Friday, November 28, 2014
Monday, October 20, 2014
Aitkin, MN Presents “World Famous Fish House Parade"
Downtown Aitkin will soon be clearing a path down its main streets to make way for its highly anticipated 24th Annual “World Famous Fish House Parade,” being presented by the Aitkin Area Chamber of Commerce on Friday, Nov. 28 at 1 p.m. CT.
Each year Aitkin-ites and others from around the tri-state area bundle up in warm winter clothing and come out in droves to watch the moving display of ice fishing houses that eventually make their way up to over 300 of the state’s 10,000 lakes.
This year the parade’s Grand Marshall is award-winning outdoorsman and television producer Ron Schara, founder of Ron Schara Productions. His show, MINNESOTA BOUND, airs on Minnesota KARE-TV 11, a Gannett property.
The “World Famous Fish House Parade” is held every Black Friday, as a way for Minnesotans to ring in the holiday season with a day of food, joyous fun and festivities.
The parade is open to anyone who would like to enter a float with an ice fishing theme.
There are many great activities in which to participate during the day, including taking advantage of sales throughout town at participating retail establishments, and dining out at some of Downtown Aitkin’s charming restaurants.
There will also be an arts and crafts show held at the old Brandl Motors Building, with some crafts also being featured at the historic Butler Building (301 Minnesota Avenue North) from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The show will feature specialty jams and jellies, mittens and scarves, and a full range of beautiful handmade crafts.
Santa and Mrs. Claus will also stop by between 11 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. to make a special visit.
The United Methodist Church will also host a Spaghetti Feed from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Starting at 3 p.m., The Landing will be serving a special Soup Dinner, featuring Prime Rib and Vegetable Soup, until it’s all gone.
The end of the parade will feature the “Super Discount Ball Drop,” when the last float will be shooting the multicolored ping pong balls into the crowd, giving attendees a chance to win different discounts at participating Aitkin businesses.
For more information on the “World Famous Fish House Parade,” visit the Aitkin Chamber of Commerce’s official website, www.aitkin.com, call (218) 927-2316, or email upnorth@aitkin.com.
SIDEBAR
From 12 to 3 p.m., the Aitkin Butler Building will be hosting a special VIP Fish House reception, giving partygoers the opportunity to enjoy the parade and the day’s festivities from the warmth of its historic Opera House. Instead of having to save a spot on the curb, guests will get a premium bird’s eye view as the annual parade passes directly in front of the building on Minnesota Avenue.
There will be a complete hot and cold buffet, as well as a cash bar featuring an array of Minnesota craft beers, wines and a full range of liquor. There will also be live entertainment. Tickets are $35 per person, and $10 per child. To purchase tickets, go to www.tempotickets.com/fishhouse or call Sylvia Allen at (218) 678-2441. Attendance is limited to 100 people, so don’t miss out on reserving your spot now!
Tuesday, October 07, 2014
2014 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
Details of the eagerly awaited Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York have been announced -- with a selection of city break offers and flight deals coinciding with Thanksgiving and the build up to Christmas in the Big Apple, perfect for enjoying the festive atmosphere and indulging in some Christmas shopping.
Now in its ninetieth year, the parade is expected to draw over 3 million people and will wind through some of New York’s most iconic landmarks on Thursday November 27th.
Each year the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade features a wide variety of balloons and this year is no exception. There will be a festive SpongeBob Squarepants, Papa Smurf, Spiderman and Hello Kitty balloons to keep the kids entertained. Some of the balloons are up to four stories in height and are as wide as five of New York’s famous yellow taxis.
There are also plenty of weird and wonderful floats that will be cruising through Manhattan. There will be a Big Apple float designed as a replica of the city itself, with a separate float representing Brooklyn Bridge. The Smurfs will also have their own float as will The Build a Bear Workshop, who will be bringing some international flavor to the parade with a float featuring bears representing different countries around the world.
It may be slightly early for Christmas but there will be a Santa Sleigh to bring some early Christmas cheer to proceedings, ideal to take advantage of Manhattan’s unrivalled selection on shops. Delta Airlines will be contributing its own winter wonderland to the parade featuring on-float ice skaters.
In addition to the millions lining the streets of New York, an estimated 50 million people will watch on television. The parade will be shown live on NBC plus various other television networks globally.
The three hour parade will follow its traditional route, winding its way along a two mile route through central New York, beginning at 77th Street and Central Park West, then moving down to Columbus Circle. After wowing the crowds in Central Park South and traversing 6th Avenue and 34th Street, the parade finishes in front of Macy's Herald Square around midday – perfect for anyone enjoying some Christmas shopping in The Big Apple.
Saturday, October 04, 2014
"Girl-Powered Spinning Machine" in the Macy's Parade
The GoldieBlox company is known for their games and toys that are meant to "inspire the next generation of female engineers," but this Thanksgiving the world will see their name not on store shelves, but on television as one of the newest additions to the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.
The company announced recently that they will be making an "elaborate, creative and brightly colored machine" for their float in the parade. The float will have various moving parts just like their builder kits, and each part will be powered by kids turning wheels and peddling bikes. "Our dream at GoldieBlox is to inspire every girl to reach her full potential, and we definitely like to dream big," read the press release. "The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is an iconic celebration and we’re thrilled to join the line-up this November with the first-ever float that is specifically designed to showcase the principles of engineering. Macy’s Parade floats are the ultimate engineering spectacle, and relatable to kids everywhere."
Forbes points out that earlier this year, the toy company made history when they won a 30-second commercial slot during the Superbowl, beating out 15,000 other companies. That spot must have helped a lot, because they are apparently paying for the float themselves, with the price tag typically falling between $30,000 and $100,000.
