Grape for the Gods

Pictures taken 30 May 2009

These grapes where found a newspaper vending machine in front of the Post office at 8th Avenue and E. In the background is the library. Both the library and the post office are places where the homeless often come to rest. The post office is a beautiful Works Progress Administration building. The library was built in the early fifties and is also very beautiful.

The gods are often portrayed as being built like, well, Greek gods. California may not be a lot healthier than other states, but it sure likes to pretend to be. And what is healthier than fruit. Even our own homage to ambrosia is fruit and marshmallows. And, grapes are even a more potent symbol than other fruits. The practically scream abundance and romance. From boycotting table grapes, to grapes for the Gods, there is a deep connection between California and its vine grown produce. While we may suffering now grapes point to a sweeter future.

Genesha at Gourmet India 810 Fourth Avenue

Picture Taken 19 February 2009

There is a close relationship between food and religion. Since the dawn of time, meal times have been a time of communion between the divine and the mundane. We thank God for the gifts of food that have been provided for us. We offer gifts of food to God. We share food with God and with each other. This altar found outside of Gourmet India is graced with the image of Ganesha, the Hindu God that removes obstacles. The information for Gourmet India is as follows.

Gourmet India

810 Fourth Avenue,
San Diego, CA 92101
619-702-7967

Business Hours

SUNDAY - THURSDAY
11:30 AM - 10:30 PM

FRIDAY - SATURDAY
11:30 AM - 11:00 PM

A Poignent Update - Dane Williams - Why?

Picture taken 25 January 2009

The first entry on this blog included mention of a makeshift shrine to the memory of Dane Williams. The above picture shows an appeal for information about about his death. It was taken right across the street from where the shrine was located. It is a year since his death. It is obvious that his love one's still want an answer. Some questions are haunting. What happened to Dane Williams, why him? But, in the end what does it matter. We all hang onto life by such a delicate string. He could have just as easily been hit by a drunk driver. Life is fragile. While I do hope that answers are found. I also hope that those who love Williams can let the mystery go and celebrate the years of his life whether than be tortured by the mystery of his last day's.

Brown Shoes

Pictures Taken 12 January 2009

The homeless are almost by definition travelers and as such warrant the courtesy of the Gods. And, as travelers they run through a lot of shoes. Therefore, it is fitting that shoes are a common gift to the gods at San Diego Altars. These particular shoes where left here, at the corner of 3rd and Island. There is a gentleman who sleeps behind this particular at&t utility box. These shoes may have been left for him in particular as they were there before he woke up. Maybe, they were not his size.

Two Sandwichs

These pictures were taken 26 November 2008

Gifts of food to gods is common. But sandwiches in plastic baggies are especially useful because they are easily stored for later. The homeless and poor may be hungry but they are not always ready or able to eat the moment they are blessed with food. For this reason food that easily moved and preserved is of special value to those in need.

La Puerta offers Sweets to the Gods

These candies left on the vent outside La Puerta also carry a stamp with La Puerta's logo on it. The name of the candies themselves is Canets. I was unable to find any info on these candies. If anyone has some please e-mail me. La Puerata is a relatevely new establishment in the Gaslamp Quarter. You can find an article concerning it's opening on DiscoverSD.com

website here.

An Empty San Pellegrino Watter Bottle

Taken 27 August 2008

Taken 27 August 2008

Taken 02 September 2008

This is a single empty bottle of San Pellegrino water  is a small five cent donation to the gods.  This cupon book dispenser is to be found at 202 Island Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101.  The information for the water company is as follows. 

The Web Site is :  http://www.sanpellegrino.com/

San Pellegrino is a Nestlé Brand

Nestlé's Web Site Is: http://www.nestle.com/

Nestlé's Address in the United States:

Nestlé USA, Inc.
800 North Brand Blvd.
Glendale, CA
91203
United States of America
Phone:  1-818-549 60 00

Fax:  1-818 549 69 52

Nestlé's Address in Switzerland

Avenue Nestlé 55
1800 Vevey
Switzerland
General Enquiries:
(Tel) +41 21 924 2111 
(Fax) +41 21 924 4800