American Cruise Lines tours all the nooks and crannies of the magnificent inland waterways, bays and rivers east coast United States where all those big, commercial cruise ships can’t get to. This makes for the perfect romantic getaway as you can choose to explore anywhere on the coast between Maine, New England Islands, Hudson River, hesapeake Bay, the historic Old South and Florida. Having ship capacities of no more than 100, you get the very personal and friendly atmosphere and will have a good chance of witnessing each port of call, up close and personal. All you need is some comfortable attire and your sandals then kick back and enjoy the scenary. American Cruise Lines does everything they can to make your journey as effortless as possible, which is why they have their own travel agents that will match you to the perfect itinerary. There’s a choice between 4 remarkable cruise ships (American Spirit, American Glory, America Eagle, American Star- built in 2007) that are perfectly designed for inner explorations of off-the-beaten-track waterways and charming ports that passengers on large ships will never see. For more information call 1-800-814-6880 or request more information here.

Here’s one of New Hampshire’s infamous main tourist attractions that’ll guarantee fun for the whole family… Attitash. Whatever kind of exciting activity you are looking for, they got it plus more. Take the mile-long descent on the alpine slides, enjoy the picturesque views of Mount Washington Valley while horseback riding, cool off on the waterslides, discover over 20 miles of mountain biking trails, reach new heights on the climbing wall, or even strap into a harness and flip through the air on EuroBungy Trampoline. Click here to see more information about all these adventure-packed attractions. Tickets cost as much as $35 (full-day adult) with discounts available to children, students, and season pass holders. Head east on Route 302 for no more than 8 miles as the Merril family welcomes you to the New England Inn & Lodge for the perfect weekend getaway accommodations. Nestled in the deep pines of North Conway, New Hampshire, this traditional country inn offers plenty of amenities as well as great history dating all the way back to 1809. Click here to see the latest specials and packages currently offered.

The Manhattan Transfer at the Colonial Theatre
October 9, 2009
Keene, NH
“A jazz-pop vocal phenomenon, for over 35 years…”

Back in 1972, a group of four American singers put their jazz vocals together to release their first album under the new line-up, The Manhattan Transfer. As they skyrocketed through the Box charts throughout the 80’s and 90’s, they reached the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 1998. Since that time, they have continued to stay together and produce more albums with their sizzling four part jazz harmonies. Now, you may have the chance to see them live at the Colonial Theater. The Colonial in Keene, NH continues to fulfill its promise as the flagship performing arts center for the Monadnock region, presenting some of the best performers from around the world. On Friday, October 9, 2009 at 8pm, the Manhattan Transfer will be performing at this truly cultural town hall and destination venue. Tickets are currently selling from 44-58 depending on the seat. Click here for more information on the theater, directions, ticket prices, and much more.

A few tunes you may know are:
Operator – the 1st hit single in 1975
Birdland – brought their 1st Grammy award (Best Jazz Fusion Performance, Vocal, or Instrumental) in 1980
Tuxedo Junction – their theme song debuted on their 1st album in 1975
Boy from New York City – a cover from the 1965 hit by The Ad Libs and won Grammz award in 1981
Route 66- another Grammy-winning rendition in 1982
White Mystery – best-loved song R&B- chart single
Twilight Zone – their 2nd U.S. top hit

A great way to finish off the weekend is to relax with the Stress Reduction Package with the Chesterfield Inn. On this weekend getaway offer, you’ll receive a massage or facial at Devine Day Spa, a bottle of Chardonnay and chocolate covered strawberries on arrival, two nights stay, one gourmet dinner for 2, and full country breakfast each morning. This comfy, and relaxing farmhouse inn is located only 25 minutes down Rte. 9 and will make your work-week stress disappear with all their luxurious amenities.

THE MUSEUM OF FIFE & DRUM

Essex, Connecticut

At the Museum of Fife & Drum learn about America’s visual and music background dated from the Revolutionary War to today. Listen to shrills of fife and the beats of long drums as you observe the numerous artifacts on display such as drums, fifes, military swords, uniforms, medals, awards, and photographs. If you enjoy colorful and upbeat parades, then this is the perfect place for you to visit on your next Connecticut River vacation. There will even be free concerts every Tuesday evening during July and August usually featuring two corps per night. If you’re a drum corp, club, historical society, or college/high school music group, call the museum at (860) 767-2237 to arrange for a group tour. The donations are only $3 for adults, $2 for youth (ages 13-17), and children under 12 are free. Click the link proceeding for travel directions. Not even one mile down Comstock Avenue is the Copper Beech Inn, a four-star country inn and four-diamond, wine-spectator-award winning restaurant. It’s located in the beautiful Connecticut River Vally aside the Long Island Sound shoreline nearby several charming historic towns, shops, attractions and many outdoor activities. Currently they are advertising a two-night Summer package highlighting an Essex Steam Train & Riverboat Cruise, champagne upon arrival, free dinner for two one night in Brasserie Pip, and VIP discount coupons for Clinton Crossing Premium Outlets. Add a 3rd night for 50% off the regular room rate and enjoy your stay in Ivoryton, Connecticut.

