ANITQUE BOAT MUSEUM TO PARTICIPATE IN BLUE STAR MUSEUMS

Fritz Hager, ABM Executive Director

Antique Boat Museum is one of more than 1,800 museums across America to offer complimentary admission to military personnel and their families

in collaboration with the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, and the Department of Defense

CLAYTON, New York (May 21, 2013) – The Antique Boat Museum (ABM), North America’s premier freshwater nautical museum based in Clayton, New York, announced today that it has again joined forces with the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, and the Department of Defense in an effort to provide active military personnel and their families with complimentary museum admission through the Blue Star Museums initiative in 2013.

The Blue Star Museums initiative provides active United States military personnel and up to five (5) additional guests with complimentary admission to the ABM.  The ABM will also provide free admission in 2013 to retired United States military personnel and a discounted rate to any spouse visiting with them. In addition, any active Canadian military personnel will receive one (1) free admission in 2013.

Proper military identification is required. Offer is not valid for the 2013 Antique Boat Show & Auction or ticketed events during non-museum hours. However, this offer is valid for the 3^rd annual Concours d’Elegance Classic Car Show on July 13.

“We are pleased to join such an extensive list of institutions across the country and show our thanks to the men and women who serve us,” explained Fritz Hager, ABM Executive Director. “In addition to the outstanding Blue Star Museums program, the ABM is pleased to extend our offer to retired United States military personnel and active Canadian military personnel. Plus, our offer will exceed the national program by being in place through the conclusion of our operating calendar this coming December 20.”

“Blue Star Museums is a collaboration between the arts and military communities," said NEA Acting Chairman Joan Shigekawa. “Our work with Blue Star Families and with more than 1,800 museums ensures that we can reach out to military families and thank them for their service and sacrifice.”

“Blue Star Museums is something that service members and their families look forward to every year and we are thrilled with the continued growth of the program,” said Blue Star Families CEO Kathy Roth-Douquet. “Through this distinctive collaboration between Blue Star Families, the National Endowment for the Arts and more than 1,800 museums across the United States, service members and their families can connect with our national treasures with this unparalleled opportunity to visit some of the country’s finest museums for free.”

This year, ABM joins more than 1,800 (and counting) museums in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and American Samoa which will take part in the initiative, including more than 450 new museums.

About Blue Star Museums

BlueStar Museums is a collaboration among the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, the Department of Defense, and more than 1,800 museums across America. The program runs from Memorial Day, May 27, 2013 through Labor Day, September 2, 2013.

The free admission program is available to any bearer of a Geneva Convention common access card (CAC), a DD Form 1173 ID card, or a DD Form 1173-1 ID card, which includes active duty U.S. military - Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, as well as members of the National Guard and Reserve, U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, NOAA Commissioned Corps - and up to five family members. Some special or limited-time museum exhibits may not be included in this free admission program. For questions on particular exhibits or museums, please contact the museum directly. To find out which museums are participating, visit www.arts.gov/bluestarmuseums. The site includes a list of participating museums and a map to help with visit planning.

This is the latest NEA program to bring quality arts programs to the military, veterans, and their families. Other NEA programs for the military have included the NEA/Walter Reed Healing Arts Partnership; Great American Voices Military Base Tour; and Shakespeare in American Communities Military Base Tour. 4

About Antique Boat Museum

Located on the St. Lawrence River in the 1000 Islands region of upstate New York, the Antique Boat Museum features a collection of over 300 antique and classic boats among thousands of recreational boating artifacts. The Museum will host its 49^th annual Antique Boat Show & Auction, the longest running antique boat show in North America, on August 2-4, 2013. For more information please visit the Museum’s website at ABM.org.

About Blue Star Families

BlueStar Families is a national, nonprofit network of military families from all ranks and services, including guard and reserve, dedicated to supporting, connecting and empowering military families. With our partners, Blue Star Families hosts a robust array of morale and empowerment programs, including Books on Bases, Blue Star Museums, Operation Honor Corp, Blue Star Careers and Operation Appreciation. Blue Star Families also works directly with the Department of Defense and senior members of local, State and Federal government to bring the most important military family issues to light. Working in concert with fellow nonprofits, community advocates, and public officials, Blue Star Families raises awareness of the challenges and strengths of military family life and works to make military life more sustainable. Our worldwide membership includes military spouses, children, parents, and friends, as well as service members, veterans and civilians. To learn more about Blue Star Families, visit http://www.bluestarfam.org.

About the National Endowment for the Arts

TheNational Endowment for the Arts was established by Congress in 1965 as an independent agency of the federal government. To date, the NEA has awarded more than $4 billion to support artistic excellence, creativity, and innovation for the benefit of individuals and communities. The NEA extends its work through partnerships with state arts agencies, local leaders, other federal agencies, and the philanthropic sector. To join the discussion on how art works, visit the NEA at arts.gov.

Singer Castle on Dark Island in the Thousand Islands Open and Welcomes You to Visit.

