New Hampshire AMC: ‘It’s the Climb’

‘Live Free or Die’ is the New Hampshire state slogan, but it could also be ‘Life is Good’ . On any given day of the year , intrepid enthusiasts  brave the elements, moose, bear, and cougar(unsubstantiated by the state, but they’re there) to travail undistinguishable paths, vertical peaks, and  ice bridges ~ mainly because they can, but also because  the views are spectacular.

Mt. Washington is home to the worst weather on Earth (Just ask the Discovery Channel)with its peaks really only traversable in July and August. Even without reaching the peak, it would still require snowshoes and crampons to trudge through feet of snow.  To quote Hannah Montana, ‘it’s not about what’s on the other side~it’s the climb.’

AMC  is an acronym for Appalachian Mountain club.  The Main office is on Joy street in Boston.  Their main objective is to educate people not only about the dangers of the trails, but the imporance of equipment and gear. Having the gear and knowing how to use it are two different things. If you don’t know how to use your gear, you put yourself and others unnecessarily at risk.  

They also participate in bicycling, kayaking, and have recently expanded to ski trips and a ski resort to the BAMFF in Canada.

Safety in the mountains is strongly encouraged; there are paid trail guide as well as volunteer leaders who are trained in various camps and lodges throughout the year in the Spring and Winter. Each chapter emphasizes different points of safety depending on the terrain and weather condiitons of the state.

Winter trips are taken through the ‘major excursions committee ‘year round to  to Mt. Kilimanjaro (Japan), Mt. Blanc (France/Italy), and Mt. McKinley in Alaska.

 The winter mentor program takes place in the White Mountains of NH. Winter leader- officially mentored (hikes with a current class I.)  Class II leader is a 3 season – not encounter winter conditinos – June, July, August. Snow @ 3500 feet.

Class III leader – lower elevation mounains- restricted to mountains they can lead on.

One of the most underestimated trails in New Hampshire are those that traverse the Presidentials. (One person just went missing.) 48 4,000 footers in New Hampshire and the Presidentials are the eight highest peaks. They are : Madison, Adams, Washington, Eisenhower, Jackson, Pierce, Jefferson, and Monroe.

WAM!Where Art Celebrates Life? THINK AGAIN!

http://www.worcesterart.org/

Looking for a cultural recession buster? The Worcester Art Museum (WAM!) is free every Saturday until 12:00 pm.

One of the most impressive areas of the museum is the mosaic gallery; Greco-Roman art  is widely preserved in sculpture, alabaster busts, and greek amphori. There is that here; however, the Antioch mosaics are the finest and largest of any US collection, and are housed inside a giant gallery that also features the Wall at WAM.  My favorite mosaic was ‘the drinking contest of Dionysos and Heracles about A.D. 100.

Perhaps the mosaic ‘gallery’ is  eclipsed by the WALL due to the Think Again! exhibit by David John Attyah(Los Angeles) and S.A. Bachman (Boston) ,because the current exhibit on the wall is is so shocking. Designed to emit a reaction from the viewer, it exhibits stark use of color , scale , and modern everyday objects  to drive its controversial ideas home. There is a microphone covered in a  red stretched condom juxtaposed to a microphone covered in half-smudged pieces of red lipstick smeared all over a second microphone. The stark contrast of chrome, black and white with the only red ‘bleeding’ from the condom to the lipstick – is not lost upon the viewer.  A third microphone (naked and suspended) hangs over a silvery gray pile of ‘femurs’  (they appeared to be seperated speculums to me). Miles of entangled microphone cords  and dark gravel illustrate the complexities of oral communication, (the truth is not always black and white in a courtroom) and what can happen between members of the opposite sex on a mean street. It is a disturbing combination ; instead of inspiring conversation, it silences it.

From the WAM! Website: THINK AGAIN! is a co-founded(1997) artist-activist collaborative  that recruits art-making in the service of public address, colective dialogue and social action. Their projects-featuring billboards, outdoor projections,postcard actions, and artist books-explore social issues including: the flow of international labor; the treatment of immigrants; the cultural value of sexual liberation; the logic of militarization, and the dynamics of economic inequality, gentrification and displacement. THINK AGAIN is committed to working both inside and outside of the traditional art sphere-broadening ideas of socially conscious contemporary art, and expanding notions of art used for community action.

On public view through the Fall, This particular item speaks of rape, disgust, sordid reputations, and ruined lives. It did not appeal to me.

