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The Organization of Cape Verdean Women (OMCV) in partnership with the Cape Verdean Institute for Gender Equality and Equity (ICIEG) and other partners announced on Sunday, March 7th in the City of Assomada, the main commemorative event of International Women's Day under the motto Djuntu na Paz, nu kombati violênsia na Cabo Verde (Together in Peace, in the fight against violence in Cape Verde).
The opening ceremony was co-chaired by His Excellency the Prime Minister, Jose Maria Neves and the UN System Resident Coordinator, Mrs. Petra Lantz and was also attended by the US Ambassador, Government representatives, and representatives of local municipalities, among others.
Celebrating International Women's Day we know that we join thousands of people around the world, to celebrate a date that marked the world 100 years ago. It is celebrated worldwide this year under the motto Equal Rights, Equal Opportunities: Progress for All.
At the same time, the 15th anniversary of the adoption of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action is celebrated. In 1995 during the IV World Conference on Women, world leaders committed themselves to promote equality, development and peace to women around the world.
The Beijing Declaration remains as current as it was 15 years ago: as long as women are not liberated from poverty and injustice all the objectives for which we work – peace, security and sustainable development - will be threatened. There are several examples of progress, although gender stereotyping and discrimination based on gender persist in all cultures and communities.
The International Women's Day is an opportunity to make a critical review of the successes achieved over the past 15 years, which are not few, and to take stock on how to achieve what is missing.
In Cape Verde a lot has been done since the independence in favor of women, allowing to create a favorable environment for increased participation of women, and to contribute to the development of the country. Great results have been achieved with emphasis on education, health, and political participation of women over the last years. Highlighting at the government level, among the ministers, eight are women.
However, it cannot be said that women have achieved the same equality as men, to emphasize the important achievements in favor of women in Cape Verde and thereby stimulate and continue this struggle. Because social ills still persist, such as unemployment, extreme poverty which affects mostly female heads of households, and the violence against women, that are in flagrant contradiction with the promise contained in the Charter of the United Nations "to promote the social progress and better standards of life in a broader concept of freedom".
The consequences of the violence for women and girls as well as to their families, communities and societies are incalculable. Too often the crimes are unpunished and the criminals go free. In this context the States have the responsibility to protect women and punish their aggressors, ensuring a continuing improvement of judicial processes.
With increasing frequency, men manifest themselves against this blot in our society. It is not easy to change mentalities and habits that endure for generations. It is a task for all – individuals, organizations and governments. We should work together to declare, loud and clear at the highest level, that violence against women will not be tolerated, whatever form it takes, the context in which it occurs and the circumstances that surround it.
Recognizing this fact, the African Union at the Conference of 15-year review of the implementation of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action that was celebrated in March 2010 in New York, launched the African Women's Decade 2010-2020, reaffirming the commitment assumed since the Dakar and Beijing conferences and the resolutions on gender equality and women empowerment taken by the Assembly of the African Union, to accelerate the achievement of results set out in the Millennium Development Goals.
*Ministry of Youth and President of the Council of Ministers, Ministry of Work, Family and Social Unity, Ministry of Education and Sports, Ministry of Environment, Rural Development and Marine Resources, Secretary of State Adjunct of Prime Minister.
We're back at the Monaco Ballroom on Friday December 12th for the final show of 2008!! Make sure you make it to see how the year's feuds end at this season ending super show - GPW: "Christmas Crunch"
We promise we wont crunch your credit.... we'll only crunch your Christmas!!
GPW Heavyweight Title Match
Bubblegum © vs. Dirk Feelgood
Just a few months ago you'd be forgiven for taking a double take at this match. The friendship between the two former friends totally imploded with the desire to become Heavyweight champion. Refusing to accept the demise of his friendship with Dirk Feelgood, Bubblegum spent months in turmoil not wanting to retaliate to the cutting comments and brutal attacks levelled his way by former friend and champion Feelgood. As time went by however, Bubblegum eventually unloaded on Feelgood but this will be the first time the two have ever come face to face in a one on one match. And to make things just a little more interesting... it's for the GPW Heavyweight Title. Can the fairytale championship reign continue for Bubblegum, or can Dirk shatter his dreams and become the first ever 2 time Heavyweight Champ?
Tag Team Special, Skeletor vs. Stella
Lethal Dose vs. Voodoo & "Sober" Mike Holmes
Alan Alan Alan Tasker's henchmen, Lethal Dose march into battle against former stable member Mike Holmes and the man they hold responsible for Holmes' new found sobriety - Voodoo. Cyanide and Toxic hope to tempt Holmes back over to the stable that two months ago he turned his back on. They want to snap him out of the spell they accuse Voodoo of putting him under. However, Holmes seems very happy with his new outlook on life and he and Voodoo look to send Lethal Dose packing in this tag team special. Lethal Dose have warned they will not be coming to the ring alone though, with them along with their attorney and law - Alan Alan Alan Tasker will be a 12 pack of Stella. Hoping the case of beer will prove to be a bigger demon to Holmes than the tag team itself. To fend off the 12 pack, Holmes and Voodoo will have Vooodoo's trusty skull, Skeletor in their corner. An unpredictable tag team match. Can MIke Holmes stay sober? Will Voodoo's spells work? Or will Lethal Dose deliver a beating big enough to break Voodoo's spell?
GPW British Title Match
Jak Dominotrescu vs. "Super" Sam Bailey
After pinning the British Champion last month in a tag team match, WKD's "Super" Sam Bailey has earned himself a title shot at GPW: "Christmas Crunch". Bailey, already a former tag team champion looks to add to his growing reputation by capturing his first ever singles gold in GPW. While reigning champion, Romanian Jak Domitrescu along with his cohorts - The Eastern Bloc look to make life as difficult as possible for the energetic live wire. Domitrescu has held onto the title since April this year with help from his fellow countrymen, but are his days numbered as champ? He surely wont be alone in this title outing and will have the Eastern Bloc close by, but can "Super" Sam Bailey overcome the odds to win his first singles gold in GPW?
And, the main event for the evening is...
GPW Tag Team Title 2/3 Falls Match
MIl-Anfield Connection © vs. Young Offenders
The heat just got turned up in this feud. The re-united Young Offenders have the most established tag team in GPW - The Mil-Anfield Connection firmly in their sights and not to mention the tag team trophy. These two teams met in September this year where there was no clear winner decided after the match ended in a draw. There will be NO excuses this time to not find a winner. This, for the first time in our history will be a 2/3 Falls Match for the tag team titles. A winner HAS to be decided, but who will it be? A truley epic encounter is in our midst as Jiggy Walker & "The Model" Danny Hope try to cling onto the championship that has defined them as a team and "Dangerous" Damon Leigh & Joey Hayes, The Young Offenders chase the title that one of the most popular tag teams in Europe have never held. Can the re-united friends overcome the well established unit that is The Mil-Anfield Connection? Or can the well oiled duo of the Mil-Anfield do what they've been doing all year and win again?
GPW British Title No.1 Contenders Match
Harry Doogle vs. Juice vs. Dylan Roberts vs. Chris Echo
After an eye catchingly good year from rookie Dylan Roberts, he has been included in this battle to earn a shot at the British Title. With a burning desire to win and the fans firmly behind him, Roberts could well mark his arrival onto the main roster by becoming the No.1 Contender and going for gold here. However, his opponents wont give him an easy ride. In a wonderful CC-08 tournament, no one impressed more than WKD's Chris Echo. Echo reached the CC-08 finals with two broken wrists and proved he is ready to take a step up. His previous attempts for British gold have been thwarted by the foreign legion numbers of the Eastern Bloc, is he ready to prove again that he is worthy of being No.1 Contender and finally lift the British title? Juice, the current CC8 champion has been as impressive as ever in singles competition this year, but can he compete in this match with 3 others all vying to be No.1 Contender? Also replacing Jervis Cottonbelly due to injury is Harry Doogle as a last minute entry could one half of the next gen score the upset win? , but with so many possible outcomes who will leave with the plaudits and go on to challenge for the British Title next year?
Lumberjack Match
Si Valour vs. Heresy
A violent and personal feud that has lasted all year long finally comes to a head in what promises to be a violent Lumberjack Match. Ever since brutalising Valour and cutting off all his hair, Heresy has, in some form or other dodged the challenge of Valour. Heresy claimed not to have lost his bottle or be running scared of the 2007 Break Out Star, yet during their Bull Rope clash at GPW: "V" where the two were tied to one another, Heresy still managed to find a way of escaping and creating distance between him and Valour. This time, in a special Lumberjack Match, no matter where either man go - there will be no escape. All lumberjacks will be at the ready to ensure neither man can escape the others clutches and a clear winner, one way or the other will HAVE to be decided. There will be nowhere to run to and nowhere to hide, no matter where they look. Heresy has been one step ahead of Valour all year, is this where he runs out of excuses, or can the master manipulator manipulate another win?
We're back at the Monaco Ballroom on Friday December 12th for the final show of 2008!! Make sure you make it to see how the year's feuds end at this season ending super show - GPW: "Christmas Crunch"
We promise we wont crunch your credit.... we'll only crunch your Christmas!!
GPW Heavyweight Title Match
Bubblegum © vs. Dirk Feelgood
Just a few months ago you'd be forgiven for taking a double take at this match. The friendship between the two former friends totally imploded with the desire to become Heavyweight champion. Refusing to accept the demise of his friendship with Dirk Feelgood, Bubblegum spent months in turmoil not wanting to retaliate to the cutting comments and brutal attacks levelled his way by former friend and champion Feelgood. As time went by however, Bubblegum eventually unloaded on Feelgood but this will be the first time the two have ever come face to face in a one on one match. And to make things just a little more interesting... it's for the GPW Heavyweight Title. Can the fairytale championship reign continue for Bubblegum, or can Dirk shatter his dreams and become the first ever 2 time Heavyweight Champ?
Tag Team Special, Skeletor vs. Stella
Lethal Dose vs. Voodoo & "Sober" Mike Holmes
Alan Alan Alan Tasker's henchmen, Lethal Dose march into battle against former stable member Mike Holmes and the man they hold responsible for Holmes' new found sobriety - Voodoo. Cyanide and Toxic hope to tempt Holmes back over to the stable that two months ago he turned his back on. They want to snap him out of the spell they accuse Voodoo of putting him under. However, Holmes seems very happy with his new outlook on life and he and Voodoo look to send Lethal Dose packing in this tag team special. Lethal Dose have warned they will not be coming to the ring alone though, with them along with their attorney and law - Alan Alan Alan Tasker will be a 12 pack of Stella. Hoping the case of beer will prove to be a bigger demon to Holmes than the tag team itself. To fend off the 12 pack, Holmes and Voodoo will have Vooodoo's trusty skull, Skeletor in their corner. An unpredictable tag team match. Can MIke Holmes stay sober? Will Voodoo's spells work? Or will Lethal Dose deliver a beating big enough to break Voodoo's spell?
GPW British Title Match
Jak Dominotrescu vs. "Super" Sam Bailey
After pinning the British Champion last month in a tag team match, WKD's "Super" Sam Bailey has earned himself a title shot at GPW: "Christmas Crunch". Bailey, already a former tag team champion looks to add to his growing reputation by capturing his first ever singles gold in GPW. While reigning champion, Romanian Jak Domitrescu along with his cohorts - The Eastern Bloc look to make life as difficult as possible for the energetic live wire. Domitrescu has held onto the title since April this year with help from his fellow countrymen, but are his days numbered as champ? He surely wont be alone in this title outing and will have the Eastern Bloc close by, but can "Super" Sam Bailey overcome the odds to win his first singles gold in GPW?
And, the main event for the evening is...
GPW Tag Team Title 2/3 Falls Match
MIl-Anfield Connection © vs. Young Offenders
The heat just got turned up in this feud. The re-united Young Offenders have the most established tag team in GPW - The Mil-Anfield Connection firmly in their sights and not to mention the tag team trophy. These two teams met in September this year where there was no clear winner decided after the match ended in a draw. There will be NO excuses this time to not find a winner. This, for the first time in our history will be a 2/3 Falls Match for the tag team titles. A winner HAS to be decided, but who will it be? A truley epic encounter is in our midst as Jiggy Walker & "The Model" Danny Hope try to cling onto the championship that has defined them as a team and "Dangerous" Damon Leigh & Joey Hayes, The Young Offenders chase the title that one of the most popular tag teams in Europe have never held. Can the re-united friends overcome the well established unit that is The Mil-Anfield Connection? Or can the well oiled duo of the Mil-Anfield do what they've been doing all year and win again?