It’s Time to Open the Castle 

Bright sunshine, pleasant temperatures and a calm river graced the opening of the 11th season 
at Singer Castle on Dark Island on Saturday, May 18th. Returning staff members look forward to 
another season of guiding visitors through Frederick Bourne’s historic “hunting lodge.”

Pictured left to right on the Terrace in front of the Clock Tower are Audrey Pease, Zech Davidson-Cunningham, Jean Papke, Rosie Calhoun, Melissa Marshall, Tucker Lipinski, Scott Garris and 
Ryan Garris.

The Castle will be open weekends from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with tours starting hourly through 4:00 
p.m. and Tuesdays and Thursdays from Noon until 4:00 p.m. with the final tour of the day 
beginning at 3:00 p.m.  From June 20th thru Labor Day the castle will be open daily then 
weekends thru October 6th.  Call 1-877-327-5475 or visit www.singercastle.com for more
information about private or group tours, overnight stays, weddings and special events.

Above communique direct from Dark Island.

Antique Boat Museum's 2013 DATES OF OPERATION & EVENT SCHEDULE ANNOUNCED

Folks, As you have been seeing, this blog (SingerCastle.blogspot.com) has become a major conduit of timely information and fun facts from the Antique Boat Museum located in Clayton NY. Stay tuned to this channel for all kinds of pictures and fascinating stuff from there, the castles, the St. Lawrence River, and the Thousand Islands. Much more fun to be announced!

Lonna McCary, Miss Thousand Islands 2013, former NFL Cheerleader

Photo source: the Antique Boat Museum

CLAYTON, New York (May 9, 2013) – The Antique Boat Museum (ABM), North America’s premier freshwater nautical museum based in Clayton, New York, has announced its 2013 dates of operation and event schedule.

The ABM will kick-start the 1000 Islands summer season this Friday [May 10th] at 9 a.m. when the Museum officially opens and begins the countdown to the 49^th annual Antique Boat Show and Auction, the longest running antique boat show in North America, to be held August 2-4.

This season will include new events and activities, as well as an extended operations calendar, which will take the Museum through more than 200 days in 2013.

2013 Dates of Operation

Friday, May 10                                                   Summer Season Begins

Tuesday, October 1                                         La Duchesse Closes (seasonal exhibit)

Sunday, October 13                                        Rideboat Operations Conclude

Monday, October 14                                      Fall/Winter Season Begins*

Friday, December 20                                      Museum and Museum Store Close for the Season

* Hours and dates to be finalized

2013 Event Schedule

Friday, May 10 – Sunday, May 12              Opening Weekend

Friday, May 17 – Sunday, May 19              ACBS/ABM Symposium

Thursday, May 23                                            “Call for Volunteers” Breakfast

Friday, May 24                                                   Reception for New Exhibit Opening

Saturday, June 8                                               Free Admission Family Day

Sunday, June 16 – Saturday, June 22       International Steamboat Flotilla “Blow Off Steam”

Sunday, June 30                                               Free Vessel Inspections, courtesy of USCG Auxiliary, 9-1 p.m.

Wednesday, July 3                                          July Jubilee

Saturday, July 13                                              3^rd Annual 1000 Islands Concours d’Elegance Classic Car Show

Friday, July 19                                                    Movie Under the Stars, showing Night at the Museum

Friday, August 2 – Sunday, August 4        49^th Annual Antique Boat Show & Auction

Saturday, August 17 – Sunday, August 18

                                                                                Schooner Lois McClure Visits*

Friday, August 23                                             Movie Under the Stars, showing Pirates of the Caribbean

Thursday, September 5                                 Volunteer Appreciation Dinner

* subject to change

The Museum will also announce new winter and off-season events at a later date.

In 2012, the ABM welcomed more than 30,000 visitors through the gates for various events, weddings, facility rentals, and museum admission.

Located on the St. Lawrence River in the 1000 Islands, the Antique Boat Museum features a collection of over 300 antique and classic boats among thousands of recreational boating artifacts. The Museum also offers visitors a number of unique opportunities each summer to get out on the water and experience the St. Lawrence River aboard speedboats, skiffs, and sailboats. For more information, please visit the Museum’s website at ABM.org.

ANTIQUE BOAT MUSEUM LAUNCHES PILOT EPISODE OF “OLD BOAT STORIES”

Photo: Allan Newell

CLAYTON, New York (May 8, 2013) – The Antique Boat Museum (ABM), North America’s premier freshwater nautical museum based in Clayton, New York, released today a pilot episode of what the Museum hopes to one day turn into a mini-series.

“Old Boat Stories: Episode One” [as seen below] has been launched via the Museum’s YouTube channel (youtube.com/antiqueboatmuseumny), with the intent of perhaps becoming a wooden boating mini-series.

