Places to go and things to see by Gypsy Bev

Juneau, Alaska Adventures

January 17, 2011

What a beautiful sight as the cruise ship pulls into dock!  Juneau, Alaska sets at the foot of Mt. Juneau, which is about 3,500 feet high making for a beautiful backdrop for the city. This capital city is the only US capital that has international borders, as it edges up to the Canadian province of British Columbia.

In 1880, Joe Juneau and Richard Harris searched for gold with the help of Indian guides.  They found nuggets as “large as beans” and from their discovery came three of the largest gold mines in the world.  By the end of WWII, more than $150 milllion in gold had been mined.  Eventually the mines closed, but the town named for Joe Juneau in time became the capital of Alaska.

Breathtakingly beautiful glaciers are one of the big attractions as the ship docks early in the morning.  As soon as we have a quick breakfast, it is off to a bus which takes us to the TEMSCO Helicopter site.  First, we have to get weighed as the helicopter must be balanced for safe flight.  Then everyone is issued ice boots with cleats on the bottom for our walk on the glacier.

Ready to lift off and see some of the most beautiful scenery imaginable.  The helicopter flies low over the glacier and we get some awesome views.  We get an eagle’s eye view of ice spires, deep blue crevasses and meltwater pools.  This is just fantastic!

After about 15 minutes,  the helicopter lowers itself onto the ice and we are told to step out of the helicopter onto the Mendenhall Glacier. What a thrill to actually be setting foot on a real glacier.  Explicit instructions are given  to stay away from the crevices and to not venture far from the aircraft.  The pilot keeps a close eye on everyone.

Went perhaps a little far myself as just couldn’t resist looking down in one of those crevices.  The pilot shouted,” Get back from the edge.  If you fell in you would never be heard from again.  That goes down for thousands of feet.”  So did quickly move away from the deep, deep crevice and continued walking on the ice. One thing for sure, you never want to walk backwards on a glacier.   This walk on the glacier was perhaps the highlight of my Alaskan vacation.  Just to know you were on a massive, moving block of ice, that was created long before our existence, was a thrilling  experience.

Back in town  experienced a nice walking tour of parts of the city after an overall bus tour. The Alaska State House was built in 1931, originally called the Federal and Territorial Building.  When Alaska became a state in 1959, this then became the capitol building. The bronze bear in front of the capitol seems to be the perfect statue for this setting.

Along the way, stops are made at the World Famous Red Dog Saloon, the hangout of the goldminers.  Took time for a great hamburger and had to have some peanuts, as part of the ambience of the place is the fact that the floor is covered with peanut shells.

Wherever you have a saloon, you usually find a church in the area also.  Nearby is the beautiful St Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church, the oldest church in Alaska.  Since my family grew up in the Orthodox tradition, took time to light some candles in their memory.  The dome of this church is covered with gold leaves, a reminder of the gold rush years.

What a fun day in Juneau.  This town could have a repeat trip sometime in the future as there are many interesting places time did not permit visiting.  The air is filled with a light mist but that doesn’t dampen the spirits of visitor to this exciting city.

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Alaska, Uncategorized

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Alaska’s First City – Ketchikan

January 11, 2011

When traveling up the Inside Passage to Alaska, Ketchikan is the first major port that travelers visit. Ketchikan is located on a small island and was originally an Indian fishing camp. This is a popular destination due to its superb fishing, native culture, and outdoor heritage.

First we head for an excursion of salmon fishing.  Here we fish on the beautiful scenic waterway, catch the plentiful salmon, then head to shore where they have it prepared to be packaged to take back home.  Of course, there is also a campfire on shore waiting with delicious, fresh salmon cooked to perfection.  The only thing that could make this better would be the appearance of a bear hungry for a meal.  Everyone wants to see a bear while they are in Alaska, but not at close range.

Next we are fascinated to see the world’s oldest collection of totem poles at Totem Bight State Park, a former Indian campsite.  Each totem is carved to tell the family story. Often they have a fish being held to ensure that the family will have a good food supply.  The top of the totem frequently has an eagle or thunderbird to watch over the home and protect it from harm. There are carvers at work so you can see how totems are made and perhaps want to purchase one to have shipped back to your home.

The Tlingt Indian Clan House was an interesting meeting place for the Indian tribe. Now traditional Native dances are performed inside the clan house at designated times.   It has been kept in good repair and at the front has a Living Door, said to bring good luck to all who pass through it.  Had to have a picture taken going through the door.

