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        <title>Chautauqua Lake Real Estate Blog</title>
        <link>http://www.richardlakefront.com/blog/recreational-activities-in-chautauqua-county/</link>
        <description>Richard's Chautauqua Lake Live Living. This blog will provide updated post pertaining to Chautauqua Lake Region and surrounding areas. Including Chautauqua Institution, Lake Erie and Findley Lake NY. 
Please post any comments you may have.

Richar</description>
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            <guid>http://www.richardlakefront.com/blog/chautauqua-county-snowmobile-trails-open-conditions-marginal.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.richardlakefront.com/blog/chautauqua-county-snowmobile-trails-open-conditions-marginal.html</link>
            <author>Richard0039@yahoo.com (Richard Benedetto)</author>
            <title>Chautauqua County Snowmobile Trails Open, Conditions Marginal</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
For those not afraid of single-digit temperatures, the county's snowmobile trails are open.


On Wednesday, several sources indicated the trails were open. All reminded riders that conditions are marginal.


The Chautauqua County Trail Conditions hotline told riders to be careful because high winds have knocked down tree limbs which could potentially be along the paths.


''Pay attention to your surroundings and watch your speed,'' the recording said, which can be accessed by calling 800-242-4569, followed by pressing the No. 2 and then 5.


The Chautauqua Lake Snowmobile Club has a telephone hotline and a website. The Chautauqua Lake Snowmobile Club Sno-Phone, which can be reached by calling 753-2924, said trails are in poor condition because there is no base.


''We have received snow. It is a fluffy snow. It doesn't pack so well,'' the message said. ''Groomers have been out doing the best they can to get a base setup.''


The hotline also warned that groomers have broken down. The Chautauqua Lake Snowmobile Club's website, which can be viewed at www.chautauquasnow.com, stated a groomer is stuck on trail C-4 because of a broken track. Also, trail S-52 toward Busti is closed because of a lack of snow.


''Trails are open at this time with the area receiving over a foot of snow in most spots,'' stated the club's website. ''Temperatures have been in the low teens for a couple days and freezing things up nicely. Winds have blown the fluffy white snow all over, which has bare fields and is nearly impossible to groom well. There was also a windstorm in the area blowing debris over the trails, so please use caution. With the powder snow conditions are poor to marginal at this time. Once things thaw a bit we might be able to get a better groom with another weather front coming through this weekend. Some trails are not groomed, and we still have some wet spots.''


Ellery Sno-Cruisers spokesperson Jamie Carlson posted on its website - www.ellerysno-cruisers.com - trails are open, but conditions are marginal because there is no base.


''Our snow cover is on the light side in areas so please use extreme caution. These are early season conditions,'' Carlson said.


The Lake Effect Trailbreakers said all trails were open as of Wednesday morning on its website, www.trailbreakers.com.


''Please use caution on the east end of our club area (near Kennedy) we have reports that the snow may be thin in that area,'' the Lake Effect Trailbreakers website stated. ''As always, communicate back to the club if any hazardous conditions exist.''


To access other Chautauqua County Snowmobile clubs websites, visit Cherry Creek Sno-Goers by going to www.cherrycreeksnogoers.comand for the Sunset Drifters, go to www.sunsetdrifters.net.


According to the Chautauqua County Visitor Bureau's website, the county has 450 miles of groomed trails and are maintained by members of the five county snowmobile clubs. These groups work with hundreds of private landowners and utilize 16 groomers to maintain trails. Along the trails, people can visit service stations for fuel, restaurants for a bite to eat and hotels for overnight accommodations. Contact one of the five clubs to purchase a countywide trail map.
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            <pubDate>Thu, 24 Jan 2013 19:18:31 -0600</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.richardlakefront.com/blog/state-snowmobile-association-ready-for-2012-13-season.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.richardlakefront.com/blog/state-snowmobile-association-ready-for-2012-13-season.html</link>
            <author>Richard0039@yahoo.com (Richard Benedetto)</author>
            <title>State Snowmobile Association Ready For 2012-13 Season</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
December 19, 2012


The Post-Journal


Save | 								Post a comment | 												





The New York State Snowmobile Association is reminding snowmobilers that local trails are not considered officially open until a local club has inspected and cleared trails for the 2012-13 season.