Monday, September 29, 2014
Raleigh's Capital City Bikefest
Capital City Bikefest kick-starts its 10th year in downtown Raleigh with parades, stunt shows, live music, and over 100,000 people expected in attendance. The Ray Price Motorsports Expo also debuts inside the Raleigh Convention Center with a custom bike show and more.
Add it all up and Capital City Bikefest is the destination for a great Raleigh, North Carolina festival, said Mark Hendrix.
Must-See Schedule of Events at Capital City Bikefest this weekend include:
- Parade of Lights – Motorcyclists light up downtown Raleigh on Friday night with uniquely glowing bikes.
- Custom Bike Show – A competition of extraordinary custom bikes with professional builders matched against hobbyists to take home $15,000 in prizes. Popular television shows from “Biker Battleground” (History Channel) to “Biker Live” and “Biker Build-Off” (Discovery) have fueled the customization rage. Visit the Motorsports Expo to see this showcase of phenomenal paint, polish, powder coating, chrome, body and electronics customizing skills. Some of the bike builders confirmed: 40 Cal (Alcoa, Tenn., featured on Biker Live), Butcher Chop (Dry Fork, Va.), Crazy Beavers Customs (Clayton, N.C., featured in Road Iron), Cyclone Cycles (Houston), Gangster Choppers (Richmond, Va.), Garwood Custom Cycles (Lexington, N.C., featured on Speed and MTV), Holy City Designs (Summerville, S.C.), Ludwigsen Motor Co. (Stedman, N.C., featured in Roadracing World), KW Customs (Angier, N.C.), One Time Customs (China Grove, N.C.), T-n-A Customs (Sanford, N.C.), Vindictive Wayz (Rutherfordton, N.C.), Widowmaker Custom Design (Rougemont, N.C., featured on Biker Live), and many more.
- “Live” Custom Bike Build by Ray Price Performance – See a bike built from the frame up in three days! It will tour with Kangaroo Express’ “Salute Our Troops” campaign next year and be brought back for the 2015 Bikefest to be raffled off for charity.
- More than 20 live bands playing on three stages, indoors and outside. All music is free. Performances by 13-year-old rocker Brooks Paul, and upcoming country artist Amanda Daughtry.
- 1000 HP Nitro Drag Bike – Ray Price Motorsports Racing Team is currently in first place in the NHRA drag bike standings. Fans come from all over to meet the legend and hear the engine roar of the world’s fastest naturally aspirated motorcycle.
- Tattoofest – More than 75 tattoo artists will showcase their talents live.
- Pin-up Contest – Check out the 1940s rockabilly and garage-style Pin-up Contest, winners appear in Dames, Planes & Automobiles Magazine.
- Stunt Shows – Some of the world's greatest stunt riders will thrill audiences with amazing BMX bike and motorcycle feats. “Godfather of freestyle,” Jason Britton, the world’s most highly recognized stunt rider will perform all weekend. Britton is known for Hollywood stunt work in films such as “Torque” and his own Speed Channel TV show. Plus, the Globe of Death with Insane Obando Riders, Adam Holbrook, Keith King, Strongwoman Juli Moody and many other stunt artists performing indoors and outside.
Capital City Bikefest was formed in 2005 in partnership with the City of Raleigh to become North Carolina’s largest downtown motorcycle rally, held in Raleigh’s Moore Square. The next year, it became the first festival created by a local business to bring a fresh roar of life back to newly re-opened Fayetteville Street, attracting 65,000 attendees. Named the nation’s “Best Event” by powersports industry publication Dealernews, Capital City Bikefest celebrates its 10th anniversary this year with annual attendance estimated at more than 100,000 visitors. Activities this year benefit the nonprofits USO of North Carolina and U.S. Veterans Corps. Ray Price Capital City Bikefest has been presented by title sponsor Nationwide Insurance for the past eight years.
Follow the festivities on Twitter: @RayPriceHD and #BikefestRaleigh.
For more than 30 years, Ray Price Harley-Davidson in Raleigh, N.C. has served as one of the Southeast’s top motorcycle dealerships and is home to Hall-of-Fame racing legend Ray Price.
Friday, September 26, 2014
Mayberry Days Parade
New 2014 and 2015 model cars from
Mount Airy Toyota and Mount Airy Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram will be driven
in the Mayberry Days Parade. The dealerships are official sponsors of
the Mayberry Days Events.
We are proud to be the Official Dealership Sponsor for the Mayberry Days Celebration! Scott McCorkle The Andy Griffith Show is a sitcom that aired on CBS from 1960 through 1968. The show ranked by TV Guide as the 9th best show in American television history. Mount Airy, North Carolina is where the show was filmed calling it the fictional town of Mayberry on the show.
“One of the Mayberry Days events that we are looking forward to is the parade on Saturday morning,” says Scott McCorkle, owner of the Mount Airy Toyota Scion and Mount Airy Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram dealerships and key sponsor of the event. “We are proud that we could provide the vehicles for the parade this year.”
The Mayberry Days Parade will be held on Saturday, September 27th at 9:00 in the morning. The parade will travel down Main Street from BB&T to the Andy Griffith Playhouse to kick off the biggest day of the festival. All the special guest and celebrities will be riding in cars from Mount Airy Toyota and Mount Airy Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram.
Attending this year’s Mayberry Days are Betty Lynn who played Thelma Lou, Karen Knotts, actress and comedian and daughter of Don Knotts, and actor James Best who played Jim Lindsey on the show. For a complete line-up of all the celebrities go to Surry Arts Mayberry Days Website.
“This is our first year as a sponsor for this event and we are really excited to be a part of such great American history,” says McCorkle. “I applaud the Surry Arts Council for keeping this tradition alive and allowing all of us to step back and enjoy a time when life was a bit simpler.”
As the Official Dealerships of the 2014 Mayberry Days, McCorkle encourages visitors to stop by the parking lot of the Andy Griffith Museum to pick-up event schedules and maps of the downtown area. Look for the tented area and the new cars on display.
