Our ancestors’ “good old summertime” can easily turn into a “winter of our discontent” when we start puzzling over where exactly those fading photos of their fun days decades and decades ago were taken
Angela Park and Rocky Glen were massive draws
Not only did families flock there for picnics and rides
ethnic societies and organizations of all kinds held many of their special days there
the day was not complete without families taking lots of pictures
which now probably repose in thick albums or deep boxes packed away in closets
will tell you something about your family’s interests and way of life — if
you can figure out where the old pictures were taken
It is relatively easy to identify some sites
If you see your family standing in front of a ride called “The Wild Mouse,” that is Sans Souci
which stood along the highway that bears the park’s own name to this day — the Sans Souci Parkway
If you spot a truly massive roller coaster in the background
there’s a good chance (but not a certainty) it’s Rocky Glen
will likely be more difficult to work with
There are book-length pictorial histories of some of our regional amusement parks
development and unique characteristics of a given park and will give you vital information such as dates of operation
Try to match the people with the background
There are also lots of research materials online
I have found histories of our area’s amusement parks along with news stories about them
Others result from a fan’s personal interest
Of course there are plenty of online photos under “images.’ To access the right online materials
make sure you include town and state in your search
See if these photos match the backgrounds in your personal pictures
There are other kinds of background and identifying information you can seek to go with your snapshots
Our families of past times were more likely than we are today enjoy memberships in groups ranging from church and social clubs to ethnic clubs to employment groups (such as unions or companies) to political parties
These organizations often sponsored summer celebrations at amusement parks and picnic grounds
and the festivities were noted in the newspapers
If there is no identifying information on the back of the photo
a good resource — besides asking relatives – is the old Wilkes-Barre Record Almanac (1886-1972)
with daily news summaries that often mention large-group picnics and other events
You can then go to the newspapers themselves
Access the almanacs (and the newspapers themselves) at the Osterhout Free Library and the Luzerne County Historical Society library
both on South Franklin Street in Wilkes-Barre
The almanacs’ news summaries are online
House of Representatives committee is looking at the decision by the DNA testing company 23 and Me to seek a buyer
The company holds medical information submitted by customers
The House Committee on Energy and Commerce has asked the company to tell it by May 1 what safeguards for customers’ personal information there will be if the company is acquired by a new owner
Tom Mooney is a Times Leader genealogy writer. Reach him at tommooney42@gmail.com
Commissioners: “We will continue to value, respect, and support all individuals as we serve the people of Boulder County.” Read full message
Immigrant Resources, including a Know Your Rights Booklet, available on the Immigration Resources webpage
Media ContactJim Webster
Wildfire Partners/Community Planning & Permitting720-564-2600
- When the Marshall Fire started just east of the Sans Souci Mobile Home Park community many homes experienced devastating damage from the straight-line wind event
Although not impacted directly by the fire
countless residents were left anxious of a similar event occurring
Last week, Mile High Youth Corps (MHYC) began providing critical wildfire mitigation services in Sans Souci Mobile Home Park. Their work is part of the Boulder County Wildfire Partners pilot program Youth Helping Underserved Individuals and Communities
As a resident owned community, homeowners would normally incur the costs of park maintenance, including these services. This program ensures that the services are provided free of cost for residents struggling to make ends meet and still rebuilding from the Marshall Fire and straight-line wind event of Dec. 30, 2021
MHYC are the second conservation corps to work in Sans Souci as part of a contract with Wildfire Partners. In June, crews from TEENS, Inc. provided a week of vegetation management services on communal property
and constructing noncombustible gravel barriers
helping to protect homes from embers during another grass fire
Wildfire Partners Youth Program Specialist said
it was important to us [Wildfire Partners] that we create a strong
Along with our bilingual outreach specialist
we spent at least a hundred hours knocking on doors
“Without Mile High Youth Corps and TEENS Inc.
we would not be able to perform these wildfire mitigation services,” said Peggy Kuhn
and some homes still have roofs made with tarp and held down with straps
but it also makes us nervous because the grassland next to the community puts us at higher risk of a wildfire.”
Wildfire Partners has partnered with the City of Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks and Boulder Watershed Collective to extend the project’s impact and create a model for future work in mobile home parks. For more information, contact Youth Programs Specialist Ellie Stanton at estanton@bouldercounty.gov or 720-564-2645
Mile High Youth Corps members are providing wildfire mitigation services in Sans Souci Mobile Home Park
Their work is part of the Boulder County Wildfire Partners pilot program Youth Helping Underserved Individuals and Communities
Sign-up to receive Emails or SMS/Text Messages on a variety of subjects
visits with artist Bruci Gauthier on Thursday
at Sans Souci Fine Crafts gallery in downtown Lafayette
Bruci Gauthier poses with one of her woven pieces on Thursday
Lynn Jenkins discusses the variety of artwork at the gallery on Thursday
Artwork in various mediums fills the shelves on Thursday
Bruci Gauthier talks about her artwork on Thursday
Sans Souci Gallery newly re-opened space in Lafayette unveils a fresh
With hopes of creating a better experience for observers and shoppers
Sans Souci Gallery is reopening in a new space in Lafayette with a fresh look
The gallery has a large selection of handmade art that features contemporary pottery
Open Wednesday through Sunday at 549 Jefferson St.
the gallery highlights the vibrancy and creativity of Louisiana’s artisan community by exclusively showcasing the work of more than 100 Louisiana Crafts Guild members
“This refreshed energy ensures we continue to provide a beautiful and welcoming space for both our artists and our visitors," said Lynn Jenkins
special coordinator for the Louisiana Crafts Guild
The gallery used to be in a smaller space a short walk away
When Jenkins is not working as the special coordinator at the guild, she is crafting at her local business, Magnolia Studios
stained glass and ornaments using flowers from people's special days
"I would love for my own art to be in here one day
I think any artist that sees their work in a gallery would be thrilled
To showcase your talent and have your work displayed is what it's all about," Jenkins said
Sans Souci Gallery has been a part of downtown Lafayette’s arts scene since 2001
artists get the opportunity to show their work in festivals to gain exposure and build resources
the guild has another gallery in New Orleans where members can sell their art on commission
Martinville native Bruci Gauthier is one of many artists showcased in the reopened gallery
pastel portraits of animals and painted landscape images captured on vacation or her farm
"It's beautiful to see the re-creation of the new space," Gauthier said
"I am always working on something in my studio and willing to share it here at Sans."
Visit louisianacrafts.org for more information
Email Ja'kori Madison at jakori.madison@theadvocate.com
Email notifications are only sent once a day
News Tips:newstips@theadvocate.com
Other questions:subscriberservices@theadvocate.com
Your browser is out of date and potentially vulnerable to security risks.We recommend switching to one of the following browsers:
Please enable JavaScript to view this page correctly
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – A man was found dead Thursday morning in a badly burned van that was parked in the driveway of a home that caught fire, according to Jacksonville Fire and Rescue.
Firefighters were called just before 5:45 a.m. to the house fire on Loran Drive, north of Barnes Road near University Boulevard South.
In addition to the van, an SUV and the Sans Souci home were left damaged by flames and smoke.
JFRD said the Red Cross is helping two adults who were able to escape the house fire.
It’s believed the fire started in the carport and spread to the home.
The roof of a house next door was also damaged by the flames.
Copyright 2024 by WJXT News4JAX - All rights reserved.
Click here to take a moment and familiarize yourself with our Community Guidelines
TV Listings
Email Newsletters
RSS Feeds
Contests and Rules
Contact Us
Careers at WJXT / WCWJ
Closed Captioning / Audio Description
WJXT Public File
WJXT EEO Report
WCWJ Public File
WCWJ EEO Report
Terms of Use
Privacy Policy
Do Not Sell My Info
FCC Applications
Copyright © 2025 News4JAX.com is managed by Graham Digital and published by Graham Media Group
Hotel Lafayette to Become a Premier Hospitality Destination in the Heart of Acadiana
set to redefine hospitality in the heart of the Acadiana region
The project will bring a blend of Cajun hospitality
and cultural vibrancy to the core of Lafayette
Situated in Lafayette's historic downtown district the hotel will feature 83 rooms
a unique restaurant space in partnership with a local food & beverage operation to be announced
and an outdoor pool & creative pool bar concept
Guests will enjoy world-class amenities and personalized service
making the hotel an ideal destination for business travelers
The property will also feature nearly 2,500 sq
Sans Souci Properties will lend local knowledge and development assistance to the project
known for its expertise in boutique hotel design
will ensure the property embodies both sophistication and local flavor
Tandem Hospitality Group will manage the day-to-day operations of the hotel
delivering an exceptional guest experience with a focus on the South Louisiana hospitality Acadiana is famous for
"Lafayette is the cultural heart of Acadiana
and we're excited to develop a property that reflects the unique character of the region," said Joe Thrash
"The hotel will be a destination where both visitors and locals can gather and experience the best of what Lafayette has to offer."
The development team is pleased to share the support of local stakeholders
including Mayor- President Monique Blanco-Boulet
"This development is a catalytic project that will breathe new life into an iconic downtown site," said Blanco-Boulet
"This is the type of revitalization we need happening in the older parts of Lafayette
and instills a renewed sense of pride in the place we call home while creating a space where our friends and families can gather and celebrate the best of life."