Although the snowmobile season won't begin until after the hunting season ends in late December, association members are encouraging all snowmobilers to use the time to join their local clubs and register their sled.


"Our recent economic impact study shows that our sport contributes $868 million to the state economy," said Dominic Jacangelo, association executive director. "We work with local municipalities and landowners to provide riding options for our members as well as identifying opportunities to work with local businesses to ensure services are available to our club members."


Snowmobilers can visit www.nysnowmobiler.com for information on clubs as well as the latest news on snowmobiling in New York state.


"Our number one priority is safety. That's why we ask everyone to reach out to their local club before hitting the trails for the first time," said Jim Rolf, association trail coordinator. "Trails continually change as clubs continue necessary maintenance. Our local clubs are working to inspect and repair these trails in order to ensure a safe experience throughout the season."


The association encourages all snowmobilers to abide by all the safety regulations and to refrain from consuming any amount of alcohol until they have parked their snowmobiles for the day.


"Operating a snowmobile safely requires drivers to be alert and focused at all times. Don't invite something bad to happen by riding beyond your skill level or consuming any amount of alcohol before your riding is done," said Gary Broderick, association president.


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            <pubDate>Wed, 19 Dec 2012 09:22:54 -0600</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.richardlakefront.com/blog/10-reasons-to-visit-chautauqua-county-this-winter1.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.richardlakefront.com/blog/10-reasons-to-visit-chautauqua-county-this-winter1.html</link>
            <author>Richard0039@yahoo.com (Richard Benedetto)</author>
            <title>10 Reasons to Visit Chautauqua County This Winter</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 


Chautauqua County sits directly in the path of lake effect snow storms that gather strength over Lake Erie and drop more than 200 inches of snow annually. More often than not, the region welcomes the holidays with a carpet of white and the season with a frozen crystal wonderland. This pocket of precipitation is precisely why winter is a perfect time to plan a visit.


With annual snowfall that rivals Colorado ski towns, southwestern New York offers plenty of opportunity for downhill snow sports. Near Findley Lake, the Peek’n Peak Resort and Spa provides an excellent backdrop for true beginners all the way to expert level skiers and snowboarders with 27 slopes, eight chairlifts, three progression terrain parks and a halfpipe. There’s even a tubing area. The instructors at Peek’n Peak’s Snow Sports School are professionally trained and the lodges, diningrooms, pool and spa are welcome activities after a day on the slopes.


Go cross country skiing or snow shoeing along many of the trails throughout the county. Long Point State Park, Lake Erie State Park, Chautauqua Institution, and the Jamestown Audubon Center offer both trails and open spaces. Join Evergreen Outfitters for guided snowshoe hikes, there’s even one during the full moon.


Hundreds of miles of trails groomed by five local snowmobile clubs provide an ideal setting for sledding over old railroad beds, former trolley lines, open farm fields, heavily wooded areas, and seasonal roads. Trails officially open a week or so before Christmas, weather permitting. New York requires that all sleds be registered so check for details before you travel.


 


Memories, nostalgic and newly made, are waiting at the Fenton History Center. Visit November 20, 2012 to January 19, 2013 during the Center’s annual holiday exhibit, “Dear Santa”. The exhibit fills four floors of the elegant 1863 Fenton Mansion and includes a dozen decorated Christmas trees. Listen to Christmas carols, learn about Jamestown’s holiday traditions, and browse the gift shop.


Winter is a great time to stop at the wineries in Lake Erie Wine Country. Tasting rooms are less crowded, the experience is more educational and intimate, and many new vintages are released. Also winter and Ice Wine, a specialty dessert wine unique to the northern climate, just naturally go together. Visit during the annual Wine and Chocolate Weekend, February 15-17, 2013 for a special Valentine’s treat. Each of the participating wineries will pair a luscious chocolate creation with a wine accompaniment.


Try seasonal brews during a tour at Southern Tier Brewing Company. Stop by the Empty Pint Brewery Pub for a selection of 14 draught beers, including some guest taps, Thursday through Saturday, evenings, or Sunday afternoons. Hickory smoked pulled pork sandwiches, soup, snacks and non-alcoholic beverages are also on the menu. Arrive early on Saturday and take a 45-60 minute guided tour of the brewery at 1:00, 2:30 or 4 pm. Tours are available on a first come basis and often sell out. They also take place in a working production facility that may be hot, cold, wet and noisy so be prepared.


