Experiential Workshops Turn Taos, New Mexico, into the Southwest's Newest Creativity Camp for Burnt-Out Adults
Region becomes known for its spirit-stretching experiences
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TAOS, NEW MEXICO Since the Pueblo Indians built their first settlement here some 1,000 years ago, Taos has been a highly prized visitor destination. All during the 20th century it was one of America's leading art colonies, and a favorite stop for the world's most notable writers, thinkers, photographers and painters.
Today, Taos is becoming known for an eclectic line- up of experiential workshops, transformative seminars and personalized adventure/eco tours that run the gamut from plein-air painting and landscape photography, to more esoteric ventures like Transcendental Meditation and Igniting Your Inner Goddess with a Spark of the Divine. For a comprehensive overview of all Taos has to offer, including "Experiences" offerings and Calander listings, visit TaosSacredPlaces.com and sister site TaosVacationGuide.com.
Sandra "Zandi" Richardson (zandidesigns.com), founding member of Taos Artist Organization (TAO), calls Taos "a creativity camp for burnt-out adults" and points to a burgeoning list of workshops and seminars geared for locals and tourists alike. "No matter what your particular artistic passion, you'll be able to indulge it here," she says. "Glass art, jewelry, works on paper, painting, ceramics, mixed media, fashion or wearable art-we have master teachers in each of these disciplines to guide you through the process." From September 6 to 10, TAO will offer its first "Art Week," more than a dozen experiential workshops. For the full line up visit Taosartist.org.
Taos Art Experience, is offering several workshops this fall to awaken the senses and stretch the spirit. Master woodcarver, Carlos Barela, will teach "Wood Carving as a Spiritual Experience" from September 5-10. George and Grace Schaub, both nationally-known photographers and teachers, will lead a tour of their favorite Taos shooting spots from October 10-15. And Taos artist and national award-winning children's book illustrator, Amy Cordova, will introduce participants to the basics of forming a children's book; from development of the story, though layout and illustration, September 26 to October 1. Taosartexperiences.com
"You must come here to discover what it is about this sacred place that resonates so strongly within you."
Personalized photo tours and classes throughout September and October are the focus of master photographer Geraint Smith as he guides participants through the New Mexico landscape, experiencing the architecture and cultures. Originally from Wales, Smith has lived and worked in Taos for more than thirty years and is still in awe of the region's natural beauty. "Back home as a boy, watching American Westerns on TV, I was always disappointed when the cowboys went into the bar, and I couldn't wait until they got back out in the landscape." For more information on Geraint's services visit Geraintsmith.com/phototours.
On October 2 and 3, Taos will host The Mountain and Valley Wool Association's yearly Wool Festival. taoswoolfestival.org. With this year's conference theme of "Natural Dyes," the festival will host more than 60 booths, a dozen workshops, sheep shearing and spinning contests. Ruth Baldwin, president of the association and founder of thenaturaltwist.com, says that upwards of 5,000 visitors from all over the US will attend the two-day event. A style show of woven wool and natural fibers is also planned. "But it's always fun to start by seeing the animals," says Baldwin, "since this way you get to see who wore the fibers first."
Taos is also home to Weaving Southwest, a bustling education and retail center offering a three-day workshop, Rio Grande Walking Loom, on September 4-6, and Navajo Style Weaving on Saturday, October 6. "Our draw is the small, intimate community where we live, and the inspirational beauty of the area," says owner Teresa Loveless. "You must come here to discover what it is about this sacred place that resonates so strongly within you." For an appreciation of this ancient art and its evolution, Loveless has been known to take her students into the mountains to first gather and then weave with sticks. Weavingsouthwest.com. For more information about New Mexico's and Taos' fiber arts history and current expeniences, go to nmfiberarts.org.
On September 26, Taos' Society of the Muse of the Southwest (SOMOS) will present writer, actor and Pulitzer-winning playwright, Sam Shepard, reading from his new book of short stories, "Day Out of Days." "He loves Taos," says long-time SOMOS supporter, Dori Vinella. Storytelling gets its due on October 16th when SOMOS presents popular storytellers Bil Lepp, Cisco Guevara, Liz Manqual & Bob Kanegis, and local favorite Cipriano Vigil performing with son and daughter Cipriano P. and Felicita Piñon. www.somostaos.net
Experiences that are Totally Taos
Families can also get the full-on Taos vibe with workshops and activities experienced together or separately. Painting and pottery classes have become very popular for groups of all ages and Leslie Cronin, of Totally Taos, can book a dizzying assortment of family activities from fishing to Frisbee golf, hot air ballooning to Cowboy Evenings at Bobcat Pass. "This has to be one of my favorites," Cronin says. "Kids learn to rope cattle, there's music, a cookout, and the parents can relax knowing the kids are in good hands." Contact Cronin at 575-779-5920.