Both Mount Airy Toyota Scion and Mount Airy Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram are located on N. Andy Griffith Parkway in Mount Airy. Stop by for a test drive or start your shopping at http://www.mountairytoyota.com and http://www.clickmountairy.com
Monday, September 22, 2014
Wednesday, September 10, 2014
Historic California Stagecoach Comes Back to Life
Before railroads and telegraph wires reached the remote cities and towns of the western U.S., stagecoaches were the fastest way to deliver news. People would gather at stage stops and eagerly await the arrival of newspapers and mail.
I’ve
been around horses and wagons all my life, so becoming a wagon maker
seemed a natural way to bring my heritage together with my love of
western history in order to preserve that legacy for the future
One such barn-find relic was rescued several years back by the Carriage and Western Art Museum of Santa Barbara, California. Originally built in the 1870s by the M.P. Henderson Co. in Stockton, California, the stagecoach carried mail and passengers 75 miles from Santa Barbara to Ventura and eastward through the rugged Santa Clara River Valley to the gold, oil, and cattle town of Saugus (part of present-day Santa Clarita). Besides the challenging terrain, the coaches were under constant danger from outlaws like the infamous Tiburcio Vásquez.
The Saugus stagecoach was stored in the Carriage Museum until a group of museum members raised the funds to have it restored by Hansen Wheel and Wagon Shop for the 90th anniversary of Santa Barbara’s Old Spanish Days celebration in early August, 2014.
“The museum knew it had a special coach with strong historic connections to the area’s past and wanted to restore it as close to its original condition as possible,” says Doug Hansen, owner of Hansen Wheel and Wagon Shop in Letcher, South Dakota.
When the coach arrived at Hansen’s shop, Doug’s daughter, Leah Murray, the shop’s Project Manager, set about coordinating with the various craftspeople who would be involved in the restoration. “The coach is what was known as a ‘mud wagon’ meaning that it ran through areas that had little in the way of established roads,” Murray says. “It was remarkable that it had survived 125 years given what it must have gone through.”
Hansen and his team of wheelwrights, blacksmiths, painters and upholsterers spent six months and over 650 hours meticulously disassembling, restoring, and reassembling hundreds of parts, reusing what they could and custom building other pieces to replicate them as authentically as possible. They used Italian naked leather hides to restore the upholstery to its original look and custom-formulated paints to be historically accurate and preserve the patina and graphics of the coach in its heyday.
“When we restore a coach, it’s a lot like an archaeological dig,” Hansen says. “Many times we find things unique to a particular wagon that give us insights into its history.” In the case of the Saugus coach, Hansen’s team found a leather scabbard designed to carry an axe mounted to the front boot. “This was evidence that the trail often had to be cleared of fallen brush before the coach could proceed on its journey.” Other times, Hansen workers have found inscriptions and dates that tie a wagon to specific craftsmen and times.
Throughout the restoration, Murray and Hansen stayed in close contact by phone and email with the museum staff 1,700 miles away. “I was struck by the irony of using today’s instant communication to help restore a part of history from a time when getting information across a hundred miles could take days and involved a fair amount of risk,” Hansen says.
While Hansen’s products are firmly rooted in the past, the company’s reach is high tech through its Magento ecommerce website, http://www.hansenwheel.com. “Our online ordering and secure payment capability allow customers anywhere to shop with us 24-7,” Hansen added. “We’re excited to bring our quality and craftsmanship to wagon enthusiasts around the world.”
Established in 1978, Hansen Wheel and Wagon Shop’s customers range from museums and collectors to corporate marketing departments and theme parks such as Disney and Knott’s Berry Farm. International customers include an amusement park in Japan, a historical society in Denmark, and a private ranch in Uruguay. Nearly a third of Hansen Wheel and Wagon Shop’s business comes from interior designers and film production prop departments. Hansen wagons have been cast in movies such as “Dances with Wolves” and “Pirates of the Caribbean.”
“I’ve been around horses and wagons all my life, so becoming a wagon maker seemed a natural way to bring my heritage together with my love of western history in order to preserve that legacy for the future,” Hansen says. Thirty-six years after its opening, the shop has become the premier builder of authentic horse-drawn vehicles worldwide.
For information about Hansen Wheel and Wagon Shop, contact:
Doug Hansen
http://www.hansenwheel.com
Tuesday, September 09, 2014
2014 Waukesha Christmas Parade!
This
year's parade is shaping up to be something special. We hope you are
planning to participate. The City of Waukesha Chamber of Commerce was
honored to be asked by the city to be the stewards of the tradition, but
while we and a dedicated committee of community volunteers work hard
behind the scenes to organize the event, it truly belongs to the
community!
From
Scouting units, to public safety teams, veterans, business, marching
bands, dance troupes, and a few professional entertainers make the
annual tradition something families have enjoyed for over half a
century.
This
year's committee has blended that storied history with a theme that
encourages parade entrants to visualize what the future might look like
for this end-of-year holiday. Inspired by the final ghost of the classic
Dicken's "A Christmas Carol," the theme - VISIONS OF CHRISTMAS YET TO COME - is already giving long-time participants a new shot of creative enthusiasm.
Judges this year will be from Waukesha STEM faculty and the members of the city's high school competitive robotics team.
Last
year, the parade set records for the number of volunteers and
sponsorship participation -- this year, we want to keep that going
and...growing. Please contact the chamber offices if you are interested in supporting the community's official launch of the holiday season.
Perhaps you have a creative idea about a tweak to the parade - like our
addition last year of prizes for performing units for the first time in
over 20 years?? We'd love to hear those too.
Otherwise,
be sure to like the chamber on Facebook, since that is the ONLY place
where parade announcements are made regarding any changes or updates.
