Celebrate Earth Day! – April 22, 2023
Say “Yesh!” to Mother Earth
Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel
On Earth Day, April 22, join the 1 billion people around the world who salute Mother Earth on her special day.
Since the first Earth Day in 1970 more than 190 countries have gotten involved in celebrating this event with cleanups in communities and at beaches and parks, planting trees and gardens, recycling activities, educational outreach, and more.
The Surfrider Foundation North Orange County chapter has beach cleanups scheduled for April 21, 22 and 23. Check their Facebook page for information.
This year’s theme is Invest in Our Planet. The goal is to get institutions and individuals to do the things – large and small – that can help to protect the environment by reducing pollution and waste.
Everyone’s favorite comic strip dog and cat duo, “The Mutts” Earl and Mooch, are on board, too, keeping it green.
So, pick something you’d like to do or an event to go to, and join in the celebration!
Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.
**********************************************************************
World Water Day – March 22, 2023
Be the Change
Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.
**********************************************************************
Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel
January 27th is National Geographic Day, honoring National Geographic Magazine.
With its distinctive yellow border around the cover, the magazine is instantly recognizable to those with a yen for adventure and scientific innovation. Incorporated in 1888, the National Geographic Society, which publishes the magazine, is celebrating its 135th anniversary.
The Society’s first two presidents were Gardiner Greene Hubbard, followed by his son-in-law Alexander Graham Bell, inventor of the telephone. Supporting explorers, scientists and inventors since it was started, the Society has backed the work of over 14,000 people across seven continents.
Among the expeditions it helped fund were Robert Peary’s expedition to the North Pole, Hiram Bingham’s to the ancient city of Machu Picchu in the Andes, Louis and Mary Leaky’s archaeological research in Africa, Jacques Cousteau’s underwater explorations, and countless other groundbreaking adventures.
With eight million subscribers worldwide, National Geographic Magazine and its family of books, films, TV programs and more continues to support and inspire adventurers everywhere, putting its audience right in the middle of each new discovery or trek into the wilderness.
So, make January 27th a day to explore the world around you – whether it’s a day spent in nature, delving into National Geographic Magazine’s amazing stories, or putting together this National Geographic Magazines jigsaw puzzle from Buffalo Games.
Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.
**********************************************************************
Surf City Splash!
January 1, 2023
Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel
Get ready to plunge into the New Year with the 23rd annual Surf City Splash! on January 1, 2023!
Held at the Huntington Beach Pier on New Year’s Day, this year’s Splash! benefits the Surfrider Foundation, the non-profit environmental organization that is working to protect the world’s oceans, waves and beaches.
Starting at 9:00 a.m. with breakfast, music, contests, festivities and prizes, the event culminates with an invigorating splash into the ocean.
So, make a New Year’s resolution to join the party in Huntington Beach and celebrate the New Year with a Splash!
Happy New Year 2023!
Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.
**********************************************************************
National Sock Day – December 4, 2022
Sock it to me!
Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel
Get ready for National Sock Day on December 4, 2022.
This is a day to celebrate those comfy, colorful articles of clothing that pamper our feet and make a fashion statement for all to see. A day to acknowledge those sock pairs that have managed to stay together through thick and thin, from laundry to dryer and back.
And with Christmas around the corner and gift stockings on display, it’s a day to step out in style, putting our best stockinged feet forward, ready to spread holiday cheer.
So, whether you like plain or patterned, high-top or low, serious or hilarious, pull open the sock drawer and pick out a pair to honor and wear on their special day.
Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.
**********************************************************************
America Recycles Day
November 15, 2022
Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel
It’s the 25th anniversary of the first America Recycles Day, which is now celebrated on November 15th by all 50 states.
With over 3,000 recycling events around the country there are lots of ways to get involved. Cleaning up communities, collecting items for recycling, and helping to spread the word about the importance of recycling. Over 70% of America’s waste is recyclable. If we just take the time to do it.
Recycling is not only good for the country’s environment, but for the economy, creating hundreds of thousands of jobs and generating over $14 billion in revenues.
Whether it’s a recycling event at the beach, a local park, or in your own neighborhood, it’s easy to find something going on.
SurfWriter Girls are on board. How about you! Everybody wins when we “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.”
Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.
**********************************************************************
World Rivers Day
September 25, 2022
Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel
Keeping the world’s rivers clean and safe for wildlife, recreation and commerce is essential to the countries in which they run through and the oceans they ultimately flow into.
The United Nations urges people to take time on the 4th Sunday of September each year to celebrate World Rivers Day and the contributions rivers make to our lives.
