Urban Surf 4 Kids April 2015 Magazine

A FRESHING BREAK FROM DAILY LIFE

Enjoy a stay in a Villa of your own! Cerritos Surf Colony is located on world famous Cerritos Beach with a reputation frequently noted in Surfer Magazine for champion surfing.

Cerritos Beach is the best beach in Cabo, and voted first runner up in Los Cabos Magazine!

Cerritos Surf Colony is a neighbor to both the Hacienda Cerritos Boutique Hotel (a majestic mansion hotel located on a private cliff at the shore of the ocean), and the celebrity frequented hot spot Cerritos Beach Club & Surf where you can get surfing lessons, board rental, and great food.

The free standing studio, one, two, and four bedroom villas are solar energy assisted.

Enjoy our amazing swimming pool and bar, surf the waves out your back door , climb the Sierra de la Lagunas, explore the artist colony of Todos Santos, or just lay back in your own palm shaded hammock.

ATV rental, horseback riding, kayaking, fishing, art gallery walks, hiking Triple Waterfall, Voluntourism, massage, are just some of the things to enjoy here in Baja California.

Los Cerritos provides simplicity, tranquility and a break from city life that you have been longing for.

Cerritos Surf Colony is a beach front resort of Mayan inspiration and thatched palm roofs.

FOR MORE INFORMATION | contact@cerritossurfcolony.com | 1-877-780-8951

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NOVEMBER 2014

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WESLEY STEWART • URBAN SURF 4 KIDS

FOUNDER’S NOTES Aloha, We recently celebrated the most important day of the year, Daylight savings! The “Official” sign that summer is coming soon. I long for those epic sunset paddles, the warmer weather, the transition to surf sessions in board shorts, and those longer lazy days of summer!

With anticipation, we proudly kick off our season on April 18th with a surf camp at La Jolla Shores. The interest for our services within our local foster care community has never been greater. More and more agencies, foster parents, and even social service workers are contacting us as they continue to hear what surfing is doing for children without parents. The chance to share the stoke is on!

Thinking of this stoke, it’s amazing to think about the millions upon millions of people around the world who are learning and enjoying the sport of surfing. Our featured story of Jafar Alam, who started the surfing movement in Bangladesh, is sure to inspire.You can sense his passion and sincere love for the sport, right through the article. Jafar is a pioneer and trailblazer. His story has reinforced within me that burning passion to share what so many of us love—that simple stoke of paddling into a wave and all the joy that it brings. Thanks Jafar!

Recently, another story moved me to the core. Since 2009, we have been serving a handful of orphanages in Northern Baja.

We, along with some other groups, have provided X-Mas gifts, organized surf and paddle board events, and last year created a life changing program that rewards youth from the “Children of the Promise” orphanage, with a 4-night Cabo Surf & Surf Trip (May 2014). I recently met with a good friend of mine in Tijuana, who helps volunteer in these projects. He casually asked, “Did you hear about the boy from the orphanage?” With curiosity, I asked him to tell me as I hadn’t heard. “Well, Oscar was surfing last week and saw two young girls drowning and he went and SAVED them!” I immediately welled up with emotion as I heard this story; it made me think of the entire surf community that has faithfully given to this orphanage and put this boy in a position to be a HERO. Surfing is, point blank, changing and saving lives. May Jafar & Oscar be our motivation to not only surf but also to serve. Check out our calendar and get involved; lives depend on it!

Mahalo, Wesley Stewart Founder | Urban Surf 4 Kids

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APRIL 2015

A LOOK INTO THIS ISSUE

TABLE OF CONTENTS Urban Surf 4 Kids Magazine | April 2015

PAGE 6

Bangladesh’s First Surfer: Jafar Alam

PAGE 12 Grom Report:

Ethan Grant PAGE 16 Urban Surf 4 Kids

1st Annual Surf-A-Thon PAGE 26 Surf Photography Spotlight:

Jeff Wallis

urbansurf4kids.org

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By Neomi Mustain

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RIDING THE WAVE, CHANGING T A latest study conducted on happiness states that a charitable mindset and happiness are directly linked to each other. Basking in a similar state of happiness, are the staff members of a nonprofit organization called “Surfing the Nations” (STN)—a golden chip off the surfing block.

like amphetamines was quite rampant; but now it seems that the attitude of the surfing community is undergoing a positive change.

When the nodes of passion and humanity intertwined, a nonprofit organization called “Surfing the Nations” (STN) was founded. During the 1990s, a set of people, who were deeply fascinated about surfing, joined hands to give back to the community. The volunteers at STN are currently riding the wave of societal empowerment by initiating several outreach programs.

