Summer is here, and it's time for the reopening of the seasonal HI-Los Angeles, South Bay hostel in San Pedro. Located in scenic Angel's Gate Park, the hostel offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Catalina Island, featuring spectacular sunsets. Just south of Los Angeles, San Pedro is great place to relax and a convenient stop on a trip up the coast.

During the winter months, the HI-Los Angeles, South Bay hostel is open to groups participating in Hostelling International's educational programs. Right next door to the Marine Mammal Care Center, Angel's Gate Cultural Center, and Fort MacArthur Museum, HI-Los Angeles, South Bay provides an enriching cultural experience in a beautiful setting.

Registration is now open for the 34th Annual Midnight Madness Fun Bicycle Ride, taking place Saturday Night, August 18th! Midnight Madness offers a scenic route featuring spectacular views of downtown San Diego. Come early for the Light Up Your Bike and Costume Contest and a chance to win fabulous raffle prizes!

Join the fun for one of the most exciting bicycle events in Southern California! To register, go to active.com. Pre- registered riders save $5 on their registration, so be sure to sign up early!

Registration is $28, and includes an event t-shirt, admission to contests and raffle, participation in the ride, goodie bag, and safety support. Registration the night of the event will be $33 (Beginning at 8:00 pm).

For more information please call the Midnight Madness Hotline at 619-645-8068 or visit sandiegomidnightmadness.org.

Mark your calendar for the Spirit of Hostelling Annual Meeting and Party on Oct. 20, from 6-9pm. This year's event will feature silent and live auctions, dinner, and a special presentation by Rita Golden Gelman, world traveler and author of "Tales of a Female Nomad".

A self-proclaimed modern day nomad, Rita Golden Gelman gave up most of her worldly possessions at age 48, and has been traveling the world ever since. During her featured presentation, Rita will discuss how she followed her dreams and continues to share the lives of the people she encounters all over the world.

Stay tuned for more information about the event. If you would like to receive an invitation, please send your mailing address to programs@sandiegohostels.org.

We are looking for a driver to help transport gear and supplies during this year's Christmas Bike Ride from Dec. 26-31. This exciting six day bicycle trip tours through 400 miles of mountains, deserts, and seacoast around San Diego. The vehicle will be a 24 foot straight truck used to transport personal gear, community cooking equipment, and bulk foods.

A second driver is needed to drive a sag vehicle, usually a vehicle with passenger space for 6 or 7. Drivers will need a valid drivers licence, but a commerical drivers license is NOT required.

Interested or have questions? Please contact Tiffany Olson at (619) 338-9981 ext. 15 or tiffany@sandiegohostels.org.