CEO of Lafayette's Downtown Development Authority
added: "Downtown Lafayette attracts millions of visitors every year
whether it's for large-scale events like Festival International and Mardi Gras
or the everyday traffic of business visitors in the central business district
Guests and patrons of the hotel will be just a short walk away from more than 35 locally owned restaurants
Our businesses and residents are excited about what this project means for the downtown area
This type of large-scale new construction project signals that Downtown Lafayette is open for development."
The project is expected to create numerous positions in development and construction on top of nearly 75 permanent positions once operational
contributing a significant boost to the local economy
With construction scheduled to begin in Q1 2025
the property aims to be completed by Summer 2026
"We are excited about this project for Downtown Lafayette and the entire region
Downtowns are generally one of the first places visitors seek out in any destination
We recognize the importance of a thriving downtown to the tourism economy
which is why we have supported numerous projects over the years that have helped to build the momentum
boutique experience is one we know visitors to the area will enjoy
and we hope that it will lead to further continued development of Downtown." - Ben Berthelot President & CEO
Lafayette Convention & Visitors Commission
"As the Lafayette City Council Vice-Chair representing District 5 which includes our beloved downtown and the Chairman of the Downtown Economic Development District I am elated of the planned quality development of Hotel
Meeting and Activity space under one roof in our effort to enhance the downtown experience
I commend the investors and developers for this effort
ribbon cutting and operation of what will be a catalytic project for our region."
"The collaboration between Sans Souci Properties and their partners represents the kind of private investment Downtown Lafayette needs to continue its remarkable transformation
The commitment to Lafayette's urban core among local investors fuels our collective confidence in our downtown development strategy
I especially want to recognize Kevin Blanchard and his team at the Downtown Development Authority
whose tireless efforts to create an inviting environment for private investment are bearing fruit
When local developers choose to invest substantially in Downtown Lafayette
it signals to the broader market that our city center is a prime location for growth and opportunity."
The Thrash Group is a multifaceted real estate development company based in Hattiesburg
and since its inception has purchased and/or developed in excess of $1.5 billion in commercial real estate
The Thrash Group specializes in the acquisition
management and renovation of commercial properties
with a primary focus on multifamily and hospitality projects
The Origin Hotel collection is the company's most recent venture
Sans Souci Properties is an investment and development group based in Lafayette
Comprised of partners from across a broad spectrum of industries and backgrounds
Sans Souci Properties is focused on the growth and development of Lafayette's Downtown District
the group brings together expertise and experience across a variety of retail projects
The Sans Souci Properties team will act as a valuable local partner throughout the development and programming of this full-service boutique hotel project
Media Contact: Karlee Tanel, Tandem Hospitality Group, [email protected]
Tandem Hospitality Group distinguishes itself as a comprehensive hospitality management company celebrated for its transparent and innovative management style
The organization is dedicated to three fundamental principles: transparency inspires trust
The unique culture embraced by the organization celebrates novelty
and nurtures a holistic approach to client relationships
Every task is approached with a distinctive touch
Currently overseeing the operations of twelve hotels nationwide
Tandem is undergoing rapid growth and is positioned to expand in new markets in the years to come
Do not sell or share my personal information:
Hotel Sans Souci has unveiled a unique light sculpture by Brand van Egmond in its redesigned Veranda Brasserie & Bar
The venue features a design scheme centring around a principle of ‘Modern Art for All Senses’
the space invites guests to experience a sensory journey where sight
Guests now dine under the captivating glow of custom-made Brand van Egmond installation
The sculpture reflects the atelier’s philosophy of blending bold
artistic expression with functional elegance
the chandelier both lights up the room and enhances the dining experience
“Working with the team at Brand van Egmond was a highly creative and seamless experience,” says Andrea Fuchs, Head of Hospitality for Sans Souci Sphere. “They thoughtfully incorporated the design of our Veranda Brasserie & Bar and perfectly matched the colours and shape to create a bespoke chandelier that is truly unique
Their approach was both constructive and attentive
consistently responding to our specific needs and keeping us involved throughout the process by providing material samples
The partnership has continued beyond this project and each collaboration has been equally productive and inspiring.”
renowned for its handcrafted lighting sculptures
has been illuminating spaces worldwide for 35 years
From bespoke commissions to characterful collections
the atelier’s work continues to transcend trends
creating pieces that stand the test of time
Brand van Egmond continues to light the way forward
offering creations that embody beauty and innovation
Registered in England and Wales with Company Number 06637145
We are using cookies to give you the best experience on our website
You can find out more about which cookies we are using or switch them off in settings
This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible
Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful
Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings
we will not be able to save your preferences
This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again
More information about our Cookie Policy
The third full day of competition at the 2024 North American Youth Championship saw athletes in the Junior and U25 ranks vie for individual titles at Flintfields Horse Park on 2 August 2024
The junior division saw a trio of chestnut horses and their riders populate the podium after their second test
Ga.) added another gold medal to the one she and her team earned earlier in the week
riding her own Mollegardens Sans-Souci (by Sir Donnerhall out of Sascha)
Their score was not only the best in the class
I just really wanted to ride as well as I could,” said Woodcock
“I didn’t feel like I really gave it my all on Wednesday
I thought the canter half-passes were the best I had done
All the changes were nice and clean and through
I was just so happy that she stuck with me and did everything.”
Woodcock and “Souci” have been competing together since early 2023
developing their respective skills through persistence and overcoming challenges
“She is so amazingly talented and really great
and that was big when we were first building our partnership,” said Woodcock
“It was difficult getting here in the beginning
I was able to work with a horsemanship expert and really develop that side of my riding
It completely changed how I thought about dealing with horses and the riding itself and the trust that’s been built there is just exponential compared to what I’ve had in any other partnership.”
Woodcock does groundwork in a roundpen with Souci at least twice a week
working on strengthening their communication
That work on the ground has paid off for the Woodcock and her chestnut mare
who enjoy a rewarding partnership in the show ring and back home in the barn
“That’s one of the things that is so important to kind of activate her body so that I don’t have to ask so big and so much,” she said
I call her Bear because she’s like my little teddy bear
and I can go in her stall and sit there for hours and just love on her
After earning the top score in the team test on Wednesday
earning a 70.706% and the individual silver medal with Rihanna Ymas (by Relius out of Akira)
a 2008 Brandenburger mare owned by Dressage4Kids
I felt like we didn’t have quite the thoroughness that we had two days ago,” said Martz
but there was just that little missing piece
‘Wow!’ She really delivered for me in there today and showed up
Matz competed at the 2023 NAYC riding her mom’s horse
and returning this year with her own horse that she leases from Dressage4Kids has helped make this year’s experience extra special
but a tendon injury a few month’s into their partnership changed the course of their career together
and I rehabbed her completely bareback,” she said
“It completely changed how we work together and really made our movements one instead of separate.”
First-time NAYC competitor Claire Tucker (Lincoln
Neb.) and her 2016 Hanoverian gelding Finnur (by For Romance I out of Wapi Yo) earned their bronze with a score of 70.029% after earning silver as part of the combined Region 4/5/7 team
I feel like we really bonded; we’d never met before
“My horse has loved the environment,” said Tucker
and I feel like when the competition is so incredibly high
it really pushes me to do my best and pushes my horse to do his absolute best
The U25 combinations returned for their second test
Calif.) and Goldenboy Vinckenburgh (by Apache out of Tandafanory)
a 2011 KWPN gelding owned by Coalcyn Equestrian LLC
put down a good test to earn a personal-best score of 69.103% and the gold medal
Albrecht and Goldenboy Vinckenburg“I’m really happy with my horse and myself,” said Albrecht
I think I got that personal best because I kind of left him to it
He doesn’t spook; he has no bobbles in that sense
I don’t have to worry about him spooking or making a mistake if I set him up right
My goal today was to have him fresh and ready to go
and when I turned to do the first extended trot
Let’s go.’ That first extended trot really set us up for the tone of the test.”
This year is Albrecht’s first in the U25 ranks
and he was happy to have the opportunity to compete at NAYC
“The Under-25 division is really good for me
I got to come here last year as a Young Rider
“The fact that there’s still an opportunity to come back and do this competition here and be a part of this
I would have to basically compete in CDI4* competitions to get basically the same kind of experience.”
Fellow Californian Christian Simonson (Ventura
Calif.) earned the silver medal riding Son of a Lady (by Soreldo out of Western Lady)
a 2011 Danish Warmblood gelding owned by Christina Morgan and Clifton Simonson
very happy with him as a whole,” said Simonson
let’s try this!’ Some of the major highlights today were the right pirouette
and I was really happy with the twos and the ones [tempis]
Simonson saw it as a learning experience to put toward Saturday’s freestyle test and beyond
but as a rider you kind of understand when it’s your first year at Grand Prix—for me as a rider and for Son of a Lady—that’s just how it goes sometimes,” said Simonson
So now I have a better understanding of certain things
Fla.) clinched bronze with her longtime partner Conocido HGF (by Cosaco XI out of Luz De Luna HGF)
a 2012 PRE gelding owned by Hampton Green Farm
“Having a medal around my neck is kind of an honour; I didn’t know we could make it to this competition and being here is a privilege for both of us,” said Schults
“Today was only the third time I’ve ever ridden this test
He and I have been together since he was three years old
so the fact that we’ve made it here is unbelievable.”
Schults has only been riding at this level for a few months
I’m learning something new about them,” she said
my expectations for both of us were to just learn something from every single movement
“He’s a warrior; he gives me everything he has every ride
and that’s the biggest thing I’m thankful for,” Shults continued
I found one of our highlights today to be our final centerline
He knows it’s the end of the test and he does his best.”