See the splendid sights and old fashioned picturesque fun during the Currier &amp; Ives Sleigh Rally at Chautauqua Institution, Sunday, January 20, 2013. While the rally participants are horsemen and their sleighs, at approximately 12 noon, spectators can watch the Victorian style sleighs and costumed drivers as they parade through the historic grounds with sleigh bells jingling.


On the subject of sleigh rides, join one through the historic grounds of Chautauqua Institution on Saturdays and Sundays throughout January and February. Rides run every half hour from 1 pm to 3 pm and tickets are available at the Chautauqua Bookstore on Bestor Plaza. This is a lot of fun for couples or the whole family, but be sure to bundle up if you go.


President’s Day Weekend brings with it the annual Winter (I.C.E.) Festival in Mayville, February 15-17, 2013 featuring events, activities, and contests for all ages including fireworks, a flare parade, bonfire and horse drawn wagon rides. If the weather cooperates, you might see a castle made from blocks of ice harvested in the traditional way from Chautauqua Lake.


 


Hide away for a weekend at a bed and breakfast, vacation home, resort or inn. Chautauqua isn’t your everyday winter weekend getaway. With all that snow, the weather could easily cover your tracks and snuggle you in for some good getaway time by the hearth, with some hot chocolate, a bottle of local wine or some Southern Tier beer.


For more ideas on visiting Chautauqua County any time of year, visit TourChautauqua or call 1-866-908-4569. Be sure to reserve a 2013 Chautauqua County Visitors Guide.


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            <pubDate>Fri, 14 Dec 2012 08:51:54 -0600</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.richardlakefront.com/blog/chautauqua-county-november-activities.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.richardlakefront.com/blog/chautauqua-county-november-activities.html</link>
            <author>Richard0039@yahoo.com (Richard Benedetto)</author>
            <title>Chautauqua County November Activities</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 





Harvest Wine Weekends 




Lake Erie Wine Country,
November 2-4 &amp; 9-11, 2012 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 

 
 
 




Take a tour of Lake Erie Wine Country
during the annual Harvest Wine Weekends, November 2-4 and 9-11. Guests will
savor delicious fall foods prepared with local ingredients and paired with
select wines at each of 23 wineries. Tickets are on sale for $35 per person and
may be purchased online at Lake Erie Wine Country or by calling (877) 326-6561. There are
just a few tickets left for the first weekend. Try the second weekend for more
availability. While you are here, be on the lookout for the Visit Visa, a great
gift idea for the holidays. This coupon booklet provides generous discounts at
wineries and local businesses and restaurants and is a "grape"
opportunity to sample regional wineries.




 




Holiday Preparations 




Local Celebrations

 
 
 




Start preparing for the
holidays with boutique shops in Chautauqua County's lakeside and Victorian
villages. Start with a Holiday Open House with the merchants of Bemus Point,
November 1-4 where participating stores will be offering 20% off almost everything.





 




On November 3-4,
celebrate Christmas through the Village in charming Findley Lake. The
town will be all dressed up for the holidays, the shops filled with unique and
fun gift ideas, the restaurants eager to refresh hungry shoppers. Pickup a
Christmas Passport guide to the festivies at the Waterwheel Overlook or at any
participating business.




 




The City of Jamestown
honors "A Tradition of Caring" with its annual celebration, parade
and fireworks on November 30th. On Saturday, December 1, visit the Village of
Fredonia for a Miracle on Main Street.
See the calendar for a
complete list of events.






 
 
 




 




Crossroads Market in Westfield will be open Friday,
November 23rd for a calmer kind of Black Friday shopping in addition to its
regular Saturday hours from 9 am to 5 pm through December. The farm and craft
market features dozens of vendors known for their crafts, artwork, woodwork,
imported gifts, specialty supplies, unique collectibles, foodstuffs, candy,
coffee, hand-made clothing and home decor, and an eclectic assortment of retail
gifts.