You can do that here: www.facebook.com/WaukeshaWorks
Call or email the chamber at (262) 521-3333 or parade@WaukeshaWorks.com.
We hope you are as excited as we are about this uniquely American event.
Looking forward to seeing all of you.
Saturday, September 06, 2014
Bicentennial of the Battle of Plattsburgh
A True Story of David and Goliath
In September of 1814, more than 10,000 British regulars, many fresh from victories in the Napoleonic Wars, invaded northern New York from Canada while the Royal Navy advanced along Lake Champlain. Their intent was to reach New York City and divide an infant nation in two. But 25 miles south lay the village of Plattsburgh and Cumberland Bay defended by 32-year old General Macomb’s 1,500 regulars and a small American fleet commanded by Commodore Thomas Macdonough, only 30 years old himself.
On the morning of September 11th the armies clashed in tiny Plattsburgh with Sir George Prevost in command of the redcoats. At that same hour, the British fleet rounded Cumberland Head where they met the anchored Americans poised and ready. A dying wind left the British unable to maneuver their ships giving the out-gunned American ships the advantage. Within three hours the British colors were struck and their commander Captain Downie lay dead. Seeing his fleet defeated and lacking information about the strength of American ground forces, General Prevost withdrew his troops back to Canada. The unlikely American victory thwarted British plans to control Lake Champlain and led to the signing of the Treaty of Ghent and the end of the War of 1812 on Christmas Eve 1814.
This year marks the Bicentennial Commemoration of the Battle of Plattsburgh during the War of 1812, and throughout the year the Adirondack Coast celebrates 200 years of peace with a series of special events, historic reenactments and culinary delights. Battle of Plattsburgh Bicentennial events and attractions include:
Battle of Plattsburgh Commemoration Week
September 11-14, 2014
champlain1812.com
The Battle of Plattsburgh, also known as the Battle of Lake Champlain, ended the final invasion of the northern states during the War of 1812. Join the Adirondack Coast as we commemorate the Bicentennial of General Alexander Macomb’s and Master Commandant Thomas MacDonough’s unlikely defeat of the British army on September 11, 1814. The week’s series of events commemorate Plattsburgh’s military history, industry, culture and arts providing visitors a unique look at the War of 1812. Enjoy re-enactments on land and water, old fashioned parade, craft demonstrations, fife and drum performances, concerts and lectures.
War of 1812 Interpretive Trail
518.563.1000
Follow the path of the British south from Canada to Plattsburgh along the War of 1812 Interpretive Trail. See the area’s rich history with sites such as monuments, former battlegrounds and historic homes. There are 10 stops along the marked trail each with its own descriptive signage making the War of 1812 Interpretive Trail an easy and fun way to discover the past. A War of 1812 Historic Map is available for more detailed information and to help identify the sites along the trail at goadirondack.com.
Uncover the War at Pikes Cantonment
518.566.1814
Artifacts dating back to the War of 1812 have recently been uncovered at this archeological excavation site. Zebulon Montgomery Pike Jr. was a United States Army Captain in 1806-07, who also served during the War of 1812 at a military encampment somewhere around Plattsburgh. So far, archeologists have found a 1795 bayonet scabbard chape, .69 caliber bullet and military jacket buttons stamped with the number 15 – Pike’s Regiment. The dig will continue throughout the summer of 2014 and beyond.
Peace Garden Trail
ipgf.org
Visit the Adirondack Coast's newly designated Peace Garden at the Kent-Delord House Museum, former British Headquarters during the War of 1812. Dedicated at historic sites in the Great Lakes region of the United States and Canada, War of 1812 Bicentennial Peace Gardens celebrate the two hundred years of peace and longstanding friendship between two countries that share the world’s longest undefended boarder.
Commemorative Wine and Beer
Plucky Rooster Ale
champlain1812.com
Get a taste of the area’s history with Plattsburgh’s artisan beer, Plucky Rooster Ale. This new artisan beer has been hand-crafted by Legend’s Bistro Brewmaster Jason Stoyanoff to commemorate the War of 1812 bicentennial. Plucky Rooster Ale was created by carefully researching the types of beers brewed by George Washington and Thomas Jefferson in the late 1800s and 1900s. Using American hops, English rye, Canadian barley and molasses – Plucky Rooster is a “burly” pale ale with toffee notes and a hoppy aroma. The name owes its genesis to a 200 year old rooster that was aboard Macdonough’s ship, USS Saratoga.
Crab Island White Wine
champlainwinecompany.com
Created by North Star Vineyard this Crab Island White is a semi-dry Seyval Blanc, medium bodied white wine and has flavors of Honeydew melon, green apple and citrus. Crab Island was the site of the military hospital during the War of 1812 and is now a federally recognized military cemetery and the site of 149 American and British soldiers who were killed during the battle. On approaching the island visitors can see a large granite monument commemorating the lives of the soldiers who are buried there. Crab Island is public land and can be visited; however, visitors can not disturb or collect any artifacts, or damage vegetation.
Two Heroes Hard Cider
elfsfarm.com
Elfs Farm, Winery and Cider Mill honors Two Heroes with its early American style cider. This whisky barrel cider commemorates General Alexander Macomb’s and Master Commandant Thomas MacDonough’s for their actions on land and water during the Battle of Plattsburgh and the unlikely American Win.
The Battle of Plattsburgh did not take place until two years after the war was declared, yet it marked a turning point and heralded the end of the hostilities. For more information on this unlikely defeat of the British visit champlain1812.com.
Thursday, September 04, 2014
Seaplane Homecoming Parade at Hammondsport, NY
The
airplanes and flying activities at Keuka Lake are big fun for folks of
all ages. The food is great and the speakers are always interesting and
engaging.Beginning at 1:00 PM on Saturday, visiting pilots will take part in a “salute to Glenn Curtiss” seaplane parade around Keuka Lake, extending their southern loop directly over the Curtiss grave site in the Pleasant Valley Cemetery.
