62 Posts are tagged with: outdoor_gear 1 2 3 ... 5 Previous Next

Outdoor Fall Season Recreational Activities: Form a Nature Club

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Nov 6, 2009 by Lyn Lomasi

The fall season is a wonderful time of year for nature-oriented activities. Outdoor fall activities are a great way to stay active and nature can lend a helping hand in many ways. Leaves are changing into wondrous colors and the weather can be just the perfect temperature. Regularly participating in activities such as hiking, rock climbing, nature walks, camping, and other outdoor adventures can be a workout. It's also fun and a great way to spend time with family and friends. One way to be sure you get these outdoor activities in regularly is to form a nature club.

Decide who you are interested in forming the club with. Will this be strictly for family? Are friends invited to participate in the activities? What are the age groups? There could be separate groups for adults and children or it could be all-inclusive. Some may prefer even to ask around the community and make it a more formal club. Decide also if there will be dues or if everyone will just pay their own way whenever there are any associated costs. Many nature venues, such as state parks are free or low-cost, but there may be equipment and supply costs or a number of other small fees.

Scheduling should be something to think about when making plans. The group can decide together on a schedule that best fits all participants. Think about how many times per week or month is ideal, as well as days and times. Also remember to consider holidays, as well as possible weather conditions. Some activities, such as kite flying, would be good on a windy day.

Some may choose to focus a club on one fall hobby or activity. Others may choose to be more versatile. Whatever option you go with, be sure the chosen activities fit the skill levels of your nature club members. A fun way to keep track of everyone while on nature excursions is to get custom-designed t-shirts and matching shoes. Just be sure the shoes are durable and comfy, as well as appropriate for certain activities. Nature activities can be hard on the feet without proper footwear.

Sources:

http://www.childrenandnature.org/news/detail/texas_parks_and_wildlife_promotes_family_nature_clubs

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Best Beach of the Week: Clearwater Beach, Gulf Coast, Florida

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Oct 15, 2009 by Lee S.

South Beach is not the only hoppin' beach in town: Florida's Gulf Coast responds with its own up and coming party on Clearwater Beach.

After a beautiful Gulf Coast sunset, the lights turn on and the music turns up at Clearwater Beach bars and clubs. And as day turns to night, party-goers trade in their flip-flops for stilettos and bikinis for a short summer dress. But don't wear yourself out dancing, because you'll want to be ready to rise and shine the next day.

If you prefer a more low-key celebration, don't worry, you can keep your flip-flops and head to one of many small bars and family-run restaurants on Clearwater Beach to eat, drink, and wait for the sun to come back up.

And when the sun does come up, Clearwater Beach doesn't disappoint. Sure, Clearwater Beach doesn't have the glitz or glam of South Beach...at least not yet, but it does have sand. Miles of wide, white sandy beaches stretch into the soft warm, waves of the Gulf. Visitors to the beach can lie back and soak in the sun, take a swim in the sandy-bottom waters, or go shopping. Mandalay Avenue is filled with boutique shops, gift shops, and plenty of restaurants.

But as the day comes to an end, you really have to head to the Pier for the nightly Sunsets at the Pier 60 Festival celebration. This can't-miss family event features artisans, crafters, street performers and live musical entertainment. And after the sun goes down, it's back to party time at this beautiful beach.

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Outdoor Summer Recreational Activities: Canoeing

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Oct 7, 2009 by Lyn Lomasi

Discover nature in a whole new way by going canoeing or paddling. Whether you've done it before or it's your first time, there always is a new adventure. Keep safety in mind, wear comfortable boat shoes, and have fun on this great outdoor adventure. The United States has many places that are perfect for canoeing and paddling with a friend or two. Here are a few unique and interesting locations to get you started on your outdoor journey.

Blackstone Valley, RI
Tour the waters on an unforgettable family adventure or let a few friends tag along instead. Blackstone valley has plenty of flexibility in options when it comes to canoeing and paddling tours. Become one with nature while boating through the waters of Blackstone Valley. The plentiful plants and animals you'll see along the way are a beautiful sight. Fishing and birdwatching are just a couple of the options to explore.