Dressage competition at NAYC continues tomorrow with the Young Riders individual championship in the morning and the U25 Grand Prix Freestyle in the evening
Related LinksScores: 2024 North American Youth ChampionshipsRegion 3 and Region 3/5 Win Team Gold at 2024 North American Youth Championships
Stalls for Rent at Durondeau Dressage in Peer, Belgium
Exceptionally Well Located Equestrian Facility in Wellington, Florida
Well-built Equestrian Estate With Multiple Business Opportunities in Sweden
Stable Units for Rent at Lotje Schoots' Equestrian Center in Houten (NED)
For Rent: Several Apartments and Stable Wing at High-End Equestrian Facility
Stable Wing Available at Reiterhof Wensing on Dutch/German border
Real Estate: Well-Appointed Country House with Extensive Equestrian Facility in the U.K.
Rémi Blot
The Lafayette Consolidated Government will host a Salute to Service Veterans Day Breakfast at 9 a.m
The Salute to Service Veterans Day Breakfast will be at Parc Sans Souci
The event will include a ceremonial breakfast
Boulet and recognition of veterans across Lafayette Parish
and the first concert is this Friday to kick off the Mardi Gras weekend
The long-standing community concert series is presented by Evangeline Maid and produced by Downtown Lafayette
It's a two-fer this Friday: Jason Harrington avec Specklers will open the show at 6:00pm and Nathan & The Zydeco Cha Chas will take the stage at 6:30pm
Vermilion Street; the Krewe of Allons’ Kick-Off parade will pass directly in front of Parc Sans Souci on Vermilion Street
There will be road closures because of the parade; street parking off the parade route as well as the Buchanan St
Organizers say: "Please leave ice chests at home and help keep DTA
free by purchasing a drink from the beverage tent and a bite to eat from food vendors or other Downtown restaurants
and Evangeline Maid merch will also be available for purchase at every DTA
beautiful 2025 Spring t-shirt designed by the talented Cayla Zeek."
is presented by Evangeline Maid with support from Cox Communications
visit downtownlafayette.org or check out Downtown Lafayette on Facebook and Instagram
Here are the details on the full line-up:
February 28 - Parc Sans SouciNathan & The Zydeco Cha ChasOpening performance by Jason Harrington avec The Specklers
April 4- Parc Sans SouciThe UL Big Band directed by Dr
Bill HochkeppelFeaturing vocal performances by Billie Castle
May 2 - Parc Sans SouciNik Parr & The Selfless LoversOpening performance by Sadney
Almost two dozen relatives and neighbours scoured the North Eastern coastline on Easter Monday
while bathing at Sans Souci Beach the day before during a family outing
Clark's body was pulled from the water by relatives and onlookers and bystanders tried to perform CPR but Clark was not responsive
Manning the parlour at the front of her Gosine Street
said she sat out the search party as she had barely slept or eaten since hearing the news
She was not with the family when the incident happened
She was told the cousins left the family group around 3.30 pm to go for a walk along the beach when they went into the water and got into difficulties
"My son went but he didn't go out (in the water)
I say thank God you didn't go out because none of allyuh can't swim."
"He say he sit in the sand bathing like a baby and he feeling the sand pulling him
She last spoke to Clark just minutes before the incident when she called his phone to speak to her 18-year-old son
"I asked him (Clark) if everything okay and he say yes."
Bailey found out about the incident around 5 pm through a phone call while at a kite flying competition in Waterloo
After receiving the news she said she returned home and left to meet her family at the Sangre Grande Hospital and left around 2 am to return home
She said everyone was distraught over the deaths
she trying to hold up but deep down inside she want to scream out."
She added: "I can't cry in front my mummy because I'm trying to hold up for her
So when I get my private chance I would cry and grieve."
She said Clark had plans to settle down with his girlfriend
He worked at a local baking company and as a taxi driver to complete the house he started construction on last year
"He taking out his little loan and thing and paying and building and paying back and taking a next loan again
She said Phillip was a form four student of the Carapichaima Secondary School and recently told her he wanted to be a tradesman and learn to fix air condition units
I get through with Servol you know.' I say 'Okay Jak
all you have to do is behave yourself now and don't give no trouble
Anywhere you go you could shine.' He always coming by me
Bailey advised people to stay away from the beaches
That's my advice...out here different now."
The Met Office's forecast on April 20 said seas were expected to have been moderate with waves of 1.5 to two metres in open waters and 0.5 to one metre in sheltered areas
A woman who went to the beach on the same day of the incident
said her family left because the water was too rough for her children
Her family opted to go to Grande Riviere where it was more comfortable
Clark was the youngest of seven children while Phillip was the second oldest of five
Bailey said she appreciated the support the family was receiving from members of the community and even those she did not even know
She believes the Coast Guard was assisting in the search
the TTCG public affairs officer Khadija Lamy said she was not in a position to comment
Breakfast was on everyone’s minds at the Howard household in the Greenville neighborhood of Sans Souci
there was much to worry about as the remnants of Hurricane Helene battered the Upstate
ravaging entire swathes of the Southeast U.S
claiming the lives of about 250 people and counting across seven states
laying waste to the bedroom and kitchen and smashing into both Howard cars
and their one-and-a-half-year-old daughter
but hadn’t made their way into either room hit by the tree
Their pitbull Wriggly dove under the bed just moments before the tree hit
Howard said they’ve relied on their parent’s home for shelter
though with five people - including a feisty toddler - the group is practically on top of each other
they’ll apply for aid with the Federal Emergency Management Agency
Soon they’ll move into an apartment for six months “to start,” she said
“I’ll be having a baby in March and probably won’t be bringing that baby to my own home,” Howard lamented
Across the Greenville area and throughout Upstate South Carolina
residents recounted how their lives had been uprooted by Helene
one of the nation’s deadliest storms in the past century
Other than Katrina, which hit in 2005, “the only other hurricane deadlier than Helene over the past 60 years was Camille,” reads a post by Yale Climate Connections
a publication run by the college’s environmental school
FEMA estimates, so far, it has taken in at least 311,000 applications from people who’ve suffered damage to their place of residence
Sylvia Vandross and her 24-year-old son found themselves out of a place to live after a tree fell through their home of 22 years
but it’s not where we can live in it,” Vandross said of the damage
Through help from United Way of Greenville County and friends
Vandross and her son found an Airbnb to stay
and the ones available charged upwards of $800 a week
“and that was with them giving us a discount," Vandross said
She and her son are looking for an apartment they can stay in on a month-to-month basis
Vandross said she will continue her job for the county working with seniors
Half an hour to the north near Paris Mountain
and 10-year-old special needs daughter Elizabeth
forced out of their home after the storm ravaged it with floodwaters and severely damaged the roof
And the question of when they’ll be able to return is uncertain - between getting an accurate repair estimate and navigating the insurance
Lawless said she’s been dealt a particularly bad hand during this storm
But to be forced out of her home rather than resuming a normal life like her neighbors; “I feel very isolated.”
Many people simply didn’t get flood insurance
though she received sump pump failure insurance
The family had been bouncing around hotels since Helene hit
And the toll has been heavy on Lawless’s daughter
“In the first couple of days following the storm
I thought she was doing okay,” Lawless said
A school bus would come to wherever the family was staying - part of a protection afforded to displaced children under the federal McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act
a federal law meant to help children in Elizabeth's situation
Lawless noticed her daughter was self-harming by pulling out her eyelashes
“She tends to internalize things and not tell you something is going on… that needs to be addressed,” Lawless said
They quickly got her set up for a therapy appointment
Elizabeth has bonded with the therapist over her love of soccer and even suggested a session outdoors with a soccer ball
“you guys are going to make it through this” and “you’re going to be okay.”
“He was kind of like shelter from the storm
He provided a degree of comfort that I had not felt since the storm or after
Email: munozd@northjersey.com; Twitter:@danielmunoz100 and Facebook
A $20.3 million federal infrastructure grant will help build a planned 2.2 mile extension of the Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail
Greenville County’s planned Sans Souci Connector
would include trail surfacing as well as multiple bridged road crossings and e-bike charging stations
Construction is expected to begin in February 2026
The money comes from the Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability an Equity (RAISE) grant program. The Greenville County funding was part of a 148-project announcement in late June
The RAISE program has thus far committed $7.2 billion to more than 500 projects nationwide
The planned extension will connect Poinsett Highway to the Swamp Rabbit Trail near an ongoing 240-acre redevelopment of the former Union Bleachery site near the intersection of West Blue Ridge Drive and Old Buncombe Road
Input your search keywords and press Enter
the redevelopment of County Square is one of the biggest — and the most important — developments in Greenville’s recent history
when you have a small piece of land and it doesn’t work out as intended
there’s a lot more at stake,” said Nancy Whitworth
the City of Greenville’s deputy city manager
“With this site and its sensitivity to the park and downtown
The county-owned property is more than 37 acres
equivalent in size to downtown Greenville’s core
and located within walking distance of Falls Park
and the Greenville Health System Swamp Rabbit Trail
Its redevelopment is expected to be a billion-dollar
the redevelopment of a block of South Main Street across from the Peace Center
the mixed-use development at the corner of North Main and Washington streets
the master planned urban community on Verdae Boulevard and Laurens Road on land once owned by the late reclusive textile magnate John D
at 1,100 acres and $1.5 billion when completed
and we’ve got to make sure to get it right,” said Greenville County Council Chairman Butch Kirven
County Square was not thought of as a part of Greenville’s downtown
But Falls Park opened in 2004 and Fluor Field two years later
planning started for the Swamp Rabbit Trail
a 22-mile multiuse trail that opened in 2009
Because the former mall that now houses county operations will be torn down
the developer and the county have a wonderful opportunity to design from the ground up
professor emeritus of city and regional planning at Clemson University and former member of the city’s planning commission and Design Review Board
“They have the opportunity to be creative and efficient
and make it an important part of Greenville
“Any time you double or triple the density of activities
it’s going to strain existing capacities,” he said
“They’ll have to have other ways to get there so you don’t have to get in a car
They’ll need to think carefully about the back streets
They need to make it attractive and feasible to walk with site lines and well-defined walking routes.”
who said the city hasn’t had discussions with the developer
said the city will be interested in how the development’s design will minimize impacts on traffic
The city will also look at other elements like parking
The development will likely require a zoning change
“There’s no opportunity to back-door anything.”