A catered dinner will be held at the museum on Saturday evening, featuring speakers, Trafford Doherty, Museum Director; Chris Harmer, U. S. Navy intelligence expert and Michael Lopez-Alegria, space shuttle astronaut.
Visitors to Hammondsport for this event are encouraged to also visit the Glenn H. Curtiss Museum, ½ mile south of Champlin Beach. Museum admission is $8.50 for adults, $7.00 for seniors, $5.50 for students ages 7 to 18 and $25 for families. Children ages 6 and under are admitted free. The museum, which is located at 8419 State Rt. 54 in Hammondsport, is open every Monday through Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm and every Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm through October 31. The museum is located at 8419 State Rte. 54 in Hammondsport.
Cameron Dunlap, who has attended the Seaplane Homecoming for the last 6 years, had this to say about the event, "I have attended the Curtiss Museum Seaplane Homecoming in Hammondsport, NY for the last 6 years in a row. The airplanes and flying activities at Keuka Lake are big fun for folks of all ages. The banquet dinner that follows that evening at the museum is also well worth attending. The food is great and the speakers are always interesting and engaging. I highly recommend attending. Bring the whole family!"
The Glenn H. Curtiss Museum, which is located in the scenic Finger Lakes Region of New York State, is home to a priceless collection relating to early aviation, bicycle and motorcycle transportation and local history. The Museum celebrates the life and accomplishments of Glenn Curtiss, who is remembered as the father of naval aviation and the founder of the American aircraft industry.
For more information, visit the museum website at http://www.GlennhCurtissMuseum.org.
Tuesday, September 02, 2014
64th Annual Old Car Festival
Celebrate the achievements of two of the early automotive industry’s biggest innovators – John and Horace Dodge – during Old Car Festival in Greenfield Village, September 6-7. After years of supplying parts to other automakers, including Henry Ford himself, the Dodge Brothers decided to go into production on their own, rolling out their first car in 1914. In honor of their 100th anniversary, The Henry Ford will host 30 Dodge Brothers vehicles in a special display on the Village Green including the company’s first model from its first year in production, a 1915 Model 30-35.
During Old Car Festival, gain perspective on the evolution of the automotive industry through a display of nearly 900 automobiles, motorcycles, bicycles, campers and more dating from the late 19th century to 1932. Get up close and learn more about these vehicles that changed American culture forever.
See one of the biggest collections of Model As and early bicycles on display throughout the Village. Watch drivers show off their skills in early motor contests, witness the assembly of an actual Model T, and kick back at the pass-in-review parade where experts will provide information and fun facts about vehicles as they drive by. Join roadside historian Daniel Hershberger near the Scotch Settlement School each day for a presentation discussing the important aspect of early highway development and motoring history along with a special 1920s Auto Touring exhibit featuring a restored 1927 Auto-Kamp fold-out tent trailer, manufactured in Saginaw, Mich., and other period camp vehicles.
On Saturday, stay late until 9 p.m. to enjoy live music from The Hotel Savarine Society Orchestra, a gaslight parade of cars through Greenfield Village, and a fireworks show to close out the evening. Old Car Festival is free with membership or admission to Greenfield Village; tickets are $24 for adults, $22 for seniors (62 and up) and $17.50 for youth (5-12). Children under five are free. For more information, call (313) 982-6001 or visit http://www.thehenryford.org.
About The Henry Ford
The Henry Ford in Dearborn, Michigan is an internationally-recognized cultural destination that brings the past forward by immersing visitors in the stories of ingenuity, resourcefulness and innovation that helped shape America. A national historic landmark with an unparalleled collection of artifacts from 300 years of American history, The Henry Ford is a force for sparking curiosity and inspiring tomorrow’s innovators.
More than 1.6 million visitors annually experience its five attractions: Henry Ford Museum, Greenfield Village, The Ford Rouge Factory Tour, The Benson Ford Research Center and The Henry Ford IMAX Theatre. A continually expanding array of content available online provides anytime, anywhere access. The Henry Ford is also home to Henry Ford Academy, a public charter high school which educates 485 students a year on the institution’s campus. For more information please visit our website thehenryford.org.
Tuesday, August 26, 2014
Sun Valley Welcomes Trailing of the Sheep Festival
Most notable of the weekend’s events is the Trailing of the Sheep Parade where spectators watch over 2,000 sheep get driven down Main Street in Ketchum as they have been for over a century. Other event highlights include culinary offerings featuring lamb in all its various forms, cooking classes, the Sheep Tales Gathering of storytellers, the Fiber Festival, the Championship Sheep Dog Trials, and the Sheepherders Ball to name a few.
The Trailing of the Sheep Festival has garnered its share of top accolades including being recognized as one of the Top Ten Fall Festivals in the World by msn.com travel, Top Animal Festivals in the World and Top Ten Fall Festivals by USA Today, One of the Greatest Cultural Events in the West by Northwest Travel and is the recipient of the Idaho Governor’s Award for Cultural Heritage.
In 2014, the Festival begins a three-year program “Celebrating Generations.” We listen, learn, share and save the memories of our western families – dreamers, all of them, who live and work the land and are the keepers of open space. Ranching families will be attending from around the west to share their stories and help trail the sheep through the Wood River Valley.
For more information, lodging, transportation and schedule of events visit: http://www.visitsunvalley.com or http://www.trailingofthesheep.org.
Thursday, April 10, 2014
Gloria Estfan Is Miami Gay Pride Grand Marshal
For the sixth annual installment of Miami Beach Gay Pride, the honor of Grand Marshal has been bestowed upon two extraordinary members of the entertainment industry. After selling 100 million albums worldwide, singer-songwriter, actress and entrepreneur Gloria Estefan will be joined by the acclaimed American film and television producer, director and choreographer Kenny Ortega, announced Joel Stedman, Chairman of the Pride Board. The Miami Beach Gay Pride parade and festival will take place Sunday, April 13, from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. along Ocean Drive between 5th and 15th Streets.
