No sampling tickets needed. No pay-per sample arrangement. Food, merchandise and other sundries are offered by various vendors on a pay-per-item basis, but the beer is included on your entry fee. For more info. please contact Anderson Valley Brewing Company: phone: (707) 895-beer. Toll free: (800) 207-beer. Please drink responsible and DON'T drink and drive! April 18, 2009 Rendezvous' Taste of Spring Gaby, Beachcomber Staff Tastes of Spring and Local Wines" menu is now being offered nightly. The three-course menu includes frog's legs, halibut cheeks, and a choice of spring chicken or spring lamb, with local wines paired with each course. The tasting menu alone is $52.50. With a glass of each suggested wine, $67.50. Everything sounds delicious! April 16, 2009 Kevin and the Coconuts Gaby, Beachcomber Staff Mendocino Stories and Music Series presents "Kevin and the Coconuts", April 18th, 7:30 PM, at Mendocino Hotel. A lively mix of calypso, soca, Latin and swing tunes with musical inspiration from the islands of Trinidad and Cuba. Doors open at 6:30 PM. Sliding scale $15-5. Pattie at 937-1732 or httpwww.mendocinostories.com/events April 15, 2009 Caspar Inn Kendra, Beachcomber Staff Friday April 17Th Poor Mans Whiskey will be paying @ the Caspar Inn in Caspar, Ca. Poor Mans Whiskey is a blue grass band with a rock n' roll attitude. Come stay @ the Beachcomber Motel and Take a taxi down to Caspar Inn, have a few drinks, listen to some blue grass music then come back to The Beachcomber Motel and enjoy your lovely room on the beach. To see pictures or check availability go to our photos page or feel free to call us toll free 800-400-surf or locally 707-964-2402. April 12, 2009 Easter Weekend and Spring Break! Kendra, Beachcomber Staff It's been beautiful here in Fort Bragg on the Mendocino Coast at The Beachcomber Motel. The sun has been shining, the wild life has been out,and the sunsets have been amazing. Come join us @ the Beachcomber motel for Easter weekend and Spring Break. The beach is just a 1 minute walk and it's calling your name so come stay on the beach @ The Beachcomber Motel. April 10, 2009 Earth Day 2009 Kendra, Beachcomber Staff Celebrate the planet and its life sustaining waters on Sunday April 26Th at the Noyo food forest's third annual Earth Day Festival held from noon to 6pm at the learning garden at Fort Bragg High School. Earth Day 2009 will feature live entertainment, locally grown organic food and wood fired pizzas, pedal powered smoothies, a spring vegetable and ornamental plant sale, a kids tent with a full day of activities and performances, electric tractor demos, do-it-yourself compost, grey water and rainwater harvesting workshop, local vendors, and more. This free event is presented to the community by over fifteen local businesses and organizations. for more information go to www.fortbragg.com April 6, 2009 32nd Annual John Druecker Rhododendron Show & Plant Sale Kendra, Beachcomber Staff The largest rhododendron show in California with over 700 entries will be held May 2 & 3 in Fort Bragg~Sponsored Chapter of the American Rhododendron society. The Noyo Chapter hosts its show the first full weekend each May. The 32Nd annual John Druecker Memorial Show & plant sale will be held at Dana Grey Elementary School, 1197 Chestnut Street, Fort Bragg, California 2009. Species of the plant will be featured in this year's theme, "Shangri-La". This is one of the largest on the west coast with over 700 entries. There will be awards given, a raffle, refreshments, educational displays and more! Admission is free to this truly worthwhile event. For more information visit: www.mendocinocaost.com; www.gomendo.com; www.mendocino.com April 4, 2009 Watercolor Sketchbook Journal Classes Gaby, Beachcomber Staff Join everyone for a Travel Journal Sketchbook Class. Thursday through Sunday from 10AM to 11:30AM, drop-in no reservations necessary. Only $35 for 90 minutes of art to get you motivated to sketch with watercolor washes. They sit in the hotel garden across the street and draw the watertower gallery of The World of Suzi Long. It's a Mendocino icon that everyone will recognize! The class teaches basics, like drawing straight lines, a little perspective, "mappin and measurin" and how to draw a garden and not get lost in details. You get to take home with you a little masterpiece and motivation to take your notebook everywhere and record what you see! (707) 937-5664 Suzi Long April 3, 2009 Symphony of the Redwoods Gaby, Beachcomber Staff The Symphony of the Redwoods Spring concert is right around the corner. This time it features Schubert's "Rosamunde" Overture, and Haydn's Cello Concert No. 2 in D Major with soloist Burke Schuchmann. Tchaikowsky's "Symphony No. 4 in F Minor" closes out this final program of the 2008-09 season. The concert will be held at Cotton Auditorium, Fir and Harold Streets, Fort Bragg, CA. at 8PM on April 4th and at 2PM on April 5th. Tickets are available online Symphony of the Redwoods, or Harvest Market in Fort Bragg. Also at Cotton Auditorium box office 1 hour before the concert. April 2, 2009 John Sebastian in Concert Kendra, Beachcomber Staff John Sebastian will be in concert for one night only... Friday April 10Th 8p.m. at the Cotton Auditorium, presented by the Coast, benefiting Friends of the Mendocino Coast Recreation and Park District. Tickets are $25.00 in advance/ $30.00 at the door for main floor, $20.00 in advance/ $25.00 at the door for upper level. Tickets available at Harvest Market in the Boatyard Shopping Center, Out of This World, or Coast Music in Fort Bragg. April 1, 2009 Abalone Season Opens Kendra, Beachcomber Staff California's popular red abalone sport fishery season is now open in waters north of San Francisco Bay. Anyone who takes abalone must record their catch on an abalone report card and tag the animal with tags corresponding to the report card. Abalone report cards have greatly increased the consistency of our annual take estimates are a vital source of information needed to manage this resource. Everyone engaging in the take of abalone is responsible for knowing and abiding by all California marine sport fishing regulations pertaining to abalone. DFG produced a short video that demonstrates the required tagging procedures March 30, 2009 Off Leash Dog Park for Tourists & Locals Kendra, Beachcomber Staff Johanna Jensen, a major Fort Brag booster and former owner of cowlick's Ice Cream, loves dogs. So much so, that she got together with a group of other civic minded folks, to build an off the leash dog park in Fort Bragg. Here's the story Johanna submitted: MCDOG, Mendocino Coast Dog Owner Group, is pleased to announce the Fort Bragg Dog park is officially open, and it's a huge success! The dog park is located on the grounds of the C.V. Starr Community Center, at Maple and S. Lincoln in Fort Bragg. The park is almost an acre of fenced land where well-behaved dogs can romp and play between dawn and dusk each and every day. There are two areas, one for big dogs, and a slightly smaller one for small and shy dogs. Visit on a sunny Saturday afternoon and you'll find a dozen or more dogs, and their people, enjoying the park. March 29, 2009 Spring Time at The Gardens Kristin, Beachcomber Staff Rhododendron Bloom Walks - Join local rhododendron enthusiast Dennis McKiver for a walk through the rhododendron blooms at the beautiful Botanical Gardens in Fort Bragg. Join them as they walk the peaceful gardens to look and talk about all the gorgeous rhododendrons in bloom. Don't miss out on the exciting and memorable rhododendron walks going on April 4th, 11th, and 18th and again on May 9th and 16th at 1:30 pm. Spring time is here and Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens is the place to be where you'll discover 