Kirven said County Square is more than an extension of downtown
“It’s a test bed to demonstrate how the future looks in an urban environment,” he said
“It’s a clean slate where we can design and create a smart urban environment for the future
Acceptable Copy Guidelines for the CJ Guaranteed Service
Before issuing a press release over the CJ Guaranteed service you will have to confirm that you have the right to do so and that you have read and understood the CJ Guaranteed terms and conditions
If you have any doubt on either of these points
Press releases that do not conform with the requirements set out below may not be distributed
Statements within a press release that include first person pronouns (I
we) require attribution and should appear in quotes
If you wish to send a press release that makes stock tips or recommendations you must be either a member of FINRA with a valid CID# or a nationally recognized publisher
Please read the terms and conditions contained in this Agreement very carefully before using the Service
Use of the Service indicates that you accept the terms and conditions contained in this Agreement
If you do not accept the terms and conditions of this Agreement
Community Journals facilities are governed by Federal and State regulations
in any format now known or hereafter developed
video and audio files and urls (collectively
You are responsible for payment of all fees associated with your use of the Service
You are responsible for the content and accuracy of all Content submitted through the Service
Because of the volume of information and copy submitted to Community Journals
Community Journals is not responsible for verifying any facts contained in the Content
You represent and warrant to Community Journals that (i) You have the right and authority to deliver to Community Journals all Content submitted
including for distribution through the Service
(ii) You will comply with all applicable laws
including but not limited to the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act of 1998 and laws relating to “spam”
(iii) You have obtained all required authorizations and consents with respect to any data that you provide concerning individuals and the use and transfer thereof
(iv) You will not submit Content that is obscene
false or misleading or which violates any copyright
right of privacy or publicity or other right of any person
(v) You are using the Service for a valid and legitimate business purpose
(vi) You will comply with all of the terms and conditions contained in this Agreement
(vii) the Content that You submit will conform to Community Journals CG Guaranteed Copy Acceptability Guidelines and will not
contain information related to threatened litigation
stock advice or recommendations or online gaming websites
and (viii) the Content will not contain any viruses
computer systems or data run through such computer systems
You agree to shall indemnify and hold harmless Community Journals
and those licensed or otherwise authorized by Community Journals to process
transmit or distribute Content from and against any and all claims
costs and expenses (including reasonable attorney’s fees) arising out of or relating to any breach of any of the foregoing representations and warranties or otherwise arising out of or relating to the contents or nature of the Content
We reserve the right to reject or edit copy or other information when necessary in our judgment
provided that no material substantive edits will be made
We reserve the right to retract or withdraw your Content for any reason
You grant to Community Journals a royalty-free perpetual license and right to reproduce
archive and create derivative works of the processed Content
Community Journals does not warrant or ensure that the Service will be free from errors
Any errors by Community Journals will be corrected promptly upon discovery
and such obligation to correct shall constitute the sole liability of Community Journals in this regard
including but not limited to any warranties of merchantability or suitability for print or broadcast
The liability of Community Journals and its affiliates and agents to You shall be limited to the refund of the fees paid by You in connection with the item of Content at issue
and in no event will Community Journals or its affiliates or agents be liable for any indirect
exemplary or incidental damages regardless of the form of action
Community Journals shall not be liable for any delay or non-performance arising from any cause beyond its reasonable control
All news releases and other information transmitted by Community Journals must contain a clearly identifiable source
The source indicates the entity or individual that is responsible for the Content and cannot be the name of an agency issuing news on Your behalf
This Agreement shall be governed and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York
If any provision of this Agreement is held by a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid
the remaining provisions shall nevertheless continue in full force without being impaired or invalidated in any way
Any dispute arising under or related in any way to this Agreement shall be adjudicated in a court of competent jurisdiction in the County of New York
Nearly two decades after the idea for a Cancer Survivors Park grew from a high school senior project to beautify an area outside a local cancer treatment center
Greenville Cancer Survivors Park will hold its grand opening this weekend
A public ribbon cutting will be held at 11 a.m
“The Dedication to a Vision of Hope and Healing” will feature community leaders sharing the story about the creation of the park and plans for the Center for Hope & Healing
a space for community celebrations and survivorship programs
The ceremony will include recognition of the Greenville Health System
and other contributors who made the park possible
“The Garden Party,” will be held from 6 p.m
The fundraising soiree will feature music by Trey Francis
Guests at the party will be able to walk through the park and hear stories about the design and meaning
Tickets are $125 and are available at cancersurvivorspark.org/the-garden-party.php
Proceeds will benefit the Cancer Survivors Park Alliance’s education programs
A free Cancer Survivors Day Celebration will be held at the park from 1 p.m
Activities include walking tours of the park
A survivors recognition ceremony and photo are set for 2:32 p.m
Registration is requested but not required
“We are excited to be celebrating a significant milestone — the transformation of a challenged piece of property into a beautiful park
We still have much to do as we transition from bricks and mortar to a focus on incorporating the creative features
and resources that are the essence of our vision — creating a space for hope and healing,” said Kay Roper
executive director of the Cancer Survivors Park Alliance
As the functions of parks grow more complex
public-private partnerships have increased as a funding source
Greenville’s Unity Park is an example of many of the current trends in building urban parks — a greater reliance on public-private partnerships
the conversion of postindustrial sites into green space
and construction of facilities that accommodate fluctuation in water levels to help water quality and flooding issues
“Parks are no longer simply places for recreation
That’s why public-private partnerships are so important,” said Catherine Nagel
“Really where public-private partnerships shine is that they bring in more resources and skills.”
While Greenville has been known for public-private partnerships for downtown development projects such as the Hyatt
Mayor Knox White said Unity Park is the city’s first example of a true public-private partnership on a park
The city has earmarked $20 million in hospitality tax revenue for the new park over 10 years and wants private partners to contribute another $20 million
Separate from the city’s fundraising efforts is one led by Community Journals’ chairman and co-founder Doug Greenlaw to raise money for a veterans memorial in the park
Greenlaw is a founder of the Upstate charter of the Military Order of the Purple Heart
“Public-private partnerships have become a critical funding tool in the toolbox,” said Kevin O’Hara
vice president of urban and government affairs for the National Recreation and Parks Association
public-private partnerships are good for parks.”
Chicago’s Millennium Park was a result of a public-private partnership
Mayor Richard Daley originally proposed construction of a parking garage with a landscaped greenroof on land that had been parkland
The original plan financing called for $120 million from parking revenue bonds and $30 million from private resources
plans for the park had changed drastically
A cycle center provides heated bicycle parking
There are outdoor art galleries and a promenade
and the Pritzker Pavilion that hosts the Grant Park Musical Festival
Underneath the park is a 4,000 space parking garage
the park was the Midwest’s most popular tourist attraction
There’s a wide range of how park public-private partnerships are structured
“There’s a real range of public-private partnership models to consider,” she said
“The key is to fit the model to your community
Some cities have a strong base of philanthropic organizations
City Park would also mirror the trend in other cities where postindustrial sites are turned into parks and green space
those sites are on waterfronts and riverfronts
areas that some cities turned their backs on and became nasty places to which people didn’t want to go
a waterfront cargo yard was turned into one of New York’s signature parks
The city redirects real estate taxes from residential and commercial developments in the project zone
creating a self-sustaining revenue stream that is far less dependent on concessions and permits for special events than signature parks in other major cities
“Parks are helping to revitalize cities and put them on the map,” Nagel said
“It’s exciting that those projects are not just happening in the largest cities but in medium and small cities as well.”
Below is a list of Veterans Day events in Acadiana:
Veterans Day Celebration will be held November 11 at 11 am at the Evangeline Parish Courthouse
This website uses cookies to improve and promote our services. By continuing to use this website you are agreeing to our Cookie policy.