Just down the road in Ranchos de Taos, site of the iconic St. Francis de Asis Church, Robert Cafazo, proprietor of gallery and curio shop, Two Graces, is a world of information about local customs and lore. Visit him in his 300 year-old adobe for rare books, one-of-a-kind talismans, and trinkets from what feels like our more authentic past. "This was the kitchen," he says of the room he uses now for a gallery space. "Grandma was always in this corner cooking. I have this round table in here because of Grandma." His blog is pure Taos. twograces.blogspot.com
Music plays its own part as Michael Hearne presents his yearly Big Barn Dance and Music Festival on September 9, 10 and 11 at the Old Blinking Light in Taos. Artists include Girlyman, Austin Lounge Lizards, Delbert McClintion and Hearne's own group, South x Southwest. Having grown steadily since its informal beginnings in the 1990s, the Big Barn Dance has become one of the premiere music festivals in the Southwest. "Come catch your breath in the magical Sangre de Cristo Mountains the weekend after Labor Day," says Hearne. bigbarndance.com
At the end of the day, Taos also has a world-class lineup of spas and lodges. One hour south you'll find Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs and Spa. Deemed sacred by Native Americans, these legendary waters have been soothing body, mind and spirit for centuries. ojocalientesprings.com
And for lodging...
Area Campgrounds & RV Resorts
Enchanted Moon 7 Valle Escondido Rd Escondido, NM 87571 505-758-3338
Monte Bello 24819 Hwy 64 W El Prado, NM 87529 505-751-0774
Sierra Village & Lodge HC 71 Box 12 Taos, NM 87571 505-758-3660
And for other lodging, El Monte Sagrado Living Resort & Spa is Taos' four-star property where luxury meets sustainability. elmontesagrado.com. Now part of the new Marriott Autograph Collection where Marriott award points are redeemable. marriott.com/hotels/travel/tsmak-el-monte-sagrado-autograph-collection.
August 03, 2010 564
Celebrate Labor Day Weekend in the Mile High City
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Denver’s Blockbuster Summer comes to a close with a big Labor Day weekend filled with fun (and free) festivals, professional sports, live music, and plenty of family friendly activities, not to mention great hotel deals.
The free, four-day “A Taste of Colorado” attracts more than 500,000 foodies to Civic Center Park to enjoy the offerings of more than 50 area restaurants, in addition to 250 marketplace artisans, vendors, and educational programs promoting the diverse cultural and western heritage of the region. The festival also features seven stages of live music, with big name national acts planned for 2010.
New this year: Adventure Base, an interactive exhibit celebrating the Boy Scouts of America’s 100th anniversary; KidzStage and KidZone featuring play equipment and hands-on craft activities; the Festival of Mountain and Plain area, where families can learn about the state’s pioneer past, nature, and the environment
Vampire Weekend, Gov’t Mule and Willie Nelson at Red Rocks
There are three fantastic bills at the one-of-a-kind Red Rocks Amphitheatre over Labor Day Weekend.
Enjoy one of the Mile High City’s top attractions for free – check out the museum’s incredible collection of authentic Western paintings, along with contemporary masterworks, and an illuminating look at Native American crafts and art.
Note: The museum’s blockbuster King Tut exhibit (see below) requires separate admission.
Professional Sports: Colorado Rapids & Colorado Rockies Cheer on the home team and see why Denver is a sports city that’s second to none.
Saturday, September 4: Major League Soccer’s Colorado Rapids do battle with the Los Angeles-based USA Chivas at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park
Monday, September 6: The Rockies take on the Cincinnati Reds at Coors Field during this special matinee game on Labor Day starting at 1:10 p.m., with two more home games following September 7-8
Blockbuster Summer Events
These once-in-a-lifetime exhibits are part of the city’s biggest summer ever.
King Tut at the Denver Art Museum Through January 9, 2011 www.tutdenver.com Tutankhamun: The Golden King and the Great Pharaohs boasts 130 objects from the tomb of Tutankhamun and other famous Egyptian pharaohs – most of which have never been seen in the U.S. before, including a 10-foot statue of Tut, the largest rendering of the boy king yet discovered. Take advantage of exclusive “skip-the-lines” VIP King Tut packages offered by Denver hotels.
