Daily Archives: July 21, 2023

Bethann Owen has had a busy couple of years, completing a two year course in floristry, passing her driving test and securing premises for her new shop Wild Blodyn within Windmill Garden Centre on Sealand Road, Deeside. The new shop will officially open on Saturday, July 22 and is the culmination of a journey that began during the pandemic.

The business will have a full range of ready-made bouquets for various occasions as well as a flower bar, which will allow customers to create their own unique combinations to be arranged and wrapped by Bethann.

Prior to opening Wild Blodyn, Bethann had worked for Bernardo's for seven years, taking the job just as her son, Oscar, started school. But with the first lockdown, she decided that the time was right for a change.

Wild Blodyn will offer a full range of bouquets as well as a flower bar. (Image: Bethann Owen)

"It was something that I had been interested in since I left school," Bethann said. "But I didn't decide to continue with it and chose a full time job instead.

"I've always been quite creative and enjoyed making things, that's where I find most of my enjoyment. During lockdown I just found that I wanted to do something different."

Bethann enrolled at Coleg Cambria, with a major factor being the location of the Level 2 Floristrycourse, which had changed from the Northop site to Wrexham, which was closer to her home in Connah's Quay. However, as she couldn't drive at the time, travelling to Wrexham each day whilst looking after her son and still juggling hours at Bernardo's tested her determination.

"It was really tiring, but it just goes to show that if you put your mind to something, you can get it. I would have to walk [Oscar] down to breakfast club or to my mum's house and then get the bus, which took around 40 minutes.

"We would get up around six in the morning and then get home at around six at night. But it's all worked out in the end, and I'm so glad it has."

Customers can make their own combinations at the flower bar. (Image: Bethann Owen)

Bethann's sister Kelly Hignett says that it was obvious that she had the ability to succeed in a creative career.

Kelly said: "She's very artistic and she's very good with designing and crafts and things like that.

"When I got married, Bethann came to the church with me the day before and we did our own flowers for the pews. She's always had that flair."

Bethann's family have rallied around her, helping to get the new shop ready over the past five weeks.

"It's been quite a transformation. My dad has fitted the shop with a new sink and build the flower stand, my sisters have helped me to redecorate along with my brother-in-law and even my little nephew.

"Everyone has chipped in and has got it to where it is now."

The 29-year-old is now looking forward to opening day and hopes that this will be the start of a bright new career.

"I'm where I want to be. Whilst it's been stressful at times, it feels rewarding to have my own shop and I am hoping that it will provide a decent future for me and for Oscar."

Wild Blodyn will be open from 9.30am to 3.30pm on Saturday, July 22.

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Single mum to open florist near Chester after retraining in lockdown ... - Chester and District Standard

The Mexican Caribbean is renowned for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant culture. It's home to mystical cenotes, underground rivers, magnificent Mayan archaeological ruins, and ancient villages. Whether you're seeking a relaxing adventure or a romantic getaway, this tropical paradise offers something for everyone. Here are the ten most popular hotspots in the Mexican Caribbean for a unique beach vacation.

We have curated a list of the ten best hotspots in the Mexican Caribbean and recommended the best places to stay in these destinations. The properties we have recommended have a rating above eight on Kayak and thoughtful amenities for travelers looking for a unique beach vacation.

RELATED: 10 Best Cultural Destinations In Mexico You Should Visit In 2023

Diving with the turtles in Mexico

Surfers of all ages in Puerto Escondido, Mexico

A Man Surfing A Wave At An Ocean

The Atlanteans of Tula in Tulum, Mexico

Cabo Pulmo is also known as a scuba diving town, a stretch of Sealand in Baja California, Mexico. It's famous for its spectacular views, ideal ocean climate, and abundant marine life. Due to the influence of volcanic dykes, Cabo Pulmo has a vibrant coral reef system, the only one in the Gulf of California. It provides a natural habitat for numerous fish species, octopi, crabs, and majestic sea turtles. Snorkeling is the main activity due to the expansive coral reef system. Visitors can also dive in La Esperanza and El Cien and, if lucky, spot yellow snappers, humpback whales, and whale sharks. Beach lovers can walk along Punto Cabo and La Sirenita beaches and swim with sharks.