 


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            <pubDate>Wed, 31 Oct 2012 12:43:06 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.richardlakefront.com/blog/fall-foliage-at-peak-in-chautauqua-allegheny-region.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.richardlakefront.com/blog/fall-foliage-at-peak-in-chautauqua-allegheny-region.html</link>
            <author>Richard0039@yahoo.com (Richard Benedetto)</author>
            <title>Fall Foliage at Peak in Chautauqua-Allegheny Region</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Peak and near peak color is dominating the Chautauqua-Allegheny region. Foliage spotters in Cattaraugus County expect peak conditions by the weekend. At Allegany State Park, 75 percent transition is predicted with yellow, red and orange leaves of average brilliance. Oaks are just starting to peak there. Spotters in Little Valley expect 65 percent transition with a bright mix of yellows, oranges, reds and greens. In Chautauqua County, look for near peak foliage 65 percent changed and bright shades of orange and yellow.


 


 


 


 


Information provided by: http://fallgetaways.iloveny.com/LANDING_FOLIAGE_REPORT.html
 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Mon, 08 Oct 2012 13:59:53 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.richardlakefront.com/blog/celoron-ny-ribfest-june-8-9-10-11-2011-on-the-shores-of-chautauqua-lake.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.richardlakefront.com/blog/celoron-ny-ribfest-june-8-9-10-11-2011-on-the-shores-of-chautauqua-lake.html</link>
            <author>Richard0039@yahoo.com (Richard Benedetto)</author>
            <title>Celoron NY Ribfest June 8, 9, 10, 11, 2011 on the Shores of Chautauqua Lake </title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
2011 Rib Cooking Teams


Returning this year in 2011 will be Sgt. Oink’s BBQ, My Happy Place, Smokin’ Joe’s BBQ, Bulldog Barbeque, Jamestown, NY and Hog Wild BBQ Co., Warren, PA serving the best in BBQ cuisine. 








The Kid Zone




We have not forgotten the children.  We plan an expansive, larger than ever Kids Zone sponsored by Cummins Engine Co.  Kids of any age can get their face painted, ride the train and experience the bounce houses and slide.
















Beer Tent &amp; Wine Tasting




Visit our expanded adult beverage area and enjoy a cold beer, glass of wine or wine slushie with your dinner while relaxing by the lake.


Sample the wines of Willow Creek Winery at our wine tasting event with all proceeds benefiting Meals on Wheels. Get your engraved wine glass and delight in some of Chautauqua County’s best wine. Take home a few bottles to enjoy later.
















Harley Davidson Bike Night


Harley Davidson of Jamestown will sponsor motorcycle day on Friday, June 10, 2011 with special bike parking along the Boulevard at Lucille Ball Memorial Park all day. Visit Kids and Cancer booth and take a chance to win a new “Hog”. 














QUALIFY TO WIN A NEW CAR




Visit the KIA exhibit.  Test your skill and take a chance to win a brand new KIA.  Qualifications all day Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and until noon on Saturday.
















Support Vendors







BBQ ribs in varied forms will be the main course; but, the support food and drink vendors are also prepared to make your experience a true feast. Be ready for fries, “bloomin” onions, funnel cakes, candy apples, cotton candy and let’s not forget the special chocolate covered strawberries.


Soda pop, lemonade and ice water will be available for all and chicken fingers and pizza for the kids. Finish your culinary experience with the best ice cream for miles around!


 



Attention Vendors!