At one end of town is Creek Street,the goldminers’ Red Light District.  Here you can tour a brothel or just walk the criss cross streets along the water’s edge.  It is intriguing to imagine the goldminers in the early 1900s coming back from the mountains and spending their evenings along these same streets you are walking.  Many of the buildings are original but perhaps slightly refurbished.

Living here would not be for the frail of body and spirit as there are steep steps everywhere leading up the mountainside to homes and businesses.  It is a beautiful town where kayaks and sea planes are the best way to travel.  No roads lead out of Ketchican!

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Alaska, Native Culture, Uncategorized

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Lonesome Town Near Mexican Border

January 7, 2011

Just by accident, travelers might find the little town of Hachita, New Mexico.  As you travel through the Southern part of the state, Hachita is a small town not far from the Mexican border and located in the Little Hatchet Mountains.

This is one of the few towns I have visited where all of the streets are still unpaved. During my first visit to Hachita, the town consisted of a bar, store, and post office along with about a hundred people in residence. The post office is located in the center of town and you can see the dirt road to its front door step, but the American flag is always flying. Another interesting event in years past was the Chicken Roping.  This town was filled with cowboys and Cattle Roping was a year long event there.  One year, the owner of the local bar thought that chicken roping would be an added attraction.  This was a real event and was depicted on the side of the bar by a traveling artist.

This was once a mining area so at one time was a booming and prosperous community. But that was Old Hachita, which is located down the road just a couple of miles and set back off today’s main road.  You have to have a local guide that knows the area to lead you to the remains of the Old Hachita town.

The local guide also took us back in the desert region very close to the Mexican border. We actually had a picnic of ham sandwiches and potato salad with refreshing cold drinks under a giant sycamore tree located near a rare spring.

As we headed back towards Hachita, we came across a sign posted by the Border Patrol which said: Attention!  You are in danger of dying if you do not summon help.This was one of those unusual signs that you come across off the beaten path.

Even attended a town meeting while visiting in the area.  They were discussing their new grant for water for the small town.  Currently, there is an old water tower but water is not really safe to drink.  The new project will have a safe water supply and a better water volume available.  After the meeting, nearly everyone in the town brought a covered dish and had delicious food as well as friendly town talk.

Border patrol frequent the town driving through both day and night as well as covering the surrounding area.  Most of the locals don’t even lock their doors at night as they feel well protected.  This is the place to really get away from it all.

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Back Roads, Desert Highway, New Mexico, Uncategorized

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Small Town with a Big Heart

December 6, 2010

The Spirit of Christmas was alive and musical in downtown Cambridge, OH.  The occasion was The Cambridge City Band 2010 Holiday Concert at the Scottish Rite Auditorium.  This is an annual event in conjunction with the Christmas parade and the arrival of Santa Claus.

The band was in full force this Sunday afternoon dressed for the season.  Santa hats were plentiful as well as elves, lighted costumes, shirts and ties, as well as a beautiful holiday gown. Band director, Dr Berk Jones, always enjoys the chance to wear a costume or festive hat to help brighten the performance.

The backdrop caused comments  throughout the day and even later in the week.  It was a beautiful scene of a Victorian style village covered in snow and made the perfect setting for the Christmas music that was performed by the band. The question was: Who did that backdrop? or Where did they get it?

This small town still has old fashioned values and makes a person feel good at this season of the year.  The courthouse has a manger scene, which is easily accepted by all.  No complaints!  Well, last year some youngsters took Baby Jesus and moved his figure to a nearby place, but it was not done in a mean manner, and was recovered without damage.

Today’s concert was in memory of Melanie Jones  Bolyard,  longtime band member and music enthusiast in the community. She left this world during the late summer after a long illness, and a video tribute was shown on the walls of the theater at intermission.  Many tears were shed as family and friends watched the touching life of Mellie relived before their eyes.

All the band concerts are opened with a prayer and followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Yes, ‘under God’ is still included in the pledge.  During the day the audience also participated in singing some popular old Christmas songs and finished with singing old familiar Christmas carols, closing with “Silent Night”. The sing-a-long was led by Mellie’s Friends and Family.  Makes a heart feel good to know that this small town has kept traditions alive with no negative community feedback.

During the second half of the show an appearance was made by Maynard, the Loveable Lush pushed in a wheelchair by Santa Claus.  His bottle was quickly removed by the audio team as there is no drinking allowed in the theater!  Santa had a present, which he wanted a band member to open.  He called down one of the girls, who was dressed like an elf.  She was a bit leery of opening the present and approached cautiously.  These guys are always pulling jokes on each other. Well, this time it wasn’t a joke.

