Granite State Stuff : White Mountains

2009 New Hampshire Moose Hunt a Success

AskLisa — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 01:28:00 GMT

New Hampshire’s 2009 moose season was a success. Hunters took 341 moose. With a total of 522 permits issued, this represents a statewide success rate of 65%. About 60% of the harvest was males, according to Kristine Rines, Moose Project Leader for the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department. The nine-day moose hunt ended on Sunday, October 25. In 2008, hunters did about the same, taking 333 moose, for a statewide success rate of 65%.

While the statewide success rate was identical to last year’s, the regional success rates differed. This year, the Connecticut Lakes Region saw a success rate of 84%, up from 80% in 2008. The North Region saw 91% success this year, up from 83% last year. The White Mountain Region’s success rate was identical to last year, at 47%. Success in the Central Region declined slightly, to 62% this year, from 68% in 2008. The Southwest Region maintained a 45% success rate, exactly the same as last year. The Southeast Region increased its success rate to 47%, up from 38% in 2008.

Successful hunters reported a big shift in moose habitat use during the season, according to Rines. During the first two days, moose were seen in the North Country at low elevations, but on the third day, hunters reported having a harder time finding them. Persistent hunters who were willing to hunt higher elevations found moose in clear-cuts there.

A ten-year comparison of regional success rates for the N.H. moose hunt is available at http://www.huntnh.com/Hunting/Moose_hunt/moose_hunt_take.htm.

Find out more about moose hunting in New Hampshire, including a link to a gallery of photos from this year’s and past hunts, at http://www.huntnh.com/Hunting/Hunt_species/hunt_moose.htm.

More than 14,500 people entered the 2009 moose hunt lottery, held last spring, for a chance to participate in the New Hampshire moose hunt. Think next year might be your lucky year? Lottery applications for the 2010 moose hunt will be available on the Fish and Game website and from license agents starting in January through May 28, 2010.

Waterville Valley Resort's Yoga & Hiking retreat takes place November 6th-8th.

AskLisa — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 15:52:00 GMT

Participants will experience the full benefits of yoga with experienced Iyengar certified instructor Barbara Natichioni, and enjoy exhilarating local mountain hikes led by certified guide Dan Newton while being immersed in the fresh air of the White Mountains.

The Yoga & Hiking retreat includes twice daily yoga, hikes to two fabulous destinations, and delicious, wholesome meals. Those purchasing lodging through Town Square will get passes to the full-facility White Mountain Athletic Club.

To keep an intimate and relaxed setting, the retreat will be limited to just 16 participants. This weekend retreat is for anyone interested in wellness, fitness and personal growth. All ability levels welcome.

The retreat begins at 4:00 Friday November 6 in Town Square, where participants will meet one another, have refreshments, and partake of their first yoga session, followed by dinner. Saturday and Sunday will offer yoga classes, guided hikes, nutritious lunches, and some free time to explore. Cost for the retreat is $225. Lodging cost is separate, contact Town Square Condominiums: http://www.townsquarecondos.com. For retreat questions, email Barbara at yoganewz@gmail.com.

Waterville Valley was designed and planned specifically as a self-contained, four seasons resort. Today in addition to its world-class ski area, Waterville Valley Resort has award-winning tennis courts, golf, hiking, biking, lodging, cultural activities and summer theater, an indoor ice rink, boating, a skate park, and a host of outdoor activities. Dining options include traditional favorites and elegant dining. For more information, call 1-888-442-9887 or visit http://www.visitwatervillevalley.com.

"Hike Safe" this Fall; Prepare for Winter Conditions in theMountains

AskLisa — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 01:21:00 GMT

Fall foliage in New Hampshire's mountains is approaching its peak, and with the changing season comes new challenges for White Mountain hikers. With the cooler days, shorter daylight hours, and even snow at this time of year, outdoors experts are advising the Granite State's autumn visitors to "Hike Safe."

"New Hampshire's woods and mountains are a great place for recreation any time of year, but each season brings with it special challenges and hazards," says New Hampshire Fish and Game Conservation Officer Lieutenant Todd Bogardus. "The nature of the mountain environment is that it can be a dangerous place. Hikers who are looking forward to an autumn mountain adventure have to realize that winter-like conditions can come early to the mountains, so they must be prepared for conditions that are very different from those they may have enjoyed in the summertime."

