A Navy veteran in California known as the “Bubble Pirate” has been entertaining the local community with his bubble performances for over 10 years. However, while performing his bubble show at La Jolla Cove in San Diego, he was issued a ticket by park officials alleging he violated San Diego’s municipal code against littering due to the fluid from his bubbles. Sandy Snakenberg, 63, a disabled Navy veteran, asked the park ranger to note that the liquid was from bubbles, but his request was not accommodated. The ticket mandates that Snakenberg appear in court in October.
Snakenberg mentioned that he has had various jobs around the world, including owning a gym in Singapore to benefit individuals with special needs. He also shared that he has dyslexia and makes his living from his bubble artistry and entertainment. His van, which contains all his equipment and props, serves as his home. He explained that he had given a Ted talk in 2016 titled “Lessons of the Bubbles,” where he discussed his journey and observations about the magic of bubbles.
The Ted talk focused on Snakenberg’s sociological experience with bubbles and their “connective” properties. He mentioned that during a trip around the world following his Ted talk, he suffered heart failure. Despite this, he continued pursuing his passion for bubbles. Snakenberg practices bubbleology, which he describes as a real thing. He noted that vendors and artists in the community have been confined to designated small areas by officials, leading to challenges for artists like himself.
According to Snakenberg, there have been recent restrictions on where vendors and artists can perform in the community. He expressed concerns about being limited to small spaces that were not chosen by the artists themselves. Snakenberg emphasized the importance of choosing a safe location for his bubble performances to ensure the safety of the environment and the public. The City of San Diego Parks and Recreation Department clarified that while expressive activities are valued in city parks, they must be in accordance with regulations, including those related to littering and waste disposal.
The Parks and Recreation Department explained that Park Rangers issued the lowest level citation to Snakenberg after witnessing multiple violations related to the residual substances from the bubbles. They cited that Snakenberg uses up to six gallons of liquid per day, and the chemicals in the residual substances can cause damage to the grass in the park. Despite the citations and complaints from other park users, Snakenberg defended his performances, stating that he has been doing this for over a decade without causing harm. He emphasized that his bubble artistry has become a part of the community, with many people returning to see his performances over the years.