47 acres of beauty. Info@gardenbythesea.org. Location: Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens, 18220 North Hwy 1, Fort Bragg, Ca 95437 March 28, 2009 Flying Fish! Kendra, Beachcomber Staff With Salmon fishing off limits, where will local boat tour operators go? In search of flying fish perhaps? There are indeed flying fish- 40 species worldwide. But they are found in warm oceans, not in our cool north coast waters. However, the Mendocino Coast Audubon Society is sponsoring a pelagic birding Trip on May 18, taking a boat load of locals and tourists from Noyo Harbor in Fort Bragg aboard the Trek II to search for birds at sea. Trip leaders of Fort Bragg's noted wildlife photographer Ron Valley from Mendocino Coast photographer Guide and Gallery in the Company Store on main street in Fort Bragg. For details and reservations, contact Karen Havlena jkhavlena@yahoo.com or 707-964-1280. Noyo Harbor-based trips also are planned for Aug. 8 and 10 by Debbie Shearwater Journeys. March 27, 2009 Bunny Camp! Kristin, Beachcomber Staff The second annual Bunny Camp will be going on Saturday, April 11 at Little River Inn. Camp counselors will show kids how to decorated their Easter eggs, bags, and cookies. Then there will be an Easter Egg Hunt fallowed by a visit with the Easter Bunny. Sessions will be at 11 am and at 1 pm, $10 per child. If you would like to make reservations please call 707-937-5942. You can also visit www.info@littleriverinn.com for more information. March 25, 2009 Community Easter Dinner Martha, Beachcomber Staff 12th Annual Community Easter Dinner – April 12th, 4 PM, First Presbyterian Church of Fort Bragg, 367 South Sanderson Way. Volunteers are needed to help prepare, serve, and/or deliver meals; cake donations needed. Dinner provides opportunities for people to do something tangible for others in the community. Call the Church office 964-2316 or GinaBelle Smith 964-3798 for details March 23, 2009 Cooking Classes Martha, Beachcomber Staff Albion River Inn: There's still time to catch a delicious cooking class at Albion River Inn. Tuesday April 14th, try the popular Mediterranean Cuisine class, and on Tuesday May 12th the new Pizza & Flat Breads class is bound to become a favorite. For information call 707-937-1919. March 21, 2009 FLOCKworks Exhibits Gaby, Beachcomber Staff FLOCKworks Exhibits: The Red Doors of the historic Odd Fellows Hall open to creative works of over 200 local artists with monthly shows. Visitors also learn of Artful experiences throughout the area. Free & Open Daily! On the corner of Kasten & Ukiah st, Mendocino,CA. (707) 937-2486 March 19, 2009 Fish Dinner Gaby, Beachcomber Staff Don't miss the "All you can eat Fish Dinner!" Being held on March 21, 2009 at Pentecost Hall, 822 Stewart St. Fort Bragg, CA. Social Hour: 4:00p.m. Dinner Served: 5:00 p.m. & 6:00 p.m. & 7:00 p.m. Dinner includes: Fish, Salad, Potatoes, Beans, Bread & Beverage. Tickets sold in advance $17.00 (call 964-0485 or 964-4971). Tickets sold at door $20.00 children (6-12) $6.00, Children under 6 free March 18, 2009 Craft Fair Gaby, Beachcomber Staff Don't miss the Craft Fair this weekend! Located in the Company Store 303 N. Main St. in Fort Bragg. Saturday March 21, 2009 from 10AM to 5PM. March 16, 2009 1959 Pink Thunderbird Gaby, Beachcomber Staff The Mendocino Theatre Company in association with the Mendocino Cookie Company proudly presents: 1959 Pin Thunderbird. A comedy by James McLure, directed by Sandra Hawthorne. Below is what the website had to say about the play: 1959 Pink Thunderbird is really two related plays. The first, Lone Star, takes place in the backyard of a Texas roadhouse bar where Roy, a prototypical good ole’ boy, has returned home from Viet Nam and is trying to reintegrate himself into a normal civilian life of quaffing beer and regaling his brother, Ray, with tales of combat and love life. Initially presented by the Actors Theatre of Louisville, “Lone Star is an uproarious comedy about two bawdily rambunctious Texas brothers peppered with the playwright’s own special brand of cascading, spontaneous wit.” —New York Times. The companion play, Laundry and Bourbon, is set on the front porch of Roy and his oh-so-sexy-wife Elizabeth’s house, as she and her friend Hattie while away the afternoon folding laundry, sipping bourbon and Coke and gossiping about the not-so-hidden secrets that are so much a part of small town life. “Mr. McLure’s strongest suit is salty comic banter that derives from colorful indigenous characters.”—New York Times Playing Thurs-Sunday from March 5-April 12, 2009. (Call 937-4477 for exact schedule) Sounds like something interesting to fit into your Fort Bragg itinerary! You've always got time for some laughter!! March 13, 2009 Medicinal Herbs Workshop Gaby, Beachcomber Staff So many fun and exciting things to do this weekend! One of them is the Mendocino Coast Botanical Garden's Medicinal Herbs Workshop. It's being held on March 21st 2009 in the garden. From 9:30-11:30AM, join local herbalist and author Karin Uphoff and explore your relationship to the medicinal/ culinary herbs and how they guide you in the care they need. $10 per participant; half price for Garden members. visit their website for a full calendar of events, www.GardenByTheSea.org March 9, 2009 to all the beachnuts! from "the beach" Beachcomber Staff It's going to be sunny all week, in the 60's. Great weather for whale watching! Come pick up a map and view the "whales on parade!" All the beautiful whales go to Town Hall on Saturday the 21st, for the silent auction happening on the 22nd. Both events feature live music and refreshments! Also, don't forget the 200-foot Model of Digger Creek and Northern railroad will be running this weekend, March 14 at the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens! Open from 10:30-3:30. March 8, 2009 Meet the artists in our community Kristin, Beachcomber Staff Saturday March 14th, meet the artists in our community. Opening receptions for new exhibits are each Second Saturday at Mendocino galleries from 5 to 8pm and at Gualala Arts center from 5 to 7pm. Participating Mendocino galleries include: The Mendocino Art Center, Coastside Gallery, Mendocino Jewelry Studio, Mendocino Artists Co-Op, The World of Suzi Long, Panache Gallery, Highlight Gallery, Voodoo Pink as well as Rotating Exhibits at Odd Fellows Hall. Come to Fort Bragg and stay at The Beachcomber Motel on the beach and enjoy your spectacular view of the ocean and spend the day meeting all the lovely artists in our community. March 7, 2009 Whale Festival Kendra, Beachcomber Staff It's a perfect weekend here on the coast for our annual Mendocino whale festival which is just a ten minute ride to Mendocino from the Beachcomber Motel. Please come stay with us and enjoy the beautiful March weather, while the the whales pass by. If not this weekend be sure to come visit us for the Fort Bragg whale festival on March 20th and 21st. Don't miss out -- there will be lots for all ages to do including chowder tasting, wine tasting, arts n' crafts along with alot of other cool things to do in Fort Bragg. March 5, 2009 Cello Concert March 15, 3 pm Sue Goodman Marcia Sloane, cellist, and pianist Carolyn Steinbuck will perform on the Fort Bragg Center for Arts Music Series on Sunday March 15 at 3 PM in Preston Hall. The Duo will perform Four Nocturnes by Martinu, Cello Sonatas by César Franck and Benjamin Britten and a sonata for cello and piano by Jay Sydeman. Tickets are available at Fiddles and Cameras in Fort Bragg and at Moore's Books in Mendocino. For information please call: 937-1018 March 3, 2009 Raining but Exciting Kristin, Beachcomber Staff It may be raining here on the coast but it is still a great time to stay at The Beachcomber. The waves are enormous and magnificent and are always a great sight to see. You can still enjoy a lovely view of the waves and relax in our nice cozy rooms. Or if you feel like spoiling yourself come stay in our jacuzzi or hot tub suite and soak in the tub and enjoy your favorite glass of wine. Don't forget about our 2 for 1 special for our returning guests which is ending soon. So hurry on over to the coast and enjoy your stay at The Beachcomber Motel where you can have a beautiful view of the magnificent waves. February 28, 2009 Ricochet Ridge Ranch Gaby, Beachcomber Staff What a blast we had at Ricochet Ridge! First we watched a little video, then we headed on over to meet our horses. I had Faraj, Kristin had Chardonnay and Kendra had Nikki. I was pretty scared at first of course, but after we headed out, I settled down. What a beautiful ride! First through McKerricker State park, we got to see ground squirells, a jack rabbit, and of course a lot of seagulls. We got to ride ride along the shore, in the sand, and on the 10 mile coastal trail. I highly recommend everyone who likes adventure, and the outdoors to call Ricochet Ridge Ranch and schedule a ride on the beach! 