Bogardus recommends that mountain visitors take special precautions to enjoy their adventures safely. "Hikers should most definitely look at high-mountain weather forecasts to be better prepared for conditions at this time of year," says Bogardus. "As a general rule, it's significantly colder and windier the higher you climb. As the season progresses, you're more likely to find snow and ice at higher elevations, too. Know the forecast and prepare for likely conditions with appropriate clothing. Even more critical --assess the actual conditions in the field and act accordingly."

High in the White Mountains, temperatures can reach the single digits even in September; winds are often strong and chilling; visibility can be very poor in low clouds; and early snows are possible. Dress in layers to suit varying conditions and carry extra warm clothing and raingear in your pack. Above all, warns Bogardus, "Don't press onward "no matter what" - adjust your actual trip to conditions as you find them, and plan ahead for a safe return. Be willing to turn back."

An often-overlooked factor is how short the daylight hours have become, and that they'll get even shorter as the season progresses. "An early start, taking maximum advantage of available daylight, is critical - as is having a good flashlight or headlamp, plus spare batteries, and a back-up source of light," cautions Bogardus. "Sometimes, hikers ignore what should be obvious and get caught out after dark with no light source. Then they then call for search and rescue resources to come help them get out of the woods."

As winter approaches, trail conditions can become more difficult. Rebecca Oreskes of the White Mountain National Forest notes that, "Before too long, trails will get snowy and icy, slowing people down as they try to find a safe way to negotiate slippery sections. Crampons - special ice spikes strapped to boots - or similar traction devices can make slick ice-covered stretches of trail much easier to travel. And if the going gets much slower than anticipated, don't hesitate to turn around and head back down.

Some guidelines for enjoyable and safe hiking are contained in the principles of "hikeSafe", a joint New Hampshire Fish and Game Department - White Mountain National Forest initiative to promote safe and responsible hiking.

The hikeSafe "Hiker Responsibility Code" sums up the basic tenets of backcountry safety: 1) Be prepared with appropriate knowledge and gear; 2) Let someone else know your plans; 3) Hiking groups should stick together, and not let themselves become separated; 4) Hikers should always be ready to turn back if circumstances, such as changing weather, dictate; 5) Hikers should be ready for emergencies; and 6) Those who know the code should share its lessons with others.

"Most autumn visitors to our state's forests and mountains have great experiences," says Bogardus, "and there's a better chance of having a memorable and satisfying trip if hikers follow the hikeSafe principles."

For more information about the hikeSafe program, visit http://www.hikesafe.com.

Waterville Valley Resort to Offer Wine Weekend

AskLisa — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 01:18:00 GMT

Waterville Valley Resort will offer a wine weekend to pair the best of New England's fall colors with the tones of wine from the Adega Coop. de Borba in Portugal's Alentejo Region. Stay Saturday night October 17^th and attend an exclusive wine tasting all for just $62 per person, with 6 hotels to choose from.

The wines of the Adega Coop. de Borba will be offered, accompanied by the sounds of the Tom Robinson Jazz Trio. The event is included for resort guests, and $5 per adult for non-guests, a suggested donation to benefit the Margret and H.A. Rey Center. The tasting will be held from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Diamond’s Edge North in the Town Square.

Borba is one of Portugal’s premier wine producers. In recent decades, the Alentejo's winemakers have ushered in many modern advancements, earning critical acclaim for their full-bodied, fruity reds and light, oaky whites. On the border of Spain, this arid region is a rural place of rolling plains covered with large agricultural estates, and dotted with whitewashed homes and cork trees. The Alentejo climate of hot summers and cool winters helps create flavorful grapes that transfer into characteristically ripe and complex wines.

Founded in 1955, the Adega Coop. de Borba was the first of a series of cooperatives in the Alentejo region. Today, the Adega Coop. de Borba is made up of 300 members whose vineyards cover a total area of 2,200 metric acres. About two-thirds are dedicated to red grape varietals and one-third grow white varietals. Last year the amount of grape varieties was expanded, including the Aragonez, Trincadeira, Touriga Nacional, Tinta Caiada/Antão Vaz, and Roupeiro varieties.

To continually uphold and improve the quality of its products, the Adega Coop. de Borba strives to inspire the passion of making great wines. After selecting and cultivating the best grape varietals, it is the commitment of the cooperative members that has made Borba a world-class wine.