“The goal of the STN is to reform the surfing culture”, said Dakotah, who works in the Marketing Department at the STN headquarters in Wahiawa, Hawaii. “Presently, we travel to five different countries every year, including Indonesia, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, the Philippines and Morocco.These are the countries where the surfing culture is still under the dark clouds of alcohol and drug addiction, to some extent. Our mission is to interact with surfers there and try to change the mental framework about surfing”, said Dakotah.

While surfing is now considered to be a sport to indulge in and relax, it wasn’t considered as such in the 1950s and 60s.

Strangely, there used to be a dark side associated with the surfing culture. The surfing community was caught amid the waves of the free spirit attitude, which was then considered to be “cool” in Hawaii. Surfers were ‘bombed-out’ by alcohol and drugs like cocaine, heroin, and even the use of speed stimulants

With surfers coming together to reform the society, slowly but steadily, the hippie attitude once associated with the surfing community seems to be flowing under the bridge. Tom Bauer—the visionary behind this organization—is a catalyst in bringing about this paradigm shift in the surfing culture. STN was founded in 1997 in Kalihi Valley, Honolulu. In the beginning, the organization had only a few dedicated volunteers, who

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APRIL 2015

THE TIDE SURFING THE NATIONS written by poorvi adavi threw down their gauntlets and began working towards the fulfillment of STN’s empowerment objectives.

By the year 2008, STN had spread its wings. At that point in time, STN wished to establish a permanent headquarters.

STN established their epicenter of philanthropy in the neighborhoods of Wahiawa, Hawaii, which in the past was known for bars, prostitution, drug dealing and crime.

When people with similar interests and aims come together, magic happens! STN bought the entire area and transformed it into something miraculous. The alcohol bar in the vicinity was turned into a surfer’s coffee bar. This area that was once rife with crime, created tremendous opportunity to change the lives of people for the better.

STN also engages itself in outreach programs like “Feeding the hungry” and “ULU Pono Kids”. At the headquarters, volunteers distribute approximately 25 to 30,000 pounds of food weekly, that has been provided by the Food Bank and Aloha Harvest.The United Nations Food and Agriculture organization estimated

that one in 9 people around the world were suffering from chronic undernourishment in 2012-2014. STN has taken a step in the right direction by initiating such a program like “Feeding the Hungry.”

Through the program, ULU Pono Kids (which means “To thrive on a righteous path”), kids are given access to homework assistance, art, and dance classes by talented artists around the island. These extra-curricular activities help in the all-around development of the kids.This in turn helps us to create a better society and a brighter future.

For the staff members at STN, it is a life-changing experience.

“It has been a year since I began working with STN, and it has the changed the way I perceive things around me. My mindset has undergone a transformation. A life lived for the betterment of others is far better than the one lived for one self”, said Dakotah.

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HAWAIIAN CREATION ADVENTURES Can a rare Hawaiian fish climb this waterfall?

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Call 808-281-3508

hawaiiancreationadventures.com

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MORE INFO

A CONDOMINIUM RESORT

WANT TO SURF AN UNCROWDED BREAK 45 MINUTES FROM SAN DIEGO?

We here at Bobby’s by the sea at K43 have the surfer in mind. Enjoy world class waves, luxury accommodations, full restaurant & bar with live entertainment, and an on site spa.

Bobbys by the sea hope’s you find the condominium resort inviting with the “village” concept of condominium resort development with the embodiment of rustic warmth and relaxed nature which is Mexico. We look forward to welcoming you for a weekend vacation retreat or for a long term stay.

A warm Bienvenido from us to you!

For more info call | Isidro: 619.810.7666 | Office: 1.800.651.0144 Or visit our website at www.bobbysbytheseaatk43.com Bajabrokers and Bobby’s Baja has no affiliation to Bobbys by the Sea at K43

• Stand-Up Paddle Lessons • Surf Lessons • Canoe Tours

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APRIL 2015

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APRIL 2015

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APRIL 2015

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WARM WATER, TROPICAL ADVENTURE, UNCROWDED WAVES. THIS IS SURFER PARADISE. Open since 1998 and located on a small private island off the coast of Panama (Central America), it is a paradise worth discovering!

The Surfer Paradise Surf Camp is actually two islands. One being the big island and then a smaller outer island. The big island has the living accommodations. Private cabanas are located on the side of a hill overlooking the Pacific Ocean, each with your very own hammock

for that afternoon siesta. Water is supplied by a fresh water spring that is used for drinking and showering. There are left breaks, and right breaks. Beginner breaks, experienced breaks, and advanced surfer breaks.

If your looking for adventure, fun, and SURF, this is the place to visit.

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND RESERVATIONS CALL 760.632.8014

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APRIL 2015

Justin Edward Jachura Co-Founder of Grubby’s Presents:

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APRIL 2015

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PHOTO GRAPHY SPOTLIGHT | JEFF WALLIS | by sandra stewart When Jeff was very young, he developed a skill and passion for photography that has grown over the last 50 years. His passion is reflected in the warmth of his photos, which he shares so freely!

