2013 Polar Express Packages SOLD OUT!!

Santa's Workshop, Jackson NH Headquarters - Nearly 500 little boys and girls and their families will be coming to the Lodge at Jackson Village this holiday season to experience the magical Polar Express train, an old-fashioned horse-drawn sleigh ride, and much, much more.nnUnfortunately, not even Santa himself can make any more room on the train (or at our inn) for this year.  Packages are COMPLETELY sold out -- there are NO tickets available.  In January 2014, we will start a waiting list for next year's magical ride. Please call The Lodge AFTER the first of the year to reserve your spot on this ultimate train ride to the North Pole!

Limited Polar Express Packages Still Available

Only 26 of our nearly 500 Polar Express Tickets are left for this season, and they are going fast! Our packages include 2 nights lodging with breakfast each morning, a personal letter from Santa and an age-appropriate gift bag of goodies from the elves for each of your children; the Polar Express tickets, an old-fashioned horse-drawn sleighride at Nestlenook Farm, including the Miracle at Nestlenook production; and Free ski passes to XC, snow shoe or go tubing at Great Glen Trails (if there is snow). The price includes tax. Still available:
     * (1) Package of Four (4) 1st Class tickets at 6:30, for the Train on Friday, Dec. 6, $1149 (These four tickets are the only ones available for this date)
   
     * (1) Package of Three (3) Coach tickets at 4 pm, for the Train on Sunday, Dec. 22, $899 (These three tickets are the only ones available for this date.

     *  One-Night Sunday Special on Sunday, Dec. 8th.     We still have 16 of coach (4 pm) and Four 1st Class tickets available. The Package of 4 at 6:30 is $599. The others will be priced according to the number of tickets you are looking for.

Ski This Weekend!

The clocks may have moved back, but Bretton Woods' award-winning snowmaking crew has been moving full steam ahead!

They'll be open this Saturday and Sunday, November 9 & 10, for 1 mile and 1,000 vertical of top to bottom terrain on Range View off the Zephyr high-speed quad lift. Tickets for all ages are just $19.73 on Saturday in honor of Bretton Woods' opening year, and $39 on Sunday. Lifts will run 9am-4pm.

After the weekend, Bretton Woods will be closed Monday-Friday (11/11-15), but with Mother Nature's cooperation we anticipate reopening for the season on Saturday, November 16. Stay tuned on brettonwoods.com or Facebook for the latest, including 40th Anniversary events and specials.

 

Fitness Open House Nov. 1

Mount Washington Valley's Newest Fitness Center is powered by TechnoGym. Come check out all the incredible offerings at the Open House November 1, 2013 4 - 7 PM at the Snowflake Inn

You are personally invited to come and check out the Mount Washington Valley's newest
fitness center, powered by TechnoGym while enjoying a Wine & Cheese Reception. The
gym has HDTVs, Yoga and Dance Floor, Comfort Zone and is open 365 Days a Year from
7 AM to 10 PM. TechnoGym USA, founded in 1983, is an Italy based company and recognized as the global leader in fitness research and innovation - creating the world's finest, most
technologically advanced equipment - unparalleled in optimal biomechanics and ergonomic
performance.Selected as the exclusive supplier for five consecutive Olympic Games, the TechnoGym
premium product line continues to be the favorite of the world's elite athletes, luxury
resorts and hotels, top fitness facilities, fine country clubs, and professional sports teams
worldwide and now available to you at the Snowflake Inn. Join us for the Open House at the Snowflake Inn on November 1, 2013 from 4 - 7 PM and see for yourself what the buzz is all about. During the open house we will be offering early membership promos and gift giveaways. Also available will be a special raffle to benefit Christmas Can Cure.

The Wellness Zone Comes to Jackson!

A world class fitness and wellness center has come to Jackson, NH and has opened this week! Located just a short walk part way around the Jackson Loop from The Lodge, it has state of the art Technogym
fitness equipment, sauna and pool, and will soon be offering classes and the services of personal trainers. Come check it out ... another great reason to visit Jackson as the leaves continue to fall ...

Colors Linger Long after Guests!

