tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39427173021396383272024-03-05T13:26:00.775-08:00Travel ArticlesHeather Reichelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00427298319106460696noreply@blogger.comBlogger36125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3942717302139638327.post-76176329757004935922021-03-20T12:57:00.002-07:002021-03-20T12:57:56.968-07:00In Your Backyard October 2020- Benezette Elk<div style="text-align: left;"><img src="https://drive.google.com/uc?export=view&id=1LRVXB7G8fqD_OE6CDWd1NxB8XKpZ4fuc" alt="https://drive.google.com/uc?export=view&id=1LRVXB7G8fqD_OE6CDWd1NxB8XKpZ4fuc" style="max-height: 80%; max-width: 80%; height: auto; width: auto;"><br></div><div><div>October is my favorite month of the year, when the leaves begin to change, pumpkin spice seems to become the favorite condiment and the weather has a crisp cool to the air in the evening but there is still a possibility for an 80° afternoon. It has always been a time to load in the car for a leaf ride and for a great road trip this month I want to point you in the eastern direction of Benezette, Pa.</div><div>The trip over is amazing and there are multiple ways to get there. For a scenic ride through the Allegheny Mountains head through Warren County and down towards St Marys (this route takes 3 hours and 45 mins to complete) for a more direct route you can travel I 79 to I 80 and it will shave off an hour. I go down via the scenic route and come back in the evening the quicker route.</div><div>Many people may not know this but elk are native to Pennsylvania and used to roam freely in herds. However in the mid 1800s that all changed due to a lack of hunting regulations and habitat loss. In 1913 elk were reintroduced to the area by the Pa Game commission and through their efforts as well as the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, the Keystone Elk Country Alliance and other private organizations the elk herd is now nearly 1,400 animals strong.</div><div>One of the very best times to see the elk is during the rut, which happens in September and October every year. The rut is the time of year that the big bull elk fight each other for the right to have a harem. A harem is a group of female elk (also known as cows) and the bulls will fight for the right to mate. This is the time of year you will see sparring and hear the bugling and antler crashing sounds throughout the valleys. The elk are most active in the early dawn and dusk so about two hours before dark is when you are most likely to see them. If you can not make the trip this fall, mark your calendar for the spring and you will likely see the calves romping and playing in the meadows.</div><div>The very first time I went to Benezette was a solo trip and I ended up leaving our area in the late afternoon. I did not know what to really expect so I didn’t give a whole lot of time for the excursion. I saw my first elk as it ran across the road in front of the compact car in front of me. It was a female and she just kind of sauntered across the road, luckily the car had stopped to allow her to cross, and just when they were getting ready to start moving a very large bull elk ran full bore after her and I watched him jump over the hood of the small car. It was impressive to see the size comparison of the vehicle and the animal.</div><div>There is a beautiful visitor center with a fantastic movie that is worth every penny of the $5 they charge to view it. The center also has a great display of the history of the herd as well as a gift store to purchase a variety of items including elk jerky and summer sausage. While you are there pick up an elk viewing map (I had zero cell service in the area so don’t rely on google maps).</div><div>For a great dinner option check out the Benezette Hotel for an elk burger, or Elk Life for an ice cream or fresh mini donut treat. Make sure you have binoculars or a spotting scope for the best viewing options and pick your spot to watch before 7 pm or so and be ready for a show. Now be aware that the elk do not always get the memo that they are supposed to be at the viewing areas. I absolutely had my closest experiences seeing them just on the side of the road. In fact on the return trip the area I chose to place my GoPro on the dash just in case and was able to capture the moment the extremely large bull crossed right in my path.</div><div>My best advice, is to leave in the early morning and get there in time to see all the cool things the area has to offer but to also leave enough time to not be rushed and pick your viewing location. Watch carefully as you drive, and remember that the elk may wander but they are not lost.</div></div><div><br></div>As seen in the Meadville Tribune October 5, 2020<div><a href="https://www.meadvilletribune.com/news/in-your-backyard-elk-await-in-benezette/article_c3e2235e-0671-11eb-8d81-e7ad6c3608d9.html">https://www.meadvilletribune.com/news/in-your-backyard-elk-await-in-benezette/article_c3e2235e-0671-11eb-8d81-e7ad6c3608d9.html</a><br></div>Heather Reichelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00427298319106460696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3942717302139638327.post-3076249461809692872021-03-20T12:57:00.000-07:002021-03-20T12:57:04.565-07:00In Your Backyard July 2020 - McConnells Mills State Park
<div style="text-align: left;"><img src="https://drive.google.com/uc?export=view&id=1FmzcIn1zxH72o_-UTFYgS0qmHeK4YozU" alt="https://drive.google.com/uc?export=view&id=1FmzcIn1zxH72o_-UTFYgS0qmHeK4YozU" style="font-size: 12pt; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; max-height: 80%; max-width: 80%; height: auto; width: auto;"></div><div style="text-align: left;">With Labor Day weekend, comes the unofficial end of summer. The school buses once again are on the highways and for many school aged children, back to school is in full swing. This has been a trying time for many parents, and maybe a weekend road trip is just the ticket for some great family memories.</div><div>Just south of us right off I-79 in Lawrence County is McConnells Mill State Park. This often overlooked area is 2500+ acres that surrounds portions of Slippery Rock Creek. To find the park, jump on 79 south and take the exit for 422 W (Butler/ New Castle exit) and go until you intersect Route 19. The entrance is only about a half mile past there on the left on McConnells Mill Rd but the signs are easy to overlook so be watching carefully.</div><div>There is so much to do in the park itself in just about any season so put it on your list for a return visit to see the fall foliage or the spring flowers. One of my favorite spots for photos is the old gristmill and covered bridge area. There are places to get a great vantage point to have both of them in the picture.</div><div>The Mill itself was built and then rebuilt in the late 1800s and is currently open to visit inside on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays (Covid 19 restrictions are in place and they do limit to 10 people at a time with proper mask wearing required. They also close from noon to 1pm for lunch and to clean.) Even if the mill is not open however the surrounding area is a great place to walk and explore. Make sure to keep your eyes on little ones because Slippery Rock creek is a swift moving and “Slippery” creek and it is easy to fall in if you are too close or not paying attention. The original rock that gave the creek its name is also located within the park near Armstrong Bridge. There is a natural oil seep near a large sandstone that makes it very “Slippery” and was apparently used to cross the creek by Native Americans back in the day. It was so slick that it gave the creek its name, and also the nearby town of Slippery Rock.</div><div>The covered bridge crossing the creek near the mill is one of only two covered bridges in the county and is a registered National Historic Landmark. You can drive your vehicle over the bridge just watch oncoming traffic since it is a one lane crossing.</div><div>Nearby Slippery Rock Gorge Natural Area is also a National Landmark and has a great view from Cleland Rock. Be sure that you grab a State Park map at one of the many locations (including one at an information center across the road from the gristmill) The park itself is kind of broken up into parcels so you will need the map to find your way to the different locations.</div><div>One location that you have to make the effort to find is Hells Hollow. A 10 or so foot waterfall located near an old limekiln. The walk to the waterfall is only about a half mile give or take from the parking area and a wooden stairway will get you to the falls. It is a must see if you take the trip down and worth the short walk to find.</div><div>Possibly my favorite part of the park is the actual drive itself. As you meander on a narrow winding road through the trees and rocks you just can not help but admire the beauty. When I say rock, I don’t mean what we are used to in this area. I mean rocks so large that you actually drive under portions of them and there are pull offs available so that you are able to get out and take photos.</div><div>The area is an amazing natural beauty that provides something for everyone on the trip with places for hiking, picnics, fishing, and a playground.</div><div>So take my advice and plan a trip. Pack your lunch, grab the kids, get a map and go wander until you find out you are not lost.</div><div><br></div><div>As seen in the Meadville Tribune September 14, 2020</div><div><a href="https://www.meadvilletribune.com/news/monday-spotlight-mcconnells-mill-state-park-amazing-natural-beauty-with-something-for-everyone/article_dc0ead04-f5ef-11ea-9a3c-abab9498069e.html">https://www.meadvilletribune.com/news/monday-spotlight-mcconnells-mill-state-park-amazing-natural-beauty-with-something-for-everyone/article_dc0ead04-f5ef-11ea-9a3c-abab9498069e.html</a><br></div>Heather Reichelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00427298319106460696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3942717302139638327.post-13639364555696454672021-03-20T12:56:00.001-07:002021-03-20T12:56:34.969-07:00In Your Backyard August 2020 - Seldom Seen and Canton Avenue
<div><div style="text-align: left;"><img src="https://drive.google.com/uc?export=view&id=16SZYnf8UklHap15qfWLb2ksJFUqsRpc9" alt="https://drive.google.com/uc?export=view&id=16SZYnf8UklHap15qfWLb2ksJFUqsRpc9" style="font-size: 12pt; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; max-height: 80%; max-width: 80%; height: auto; width: auto;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; display: inline !important;">As summer sadly starts to enter the last official month before the uncertainty of the new school year for many students it is a great time for a family road trip. Many things have changed for our area due to restrictions, and many of the normal August activities have either been postponed or cancelled leaving some people feeling a bit depressed. So for this adventure, I thought I would send you someplace you can have a sense of accomplishment. How about being able to climb the steepest officially recorded street in the United States? If you are like me, I always figured that our steepest streets were in San Francisco, California because they are always featured in movies and on TV. But in fact the steepest street in the US is actually to our south in Pittsburgh Pa. Canton Avenue is only 630 feet long but it boosts a whooping 37 percent grade for 21 feet of the street. The most commonly recognized steepest street in the world is in New Zealand and is 34 percent grade, however it is a longer stretch of roadway.</span></div><div>To find Canton Ave is easy enough with a quick google map search and there is no number necessary. There are only one or two places to pull off the side of Coast Avenue which intersects Canton Ave at the bottom of the hill. The street is one way and you are able to drive up it. I can tell you from experience that this is an exciting drive and worth doing once in your life. At the time I had a Jeep Commander which I have taken off road and over some pretty steep sand dunes, but nothing really prepared me for this hill. I started the climb and for the first time ever I felt the need to lean forward (like this would somehow keep my Jeep from tumbling backwards down the hill) it was a bit of a white knuckle experience for sure, but somewhat exhilarating at the same time. Once you reach the top and look down the gravity of just how steep the street is really sets in. From the top you can make a loop and come back down Coast Avenue to drive the hill again if you dare. What I ended up doing was parking and walking it for some great photo opportunities. Make sure you grab a picture of the sign at the bottom to prove you were there and maybe even get a selfie or two for your social media.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><img src="https://drive.google.com/uc?export=view&id=1g7dhZ0SRDHKjM8dc8NurBH1rapPmKf0C" alt="https://drive.google.com/uc?export=view&id=1g7dhZ0SRDHKjM8dc8NurBH1rapPmKf0C" style="max-height: 80%; max-width: 80%; height: auto; width: auto;"><br></div><div>While you are in the Beechview neighborhood of Pittsburgh you may as well visit another local treasure that you might have to search for a little bit. Seldom Seen Greenway is exactly as the name suggests, it is seldom seen. It is a bit confusing to get to the parking lot and the best address is close to 930 Saw Mill Run Blvd Pittsburgh Pa. (don’t get discouraged I drove past the parking lot twice before I figured out how to enter it.) To help you spot the parking lot there is a rather large rounded building located near the entrance to the park.</div><div>Once you have parked head down the path towards the railroad tunnel and along the way check out the the creek with some pretty cool rock formations. As you enter the tunnel be sure to look up and admire some of the brick work. They sure do not make these tunnels like this anymore and the obvious pride in workmanship is nice to see especially in a tunnel that was just to cross a small stream. As you proceed you will find an old railway bridge that you can climb if you are careful for a birds eye view as well as a chance to admire some local graffiti artists. Some of these are showcasing some great artistic talent and may make for a great photo. The park itself is only about a 100 acres and there is a trail that you can walk. I stopped walking once the trail crossed the stream, but with the proper shoes you could continue on. I really have no idea where exactly it goes, but I am just guessing it does not loop but rather you walk the same trail back.</div><div>I guess this article is sort of my tribute to the year 2020, the uphill climb to normalcy and the seldom seen friends. I look forward to the days coming soon when I can once again wander without being lost.</div></div><div><br></div>Heather Reichelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00427298319106460696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3942717302139638327.post-57203310825934752562021-03-20T12:56:00.000-07:002021-03-20T12:56:12.364-07:00In Your Backyard July 2020 - Lake Erie Bluff<div style="text-align: left;"><img src="https://drive.google.com/uc?export=view&id=17xKV90EcLUiBn1HoIu5rIvPC9xW9THG6" alt="https://drive.google.com/uc?export=view&id=17xKV90EcLUiBn1HoIu5rIvPC9xW9THG6" style="max-height: 80%; max-width: 80%; height: auto; width: auto;"><br></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div>Most people who live in Northwestern Pennsylvania are familiar with Presque Isle State Park. Offering many the fresh water beaches we have come to know and love, scenic drives, biking, hiking, fishing, kayaking, and many developed areas designed for tourism. What you may not be aware of is one of Pennsylvania’s newest State Parks which is also located along the scenic shores of Lake Erie.</div><div>Lake Erie Bluff State Park became a state park just recently in 2004, it is the largest parcel of land along the Lake Erie shoreline that is not developed and offers quite a bit to those who do not want the hustle and bustle of some of the more popular parks and tourist locations. Gorgeous views from the 90 foot bluffs overlooking the lake are a treat for photographers and nature lovers alike. You would swear you can almost see Canada but at the very least you are likely to be able to view a large ship carrying cargo through from the east coast.