Laconia Bike Week 2009

June 13-21

The Summer is coming closer and that means one thing for every New Hampshire motorcyclist. Laconia Bike Week is America’s oldest bike week hosting this June for the 86th time and the turnout will be better than ever. On Saturday June 13th, the extravaganza will begin with an all-you-can-eat pig roast, live music, and a Harley Fashion Show. For the following 8 days, there will be plenty more music, food, shows, and of course motorcycle rides to experience. The top ten features for this year will be:

1. Laconia Harley-Davidson. The Motorcycle Place. Plenty of gear head vendors, motorcycles, and anything that has to do with motorcycles. New for this year is the Oil & Tire Express!

2. Concerts at Meadowbrook US Cellular Pavilion. Featuring Brad Paisley, American Saturday Night Tour, Creedence Clearwater Revisted, Blake Shleton, Craig Morgan, Live, Candlebox, and Hoobastank

3. Harley-Davidson Road Tour & Demos. The Road Tour will host many DEMOS in downtown Laconia at City Hall parking lot.

4. Weirs Beach. Tons of vendors, restaurants, and entertainment will be located from Lakeside Avenue to the Lobster Pound Roadhouse to Naswa Resort Beach Bar.

5. 86th Annual Loudon Motorcycle Classic. The classics will be at the New Hampshire Motor Speedway in Loudon, NH on June 12 & 14. The USCRA Vintage Motorcycle Races will be June 15.

6. 17th Annual Motorcycle Hill Climb. Watch the motorcycle competition climb the steep slope of Gunstock’s Ski Jump Landing Hill.

7. Rally in the Valley. There’ll be a party at Merlino’s with White Moujntain Harley-Davidson Oil Express and Riding Apparel tents. More concerts, fashion show, and vendors.

8. Hart’s Turkey Farm Restaurant. The Hart Family welcomes the riders for some quality service and affordable food all week long.

9. Main Street in Meredith. On the most beautiful main street, have drinks, food, shopping and leave for the Mount Washington Cruise leaving from the Docks.

10. HOG and Gypsy Tours. Leaving from three locations: Laconia Harley-Davidson in Meredith, White Mountain Harley-Davidson in North Conway, and Laconia Bike Week Association Headquarters in Weirs Beach.

For 40 years now, the ZooQuarium in West Yarmouth, Massachusetts has provided a fun-filled family adventure for you to explore and discover the marvelous creatures that live close by to the busy roads of Cape Cod. At the Petting Zoo you can get right up close and feed the farm animals while learning how they came to be such an important part of human life. At the Aquarium, you’ll see up close the creatures that lurk the Cape Cod waters from Stripers to Lobsters, Frogs to Turtles. You can even pick up and touch the little critters that inhibit the shoreline at the Tidal Touch Pool. You may see hermit crabs, horseshoe crabs, mussels, sea stars, urchins, clams, fiddler crabs, and much more. At the Zoorific Theater, the naturalists present and will teach you about the animals that you may have never gotten close to like skunks, alligators, or even hedgehogs. In one upcoming event (July 18 & 19, September 5 &6), the Rainforest Reptile Show from Beverly, MA will demonstrate why reptiles are so important to the planet and will let you get up close and personal with many different type of reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates. About 25 minutes east down Route 28, is a four-diamond sea captain’s estate nestled on two acres of Cape Cod soil now called the Captain’s House Inn. Check out their many specials and packages and enjoy a luxurious weekend in Cape Cod, Massachusetts.

Tilton, NH

As the season is turning into a new, hot, and fun-filled Summer, why not change the wardrobe a little bit? The Tanger Outlet Centers are home to the nation’s leading brand name manufacturers and premium designer labels. You’ll be buying directly from the manufacturer, which ensures affordable prices at retail rates on the same quality products every time you visit. Exclusively for the year of 2009, there are a few additional discounts available for you. Show your AAA/CAA member card to a Tanger Outlet Center service representative or management office nationwide and receive a full access to the EXCLUSIVE savings book. Tanger is awarding a free oversize, re-usable Tote when you make same day Tanger purchases of $75 or more and bring your receipts to the Shopper Services Center, but hurry soon as this offer is ending May 31, 2009. There will be a sidewalk and weekend sales in celebration of Canadian Victoria Day and Memorial Day. If you have a business meeting or large function with more than 25 attendees coming up, e-mail the General Manager at enproulx@tangeroutlet.com to request your free coupon voucher gifts for your guests.