Isla Holbox is a lush tropical island in the Quintana Roo state of Mexico on the northern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. It has crystal clear blue waters, pristine sandy beaches, and unique shark species. Visitors can walk around the town for colorful buildings and unique street art, swim with whale sharks, kayak in the mangrove forest, or relax by the water hammocks on the beach. They can try authentic local Mexican cuisines from the area's restaurants, walk to Punta Mosquito to catch Flamingoes, or have fun at Yalahau Cenote, 30 minutes from Isla Holbox.

The turquoise ocean on the Cozumel Coast, Mexico

Cozumel is the third-largest island in Mexico, located on Mesoamerican Reef, the world's second-largest barrier reef system. It's a popular destination for travelers seeking a unique vacation due to its many beaches, including Paradise Beach, passion beach, Playa Del San Martin, and Playa Corona. Cozumel offers many exciting things to do, including jet skiing, snorkeling, deep-sea fishing, scuba diving, and parasailing. It has a rich marine life, including exotic fish, dolphins, marine turtles, and sharks.

RELATED: A Serene Escape: Embracing The Beauty Of The Ocean In Mexicos Coastal Getaways

Diving with the turtles in Mexico

Puerto Vallarta is a beach resort city in Bahia de Banderas, Jalisco, Mexico. It has gorgeous beaches, breathtaking sceneries, a vibrant culture, stunning sunsets, and delicious cuisines. The beach town is surrounded by natural beauty, including turquoise blue waters, lush jungles, and cascading mountains. Visitors are spoiled for choice when looking for things to do in Puerto Vallarta, including whale watching, snorkeling, scuba diving, and ziplining. They can explore Mexican culture and history in San Sebastian Del Oeste and the historic town of El Quito.

Diving with the turtles in Mexico

Surfers of all ages in Puerto Escondido, Mexico

Puerto Escondido is a port town on Mexico's Pacific coast in Oaxaca. The hidden gem in Mexico has beautiful beaches, excellent food, vibrant people, and relaxing beach vibes. Although popularly known as a surfing destination, Puerto Escondido offers much more. Guests can relax on the pristine sandy beaches like Playa Principal, surrounded by bars, restaurants, and souvenir shops, and sunbathe in Playa Marinero. Experienced surfers can surf at Playa Zicatela Beach, while beginners can try Playa Punta.

Surfers of all ages in Puerto Escondido, Mexico

RELATED: 10 Amazing Things You Can Do In New Mexico

Stunning scenery of the pool of an all-inclusive resort in Cabo San Lucas

Cabo San Lucas is a resort city on Mexico's southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula. It's worth visiting year-round due to its tropical climate, gorgeous sandy beaches, breathtaking sceneries, and magnificent rock formations, including Mount Solmar and Playa Del Amor. Visitors have many exciting things to do, including surfing, scuba diving, snorkeling, and paddle boarding. Those wanting to explore nightlife can check out the nightclubs and live music venues, while foodies can indulge in freshly caught seafood and authentic local cuisines.

A Man Surfing A Wave At An Ocean

The Atlanteans of Tula in Tulum, Mexico

Tulum is a coastal town on the Yucatan Peninsula and a popular hotspot in the Mexican Caribbean for a unique beach vacation. It is home to some of the most amazing cenotes to visit in Mexico, gorgeous powdery white sandy beaches, and the only archaeologic site on a cliff. Guests can explore the ancient Mayan ruins, relax on the beach among the rustling palm trees, or explore the jungle on a zipline to catch wildlife, including jaguars, spider monkeys, Iguanas, colorful birds, and crocodiles. They can try Mexican street food, shop for local handicrafts, and enjoy a fantastic dining experience.

The Atlanteans of Tula in Tulum, Mexico

Colorful sign at Isla Mujeres, Quintana Roo, Mexico

Isla Mujeres is an idyllic island paradise in the Yucatan Peninsula, where the Gulf of Mexico meets the Caribbean Sea. It is laid back and tranquil with pristine white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and a unique cultural experience. Visitors have many exciting things to do in this tropical paradise. They can snorkel and dive to explore the MUSA underwater sculpture museum or enjoy spectacular sunsets in Playa Norte. Those looking for lasting memories can buy souvenirs and local handicrafts from El Centro and visit Garrafon Park in Punta Sur to explore the natural coral reefs.

