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Category Archives: Beaches

Young Singers prepare to perform in Utah

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Young Singers of the Palm Beaches is Palm Beach County's award-winning, community-based children's choir.

Comprising students from 104 schools, the choir rehearses at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts and performs twice a year on the main stage.

Recently, 15 students were selected through a competition to travel to Utah in February to sing alongside the Mormon Tabernacle Choir.

"For a student to be selected for this competition in Utah is outstanding, said the choir's executive director Beth Clark. More than 3,000 kids auditioned for only 900 slots."

Students in grades 2 to 12 learn choral singing and vocal technique, posture, breathing, diction, vowel articulation, music reading and sight singing.

The repertoire is selected by artistic director D. Shawn Berry and every year the choir performs in an annual talent show.

Local students, Jocelyn Wood, 9, a fourth-grader at St. Ann Catholic School in West Palm Beach, and Hunter-Lynn Bhagwanden, 11, a fifth-grader at St. Luke Catholic School in Palm Springs, are "super excited" to be selected and to travel to Utah.

Jocelyn's mother, Nancy Wood, a pharmaceutical saleswoman, said, "Mr. Berry, the artistic director, is amazing. I give him a lot of credit. He works the students hard, but teaches them a lot."

"We're very honored that Jocelyn was selected," she said.

Milly Bhagwanden, Hunter-Lynn's mother, is also honored that her daughter was chosen to sing with the Tabernacle choir.

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Young Singers prepare to perform in Utah

We finally know why these mysterious 'Tjipetir blocks' are washing up on European beaches

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Beach visitors for years have wondered why rubber-like slabs, imprinted with the word "Tjipetir," were washing up on beaches throughout northern Europe.

But recently,the history of these blocks was uncoveredby British beachcomberTracy Williams. And it dates all the way back to submarine warfare of World War I.

Im not a historian, I just clean the beaches, she says. I do walk on the beach with my dog every day, and Im always absolutely intrigued by everything that washes up and where it comes from.

Back in 2012, she discovered her first Tjipetirblock during a beachside stroll inCornwall, England.

I took it home, and I googled the word 'Tjipetir,'and at that time there was hardly anything on the internet about it.It really just said it was a village in Indonesia, she says. So, she put it in her yard and forgot about it.

But just a few weekslater, on a different beach,she found the sameoddity this time, accompanied by bales of rubber.Finding one was understandable, but a second one turning up was quite odd.

Naturally, Williams got curious and decided to do some investigating.

Post by Tjipetir Mystery.

Turns out, Tjipetirwas the siteof a 19th century Indonesian rubber plantation. She also discovered the slabs aren't technically made ofrubber, but rather, most likely, something called gutta-percha, a substance that is yielded from a tree native to Malaysia and the Malay Peninsula. Because gutta-percha predates plastic, it was used for everything from teddy bears' noses to book bindings, hot air balloons,firemans hoses,and most commonly waterproof coating for submarine cables.

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We finally know why these mysterious 'Tjipetir blocks' are washing up on European beaches

Extra 1.2m funding means scheme to save Pooles beaches can be extended

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A BUMPER 1.2million of additional government funding has meant storm repairs pumping sand onto Pooles seafront can be extended.

Sand is being added to Shore Road beach to protect residential properties and infrastructure from coastal erosion and now the scheme can continue towards Branksome Beach and the Bournemouth border.

The last large scale sand replenishment took place in 2005/6 and the next scheme to build Pooles beaches back up to their previous levels was due to take place in 2016/17, but the funding means it can happen now.

During last winters storms, Shore Road in particular lost a significant amount of sand, approximately 10 years worth of erosion occurred in just a couple of months.

Defra awarded Poole 750,000 of funding to pump 40,000 cubic metres of recycled sand onto the beach, which began over a week ago. This was due to finish by the end of November but will now continue until Christmas.

Poole Harbour Commissioners are supplying the sand from routine dredging of the Swash Channel, with a dredger connecting to the pipeline where the sand is pumped ashore.