Moore in the Gardens Through January 31, 2011 www.botanicgardens.org Denver Botanic Gardens’ landmark, open-air exhibition of monumental works by the internationally acclaimed sculptor Henry Moore offers a unique opportunity to see Moore’s immense work in a diverse array of landscape – from prairie wildflowers and serene reflecting pools to cacti or the rugged alpine rock garden.
Great Rates at Denver Hotels for Labor Day Weekend
Denver hotels have rates starting at $79 with many others offering “stay one night at regular price, get a second night for $52.80.” All rates are based on availability*. Browse all the offers at www.Denver5280Deals.com.
Source: Visit Denver
July 16, 2010 540
Summer concert season is here: tips to keep you rocking out
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There are many perks to heading to large multi-city music festivals this summer, like Lilith. One is the sponsors that will be there offering samples, activities and more. To help Lilith fans drink the water they need while enjoying the show, title sponsor Crystal Light will be in Lilith Village at all U.S. tour stops offering fans a “Refreshing Oasis.” They can get out of the sun to relax and rejuvenate with cooling mist, massage chairs and enjoy free samples of refreshing Crystal Light Pure Fitness.
(ARA) - From local concerts in the park to multi-city touring music festivals like Lilith, the summer is full of outdoor, day-long concerts and events. But before you head out the door to begin your fun in the sun, there are a few things to consider to make sure you're prepared for a good time.
Summer concert season means the chance to sit out under the sun or stars, enjoying friends and your favorite music. But if you're excited about the event, that means others are too, so be ready for crowds. And because it's outside, that means it will likely be hot. Not to worry, though. There are easy tips to keep you rocking out:
If you're in it for the long haul, bring along picnic blankets or folding chairs. Many outdoor concerts aren't in a stadium, so you'll want a comfortable place to sit, at least while you wait to get on your feet to enjoy the music.
Remember to drink plenty of water, especially if you're being active. This is especially important since you'll be out in the heat. To enjoy drinking the water you need, try adding flavor to your water with Crystal Light drink mix.
Don't forget to wear sunscreen to protect your skin, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun's rays are the strongest. And remember, you can burn even when it's cloudy outside.
Outdoor events - especially some of the larger ones like Lilith, which features "Lilith Village" full of sponsors and activities - cover lots of ground. Don't be surprised if you find yourself doing a lot of walking. To keep your feet blister-free, wear comfortable shoes and make sure to "break in" new shoes you plan to wear.
Make sure you have good sunglasses. They'll protect your eyes and help you better see your favorite artist. Consider adding a hat as well if you're going to be under the sun all day.
Now that you're prepared and ready to jump in your RV and go, remember to have fun. Laugh with friends, sing and dance to the music, and enjoy the experience.
Source: Courtesy of ARAcontent
June 12, 2010 510
Catskills Classical Music Festival a Rare (but Reasonable) Indulgence
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(Photo from the 2009 West Branch International Music Festival)
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If your idea of culture in the Catskills consists of old-time crooners and hammy comedians - or if you're one of those who think that "culture in the Catskills" is an oxymoron - think again. Thanks to the vision of one passionate violinist, and a resort owner who knows a good thing when he hears one, this storied tourist destination is playing host to some of the best of the best in classical music this summer.
That's right: classical. After assembling some of his most
distinguished colleagues, founder and Artistic Director Odin
Rathnam, the renowned violinist, has put together the annual
(and privately funded) West Branch International Music Festival
and Academy, with world-class performances of music carefully
selected to take audiences on a musical journey through time,
from Europe to South America, resulting in concerts that are as
varied as they are exciting.
The festival begins July 18 and runs through August 1, 2010, with
performances held in the main room of the West Branch
Resort's River Run Restaurant, whose 30 foot vaulted ceilings
and hardwood and stone surfaces provide superb acoustics.
Orchestral programs will take place at the lovely Hancock Area
High School auditorium. Repertoires will include Grieg, Mozart,
Sibelius and more.
Michele Conrad, Executive Director of the WBIMF&A says, "In
addition to the distinguished Faculty/Artist chamber music
programs, we have the pleasure of presenting two chamber
music programs performed by Academy students. These
outstanding young artists, selected from leading conservatories
in the US and abroad, represent the next generation of classical
artists. It is an important part of the Festival/Academy's vision to
train and work with these talented students, addressing a broad
range of issues as they relate to the creative process. All
concerts, including those by Academy students, will be
recorded for future broadcast."
A complete schedule of programs, as well as advance ticket
sales (strongly recommended), can be found at
www.westbranchfestival.org. Optional Festival Getaway
packages including fishing, sporting clays, lodging, meals, and
concert packages are also offered by the West Branch Resort.