Columbus Day weekend has come and gone, and with it the majority of the Leaf Peepers. This is good news for everyone else who loves the foliage but doesn't want to fight the crowds and hordes of the peak weekend of the year. Believe it or not, it took an hour and 15 minutes to go the 7 minute drive to North Conway over the weekend. UGH -- who needs that?!  But fall is still prime here, the colors are vibrant, though perhaps a bit lighter on the reds at this point.  Traffic is non-existent, and rates have dropped to new lows. In short, it is one of the most lovely times of the year to visit the White Mountains, and Jackson in particular.  Here you will find more than 50 Pumpkin People displays in our town -- all playful and creative. There is a fabulous exhibit of White Mountain art at the Historical Society Museum that is first class! It is one of the best times of the year to visit!

Pumpkin People 1st Place goes to Jackson Historical Society

Is this the Art of the Harvest or a Harvest of the Art? The Pumpkin display of the Jackson Historical Society, "Shapleigh from the Inside Out", has won first prize by the judges. This display incorporates a mission of  the Society to promote 19th century White Mountain Art as well as promoting its upcoming exhibition of the same name. Frank Sapling (1846 - 1906) frequently used similar elements in his barn scenes looking from the inside out an open door to the landscape beyond: chickens, yellow hat, ladder back chair, a cat. These can all be found in the display. The inspiration to do a Shapleigh-themed exhibit came from DD Warren. John Little was the architect and master barn builder. Linda Little borrowed items from Heritage Village (many thanks) and designed most of the display. June McLeavey-Weeder, Wendy McVey and Leslie Schomaker were willing assistants. Many thanks to all these Jackson residents who lent a hand in this fun and educational exhibit. When you take a look at this (and many of the other wonderful Pumpkin People displays), be sure to go inside the Museum of White Mountain Art, which is a fantastic exhibition of both historical and contemporary paintings of our amazingly beautiful White Mountains, thanks to the tireless efforts of Warren Shomaker. 

 

The Ghoullog is Back!

The Ghoullog is back for it's 7th year of haunting at Cranmore Mountain, sponsored by Angry Orchard, test your limits in the Mercer Home for the Criminally Insane.  Bigger and better than ever this year, with an added outdoor element through the dark woods, an indoor walk through mazes, dark rooms, and scares around every corner, and we even had to add two more nights, bringing the season into November!  Enhance your Ghoullog experience by adding a trip through the Haunted Playground for an extended night of haunting fun. The excitement doesn't stop there, on the last night the Ghoullog presents 'Lights Out' where all lights will be out in the building, with only a glow-stick to navigate through the Mercer Home. On October 30th, Cranmore and The Ghoullog team up for the 'Psycho Bash; Halloween Costume Party' at 7pm in the Bloody Noose Pub, with live music, dancing, drink specials, and more, open to guests 21+.  Purchase your tickets online in advance.

Awesome Entertainment Friday, Sept. 27

What do you take when you combine harmonies, guitars, mandolins and a lovely fall evening in the White Mountains? It's a night of folk and bluegrass to remember, as dynamic folk duo Bennett & Perkins team up with bluegrass favorites, Ted DeMille & Bobby St. Pierre (of North Sttar fame) at Intervale, NH's Theatre in the Wood on Fri. Sept. 27, 2013 at 7pm.  Doors open at 6:30pm

Ted DeMille & Bobby St. Pierre

Musical partnerships can be fleeting, but multi-instrumentalist Bobby St. Pierre and singer-songwriter Ted DeMille have stuck together going on twenty years. They began playing together as part of North Star in 1994, then as half of Bits and Pieces. They play a down to earth blend of bluegrass instrumentation. You’ll hear the mandolin and guitar from the first Bluegrass duets combined with heartfelt vocals, the Celtic call of the mandola, flat-picked guitar; back porch music presented with no pretense. Original music mixed with old favorites, Ted and Bobby are two old friends using time tested skills to forge something new.