707 964-PONY! February 27, 2009 Our exciting horseback riding trip Kristin, Beachcomber Staff The Beachcomber Motels front desk girls just went horseback riding yesterday here in Fort Bragg at Ricochet Ridge Ranch. We just so happened to pick an absolutely gorgeous day to go riding. We lucked out on the weather and it made it the perfect day for a horseback ride on the beach. We started heading out towards MacKerricher State Park and headed north on the Coastal Trail. Even though I see the ocean everyday it was a beautiful site to see as you are riding a horse right by the ocean. As we got further down the Coastal Trail we then headed on down to the beach which was a very exciting experience. We got some beautiful pictures of us on the horses with the ocean behind us. I even got to run my horse a little bit on the beach which was a blast. It was a wonderful experience and we had an absolutely beautiful ride. Ricochet Ridge Ranch offers private rides for romantic occasions, family reunions, school groups and many other special occasions. They also offer sunset rides on Ten Mile Beach, 3 to 4 hour and all day rides on Ten Mile Beach, in the Redwood Forest, or both. Come on over to Fort Bragg and reserve a memorable horseback riding trip on the beach. You can call 707-964-7669 or visit www.horse-vacation.com. They are located across from MacKerricher State Park, just 2 miles north of Fort Bragg on Hwy 1. February 27, 2009 Another Beautiful Day! Gaby, Beachcomber Staff I can't even begin to explain how gorgeous it is today! At first, it looked as if it was going to begin to rain, and the weatherman predicted it. We had a horseback riding trip planned, and we were keeping our fingers crossed for the weather to shapen up, and it has! It's will be quiet the adventure on a beautiful sunny day! Three of us girls from the desk are heading out on horses to the beach, (thanks to Ricochet Ridge Ranch!) We will blog all about it later this week! February 26, 2009 Art Splash...Whale Migration Gaby, Beachcomber Staff The Arts Council of Mendocino County, with support from the Mendocino Coast Chamber of Commerce, will launch a new whale art event during the 27th Annual Fort Bragg Whale Festival scheduled for March 21 - 22, 2009. “Art Splash…Whale Migration” will feature art by more than 70 professional and community artists whose work will be sold at silent auction to raise money for the programs and services of benefit to artists and the community provided by the Arts Council, and the Chamber’s Student Scholarship Program.Everybody participating was given a blank whale template, with about three months to adorn and add their personal interpretation. There were two categories of participation: Professional Artist and Community/Youth. Join everyone along with the Chamber of Commerce and Arts Council for the Art Splash Preview Party & Artist Reception on Saturday, March 21st 5:30PM-7:30PM at Town Hall. The Silent Auction will happen at Town Hall also on Sunday March 22nd from 10AM-2PM (auction closes at 2PM). Both events will feature live music and refreshments. Both events are free and open to the public. February 25, 2009 2 For 1 Special Gaby, Beachcomber Staff Winter is coming to an end soon, so book your vacation now to take advantage of the 2 For 1 Special we are offering to our returning customers! It is based on summer rates, and is offered starting November 1st through March 31st. You pay the summer rate for the first night, and you get the second night free! killer deal! This offer is valid Sunday through Thursdays only, and isn't offered during holiday weeks, or holiday weekends. Our winters are beautiful here on the Mendocino coast. At times we have 70° weather, perfect for a BBQ at the beach, and other times we have winter storms which are perfect for a night in, to watch the beautiful swells created by the pacific ocean...our backyard! February 24, 2009 Nice day on the Coast Kristin, Beachcomber Staff Today was a fabulous day here on the Mendocino Coast. The rain held off and we enjoyed a beautiful day at The Beachcomber Motel. It was a perfect day to enjoy a day on the beach, a walk on the Coastal Trail or a day out on the town. Days like today make me feel lucky to be here in Fort Bragg right on the ocean. There are so many gorgeous beaches to choose from where you can enjoy a long walk, hear the waves crashing on the shoreline, watch the kids play in the sand, look for sea shells and even fly a kite if you feel like it. There is so much to do on beautiful days like today but so little time to do everything. The weather was unexpected but very pleasant and I hope everyone can find the time to come stay with us at The Beachcomber Motel and enjoy a spectacular day on the beach. February 23, 2009 Piaci Pub & Pizzeria Kristin, Beachcomber Staff Piaci Pub and Pizzeria is located here in Fort Bragg on 120 West Redwood Ave. Piaci's is known as the home of the adult pizza. The reason is because of the outstanding selection of craft brewed beer and fine local wine. Come on over to Fort Bragg and try out the new local popular pizza place and see what you think. You can enjoy a freshly made pizza and your favorite craft brewed beer or your favorite local wine. Piaci's is open for lunch Monday-Friday 11-4, dinner Sunday-Thursday 4-9, Friday and Saturday 4-10. February 23, 2009 Whale Festival Events Kristin, Beachcomber Staff On March 7-8 will be the Mendocino Whale Festival events which will include clam chowder tasting at Crown Hall, wine tasting, many art exhibits, and plenty of other fun and exciting events will be going on all over town. On March 21-22 Fort Bragg's Whale Festival events offers chowder tasting at Town Hall, fun craft fairs for the kids with face painting, a microbrew tasting and barbecue, a display of painted whales, and a fish dinner at Pentecost Hall. There is also so much more to offer like boat cruises from the Noyo Harbor, horse back riding on the beach, bird watching tours, and much much more. Come on over to the Mendocino Coast and enjoy a memorable experience during the Local Whale Festival. February 22, 2009 Beer Tasting Paul, Beachcomber Staff The 27 annual whale festival is coming up March 21-22 , one of my favorite events is the beer tasting. Many of the nearby microbreweries offer their finest pilsners, stouts and ales . This year it will be held at Eagle's Hall . Also the will be many other events like arts and craft fair and chowder tasting . February 21, 2009 Chowder Tasting Gaby , Beachcomber Staff Just imagine walking around in beautiful Mendocino Village, enjoying the views of the migrating whales making their way