Waterville Valley was designed and planned specifically as a self-contained, four seasons resort. Today in addition to its world-class ski area, Waterville Valley Resort has award-winning tennis courts, golf, hiking, biking, lodging, cultural activities and summer theater, an indoor ice rink, boating, a skate park, and a host of outdoor activities. Dining options include traditional favorites and elegant dining. For more information, call 1-800-GO-VALLEY or visit http://www.visitwatervillevalley.com.

Fall Foliage Fests, Ski Sales & Lodging Packages at Waterville Valley

AskLisa — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 03:09:00 GMT

In addition to Autumn leaf peeping, hiking, and biking in the White Mountains, Waterville Valley, New Hampshire serves up two action packed family event weekends this fall. Both also offer all-inclusive family getaways starting at $49 per person.

On Saturday, October 2, it's Waterville Valley's 20th annual Chowderfest with area restaurants vying for the "best chowda" award. Guests sample all the chowders for a small fee and then vote for their favorite. Chowderfest and an outdoor concert start in Town Square at 12:00 Noon. A Chowderfest Lodging Package includes two nights lodging, tickets to the Chowderfest, one Chowderfest souvenir, all Summer Unlimited recreation and starts at $49 per person/night based on a family of four (prices vary by lodge).

Over Columbus Day Weekend, October 10-12, the White Mountains in their brilliant fall colors provide the background to a two day Fall Foliage Festival. Saturday events feature amusement rides, outdoor concerts and Curious Kids events at the Curious George Cottage. Sunday's events start at 9:00 am with a 1.6k Family Fun Run followed by a 5k Foot Race sponsored by the Town of Waterville Valley Recreation Department. On Sunday there's pumpkin painting and mini pie eating competition. Two weekend tent sales, Sport Thoma's "kick off the season sale" and the WVBBTS Ski and Snowboard Swap, will help skiers and snowboarders get a jump start on the season. More details can be found at http://www.waterville.com. Fall Foliage Festival Lodging Packages feature daily tennis, daily round of golf, two hours of mountain biking and access to the White Mountain Athletic Club plus $50 in Town Square Bucks. Package prices start at $51 per person, per night, based on a family of four.

Chowderfest and Fall Foliage Festival Packages are offered at the Black Bear Lodge, Golden Eagle Lodge, Snowy Owl Inn, Valley Inn, Village Condos and Town Square Condominiums. Packages can be booked online at waterville.com or by calling 1-800 GO VALLEY. Rates do not include taxes and are subject to availability.

Injured Hiker Rescued in Bethlehem, N.H., Overnight

AskLisa — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 01:40:00 GMT

New Hampshire Fish and Game Department Conservation Officers rescued an injured hiker last night (September 3, 2009) on the Gale River Trail in Bethlehem, N.H. Elyse George, age 21, of Lebanon, N.H., a member of the Dartmouth Outing Club, was hiking with a companion when she injured her ankle. Fish and Game received a call for assistance at about 8:30 p.m. Rescue crews responded, including Fish and Game Conservation Officers and volunteers from Pemigewasset Valley Search and Rescue. Rescuers carried the young woman off the mountain, about 2 miles, to the Gale River Trail parking lot on Route 3, concluding at 2 a.m.

As the upcoming holiday weekend draws people to the White Mountains and other wilderness areas, Fish and Game reminds outdoor enthusiasts to be prepared for the unexpected. "This time of year, it will be cooler, even cold, at high altitudes, and daylight hours are growing shorter. Be sure to carry the ten essentials with you when hiking, including layers of clothing and a flashlight," said Col. Martin Garabedian, New Hampshire Fish and Game Law Enforcement Chief. "Leave your hiking itinerary with someone at home. Always plan for the unexpected; you never know what might happen, from unexpected injuries such as this one, to rapid changes in weather."

Do you know what the ten essential items you should have in your pack when hiking? Find the list, and other tips for safe hiking, at http://www.hikeSafe.com.

This fall experience the colors of New Hampshire off the beaten path

AskLisa — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 19:21:00 GMT

The air is starting to feel cool and the leaves in some parts of New Hampshire are already showing a hint that fall is on its' way. While we have had our fill of a rainy summer, the approach of the fall foliage season provides a reason to step outside and experience New Hampshire's fall colors. The Granite State offers many ways to experience the season off the beaten path whether through a hike, a drive, or a weekend stay. A foliage leaf peeking excursion can also be combined with a visit to one of the many state's attractions. New Hampshire in the fall bursts with the colors of nature and adventurous activities to keep the entire family busy.