Bennett & Perkins This Mt. Washington Valley based folk duo offers a startling array of original songs with powerful lyrics and melodies, coupled with exceptionally strong vocals and guitar playing. Thom Perkins' guitar work has been compared to Richard Thompson and Bruce Cockburn - you'll swear he has more than 10 fingers once you hear him play. Kathy Bennett has "a voice that can crack sheet rock" with vocals likened to Lucinda Williams, Bonnie Raitt and Emmy Lou Harris all rolled into one. Together, they're a powerhouse of folk sure to resonate on both a physical and emotional level.Just off their summer New England tour, the duo released their second CD last year. Produced by New England musical phenom Tom Dean and entitled "House on Fire, the album is a powerful collection of original songs and a natural continuation of their music from their first CD "The Kitchen Music Sessions" (2010). Tickets are $12 in advance and $15 at the door and they may be purchased at the Theatre in the Wood box office at 41 Observatory Way in Intervale, NH  (

 603.356.9980 ); atNorth Conway Music Center on Route 16 in North Conway;

or by visiting 

www.bennettandperkins.com. Call 603-305-7156 for more information.

Jackson Ski Touring has New Director

It might seem early to you, but XC-skiing is just around the corner! New grooming equipment, trail improvement and a new director of operations will make winter cross country skiing and snowshoeing in our quintessential village of Jackson, NH, even more spectacular. 

“We are really looking forward to another great season,” said Jackson Ski Touring Foundation’s Executive Director Thom Perkins. “Upgrading our grooming equipment and trail improvements, along with Breanne’s promotion to Director of Operations, are examples of our commitment to providing an extraordinary experience for skiers and snowshoers coming to Jackson and our vision for the future.”

 

Season passes to the trails are on sale now at a preseason discount. Adults are only $115, juniors range from $20 – $40 depending on age and children under 10 are always free.

The Foundation is upgrading the fleet of snow grooming tractors with a brand new $185,000 state-of-the-art Kassborher PB 100 grooming vehicle and by also purchasing a new grooming implement to supplement their early season grooming fleet.  The Jackson Ski Touring Foundation has the largest trail system in the east and is known for the quality of its world-class grooming.  The new PB 100 incorporates the latest in grooming technology and is much anticipated by Jackson’s veteran grooming staff.

“The Foundation has over the years spent hundreds of thousands of dollars preparing the surface of the trails to be able to groom with the first snow of the season.  Skiers can be assured that with this new equipment the Ski Touring Foundation’s crew will be able to provide even better skiing,” Perkins continued.

Trail improvements continue to be made on a prioritized schedule. The parking lot at East Pasture Loop has already been expanded and resurfaced to improve access to these trails.  Additionally, a new aluminum bridge will link the Woodchuck Fields and the Wildcat Valley Fields/Eagle Mountain Fields, two beginner trail sections, to ensure an important season-long connection. 

This season will see an expansion of the Storyland Element Garden at the Touring Center which is designed for young children.  A kid-friendly terrain garden will be added to the offering.

On Saturdays, Sundays and during holiday periods, hot chocolate covered waffles will be available in the Ellis River Warming Cabin. This log cabin is located 3km from the Jackson Ski Touring Foundation office along the Ellis River Trail. In addition to waffles, hot chocolate, water and other refreshments will be available. The cabin is heated and there is a picnic bench and chairs for skiers and snowshoers to use to take a warm up break.

Also located at the Cabin is the Anklebiter children’s race course – a 300-foot race course where children get timed and are given a gold chocolate coin as a reward.

Breanne Torrey, who has worked at the Foundation since 2009 and most recently held the position of Head of Patrol, has been promoted to Director of Operations. In this role and under Perkins’ tutelage, she will oversee all office staff, the rental shop, ski school and trail operations departments as well as patrol.  She fills a newly created staffing position to allow Perkins to concentrate on long-term goals of the Jackson Ski Touring Foundation.

The Foundation continues to partner with the White Mountain National Forest and 76 private landowners to offer great cross country skiing and snowshoe trails throughout Jackson.

The Jackson Ski Touring Foundation is a community based not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization, chartered to maintain trails in and around the charming Village of Jackson, NH. The "Foundation" maintains 150 km of varied and breathtaking cross country ski and snowshoe trails. Foundation trails connect with A.M.C. trails in Pinkham Notch and White Mountain National Forest backcountry adventure trails. The Foundation operates under a Special-Use Permit with the White Mountain National Forest, and with the cooperation of 75 private landowners, and the Village of Jackson.  More information about the Foundation and its offerings can be found on the web at www.jacksonxc.org.