Below is a list of the premium stores you’ll find at the Tanger Outlet Center in Tilton, NH:

A

Aeropostale

Barstow, CA; Branson, MO; Commerce, GA; Foley, AL; Gonzales, LA; Howell, MI; Lancaster, PA; Lincoln City, OR; Locust Grove, GA; Myrtle Beach, SC; Myrtle Beach, SC; Nags Head, NC; Park City, UT; Rehoboth, DE; Riverhead, NY; Sevierville, TN; Tilton, NH; Washington, PA; Williamsburg, IA; Baraboo, WI;

B

Banana Republic Factory Store

Barstow, CA; Blowing Rock, NC; Branson, MO; N. Charleston, SC; Commerce, GA; Deer Park, NY; Foley, AL; Gonzales, LA; Bluffton, SC; Howell, MI; Lancaster, PA; Locust Grove, GA; Myrtle Beach, SC; Park City, UT; Rehoboth, DE; Riverhead, NY; San Marcos, TX; Sevierville, TN; Tilton, NH; Washington, PA; Williamsburg, IA; Baraboo, WI;

Bass

Barstow, CA; Blowing Rock, NC; Branson, MO; N. Charleston, SC; Commerce, GA; Deer Park, NY; Foley, AL; Fort Myers, FL; Gonzales, LA; Bluffton, SC; Bluffton, SC; Howell, MI; Kittery, ME; Lincoln City, OR; Locust Grove, GA; Myrtle Beach, SC; Myrtle Beach, SC; Nags Head, NC; Park City, UT; Rehoboth, DE; Riverhead, NY; San Marcos, TX; Sevierville, TN; Terrell, TX; Tilton, NH; Tuscola, IL; Washington, PA; West Branch, MI; Westbrook, CT; Williamsburg, IA; Baraboo, WI;

Bath & Body Works

Branson, MO; N. Charleston, SC; Commerce, GA; Deer Park, NY; Fort Myers, FL; Gonzales, LA; Lancaster, PA; Lincoln City, OR; Locust Grove, GA; Park City, UT; Riverhead, NY; Sevierville, TN; Tilton, NH; Tuscola, IL; Washington, PA; Williamsburg, IA;

Brooks Brothers Factory Store

N. Charleston, SC; Commerce, GA; Foley, AL; Bluffton, SC; Kittery, ME; Lancaster, PA; Myrtle Beach, SC; Myrtle Beach, SC; Rehoboth, DE; Riverhead, NY; Sevierville, TN; Tilton, NH; Washington, PA; Williamsburg, IA;

C

Carter’s

Branson, MO; N. Charleston, SC; Commerce, GA; Deer Park, NY; Foley, AL; Fort Myers, FL; Gonzales, LA; Bluffton, SC; Howell, MI; Kittery, ME; Lincoln City, OR; Locust Grove, GA; Myrtle Beach, SC; Myrtle Beach, SC; Park City, UT; Rehoboth, DE; Riverhead, NY; Sevierville, TN; Tilton, NH; Tuscola, IL; Washington, PA; West Branch, MI; Westbrook, CT; Williamsburg, IA; Baraboo, WI;

Casual Male XL Outlet

Branson, MO; N. Charleston, SC; Commerce, GA; Foley, AL; Gonzales, LA; Howell, MI; Myrtle Beach, SC; Rehoboth, DE; Riverhead, NY; San Marcos, TX; Tilton, NH; Washington, PA; Westbrook, CT; Williamsburg, IA;

Claire’s

Barstow, CA; Blowing Rock, NC; Branson, MO; N. Charleston, SC; Commerce, GA; Foley, AL; Fort Myers, FL; Gonzales, LA; Bluffton, SC; Howell, MI; Lancaster, PA; Lincoln City, OR; Locust Grove, GA; Myrtle Beach, SC; Myrtle Beach, SC; Nags Head, NC; Park City, UT; Rehoboth, DE; Riverhead, NY; San Marcos, TX; Sevierville, TN; Terrell, TX; Tilton, NH; Tuscola, IL; Washington, PA; West Branch, MI; Westbrook, CT; Williamsburg, IA; Baraboo, WI;

Clarks Bostonian

N. Charleston, SC; Foley, AL; Bluffton, SC; Lancaster, PA; Myrtle Beach, SC; Myrtle Beach, SC; Rehoboth, DE; Riverhead, NY; Sevierville, TN; Tilton, NH; Washington, PA; Baraboo, WI;