The day has been a global event since 2005, with millions of people in more than 100 countries joining in World Rivers Day events.
At England’s Cambridge University they go all out on this day with rowing, punting and canoeing on the River Cam, educational programs, music, theater and local food.
Check out what’s happening in your area or create your own activity – boating, fishing, swimming, participating in a river cleanup or just admiring the beauty of a river near you.
Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.
**********************************************************************
National Lighthouse Day – August 7, 2022
Let the Light Shine!
Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel
With today’s high-tech navigation equipment on ships, it’s easy to forget the first way America kept sailors and the nation safe was with lighthouses protecting our coasts and guiding sailors to shore with their beacons.
On the bicentennial of the 1789 Congressional Act supporting lighthouses, beacons, buoys, and public piers Congress designated August 7th as National Lighthouse Day, encouraging communities to open their lighthouses to the public and hold events to celebrate these historic sites.
Beautiful, bold and inspiring, America’s lighthouses continue to stand out in the night and to enhance our shorelines.
So, what better way is there to honor and celebrate these towering structures than by visiting one on National Lighthouse Day for a tour, event or picnic?
Let the light shine!
Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.
**********************************************************************
World Rainforest Day – June 22, 2022
An Adventure Awaits at Global Summit!
Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel
June 22nd is World Rainforest Day – a day to recognize and promote the importance of rainforests to the health and biodiversity of the planet.
Most people think of rainforests as covering vast regions of the world, but they only make up about 6% of the Earth’s land mass. These dense jungles, teeming with life, account for 50% of the world’s biodiversity, harboring plants and animals – many in danger of extinction – that can’t be found anywhere else.
Located in the tropics, rainforests play an essential role in keeping our planet healthy. Often called “the lungs of the world,” they absorb carbon dioxide and generate 20% of the world’s oxygen. Along with this, the vegetation and animal life found in rainforests have the potential to create new medicines that can save and improve lives.
For this year’s World Rainforest Day over 50 international organizations are coming together in a virtual Global Summit to talk about what rainforests do for us and how we can help to protect them.
The summit is free and open to all. Its theme is The Time is Now. Why not join in? It could be the adventure of a lifetime.
Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.
**********************************************************************
World Reef Day – June 1, 2022
Celebrate the Wonders Under the Sea!
Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel
Get ready to celebrate World Reef Day, June 1, 2022. In addition to being beautiful, the world’s coral reefs provide food and shelter to more than 25% of the ocean’s sea life.
Coral reefs protect shorelines from erosion, help to reduce the amount of carbon dioxide in the air, and are a source of food and income to over half a billion people.
The Surfrider Foundation calls coral reefs “the crown jewels of our ocean” and asks all of us to help protect them by reducing pollution and the use of chemical sunscreens that wash off and contaminate the water.
On World Reef Day there will be beach activities and events to raise awareness of coral reefs and their importance to the planet.
So, dive in to discover more about these under the sea treasures!
Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.
**********************************************************************
Yesh! to Earth Day – 04.22.22
Mutts Go Green
Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel
The Mutts Earl and Mooch are on a green mission to protect the planet on April 22nd, Earth Day!
Featured in Patrick McDonnell’s book, Mutts Go Green: Earth Friendly Tips and Comic Strips, everyone’s favorite dog and cat duo has humor, education, and tips for protecting the environment that make it easy and fun for everyone to get on board to go green.
SurfWriter Girls Sunny and Patti love this special book that lets us follow along on Earl and Mooch’s adventures as they celebrate Earth Day.
McDonnell’s warmth and compassion for animals and planet Earth come through on every page.
Check out Mutts Go Green and find out what you can do to celebrate Earth Day and make the world a better place for people, animals, and the environment.
Say “Yesh!” to Mother Earth!
Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.
**********************************************************************
World Water Day – March 22, 2022
Making the Invisible Visible
Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel
Water is essential to life. More valuable than gold or oil, it provides moisture and nutrients to man, animals and plants.
On World Water Day, March 22nd, the United Nations is focusing on Making the Invisible Visible and preserving the groundwater hidden from sight that makes up over 40% of the world’s supply of fresh water.
The United Nations is calling on the global community to take action to conserve and protect this vital water supply and to ensure that it is available for drinking, sanitation, and food production.
While waterfalls, lakes, rivers, and streams may be more noticeable and dramatic, the world’s groundwater is essential to maintain ecosystems, agriculture, and industry.
SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel learned that currently 2 billion people don’t have access to clean water. What’s more, the average distance people in developing countries walk to fetch water is almost 4 miles.
So, it’s important to recognize the essential role groundwater plays in providing water to the world and to help build awareness of that on World Water Day.
Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.
**********************************************************************
Lunar New Year 2022
Year of the Tiger
Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel
Get ready to celebrate the Lunar New Year, the Year of the Tiger, which begins on February 1, 2022.
Originating over 3,000 years ago throughout Asia, it’s a time to usher in luck and prosperity. It involves honoring your ancestors and family, eating festive food, putting up colorful decorations, and watching fireworks.
Linked to the phases of the moon, this year’s Lunar New Year celebrations around the world will last until February 15th, with the last day marked by the Lantern Festival, with displays of colorful paper lanterns. Often in the shapes of animals, the lanterns symbolize letting go of the past and transforming into something better in the new year.
To increase your good luck in 2022, turn on the lights at night to scare away ghosts and eat something sweet to ensure a sweeter year. To avoid bad luck, don’t wash your hair on New Year’s Day because that washes away good fortune.
The Year of the Tiger (one of the 12 Asian Zodiac signs representing each year) embodies personal vigor, focus, and physical activity. People born under the sign of the Tiger are known for their fiery passion, daring and fearlessness.
Whether you’re a tiger or not, make this a year to roar!
Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.
**********************************************************************
Surf City Splash for Surfrider Foundation
Splash In the New Year – 2022
Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel
Make a splash in the New Year on January 1, 2022, at the Huntington Beach Surf City Splash benefiting the nonprofit Surfrider Foundation’s Huntington/Seal Beach Chapter.
Get ready to ring in the New Year with a pancake breakfast at 9 a.m. and an invigorating swim in the Pacific Ocean at the HB Pier at high noon!
Catch up with friends and find treasures at the silent auction and opportunity drawings while you explore the Winter Vendor Village.
Or swap your surfboard for skates at the Winter Wonderland Ice Skating Rink.
So put the Splash on your New Year’s resolutions list and have fun at the beach while making the world a better place.
Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.
**********************************************************************
International Coastal Cleanup Day
September 18, 2021
International Coastal Cleanup Day is an annual event that draws more than 6 million volunteers across the USA and in 90 countries.
Clean beaches are important to the environment and to a better life for all.
Let’s work together to make every day a coastal cleanup day!
Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.
**********************************************************************
Surfing Debuts at 2020 Olympics
Surf’s Up in Tokyo
Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel
Surfers from around the world are excited to compete in the 2020 Summer Olympics.
All in all, 40 competitors from 17 nations are on board to ride the waves in Japan when surfing makes its Olympics debut. After years of lobbying to be included in the games, the International Olympic Committee voted unanimously in 2016 to include surfing in the sports lineup.
The surfing events will take place at Tsurigasaki Beach in Chiba Prefecture about 40 miles East of Tokyo, July 26 – 29, 2021. The beach, which draws 600,000 surfers a year, is known for its world-class waves and sandy beaches.
Team USA includes John John Florence, Kolohe Andino, Caroline Marks and Carissa Moore.
Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.
**********************************************************************
Yesh! to Earth Day – 04.22.21
Mutts Go Green
Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel
Get ready to go green with everyone’s favorite champions for Mother Earth, Mutts Earl and Mooch!
April 22nd is Earth Day! And the dynamic duo is up to the challenge of protecting the planet in Patrick McDonnell’s new book, Mutts Go Green: Earth Friendly Tips and Comic Strips.
Check out McDonnell’s book and find out what you can do to celebrate Earth Day and make the world a better place for people, animals and the environment.
Say “Yesh!” to Mother Earth!
Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.
**********************************************************************
World Water Day 2021
March 22
Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel
What does water mean to you? The theme of this year’s World Water Day is Valuing Water.
The United Nations is asking people to stop and think about the value of water and what it means to us. A commodity that’s often overlooked…until there isn’t any of it, water is literally the fountain of our existence.
To ensure that clean water is available to all, now is the time to think about how we use it and what it means to the quality of our lives – for health, cooking, food production, manufacturing, enjoyment, and more.
The UN wants us to “Join the conversation!” Talk to our friends and family about the importance of water. And on social media – with the tags #WorldWaterDay and #Water2me.
This will help the UN and organizations around the world to come up with ways to ensure that the water is there when you turn on the tap.
Water is cool and refreshing. Water cleans and cooks our food. Water irrigates our fields. Water powers our factories. Water is beautiful to look at and fun to swim, boat and surf in.