New Hampshire's foliage season runs roughly from mid-September to mid-October, but this varies widely depending on weather, topography and geography. Just before the season begins, a sneak preview of fall can be found as swamp maples surrounding some ponds and lakes may turn a fiery red, and the deciduous trees of northern New Hampshire may have already begun their transformation. Columbus Day Weekend is often the focal point of fall foliage excursions, but the White Mountains can present earlier colors.

There are plenty of activities to keep visitors busy for a day or weekend.
Here are a few tips for enjoying New Hampshire's fall colors:

TAKE A CRUISE FOR A COLORFUL VIEW
One special place to enjoy the foliage show is Lake Winnipesaukee. It's hard to see foliage while you're driving, so why not take a cruise on the M/S Mount Washington and let the captains do the driving (and save the gas). The big lake has amazing color and the juxtaposition of the water and sky can be breathtaking. Starting Sunday, September 27, the Mount will offer Fall Foliage Dinner Cruises from 4:30 to 7 p.m. each Sunday through mid-October. The cruise departs from Weirs Beach, boarding at 4 p.m. Cost is adults: $43, children: $23 and a family pass is available for $109 (2 Adults and 2 Children). For more information visit http://www.cruisenh.com or call 888-843-6686.

SPEND A WEEKEND ENJOYING THE SEASON
Purity Spring Resort offers a fall foliage package September 7 through October 17 including lodging, breakfast, kayaking and canoeing, and other resort amenities. Local activities include apple picking, country fairs, a corn maze, shopping, and walks on the NH Audubon trails. For more information visit: http://purityspring.com/packages/fall-foliage-package.php or call 1-800-373-3754.

TAKE THE TRAIN THROUGH THE TREES OR A LIFT OVER THE MOUNTAINS
Climb aboard one of the region's three sightseeing trains for unique views of foliage: Hobo Scenic Railroad in Lincoln; the Conway Scenic Railroad in Conway, and the Cog Railway that chugs up Mount Washington from its base in Bretton Woods.

For a different aerial view, take the sky ride to get a bird's eye view of fall foliage. Ski mountains in the area offer trips on their chair lifts and gondolas to the tops of their mountains, where the views can be simply spectacular. Consider the Loon Mountain Gondola in Lincoln; the Wildcat Mountain Gondola in Jackson, and the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway in Franconia.

For more information visit http://www.visitwhitemountains.com or call 603-745-8720.

VIEW A LITTLE INDOOR COLOR
The Currier Museum of Art in Manchester provides a reason to step inside to experience the colors and textures in their featured exhibits. Turning Wood Into Art: The Jane and Arthur Mason Collection, is on display through September 27, 2009 and features 65 exquisitely crafted objects from one of the world's foremost collections of contemporary lathe-turned wood and highlights the aesthetic achievements in this medium. Spotlight New England: Gary Haven Smith and Gerald Auten is also on view through September 13, and features art by these two prominent New England artists. Opening September 26 is Evolution of a Shared Vision: The David and Barbara Stahl Collection, which features an extraordinary collection of prints and drawings, carefully assembled over a 50-year period by these two long-time New Hampshire residents. For more information visit http://www.currier.org or call 603.669.6144, ext. 108.

SURROUNDED BY FOREST AT WATERVILLE VALLEY RESORT
Waterville Valley is a full-featured resort area, which just happens to be surrounded by some of the most spectacular landscapes in northern New England The adjacent White Mountain National Forest features America's oldest network of hiking trails leading to spectacular views in all directions.

To complement the brilliant fall foliage, Waterville Valley's Town Square is hosting a Fall Carnival Saturday and Sunday, October 10 and 11, 2009. The weekend will feature a variety of family activities including free outdoor concerts, merchant tent sales, carnival rides and more. A Black & Blue Trail Smashers Ski swap will be held Saturday. On Sunday, a 5K-road race and an eating contest will be held. The hotels of Waterville Valley Resort will offer a package deal that includes two nights lodging, $50 in Town Square bucks, and Summer Unlimited activities starting at $63 per person, per night based on quad-occupancy. Or, enjoy the 20th Annual Chowderfest on Saturday October 3, 2009 (12 to noon) as local restaurants bring their chowders to booths at Town Square in hopes of winning the coveted prize of "Best Tasting Chowder" For more information, visit http://www.visitwatervillevalley.com or call 800-GO-VALLEY.