St. Lawrence River in Clayton, NY
Have you ever thought of building and sailing your own canoe on St Lawrence River? Regardless of your answer, you may be interested to find out there's a place that takes you through it step-by step. The Antique Boat Museum in Clayton, NY offers the plans to do so. There are also boat-building classes available. Not quite ready to build, but still want to ride the waters? They still have you covered. You can even take a guided tour of the museum's artifacts to get in a history lesson before or after sailing.

Keweenaw Water Trail, MI
Canoeing and paddling the waters of Lake Superior along Michigan's Keweenaw Water Trail offers breathtaking scenery. Winds can be unpredictable here, so it's probably not best for beginners. Those lucky enough to embark on this adventure will not soon forget it. Wildlife is abundant and fishing can provide a great meal. Camping is available around the Keweenaw Peninsula. Check with area parks and recreation departments in advance, as some land around the peninsula is privately owned. A note to remember is that because this is a naturally beautiful ecosystem, "No Trace Camping" is most appreciated and preferred.

Sources:
http://kwta.org/
http://www.paddleblackstone.com/
http://www.abm.org/canoe-sailing.asp

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Survival of the Fittest: Save the Life of a Spinal Cord Injury Victim

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Sep 29, 2009 by Lee S.

A serious fall when you're miles from a medical facility is one of the biggest dangers of back country sports. The worst injury, the one that's impossible to treat where the fall occurs, is a spinal cord injury. As recently as 50 years ago, spinal injuries were almost always fatal, and in the back country they still can be.

Symptoms of spinal cord injuries include pain or a stinging feeling somewhere along the spine; loss of movement of extremities; numbness and/or loss of the ability to feel heat, cold, or touch on a body part; muscle or limb spasms; and difficulty in breathing or coughing. The uninjured individuals may see that the head or another part of the spine is at an unnatural angle.

The first thing you can do is the "ABCD" of emergency medicine: check that the airway is open and the injured person is breathing; check the pulse (circulation), and check for disability (ask if the injured person can move, if he can feel his legs, what hurts, if he knows where he is and who you are, etc.).

If you suspect an injury to any part of the spinal cord, it's absolutely critical that you do not move the injured person at all. Keep his head and spine where they are, and use T-shirts or towels or whatever you have in your packs, or even rocks, to ensure his head and spine can't and don't move. If the individual is conscious, keep talking to him and keep him talking. Put a sleeping bag over him to keep him warm and prevent shock.

If you're able to call out on a cell phone or satellite phone, call for an emergency medical helicopter to fly in for the injured person. If not, then send someone in your group to where the cell phone works, or the nearest medical facility, as quickly as possible, and have them send the chopper. Someone else should stay with him. Don't try to move him; at best, he could be paralyzed for life; at worst, you'll kill him. Stay safe out there.

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Into the Wild - Outdoor Movies: "A Perfect Getaway" Puts the Hawaiian Islands in the Spotlight

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Sep 22, 2009 by Steve B.

To start their new lives together, many newlywed couples travel to beautiful, exotic locations for their honeymoon, one of the most popular destinations being the Hawaiian Islands. Normally, the scariest thing one might see in this tropical paradise is Greg, Marcia and the rest of "The Brady Bunch," but during "A Perfect Getaway," a honeymoon takes a deadly turn.

Cliff (*Steve Zahn*) and Cydney (*Milla Jovovich*) fly to Hawaii after their wedding to hike on the more challenging trails and enjoy the beautiful beaches. Unfortunately, while they are making their way to paradise, they hear about a young couple that was murdered on one of the other Hawaiian Islands.

Despite this horrific news, Cliff and Cydney keep moving forward, eventually hooking up with another couple named Nick (*Timothy Olyphant*) and Gina (*Kiele Sanchez*). These two attractive, interesting people have plenty of stories to tell, and Gina also demonstrates the meat-cutting skills she learned back in high school when she worked for a Piggly Wiggly grocery store. Cliff and Cydney aren't quite sure if their new friends are on the level or if they have a more sinister agenda.