Set in the heart of the 1000 Islands region of upstate New York, the pilot episode focuses on the restoration and history of Splinter, a 28-foot long-decked launch built by Morristown Boat and Engine Company. Splinter, originally built in 1912, has the ability to cruise throughout the region now some 100 years later thanks to the dedication and hard work put forth by wooden boat enthusiasts such as Allan Newell and Everett Smith, former curator of the ABM. Newell, who is a long-standing contributor to the ABM and has served for several years on the Museum’s Board of Trustees, is the owner of the boat and he shares with viewers the boat’s history and revitalization in this episode.

Included in the episode is Emmett Smith, son of Everett, and current curator of the ABM.

“Devotion toward wooden boats goes unheralded and the production of this pilot episode allows us to share with the world the uniqueness and character that wooden boats, as well as their owners, collectors and craftsmen possess,” explained Fritz Hager, Executive Director.

“Episode Two” is currently being drawn up to document the restoration of the world’s largest runabout, Pardon Me, which departed the ABM in 2012 for Brooklin, ME to undergo extensive work.

Filmed in 2012 and produced by Le JIT Productions of Brooklyn, NY, the concept of “Old Boat Stories” was developed in conjunction with former ABM Director John MacLean in an effort to highlight antique and classic boating and ensure longevity in the hobby, as well as stay true to the ABM’s mission of celebrating boats to advance public understanding of the cultural history.

Located on the St. Lawrence River in the 1000 Islands, the Antique Boat Museum features a collection of over 300 antique and classic boats among thousands of recreational boating artifacts. Beginning May 10, the campus comes alive with speedboat rides, boat shows, and educational programs for all ages, special events and more. For more information please visit the Museum’s website at ABM.org.

Opening Dates of the 1000 Islands' Castles (2013)

Singer Castle brochure

Singer Castle will open for the 2013 season on May 18 
(and will be open Saturdays and Sundays and by appointment through June 25)

Open daily June 25 - Labor Day

Open Saturdays and Sundays and by appointment Labor Day - October 6

Boat Transportation
Visitors may find transportation on shuttle, tour boat, or by personal watercraft.
Uncle Sam Boat Tour departs Alexandria Bay, NY. Find information and reservations at 877-253-9229 or on the web at www.usboattours.com
Schermerhorn Harbor Shuttle Hammond, NY. Call 315-324-5966 or on the web at www.schermerhornharbor.com  for directions, schedule information or to make reservations.
For Canadian departures contact Rockport Boat Lines Rockport, Ontario at 800-563-8687.
Private Boaters Welcome!!!
Over 600 feet of free dockage! Dock attendants are prepared and on hand to assist you.   Dockage is free while touring, or shopping in the Gift Shop. Call ahead 315-324-3275 or use your Marine Radio Channel 16.

Charter group tours are available from Uncle Sam Boat Tours (877-253-9229 or www.usboattours.com) and from Schermerhorn Harbor (315-324-5966).

A reminder to boaters from Canadian waters: Until we establish an Immigration/Customs office on Dark Island, you are obligated to meet all United States criteria. Travelers from outside the United States must go to Heart Island near Alexandria Bay or the town dock in Morristown to clear immigration and customs prior to docking at Dark Island.

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Boldt Castle, Photo by Ad Meskins

Boldt Castle 2013 Hours of Operation

May 11-June 23: 10:00am - 6:30pm

June 24-Sept 1: 10:00am - 7:30pm

Sept 2-Sept 29: 10:00am - 6:30pm

Sept 30-Oct 14: 10:00am - 5:30pm

Oct 15-Oct 20: 11:00am - 5:00pm 

Boldt Castle Yacht House 

May 11 - Sept 29: 10:30am - 6:30pm

Special Hours: The Castle will remain open until 7:30pm on Memorial Day Weekend, May 25th and 26th. It will also remain open until 6:30pm on Columbus Day/Canadian Thanksgiving, Oct 12th and Oct 13th.

For more info: 1.800.847.5263

Boat tours from both the U.S. and Canada stop at Heart Island. Extensive docking is available for private pleasure craft. A shuttle from Heart Island provides access to the Boldt Castle Yacht House.

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All information in this date's blog is directly from the respective castle website and is posted here for your convenience. Be sure to check with them for more details and changes before making any plans.

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New Director at the Antique and Classic Boat Society in Toronto

FRITZ HAGER NAMED TO ACBS TORONTO CHAPTER BOARD OF DIRECTORS

CLAYTON, New York (April 29, 2013) – The Antique Boat Museum (ABM), North America’s premier freshwater nautical museum based in Clayton, New York, announced today that Executive Director Fritz Hager has been named as a Director at Large with the Antique and Classic Boat Society (ACBS) Toronto Chapter.

"We are delighted to have Fritz Hager join the board of ACBS Toronto as a Director at Large. Fritz, as the Executive Director of the ABM, brings a wealth of experience in the Antique and Classic boating community," said John Kutcy, President ACBS Toronto Chapter.

  

Gary Getson, ACBS Director Museum Relations shared, "The ACBS Toronto five-year strategic plan has an objective to enhance partnerships with related organizations whose interest involve antique and classic boating.  We are pleased to be partnering with the ABM, and the Muskoka Steamships and Historical Society to enhance the events, fellowship and enjoyment for our community.”