Teen Dies in Late-night ATV Incident in Freedom, N.H.

AskLisa — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 17:29:00 GMT

Nineteen-year-old Jason Phair, originally of Gorham, Maine, has died of injuries sustained in an All Terrain Vehicle incident in the early morning hours of August 24, 2009. Family members have been notified.

Phair, who had been living with his girlfriend and her parents in Conway, was attending a party at a house in Freedom, N.H. with several others, most of them younger than 21. At approximately 1:00 a.m., some of the attendees were taking turns riding on a 4-wheeled ATV on a private road. Phair reportedly rode as a passenger on the ATV before taking a ride on his own without a helmet. It appears that Phair lost control of the machine and struck a tree about 200 yards from the house.

The other party attendees took Phair back to the house, but did not call for help for a long period of time. At about 2:30 a.m., a call was placed to 911, alerting authorities to the young man's worsening condition. Phair was transported to Conway Memorial Hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 3:03 a.m.

Fish and Game Conservation Officer Brian Abrams met N.H. State Police and Freedom Police at the scene.

Phair's body is now in Concord and will be autopsied. The N.H. Fish and Game Department, the Freedom Police Department and N.H. State Police are investigating the incident. Speed and alcohol may have been contributing factors. No further information is available at this time.

New England Fiddler Adam Boyce at the Rey Center

AskLisa — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 20:46:00 GMT

The Margret and H.A. Rey Center in Waterville Valley has received a grant from the New Hampshire Humanities Council Humanities To Go! Program to sponsor an entertaining musical program by Adam Boyce, titled "Old Time Rules Will Prevail: The Fiddle Contest in New Hampshire and New England." The program will be presented on Friday, August 28, 2009 at 8:00 p.m. at the Margret and H.A. Rey Center in Waterville Valley Resort's Town Square. This amusing and informative program is free and open to the public of all ages.

Fiddle contests evolved from being endurance events to playing a set number of tunes judged by certain specific criteria. Whether large or small, fiddle contests tried to show who was the "best," as well as preserve old-time fiddling and raise money for local organizations. In recent years, the fiddle contest has declined significantly in New Hampshire and Vermont due to cultural changes and financial viability. The greatest legacies of the fiddle contest are the recordings made during live competition, a sampling of which are played during the presentation, along with some live fiddling by the presenter.

Adam Boyce, a 10th generation Vermonter and fiddler in his own right, has been involved with nearly every aspect of fiddle contests in New England since 1994, including judge, piano backup, as well as competitor. He was the 2000 Vermont division champion at the Northeast Fiddlers contest in Barre, Vermont, and has placed in nearly every New England state. Adam is also an Eastern style square dance caller who fiddles and calls simultaneously, and also plays piano backup for other fiddlers throughout Vermont and New Hampshire. You can also find Adam listed as a Juried Artist with the Vermonts Arts Council.

Rey Center Gallery programs highlight visual and performing arts, featuring local and regional artists, and are typically scheduled for the last Friday of the month during the summer and winter seasons. Margret and H.A. Rey, authors of the Curious George children's book series and former summer residents of Waterville Valley, NH, were artists and adventurers, historians and naturalists, gardeners and stewards. Today their spirit lives on in the Margret and H.A. Rey Center, a non-profit organization dedicated to honoring the Reys' legacy through art, science, and adventure programs for all ages. To register for this program or for more information please contact the Margret and H.A. Rey Center at www.reycenter.org or 603-236-3308.

Old Time Rules Will Prevail is one of over 250 programs and exhibits available to organizations statewide, through the Humanities to Go! Catalog. For more information contact the NH Humanities Council in Concord at 603-224-4071 or on the web at http://www.nhhc.org.

Dirt Bike Accident Claims Life of 11-year-old Rider

AskLisa — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 02:19:00 GMT

A tragic weekend dirt bike accident claimed the life of 11-year-old Zachary MacDonald of Hampstead, N.H. The boy's family was staying in a campground in Bath and riding on the rail trail between Bath and Lisbon, N.H. Zachary was riding third in a group of nine riders when he crashed into a gate on the trail about 6 p.m. on Saturday, August 15, in Lisbon, N.H. The trail is gated to prevent car and truck access, with openings to the side that are wide enough to accommodate All-Terrain Vehicles and dirt bikes. Zachary died after colliding with a post at one of these openings.