GPW British Title No.1 Contenders Match
Harry Doogle vs. Juice vs. Dylan Roberts vs. Chris Echo
After an eye catchingly good year from rookie Dylan Roberts, he has been included in this battle to earn a shot at the British Title. With a burning desire to win and the fans firmly behind him, Roberts could well mark his arrival onto the main roster by becoming the No.1 Contender and going for gold here. However, his opponents wont give him an easy ride. In a wonderful CC-08 tournament, no one impressed more than WKD's Chris Echo. Echo reached the CC-08 finals with two broken wrists and proved he is ready to take a step up. His previous attempts for British gold have been thwarted by the foreign legion numbers of the Eastern Bloc, is he ready to prove again that he is worthy of being No.1 Contender and finally lift the British title? Juice, the current CC8 champion has been as impressive as ever in singles competition this year, but can he compete in this match with 3 others all vying to be No.1 Contender? Also replacing Jervis Cottonbelly due to injury is Harry Doogle as a last minute entry could one half of the next gen score the upset win? , but with so many possible outcomes who will leave with the plaudits and go on to challenge for the British Title next year?
Lumberjack Match
Si Valour vs. Heresy
A violent and personal feud that has lasted all year long finally comes to a head in what promises to be a violent Lumberjack Match. Ever since brutalising Valour and cutting off all his hair, Heresy has, in some form or other dodged the challenge of Valour. Heresy claimed not to have lost his bottle or be running scared of the 2007 Break Out Star, yet during their Bull Rope clash at GPW: "V" where the two were tied to one another, Heresy still managed to find a way of escaping and creating distance between him and Valour. This time, in a special Lumberjack Match, no matter where either man go - there will be no escape. All lumberjacks will be at the ready to ensure neither man can escape the others clutches and a clear winner, one way or the other will HAVE to be decided. There will be nowhere to run to and nowhere to hide, no matter where they look. Heresy has been one step ahead of Valour all year, is this where he runs out of excuses, or can the master manipulator manipulate another win?
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Mission Log from Cpt. Bannon: Our original mission was to ensure the imperial energy supply from the drilling platforms on the surface of Sarapin. However, things took an unexpected turn, when we received a direct holo transmission from Moff Barthol. Barthols number one agent, Lord Amus has revealed that Senator Belrus is in league with the New Republic and that he is secretly scheming to undermine the Commenor Remnant. Personally I’ve always felt that Commenor has been a little too lenient with the New Rebuplic. Sometimes you’ve got to wonder - what happened to the glory of the Empire?
Log update: We have received word that the treacherous Senator Belrus is in fact on Sarapin. How convenient that he is meeting with the administrator overseeing Sarapin mining. We have been instructed to rendezvous with Agent Amus and his men on the surface in order to capture the senator and return him to imperial custody.
A few moments later on a landing platform at the Sarapin mining administrations headquarters…
Cpt. Bannon: Senator! STOP! There’s nowhere to run! You are under arrest for treason against the Empire!
Administrator Shatul: Kill hime! Kill ze traitor!
Agent Amus: Sure would save us a lot of paperwork! But... Our job is to bring him in.
Belrus: Yes! I surrender! Take me back to Commenor… I demand to talk to High Command!
Cpt. Bannon: Right awa…
Agent Amus: Would you like a cup of Jawa Juice as well? Your imperial rights was revoked the moment you sided with the Republic scum! Take him away!
///
I've spent a little more time on this build - let me know what you think! A few inspirational shoutouts to: ARKUM ELO and Thorsten Bonsch!
Spectacular Sky & Sea Splitting Sunset Seaside Scene - IMRAN™
It is incredible how quickly time and life fly. I have not posted anything from my laptop since late August. That is when I finally made it back to New York for the first time after nearly 18-months of staying in Florida during the pandemic.
It was great to be back in my forever-American-hometown, Manhattan, New York City for an annual reunion with my childhood friends. We had skipped last year's meetup because of the much worse and uncertain pandemic situation then. Now we were all fully vaccinated, and still fully masked when near others or for appropriate situations.
I also made it to my blessed Long Island home for the first time m that period too. I am so blessed both my Florida and my New York homes survived Hurricane Herni and Hurricane Irma in quick succession respectively.
I honestly did not get a chance to do 10% of what I thought I would get done during my New York homestay. But the beautiful beloved girl who took up my time during those days now owes me a week-long visit to ensure I catch up on my tasks there. LOL. But, no, I am not complaining.
Back home in Apollo Beach this week, I only managed to take out my drone for a quick sunset flight tonight. Summer is still here, but it is right after the Labor Day weekend. This is an HDR (high dynamic range) photo from two regular photos. They were taken with the 5-years old DJI Phantom 4 drone.
I found it interesting how the sharply cut-off low clouds over the Saint Petersberg horizon make the right one-third of the sea (or Tampa Bay water in this case) appear such a different color than the left. Enjoy this moment of gratitude with me at Maghreb prayers time.
© 2021 IMRAN™
This sign is close to the edge of the car park and to the coastal path at Senhouse Roman Museum. The fort here was set at the Western edge of Hadrian’s Wall. The path of the wall today is taken as running from Wallsend, Tyne and Wear in the East to Bowness-on-Solway, Cumbria. Alauna, or Senhouse was the location for a fort and civilian town at a strategic cliff and port to ensure that troops, travellers, traders and even tourists could not out flank Hadrian’s Wall across the mud flats and tidal river mouth.
If you have a chance to see this sign and to visit the museum and the Promenade that stretches out along Hadrian’s Cycleway all on wheelchair accessible paths then do enjoy the amazing museum and the natural wonders around the visible Roman fort and town that is still being excavated and studied as well as Mary Port that is still home to many people to this day.
The starry night backdrop is a Photoshop addition that I have edited rather dramatically.
© PHH Sykes 2023
phhsykes@gmail.com
Senhouse Roman Museum
Casual Chic Enchantress: A Winter Statement with the Enchantress Runa Outfit
The Runa Outfit is the epitome of bold, versatile fashion. Featuring a Fatpack HUD with 20 stunning colors, it allows you to create endless combinations to suit your mood or occasion. For this look, I selected a striking palette of red, black, and white to craft a bold yet refined ensemble perfect for the season.
Key Design Features
The Top & Skirt:
The crimson red crop top and matching mini skirt are the centerpiece of this outfit. The top’s sleek, body-hugging design offers a flattering silhouette, while the skirt’s daringly short hemline adds a touch of playfulness. Their glossy finish ensures a polished and cohesive look, perfectly showcasing the vibrant red chosen from the Fatpack HUD.
The Long Coat:
A standout feature of the Runa Outfit is the luxurious long coat included with the set. This cozy gray coat is both stylish and practical, draping effortlessly over the shoulders to provide warmth and texture. Its soft, neutral tone complements the vibrant red and sleek black elements, grounding the outfit in understated elegance.
The Boots:
The outfit is completed by the addition of thigh-high black leather boots. These boots make a bold statement with their sleek, fitted design and high block heels, offering both drama and comfort. They add an edgy contrast to the sophistication of the long coat and the boldness of the red tones.
Accessories: The Perfect Finishing Touch to Consider
Wide-Brim Hat: The oversized burgundy hat with white trim enhances the outfit’s chic aesthetic while tying together the red and white tones from the chosen color palette.
Glasses & Earrings: Angular, translucent sunglasses and bold red statement earrings add a modern, polished edge, completing the overall look with finesse.
Final Thoughts
The Runa Outfit is a masterclass in blending fashion-forward pieces with timeless appeal. The inclusion of the Fatpack HUD makes it a wardrobe essential, giving you the freedom to customize your outfit with 20 gorgeous colors. For this ensemble, the red, black, and white palette creates a bold, sophisticated statement that’s sure to turn heads. The long coat adds versatility and elegance, while the boots and accessories elevate the look to enchantress-level chic.
Whether you’re out exploring or attending a soirée, the [Enchantress] Runa Outfit guarantees you’ll shine. Ready to make your mark? Use the Fatpack HUD to craft your own personal style and step out with confidence.
Taxi to Mainstore: maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/LeLa%20Island/48/141/2232
Wow.
We saw the Taj Mahal in the late afternoon as soon as we got into Agra. It's absolutely, truly unbelievable. I don't want to sound arrogant but I've been to an awful lot of places and I have to say the Taj is top of the charts as far as simply incredible human structures. Adriana and I had a field day spending the afternoon there. We had a guide who was just out of this world, a gentleman from Agra who not only gave us a great tour but also pushed, shoved, and jostled for position amongst the throngs of thousands to ensure we got the pictures we wanted. :)
I posted this one for my 365, if you're looking at the Taj when you walk down the reflecting pool it's taken from the right side. I liked the sun flare and silhouette of the person admiring the building.
India has a lot to offer and the Taj is well worth all the hassle with respect to Indian visas and the drive from Dehli and everything else. It's really a site you should see before you die.
Azure Kingfisher
Ceyx azureus
March 9th, 2024
Buffalo Creek, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
Canon EOS R5
Canon EF 600mm f4L IS III USM lens
This is a bird that I've been chasing a decent shot of for a long time, & in 2024 I FINALLY managed one - the magnificent Azure Kingfisher!
A friend of mine, former bird photographer James White, located an active nest tunnel in an embankment of a river, that was being tended to by a pair of kingfishers returning with prey for their offspring. I was surprised by the size of some of the fish they caught to feed their chicks. Before entering their nesting tunnel, the birds would land on this specific perch, pausing motionless for a few moments, ensuring the coast was clear before flying directly into the cavity. This provided the opportunity to capture the beautiful deep blue iridescent plumage & bright orange feet against the golden water coloured by the late afternoon sun.
Photographing at this location at this particular time proved to be quite a challenge. As the sun was setting, we had to make our way out of the mangroves wading in chest-deep water as a king tide came up the river as we were hiding on the embankment. Thankfully we made it through unscathed, but not the smartest decision given the ever present risk of saltwater crocs in the area.
Canon EOS 6D - f/8 - 1/100sec - 100mm - ISO 400
This Aluminum Egg Wedger is perfect for creating tasty creations.
It has three stainless steel wires that cut the hard boiled egg in six, equal wedges. It ensures that the egg white and yolk stay together when cut.
Made from polished, die cast aluminum with a heavy-duty spring.
- large -
Two apple trees in a cow pasture. It's kind of amazing there are only two of them, seeing as they drop all their apples on the ground and the cows have a favourite path straight under to ensure new trees would have plenty of nourishment. But then again, I suppose they trample any little sprout that might find daylight.
Combining 5 exposures of 1/15 1/8 1/4 0.5 & 1 second
Aperture: f/11
Focal Length: 50 mm
ISO Speed: 200
ND8 filter
Prompt: create a digital fine art, ultra-realistic, of two young girls in white nightgowns, with their Westie puppy, beside the decorated Christmas tree, illuminated by soft morning sunlight streaming through the tall window. The girls are wrapping a present as their Westie puppy watches. Keep all proportions, shadows, reflections, and floor patterns unchanged. Refine the brushwork to a clean digital-fine-art finish with subtle texture, preserving natural color harmony, and soft contrast. Do not alter faces, poses, hair, clothing, or gifts. Ensure seamless edges, no artifacts, and consistent lighting direction. Square aspect ratio, realistic depth, no noise effect
This digital fine art was created using Nano Banana AI and Photoshop
Took the gear for a run to ensure that all is well and working for the two longer trips that start in 3 weeks. Was going to go over and get a bit closer but was lazy and just sat on the levee bank, close to the coffee. The light trails lower left created by a guy , his torch and his dog walking around and around, some extra light on the lower right from someone heading over to take some pictures, had to mask out some of the super bright stuff. Also a huge night for meteors, with two really bright ones, the brightest one, seen in alot of queensland lighting up the whole sky and leaving a huge trail, but it was behind me. One smaller one in the frames.
Mule Deer (Odocoileus hemionus). Socorro County, New Mexico.
I like an image that tells a story, especially one that requires the viewer spend some time examining it to tease the story out, or form their own story based on their interpretation of what is being depicted.
To me, this image shows a powerful mule deer buck, standing defiant in the face of some perceived threat. As the does of his harem retreat, he stands guard ensuring they escape to safety. Admittedly, this may be a personification of what really happens in these types of situations. But then again, maybe it isn't. Others viewing this image may not see the same thing, and that's ok. Photography is art, and art is subjective.
Happy 2022, I hope it brings good things to all of you and your loved ones!
In a sumo training stable, the person responsible for holding the salt bowl is usually a junior wrestler or a low-ranking member of the stable. This duty is considered a humble and essential task. Before a sumo match, it is a tradition for wrestlers to purify themselves and the ring by tossing salt as a symbolic gesture. The person holding the salt bowl provides it to the wrestler, ensuring they have an ample supply for the ritual before they enter the ring. The salt purification ritual is a significant part of sumo culture, symbolizing the purification of the ring and the removal of evil spirits.
Tokitsukaze Stable Tokyo, Japan
December, 2023
Nelson, NOVA ZELANDA 2023
Nelson Central School is a public primary school located in the heart of Nelson, New Zealand. Founded in the mid-19th century, it is one of the oldest schools in the region. The school provides quality education, focusing on the academic, social, and emotional development of its students. It features spacious, green grounds with modern facilities for its pupils. In addition to traditional subjects, the school encourages extracurricular activities such as art, music, and sports. The school community is strongly involved in the educational process. Nelson Central School is known for its inclusive and welcoming environment. Teachers work collaboratively to ensure all children succeed. The school plays an important role in shaping the future generations of the city.