Hager was named Executive Director of the ABM on May 25, 2012. His time with the Museum dates back more than 20 years while serving in various capacities within the ABM Board of Directors and playing a key role on numerous ABM committees.

Located on the St. Lawrence River in the 1000 Islands, the Antique Boat Museum features a collection of over 300 antique and classic boats among thousands of recreational boating artifacts. Beginning May 10, the campus comes alive with speedboat rides, boat shows, and educational programs for all ages, special events and more. For more information please visit the Museum’s website at ABM.org.

Antique Boat Museum's Opening Weekend Festivities (Clayton, NY)

Photo: World record holding sailor, Howard Rice

CLAYTON, New York (April 15, 2013) – The Antique Boat Museum (ABM), North America’s premier freshwater nautical museum based in Clayton, New York, has announced details of its Opening Weekend set for May 10-12.

The ABM will kick-off the start of the 2013 season on Friday, May 10 beginning at 9 a.m. with a special giveaway for paying and member visitors. The first 25 visitors to the Museum will receive an autographed copy of Tony Mollica’s Boats of the Antique Boat Museum book.

On Saturday, May 11, join the Museum for the first-ever “All Daughters’ Day” event, for females of all ages. All Daughters’ Day, an event based on the popular American Girl doll Caroline and the knowing that all females are someone’s daughter, includes activities such a scavenger hunt, knot-tying demonstrations, burgee making, skiff rowing, a tea party, and so much more. Registration is required and cost is $50 per pair. Mothers are encouraged to bring their daughters, aunts bring their nieces, grandmothers bring their granddaughters – all pairs of “daughters” are welcome to participate in this afternoon of fun at the ABM.

Also on May 11, the ABM welcomes world record holding sailor, Howard Rice, who risked his life while sailing around Cape Horn, Chile in a 55-pound sailing canoe. Rice will host a lecture about his amazing journey around the southernmost point of South America in the Cox Theater on the Clayton campus at 4 p.m. The lecture is included in the price of museum admission.

Rice returns to the ABM on Sunday, May 12 to host an open boat cruising techniques seminar at 10 a.m. Rice will explain his many ways of open boat cruising for those interested in learning new ways to explore the 1000 Islands. Cost of registration for this activities is only $10.

The ABM will celebrate Mother’s Day with free admission for mothers with a paid child admission on May 12. In addition, the first 25 mothers through the gates will receive a free flower, courtesy of Gray’s Flower Shop.

All weekend long, the Museum Store will have a clearance sale. All purchases of $50 or more will receive a 25% off discount (offer excludes book purchases and all discounts valid only on original tag prices). Become a new member of the ABM during the weekend and receive an additional 25% off your purchase.

Located on the St. Lawrence River in the 1000 Islands, the Antique Boat Museum features a collection of over 300 antique and classic boats among thousands of recreational boating artifacts. This August, the Museum will host the 49^th annual Antique Boat Show and Auction, the longest running show in North America. For more information please visit the Museum’s website at ABM.org.

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Click the following for this summer's Antique Museum calendar of events. 

A Million Things to Experience in the Thousand Islands!

 
"Check out RiverQuest's A Million Things to Experience video and you'll understand why we love being part of the 1000 Islands region. Look closely and you just might see some familiar sights.  ... Singer Castle is excited to be partnering with RiverQuest, an initiative created and launched by the Brockville (Ontario, Canada) Aquatarium. Check them out." ---Dark Island Tours

See how many scenes you can find in this under two minute video clip that contains images from both Singer Castle and Boldt Castle. Both castles are represented many times. (Hint: See a great clip of Singer Castle at 1:24.) The more I looked, the more I found! There are also scenes from many other surrounding sites.

Signs of Spring: Ships

Ship/castle pictures taken 3/23/13 by Jean Papke.

As the first day of spring has passed, so too have the first ships passed Singer Castle on Dark Island. Still iced in behind Chippewa point, but warmer days are promising receding ice and opening docks along with the start of the 2013 tour season. ---Tom Weldon, President of Singer Castle, Dark Island. Located in the Thousand Islands, St. Lawrence River. [cor]



Great news! Michael Folsom Joins Antique Boat Museum Staff.

MICHAEL FOLSOM JOINS ANTIQUE BOAT MUSEUM STAFF

CLAYTON, New York (March 20, 2013) – The Antique Boat Museum, North America’s premier freshwater nautical museum based in Clayton, New York, announced today the addition of Michael J. Folsom as Director of Marketing and Communications.

Folsom most recently served as Senior Director of Promotional Development for the Syracuse Crunch Hockey Club in the American Hockey League. His career with the Crunch spanned across 15 seasons in which he held various roles in areas such as merchandising, game operations, sponsorship and ticket sales, and marketing. He also played a key role in the American Hockey League’s first-ever Outdoor Classic held on February 20, 2010 at the New York State Fairgrounds in Syracuse which broke an AHL attendance record (21,508).