Download Vendors Registration Form Here








 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Thu, 19 May 2011 14:21:13 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.richardlakefront.com/blog/ice-fishing-on-lake-chautauqua-new-york.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.richardlakefront.com/blog/ice-fishing-on-lake-chautauqua-new-york.html</link>
            <author>Richard0039@yahoo.com (Richard Benedetto)</author>
            <title>Ice Fishing on Lake Chautauqua New York</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Ice Fishing on Lake Chautauqua
Chautauqua Lake offers &quot;hardwater&quot; angling opportunities for walleye and panfish. Ice fishing can be an enjoyable outing for the whole family and only requires a minimum of equipment. Clothing is key to an enjoyable ice-fishing experience-dress in layers and use a good pair of insulated pack boots.Anglers will also need an ice auger, or spud, to cut a hole through the ice and an ice skimmer to clean the ice chips out of the hole. Ice fishing tackle should be geared toward the size fish you want to catch. Generally, lighter is better to catch sensitive-biting fish like bluegill and crappie. Use a short, lightweight fishing pole outfitted with 4-6 pound test line and smaller bait. When fishing for panfish, small jigs work well. Many anglers bait the jigs with &quot;mousies&quot;, &quot;oak leaf&quot; grubs, or mayfly larvae (Michigan wigglers). For best results, fish the bait just off the bottom. Some ice anglers use a small bobber placed on the line just below the eater surface, to prevent icing up and to detect the slightest nibble.Popular areas for yellow perch and other panfish include Mayville, Prendergast, Long Point, Dewittville, Ashville Bay and the Celoron area. For walleye, fish Chautauqua's north basin. Good areas include the Warner Bar, Bell Tower, Dewittville, Prendergast Point, Mission Meadows, Long Point, Victoria and Magnolia. Since walleye in the 5-8 pound range are occasionally caught, anglers use heavier fishing tackle. Short, stout spinning rods with a reel that has a good drag system work the best. Minnow-imitating lures and &quot;sonars&quot; are a traditional favorite of Chautauqua Lake anglers. Lures are often baited with a minnow to make them more enticing. Tip-ups also work well, and anglers often set out their legal number of tip-ups and continue to use jigs with another rod.Public access during the winter months is available at the Prendergast Point, Bemus Point, Long Point State Park, the City of Mayville Park and the Village of Lakewood Park. ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Tue, 28 Dec 2010 13:24:11 -0600</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.richardlakefront.com/blog/2011-chautauqua-institution-lecture-themes.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.richardlakefront.com/blog/2011-chautauqua-institution-lecture-themes.html</link>
            <author>Richard0039@yahoo.com (Richard Benedetto)</author>
            <title>2011 Chautauqua Institution Lecture Themes </title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
2011 Lecture Themes&nbsp;Announced 


The morning lectures are a signature of Chautauquas program. Weekdays at 10:45 a.m., the stage of the 5,000-seat Amphitheater becomes the platform for distinguished scientists, authors, educators and experts in such fields as national and international affairs, arts and humanities, business, and the environment. Through the years, Chautauqua has committed itself to civil, civic dialogue on matters that shape our world. Susan B. Anthony argued here for womens suffrage in 1892 and Franklin D. Roosevelt gave his &quot;I Hate War&quot; speech from the same stage in 1936. Margaret Mead, Amelia Earhart, Thurgood Marshall, Freeman Dyson, Jane Goodall, Sandra Day OConnor, Kurt Vonnegut and Oscar Arias are among the speakers who have shared their experiences, knowledge and vision at Chautauqua.

Week One | June 26-July 2, 2011Global Health as Foreign Policy

The U.S. government and private foundations have dedicated significant funding toward improving the wellness of global citizens, both in monetary contributions and research. What is, and what should be, the relationship of these investments to U.S. foreign policy? How do we decide where to spend valuable resources? What do we know and how are we applying this knowledge? In our interconnected world, global pandemics affect us all. In a unique partnership with CARE and the Global Health Council, we will examine what we know about global health, what we are learning, and to whose benefit.

&nbsp;

Week Two | July 3-9Applied Ethics: Government &amp; the Search for the Common Good

How does a government determine &quot;the common good&quot; for its citizens? What is fair and reasonable distribution of resources? We will spend the week celebrating the Fourth of July and discussing what it means to be active citizens and what we expect of government at all levels. We will leave with greater knowledge about becoming and encouraging others to become more engaged citizens, more vigilant voters, and more effective participants.

&nbsp;

Week Three | July 10-16American Intelligence: Technology, Espionage, and Alliances

In two months, our nation will confront the 10th anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks. In the decade since, what have we learned? What is our espionage history, and why is it important? What is the appropriate balance between civil liberties and national security? In this week, we will examine American intelligence capabilities, the methods by which we collect and analyze data, how our justice system works, and what these issues tell us about who we are and how we form alliances. Well learn about our technical capabilities in an information-based global environment with billions of bits of information. What do we know about our espionage targets, and how do we know our strategies are working?

&nbsp;

Week Four | July 17-23A Case for the Arts

Each morning this week, we will hear from people representing and supporting the arts, particularly those art forms represented at Chautauqua - literature, visual arts, orchestra, theater, opera, dance - discussing the role of the arts in civil society - education, economic recovery, healing, and cross-cultural understanding. Afternoon lectures will examine the role of the arts in worship. This week will highlight Chautauquas four-pillar mix of arts, education, religion, and recreation.