North to Alaska, and having some clam chowder to top off your day! Come by Crown Hall at 45285 Ukiah St. in Mendocino for the yearly Chowder Tasting. Our area's top chefs will produce their favorite seafood chowders in a tasting event. Saturday from 11AM till the chowder runs out. 4 tastings for $5. I sure can't wait! February 21, 2009 Local Whale Festival Celebration Kristin, Beachcomber Staff From the middle of December until April, gray whales migrate along the Mendocino Coast as they pass directly behind the Beachcomber Motel. Our guests have the most spectacular view of the whales passing by from our ocean view balconies, patios, and decks. Throughout the months of December and January the whales migrate south passing directly by The Beachcomber, where you can see them right from our ocean view rooms and lobby. After migrating south from the Bering Sea to the warm lagoons of Baja California they return to the Bering Sea during February, March, and April. One of the most favorite whale watching places is the Coastal Trail that leads to Mackerricher State Park which is located directly behind The Beachcomber Motel. Other favorite whale watching places like Pomo Bluffs are only a couple miles from where we are located. The 2009 Whale Festival is set for March 7-8 for Mendocino activities and March 21-22 for Fort Bragg fabulous and fun activities. Come join us during the local whale festivals and reserve a room with a perfect whale watching view at The Beachcomber Motel on the beach in Fort Bragg. February 19, 2009 Wine Tasting Gaby , Beachcomber Staff Join the crowd and celebrate the Mendocino Whale Festival! Wine tasting in Mendocino shops-Saturday March 7th only 12-4PM, $30. Register at Welcome Centers: Crown Hall-Main St, the Ford House-Main St. Event brochures, t-shirts and totes available. 21 & over only. See you there! February 17, 2009 Rubicon Adventures Kristin , Beachcomber Staff Have you ever been white water rafting? Well it is the perfect time of year to head over to the Mendocino Coast and try it out. Rubicon Adventures offers mild to wild rapids depending on how brave you really think you are. They offer half, full and multiple day trips and they have a variety of exciting river trips to choose from. Rubicon Adventures are seasonal so please call for more information regarding these seasonal runs at 707-887-2452 or 707-367-3299. You can also visit the website at www.rubiconadventures.com. February 17, 2009 Symphony of the Redwoods Gaby , Beachcomber Staff When checking in, ask us about the special ticket offer for our guests! The symphony of the Redwoods is offering a special two-for-one offer for tickets for its Winter Concerts on February 28 and March 1st. General Admission- 2 for $20, Seniors- 2 for $15. We have brochures with details about the program and will be happy to sell you these specially-priced tickets for visitors to the Mendocino Coast. Additional information about the symphony and all of their programs are at the website www.symphonyoftheredwoods.org February 16, 2009 Tsunami warning test Gaby , Beachcomber Staff We would like to make the public aware of a tsunami warning communication test, occuring on Wednesday, March 25, 2009. It will occur between 10:15-10:45 AM. This test will evaluate the ability to deliver tsunami warning messages to you, the public, through television, radio, and NOAA weather radio. In some populated coastal areas of Humboldt County, tsunami sirens may be tested at the same time. You do NOT need to take any actions, do NOT call 911 or local authorities, and do NOT evacuate. February 15, 2009 Hurry on over to The Beachcomber Motel By Kristin, Beachcomber Staff December through March we have a two for one special here at The Beachcomber Motel for our regular guests. This means if you stay one night and pay our summer rate you get the second night free. This is good Sunday through Thursday not including Holiday weekends. This shows how much we appreciate our regular and returned guests and how much we thank you for your stay here at The Beachcomber Motel on the beach. This is a limited time offer so hurry on over or call and reserve our two for one special at The Beachcomber. February 13, 2009 Point Arena Lighthouse Gaby , Beachcomber Staff Point Arena is located right off of Highway 1. Something you might want to keep in mind is the easy location of the Lighthouse, and make a stop there before heading over to our beautiful Mendocino Coast. Visit the recently renovated Fog Signal Building that houses a museum, gift store and the 100-year old First Order Fresnel Lens for all public to view. Climb to the top of the 115 ft. lighthouse tower. Watch the migrating gray whales and view the most dramatic coastal vistas anywhere on the California coast. Point Arena Light Station-45500 Lighthouse Road-Point Arena, CA. Open daily 10AM-3:30PM February 12, 2009 Valentine's Day on the coast Gaby , Beachcomber Staff Valentine's day is approaching us soon. We have several rooms available still for this special weekend so if you haven't done so already, book your rooms soon! call us (707) 964-2402 Also, book your dinner for a wonderful Valentine's day meal. Mendocino Hotel and Garden Suites presents a Special Valentines Menu in addition to their regular menu, with a complimentary rose for your dining companion. Call 707-937-0511 for Reservations (Seating Starts at 6:00 pm) 6 Hog Island Oysters, Beet Mignonette on Ice - $12 Filet Mignon with Potato Purae and Green Bean Ragout - $28 Warm Chocolate Souffle with Raspberry Sauce - $8 February 10, 2009 Be Our Valentine! Gaby , Beachcomber Staff Hi to all our friends "from the beach" and it's 74 degrees today! Unbelieveablely beautiful!...and Valentine's Day is just around the corner. Please be our friend "Valentine" on our new Myspace and Facebook! February 9, 2009 Mendocino Art Center Gaby , Beachcomber Staff Mendocino Art Center hosts its 9th Annual Open House & Open Studios Tour, Saturday, February 14, from noon to 4pm. Enjoy a self-guided studio tour and watch on-going demonstrations in ceramics, blacksmithing, painting, weaving, digital arts, and jewelry fabrication. Light refreshments. Free admission. 45200 Little Lake Street, 707-937-5818. www.MendocinoArtCenter.org February 7, 2009 Mardi Gras Party Gaby , Beachcomber Staff Heading to the coast for the weekend of February 21?? Celebrate Mardi Gras dancing to the sounds of the "Smokin' Mirrors" featuring Amanda Gray at the Mendocino Art Center's 2nd Annual Fabulous Mardi Gras Party, Saturday, February 21, at 7pm. Costumes and masks are encouraged. Admission is $10 with the proceeds benefiting the Art Center's Sculpture Department. 45200 Little Lake Street, in Mendocino. 