Frederick H. Hager, Executive Director, said: “We’re excited to have Mike’s skills, experience and energy guiding our marketing efforts.  He’s a long-time River lover, a selfless promoter of the Clayton community and a proven marketer.  We are pleased to have him as a member of the ABM team.”

Folsom will be responsible for overseeing all marketing and communication aspects of the Museum, as well as overseeing the museum store and special events, including the annual Antique Boat Show & Auction and new Museum events to be announced at a later date.

Best known throughout the Thousand Islands region for operating the website, The Ship Watcher (www.theshipwatcher.com), which is considered a news source for St. Lawrence Seaway shipping information, Folsom also founded the heavily attended Sailing Seaway Clayton festival at Frink Park in downtown Clayton back in 2011. During the first two years of the festival, he helped to lure more than 16,000 people to the Clayton community by bringing historic tall ships, live music, DockDogs competitions and more to the riverside park.

“I am ecstatic to join such an outstanding organization with a deep, rich history,” Folsom said. “My passion for the region, and boating in general, makes this a perfect fit for me. I look forward to helping lead the efforts of the ABM’s growth and ensure much continued success.”

Folsom currently serves as a Board member for the Lynx Educational Foundation, operators of the tall ship Lynx, as well as a committee member for the Thousand Islands Regional Dock. He was also recently named to the Clayton Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.

He and his wife, Christie, reside in Cicero, New York with their daughter Lucy.

Located on the St. Lawrence River in the 1000 Islands, the Antique Boat Museum features a collection of over 300 antique and classic boats among thousands of recreational boating artifacts. Beginning May 10, the campus comes alive with speedboat rides, boat shows, and educational programs for all ages, special events and more. For more information please visit the Museum’s website at ABM.org.

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The above news release was received directly from the Antique Boat Museum in Clayton, NY.

It is interesting that the museum carries several artifacts from the Frederick G. Bourne era (from what is now known as Singer Castle on Dark Island). Artifacts include boat racing trophies from the family and Marjorie Bourne's boat called the Moike.



Getting closer to opening day!

Photo and update by Jean Papke.

"The St. Lawrence River is at last opening up around Singer Castle.  Soon our caretaker, Scott Garris, will be able to leave the island regularly to run errands and go to the store.  Just 65 more days until opening day for the 2013 season on May 18th.  The castle will be open weekends and by appointment until June 22nd when it will be open daily through Labor Day. Then weekends and by appointment through October 6th."

Singer Castle promo video

 

 

 

Singer Castle's President, Tom Weldon, has just uploaded a 30-second promotional video concerning the popular destination spot on Dark Island located in the 1,000 Islands. It contains some great aerial footage, so be sure to check it out above.

 

After the snow...

Photo by Jean Papke, Feb. 28, 2013
(Click on the photo to see it larger).

Jean Papke took the above photo of Singer Castle on Dark Island today and reminds us that there are only 20 days until Spring, and 79 days until the castle's next seasonal opening. She adoringly notes the melting ice (though surely temporary) as a harbinger for good times, weather-wise, to come soon.



Rapid weather change at the castle on Dark Island

Winter photo 2/4/13 by Jean Papke

The weather can change quickly in the Thousand Islands. Just days ago we showed Singer Castle surrounded by whitecap waves produced by high winds. Today we blog a picture with the St. Lawrence River already frozen over on a sunny day. 

Turbulent river and wind today around Dark Island.

Jean Papke, Administrative Assistant to the President of Singer Castle, has reported high winds today around Dark Island. Click on her photo above to see it larger.

Oh wind, a blowing all day long,
Oh wind, that sings so loud a song!

I saw the different things you did,
But always you yourself you hid.
I felt you push, I heard you call,
I could not see yourself at all
--- The Wind, by Robert Louis Stevenson

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Frederick G. Bourne history in the Thousand Islands Life

Frederick G. Bourne 

Photo © courtesy of Kenneth B. Hard, grandson of F.G. Bourne

Patty Mondore has written a fascinating article (in the Thousand Islands Life) giving us some major glimpses into the stellar life of Frederick G. Bourne. He is the man of impeccable character who had Singer Castle (formerly known as the Towers and then Jorstadt Castle) on Dark Island built. The castle is now a popular sightseeing and vacation destination spot.

So without further ado, please proceed through this link to view this must-see inspirational article: Frederick G. Bourne and The Things That Matter Most - Thousand Islands Life.com

Bob and Patty Mondore wrote the book (actually two) on Singer Castle, and produced the video documentary too.

Singer Castle in the Winter Time

Located in the 1000 Islands, seldom do very many people see Singer Castle in the winter time, but here is a current picture of it surrounded by snow. (Click on the photo to see it larger).

Photo courtesy of Jean Papke, Administrative Assistant to Tom Weldon, President of Singer Castle on Dark Island. 

Be sure to check in weekly with this SingerCastle.blogspot.com site for news and pictures from the Thousand Islands. New features and regular updates are in the works. You may participate by sending or emailing your inspirational story or photos related to this beautiful area to: mailbox[at]gold-mountain[dot]com  (remember the dash in the address) or to P.O. Box 123, Jamesville NY 13078. We especially enjoy nature scenes, positive stories and interesting factoids regarding this amazing region. 