</div><div>Located near Lake City, Pa the address for the main parking area is located at 11122 West Lake Road, Lake City, PA 16423 right off Route 5 about 12 miles or so from Erie. The Park is just shy of 600 acres and sports 1 mile of shoreline. There are several easy walking trails along the plateau of the bluff with a few very good photo opportunities. The trails are marked with paint on the trees, so watch for it.</div><div>Maps of the trails and more park information can be found at the Pa Department of Conservation and Natural Resources website www.dcnr.pa.gov . My personal favorite is to take Transition Trail straight back to Bluffs Edge Trail or Lookout Trail for a great view. From there you can go west to Timber Trail which is a great walk through the forest to the West Overlook Trail (another scenic area for photos) and then eventually you will loop back to the parking lot. There is a bit over 5 miles of trails in the park and this route will take well over half of them, but it is a fairly level walk and a leisurely chance for a bird lover in the group to possibly spot one of documented 80 species of birds found in the park including Bald Eagles.</div><div>I normally go to the east however and walk along the Bluff Edge Trail which starts to drop in elevation and joins to the Fisherman’s Footpath (if you go to the right you actually end up at the other parking lot, so be aware of this as you may get turned around). The Fisherman’s Footpath winds down the bluff and comes out on the shoreline where there is an excellent opportunity to find sea glass and wave polished rocks. It also as the name states gives access to fish the shoreline in possibly a less crowded area than Presque Isle due to the walking. The area prohibits swimming, but there is still plenty of places to dip your toes as you stroll. Since you started on the bluff, which is 90 feet above you, be sure to leave with enough time to get back to the vehicle prior to dark and also be sure on the way back up you take the marked trail to the right this time or you will pop out at the Elk Creek access point and have quite a hike to backtrack to the main parking lot. I can tell you from experience that it is a very long walk.</div><div>Be sure to bring drinking water with you as there are no facilities at this Park, it is designed to be wild and stay wild. Also remember to pack out what garbage you may take in as the saying goes, “Take only Photos and Leave only Footprints”</div><div>While you are visiting the area, take the opportunity to stop for a frozen treat at a mom and pop dairy isle or check out a gift store. Remember to bring your face masks though if you do stop as we are still required to wear them in indoor public places or within 6 feet of non family members.</div><div>Not all who wander are lost, some are just looking for the correct trail to get back to their car.</div></div>Heather Reichelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00427298319106460696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3942717302139638327.post-90150322849825729862021-03-20T12:52:00.001-07:002021-03-20T12:52:14.533-07:00In Your Backyard - Fort Ligonier January 2021<div style="text-align: left;"><img src="https://drive.google.com/uc?export=view&id=1Es3TRx8KBHzWeqVpQKizou7n3KoB2_Iy" alt="https://drive.google.com/uc?export=view&id=1Es3TRx8KBHzWeqVpQKizou7n3KoB2_Iy" style="max-height: 80%; max-width: 80%; height: auto; width: auto;"><br></div><div>If you are like me, then the Pennsylvania State travel restrictions have put a damper on several trips that I may have planned. It is honestly quite the bummer in fact since it seems so many people now have “free” time on their hands due to reduced hours or a lay off but they can not actually do anything with it. I purposely stayed awake on New Years Eve this year to make sure that 2020 actually did end, but it seems that 2021 is having a whole lot of carry over. So now we must find our silver linings and here is a bit of good news, according to their web page one museum in Pa is getting ready to open back up for the hopefully the season starting January 8th.</div><div>Fort Ligonier located at 200 South Market St Ligonier, Pa 15658 is about two and a half hours away but well worth the drive. This is a fee museum costing $12 per adult, $10 for students ages 17-21, $6 for children ages 6-16, children 5 and under are free and Seniors ages 62+ as well as active military, veterans and law enforcement are $10. The admission covers all the art galleries, the museum and the grounds which you are able to explore.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><img src="https://drive.google.com/uc?export=view&id=1rk1AZPOKupyOUUHUOPFBZVcAvI3WSfSS" alt="https://drive.google.com/uc?export=view&id=1rk1AZPOKupyOUUHUOPFBZVcAvI3WSfSS" style="max-height: 80%; max-width: 80%; height: auto; width: auto;"><br></div><div>I have to admit that the very first time I went to a Fort and Museum I was really disappointed with what was on site to see. I felt the trip there was a full 20 minutes of my life that I will never get back. I am not joking about this, the “necessity” to see the place quickly lost its luster. So I was a bit leery about going to another fort museum because at the cost I really did not have high hopes. I was gladly mistaken.</div><div>The reconstruction of the fort itself was undertaken in such a way that you actually felt as if you stepped back in time. I enjoy a fair bit of history and I will admit that I lack in the French and Indian War era so it was quite the education. The grounds host an artillery train, a powder magazine and a hospital to explore as well as a reconstruction of General John Forbes hut. The tour itself is self guided and you can wander as you wish.</div><div>The museum is amazing and the collection of artifacts and artwork is quite something for such a small area. Learn the role of a young George Washington as well as how Fort Ligonier was vital for the siege and overtaking of Fort Duquesne which allowed for Fort Pitt to be constructed and therefor gave birth to the city of Pittsburgh itself.</div><div>The kids will love the cannons and the swords, the adults will love the history and the paintings and everyone will love the gift shop. I found myself reading each plaque not because I spent money to go to the museum, but because I became actually interested in the displays. It was a pleasant surprise and a completely different experience from my prior fort excursion.</div><div>If you have a camera I suggest bringing it along for taking some great photos of the grounds, not to mention the scenery on the drive over. If you get a chance to explore the local area there are some great little shops and places for a quick snack.</div><div>If the drive or the cost is not in the current budget, then maybe a trip up to Waterford, Pa to Fort Le Boeuf is more in order. Its history is intertwined with Fort Ligonier being from the same era and the admission is free but donations are gladly accepted.</div><div>Both places are only open on the weekends, and I would definitely check online for their respective webpages to make sure they are open during the current restrictions which seem to change almost daily. But remember as we go through the next few months to not get discouraged because this too shall pass and we may once again be able to wander at will and not lose our way.</div><div><br></div><div>As seen in the Meadville Tribune Jan 11, 2021</div><div><a href="https://www.meadvilletribune.com/news/in-your-backyard-fort-ligonier-museum/article_a2d227ac-537b-11eb-a93f-c3ae80e13edf.html">https://www.meadvilletribune.com/news/in-your-backyard-fort-ligonier-museum/article_a2d227ac-537b-11eb-a93f-c3ae80e13edf.html</a><br></div>Heather Reichelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00427298319106460696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3942717302139638327.post-47261610885068060092021-03-20T12:47:00.001-07:002021-03-20T12:47:54.209-07:00In Your Backyard - Franklin Courthouse Christmas Tree<div style="text-align: left;"><img src="https://drive.google.com/uc?export=view&id=1iLsr_9nI2d4MtmPuIdCDzEH3sjmDcAUy" alt="https://drive.google.com/uc?export=view&id=1iLsr_9nI2d4MtmPuIdCDzEH3sjmDcAUy" style="max-height: 80%; max-width: 80%; height: auto; width: auto;"><br></div><div>As 2020 comes to a close many are breathing a sigh of relief. It has been a trying year and it does not seem to be quite yet over as many families are realizing that some of their holiday traditions may have to be adapted to keep at risk loved ones safe. As zoom calls and FaceTime begin to be the new norm it can be very disappointing for the kids who are too young to understand. Now is a great time to go back an pull a page from yours or your parents childhood. I have fond memories of salt dough ornaments which if you are unfamiliar with them try a quick Google search for a recipe. It will make for a fun afternoon and some great memories. Did you know you can roast chestnuts in a microwave? Just one piece of advice on this, make sure you cut the “x” in the side of the chestnut ALL the way through the skin or they don’t exactly roast, they sound more like a howitzer going off. (And yes, this also comes from personal experience but it did make for a very funny story later) Don’t forget about gingerbread houses and if you are not a baking person there are numerous ones you can purchase and even theme towards the kids favorite character or video game. With a 7 year old helping they do not turn out looking like the box but it will definitely be something they remember.</div><div>Possibly my favorite childhood memories of the holiday season were the car rides. Sitting in the back seat scanning for decorations on the houses while singing Christmas carols at the top of my lungs. I never knew all the words, but that did not matter to me. It was like a treasure hunt for lights and it was super exciting when a house was decorated to the hilt on my side of the car and not my sister’s. It was almost like I had the privilege of showing them to her. I still point out lights to my kids as we drive this time of year and my youngest is now 19. It takes something a bit more extraordinary now for them to look away from their cellphones and at least give me more then a “hmph”. If you fall into this category of the parental stage, or you just want to amaze the young ones, then hop in the car, hit the Christmas playlist and take a drive over the river and through the woods to Franklin Pa.</div><div>The Christmas Tree Extravaganza 2020 will not disappoint. I stumbled on this by accident this year and all I could say was “wow”! The entire main drag of the city looks like a Christmas village and Fountain Park and the Court House are both worth parking and walking to see. I was told the absolutely enormous Christmas tree was brought in on a semi truck and hoisted into place by a crane. Now we are not talking Rockefeller Center here but since Franklin does not have 100+ story buildings it may as well be equally impressive. (Remember it is all relative) I have seen my share of Christmas displays from Macy’s windows to Christmas Town USA in Mcadenville NC each is special and different in its own way and also not just down the road.</div><div>So this year pile on the lap blankets, ditch the Keurig for some old fashioned stovetop hot chocolate (you remember that right? The one you used to have to skim when it sat for a little bit but was like liquid gold in your mug) and head out in your 120 horse power sleigh down route 322 to Franklin Pa. It is not a long trip and it is sure to get a non “bah humbug” reaction from even the grumpiest teenager. The city also had a house decorating contest so be sure to maybe meander through town while you are there to see some of the private residences that went all out for the season. As you wander you will probably not get lost within the city limits but do keep an eye out for the one way streets.</div><div>As seen in the Meadville Tribune Dec 14, 2020</div><div><a href="https://www.meadvilletribune.com/news/in-your-backyard-franklins-christmas-tree-extravaganza/article_22cd6576-3d78-11eb-bcb1-63fdfeeb1331.html">https://www.meadvilletribune.com/news/in-your-backyard-franklins-christmas-tree-extravaganza/article_22cd6576-3d78-11eb-bcb1-63fdfeeb1331.html</a><br></div>Heather Reichelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00427298319106460696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3942717302139638327.post-83362549037662715512021-03-20T12:29:00.000-07:002021-03-20T12:29:57.801-07:00In Your Backyard June 2020 - Lake Erie Pier<div style="text-align: left;"><img src="https://drive.google.com/uc?export=view&id=1p-OJGb8x8301K--OvSosFlRS2nViYrsR" alt="https://drive.google.com/uc?export=view&id=1p-OJGb8x8301K--OvSosFlRS2nViYrsR" style="font-size: 12pt; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; max-height: 80%; max-width: 80%; height: auto; width: auto;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br></div><div style="text-align: left;">Stay home, stay safe, wash your hands. That is what we have been hearing now since the middle of March. I don’t think anyone ever imagined we would be at home with our lovely children quite that long. If you are suffering a bit of cabin fever, believe me you are not alone. I do not think I will ever hear the Happy Birthday song again without a bit of a cringe even if I am not washing my hands.</div><div>My 2020 planner has a lot of rescheduled items and has now primarily become a log of the stay at home orders. (Some days read like the “Sad Cat Diaries”) To add insult to injury, Mother Nature cannot seem to decide which season we actually are in. All this quality home time with the family has led to many people plugging into social media, streaming videos and gaming systems. But I see a light at the end of the tunnel and it is time to give the homebound family what they probably need the most, SPACE and a Digital Detox.</div><div>So grab a few snacks left over from your quarantine stash, put away the electronics and take a road trip. I felt staying away from the chaos that is erupting in our larger cities was the best course of action so I am sending you to a great hidden gem along the shores of Lake Erie.</div><div>Painsville Township Park is located at 1025 Hardy Rd in Painsville Twp, Ohio. The 37 acre park hosts a play ground, picnic tables, space to enjoy the outdoors and an absolutely cool 200 foot pier that juts out into Lake Erie. Yep, you read that right, a pier. It is ADA accessible and has benches and even some covered areas. It was completed in October of 2017 and is a wonderful place to sit and watch the waves, fish or take photos of incredible sunsets.</div><div>I was so very happy to find this little known treasure on so close to us. More information can be found at www.lakemetroparks.com</div><div>If the pier itself does not entice you to make the excursion then travel just a bit farther to Fairport Harbor Lakefront Park. Although the lifeguards and concession stands are not in operation currently due to the Covid 19 restrictions, you are able to access the beach and boardwalk for building a sand castle or taking a stroll. Swimming is currently at your own risk so be aware of any little ones. Bring water and drinks with you because the drinking fountains are currently shut off. But a bit of good news, it appears the restrooms are in fact open. The Park is located at 301 Huntington Beach Drive in Fairport Harbor Ohio.</div><div>The area boosts not just one, but two lighthouses. The Fairport Harbor West Breakwater Lighthouse is not open to the public, but if you bring a pair of comfortable shoes you can walk the break wall to reach the base of the structure. The Fairport Harbor Historical Society Marine Museum and Lighthouse is the first museum of its kind on the Great Lakes as well as the United States. Reportedly haunted by a grey ghost cat, the lighthouse has been featured on the Discovery Channels “Weird, True and Freaky” TV show. Virus changes are in effect but they anticipate tour requests to be accepted starting June 15th. For more up to date information about the lighthouse tour and museum as well as pricing and contact info please visit www.fairportharborlighthouse.org</div><div>Remember to bring your camera with you to capture the sights and memories you will likely make on your trip. Don’t forget to also bring your face mask and your hand sanitizer as many places you may need to stop for fuel or snacks will have restrictions. But in the words of some of my older family members “It is time to get out and blow the stink off”. You can travel to these locations on the scenic byway or perhaps you can go cross country near some of the covered bridges. However you choose to go, just remember, a true road trip is a wander and not all who wander are lost.</div>Heather Reichelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00427298319106460696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3942717302139638327.post-15222708173469849302020-03-09T03:51:00.003-07:002020-03-09T03:51:40.376-07:00In Your Backyard March 2020 ~ Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG AquariumPhil the Groundhog said we were in for an early spring, and as the temperatures go in and out of the <br />