Besides the serial killer subplot, "A Perfect Getaway" is like a video guide to hiking through the Hawaiian Islands. Cliff and Cydney start their adventure on a helicopter tour of the islands, and Cliff literally hangs out of the copter to get some high-definition video footage of the places they want to go.

Later on, Cliff shells out nearly $500 for freeze-dried food and other supplies to carry in his rucksack. When he and his wife reach a point in the trail that gets pretty steep and slippery, Cliff comments that he's walking around with about 40 pounds of gear strapped to his back. During a moment of male bonding, Cliff and Nick even take some time out to go kayaking into some gorgeous water caves.

All things considered, "A Perfect Getaway" is a fairly decent outdoor thriller, but the indescribably beautiful Hawaiian backdrop makes this film well worth the price of admission.

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Outdoor Summer Activities for Kids: Visit an Outdoor Museum

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Sep 18, 2009 by Lyn Lomasi

Kids love experiencing the outdoors and it often offers a great chance for them to learn. Another benefit is exercise. For fun, education, and exercise all rolled into one big adventure, parents may consider taking kids to outdoor museums. Many cities now have these wonderful places for kids to explore. The fun of outdoor museums is not limited to parents. Grandparents and teachers also might consider this fun outdoor activity.

Some outdoor museums may be as simple as a natural butterfly garden. In such outdoor museums, children can observe the butterflies all around them. At some outdoor museums, there also might be information in pamphlets or plaques on the creatures, as well as the flowers and plants in the garden. Some also hold educational classes and group tours.

Another type of outdoor museum could be an archaeological site, where visitors can discover fossils and dinosaur bones. Dinosaur Ridge in Golden, Colorado is an example of this type of outdoor museum. Small groups can sign up for archaeological expeditions that last hours or even days. Depending on the choice of adventures, kids may be watching archaeologists dig up artifacts, examining dinosaur bones, and even participating at an actual dig site to uncover fossils and dinosaur bones.

Yet, there is another type of outdoor museum - one that leaves history where it is discovered. Some Pueblo villages are left as they were, with pottery and other memorable items strewn as they were found. This type of outdoor museum can help teach kids how ancient civilizations lived. While many of the Pueblo villages are not maintained, it is recommended to leave the artifacts where they are. Yes, some of the pottery and artifacts may be beautiful and interesting, but parents and teachers should instruct kids on the importance of preserving history.

No matter the type of outdoor museums visited, there is a great deal of walking involved. Some may be on rough terrain, as in the case of the Pueblo villages, which are generally located in canyons and ridges. The terrain may not be as rough on the feet at a butterfly garden, but children may be on their feet for hours. Be sure they are wearing comfortable footwear, and if necessary, hiking shoes.

Sources:
http://www.dinoridge.org/
http://www.insideoutsidemag.com/issues/2009/March/The_Outdoor_Museum/

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Survival of the Fittest: Surviving an Earthquake Outdoors

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Sep 15, 2009 by Lee S.

If you think earthquakes only happen in California, think again. It's true that most earthquakes happen west of the Rockies, and California has had plenty, but Alaska has had the most in recent history. But looking farther back, the most earthquakes have occurred in the central U.S., and the worst earthquake in U.S. history was along the New Madrid fault in Missouri over three months in 1811-1812. The effects were felt over 2 million square miles, and three quakes registered over an 8 on the Richter scale.

While geologists are working towards it, they still can't predict when or where an earthquake will strike. They do know that if a quake has hit an area in the past, it will happen again. So, it's possible that you'll encounter an earthquake when you're out hiking, camping, boating, or even skiing.

The first warning you'll have is a feeling of rolling ground, then the real shaking starts. Find the nearest open space, something treeless and not downhill from a rocky slope, and stay there. Most injuries outdoors, just like indoors, come from falling debris and in your case, that means trees, rocks, and even snow. Earthquakes can trigger some phenomenal avalanches. Curl up into a fetal position to make yourself a smaller target.