Estefan will lead the parade by riding in a vintage Rolls Royce convertible waving to an anticipated 80,000 fans and supporters who are expected at this year’s parade and festival. The seven-time Grammy Award winner and most successful crossover performer in Latin music history to date is expected to gather a record number of revelers along legendary Ocean Drive, given her local credentials, undeniable charisma and international celebrity.
“There is nothing more Miami than Gloria. She is an intrinsic part of this city’s cultural identity,” said Stedman. “Not only is she one of the most beloved and successful symbols of the vibrant and diverse South Florida community, but also she has proven to be committed to several charitable initiatives as well as a champion for the LGBT community.”
Joining Estefan as a Grand Marshal will be Ortega, the renowned artist who has choreographed Madonna, Elton John and Rod Stewart. One of the first entertainment personalities in America to “come out,” Ortega has been the recipient of three Emmy Awards and a Director’s Guild of America Award among countless other accolades. Ortega was Michael Jackson’s director and creative partner for both the “Dangerous” and “HIStory” World Tours and also directed the King of Pop’s post-mortem documentary “Michael Jackson’s This is It.”
“We are thrilled to acknowledge Kenny's unforgettable moments of joy and sheer entertainment he has provided throughout his career” said Stedman. “Numerous generations were influenced by Kenny whether by his Cher choreographies, his collaboration with Gene Kelly for “Xanadu”, his memorable “Dirty Dancing” moves or his involvement in Disney’s “High School Musical” movies, there is no age range left uninspired by his work.”
Since its inception six years ago, Miami Beach Gay Pride has grown from a neighborhood event to an event on the global stage with A-list performers. Attendance has grown as well. An estimated 15,000 spectators turned out for the first Pride parade in 2009 and an estimated 80,000 attended the 2013 event which attracted not only South Floridians, but also visitors from throughout the world. In addition to Parade spectators, last April’s event included 66 parade entries and 1,200 participants. The Pride Festival which followed featured 125 LGBT-friendly vendors and businesses, plus refreshments, two stages of entertainment, a family-friendly play area and fireworks.
The mission of Miami Beach Gay Pride is to bring together members and allies of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community in celebration of the unique spirit and culture of the LGBT community. The all-volunteer Pride board produces safe, quality, mass-appeal events that are open to the entire community, including the Parade, Festival and allied Miami Beach Gay Pride sanctioned events. Miami Beach Gay Pride is produced with the support of the Miami Beach Visitors and Convention Authority.
For more information, visit http://www.miamibeachgaypride.com.
Monday, March 24, 2014
2014 St Patrick's Day Celebrations Around the World
St. Patrick's Day was originally founded in Ireland, as a religious holiday honoring the country’s patron saint: St. Patrick, who is known for converting many of the Emerald Isle's citizens to Christianity in the 400s. After his death, March 17 became an annual holiday in which individuals honored his life.
Over centuries, St. Patrick's Day became an internationally celebrated holiday. Today, however, the holiday focuses less on religion and more on festivities. The holiday is now not only celebrated by Irishmen but in countries all over the world in many different ways mainly with festivals and parades. Travel Insured, a leading travel insurance company, provides some of the most famous celebrations from around the world!
Dublin, Ireland -
The people of Dublin have adopted the Americanized version of St Patrick’s Day and partake in celebrations including carnival rides, parades, festivals, and shows. Unlike the American traditions, Ireland does still hold true to its past and tries to hold events focusing on their culture and history to help remember the true meaning of the holiday. The city holds a five day long event including all of these celebrations where visitors can pick and choose which they would like to attend.
Boston, USA -
Boston is among one of the US Cities which contain a great amount of Irish Heritage. Boston is known for one of the most traveled to parades in South Boston, on Sunday, March 16. The city also provides a number of other ways to celebrate including the “Boston Flower and Garden Show” which has been going on since 1901, “Beer and Irish Rock and Roll” at the Harpoon brewery, the Dropkick Murphy’s performing at the House of Blues, and a special exhibit at the JFK Library and Museum.
London, England -
St. Patrick’s Day celebrations have become increasingly popular in London and there is an expected 100,000 people that will be joining in on the festivities this year. The celebrations take place in Trafalgar Square, including a comedy festival and a 1.5 miles long parade. There are also a number of buildings and monuments that will be turned green, even including The London Eye.
NYC, USA -
With more than 150,000 participants, New York City this is home to the world’s biggest St Patrick’s Day parade. It marches along Fifth Avenue in Manhattan on the Sunday before the day itself, and has been going since before the Declaration of Independence, having started in 1762. Individuals travel from all over the world to get a glimpse of this massive celebration.
Tokyo, Japan -
Irish pride has even made its way to Japan when the largest St. Patrick ’s Day celebration is held in the country of Ise. Every year, hundreds of individuals meet at the Ise Shrine where the St Patrick’s parade begins. The parade is filled with bagpipers, floats, costumes, and Irish flags. This year also happens to be the 20th anniversary and visitors can expect marching bands, merrymakers dressed as characters from the Emerald Isle, leprechaun costumes, and floats.
About Travel Insured:
Travel Insured International is one of the largest privately held travel protection companies in the US, and preferred supplier to over 5,000 travel agents, travel consortiums and wholesalers in the US and abroad. As a former division of the Travelers up until 1994, and originator of travel insurance in the US, you can say that the “travel protection” blood lines run deep. Travel Insured International’s customer centric claims operation has significant expertise in both domestic and international claims administration.