Before the hoods rose up there was a brief incursion against Pensar when he took full military and political control of the city from the War Room. The War Room was, for a long period of time, the Spanish Command in the city. It also influenced the politics of the city in order to ensure their dominance. The War Room itself consisted of 23 members one of whom was a Crimean War Veteran nicknamed "The General". He was one of the major figures in the room and got his nickname from his success in battle. The War Room as a location was located in the middle building of the three Pensar Towers, the largest group of buildings in the city. When Pensar took control of the city he had the War Room abolished and those the members loyal to him moved to his board of directors(he isn't a politician he's a businessman). The General however realized what had happened and with a garrison of about 120 men took the lower half of Pensar Towers and some surrounding buildings including an armory, he also brutally executed 8 out of the 12 members of the War Room that were loyal to Pensar. Along with this he gained some supplies from the still underground Hoods but before the Hoods could revolt his incursion was put down,
The General's Rebellion did however inspire many Hood members to begin talking about a second uprising(the first took place when the Spanish took over the Western Half of America but failed within weeks).
"School's out for summer
School's out forever"
Credit to the front of the tank goes to Max.
Excerpt from winterstations.com:
One Canada
Design Team: University of Guelph, School of Environmental Design & Rural Development – Alex Feenstra, Megan Haralovich, Zhengyang Hua, Noah Tran, Haley White & Connor Winrow, Lead by Assistant Professor Afshin Ashari and Associate Professor Sean Kelly (Canada)
Description
The Indigenous Peoples in Canada are an inspirational example of resilience due to their ability to withstand adversity and persevere through generations of oppressive colonial policies. Historic injustices persist, including the effects of cultural genocide from the residential school system of Canada. Here we symbolize bridging the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Peoples through gathering. Accomplished through the support of the seven grandfather teachings, represented by the seven rings of the installation, that originated with the Anishnabae Peoples, passed down through generations that ensures the survival of all Indigenous Peoples: Wisdom, Love, Respect, Bravery, Honesty, Humility, and Truth. Orange represents the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation, and the reality that the support of non-Indigenous Peoples, as Indigenous Peoples assert rights to self-determination, will strengthen relations and begin to redress the historic wrongs. Orange is displayed in the ropes where the pattern pays homage to the creation of drums, where the ropes were weaved to honour culture. The installations flow towards the lifeguard stand reinforces the strengthening of the relationship and that the protection of Canada hinges on the unity between peoples. We aim to symbolize movement to a new relationship, one based on mutual respect that honours Indigenous treaties and rights. The road forward is long and nonlinear, but we commit to take the journey together.
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REFORD GARDENS | LES JARDINS DE METIS
MECONOPSIS BETONICIFOLIA
Himalayan flower imported by Elsie Reford in the early 1930s that has since become the floral emblem of the Gardens.
Visit : www.refordgardens.com/
From Wikipedia: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elsie_Reford
Elsie Stephen Meighen - born January 22, 1872, Perth, Ontario - and Robert Wilson Reford - born in 1867, Montreal - got married on June 12, 1894.
Elsie Reford was a pioneer of Canadian horticulture, creating one of the largest private gardens in Canada on her estate, Estevan Lodge in eastern Québec. Located in Grand-Métis on the south shore of the St. Lawrence River, her gardens have been open to the public since 1962 and operate under the name Les Jardins de Métis and Reford Gardens.
Born January 22, 1872 at Perth, Ontario, Elsie Reford was the eldest of three children born to Robert Meighen and Elsie Stephen. Coming from modest backgrounds themselves, Elsie’s parents ensured that their children received a good education. After being educated in Montreal, she was sent to finishing school in Dresden and Paris, returning to Montreal fluent in both German and French, and ready to take her place in society.
She married Robert Wilson Reford on June 12, 1894. She gave birth to two sons, Bruce in 1895 and Eric in 1900. Robert and Elsie Reford were, by many accounts, an ideal couple. In 1902, they built a house on Drummond Street in Montreal. They both loved the outdoors and they spend several weeks a year in a log cabin they built at Lac Caribou, south of Rimouski. In the autumn they hunted for caribou, deer, and ducks. They returned in winter to ski and snowshoe. Elsie Reford also liked to ride. She had learned as a girl and spent many hours riding on the slopes of Mount Royal. And of course, there was salmon-fishing – a sport at which she excelled.
In her day, she was known for her civic, social, and political activism. She was engaged in philanthropic activities, particularly for the Montreal Maternity Hospital and she was also the moving force behind the creation of the Women’s Canadian Club of Montreal, the first women club in Canada. She believed it important that the women become involved in debates over the great issues of the day, « something beyond the local gossip of the hour ». Her acquaintance with Lord Grey, the Governor-General of Canada from 1904 to 1911, led to her involvement in organizing, in 1908, Québec City’s tercentennial celebrations. The event was one of many to which she devoted herself in building bridges with French-Canadian community.
During the First World War, she joined her two sons in England and did volunteer work at the War Office, translating documents from German into English. After the war, she was active in the Victorian Order of Nurses, the Montreal Council of Social Agencies, and the National Association of Conservative Women.
In 1925 at the age of 53 years, Elsie Reford was operated for appendicitis and during her convalescence, her doctor counselled against fishing, fearing that she did not have the strength to return to the river.”Why not take up gardening?” he said, thinking this a more suitable pastime for a convalescent woman of a certain age. That is why she began laying out the gardens and supervising their construction. The gardens would take ten years to build, and would extend over more than twenty acres.
Elsie Reford had to overcome many difficulties in bringing her garden to life. First among them were the allergies that sometimes left her bedridden for days on end. The second obstacle was the property itself. Estevan was first and foremost a fishing lodge. The site was chosen because of its proximity to a salmon river and its dramatic views – not for the quality of the soil.
To counter-act nature’s deficiencies, she created soil for each of the plants she had selected, bringing peat and sand from nearby farms. This exchange was fortuitous to the local farmers, suffering through the Great Depression. Then, as now, the gardens provided much-needed work to an area with high unemployment. Elsie Reford’s genius as a gardener was born of the knowledge she developed of the needs of plants. Over the course of her long life, she became an expert plantsman. By the end of her life, Elsie Reford was able to counsel other gardeners, writing in the journals of the Royal Horticultural Society and the North American Lily Society. Elsie Reford was not a landscape architect and had no training of any kind as a garden designer. While she collected and appreciated art, she claimed no talents as an artist.
Elsie Stephen Reford died at her Drummond Street home on November 8, 1967 in her ninety-sixth year.
In 1995, the Reford Gardens ("Jardins de Métis") in Grand-Métis were designated a National Historic Site of Canada, as being an excellent Canadian example of the English-inspired garden.(Wikipedia)
Visit : en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elsie_Reford
Visit : www.refordgardens.com
LES JARDINS DE MÉTIS
Créés par Elsie Reford de 1926 à 1958, ces jardins témoignent de façon remarquable de l’art paysager à l’anglaise. Disposés dans un cadre naturel, un ensemble de jardins exhibent fleurs vivaces, arbres et arbustes. Le jardin des pommetiers, les rocailles et l’Allée royale évoquent l’œuvre de cette dame passionnée d’horticulture. Agrémenté d’un ruisseau et de sentiers sinueux, ce site jouit d’un microclimat favorable à la croissance d’espèces uniques au Canada. Les pavots bleus et les lis, privilégiés par Mme Reford, y fleurissent toujours et contribuent , avec d’autres plantes exotiques et indigènes, à l’harmonie de ces lieux.
Created by Elsie Reford between 1926 and 1958, these gardens are an inspired example of the English art of the garden. Woven into a natural setting, a series of gardens display perennials, trees and shrubs. A crab-apple orchard, a rock garden, and the Long Walk are also the legacy of this dedicated horticulturist. A microclimate favours the growth of species found nowhere else in Canada, while the stream and winding paths add to the charm. Elsie Reford’s beloved blue poppies and lilies still bloom and contribute, with other exotic and indigenous plants, to the harmony of the site.
Commission des lieux et monuments historiques du Canada
Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada.
Gouvernement du Canada – Government of Canada
© Copyright
This photo and all those in my Photostream are protected by copyright. No one may reproduce, copy, transmit or manipulate them without my written permission.
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Visit : www.refordgardens.com/
From Wikipedia:
Elsie Stephen Meighen - born January 22, 1872, Perth, Ontario - and Robert Wilson Reford - born in 1867, Montreal - got married on June 12, 1894.
Elsie Reford was a pioneer of Canadian horticulture, creating one of the largest private gardens in Canada on her estate, Estevan Lodge in eastern Québec. Located in Grand-Métis on the south shore of the St. Lawrence River, her gardens have been open to the public since 1962 and operate under the name Les Jardins de Métis and Reford Gardens.
Born January 22, 1872 at Perth, Ontario, Elsie Reford was the eldest of three children born to Robert Meighen and Elsie Stephen. Coming from modest backgrounds themselves, Elsie’s parents ensured that their children received a good education. After being educated in Montreal, she was sent to finishing school in Dresden and Paris, returning to Montreal fluent in both German and French, and ready to take her place in society.
She married Robert Wilson Reford on June 12, 1894. She gave birth to two sons, Bruce in 1895 and Eric in 1900. Robert and Elsie Reford were, by many accounts, an ideal couple. In 1902, they built a house on Drummond Street in Montreal. They both loved the outdoors and they spend several weeks a year in a log cabin they built at Lac Caribou, south of Rimouski. In the autumn they hunted for caribou, deer, and ducks. They returned in winter to ski and snowshoe. Elsie Reford also liked to ride. She had learned as a girl and spent many hours riding on the slopes of Mount Royal. And of course, there was salmon-fishing – a sport at which she excelled.
In her day, she was known for her civic, social, and political activism. She was engaged in philanthropic activities, particularly for the Montreal Maternity Hospital and she was also the moving force behind the creation of the Women’s Canadian Club of Montreal, the first women club in Canada. She believed it important that the women become involved in debates over the great issues of the day, « something beyond the local gossip of the hour ». Her acquaintance with Lord Grey, the Governor-General of Canada from 1904 to 1911, led to her involvement in organizing, in 1908, Québec City’s tercentennial celebrations. The event was one of many to which she devoted herself in building bridges with French-Canadian community.
During the First World War, she joined her two sons in England and did volunteer work at the War Office, translating documents from German into English. After the war, she was active in the Victorian Order of Nurses, the Montreal Council of Social Agencies, and the National Association of Conservative Women.
In 1925 at the age of 53 years, Elsie Reford was operated for appendicitis and during her convalescence, her doctor counselled against fishing, fearing that she did not have the strength to return to the river.”Why not take up gardening?” he said, thinking this a more suitable pastime for a convalescent woman of a certain age. That is why she began laying out the gardens and supervising their construction. The gardens would take ten years to build, and would extend over more than twenty acres.
Elsie Reford had to overcome many difficulties in bringing her garden to life. First among them were the allergies that sometimes left her bedridden for days on end. The second obstacle was the property itself. Estevan was first and foremost a fishing lodge. The site was chosen because of its proximity to a salmon river and its dramatic views – not for the quality of the soil.
To counter-act nature’s deficiencies, she created soil for each of the plants she had selected, bringing peat and sand from nearby farms. This exchange was fortuitous to the local farmers, suffering through the Great Depression. Then, as now, the gardens provided much-needed work to an area with high unemployment. Elsie Reford’s genius as a gardener was born of the knowledge she developed of the needs of plants. Over the course of her long life, she became an expert plantsman. By the end of her life, Elsie Reford was able to counsel other gardeners, writing in the journals of the Royal Horticultural Society and the North American Lily Society. Elsie Reford was not a landscape architect and had no training of any kind as a garden designer. While she collected and appreciated art, she claimed no talents as an artist.
Elsie Stephen Reford died at her Drummond Street home on November 8, 1967 in her ninety-sixth year.
In 1995, the Reford Gardens ("Jardins de Métis") in Grand-Métis were designated a National Historic Site of Canada, as being an excellent Canadian example of the English-inspired garden.(Wikipedia)
Visit : en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elsie_Reford
Visit : www.refordgardens.com
LES JARDINS DE MÉTIS
Créés par Elsie Reford de 1926 à 1958, ces jardins témoignent de façon remarquable de l’art paysager à l’anglaise. Disposés dans un cadre naturel, un ensemble de jardins exhibent fleurs vivaces, arbres et arbustes. Le jardin des pommetiers, les rocailles et l’Allée royale évoquent l’œuvre de cette dame passionnée d’horticulture. Agrémenté d’un ruisseau et de sentiers sinueux, ce site jouit d’un microclimat favorable à la croissance d’espèces uniques au Canada. Les pavots bleus et les lis, privilégiés par Mme Reford, y fleurissent toujours et contribuent , avec d’autres plantes exotiques et indigènes, à l’harmonie de ces lieux.
