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50th anniversary of Kennedy visit in Berlin is reminiscent of divided Germany

BERLIN - It was 50 years ago, an old man's memory. But Berliners haven't forgotten the American president's visit in 1963, nor the speech that offered so much hope. It provided a promise of support for West Germans living in Berlin's free but beleaguered American sector after they were heard around the world.

Santa Barbara: Though upscale, this seaside city is also welcoming to kids

Way back in the 20th century when life was simple, my wife, Mary Frances, and I lived in Carpinteria, swooping in and out of Santa Barbara without a second thought. Nowadays, returning as Angelenos with a 9-year-old, we have second and third thoughts, as we consider cost, balance kid stuff and adult stuff, and consult the school calendar.
All aboard for a luxury train ride through Southeast Asia

ABOARD THE EASTERN & ORIENTAL EXPRESS - Standing on the open-air observation platform as the train lumbered noisily along the tracks, I nursed one of those tropical drinks noted for its jade green color and pyramid of fruit perched precariously on the rim of the glass.
New York leaves Hawaii in its wake in latest rating of top beaches

For about a year, I've been saying the fix was in for Dr. Beach's "best beach" contest for 2013. Usually the runner-up from the previous year moves into the top position. And with the gorgeous Duke Kahanamoku Beach coming in second in 2012, it seemed a lock that the sand strand in front of the Hilton Hawaiian Village would be No. 1 in 2013.
Michigan cherries to arrive just in time for early festival this year

DETROIT - Sweet.
Central Florida: Theme park round-up

Summer is getting a late start this year at Orlando's theme parks.
Climbing Kilimanjaro: Overcoming the very highs and very lows

MOUNT KILIMANJARO, Tanzania - We started out dry, clean and happy. We knew that wasn't how we would finish. But it didn't matter. We were headed to the highest point in Africa.
Wisconsin supper clubs: 5,000 miles for these 50

Talk about a great gig. Last year, Ron Faiola crisscrossed Wisconsin, putting 5,000 miles on his car in about three months.
Kenny the Clown honks at fate

SAN FRANCISCO - Heads turn when Kenneth Kahn confidently strolls into Hallidie Plaza. The brimstone preacher admonishing through the loudspeaker may monopolize the air, but Kahn squeaks his bike horn when he gains eye contact with strollers, or when someone turns to view the honker shouting "Let's have some San Fran-silliness!"
Mexico's Mazatlan is getting its mojo back

The atmosphere in the Plaza de Toros, hot in the afternoon sun, crackled like popcorn, leaving visitors wondering just how long the crowd, growing larger by the minute, would sit patiently and wait. But as late arrivals searched for the last free seats, their concerns melted away.