- See more at: http://www.travpr.com/pr-25743-jackson-ski-touring-foundation.html#sthash.17Kq8lrz.dpuf

Alternative Energy Summit

September 14th & 15th 2013 Continuing its historic role as a proving and playground for new and evolving technologies, the Mt. Washington Auto Road will be hosting a new “Alt Energy Summit” weekend event on September 14-15, 2013. Given the proliferation of vehicles on the road fueled by alternative sources, this event will bring together examples of what technologies are currently available on the open market, including electric, propane, bio-diesel, compressed natural gas, hybrid electric, as well as inviting entrepreneurs who are developing their own versions of alternative power.

Muster in the Mountains

This weekend long event is a colonial encampment of reenactors representing various individuals of the French and Indian War, Revolutionary War, and Mountain Man periods from 1750 through 1840. This gathering will take place in the Fields of the Mount Washington Auto Road in beautiful Pinkham Notch of the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Participants will demonstrate the use of appropriate tools, clothing, and firearms for their respective time periods. This event is free and open to the general public from 10am – 4pm  with the hope that the education they receive here may spur them on to consider becoming a future participant.

The Auto Road remains fully open during this event.

Activities will include:

• 1800 Firearms & Cannon Display & Competition
• Woods Walk Competition
• Tomahawk and Knife Throwing
• Cooking Competition
• Weaving, Basketmaking, Quill work, Candle Dipping
• Gunsmithing, Coppersmithing, Blacksmithing
• Archery, Wood Carving, Century Games and more!

Please, no dogs allowed at this event, thank you.

Summer is Waning, Leaves They are a-Changing

It has been picture perfect the last two weeks and today is no exception.  Warm, sunny, blue-sky days … cool and very crisp nights, but no frost yet, thank goodness.  My beautiful flowers (and I) are very happy for that!  Summer will officially be with us for another month, but once Labor Day hits we all start to shift gears mentally and anticipate fall … one of the absolute best and most beautiful seasons in our White mountains. How is it possible that Labor Day is NEXT weekend already?  To me it seems like the summer just started. Let’s enjoy the fruits of our labors and take a much-deserved and needed rest from usual duties.  Call to make a reservation while rooms last … they’re filling fast!

Sunset Soiree on Mount Washington

Consider supporting Mount Washington’s wonderful work in weather observation, research and education by attending their sunset soiree on September 7th!  At this event you can Eat Dessert First … along with a champagne toast at sunset at the summit of Mount Washington! Following this magical start to the evening, guests are transported back to the Glen View Café at the base of the Auto Road where they are served an elegant dinner catered by the Thompson House Eatery. All proceeds go to the Observatory. MWO’s “Sunset Soiree on the Summit”is one of New England’s truly unique fundraising events, combining the rugged beauty of Mount Washington with delectable cuisine and a stunning sunset, all to support a very worthy cause. Time: 4:45-9:00pm; Place: Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center

Cost: $125 per person for Observatory members,$150 per person for non-members.

 

 

 

Adventure Photography Tours with Ernie Mills

Picture this…being in just the right spot at just the right time, camera in hand, with one of nature’s most magnificent scenes laid out before you…sound like a photographer’s dream, right? Well, the Mt. Washington Auto Road can now make that dream come true! During our summer season an exclusive series of Guided Photography Tours, led by renowned photographer Ernie Mills, is now being offered on the slopes and summit of the Northeast’s highest Peak as well as other spectacular spots in Pinkham Notch.

Experience the ever changing weather and climactic conditions where every moment reveals a breathtaking and constantly evolving view of the Presidential Range and beyond. Whether you’re a professional photographer who needs fast and certain access to unforgettable images, or an amateur seeking instruction and a helping hand from those who know and love this mountain, these tours have been designed for your enjoyment!

Tours are 3 hours in length and are being offered every Friday. Choose from either a Sunrise, Day time or Sunset tour. Specific appointments on other days of the week are available upon request. The daytime tour typically involves optional hikes into the Alpine Garden about 3 miles round trip from the Auto Road. The Alpine Garden visit may not be suited to all guests due to the medium level of rocky hiking.

Price: 12-17 yrs old $100
18 and up $150
not recommended for children under 12 years old

Box lunches are included from the Glen View Café for daytime and evening tours. Or after your sunrise tour enjoy breakfast in the Glen View Café.

To book your tour call Ernie at (317) 691-7376 or call the Auto Road at (603) 466-3988.

To make your experience more enjoyable you may be more comfortable if you bring the items on the gear/clothing list here.

