Attractions

by Barbara Ann Weibel at Hole In The Donut

The historic Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station, built in 1874, was the first United States Life-Saving Service station in North Carolina. All along the coast, these stations were dedicated to rescuing anyone whose life was in peril from the sea. After the U.S. Life-Saving Service evolved into the U.S. Coast Guard in 1915, Chicamacomico continued to see service until 1954. Not only is it today one of the nation’s most complete remaining life-saving stations, it was home to one of the greatest rescues in early Coast Guard history.

One of the wonderfully restored structures of the Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station. Photo courtesy of esc831976 at http://flickr.com/photos/disbelief/1002932684

On August 16, 1918, in the middle of World War I, a lookout at the Chicamacomico Station watched as the British tanker ‘Mirlo’ was hit by a torpedo. Instantly the six life-savers went to work to save the crew of the doomed vessel. For their efforts, they were awarded gold medals by King George of England and the Grand Cross of the American Cross of Honor. The award citation best tells the story of the rescue:

“In a heavy northeast sea that caused the lifeboat to be tossed back upon the beach and the crew washed away from the oars time after time. Undaunted they returned to their task. After succeeding in getting their boat through the surf they were compelled to steer into a blazing inferno where the flames leaped at least 500 feet high, and were in serious danger of being burned to death if not drowned. They picked up a number of the crew of the Mirlo and towed four of the ship’s boats … They anchored the boats beyond the breakers and then made four trips in their surf boat bringing the entire 42 survivors safely ashore.”

The Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station still sees service today, although it is of a different kind. Every Thursday at 2 p.m., active members of the U.S. Coast Guard perform an historically accurate reenactment of the rescue method utilized from the late 1800s through the mid-1950s. Commonly referred to as the “Breeches Buoy Rescue,” the reenactment consists of a live demonstration of the rescue equipment, including firing the Lyle gun (small cannon) and “rescuing” a victim.

Active members of the U.S. Coast Guard perform a life-saving reenactment every Thursday at 2 p.m. between mid-April and November. Photo courtesy of esc831976 at http://flickr.com/photos/disbelief/1002085303.

Located on Hatteras Island, in the village of Rodanthe on the Outer Banks of North Carolina, the Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station is open Monday through Friday from noon to 5:00 p.m., between mid-April and November. Admission is $6; seniors and students pay $4. In addition to this intriguing bit of history, visitors will discover that the Outer Banks offers dozens of attractions and a myriad of outdoor activities, from kite flying, to sand dune climbing, to sun bathing along miles and miles of unspoiled beaches in the Cape Hatteras National Seashore.

Welcome to the February 25, 2009 edition of the Carnival of Cities, where we tour the world in one blog post, through the eyes and words of contributing bloggers.

Next week we’ll be back at the Carnival’s “home” blog, Family Travel on BootsnAll.

Off we go….

Cities in the Americas

Cincinnati, Ohio, USA Tom Tessin lists his Top 3 Hotels for Cincinnati, Ohio posted at FAC Travel Blog, saying, “Plan on making a trip to Cincinnati? I’ve been there plenty of times and look at which hotels I think are the best.”

San Diego, California, USA Neil Ransom presents Cute Cuddly Baby Animals posted at Kate and Neil’s Official Website, saying, “If you’re looking for cute and cuddly creatures, then San Diego is the place to go.”

New Orleans, Louisiana, USA Vera Marie Badertscher browses the stacks in Destination: NOLA Book Stores posted at A Travelers’ Library, saying, “New Orleans offers more than just rowdy Mardi Gras. There are more bookstores per square mile in the French Quarter than you will find in most other cities.”

Silicon Valley, California, USA Silicon Valley Blogger presents Outsourcing Romance For $100,000 A Year: Love And Matchmaking 2.0 posted at The Digerati Life, saying, “Love in Silicon Valley, USA.”

Durham, North Carolina, USA GrrlScientist presents ScienceOnline09: Meeting the NCCU’s BRITEs at Research Triangle posted at Living the Scientific Life, saying, “Have you ever been in a pharmaceutical research facility? This is my photoessay documenting one of the many interesting field trips I went on while speaking at Science Online 09 in Durham, North Carolina. This photoessay is about my visit to North Carolina Central University’s Biomanufacturing Research Institute and Technology Enterprise (BRITE) facilities at North Carolina’s famous Research Triangle, where their main focus is discovering new cancer pharmaceuticals.”

