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Top Rated San Diego Schools

July 26th, 2010

Schools in the San Diego area are given ratings based on how well their students state standardized test scores are compared to other schools in the state of California. Each grade is rated along with gender, student groups and ethnicity ratings. Other factors include special programs, school culture and quality of the teachers at that school. The best possible rating for a school is 10. Below are the 5 top rated San Diego schools, with each having a rating of 10 out of a possible 10, which makes them GreatSchools according to state standards. The rating for all San Diego schools is a 7.

Adobe Bluffs Elementary School
This school received a rating of 10 which makes it stand out as an excellent school in California since only a few public elementary schools received this high of a rating. Parents rated this school with 4 out of 5 stars, which was based on 13 parent reviews.

Ashley Falls Elementary School
This elementary school was also one of few public elementary schools to receive a rating of 10 in California. This school serves K-6 grade and is located in the Del Mar Union Elementary School District. Parents rated this school with 4 stars out of 5.

Benchley/Weinberger Elementary School
Located in the San Diego Unified School District, this school received a rating of 10. Parents gave this school a rating of 4 out of 5.

Bernardo Heights Middle School
This school offers grades 6-8 and is located in the Poway Unified School District. It received the GreatSchools rating of a 10. Parents rated this school with 4 stars out of 5.

Canyon Crest Academy
This is a public high school located in the San Dieguito Union High School District. This school was given a rating of 10 making it one of the few public high schools to have received this outstanding honor as one of the GreatSchools. Parents rated this school with 4 stars out of 5.

The state of California is under the open enrollment policy. This allows a child to attend any school in their district which includes charter schools when space is available. There are also districts that allow children to attend neighboring district’s schools.

Top Attractions Near San Diego

July 22nd, 2010

photo credit: Jim Moore

San Diego, California has the most beautiful natural and manmade attractions in the country. The most recognizable are the gorgeous fine sand beaches up and down the coast of San Diego which are home to the clearest and warmest waters on the west coast. Open daily, the beach is perfect for surfing, walking, or just relaxing underneath the warm sun. Moving inland, there are the majestic hills with hundreds of well maintained trails ideal for horseback riding, mountain bike riding, and hiking. Finally, a less conventional but highly recommended day in the mountains in the quaint town of Julian, for a day of apple picking or needing a new and exciting adventure.

Along with the great natural beauties of San Diego are the wonderful theme and wild animal parks throughout the county. Home to Shamu (the most famous whale besides Free Willy), Seaworld has a great combination of rides and animal exhibits for all ages. Other family friendly theme parks including Legoland, and the award winning San Diego Wild Animal park where guests can feed giraffes and see lions up close and personal. All theme parks are open daily(minus holidays) and many have discounts for California or San Diego Residents.

Adults are not forgotten about in the county of cool temperatures and relaxation. Del Mar race track has racing weekly(during season) as well as a summer concert schedule boasting big names from the past and present. Heading into downtown San Diego there is a happening bar and club scene comparable to any major metropolitan city. Also restaurant row has delicious food and a great setting for romantic dates or family dinners.

Lastly, San Diego is home to a couple of excellent sporting and concert venues including Petco Park and Qualcomm Stadium where the Padres baseball team and Chargers football team play respectively. Also a fantastic line up of musicians and performances are held weekly at Qualcomm stadium.

Another attraction in close proximity to San Diego is the world renowned Disneyland theme park and hotel complex perfect for people of all ages.

Best Beaches Near San Diego

July 19th, 2010

photo credit: Eustaquio Santimano

When it comes to the most appealing features of California living it is the best beaches near San Diego that seem to top everyone’s list. The city of San Diego is located along a beautiful bay area and the long expanse of open coastline is one of the highlights that residents and tourists find absolutely stunning. The sandy shores can be enjoyed by families, senior adults, kids and teenagers because there is always something exciting and wonderful for everyone to do. The sunshine, warm temperatures and comfortable lifestyle are a daily part of life in San Diego but as far as top attractions go it is the beaches that are near this California city that rate top billing.