Coach Factory

Barstow, CA; Blowing Rock, NC; Branson, MO; N. Charleston, SC; Commerce, GA; Foley, AL; Fort Myers, FL; Bluffton, SC; Howell, MI; Lancaster, PA; Lincoln City, OR; Locust Grove, GA; Myrtle Beach, SC; Myrtle Beach, SC; Nags Head, NC; Park City, UT; Rehoboth, DE; Riverhead, NY; Sevierville, TN; Tilton, NH; Tuscola, IL; Washington, PA; West Branch, MI; Williamsburg, IA; Baraboo, WI;

D

dressbarn

Blowing Rock, NC; Branson, MO; N. Charleston, SC; Commerce, GA; Commerce, GA; Deer Park, NY; Foley, AL; Gonzales, LA; Howell, MI; Lancaster, PA; Lincoln City, OR; Locust Grove, GA; Myrtle Beach, SC; Myrtle Beach, SC; Nags Head, NC; Park City, UT; Rehoboth, DE; Riverhead, NY; San Marcos, TX; Sevierville, TN; Terrell, TX; Tilton, NH; Tuscola, IL; Washington, PA; West Branch, MI; Westbrook, CT; Williamsburg, IA; Baraboo, WI;

E

Easy Spirit Outlet

N. Charleston, SC; Commerce, GA; Deer Park, NY; Foley, AL; Gonzales, LA; Bluffton, SC; Lancaster, PA; Lincoln City, OR; Locust Grove, GA; Myrtle Beach, SC; Myrtle Beach, SC; Rehoboth, DE; Riverhead, NY; San Marcos, TX; Sevierville, TN; Tilton, NH; Washington, PA; West Branch, MI; Westbrook, CT; Baraboo, WI;

ecco

Myrtle Beach, SC; Tilton, NH;

Eddie Bauer Outlet

Branson, MO; N. Charleston, SC; Commerce, GA; Deer Park, NY; Foley, AL; Bluffton, SC; Howell, MI; Lancaster, PA; Lincoln City, OR; Locust Grove, GA; Myrtle Beach, SC; Nags Head, NC; Park City, UT; Rehoboth, DE; Riverhead, NY; San Marcos, TX; Sevierville, TN; Tilton, NH; Washington, PA; West Branch, MI; Westbrook, CT; Williamsburg, IA; Baraboo, WI;

F

Factory Brand Shoes

Branson, MO; N. Charleston, SC; Commerce, GA; Deer Park, NY; Foley, AL; Fort Myers, FL; Gonzales, LA; Bluffton, SC; Howell, MI; Lincoln City, OR; Locust Grove, GA; Myrtle Beach, SC; Myrtle Beach, SC; Park City, UT; Rehoboth, DE; Riverhead, NY; San Marcos, TX; Terrell, TX; Tilton, NH; Tuscola, IL; Washington, PA; West Branch, MI; Westbrook, CT; Williamsburg, IA; Baraboo, WI;

G

Gap Outlet

Barstow, CA; Blowing Rock, NC; Branson, MO; N. Charleston, SC; Commerce, GA; Deer Park, NY; Foley, AL; Fort Myers, FL; Gonzales, LA; Bluffton, SC; Howell, MI; Lancaster, PA; Lincoln City, OR; Locust Grove, GA; Myrtle Beach, SC; Nags Head, NC; Park City, UT; Rehoboth, DE; Riverhead, NY; Sevierville, TN; Terrell, TX; Tilton, NH; Tuscola, IL; Washington, PA; West Branch, MI; Williamsburg, IA; Baraboo, WI;

Gymboree Outlet

Barstow, CA; Branson, MO; N. Charleston, SC; Commerce, GA; Deer Park, NY; Foley, AL; Fort Myers, FL; Gonzales, LA; Bluffton, SC; Howell, MI; Lincoln City, OR; Locust Grove, GA; Myrtle Beach, SC; Nags Head, NC; Park City, UT; Rehoboth, DE; Riverhead, NY; Sevierville, TN; Tilton, NH; Washington, PA;

H

Hair Excitement

Tilton, NH;

Harry & David

Branson, MO; N. Charleston, SC; Commerce, GA; Foley, AL; Gonzales, LA; Bluffton, SC; Howell, MI; Lancaster, PA; Lincoln City, OR; Locust Grove, GA; Myrtle Beach, SC; Myrtle Beach, SC; Park City, UT; Rehoboth, DE; Riverhead, NY; Sevierville, TN; Tilton, NH; Tuscola, IL; Washington, PA; Williamsburg, IA; Baraboo, WI;