Friday, February 28, 2014
Rio Carnival Live Samba Dancing Contest
We see the super samba dancers, and the order which they presented their samba routines and also ansered questions from the jury panel.
See more at http://www.brazilcarnival.com.br
Thursday, February 06, 2014
Valentine's program to aid servicemen
The United War Veterans Council is asking Staten Island to show their love to members of the military through their annual Valentine's Day Caravan program, which kicked off Saturday and continues through Feb. 14.
The non-profit organization, which produces the city's Veterans' Day Parade, is asking folks to donate thousands of Valentine's Day cards and gifts which will be delivered to members of the military, veterans and their families at local veterans' hospitals and military bases in New York City, Long Island, New Jersey and the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Md.
Suggested items include: toiletries (men/women), DVDs, CDs, music, movies, books, crossword puzzle books, electronics, gift phone cards, hats, scarves, gloves, T-shirts, pre-packaged baked goods or candy, stuffed animals, deck of cards, games, toys, children's items, etc.
Any cards must be in open, unsealed envelopes; all cards are subject to screening. Monetary donations will also be accepted to purchase gifts.
Visitors should drop off donations at Staten Island Borough Hall, 10 Richmond Terr., Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Folks should let security know they are there to drop off items for the Valentine's donation box.
For more information visit call 212-693-1476, or visit www.uwvc.org/valentines or visit at www.facebook.com/unitedwarveterans
Monday, February 03, 2014
Chelsea Bridge Offers Access to Chinese New Year
Last year over 300,000 people took part of the festival. Visitors from different parts of the world come to the capital city to participate in the festivities every year. The actual date of the event varies but normally falls between late January and the beginning of February. Chinatown attracts many of the visitors where they can admire the New Year- themed decorations and special events that take place at restaurants, bars and shops. The parade starts in the morning on Sunday the 2nd February 2014.
The celebration will kick off at 10am at Duncannon Street. Traditional dragon dancers will set off to the main stage in Trafalgar Square where the opening ceremony will keep the audience entertained until late afternoon. There will be plenty of activities and celebrations around Chinatown, Leicester Square and Shaftesbury Avenue.
In the Chinese calendar each year is represented by one of the twelve animals of the Chinese zodiac. 2014 is the Year of the Horse according to the Chinese calendar and it is apparent once every 12 years. The horse is a symbol of travelling, but also a sign of speedy success. It is also one of the favourite Chinese animals and it is treated as a Romantic Star sign in their horoscope.
Chelsea Bridge Apartments incorporates twenty two apartments to accommodate and welcome visitors from all over the world. A taste of luxury in recently refurbished spacious rooms with fully fitted kitchen and gorgeous living spaces. Our guests benefit exceptional concierge service, clean rooms and reasonable prices at a ‘home away from home’ in a central location. Plan ahead to avoid any disappointment as the apartments get booked up early.
Tuesday, January 21, 2014
Horse Drawn Floats in the Rose Bowl Parade
Hansen Wheel & Wagon Shop, the nation’s premier builder of authentic, horse-drawn vehicles, is proud to have built or restored three of the horse-drawn carriages represented in the 2014 Rose Bowl Parade. These horse-drawn wagons and coaches were either authentically replicated or restored by the craftsmen at Hansen Wheel & Wagon Shop, located in Letcher, SD.
These horse-drawn vehicles featured in the 2014 Rose Bowl parade were a 1903 Studebaker Beer wagon owned by Budweiser and pulled by the famous Budweiser Clydesdale horses as well as two replica Concord stagecoaches owned by Wells Fargo, each pulled by four horse hitches.
A hitch of Clydesdales has pulled the City of St. Louis' float, co-sponsored by Budweiser, in the Tournament of Roses Parade from 1954 to 2011. In 2014 the Clydesdales returned to the Rose Parade, this time pulling the Budweiser Studebaker beer wagon. As a salute to the history of the Clydesdales in the Tournament of Roses Parade, the President of the Tournament of Roses rode on the Hansen-restored Budweiser beer wagon instead of the usual classic car.
The Wells Fargo float entry in the Tournament of Roses Parade included two stagecoaches which were replications of the original stagecoaches built by Carriage builder, J. Stephens Abbot and master wheelwright, Lewis Downing in the mid 1800’s. Wells Fargo has several stagecoaches built by Hansen Wheel and Wagon Shop that they use for parades. These authentic, Wells Fargo approved reproduction coaches are pulled by a specially trained team of horses, guided by an experienced driver.
Hansen Wheel & Wagon Shop is known best for building authentic western style horse-drawn vehicles in the United States. Having restored or replicated historically significant horse-drawn vehicles such as the Budweiser 1903 Studebaker Beer Wagon, the Wells Fargo stagecoaches, Civil War Army Wagon replicas and other wagons of historical significance, for museums, collectors, theme parks, and tourism. Hansen Wheel & Wagon Shop carries items related to wagons, stagecoaches and horse-drawn carriages.
The Hansen Wheel & Wagon Shop carries over 1,300 unique products in their online store, including a complete selection of wagon parts and supplies, wood wagon and cannon wheels, hitch equipment and horse-drawn wagon plans and books.
"We are committed to exceeding expectations, while delivering results that mirror the handcrafted quality of old world artisans. Authentic quality craftsmanship never goes out of style. We are dedicated to that tradition of excellence and understand the enduring value of personal attention to detail,” said Doug Hansen, owner of Hansen Wheel & Wagon Shop.
Hansen also offers an extensive selection of museum services for restoring and conserving wagons, stagecoaches and a wide variety of horse-drawn carriages.
About Hansen Wheel & Wagon Shop:
For thirty-five years, our experienced staff of dedicated craftsmen have fashioned a line of superior quality wagons, wheels, and equipment to suit a wide range of individual budgets and interests. We back our products with a commitment to customer service and satisfaction.