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40s I have hope his prediction is correct. So that means cabin fever has hit the breaking point and that is the perfect time for a great educational and all around fun road trip for the family. Pack a raincoat and don’t forget the camera and head south with me for a fantastic day at the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium. Hosting 77 acres of fun and 9000 animals including the fish, the zoo is a great place to view and learn about animals you may have only have read about or seen on tv.<br />
The Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium has seasonal rates and times and until April 30th general admission for Adults $16.95, Seniors (60+) $15.95, children (2-13) $14.95 and children under 2 are free. Summer rates kick in May 1st through September 2nd and are $1 more. I was able to make it down for World Wildlife Day on March 3rd and the Zoo offered free admission for the day. Check their webpage to find out about RAD Day in October for another free admission day and also plan a visit on Mother’s Day or Father’s Day when Mom or Dad respectively receive free admission when accompanied by their child of any age. If you happen to be members of the Erie Zoo then you will be delighted to know that there is a 50% discount for their members if you show your membership card. US active duty military, reservist and veterans also receive free entry with proper ID. If you plan to make the zoo a multiple visit destination for the year, then let me suggest a membership. You can check out the different types on their webpage at www.pittsburghzoo.org Going this route will ensure you get to see all the different types of animals including the reptiles or warm weather animals that may be off exhibit in some of the cooler months as well as save money on your visits.<br />
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Families are able to bring in sack lunches and snacks as long as there are no glass containers or bottles and strollers can be used as long as they utilize the elevator for entry into the zoo. So it is the perfect trip for all ages and definitely a great time for the family.<br />
I was absolutely thrilled to see the two baby Clouded Leopard cubs on my latest visit. Both are little boys and are named Gale and Lynn and they seem to have a great time with their enclosure and are full of energy and a true joy to see. Owning cats just made me want to cuddle them and take them home, that was until I saw mom and realized they someday they will be just as big.<br />
I am a huge fan of the PPG Aquarium and all of the different animals including the Sea Turtle Second Chance program. Harbor the Sea Turtle is a current resident who arrived after a severe spinal injury and it was great to see him swimming around his tank. There are many different programs like this that are part of their ongoing commitment to conservation and education, so take a few minutes to check that out if you would like to help.<br />
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My absolute personal favorite part of the zoo since I have been going with the kids is the Waters Edge Exhibit. It is a chance to go under two different tunnels in the water to see the polar bears swimming in the first tunnel or sea lions in the second tunnel. It is magical to watch how gracefully these animals are while they are in the water. The fur on the polar bear is just moving in waves like the water giving them a truly amazing look. Be sure you visit that area when you go and I am positive you will not be disappointed. Sometimes the bears are not swimming, but usually if you are patient (even if you have to stop back by) they will at some point go in the water. I no longer have little young ones but one look at the Kids Kingdom and I could tell you that it is absolutely the coolest playground and kid area I have seen in a long time. A wonderful place that has many things to play on, animals to pet, and even a themed restaurant for your picky eater.<br />
Maps are available online as well as the ticket areas, be sure to grab one so as you wander, you are not lost.<br />
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As seen in the Meadville Tribune on March 9, 2020 <a href="https://www.meadvilletribune.com/news/monday-spotlight-pittsburgh-zoo-is-in-your-backyard/article_843c50fa-601b-11ea-9791-b36703bc07b9.html">https://www.meadvilletribune.com/news/monday-spotlight-pittsburgh-zoo-is-in-your-backyard/article_843c50fa-601b-11ea-9791-b36703bc07b9.html</a><br />
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Heather Reichelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00427298319106460696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3942717302139638327.post-75566486327666708662020-03-09T03:35:00.003-07:002020-03-09T03:35:57.400-07:00In Your Backyard February 2020~ Camera Museum <br />
Many of us travel around with a smart phone in their pocket and use the camera to do everything from remind us where we are parked, keep a photo of a product in a store we want to buy, share your dinner with social media or just take a photo of a precious family moment. With the technology today, those cell phone cameras are arguably as good as some of the more expensive cameras around, but the biggest difference is, it is usually with you and not safely stored in a camera bag. The saying goes “the best camera is the one you have with you” and leaving the house without our phones is almost unheard of. I teach a photography class and you would be surprised the number of the younger generation that can not identify what film is let alone the concept of sending it away and waiting for photos to come back by United States Postal Service.<br />
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So my next trip I am sending you on is a great little museum in Pittsburgh called the Photo Antiquities Museum of Photographic History. So pack the munchkins, download the Pittsburgh parking app (Go Mobile PGH- available on the App Store, Google Play and the Windows Store) and bring your copy of the Meadville Tribune with this article for a special $2 discount on admission into the museum. A couple words of warning, the museum does not have a credit card reader so be sure to bring cash with you for your admission fees and the parking is on street with meters that are controlled by a centrally located machine. The absolute easiest way to pay parking is with the app and your phone, but you can also use cash or card. For those who are not as familiar with this type of system make sure you make note of your space number and your license plate number.<br />
The museum is located at 531 East Ohio St Pittsburgh Pa 15212 and is open Monday and Wednesday through Saturday from 10am to 4pm. The cost is $10 for adults and $8 for students and seniors 65+ and under 5 are free. A guided tour of the museum by the owner is included and this makes the fee well worth the price. Everything thing you can image from the world of photography is in this very organized space and the kids will be amazed how photos used to be made back in early 1800’s. A collection of very rare photos and equipment make this a must see for any picture taking enthusiast and the room of cameras will take you back memory lane to some of the cameras your family may have used when you were a child.<br />
A notable feature of this museum is a few slides from the Keystone View Company which has its roots in our very own town. BL Singley founded the Keystone View Company in 1892 and to make a long story short, it all started with the Flood of Meadville when French Creek overflowed into town. There were 30 original photos of this event in double prints pasted onto cardboard with the name Keystone View Company. In 1898 they began to make and sell the stereoscopic viewers and by 1905 it was the largest of its type of business in the world. In 1972 the Keystone View as we knew it in Meadville was closed and later the building (which was located next to the PNC drive through on Park Avenue) was torn down.<br />
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After you take your trip to Pittsburgh be sure to visit the Johnson Shaw Stereoscopic Museum located at 423 Chestnut Street in Meadville. The museum opens for the season in April and is open Saturdays from 10am until 4pm and by appointment only 10am-4pm Sunday through Friday. (Call 814-720-4306 to schedule) It is interesting to learn about how important Meadville was in the history of photography. Long before motion pictures and television sets, families would invite friends over to view the new slides of places and things they had only over heard of. The kids will get the chance to learn how about some of the simpler things that were treasured and enjoyed as well as see how far photography has come in just a relatively short period of time. Donations at the Johnson-Shaw are gladly accepted.<br />
As you stroll through photographic history, remember not all who wander are lost.<br />
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As Seen in the Meadville Tribune on February 10, 2020 <a href="https://www.meadvilletribune.com/news/monday-spotlight-photo-antiquities-museum-is-in-your-backyard/article_4cdaab6e-4a15-11ea-92e6-c77f10bcdf71.html">https://www.meadvilletribune.com/news/monday-spotlight-photo-antiquities-museum-is-in-your-backyard/article_4cdaab6e-4a15-11ea-92e6-c77f10bcdf71.html</a>Heather Reichelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00427298319106460696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3942717302139638327.post-26208324370949366742020-01-11T06:34:00.000-08:002020-01-11T06:34:19.863-08:00In Your Back Yard January 2020- ~ Haserot Angel<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="text-align: center;">Now that the holidays are officially over and the kids are back in school, a sort of blah often finds its way into daily life. Maybe it was a trip to the mailbox for the new credit card statement that contains all the impulse holiday shopping purchases or maybe it is just the realization that Easter Break is over 3 months away. The shorter days and the weird northwestern Pennsylvania winter weather we are having will likely contribute to the dull drum which seems to be contagious. It is definitely a great time for a road trip to get out of the funk and do something unusual and fun. Like always, grab a camera and some snacks, fill the gas tank and prepare for a free adventure.</span><br />
Cleveland Ohio is just a hop skip and a jump from Meadville and is home to Lakeview Cemetery (12316 Euclid Ave Cleveland, Ohio 44106). The cemetery hosts an amazing amount of interesting headstones including a life size man sitting playing guitar at the side of the lake, a five foot tall juke box and too many others to mention. It is a photographers dream location.<br />
Many notable people also have made Lakeview Cemetery their final resting place such as John D Rockefeller, the Standard Oil Tycoon and Elliot Ness, who was given credit for helping take down the infamous mob boss Al Capone in Chicago.<br />
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President James A Garfield, one of Cleveland’s favorite sons, is memorialized in a 180 foot tall monument which is open to the public. Inside this impressive building is a statue of the former President in a room filled with stained glass and golden mosaics.James Garfield served as a major general in the Union Army when he was elected to represent Ohio in the House of Representatives. He holds the distinction of being the only sitting House member to be elected to the Oval Office. As the 20th President of the United States, he was shot by an assassin’s bullet and lay mortally wounded in the White House for 3 months as the doctors struggled to find the bullet lodged in his back.Alexander Graham Bell was even called in with his newly invented metal detector to help but to no avail and he died from infection and internal bleeding. His short 6 1/2 month term made him the second shortest presidential term in US history. His life and his presidency is definitely worth a Google search a bit of reading. Downstairs is the former President’s casket draped in a US flag beside his wife Lucretia also in this room are two urns which contain the remains of his daughter and her husband. It is a solemn room and unique for the fact that it is the only presidential casket on full display to the general public.<br />
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If famous people and a presidential memorial aren’t enough to entice you to visit, let me tell you about possibly one of the most interesting head stones which belongs to canning baron Francis Haserot and his family. The statue of an angel seated on a marble headstone is titled “The Angel of Death Victorious”. The bronze statue is often called the “Haserot Angel" or due to the name the “Angel of Death”. The life sized statue is impressive with wings spread wide holding an extinguished torch upside down to represent life extinguished and the bronze has the green patina of age. One of the most interesting aspects is the black stains under the angel’s eyes which make it appear to be crying, thus giving the piece its other name, the “Weeping Angel”.<br />
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The Weeping Angel is located off the roadway a little bit in Section 9 Lot 14. Maps are available at the main office of the cemetery and also at the Garfield Memorial. The closest marked grave on the map is the Hanna Mausoleum, but even that took a bit to find. My biggest tip is this, if you drive around the little lake, then start up the hill to Section 9, it will be on your right and if you make it as far as the dam then you have gone too far. It was a very cool thing to see and well worth the time it took to find it.<br />
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As you drive and explore the grounds, remember that not all who wander are lost.<br />
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Heather Reichelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00427298319106460696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3942717302139638327.post-61442286131342122572019-12-09T02:04:00.000-08:002019-12-09T07:19:45.129-08:00In Your Backyard December 2019 ~ A Christmas Story<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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With the Holiday Season fast approaching it is the time for all those traditions and for families to gather together. Many will be watching the favorite holiday classics of the Grinch who Stole Christmas and Rudolph the Red nose Reindeer. Possibly even more will be watching two holiday staples It’s a Wonderful Life and A Christmas Story. Did you know that both of this holiday favorites have ties very close to Crawford County? So sit down with your family and watch the films then be inspired to get your egg nog ready, pack some cookies and head out for a little behind the scenes movie magic.<br />
First we will head to our west into the city of Cleveland to the original house that was used in the filming of A Christmas Story. We all can sympathize with Ralphie and his plight <br />