Maynard got down on one knee and with mike in hand, proposed to the young lady in the band.  That is a proposal she will long remember and she proudly showed her new ring to fellow band members.  She did have a difficult time playing her flute for the next song, as it truly did take her breath away.

The band played an outstanding selection of Christmas music with several specials.  “Santa Claus Comes to Dixieland” added some special liveliness to the afternoon.  There were special instrumental and vocal solos to give it lots of variety.

The show was excellent and closed with the traditional theme song of the band, “Thanks for the Memory”.  The Cambridge City Band has provided musical entertainment to the area for 169 years.   Cambridge should be proud of the fantastic musical ability that abounds in this area and gives so much enjoyment all year long.

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Cambridge, Music, Ohio

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Dickens Victorian Village

November 22, 2010

Downtown Cambridge has been transformed into a bustling city with the opening of the fifth year of Dickens Victorian Village.  It is hard to imagine the change that has occurred in such a short time.

Just imagine one evening when the downtown Chocolate Walk was taking place.  There were cars, buses, and people all up and down the streets of Cambridge.  It was as busy as a summer resort town with beautiful Christmas music playing in the background as visitors went from store to store collecting chocolate surprises.

Fun is had by all ages at Ye Ole Curiosity Shoppe.  A favorite part of the day is going to Imagination Station and putting on the dress of the Victorian era. Ladies can wear a  long dress or skirt, fur coat, stylish hat, and even gloves or jewelry. Men can don a top hat and cape and even sport a dashing cane. Then have their picture taken for a great souvenir.  Here you can also find a Christmas treasure to take home with you.

The downtown courthouse also has the best Christmas Light Show ever, perhaps the best in the state of Ohio.  Our local communications team organized the project and has synchronized thousands of pulsating lights to the Christmas songs to provide an exciting and colorful display. Each year something new is added so it never loses its appeal and excitement to those who enjoy the treat. It runs from 5:30 t0 9:00 each evening for the enjoyment of visitors and residents alike.

Hot chocolate is available from the peddler’s shop on the square to warm the hands and heart. If it is a very cold night and you are there early, you may be lucky enough to find a parking place near the courthouse.  Then you can watch the show from the comfort of your car and even listen to the light show music by tuning to the local radio station, 102.7 FM. Be cautious as you travel this area and try not to stop in the middle of the street to watch the beautiful lights.  It is quite a temptation!

If you want to step back in time even further, you can ride one of the horse drawn carriages that take passengers a slow ride down historic Cambridge’s Main Street where you can see the created Dickens figures, handcrafted by local artists.  The carriage rides also add a little glamour to the evening with their  lighted wheels rolling down the street.

This is a hometown project that has really taken off and brings people into the city for the special events surrounding the Dickens Victorian Village.  A local businessman, Rob Ley, had an idea and started making sketches of Victorian figures.  With the help of local artists, the figures became a reality. The scenes created line Main Street of Cambridge and tell stories of life in years past.  If you get a chance, drive to Cambridge some evening to view the lights, Dickens figures and maybe even take a carriage ride with a cup of hot chocolate.

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Cambridge, Festivals, Ohio, Uncategorized

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Amish School Visit

November 10, 2010

In everything both great and small

The hand of God is over all

These words were the first thing to catch my eye when visiting the Glen Rock Amish School near Adamsville.  There was a peacefulness about the classroom that was very noticeable and unusual for a school setting. Students and teachers talked in a very soft voice to promote the calm atmosphere.

This one room school had approximately 25 students and two teachers.  Heat was provided by a gas furnace from a well on the property.  Lighting was generated from a solar panel in the roof of the classroom.  There was no evidence of electricity being used for anything.  Perfectly clean outdoor restroom facilities were located right behind the school.

School days are from 8-3 from September through part of May.  Students either walk to school or are brought by their families using a horse and buggy or a pony wagon.

All of the students were of thin build.  The obesity problem that is noticed throughout the United States was not evident in this Amish school setting.  They did have a basic playground of merry-go-round, slide and swings and were playing when we arrived.

Other signs on the wall showed their deep base in religion as both sides of the classroom had a sign that said:

Bible memories are ‘ beary’ good.

Beside this saying there were cards for each student with indications of how many verses they had learned.  German Spelling was also noted on the walls as they learn to write German first and on Fridays they use only German in school.