Created by Elsie Reford between 1926 and 1958, these gardens are an inspired example of the English art of the garden. Woven into a natural setting, a series of gardens display perennials, trees and shrubs. A crab-apple orchard, a rock garden, and the Long Walk are also the legacy of this dedicated horticulturist. A microclimate favours the growth of species found nowhere else in Canada, while the stream and winding paths add to the charm. Elsie Reford’s beloved blue poppies and lilies still bloom and contribute, with other exotic and indigenous plants, to the harmony of the site.
Commission des lieux et monuments historiques du Canada
Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada.
Gouvernement du Canada – Government of Canada
© Copyright
This photo and all those in my Photostream are protected by copyright. No one may reproduce, copy, transmit or manipulate them without my written permission.
The goose which flew in autumn is negula to the gap of the lake where the withering lotus still remains. In the last few years, the Ministry of the Environment has been working to hunt the Lotus artificially to ensure the water surface of about 100,000 goose can accommodate.
SOOC Image Straight Out Of Camera!! NO editing, tweaking, of ANY kind. Only framed in Photoshop & saved ~15MB RAW image as an under 5MB JPG.
<Bille Jean, the song by the late pop idol Michael Jackson, has to be one of the most popular, interesting, memorable and enjoyable songs of all times. It also resonates with me in ways that I cannot go into detail here, at least not without ensuring the end of any future political career. LOL.
Liliy, gene king, (sorry, couldn't resist the link to Bille Jean King, the Tennis star), almost as much as roses, are also always among the most enjoyable, popular, colorful and delightful flowers around.
I do not know the name of this exact variety that my next door neighbors, Mrs. & Mr. M, recently planted, in the area in front of our homes. But, even as I took this photo, I had NO idea how stunned even I would be, when I saw it as a desktop picture on my 27" iMac.
What was stunning in impact was the explosively subtle range of colors along the length of even one single petal.
Maybe it's me. Maybe I am too romantic, too passionate, too filled with lust for love, and love for lust...
Or, maybe it IS in the air, all around, if only we would open our eyes and see, our loves, our beloved lovers, lying waiting in front of us.....
The luscious pink petal's furled edges welcoming the eye and caressing looks deep into its folds, of delectable vanilla milky smooth skin, with stamens rising up on dimpled skin to welcome loving carriers of life, to enter, and meld in eternity, softly entwined in the embrace of tendrils, on a soft dark and light bokeh bed.
Lily gene, IS my love(r), but was not in MY (flower)bed ;) ... and I hope it's "child" grows in the sun, in coming years... while coming generations of secret lovers smile openly secretly at what the words of the song mean to them.
Long live love, long live lovers, long live children created in love. Rest in peace, Michael Jackson.
© 2010 IMRAN
DSC_5401F
I invite friends to connect at facebook.com/IMRAN.TV . Please message me and I will gladly email a 1.1MB version for your pleasure to use as a PC or Mac (or Linux of course LOL) desktop screen.
Osprey of the Jersey Shore | 2019
The 2018 Osprey Project in New Jersey:
www.conservewildlifenj.org/downloads/cwnj_853.pdf
Ospreys continue to thrive in New Jersey. Nest surveys conducted by volunteers during the peak of the nestling period (late June-early July) resulted in documenting the outcome of 87% of 589 surveyed nests. We credit the successful work by our dedicated volunteers and faithful “Osprey Watchers” to report on nests all along the coast and major rivers. The goal of this project is to monitor and manage the state population of breeding ospreys to ensure they remain stable in New Jersey. We hope that the work conducted as a part of this project will help protect the species while closely monitoring for any indication of emerging threats.
The Osprey (Pandion haliaetus), sometimes known as the Sea Hawk, Fish Eagle or Fish Hawk, is a diurnal, fish-eating bird of prey. It is a large Raptor, reaching more than 24 inches in length and a 71 inches wingspan. It is brown on the upper parts and predominantly greyish on the head and under parts, with a black eye patch and wings. In 1994, the osprey was declared the provincial bird of Nova Scotia, Canada.
For more info: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Osprey
As Mateo and I came staggering out of the tomb, the snow instantly reflected the light into our eyes. We checked our gear ensuring everything was in order. Knowing full well what had just occurred, I thought I would never see daylight again. As we continued moving further away from the tomb a gunship appeared on the horizon.
As the gunship came into range, one of the men on the gunship shouted;
“No time for a break boys! We tracked that Dark Jedi as he was exiting the system, and command has an idea of where he’s going. We’re loading back onto the Absolver and shipping out.”
On board the Absolver there was a briefing room with other squad leaders. Jester one of the of main commanders, leading the briefing said:
“Republic High Command was able to track our Dark Acolyte as he exited the system, and they’ve pinpointed three potential planets he could be headed to: Tion, Muunilinst, or Dantooine. The 212th and 501st have their orders, and so do we. We’ve been assigned to Dantooine. The planet is deep in Republic space in the Outer Rim, and far from enemy lines. We doubt the Dark Acolyte would have any reason to travel to the agri-world, but High Command wants us there regardless.”
As the briefing came to an end, I started to walk to my barracks, in that walk a brief moment on my time on Kamino re-entered my mind. Hours before Geonosis I had been in the barracks joking with a brother saying what could go wrong. That all the training and simulations would kick in once we got into combat. Little did I know what my brothers and I were in for. All I could feel was the excitement and the suspense as we were putting on our gear and heading out of the barracks.
For better or worse whatever happens now, when we come in contact with this Dark Acolyte there's gonna be pain... and justice.
An adobe house is almost the only case of construction from a completely natural, organic material. Ecologically, this is the optimal method of construction, which really ensures high environmental friendliness of life, a healthy indoor microclimate, etc. The traditional method of producing adobe varies greatly among different nations and in different places. As a rule, clay is used for this, although often also ordinary black soil, in most places straw is also added. In the south of Ukraine, horse manure was often added to adobe as a binding material.
‘Chopper’ 20189 attempts to ensure the whole of Birmingham can hear its engines but to little avail. Dwarfed here by the skyline, it is seen working the first ‘Polar Express’ of the day, 1Z07 12:02 Birmingham Moor Street - Dorridge past Small Heath. Note the abandoned cartics in Caledonia Yard to the left. Also in Caledonia Yard, 66606 can also be seen as its train is unloaded following arrival on 6G67 05:33 Tunstead Sidings - Small Heath Lafarge.
The dominant male returning to the beach to claim his harem and ensure there are no intruders! Seen on South Plaza Island.
Polished marble floors, brass fixtures and fittings, and spacious rooms contribute to the general opulence of this much-loved resort. Eating spots include sea-view cafes and a brasserie-style French restaurant. A cinema, high-speed internet access, a jungle playground, mini-waterfall and family pool ensure the kids are kept happy while parents luxuriate in the spa.
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Quick description via booking.com
This Marriott Dead Sea Resort & Spa, on the shores of the mineral rich Dead Sea is set against the backdrop of rugged mountains. It features saltwater and fresh water pools, whirlpools and saunas. All air-conditioned rooms feature soothing colours and balconies, some of which overlook the Dead Sea. The beds are made with luxurious down comforters and feather pillows. A hairdryer, safe and minibar are all available. The Marriott Dead Sea Resort's extensive spa offers a pleasant retreat where guest can enjoy rejuvenating beauty and health treatments. There is also a lap pool and therapy baths. The Dead Sea Resort & Spa has 2 restaurants serving Italian and International fare and a steakhouse. Its choice of bars includes the Champions Sport Bar and Oasis Lounge, offering water pipes and Dead Sea views. This resort is under one hour’s drive from Queen Alia Airport. The city of Madaba, famous for its ancient mosaics, is just 35 km away. The hotel offers free parking.
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This stylish hotel spa has a heated pool, Dead Sea saltwater pool, Jacuzzi, steam room and sauna. Treatments include massages (55 minutes), body wraps, salt scrubs, phytomer and mud facials, dry flotation and hydrobaths. An Arabic loofah experience (75 minutes) has to be tried to be believed – expect your skin to glow by the end.
Went to the reserve to see the White Crowed Sparrow today but it did not show. Nice to see this reserve which is not open to the public, only permit holders!
REVISED RESERVE CLOSING TIME STARTING 1st May 2016
Please note the following change in the closing time for the Reserve - From 1st May 2016 the Reserve will close at 20:00 hours, 8:00pm, promptly. The opening time remains at 08:00 hours, 08:00am. Keys obtained with your permits will not operate the locks put in place at closing on the footbridge entrance or the first barrier at the end of Thelwall Lane. Reserve opening and closing times are displayed here on our homepage and on the No3 Bed entrance footbridge gate, please reference this notice on your way in so you are always aware of the Reserve closing time. The gate and barriers will be locked promptly at the stated time please ensure you are off the site before the closing time to prevent being locked in.
Volunteer to help the Reserve
If you wish to assist the Woolston Eyes Nature Reserve with voluntary work please contact our warden John Langley via email john.langley@rspb.org.uk or Mobile 07980 827537
Welcome to Woolston Eyes Nature Reserve
An S.S.S.I. Managed by Woolston Eyes Conservation Group
www.woolstoneyes.com/woolston-eyes/who-are-we/
1. Who are the Woolston Eyes Conservation Group?
The WECG
Woolston Eyes Conservation Group, a voluntary organisation formed in 1979, manages the rich and varied wildlife of the deposit grounds with the agreement of the Manchester Ship Canal Company. Its aim is to promote the study and conservation of the wildlife and habitat of the area with particular regard to the ornithology.
The group undertakes management work to preserve or maximise the ornithological value of the Reserve, provides and maintains hides for the use of the public and permit holders, keeps the paths open and discourages disturbance. The group produces an Annual Report which summarises the work carried out and the results obtained including the scientific study of the flora and fauna of the Reserve.
To carry out this work the group raises funds by the sale of Permits, Annual Reports and by applying for grants from various organisations. The Reserve is open from dawn to dusk throughout the year. No.3 bed access requires a permit and key for the vehicle barriers and gated footbridge entrance - see homepage for permit application details.
The group is a registered charity and our charity registration number is 700362.
Officers and Trustees of the W.E.C.G.
ChairmanBrian Ankers
Vice ChairmanDavid Bowman
Treasurer/SecretaryDouglas Buchanan
RecorderBrian Martin
Committee
John Blundell
Kieran Foster
Dave Hackett
John Haddock
Sue Haddock
Alexander Mansfield
Alan Patterson
Dave Riley
David Spencer
Frank Linley, who died in October 2002, was a long-standing member of our committee who made highly significant contributions to the Conservation Group. He played a prominent role in the presentation of Annual Reports and Newsletters, established a database of members and initiated our first website. The new Tower Hide has been dedicated to his memory.
WECG has had the privilege of the support of two nationally respected figures as our patrons. The eminent ornithologist, Chris Mead, who died in January 2003 was for many years Patron of WECG and had visited the site from time to time.
More recently the well known Naturalist and Wildlife Broadcaster Chris Packham has become our patron. Chris is best known as the presenter of the BBC programmes Springwatch and Autumnwatch. He first visited the reserve in 2006 as presenter of the BBC wildlife series Natures Calendar, filming a section for the Spring Wetlands feature.
Chris very kindly gave up his time on a chilly February evening in 2010 to entertain a packed house at Warrington’s Parr Hall with a talk and slideshow of his experiences as a naturalist and photographer in support of the group.
We must also recognise and thank Colin Woolf a leading UK wildlife artist who has generously contributed his wonderful artwork for the covers of our annual reports for a number of years. If you appreciate wildlife and stunning drawings and paintings visit Colin’s website www.wildart.co.uk admire his talent and perhaps invest in an original piece of art yourself?
Access and Permits for Woolston Eyes
A public footpath runs from the end of Weir Lane, along the west side of No.2 bed and the north side of the canal to Thelwall Lane. Access to other parts of the Reserve is strictly limited to permit holders between the hours noted on the entrance gate throughout the year. A permit entitles the holder to visit the Eyes on any number of occasions during the year and to make use of the several hides. Please use the form below when making an application. Maps of the Reserve and the principle site No.3 bed can be viewed or downloaded from the FAQ section on the top menu bar.
Permit Pricing 2016
After managing to keep our permit prices down for the past 8 years, we have reluctantly concluded that, for this coming year, we will need to raise the prices to £15-00 for a single permit and £25-00 for a family permit
The additional funds will enable us to retain the full-time services of our Estate Worker, John Langley. Buying in John’s services from the RSPB has enabled us to tackle many of our outstanding habitat management tasks, to the benefit of both wildlife and visitors. I hope you will feel able to continue supporting us in the future.
Brian Ankers WECG Chairman
The WECG wish to stress to Permit Holders that current winter access hours are 08:00 hours to 16:00 hours with gates to the Reserve and entrance track secured between these times with locks which permit holders do not have keys. The opening and closing times will vary through the year as daylight hours change so please check out the times listed on our homepage and on the entrance gate to No3 bed which will be updated accordingly. We also wish to stress the importance of locking all appropriate gates when entering or leaving the Reserve. The “disappearance” of locks from various sites could lead to insurmountable problems.