See Ernie article in the May issue of NH To Do!

Guided Photography trips to the secrets of Mt. Washington – Great article by the Boston Examiner

Review from a recent guest

Ernie Mills Facebook Page
Ernie Mills Photography Website

Come Celebrate the 60th Anniversary at the Shannon Door

The Shannon Door is an 'institution' in Jackson and now it is celebrating its historic 60th Anniversary Celebration from September 5th through September 15th! Join them -- and us -- on any of these days as they celebrate 60 years of the Mulkern family's operation of New Hampshire's #1 Irish Pub experience. Walk to and from the Lodge to get there (it's just across the street).  Come and get reaquainted with old friends and musicians.  Celebrations include give-aways, door prizes and celebrity bartenders.  Check out their website (www.shannondoor.com) or Facebook page for dates of musicians and celebrity bartenders.  Live entertainment nightly. They hope that every one of their old and new friends will stop by to share a pint, a laugh and a song on this very special occasion.  Bring or send a favorite story of Oak Lee Lodge/ Shannon Door.

Expanded Hours for a "Peak" Experience!

Did you know that the Mount Washington Auto Road has new summer hours? Their awesome guided tours are now TWO  hours in length, giving you one full hour up on the summit. When you check into The Lodge, ask for your complimentary guest passes which entitle you to discounted guided tours, or one free passenger when you drive yourself to the summit.  It also gets you free use of the Great Glen Trails system of biking, running or walking, and a 50% discount on bike rental packages. Beat the heat by coming to the mountains and stay cool in the dog days of summer.

Seek the Peak - and Stay Cool!

A magnificent day to “Seek The Peak”! Postponed due to severe weather on the high peaks yesterday, today’s ‘rain date’ was made to order: clear, cool and cloudless; it couldn’t be more perfect!  This is the Mount Washington Observatory’s biggest fundraiser of the year … hundreds climb with pledges from friends and associates to help this great organization meet their financial goals. Not a hiker? No problem … the weather’s great in Jackson Village, too!  Trying to beat the oppressive heat wave? The mountains of New Hampshire are THE place to be! Tonight is forecasted to be 49 degrees and tomorrow’s high is 69! My favorite place to be each afternoon is in the middle of our stretch of the Ellis River. Come join me!

Calling All Hobbits!!

Calling all Hobbits … (and their families!!).  Our brand new Hobbit Playhouse has just arrived from Middle Earth, and joins our swing set and sandbox out by the river for lots of continued fun after Story Land closes for the day. Be one of the first to enter through the round  green door for lots of imaginative fun. It is so lovely that we recently had a young couple ask if they could rent it for an evening of camping!  Alas … we had to tell them that it is reserved for our Wee Folk alone here at The Lodge.  Come check it out for yourself! It’s the only one in our part of The Shire!

A Cure for the Heat

Wow, it’s hot … even here in the mountains!  Fortunately we also have the cure: rivers, waterfalls and water sports!!  Jackson Falls is Nature’s water park … totally free, naturally gorgeous! But there are dozens of waterfalls in the area, some with pools perfect for swimming, and we can steer you in the right direction. If you want something more adventurous, why not consider Great Glen Trails Outfitters to help you have a splash of a good time?! They have just what you need to spend a day on the water. They offer full and half day paddling trips designed to introduce you to the rivers and lakes of northern New Hampshire. Even if you have never been in a kayak before, they’ll have you exploring on your own by the end of their trip. These trips are known for their moose, eagle and osprey sightings.  Whether it's a leisurely flatwater trip on the Androscoggin River below Gorham or a pulse pounding whitewater experience on the Androscoggin River in Errol, trained instructors will treat you to a great day on the water. Call for more info or reservation, 603-466-2333.

A Cure for the Heat

Wow, it’s hot … even here in the mountains!  Fortunately we also have the cure: rivers, waterfalls and water sports!!  Jackson Falls is Nature’s water park … totally free, natural and gorgeous! But there are dozens of waterfalls in the area, some with pools perfect for swimming, and we can steer you in the right direction. And if you want something more adventurous, why not consider Great Glen Trails Outfitters to help you have a splash of a good time?! They have  just what you need to spend a day on the water. They offer full and half day paddling trips designed to introduce you to the rivers and lakes of northern New Hampshire. Even if you have never been in a kayak before, they’ll have you exploring on your own by the end of their trip. These trips are known for their moose, eagle and osprey sightings.  Whether it's a leisurely flatwater trip on the Androscoggin River below Gorham or a pulse pounding whitewater experience on the Androscoggin River in Errol, trained instructors will treat you to a great day on the water. Call for more info or reservation, 603-466-2333.