Most important of all – Water is life.
Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.
**********************************************************************
Surfrider Splash It Forward in 2021
Clean the Beach Solo Style
Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel
The Surfrider Foundation Huntington/Seal Beach chapter is asking everyone to Splash It Forward in 2021 by making a splash video and donation to Surfrider to support its environmental causes.
The proceeds from this year’s annual Huntington Beach New Year’s Day Surf City Splash, with everyone running into the ocean to celebrate the new year, were designated to go to Surfrider.
But with public events on hold, instead of the ocean plunge, the Splash has gone virtual. To join in, just video yourself making a splash – jumping into the ocean or a pool, getting squirted by a hose, any way you want. Then post the video on your social media and tag it #SplashItForward.
After that, make a donation and ask your friends to do the same (even a small one helps) at splashitforward.com.
Even though we can’t get together for beach cleanups yet, Surfrider encourages you to do a #SoloBeachCleanup by yourself whenever you can, helping to keep the beach clean and sharing the stoke remotely by tagging @hsbsurfrider on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.
It’s more important than ever to support organizations that are doing positive things. Splash It Forward and Solo Beach Cleanups let you do that…and still stay safe.
SurfWriter Girls wish everyone a healthy and happy 2021
Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.
**********************************************************************
The Main Event Now
Staying Safe
Whatever your cause or passion, the important thing now is to stay safe and well.
There will be time for socializing, meetings, and more later on. So follow the advice of the Surfrider Foundation and shred later.
Distancing is what connects us best now.
Please post your comment below. Comments will appear the next day.
Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.
**********************************************************************
World Water Day, March 22, 2020
Water and Climate Change
Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel
The theme for World Water Day, March 22nd, is “Water and Climate Change,” focusing on the link between water and changing climate conditions worldwide.
Climate change can affect our water supply so that some people don’t have water to drink or to use for personal hygiene and sanitation – things the UN says are universal rights.
It’s important to use water wisely on World Water Day and to support the United Nation’s efforts to encourage governments to “balance all of society’s water needs, while ensuring the poorest people don’t get left behind.”
Every drop must count.
Please post your comment below. Comments will appear the next day.
Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.
**********************************************************************
Marin’s Wave
Artist Robb Havassy On Book Tour
Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel
Surf Artist Robb Havassy celebrates the joys of surfing and a father’s pride in his daughter’s accomplishments in his new young adult book Marin’s Wave.
Inspired by his daughter Marin’s developing love for surfing and living the Pura Vida lifestyle in Costa Rica, Havassy tells about her adventures.
After moving his family from California to Costa Rica to be closer to nature and a more relaxed lifestyle, Havassy has continued to focus on his art and family, while becoming part of the local community.
SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel are big fans of Robb Havassy’s art and books.
His epic books Surf Story and Surf Story II showcase the stories of the world’s leading surf artists and photographers.
Now, on this return trip to California, Havassy has the opportunity to share Marin’s Wave – a story for the next generation of surfers.
March 12th, 6 – 9pm, Resin Gallery, 618 Cypress Ave., Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
March 15th, 4 – 7pm, Ocean Room Gallery, 12 N. Fir Street, Ventura, CA 93001
Please post your comment below. Comments will appear the next day.
Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.
**********************************************************************
World Wildlife Day, March 3, 2020
Sustaining All Life on Earth
Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel
The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) says the message of this year’s World Wildlife Day, March 3rd, is “Sustaining all life on Earth.”
World Wildlife Day is an opportunity to celebrate the beautiful and varied types of wild animals and plants around the world. Numerous events highlighting biodiversity and ways to sustain animal and plant life are scheduled.
At a time when 25% of the world’s animal species are currently threatened with extinction and natural ecosystems have declined by 47%, action is needed to protect them.
Please post your comment below. Comments will appear the next day.
Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.
**********************************************************************
National Kite Flying Day – February 8th
The Sky’s the Limit!
Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel
Before you know it, National Kite Flying Day will be here – February 8, 2020.
Dating back to China in 470 B.C., kites have been adding color to our lives – to send messages to the gods, for ceremonies, to catch fish, to survey the lands around us. And, of course, to have fun!
Whether it’s a windy day at the beach or a public park, kites take to the sky.
From classic diamond-shaped kites to animal and dragon kites, there’s a kite that’s waiting for you to send it soaring.
The sky’s the limit!
Please post your comment below. Comments will appear the next day.
Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.