Breezy Hill Waterslides and Picnic Grounds

http://www.breezysummer.com

520 Northwest Main Street

Douglas, Massachusetts

(508)476-2664

There’s nothing like waterslides to make you feel like a kid again~weeeeeee!It is called ‘Breezy Hill’ because the breeze is constant and blows off the large lake ; perfect to cool you off on a hot day if you don’t want to get wet.  The water is super clean, the lawn full and soft.      
The location is immaculate and idyllic, with views of the water from the waterslides. There are 3 300′ ft waterslides, and one of them features a black tunnel with a dizzying drop! Their is an overrall incline climb to get to the top vs stairs which is nice. The climb is worth it, as there are spectacular views there ; I saw a Great Blue Heron glide over the clear lake.

Serious speed and momentum is a factor for the bigger kids and adults, and it is an adrenalin rush that is unmatched.  Photo opportunities are not to be missed as visitors can watch outside the fenced-in area of the not-so graceful exits as you land into the water. The water is recycled from the 3″ pool at the bottom of the slides, and there is a strong current that you have to fight to get out of the pool area.

For the less young at heart that still want to enjoy sun, sand, and waves, there is a roped off area inside the lake to keep swimmers from being assaulted by Pontoon boats and ski-doos. as well as a snack and ice cream bar, (I recommend you bring a picnic)game room, certified lifeguards at the beach and slides, clean restrooms and changing facilities.

What a great place to take your family and it’s so close to Worcester!!!My only complaint is the rate to get into the park, even just to picnic, is $8.00.

Rates:

Waterslides $17.50 ($14.00 after 5 pm)

Picnic Grounds and Swimming only $8.00
 

Worcester Inter-Tribal Indian center Pow-Wow

The Worcester Inter-Tribal Indian Center is a non-profit organization established in 1981 for the promotion of Native American heritage and crafts. Members meet on Tuesday evenings in the Quinsigamond Village Community Center at 16 Greenwood St. Worcester Massachusetts from 7-10 p.m., where knowledge of Native American crafts and customs is shared by the members. The Worcester Inter-Tribal Indian Center (W.I.I.C.) sponsors a Native American Pow-Wow once a year in June, to share the beauty of the Native American heritage, promote education of the customs and an appreciation of the crafts of all tribes. 

This year the WIIC pow-wow was held in Barre, Massachusetts at the Camp Coldbrook Golf and RV Resort ; the usual location is the Rutland State Park, but it was damaged from the December ice storm.

Pow-Wows are Summer events that educate and celebrate Native American traditions and values. There was native drumming, singing, dancing, regalia, flute playing, story telling, crafts, artwork, food, and even a silent auction of native items. It was also a spiritual event, and the smell of sage (burned to purify the dancing circle)drifted in the wind.

Open to the public with only a $5 admission free, this was an entertaining and educational cultural event. The Grand Entry was at 12 and included regalia from many tribes, state flags, veteran flags, and the American flag. The American flag is given its highest regard and it was explained by the sponsor that natives do not dishonor the flag because of the United States’ government’s history to its indigenous people.  Photographs were not allowed to be taken during this dance as they invite their ancestors to join them. During the inter-tribal dance, the public was invited to participate (regardless of native race or not.) Other dances included Ladies Choice, Jingle dress dance, and the blanket dance, which is like ‘passing the hat’ for the featured singers and drummers. During ancient times, the guests would enjoy hospitality of food and water for their horses; more contemporary travelers use trailers.

The Alta Vista Bison Farm in Rutland Massachusetts featured healthy, steroid-free buffalo burgers that were delicious. You can also visit the farm where the buffalo roam by calling (508)886-4365; the address is 80 Hillside Road.

As the Natives say,

“To All My Relations” and “Aquene”

Brian Burris Art Opening

I was impressed and pleasantly surprised to see Brian Burris’ art opening at the Hadley. A brighter shade of Pollock than he’s used to; this is certainly stepping out of his comfort zone and his prior pieces were dark and foreboding.  It’s a wonderful departure and was well received. One of the comments was , “There’s so much color.”  Some of the notables on hand: Lieutenant Governor Tim Murray, the City Manager Mike O’Brien, select city counselors and many of the ArtsWorcester board.   The paintings were well lit by the lighting that  had been installed which made the colors really ‘pop’ and present as they should.

