Company Gives Film Series Its Day in the Sun

Any city can host a film series with an environmental theme, but only Encinitas would power its screenings with solar energy.

The Cottonwood Creek Environmental Film Series, which opens April 28 with Out There, a documentary about environmental issues threatening the world’s best surf breaks, is organized by the and presented by local company Stellar Solar. Stellar will bring its two-kilowatt mobile solar station to Pacific Station to power the event.

“We’re headquartered in Encinitas and DEMA member Peder Norby is a Stellar Solar client and [our] biggest advocate—it’s kind of a no-brainer,” says David Boylan, the company’s director of marketing, about the decision to participate in the film series.

The mobile station is popping up at other local events, too—it could be seen outside Hansen’s last week, and will provide power for a stage at the Encinitas Classic Car Nights this summer. Boylan says the mobile station has been booked two to four weekends a month April through October.

In addition to providing solar energy to run an event, the mobile station also has a fun teaching tool for kids: A slot-car track is set up for a hands-on lesson on solar power. Boylan says the company is looking into similar interactive examples for future events—which could include the popcorn popper Whole Foods Market will be manning at each film screening in the series.

Stellar Solar, which formally opened its Encinitas office on Second Street a year ago, works with residential and commercial clients, including Seaside Market, Encinitas Foreign and Domestic and the Salk Institute. Boylan says downtown Encinitas is ideal for the company. “It’s a great place to work. I don’t think I’ve ever had an office in a more desirable location.”

The film series takes place April 28, May 26, and June 23 at Pacific Station, located at 687 S. Coast Highway 101. Each screening takes place from sunset to 9 p.m. Admission is free; use a mode of transportation other than a gasoline-powered car and earn a free raffle ticket. Beach chairs recommended. For more information, visit encinitas101.com or stellarsolar.net.

Taste Sensation

If you didn’t get a chance to go to last year’s inaugural Taste of Cardiff (or you did and know how delicious it was), tickets are on sale now for this year’s edition on May 19. Sample food from 18 Cardiff restaurants for $20 (in advance) or $30 (the day of the event). Buy them online at tasteofcardiff.com or go to Cardiff 101 MainStreet, located at 124 Aberdeen Dr. For more information, check the website or call 760-436-0431.

Birthday Party Looking for Revelers

Cardiff celebrates its 100th year with a big party July 2 in Glen Park. Among the activities are a parade, picnic, games, music and more. Vendors and parade applicants are still needed. Call Cardiff 101 MainStreet or go to cardiffbirthday.com.