There will be aftershocks, so stay put. If you're hiking along the coast, though, know earthquakes often trigger tsunamis, so move inland and up, then find open space. When the movement stops, check yourself and the rest of your party for injuries, and treat what you can with your first aid kit.

Wear sturdy but comfortable boots like these new Ledge boots from Timberland. Sick of your old pack? This Ultimatum Gear backpack from Nike is brand new, and along with pockets for everything, it has Max Air straps to take the weight off your shoulders. This waterproof watch from Freestyle has an altimeter, a barometer, and a compass.

Know the history of the area you're hiking, travel prepared, and you can survive even an earthquake in the backcountry.

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Into the Wild: "Chariots of Fire"

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Sep 7, 2009 by Steve B.

Modern technology has changed the way that judges determine the winners at the Olympic Games. Look, for instance, at how close Michael Phelps came to losing his 7th Gold Medal last summer in Beijing. After officials reviewed the video of the 100m Butterfly, Phelps was declared the winner over Milorad Cavic by a mere 1/100th of a second.

"Chariots of Fire," which won the Oscar for Best Picture in 1981, looks back almost 90 years to a time when Olympic victories were not determined by computerized timers and video replays. Ben Cross plays Harold Abrahams, a wealthy Jewish student at England's Cambridge University. Determined to prove himself in the eyes of the school and his classmates, Abrahams distinguishes himself as a track star, even tackling a foot race called "The College Dash."

At the same time in Scotland, Eric Liddell (played by *Ian Charleson*), the son of Christian missionaries, is preparing for a trip to China. Liddell can't, however, escape the fact that he is one of the fastest runners in the country. Nicknamed "The Flying Scotsman," Liddell joined Abrahams on the track, first as competitors and then as teammates, at the 1924 Paris Olympiad.

Based on the experiences of two real-life athletes, "Chariots of Fire" is a fascinating look back at what Olympic runners had to deal with in the early 20th century. Hi-tech athletic shoes weren't even a glint in an inventor's eyes at the time, so Liddell and Abrahams had to wear spiked running shoes made out of leather.

"Chariots of Fire" is a sports film that shows running in its purest form. Instead of training at a government sponsored athletic center, Liddell runs through the hills. At one point in the film, he even says "I believe that God made me for a purpose, but He also made me fast. When I run, I can feel his pleasure."

Combined with some beautiful background music from Vangelis, "Chariots of Fire" is a sometimes overlooked gem that celebrates the simple elegance and beauty of the runner.

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Outdoor Playlists for Your iPod: These Songs Are so Bright, You Gotta Wear Shades (And Earbuds)

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Sep 2, 2009 by Steve B.

No other piece of gear represents the outdoors better than a good pair of sunglasses, which protect your eyes from the glare of the fresh powder on the slopes and that also keep your retinas from burning on the beach. Because the hot summer weather is here, slip on your favorite pair of shades while listening to these sunglass-inspired tunes on your iPod:

"Sunglasses at Night" (Written and performed by Corey Hart)
The first single released off his debut album "First Offense," this was one of the most memorable techno love songs from the 1980's. According to several reports, though, Hart originally wrote "Sunglasses at Night" about a futuristic society where everyone had to wear their shades after dark. To make it more commercial, he was asked to change the lyrics.

"The Future's So Bright, I Gotta Wear Shades" (Performed by Timbuk 3)
This high-energy song came off "Greetings from Timbuk 3," the debut album of the group formed by Barbara and Pat MacDonald. The lyrics are told from the perspective of a nuclear science student, who is blinded by his massive earnings potential. Pat MacDonald had said, though, that the song contained a grimmer message about the threat of nuclear destruction.

"Cheap Sunglasses" (Performed by ZZ Top)
Definitely an 80's tune, this ZZ Top song celebrates the glories of cheap eyewear, no matter if they help ease a painful hangover or accentuate the beauty of a pretty girl.