We are delighted with the opportunity from Defra to bring forward our major beach replenishment scheme and add it to this current project to repair the damage from recent storms, said Cllr Xena Dion, cabinet portfolio holder for flood and coastal management, Borough of Poole.

By working with Defra and Poole Harbour Commissioners we estimate to save around 300,000, as we already have the dredger, pipeline and heavy plant in place.

While small sections of the beach are closed where the sand is being pumped, the promenade remains open. We welcome people coming to watch this engineering project which is quite spectacular.

We appreciate everyones patience while the work is carried out, as it is vital to ensure the beach infrastructure and properties are protected for this winter and for many years to come, she said.

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Extra 1.2m funding means scheme to save Pooles beaches can be extended

Agua Hedionda Lagoon dredging starts soon

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Every few years, the owners of the Encina Power Station have to dredge the Agua Hedionda lagoons outer basin to keep sand from blocking the flow of ocean water needed to cool the plants steam generators.

CARLSBAD Carlsbad will have more sand on its beaches next summer thanks to a dredging project set to begin next month at the Agua Hedionda Lagoon.

Every few years, the owners of the Encina Power Station have to dredge the lagoons outer basin to keep sand from blocking the flow of ocean water needed to cool the plants steam generators.

The project has several other benefits as well, said David Knox, a spokesman for plant owner NRG Energy Inc.

For instance, it helps shore up Carlsbad beaches, which if not replenished become narrower and covered with rocks.

The dredging puts sand back on the beach so that beachgoers have a nice, sandy spot to place their towels, said Kasia Trojanowska, Carlsbads parks planner.

About 500,000 cubic yards of sand will be pulled from the bottom of the lagoon. About half that sand will go to a stretch of the beach between the intake and outlet jetties just outside the lagoon. The remaining sand will be split between the beach at Tamarack and Oak avenues and the shoreline just south of the lagoon.

In addition to cooling the plant, the dredging is key to maintaining the tidal circulation within the lagoon, which is important for the recreational, commercial and biological uses of the lagoon, Knox said.

Though the outcome is a boon for visitors, the process isnt always pleasant.

During the months-long project, a dredge barge similar to a tug boat sucks sand from the bottom of the lagoon like a large vacuum cleaner. The sand, which looks like black ooze, is then carried to the beach through large, 20-inch-diameter black pipes.

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Agua Hedionda Lagoon dredging starts soon

Grand Solmar Timeshare Reveals 3 Top Beaches in Cabo San Lucas for Fall Vacations

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Cabo San Lucas, Mexico (PRWEB) November 28, 2014

Grand Solmar Timeshare knows that Cabo San Lucas is the ultimate vacation destination no matter what time of the year it is. With an outstanding temperate climate, visitors can enjoy Cabos beaches all year round. There are many different beaches to choose from, which is why Grand Solmar Timeshare has come up with this list of the ultimate sandy destinations in the Los Cabos area.

1. Playa del Amor a.k.a. Lovers Beach One of the more secluded and less-frequented beaches in the area, Playa del Amor, is well known for its incredible views and romantic feel. Grand Solmar Timeshare reveals that Playa del Amor is a pristine location for a romantic getaway and picnic lunch and can be accessed by water taxi. There are also several opportunities for visitors to take a glass-bottom tour of the nearby El Arco to see some of the beautiful fish and incredible marine life that call the area their home. Travelers should remember to bring their own food and drink as there is nowhere to buy refreshments while on the beach.

2. Santa Maria Beach Known as one of the best beaches for snorkeling and scuba diving in the area, the crystal-clear blue waters of Santa Maria Beach are sure to make for an unforgettable vacation experience. The beach is secluded, offering a relaxing getaway from some of the more popular beaches in the area as well.