Our location on the plains of the Dakotas is just one of the many reasons we closely identify with the pioneering spirit and traditions of the West. We live our work, love what we do and take great pride in providing you with the most historically accurate horse-drawn vehicles anywhere this side of the 1800’s.
Wednesday, January 15, 2014
NYC LGBT Pride 2014: A Sneak Peek
Much of the Tri-State region might be preparing for another blast of arctic January temperatures, but that hasn't stopped officials from looking ahead to the forthcoming LGBT Pride Week celebrations in New York.
Heritage of Pride shared a sneak peek at 2014 NYC Pride with HuffPost Gay Voices in the form of this colorful new video. The event will coincide with the 45th anniversary of the 1969 Stonewall Riots, so revelers can expect an extra-festive celebration this June 21-29.
Tuesday, January 14, 2014
Time Lapse: Honda Tournament of Roses Parade Float
The Honda Rose Parade float entry, "Follow Your Dreams," made its debut on Jan. 1, 2013. Check out how it started in the beginning stages of construction and made its splendid appearance as the first float in the 124th Rose Parade on Tuesday, Jan. 1, 2013. The float's design captures the parade theme, "Oh, the Places You'll Go!™," through its imaginative depiction of innovative Honda technologies and Dr. Seuss-inspired features.
Can you spot the three world-champion athletes riding on the float on New Year's Day: U.S. sprinter Carmelita Jeter, and from the summer's "Fierce Five" gymnastics team, McKayla Maroney and Kyla Ross?
The Honda float featured more than 5,000 roses, 11,000 carnations and 2,500 gerberas. A variety of flowers, plants and seeds were used, including lavender dendrobs, pink pincushion protea, white queen Anne's lace, dark blue iris, light pink carnations, orange roses, Kermit green mums, brown flax seed, shiny grey silverleaf, red large kidney beans and cream corn husk, among many others. All of these natural materials are later ground up for mulch after the conclusion of the parade activities.
For the third straight year, Honda's float was propelled by a specially configured hybrid, low-emission engine to help the float function more efficiently and reduce its carbon footprint.
Friday, January 10, 2014
Mardi Gras Season Kicks Off in Shreveport-Bossier
Carnival season is officially underway in Shreveport-Bossier: Louisiana's Other Side. Major parade dates for 2014 include: the Krewe of Sobek, Jan. 18; the Krewe of Harambee, Jan. 20; the Krewe of Centaur, Feb. 22; the Krewe of Gemini, March 1; and the Krewe of Highland, March 2. In addition to parades, Carnival season in Shreveport-Bossier features extravagant bals, float-loading parties, live music events and more. 2014 marks the 25th annual celebration of Carnival season in Shreveport-Bossier since parading krewes returned to the region in 1989, and area krewes plan to celebrate the silver anniversary in style. A full listing of Carnival season events in Shreveport-Bossier can be found at http://www.sbfunguide.com.
Major Parade Weekends
A combined total of more than 400,000 revelers are expected to attend the Krewe of Centaur and Krewe of Gemini parades, which are the largest parades in northern Louisiana. The Krewe of Centaur XXIII parade, with the theme “Fables, Folk Lore and Fairy Tales,” will roll on Saturday, Feb. 22. The Krewe of Gemini XXV parade, with the theme “Throw Me a Memory, Mister!,” will roll on Saturday, March 1. Both parades begin at 4:30 p.m. at the intersection of Clyde Fant Parkway and Lake Street in downtown Shreveport and proceed south along the riverfront parade route before ending in Shreveport’s Broadmoor neighborhood at the intersection of Preston Street and East Kings Highway. The route for both parades includes a kid-friendly, alcohol-free zone located near the beginning of the parade route at the intersection of Clyde Fant Parkway and Stoner Avenue.
Neighborhood Parades
Shreveport-Bossier also offers a variety of neighborhood parades. The Krewe of Sobek parade, which will depart from Fairgrounds Field at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 18, will roll through the Queensborough neighborhood with the theme “Sobek Under the Big Top.” The enormous Krewe of Harambee Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Mardi Gras Parade will roll through downtown Shreveport via Milam Street and Texas Street at 1 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 20. The Krewe of Harambee parade includes a large number of marching bands from throughout the region, as well as performing arts troupes including dance groups and stilt walkers. Following the parade, there is a “Battle of the Marching Bands” and second line in the 700 block of Elvis Presley Avenue near Shreveport Municipal Auditorium.
Pets have their own parade in Shreveport-Bossier, and thousands of pet owners dress their cats, dogs, ponies and more in Mardi Gras finery for the annual Krewe of Barkus and Meoux Pet Parade. Known locally as “the animal krewe,” the Krewe of Barkus and Meoux will march through RiverView Park in downtown Shreveport at 1:30 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 23. Pet registration information and other parade details are available at http://www.animalkrewe.org.
Shreveport-Bossier’s largest neighborhood parade, the Krewe of Highland parade will roll through Shreveport’s historic Highland neighborhood at 2 p.m. on Sunday, March 2. The Krewe of Highland is well-known for its funky, unpredictable array of floats, marching societies and bands, as well as unique throws that include grilled hot dogs, moon pies and more. The parade begins and ends at the intersection of Gilbert Drive and Gregg Avenue, proceeding along a circuitous route through the neighborhood via Gladstone Boulevard, Creswell Avenue, Olive Street and Centenary Boulevard. Popular spots for enjoying this parade include the area surrounding Columbia Park, 2900 Creswell Avenue, and the area surrounding the campus of Centenary College of Louisiana, 2911 Centenary Boulevard.
For a complete listing of Carnival season festivities in Shreveport-Bossier, please visit http://www.sbfunguide.com. For more information on visiting Shreveport-Bossier, including accommodations, transportation and more, please visit http://www.shreveport-bossier.org.
Wednesday, January 01, 2014
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