Zachary was the youngest rider in the group. He was an experienced rider, having ridden dirt bikes for the past six years. The group had ridden the trail several times and passed through the same gate earlier in the day. Visibility may have been limited by dust raised by the first two bikes and glare from the setting sun. Zachary was wearing a helmet and eye protection.

The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, with cooperation from the Lisbon Police Department, investigated the incident.

"The death of this young person is a truly sad situation," said Major Tim Acerno of New Hampshire Fish and Game Law Enforcement. "It is a tragic reminder that all riders - of any age or level of experience - need to be acutely aware of trail conditions, their surroundings and potential obstacles and hazards on the trail ahead."

Waterville Valley Resort hosts Bluegrass Festival

AskLisa — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 21:12:00 GMT

The 4th annual Bluegrass Festival will be held August 21 to 23 in Waterville Valley Resort's Town Square, rain or shine, with live Bluegrass bands Friday 6 to 10 p.m., Saturday noon to 9 p.m. and Sunday 10-3. Kid's activities, face painting, barbeque, food concessions, and raffles occur throughout the weekend. The Margret & H.A. Rey Center offers Saturday programs like Curious Kids, Curious George Story Time, and Astronomy night with the McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center. Fireworks over Corcoran's Pond light up the sky at 8:45 p.m. Saturday. Fireworks sponsored by Atlas Fireworks. Sunday morning starts off with music, an interactive live animal presentation, and church services all at 10 a.m.

Bands scheduled to perform include the Katahdin Valley Boys, Pine Hill Ramblers, Blackstone Valley Bluegrass, Monadnock, Mahogany Ridge, Iron Skillet, and Sugar Hillbillies. There is no admission charge for this festival. Suggested donation is $10 per individual or $25 per family, and donation packages include raffle tickets and other goodies. Lawn chairs and blankets welcome!

Special lodging packages include Friday and Saturday night stays, a Bluegrass Passport, and Summer Unlimited Activities starting at $52 per person, per night based on quad occupancy. The passport includes $40 in Bluegrass Bucks good at any food concession, coupons for goodies, and 10 raffle tickets to win prizes such as lodging, lift tickets, massage and more.

The Waterville Valley Summer Unlimited package includes boating, mountain biking, tennis, golf, ice skating, access to the White Mountain Athletic Club, use of the Waterville Valley shuttle, a scenic chair lift ride up Snow's Mountain, and access to the Waterville Valley Recreation's open gym program. With all the activities included in the price, guests who take advantage of this package will save at least 50 percent on their family vacation.

Waterville Valley was designed and planned as a self-contained, four-season resort. Today, in addition to its world-class ski area, Waterville Valley Resort has award-winning tennis courts, golf, hiking, biking, lodging, cultural activities and summer theater, an indoor ice rink, boating, a skate park, and a host of outdoor activities. Dining options include both traditional favorites and elegant eateries. For more information, call 1-800-GO-VALLEY or visit http://www.visitwatervillevalley.com.

Eco Art Weeks for Kids at Waterville Valley's Curious George Cottage

AskLisa — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 01:33:00 GMT

The Margret and H.A. Rey Center in Waterville Valley is partnering with lo cal Eco Artist Cynthia Robinson to present a week of art and nature programs for youth at their Curious George Cottage Studio. Children between the ages of 4 and 9 will have the opportunity to create sculptures using natural materials, contributing to an art trail along the Curious George Cottage Nature Trail.

Art TrailWorks! is being offered for ages 7-9 on July 27-31 from 9:00 a.m. -12:00 p.m. each day. Participants will explore natural materials and build "eco art" along the Curious George Nature Trail. Children will explore patterns, colors, lines, and shapes, while working together and individually with bark, sticks, rocks, pinecones, leaves, and more, highlighting the trail's natural beauty. Participants will also create drawings, use digital photography, and then work together to design a group book that tells the story of the Art Trail. Every participant will receive a published copy of the group Art TrailWorks! book. The cost ifor this age group is $145.