Colorful sign at Isla Mujeres, Quintana Roo, Mexico

Xcaret Eco Theme Park in Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Playa Del Carmen is a beautiful vacation paradise in Quinta Roo, Mexico, 45 minutes from Cancun. It's famous for its powdery white sandy beaches, a laid-back Bohemian vibe, and turquoise blue waters, warm to swim year-round. There are many things to do in Playa Del Carmen, including snorkeling, scuba diving. Visitors can explore the underground river and a collection of caves in Rio Secreto and discover Mayan ruins at Chicken Itza, X Caret Park. They can also relax by the beach or swim in the magnificent cenotes.

Xcaret Eco Theme Park in Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Aerial view of Cancun, Mexico beach waves sand

Cancun is the heart of the Mexican Caribbean, with gorgeous sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and an amazing tropical climate. It has a rich Mayan culture and unique natural features, including awe-inspiring cenotes and underwater museums. With more than 6000 miles of coastline, Cancun is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico. Visitors can enjoy exciting activities like snorkeling, swimming on the cenotes, and sampling authentic local Mexican cuisines.

Aerial view of Cancun, Mexico beach waves sand

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10 Most Popular Hotspots In The Mexican Caribbean For a Unique ... - TheTravel

The Mulberry Centre on Sealand Road, Chester, has been a homeless shelter since 2020, as part of the Government's 'Everyone In' initiative due to concerns about homeless people's vulnerability during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The 27-bedroom centre was made permanent in early 2022 following a meeting of Cheshire West and Chester Council's planning committee.

But The Standard understands the residents at the centre had to be evacuated following torrential downpours which caused leaks and sewage to back up at the premises.

Cheshire West and Chester Council has confirmed everyone at the centre had since found an alternative place to stay.

In a statement, the authority said: "Everyone was moved out of the Mulberry centre on Monday [July 10] and found alternative accommodation.

"Investigations are under way to understand the extent of work required to resolve the issues at the property.

"Forfutures and Cheshire West Housing Options continue to support all the residents."

In an application submitted to planners at the time permission was sought to keep the Mulberry Centre as a supported living centre permanently, applicants said: "The Mulberry Centre is short-term accommodation with support for people who have experienced homelessness or rough sleeping.

"There are many reasons why some people find themselves homeless. For example, relationship breakdown (which could be violent or abusive), being asked to leave private rented accommodation, leaving prison, care or the army with no home to go to, and many people become homeless because they can no longer afford the rent or housing costs.

"For many, life events like a relationship breaking down, losing a job, mental or physical health problems, or substance misuse, put people under considerable strain which can lead to homelessness but also being homeless can, in turn, make many of these issues even harder to resolve.

"The Mulberry Centre provides accommodation and support for individuals who may have a range of issues, some quite complex. Its a safe environment with staff on site 24 hours a day.

"As well as on-site support, residents can also access mental health and substance misuse services as well as counselling at the Mulberry Centre. Specialist workers visit the Mulberry Centre every week to provide one to one appointments or drop-in sessions, as well as some group work. Staff working at the Mulberry Centre are trauma-informed and use that approach to help engage residents."

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Chester homeless shelter evacuated after torrential rain | Chester ... - Chester and District Standard

Campbell Rivers tribute to the venerable floatplane was officially dedicated July 14 at a ceremony at the newly-dubbed Beaver Landing in Campbellton.

Members of Campbellton Neighbourhood Association (CNA), city councillors and various sponsors were on hand to unveil a plaque showcasing the effort to display a de Havilland Beaver at the entrance to the north end of the city. The group included three principles involved in the effort, Bill Alder of Sealand Aviation, Don Bendickson of Ben West Logging, and Jonathan Guilderwood of Grant Signs. In addition, members of city council, including Mayor Kermit Dahl were among the crowd of around 24 people.

READ MORE: Decade-long effort to install floatplane tribute to Campbell River aviation soars

It was truly a team effort to erect the structure on which the floatplane now sits, with two different companies providing concrete, another two providing future lighting for the plane at night when that becomes available, and an endless amount of contributions from individuals to restore, rebuild and mount the DHC-4 on its current perch.

Campbell River City Coun. Ron Kerr, who served as the events MC, said the decade-long project involved unique challenges.

There were a lot of obstacles, Kerr told the gathering in front of the seaplane. This location, for example, was a maze of large water pipes. There were unknown pipes. City staff werent excited about the project. And that was really before we had our plane.

Kerr said that ultimately, though, it was the support of the whole Campbellton community that kept the dream alive.