3. Chileno Beach Another great beach for both snorkeling and swimming, Chileno Beach is Grand Solmar Timeshares pick for the third best beach in all of Cabo San Lucas. This beachs waters are usually calm, unless a recent storm has rolled through, making it the perfect spot for families to visit and snorkel together. With no food or drinks available in the area, Grand Solmar Timeshare also recommends bringing along a picnic and plenty of water.

For more information about these beaches and for luxurious accommodations in Cabo San Lucas, contact Grand Solmar Timeshare today.

Grand Solmar Contact Information: http://grandsolmarresort.com/ Av. Solmar No. 1A Col. Centro Cabo San Lucas, BCS, Mxico C.P. 23450 Email: info(at)solmar(dot)com(dot)mx

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Grand Solmar Timeshare Reveals 3 Top Beaches in Cabo San Lucas for Fall Vacations

Beaches: Pictures, Videos, Breaking News – The Huffington Post

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Grand Cayman is a British Territory south of Cuba in the Caribbean Sea. The Island is part of three landmasses that also include Little Cayman and Cayman Brac. Grand Cayman is about 76 square miles and boasts over 1.7 million visitors a year.

P. Andrew Och

Producer, writer, documentarian, photographer, historian, public speaker, musician

"I used to think romance was bunk. A double Mickey for the hickey..." Well, not so much. But I have always enjoyed a good Bette Midler tune here and there, and there are many reasons for it. So here is a Top 10 list of life lessons learned from The Divine Miss M, the fabulous Miss Bette Midler.

Sarah Toce

Founder/Publisher of The Seattle Lesbian, Journalist

The ocean is to relax and the jungle to find adventure. There is great food and drinks in both so while in Belize, why not have it all?

The Indian Ocean is an azure-blue expanse strewn with startlingly beautiful islands that live up to all the clichs of swaying palm trees and white-sand beaches -- but let's assume you already know that.

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Beaches: Pictures, Videos, Breaking News - The Huffington Post

Liberia: Govt Bans Beach-Going Over Ebola Fears

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For the first time in years Liberians will have to do without the beaches on what is unarguably the biggest holiday in the Ebola-hit post-war nation. November 29 is the birth anniversary of Liberia's18th and longest serving president, William V.S. Tubman, which is observed as a national holiday. But this year, the Liberian government ordered all beaches operating across the country closed on November 29.

The shutdown means that a lot of Liberian who have traditionally thronged the beaches will be staying home a shift from the norms of the past year when many crowd the beaches and other entertainment places to celebrate.

Ironically, the biggest holiday of the year is set aside for Tubman, who led Liberia from his election in 1944 until his death in 1971. Tubman is regarded as the "father of modern Liberia"; his presidency was marked by attracting sufficient foreign investment to modernize the economy and infrastructure. During his tenure, Liberia experienced a period of prosperity.

He also led a policy of national unity in order to reduce the social and political differences between his fellow Americo-Liberians and the indigenous Liberians. However, during his tenure, he became increasingly authoritarian in his exercise of power. This year, according to Information Minister Isaac Jackson, the day is being contained because of the deadly Ebola outbreak as authorities look to curb the further spread of the Ebola virus.

This year, the Liberia National Police to keep surveillance at beaches across the country to apprehend violators as the government has warned against gathering at beaches in violation of the pronouncement by President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf few months ago halts large gatherings at beaches and amusement centers due to the Ebola outbreak.

The government on Wednesday by Proclamation declared Saturday, November 29, 2014, as the 119th birth Anniversary of the late President William V.S. Tubman, and is to be observed throughout Liberia as a *National Holiday. The Proclamation further orders and directs all government offices, business houses and market places to be closed during the observance from Six O'clock ante meridian to Six O'clock post meridian.

The Proclamation is in consonance with an Act of Legislature enacted at the 3rd Session of the 42nd National Legislature of Liberia, declaring the birth anniversary of Liberia's 18th President William Vacanarat Shadrach Tubman (November 29, 2014) of each year as a National Holiday in keeping with the will of the Liberian people.