Group Visits
Woolston Eyes has become a very popular venue for visits by bird watching groups, and in order to cope efficiently with the demand a ‘Group Visit’ procedure has been established. This should enable us to avoid the situation, which has arisen in the past, where several parties arrive on the same day, causing disturbance to the Reserve and congestion and irritation in the hides.
If you wish to book an outing for your group, or bring a party of your bird watching friends to Woolston please check out the latest group visit schedule listed in the scrolling news section of the hompage then write for a booking form to:
Mrs Rosalind Martin, 45 Albert Road, Grappenhall, Warrington, Cheshire,WA4 2 PF, enclosing an SAE. It is important that at least six weeks notice is given of an intended visit.
A booking fee of £20 is normally charged for groups of up to 10 people. For groups of larger than 10 visitors, there is an additional charge of £2 for each visitor above and beyond the “10”. A warden would be available to lead the visitors if so wished (if not, a key must be obtained beforehand in order to gain access to No 3 bed).
History of the Woolston Eyes Area
Not much is known about the area known as the Eyes before the Middle Ages, but we know people were in the area during the Bronze Age, and that the Anglo-Saxons reached the region around 700 AD. In fact the word ‘Ees’ is Saxon for land near a looping watercourse, so the Germanic settlers must have arrived on the banks of the Mersey about this time. Records begin around 500 years later.
Land ownership in the township of Thelwall was fairly stable between 1300 and 1536. During medieval times a third was owned by the Clayton family and the rest by the priory of Norton. The priors owned the valuable fishing rights for the south side of the River Mersey, which if the catches of 1749 were anything to go by, (19 and 23 pound salmon landed in May of that year) were fairly substantial.
At the Dissolution of the Monasteries in 1536 all monastic land passed to the crown and all Norton Priory’s former possessions were subsequently sold to the Claytons who thus acquired the whole of Thelwall as a private estate. They sold out to the Brookes, who interestingly had purchased Norton priory itself in the 1530s, and may have been seeking to unite its former possessions. However, they in turn sold Thelwall to the Moores, and it changed hands again to the Pickering family, who probably had control of the land by the 1770s when a bridge over the newly built Bridgewater canal was named after them. Thelwall remained in private hands until the late l9th century, when the township was incorporated into Runcorn District Council.
During the winter months the Mersey flooded across the meadows of Thelwall ( the village itself situated on slightly higher ground ). In the summer it is likely that sheep were grazed on the fertile fields which were probably too wet for arable cultivation in a pre-land drain era. Regular references to the Claytons as being ‘of Shepecrofte’ may point to this.
At the time of the famous salmon hauls of the mid 18th century, certain transformations to the Ees meadows were underway, as the effects of the Industrial Revolution began to be felt. Powder mills with workers cottages were constructed where the north bank of No.2 bed currently stands. Woolston Old Cut was the first navigational improvement undertaken across the north bank of No.3 bed ( just north of where the new weir was recently dug), and had occurred by 1777, as testified to by a map of that date. The short canal, or New Cut, further shortened the journey down the river by cutting out the loop of what is now Nos 3 and 4 beds, and wharves were constructed at the southern end of Weir Lane, for boats and goods to transfer onto the canal. On the South bank of the Mersey stood Statham Chemical works. The powder mills were built in 1755, and lasted exactly a century before, ironically, being destroyed by an explosion.
The major change to the area was the construction of the Manchester Ship Canal in 1896, which radically altered the landscape, beyond simply the imposing presence of the new waterway itself. The long meanders of the Mersey through Statham were cut off and became redundant, as did the old canals to the north and the wharves. The old water meadows largely disappeared under the deposit grounds which were constructed from the 1920’s onwards. The various farmsteads which had managed a living on these lowlands ceased to exist with the arrival of the first dredgings, except for the Wilgreaves’ which continued as a working farm until No.3 bed was constructed upon the site in the late 1950’s .The old farming lifestyle which had existed up to then was swept away.
Acknowledgements
Thanks to Tony Usher for his help in getting us started and thanks also to David Bowman, Scott Kennedy and Brian Martin who wrote most of the text.
Habitat
The four beds at Woolston Deposit Grounds SSSI, are managed as a nature reserve by the Woolston Eyes Conservation Group in agreement with the Manchester Ship Canal Company. Parts of the site are still in use to accommodate dredging from the Manchester Ship Canal.
No.1 bed which is to the east of the motorway (the Thelwall Viaduct) consists primarily of rough grassland and willow scrub. Sand extraction has created a number of reedy pools which attract small numbers of Snipe and wild fowl. They are also a regular site for wintering Water Pipits.
No.2 bed is currently being used for pumping dredgings from the canal and is consequently attractive to large numbers of wildfowl. During late summer and early autumn, when water levels are at their lowest, muddy margins can appear which provide loafing areas for wildfowl, gulls and a few waders. Water Rails and the odd Spotted Crake are most easily visible at this time. Most of the water lies on the west side but during pumping the centre and east of the bed, which are predominantly willow scrub and Reed Canary Grass, can also become flooded.
No.3 bed lies to the north of a meander of the river. It has recently been made into an island by the diversion of the river along its north bank. This east side of the bed is shallowly flooded and contains extensive beds of typha and some phragmites. The western half of the bed is covered in dense vegetation, mainly grasses, nettles, thistle and willow scrub. An attempt is being made to introduce flower meadows into this area, to increase the habitat diversity, though it will be a year or two before the benefits are seen.
No.4 bed, to the west of the reserve, also lies between the river and the canal. The dredgings which were pumped onto the bed have now dried out and the silt is being excavated and sold as top dressing. The undisturbed areas of the bed are developing a dense cover of willow scrub, nettle and other rank vegetation.
All the beds are enclosed within steep embankments with rough grassland and scrub. In places taller poplars and willow grow alongside the river whose banks are covered in parts by hawthorn, elder, bramble. These banks are bird-rich at most times of year with late summer warbler flocks and early winter thrush flocks being particularly notable. The river and canal both seem to be benefiting from the slow improvement in water quality. In winter substantial flocks of diving duck, including Tufted Ducks, Pochards, Goldeneyes, Goosanders and the odd Scaup or Smew can reliably be found on the river where it encircles No.3 bed. The rubbish tips at both ends of the reserve have now closed and been capped, with both being attractive to winter feeding finches and pipits.
Bird Species
In all, two hundred and thirty two species have been recorded on the Reserve, including thirteen species of raptor, more than thirty species of wader, all five grebes, the three woodpeckers, and five species of owl. Click here for a full species list
Lying next to the Mersey, the flooded beds inevitably attract large numbers of dabbling ducks moving inland from the estuary. The Mersey Valley Pochard flock also spends time here, making this an excellent place to see winter wildfowl. Typically a thousand or more Teal are present, sometimes several times this figure, with several hundred Mallard and Pochard, a hundred or so Shoveller, Gadwall and Tufted Duck, and from a few dozen to several hundred Pintail. Ruddy Duck were also a regular feature. Other species of wildfowl occur less frequently or in smaller numbers, and scarce or rare species such as Ring-necked Duck, Feruginous and Long-tailed Duck, Green Winged Teal, Common Scoter and Smew have been noted. In late autumn and winter skeins of Pink-footed Geese can often be observed making hard weather movements to the east coast.
The water margins of No.3 bed are an excellent nesting habitat for Black-necked, Great Crested and Little Grebes plus Teal, Shoveller, Mallard, Pochard, Gadwall, Tufted and historically Ruddy Ducks. Pintail and Garganey are also suspected of breeding in some years. A similar range of species can also be found breeding on No.2 bed, dependant on water levels. A substantial Black-headed Gull colony dominates the water margins in No.3 bed and can spill over onto No.2 bed when conditions are right.
The Eyes is particularly important, in a county context, for its breeding populations of common warblers. Counts of singing males have totalled more than 200 singing Sedge Warblers, 150 Whitethroats, 100 Willow Warblers, 30 Blackcaps and a similar number of Reed Warblers, plus a dozen Grasshopper Warblers and small numbers of Chiffchaffs, Lesser Whitethroats and Garden Warblers.In the damper areas upto 100 Reed Bunting are present in summer.
Large aggregations of aerial feeders may be present from May to September, with many hundreds of Swifts joining the swirling flocks of hirundines feeding over the insect rich lagoons. In most years there is a sizeable Swallow roost, regularly up to 3,000 birds but sometimes reaching 10,000. Inevitably, a Hobby is often in attendance and provides some spectacular aerial performances. From October to early winter thousands of Redwing and other thrushes arrive to feed on the berry-rich hawthorns around the banks of the beds.
In winter roosts dwindle as food supplies diminish, although Magpies seldom seen to go hungry and over 200 continue to roost in the scrub. Finches, notably Linnets, Goldfinches and Chaffinches flock to feed on weed seeds on the drier parts of the muddy beds, with odd Siskins and Bramblings regularly located amongst them . A sprinkling of Chiffchaff remains in willow scrub during most winters and Firecrests have occasionally wintered alongside the more numerous Goldcrests.
Wader passage is much smaller than formerly due to changes in the pumping regime into the beds. Spring passage is typically light, although Common Sandpiper are seen regularly in late April and early May, and on one occasion stayed to breed. Little Ringed Plover appear annually and usually attempt to breed. The inland spread of Ringed Plover has resulted in this species also breeding. Autumn passage is much more reliable and although not as prolific as in the past, Snipe, Jack Snipe and Lapwing are reliably present, with the occasional Green Sandpiper, Dunlins, Greenshanks etc. for company.
As far as rare or scarce birds are concerned, Woolston remains a much under-watched site, offering much opportunity for the discovery of that ever-elusive rarity. Nevertheless, almost two decades of observation by a small number of enthusiasts, spread over Woolstons huge acreage, has produced some good birds, including: Storm and Leachs Petrels, Spoonbill, Bittern, Night and Purple Herons, Ring-necked and Ferruginous Ducks, Quail, Honey and Rough-legged Buzzards, Red Kite, Montagues Harrier, Temmincks Stint, White-rumped, Pectoral and Buff-breasted Sandpipers, Red-necked and Wilson`s Phalaropes, Avocet, Great and Arctic Skuas, Laughing, Mediterranean and Ring-billed Gulls, Whiskered and White-winged Black Terns, Bee-eater, Nightjar, Golden Oriole, Bluethroat, Great Grey Shrike, Marsh Warbler, Firecrest and Nutcracker.
Ringing
Over 110,000 birds have been ringed at Woolston since ringing first started here in 1980. A small team now operates on all four beds, usually from April to October each year, ringing around 4,000 birds per year. During more recent years, Woolston has taken part in an international ringing programme, aimed at studying those migratory species which winter in Africa. During the summer and early autumn large numbers of common warblers are ringed, with full biometrics taken, as part of that research programme. In the latter part of the year the focus is on tape-luring overflying finches and buntings. At any time there is the constant chance of the odd surprise, with Marsh Warbler, Bluethroat and Firecrest among the scarcer species ringed.
Ringing is a physically demanding and time consuming occupation but one which brings many rewards in terms of our knowledge of national and local bird populations. If you are interested in observing, or taking a more active part in the ringing programme, then please contact Dave Riley or Prof. David Norman through the website email facility via the ‘Contact’ tab.
I've received numerous requests to create new male skins and spent much time practicing to ensure that the quality meets our standards. I am pleased to announce that we are releasing our latest male skin, Zion. Whether you're looking to update your avatar or surprise your significant other with a new look, Zion is a perfect choice!
☁️ LANDMARK: ACCESS!
🎁 GIVEAWAY — Here are the two simple steps to enter:
1．Favorite this image
2．Comment with your in-world name
You can double your chances of winning by participating on our Flickr and Facebook. The winners will be announced on my Facebook profile! ☺
☁️ Our Zion skin line is designed specifically for LeLUTKA EvoX heads, and comes in a stunning range of 8 different skin tones - as showcased on Quinn!
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2．Our skins can be used with or without eyebrows, and our layers are fully modifiable for tinting!
très beau.
A member of the Snowbird crew preps the CT-114 Tutor in advance of the Sunday demonstration at the London Air Show.
Introducing LANEVO's 3rd Release in the Rabbits Collection: Rabbits Helmet & Hair
We're excited to finally present the third installment of LANEVO's Rabbits Collection, the "Rabbits Helmet & Hair." This product has been in the making for several months, ensuring it will exceed your expectations. Here are the details:
[Features Common to Both Single and Fatpack]
- Hair: Choose from 180 colors for your hair via the HUD.
- Rabbit Ears: Choose from 9 ear animations via HUD.
ㅤ- Natural Flow: A calm and natural movement
ㅤ- Natural Amplifier: A natural movement with larger amplitude
ㅤ- Very Long: A blend of ”Flow” and ”Amp”
ㅤ- Flap Fly: A steady flying-like movement
ㅤ- Mellow Slow: A slow and steady movement
ㅤ- BPM Options:
ㅤㅤMatch the ears' movement to the BPM of music or dance
ㅤㅤ(BPM45, BPM85, BPM160, BPM250)
- Helmet: The helmet's side components rotate.