Here is a list of some of the best beaches near San Diego:

Encinita
Carlsbad State Beach
San Onofre State Beach
Del Mar
Solana
La Jolla
Cardiff
Mission Bay
Torrey Park State Beach and Park

Each of these sites features some amazing panoramic views and it is difficult for most people to narrow their choice of best beach to just one selection. When you visit San Diego beaches you can enjoy sightseeing, strolling along the sandy shores, picnics at the edge of the ocean or just relax and soak in the sunshine while sitting in a beach chair.

Sailing, swimming, surfing, parasailing, jogging and fishing are only a few of the more adventurous sports that you can choose from whenever you spend the day at one of the best beaches around San Diego.

There are lots of stores, boutiques, cafes and upscale restaurants that are located near each San Diego beach. If you forget to pack a picnic lunch you will have many restaurant choices to consider. There are even some casual bars where you can stop and relax with a glass of wine from the California vineyards or cool off with an icy cold beer. You do need to remember that alcohol is not allowed on any San Diego beach property but you can enjoy any alcoholic beverage you choose as long as you are not sitting or standing on one of the beaches.

Best Beaches Near San Francisco

July 15th, 2010

photo credit: Alain Picard

Some might think that with the typical fog and much cooler temperatures along the shoreline of San Francisco, tourist and visitors to those beaches would be unlikely. However, this is not the case at all. San Francisco is home to some very beautiful Pacific coastline. Some of the best beaches near San Francisco are popular for their history, beautiful site seeing and surfing to name just a few.

Ocean Beach is best described as a peaceful venture away while it offers a sense of serenity. While residing so close to the busy city, it is easily accessible and is ideal for those who need a break from the city to relax, gather thoughts and meditate. Writers are commonly seen there taking advantage of the natural influence and calm atmosphere. While Aquatic Park is a vast contrast to the serenity offered at Ocean Beach, it offers vacationers a nice place to take children to play and is near Square and other tourist spots such as Hyde Street Pier and the Maritime Museum as well making this Bay Beach an exciting and family friendly place to visit!

Among the best and family friendly beaches in the area is East Beach also known as China Beach and Stinson Beach located across the Golden Gate Bridge. Both provide visitors easily accessible amenities. For those seeking something more adventurous, Baker Beach is what some refer to as a ?nude beach? and one of the finest beaches in the area. The view from Baker is exquisite and is one of the best places to see San Francisco?s famous landmarks. Imaginably because of this, it is one of the most populated beaches around. Whether visiting or locally inhabited people from all over take pride in the beaches offered in the bay area as well as the oceanic regions.

10 Popular Beach Communities To Buy a Home

July 14th, 2010

photo credit: The.Rohit

The first beach comes to us from North Carolina. Nags Head Beach, The Outer Banks to be exact. This beach is a 130 mile string of barrier islands. This beach has immaculate beaches, vast fishing, and some remarkable history as well as sight seeing.

St. George Island State Park Beach, St. George Island, FL will be our second beach. This beach can be found in Florida?s panhandle with the Gulf of Mexico and Apalachicola Bay on each side.

Glorietta Bay Beach, Coronado, CA. is in third place with year round humid weather, a calm surf area, and a place to have a nice family picnic with tables and a park.

Bowman?s Beach, Sanibel Island, FL is our next top spot. Being located on the gulf side of FL, with an impressive place for shelling, low waters, and white sandy beaches.

Hilton Head Island Beach, Hilton Head, South Carolina will be our fifth spot. This popular little island has 12 miles of beach and ample room for whale watching.

Indiana Dunes State Park Beach, Michigan City, Indiana is 6th. You?ll have 3 miles here to wander around the soft sand and vast in the sun.

Our 7th beach is Bathtub Beach, Stuart, FL. If you are looking to find a place that is great for surfing, this would be it. The surf can get big here and the reef offshore produces a lagoon like result of shallow, calm water.