**********************************************************************
National Save the Eagles Day
January 10, 2020
Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel
Take a moment to celebrate one of nature’s most majestic birds, the eagle, on National Save the Eagles Day, January 10th
Revered in mythology and religion since ancient times, there are over 70 different species of eagle around the world, many of them on the Endangered Species List.
The Bald Eagle, symbol of the United States of America, was almost extinct until it became protected under the Endangered Species Act in 1978.
Now there are some 10,000 nesting pairs of Bald Eagles across the country. A conservation success story, the Bald Eagle recovered enough to be removed from the list in 2007, but is still protected by the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act.
To keep the world’s eagles safe, notify wildlife authorities if you notice an eagle’s nest that has been disturbed or see an injured bird. It’s also important to support conservation efforts to protect wildlife habitats and migratory flight routes.
Please post your comment below. Comments will appear the next day.
Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.
**********************************************************************
National Cocoa Day
December 13, 2019
December 13th is National Cocoa Day – the perfect time to settle around the fireplace and celebrate everyone’s favorite cold weather comfort drink.
Whether you call it hot cocoa or hot chocolate – one’s made with cocoa powder and the other with cocoa butter – we all agree that it’s just the thing to keep the cold away and put us in a relaxed mood.
Developed by the Mayas and Aztecs in Central America and Mexico 2000 years ago, the chocolate beverage was a favorite with the Aztec king Montezuma in the mid-1500s and became a sensation in European capitals when explorers brought it back from the New World.
In France, where chocolate is revered in all things from chocolates and pastries to dark rich hot chocolate (chocolat chaud), the drink served at Angelina of Paris is said to be the best. Iconic fashion designer Coco Chanel visited the bistro (started in 1903) daily just so she could savor its hot chocolate.
So, on December 13th bundle up, light the fire and make yourself a delicious cup of cocoa.
The antioxidants and flavonoids in it are good for your health…and it’s definitely in fashion!
Please post your comment below. Comments will appear the next day.
Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.
**********************************************************************
America Recycles Day
November 15, 2019
Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel
Celebrate America Recycles Day, November 15th, by turning your unneeded, unwanted goods into useful resources.
Trash can become treasure when you recycle it.
So, take the pledge at #BeRecycled and help make America beautiful by reducing landfills and giving new life to paper, plastics, electronics, clothing, and more.
When we reduce, reuse and recycle we protect the environment and make the most of what we have.
Recycling gives you something to crow about!
Please post your comment below. Comments will appear the next day.
Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.
******************************************************************
Paddle for Clean Water
Join Surfrider on October 6th
Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel
Join the hundreds of participants who will be paddling their surfboards, SUPs, and kayaks around San Diego’s Ocean Beach Pier to raise awareness of what the Surfrider Foundation is doing to protect and advocate for clean water.
At 1,971 ft., it’s the longest concrete pier on the West Coast.
So, get ready to paddle and be part of the solution for clean water. Surfrider’s San Diego Chapter is eager to have you on board.
Please post your comment below. Comments will appear the next day.
Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.
******************************************************************
International Coastal Cleanup Day 2019
Organizations COme Together For Ocean
Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel
International Coastal Cleanup Day (ICCD), Saturday, September 21, is one of the world’s largest annual volunteer preservation events for our ocean, waves and beaches.
It’s a global movement encompassing 6 million volunteers throughout the U.S. and in 90 countries. The Surfrider Foundation, Heal the Bay, Ocean Conservancy, Sierra Club, and other environmental groups are hosting activities and events at local beaches to clean the coastline and generate awareness of what people can do to promote healthy beaches on a daily basis.
Some of the top five most commonly collected items on ICCD last year were cigarette butts, plastic beverage bottles, food wrappers, plastic bottle caps and plastic straws.
To find an event, check with a Surfrider Foundation chapter near you or one of the other participating organizations.
Please post your comment below. Comments will appear the next day.
Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.
**********************************************************************
Vans US Open of Surfing Crowns Champions!
Yago Dora and Sage Erickson Celebrate Wins
Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel
Brazilian Yago Dora and Californian Sage Erickson rode the Huntington Beach waves to victory on a day that required skill and patience to make the most of what the ocean offered.
Dora’s high-flying moves (posting the day’s top single score of 9.7) gave him the win and moved him into the #4 spot in the QS rankings. Thanking the crowd, he said it “gets me fired up to do my best and that’s what I did today.”
Erickson, who had to get past hometown favorite Courtney Conlogue in the finals, dedicated her win to her grandmother, who passed away two weeks ago, crediting her for “a lot of the lessons” she learned.