Firelei Báez’s Sans-Souci (This threshold between a dematerialized and a historicized body)
Museum purchase with funds provided by Lesie and Greg Ferrero and Rose Ellen Meyerhoff Greene
THE FIRST THING that strikes you looking at Sans Souci
her eyes—the only defined facial feature—fixing on the viewer as she wears an elaborate wrapped headdress
Dazzling folds of intricately patterned ivory brocade cascade down her neck
The head wrap refers to the “Tignon laws” of late-1700s Louisiana
where a Spanish colonial governor decreed that freed Black women should cover their hair with a scarf
He was aiming to put them in their place—to tie them to the slave class and prevent mixed-race unions
But the plan backfired badly: the women turned their mandated head coverings into increasingly stylish fashion statements that would eventually make their way to upper-class white Europe
and the head of Napoleon Bonaparte’s beloved Joséphine herself
A symbol of repression became one of resistance
in town for the West Coast debut of this breathtaking
first career survey at the Vancouver Art Gallery
she says Sans Souci also alludes to the U.S
military’s recently rolled-back prohibitions on popular Black braided hairstyles within its ranks
and you’ll see within its exquisite embroidery everything from panthers (a nod to the Black Panthers) to the balled-fist azabache or figa gesture that not only wards off the evil eye but was once used as a code between slaves who wanted to hook up outside of enforced breeding
suggesting the mixing of blood and land—repeated motifs for an artist who often connects the slave trade and diaspora from Africa to the Caribbean to Louisiana and America.
That will take you down another historical rabbit hole
referring to the palace that was built in 1813 under Henri Christophe I
the king of Haiti and a former slave who played a pivotal role in the Haitian rebellion that defeated Napoleon
The palace is a potent symbol of freedom from slavery—and of women
since Sans-Souci was mainly a residence for Christophe I’s wife Marie Louise and daughters
beautiful—a word curator Eva Respini admits has long been a “dirty word” in contemporary art—at the same time as they make cutting critiques
Untitled (Les tables de geographie reduites en un jeu de cartes)
oil and acrylic on archival printed canvas
Collection of Deborah Beckmann and Jacob Kotzubei
courtesy the artist and Hauser & Wirth
Báez says she has learned to “just focus on what you love because what you love will transform the world”
“The way you embrace it as a colourist is so amazing,” Respini
deputy director and director of curatorial programs at the Vancouver Art Gallery
It’s sort of like the tignons—the way they were beautiful but were a form of resistance
I think the beauty part of your work is also political.”
as the daughter of a Dominican mother and a Haitian father who spent her childhood between the two attached countries
she moved with her mother and sisters to Miami
later moving to New York to study at Cooper Union and pursue an MFA from Hunter College
Often she draws on the vivid folklore of her home country
mysterious paintings here reimagine the ciguapa
a female trickster that lives in the forest
backward legs beneath a torso sprouting tropical leaves—part flora
And the breadth and depth of Báez’s historic references are impressive
she actually paints on top of historic documents: colonial maps
In Man Without a Country (aka anthropophagist wading in the Artibonite River) she paints figures and symbols across 225 de-accessioned book pages (all gathered on a wall)
Many of the images are women’s silhouettes
decorated in floral textile patterns that will remind you of that tignon
One of the exhibition’s show-stopping paintings
finds saturated oil and acrylic colours dancing across imagery from an archaic card game that once let its players compete at colonial empire-building
(The subtitle translates as “Geography tables reduced to a card game”.) Inspect it closely and its Rorschach-like blotches take the form of almost 100 hidden horses—the animals used to overpower entire nations and monumentalized in so many colonialist statues
her technical mastery with brush and paint is on full display
A Drexcyen chronocommons (To win the war you fought it sideways)
The latter interest is evident in a room-filling installation called A Drexcyen chronocommons (To win the war you fought it sideways)—a gorgeous
sacred-feeling space swathed with blue fabric draped from the ceiling
and pierced with curlicuing patterns that create the feeling of the milky way
(The tiny holes actually map out the stars as they appeared in the night sky at the onset of the Haitian Revolution.) Inspired by the “star chamber” in a song by electronic duo Drexciya
the room alludes to an aquatic kingdom populated by the children of pregnant slave women who were cast overboard during the Atlantic crossing
The waves of blue remind us of West African indigo
But the artist says she is also referring to a less “aesthetic” material from her growing-up years in the Caribbean.
“The marker of tropical storms was always blue tarpaulins,” she says
“They’re a symbol of shelter but also disaster.”
to take in with the “slow looking” Respini says is so necessary to these big
“Part of the reason I have this grand scale is to remind you of the physical presence of this thing in front of you,” Báez says
“Paintings are tactile things that you are also a part of.” She is giving complex
lost histories major physical form; she’s making monumentally scaled space for the unheard voices of the past and present
And there’s an intense beauty to that as well
Man Without a Country (aka anthropophagist wading in the Artibonite River)
ink and chine-collé on 225 deaccessioned book pages
Janet Smith is cofounder and editorial director of Stir
She is an award-winning arts journalist who has spent more than two decades immersed in Vancouver’s dance
She sits on the Vancouver Film Critics’ Circle
the inclusive two-day festival sets up in fields and by riverbanks
and Claudia Goulet-Blais share insights on the works they’ll have on display
In partnership with Burnaby School District 41
exhibitions showcase artworks by elementary and high-school students
New video work traverses an interior landscape shaped by the perspectives of artists Min Kim and Mia Wennerstrand
North Van Arts exhibition features contemporary works by Daryl Lynne Wood
exhibition features more than 420 works from across five degree programs
Works by internationally acclaimed mosaic artists Daryl Wood
and Maria Abagis to be displayed at CityScape Community ArtSpace
Series explores Rotimi Fani-Kayode’s practice through films
and lectures with queer Black and African artists and cultural producers
B.C.’s Charles Campbell and Tania Willard are also nominated for the Pacific Region in competition for country’s richest visual-art award
Z·inc Artist Collective brings deep curiosity and personal experience to meditations on networks that sustain and adapt
Email us at hello@createastir.ca
and unceded territory of the Coast Salish peoples
including the territories of the xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam)
and Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations
What is Stir?Support StirDiversity & InclusionAdvertisingRSS FEED
Legal | Site Credits
We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada
Czech lighting company Sans Souci has completed its largest project to date in the Middle East, at Dubai’s Five Luxe JBR
The resort features eighteen unique glass installations by Sans Souci
which opted to bring the beauty of the marine world to the hotel’s interiors
be it through a glass wall composition in the lobby
a 12m chandelier is composed of crystal balls with sandblasted spheres and stylised droplets resembling fish
Head designer Veronika Vančurová has added a metal spiral symbolising a coral reef
introducing an element of feng-shui that connects the individual components in a harmonious composition
dynamic lighting scenes simulate underwater currents
Each component of the main chandelier is also coated with a special nanocoating layer
“We have been developing this unique technology at Sans Souci for several last years,” explains Martin Cháb
“Nanocoating allows us to enhance the aesthetic and technical properties of glass
no water and enables the metal recovery and glass recycling
minimising the overall ecological impact.”
Metro Rail Conference
Indian Railway Finance Corporation (IRFC) is expanding beyond its traditional role as the key financier for Indian Railways
with plans to diversify into metro and rapid rail infrastructure projects
This strategic shift is expected to drive higher growth and profitability
said Chairman and Managing Director Manoj Kumar Dubey
The state-run firm has already secured Rs 140,000 million worth of loan assets through three consecutive bids in just three months
signaling its aggressive push into new sectors aligned with railway infrastructure.Dubey highlighted that margins from these diversified p.
The Murkongselek–Pasighat new railway line
a flagship project under Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR)
has reached 45 per cent physical progress as of March 31
with work valued at approximately Rs 12.52 billion
Designed to enhance rail connectivity between Assam and Arunachal Pradesh
the 26.15-kilometre line is being executed in two distinct phases.Phase I
covering the Murkongselek–Sille segment (15.6 km)
with 1.375 million cubic meters finished out of the targeted 1.416 million
Construction is also well underway on 18 major and 35 minor br.
