Let the Celebrations Continue!

Please join us for

NEW YEAR’S EVE DINNER
at the Blue Heron Inn

Starters
NE-style Seafood Chowder
Shrimp Cocktail
Salad of Mixed Greens

Sample of Dinner Entrees
NY Strip Steak
Mixed Grille of Baby-back Ribs & Chicken
Maryland Lump Crab Cakes
Grilled Salmon or Cajun Catfish
Steamed Shrimp Plate

Serving 5:00 to 9:00 pm
Reservations, please  -   P: 716.679.7852
___________________________________________________________

PEEK ‘N PEAK – SKI . RIDE . TUBE

Winter has arrived! We received more than a foot of fresh powder over the last 24 hours & it's still snowing. Conditions are prime for skiing and riding and snow is is the forecast all week.

Pay no attention if there's no snow in your backyard
- - it's all here in Findley Lake!

Ski Conditions
   Slopes - 100% open
    180 & 360 Terrain parks - open
    Tubing Arena - open!

Celebrate winter & think Peek 'n Peak!
___________________________________________________________

BLUE HERON INN

IS LOCATED ON

SPUR #C-4 OF THE


CHAUTAUQUA COUNTY SNOWMOBILE TRAIL

____________________________________________

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

     “For last year's words belong to last year's language
     and next year's words await another voice.
     And to make an end is to make a beginning.”
                                                      ~ T.S. Eliot


“Happy Holidays &


Cheers to 2010!”

from all of us at the Blue Heron Inn

GIRL’S NIGHT OUT – SATURDAY, DEC 12, 2009

YOU’RE INVITED!!!

Sat, Dec 12th
5:00 - 9:00 pm

Celebrate the season at GIRL'S NIGHT OUT at the Blue Heron Inn & Nostalgia in Findley Lake, NY!

The evening will feature:

• Wine Tasting
• Hand Massages
• Gift Certificate Give-aways
• Mystery Discounts
• Purchases earn "Blue Heron Bucks"
• "Wish List" Gift Registry
• Register to WIN an Overnight Stay
  @ the Blue Heron Inn!

Holiday drink specials – we’re serving Tom & Jerry's!

RSVP by Dec 11th to receive a free "goodie bag"
Bring your friends – the more the merrier!

  Happy Holidays from

the Blue Heron Inn!

Bruce, Tobi, Hillary and

the Blue Heron Inn Staff

The Season to Give Thanks

 
“Thanksgiving is the holiday of peace,
a celebration of work and the simple life …a true folk festival  that speaks the poetry of the turn of the seasons,
the beauty of the harvest, the ripe product of the year and the deep connection of all these things”
                               ~  Ray Stannard Baker

Thank you for your continued patronage and best wishes from our family to yours for a Thanksgiving filled with love, light & abundant turkey! 

Bruce, Tobi and Hillary Ahlquist
and the staff at the Blue Heron Inn

This is a TEST

This is a test blog entry. My system has gone AWOL & I’m trying to get it back in order.

** Weekend Up-date **

The Chautauqua County hillsides are beginning to blaze with bold Autumn color.  The Fall Festivals & Special Events have begun as well. Sorry for the late notice – we don’t want you to miss weekend’s line-up!

WINE COUNTRY HARVEST FESTIVAL 
September 25-27, 2009
North East, PA
2009 marks the 28th year of the Wine Country Harvest Festival. This event is a chance for the region to showcase its grape growing industry, heritage and fine wines. Over the years the Wine Country Harvest Festival has evolved into a regional event that encompasses the entire town of North East for 3 full days; it has grown into one of the regions largest and most loved festivals.

7 wineries will be serving wine more than 40 varieties of wine by the glass. Dance to some of the regions best music and browse through the fine arts and crafts. You might even try your skill as a grape stomper – a festival tradition.

Leave the driving to us. The festival provides free shuttle service to the wineries and to other attractions in town. Simply park free at either festival location and then ride free as often as you like on Saturday and Sunday.