Please post your comment below. Comments will appear the next day.
Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.
**********************************************************************
Vans US Open of Surfing 2019
July 27 – August 4
Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel
Huntington Beach, CA – Surf City USA – is getting ready to welcome the world’s elite surfers for the annual Vans US Open of Surfing.
The Open is one of the largest action sports festivals in the country, showcasing the best surfing alongside skateboard and BMX competitions, art exhibitions and hands-on creative workshops.
“The Vans US Open of Surfing presented by Swatch represents the very best of Vans’ heritage,” says Kristy Van Doren, Vans Senior Director, North America Brand Marketing
This is the second year that Swatch is a presenting sponsor and it will have a booth where visitors can mingle and see the Swatch Pro Team’s favorite watches and this year’s local artist collaborations.
Operated by the World Surf League, the Open brings together some of the best brands in sports and retailing. Official partners include Jeep, ULTRA, Red Bull, Jose Cuervo, Barefoot Wine, Hydro Flask, Harley-Davidson, Polo Blue, BF Goodrich, CLIF Bar and Frontier Communications.
So, mark your calendar and join in all the festivities!
Please post your comment below. Comments will appear the next day.
Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.
**********************************************************************
International Surfing Day, June 15th
Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel
Get ready to head out to the beach to celebrate International Surfing Day. Sponsored by the Surfrider Foundation, there will be up to 200 events around the world – in more than 30 countries.
So, find out what’s going on at a beach near you. Then wax your board and load up the woody!
Please post your comment below. Comments will appear the next day.
Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.
******************************************************************
World Oceans Day – June 8th
Celebrating Blue; Celebrating Life
Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel
On World Oceans Day, June 8th, people around our blue planet will be celebrating and honoring the ocean that connects us all.
A healthy world ocean is critical to our survival. In the words of National Geographic explorer-in-residence, marine biologist Dr. Sylvia Earle: “No water, no life. No blue, no green.”
“Even if you never have the chance to see or touch the ocean, the ocean touches you with every breath you take, every drop of water you drink, every bite you consume. Everyone, everywhere is inextricably connected to and utterly dependent upon the existence of the sea.”
There will be events spanning the globe from the Santa Monica Aquarium, CA, to the Coralpalooza in Key Largo, Florida, the Marine Biology Institute of Piran, Italy, oceans festival in Thailand, movies on the beach in Curacao, and many more.
Plus, the National Wildlife Federation is holding a contest with Joel Harper, author of All the Way to the Ocean, asking children to write Facebook and Instagram posts about how they are protecting the ocean.
So, find a World Oceans Day event near you and join in the celebration!
Celebrate Blue! Celebrate Life!
Please post your comment below. Comments will appear the next day.
Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.
******************************************************************
Reduce Reuse Recycle Surf Off – May 18
Competition Puts Clean Ocean First
Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel
Environmentalist Seth Matson is on a mission to keep our oceans and beaches clean…stopping trash at its source on land before it reaches the water.
To accomplish his objective, Matson is hosting this year’s Reduce Reuse Recycle Surf Off in Huntington Beach, CA May 18th at 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
More than a surfing competition, it’s an event that builds awareness about how we can keep trash, plastic and pollutants out of the upstream waterways that run to the sea.
Matson, founder of the non-profit group Drains to Ocean, has other organizations on board, including 5 Gyres Institute, the Sierra Club and Bolsa Chica Land Trust, to make it a fun and informative day for all with surf contests, educational activities, a beach cleanup, awards ceremony, and more.
SurfWriter Girls Sunny and Patti have seen firsthand what Matson is doing to protect the environment and know it’s up to all of us to help.
With eight million pieces of trash entering the ocean everyday, keeping the beaches clean is a big job.
Please post your comment below. Comments will appear the next day.
Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.
******************************************************************
Hands Across the Sand – May 18
Event Promotes Clean Beaches
Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel
Surfrider Foundation chapters across the U.S. are gearing up for the annual Hands Across the Sand event May 18, 2019.
Started in 2009 by Surfrider member Dave Rauschkolb, the event brings people together to oppose new offshore drilling and fossil fuel development and to promote clean energy.
Among the organizations involved are Oceana, Healthy Gulf, SoWal Beaches, Earth Ethics, and the Southern Alliance for Clean Energy.
At 12 p.m. local time participants at beaches and parks around the world will join hands for 15 minutes to demonstrate their support for protecting our coasts and finding new energy solutions.
Please post your comment below. Comments will appear the next day.
Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.
******************************************************************
Woodies On Display
Doheny Beach Showcases Classic Cars
Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel
Fans of the classic woodie station wagons that hauled surfboards to the beach in the 1950s/60s are in for a treat when the Southern California Woodie Club hosts its annual vintage cars event at Doheny State Park April 27th.
With over 200 woodies on display it’s sure to be a genuine blast-from-the past.
Cars of every shape and style – many of them restored and even stacked with longboards – will be strutting their stuff at one of CA’s iconic surfing beaches.
Harking back to a carefree time of open roads and endless summer days at the beach, these wooden-sided wagons are guaranteed to make you smile.
Please post your comment below. Comments will appear the next day.
Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.
*************************************************************************
Rising Tide Summit
Saving Ocean Reaches New Heights
Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel
“The ocean is the most powerful economic engine on earth,” says Vipe Desai, founder of the Rising Tide Summit being held on March 27 and 28 in SoCal at the Port of Los Angeles.
“Without a healthy ocean, there are no healthy people, planet or profits,” Desai points out, explaining why this year’s summit is so important. “Our goal is clear and simple. To chart a new course in ocean conservation.”
And, there’s no time to waste. With the ocean under siege from plastic pollution, coral bleaching, over-fishing, loss of habitat, and debris from inland water runoff we need to come up with solutions to reverse the damage that is occurring.
The summit’s topics include how business alliances can affect environmental causes, combating the plastics in the ocean problem, getting the environmental vote out, updates from the 5 Gyres Institute, and more. Among the speakers are leaders from science and industry, adventurer Alison Teal, and surfing World Champion Shaun Tomson.
SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel are excited that environmentalists from so many different fields are working together to come up with actionable solutions to protect our oceans.
That’s something we all can support!
Please post your comment below. Comments will appear the next day.
Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.
*************************************************************************
World WIldlife Day – Life Under The Sea
Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel
The United Nations announced that in 2019 the annual World Wildlife Day (March 3) will focus on marine species for the first time.
This year’s theme Life Below Water: for people and planet highlights the critical issues facing marine wildlife and their value to our everyday lives.
UN Development Program Head of Biodiversity and Ecosystems Midori Paxton notes: “Over three billion people depend on marine and coastal biodiversity for their livelihoods and primary source of protein.”
SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel learned that the market value of marine and coastal resources and industries is $3 trillion per year.
Plus, oceans help reduce the impact of climate change – That’s good for all of us!
Please post your comment below. Comments will appear the next day.
Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.
*************************************************************************
International Year of the Reef
Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel
The International Coral Reef Initiative, a partnership of more than 60 nations and organizations around the world working to preserve coral reefs and related ecosystems, declared 2018 the International Year of the Reef.
This is the third time since the organization’s founding in 1994 that it has declared an International Year of the Reef and the goal is to create awareness about the dangers to the world’s coral reefs and to generate support for helping to preserve and protect them.
Coral reefs have had continued increases in bleaching (losing their nutrients) over the past three decades due to stress from climate and environmental changes. In effect, they are literally losing their colors – the pinks, oranges, yellows and blues that signify healthy reef systems.
The ICRI encourages governments, the private sector, non-profit organizations, and academia to join forces to share information and develop effective conservation strategies.
Healthy coral reefs are essential for the well-being of the planet because they support 25% of all marine life, providing habitats for countless organisms including over 4,000 species of fish. They also protect our shorelines from erosion and contribute to local communities’ fishing, travel and tourism economies.
NASA research scientist Liane Guild says,”Coral reefs are considered ‘canaries of the oceans,’ acting as an early warning system for marine ecosystems.” Like birds in a coal mine warning of dangerous gas, the reefs are sounding an environmental alert.
In 2018 we need to take notice.
To learn more, click on: Coral Crisis
Please post your comment below. Comments will appear the next day.
Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.
*************************************************************************
Make the Season Bright!
Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel
December is the time to be of good cheer.
As Ebenezer Scrooge learns in Charles DIckens’ A Christmas Carol, the relationships we have with others and the good deeds we do are far more important than the wealth we acquire.
So, take time to catch some waves, mix and mingle…
Deck the Halls…
have charity toward others, and help make the world a better place.
Season’s Greetings to all and a Happy New Year!
Patti and Sunny
Please post your comment below. Comments will appear the next day.
Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.
*************************************************************************
National Cookie Day – 11/26 and 12/4
Celebrate America’s Favorite Treat
Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel
After Thanksgiving – just when you think you can’t eat another bite – get ready for National Cookie Day, November 26 and December 4.