Van Horn, Texas, USA ricksworld takes a look at Van Horn, Texas posted at Rick’s World, saying, “I took a road less traveled in life, and here is one of my stops along the way. This post will give you a brand new way of seeing Van Horn, Texas or any city.”

San Diego, California, USA Penny Realty Blogger looks at the past in Mission Beach: 1900s-2000s posted at San Diego Vacation Rentals at Penny Realty Blog.

St Louis, Missouri, USA Vihar Sheth wrestles with transportation options in 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid Test Drive and Mental Strife posted at Vihar Sheth.

Cities in Europe

Broadgate, Preston, Lancashire, United Kingdom Riversider has a list of 85 Ways To Build Community posted at Broadgate Is Great.

Paris, France Happy Hotelier finds automotive bliss in Paris (2): The undiscovered Panhard Levassor X73 Cabriolet posted at Happy Hotelier, saying, “I found this one so poetic.”

Moscow, Russia Antonia Malchik describes The Moscow metro, living art museum posted at Perceptive Travel Blog.

Ibiza Town, Spain Erika presents The Island Of Ibiza posted at Visiting Spanish Speaking Countries, saying, “Among the hottest tourist destinations in Spain is the island of Ibiza. Situated in the Mediterranean Sea about 80 kilometers off the Spanish coast, it is one of the Balearic Islands.”

Paris, France Lanora Mueller gives us the scoop on Eight places where you can eat for free in Paris posted at WritingTravel.com.

Rome, Italy Vera Lang presents 48-Hr-Tour in Ancient Rome posted at Travel Trip Vacation .com, saying, “Article and fact-filled video on the highlights of Rome. Get in the mood for a vacation to La bella Italia! Video also includes practical travel tips.”

Cities in Asia

Manila, the Philippines Kathryn has the details on 15 Places to Visit in Metro Manila, Philippines posted at Kathryn Vercillo on HubPages, saying, “Highlights of places that you should see if you’re going to visit Manila.”

Muttom, India AdmirableIndia.com presents Trip to Kanyakumari: Chapter 14: Muttom Beach: Part 1: Sunset posted at AdmirableIndia.com.

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) Vietnam Jonny Platt presents Taxis in Saigon – How to avoid being taken for a ride posted at Vietnam Travel, saying, “Hey there! I’ve just had my parents visiting in Saigon and it struck me how hard it can be as a traveller to tell the difference between legitimate and naughty taxis, so I’ve put together this guide.”

That concludes this edition, and thanks for the chance to host on UpTake. Submit your (one, non-spammy) blog post to the next edition of the Carnival of Cities using our carnival submission form. Past posts and future hosts can be found on our blog carnival index page.

by Linda (minnemom) of Travels with Children

The Minneapolis-St. Paul area has some great museums for families to visit.  These are some of my favorites.

Minnesota Children's Museum. Photo by minnemom.

1. Minnesota Children’s Museum.  If you’re talking kid-friendly, you pretty much have to start with the Children’s Museum.  With four floors of exhibits, there’s something for kids of all ages, from the “Habitot” baby and toddler area to the outdoor rooftop art park.  Two of the exhibit areas change periodically, so there’s always something new, but our kids have some favorites as well that we see every time we visit.
   

   Science Museum of Minnesota. Photo by minnemom.

2. Science Museum of Minnesota.  This one’s better for the 5-and-up set than for preschoolers, but even the little ones will find something they enjoy.  From learning about the human body to light to music, there’s a lot to be learned here.  Special programs and traveling exhibits round out the experience, and in the summertime you can pan for jewels or play mini-golf outside.  In the lobby area, don’t miss the National Park Service site.  If you want to be really adventurous, attempt to take the skyway system from the Children’s Museum to the Science Museum and make a day of it in downtown St. Paul.
   

   Big Zipper at The Works

3. The Works.  Located in Edina, this science and technology center is generally open to the public only on weekends, but if you can fit it into your schedule, it’s a great place to visit.  They bill it for 5 and up, but there are several toddler-friendly activities as well.
   

   Bakken Museum. Photo by LHOON.