• Contact: North East Area Chamber of Commerce
  P: 814.725.4262
  www.nechamber.org
  E: info@nechamber.org
  

THE AMERICAN PEOPLE AT “NIGHT LIGHTS”
Saturday, September 26, 2009
9:00 p.m.
NIGHT LIGHTS at The Heron
The Heron, 2361 Waits Corner Road
The American People (http://www.myspace.com/theamericanpeople)
will play at the Café in the Woods at NIGHT LIGHTS located in Sherman, NY.The Pennsylvania-based quartet brings their American rock music to Chautauqua County’s newest attraction which will surely make it a fun evening.

The American People consists of four musicians with different backgrounds and musical projects. Reese Campbell,  was the co-founder of The New Dylans, a critically acclaimed band that garnered the attention of MTV, and numerous guardians of the 1980’s alt rock world. Paul Liuzzo was one of the founding members of “The Mills” who later went on to become 10,000 Maniacs. He continues to play in various musical projects, often with Bill Ward or Stan Barton. John McGuire and Dan Warmbrodt were recently teamed up in the roots rock sensations Big Leg Emma. 

NIGHT LIGHTS is a unique outdoor light show attraction that is set throughout the forests and ponds of the Blue Heron property in Sherman, NY.  In the evening, guests walk a series of paths through a forest that is transformed with light and sound installations using different colors and tones inspired by the natural world. NIGHT LIGHTS is a one-of-a-kind attraction in North America. Opening is at dark, around 7:45pm.

• Contact:  NIGHT LIGHTS at The Heron
  Great Blue Heron Music Festival    
  P: 716.761.7190
  www.greatblueheron.com
  www.heronnightlights.com

Shine on Harvest Moon!

The Harvest Festival was a huge success and the event closed with an unforgettable firework display that danced by the light of the moon. It’s quiet by the lake; now is the time to enjoy a relaxing day or overnight stay in Findley Lake at the Blue Heron Inn.

Summer is officially over, the kids are back in school and we’re adjusting to our new Autumn schedules. Soon the night air will pick up a chill, the grapes will be ready for harvest and the hillside will be ablaze in the gorgeous colors of the fall foliage.

In no time at all the holidays will be knocking at our door. It’s not too soon to think about holiday gifts; gifts for the kids, your significant other, hostess gifts, teachers’ gifts and of course, gifts for oneself (my favorite!)

New items are arriving daily at Nostalgia ~ the coolest store in town:
     --  new Melissa & Doug toys & games are on their way
     --  hand-crafted Findley Lake coasters, magnets & ornaments
     --  unique baby gifts for the youngest members of the family
         and much more

HOURS

Shop Hours:
Tues – Sun – 11:00 am – 5:00 pm; Fri & Sat ‘til 8:00 pm

Restaurant Hours:  (until Oct 11th – new hours to be announced)
Tues – Sun – 9:00 am – 2:30 pm
Thurs/Fri/Sat – dinner from 5:00 – 9:00 pm
Sun – dinner from 5:00 8:00 pm

Thanks to our guests, patrons and friends
for another great Findley Lake summer!

Cheers! Tobi & Bruce

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SEE US IN SEPTEMBER!

The month of August passed me by in terms of this blog. It’s now September - the kids are back in school and I pause to wonder,
“where did the summer go?” Fear not - September is one of the year’s most beautiful months in Findley Lake. The roadside stands are brimming with fresh fruits & vegetables,the days are summer-like yet the nights are cool and sweet. In a matter of weeks the grapes will be ready to harvest and the hillside will soon break into a brilliant jewel-toned dance of color, as if to say, “Welcome Fall in all your glory!”

There's a lot to do in and around Findley Lake this Labor Day weekend! The forecast is in our favor - we're looking forward to warm, sunny days all weekend long. Here are a few highlights:

FINDLEY LAKE HARVEST FESTIVAL

Fri thru Sun, Sept 4th - 6th

Join in the festivities at the 12th annual Findley Lake Harvest Festival. The event kicks off on Friday and concludes with a grand fireworks display as part of Chautauqua County’s “Light up the Lakes.” The event features live music, farmer’s market, crafters, samples from local wineries, kid’s crafts and much more.