707-937-5818. Give us a call to book your room soon! We still have plenty of availability! (707) 964-2402 or book online on our rooms page. February 6, 2009 Life is good at The Beachcomber Kristin, Beachcomber Staff Even though we do not have much sunshine this week it is still a great time to come stay at The Beachcomber Motel on the beach. The waves are huge, powerful and magnificent and you will have a perfect view from your beautiful room here at The Beachcomber Motel. Come enjoy your stay with us and you can still make it in time for Valentines Day. So come on over to the beach and bring your lover with you. You can make it the perfect Valentines Day present with a lovely ocean view room and a memorable night together at The Beachcomber Motel. February 5, 2009 Something special for your Valentine Gaby , Beachcomber Staff There's nothing better than treating your loved one with something special, on that very special Valentine's Day getaway. The Mendocino Bakery is making special Valentine's Cake for 2 for the week leading up to Valentine's Day! Mini Ghiradelli Chocolate cakes,drizzled first with chocolate and then drizzled again with organic pomegranate infused icing. Order yours today for your sweetheart. (wholesale orders welcome) Call (707) 937-0836 and please ask for Joe February 5, 2009 Valentine's Day from the Beach! Paul, Beachcomber Staff Love fishing ? Well not only is July 4th our independence day it is also a free fishing day , so come join us for some fishing fun and fireworks On The Beach. February 4, 2009 Valentine's Day from the Beach! Michelle, Beachcomber Staff Hi To Everyone From the Beach! This month is Valentine's Day! Be sure to bring your sweetheart to the Beach! It doesn't get any more romantic than a weekend by the ocean and a movie, a walk on the Ten Mile Coastal Trail and a dinner in your favorite restaurant. xxxooo February 3, 2009 Valentines Day is near Kristin , Beachcomber Staff Valentines Day is near and it's coming quickly. Here at The Beachcomber Motel in Fort Bragg we still have ocean view rooms available, so call now. They are going quickly, so I recommend you call as soon as possible to reserve a perfect Valentines Day present right on the beach. The weather has been absolutely beautiful and perfect for a lovely stay in what is seems to be paradise. The Beachcomber Motel offers fabulous ocean views and is only steps away from the gorgeous Pudding Creek Beach. Browse through our website if you would like to see just how spectacular we really are. February 2, 2009 MacKerricher State Park Gaby, Beachcomber Staff Join MacKerricher's State Park docents on a walk to talk about the annual gray whale migration and about other marine mammals seen along the Mendocino coast. MacKerricher State Park is located three miles north of The Beachcomber on Highway 1. Walks are bing held on February 7&8 14&15, 21&22, and 28 at 11AM. For more information call 707-964-0471. February 1, 2009 All Aboard Adventures Join Captain Tim on the Sea Hawk Kristin , Beachcomber Staff Whale watching and crab season is here in Fort Bragg and makes it the best time of year to take a boat ride on the Sea Hawk to see all the whales passing by. Captain Tim will be having Crab and Whale watching trips with crab demonstrations. The full crabbing trip is 4-5 hours and includes tackle and cooking of crabs. You are allowed to catch up to 10 crabs per person. Located at 32400 North Harbor Drive in Fort Bragg. For more information take a look at http://www.allaboardadventures.com/ or call 707-964-1881. Also check out our rooms page if you need a nice place to stay during your visit in Fort Bragg. January 31, 2009 Mendocino Whale Festival Gaby, Beachcomber Staff Join everyone on the Coast for the 27th Annual Mendocino Whale Festival March 7 & 8, 2009. On both Saturday, and Sunday, you can walk along the cliffs of Mendocino Headlands State Park to see the whales or take a whale watching charter boat from Noyo Harbor in Fort Bragg. Also, on both festival days, the Point Cabrillo Lighthouse (3 miles north of Mendocino) offers activities for the whole family, including games for kids, whale watching, and information on the shipwreck Frolic, 1909 Point Cabrillo Lighthouse and annual gray whale migration. Did you know that an estimated 20,000 gray whales migrate from Alaska to Mexico and back from December through April? Amazing! On Saturday only, Mendocino County wineries bring their unique vintages for tasting to historic Mendocino Village shops, galleries and inns. A free trolley offers rides to the Point Cabrillo Lighthouse for family activities, participating merchants and nearby events, like the chowder tasting, whale watching walks. Book your rooms soon with us, it's going to be a fun and busy weekend! January 29, 2009 Mendocino on MSNBC Gaby, Beachcomber Staff It's wonderful to hear about a local town on television. Watch Mendocino on MSNBC with Peter Greenberg. January 28, 2009 Bird watching with the Audobon Society Gaby, Beachcomber Staff Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens is having their awesome bird watching walks. "Beginning Birding" is on the 1st Saturday at 9AM, and the "Early Bird Walk" is on the 3rd Wednesday at 8:30 AM. Over 100 species of birds live in or visit the Garden each year. Join the experts and learn more about our avian friends. Walks start at the Garden Entrance. All walks FREE with Garden admission. (707) 964-4352 ext.16 January 27, 2009 Mushroom Walks at the Botanical Gardens Gaby, Beachcomber Staff Join Staff Naturalist/Gardener, Mario Abreu, or Plant Recorder/Gardener, Kristina Van Wert on a Mushroom Walk at the Botanical Gardens every Monday at 1:30PM. Mushroom identification, biology, edibility, myths and the good times that all come along with a mushroom walk will be included. Weather Permitting, free with Garden admission.(707) 964-4352 ext.16 January 27, 2009 Crab and Wine days Gaby, Beachcomber Staff Good afternoon from the Mendocino Coast. Looks like it's going to be another gorgeous sunny day! Just a quick and friendly reminder of our last weekend of our Crab and Wine days in beautiful Mendocino County. This weekend, Fort Bragg Rotary Annual Crab Feed / Mendocino Coast Sports Foundation 2:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Tickets are available for $40 through a Rotary member or by calling 707.964.0676 or 707.964.3749. Fort Bragg Fire Department, 141 North Main Street, Fort Bragg, CA. January 25, 2009 Pint Night Gaby, Beachcomber Staff The North Coast Brewing Company has developed a strong reputation for quality having won more than 70 awards in national and international competitions. Pint night is back! Every Thursday, buy the featured beer-receive a free pint glass. They also have $1 tacos! Call the taproom for details (707) 964-3400. January 23, 2009 Mendo Bistro 10th Anniversary Gaby, Beachcomber Staff Join everyone at the Mendo Bistro's 10th Anniversary on Monday, January 24th between 5:00PM and 9:00PM ! They will be having a gigantic party, lots of free food and drink, along with recognition of special customers and recognition of staff past and present. Upstairs at the Company Store-301 N. Main St. Fort Bragg. (707) 964-4974 January 23, 2009 Pacific Star Winery Annual Crab and Wine Gala Gaby, Beachcomber Staff One of the many things to do during your weekend getaway at The Beachcomber is visiting the Pacific Star Winery. They will be having local Dungeness crab with a variety of side dishes paired with Pacific Star wines. This event is held at their ocean-side winery 12 miles north of the Beachcomber on Saturday, January 24th at 2:00PM. Be sure to ask where their "Fault" is located, and taste "It's My Fault" wine! Pacific Star Wine Club members $60; Guests $70. ~~~33000 North Highway 1, Fort Bragg. (707) 962-9463 or e-mail pacstar@mcn.org for reservations. January 22, 2009 CRAB & WINE Excursion Train! Gaby, Beachcomber Staff Enjoy the Crab & Wine Excursion Train on January 24 and 31, 2009. Visit us in fort Bragg and take a trip to the Northspur Station, where a feast of crab and wine awaits you. Enjoy the Skunk Train’s famous Crab Louie and the wines of Navarro Vineyards. Departing Fort Bragg Depot at 10:00 a.m. Four-Hour Roundtrip: Adults $65, Children $40 Juice for kids. For reservation and information call 1-866-457-5865. January 21, 2009 Crab Cruises Gaby, Beachcomber Staff Heading over to the coast for several days? Call All Aboard Adventures for their "Crab Cruises", and join Captain Tim on the Sea Hawk.They are having Crab & Whale Watching trips with crab demonstrations. Full crabbing trip is 4-5 hours and includes tackle and cooking of crabs. Catch up to 10 crabs per person. We have been watching whales ALL DAY LONG, right from our lobby! Book a whale watching trip with Captain Tim! 32400 North Harbor Drive, Fort Bragg, CA. 95437 (707) 964-1881 January 20, 2009 