"So snow comes after fire and even dragons have their ending! I wish now only to be in my own arm-chair!" -The Hobbit, by J.R.R. Tolkien (from the book, chapter 18).

The midnight Walleye Drop for bringing in the New Year 2013

Just for the fun of it!

For our die-hard fishing friends (and for anybody looking for something very unique), see the New Year's Eve walleye fish drop cam in Port Clinton, OH at midnight on the web. (You can even have it going on your computer at the same time the New York City's famous ball drop occurs on your TV if you are so inclined.)

As an alternative, here is the countdown clock on the web that has already started the countdown to the New Year!

Check in often with this blog. Many new wonderfully surprising features are in the works! Be sure to give us a look at least once per week. You may participate too. Just drop me an email with a Thousand Islands story or pictures (or any other fascinating nature story) to see yourself in print if selected. Happy New Year!

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Merry Christmas 2012

For your online Christmas celebration, here is an extraordinary site with all kinds of interesting links: Peggy's Christmas Place.

And be sure to try: Patty's Christmas Page.

Our own hometown hero - Veterans Day 2012

I ran this tribute last year and it certainly is worthwhile to publish again as we contemplate this Veterans Day 2012.

We have so many heroes among  us, so to put a face on it, I will focus on one among us. Pictured in this blog is Todd Torrance from central New York State. He served in the U.S. Army with Fort Drum's 10th Mountain Division in Afghanistan and Iraq.  I am using him to represent all of our veteran heroes: past, present and future. One day in Iraq he was on a security mission to protect the funeral procession for an Iraqi official. During this time his Humvee hit an IED (Improvised Explosive Device) which exploded his world. But let us hear it directly from him, as the New York Times featured a fascinating article by him which you can read by clicking here: New York Times, by Todd Torrance.

Above is pictured a tattoo on Todd's right shoulder, which dates his "alive date", the day he survived the road side bomb which took out his Humvee. Note the purple heart, and the 1/71 refers to his unit, the 1-71 Cavalry.

This aftermath of his alive date has culminated in having his date with Danielle, now his fiancée. If this were a movie, one could say this is the fitting ending to an amazing story, but alas, it is the beginning of great things to come for a survivor.

When I asked Todd to make a final statement for this blog, his final answer was to flash another tattoo for the camera. Click on his picture to see it larger. If the tat sounds familiar, you may also see it in 1 Thess. 5:24. 

In thanks to Todd and to all of our veterans, please view the following video, Thank you for my Freedom.

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Remembering the HMS Bounty and Captain Robin Walbridge

Captain Robin Walbridge (on the right) with Pam Thomas, Operations Manager of Singer Castle at the time.

HMS Bounty docked at Dark Island.
(Click on photos to see them larger)
See more images below.

She came into view as we rounded Cedar Island on our way from the Chippewa Bay dock to Dark Island.  Arguably one of the most identifiable of the tall ships sailing today sat tied up at our main dock.  The “HMS Bounty” had come to call at Singer Castle.  Avid sailor that he was, Frederick Bourne would have loved her, all 180’ majestic feet from bowsprit to stern as much as we did.   

After summering on the Great Lakes the “Bounty” was once again on her way back down the St. Lawrence toward Montreal and then on to her home port for the winter season.  On that particular September day the crew and passengers sailing on the Bounty had a chance to be tourists instead of being the “tourist attraction.”  They would get to tour a castle in the 1000 Islands.  

While the crew and passengers toured the castle, Captain Robin invited castle staff members aboard the Bounty.  Our visit began with us climbing up the side of the ship to reach the main deck with the aid of ropes and for some of us a small ladder.  We saw all levels of the ship including the engine room, galley and cabins.  On the main deck stood the ship’s wheel -- the same wheel had been used on the ships in all of the “Mutiny on the Bounty” movies and during the shooting of “The Pirates of the Caribbean.”  We could imagine Captain Bly or Captain Jack Sparrow steering her over the waves with the sails billowing in the wind.  

Captain Robin Walbridge was a warm and gracious host – it was clear that he loved his ship and his life sailing on the Bounty.  At the end of the visit all of us urged him to stop again the next time he sailed the St. Lawrence.  Sadly Captain Robin Walbridge and the HMS Bounty will not be coming our way again….  On Monday, October 29, 2012 Hurricane Sandy claimed the life of [Claudene Christian and left] the captain and his majestic ship lost at sea. [They are still searching for Capt. Walbridge.] [11/1/12 update. Sadly, the Coast Guard search for the Capt. has been suspended.]

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Above notice received directly from Jean Papke, Administrative Assistant to the President of Singer Castle on Dark Island, Tom Weldon.

Patty and I (Bob) have visited the magnificent HMS Bounty on the St. Lawrence River and saw the dedicated crew at work. Our hearts go out to the families of Captain Robin Walbridge and Claudene Christian who also perished in this tragic event.