J

J.Crew

Blowing Rock, NC; Commerce, GA; Foley, AL; Bluffton, SC; Howell, MI; Lancaster, PA; Locust Grove, GA; Myrtle Beach, SC; Myrtle Beach, SC; Nags Head, NC; Park City, UT; Rehoboth, DE; Riverhead, NY; Sevierville, TN; Tilton, NH; Westbrook, CT;

J.Jill The Outlet

Tilton, NH;

Jockey

Blowing Rock, NC; Branson, MO; N. Charleston, SC; Commerce, GA; Foley, AL; Fort Myers, FL; Bluffton, SC; Howell, MI; Lincoln City, OR; Locust Grove, GA; Myrtle Beach, SC; Myrtle Beach, SC; Rehoboth, DE; Riverhead, NY; Sevierville, TN; Terrell, TX; Tilton, NH; Tuscola, IL; Westbrook, CT; Williamsburg, IA; Baraboo, WI;

Jones New York

N. Charleston, SC; Commerce, GA; Deer Park, NY; Foley, AL; Fort Myers, FL; Gonzales, LA; Bluffton, SC; Howell, MI; Lincoln City, OR; Locust Grove, GA; Myrtle Beach, SC; Myrtle Beach, SC; Rehoboth, DE; Riverhead, NY; San Marcos, TX; Sevierville, TN; Tilton, NH; Washington, PA; Baraboo, WI;

K

Kay Jewelers

Foley, AL; Lancaster, PA; Riverhead, NY; San Marcos, TX; Tilton, NH; Washington, PA;

Kitchen Collection

Barstow, CA; Blowing Rock, NC; Branson, MO; N. Charleston, SC; Commerce, GA; Foley, AL; Fort Myers, FL; Gonzales, LA; Bluffton, SC; Howell, MI; Kittery, ME; Lancaster, PA; Lincoln City, OR; Locust Grove, GA; Myrtle Beach, SC; Myrtle Beach, SC; Nags Head, NC; Park City, UT; Rehoboth, DE; Rehoboth, DE; Riverhead, NY; San Marcos, TX; Sevierville, TN; Terrell, TX; Tilton, NH; Tuscola, IL; Washington, PA; West Branch, MI; Westbrook, CT; Williamsburg, IA; Baraboo, WI;

L

L’eggs Hanes Bali Playtex

N. Charleston, SC; Commerce, GA; Gonzales, LA; Bluffton, SC; Howell, MI; Kittery, ME; Locust Grove, GA; Myrtle Beach, SC; Park City, UT; San Marcos, TX; Terrell, TX; Tilton, NH; Washington, PA; West Branch, MI; Westbrook, CT; Williamsburg, IA; Baraboo, WI;

Lane Bryant Outlet

N. Charleston, SC; Commerce, GA; Deer Park, NY; Foley, AL; Fort Myers, FL; Gonzales, LA; Bluffton, SC; Howell, MI; Lincoln City, OR; Locust Grove, GA; Myrtle Beach, SC; Rehoboth, DE; Riverhead, NY; Sevierville, TN; Terrell, TX; Tilton, NH; Washington, PA; Westbrook, CT; Williamsburg, IA; Baraboo, WI;

Levi’s Outlet By Most

Branson, MO; Gonzales, LA; Locust Grove, GA; Myrtle Beach, SC; Park City, UT; San Marcos, TX; Terrell, TX; Tilton, NH; Westbrook, CT;

Liz Claiborne New York

Barstow, CA; Blowing Rock, NC; Branson, MO; N. Charleston, SC; Foley, AL; Fort Myers, FL; Gonzales, LA; Bluffton, SC; Howell, MI; Kittery, ME; Lancaster, PA; Lincoln City, OR; Locust Grove, GA; Myrtle Beach, SC; Myrtle Beach, SC; Park City, UT; Rehoboth, DE; Riverhead, NY; San Marcos, TX; Sevierville, TN; Tilton, NH; West Branch, MI; Williamsburg, IA;

M

Music for a Song

Branson, MO; Foley, AL; Rehoboth, DE; Sevierville, TN; Tilton, NH;

N

Nike Factory Store

Branson, MO; N. Charleston, SC; Commerce, GA; Deer Park, NY; Foley, AL; Fort Myers, FL; Gonzales, LA; Bluffton, SC; Howell, MI; Lancaster, PA; Lincoln City, OR; Locust Grove, GA; Myrtle Beach, SC; Park City, UT; Rehoboth, DE; Riverhead, NY; Sevierville, TN; Terrell, TX; Tilton, NH; Tuscola, IL; Washington, PA; Williamsburg, IA; Baraboo, WI;

