Green games back to being green
When Beijing officials promised a 'green Olympics' for 2008, they meant an environmentally friendly Summer Games, not the invasion of green algae clogging the bays of Qingdao, site of this month's sailing events.
'Sunday afternoon at the beach - Qingdao'
Doyle Sails Qingdao China
Click Here to view large photo
It took an army - or, better yet, the Chinese navy - to lead the defense against the invasion of the stinky stuff in the seas surrounding Qingdao.
With a population of 8 million, Qingdao is a laid-back coastal resort city that at the end of the 19th century was a Qing dynasty concession to Germany. It occupied the area until prior to World War I - hence, the Western European architectural influence still existing in Old Qingdao and the renowned Tsingtao Brewery.
Self-labeled as 'Sailing City,' Qingdao invested in massive infrastructure upgrades and beautification projects, including a new airport, a new marina and more apartments, malls and parks throughout the city.
Qingdao also developed partnerships with local companies, in which the city donated 1,000 boats to 36 local schools to help promote the sport of sailing.
In short, the city was excited to welcome 400 Olympic sailors from 62 nations as well as the accompanying media and spectators
deseretnews.com
by Scott Taylor Deseret News 
Bondi, NSW
