Bill Ranatunga’s Post

While not everyone can set sail with the Sea Shepherd fleet, you can still be a vital force for change through the 2024 #FitfortheOceanChallenge, happening from May 25th to June 8th. Whether you're into running, hiking, biking, swimming, or kayaking, you can participate and make a tangible impact. So, mark your calendars, and let's make a difference together! Participating is simple: 1. Choose an activity (running, hiking, biking, swimming, or kayaking). 2. Set up your own fundraising page in just a few minutes via our link. 3. Track your progress on the free Kamoot website (be sure to follow Sea Shepherd once you’ve created your account). 4. Share your challenge updates and photos. Find out more here:

this is a bit of a different post from my normal LinkedIn feed, but think it is worth publishing. I raced the 2024 Newport to Bermuda offshore sailing race with an awesome crew put together by Patrick Powers and won our division (Finisterre cruiser/racers) outright. It was harsh conditions and of the fleet of 160 boats racing across more than 600 ocean miles, one boat sank outright, another took on water to the point where the crew abandoned ship, another was dis-masted, and another lost their engine, all electrical power, and modern charts. I am confident to say such events attract veterans at a higher percentage than their representation in society for a variety of reasons. They are physically and mentally challenging events where you sleep no more than 3 1/2 hours at a time as you are on a watch schedule, and constantly in motion on the boat and problem solving issues constantly. You are part of a team working together towards a goal and have to endure hardships of no showers, difficult sleeping conditions (hot bunking, noise when you want to sleep), bad coffee, and sometimes cold food. But it is all that that attracts is. The allure of a sense of challenge and danger- facing off with the weather, luck, and other conditions, harkens back to our time in service. It can also be incredibly therapeutic with requirements to slow down, watch beautiful sunrises and sunsets, and see dolphins, flying fish, and whales. And the quiet and peace of being under sail with no noise but the softness of the wind across your canvas is a blessing that has to be experienced to understand (in between white knuckle moments). Making it even better is the teams association with Gold Star Sailing (goldstarsailing.org), a nonprofit that uses the beauty of sailing as a vehicle to instill confidence and leadership and promote healing for children of fallen US military service members. If you have a chance, please check them out, they are an amazing charity. https://lnkd.in/e_mXYMU6

Memorial Day is a time to honor and remember those who have served our country. As we gather with family and friends, let's keep safety in mind. Here are some tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday: **Grill Safely: Keep your grill at least 10 feet away from your house or any structures. Never leave it unattended. **Water Safety: If you're spending the day by the pool or lake, ensure everyone knows how to swim and never leave children unattended near water. **Travel Smart: If you're hitting the road, make sure your vehicle is in good condition, wear seat belts, and avoid distractions while driving. **Stay Hydrated: Whether you're grilling, swimming, or just enjoying the sun, drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Enjoy your Memorial Day, and stay safe! #MemorialDay #SafetyTips #FamilyFirst

🚨 Leadership in Crisis: CA Osasuna's Response to Devastating Floods 🚨 Last week, unprecedented flooding disrupted lives and events across Spain, including the Copa del Rey match featuring C.A. Osasuna. Yet, in these challenging times, Osasuna demonstrated what it means to be more than just a football club. 🌧️ Impactful Response to Unexpected Events When the game was canceled at the last minute, many fans were left stranded, but the story of 18-year-old Jakes Jimenez stands out. After traveling solo across Spain, Jakes received a personal call from the club's president offering an immediate and thoughtful solution—a flight back home on the team’s plane. 🤝 Creating Lifetime Loyalty This act, simple yet profound, not only secured a lifelong fan in Jakes but also spotlighted Osasuna’s commitment to their fanbase. This gesture has resonated widely, earning accolades from fans and the international press alike. 👥 Beyond the Game: Community and Compassion Osasuna's involvement extends beyond personal gestures. In the aftermath of the floods, the club not only donated essential supplies but some players also took it upon themselves to personally deliver these items. Additionally, the club has pledged significant financial support for rebuilding efforts—including matching donations to repair a local stadium. 🔗 Your Thoughts? Have you seen similar examples of sports teams stepping up in a crisis? Let's discuss how these actions shape our view of a brand in the comments below! #CrisisManagement #SportsMarketing #CommunityFirst #laliga #SportsBiz

#frontporchchatter episode 2. Finally received a substantial rain event today. All day cold rain. Recap 1. Received over an inch of slow rain today. Helps get our soils wet to help our fescues continue to germinate and mature. Unfortunately it is going to help poa annua continue to germinate. Make sure the pre-em is down! Cold temps are here, that is going to help our fescue seedlings harden off and mature. Now we can start going after broadleaf weeds- I like to wait as long as possible before attacking them. Nothing worse than setting back fescue before the cold.. 2. Fes-muda… what to do with a fescue and Bermuda mixed lawn. Couple of options. Commit and be patient but commit to the plan. 3. Golf- no hole in ones this week… but most overlooked stat and tip in golf. Greens in regulation. Focus on hitting more greens in regulation and watch your score go down. Get the ball on the ground on the putting surface as fast as you can and your scores will lower. 4. Thanks for the hat Jeremy Wade ! Yardsy #lawncare #turfcare #fescue #bermuda #greenvillesc #raleigh #charlotte #atlanta #golf