&nbsp;

Week Five | July 24-30Women in Crisis: The Road to Social and Economic Growth

Womens lives around the world continue to be affected by deep-seated prejudices that create inequities and abuse. This reality robs the future of valuable assets. In this week, we will examine what action is needed to empower women to reach their full potential and, by that action, improve the entire social, economic, religious, and cultural context in which they live. How are women overcoming cultural and religious prejudice and traditional practices that cause their suffering and inequality?

&nbsp;

Week Six | July 31-August 6Iran: From Ancient Persia to Middle East Powder Keg

With a history that spans more than nine millennia, Iran is home to one of the worlds oldest continuous civilizations, but one that still remains much of an enigma to the rest of the world. How does Iran differ from the other countries of the Middle East and how does its past inform its present and future states? This week will look back on the country formerly known as Persia, examine its emergence as presentday Iran, and postulate what might be next for one of the most important Islamic countries in the world.

&nbsp;

Week Seven | August 7-13The U.S. Economy: Beyond a Quick Fix

What must be done to ensure a sustainable U.S. economy? What policies, launched now, will build the foundation for long-term economic prosperity, secure foreign policy, and national security? Is the key within our boundaries (health care, social security, taxes, private savings) or outside (China, export and currency policy)? What does it mean to have a budget deficit of over $1 trillion a year for as far into the future as we can see? Economists, business people, and government leaders will discuss national and international issues that must be addressed to restore global leadership and equilibrium to the American economic system.

&nbsp;

Week Eight | August 14-20Sparking a Culture of Creativity and Innovation

New ideas and new ways of looking may provide the answers to challenges to U.S. competitiveness in business, education, government, and health care. In this week, our guests will reveal how they have created cultures of creativity that foster innovation. Well define &ldquo;design thinking&rdquo; and learn about collaborations that extend knowledge across disparate fields and add value to society, products and services. We will discover how creativity can be taught and learned, and how to inspire creative confidence in ourselves and others.

&nbsp;

Week Nine | August 21-27The Path to the Civil War

In collaboration with Colonial Williamsburg Foundation and the Smithsonians National Museum of African American History and Culture The sesquicentennial of the Civil War in 2011 offers an opportunity to rethink its significance with regard to the evolution of U.S. society, American identity, and race. Focusing on the path to the Civil War, what issues, confronted but unsolved by our nations founders, led within less than a century to war between the states and challenged the young countrys very survival? Character-interpreters, storytellers, historians, and present-day experts will illumine the controversies and tensions that led to the Civil War and will reflect on how these issues continue to shape our society today.

 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Thu, 21 Oct 2010 16:13:39 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.richardlakefront.com/blog/chautauqua-county-gerry-rodeo-opens-tonight-wednesday-august-4th-to-sunday-august-8th.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.richardlakefront.com/blog/chautauqua-county-gerry-rodeo-opens-tonight-wednesday-august-4th-to-sunday-august-8th.html</link>
            <author>Richard0039@yahoo.com (Richard Benedetto)</author>
            <title>Chautauqua County Gerry Rodeo Opens Tonight. Wednesday August 4th to Sunday August 8th.</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
&nbsp;

The annual Gerry Rodeo opens Wednesday and runs through Sunday.

GERRY - Tonight at 8 the gates will swing open and the opening performance of the Gerry Volunteer Fire Department's 66th annual professional rodeo will be under way.

The final trailer loads of more than 150 head of livestock and the chutes have arrived from the Barnes. Rodeo Company's ranch in Iowa and approximately 125 cowboys and cowgirls have traveled from all over the East and as far away as Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Iowa to compete for $25,000 in prize money in pro rodeo's seven traditional events - saddle bronc riding, bareback riding, tie-down roping, steer wrestling, team roping, bull riding and cowgirls' barrel racing.

Trailers and campers with license plates from across the county have rolled into the camping areas, adding to the &quot;city on wheels'' atmosphere. The first day's serving of about 1,200 pounds of beef is slowly roasting over wood fires and final dining hall details are being taken care of in preparation for the almost 4,000 meals that will be served between now and Sunday.

Tents have sprung up along the midway as more than 20 vendors unload their wares, featuring everything from cotton candy and fried dough to western wear.

Tonight's performance is the first of six for the week. The competition is held each night Wednesday through Saturday with afternoon shows at 2 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday. The full-course beef barbecue dinners are served in the air-conditioned dining hall beginning at 5 p.m. through Saturday and at noon on both Saturday and Sunday.