Exploring Nature and Art is being offered for ages 4-6 on July 27-31 from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. each day. Participants will base explorations on questions such as "Who lives in our woods?" and "What kinds of creatures walk on the Curious George Nature Trail?". Using natural materials, children will build shelters, webs, and nests for the local creatures along the Nature Trail. The sculptures will become part of a growing Art and Nature Trail. Participants will also be working on drawing, painting, and printmaking that will become part of the Art Trail Book. Every child will receive a published copy of the group Exploring Nature and Art book. The cost for this age group is $120.

Cynthia Robinson is a Visual Artist with over twenty years experience designing, teaching, and directing learning and arts programs. Cynthia's business, Eco Art a la carte is based on her work as an "Eco Artist" (a new form of environmental artist) and her passion for teaching. She believes that visual art can provide a simple gateway to understanding and exploring the natural environment. Cynthia explains, "Developing this relationship between students and the places in which they live is, in my opinion, essential to educating socially and environmentally conscious future adults. My approach to teaching is based on creating a learning space where students can apply their natural creative ability to new materials and concepts."

Margret and H.A. Rey, authors of the Curious George children's book series and former summer residents of Waterville Valley, NH, were artists and adventurers, historians and naturalists, gardeners and stewards. Today their spirit lives on in the Margret and H.A. Rey Center , a non-profit organization dedicated to honoring the Reys' legacy through art, science, and adventure programs for all ages. To register for this program or for more information please contact the Margret and H.A. Rey Center at http://www.reycenter.org or 603-236-3308.

Body Found on Mt. Washington Identified as Lost Canadian Hiker

AskLisa — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 01:30:00 GMT

A body recovered on Mount Washington on the evening of July 6, 2009, has been identified as that of Peter Shintani, age 70, of Napanee, Ontario, according to Sgt. Wayne Saunders of the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department.

Hikers had reported finding a body off the Lion's Head Trail on Mount Washington, the highest peak in New Hampshire's White Mountains, late Monday afternoon. Personnel from the Mount Washington State Park hiked to the area and confirmed the location of the body, approximately three-quarters of a mile from the top of the mountain. It was a few hundred feet from the trail, hidden from view from the trail or from the air by rocky ledges. Conservation Officers from the N.H. Fish and Game Department, members of the Androscoggin Valley Search and Rescue Team and personnel from the Mount Washington State Park hiked to the location, along with a Medical Examiner and State Police Troop F Detective Sgt. Michael Marshall, who began an investigation at the scene. The body was transported to the summit of Mount Washington and taken down the mountain via the auto road. State Police then sent the body to the State Medical Examiners Office in Concord, N.H., for an autopsy and positive identification.

Shintani had been missing for more than a week before his absence was reported on June 16, 2009. An extensive ground and air search of the Mount Washington area was launched, but failed to locate any sign of him. In all, more than 70 rescuers and a N.H. Army National Guard helicopter combed the rugged mountain area during the three-day search, which was finally called off on June 18, 2009. Following the search, N.H. Fish and Game continued to seek information from the hiking community about possible sightings or other clues. Shintani's sister in Ontario has been notified of the positive identification.

No further information is available at this time.

Art Naturally at the Curious George Cottage

AskLisa — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 01:08:00 GMT

The Margret and H.A. Rey Center in Waterville Valley is partnering with local Eco Artist Cynthia Robinson to present two week-long art and nature programs for youth. Children will have the opportunity to create sculptures using natural materials, contributing to an art trail along the Curious George Cottage Nature Trail.

Art TrailWorks! is being offered for ages 7-9 on July 27-31 from 9:00 a.m. -12:00 p.m. each day. Participants will explore natural materials and build "eco art" along the Curious George Nature Trail for all to enjoy. Children will think about patterns, colors, lines, and shapes, while working together and individually with bark, sticks, rocks, pinecones, leaves, and more, highlighting the trail's smallest details and natural beauty. Participants will also create drawings, use digital photography, and then work together to design a group book that tells the story of our Art Trail. Every participant will receive a professionally published copy of the group Art TrailWorks! book.

Exploring Nature and Art is being offered for ages 4-6 on July 27-31 from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. each day. Participants will base explorations on questions such as "Who lives in our woods?" and "What kinds of creatures walk on the Curious George Nature Trail?". Using natural materials, children will build shelters, webs, and nests for the local creatures along the Nature Trail. The sculptures will become part of a growing Art and Nature Trail. Participants will also be working on drawing, painting, and printmaking that will become part of the Art Trail Book. Every child will receive a professionally published copy of the group Exploring Nature and Art book.