 

Time for Second Chances ... and Third, and Fourth ...

No one looks forward to the annual Duck Festival, and the Fireworks display weekends more than my husband ... both events always held each May and June, Rain or Shine.  Except this year, when record rains and forecasts have postponed things not once or twice but three and four times! Yes, it has been a wet season so far, and yesterday's sun was a much appreciated event! But the thing to remember is that forecasts for the mountains are seldom accurate and can change in a matter of minutes, having absolutely no resemblance to the daily predictions! Yesterday's in fact was for 'more of the same' ... rain and thunderstorms, and yet we had not a drop of it, and the sky was totally blue and sunny all day long, despite the fact that the forecast never budged from its original prediction. And how wrong it was!! We are hoping for more sun  this weekend when both the Duck Festival AND the Fireworks display converge on Saturday (festival) and  Saturday evening (fireworks) ... a fabulous double event that should make the Independence Day celebrations absolutely fantastic! So if you missed out on the first go-rounds of these events, this year you get a second chance (or more!). We are almost at full occupancy but there are a few openings here and there in the schedule, so consider getting the bonus of these two great events when you visit our beautiful little village.  It just doesn't get much better than this!!

Jackson Fireworks Weekend Coming Up June 28 & 29

Every year Jackson Village and our guests come together to celebrate Independence Day with quite a bang!  Join us as we light up the sky with a spectacular fireworks display Friday June 28, 2013 at approximately 9 PM. The Fireworks will be going off from the greens of the Wentworth Golf Course making easy viewing throughout Jackson Village but The Lodge has the ringside seats. Reserve a room on the front of our building and watch them from your balcony, or join us around the pool on comfy chairs.  The fireworks are set off directly across the street. The J-Town Deli & Country store will be open during the festivities with delicious baked goods, fireworks specials such as sparklers and more. The chamber will offer popcorn, fried dough, corn dogs and other items across from the Wentworth Golf Club area and our Fire Department will be selling glow necklaces and T Shirts. 

Innkeepers Need Vacations, Too!

This past week the Lodge was closed for a long-planned and much-anticipated Family Reunion at our cottage on the coast of Maine. All of our children and their spouses were there, as well as my husband's parents and sister. It was 7 days of pure heaven ... kayaking around Casco Bay to visit the many islands, see harbor seals, eagles and osprey.  One of the highlights was watching a female harbor seal give birth on one of the 'seaweed islands' that appear during low tide.  AWESOME!!  We ate, played games, took long walks, told stories and had one of the best weeks of my life. This little cottage of ours in Harpswell, Maine is available for rental during the peak season. While we are fully reserved for this season, we are already taking reservations for 2014.  You can view it on our listing at http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p975490  And now, it is back to innkeeping as usual at The Lodge.  Coming up this weekend is the special Art in Bloom self-guided tour through Jackson Village, and the fabulous fireworks next weekend, June 28th. As the season is getting into full-swing, we are refreshed and ready to welcome you to a wonderful White Mountain getaway!

Ride to the Sky

If you thought Laconia Bike Week was entertaining, wait until you ride the Mt. Washington Auto Road. A ride up Mt. Washington is a one of-a-kind experience. Every time. Encounter ever changing weather, panoramic views and four climate zones as you climb the highest point in the Northeast. You’ve seen the bumper stickers. Now, discover what all the fuss is about ... only 10 minutes north of The Lodge!

Abe and Mary Lincoln at Library June 12 -- Honest!!