Ticket prices are $12 for adults and $6 for children 3-12 with a special price of $4 for children tonight. Seniors are admitted for $10 each performance.

Dinner prices are $10 for adults and $5 for children. Dinners include the slow-cooked beef, potatoes, corn, salad, and cottage cheese as well as ice cream and drinks. Combination tickets for both the rodeo and the dinner are available at reduced rates.

An additional feature for the week is the Sunday morning worship service held outdoors in the arena at 9 a.m. This year's program features the southern gospel sounds of the quartet Soul Provider and a testimony of his spiritual journey by the rodeo announcer, Andy Seiler. There is no charge for the service. In case of rain it will be held in the Rodeo Conference Center.

Additional information is available by phone at 985-4847 or 1-888-985-4847 or on the rodeo website at www.gerryrodeo.org



Subscribe to Post-Journal 
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            <pubDate>Wed, 04 Aug 2010 17:55:35 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.richardlakefront.com/blog/catching-fish-on-chautauqua-lake1.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.richardlakefront.com/blog/catching-fish-on-chautauqua-lake1.html</link>
            <author>Richard0039@yahoo.com (Richard Benedetto)</author>
            <title>CATCHING FISH ON CHAUTAUQUA LAKE</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 


The lake is divided into two basins of nearly equal size by Bemus Point. The north basin of Chautauqua Lake averages 25 feet deep, with a maximum depth of 75 feet. The south basin is considerably shallower, with an average depth of 11 feet and a maximum depth of 19 feet.


Yellow perch, white perch, pumpkinseed, bluegill, crappie and bullhead can be caught year-round in Chautauqua Lake and are fish fun to catch for both the novice and expert angler. Weed lines are often good spots to locate panfish &mdash; they provide security from predators and are an abundant food source for insects and other invertebrates. During the summer and fall, live baits such as minnows or worms produce the best catches. Preferred gear is an ultralight rod and reel with 4 to 6 pound test line. Live minnows fished with a bobber are a popular technique, but anglers fishing small jigs tipped with bait are also successful.

Fishing for bullheads is a popular activity during the spring and early summer. Since bullheads are most active after sunset, fishing during the evening hours with the aid of a lantern is usually the most effective way to catch these fish. Try still-fishing, using nightcrawlers, crayfish or scent-attractant baits. During the spring spawning period, bullheads concentrate over areas of soft bottom.

Recent DEC surveys indicate healthy numbers of bullhead, yellow perch, sunfish and white perch and fishing predictions are favorable for these species. Action has been variable for crappie, which continue to experience cyclical changes in abundance. The best fishing for crappie continues to be in spring and fall in the shallow windward embayments where warm surface water attracts baitfish.

Chautauqua Lake ranks among the better bass lakes in New York State. Shallow,weedy areas and under docks offer exceptional cover for largemouth bass, while deep drop-offs and gravel bars often contain good numbers of smallmouth bass. Casting from shore or boat is are effective for Chautauqua Lake bass because it allows the angler to place a lure directly into structure where bass wait to ambush prey. Early morning and evening are the prime times for surface-type plugs. Anglers also have good luck using spinner baits, plastic worms, jig-and-pigs, crank baits and live bait, such as crayfish and shiners.continued on page 19 &permil;&permil;&permil;continued from page 18DEC fisheries staff consider the fall, smallmouth fishing to be exceptional and underutilized. Recent fishing tournaments held in October regularly have winning weights exceeding 20 pounds for the five fish creel entries. Surprisingly, rocky shoals at creek mouths and islands in the south basin prove to be the most productive areas in fall for smallmouth bass. Although surveys indicate moderate numbers of trophy bass, fishing can only improve if more bass are released by anglers.

Chautauqua Lake is recognized as a premiere, world-class muskellunge fishery. Many fish in the 40 to 50 inch class are caught each year. Although not known for producing New Yorks largest muskellunge the action can be fast and furious and the lake is almost always fishable. While anglers use a variety of methods to catch musky, two proven techniques are trolling and casting in the shallow weedy bays. Trolling is generally more effective, but requires specialized techniques and experience. Speed trolling, or trolling in the &ldquo;prop wash&rdquo; has become in popular in recent years but specialized gear is needed to handle the strikes of trophy muskellunge on such short line. If you are interested in only the largest musky, a radio tracking study in the late 1990s showed the largest fish spent their time suspended over deep water rather than associated with structure. Smaller to moderate-sized musky were normally associated with weed lines and drop offs. DEC surveys indicate a healthy musky population that has rebounded from declines in the early 1990s. More than 75 percent of the musky handled in the trap nets result from fingerlings stocked by the state DECs Prendergast Hatchery.