Concert ticket prices are very attractive, starting at only five
dollars, with the highest prices being thirty dollars for chamber
music concerts with included receptions. Limited at-the-door
tickets are also available, but not recommended, as full houses
are expected.
As far as local campgrounds, Matt Batschelet,General Manager, West Branch Resort, said, "Unfortunately, we were flooded about 4 years ago, and it destroyed all RV sites within the resort. But there are several Parks & RV resorts within a short drive from the resort.
Huestward Ho Family Campground
62 H Decker Road
Deposit NY 13754
607-467-3246
Oxbow Campsites
3026 Route 30
East Branch, NY 13756
607-363-7141
Founder Rathnam is passionate about this event and sees it as
a harbinger of bigger and better things to come. "We have huge
hopes for this festival," he says, "not only that it will be a richly
rewarding experience for all who participate and attend, while
giving a much-needed boost to the economy here - but we also
want to see if the model we have established will work on a
larger scale. We think it might be catalytic to a whole new type
of program in the U.S."
In more ways than one, the West Branch Festival just could be
musical history in the making.
For more information or to purchase advance tickets, visit the
festival website at www.westbranchfestival.org.
Source: West Branch International Music Festival
May 20, 2010 482
Things to do in DC
Washington D.C. -- A Potpourri of Exciting Attactions
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U.S. Capitol
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Historic Ford's Theater
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Lincoln Cottage circa 1863
Spring is nearing an end, but tourism in Washington, D.C. isn't slowing. With the passing of great events like the National Cherry Blossom Festival, DC Tours and attractions continues to thrive. By visiting some of Washington's top attraction sites, you can find spectacular package rates on various accommodations.
Our nation's capital is one of the most spectacular places to visit because of the enveloping aurora around its monuments and landmarks. There's a substantial amount of history and knowledge to be uncovered by visiting Washington and viewing some of their greatest DC Attractions. As Memorial Day approaches, parks are blistering with festivities and exhibitions. Some of the greatest events occurring on or around Memorial Day are as follows:
PBS' National Memorial Day Concert, opening at 5 p.m. on the West Lawn(Sunday, May 30th)
National Memorial Day Parade, beginning at 2 p.m. and proceeding from Constitution Avenue and ending at The Whitehouse (Monday, May 31, 2010)
Rolling Thunder Motorcycle Rally, departing from the Pentagon at 12 p.m. (Sunday, May 30th)
GI Film Festival (May 12-16th)
Arlington National Cemetery Tour, beginning at 11 a.m. (Monday, May 31st)
Navy Memorial, beginning at 11 a.m. (Saturday May 29th)
Vietnam Veterans Memorial, beginning at 1 p.m. (Monday, May 31st)
WWII Memorial, beginning at 9am (Monday, May 31st)
Air Force Memorial, beginning at 9 a.m. (Monday, May 31st)
Although, The Memorial Day festivities are a sliver of what you can find in D.C. Other things to do in DC. Other than simply visiting let's say, The Washington Monument, or Lincoln Memorial, there's a large amount of actual activities and/or tours to engage in. This includes Ford's Theatre Tour, Ghost Tours, Lincoln Assassination Tour, and Old Town Alexandria Tour; all of which are walking tours. Before, during or after, you may also want to check out places like The Capital Visitor Center, Whitehouse Visitor Center, or The U.S. Capital Building; all of which are highly popular amongst tourists.
Washington also has a plethora (over 150) of museums. Some of their most popular include The Smithsonian National Museum(s), The U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum, The Newseum, Mount Vernon estate and Gardens Museum, and lastly The National Museum of Crime and Punishment, which exhibits excellent depictions of historically famous crime scenes. In addition, there's a multitude of sightseeing, There are also some newer establishments/museums that may be of interest including:
The German-American Heritage Museum
Ford's Theatre
The Capital Visitor Center
The National Museum of American History (renovations)
Lincoln's Cottage
For a thorough list of things to do in DC, feel free to check out attractions, where the list everything from government buildings to parks and recreation! Also, be sure to check out some rates on accommodations and travel at http://www.wdcahotels.com/. A trip to Washington, D.C. may not be the most lavish of all your vacation expenditures, but it's certainly one that you will not forget.
Erik Braunitzer
National Museum of Crime & Punishment
575 7th St. NW
Washington, DC 20004
(202) 621-5561 www.crimemuseum.org
Source: Erik Braunitzer/National Museum of Crime & Punishment
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