In a move to improve accessibility for passengers with disabilities and reduced mobility
the Palakkad Railway Division launched Project Sugamya – Breaking Barriers at Palakkad Railway Station on Monday
Backed by the Swarga Foundation and the International Gemological Institute (India)
the initiative was inaugurated by Divisional Railway Manager Arun Kumar Chaturvedi.Under the project
24 mobile ramps and 24 specially designed wheelchairs have been deployed across 20 key stations in the division
Get daily newsletters around different themes from Construction world
Don't miss out on valuable insights and opportunities to connect with like minded professionals
Construction World (CW) is India’s premier and largest circulated construction business magazine
Big things are coming to Downtown Lafayette as Sans Souci Properties
and Tandem Hospitality Group unveil plans for a boutique hotel that promises to be a game-changer for the Acadiana region
The announcement confirmed rumors that have been circulating for the past few months and revealed a project that combines the warm hospitality of Acadiana with a touch of modern luxury
creating a unique experience right in the cultural heart of Lafayette
Set in Lafayette’s historic downtown district
and a restaurant operated by a local culinary partner yet to be announced
Guests can look forward to an outdoor pool with a creative poolside bar
nearly 2,500 square feet of state-of-the-art event space
and personalized service that caters to business travelers
Sans Souci Properties will bring in local insights
The Thrash Group will handle the boutique design to mix sophistication with Lafayette's unique culture
and Tandem Hospitality Group will take care of operations
“Lafayette is the cultural heart of Acadiana
and we’re excited to develop a property that reflects the unique character of the region,” said Joe Thrash
The project has garnered support from local leaders
including Mayor-President Monique Blanco-Boulet
who described it as a "catalytic project" that will revitalize the downtown area
emphasized the hotel’s proximity to over 35 locally owned restaurants
making it a hub for visitors and folks right here in town
Construction is set to kick off in early 2025
with the hotel aiming to open by summer 2026
It’s expected to create jobs during the building phase and about 75 permanent positions once it’s up and running
Downtown Lafayette is already alive with events like Festival International
which will only enhance an area that is already vibrant and welcoming
It's exciting to consider the many possibilities ahead—more festivals
and new venues where we can celebrate our sense of community
the future looks very promising for Downtown Lafayette and beyond
Big things are coming to Downtown Lafayette as plans have been revealed for an exciting new boutique hotel.\nRead More
Advertiser DisclosureAdvertiser Disclosure
163 Published Articles 696 Edited Articles
61 Published Articles 3583 Edited Articles
Opinions and recommendations are ours alone
Travelers to Jamaica can look forward to warm
it’s a great destination for families and singles alike
and most on-site activities all for 1 price
may not be included in the all-inclusive rate
Travelers enjoy the convenience of paying once for most things
and can relax on vacation without keeping track of the tab
All-inclusive resorts are especially enticing for couples and friends who want to get away for a while
And an adults-only option almost ensures relaxation in a peaceful environment
There are direct flights to MBJ from several U.S
and more can also be found at the other 2 international airports
Most all-inclusive resorts offer round-trip airport transfers
which is convenient because even the closest airport to your resort may be an hour-long drive
The hotels on this list are in 6 areas around Jamaica
and Negril are likely the most recognizable Jamaican destinations
Ocho Rios is considered a better place to stay if you’re looking for adventure and hoping to explore the island
The famous Dunn’s River Falls that you can climb is in Ocho Rios
Montego Bay is quieter than Ocho Rios and seemingly better for families who aren’t too adventurous or those who otherwise don’t plan to venture out much from their resort
Negril is home to one of the best beaches in all of Jamaica: Seven Mile Beach
The beach features white sand and clear blue water with plenty of space to lounge or take advantage of the water activities
Oyster Bay is between Ocho Rios and Montego Bay
and the area is best known for its 2-mile stretch of pristine beaches
Rose Hall, an area within Montego Bay, is home to Rose Hall Great House
but that’s not the main reason to stay in the area; the surrounding hotels and resorts are
The plantation home has been renovated and now serves as a museum
Whitehouse is about a 1-hour drive from MBJ
and there isn’t much to do in the area compared to Ocho Rios and Montego Bay
Expect long transfer times to excursions or plan to relax at your all-inclusive resort for most of your stay
How active you plan to be on your Jamaican vacation will dictate where you should consider staying
To get the best of both worlds — relaxation and adventure — consider a resort in Montego Bay or Ocho Rios
Couples Sans Souci is 1 of 4 Couples Resorts in Jamaica
Couples Sans Souci is the most intimate of the 4 resorts and great for couples looking for some serious downtime
The minimum age requirement is 18 years old
this hotel is one of the smaller resorts on our list
It features its own mineral pool and grotto
The all-inclusive rate includes round-trip airport transfers
there are 3 pools and 3 Jacuzzis for relaxation
There are 6 dining venues at Couples Sans Souci in addition to in-room dining and private beach dining
Options include international cuisine at Cassanova Restaurant
and a healthy lunch or post-workout smoothie at Charlie’s Veggie Bar
Rates at Couples Sans Souci start at $494 per couple per night
Excellence Oyster Bay is located within a private peninsula in Montego Bay
You must be at least 18 years old to stay here
There are 5 swimming pools to choose from at this resort
Deep sea fishing and scuba diving with an instructor are also available for an additional fee
There’s a spa available to guests at an additional cost
For those looking for even more luxury at Excellence Oyster Bay
Inclusions when booking Excellence Club include 2 private lounges
exclusive Excellence Club restaurants and bars
You can look forward to a dozen restaurants at this resort
Some dining options include an international buffet at The Kitchen Table
and Jamaican cuisine at Jer Hut: Jamaican Barbecue
Rates at Excellence Oyster Bay start at $463 per night for 2 adults with a minimum stay requirement of 3 nights
Rose Hall, where the Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall is located
is home to the famous Rose Hall Great House
Guests must be at least 18 years old to stay at this resort
On-property amenities at Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall include a spa
The beach is serviced by beach butlers who will bring you food and drinks while you lounge
Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall guests have full access to Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall
There are a whopping 19 bars and restaurants at the resort
not including private beach dining or in-room dining
Some of the restaurants to look forward to include casual West End Grill
and seafood restaurant Blue Grill at CalypZo
Rates at Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall start at $427 or 35,000 World of Hyatt points per night for 2 adults
Hotel Riu Palace Jamaica is a popular choice for friends and couples alike
While the minimum age required to check in is 18
The resort features daily daytime activities and several nights of live musical entertainment
Active activities available on-property include a beach volleyball court
Guests of Hotel Riu Palace Jamaica have non-reciprocal access to all 5 Riu resorts on the island
The dining options include a buffet that’s available for breakfast
and dinner as well as à la carte restaurants
The restaurants require advance reservations and include Italian and Japanese cuisines as well as a steakhouse
Elite Club at Riu grants exclusive access to an upgraded in-room minibar and snacks
There’s also one more dining option only for Elite Club guests as well
Rates at Hotel Riu Palace Jamaica start at $447 per night for 2 adults
Sandals Dunn’s River in Ocho Rios is appropriately close to and named after the famous tourist attraction Dunn’s River Falls
The age requirement for all Sandals resorts is at least 18 years old
The 200-room resort features 14 room categories
including those with swim-up pools and butlers
There are 12 restaurants and 9 bars throughout Sandals Dunn’s River
Dining options include Latin fusion restaurant Zuka and Asian fusion restaurant Banyu
Rates at Sandals Dunn’s River start at $295 per person per night
Another Sandals property, this time in Negril, Sandals Negril sits on Seven Mile Beach
The resort features 4 swimming pools and 3 whirlpools and plenty of adventure water sports like waterskiing
Tennis and croquet are available for those who prefer to stay on land
Sandals Negril doesn’t have a large collection of restaurants and bars by Sandals’ standards
Rates at Sandals Negril start at $215 per person per night
Sandals South Coast is located in Whitehouse in Westmoreland Parish in Jamaica
Whitehouse is known for its fishing industry
Sandals South Coast is about an hour and a half drive from MBJ
Sandals South Coast is a special place for couples because of its overwater villas
Each villa comes with a personal butler and amenities
There are 19 other room categories to choose from
can be found during the day and into the evening
Restaurants include Italian restaurant Giuseppe’s
Rates at Sandals South Coast $197 per person per night
S Hotel Jamaica is not a part of any large hotel chain. The boutique hotel is actually a Small Luxury Hotel of the World
Note that adults are considered as young as 16 years old at this resort
Activities at the resort include beach volleyball
and water aerobics as well as other adult-friendly activities
There is also an in-house reggae band that plays every night
The all-inclusive rate includes a $25 credit to be used at the in-house spa
There are 7 restaurants and bars at S Hotel Jamaica
3 of which are only open for dinner and require a reservation
Roots Rock serves Jamaican classics like ackee and saltfish
the menu at Jamrock features cuts of meat and fish served on heated rocks
and you’ll find continental classics at Rocksteady
Rates at S Hotel Jamaica start at $535 per night for 2 people
The Caves Hotel has just 12 cliffside cottages
making it the smallest and most intimate accommodation on our list
Adults are considered 16 years old and older here
On-site activities at The Caves Hotel include a cliff diving expert who can guide you on a snorkeling excursion through the caves
The watersports director can also offer other water sports activities directly from the resort
There are just a few dining venues at The Caves Hotel
while Bamboo Terrace is open 24 hours for drinks and snacks
The Sands opens to the public on Wednesdays and Sundays
Blackwell Rum Bar is located at the end of a spiral staircase where guests can sip on the national drink while overlooking the ocean in the evening
Rates at The Caves Hotel start at $443 per night for 2 people
There are many ways to book an all-inclusive resort, including on third-party booking sites like Expedia and Priceline
You can also book your stay using a credit card or hotel points
not just purchases through a dedicated portal
If paying cash, you can book most hotels through your credit card’s travel portal and earn bonus points. The Platinum Card® from American Express, for example, gives 5x on prepaid hotels booked through AmexTravel.com. The Capital One Venture X card earns 10x on hotels booked through Capital One Travel
Jamaica’s laid-back lifestyle is just the break you and your partner or friends need
The island has many great areas to stay in for your next all-inclusive resort vacation
The adults-only properties on this list are the highest-rated all-inclusives in each of the most popular areas in Jamaica
The best time to visit Jamaica has traditionally been between November and April
when you can avoid the peak of Atlantic hurricane season
Montego Bay may be the better choice for you
it’s close to the major international airport
Negril is home to Seven Mile Beach and lends itself well to those looking for more relaxation
Sandals Negril and The Caves Hotel are adults-only all-inclusive resorts on Negril’s Seven Mile Beach
Hyatt Ziva in Jamaica is a family-friendly all-inclusive resort
All Sandals resorts are all-inclusive and adults only
For rates and fees of The Platinum Card® from American Express, click here
Ashley discovered a love for travel in college that’s continued as her family has grown
She loves showing parents how they can take their families on trips using points and has contributed to numerous publications and podcasts
Plus — expert strategies to maximize your points & miles by joining our (free) newsletter
We respect your privacy. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA. Google's privacy policy and terms of service apply
OFFER ENDING SOONChase Sapphire Preferred® Card
LIMITED TIME TRAVEL OFFERThe Business Platinum Card® from American Express
BEST LOUNGE ACCESSThe Platinum Card® from American Express
Privacy Policy | All Guides | Terms & Conditions | Web Accessibility Policy | Cookie Policy
travel information and ancillary information concerning travel and credit cards
The information provided is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial
LLC uses reasonable efforts to maintain accurate information on the site — and prior to applying for any credit card offers found on UpgradedPoints.com
all visitors should review other features of such credit cards including but not limited to interest rates
and should determine the suitability of such credit cards considering their own individual financial position
as an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases
Editorial Disclosure: The content featured on UpgradedPoints.com has not been influenced
or reviewed by the credit card companies mentioned
comments and analyses are the responsibility of the author(s) and not any Advertiser or credit card issuer
monuments and gardens in the park surrounding Sanssouci Palace
a sprawling green oasis in the heart of the German city of Potsdam and a UNESCO world heritage site
But a closer look shows that all is not well with the park’s trees
which increasingly are struggling with the effects of climate change
Among the signs are beech trees with thinning crowns
big branches that have crashed to the ground and trunks with much of their bark peeled off
“I’ve been watching this garden for over 30 years
and I see very serious changes,” says Sven Kerschek
a former chief gardener for part of the park
very serious increase in trees and shrubs dying; and not just dying
The region experienced a particularly hot and dry summer in 2018
followed by several more years with little rain
Comparatively wet summers last year and this year haven’t made up for their effects
Heat and a lack of rain aren’t the only problems
Kerschek says: “Climate change is more complex.” Well-watered trees standing on the banks of streams and lakes also show signs of stress
increasing fungal infections and the spread of insect species that didn’t previously occur in the area are among other factors that play a part
the park lost between 18 and 87 trees every year
The number hasn’t dropped below 100 since; it reached 315 in 2020 before falling back somewhat
The Prussian Palaces and Gardens Foundation
which oversees Sanssouci Park and many other sites in Berlin and the surrounding state of Brandenburg
is telling the story of the trees’ struggle with climate change in an open-air exhibition this summer
titled “Re:Generation.” At points around the park
visitors can see examples of the problems and ideas for how they might be tackled
“Perhaps the exhibition will help point out that we have such problems here; that extreme examples of climate change are already visible not just where people live in a river valleys and have to experience a flood
but also in idyllic Sanssouci Park,” says Katrin Schröder
Visitors are pointed to trees suffering from “sunburn,” with drying and peeling bark making them vulnerable to fungi and animals
They can see that ground water receded drastically at times in recent years
making life difficult for older trees in particular
But there are also more heartening examples
“survival artists” that have defied the difficulties
Those trees give the gardeners reason to hope
says they want to “try to continue working with the genetic material we have here in the garden.”