Egg Rolls and Jazz in the heart of the Blackstone Valley

http://www.chanseggrollsandjazz.com/index.php?a=restaurant

Chan’s Oriental Restaurant

267 Main Street

Woonsocket, RI

(401)765-1900

For over 100 years, Chan’s has brought diversity to Blackstone Valley. Not your typical Chinese restaurant, eating  here is an exceptional experience. Chan’s prides itself on it’s ‘fine oriental dining’ , and it is not an exaggeration. We had the Meal for two (A) which was brought out as a 3 course sumptous Oriental feast. The appetizers of terikyaki, crab rangoon, breaded boneless chicken,  wings, and exotic sauces, were brought out first followed by three seperate silver dishes of rice, chicken with brown gravy,  and Lo Mein; for dessert we had pineapple and coffee. (Pineapple is used as a digestive , and we definitely needed it after that meal.)

I appreciated the ambience here that was distinctly Szechuan, but also surrounded by colorful paintings of famous Jazz musicians . We even were greeted by the owner, Mr. Chan himself.

The Vestibule featured autographed movie posters of Farrelly brother’s films as well as framed local and national jazz , blues, and R&B act reviews. Reservations are recommended for the plethora of lineups in June, July, August and September.

Nick’s Uber Alles!

Nick’s is an old world gem in the heart of urban Worcester. Who Knew? The entire experience is here ~ gleam of steel, coat of arms, bronze chalices, well-lit authentic fine art reproductions, a gilded tin roof, red velvet curtains  and a grand piano.  Fresh flower bouquets  adorn the hearth and  bathrooms. For dinner, drinks, and dessert, you have your pick of authentic German cuisine. A great appetizer is  the buttery, moist homemade soft pretzel  with  chive cream cheese dip and mustard; the chives and cream cheese cool the palette from the spiciness of the mustard. The homemade German macaroni and cheese is a steamy, flavorful concoction garnished with thick Emmentaler that is creamy on the tongue ; the four cheese melts with a complex aftertaste. I paired it with an Afflinger Blonde – Anno 1674. Also on the menu for sampling are Black Forest Noodles - fat German noodles in sweet butter with crispy bacon, carmelized onions, mushrooms and  cheese; Goulasch Mit Pilzen (Goulash with Mushrooms) slow-simmered with tomatoes, spices and Lager beer in a rich and hearty stew  over egg noodles. Sandwiches are not necessarily a lighter choice:  Bratwurst, Knockwurst, Liverwurst on light or dary rye and  Black Forest Ham / Turkey Reubens  grilled with cheese,and red onion. Sides are Sauerkraut or warmed potato salad. Don’t forget the  German Chocolate Cake for dessert.

 The ambience here is unmatched; with triangular stained glass windows, red votive candles, a grand piano, and ‘booths’ that resemble church pews, it is a spiritual experience as well.  Be sure to check out the cocktail menu ~ it’s not just the wormwood-laced Absinthe that makes it one-of-a kind.  There is non-alcoholic Sherwood Forest tea and Strongbow Cider; the Chalkboard  features Weihenstephaner Hefe Dunkel or Kristal Wussbier, and the rich German Chocolate Stout, among others.  Food and drink is delivered on golden platters by servers whot wear white shirts with black ties and vests.

For a truly authentic Old Europe experience,  enjoy the Schwanze Schafe German Band featuring Ludwig and HIlda July 11 9:30-12:30. Swig beer from Munchen and sing ‘Ein Prosit’ while your belly contracts to its normal size.

Props to Punky

http://www.punkystyle.com

http://twitter.com/TheHaberdash

In case you’ve been living under a rock lately, there is a sort of local fashion legend around the Central New England area we fondly call ‘The Haberdash’.  Hailing from Worcester and invented by Amylynn Chase(founder of punkystyle.com) ,the Haberdash is a 1954 restored Bellwood Aloha Trailer turned traveling vintage clothing store. Punky adorned the beloved Haberdash with  new hardwood floors, tile ceiling, metal fashion shoe racks, and a whole lot more folks….

Did someone say vintage? If you’re lucky, you can score your own ‘haberdash’ pin. Time to go shopping…ooh ooh ooh!Look over there!I think I saw some Sam & Libby shoes….yep.