4. The Bakken Museum.  This is a smaller museum that has a lot of hands-on things for kids to do.  If you’re in luck, a volunteer will let you be electrified in the special room upstairs, but even if you miss out on that, kids will enjoy the magnets, heartbeats, and other fun things.  Save time in your day for a leisurely walk around Lake Calhoun, just a block away.
   

   Firefighters Hall and Museum. Photo by minnemom.

5. Firefighters Hall and Museum.  Again, it’s open limited hours, but what kid doesn’t love being able to “drive” a real fire truck or slide down a fire pole?  Add in the fact that each child gets their own fire hat and can pull the alarms, and you have a great place to visit with kids.
   

   Jackson Street Roundhouse. Photo by minnemom.

6. Jackson Street Roundhouse.  Trains seem to be a hit with most kids, and at the Jackson Street Roundhouse kids can explore all sorts of real train cars indoors, and then go out for a short ride on a real train.  (If it’s their birthday, let the staff know, and they might get to help drive the train or do something else special.)  If they get tired of the big trains, there are “Thomas” tables set up for play.  If model trains are preferred, try the Twin City Model Railroad Museum.
   

   Grainland at Minnesota History Center. Photo by minnemom.

7. Minnesota History Center.  There are plenty of hands-on exhibits, but the real draw for kids is “Grainland,” a climb-and-play structure that teaches about agriculture.
   

   Mill City Museum. Photo by minnemom.

8. Mill City Museum.  Dubbed “The Most Explosive Museum on Earth,” a ride on the flour tower might be a little much for tiny ones, but the water play area is sure to be a hit.  The views from the top are great, and a walk along the Mississippi River is just out the back door.
   

   Minneapolis Institute of Arts. Photo by technicolor76.

9. Minneapolis Institute of Arts.  This art museum is free every day, but they have some great Sunday-afternoon family programs that involve hands-on activities and scavenger hunts.  The Children’s Theatre is in the same building, so you can make a family day of it.  Art enthusiasts may also enjoy the more modern Walker Art Center, a few miles away, which also hosts special family-friendly activity days.
   

   Kelley Farm House. Photo by dgwallick1.

10. The Landing.  Formerly called Historic Murphy’s Landing, this historic village in Shakopee takes you back in time to the 1800’s with costumed interpreters on the weekends and during special events.  It’s a history education that’s also a lot of fun for kids.  If you’d prefer to see a working 1800’s farm, head to Elk River to the Oliver H Kelley Farm.

There’s no shortage of interesting museums to visit with kids in the Twin Cities!

For More Information:

• Minnesota Children’s Museum: Official Site and More Information
• Science Museum of Minnesota:  Official Site and More Information
• Minnesota History Center:  Official Site and More Information
• Mill City Museum:  Official Site and More Information
• Walker Art Center:  Official Site and More Information
• Jackson Street Roundhouse:  Official Site and More Information
• Twin City Model Railroad Museum:  Official Site and More Information
• The Works:  Official Site and More Information
• The Bakken:  Official Site and More Information
• Firefighters Hall and Museum:  Official Site and More Information
• Minneapolis Institute of Arts:  Official Site and More Information
• The Landing:  Official Site and More Information
• Oliver Kelley Farm:  Official Site and More Information

Laguna Gloria is a beautiful spot on the shores of Lake Austin.

It was once a spot for Native Americans to visit, near a natural spring.

Laguna Gloria in Austin, Texas

Then, in the 1800’s, Stephen F. Austin owned the land.

Laguna Gloria

In 1914, Hal Sevier and his new wife, Clara Driscoll bought the land where they built an Italian villa and designed terraced gardens.

In the 1960’s, the villa and land was turned into Laguna Gloria Art Museum and a spot for the art school.

Villa at Laguna Gloria

In the 1990’s, the institution changed its name to the Austin Museum of Art and moved its primary exhibition space to the heart of downtown Austin. Laguna Gloria remained the site of The Art School, and in 2003, the Driscoll Villa was renovated and again became an exhibition space, focusing on local and regional artists.

I’ve been there quite a few times over the years when I lived in Austin.

I posed there for my bridal portrait.

I took my son there for art classes.

I’ve walked aimlessly, enjoying nature and taking photos.

It’s a must-see landmark in Austin, Texas.