The oldest trees in Sanssouci Park are about 300 years old
The hope is that robust older trees which have already been through variations in climate are better placed to adapt — and that even if they don’t look particularly healthy themselves
they can pass on that capability in their seeds
One idea is to collect those seeds and grow young trees in a special nursery mirroring the difficult conditions of the park
Sanssouci Palace itself was the summer residence of Prussian King Frederick II
It was completed in 1747 with opulent vineyard terraces
a royal retreat with a name that translates from French as “carefree.”
The garden was later expanded substantially
growing into a 19th-century landscaped park that covers nearly 300 hectares (740 acres) and measures more than 2 kilometers (1 1/4 miles) from east to west
It has nearly 60 gardeners and has been part of UNESCO’s World Heritage List since 1990
While almost all the native tree species in the park have struggled with the effects of climate change
the solution is not to move to exotic species
Schröder notes that Potsdam still has a central European climate with sometimes long and very late frosts
so “we can’t do anything here with Mediterranean vegetation.”
But one approach may be to look at whether it could use varieties of linden trees
beeches or others from areas such as southeastern Europe that have very hot summers but also late frosts
she says — on condition that they look similar to the trees already at Sanssouci
“We don’t want to change the park in such a way that it it has a completely changed mixture of trees,” Schröder says
AP video journalist Pietro De Cristofaro contributed to this report
Stay secure and make sure you have the best reading experience possible by upgrading your browser
formerly Simmonds) passed away suddenly on October 3rd at Owen Sound Hospital
nephew Patrick O’Kell and niece Katie (Colin Fall); as well as her two children
Sean Dinsmore (Cassidy) and her two grandsons
She was predeceased by her father Joseph Reginald O’Kell
and mother Nancy Elizabeth Hay “Nan” Coristine (nee Hooper)
Martha attended Havergal College in Toronto
Martha’s many travels inspired her love of Europe
as well as the Sans Souci area of Georgian Bay
and cultivated a knowledge of standardbred and thoroughbred horse racing along with discernment in food
She created ‘Sans Argent’ on Victoria Sideroad
a beautiful small farm that was a cherished part of her children’s formative years
Kentucky region and nurtured a social world with many friendships there
over her lifetime Martha brought together countless friends and strangers to enjoy good company around her table
Her children would like to extend their appreciation to Martha’s neighbours in Thornbury for their generous assistance
donations to the Meaford Hospital Foundation or the St
George’s Anglican Church Clarksburg would be appreciated and may be made through the Ferguson Funeral Home
ON N4L 1B9 to whom arrangements have been entrusted
I am saddened to hear of the passing of your mom
I take comfort in my many happy memories I have of our time together
Condolences to Kelly & Sean on the loss of their mother
We are deeply saddened by the loss of your mother
We will cherish the lovely and numerous memories of her
Sorry for your loss.I had just finished hanging her art at Seasons in Owen Sound and she seemed happy to be settled with her things around her.Jane and Sid Dykstra
Save my name and email address in this browser for the next time I comment
Consumer Information Guide: A Guide to Death Care in Ontario
team@fergusonfuneralhomes.ca
in whose electorate the Church Simon Kennedy
has committed $20,000 to fund new lighting at the church ensuring the building remains a central and welcoming part of the community
The funding will go toward the installation of modern
energy-efficient lighting that will enhance the church's exterior and ensure it remains a well-lit and inviting space for services
and community gatherings during evening hours
Mr Kennedy emphasised the importance of this investment in supporting both local heritage and the broader community
"The Sans Souci Anglican Church is a cornerstone of our local history and a key gathering place for community groups of all types," Mr Kennedy said
"This $20,000 funding will help ensure that the church remains a vibrant part of the community
while improving safety and accessibility for evening events and services," he said
"The new lighting will not only enhance the church's architectural beauty but will also contribute to creating a safer and more welcoming environment for the local residents who attend services
This funding is part of the Coalition Government's ongoing commitment to supporting local churches
and the preservation of important historical buildings across the region
Warden at Sans Souci Anglican Church said: "We are a growing Church in Sans Souci as well as a hub for the local community
One of the big issues we face is that the church grounds are very dark at night
which presents a safety risk for the groups who use the church
New lighting would improve the safety of all and we are thankful to Simon Kennedy for his support."
Covering Georges River Council, Bayside Council and general news. For news tips contact me at jgainsford@theleader.com.au
Sign up for our newsletter to stay up to date
We care about the protection of your data. Read our Privacy Policy
As kids gathered to play in Playground at Parc Sans Souci
an official ribbon cutting was held Friday
The event was immediately followed by Bach Lunch in Parc Sans Souci with music from Major Handy and the Louisiana Blues Band featuring Sharona Thomas
“Thanks to the generosity and vision of community philanthropists
this world-class amenity will serve families of Lafayette for decades,” said Kevin Blanchard
CEO of Downtown Development Authority and Downtown Lafayette Unlimited
“We are creating something special at Parc Sans Souci
adding to the existing family-friendly infrastructure and programming in the park and leveraging its adjacency to the Children’s Museum and Science Museum
The space originally functioned as a parking lot
and is now transformed into a 6,000-square-foot inclusive and accessible playground
Merry-go-round that is wheelchair accessible
and a large slide that is connected to a Spaceball which is held by large ropes and allow kids to climb
The equipment is from Berliner Seilfabrik — a leading manufacturer for playgrounds across the world
The Design and equipment selection were led by Duplantis Design Group and Innovative Recreation LLC
and I invested in this project for many reasons
but the main focus was always to make our downtown a more vibrant community and a better place to live
“As a healthcare organization deeply rooted in the well-being of our community
we are excited to support the creation of an inclusive playground downtown,” said Patrick Gandy
“Inclusivity is not just a value we uphold; it's a principle we champion
This playground will not only provide a safe and welcoming space for children of all abilities to play and thrive but also symbolizes our commitment to fostering a healthier and more inclusive environment for all
We believe that by investing in initiatives like this
more resilient community where everyone has the opportunity to flourish,”
the Playground at Parc Sans Souci provides additional opportunities to activate the public park and surrounding businesses throughout the year
Events programmed within the park will enjoy the beautiful
permanent infrastructure designed specifically with families and children in mind
The project was constructed by Triad Construction Services
and Lafayette Consolidated Government will own and maintain the playground
The historic Sans Souci Bar on Harsens Island is back open after it closed more than three years ago during the COVID-19 pandemic
The bar was originally a small building on the island that opened in 1879 and was the embarking point for the White Star Steamship Co.