"Shades"(Sung by Dean Martin)
No list of sunglass songs is complete without one from Dean Martin, a member of the famous "Rat Pack" during the 1960's. Dino sang this romantic ballad about a brokenhearted man who hides his teary eyes behind dark glasses, but nothing can truly hide the pain he's feeling.

"Drivin' into the Sun" (Performed by Sherrie Austin)
More of a love song than a warning about sunshine slowdowns on the highway, Austin sings of a love so powerful that it is as bright as driving into the sun without shades. She also warns listeners that the light will fade, though, on even the most powerful love.

Resources:
http://www.coreyhart.com/
http://www.sherrieaustin.net/more.html
http://www.coreyhart.com/

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Television Shows with an Outdoor Setting: "Flying High"

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Aug 28, 2009 by Steve B.

Before she flew with "The Greatest American Hero," Connie Sellecca was "Flying High" over on CBS. Often referred to as "Charlie's Angels" set on an airplane, this series followed the adventures of three flight attendants for Sun West Airlines, a name that sounded suspiciously like another well-known airline.

Sellecca played Lisa Benton, a flight attendant who was best friends with her co-workers Marcy Bowers (*Pat Klous*) and Pam Bellagio (*Kathryn Witt*). Each week, Lisa, Marcy and Pam would pack their flight bags and end up in one unusual or dangerous situation or another, such as when they spent a few days in a luxurious casino and Marcy learned the evils of gambling.


"Flying High" had plenty of outdoor action as well. In one episode, the pilots became incapacitated, leaving it up to the three flight attendants to land the aircraft. Critics had a field day with this episode, saying it was impossible for Connie Sellecca's character to make such a precision landing without any training.


The girls weren't above using their jobs to get some payback, either. When Pam suspected her boyfriend of cheating, she invited him to join her on a training flight. What Pam failed to mention, though, was that during this kind of flight, the pilots put the plane into power dives to help the attendants become accustomed to emergency situations. While the unfortunate boyfriend reached for his barf bag, he cleared up any misunderstandings and everyone was happy.


"Flying High" debuted with much fanfare in September 1978, but its flight plan was cancelled in 1979. The problem was that producers tried too hard to create a show in the mold of "Charlie's Angels." They even selected three distinct physical types for the lead roles—Lisa was tall and elegant, Pam was short and cute while Marcy was the stereotypical ditzy blonde.


After the last Sun West flight flew into television's Bermuda Triangle, Connie Sellecca had a much better run as Pam Davidson on "The Greatest American Hero" and later on "Hotel." Her co-stars didn't fare as well, though, and pretty much faded from the public eye.
Resources:


http://www.tv.com/flying-high/show/5948/summary.html


http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0077011/

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Survival of the Fittest: Surviving a Water Crash

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Aug 25, 2009 by Lee S.

When you're headed out to the back country this summer, surviving a vehicle water crash is probably not on your mind. But maybe it should be. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that 600 people perish each year in the U.S. by drowning inside their vehicles. So if you're route to the trailhead crosses or passes water, be prepared.

The first thing to remember if your vehicle hits water is to stay calm. That's not the easiest thing to do when your car is sinking, but if you don't, you could become a statistic. Unfasten your seatbelt and try to open your door as quickly as possible. If your headlights are on, leave them on; it makes it easier for rescuers to find you and your car.

If the car sinks quickly and water pressure won't let the door open, break a window. Take a deep breath, then kick a window wearing sturdy boots. If that doesn't work, use a heavy flashlight or a large screwdriver that you've stashed in the glove compartment or side pocket (preparation!) and smash the glass. Water will start to pour in but push through it until you're outside your car.

Leave your gear and pack behind, but keep your shades on, because they can protect your eyes from debris in the water. Swim or kick up towards the light. If you've become disoriented, breathe out a little, and watch the bubbles; they'll go up so follow them. Once you break the surface, look around and find the nearest shore, and head to it. Unless you're an expert swimmer trained in water rescue, don't try to save your friend(s). You could all end up in critical condition, especially if the water is cold.