Throughout the weekend talented singers will vie for the coveted title of “Findley Lake Idol” accompanied by a  $1,000 grand prize. New this year is the first annual Findley Lake “Idol Jr. Talent Show” and first annual “Pretty Baby” contest. Flares will be lit around the lake at 9:30 p.m. followed by the countywide fireworks show at 10  p.m. Admission is free and the event takes place rain or shine.

Sun night

9:30 pm - Lighting flares around the lake
(purchase at Findley Lake Market, Findley Lake Marine, FLACC booth) 
10:00 pm -  “Light the Lakes” fireworks 
More info: www.findleylakeinfo.org

BLUE HERON "NIGHT LIGHTS"

Fri, Sat & Sun evenings

“Nights Lights” opens at dark, (approx 8:15 pm) and closes at 11pm. 
Cost: $10/person, $5/children, 6 and under free. The Cafe-in-the-Woods will have hot beverages, sodas, snacks & Night Lights and Blue Heron merchandise.

Saturday night

9:00 pm (approx) --  WNY Ghost Expert and author, Mason Winfield, will share some WNY paranormal stories that pertain to the woods and outdoor environment.
More info: http://www.heronnightlights.com/topics/press-releases

Sunday night

Drummers from the Blue Heron Rhythm Experiment will lead a drum circle, in which first-time drummers, as well as experienced percussionists are welcome to participate. There will be drums available to play for those who do not own a drum. The drum circle will be lead by Bill Anderson.

Green Heron Growers will have EGGS, processed CHICKENS, scallions, garlic and mushrooms for sale all weekend.

PEEK 'N PEAK RESORT & SPA

Sat, Sept 5th

GLOW MINI GOLF - begins at Dusk 
200 luminaries will light the course while glow sticks will light up the flagpoles. Cost: $5/adults, $4/children & seniors (65+)

Mon, Sept 7th

GOLF DISCOUNTS:  Play 18 holes on the Upper or Lower and your discount is your age! Valid on 18 holes greens fee, cart is additional. Cart is required, $14 cart fee. Call 716.355.4141 to schedule tee times. More info: www.pknpk.com

IRISH SUNDAY

Sept 6th - 1:00 'til 3:00 pm

This Sunday happens to be "Irish Sunday". That's when a group of  Irish players from all corners of the region sit in for a live jam session at the Blue Heron Inn. Come listen as they play; join us for lunch, tip a pint & taps your toes!

“In the garden, Autumn is, indeed the crowning glory of the year, bringing us the fruition of months of thought and care and toil. And at no season, safe perhaps in Daffodil time, do we get such superb colour effects as from August to November.”  ~ Rose G. Kingsley

Technorati Tags: findley lake,chautauqua county,harvest festival,autumn,lake,labor day,golf,blue heron inn,blue heron night lights,irish players,festivals,fireworks,flares

RAIN, RAIN GO AWAY!

We’re approaching the end of the coldest & wettest July in many years. The weather has resembled a cool rain forest - torrential downpours followed by considerable rain, over and again each day. Of course it keeps the air conditioning bills down so it’s not all bad; we hope August bows in with more traditional summer temperatures!

"OUT OF THE IN-BOX”
We recently received the following e-mail from Linda K., who lives near Buffalo, NY.:

Linda wrote, "I spent the summers of the 1950s as a child on a dock on Shadyside  at our (Smith)  family cottage then called the "Chip Inn" (the original house of the sawmill family who started the Lake as we now know it....later we sold it to the Deinzer Family and then it went to a well-known construction family from Erie Pa..... we walked to "The Village" daily to "Winks" for ice cream...and listened to the music from the Roller Rink just across the Lake from our cottage... the 4th of July was really special...the fireworks over the Lake and Yes, the boat parade was a big thing....I remember the Stetson Family were our neighbors down the street.(always had great boats)...my Dad and Uncles always spent hunting season at  Findley...we were thrilled when the NYS Thruway finally connected it so efficiently to Buffalo...but we loved our old ride through route 5,  Silver Creek to Sherman etc until we saw beautiful Findley Lake... We had a family slogan after the long ride as children, "Findley Finally!!"...Peek N Peak came many yrs later....it's still an Idyllic place ... The Blue Heron Inn really helps keep it alive!"