...

Above, Bob Mondore and the HMS Bounty, St. Lawrence River, Ogdensburg NY- June 2010

Above, poster of 1962 movie: Mutiny on the Bounty. Fletcher Christian's name is listed directly under Marlon Brando's name in fine print.

Astonishingly, the late Claudene Christian was a direct descendant of Fletcher Christian who led the Mutiny on the Bounty in 1789 and was played by Marlon Brando in the 1962 film which featured this very replica ship which took her life during Hurricane Sandy.

Claudine Christian on the Bounty, from her Facebook page.

For updates on all things regarding ships on the St. Lawrence River, I hardily recommend Mike Folsom's The Ship Watcher Blog.

Dispatch direct from Singer Castle regarding "The Great Escape" show on Dark Island.

The Great Escape???

A little over a year ago the area was abuzz.  Emmy Award winning producer of “The Amazing Race,” Bertram Van Munster and Academy Award winning producer Ron Howard were going to film a pilot for a new reality adventure series at Singer Castle.  Many local people worked to bring the production to the area and many others participated in preproduction activities. They provided housing, food, transportation, artwork, construction work and support for the production crews who labored almost around the clock for two weeks just to set the scene.  Local volunteers participated in a trial run through of the escape and many others assisted during the over five hours of filming beginning at midnight on a cool and rainy night.  Those of us who live close to the castle enjoyed the beautiful sight of the castle on Dark Island all aglow with the hundreds of lights.  We could imagine how beautiful the castle was when the Bourne family came in the early 1900s and we wanted the whole world to have an opportunity to see our special place.  

Nine months later, “The Great Escape” premiered on TNT with an episode filmed at Alcatraz. When would the episode filmed at Singer Castle air?  It didn’t appear on the schedule, maybe next week.  We were greatly disappointed when the first season of “The Great Escape” ended without the Singer Castle episode being featured on the Sunday evening program.  Surely we were more interesting than the sewers below the City of Los Angeles.  All of us wanted to see the end result of the hard work.    

Well, we have great news for those of you who have been waiting to see the escape from Singer Castle.  Profiles TV and TNT have made one copy of the pilot episode available to Singer Castle.  While we are not allowed to duplicate it or post it on the internet, you will have an opportunity to view the show on Saturday, October 20th [2012]. A boat will depart from the Uncle Sam Boat Tours dock in Alexandria Bay at noon and cruise down river to Singer Castle.  During the cruise the episode will be shown and upon arrival at the castle you will have an opportunity to tour the castle and see where the production took place.  Tickets for this reservation only special event will cost $25 each and will be available by calling Singer Castle at 315-324-3275.  

[This entire announcement above was received directly from Singer Castle on Dark Island.]

Singer Castle chosen as a top destination spot for New York State (see #8)!

A DOZEN EXCITING WAYS TO STAY
IN NEW YORK STATE

Albany, New York (September 5, 2012) –Why stay in an ordinary hotel when you can sleep in a luxurious, remote lakeside yurt or a repurposed caboose? Here are more than a dozen wonderful lodgings across the state that are attractions in their own right.

1.    Safe Harbor in a Lighthouse: Saugerties Lighthouse, Saugerties, NY, in the Hudson Valley, sits on a remote shoal which can be reached by boat or via an easy half-mile walking trail. This 1869 landmark beacon, on the National Register of Historic Places, is both museum and inn. Two bedrooms and the lighthouse tower above them provide bird’s eye views of the Hudson River and offer an idyllic perch for spotting bald eagles and beavers and watching the sun set. The downstairs has a kitchen where guests can cook dinner and a cozy common room with a wood-burning stove.

2.    Luxury in a Backcountry Yurt: A backcountry experience with all of the creature comforts beckons at the Upper St. Regis Lake campsite, near Lake Clear, NY in the Adirondacks. A carpeted, fully-furnished and serviced yurt, accessible only by boat, sits on a promontory overlooking a lovely lake. Guests can take off in the yurt’s canoe on paddling adventures across three lakes and a river or swim and dive off the private dock. Come evening, they can cook dinner on the outdoor grill or indoor kitchen and then  watch for shooting stars through the yurt’s domed skylight.

3.    Floating in a Geodesic Dome: A geodesic dome with a round, “floating” bed is among the unusual accommodations at Pollywogg Hollër Eco Resort, Belmont, NY, in the Chautauqua–Allegheny region. Other options include an Adirondack-style lean-to with a queen-size bed and privacy curtains, and a popular loft cabin with its own pine-fired sauna, each with furnishings hand-hewn from native woods. Works of more than one hundred artists nestle along garden trails. The resort also features wine tastings in its own wine cellar, an organic garden and solar-powered electricity.