Mustard in bloom in Napa Valley

by Gudrun Enger, from Kitchen Gadget Girl

Through March 29, the Napa Valley Mustard Festival offers events showcasing the glory of the spring in the valley. From wine tasting to art shows, there is something for everyone. And even though the festival started in January, there is still lots to do. Here are just a few of the remaining activities at the 16^th annual Mustard Festival:

March 7 & 8, Downtown Calistoga: Mustard, Mud & Music, A Calistoga Jazz Festival

In beautiful downtown Calistoga, the Jazz Festival offers great music, food and art in various venues throughout the town.

March 13, Black Stallion Winery, Napa: The Awards – A Spicy Soiree

Mustards from around the world compete for top honors at this evening event.

March 14 & 15, Robert Mondavi Winery, Oakville: The Marketplace Weekend

A connoisseur’s marketplace, an outdoor art and wine festival, offers the opportunity to taste and experience the winning mustards, as well as cooking demonstrations, tasting pavilions and live music.

March 21, Town of Yountville: Taste of Yountville

Sample delights from Yountville restaurants, including olive oils, mustards and fine wines.

March 29 through May 1, Mumm Napa, Rutherford: Photography Contest Exhibit

If you would like to submit a photo to the contest, entries are being accepted until March 21.

by Barbara Ann Weibel at Hole In The Donut

On October 11, 1776, a battle took place at Valcour Island, off the western shore of Lake Champlain, that may well have decided the fate of the American Revolution.

The village of Whitehall runs along the banks of the Champlain Canal

The hero of the Battle of Valcour Island was Benedict Arnold, one of the colonies’ most courageous and resourceful military leaders. Anticipating that the British would use the lakes as an invasion route to split the revolted colonies in two, Arnold scraped together a fleet capable of at least delaying a British advance along Lake Champlain from Canada. Except for vessels previously captured, all of the ships were constructed during the summer of 1776 at what is today the village of Whitehall, using trees cut from the local forests. Carpenters, riggers, and blacksmiths were imported from as far away as Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, and Philadelphia to build the ships.

Arnold’s small fleet of 12 vessels of various sizes and capabilities sailed toward Valcour Island in August 1776 to surprise the British as they advanced south. The British armada, which had been constructed at the north end of the lake, set sail in October. When the fleets met at Valcour Island, a fierce two-day battle ensued. The Americans were battered by the more heavily armed British vessels and those that were not sunk were forced to retreat. But the battle caused the British to return north for the winter, providing the Americans with valuable time to gather, arm, and prepare for the British campaign of 1777 that ended with the American victory at Saratoga, the turning point of the war.

Lock 12 of the Champlain Canal, located in the center of town, is the entryway to Lake Champlain

Because Valcour was the first naval battle of strategic importance during the Revolutionary War, the New Yok State Legislature, in 1960, declared Whitehall to be the Birthplace of the United States Navy. Today this sleepy little village, nestled in a valley at the southern tip of Lake Champlain, attracts visitors as much for its scenery as for its history. Cruises regularly pass through Lock 12 of the Champlain Canal and sail onto the Lake, passing historic sites such as Fort Ticonderoga and Mount Independence, while enjoying abundant sightings of Eagles, Osprey, and Heron.

Skene Manor, an historical Victorian gothic style mansion, perches on the hillside, overlooking Lake Champlain and the village of Whitehall

Another popular attraction in the town is Skene Manor, an elegant Victorian gothic style castle perched on the nearby mountainside that overlooks Whitehall and offers lovely views of Lake Champlain and the historic canal. The Manor provides free tours and serves luncheon several days a week.

Whitehall is located at the junction of U.S. Rt. 4 and Rt. 22, just east of the Vermont State line. Accommodations around Lake Champlain are abundant and Whitehall has a number of hotels as well.

Photos courtesy of Barbara Weibel

Wind in our hair

Laughter everywhere.

We’ve all been skating at some point in our life, right?

roller skate

I found a spot in the Dallas area to take my boys skating.

Thunderbird Roller Rink in Plano, Texas

The carpet has flair…

Thunderbird Roller Rink carpet

And plenty of falls, I’m sure it’s seen it’s share.

The walls are bright…

Thunderbird Roller Rink

We could skate all night.