In 2006, the stocking rate will be increased from 10,000 to 13,000 pond-finished fingerlings averaging 8.5 to 9 inches in length with an even larger length achieved for ponds that receive minnows donated by the Chautauqua Musky Hunters, a local chapter of Muskies Inc. The minimum size limit for musky in Chautauqua is 40 inches and the creel is limited to one fish per person, per day. To maintain quality muskellunge fishing, anglers are encouraged to release their catch with out even bringing the fish into the boat. Studies show that if muskellunge are handled carefully the odds of surviving to be caught again are excellent.

Walleye, a non-native but highly popular sportfish in Chautauqua Lake, was introduced in the early 1900s but did not show a visible presence until the 1960s when several strong &ldquo;natural&rdquo;; hatches greatly increased their abundance and popularity. On average, over 30 percent of the angling days on Chautauqua Lake are in pursuit of walleye. Supported primarily by the strong 1993 hatch, Chautauqua Lake provided quality walleye fishing through the 1990s. Gradual declines in this age group and the lack of additional hatches has lead to a decline in walleye abundance. Declines in the mid to late 1990s resulted in the initiation of a stocking program in 2003. Since then fingerling walleye have been stocked annually with numbers varying dependent upon hatchery production.

Early season anglers catch walleye along Chautauqua Lakes gravel shoals by casting or trolling minnow-imitating lures. The best fishing occurs during the evening, at night and during early morning hours. During the summer months, fish in deeper areas of the lake where the water temperatures preferred by walleye exist. Anglers should concentrate their efforts in deeper water during the day, moving to shallower areas at dusk when the walleye move inshore to feed. During fall, try trolling a minnow-imitation lure along the bottom, or jig along sharp drop-offs. Good areas to fish include Mission Meadows, the Bell Tower, Prendergast Point, Long Point, Warner Bar, Greenhurst, Cheneys Farm, Bemus Bay and Toms Point.

Chautauqua Lake offers hardwater angling opportunities for walleye and panfish. Ice fishing can be an enjoyable outing for the whole family and only requires a minimum of equipment. Clothing is key to an enjoyable ice-fishing experience-dress in layers and use a good pair of insulated pack boots.

Anglers will also need an ice auger, or spud, to cut a hole through the ice and an ice skimmer to clean the ice chips out of the hole. Ice fishing tackle should be geared toward the size fish you want to catch. Generally, lighter is better to catch sensitive-biting fish like bluegill and crappie. Use a short, lightweight fishing pole outfitted with 4-6 pound test line and smaller bait. When fishing for panfish, small jigs work well. Many anglers bait the jigs with &ldquo;mousies&rdquo;, &ldquo;oak leaf&rdquo; grubs, or mayfly larvae (Michigan wigglers). For best results, fish the bait just off the bottom. Some ice anglers use a small bobber placed on the line just below the eater surface, to prevent icing up and to detect the slightest nibble.

Popular areas for yellow perch and other panfish include Mayville, Prendergast, Long Point, Dewittville, Ashville Bay and the Celoron area. For walleye, fish Chautauquas north basin. Good areas include the Warner Bar, Bell Tower, Dewittville, Prendergast Point, Mission Meadows, Long Point, Victoria and Magnolia. Since walleye in the 5-8 pound range are occasionally caught, anglers use heavier fishing tackle. Short, stout spinning rods with a reel that has a good drag system work the best. Minnow-imitating lures and &ldquo;sonars&rdquo; are a traditional favorite of Chautauqua Lake anglers. Lures are often baited with a minnow to make them more enticing. Tip-ups also work well, and anglers often set out their legal number of tip-ups and continue to use jigs with another rod.

Public access during the winter months is available at the Prendergast Point, Bemus Point, Long Point State Park, the City of Mayville Park and the Village of Lakewood Park.

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            <pubDate>Tue, 03 Aug 2010 19:49:36 -0500</pubDate>
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