Back on the road, wave down passing cars to get help. Then slow down; your adrenaline rush will have kept you from feeling much pain, and that will probably kick in now. You also need to get warm to avoid shock. The faster you can get help, the more likely that you and anyone still in the car will survive.

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Outdoor Movies: "Victory"

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Aug 17, 2009 by Steve B.

Enjoying the success that came along with the Rocky Balboa character, Sylvester Stallone soon appeared in other movies, one of them being the 1981 drama Victory. Set in a Prisoner-of-War camp during World War II, Stallone fought with his feet this time, instead of his hands

As the war raged across Europe, the German High Command came up with a brilliant propaganda stunt. To prove the superiority of the "Master Race," a group of Allied Prisoners would play in an exhibition soccer match against the German National Team.

Instead of propaganda, though, the prisoners, led by Captain John Colby (*Michael Caine*), decide to use the soccer match as a way to escape from camp. Captain Colby recruits a group of willing players, including Corporal Luis Fernandez, who is played by real-life soccer great Pele. As Captain Robert Hatch, Stallone plays a self-centered officer who reluctantly becomes a part of this scheme.

Surprisingly enough, when the Allied players are going up against the Germans, they get caught up in the game, so much so that it threatens their chances to escape the prison camp for good. For them, it comes down to just one crucial question: Escape or Victory?

About as believable as an episode of "Hogan's Heroes," Victory does deserve mention for a couple of specific reasons. Soccer, which is known as football in Europe, doesn't get as much play in the movies as sports like baseball and boxing. Director John Huston includes a lot of great, on-the-field action as the soldiers go toe-to-toe with their well-fed German counterparts.

"Victory" also benefits from the inclusion of Pele, the Brazilian athlete who rightfully earned the title of "King of Football" during the 1970's. It definitely is worth the price of renting this DVD to see Pele perform one of his spectacular "bicycle kicks" during the scenes on the athletic field. Pele's skills with a soccer ball almost seem superhuman at times.

When you have a chance, slip on a soccer training jersey, put a copy of Victory in the DVD player, and enjoy some of the high-kicking action, courtesy of Pele, Caine and Stallone.

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Best Beach of the Week: Kure Beach, North Carolina

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Aug 13, 2009 by Lee S.

North Carolina is famous for mountains, rivers, the Wright brothers, and beaches! The best beaches are on the Outer Banks, sandy islands with the Atlantic on one side and a river on the other. Cape Fear is renowned for the movie of the same name, and is an extremely popular destination, but if you'd rather relax it may be too popular. Drive across Snow's Cut Bridge to Pleasure Island, and down to its southern tip. There you'll find Kure (pronounced CUR-ee) Beach, this week's best beach.

Kure Beach is both a town and a beach, and if you decide you want to stay longer than a day (and you probably will) you'll have no problem finding a beach cottage or ocean-front condo to rent, or a motel for a shorter stay. There are plenty of shops and great restaurants that range from 5 star to inexpensive, but always tasty, in this town of about 1,800. If they're not enough for you, it's a short trip back to Wilmington. But if you're a beach-lover, you'll just want to spread out your towel and stay.

The sands of Kure Beach are open and unspoiled, and you can sunbathe, amble along looking for shells, or just admire the ocean without constantly tripping over people. There are hiking trails and some fascinating vegetation, including the Venus flytrap. Kure Beach is also a great place for surfing or sailboarding, and it's one of the best spots along the Outer Banks for fishing. The town has a 700+ foot pier, one of the best on the east coast, and you're guaranteed to catch something. If you'd rather look at fish than catch them, visit the North Carolina Aquarium, also on Kure.

Carry all your beach needs in this spacious and stylish tote from JanSport. Keep your feet happy on sand, trail or water in these Sun Chill Thongs from Columbia. Catch everybody's eyes while you're catching rays in the shirred tubini with matching twist front hipster in Holly Berry from Tommy Bahama's Sunkissed collection. Pack water, sunscreen, and shades and you're ready to hit Kure Beach.