Nine West Outlet

Barstow, CA; Blowing Rock, NC; N. Charleston, SC; Commerce, GA; Deer Park, NY; Foley, AL; Gonzales, LA; Bluffton, SC; Howell, MI; Lancaster, PA; Locust Grove, GA; Myrtle Beach, SC; Myrtle Beach, SC; Nags Head, NC; Park City, UT; Rehoboth, DE; Riverhead, NY; Sevierville, TN; Tilton, NH; Washington, PA; Westbrook, CT; Baraboo, WI;

O

Old Navy

Barstow, CA; Branson, MO; N. Charleston, SC; Commerce, GA; Deer Park, NY; Foley, AL; Gonzales, LA; Howell, MI; Lincoln City, OR; Locust Grove, GA; Myrtle Beach, SC; Park City, UT; Rehoboth, DE; Riverhead, NY; San Marcos, TX; Sevierville, TN; Terrell, TX; Tilton, NH; Tuscola, IL; Washington, PA; West Branch, MI; Westbrook, CT; Williamsburg, IA; Baraboo, WI;

OshKosh B’gosh

Blowing Rock, NC; Branson, MO; N. Charleston, SC; Commerce, GA; Foley, AL; Fort Myers, FL; Gonzales, LA; Bluffton, SC; Howell, MI; Kittery, ME; Lancaster, PA; Lincoln City, OR; Locust Grove, GA; Myrtle Beach, SC; Myrtle Beach, SC; Park City, UT; Rehoboth, DE; Riverhead, NY; Sevierville, TN; Terrell, TX; Tilton, NH; Tuscola, IL; Westbrook, CT; Williamsburg, IA; Baraboo, WI;

P

PacSun

Blowing Rock, NC; Branson, MO; Commerce, GA; Deer Park, NY; Foley, AL; Bluffton, SC; Howell, MI; Lancaster, PA; Lincoln City, OR; Locust Grove, GA; Myrtle Beach, SC; Park City, UT; Rehoboth, DE; Riverhead, NY; San Marcos, TX; San Marcos, TX; Sevierville, TN; Tilton, NH; Washington, PA; Williamsburg, IA; Baraboo, WI;

Party America

Tilton, NH; Westbrook, CT;

Perfumania

Barstow, CA; Branson, MO; Commerce, GA; Deer Park, NY; Foley, AL; Bluffton, SC; Lancaster, PA; Lincoln City, OR; Locust Grove, GA; Myrtle Beach, SC; Rehoboth, DE; Riverhead, NY; San Marcos, TX; Sevierville, TN; Terrell, TX; Tilton, NH; Tuscola, IL; Washington, PA; West Branch, MI;

Polo Ralph Lauren Factory Store

Barstow, CA; Blowing Rock, NC; Branson, MO; Commerce, GA; Foley, AL; Fort Myers, FL; Bluffton, SC; Howell, MI; Lancaster, PA; Locust Grove, GA; Myrtle Beach, SC; Myrtle Beach, SC; Nags Head, NC; Park City, UT; Rehoboth, DE; Riverhead, NY; Sevierville, TN; Tilton, NH; Tuscola, IL; West Branch, MI; Williamsburg, IA; Baraboo, WI;

R

Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory

Myrtle Beach, SC; Rehoboth, DE; San Marcos, TX; Terrell, TX; Tilton, NH; Tuscola, IL; Williamsburg, IA;

Royal Nails & Spa

Tilton, NH;

rue21

Branson, MO; N. Charleston, SC; Commerce, GA; Foley, AL; Gonzales, LA; Bluffton, SC; Howell, MI; Locust Grove, GA; Myrtle Beach, SC; Myrtle Beach, SC; Park City, UT; Rehoboth, DE; San Marcos, TX; Sevierville, TN; Terrell, TX; Tilton, NH; Tuscola, IL; Washington, PA; West Branch, MI; Westbrook, CT; Williamsburg, IA; Baraboo, WI;

S

Samsonite Company Stores

Barstow, CA; N. Charleston, SC; Commerce, GA; Foley, AL; Fort Myers, FL; Gonzales, LA; Bluffton, SC; Howell, MI; Kittery, ME; Lancaster, PA; Locust Grove, GA; Myrtle Beach, SC; Park City, UT; Rehoboth, DE; Riverhead, NY; Riverhead, NY; San Marcos, TX; Sevierville, TN; Terrell, TX; Tilton, NH; Tuscola, IL; Washington, PA; Westbrook, CT; Williamsburg, IA; Baraboo, WI;