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of the pink bunny pajamas and the quest for the one perfect Christmas present. Although I never asked for a Red Ryder BB gun, there were other things on my list that I am sure Santa probably thought twice about. The home has been completely restored to original movie splendor by a super fan and offering tours to the public. Located at 3159 West 11th St., Cleveland, Oh. The information on hours and fees can be found at their webpage www.achristmasstoryhouse.com. This time of year the fans of the film come out in full force for a tour of the Parker family home so be sure to come early and then plan a route home that will take you on some scenic Ohio byways that go past some of the covered bridges and homes decorated with holiday lights.<br />
For a little extra addition to your Ohio trip you can google “Christmas themed stores” and you will find gift stores and Christmas tree farms throughout the small towns on the eastern side of the state. Maybe you will find some little thing for that hard to buy for person on your list, or maybe you will just have fun strolling through the small towns which really do some wonderful holiday displays.<br />
Next, we will head to our east into Indiana County, birthplace of Jimmy Stewart who was nominated for an Oscar in his role of George Bailey in It’s a Wonderful Life. There is a Jimmy Stewart museum, a statue in his honor and many themed movie events throughout the holiday season. The museum does have an entry fee but the gift shop is free of charge to enter. The facility offers extended hours during the season so it is a great time to take a trip over. Indiana Pa is also nicknamed the “Christmas Tree Capital of the World” with many local tree farms that you can go and choose your own tree and also cut it down. It is a wonderful place to get your inner Santa on and do some inspired holiday shopping and sightseeing. More information on the museum and the events of this neighboring county can be found at their webpage www.visitindianacountypa.org. While you are racing around this winter make sure that you take a minute to remember the reason for the season and listen for the sounds of bells. As the iconic line from the movie goes “Every time a bell rings an angel gets his wings”. As I write my article this month I have to chuckle a bit as Ross the cat sprints by sporting his bell collar and jingling up a storm.<br />
Often times when watching the classic holiday movies you see things like roasted chestnuts, and homemade fudge. I can tell you that my daughter was inspired by this once and decided to make homemade fudge and we actually ended up throwing that pan away. I have since found that there are recipes on the internet for microwave fudge, hard tack candy, and even roasted chestnuts. So don’t let those holiday goodies daunt you- you can still enjoy them with your family even with just a bit effort. Leave the often stressful times behind as you remember one other famous quote from the film, “No man is a failure who has friends”. So fill your car on your journey this year with family and friends and wander (not lost) together over the fields and through the snow.<a href="https://www.meadvilletribune.com/news/monday-spotlight-two-christmas-movie-themed-museums-are-in-your/article_0e96cea6-1878-11ea-9357-dfd44845d7e6.html" target="_blank">As Seen in Meadville Tribune</a>Heather Reichelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00427298319106460696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3942717302139638327.post-44160733487031569892019-11-04T10:04:00.000-08:002019-12-01T10:05:00.704-08:00In Your Backyard November 2019 ~ World's Largest Rubber Stamp<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuTOpbHe3DeVxpK4_14T8xtOG896kzJ8nSZDKtSspFHmmHodM7xtEUnpIpCt3f9ScxIt4x4svSe3vFw8O1V2weuP5EApCLmjJWUyTRQaHxIqXIthfosBUvLUBKnIFzGsoUe0kFPrp1YROE/s1600/IMG_0424.HEIC.heif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuTOpbHe3DeVxpK4_14T8xtOG896kzJ8nSZDKtSspFHmmHodM7xtEUnpIpCt3f9ScxIt4x4svSe3vFw8O1V2weuP5EApCLmjJWUyTRQaHxIqXIthfosBUvLUBKnIFzGsoUe0kFPrp1YROE/s400/IMG_0424.HEIC.heif" width="400" /></a></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 7.919999999999959pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“World’s Largest Anything” is not what you would expect to find close to Meadville, and yet there is a world record object not all that far away. So before the snow begins to make travel across interstate 90 a nightmare, why not head out for a cool day trip that will be a wonder for even the most grumpy of your travel mates. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Located in Willard Park in downtown Cleveland is the World’s Largest Rubber Stamp that has the word FREE etched on it. Originally commissioned for Standard Ohio of Ohio in 1985, it was to be placed in front of their building directly across from the Soldiers and Sailers Monument as a tribute to the soldiers of the Civil War and the end to slavery. Before the work on this monumental structure could be completed however British Petroleum took over Standard Oil of Ohio and the new company refused to allow the stamp. Apparently the word “FREE” now took on a different connotation in regards to the lack of corporate freedom for the prior Standard Oil of Ohio. Even though that was not the reason for the stamp, it was banned from the British Petroleum property and left to sit in a warehouse. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In 1991 the giant stamp was released to the public and found a new home in Willard Park and is still very near the Soldiers and Sailors Monument of Cleveland which is well worth the few blocks walk. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The parking in Cleveland is on street parallel metered parking and I can tell you from experience that driving around looking for an open spot is nerve wracking. So take my advice and just head straight to the Willard Parking Garage and pay the $2.50 for the hour. You will possibly spend more than that in fuel driving around aimlessly looking for a space especially during the day on a weekday. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I have to warn you though about the garage, it is situated just a bit different from the other parking structures I have dealt with. You enter at street level, and will be amazed at just how many cars are actually in there. You can follow the signs for more parking and keep looking for a spot until you seriously have no clue where you actually are. Once you leave the vehicle is when it gets really interesting. First TAKE YOUR TICKET WITH YOU or you will be heading back to get it to pay. Some garages are like this and some are not, but most of the time if you need to pay before you go back to your car there are a gazillion signs telling you that. Now in all honesty, there may have been signs but I was too focused on trying to figure out which way to turn at each intersection to find more parking. Here is where my story takes a significant “what the heck” turn. Having left the vehicle I went to the stairwell and like most garages headed down the stairs. Getting to the bottom I find there was no way out. In all of my twists and turns and concentrating on find a spot I did not dawn on me that I was actually going below street level. For at least 10 mins I wandered around (although I was not exactly lost) until I found the elevator that was working on the West side of the structure. It was one of those “head smacking” moments, but the 49 foot tall stamp and the Soldiers and Sailors was worth all the aggravation. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">There is also a large statue of Abraham Lincoln and the words to the Gettysburg Address are inscribed below, so it maybe a good little history lesson for the kiddos. I tell all the parents this ahead of time so they can read up on some Civil War Trivia and astound the kids with their intellect and knowledge, or at least feel like they did. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">There is much to do and see in Downtown Cleveland if you are making the journey over so plan a day of it. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, The Cleveland Museum of Art, the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, and the Museum of Natural History are just a few of the attractions. Why not take a little time to see what the city has to offer while you are there. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Once your trip is done, it is time to find your car so just keep repeating, “Not all who wander are lost, not all who wander are lost” </span></div>
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<span id="docs-internal-guid-e440b1d4-7fff-e394-d5cb-f41f264fa575" style="text-align: start;"></span><a href="https://www.meadvilletribune.com/news/monday-spotlight-world-s-largest-rubber-stamp-is-in-your/article_d9bd6414-fd02-11e9-a5bd-7f7c095fd4c1.html" target="_blank">As Seen in Meadville Tribune</a></div>
Heather Reichelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00427298319106460696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3942717302139638327.post-32795210703516727122019-10-14T10:01:00.000-07:002019-12-01T10:02:07.567-08:00In Your Backyard October 2019 ~ Kinzua Sky Walk and Leaf Ride<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvX0JO89P5nlQc4__wOCe4R36Rw1WKtlTY1P1_gPkfgja585GWu_zNFLf_p6dQ2u37TRZouyGELO7QCQjEAgZHe7bFn6tyKYh4ZL03IqIC6tY9nRviG7XxjHNLaqCvDB7NmdhpBX1UB2in/s1600/IMG_1036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvX0JO89P5nlQc4__wOCe4R36Rw1WKtlTY1P1_gPkfgja585GWu_zNFLf_p6dQ2u37TRZouyGELO7QCQjEAgZHe7bFn6tyKYh4ZL03IqIC6tY9nRviG7XxjHNLaqCvDB7NmdhpBX1UB2in/s640/IMG_1036.JPG" width="640" /></a><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">As the air begins to turn crisp in the evenings and the leaves start to take on their fall colors, it is a great time to take a leaf ride and view the patchwork quilt of colors in the Allegheny Mountains. I grew up in Warren County Pennsylvania and every year during the fall I try to make the journey back to visit and see the leaves. I particularly love to go to the Allegheny National Forest area and the Kinzua Dam which has the combination of water, leaves, scenic overlooks and peaceful byways for a wonderful outing that is less than two hours away. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Two of the best places to view the leaves is the Rimrock and Jake’s Rock areas in the park itself. The higher elevation of the area means the leaves change earlier than they do here, and they often are in full color early October. For maps of some of the best driving trails through the area for the better views and more information you can visit the National Forest webpage at www.visitanf.com. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">One of the coolest places to visit in the National Forest is the former Kinzua Viaduct which is now the Kinzua Sky Walk. There is a great visitor center there with lots of information on the history of the original viaduct. It is an impressive engineering feat and the display is very interesting for the young and young at heart. It is located within the Kinzua Bridge State Park at 296 Viaduct Road, Mt. Jewett, PA 16740 </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">One of my favorite memories of the area is a camping trip with the three kids one Memorial Day weekend in 2003. The kids were very young at the time and it was a fairly ambitious adventure and anyone from northwest Pennsylvania probably has a clue how this all turned out. We went to sleep in a rain storm (finding out that the new tent leaked) and we awoke to a snow storm. Since we were not to be deterred from the family outing we checked out the KOA in the area and rented a cabin for the remaining time. With a good 2” of snow accumulation we decided that a warm car ride was in order so we went to check out the then viaduct. I have some very cool photos and memories of that day, and was saddened greatly to hear that a tornado took the center section of the viaduct within the next few months. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The grand old structure has since been repurposed as a walking trail and observation platform. The leaf view is amazing and the plexiglass floor in the observation platform area will give those who like to live on the edge a great view of the former pieces of the viaduct which are far below your feet. In fact the center of the structure was 301 feet above the valley floor, to give you an idea of just how high that is, the Statue of Liberty is 305 feet and 6 inches tall. Needless to say, I am not one who likes heights and it takes a whole lot for me to step out on the Plexiglass surface. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Which ever road you chose, and however long you make your excursion, you will begin to notice the colors and the wonderful designs on the hillsides as soon as you enter Warren County which begins just on the eastern side of Titusville. Make sure you pack the kids some snacks because there are many cool picnic areas and have a camera with you for some great photos. The Visitor Center located at the Kinzua Dam area has paper maps and is a great viewing area for Bald Eagles. In the past I have seen multiple pairs soaring in the sky, and landing in the treetops not far from the parking lot. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As you drive be aware there are areas that cell phones GPS is a bit spotty, so a stop for the paper map or printing one out from the website is not a bad idea. I want you to wander, but I do not want you to get lost. </span></div>
</span><a href="https://www.meadvilletribune.com/news/fall-in-love-with-leaf-viewing-at-kinzua-dam-area/article_d421ed52-ee18-11e9-be33-e39a4c6aae3c.html?fbclid=IwAR0d8sNoTzURlsvNsE67AToUslt3IXhDoB5UK_xuJLXfugjOaMGbzEnwa10" target="_blank">As Seen in Meadville Tribune</a>Heather Reichelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00427298319106460696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3942717302139638327.post-19730641534974500912019-09-09T09:57:00.000-07:002019-12-01T09:57:26.486-08:00In Your Backyard September 2019 ~ 911 Memorial<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW7WGyAsSrfe_abAuf6p9z6a98m8cn3lNbFAOLZYw1wmfIknNmQ7Jmev-YeuCECO4rs_9IHBl_wW3Ch3zt2FlyVGPJJit9MibXRk9Dp9D1wD65YHkB7R6yDbFg7dpN1GkBDBDPridtcUjK/s1600/IMG_6888.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW7WGyAsSrfe_abAuf6p9z6a98m8cn3lNbFAOLZYw1wmfIknNmQ7Jmev-YeuCECO4rs_9IHBl_wW3Ch3zt2FlyVGPJJit9MibXRk9Dp9D1wD65YHkB7R6yDbFg7dpN1GkBDBDPridtcUjK/s320/IMG_6888.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 0.2400000000000091pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Eighteen years ago I was holding my infant son watching in horror as the World Trade Center buildings fell. He was only two weeks old and I wondered what kind of world I was bringing him into. As the day unfolded it was clear to me that his world would be much different then mine was growing up. Although I was born during the Cold War Era, I watched the news as the Berlin Wall fell and the former Soviet Union once again became Russia. My childhood had a sense of impending peace and I was afraid that my children would have a sense of impending doom. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Well, as the years went on, it seemed the only times we were reminded of that fateful September morning was once a year on the anniversary or if you decided to fly on a plane. Even air travel started to get back to somewhat normal and pretty soon the 11th of September began to pass for much of the country as just another day. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Many of us do not live in the areas which were affected directly by the tragedy so it is not foremost in our minds. About three years ago however, in completely unrelated and unplanned trips, I was given the opportunity to visit all three memorials within a 12 month period and I wanted to share that experience. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">First was the Pentagon as we were coming back from a family vacation and traffic was very light since it was the middle of the night. I had a GoPro mounted on my dashboard driving through the capital and past the monuments when I got the idea. Well, there are 2 entrances to the Pentagon and I chose the one (not knowing any better) on the opposite side of the memorial. Let’s just say that Pentagon police are swift responding and I was told that photography was not allowed and there sits my dash camera blinking. Luckily I must not have appeared to be much of a threat and was allowed to proceed to the memorial with a police escort. (They also stayed the entire time we were there). I am positive that this event is where my FBI file starts. For those who get the chance, the memorial is designed with lighting and water that is definitely best viewed after dark. The direction of the “light benches” on the ground will let you know who was in the plane and who was in the building and they are arranged by age, with the exception of the youngest victim who was age 3 and she was surrounded by her family. The 184 benches are a striking reminder of the loss of life. Just be sure to do some homework ahead of time to know which entrance to go in (I believe it is the North Entrance- but best verify). </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Shortly after that I had the opportunity to go to New York City for the first time, and I went to the World Trade Center memorial. By this time, construction of the memorial was completed and the footprint of Tower 1 and 2 are now a somber display of recirculating water which seems to fall into an abyss below. Surrounding each is a railing with the names of all the victims from each of the three incidents on 9-11 and also the six which died in the 1993 bombing of the towers. Over 3000 names can be read as you walk around the pools. It is a humbling experience. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A few months later I was traveling from Virginia and saw the sign for Shanksville that I had passed so many times in the prior years. This time, with the recent visits to the other two sites, I felt compelled to take the detour. This was ultimately the most difficult museum to visit. Inside there was a wall with telephone handsets that you could pick up and listen to the voicemails that were left on loved ones answering machines from the passengers of Flight 93. They were gut wrenching and I admit it, I was bawling as I listened to their goodbyes. It is a 3 hour drive from Meadville to the memorial, and I suggest the road trip for any family with an 18 year old. Let them listen to the voices of those who sacrificed themselves to ensure there would not be more than the 3000 names on the list of victims. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">For many, a trip to the memorials themselves is out of the question. But there is a way to still pay your respects far more locally. A beam from the World Trade Center is part of the Erie 911 </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Memorial and is located at the Blasco Library and the Maritime Museum in the Bayfront area. The beam is outside and can be visited at any time, there is a display inside open to the public during library hours. There is much to do in the area so plan a day to take in some sights as well. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It was the philosopher George Santayana that stated "Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it”. As my son celebrated his 18th birthday last week, I know he could not possibly remember, and it is my job to teach and to remember. “We Shall Never Forget” As you wander through your life, please make sure your history is not lost. </span></div>
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<span id="docs-internal-guid-2f2d8167-7fff-e474-ed85-be11ec9401bb" style="text-align: start;"></span><a href="https://www.meadvilletribune.com/news/monday-spotlight-sept-memorials-are-in-your-backyard/article_b8f386ea-d111-11e9-bb4a-df7f94a31b28.html" target="_blank">As Seen in Meadville Tribune</a></div>
Heather Reichelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00427298319106460696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3942717302139638327.post-8176088949721537292019-08-12T09:53:00.000-07:002019-12-01T10:05:16.176-08:00In Your Backyard August 2019 ~ Buttermilk Falls<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2QrTusXmNw6x-lMfiZPMXIqSAcHXvI6j9ILCvFN627715CAoxFEqT4_q3iCHfh_-DMqSuqqBJ9EoS3LBDIe0nyBo-Qc7cgqTF3lYRg1Aip1cQmkn_4GkxhnmxUnZdEz1OMN8TKpKgTQ82/s1600/Buttermilk+Falls+from+above.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1199" data-original-width="1600" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2QrTusXmNw6x-lMfiZPMXIqSAcHXvI6j9ILCvFN627715CAoxFEqT4_q3iCHfh_-DMqSuqqBJ9EoS3LBDIe0nyBo-Qc7cgqTF3lYRg1Aip1cQmkn_4GkxhnmxUnZdEz1OMN8TKpKgTQ82/s400/Buttermilk+Falls+from+above.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">As August is in full swing and the temperatures steadily reach into the 80s the kids can get a bit cranky when the humidity rises as well. Now, don’t get me wrong, I am not complaining a bit about the heat. In fact, I am enjoying the flip flop weather immensely and will sad when we return to the weather which contains the “s” word that shall not be named. But, if you are looking to beat the heat, pack the family and a picnic for an air conditioned car ride to a fantastic swimming hole located at the end of a quick but beautiful stroll in the shade to a cascading waterfall. Before the big box stores started selling the quick set up large pools, the local swimming hole was a great summer gathering place. Bring a bit of nostalgia and a few stories of your own childhood years with you to tell the kids. </span><br />
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<span id="docs-internal-guid-86df0917-7fff-9dd1-77bb-1d420a3e3b8b"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Buttermilk Falls located in Beaver County (Route 18 & 1st Ave Homewood Bough, Beaver Falls, Pa 15010) The name Buttermilk Falls was reportedly given to the falls by a group of civil war soldiers and their wives in 1870 as they made a toast with glasses filled with buttermilk. While buttermilk would not have been my first choice for a beverage, it does make for a neat story. The Falls are often called Homewood Falls due to its location as well as there being several other “Buttermilk Falls” in the state. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The 20 foot sandstone rock formation sends water and sometimes people over the edge into the pool below. Let me be very clear, I am not condoning nor encouraging jumping from the top, but I did witness this happening. I just wanted to give a warning to swimmers to keep an eye on the top just to be sure no one happens to be jumping in the area you are swimming. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">From a small parking lot located just off the main road on the left there is a short but scenic walk up to the base of the falls. This is the much easier way to access the bottom portion as well as the swimming hole. You will walk through the former quarry that supplied the stone for the Western Penitentiary in Pittsburgh as well as the roads and tunnels that are in the area. If the lower parking lot happens to be full or you want to see an overlook view of the falls then continue up the road just a bit until you come to a church on your left. There is another parking lot that is graciously provided by the church and nearby is a great vantage point for pictures. There are very steep pathways leading down to the bottom from this area, but I was not looking to twist an ankle in my flip flops. I suggest just walk down the road to the lower access to reach the bottom of the falls area. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Both the top and the bottom of the falls are worth the effort, even if you are not swimming. The top gives a great view and photo opportunity, but the bottom area allows you to actually walk behind the falls. Several rocks have carvings on them, and many of the dates go back to the early 1900s. It is amazing that such a seemingly untouched area of nature has not been overly developed. You can even bring a blanket and spread out on one of the many large rocks near the base for a quick snack with the roaring of the waterfall for a romantic backdrop if you happen to go with your sweetie. You will likely be sharing your romance with the excited squeals of children splashing and playing, since it is a popular local watering hole, but I was told that it is a popular place to “Pop the Question” if that is your motive for the trip. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">While you are in the area you can also check out Brady’s Run Park (121 Bradys Run Rd, Beaver Falls Pa) which offers picnic facilities, biking and hiking trails and a playground for the kids. You can also visit the Air Heritage Museum (1043, 35 Piper St) also in Beaver Falls. The museum is open to the public free of charge from 10am to 5pm Monday through Saturday. It houses a great display of aviation and WWII memorabilia. Whatever you chose to do on your journey remember that not all who wander are lost. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigDCl7JQ4V3Tgq8bAZ96wP3oatWhgR7xYTmyVack8Cff-Jm4vHEewSlkXmoJSHkgx8ov3XHGyDjT5T4RFWwSjD12giN6kFpAnwF_MsiYCSsqJhqWESvUgbVpt4iPTnDwyWYdRi2lox4zuJ/s1600/Buttermilk+Falls+from+below.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1199" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigDCl7JQ4V3Tgq8bAZ96wP3oatWhgR7xYTmyVack8Cff-Jm4vHEewSlkXmoJSHkgx8ov3XHGyDjT5T4RFWwSjD12giN6kFpAnwF_MsiYCSsqJhqWESvUgbVpt4iPTnDwyWYdRi2lox4zuJ/s320/Buttermilk+Falls+from+below.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.meadvilletribune.com/news/monday-spotlight-buttermilk-falls-is-in-your-backyard/article_86b8cc9c-bb10-11e9-ae40-d3db0860c56f.html" target="_blank">As Seen in Meadville Tribune</a>Heather Reichelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00427298319106460696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3942717302139638327.post-11761838327469104342019-07-08T09:49:00.000-07:002019-12-01T09:49:44.714-08:00In Your Backyard July 2019 ~ Fountain of Youth<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBNmJkheilH_IlOefis3R5R6wJijOzt8ipgK5RcDp1HNxX56kNjlmAgii_KQqLoq8_9IZSNd763fjr2KQWVlDNyReBw14a3bBwEQjbEF9sd7ltruSLz-8h1xygkM0LJMlLUXMUVwUNUsSx/s1600/IMG_8937.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBNmJkheilH_IlOefis3R5R6wJijOzt8ipgK5RcDp1HNxX56kNjlmAgii_KQqLoq8_9IZSNd763fjr2KQWVlDNyReBw14a3bBwEQjbEF9sd7ltruSLz-8h1xygkM0LJMlLUXMUVwUNUsSx/s400/IMG_8937.PNG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 1.919999999999959pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Fountain of Youth has enticed people since 500BC when it was mentioned in early writings and Conquistador Ponce De Leon scoured Florida for the fabled waters in the 16th Century. But they were all apparently looking in the wrong location because in 1938 in North Park near Wexford, Pa the Fountain of Youth was found. They were so sure they had the correct location that a large stone header was placed over the opening with the name right on it (that or it was quite possibly a draw for tourism). </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Either way, the Fountain of Youth located in Wexford remained in operation until the pump handle was abruptly removed in May of 1955. The former spring house is still standing and is a unique structure worth the drive and the exploration. Although it is quite dark and musty smelling inside, it is not unpleasant and the lure of the famed waters was obviously worth the grand stone opening into the hillside. The sounds of running water gives tribute to it’s glorious past as you step inside. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The kids will love exploring the springhouse and the creek with a little waterfall that runs directly in front of the Fountain of Youth. The adults will no doubt be curious at its origins as they watch the kids or grandkids play with a seemingly endless amount of energy. Possibly even wondering or hoping that the waters still hold their claimed powers. </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 6.240000000000009pt; margin-top: 12.96pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Time is unforgiving to the human body as it approaches middle age (the time the age starts to show around the middle). As the years fly by at an alarming rate, we are often wondering if our warranty has run out as joints ache and doctor visits become increasingly more frequent. I could not resist the temptation to dip my toes in the creek on the off chance there maybe something to the old tales. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Fountain of Youth is located at 10100-10170 Kummer Rd in Wexford, Pa. There is a pull off on the left side of the road for parking and the spring house is visible from the roadway. Once you have visited, take the opportunity to explore the surrounding area of North Park with over 3,000 square acres of trails, picnic areas, a 65 acre lake, swimming pool, and all around family oriented fun. More information can be found at www.alleghenycounty.us in the visitors section. </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 1.919999999999959pt; margin-top: 12.96pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The legend of healing waters is often a draw for people to gather. Even in Meadville back in the late 1800s, when the once fabulous Oakwood Park was in its glory. For 5 cents visitors could ride the trolley to West Mead Township for a dance hall and lake. The trolley would drop you off at the Ponce De Leon Spring where, you guessed it, people would claim medicinal values of this mysterious water. Once the trolley line made its way to Exposition Park in Conneaut Lake however, Oakwood Park could not compete with the excitement of an amusement park and this began its demise. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Nothing much is left of the grand old park, and in 1950 the sons of John J Shyrock erected a brick memorial which bears a plaque "Ponce de Leon Spring This building erected in Memory of John J. Shryock 1950”. The memorial is located on Spring Rd just outside the city limits near the area of Tamarack Lake. While in the area, be sure to check out the progress on the lake as it starts to refill. Now that the repairs are complete on the dam, this area will once again be a great location for visiting with the kids. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">So you see, the Fountain of Youth and the man who once searched for it have long withstood the test of time. From the writings of ancient philosophers to the stories of the Native Americans and from the coast of Florida to the rural areas of Pennsylvania. Fascination with youth has given many a reason for a journey, and now the history of these locations calls to the modern traveler. Remember as you take your trip that life is short, so it is best lived to the fullest and not all who wander are lost. </span></div>
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<span id="docs-internal-guid-c6638d49-7fff-c606-811f-ce9e8afb9e49" style="text-align: start;"></span><a href="https://www.meadvilletribune.com/news/monday-spotlight-wexford-s-fountain-of-youth-is-in-your/article_8e039c14-9f79-11e9-b96b-ab4b6a9ef711.html" target="_blank">As Seen in Meadville Tribune</a></div>
Heather Reichelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00427298319106460696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3942717302139638327.post-79115156140023851702019-06-03T09:44:00.000-07:002019-12-01T09:45:30.171-08:00In Your Backyard June 2019 ~ Eternal Flames Falls<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjJyVxRL221NRRsA2EfSB8K_oCSTmSChEtDVy3gUDTKLBqbjf7gA-h4EsYF4zujsr8QLnw0ezCFo-zhFY8e4OYUub08EOROCnMku07geFl61MIoyi5vvHpLqtB9L_Q-3G2ljOijnv9eDhZ/s1600/Falls+collage.PNG.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjJyVxRL221NRRsA2EfSB8K_oCSTmSChEtDVy3gUDTKLBqbjf7gA-h4EsYF4zujsr8QLnw0ezCFo-zhFY8e4OYUub08EOROCnMku07geFl61MIoyi5vvHpLqtB9L_Q-3G2ljOijnv9eDhZ/s640/Falls+collage.PNG.jpeg" width="640" /></a><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">A magical hidden gem is located north of us only two hours away and aside from locals, many do not know it exists. Chestnut Ridge County Park is the largest county park in the US and is located at 6121 Chestnut Ridge Road Orchard Park, NY just off Interstate 90. (I 90 becomes a toll road after entering NY State so prepare to have about $6 in cash to complete your journey.) This often overlooked park sits on a hilltop with stunning views of downtown Buffalo, and the main building called the Casino also has a snack bar and restrooms. In the winter there are toboggan runs which operate on the weekends and these tall structures are located beside the Casino. When there is not snow on the ground however, is when one of the most unique aspects of the park is easier to access. </span></div>