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Television Shows with an Outdoor Theme: Priscilla Barnes Cruised the Country as One of "The American Girls"

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Aug 7, 2009 by Steve B.

Back in the 1970's, "Charlie's Angels" started a new trend on television, one in which shows were built around strong and beautiful women. Of course, a good portion of the viewing public was tuning in to see how good Jaclyn Smith looked in a bathing suit or to watch the late Farrah Fawcett chase down a bad guy. Few viewers were really all that concerned about the plot.

Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, and other networks soon created their own brand of "Angels." A few years before she knocked on Jack Trippers door on "Three's Company," Priscilla Barnes cruised around the country as one of "The American Girls." Not to be confused with the popular line of dolls, Barnes and her equally attractive co-star Debra Clinger played Rebecca and Amy, two television journalists.

Accepting a rather unique assignment, Rebecca and Amy traveled around the United States in a remote broadcasting van. The idea was to make them real roving reporters, broadcasting the news from the most remote places for a show called "The American Report." Because this was an hour-long drama, though, Rebecca and Amy usually ended up in the middle of one crisis or another, but they managed to help out and get their reports sent back to the station.

Like a photocopy that fades each time it is duplicated, "The American Girls" turned out to be just a pale imitation of "Charlie's Angels." Priscilla Barnes and Debra Clinger gave it a valiant effort, but the show only lasted 6 episodes. Still, the whole idea of spending weeks on the road, living and working in the same van as your best friend and co-worker would drive anyone crazy. The reporters also would need a decent camp stove to cook meals under the stars.

Priscilla Barnes achieved greater success in 1981, stepping into Suzanne Somers' shoes on the hit comedy "Three's Company." Most people may have forgotten "The American Girls," but it was hard to forget Nurse Terri Alden.

Resources:.http://www.crazyabouttv.com/americangirls.html

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Outdoor Summer Recreational Activities: Texas Water Sports

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Jul 22, 2009 by Lyn Lomasi

Galveston Island, Texas is known for its abundance of outdoor and water sports. There are many ways to fish in the waters of Galveston. One method is pier or rock fishing directly from the Galveston Island Seawall. Another is breakwater fishing. Aside from being quite fun, another benefit of fishing from the Galveston Seawall is that it happens to be free. Just don't forget to purchase a fishing license; it's required to fish in Texas for anyone between the ages of 17 and 65. Where applicable, be sure to get the three-day license.

A variety of fish can be caught along the Seawall. Some of those include Sheepshead, Sand Trout, Bull Reds, Gafftop Sail, Flounder, and more. Some may choose fishing off the rocks or pier, while others may instead go wade fishing in the breakwaters. The breakwaters of Galveston are calm much of the time. Galveston has plenty of different beaches and areas to fish from. Some are family-oriented, while others are better suited to the adult crowd. Galveston Island Sate Park boasts great breakwaters for fishing.

When some people think of Texas, they may automatically picture a place that is dry and hot. While that may be true for some parts of Texas, Galveston does not fit that bill completely. Dry it is definitely not. How well would that work for fishing?

For wade fishing and perhaps even rock fishing and pier fishing in Galveston, you may want a good pair of waterproof fishing boots. Not only can they protect the feet from getting too wet, but they can be good for walking on wet or muddy terrain. Another important thing to remember about fishing is to check the fishing schedules to be sure winds and other weather will be favorable. Remember that Galveston is an island, so it can be prone to hurricane weather.

Parts of Galveston are still recovering from a hurricane that occurred in 2008. Despite the devastating effects of Hurricane Ike, fishing in Galveston remains strong. Many travel to Galveston just for the fishing, and the 2008 storm that caused so much destruction has not seemed to destroy the love of fishing in Galveston.

Sources:
http://www.galveston.com/islandfishing/
http://outdoor.zappos.com/n/p/dp/45176513/c/128.html

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