Flying Beach Ball Starts off Summer Season

Oceanside Mayor Jim Wood tossed a beach ball Tuesday at Visit Oceanside’s Tourism Summit—officially kicking off Oceanside's summer season.

He was one of dozens of local leaders who gathered at the Courtyard Marriott to discuss marketing Oceanside and to recognize members of the community who have had a positive impact on the city’s tourism.

Leslee Gaul, president of Visit Oceanside presented an award to Capt. Tom Aguigui, of the Oceanside Police Department, who has been very instrumental in facilitating tourism and events.

“We’re all partners in promoting the quality of life in our community,” he said.

Aguigui often takes his family on his boat to visit the restaurants and shops at the Oceanside Marina.

“We can’t have all these things if it’s not a safe community,” he said, adding that he stresses the importance of being officers being ambassadors to tourists.

Oceanside hosts various national events such as an Ironman triathlon and the Race Across America bicycle race. It is also a destination for military families attending events at Camp Pendleton, Gaul said, adding that the city attracts tourists for its down-to-earth style.

“We’re not the cookie-cutter experience,” she said. ”We’ve got that laid-back classic beach feel.” 

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