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<span id="docs-internal-guid-25a26498-7fff-a9fc-d2db-97ee6f395d0a"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Eternal Flame Falls is located in the southern most tip of Chestnut Ridge Park and the parking lot is easy to find from the main visitor office located in the Casino. Just a short drive down the road following the signs and you will find a large parking lot on the side of the road. The trail itself is marked moderate to difficult, primarily from the steepness as well as the abundant tree roots which can be tripping hazards if one is not paying attention. The trail itself is not a long hike, so slowing down and taking your time on both the descent and the climb is recommended. A trekking pole or walking stick can add a bit of stability when conditions are wet and the ground becomes slippery, and good traction shoes are a must. As you reach the bottom of the hill, you will follow the “flame” icons on the trail markers to the left and now you will be following the creek bed back the way you came. It may seem shorter to just go down the embankment, but the signs state to stick to the approved trail for a reason and the cliff is too steep and dangerous to maneuver. The bottom of the gorge will have you walking up Shale Creek to reach the falls. When there has been several days of rain, or in early spring, be prepared for wet crossings. However, late spring and summer months allow you to walk from rock to rock without getting very wet at all. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As you scamper up the creek there are several places that trees are across the valley which will require you to climb over them, the kids will absolutely love this part, and it is worth the effort to continue the hike. Shortly after the largest log jam the falls will come into view. The 30 foot high drop is in two sections, the first is a skinnier 8 foot high waterfall that then branches out into falls which ripple over the natural shale formations. Near the middle of this bottom section to the right side is a small grotto (a hollow area like a small cave) which the water flows over. It is within this grotto that the magic happens. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A natural gas fissure is located here and the grotto protects it from both the water and the wind allowing it to stay lit, thus illuminating the water which passes over the front. The flame can be extinguished and it is wise to carry a lighter with you just in case it has for some reason been put out. The Eternal flame was burning in all its glory when I arrived for my visit and is best viewed from the right bank when standing in front of the falls. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The scientists have been trying to determine how this gas fissure works, since it seems to defy the laws of nature. There is much more information available with an easy Google search “How does the Eternal flame falls keep burning”. So rather than go into a scientific discussion I will direct anyone interested there. Instead, I will say this- it is honestly one of the most unique and coolest sights I have ever seen and is absolutely worth all the effort required to get there. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I sat in awe as the representation of all four elements was displayed in front of me, earth in the form of shale, the water cascading by, the fire flickering wildly in the small gusts of wind. I knew from my research it would be cool, I just had no idea it would be that cool. After a snack, and a drink and about 50 photos and video clips it was time to make the trek out of the gorge. One thing I have learned through hiking it is a rule that when one goes downhill, one must go uphill, and what an uphill it is! Being the first hike of the season I just took my time and reminded myself that it was really only a short distance back to the car. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Once there, the two hour trip home was filled with a fantastic sunset view over Lake Erie as you travel back towards the state line. Along the way is the Angola NY rest stop which is also unique in that you park and cross over a pedestrian bridge to get to the center concourse filled with a food court, a gift shop and restrooms. I remember stopping there as a child on our way to Canada and it was always a landmark for me, holding a fascination to be able to stand on the bridge as the semi trucks passed under my feet. So if you have kiddos with you be sure to make the stop. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As you travel back into Pa the exit signs will begin to be familiar roadways, so rather than sticking to the interstate, why not grab one of the highways and meander through the parts of Pa you may not visit frequently. Remembering the words as you travel rural Pa that not all those who wander are lost, just head south and enjoy the trip. <a href="https://www.meadvilletribune.com/news/monday-spotlight-a-magical-hidden-gem-is-two-hours-away/article_42e61322-840f-11e9-9b2e-a3adfa5deaca.html" target="_blank">As Seen in Meadville Tribune</a></span></div>
</span>Heather Reichelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00427298319106460696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3942717302139638327.post-68644793640210537772019-05-13T09:40:00.000-07:002019-12-01T09:40:51.594-08:00In Your Backyard May 2019 ~ Ashtabula Bridge Disaster<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA1qcND-eWtFtCbpVLOtO66OOGPYuS8PyvURQvQpRYtcgQQw-_6j_K1d1MJLYoAifZTrdIO_4r2qcsS3pbpfrQ_jZF3EQMz1g7hKk11P3hE8ZdBVvqQOLaF_eeuqOhi_YvIEsi4BGd4e5p/s1600/Current+bridge.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA1qcND-eWtFtCbpVLOtO66OOGPYuS8PyvURQvQpRYtcgQQw-_6j_K1d1MJLYoAifZTrdIO_4r2qcsS3pbpfrQ_jZF3EQMz1g7hKk11P3hE8ZdBVvqQOLaF_eeuqOhi_YvIEsi4BGd4e5p/s320/Current+bridge.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Not far from the Pennsylvania state line in Ohio, lies the quiet town of Ashtabula. With a population of less than 20,000 it is not significantly larger than the city of Meadville. Once however, this town was positioning itself to be a major city in its state. With access to Lake Erie as a port and a railroad infrastructure, Ashtabula seemed well on its way. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Suddenly in the late 1800s a tragedy struck this town that so horrified the public that they bypassed Ashtabula for neighboring Cleveland and essentially halted its potential growth. What you may wonder would be so devastating that it could change the path of an entire city? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">On a snowy December evening in 1876 a train left Erie heading west. This is not the start of a high school math problem, but it is an equation for one of the 10 worst technology disasters in over 350 years. This train was pulled by two engines and had 159 passengers on board. As the train passed over the bridge which spanned the Ashtabula river, the bridge failed and only one engine made it to the other side. The crash was heard in town as 11 railcars and the second engine plummeted over 70 feet into the icy river. Although some of the cars landed upright in the river, the wooden cars were at that time heated by coal fired stoves which soon became an inferno. Passengers who had survived the impact and escaped the wreckage were taken to local residences and businesses because there was no hospital in the town. Many others were trapped within the mangled wreckage and their screams were heard throughout the valley as they perished in the blaze. In total 92 people lost their lives in what has become the Ashtabula Bridge Disaster or the Ashtabula Horror. 48 of the fatalities were unrecognizable and a reported 64 others were injured in the crash. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Ashtabula Horror thus shaped this town’s destiny and Cleveland became the favored port for the budding industry of the area as the legacy of this accident was felt for decades. An inspection of the bridge sited a faulty design. The chief engineer Charles Collins was believed to have committed suicide out of grief but it was later determined that it was in fact murder. The designer of the bridge Amasa Stone did then later commit suicide. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Charles Collins is buried in a vault in nearby Chestnut Grove Cemetery and very close by an obelisk which marks the grave which holds the remains of 19 of the victims who were so badly incinerated they could not be identified. The obelisk is still the tallest gravestone in all of Ashtabula and the area is rumored to be haunted. Reported sightings include visions of Mr Collins kneeing and holding his head in his hands repeating the words “I’m sorry”. The cemetery is located at 79 Grove Drive in Ashtabula and the monument is easy to find by following the blue information signs. As I visited the cemetery, the nearby sounds of freight trains passing were an eerie reminder of the history of the area. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Ashtabula Medical Center is perhaps the largest memorial of this disaster. Built mainly for the purpose of attending to the needs of future railroad calamities, there is a memorial garden with a plaque that when operational gives a recorded history of the train wreck. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The original bridge was replaced and a nearby walking trail provides a great vantage point. Indian Trails Park is located at 1700 E 1st St and the asphalt trail follows along the scenic Ashtabula River to the base of the bridge. The trail then continues to a wonderful vantage point of a beautiful waterfall and the walkway is ADA accessible. The trail is a very easy walk and well worth the effort. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Although the Ashtabula Horror happened nearly 150 years ago, the lasting effects of this tragedy shaped this town. With the work starting on the new Railroad Museum in Meadville, I felt it was a timely topic to show just how influential the railroad has been in the rise and fall in the towns in our backyard. Remember as you plan your visit, wandering does not mean you are lost. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCvwoxAfv1FAJhpsHeI1r7QAksYFnz9ScCUx6hTPbLOka7PFitVerREtiM9FqrqwH-8FZFxGxrxAH1t0WWm6ZNqeIESnLDpiEfsdo-IGdKacc_fl1xfuXLQgklc6tDbyPXtdOy9aKdphi3/s1600/Obelisk+in+cemetery+.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCvwoxAfv1FAJhpsHeI1r7QAksYFnz9ScCUx6hTPbLOka7PFitVerREtiM9FqrqwH-8FZFxGxrxAH1t0WWm6ZNqeIESnLDpiEfsdo-IGdKacc_fl1xfuXLQgklc6tDbyPXtdOy9aKdphi3/s320/Obelisk+in+cemetery+.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.meadvilletribune.com/news/monday-spotlight-ashtabula-horror-is-in-your-backyard/article_948f3d76-7388-11e9-ac14-4f18437435c3.html" target="_blank">As Seen in Meadville Tribune</a>Heather Reichelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00427298319106460696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3942717302139638327.post-42389375516586403402019-04-08T09:36:00.000-07:002019-12-01T09:37:01.492-08:00In Your Backyard April 2019 ~ Jaws Tombstone Allegheny Cemetary<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9dGZTZOtfjvhR_xPJyLhAhTq3-8OwXL-ymOEzfK9iOhS4dw4pCJOmyRvulzgxh-b2bCwLpSQICGyujQ55LMY-kNLxmGz3wm6w0rD6GG-SWk1fNYEyhxmzeArpW_pm6PDJXUd9tXGjwMfE/s1600/Jaws+tombstone.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="329" data-original-width="400" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9dGZTZOtfjvhR_xPJyLhAhTq3-8OwXL-ymOEzfK9iOhS4dw4pCJOmyRvulzgxh-b2bCwLpSQICGyujQ55LMY-kNLxmGz3wm6w0rD6GG-SWk1fNYEyhxmzeArpW_pm6PDJXUd9tXGjwMfE/s320/Jaws+tombstone.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 5.279999999999973pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Film has been on my mind a bit the past couple weeks. It really should not be much of a surprise since we have been organizing the EQUUS Film Festival in Meadville for this weekend April 12-14th (I promise that is the end of my shameless promotion) But it got me thinking about how film has shaped our lives. We have all seen things that inspired us or made us sad, even things that absolutely terrified us. For me, one movie in particular comes to mind in the terrifying category. Jaws was released in June of 1975, (yes, please do the math as I did to realize that this movie will have been released 44 years ago this summer) </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 15.360000000000014pt; margin-top: 12.96pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Steven Spielberg’s great triumph was almost a disaster when “Bruce”, the mechanical shark named after his attorney, did not function properly on set. Instead of throwing in the towel, Spielberg keep the unrealistic creature out of many scenes to limit its exposure. Instead, he relied on the audience imagination to conjure the images of what was just below the ocean’s surface. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The initial seen is possibly the greatest example of this and also one of the most horrifying parts of the movie. The “late night swim” scene when the young lady is attacked from below and is pulled across the water screaming was nothing more than ropes and an old fashion game of tug of war. It was the music, combined with the darkness, the idea, and the piercing screams that convinced our minds to fill in the blanks. I guarantee that what ever I thought was going on was much worse than the special effects could have shown back in 1975. It was effective and it was iconic. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">So iconic in fact that a man by the name of Lester Madden decided to forever “Rest In Peace” below the image which signified his most favorite movie of all time. Within the 300 acres and 15 miles of roadways deep inside the Allegheny Cemetery lies the final resting place for Mr Madden and his Jaws tombstone. He was 51 years old when he passed away in 1983, he was a Korean War Veteran and most definitely a true fan of the Spielberg movie. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Allegheny Cemetery was founded in 1844 by some of Pittsburgh’s most prominent families and it is the oldest and largest cemetery in the Pittsburgh area and the sixth oldest rural cemetery in America. Many famous people are buried among the over 124,000 gravesites including Major League Baseball players, Congressmen and billionaires. It is a great place for a quiet walk or a scenic drive through miles of marble markers. Some stones are ornate and beautiful, some are very old, some are very plain, and some, like Mr Madden’s are as well known in the cemetery as the movie was on the scene. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The cemetery is located 4734 Butler St Pittsburgh Pa. It is open Mon-Sat from 7am to 5pm and Sunday from 10am to 4pm. The large gatehouse that marks the entrance on Butler St is in the National Register of Historic Places. The “Jaws Tombstone” is located in section 26 lot 65 and a map of cemetery as well as some history can be found on their webpage www.alleghenycemetery.com. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">While you are in the area, take note of some cool places within Pittsburgh, wether it be from this article or one of my earlier ones. Grandpa Joe’s Candy Shop located at 2124 Penn Ave and boosts some of the widest assortment of nostalgic candies in the area. Home of the world famous $5 candy buffet and soda wall. They have been featured on many news and television programs over the years. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If you go on a Thursday or Friday from spring until November you can take a free tour of the Allegheny Observatory in Riverview Park. Although the tour is free, you must have a reservation (call 412-321-2400 between 1pm-5pm Monday to Friday to reserve a tour) </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Whether it is shark searching, star gazing, or candy munching on your trip. Remember not all those who wander are lost. </span></div>