Stewart Beach, Galveston, TX is next with a lot of beach options. Volleyball, sand castles contests and concerts for the entire family.

Higbee Beach, Cape May, NJ is ninth. Great place for bird and whale watching during the season. However, this beach is also a clothing optional beach.

Last but not least is Mayo Beach, Cape Cod, MA. Here you will find plenty of fishing to do. A playground for the kids across the street and calm waters to relax you while you bath in the sun.

Top Attractions Near San Francisco

July 12th, 2010

photo credit: Maschinenraum

The city of San Francisco is truly a city that is rich in culture and extremely diverse. There is so much to do in the city, that one can feel a little overwhelmed at the thought of trying to decide how to entertain themselves. Let us look at the more popular tourist attractions.
The Golden Gate Bridge is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city of San Francisco. The bridge is about one point five miles long. You can drive across the bridge, ride a bicycle, or walk. Anyone who truly wants to experience the Golden Gate Bridge should consider walking across it. You will be able to see a good view of the city.
Fisherman’s Wharf is equally just as popular as the Golden Gate Bridge. This destination overlooks the beautiful San Francisco Bay and you also get an awesome view of the Golden Gate Bridge. There is so much to do a Fisherman’s Wharf. Most people come here to have a fresh seafood dinner. After your dinner you can go check out the Cannery and nearby Ghirardelli Square.
You will definitely have to escape to Alcatraz Island. This is the home to the world-famous prison, Alcatraz. You will be able to go on a guided tour of the prison. If you head on over to pier 41, you can catch the ferry over to the island, the only way for tourists to access the island.
Catch a ride on the cable cars. The cable cars will give you a ride through downtown San Francisco. You can get on in the Financial District and ride all the way through Chinatown, hop off and grab a bite to eat at one of the legendary Chinese restaurants, then hop back on the cable car and finish up at the very famous Knob Hill.

10 Popular Winter Communities To Buy a Home

July 9th, 2010

photo credit: Poldavo (Alex)

Winter Haven, Florida
Dubbed the “chain of lakes” city because of the canal connected fresh water lakes that run through the area. The 2008 reported population was 26,487 and is now over 33,000.

Yuma, Arizona
The area boasts clean air, mountain views, and riverside attractions. As a popular and fast growing community, the people of Yuma put their focus on “A Commitment to Community” and maintaining a focus on citizens needs.

Indio, California
Another fast growing popular area, Indio, California, has a 2010 reported population of 84,393 with an additional 8,800 people choosing Indio as their winter home destination.

LaQuinta, California
As the “Gem of the Desert”, LaQuinta was dubbed by Robb Report in its 2003 Best Places to Live issue as “America’s Ultimate Golfing Destination”. LaQuinta, with its mountain views and multitude of amenities is another fast growing winter community.

West Palm Beach, Florida
Known for its amazing golf courses, rich arts and culture and beautiful weather this highly populated area had to be among our 10 popular winter communities to buy a home.

Jekyll Island, Georgia
Located just off the coast of Georgia, in Glynn county, this island boasts beautiful beaches and a rich history. A wide variety of wildlife also resides within the islands inland marshes.

Laughlin, Nevada
Known by many in the southwest to be the preferred destination over Las Vegas, Laughlin is comprised of venues for top entertainers, golfing, boating, shopping and much more. Laughlin is a growing winter home community.

Truth or Consequences, New Mexico
As the water wonderland of New Mexico, the city of Truth or Consequences has geothermal hot springs, lakes, and rivers and also boasts clean air and mountain views.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Bursting with amenities like 60 miles of sandy beaches, savory restaurants, exciting night life, shopping, cultural activities, historic sites and much more.

McAllen, Texas
As tropical paradise, McAllen offers everything from birding and nature tourism to fine dining, shopping, and exciting sporting events. Just cross the boarder from Mexico, and you will find bargain shopping, sightseeing and cultural dining. All these factors help make McAllen one of our 10 Popular Winter Communities To Buy a Home.