With a few soft words from the teacher, students moved smoothly to one side of the room and shared the old traditional school desks with inkwell hole and pencil holder at the top and fold down seat. Song books were passed down the rows and students joined in singing two songs of religious nature, one of them being ‘Mansion Over the Hilltop’.

Our next stop was Country Lane Pantry, an Amish kitchen, whose smell met us in the driveway. We were seated at long tables and served generous servings of chicken, roast beef, mashed potatoes, homemade noodles, green beans, and a special coleslaw.  Of course there were fresh baked rolls with homemade strawberry jam.  In case you weren’t yet full, they also had delicious black raspberry, apple or cherry pie for desert.

Outside everyone was greeted by the friendliest little dog called Snowball.  He enjoyed lots of attention and even posed for a picture.

Now time for an Amish buggy ride driven by one of the young men of the community and pulled by a horse named Pete.  We were taken through the hay fields and told more about their settling in the area.  It was a cool day but the canvas sides were closed and provided a comfortable ride.  There was a switch inside for battery operated lights when needed in the evenings.  What a great day to become acquainted with our Amish neighbors.

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Ohio, Uncategorized

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Valley Gem

October 25, 2010

On this beautiful sunshiny day, passengers cross the walkway to step onto the Valley Gem, a beautiful sternwheeler on the Muskingum River in Marietta, OH.  Then everyone has to find their favorite spot to view the river.  A few stay below in the enclosed cabin watching through the windows.  Most however climb to the upper deck where they can view the river and its banks quite easily in the open air.

Round tables on the upper deck create a friendly atmosphere for visiting while waiting for everyone to get on board. Or perhaps you would rather stand at the railing and watch the world go by.

Sit back and relax as the captain of the sternwheeler gives a great descriptive discourse as we head down the Muskingum River and join up with the Ohio River.

He tells history of many places along the banks and also some stories of happenings long ago on the small islands that we pass by.

If you are thirsty or just want a snack, there is a snack bar on the first deck.  It is managed today by the friendliest young lady, who also doubles as a caterer on the evening dinner cruises.

Drifting along the river is a great time to relax with friends and share life adventures.  This is a pleasant time so everyone is in a good mood.

One of the great spots for viewing is standing at the rear of the boat so you can watch the large paddle wheel as it works its way through the river.  You might get splashed or sprayed now and then, but on a warm day that can be quite enjoyable.

When walking down the steps to the main cabin area, there is a roped off section where you can stand and the river is just a short distance below. This really gives you the feeling of being on the river.

Valley Gem also rents the boat for private parties, even weddings.  Take a dinner cruise some evening and taste their great buffet. The lights along the river make the trip extra beautiful.

When the cruise came to an end, that pleasant young lady in the gift shop was right there tying the boat to the dock.  Then she, along with the captain, thanked everyone as they left the boat.  She was a multi talented young person and made a great impression on the guests.  Great day for a cruise down the Ohio River.

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Ohio, Uncategorized

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Marietta Trolley

October 7, 2010

On the banks of the Ohio River, climb aboard the Marietta Trolley for a ride back in history through the brick streets of Marietta, Ohio.  The one hour tour is narrated today by a lady who has lived in the area all her life so knows the history quite well. Interesting stories of famous people who have visited the area were part of the adventure.  It is a beautiful day so push open the windows and get some great pictures of the landmarks as we have frequent stops for narratives.

Marietta is the oldest city in Ohio founded in 1788 and named for the Queen of France, Marie Antoinette.  LaFayette Hotel is its oldest hotel opened in  1918.  Located where the Muskingum River meets the Ohio River, this hotel is our starting point and will be our lunch stop later in the day.

An interesting sidelight of the tour are the flood markings on many of the downtown buildings showing how high the flood waters came.  1913 looked like the year of a very high flood.  Many times the flood marks were up to the second story of the old brick buildings.

Religion played a large role in the early days of Marietta thus there are many old churches of various religions throughout the town.  The St Mary’s Catholic Church originally housed the  College for Women in its present-day parish.

The Great Mound in Mound Cemetery was part of the tour.  The cemetery is thought to be the burial place for the largest number of  Revolutionary War officers buried in one location. Wonder if their spirits still dwell on the hillside?

Meigs House was built in 1802 (before Ohio became a state in 1803) for Jonathan Meigs, Ohio’s first postmaster, governor and US senator. This beautifully restored brick dwelling that has been used as a home and office, but appears to be a perfect place for a bed and breakfast.