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<span id="docs-internal-guid-beb02a35-7fff-ee95-632d-a13e967b0023" style="text-align: start;"></span><a href="https://www.meadvilletribune.com/news/monday-spotlight-allegheny-cemetery-is-in-your-backyard/article_e7d210ca-580e-11e9-b156-7ff4cadb4b90.html" target="_blank">As Seen in Meadville Tribune</a></div>
Heather Reichelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00427298319106460696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3942717302139638327.post-89096058902764876522019-03-11T09:33:00.000-07:002019-12-01T09:34:08.844-08:00In Your Backyard March 2019 ~ Bald Eagles<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLsDwB85Id0HyJJVJOMog6sJqby3fV3DWlNqQm3u9Hj1BB9ocgG6ActFPhJmwoJWaOtzMee30MV0OWx2s_JdoVyn-211rhgIWrofKSSBCPVUA_aM7A1-bOC8oVYLA-1O8Ayo6vAMPUchDC/s1600/Bald+Eagle.JPG.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLsDwB85Id0HyJJVJOMog6sJqby3fV3DWlNqQm3u9Hj1BB9ocgG6ActFPhJmwoJWaOtzMee30MV0OWx2s_JdoVyn-211rhgIWrofKSSBCPVUA_aM7A1-bOC8oVYLA-1O8Ayo6vAMPUchDC/s640/Bald+Eagle.JPG.png" width="640" /></a><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">As a kid growing up in Northwestern PA we were taught in school about how the US Congress chose the Bald Eagle as our National Bird In 1784. We learned how it was on the Presidential Seal and we saw it on nature channels soaring through the sky. One thing that was not a common occurrence was someone saying they actually spotted one. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It is not surprising since according to the US Fish and Wildlife there were only 3 documented nests in the entire state of Pennsylvania just 30 years ago. Bald Eagles were on the endangered species list and finding one in this area was next to impossible. A little over ten years ago in 2007 this majestic bird was removed from the endangered list and is now flourishing with over 250 documented yearly nesting sites in our state alone. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I was an adult before I spotted my first Bald Eagle and it was, you guessed it, right in my own backyard! After that first sighting I spent many hours in my car going to places near lakes and streams with the kids in tow searching for more. We treated it as an adventure and as long as they did not run out of snacks they were more than happy to go out “stalking eagles”. It became a time to talk about school, boys, and even girls on the rare occasion that my son would volunteer information. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">We surprisingly we fairly successful with several amazing eagle sightings through the years. But admittedly the sightings were not often enough to keep the young ones attentions. So you have a choice, you can wander aimlessly through the countryside and scan the skies, learning obscure back country roads and waterways... or you can boost your success rate for a sighting by checking out the Fish and Wildlife Pennsylvania Field Office map online which has the locations of many confirmed nests in our area. To find this webpage just google “PA Bald Eagle mapping tool” and you will soon be on your way to an informed journey. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Why would you go out and stalk Bald Eagles in March? (you might ask) Well, let me tell you, Bald Eagles begin the nest building or rebuilding process and courtship about 1-3 months prior to laying eggs. And you guessed it, now is a great time to observe some amazing behaviors. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">One of my favorite places is the Lake Wilhelm area located down Route 19 in Goddard State Park. I have actually witnessed the eagles sitting on the ice searching for frozen fish. I have also been hearing reports that the eagles are very active right now just south of us in the Shenango Valley Reservoir which can be accessed by taking Route 18 south towards Sharon, Pa. If you prefer to stay more local there are at least two confirmed nests in the Conneaut Lake area and several more in the Pymatuning State Park. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Where ever you decide to travel, make sure you bring a camera and possibly a pair of. binoculars. Eagles tend to nest in areas that are not accessible and there are established buffer zones around the nests since they are protected by federal law. Nests are typically very large and made of a mix of limbs and other materials so just look for dark shadows in the tree tops. Don’t see the nest from your location? Don’t get discouraged. Most of the amazing sightings I have had were the eagles flying overhead or perched in a tree nowhere near the nest itself. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Eagles are also opportunistic birds and are not above being on the side of the road for a freshly hit animal, so be aware of this as you travel because they will take off with a huge wing span and can startle you if you are not prepared for it. The last thing you want to do is end up in the ditch or accidentally hitting the bird. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">So pack the kids, pack the snacks and head out for a wildlife adventure that will bring many family memories and a great chance to admire our National Bird. Remember until next time, not all those who wander are lost. </span></div>
</span><a href="https://www.meadvilletribune.com/news/monday-spotlight-now-s-a-great-time-to-observe-bald/article_f7d2fd70-420d-11e9-a8e9-d78113bf9aee.html" target="_blank">As Seen in Meadville Tribune</a>Heather Reichelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00427298319106460696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3942717302139638327.post-23669064732912587382019-02-11T09:31:00.000-08:002019-12-01T09:31:39.446-08:00In Your Backyard February 2019 ~ Pittsburgh Subway <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBSmVx478KMsfVoRyya3mJ7AXOk_L1yFcWkAthqTNXeNU0LrU2foYEpz_REN0iKlSnW2leFuWl6Vlg_tKSKExE0V_VafDxQEzMguHEBmD7SkI6cj7XCtQA2RZlu_pbU6RkQBXrBPvmDj4l/s1600/Pittsburgh+Subway.JPG.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBSmVx478KMsfVoRyya3mJ7AXOk_L1yFcWkAthqTNXeNU0LrU2foYEpz_REN0iKlSnW2leFuWl6Vlg_tKSKExE0V_VafDxQEzMguHEBmD7SkI6cj7XCtQA2RZlu_pbU6RkQBXrBPvmDj4l/s400/Pittsburgh+Subway.JPG.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Growing up in Northwestern Pennsylvania, I remember as a kid watching television programs and movies that were filmed in New York City. It seemed aside from the human characters that the City itself was a main character in each production. It had things that I had never seen growing up in small town America. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">One of those things was a subway. I thought that was the coolest idea ever and the concept of a city beneath a city was intriguing. I was an adult before I was able to take my first subway ride and it was in Toronto, Ontario Canada. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It was not until recently that I was able to ride on the NYC subway and discover for myself how mass transit in a mass population area really worked. It was a totally different experience and I was able to share it on a return trip with my children. But, New York City is very far away and extremely expensive. Not exactly a place for a day trip. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But, did you know that Pittsburgh also has a subway? I never realized this until one day I was driving through the area and noticed a sign that read “Subway”. It was not something I had noticed prior to my New York trip and probably because I had not yet trained myself to look for them. I just filed it away and thought that it would be cool to come back to ride it. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Well, flash forward a year and I am with my daughter in Downtown Pittsburgh desperately searching for a parking space. After over 20 minutes of driving around and around the crazy traffic and one way streets, I remembered the subway. So, after a quick search on my cell phone we headed out of downtown to Station Square where there is a parking garage that is far less expensive then the lots in the city proper and seems to almost always have an open space. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">After parking we headed across to get the “T”. Now, don’t get me wrong, I have seen the light rail system running around Pittsburgh above ground and I have heard of the “T” before, but what I did not realize is that this turned into an actual subway system under the city itself. Complete with stations to access many locations that you may find difficult to park in. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">So call it a great adventure, and let the kids in on the planning. Let them use their internet skills to map out your journey and take some ownership of the event. It will help get them engaged and it is much easier to ride the transit system in a metro area if you have an idea where you are going. There are free popular apps for cell phones that will give you updated arrivals and realtime locations of your next train, Moovit is the one I like to use and it is fairly easy to search and find places to visit. You can purchase individual fares with cash to ride the T costing $2.75 or your can purchase a day pass for $7 and just hop on and hop off as you like. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">While you are in the Pittsburgh Area check out the downtown. The city and the buildings are completely different from the street level on foot. You will see statues and memorials, shops and businesses you would miss as you are watching traffic and trying to not run over any pedestrians. Robert Morris University put together a self guided walking tour of downtown that you can access on your cell phone at www.rmu.edu/about/pittsburghwalk.com. You can access the audio files and the tour takes about an hour to complete beginning at 6th Avenue and Grant Street in the park near the fountain. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">For a quick trip, head over to Point Park to see the Block House. Built in 1764 it is the oldest authenticated structure in America west of the Allegheny Mountains. it was originally part of Fort Pitt and is now a national registered historic place. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If your trip is an adult only excursion, you can head to the Three Rivers Casino. But for a more family friendly trip, check out some of the local sights like the Heinz Museum, the Children’s </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Museum, the Carnegie Science Center or the National Aviary. Keep in mind most of these have an admission fee, but are very worthwhile to visit and have a website for more information. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Where ever you chose to go, or however you chose to get there, you will find something to do that peaks the interest of everyone in your group. Remember to do a little research ahead of time and plan your trip. Because even though not all who wander are lost, you can be if you get turned around in the tall buildings. </span></div>
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<span id="docs-internal-guid-0214f5e3-7fff-c4c2-1351-02dc3b98a7ad" style="text-align: start;"></span><a href="https://www.meadvilletribune.com/news/monday-spotlight-pittsburgh-s-subway-is-in-your-backyard/article_07b0bb3e-2c23-11e9-a3d5-0796c44083c2.html" target="_blank">As Seen in Meadville Tribune</a></div>
Heather Reichelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00427298319106460696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3942717302139638327.post-85334170537876071292019-01-14T09:27:00.000-08:002019-12-01T09:28:10.544-08:00In Your Backyard January 2019 ~ Squire's Castle<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt0-4ENEIV-uCj6d4FKvZnDyffO8lWEpkqi2YgF0TfoAg5OZDeIQ9Vx-NwIBM9PRh0_g6tuZ3uNNZFjoo2iZS0LgkblowxUW6VKP27mhjFLClvZ1dC4nP2ft87SUGe7fzN9stnSjzUfsuq/s1600/IMG_3770.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt0-4ENEIV-uCj6d4FKvZnDyffO8lWEpkqi2YgF0TfoAg5OZDeIQ9Vx-NwIBM9PRh0_g6tuZ3uNNZFjoo2iZS0LgkblowxUW6VKP27mhjFLClvZ1dC4nP2ft87SUGe7fzN9stnSjzUfsuq/s400/IMG_3770.JPG" width="400" /></a><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Many a wide eyed child and several adults (myself included) watched the Disney movie “Frozen” and sang the songs. If you have such a child in your family, or a young at heart, then how about a road trip to a castle? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Squire’s Castle is located on River Rd in Willoughby Hills, Ohio and is part of the North Chagrin Reservation of the Cleveland Metroparks. Although it has all the looks of a castle found in Europe and would be a fantastic place for your young ones to play Elsa or Anna, it was in fact built to be a caretakers/gate house for the larger mansion which was never built. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Squire’s Castle is only a shell of a structure but wonderful to explore and a great location for photos. Built by Feargus B Squire in the late 1890’s as a summer estate and originally had three floors and a basement. Mr Squire was one of the founders of the Standard Oil Company as well as a trophy big game hunter. Many of the animal pelts and heads of his various hunts were placed in a trophy room inside the structure. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Urban legend has it that the castle is haunted and one night during a violent thunderstorm, his wife (who never did want to live in the country) was startled by the mounts which were lit by the lightening and tripped and fell, breaking her neck. This so distressed her husband that he sold the property in 1922. Now, this legend has been completely debunked as Mrs Squire did not in fact die in the castle. She actually died in her residence in Wickcliffe, Ohio in 1929 from a stroke. However, the legend lives on and claims have been made that the screams of the woman can be heard at night or you can see her red lantern passing by the windows. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">So whether you are there for a wintery wonderland castle to fulfill the Frozen dreams or for the possibility of encountering a ghost that will indeed chill you to the bone you can do either. The North Chagrin Reservation is open from 6am-11pm daily. While you have made the trip there for the icy castle, make a note to return when the weather breaks for a trip to the North Chagrin Nature Center and Buttermilk Falls. Both of these locations are located within the Reservation as well along with trails and picnic pavilions. More information can be found at www.clevelandmetroparks.com with links to maps of all of the properties located in the “emerald necklace” of parks which surround the greater Cleveland area. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As always remember that going off the beaten path can lead to great family adventures and wonderful memories. As you wander along, remember, you may not be lost. </span></div>