Ivy Ring became the first woman to secure a liquor license in Michigan and that's when the location became the Sans Souci Bar
It was owned by the Pauley family for 40 years, but they closed in June 2020, according to the Times Herald
three couples on the island – Bob and Rhonda Coombs
and Bruth and Kathie Schweikart – decided to purchase the bar and reopen it
the entire bar has been updated with a new 50-foot-long bar
There are also new windows on the riverside of the dining room where guests can watch freighters pass by the restaurant
A patio is expected to open in the warmer months
but Maxwell said it will still serve the famous perch dinner and chili
The bar is open Monday through Saturday and will have updated hours on its website in the winter months
The St George Sailing Club has a restaurant right on the water in Sans Souci and is one of the few places in Sydney with a water view that won't stress out your credit card
The menu has a few types of seafood platters
Find out how to get one of those coveted outdoor tables and what to order there
Mr NQN and I are headed to the St George Sailing Club with Valentina
I have to coax Mr NQN inside as the keen sailor is busy admiring the boats out front
After signing in at the machines at the front after being helped by the friendly staff
The first time was during one of those crazy Sydney January storms where gale force winds meant that we weren't able to enjoy the terrace area
Usually any restaurant on the water tends to be on the expensive side but the prices are reasonable here
Valentina is a regular - she loves it because it makes her feel like she's on holiday when she comes here
The pick for seating is at one of the outdoor tables with a view of the water under the shade of the umbrellas
We have a booking for inside (bookings are recommended) but they know that we will try and move to a table outside if one is free
At 12:15pm we manage to nab to very last large table with an umbrella
These outdoor tables can't be reserved and it's first in best dressed so ideally you want to go early around noon for lunch or 6pm for dinner
And by 1pm every inside table will be taken up
All six of us are happy sharing so we order at the counter where they let us split the bill into 3
otherwise you have to order and pay via QR code on the table
To get drinks you line up for them at the bar
There is also a daily slushie and today's flavour is watermelon
We aren't waiting long before all of our food arrives at the same time
The centrepiece is the hot seafood platter with 2 long fillets of beer battered fish
4 halves of Moreton Bay bugs with garlic butter and a big tumble of Szechuan calamari and hot chips
Usually I'm a cold seafood platter person but I really enjoy the selection
The Moreton bay bugs are easy to extract the meat out of and are well seasoned and tender with lots of garlic butter
The calamari is incredibly tender and I like the Asian style seasoning with spices like star anise (although there isn't any Szechuan pepper
The scallops with the roe on have a good flavour to them from the miso butter and the hot chips and fish are freshly fried so that they are piping hot (I have a strong dislike for cold hot chips but no issues here at all)
We dip these in the pot of tartare and enjoy
I'd say that it is ideal to share between 4 people especially if you order a pizza and/or a salad as well
Honestly I didn't expect the pizza to be that good because they're not a pizza specialist but the Calabrese pizza was a very solid offering and I'd order it again
The Calabrese is topped with Casalingo salami
Likewise the garlic prawn pizza has a good base and seems fitting for the setting
It's a very hot summer's day today so we order two salads
The first one is Alison's suggestion and it was the one I also honed in on
The beetroot salad has roasted red and golden beetroot chunks with soft
It's well seasoned and a substantial salad that I will try and recreate at home
Valentina knows this menu well and recommends that we order the Greek salad with capsicum
feta and oregano which is refreshing and tasty
There's no room for dessert although there are a few options on the menu
is there a restaurant that makes you feel like you're on holiday
A planned expansion of the Swamp Rabbit Trail in San Souci is shown as a dotted blue line
A new 2-mile spur of the Swamp Rabbit Trail and two pedestrian bridges over major roads are coming to San Souci after Greenville County secured a more than $20 million infrastructure grant from the federal government
Conor Hughes is a reporter for the Post and Courier Greenville
GREENVILLE — A new, two-mile spur of the Swamp Rabbit Trail along with pedestrian bridges over major roads are coming to Sans Souci after Greenville County secured a more than $20 million infrastructure grant from the federal government
The new section of trail will cut through the coming $2 billion redevelopment of the former Union Bleachery textile site a few miles west of downtown Greenville
The property, where industrial pollution once undermined opportunities for large-scale development, will soon be home to a sizable mixed-used project called "On the Trail GVL." The spur will connect the more than 20 mile, multi-use path from just north of its intersection with West Blue Ridge Drive to Poinsett Highway to the northeast
Department of Transportation's RAISE program
will also fund the construction of two bridges over West Blue Ridge Drive and Sulphur Springs Road
Officials have been exploring ways to improve safety at the trail's intersections for years, particularly after the death of a 33-year-old Greenville County Schools teacher who was struck and killed by a car while riding her bike at the Sulphur Springs crossing
A map of the planned project shows four additional bridges intended to improve connectivity with surrounding neighborhoods
"Safety will be addressed by increasing safety for pedestrians and bicyclists in underserved communities through the installation of grade-separated crossings at several roads and creating a separate connected network to the greater Swamp Rabbit Trail," a USDOT fact sheet on the project stated
A new e-bike charging station along the trail will also be included in the scope of the coming project
Of 148 projects receiving a portion of the $1.8 billion in RAISE funding this year
the Sans Souci trail section was the only one in South Carolina
said the federal funding is making way for a significant addition to the trail
"It's a big deal that we got that grant," he said
Follow Conor Hughes on Twitter at @ConorJHughes or reach him on his email at chughes@postandcourier.com
News tips/online questions: greenville@postandcourier.com
Subscription questions: subserve@postandcourier.com
WATCHPRO USA
The Cuban brand Cuervo y Sobrinos has released two new watches that play on Havana’s 20th century role as a destination for international hedonists
The company was founded in the late 19th century and enjoyed an illustrious history until the Cuban Revolution
when it was nationalised and ended up making watches for the military
In the late 1990s it was revived as a luxury watchmaker and it now makes much of Havana’s glory days
The Robusto 1935 is inspired by one of the company’s classic designs from the 1930s
reflecting the famous architecture of the Cuban capital
It comes in a choice of four dial colours: Habana (brown)
Azul Marino (navy) and Verde Manzana (apple green)
It has Superluminova lined facetted hour and minute hands and double curved sapphire crystal for increased legibility
The 40mm stainless steel case has a screw-in crown and 100m water resistance
It has a three-row stainless steel bracelet with a folding clasp
The open caseback allows view of the anti-shock
Soprod-based automatic movement and the winding rotor is inscribed ‘ORIGINAL CASE DESIGN FROM 1935’
which is named after a notorious American-run cabaret and gambling club outside Havana
The club was once one of the biggest hotspots in Cuba’s heyday as a destination for international hedonists
It closed with the Cuban Revolution at the end of the 1950s
The Sans Souci watch comes with three different dials: sunray brushed black; vertical brushed champagne; and sunray brushed blue
It has a 38.5mm stainless steel case and comes on either a colour matched and stitched leather strap or a stainless steel bracelet
It is powered by a Sellita-based automatic movement
The caseback is engraved with a recreation of the Sans Souci’s famous entrance arch
or as Cuervo y Sobrinos puts it: ‘Born in Havana
cuervoysobrinos.com
— One Acadiana's (1A) Small Business Challenge is over
the Small Business Challenge invited entrepreneurs to submit a dynamic food
retail or other creative business idea that would activate a prime location in downtown Lafayette
Winning the challenge are Korey Champagne and Alexis Badon of Magnolia Pantry
Champagne and Badon will receive a capital infusion of up to $100,000 and a lease on the historic Sans Souci building
the business will serve sweet and savory pies alongside curated drinks
“This building has had so many lives over the years and been home to many beloved local businesses — and Magnolia Pantry is next
But today isn’t only a celebration of a new chapter for the building," said Kevin Blanchard
CEO of Downtown Development Authority/Downtown Lafayette Unlimited
and all the great locally owned restaurants and retailers
Vermilion Street is becoming one of Downtown Lafayette’s most vibrant locations.”
OPP is investigating a dead body on San Souci Island
One person was found dead earlier this week after police were called to a Georgian Bay island
Police were called about a cottage fire and sounds of gunfire on San Souci Island on Oct
OPP North East Region Emergency Response Team (ERT)
OPP Tactics and Rescue Unit (TRU) and Anishinabek Police Service Marine Unit went to the island and officers found
reports of gunfire and the deceased were not specified by police at press time
Police cleared the area and stated there is no risk to public safety through an X (formerly known as Twitter) post shared Oct
ADVISORY: #OPP have concluded their investigation around Sans Souci Island
Please be advised that there is no risk to public safety
The investigation is ongoing by the West Parry Sound OPP Crime Unit with the assistance of OPP Forensic Identification Services and in conjunction with the Office of the Chief Coroner
Invalid password or account does not exist
Submitting this form below will send a message to your email with a link to change your password
An email message containing instructions on how to reset your password has been sent to the email address listed on your account
Helen Evans (president) at Sans Souci leisure Centre
Picture suppliedCook MP Simon Kennedy has continued a string of local election commitments with a Liberal Party-approved promise to replace outdated diving blocks at Sans Souci Leisure Centre if the Coalition wins government
The centre is home to the Sans Souci Sea Devils club while also catering for community swimming and school carnivals
Mr Kennedy said the current diving blocks across the seven lanes were outdated and needed to be repaired regularly due to failing parts
They disadvantaged competitive swimmers as they were a significantly different design to the blocks used at other swim centres where major meets were held
Mr Kennedy said they would be replaced by seven "state of the art" blocks
Club president Helen Evans said they were thankful for the support
had operated from Sans Souci Leisure Centre for more than 15 years and welcomed swimmers of all ages and abilities