- Additional Features:
ㅤ- Glow ON: Hair and ears are set with a Glow of 0.01
ㅤ- Glow OFF: Glow is set to 0
[Single Pack]
- Hair
ㅤ- 2 different hairstyles, 2 types of bangs (Type A~B)
[Additional Features in FATPACK]
- Hair
ㅤ- Comes with Rigged Hair Extensions
ㅤ ㅤCompatible Bodies:
ㅤㅤㅤMaitreya Lara, Legacy Feminine
ㅤㅤㅤeBody Reborn, Gen.X Classic/Curvy,
ㅤㅤㅤInithium Kupra/Kups/Khara
ㅤ
ㅤ- 20 different hairstyles
ㅤㅤ5 types of bangs (Type A~E)
ㅤㅤ3 types of Hair extension (TypeA~C)
- Helmet
ㅤ- Choose from 24 colors for 5 different parts
ㅤㅤ(Front Top, Back Top, Bottom, Padding, Lights)
ㅤ- 7 selectable stickers
ㅤ- UV Texture for creating original stickers included
- Rabbit Ears
ㅤ- Choose from 5 types of shapes for both left and right ears
ㅤㅤ(Upright, Sideway, Curled, Forward, None)
ㅤ- 24 color options for each ear
- Additional Features
ㅤ- The product includes separated 4 parts.
ㅤㅤㅤOnly Helmet (Mod):
ㅤㅤㅤㅤCreate original stickers using the included UVMap
ㅤㅤㅤOnly Hair:
ㅤㅤㅤㅤCan be used with hooded jackets and other items
ㅤㅤㅤOnly Right Ear (Mod)
ㅤㅤㅤOnly Left Ear (Mod):
ㅤㅤㅤㅤFreely adjustable position and customizable colors
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We've put our heart and soul into creating this product, and we're confident that you'll be absolutely satisfied with it. Take advantage of our special launch discount and get yours exclusively at the Cyberfair event in Second Life!
LANEVO Mainstore
www.youtube.com/watch?v=N1Mkt81avak
Professor Lyra Everbane was born on a crisp February morning in 1999, in the enchanting wizarding village of Mould-on-the-Wold. The Everbane family, though not wealthy, was well-respected for their scholarly pursuits, particularly in magical folklore. Her mother, Moira, was a noted magical historian, while her father, Declan, was a wandmaker who specialized in rare woods. From an early age, Lyra was captivated by the legends her mother would recount by the hearth, tales of ancient heroes, magical beasts, and forgotten civilizations.
When she arrived at Hogwarts in 2010, Lyra was sorted into Hufflepuff, a choice that delighted her family. She embodied the house’s values of dedication, patience, and loyalty, often becoming the peacemaker among her classmates. Her warmth and kindness made her a favorite among her peers, while her determined work ethic ensured her success in her studies.
Lyra excelled particularly in History of Magic, Care of Magical Creatures, and Herbology. She was captivated by how myths connected to magical creatures and the natural world. She spent much of her time in the Hogwarts greenhouses or on the grounds, seeking inspiration from nature and befriending the resident creatures. Her fascination with magical folklore deepened under the mentorship of Professor Sprout and later Professor Firenze, who encouraged her to view mythology as more than mere stories—tools of wisdom and prophecy.
After graduating in 2017, Lyra embarked on a journey across the wizarding world. She spent time with Veela in Eastern Europe, learned from centaurs in the Forbidden Forest, and even gained the trust of the reclusive Merfolk communities in Greece. These experiences expanded her understanding of myth as a bridge between cultures and magical practices.
Her travels earned her respect in academic circles, but Lyra always remained grounded, refusing to let accolades overshadow her desire to teach. She returned to Hogwarts in 2029 to become the Professor of Mythological Studies, determined to pass on her knowledge to future generations.
As a professor, Lyra's Hufflepuff traits shone through. Her classroom became a haven for all students, a place where they felt valued and encouraged. She filled her lessons with interactive experiences, bringing myths to life with illusions, enchanted relics, and the occasional magical creature. Her ability to make every student feel seen and supported made her a beloved member of the Hogwarts staff.
While her sunny demeanor endeared her to many, Lyra carried an air of quiet mystery. Rumors swirled among students about the source of her knowledge of Thestrals, and some speculated that her compassion stemmed from personal loss. Despite this, she remained a constant source of hope and wisdom, always reminding her students that even the darkest myths often held lessons of resilience and light.
Today, Professor Everbane continues to inspire young witches and wizards, weaving together the wisdom of the past and the promise of the future in her teachings. Her loyalty to her students, her love of magical lore, and her steadfast determination ensure that her legacy will endure at Hogwarts for years to come.
K2 Ensuring I Don’t Even Look At The TV Without Giving Him More Attention- IMRAN™
Three things are certain. One, other than Colbert monologue I don’t watch TV. Two, my German Shepherd Dogs Kennedy & K2 get a lot of my time & attention. Three, despite that K2 wants to ensure I don’t even look at the TV screen without him getting extra attention. Even at midnight. Meanwhile, Kennedy just makes sure to lay himself full length across the center channel floor speaker of the surround sound system. 😄📺🐕📢🐕😄
© 2021 IMRAN™
#Florida #TampaBay #ApolloBeach #GermanShepherdDogs #LateNightTV #dogs #GSD #IMRAN #humor #gsdofinstagram #gsdpuppy #gsdlove #gsdlover #gsdlife #dogsofinstagram
Harvesting Olives was always a labor that took hours to be done, still it is still a chance of an activity bringing people together, while you are taking a small break. Many times people were joking and sing, collecting the precious piece of labor given as gift from the gods.
Children who were accompany the harvesting were told about the famous myth about it.
About who would be the patron of Athens, a clash between gods leaving the judging upon a mortal to chose from. Poseidon offered a water spring, still you could not drink as the liquid came as salty as the sea. Athena offered a tree, humble but strong with many uses to be explored. So the tree won over the people setting the story as we know it today without changing a bit. Isn't it marvelous how stories could survive to our days waiting fir us to listen?
The olive tree was a particularly important symbol for the ancient Greeks. It was connected to their diet and their religion, and was used as a decorative motif on vases, in gold jewellery and elsewhere. It was considered a symbol of peace, wisdom and victory. That is why the winners of the Olympic Games were crowned with a wreath of wild olive (the cotinus).
Olives in antiquity were usually gathered by beating the tree with rods, although ancient authors condemned this practice. Pliny repeatedly recommends: “Do not shake and beat your trees. Gathering by hand each year ensures a good harvest.”
The olive-harvesting knowledge of the ancients, incredibly advanced for its time, was often aided by astronomy, used to predict poor harvests.
Olive oil was also a valuable medicine in the hands of ancient Greek doctors. Hippocrates mentions 60 different conditions which could be treated with it, such as skin conditions, wounds and burns, gynaecological ailments, ear infections and many others.
Another popular use of olive oil in ancient Greece was for oiling athletes’ bodies before exercise in the gymnasium and at games.
Olive oil was also a valuable winner’s prize. The city of Athens needed about 70,000 kilos of oil to reward the winners of the Panathenian Games, held every four years.
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For more useful information click here
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Featuring:
Male Chiton in 10 colors.
Available for mesh bodies as Belleza Jake, Adam, Altamura, Exmachina, Signature, Slink
Women's Chiton available for Maitreya
Very special thanks to the following friends who accompany me to Olives gathering :)
Viktor Savior Owner of Arkona & Hanne ѕтяαωвєяяу Kenin (hanne.kenin) Owner of Pink Moon Poses
Macro Mondays - Take Something Ordinary (and give it a title that may or may not ensure more views than the subject matter warrants :-)!! As a case in point I give you this image of mine, taken in August 2014, which has been viewed more than 126,000 times - and counting - purely because it has the word "naked" in the title despite there being a complete lack of nudity in the image it's quite clear that some people believe/hope otherwise flic.kr/p/fri77k)
Instagram @thesometimephotographer instagram.com/thesometimephotographer/
Facebook www.facebook.com/LyndaHPhotography
Brockholes is a new kind of nature reserve, an unreserved reserve owned and managed by The Wildlife Trust for Lancashire, Manchester and North Merseyside.
There's lots to see and do at Brockholes, you can hunt out our floating Visitor Village with a restaurant, shops and Welcome Centre or explore our family-friendly hides, walking trails and play area.
At Brockholes you can explore our beautiful reserve, see the wildlife that call it ‘home’ or hunt out our Visitor Village with restaurant and shops, all of which float (yes really!) on one of our lakes.
Our floating Visitor Village features a gift shop and a restaurant providing stunning views across the lake. You can also discover our interactive Welcome Centre and learn all about the wildlife that you could see on-site. Be sure to call in to pick up a welcome leaflet that will help you plan your day. You can view the reserve map in our Welcome Leaflet here to help you plan your first visit.
2013/14 Opening Times:
4th November 2013 to 31 March 2014 10am-4pm
1st April 2014 to 31st October 2014 10am-5pm
Closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day only
Car Park Charges
We don't charge for entry and any profits made here go back into looking after the reserve. So every time you pay for parking, treat yourself in the shop or enjoy some lunch, you are helping look after the reserve and the wildlife that visits us!
Sorry no dogs allowed!
There is a good reason! Dogs can disturb wildlife, especially nesting birds. If your dog was to get too close to a nesting bird it would cause the mother to leave the nest. So to avoid any accidents we ask that you don’t bring your dog. (Assistance dogs are welcome.)
Explore the reserve
Brockholes is one of the best sites in the UK for many species of bird and has one of the largest strips of ancient woodland in the county. You can take a stroll by the River Ribble, explore our woods or enjoy the lakes on site, which have all been specially designed to attract all kinds of wildlife for you to see!
Walks around Brockholes
What can I see at Brockholes?
Read about the happy habitats we've been working hard to create at Brockholes.
Watch out!
The Visitor Village floats on water and there are lots of areas of open water on the reserve. Take care in these areas and keep an eye on any children with you. The following activities are not allowed on the reserve:
Barbecues and fires
Fishing
Swimming
Please do not feed the birds
Big gulls know it’s much easier to find food when we leave it lying around rather than finding their own lunch. Here at Brockholes we have lots of species breeding with us, little ringed and ringed plover, lapwing, oystercatcher and redshank. Unfortunately the big gulls will eat the chicks of these special birds so if we feed the gulls and encourage them to stay there is a big chance that they will eat our important chicks, so please do not feed the birds and take your leftover picnic away with you.
www.brockholes.org/our-journey
The Lancashire Wildlife Trust has been working on developing Brockholes for nearly 20 years, here is an overview of our journey.
1992 Lancashire Wildlife Trust first contests the quarrying of Brockholes.
27 November 2006 The Lancashire Wildlife Trust has four weeks to raise £50,000 to buy the Brockholes site, near Preston, and protect it from development. Brockholes sits next to J31 of the M6 and is the size of 120 football pitches.
15 January 2007 The Lancashire Wildlife Trust makes the biggest land purchase in its history - thanks to donations from Wildlife Trust members, and an investment of £800,000 from the Northwest Regional Development Agency (NWDA) under the Newlands scheme. The project to buy and develop Brockholes is also supported by The Tubney Charitable Trust.
3 May 2007 Ian Selby is appointed as Brockholes project manager. Ian has 20 years' experience of managing the North West's canal network for British Waterways, followed by environmental regeneration work. Sophie Leadsom, Brockholes' new reserve manager, has worked in conservation for 14 years.
July 2007 The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) announced the launch of a new open competition to design new visitor facilities.
5 October 2007 The Lancashire Wildlife Trust announced the shortlist for the new multi-million pound visitor centre. 61 architects from all over Europe submitted designs. The five were Adam Khan Architects, Arca, Architecture 2B, AY Architects, McDowell + Benedetti.
25 February 2008 The Lancashire Wildlife Trust (LWT) and partners announce the winner of its competition to design a visitor facility. Adam Khan Architects was selected for its inspirational design concept: "A Floating World". Designed as a cluster of buildings constructed largely of wood and other sustainable materials, it resembles an ancient marshland village.
April 2008 The Lancashire Wildlife Trust announced the completion of its first phase of preparatory work, including the restoration of the wetlands, creation of ponds, seeding of meadows, planting new hedgerows and trees, making access paths and building proper bird watching hides.
March 2009 The Lancashire Wildlife Trust secured £8million of funding from the North West Regional Development Agency (NWDA). The investment was made under ‘Newlands’, a NWDA and Forestry Commission programme that is regenerating brownfield land across the Northwest into economically viable community woodland.
Summer 2009 Volunteers gave us 134 hours of their time to help propagate our own reed seedlings on-site. We ended up with 20,000 new redd seedlings ready to plant out around our new visitor centre, creating two hecatres of brand new reedbed.
August 2009 The Lancashire Wildlife Trust were granted detailed planning permission for the site.
December 2009 Contractors first day of work as they begin to construct the iconic floating visitors centre. Press conference being held with a ‘cutting of the first sod’
November 2010 A herd of longhorn cattle move into Brockholes to graze the reserve.
December 2010 BBC Countryfile fronted by Julia Bradbury visit Brockholes to film a feature that airs in January 2011.