Maritime Security Bulletin and Advisory Notice: The U.S. Coast Guard and Florida Fish and Wildlife Seeking Information on a Boating Fatality Issued by: Sanborn Analytics Date May 13th, 2024: - Email: outreach@sanbornanalytics.us - Phone: (+1) (617) 539-6114 Media Credit: NBC News Incident Alert: The U.S. Coast Guard and Florida Fish and Wildlife are currently seeking information regarding a tragic incident that occurred near Key Biscayne, Miami, FL, on Saturday, May 11th, 2024. A young girl named Ella Adler (15) was fatally struck while water skiing, and the vessel responsible for the incident did not stop. Request for Information: Authorities are urging anyone with relevant information about the incident to come forward. Your assistance could be vital in helping to bring closure to the affected family and ensuring justice is served. Contact Information for Reporting: - U.S. Coast Guard Miami Florida Sector (Everglades): (305) 535-4503 - Address: 100 MacArthur Cswy, Miami, FL 33139 Maritime Community Alert: This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to maritime safety protocols and regulations. Vessel operators must remain vigilant and responsible while navigating waterways, especially in areas where recreational activities are prevalent. Advisory for Maritime Shipping Community and Naval Forces: - Exercise caution and maintain a heightened awareness of small craft and recreational activities in the vicinity of shipping lanes and navigational channels. - Report any suspicious or reckless behavior observed at sea to the appropriate authorities immediately. - Review and reinforce safety protocols and procedures with crew members to mitigate the risk of similar incidents occurring onboard vessels. Conclusion: Sanborn Analytics extends its deepest sympathies to the family and loved ones of Ella Adler. We stand united with the maritime community in advocating for safety and accountability on our waterways. Together, let us strive to uphold the highest standards of maritime security and responsibility. [End of Bulletin] #maritimesecurity #homelandsecurity #uscoastguard #florida #miami https://lnkd.in/eYvS89DM

🦭 What are Sea Lions, and Why Do They Matter? 🌊 In today’s video, Fizza dives into the fascinating world of sea lions! These intelligent, playful marine mammals are more than just ocean entertainers—they’re a vital part of our ecosystem. Here’s why sea lions matter: 🌍 Balancing Marine Ecosystems: Sea lions are top predators that help maintain fish populations, which supports the health of marine food chains. 🔄 Nutrient Cycling: As they hunt and move between land and sea, sea lions play a key role in distributing nutrients across ecosystems, benefiting a wide range of species. 🌱 Indicators of Ocean Health: Sea lions are sensitive to environmental changes, which makes them important indicators of ocean health. Protecting them means protecting the broader marine environment. Let’s protect sea lions and all they contribute to our planet. Watch the video to learn more about why these creatures are essential! https://lnkd.in/dfgmcGqq #MarineLife #SeaLions #Ecosystem #OceanHealth #ClimateEducation

Check out my recent article on The Inside Spread and learn more about my story with starting Sewanee Shooting Sports!

🔥🏊♂️🚴♀️🏃♂️ The recent devastating wildfires in Los Angeles have not only damaged landscapes but also the spirits of many, including the resilient Tower 26 triathlon community based in Pacific Palisades. During a virtual training session on January 7, 2025, these athletes faced not just physical challenges but an emotional upheaval as they watched from afar, helpless, as their training grounds were enveloped in flames. Like many others, triathletes encountered substantial loss, yet their stories also carry a message of incredible community strength and resilience. Having been a part of several sporting communities, I've witnessed how shared hardships can either fragment a group or fuse it stronger together. In Tower 26's case, it's the latter. Members have been actively involved in relief operations, providing support not just to each other but also to the wider affected community. Their story is a profound reminder that the human spirit, much like sports, is about pushing beyond the visible finish lines.💪🔥 🤔Have you ever been part of a community that grew stronger in the face of adversity? How did you support each other through those challenging times? Your stories of resilience can inspire hope and offer lessons on rebuilding stronger than ever. Share your experiences below. 👇 #Triathlon #CommunityStrength #Resilience #LAWildfires #AthleteStories #Tower26 Discover more tips, insights, and resources by visiting our site at https://lnkd.in/gHCRy9jV

Yes, Cari Bode and I have a fierce (but friendly) rivalry to see which Board member can sign up the most people for the Queen City Marathon. A good portion of this rivalry stems from a shared idea—if one says the word "Boston" to a runner, their mind will instantly add the word "Marathon." They envision a massive event in which an entire city and region participates. The event is televised and played in every bar and cafe, and the streets are lined with spectators going back several rows. I have seen it described as a physical and psychological landmark, packed with a level of lore comparable to climbing Mount Everest. Just imagine the excitement and economic spinoff. Cari and I would like to see that happen when someone says "Queen City" or "Regina." We need runners and volunteers (and longer-term sponsors) to make that happen. If you think that is an excellent idea, do your part to register as a runner or volunteer. It's also an inclusive event; you don't need to be fast. You can walk as much as you need to. The promo code ED10 will give you a 10% discount on registration fees. https://lnkd.in/gYEqKzny