Cynthia Robinson is a Visual Artist with over twenty years experience designing, teaching, and directing learning and arts programs. As a working visual artist, making art is a regular part of Cynthia's life, which compliments and inspires her various teaching/presentation events. When asked about the inspiration for her work, Cynthia responded, "I find that my students inspire my own artwork and vice-versa. The processes and concepts may be different, but the energy and creative spirit cross back and forth." Cynthia's business, Eco Art a la carte is based on her work as an "Eco Artist" (a new form of environmental artist) and her passion for teaching. She believes that visual art can provide a simple gateway to understanding and exploring the natural environment. Cynthia explains, "Developing this relationship between students and the places in which they live is, in my opinion, essential to educating socially and environmentally conscious future adults. My approach to teaching is based on creating a learning space where students can apply their natural creative ability to new materials and concepts."

Margret and H.A. Rey, authors of the Curious George children's book series and former summer residents of Waterville Valley, NH, were artists and adventurers, historians and naturalists, gardeners and stewards. Today their spirit lives on in the Margret and H.A. Rey Center, a non-profit organization dedicated to honoring the Reys' legacy through art, science, and adventure programs for all ages. To register for this program or for more information please contact the Margret and H.A. Rey Center at http://www.reycenter.org or 603-236-3308.

Rey Center Summer Youth Programs

AskLisa — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 12:30:00 GMT

The Margret and H.A. Rey Center in Waterville Valley, NH is offering a variety of fun youth programs this summer. Join the Rey Center to enjoy weekly performances by the Papermill Children's Theatre, youth gardening programs, nature exploration programs, and more.

The summer schedule kicks off with the Papermill Children's Theatre performing "Rumplestiltskin" on Thursday, June 25 at 10:30 a.m. in the Rey Center Brookside Room in Waterville Valley's Town Square. The Papermill Children's Theatre will perform a different original musical production each week at the Rey Center on Thursday mornings through August 13. The line-up includes Snow White and the Seven Dwarves, Hansel and Gretel, The Little Mermaid, The Jungle Book, Rapunzel, The Nightingale, and Aladdin. Tickets are $6.00 per person and available at the door.

Rey Center youth gardening programs begin on Tuesday, June 30 with the "Farm Sprouts" program for ages 4-6 from 10:30-11:30 a.m. and the SEEDS Club for Kids from 1:00-3:00 p.m. Participants will explore a variety of garden-related themes through activities, games, projects, stories and more. Children will have the opportunity to experience organic gardening as they learn about the garden cycle from soil to seed to flower to fruit, and everything in between! Participants will help tend the Sprouts Patch youth garden and will sample the fruits of their labor throughout the season. Youth gardening programs are held at the Sandwich Mountain Farm located on Sandwich Notch Road in Thornton, NH every Tuesday through the end of August. Participants are welcome to come once or come every week.

Families will enjoy Saturday mornings spent exploring the forests, meadows, ponds and streams during weekly "Curious Kids" programs held on Saturday mornings from 10:30 am. -12:00 p.m. at the Margret and H.A. Rey Center in Waterville Valley Resort's Town Square. During these fun programs, families with children ages 5 and up will explore the natural world through stories, outdoor activities, and crafts. Each week will focus on a different theme. "Curious Kids" begins Saturday, July 11 and runs weekly through September 5, 2009.

These are just a taste of the collection of youth programs designed to satisfy curiosity this summer! Margret and H.A. Rey, authors of the Curious George children's book series and former summer residents of Waterville Valley, NH, were artists and adventurers, historians and naturalists, gardeners and stewards. Today their spirit lives on in the Margret and H.A. Rey Center, a non-profit organization dedicated to honoring the Reys' legacy through art, science, and adventure programs for all ages.

Registration is requested for all programs. To register for programs or for more information, including program locations and fees, or to view a complete program schedule, please contact the Margret and H.A. Rey Center at www.reycenter.org or 603-236-3308.

Waterville Valley was designed and planned specifically as a self-contained, four seasons resort. Today in addition to its world-class ski area, Waterville Valley Resort has award-winning tennis courts, golf, hiking, biking, lodging, cultural activities and summer theater, an indoor ice rink, boating, a skate park, and a host of outdoor activities. Dining options include traditional favorites and elegant dining. For more information, call 1-800-GO-VALLEY or visit http://www.visitwatervillevalley.com.