The trolley ride ended with a ride through Historic Harmar Village where you can see the Coca Cola Museum as well as the Children’s Toy and Doll Museum. Gives you lots of interesting places perhaps for another day.

Bouncing back to the Ohio River, our ride ends with lunch in the Gun Room of the LaFayette Hotel.  Maybe you can come back again with some friends and enjoy another trip through Marietta. What an interesting ride!

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Museums, Ohio, Uncategorized

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Schnormeier Gardens

October 4, 2010

Garden Time again!  Have just received word that these tranquil gardens will be open from June 1-5. 2011 from 10-4 daily.  The owner has added two days to the schedule to accommodate the growing number of annual visitors.  Hope you can find the time to enjoy their beauty.

Tranquility and serenity are two words describing the Schnormeier Gardens near the village of  Gambier, Ohio.  Once a year, usually in June, these beautiful gardens are open to the public. They are also open by appointment for groups during the year.  Take a walk with me and experience their beauty.

Each year the gardens have additions that catch the eye and provide a spirit of peace over fifty gently rolling acres in central Ohio.  As you walk down the grassy hillside to the lake, you breathe in the natural beauty of your surroundings.  In the distance you hear the sound of a waterfall dashing over rocks at a thousand gallons per minute.  Getting closer, you find a seat on a nearby rock and soak in the ambiance of your surroundings.

Walk over the red Chinese bridge to Swan Island and isolate yourself from the cares of the world.  Everywhere the plants have been chosen carefully to create a relaxing atmosphere.

Nearby is the Japanese Tea House, one of my favorite places for inspiration. Here you can hear the waterfalls as it bubbles over the rocks and view the lake through the tea house doors.  Outside there is a stone water basin with a long handled dipper.  Traditionally, this was the place to purify yourself by pouring water over your hands before entering the tea house. Wash away the impurities of the temporal world.

Their home inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright is the central point of the property.  While it is not open to the public, the patio area has several chairs and benches where you can rest and let the peace of the gardens surround you.

There are many paths through quiet woodlands with original sculptures surprising you along the way.  This is a place for meditation and peace.

One pond has a zig zag bridge which is a challenge to your balance.  The swans watch as you pass by and the beautiful water lilies are plentiful.

Words alone can not describe the beauty of the gardens.  This is a place you need to experience first hand. If you enjoy the beauties of nature and want a day of tranquility, take a stroll through the Schnormeier Gardens.

Category:

Gardens, Ohio, Uncategorized

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Zane Grey Museum

August 30, 2010

Driving along the Old National Trail, now known as Route 40, we notice the Zane Grey Museum  setting back in a relaxing hillside. Located in beautiful Southeastern Ohio between Cambridge and Zanesville, this museum takes you on a trip back in time to the beginning of the National Trail.

Every history buff will enjoy exploring the three sections of the museum: Old National Trail, Zane Grey, and Ohio Art Pottery. We had a very good guide, who as a volunteer gave interesting  historic facts about items viewed, which included many antique cars.

Old National Trail, today’s Route 40, provided the earliest way for the settlers to head Westward. An actual life size replica of a Conestoga Wagon gives visitors an idea of the method used for transporting goods across the country. In a detailed diorama you can see that Route 40 had many toll houses with tolls charged for every animal, person, and wagon that was using the dirt highway.  This 136 foot long diorama depicts many of the activities of those early days of traveling down the Old National Trail.

The second area is devoted entirely to the life of Zane Grey.  From his early years as a dentist, following in his father’s footsteps, to his life as a fisherman, baseball pitcher and writer, there were many interesting displays showing items that he used throughout his life. Zane Grey wrote over 80 books and a life size model of him is shown in his reconstructed study.

Displays of Ohio Art Pottery fill a large center section and shows the fantastic craftsmanship of local artists in the Zanesville area. The hand painted designs are beautiful works of art.

After the tour, we stopped in their small theater to view a movie showing the life of Zane Grey and his wife, Dolly.  Learned many things about his early years and followed him as he went West to discover the land he would later write about and share in his movies.

No visit is complete without visiting the gift shop.  Here you could purchase Zane Grey books either new or used as well as other books written about the history of the area.   Other items available ranged from pencils to jewelry.

This could require an extra trip as sometimes they show the old Zane Grey movies in the evenings at an Open House for the public.  Each year they try to show a different movie, so it is an interesting spot for those who would like to catch a glimpse of a silent movie.  Might even get some popcorn!

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Museums, Ohio

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