Former CNA chair Brian Shaw, who opened the ceremony by playing of the bagpipes, said that after all of his thank-yous, Kerr forgot one of the biggest members into getting this project finished.

I think Ron should get a thank you as well, Shaw said to applause from the crowd. It was actually his idea, to get an airplane if we could get one.

After the plaque was dedicated, current CNA chair, Laurel Cronk, presented a key to the plane to Mayor Kermit Dahl to officially open the seaplane to the public. Cronk then invited spectators to spread their wings like an airplane, while Colin Filliter of SuavAir drone photography service took some aerial shots.

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Campbellton Neighbourhood Association dedicates Beaver floatplane - Campbell River Mirror

Utopia can never exist, literally, since the word, which Sir Thomas More coined in his 1516 book of that name, comes from the Greek for not and place. For the avoidance of doubt, More doubled down on the wordplay, naming the governor of his fictional island Ademos, meaning no people, and the river that runs through it Anyder, meaning no water.

Interrupting your steak to recite from Leviticus isnt everyones idea of fun

Yet theres more to it than this, because it turns out that one mans idea of an ideal society is often very different from anothers. Mores vision was proto-communist. Houses in his Utopia are allocated by lot, and re-allocated every ten years. Each morning the citizens rise early and devote themselves to study before the real work starts.

As Niall Kishtainy points out in his excellent history of London-based utopian thought, this fictional creation has much in common with the contented solemnity of Mores own home life in the City of London and later Chelsea. At dinner, the family would take it in turns to read aloud from the scriptures and then discuss a question posed by More. And herein lies the faultline of all utopianism. Happiness, when you look into it, is as subjective as its opposite. Interrupting your steak to recite from Leviticus isnt everyones idea of fun.

Nevertheless, Kishtainy clearly feels fond of his cast of saints and crackpots who lived in and around London as they dreamed of a better world. Why, though, does he stick to London? Why not extend his scope to Platos Republic, which the philosopher suggested would best be governed by (you guessed it) philosophers? Why exclude recent micro-states, such as the Independent Principality of Sealand, the abandoned anti-aircraft installation in the North Sea which an Essex family has held since the 1960s without ever sorting out the heating as I learned to my cost when I stayed there for a few bone-chilling days a decade ago?

Kishtainy never really justifies his geography except to say that the labyrinth of his Infinite City provides a foil for its utopian dreamers. But this arbitrary element is forgotten amid the momentum of his many-peopled narrative. We learn, for example, of Gerrard Winstanley, who was told by God in a trance to work together, eat bread together and declare this all abroad. He tried to do just that with his fellow Diggers near Cobham in the 1640s, much to the consternation of the locals.

Then there was Thomas Spence, the 18th- century radical who believed that the poor were kept in ignorance by the difficulty of the English language. He invented a phonetic system of spelling which, he wrote (using his new method), would save them from many veksathus, tedeus and ridikilis absurditez. It never caught on. In the 19th century, one John Adolphus Etzler claimed that utopia could be achieved by labour-saving machinery which would enable people to live to the age of 170. The thrust of his argument was undermined when one of his prototypes, a wave-powered boat, sank in the Thames on its maiden voyage.

In the 20th century, nationwide attempts to realise some version of utopia in Nazi Germany and Soviet Russia engendered atrocities. Thinkers such as Karl Popper and Isaiah Berlin argued that this may have been inevitable. Since no one can agree what utopia should look like, it can only be realised by force, which leads to totalitarianism.

The counter-argument, a historical instance of utopian ideals being realised to the benefit of all, is the welfare state. So says Kishtainy, a left-wing LSE professor and instinctive utopian, who believes that in Britain the advances of the 1940s were eroded by the Tories in the 1980s. He might not sound an obvious choice for Spectator readers, but you dont have to agree with someone to enjoy their company. He is now in despair about the state of things on the grounds that so many people consume the knee-jerk narratives of journalists that feed on feelings of fear. Prove him wrong by buying his vigorous, rigorous and eminently readable book. You may even finish it feeling heartened.

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The capacity to imagine a world thats better than the one you were born into is a uniquely human attribute. You can describe this in a work of fiction, as More did, and as is done, arguably, by almost every novelist; you can attempt to create it in miniature in your domestic life; or you can try to realise it in politics. These are all manifestations of an impulse we share, wherever we sit in the political spectrum.

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Searching for the best of all possible worlds in London - The Spectator