The Friends of the Jackson Public Library will host a NH Humanities Council presentation by Steven and Sharon Wood, in Telling His-Story (and Hers) as they portray Abraham and Mary Lincoln. They’ll begin by recounting his early life and end with a reading of the "Gettysburg Address." Along the way Steven comments on the debates Abraham Lincoln held with Stephen Douglas, his run for the presidency, and the Civil War. This will take place on Wednesday June 12^th, 2013 at 7:00 pm at the Jackson Public Library. Steven and Sharon combine their common interests in teaching, community theatre and story-telling into living history presentations for audiences of all ages. Steven’s surprising resemblance to Abraham Lincoln and Sharon’s background as a writer and story-teller have prompted them to research, write and perform original programs on 19^th century American history.  Steve has been portraying Abraham Lincoln at historical societies, libraries, schools, and community events since 1995. He and his wife Sharon are members of the Association of Lincoln Presenters and were recognized by the group as the Best Abraham and Mary Lincoln Team for both 2003 and 2006. Steve took second place in the Lincoln Look-Alike Contest held in Hodgenville, Kentucky in 2000.  This program is free and open to the public.

Still Time to Get All Your Ducks in a Row

Jackson’s Annual Wildquack Duck Festival made history last week when this Rain or Shine event was postponed due to SNOW, (that’s record-breaking news, too!).  The combination of torrential rains and ‘potential skiing’ not only made it unlikely that anyone would come … and that those who did would be mighty uncomfortable; it made it extremely dangerous for our young ‘Stuck-Duck Patrollers’ to do their jobs in the river.  As it turned out, it didn’t snow in Jackson, but it did on Mount Washington and Wildcat.  However it was cold and windy, and the Big Quacks who made the decision made the right call; having it that day on the wetter-than-wet field just wouldn’t have been fun. So …. we now have a second chance for fun! The new date is Saturday, June 8^th – an all-day event on the  town field. And speaking of ‘chances’ … we also have the opportunity to get in on the money, too. The stakes may not be as big as that last PowerBall, but the odds of winning (and winning substantial cash) are so much greater.  There will be more than $10,000 in cash and prizes.  Be sure to stop by our front desk to purchase your tickets!  Good old-fashioned family fun to be had by all. You need not be present the day of the race to collect your winnings.

 

 

 

The Kindness Capital of New England!

   In May of 2011, The Mount Washington Valley became known as the Kindness Capital of New England! Locals and visitors alike participated in random acts kindness throughout the community. The event began with a presentation by Michael at the Theater in the Woods. A special event following the lecture, was held in Schouler Park. It featured a candle-lit labyrinth (sponsored by Soyfire Candle) and circle of forgiveness where the public was invited to reflect on aspects of their lives that may be causing pain, anxiety, or suffering of any kind. The next day, everyone gathered in N. Conway Village for more inspiration and to collect the tools of the kindness trade before fanning out to the community to commit generous acts on unsuspecting people. The weekend then continued with a variety of activities and more opportunities to make North Conway radiate with kindhearted energy!

http://www.michaeljchase.com/mjc/The_Kindness_Center_files/shapeimage_4.png

 

Summer Starts Next Weekend!

Well, not OFFICIALLY …  but in our minds it does!!  Once Memorial Day weekend hits, it’s summer as far as we’re concerned!  Our pool is officially open, and with it so is Story Land, Santa’s Village and a myriad of other local attractions. Although our evenings are still chilly, the trees and flowers are in full leaf and bloom.  Our hummingbirds returned a week ago. Before you know it we’ll be serving up breakfast 7-days a week again (starting July 15^th) instead of just on weekends. So what are you waiting for?  Rates will never be lower, nor traffic as light as they are now. Hope to see you soon!

Happy Spring ... Happy Mother's Day!

Two weeks of ‘PERFECT 10’ weather, and yet everyone – even I --was hoping for some rain!  It has been a dry spring … until the last few days. Since then we’ve received lots of showers and the leaves and flowers are actually popping in front of our eyes. It’s only a slight exaggeration to say that I feel like we are living in a time-lapse photograph.  You can visibly see changes from hour to hour!  In the course of 24 hours the trees leafed out! Spring is an amazing time to experience the White Mountains.  Everything is shrouded in ‘greens’ of every possible hue. Waterfalls are roaring, moose are on the loose, peepers are singing their hearts out, and flowers are appearing everywhere. Consider playing hookey this week, and get some rejuvenation from the sparkling waters, warm sunshine and crisp nights. My daily sojourns to the river outside our door have given me a sense of peace I haven’t known all winter! Even the hummingbirds have returned to our Lodge feeders, and I found myself unexpectedly making a gallon of nectar for them after their long flight from points south.  Happy Spring … and to all you fellow moms: Happy Mother’s Day!