That’s right – Two days to celebrate America’s favorite treat! “One day isn’t enough,” says SurfWriter Girl Sunny Magdaug. “We need at least two days.”
There’s always room for a cookie – especially when you bake them yourself!
SurfWriter Girls Sunny and Patti Kishel like to bake cookies for our friends and family, whether it’s classic chocolate chip or decorated Christmas cookies.
Like the Pillsbury Doughboy says:
“Nothing says lovin’ like something from the oven.”
What’s your favorite cookie?
Please post your comment below. Comments will appear the next day.
Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.
*************************************************************************
Halloween – Make It A Beach Treat!
Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel
On All Hallow’s Eve (October 31st) get ready to celebrate things that go bump in the night.
Carve a pumpkin, drink apple cider, trick-or-treat, or party on the beach!
Beach communities from California to Maine, Canada and Europe will be building bon fires and making s’mores.
SurfWriter Girls can’t wait!
Please post your comment below. Comments will appear the next day.
Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.
*************************************************************************
World Gratitude Day – September 21
Celebrate the Good Things in Life!
Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel
September 21st is World Gratitude Day – a day to express gratitude and appreciation for all the wonderful things to be found in the world.
Started in 1965 in Hawaii – where people traditionally thank Mother Nature for Earth’s bounty, beautiful oceans, green landscapes and the Aloha spirit – World Gratitude Day was adopted by the United Nations in 1977.
Since then it has spread around the globe.
Now, when there is so much divisiveness in the news, SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel think taking a day to focus on all the positive things we have and the beauty around us is time well spent.
What do you have to be grateful for and who do you want to thank?
You may be surprised at how long a list it is!
Please post your comment below. Comments will appear the next day.
Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.
*************************************************************************
Vans US Open of Surfing 2017
Surf, Sun and Sustainability!
Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug & Patti Kishel
Huntington Beach, CA, Surf City USA, is in the spotlight once more for the annual Vans US Open of Surfing showcasing the world’s best surfers, skateboarders and BMX riders. Running from July 29 – August 6, the event is about surfing and more.
SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel learned that this year the USOS is focusing on sustainability.
Vans says, “As part of a multi-year effort, the 2017 Vans US Open will divert waste from the landfill, utilize renewable energy to power the contest and webcast, support local community groups and charities, encourage alternative transportation, and offset the carbon emissions of the event.”
With competitions to watch, sports stars to mingle with, and lots of activities, workshops and games, the USOS has evolved into one of the premiere action sports festivals in the world. There’s truly something for everyone.
So, come on out to Huntington Beach and join the party!
Please post your comment below. Comments will appear the next day.
Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.
*************************************************************************
International Surfing Day 2017
Here Comes the Sun!
Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel
On Saturday morning, June 17, 2017, surfers and sun worshipers alike will be out in full force at Surf City, USA’s Huntington Beach Pier to enjoy this year’s International Surfing Day (ISD) and pay homage to the summer solstice.
Started in 2005 by Surfing magazine and the Surfrider Foundation, ISD has become an annual event around the globe to celebrate this great sport and to give something back to the world’s oceans, waves and beaches.
The action runs from 8 am – 1 pm and includes paddle outs, surf lessons, yoga on the beach, surf industry displays, ocean education, music and more.
So, as the Beatles say, “Here comes the sun…It’s all right, it’s all right.”
Please post your comment below. Comments will appear the next day.
Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.
*************************************************************************
Pacific City’s A Taste of Lot 579
Surfrider Foundation Benefit – May 11th
Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel
Surfers and foodies alike are all heading to Lot 579, the popular, beach-themed food hall in Huntington Beach’s Pacific City complex for this year’s A Taste of Lot 579.
Named after HB’s Lifeguard Towers 5, 7 and 9, located just across PCH from the complex, Lot 579 is the perfect place for this tribute to food and SoCal’s beach culture on Thursday, May 11th, from 7 – 9 pm.
Steps from the sea and sand, with ocean breezes, Lot 579 has everything under one roof – from fresh-caught seafood, artisanal sandwiches, burgers and beer, and Italian specialties to tempting cupcakes, homemade ice cream and cool pops with your own custom flavors.
You’ll get to try an amazing array of foods from SoCal’s top restaurants, mingle with friends, enjoy music and more, and help support the non-profit Surfrider Foundation, which is dedicated to protecting the world’s oceans, waves and beaches for the enjoyment of all of us. What could be better!