Skechers

Barstow, CA; Branson, MO; N. Charleston, SC; Commerce, GA; Foley, AL; Gonzales, LA; Bluffton, SC; Howell, MI; Kittery, ME; Lancaster, PA; Locust Grove, GA; Myrtle Beach, SC; Myrtle Beach, SC; Park City, UT; Rehoboth, DE; Riverhead, NY; San Marcos, TX; Sevierville, TN; Tilton, NH; Washington, PA; Baraboo, WI;

Special Area Offer

Barstow, CA; Blowing Rock, NC; Branson, MO; N. Charleston, SC; Commerce, GA; Deer Park, NY; Foley, AL; Fort Myers, FL; Gonzales, LA; Bluffton, SC; Howell, MI; Kittery, ME; Lancaster, PA; Lincoln City, OR; Locust Grove, GA; Myrtle Beach, SC; Myrtle Beach, SC; Nags Head, NC; Park City, UT; Rehoboth, DE; Riverhead, NY; San Marcos, TX; Sevierville, TN; Terrell, TX; Tilton, NH; Tuscola, IL; Washington, PA; West Branch, MI; Westbrook, CT; Williamsburg, IA; Baraboo, WI;

Starbucks Coffee

Deer Park, NY; Foley, AL; Lancaster, PA; Riverhead, NY; Sevierville, TN; Tilton, NH;

Stride Rite

Branson, MO; N. Charleston, SC; Commerce, GA; Deer Park, NY; Foley, AL; Gonzales, LA; Bluffton, SC; Howell, MI; Lincoln City, OR; Locust Grove, GA; Myrtle Beach, SC; Myrtle Beach, SC; Rehoboth, DE; Riverhead, NY; San Marcos, TX; Sevierville, TN; Tilton, NH; Tuscola, IL; Washington, PA; Westbrook, CT; Baraboo, WI;

T

Tanger

Barstow, CA; Blowing Rock, NC; Branson, MO; N. Charleston, SC; Commerce, GA; Deer Park, NY; Foley, AL; Fort Myers, FL; Gonzales, LA; Bluffton, SC; Howell, MI; Kittery, ME; Lancaster, PA; Lincoln City, OR; Locust Grove, GA; Myrtle Beach, SC; Myrtle Beach, SC; Nags Head, NC; Park City, UT; Rehoboth, DE; Riverhead, NY; San Marcos, TX; Sevierville, TN; Terrell, TX; Tilton, NH; Tuscola, IL; Washington, PA; West Branch, MI; Westbrook, CT; Williamsburg, IA; Baraboo, WI;

Tommy Hilfiger Company Stores

Barstow, CA; Branson, MO; N. Charleston, SC; Commerce, GA; Deer Park, NY; Foley, AL; Fort Myers, FL; Gonzales, LA; Bluffton, SC; Howell, MI; Lancaster, PA; Locust Grove, GA; Myrtle Beach, SC; Myrtle Beach, SC; Nags Head, NC; Park City, UT; Rehoboth, DE; Riverhead, NY; San Marcos, TX; Sevierville, TN; Tilton, NH; Tuscola, IL; Washington, PA; Williamsburg, IA; Baraboo, WI;

Totes / Sunglass World

Barstow, CA; Branson, MO; N. Charleston, SC; Commerce, GA; Fort Myers, FL; Gonzales, LA; Lancaster, PA; Locust Grove, GA; Rehoboth, DE; Riverhead, NY; San Marcos, TX; Terrell, TX; Tilton, NH; Baraboo, WI;

U

Uno Chicago Grill

Tilton, NH;

V

Van Heusen

Barstow, CA; Blowing Rock, NC; Branson, MO; N. Charleston, SC; Commerce, GA; Deer Park, NY; Foley, AL; Fort Myers, FL; Gonzales, LA; Bluffton, SC; Howell, MI; Kittery, ME; Lincoln City, OR; Locust Grove, GA; Myrtle Beach, SC; Myrtle Beach, SC; Nags Head, NC; Park City, UT; Rehoboth, DE; Riverhead, NY; San Marcos, TX; Sevierville, TN; Terrell, TX; Tilton, NH; Tuscola, IL; Washington, PA; West Branch, MI; Westbrook, CT; Williamsburg, IA; Baraboo, WI;

Vitamin World

Blowing Rock, NC; Branson, MO; Commerce, GA; Foley, AL; Fort Myers, FL; Gonzales, LA; Bluffton, SC; Howell, MI; Lincoln City, OR; Myrtle Beach, SC; Myrtle Beach, SC; Rehoboth, DE; Riverhead, NY; Sevierville, TN; Terrell, TX; Tilton, NH; Tuscola, IL; Westbrook, CT;