2009 Crab and Wine Days Kristin, Beachcomber Staff We invite you to Mendocino County Crab and Wine Days here on the Mendocino Coast. Coming soon is our 10th Annual Crab and Wine Days Festival which are rated one of America's Top 10 Seafood and Wine Festivals by Coastal Living Magazine. With over fifty activities and events this is not a festival you want to miss out on. Everyone will have something to enjoy with our all you can eat crab feeds, wine competitions, winemaker's dinners, crab cruises, cooking classes, famous cioppino feeds, delicious crab cake cook off and so much more. Don't miss out on our famous Crab and Wine Days on the Mendocino Coast January 23- February 1, 2009. Also don't forget about the Crab Feed Saturday January 31, 2009 2pm until 7pm at the local Fort Bragg Fire House. Adults $40 10yrs and under free with adult. Tickets are available at Harvest Market in the Boatyard Shopping Center and Mendocino Coast Chamber Office on North Main Street in Fort Bragg. If you need somewhere to stay you are on the RIGHT website - where you will find the perfect place to stay right on the beach! January 19, 2009 What wonderful days in Fort Bragg Kristin, Beachcomber Staff WOW!!!! These past few days in Fort Bragg have been absolutely gorgeous. It seems like summer time as you walk outside and see all this beautiful sunshine. With all this nice weather on the coast we have been staying nice and busy here at the Beachcomber Motel. People have been out and about soaking up the sun and enjoying the wonderful New Year. The days have been warm and the sunsets have been spectacular here in Fort Bragg. We have also created new package deals we thought our guests could enjoy, so please take a look at these new deals on our website on our Packages Page! January 15, 2009 Whale watching season is here Kristin, Beachcomber Staff It is that exciting time of year here on the Mendocino Coast to keep an eye out for whales passing by. The past few days I have glanced out the Beachcomber lobby window and seen many whale spouts as they continue to pass by. The spouts are not even far out in the distance they are actually very close to shore so it is hard to miss them. It is so exciting to be able to sit here in the lobby and look out the window to see such a wonderful sight. Sometimes I feel lucky to work in a wonderful atmosphere with such beautiful surroundings. But if you feel like taking a day or two off to come enjoy this exciting time of year with us we would be more than happy to accommodate you here at the Beachcomber Motel in Fort Bragg. We have such spectacular views you wont even have to leave your room to see the whales as they pass by right in front of The Beachcomber. Please click here for all our beautiful and different types of rooms. January 13, 2009 Another beautiful day in Fort Bragg Kristin, Beachcomber Staff Today is another gorgeous day at the Beachcomber Motel in Fort Bragg. The sun is out and the weather is perfect as people enjoy walking on the coastal trail, watching the whales pass by, walking on the beach, and also relaxing on our deck barbecuing lunch. Days like today are the best time to head on over to the coast and stay with us at the Beachcomber Motel to enjoy a great day on the beach. January 12, 2009 Killer sunset on the Mendocino Coast Kristin, Beachcomber Staff Tonight was the perfect night here in Fort Bragg to enjoy the gorgeous sunset as it went down right in front of the Beachcomber. Whether sitting on your balcony, out on the bluffs, or down on the beach you can capture many fabulous pictures of the breathaking views. Tonight would also be the perfect night to take a walk along the Ten Mile Coastal Trail that leads right in front of our property and over the Pudding Creek Trestle where you can enjoy another magnificent view. We expect the same amazing weather tomorrow so I recommend that you take a day off and come enjoy another beautiful day on the Mendocino Coast at the Beachcomber Motel. January 10, 2009 MAC Members Juried Exhibit Martha, Beachcomber Staff The Mendocino Art Center shines its Main Gallery spotlight on the all-media artwork of its contributing members in the "Members' Juried Exhibit, through January 31. There will also be art by Chinese artist Yang Ye's American in a debut exhibition, "Traces of a Life Adrift: Altered Inks and Installations," and "Biorhythms," featuring work by Mendocino Art Center artists in residence Ryan Hurst, Jaya Miller and Diane Reed Veach. Visit Wednesdays-Sundays, 10am-5pm. The Mendocino Art Center is located at 45200 Little Lake Street in Mendocino. FOr more info call 707-937-5818 or visit www.MendocinoArtCenter.org. January 3, 2009 Old Fashioned Crab Feed Martha, Beachcomber Staff January 19 at 6:30 pm: Old Fashioned Crab Feed! Join us on The Mendocino Coast for a traditional crab feed, complete with bib, crackers and newspaper-covered tables. The star of the menu is, of course, fresh crab brought in the same morning from Noyo Harbor and served cold and cracked. For more information call 707-937-5942 $55. December 28, 2008 Mysteries of Mushrooms at Botanical Gardens Martha, Beachcomber Staff The "Mysteries of Mushrooms for Kids" Workshop will be held at Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens on Saturday, January 3, 2009 10:00 am to Noon, for kids, ages 10-13, focusing on the description, ecological relationships, and biology of fungi. Limited to 20 kids, ages ten to thirteen. They will explore the world of the mushroom: is it a plant (but without leaves, how does it make its food?) or an animal, but without legs, how does it move? What does a mushroom eat, and what eats it? We'll find out where it lives and why, and what its various parts are and what they do. The workshop will be led by Mario Abreu, MCBG staff naturalist, and Master Gardener Linda Foote. The workshop costs $5, which includes admission, supplies, and refreshments; a parent will also receive free admission. Class limited to 20. Call 964-4352 x 16 or visit www.gardenbythesea.org to sign up. 18220 North Highway One, Fort Bragg. December 24, 2008 Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays From The Beach! Beachcomber Staff Wishing you a holiday season filled with joy, a bright new year, and the chance to enjoy our wonderful state and the North Coast! The Beachcomber Team . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . December 24, 2008 Beach Club Posting Chester-Dog and his human Forrey Family, Beach Club Members "To all of the staff at the Beacomber Motel - How thoughful of you to send us a Season's Greetings! We send wishes of health, warmth & good tidings back to you as well." . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . December 24, 2008 Beach Club Posting The Richardsons, Beach Club Members "May the Lord richly bless you all, as Christmas reminds us of the most important gift of all, and Fort Bragg always reminds us of his beautiful creations." December 21, 2008 Noyo Beer and Cheese tasting tour Gaby, Beachcomber Staff Liquid Fusion Kayaking is having a tour from the Noyo Harbor to Dolphin Isle for beer and cheese tasting on the river. Gain an on-water perspective of Fort Bragg’s logging and fishing history and view the diverse wildlife of the Noyo River. At Dolphin Isle, enjoy samples from our favorite local breweries paired with local cheeses. If you are an adventurer and beer lover who want to experience a fun kayak tour and great beer. No experience is necessary and all kayaking equipment is provided. Must be at least 21 years of age. They provide: Tandem kayak, paddle, life jacket, splashwear. They recommend: Hat w/visor for sun, knit hat for warmth, wearing light weight layers, light weight tennis shoes, sandals or water shoes, sunscreen, retention strap for glasses, and a change of clothing. Call for reservations. (707) 962-1623 December 16, 2008 Mendocino is named a Preserve America Community! Gaby, Beachcomber Staff CONGRATULATIONS TO MENDOCINO ON BEING NAMED A PRESERVE AMERICA COMMUNITY!! There are only 23 in California!! The official White House letter received from Honorary Preserve America Chair Laura Bush states: "The preservation and enjoyment of your historical and cultural resources celebrate an important part of our nation's heritage. You honor our nation's past and inspire and educate for the future." Application was made by The Mendocino County Board of Supervisors and coordinated by the Mendocino Study Club. December 12, 2008 Teen Scenes at Mendocino Theatre Co. Martha, Beachcomber Staff December 17, Mendocino Theatre Company's 2008/2009 Reading Series: Previews of Coming Attractions, JUMPSTART! Teenscenes presents a medley of scenes from all of the plays in the 2009 MTC season. Directed by Dan Kozloff. 