The Blue Elephant

http://blueelephantprovidence.com/

312 Wickenden Street (Fox Point)

Providence

Question of the Day: What were the Seven greasers in the novel/movie ‘The Outsiders? Win a free DVD or graphic novel. Ah, that’s a dilemma; should I admit I don’t know the answer, or use my crackberry to cheat?

Open Mon – Sat 7-9:30; Sun 7-3

We sat by the window on a perfect day as sunshine streamed in, and watched a RIPTA trolley as it meandered by. It was an  idyllic diner setting….but this is Providence; and we were in no ordinary diner.  I asked about their ‘outrageous tattoo promotion’ ; apparently if you get a blue elephant tattooed on you, no matter how big or small, you get free coffee indefinitely. There’s a tattoo shop next door to boot;although I don’t like coffee….This is definitely my kind of greasy spoon. There are two rooms for indoor dining; one has a lending library and features framed posters of John Wayne, Howard the Duck, and Elvis Costello. Tables are lacquered in retro music, film , and comic book strips. Ambient music ranged from Dirk Dale’s ‘Misirlou’ to Black Sabbath’s ‘Hole in the Sky’ to ‘I overlooked an Orchid’ by Carl Smith. There is also an impressive collection of beatnik jewelry for sale on the walls.

A great idea that is underrated is the after hours tea party ; the space can be reserved for an adult or kid-friendly tea party complete with finger sandwiches. With gallery night the third Thursday of the month on Wickenden, this would be a great place to meetup and have a gnosh.

 The menu boasted breakfast served all day, so I tried the Calabrese  egg sandwich. With fresh basil leaves, mozzarella cheese, and a tomato the width of a portobella mushroom, I couldn’t finish the homemade onion and chive hashbrowns.  

“The Blue Elephant? Why not The Pink Elephant?” I asked…apparently the owner’s son’s favorite toy during his childhood was a plush blue elephant. The theme is not overly done, although there is a stained glass window of a blue elephant,and a cute collection of stuffed blue elephants on top of the cooler. They even had a blue elephant coloring contest.

Abbey Road

Armsby Abbey

144 Main Street

Worcester, MA 01608

http://www.armsbyabbey.com

I take  soup with my rainy days; Armsby Abbey’s ham and black bean soup had the consistency of chili. It was prepared with Anderson Valley Summer Solstice beer,which is a righteous ale rye IPA. 

Served with warm, crusty baguette bread,  it complemented my Weihenstapher Hefe Dunkel perfectly.

For the next course I  tried the Chimay Board ; it featured soft Chimay Bier Cheese (Belgium), artisan salami, Dr. Gonzo’s Black Fly mustard, and three little pigs cornichorns with  generous triangles of the Abbey’s own homemade baguette bread. The recommended beer was T Smis Wostyntje ~ instead I sought pink elephants with an Indian beer, Delirium Tremens’ own ‘pink elephant’.

Armsbey Abbey features over 130 bottled selectons w/80+ Belgian beers; they have a bottled beer with 15% alcohol. See the chalkboard for the draught list – it features 22 rotating craft draughts with 6 dedicated belgian draughts.  

Menu items are prepared as is, unless you have a dietary restriction or allergy. On the menu :Sandwiches, Pizza, Soup, Cheeseboards, tidbits, and dessert. Meat  is locally raised and guilt free; the chicken is free range. Everything is locally sourced from farms and co-ops in the area, and the menu will vary as the growing season progresses.

Armsby Abbey became a reality when the Dive Bar first opened its doors; the owner has a passion for microbrews. It became a Worcester favorite,and, after raising revenue  with a capitalist wink, the  Abbey was born. Not to be overshadowed by her husband, Mrs. prosperous entrepreneur  developed her own passion for microwspirits.  The wine list showcases local New England wineries. The cocktail menu is dedicated to righteous ’spring’ cocktails, twisted classics, abbey faves, handcrafted microspirits, and American Wines. There is plenty of vegetarian fare, fruit and wildflower honey to go around as you sip the sweet.

I felt like the Hunchback of Notre Dame, as the seat I selected lent a view to the bell tower of a local church outside. I also witnessed a short-lived rainbow over the skyline of Worcester.

Armsby Abbey won 13 awards from Worcester magazine recently proving  itself as a  great place to have a drink after work right downtown on Main Street. The Abbey’s clientele is unpretentious and sophisticated ; ages range from college to working adults. Stop by and have a listen to Jon Short’s Mississippi Delta Blues on Tuesday night.