SPECIAL EVENTS
Due to the science demands of the Symposium, there will be no scheduled special events or activities during the meeting. However, there will be a trip to Mt. Wilson (see below) on Friday if there is enough interest. The Symposium organizers hope you will take time to enjoy the local beaches (maybe even take a surfing lesson!) and/or town of Ventura during your free time.  Check below at "Exploring Ventura" for interesting local activities and links.

Mt. Wilson
Special Mt. Wilson Trip
All-Day Friday 27-August-2010
This is the day after the symposium officially ends.


As promised, there will be an all-day (8:00 am to 5:00-5:30 pm) trip by motor coach to Mt. Wilson Observatory in the San Gabriel Mountains. We need a minimum of 20 people to make this happen. Friends and family welcome, but children must be at least 12 years old.

Travel time is approximately 2 to 2-1/2 hours each way with a 4-hour on-site visit. A sack lunch will be provided.

Cost: $65 USD

Refunds:
Money will be fully refunded if this trip is cancelled by us.
If you are registered for this trip and cancel AFTER the deadline, your money will NOT be refunded.

Deadline: 30-July-2010

Recommendations:
Don't plan to fly out Friday night if you take this trip! With Friday evening traffic, it is possible our return trip will take longer than planned and you could miss your flight.

Sign up through the Registration page.

Exploring Ventura
Mission San Buenaventura
: A major part of California's history involves the founding of 21 missions by the Spanish between 1769 and 1823. Mission San Buenaventura, from which Ventura takes its name, was the ninth of these missions, founded by Father Junipero Serra in 1782. Experience a piece of this history with a self-guided tour of this still active church. Visitors are welcome Monday through Friday from 10am to 5pm, Saturday 9am to 5pm, and Sunday 10am to 4pm. (approx. 0.6 mi, 1.0km)

Museum Ventura County: The museum presents a comprehensive record of life in this region, from prehistory to the present, through art, artifacts, documents, and photographs. While construction for its expansion is ongoing, visit their temporary location at 89 S California St, Tuesday through Sunday 11am to 6pm. (approx. 0.2mi, 0.3km)

Ortega Adobe Historic Residence: This adobe is the last remaining example of the homes that once lined Main Street and is typical of those ordinary people lived in. It is said to be the birthplace of the famous Ortega Chile Company. Open daily 9am to 4pm. (approx. 0.9mi, 1.4km)

Surfing: One of California's premier surfing spots is located just up the beach (north) from the meeting venue. Take a 2-hour lesson through Surfclass. They provide everything you need and, if you are staying at the Crowne Plaza, you get a discount.

Hiking, fishing, kayaking, whale watching, shopping, wine tastings, and more are available. Rent a bicycle to take advantage of the bike path just oceanside of the meeting venue. All this and more.

For an extensive preview of Ventura, download your visitors guide
.