7 pm at the Helen Schoeni Theatre. Mendocino Art Center, 45200 Little Lake St, Mendocino. Suggested donation $5. Phone (707) 937-4477 or (707) 937-2718 for details. December 5, 2008 The Cripple of Inishmaan Gaby, Beachcomber Staff Playwright Martin McDonagh has written a play in the long, deep tradition of Irish storytelling. "The Cripple of Inishmaan," his most recent play, is as funny and quirky as any Irish play you've ever seen or are likely to see. It is a theatrical palette of rich language, ironic situations and colorful unforgettable characters. If you love compelling stories well-told, you'll not want to miss seeing this latest offering from the Mendocino Theatre Company. Showing Saturday the 6th at 8PM and Sunday at 2PM at The Helen Schoeni Theatre, 45200 Little Lake Street, Mendocino CA. For more info call (707) 937-4477. December 2, 2008 Christmas Train Gaby, Beachcomber Staff The Skunk Train hosts the annual Christmas Train on December 6, 7, 13-23. The train departs Willits Depot only at 3:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. This popular event features Santa, elves, musicians, storytellers, cocoa and cookies. Guests of all ages are encouraged to wear their pajamas on these 90-minute-long train trips. Cost for children (3-11) is $24 and $31 for adults. For more info visit www.SkunkTrain.com or call 866-457-5865. November 28, 2008 Murder Mystery at The Hill House Martha, Beachcomber Staff Coming on Saturday December 13th at "The Hill House of Cabot Cove" in Mendocino . Another Entertaining "Murder Mystery Dinner" put on by Soroptimist International of Noyo Sunrise. Come and enjoy a good dinner and a mystifying evening of who*done*it and see if you can figure out the murderer! For more info call 707-937-0554. November 21, 2008 Holiday Cuisine Cooking Class Martha, Beachcomber Staff Here's a wonderful holiday opportunity for those of us who love to cook -- and eat! Albion River Inn Holiday Cuisine Cooking Class, Tuesday, December 9th, 11:30am to 3:30pm. Enjoy a festive 6-course Holiday Cuisine Class with Chef Stephen Smith. Taste dishes in progress, enjoy refreshments, a savory buffet lunch with wine, and receive a full set of recipes. Cost: $75. For more info call 1-800-479-7944 November 14, 2008 New Pub in Westport! Martha, Beachcomber Staff For the most beautiful, scenic 20 minute drive this side of heaven, visit the new pub which has opened in a historic building in Westport. The Old Abalone Pub, located in the Westport Hotel (formerly the Lost Coast Inn, the Pelican Inn, and the Cobweb Palace), offers casual dinners on Friday and Saturday nights from 5:00 to 9:00 and brunch on Sundays from 10:00 to 2:00. Afternoon tea is served on Saturday afternoons from 3:00. Beers on tap, local wines, and a full line of espresso drinks are available. Chef Raymond Thoya prepares his renowned samosas and aromatic chai tea, as well as classic pub food and intriguing special dishes. The atmosphere is relaxed, cozy, and a little bit elegant. AND along the way, stop at Pacific Star Winery and visit their oceanfront tasting room! November 9, 2008 Wild Mushrooms and Breakfast Adventure Martha, Beachcomber Staff The Wild Mushrooms and Breakfast Adventure will take place November 7 at 9 am at THe MacCallum House. This very special event will launch the annual Wine & Mushroom Fest! Our chef will prepare fabulous morning food with a focus on local wild mushrooms, followed by a limo drive to the secret mushroom spots of Ryane Snow, local mycologist and mushroom guru. He will take the group on a leisurely foraging walk where you will find hidden edible treasures and learn valuable tips along the way. For more info call  707-937-0289. November 2, 2008 Wine and Mushroom Fest! Martha, Beachcomber Staff Oh, the mushrooms you will see... The Mendocino Coast has it all, from exhibits, forays, meals and banquets, healing mushroom talks, picnics, festivals, workshops, classes, train rides, and so much more on The Magical, Mystical, Mycological Mendocino Coast! Fead the full schedule here October 27, 2008 Haunted House Gaby, Beachcomber Staff The Fort Bragg Leo Club Presents...A VERY HAUNTED HOUSE! On Halloween Night Friday, Oct. 31st, 6:00PM-9:00 PM at The Fort Bragg Lions "Haunted Hall" 430 E. Redwood Ave., Fort Bragg. Caution: THIS IS A VERY SCARY HAUNTED HOUSE! Not recommended for children under 10 years of age. Be prepared to be scared to death! Admission (donation) $5.00 Adults and $3.00 Ages 10-17. Bring a pair of used prescription glasses and get $1.00 off of admission price! For More info call: (707) 964-0921. October 20, 2008 Mendocino Stories Gaby, Beachcomber Staff Mendocino Stories and Music Series presents "Voices & Visions" Friday, October 24, 7:30 PM, at the Mendocino Hotel Garden Room. Four local women - Devreaux Baker, Blake More, Lydia Rand and Toni Bernbaum will perform. Open reading follows. Doors open at 6:30 PM. Sliding scale $5-15. For more info call 937-1732 or visit www.mendocinostories.com/events October 14, 2008 Halloween Fun at MAC Pam, Beachcomber Staff Celebrate Halloween dancing to the foot stompin' sounds of the Brown Brothers Blues Band, Friday, October 31, 7pm, at the Mendocino Art Center. Refreshments will be available for sale, and enter the raffle and the costume contest for fun prizes. Proceeds benefit the Mendocino Art Center. Admission $10. 45200 Little Lake Street, Mendocino. 707-937-5818. www.MendocinoArtCenter.org October 7, 2008 Pumpkin Express! Pam, Beachcomber Staff Happy Fall to all of our guests!!! The Skunk Train's Pumpkin Express leaves on October 12, 19 & 26 at 10:am. Have lots of fun at the Pumpkin Patch!!! Or you could come to the Halloween Costume Ball October 31 at 8pm. Kevin and the Coconuts will be playing your favorites. We look forward to seeing you. We're having beautiful sunny days on the coast! September 30, 2008 The Mendocino Wine & Mushroom Fest Pam, Beachcomber Staff If the mere mention of chanterelles and morels gets you salivating, consider a trip to a mushroom festival this fall. Mendocino County, about 90 miles north of San Francisco, hosts a Mushroom Festival, Nov. 7-16, with hunts for chanterelles, porcinis, morels and rarer varieties like the candy cap and hedgehog mushroom. Mushroom-themed dinners are offered throughout the area, along with mushroom cooking classes and a seminar on the healing power of mushrooms. For more info visit www.gomendo.com. September 23, 2008 The Pygmy Forest Pam, Beachcomber Staff What is a Pygmy Forest? Stunted trees and shrubs caused by a complex ecological condition associated with underlying wave terraces and their unusual soils. The poor soil fertility and wetness of the soil restricts the growth of vegitation and induces a dwarf condition. Though short, the trees in the Pygmy Forest can be hundreds of years old. Jug Handle State Reserve