According to a Foreign Ministry release, the Proclamation is in recognition of his productive and meaningful services and policies, including the Open Door Policy, the National Unification and Integration Policy, the granting of suffrages to Liberian women as well as the policies on all social, economic development nationwide and his contributions to the emancipation of African colonial territories into self-governing statehood.

The Proclamation further declared that the celebration is in consideration of the numerous contribution, profound changes and lasting compliments made by President Tubman during his administration as the 18th President of the Republic of Liberia, the people, desirous of showing their deep appreciation, esteem and approval for his outstanding, noble and remarkable leadership, did petition and request the National Legislature of the Nation to issue permanent record of their sentiments in honor of his birth for posterity.

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Liberia: Govt Bans Beach-Going Over Ebola Fears

Two Surf Life Saving Clubs win a safer summer

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Two Surf Life Saving Clubs win a safer summer for their communities

Otaki and Brighton beaches will soon each have a brand new $25,000 Surf Life Saving boat after their local Surf Life Saving Clubs won the BP Click for your Club competition that got the whole community involved thousands of times.

The two clubs, from the Kapiti Coast and Otago, together managed to pull in nearly 30,000 online votes over three weeks of the national competition, calling on community groups, schools, shops, and members of their community to show their support by voting for them online.

BP launched the competition giving away two Inflatable Rescue Boats (IRBs) for the second year running in recognition of the important role the rescue boats play in helping to save hundreds of lives across the country every year.

Last year alone, lifeguards across the country saved 1,027 lives with about 60% of these involving an IRB.

BP Corporate Affairs Manager Jonty Mills said the efforts made by the clubs and the support from their communities was impressive.

Weve been incredibly impressed by the strength of passion shown by the clubs throughout the competition. Theyve been out there drumming up support, reminding their communities about the essential role Surf Lifeguards play in keeping them safe. The support theyve received is testament to how much these boats matter to their communities.

BP offered clubs around the country the chance to win a brand new IRB, with one being won in the North Island and one in the South. Six finalists were selected (three from each island) to compete to drum up community support, encouraging supporters to go online daily, to watch a video about their club, and to vote for them.

The competition closed at midnight on Sunday 16 November, with Brighton Surf Life Saving Club gathering 16,245 votes and Otaki Surf Life Saving Club pulling in a total of 12,982 votes.

The boats will be delivered to the clubs in the next couple of weeks.

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Two Surf Life Saving Clubs win a safer summer

Thanksgiving weekend forecast: Rain, snow possible

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Rain and snow is expected across Southern California during the long Thanksgiving weekend.

In fact, according to the ABC7 Eyewitness News forecast, several inches of rain and snow are in the forecast for parts of our region starting Monday.

Two low pressure systems -- one to our west over the Pacific Ocean, and another to our north in Canada -- will merge and head south as we approach the weekend, creating the possibility for precipitation beginning Sunday into Monday.

In the meantime, expect a beautiful Thanksgiving Day on Thursday! Temps will be in the mid to upper 80s in L.A., O.C. and the high desert. The beaches will be warm and sunny in the low 80s. The mountains will see plenty of sunshine and highs in the upper 60s.

7-Day Forecasts

In the LA Metro/Orange County area, it will be sunny and warn through Friday, with highs near or above 80 degrees, before cooling down on Saturday with increasing clouds and a high temperature of 71 degrees.

On Sunday, the forecast calls for a 60 percent chance of rain up -- up to a half-inch. However, if the weather system slows as it heads south, rain would be most likely on Monday.

It will be cooler Monday with a high of 64 and 1 inch of the wet stuff expected. Tuesday will usher in a 60 percent chance of rain with a high of 63.

In the valleys and Inland Empire, it will also be sunny, warm Thanksgiving but will cool into Saturday, with a 60 percent chance of rain on Sunday. Close to an inch of rain is possible.

On Monday, 1 to 3 inches is expected with a high of only 62. Another 60 percent chance of rain persists through Tuesday.

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Thanksgiving weekend forecast: Rain, snow possible


  1. Beaches