(BEIJING, October 31) – Thirteen art specialists met for the first time in Qingdao on October 30 to discuss the schemes for the opening and closing ceremonies for the Beijing Olympic Sailing events, according to Qingdao Daily.

After Qingdao Mayor Xia Geng issued letters of appointment to the specialists, Wang Wei, executive vice-president of the organizing committee, briefed the specialists on the progress of the preparatory work for the events.

He urged them to stress the Olympic spirit; integrate the host city's characteristics as a sailing center rich in marine resources; and make use of Qingdao's unique historical events, folk tales, costumes, and traditions to deliver a high quality art program.

The Olympic Sailing events are scheduled for August 16 to 21, 2008, when sailors around the world will vie for a total of 11 gold medals.