features a 2.5-mile self-guided nature trail called The Ecological Staircase which explores five wave-cut terraces formed by glacier, sea and tectonic activity that built the coast range. Each of the terraces was uplifted from sea level about 100,000 years before the one below it. Plants on each terrace represent a more advanced stage in succession, indicating what the previous, next lower terrace may look like in 100,000 years. The lowest terrace consists of prairie; the second is covered with pines; the third supports a unique pygmy forest with knee-high trees possibly several decades old. Make it a half day trip to explore the interesting Pygmy forest. September 17, 2008 Mendocino Stories Pam, Beachcomber Staff The Mendocino Stories and Music Series presents “Splendid Collisions”, original music and stories, with James Maxwell, Holly Tannen, Todd Walton and Marcia Sloane, Friday, September 19th at 7:30 PM in the Mendocino Hotel’s Garden. Doors open at 6:30PM. Sliding scale $5-15. For more info call Pattie at 937-1732 or www.mendocinostories.com. September 11, 2008 Save This Date: Saturday, November 8 The Ives Quartet in Fort Bragg Fort Bragg Center for the Arts Sunday, September 21, 2008, at 3:00 pm: The Ives Quartet. The FBCA Music Series presents one of the Bay Area's most outstanding string Quartets, in the beautiful sanctuary of the Fort Bragg Presbyterian Church, 367 S. Sanderson Way , Fort Bragg . The Quartet will perform works by Haydn, Porter, Verdi and Gershwin. Tickets, $20, are available at Harvest Market and Fiddles and Cameras in Fort Bragg, and Moore Books in Mendocino. For more info call 937-1018 or visit www.fbcamusicseries.com. September 6, 2008 Save This Date: Saturday, November 8 Wine & Mushroom Festival! Pam, Beachcomber Staff Third Annual Wine-Mushroom Festival will be held at St. Anthonyís Hall, Mendocino on Saturday, November 8, 1-5 P.M. Enjoy Wine tasting, Silent Auction, Art, Mushroom soup competition, Hors díoeuvres, Music by Camanae, and featuring local Mushroom authority Eric Schramm. Admission $25.00. For more info call (707) 937-2406. September 1, 2008 Winesong! Gaby, Beachcomber Staff The 24th Annual Winesong! September 5th and 6th 2008. Winesong! is a nationally recognized charity wine auction and tasting attended by more than 1,100 guests from 28 states, who come together to make this one of the most spectacular events on the West Coast. The popularity of this prestigious event guarantees a sellout crowd every year and creates a festive atmostpere in the beautiful Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens. For more information call (707) 961-4909 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 18, 2008 Beach Club Posting Carrie, Beach Club Member "We love Winesong and try to go every year. Thank you Beachcomber for keeping us posted on all the best events on the cost! We love your blog and your hotel!" August 28, 2008 Sub Dudes in September Pam, Beachcomber Staff The weather is great here on the beach in September. Come and enjoy the The Subdudes, a nationally known New Orleans-formed group. They will perform a live acoustic concert close to the ocean bluff in the event tent at The Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens on September 7th. For more info visit www.gardenbythesea.org. Catch a wave~~~~ August 26, 2008 Blue Ox Beer Festival Gaby, Beachcomber Staff Blue Ox Beer Festival Saturday August 30, 2008 Noon to 5:00pm Come & taste more than 20 Award Winning Microbrews August 25, 2008 Beach Club Posting Kenneth & Donna Richardson, Beach Club Members "Thank you for a wonderful anniversary from August 19th through August 22nd. Your facility is wonderful, very happy with the service. We will be back next year approximately the same time. My wife has requested a top floor room with a view and a queen size bed. Again I say thank you all, for a very pleasurable experience. God bless and will see you all again as it is our yearly desire to visit." August 21, 2008 Great Day in Elk Pam, Beachcomber Staff This year's Great Day in Elk, to be held all day on Saturday, August 23, is sure to be the best one ever, with lots of additions, including new and improved carnival games, a newly-built bread oven, a bounce house and petting zoo for the kids, and lots more. The 34th annual fundraiser for the Greenwood Community Center. The parade starts at noon on Highway 1, with floats, tykes on bikes, Smokey the Bear and lots more. The carnival follows, with game booths and prizes and do-it-yourself craft projects for children. There's a $100 grease pole, fortune-telling, belly dancing, mini-massage, a watermelon-eating contest, live music, sack races, a cake auction, silent auction and a raffle drawing. And LOTS of food all day, as well as dinner outdoor bbq from 4 to 7pm. For more information call 877-1105. August 14, 2008 A Special Guest Pam, Beachcomber Staff One Sunday morning while I was helping check-out guests and stocking the breakfast I walked over to our double doors that lead out to the ocean. I met a woman who was entering the doors at that time and she watched me walking about checking the plants and talking with our gardner. When she realized who I was she asked me, "Are you the owner"? I replied "Yes,... yes I am". She said to me, with her eyes welling up with a few tears, "you are so lucky", she then asked sincerely "Do you know how lucky you are"? I replied quickly, with my most heartfelt, "Oh yes, ..yes, I know we are very lucky. We are very lucky to be here". She then said, "The ocean is so beautiful and so moving", for her it was beyond words and she could hardly speak. She then told me how she was in Healdsburg and was hoping that the Beachcomber was the place that she wanted to stay. She remembered it from years before next to the Pudding Creek Trestle but could not remember the name of the motel. She was so happy to stay here finally. I shared with her how much I too, love the magnificant Pacific Ocean and I am never tired of looking at it and never take it for granted. The sheer beauty and spectacular changing sunsets each day are something you wait and watch just to see what is going to happen next. I followed her outside for a moment and then she left. The conversation was over but her feelings touched me and remained with me for the rest of the day... Just wanted to share one of those little magical moments. August 10, 2008 Mendocino Artists Gaby, Beachcomber Staff Mendocino Art Center hosts the "Artists of the Mendocino Coast" gallery exhibit through August 30, showcasing the all-media artwork of 77 accomplished artists featured in photographer Larry Wagner's photography book, "Artists of the Mendocino Coast." Additional exhibits by Janet Seifert and Rebecca Deerwater. Daily, 10am to 5pm. 45200 Little Lake Street, 707-937-5818. www.MendocinoArtCenter.org. August 3, 2008 Mendcocino Outdoors Gaby, Beachcomber Staff On Saturday, August 9, from 4-6 pm, meet author Dennis Freeze at a reception and book signing. The event is hosted by the Mendocino Hotel, and Goldeneye Winery will be pouring their excellent Pinot Noir. The newly-released 3rd Edition of Mendocino Outdoors sets a new standard for Mendocino Coast hiking books. Completely rewritten and expanded from the previous edition, Mendocino Outdoors is your guide to outdoor activities on the Mendocino Coast. It covers all of the parks and preserves in the area, from the Lost Coast to Gualala, plus some inland jaunts to the wine country and some of the tallest trees in the world. The guide is filled with full-color maps of all the areas described in the book, as well as photographs to show you what you'll see when you get there. Location: Mendocino Hotel, 45080 Main Street, Mendocino, 707-937-0511

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