</span><a href="https://www.meadvilletribune.com/news/monday-spotlight-squire-s-castle-is-in-your-backyard/article_6c7fb394-1616-11e9-9b86-634e6955cf56.html" target="_blank">As Seen in Meadville Tribune</a>Heather Reichelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00427298319106460696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3942717302139638327.post-35383594101165020412018-12-10T09:24:00.000-08:002019-12-01T09:25:12.117-08:00In Your Backyard December 2018 ~ Christmas Lights<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyydVis5jKCTYJ1NugPG4S5YR1WxafM9gC3067hgCBsMPX-Z4zZ9VrprCXXWuBwvQ5Eb3Z5dmA3k5sd_xFP38ncbeTOXReQ2RjFr0jkNNHxEVVQ-m8fMjlvfogeKO2-Cw_B_ES4okb_FJi/s1600/IMG_5814.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyydVis5jKCTYJ1NugPG4S5YR1WxafM9gC3067hgCBsMPX-Z4zZ9VrprCXXWuBwvQ5Eb3Z5dmA3k5sd_xFP38ncbeTOXReQ2RjFr0jkNNHxEVVQ-m8fMjlvfogeKO2-Cw_B_ES4okb_FJi/s400/IMG_5814.PNG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Dashing through the snow in a one horse open sleigh,... ok, wait a darn minute. Nowadays it is more like sliding through the snow in a 200 horse power SUV with children in the back seat chanting “Don’t touch me, move over, MOM!!!” So resist the urge to suddenly morph into your parents by saying “Don’t make me pull this car over” or claiming to have Santa on speed dial. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Instead how about a Christmas Light Drive? Pack the thermos of hot cocoa, throw a blanket or two in the back seat (don’t forget a few Christmas cookies) and head on out to an adventure for the season. It used to be that you got in the car and drove aimlessly through the countryside like a scavenger hunt looking for the best Christmas light displays on your friends and neighbors houses. We have all seen the amazing light displays on the internet and often they are from lands far, far away. So I have compiled a list of locations that can mean a successful trip to see some very cool, well done holiday decorations. So pick one or two and set out to make a memorable family outing. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Berkshire Hills Golf Course, located at 976 Mayfield Rd Chesterland Oh, is about an hour and a half drive from Meadville. A golf retreat in the summer, it has been transformed by nearly 2 million LED lights into Bethlehem Hills Christmas Light Park. There is a cost per carload of $25 to drive through this 1.25 mile but 50% of the proceeds will be going to charity. It is being billed as the largest light display in North East Ohio. More information can be found on their web page www.bethlehemhillslights.fun </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">There are several options in the Canfield Oh area (hours are typically Sun-thurs 5:30-9pm and Fri and Sat 5:30-10pm), including the Hartman’s Christmas Light Show located at 3902 Alvacardo St Canfield Oh (Tune your radio to 97.3FM to hear the music as you approach the display), North Aspen Christmas Display located at 4720 North Aspen Ct. Canfield (tune radio to 107.7FM) and Canfield Christmas Lights at 333 Fairview Ave Canfield (radio to 107.7FM) </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Just south of us in New Castle Pa is the Joseph Mancino and Family Christmas Lights located at 804 Whitetail Dr New Castle open weekdays from 6-10pm and weekends from 6-11pm. (tune radio to 100.5FM) This particular display was the brainchild of 16 year old Joseph Mancino. He has been doing these displays for the past 3 years (starting at the age of 14) with the help and support of his family. This year interactive buttons were added to the display which allow young and young at heart to control different light areas. When the buttons have not been pushed for a few seconds the display goes back to its normal operation in time with the music. Joseph is a Junior in High School with a passion for lights and music. His future plans may be to go into Electronics or Electrical Engineering. In the meantime he is a musician and involved with marching and symphonic band. He enjoys sharing these passions with the public during the Christmas Holiday Season by showcasing his family home for locals and adventurers like yourself. For those of you who are on facebook you can find information about the display by searching “Joseph Mancino and Family Christmas Lights” and if you decide to make the journey, be sure to share photos, video and comments with this young man to let him know we appreciate his time and effort. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As always, never forget- Not all those who wander are lost. </span></div>
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<span id="docs-internal-guid-065f26bb-7fff-698a-8aea-0cba2374a449" style="text-align: start;"></span><a href="https://www.meadvilletribune.com/news/in-your-backyard-hop-in-the-car-for-a-christmas/article_27f24bf0-fc27-11e8-8685-97d181b27134.html?fbclid=IwAR1X9rfXZYGwyfGPmOyGQWACpOrUJpfEc4-aZc2k9y60mWCvPxunub020_4" target="_blank">As Seen in Meadville Tribune</a></div>
Heather Reichelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00427298319106460696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3942717302139638327.post-816320098577227602018-11-12T09:20:00.000-08:002019-12-01T09:20:18.365-08:00In Your Backyard November 2018 ~ Erie Lighthouses<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp-HBiGbnrXg0W4ZB4fctU65OiW4_jIaumwiqrW0dXqSFGqkgSuKVfCxuCS2o1dYQS0xgNARmRiyVbGYaWglm_7jWN4bztkfSMk80ccgMBvqFzfEg-VH_O-HsoyiW5tpJHfftppnz9hZMt/s1600/Three+Erie+Lighthouses.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="560" data-original-width="701" height="255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp-HBiGbnrXg0W4ZB4fctU65OiW4_jIaumwiqrW0dXqSFGqkgSuKVfCxuCS2o1dYQS0xgNARmRiyVbGYaWglm_7jWN4bztkfSMk80ccgMBvqFzfEg-VH_O-HsoyiW5tpJHfftppnz9hZMt/s320/Three+Erie+Lighthouses.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 1.2000000000000455pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As we start to shiver and search for the mittens and scarves that have not seen since April, I thought one more quick trip north may be in order before the Interstate resembles a bumper car ride at Conneaut Lake Park. (you know, the one they call “dodge em” but yet no one seems to know that means you are not supposed to actually hit the other cars) So, pack the kids, pack some snacks, grab a few warm fuzzy clothing items and head out for your next adventure. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Many people know about the Presque Isle Lighthouse located near Beach 9 on the peninsula at Presque Isle State Park. What you may not know is that it is actually one of three lighthouses that grace the shores of Lake Erie on Pennsylvania soil. In fact, all three are located almost within sight of each other. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Presque Isle Lighthouse was first lit in 1873 and was originally an oil lamp as were many in that day. In the late 1800’s the tower was painted white to be a daytime navigational marker on Lake Erie. It was fully automated in 1962 and the original light patterns which included red flashes were changed to a three second on and three second off white light pattern. The structure is commonly referred locally as the “flashlight” and the outside of the structure is square even though the inside stairwell is circular. Tours of the lighthouse are now available in the summer months and a wonderful gift shop is located on site. Information about the tours and the cost can be found at www.presqueislelighthouse.org. This lighthouse is located directly on the beach so a bit of beach glass hunting may be in order for the trip. I have found more “treasures” on the shores of the peninsula during the fall and early spring months due to the lack of competition of others searching for the same items. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Next on the list of lighthouses is also located in Presque Isle State Park right next to the US Coast Guard Station. The Erie Harbor North Pier Light is located at the entrance to Presque Isle Bay and to find it all you have to do is follow the signs for the Coast Guard Station and keep going left around the corner. As you make your journey you will see the cool house boats moored in Misery Bay, best known for the location that Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry constructed 6 of the 9 ships in his fleet during the war of 1812. It was also the site that several boats became trapped by the ice and sick sailors were then quarantined (thus giving it the name Misery Bay) Ships were intentionally sunk in the bay to preserve them, including the US Brig Niagara. The North Pier light was originally built in 1830 but it was taken out by a schooner headed into port in 1857. The current metal structure was made in France and assembled on site in Erie. The pier is a neat place to walk on and many fisherman use it for access to the channel which leads to Port Erie. Be aware that on very windy days the pier is exposed and small children in winter coats should be held onto or they may find themselves getting blown off the edge. I have on more than one occasion felt very much like one of the reporters in the hurricane coverage. The original fixed beam red lamp was changed to an automated red flashing lamp in 1995. Since this is located on the North Pier of the harbor, you will have the perfect example of the navigational saying “Red, Right, Returning”, which means as you return to a harbor or headwater from “sea” the red beacon should be on right side of your ship. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Lastly, and possibly the least known of the three Erie Lighthouses is the Erie Land Light. This sandstone conical structure is the most “traditional” looking as well as the first lighthouse that was constructed by the United States on the shores of Lake Erie back in 1818. It is occasionally open to tourist in the summer as a fundraiser for the Erie Playhouse. Located at 2 Lighthouse St in Erie it is close to the Bayfront Connector (PA Rt 290) and directly across the channel from the North Pier Light. There is a little park and some historical signs to read and just an overall cool view. It just celebrated its 200th birthday but has been wonderfully restored and in great condition. It is well worth the side trek to take a peek. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Until our next adventure, remember - Not all those who wander are lost. </span></div>
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<span id="docs-internal-guid-56b3c227-7fff-4e36-cdae-41b8e8e44c6f" style="text-align: start;"></span><a href="https://www.meadvilletribune.com/news/monday-spotlight-presque-isle-lighthouses-are-in-your-backyard/article_263ac9ea-e494-11e8-89f4-17c8b3ce6f5a.html" target="_blank">As Seen in Meadville Tribune</a></div>
Heather Reichelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00427298319106460696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3942717302139638327.post-14475789013151320472018-10-08T09:16:00.000-07:002019-12-01T09:17:17.335-08:00In Your Backyard October 2018 ~ Night of the Living Dead <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDpYdMsuh4XUepd0KzPOpfHlkEn38Hc-NCTjLXsgbEeQAL-aeDnxZSZSswHfpUv9T4TsCRURSX-qYmw2CgPioiS4maj3mMRvWvbV_79ANQa-6WkIAxZ5W9BIHKgaa_jO8XFKzhxAd_SkSL/s1600/Blair+stone.HEIC.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDpYdMsuh4XUepd0KzPOpfHlkEn38Hc-NCTjLXsgbEeQAL-aeDnxZSZSswHfpUv9T4TsCRURSX-qYmw2CgPioiS4maj3mMRvWvbV_79ANQa-6WkIAxZ5W9BIHKgaa_jO8XFKzhxAd_SkSL/s400/Blair+stone.HEIC.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">What fall would be complete without a leaf ride to see the the patchwork quilt of colors on the hillside? Now this is not always a thrill for those grumpy teens that may get drug along for the journey, but if the end result of the trip was a zombie history lesson, that may spark some interest. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A ride down Perry Highway out of Meadville (also known as route 19) may be just the ticket for some fall and Halloween seasonal fun. So charge up those camera batteries, load the family in the car, pack a little cash for a sweet treat and hit the road. </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 20.159999999999968pt; margin-top: 12.96pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Our journey is going to start with a scenic drive down Route 19, through many small towns with unique roadside appeal. Depending on when you go, there is ample opportunity to see different views of the fall colors. </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 3.1200000000000045pt; margin-top: 12.96pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Continue to follow Route 19 to Zelienople where your first cool stop for the young and old alike. Baldingers Candy Store located at 519 Perry Way, Zelienople will give the adults a trip down memory lane with some nostalgic and hard to find candies from the “good ole days” and excite the kids with the sheer volume of choices. If sweets are not your thing there is also a Mazza wine shop on site which offers tastings. The store is open from 10am to 6pm daily with the exceptions of major holidays and is well worth the stop and you will soon understand where the saying “like a kid in a candy store” stems from. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Once you reach Zelienople you will want to head east to Evans City, home of the Night of the Living Dead. This 1968 independent horror film by George Romero shaped the modern view of the zombie in ways no one could have ever predicted. Originally the film had a $6000 budget coming from 10 investors with $600 each who formed the production company Image Ten. More money was necessary and the final budget for the film was $114,000 from additional investors. The movie opened in Pittsburgh on October 1st, 1968 (50 years ago) and was received with mixed reviews. The film was criticized for its graphic content and gruesome zombie scenes (Can you even imagine how the some of the modern zombie shows would have been received?) Despite this, the film gained a following and became a cult classic grossing $12 million in the United States and $18 million internationally which was nearly 250 times the budget for the film and spawning a series of films. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWtBruH2ZxIcFk-K6Es1IQFP5s2XsSG5HtwKqrMnOAv-g0SPC9D92KxpbghlTXq0EKm5dktBMTHIypXPf9jcQq4NuIUoYzAUOH5G7TYPa3ID9lj527ZsO600VSmx2ky8L3w9P0jB5yY0-C/s1600/Museum.HEIC.heif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWtBruH2ZxIcFk-K6Es1IQFP5s2XsSG5HtwKqrMnOAv-g0SPC9D92KxpbghlTXq0EKm5dktBMTHIypXPf9jcQq4NuIUoYzAUOH5G7TYPa3ID9lj527ZsO600VSmx2ky8L3w9P0jB5yY0-C/s320/Museum.HEIC.heif" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 9.600000000000023pt; margin-top: 12.96pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Be sure to stop at the Living Dead Museum and Gift Shop (121 E Main St Evans City) open W,Th,Fri,Sun 12 to 5 and Sunday 10 to 6pm. For a $5 admission fee you can tour the exhibits or go to the gift store for all your zombie gear. The staff is very knowledgable about the movie and a great resource to ask questions about the filming locations. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjssDRqOdtJBOcubLHHioJ0rgXxRsvDnWQEXP3HNx7V77hHCdfyM4bO7dxVZiAMWeahzMr0vpiwQ8eIZPpWLwx7Mro3ze8jJqwcNIxpgFqObDm0ZYoYvIdlTyYAlpOGS9BUIlLup6vcpu5u/s1600/Town+marker.HEIC.heif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjssDRqOdtJBOcubLHHioJ0rgXxRsvDnWQEXP3HNx7V77hHCdfyM4bO7dxVZiAMWeahzMr0vpiwQ8eIZPpWLwx7Mro3ze8jJqwcNIxpgFqObDm0ZYoYvIdlTyYAlpOGS9BUIlLup6vcpu5u/s320/Town+marker.HEIC.heif" width="320" /></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The official marker in town is at 204 South Jackson St near the library and a neat photo, but here is the cool part, you can visit the cemetery used in the film and recreate the iconic images that shaped the pop culture of zombies around the world. A quick google search of “the night of the living dead cemetery images” will give you tons of images to try and match locations to. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“They’re coming to get you Barbara” will be on your mind as you wander through the Evans City Cemetery located on Franklin Road in Evans City. The Blair grave marker is located on the first road to the left as you enter the cemetery, and the Kramer one (the one Barbara clings to after her zombie encounter) is the tall white one located to the left and back a row. The Cole marker is next to the Blair headstone, and the one that Barbara and her brother go to visit in the first few scenes. The building on site was seen in the movie several times in the background and came into disrepair and was actually restored by fans of the the movie. I had a blast walking around and figuring out the locations from the film. 50 years have passed since the movie was made and trees are larger or removed and new graves have been added, but the locations are very similar to the original once you find them. So go ahead and wander, you PROBABLY won’t get lost. <a href="https://www.meadvilletribune.com/news/monday-spotlight-backdrop-for-cult-film-a-short-drive-away/article_bcad3396-cb07-11e8-8d49-ebb37d4b59e5.html" target="_blank">As Seen in Meadville Tribune</a></span></div>
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Heather Reichelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00427298319106460696noreply@blogger.com0