Wildquack Duck Festival on the Horizon!

A PERFECT stretch of weather this past week extends into the foreseeable future! Daffodils are up and hiking abounds. Looking ahead, the Wildquack Duck Festival is on the horizon for its annual Memorial Day return! (http://www.jacksonnh.com/event/119/Wildquack-Duck-River-Festival) . Come see this wild and zany event that has been a favorite for more than 20 years. Families, friends, singles, writers, photographers… You really need to see this one for yourself. Watching more than 3,500 yellow rubber ducks make their way down the Wildcat River to the finish line will excite the child in all of us. There is No Admissions Fee … anyone can pick a spot on the side of the river where you will share the excitement as the ducks pass!

The prizes are incredible offering more than $2,500 in cash and 50 other prizes including vacation stays, dining certificates, spa treatments, gift baskets, attractions tickets and so much more. Black Bear Realty to sponsor "Last Prize" again this year by providing us with an incredible Mountain Bike. You won't want to miss the incredible Silent Auction that offers more than $5,000 in choice stays, dining opportunities, gift baskets, art work, photos and so much more. 

Everyone should come hungry and be sure to check out all the fabulous barbeque foods offered by local and visiting chefs.  Try the kettle corn, ice cream, lobster sandwiches and more. Watch the “ever growing” parade starting from the Covered Bridge at 1:30 PM, have your picture taken with “Wildquack” the Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce Duck, visit local businesses and really enjoy this “ole” fashioned “Day in the Park”. Watch for a chance to become this year's Wildquack Duck River Festival King or Queen where some lucky person will be treated like the royalty they are! 

Find out who will be this year’s “Jackson’s Cake Boss” (Winner will receive a $200 purse!) just be sure to enter early by calling the office today (603) 383-9356. Judging will be done by three local chefs and announced at the event. All visitors can taste the entries for a $1 donation. Be sure to stop by the “Jackson Cake Boss Competition Tent area and try out all the yummy cakes. Do you think you’ve got talent? If you have any talent and would like to show it off... be sure to register for your “5 Minutes of Fame” contest. Winner will be selected by our M/C's and the winner will receive a prize package valued over $200. Entries must fill out an application and there is a $15 entry fee per act. Acts will be given 5 minutes on stage. 

Stay two nights at The Lodge this weekend, ask for the Memorial Day Special, and get a free duck ticket, putting you in the running for the Grand Prize of $1000 cash!  Third night stays are at a discount.

Local Maple Syrup on Sale at The Lodge at Jackson Village!

They’ve done it again!  Visiting the Believe in Books Literacy Foundation  is always full of sweet surprises.  The maple trees  in their ‘Hundred Acre Wood’ have finished being tapped this season, and the sap boiled down in the sugar house.  The result?  A bumper crop of liquid gold, also known as New Hampshire Maple Syrup! Wow … is it good!  Ask any farmer and you will find that some years are good for syrup production, others not so much.  It all depends on the local conditions, such as the temperature, number of sunny days, amount of rain or snowfall, the combination of warm days and cold nights, and even the individual tree itself. Conditions this year were a perfect storm of the ideal in all categories, and resulted in a great crop of maple syrup, sugar, candy and maple butter. We are selling various quantities of their syrup again this year at The Lodge.  The profits go to the Believe in Books Literacy Foundation, a really “sweet” cause! http://www.believeinbooks.org/

Winter Skiing Ends Today ... Spring Skiing Takes its Place!!

Today may be the last day of winter skiing at Wildcat Mountain, but the Spring ski season at Tuckerman Ravine is just gearing up!! What a fantastic winter it has been. With a total annual snowfall of 214” and counting at Wildcat so far, it has been a fabulous season to say the least. Part of me is sad to see it go; the other half need only step out the front door today at The Lodge to see the bulbs poking their heads through the newly exposed soil, and the sights, smells and sounds of spring abounding everywhere. I am hooked!  Several guests are at Tuck skiing today, and it couldn’t be more perfect. We’ll get ‘the scoop’ firsthand tonight when they return. What a blessing it is to live and work here at the base of Mount Washington. After 9 years and counting, I still pinch myself to make sure that my good fortune is for real!!