Top Rated San Francisco Schools

July 8th, 2010

photo credit: Editor B

If you are considering moving into any area, checking out the local schools seems to be one of the most influential factors when choosing what town to move to. Parents or parents to be want the best in education for their children. A better school system also demonstrates a better local environment, meaning the crime rate is generally lower than areas with schools that are not so good. If you are considering a move into San Francisco, California, there are several top rated schools in the area that will provide a leading education to your children.

There are five schools in the area that demonstrate a ten out of ten rating. The schools are Alice Fong Yu Elementary School, Claire Lilienthal Elementary School, Clarendon Alternative Elementary School, Robert Louis Stevenson Elementary School, and Lowell High School.

Alice Fong Yu Elementary School serves grades K – 8 in the San Francisco area. This school shows an API test average of 951 out of 1000 amongst all student body. This has been ranked as being the top ten percent of schools throughout California. Parents have also expressed how they love the education that teachers at this school continue to provide for their children.

Claire Lilienthal Elementary School has an average API school of 911 out of 1000 for the 2009 school year. This school has teachers who have each taught for an average of twelve years with full credentials, providing a student teacher ratio of twenty eight students per teacher.

Clarendon Alternative Elementary School has an average API test score of 950 out of 1000 amongst all students. Parents have also ranked this school 5 out of 5 stars in the terms of educational and extracurricular experiences for their children.

Robert Louis Stevenson Elementary School has an average score of 920 out of 1000 for the API tests, amongst all students. This school has also been ranked top ten percent out of schools statewide as well as similar schools.

Lowell High School contains a student to teacher ratio of 23 students per teacher. The average length of teaching for teachers at this school is around sixteen years. Among these teachers, fourteen years have been spent on average in this specific school.

10 Family Friendly Communities in Which to Live

July 7th, 2010

photo credit: christine592

There are many reasons why families desire certain towns. Here are some of the best and why the residents love them.

10. Mukilteo, Washington.
The high tech jobs, low unemployment rate, low taxes on property, better than average schools, and the amazing views make this city one of the best places to raise your family.

9. Lake St. Louis, Missouri.
This private community on two lakes has many parks and golf courses. There is a fee to enjoy the amenities of the community, but its low crime rate makes it worth a little extra.

8. Peachtree City, Georgia.
This Atlanta suburb is a favorite because of its amazingly low crime rate and enviable school district. Two stable companies are growing resulting in more jobs; therefore, decreasing the unemployment rate.

7. Keller, Texas.
The rising home sales, extremely clean park system, and growing economy make this town a major player on the list as many communities are struggling in tough times.

6. Warren, New Jersey.
Great schools and great recreational opportunities, as well as its rural environment make this one of America’s best cities for families.

5. Milton, Massachusetts.
The very low crime rate, excited parents at high school ball games, rising home prices, low unemployment rate, and access to public transportation make it a favorite among its residents.

4. Middleton, Wisconsin.
The University of Wisconsin jobs in nearby Madison, above average schools, and its amazing park system make this town a great place to live.

3. Papillion, Nebraska.
The low housing prices, major employers, and its wide open spaces make this town a very family friendly community.

2. Chanhassen, Minnesota.
The low unemployment rate, low property taxes, rising home values, and small town feel of this town make it a desirable city in which to live.

1.Louisville, Colorado.
The low unemployment rate due to its high tech jobs and its proximity to the outdoor activities of the Rocky Mountains lead to its top position.

Most Photographed Places in NYC

July 7th, 2010

photo credit: laverrue

New York City – Typically a list like this is an educated guess. But nope, not this time. Cornell University recently did a study using a super-computer with the Flickr online photography service. Putting them together, Cornell was able to calculate once and for all the most photographed places on Earth. New York, as it turns out, is the most photographed city. Below, you?ll find a list of its most photographed locations. (more…)