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Wilsons Leather Outlet

Barstow, CA; Branson, MO; N. Charleston, SC; Commerce, GA; Deer Park, NY; Gonzales, LA; Bluffton, SC; Howell, MI; Lancaster, PA; Lincoln City, OR; Locust Grove, GA; Myrtle Beach, SC; Nags Head, NC; Park City, UT; Rehoboth, DE; Riverhead, NY; San Marcos, TX; Sevierville, TN; Terrell, TX; Tilton, NH; Tuscola, IL; Washington, PA; Westbrook, CT; Williamsburg, IA; Baraboo, WI;

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Yankee Candle

Lancaster, PA; Myrtle Beach, SC; Riverhead, NY; Tilton, NH;

Hay Cart - Photography by Allen, Frances and Mary (c. 1899)

One of the greatest treasures in Memorial Hall Museum and Pocumtuck Valley Memorial Association in Old Deerfield, Massachusetts is the vast collection of Allen sisters’ prints and glass plate negatives. Frances Allen and Mary Allen are renowned for idealized photographs of country scenes, figure and child studies, and landscapes dating from 1885-1920. This excerpt from their photography journal in 1894 is a bit of insight to their work:

We use the camera simply as a quick way of sketching, and regard all the technical part, which comes after the exposure is made, as a necessary evil…. In pictures, artistic excellence is usually entirely at variance with what is called a perfect photograph. The eye cannot focus itself on every object in its field of vision at the same time. If a photograph does this, the effect is hard and unnatural. But there must be method in this madness. A picture is not necessarily beautiful because it is blurred, and there’s need of all one’s technical skill, even after a good negative is made, in adapting the print to its peculiar individual qualities.

The Memorial Hall Museum is open seasonally (May 1 – November 1) from 11 am – 5 pm, 7 days a week. Admission is $6 for adults and $3 for youth and students aged 6 – 21. Only a few blocks away is the Deerfield Inn, a traditional country inn located in the center of this 350-year old landmark village. Right now they are running a special package to get a free third night at the Deerfield Inn! When you book a two-night weekend stay and extend your getaway into a Thursday or Sunday, that third night will be free! Also included is a twenty-five dollar credit towards food and beverage on your free room night. This offer is only for a limited time (June 18-July 25, August 14-September 6) so book soon and enjoy your stay in Deerfield, Massachusetts.

Vermont Crafts Council hosts the Open Studio Weekend 2009

May 23 & 24, 2009

Back in September, the Vermont Crafts Council organizes directions and maps to all the sites of the Vermont craftspeople whom work in studios located in or close to their residences. Throughout the Winter, they continue accepting applications of sites and develop directions. Around the first week of April, it all comes together to make The Open Studio Weekend, named one of the Top Ten Summer Events in a Vermont Chamber of Commerce competition in 1997. On this event, you will be able to see for yourself the production of many finished works of art, the atmosphere of their workplace, and even talk with the artist them self all in the place of the artists’ workplace. You’ll see the swatches that have not been chosen for the quilt or the work that is experimental or not serious enough for the gallery. As you can see on the map below, it will be almost impossible to run out of places to visit on this exciting weekend. Thinking about attending both days of the Open Studio Weekend? The Distinctive Inns of New England can help you find the right place to stay in Vermont to make your weekend just a bit better with luxurious accommodations.

Going from idea to reality: Placing studios on the map.

Fifty thousand years ago, a continental glacier moved southward over New Hampshire covering mountains and valleys creating America’s most sensational glacial caves within the most beautiful of woodland settings. As the ice sheets thawed, great blocks of granite cracked and loosened from Hawk’s Cliff. These massive granite blocks fell at the base of the cliff forming Polar Caves Park in Plymouth, New Hampshire, an amazing series of natural caves and passages to walk through. Flat soled walking shoes should be worn and baby strollers will not fit through the caves but may be used elsewhere. Try the Polar Caves Park Mining expeditions to scavenge and reveal stunning fossils and minerals just like real miners. All year around Polar Caves is home to a wide variety of birds and animals: Fallow Deer, Pheasants, Peacocks, Swans, and a wide variety of ducks. Bring your favorite BBQ food, music, a frisbee, and plenty of family friends for a picnic lunch in the pine tree forest. Polar Caves is open 7 days a week from May 9, 2009 until late October from 9am-5pm. The rates for the 2009 season are as follows: ages 10+ are $14, ages 4-9 are $10, and kids under age 4 are free! Nearly 20 minutes east past I-93 on the beautiful shore of Squam Lake is the Manor on Golden Pond awaiting to be your perfect accommodation for this day of fun.