Roller Skating

Rockets on our feet
Orbiting the streets
Laughing as we share a pair
Launching ourselves
Every which way and back
Riding eight little wheels

Soaring hand in hand
Keeping our balance
And sometimes not
Totally free and
Impossible to stop
Nothing like two skates
Going like ninety

- Copyright 2004, by Joseph Rohrbach

When looking for things to do in Minnesota or other northern climes, many sports-minded people don’t turn to basketball or football or even hockey.  These folks wait impatiently for the ice to freeze up so they can get out onto the lakes for some ice fishing.

Once the lakes have frozen, they head out on the ice to find a good spot.

Driving on the Ice. Photo by DrStarbuck.

Some will simply sit on a bucket or box to watch their lines.

Ice Fishing on Box. Photo by akk rus.

Some will seek shelter next to the vehicle that got them there.

Ice Fishing. Photo by laneg.

Others will fish in style, in a fish house that may be very basic or very elaborate.

Ice Fishing in Fish House. Photo by jakemohan.

Some will fish in a quiet spot,

Ice Fishing. Photo by laneg.

some in bunches,

Lots of Ice Fishers. Photo by bergera30.

and others will be a part of a greater fish house community.

Fish House Town. Photo by Number Six (bill lapp)

They’ll bundle up,

Bundled for Ice Fishing. Photo by bergera30.

drill their holes,

Drilling Ice Fishing Hole. Photo by laneg.

prepare their lines,

Ice Fishing Line. Photo by laneg.

and wait,

Waiting for a Bite. Photo by duluthquism.

hoping for a bite.

Fish in Hole. Photo by laneg.

The lucky ones will get a catch.

Ice Fishing Catch. Photo by laneg.

At the end of the day, or when spring threatens, they’ll head for home

Pulling Fish House. Photo by BeigeAlert.

and wait for summer to arrive so they can fish some more.

Fishing. Photo by Kyra the Mod Dog.

Mount Bonnell, also known now as Covert Park, is one of the highest points in Austin, Texas with gorgeous views of the  beautiful Lake Austin and Texas countryside.

View of Lake Austin from Mount Bonnell in Austin, Texas

Mount Bonnell was named after early Texas newspaper publisher George W. Bonnell, who moved to Texas in 1836 and published a local paper The Texas Sentinel and was prominent in early Texas affairs.

Historic Marker on Mount Bonnell in Austin, Texas

Legend has it that Mount Bonnell was once called Antoinette’s Leap, after a young woman who leaped to her death to avoid capture from Native Americans that killed her fiancé.

Mount Bonnell in Austin, Texas

It’s a romantic spot to watch a sunset or sunrise.  It’s a scenic spot for photos of families, the newly engaged, or children.  It’s a really great place to hide in the bushes and make out…

Ahem, I mean, a great place to be tranquil, writer in your journal, sketch and be one with nature.

Take your time on Pearl Street

by Gudrun Enger, of Kitchen Gadget Girl

Walking through Pearl Street, the downtown shopping district of Boulder, Colorado, is an enjoyable way to wile away the afternoon. Between 11th and 15th Streets, Pearl Street is closed to auto traffic, providing visitors a relaxing atmosphere to window shop and people watch. With over 170 shops, you are sure to find just what you are looking for!

I like to start at the Boulder Book Store, an independent bookstore serving Boulder since 1973. With a new book or periodical in hand, I go next door to the Book Ends Cafe and enjoy a cappuccino while catching up on my reading.

Boulder Book Store, Pearl Street

If fashion is your interest, Pearl Street offers several unique clothing boutiques including Barbara & Co and Chelsea. Larger national chains include Chico’s, Billabong, and Urban Outfitters.

My kids love to visit Into The Wind, where their every kite wish is met. Personally, I prefer Peppercorn, a kitchen-ware store where I always manage to find a unique kitchen gadget to bring home. Pearl Street also features several unique Art & Craft shops and Galleries, where local artisans showcase their work.

Into the Wind, Pearl Street, Boulder

Peppercorn, Pearl Street, Boulder

Don’t forget the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory on the corner of Pearl and 13th Street, for gifts to take home to those you left behind. And if you miss the shop on Pearl Street, look for the outlet in B Terminal of the Denver Airport.

For more details, visit the Downtown Boulder website for information on shopping, restaurants and special events on Pearl Street.