4.    A Converted Convent: While many of the lovely angels that decorate six-room Angels Nest Bed & Breakfast, in Rome, NY, in the Central New York region, were brought here by the inn’s owner, the spirit of the original convent seems to live on. The original prayer center, complete with pews and stained glass windows, now serves as a non-denominational chapel and the lovely angel-themed garden invites outdoor meditation. A sense of community is fostered around home cooked breakfasts, a well equipped exercise room and sauna and relaxing living area with a TV, books, music and games. Guest reviews also praise owner/innkeeper Mary O. Davis for her warm hospitality.

5.    Sleeping in School: Rest assured, you won’t be scolded for sleeping in this 1907 school house, but you’re likely to learn nevertheless. The Erie Canal Schoolhouse Bed & Breakfast, in Albion, NY, in the Greater Niagara region displays photos, newspaper articles and other historic documents found during the renovation, and the former auditorium showcases vintage model trains, a miniature Hudson carnival and antiques. Want to make some notes? The original chalkboards are still on the walls of several of the classroom-turned bedrooms.

6.    A Personal Theme Park: Why go to a theme park when you can sleep in one? Staying in one of the themed rooms and suites at The Roxbury Motel, in Roxbury, NY in the Catskills is like living on a set from your favorite TV show or movie. From the Stone Age Flintstones to Futuristic Jetsons, choices abound. The newest, slated to open this fall, is a three bedroom “Archaeologist’s Digs,” inspired by adventure flicks like Indiana Jones that will include secret passageways, hidden treasure, Mayan temples and Egyptian tombs. On a diet? Don’t choose Maryann’s Coconut Cream Pie room, which puts you in the pie with a whipped cream ceiling that looks real enough to make your mouth water.

7.    On the Track to Dreamland: You can fall asleep to the chug, chug, chug of a moving train at the Caboose Motel, in Avoca, NY, in the Finger Lakes region. While the sound is simulated and can be turned off, the five 1917 cabooses are the real thing. Converted into family-style motel rooms, the cabooses all have a single and double bed for lower berths plus two authentic upper berths and a bathroom with shower, along with modern conveniences such as cable TV, heating and air-conditioning.

8.    A Taste of the Gilded Age: Built in the early 1900s by Frederick Bourne, president of the Singer Sewing Machine Co., as an opulent “hunting retreat” in the 1000 Islands/Seaway region, Singer Castle is a quirky place with hidden passageways and dungeons. The 28-room castle and private island are now open to visitors during the day, but come evening, those who reserve the two-bedroom Royal Suite have the entire castle at their disposal, complete with a catered dinner and a private personal tour of this eccentric hideaway.

9.    Roaring 20s Splendor: Oheka Castle in Cold Spring Harbor, NY on Long Island, the French-style Chateau where financier and philanthropist Otto Hermann Kahn threw lavish parties during the Roaring 20s, is now a glamorous 32-room boutique hotel with a gourmet restaurant. Not to be missed are the Chateau Fontainebleau-inspired grand staircase and the Olmstead-designed formal gardens. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the chateau frequently appears in film, television, music and still photography productions, which helps account for the A-list celebs often spotted here.

10.    An Artist’s Town House:  Home to influential artist and women’s rights activist Alice Morgan Wright from 1888 to 1975, the Morgan State House Inn is an elegantly and artistically restored 19th century townhouse. Designed by the same architect who also designed the Gothic-style Cathedral of all Saints, the gabled mansion features architectural detailing, inside and out. It is located in downtown Albany, NY, in the Capital-Saratoga region, across from Washington Park and just steps from a number of interesting restaurants.

11.    A Hammock in the City: Cocooning takes on an almost literal meaning at the trendy NU Hotel, where guests can opt for rooms with hammocks instead of beds. Of course, regular beds and bunk beds are also available for those with more conventional sleep tastes. The hotel is located amid the restaurants, shops and art galleries of downtown Brooklyn in New York City, less than a ten minute subway ride to Manhattan.

12.    “Glamping” and more: There are many more off-beat accommodations across the state. Try “glamping” at the luxurious Orenda campground in the Adirondacks, go for the Catskill kitsch at Kate’s Lazy Meadow in Mt. Tremper, NY, decked out in groovy 50s decor by Kate Pierson, a lead singer of the B-52s rock band; or stay in a tower suite overlooking the Hudson River at Castle on the Hudson in Tarrytown, NY, a medieval style castle that includes a dining room once owned by Louis XIV that was transported from France. Or buy the painting off the wall at the Artful Lodger, a combination art gallery and bed and breakfast inn in Clinton, NY. Check out www.iloveNY.com for dude ranches, log cabins, and other unusual lodgings.

About New York State
New York State features 11 beautiful vacation regions. New York’s attractions span from landmarks such as Niagara Falls, to the wine trails of Hudson Valley and treasures like the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown. Whether it’s wide-ranging outdoor activities for the whole family like fishing, hiking and boating, culinary wonders and farm-to-table fresh foods, or the rich history and culture of one of the 13 original colonies, New York State offers diverse activities for all travelers. For more information, visit http://www.iloveny.com. Media can find press releases and more at thebeat.iloveny.com.

 

The following link shows how it is being reported in the media:
7 News/WWNY TV