March 2011 Brockholes makes history as the Visitor Village is floated for the first time.
Easter Sunday 2011 Brockholes opens its doors to the public for the first time!
www.brockholes.org/happy-habitats-brockholes
Happy habitats at Brockholes
The Lancashire Wildlife Trust are using their expertise to create habitats that will encourage lots of different species to visit the site, read more about the work we are doing on the reserve...
Number 1 Pit
Uniform and steep, the edges around the original gravel pit used to look very different. The island looked different too – an egg-shaped piece of land sticking out of the water by three metres. These land profiles weren’t great for the bird species and aquatic invertebrates we wanted to attract. So, with bulldozer and digger we pushed earth into the lake to create shallow, underwater ledges and peninsulas where birds can roost and feed, safe from predators. Diving ducks, such as Great Crested Grebe, now hunt for fish in the deep water.
Nook Pool
The edge of this pool has been planted with reed to create places for small fish and aquatic invertebrates like dragonfly larvae to hide and grow, away from predator fish. The shelter provided by the vegetation provides an ideal hunting ground for lots of species of dragonfly including the impressive Brown Hawker and Emperor Dragonfly.
Meadow Lake
This shallow lake is great for bird watching: when the water level is down, wading birds feed on small invertebrates in the exposed mud. This lake has some of the richest water plant life in and around it, including White Water Lily and Cuckooflower. The reed fringes are becoming well established and hold some of the largest populations of birds on site. The islands provide safe roosting and breeding areas, we keep the vegetation short so the birds can watch out for predators.
Boilton Marsh
This area is part of our newly created wet grassland habitat. We remodelled 17,000 cubic metres of quarry spoil to create 10 hectares of wet grassland with nearly 2km of channels and five pools. This is the ideal habitat for breeding wading birds such as Lapwing, Redshank and Snipe. We now graze traditional breeds of cattle and sheep that thrive on the coarse grasses and rushes and provide the low grassland sward that encourages wading birds to nest.
The channels and pools are kept topped up by using a high-level reservoir, filled from Number One Pit by way of a solar pump.
Woodland
Brockholes is fringed by the ancient woodland of Boilton, Red Scar and Tunbrook Woods. Woodland has grown here for thousands of years and developed a very rich variety of wildlife. Looking after our trees and paths will help the woodland to thrive and enable you to see the wildlife safely.
Reedbeds
Reedbeds are home to Sedge Warblers, Reed Warblers, Reed Buntings and Water Rail. We protect the new reed from grazing birds like Coot, Mute Swan and Canada Goose, by erecting chicken wire fences and baling string barriers. It will take several years before our lak fringes start to look like reedbeds. You might notice that the Visitor Village has been nestled in reedbed. This helps it to blend into the reserve and allows you to hear the song and chatter of the birds that nest there.
www.brockholes.org/brockholes-partners-and-funders
Brockholes partners and funders
For the past ten years, The Wildlife Trust for Lancashire, Manchester and North Merseyside have been working to secure this site of national environmental importance, and restore habitats to their full potential.
The £8.6 million of regeneration funding was provided for the Brockholes Wetland and Woodland Reserve project has been granted under 'Newlands' - a £59 million, Northwest Regional Development Agency and Forestry Commission programme to transform brownfield land into durable community woodland, which act as catalysts for economic, social and environmental gain.
The Lancashire Environmental Fund awarded £446,000 for the development of the education facilities, hides and infrastructure on the site. Tubney Charitable Trust granted £350,000 for Biodiversity and Natural England DEFRA's Aggregates Levy Sustainability Fund awarded circa. £300,000. The Environment Agency granted £50,000 for the continued development of Brockholes.
The support of these funders helped make Brockholes a reality, as did the amazing support from our public appeal, which raised an amazing £63,000 - the most successful public appeal the Lancashire Wildlife Trust has ever run!
Volunteering at Brockholes
Around 200 volunteers have now been recruited, inducted and trained to begin volunteering at Brockholes, so we offer an enormous thank you to all who are helping it make such a big impact on our visitors... Volunteers truly are the face of Brockholes.
There are currently some exciting opportunities to be had volunteering here at Brockholes. Please have a look below at roles (you can click on the titles to download a full role description) which might suit you and click here to register, mentioning Brockholes and the role on the form.
Seasonal Activities Volunteer
Our seasonal activities program is the ideal opportunity for young people aged 16-23 to get involved here at Brockholes.
Running throughout all school holiday periods, you are expected to volunteer for 7 hours per week (normally one full day).
The Seasonal Activities Volunteer role is ideal for friendly, outgoing people who want to utilise their creative skills and help visitors – in particular children – enjoy the reserve. You will work alongside other volunteers to plan and deliver a variety of activities including pond dipping, guided walks, bird watching. The role will also include assisting with larger events such as our Extreme Adventure Weekend and Craft Fayres. Support will be given to you by the Events & Communications Manager.
This placement is perfect for those undertaking various award schemes, such as the Duke of Edinburgh award, as over the course of the summer you have the opportunity to gain upto 50 volunteering hours.
For full details on the role and what it entails, click here.
Seasonal Retail & Visitor Services
Our seasonal activities program is the ideal opportunity for young people aged 16-23 to get involved here at Brockholes.
As a volunteer for Retail & Visitor Services you will provide a warm welcome for visitors, helping to ensure that their Brockholes experience is a positive one. You will help visitors by providing them with information about products on sale in our gift stores and help them plan their visit by telling them about the various events and activities we have on offer.
The role suits a friendly, outgoing person who has an interest in wildlife and conservation.
Running throughout the school holiday periods, you are expected to volunteer for 7 hours per week (normally one full day).
This placement is perfect for those undertaking various award schemes, such as the Duke of Edinburgh award, as over the course of the summer you have the opportunity to gain upto 50 volunteering hours.
Each volunteer will be required to undergo a minimum of 1 and a half days training before they start. If you’d like to find out more or ask questions about any of these roles do not hesitate to get in touch with Catherine Haddon, Volunteering Support Officer on 01772 324 129 or email volunteer@lancswt.org.uk
Awards
Brockholes has scooped many high profile awards since opening in April 2011:
2013 Lancashire Tourism Award for Best Conference/Meeting venue
VisitEngland's Visitor Attraction Quality Assurance Scheme (VAQAS) 'Excellent'
Green Tourism Gold Award
Customer at the Heart Award
Lancashire and Blackpool Tourism Awards 'Marketing Campaign of the Year'
National Wood Award
BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ for the interim design stage
Chartered Institute of Building Services – Building of the Year 2011
Civic Trust Award
Civic Trust Special Award for Sustainability
Highly Commended in portfolio of Newlands sites in Landscape Awards
CIWEM Living Wetlands award
Greenbuilds award
Green Apple Awards for the Visitor Centre
Sustainable Project of the year – 2012 Building Awards
RICS North West – Overall award
RICS North West – Tourism and Leisure
RICS NW – Design & Innovation
RIBA North West Building of the Year
RIBA North West Sustainability Award
RIBA Award for top 50 new buildings in the UK
Brockholes is an award winning-venue, which floats on one of our lakes - the only one of its kind in the UK.
Combine this unique design with access straight off the M6, a beautiful nature reserve, ample parking and on site catering, and you have found yourself the perfect venue for your next event. View our Conference Brochure here.
We think Brockholes is the natural place to do business, our dedicated centre can cater for 50 to 130 delegates.
We have a choice of two conference rooms and a reception/break-out area.
www.brockholes.org/conference-packages
At Brockholes we want you to be in control of your event as much as possible. This is why we have created these basic packages, enabling you to tweak each element to build an individual event.
Alternatively, we can cater to your specific requests if you require half day, early morning or evening hire.
Here is an overview of our conference packages, please contact us for a quote.
Our Conference brochure can be viewed in digi-book format here.
Day Delegate Package
Private room hire from 9am - 5pm
Tea and coffee served on arrival with bacon rolls
Mineral water for each guest
Tea and coffee served mid-morning
Buffet lunch served with tea, coffee and fresh fruit platter
Tea, coffee and biscuits served mid-afternoon
Use of a flip chart, screen and projector
Recycled pen and notepad for each delegate
Dedicated co-ordinator to assist you throughout the planning to delivery of your meeting
24 Hour Delegate Package
All of the above plus;
Three course dinner
Full breakfast
Accommodation in a standard bedroom at our recommended accommodation supplier
Accommodation
Preferential rates are available on request from a local hotel when booking through the Brockholes Sales Team.
We can tailor our packages to suit your needs. Make the UK's first floating venue your next choice
Please contact us for more information or to arrange a meeting or showround with our Conference Sales Co-ordinator
Call us on 01772 872005 or enter your details below and we will contact you to discuss your requirements.
www.brockholes.org/sponsorship-opportunities
Sponsorship Opportunities
Brockholes is an award winning nature reserve owned and manages by the Lancashire Wildlife Trust, which was opened in 2011. The 250 acre reserve is already attracting record numbers of breeding birds and around 170,000 visitors each year. Brockholes runs a wide range of events throughout the year and has a particularly strong offer for families. Events include wild families, school holiday clubs, school and community group visits, self led trails and larger festivals during the summer holidays.
The key marketing campaigns run targeting families include Christmas, Summer and Easter. Each campaign targets a series of family focused publications across the North West, with a monthly average reach online of over 40,000 people through the website and social media. Advertising and direct marketing campaigns have an average reach of 70% of the total North West population.
Sponsorship and Partnership Opportunities
Summer at Brockholes sees a host of family events each year, from school holiday clubs to open air theatre, guided walks to family fun. Over the Summer period, Brockholes expects to welcome over 60,000 visitors. The marketing campaign is multi channel and will reach a wide audience of families across the North West. Brockholes has also been featured in the National Press for some of the unique events run. We have some new opportunities for sponsorship and partnership, which will allow your business to raise brand awareness and fulfill part of your Corporate Social Responsibility by supporting Brockholes and The Lancashire Wildlife Trust.
Summer at Brockholes Headline Sponsorship £4500
Expose your brand to thousands of families across the North West.
- Logo on all Summer promotional material
- Inclusion in all four of the Summer e-news and Lancashire Wildlife Trust e-news
- Sponsor Feature on Brockholes.org
- On site promotion
- Promotion through social media channels
- Inclusion in all PR activity
- Temporary use of Brockholes logo on promotional material directly related to the partnership
Wild Families Sponsorship £4000 per year
Our Wild Families events are always fully booked. With themes ranging from scarecrow hunts to nature detectives, each event provides quality family time for family members of all ages. Events are run throughout school holidays.
-Logo on marketing materials for Wild Families
-Inclusion in PR for trail launch
-Inclusion in social media activity
-Inclusion in Brockholes e-news
Seasonal Trail Sponsorship £500 per trail
Each visitor to Brockholes can collect their free seasonal trail on arrival. The trail helps visitors to explore the reserve, learn more about what to see and how the reserve changes with the season and challenges them to spot things.
-Logo on sponsorship trail
-Inclusion in PR for trail launch
-Inclusion in social media activity around the trail
Half term at Brockholes £1500
-Logo on all marketing materials
-Inclusion in launch PR
-Social media promotion
Annual Headline Sponsorship £10,000
- Logo inclusion on all Promotional Material
- Dedicated web page on Brockholes.org
- On site promotion
- Dedicated stand area on key event days
- Promotion through Brockholes and LWT e-news, member magazine
- Promotion through social media channels
- Inclusion in all PR activity
-Discounted delegate rate on our conference facilities
Children's Corner £500
Would you like to help brighten up the children's corner in our restuarant for our younger visitors?
-Inclusion in PR activity
-Recognition in the children's area
-Inclusion in activity to our database promoting the new area
To talk to us more about sponsorship opportunities, contact Ruth Gaskell rgaskell@lancswt.org.uk or call 01772 324129.
www.brockholes.org/commercial-opportunities
Commercial Opportunities
Make Brockholes your business
Businesses are being offered an opportunity to become partners in a North West tourism and wildlife success story.
Brockholes nature reserve is entering the second phase of development which will provide commercial opportunities for other businesses and boost local employment.
The Lancashire Wildlife Trust attraction attracted 185,000 people to its nature reserve and the first ever floating visitor village in the UK, last year. It is looking to top that visitor figure this year.
Just off the M6 at Preston and easily accessible from anywhere in the UK, Brockholes has received more than 30 regional and national awards despite only opening in 2011. Visitors continue to pour in despite the reserve being surrounded by the attractions of Manchester, Blackpool and Liverpool.
The business has shown year-on-year growth and, as a result, is seeking commercial partners for the next phase of development.
Anne Selby, Chief Executive of the Wildlife Trust said “Brockholes has performed incredibly well despite being launched in a recession. We have steered the business through the stormy weather and achieved fantastic results.
“We are now looking to move into the next phase of development. As a conservation charity, we want to ensure our focus remains on the nature conservation of the reserve, whilst ensuring the commercial income supports this work. We are looking for expressions of interest at this stage and asking businesses to be creative with their proposals.”