Jeff was a young boy when he picked up an “instamatic camera” that he used for many years, until he was lucky enough to find a 35mm camera at a garage sale for a song! While he was filming one day, he tripped, which resulted with the camera falling into the creek! This took Jeff back to a trusty 110 instamatic, again!

Jeff has had a very interesting life, one that has focused on his kind and giving nature, which will become evident throughout this article. Jeff, who was raised in Imperial Beach, served with the Marine Corp for over 8 years. His focus was Crash/ Fire Rescue. Jeff eventually ended up at the Department of Defense as a Firefighter/EMT/Hazard Mat, living in Yuma Arizona. His work with the Marine Corp took him to many places, one of which was Okinawa, Japan, which is where he was able to pick up a camera (a Canon) and continue his love of photography. However, back in 2009 he learned of his Mother’s fall and immediately packed up and left Yuma, Arizona, to take care of his Mom, which to this day he still does.

Remember, in the beginning of this article, I referred to Jeff’s caring and kind attitude? Well, Jeff’s philosophy is to “pay it forward,” which he still manages to do. Right now, he is

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mentoring two young boys from Imperial Beach (Hunter and Gabriel), showing and teaching them the fundamentals of surf/ wave photography. While I don’t know where he gets his free time from, he still manages to help out with Urban Surf 4 Kids and tells me it is a thrill to see the smiles on the kids’ faces the first time they enter the water and surf! It is truly amazing!

Jeff’s true love is wave photography, and when I asked him what his perfect shot would be, and where that might be, he answered immediately with, “Hawaii”! Because of his responsibilities associated with his caring for his family, he has not been able to experience this. He would love to able to photograph the Pipeline Masters Surf Competition at North Shore, Oahu. I hope this dream comes true for you, Jeff!

Jeff’s photographs are phenomenal; he has been featured in several magazines, and has also done the cover of the Urban Surf 4 Kids Magazine. In fact, you can see his latest publication in the Aladdin Surf Magazine published in the March issue. He also has an Instagram account on which his photos can be viewed; the name of the account is “Dangerclosephotography.’ I am not going to be a spoiler here, but be sure to ask him how he came up with that name; it’s a funny and scary story at the same time. If you’re lucky enough to run into Jeff in Imperial Beach, feel free to ask him about his work. He would be only too willing to share his passion of photography with you!

APRIL 2015

His passion is reflected in the warmth of his photos

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Soak in the Florida Lifestyle.... romantic ~ charming ~ relaxing

Bungalow Beach Resort

Recently awarded TripAdvisor Traveler’s Choice Award for “Top Romance in US”

Directly on the beach, Bungalow Beach Resort is reminiscent of a bygone era. Bungalow Beach Resort offers 15 beautifully restored 1930s islandstyle bungalows. Visitors can enjoy accommodations, nestled among the white-sand dunes, sea oats and coconut palms of Anna Maria Island. Enjoy a heated pool, private beach area and much more.

For more information call: 800-779-3601 2000 Gulf Drive North Bradenton Beach, FL 34217 www.bungalowbeach.com

“I came in search of paradise and found it a haven,” a tourist from England had written in the guestbook at Bungalow Beach Resort.

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Siesta Key Bungalows

Come and enjoy a Siesta Key getaway at Siesta Key Bungalows… directly on peaceful Heron lagoon. Our 10 charming Bungalows are nestled within a tropical garden and offer large one-bedroom suites with full kitchens. Overlook the lagoon as you enjoy our pool, bicycle to the beach, kayak in the peaceful waters, or grab a fishing pole and relax on our dock. Siesta Key Bungalows sits near the #1 Beach in America, plus great shops & restaurants too.

“#1 Best Beach in America”

by Dr. Beach

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For more information call: 888-574-3782 8212 Midnight Pass Road, Siesta Key Fl. 34242 www.siestakeybungalows.com

Follow us on Facebook.

FEBRUARY APRIL 2015

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WWW.ARIAUTOWERS.COM

The Ariau Amazon Towers The Largest Treetop Hotel in the World Escape to the natural beauty and wild majesty of the Amazon Rainforest - one of the most exhilarating destinations on the planet. Nestled in a canopy of trees above the Amazon River, Ariau Amazon Towers jewel of the Amazonian Rainforest and the only hotel resort built completely at tree top level in the Jungle.

Experience the ultimate in eco-tourism - from navigating the Amazon River to swimming with rare pink dolphins, to trekking through the rainforest to relaxing in a luxury tree house surrounded by the wonders of nature.