The Visitor Village has a restaurant, shops, conference centre, welcome centre and education centre. Major companies have made use of the conference centre including RBS and Aldi. The surrounding nature reserve is continuing to grow, with an increasing population of resident creatures and rare visitors like red kite, bittern and otter.
Anne continued: “Brockholes received funding for the initial start up and development phases but it was always designed to be a self-sustaining model. By making the most of the commercial opportunities and keeping these balanced carefully with the needs of nature, we believe we can continue to success of Brockholes into the future and achieve even more fantastic results for wildlife, our wide range of visitors and the tourism economy”.
Opportunities include retail, water sports (non-motorised), indoor play provision, events partners and mobile food concessions. However, the Trust is open to hear if any investors would wish to develop sympathetic commercial facilities on the site.
An opportunity information pack is available by request from:
Karen Williams Karen.Williams@brockholes.org
Expressions of interest should initially be made to
Lindsey Poole, Commercial Development Manager lpoole@lancswt.org.uk
Group Visits
Whether it’s a full day out or just a quick stop off on the way to your destination, Brockholes is the ideal place for groups to visit.
There's so much for all ages to see and learn about at Brockholes. Everyone from toddlers to seniors will find something to fascinate them, whether through our exciting range of organised events, or by just wandering around the site.
We are passionately committed to lifelong learning for all – our belief is that everyone should leave knowing something they didn't when they arrived! The Lancashire Wildlife Trust has over a decade of experience in delivering environmental education, so you can relax, enjoy the surroundings and be sure to come away both enchanted and enlightened...
We have several options for various groups, each with a variety of benefits. For more information click on the relevant link below…
Coach Groups
School Groups
Community Groups
To enquire about group visits please call 01772 872000 or email info@brockholes.org. Or leave your details on the form below and a member of our team will get back to you as soon as possible.
Coach Groups
Situated next to Junction 31 on the M6, we are the ideal stop for coach trips, whether it is for a short stop, as a green motorway services, or as part of a full day visit.
Free entry for coaches and convenient coach drop-off point
We have a variety of walking trails for your group to explore, ranging from half an hour to 2 hours in length.
We have our floating visitor village that features a stunning waterside restaurant, 2 unique gift shops and a welcome centre with exhibits, which are ideal should your guests decide for something less active (or if the weather lets you down)!
All our buildings are fully accessible, while the vast majority of our paths are well surfaced, level and suitable for wheelchairs.
We now have a more convenient drop-off point exclusively for coaches and in addition have a number of benefits for coach groups:
• Free entry to the reserve and visitor centre
• Free coach parking
• Refreshment voucher for the coach driver
• Free familiarisation visit for group organisers
• Free meet and greet at the coach (on request)
• Free Brockholes welcome leaflet and trail guide
• Free events and activities throughout the year (visit our events calendar for details)
• Free play area
• Pre-booked guided tours (available at an extra charge)
• Adapted toilets available at the visitor centre
Please note that there is a 4 metre high bridge on the entrance to Brockholes. We also advise all coaches to let us know of their visit in advance by calling us on 01772 872000.
For any further information please just call 01772 872000, email info@brockholes.org
School Groups
Our 250 acre nature reserve and Visitor Village is a great place for school groups to visit. Children can learn about the geological history and how the quarrying has shaped the land today. And because we are a new nature reserve, you can watch it grow! It is also home to the UK's first floating Visitor Village.
Most importantly of all, the children will be able to see that Brockholes is home to a host of wildlife, with many different species of bird popping by throughout the year, along with brown hare, dragonfly and deer to name a few!
Facilities
Your school will have use of the education centre on our floating visitor village and you will have at least one Education Officer dedicated to your group throughout the day.
Plus... NEW FOR 2014!
Next year your school will be able to get even closer to nature at Brockholes by booking an education session in our new purpose-built bird hide classroom, right on the edge of the lake!
The hide will overlook No 1 Pit Lake which is home to many different species of birds and you'll also be able to look across to the new sand martin wall, which will provide valuable breeding habitat when they arrive in spring.
Why not your details below if you'd like us to keep to informed of these exciting new developments!
Programmes
We offer a wide range of programmes including:
Big Adventure in a Miniature World
Life Cycles
Migration and Hibernation
Environmental Art
Geography and Geology
Forest School
You can read more about the education programmes available at Brockholes here.
Education Team
Our Education Team are based at Brockholes and have a huge amount of experience in inspiring young people about the natural world. They are a lively bunch and pride themselves on creating an exciting and memorable experience for your school. You can read about how great our team is here: Meet the Education Team.
Outreach
Can't get to us? Then we can come to you! Our outreach education programme is very popular and offers a wide range of programmes for those who are unable to reach Brockholes.You can view our Outreach Programmes here.
For any information just call us on 01772 872000 for more information, email eduadmin@lancswt.org.uk
Community Groups
Brockholes is a great place to bring your community group, whether it's the Scouts, Guides, Cubs, Brownies or Beavers or a rambling or photography group, there is something for everyone!
As well as exploring our stunning nature reserve you can enjoy an activity such as a guided walk, a mini-beast hunt or an environmental art session.
You can visit Brockholes during the day or we have special community group evenings when the reserve is open beyond our usual opening hours. Group activities usually take place between 5.30pm and 7.30pm.
Forest Schools
Forest Schools is a unique outdoor learning experience that improves children's self-esteem, confidence and abilities.
Brockholes provides an inspirational setting for Forest Schools sessions and training, and is conveniently located just off junction 31 of the M6 at Preston.
Our Forest School sessions are designed and delivered by our experienced and fully qualified Education Team including our Level 3 Trained Forest Schools Practioner.
Our next Forest Schools adult training session will be running in October. To find out more about Forest School sessions at Brockholes please call 01772 872017 or email kphillips@lancswt.org.uk
Shop til you flock
Why not drop into our two on-site shops, The Nest and Village Store, which are packed with all sorts of goodies. We've a variety of products from local beverages and food, to cards and books and crafts and jewellery. They are the perfect place to pick up a unique gift... and there's plenty of treats for the little ones too!
The Nest
The Nest is home to an inspiring collection of gifts, jewellery, books, toys, arts & crafts. Discover what's inside The Nest here.
The Village Store
The Village Store stocks a wide range of products, from locally sourced food and drink treats to bird food, garden accessories and wildlife books. Come and look inside here.
Membership of the Wildlife Trust
Brockholes is a Lancashire Wildlife Trust Nature Reserve. You can become a member today or talk to our friendly staff members and volunteers on your next visit to Brockholes. Gift membership is available in The Nest or you can buy it online here.
Our restaurant is the perfect place to stop and watch the world go by with panoramic views of our lake. Scrumptious homemade dishes and a taste bud tingling selection of Lancashire's finest local produce are all here to tempt you, along with fair trade tea and coffee.
Our restaurant is open from 10am to 5pm.
www.brockholes.org/very-special-occasions
Brockholes is a fantastic place for your very special occasions.
Our floating venue is one of the newest and most unique in Lancashire and promises you and your guests an unforgetable event whatever the occasion.
We have a dedicated function centre that can accomodate weddings, christenings and all sort of functions.
The clean, contemporary finish of our venue means that you have the perfect opportunity to put your own stamp on your event, with a flexible range of catering available from our on-site restaurant.
We have a dedicated Conference and Events Co-ordinator that will be available to help you plan your special occasion.
Very Special Weddings
We had our first wedding celebration September 2011 and since then it's been all go with Wedding Fayres and lots more bookings for this year and next. Find out more about weddings at Brockholes here.
Very Special Christenings
Brockholes is a real family friendly venue for a Christening celebration that you will remember for years to come. Find out more here.
For general enquiries about holding a function at Brockholes please call 01772 872005 or email philip.dunn@brockholes.org.
The Cargo, All-Terrain Transport, or C.A.T.T., is a rugged and versatile utility vehicle used across the galaxy for moving cargo of all kinds. With its tough engineering and proprietary cargo connection system, the C.A.T.T. ensures safe and reliable delivery every time.
Week two. Theme: Red.
It took less than a week for me to remember why it is I'm not fond of shooting self portraits. Getting the focus sharp, ensuring the settings are how you like them, composing a shot nicely without really looking through the viewfinder, trying to look at least vaguely photogenic, plus (this time) shielding the camera from the lovely English rain... cor blimey. 51 weeks from now I'm hoping this will all be second-nature! From this week's shoot I came out with a handful of serious shots, a handful of smiley shots and this slightly scratchy, very frowny out-take (wind blowing hair into eyes = grumpy face!). Nathalie & Serena told me to go for the frowny shot (scary!), so here it is. Might brave a little blog post of the rest later this week. Hope you like it :]
P.s. If any of you still fancy hopping on board for the Let's Get Creative 2014 project, do head on over to the facebook group here
For bookings, image licencing and general inquires email: ella_ruth_c@hotmail.co.uk
More of my work can be found at the following-
Please don't use this image on websites, blogs or other media without my written permission.
© Toni_V. All rights reserved.
In 2014 the Swiss National Park will be 100 years old. Established in 1914, it was the first national park in the Alps. The aim of its founding members, pioneers in the protection of the natural environment, was to ensure that a piece of Switzerland’s mountain landscape be left to develop entirely naturally, and furthermore that any changes should be the subject of scientific observation and research. This experiment is recognised today as a highly important ‘field laboratory’ and an environmental protection icon.
A silhoutte photograph from inside the premises of Chowmahalla Palace at the time of Sunset - Old Hyderabad City, Andhra Pradesh, India.
Reposted.
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Chowmahalla Palace or Chowmahallat (4 Palaces), was a palace belonging to the Nizams of Hyderabad state. It was the seat of the Asaf Jahi dynasty and was the official residence of the Nizam.
In Persian, Chahar means four and in Arabic Mahalat (plural of Mahal) means palaces, hence the name Chowmahallat/four palaces, or four palaces.
All ceremonial functions including the accession of the Nizams and receptions for the Governor-General were held at this palace.
The prestigious UNESCO Asia Pacific Merit award for cultural heritage conservation was presented to Chowmahalla Palace on March 15, 2010. UNESCO representative Takahiko Makino formally handed over the plaque and certificate to Princess Esra, former wife and GPA holder of Prince Mukarram Jah Bahadur.
While Salabat Jung initiated its construction in 1750, it was completed by the period of Afzal ad-Dawlah, Asaf Jah V, the V Nizam ensured its completion between 1857 and 1869.
It is believed to be modelled on Shah of Iran's palace in Tehran.
The palace is unique for its style and elegance. Building of the palace began in the late 18th century and over the decades a synthesis of many architectural styles and influences emerged.
This palace consists of two courtyards, southern courtyard and northern courtyard. They have elegant palaces, the grand Khilwat (the Durbar Hall), fountains and gardens.
The palace originally covered 45 acres (180,000 m2), but only 14 acres (57,000 m2) remain today.
The present Nizam (Barkat Ali Khan Mukarram Jah, Pretender) and his family decided to restore the Chowmahalla Palace and open it to the public in January 2005. It took over 5 years to document and restore the palaces of the first courtyard to its former glory.
Dungeness is a headland on the coast of Kent, England, formed largely of a shingle beach in the form of a cuspate foreland. It shelters a large area of low-lying land, Romney Marsh. Dungeness is also the name of the power station and a few other nearby buildings near the beach, and of an important ecological site at the same location.
Dungeness is one of the largest expanses of shingle in the world[citation needed]. And is classified as Britain's only desert by the met office. It is of international conservation importance for its geomorphology, plant and invertebrate communities and birdlife. This is recognised and protected mostly through its conservation designations as a National Nature Reserve (NNR), a Special Protection Area (SPA), a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and part of the Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) of Dungeness, Romney Marsh and Rye Bay.
There is a remarkable variety of wildlife living at Dungeness, with over 600 different types of plant: a third of all those found in Britain. It is one of the best places in Britain to find insects such as moths, bees and beetles, and spiders; many of these are very rare, some found nowhere else in Britain.
The short-haired bumblebee, Bombus subterraneus, was last found in the UK in 1988, but has survived in New Zealand after being shipped there more than 100 years ago. After unsuccessful attempts to reintroduce the New Zealand bees at Dungeness in 2009-2010, the RSPB teamed up with the Swedish government in a second attempt and introduced 51 of them in 2012 and 49 in 2013 to the Dungeness Reserve. This will be continued each year, with RSPB staff conducting analysis of breeding to ensure a successful integration.[1]
The flooded gravel pits on Denge Beach, both brackish and fresh water, provide an important refuge for many migratory and coastal bird species. The RSPB has a bird sanctuary there and every year thousands of bird watchers descend on the peninsula to catch a glimpse of a rare bird from the bird observatory.
One of the most remarkable features of the site is an area known as 'the patch' or, by anglers, as 'the boil'. The waste hot water and sewage from the Dungeness nuclear power stations are pumped into the sea through two outfall pipes, enriching the biological productivity of the sea bed and attracting seabirds from miles around.
Beach fishing is popular at Dungeness, with the area being a nationally recognised cod fishing venue in the winter.