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Contact Us | 1-877-44-ARIAU | info@ariautowers.com

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APRIL 2015

For a more personal experience on Hawaii’s Big Island, you might consider staying at Kona Hawaii Guest House. Choose from luxurious, romantic hideaways or secluded bungalows with

an old Hawaii feel. If you enjoy traveling off the beaten path, private residences and inns can add a whole new dimension to your vacation experience on Hawaii’s Big Island.

Specializing in Vinyasa flow classes.

Presenting a well-balanced yoga practice that develops strength, balance, and flexibility.

Tap into this form of power yoga in our lightly heated studio. Classes available for all levels.

Looking for a challenge or to enhance your surfing performance? Try our surfer’s flow classes.

VISIT US 910 GRAND AVENUE #206, SAN DIEGO, CA 92109 CHAT 858.539.5742 EMAIL HEATHER@BIRDROCKYOGA.COM

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APRIL 2015

Renting BikeS, SuRfBoARDS PADDleBoARDS &

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APRIL 2015

FRIENDS OF URBAN SURF 4 KIDS

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Welcome to The Bissell House Bed and Breakfast, a uniquely charming, three story shingle Victorian, with craftsman style influence. Step back in time and experience a piece of Pasadena's heritage in a home that was built in 1887 and is elegantly situated in an upscale residential neighborhood located in beautiful, historic South Pasadena, California.

Discover small town America a short half mile walk

201 Orange Grove Avenue South Pasadena, CA 91030

Our resort is located on approximately 7 acres, right on Lake Tahoe. There are 140 units located in five buildings. Four buildings are named after a historic figure (Carson, Bliss, Clemens and Baldwin) and one is named after a Tahoe historic site (Richardson).

Some Features - 400 feet of private beach Year round heated pool and 2 outdoor spas - Tennis and Volleyball court - Horseshoes - Gas and charcoal grills at the beach and in the courtyard - Complimentary parking and Wifi

626.441.3535

to Mission Street with it’s many and varied eateries, metro station, bookstores, antique shops, wineries, art galleries, yoga studios and historic library. We are located approximately a mile and one half from the heart of historic “Old Town” Pasadena dining, shopping district and convention center and only six metro stops from Union Station in downtown Los Angeles. The Norton Simon Museum, Fenyes Mansion Estate, Wrigley Tournament House, Greene and Greene Gamble House and Rose Bowl Stadium all either line or can be accessed off Orange Grove Boulevard within one to two miles north of us.

bissellhouseinn@gmail.com

Photo Credit: Bryan Madsen

Tahoephotographictours.com | Keith Price

3601 Lake Tahoe Boulevard South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150 www.tahoebeachandski.com | 530-541-6220 Tahoe Beach & Ski Club

Tahoephotographictours.com | Keith Price

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APRIL 2015

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EXPERIENCE LEUCADIA BEACH INN

To serve visitors traveling along Coast Highway 101 between Los Angeles and Mexico, the Leucadia Inn was constructed in the classic California “horseshoe� design in the late 1920s, and completely renovated in 2005.

Rooms face a friendly central courtyard that is flower and sun filled.

The exterior design of the stucco buildings are of a timeless Southern California hacienda style.

Within walking distance are the fabled Southern California beaches of Leucadia on the spectacular North Coast of San Diego County.

Go back in time, before the arrival of the freeways, and relive the quiet beach-inspired elegance that drew Bing Crosby, Jimmy Durante, Charlie Chaplin and Spencer Tracy to the picturesque North Coastal area of San Diego County~~ Experience the Leucadia Beach Inn.

Phone: 1-800-706-7461 | 1322 N. Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas, CA 92024 www.LeucadiaBeachInn.org | leucadiabeachinn@gmail.com

Miracle Springs is the unique place where business, traditional values and hospitality are merged. Comfortable, business-like with soft artistic touch makes strong impression on all Guests. Inviting you to enjoy its spectacular mountain and desert scenery, newly-decorated rooms and suites, full-service spa, wonderful restaurant, banquet facilities, gift shop, spa boutique and pristine natural hot mineral water pools.

10625 Palm Drive Desert Hot Springs, CA 92240 760-251-6000

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APRIL 2015

Photos by Marion Cunningham and Team Rider Luke Pelbath

WATER SYSTEMS STARTING AT $9.99/MONTH Whole house water treatment and water softener solutions for high-quality drinking water and soft water for your home and Business.

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FOR MORE INFORMATION • 888.929-2404 • ecowatersandiego.com 41

hostelwestpuertorico.com | gratefulsoulspr@gmail.com | 787-868-6588 sharing the love and magic of Puerto Rico

BEACHFRONT HOSTEL • PUERTO RICO • FEEL GOOD SURFERS FREE BREAKFAST • ADVENTURES • FRIENDS • SUNSHINE

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