Thanks for sharing the memories, Linda!

“NIGHT LIGHTS AT THE HERON"   
A very cool outdoor attraction in Sherman, NY, “NIGHT LIGHTS at the Heron” will open this Friday, July 31st. Located on the Great Blue Heron Music Festival Site, this venture will be North America’s only rural outdoor lightshow walking attraction. People will walk, un-guided, along an easy one mile trail (on smooth paths) through a series of colorful and creative lighting environments. The walk is meant to be a slow stroll through the landscape. NIGHT LIGHTS at the Heron will be open on Friday and Saturday nights from Friday, July 31, 2009 to Saturday, October 5, 2009. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for kids 7 to 12 years old and free for 6 years old and under. For more information, contact Doug Sitler at 716.984.7595 or e-mail nightlights

“AMERICA’S GRAPE COUNTRY WEEK”
America's Grape Country is located along 50 miles of Lake Erie bordering southwestern New York State (right here in Chautauqua County) and southwestern Pennsylvania. The Lake Erie Grape Region is home to the oldest and largest Concord grape growing region in the world and the largest grape growing region in the United States outside of California.  In 2006, the Lake Erie Grape Region became the first agriculturally themed Heritage Area in New York State.
MERICA'S GRAPE COUNTRY WEEK  
August 15-23, 2009

 

Lyric Russell, whose grandmother is Findley Laker Pat Russell, won the "Name the Giraffe contest. She chose the winning name “Gracie”. Congratulations Lyric!

Many new products:

Findley Lake Cruise In

Technorati Tags: findley lake,ny,blue heron inn,chautauqua county,antique cars,classic cars,classic boats,cruise-in

Classic Cars & Boats
Shopping . Food . Music . Family Fun
in Findley Lake, NY
Sun, July 19, 2009
10:00am - 3:00pm 

The 3rd annual Findley Lake Classic Car & Boat Cruise-in will take place in downtown Findley Lake on Sunday, July 19th from 10:00 am - 3:00 pm. Organizers are expecting 150 cars and this year's event will also feature antique & classic wooden boats which will be docked by the public ramp for all to enjoy.

The day will feature live DJ entertainment at the Gazebo and food vendors will be setup through the town. The Findley Lake shops, specializing in gifts for giving & gifts for keeping, will be open all day long, many offering special cruise-in promotions.

Dine on the Blue Heron deck!
Join us for breakfast, lunch or dinner from 9:00 am - 8:00 pm.
It's going to be another great day in Findley Lake!
(no fee to participate and dash plaques will be provided to all who register)

Simple Summertime Pleasures

• walk, bike or row the lake
• tour the wineries
• schedule a massage
• spend a day at Chautauqua
• visit the Lucy-Desi Museum
• tour the Roger Tory Peterson Institute
• hit the beach at Presque Isle
• go berry picking
• play miniature golf
• visit a brew pub
• experience Lily Dale
  

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Cheers to summertime in Findley Lake!

Tobi & Bruce

- Findley Lake, NY -

“close to home but far from everyday life"

IT’S SUMMERTIME & THE LIVING IS EASY …

Holy cow - it ‘s July!
There’s so much going on – here’s the low-down on the holiday weekend and beyond:

Findley Lake 4th of July
-  Chicken BBQ – FL Fire Hall – noon ‘til gone
-  Duck Race – 12:30 pm -- buy a duck for $2 or 3 for $5
-  Boat Parade - 2:00 pm
-  Flares around the Lake – 9:30 pm
-  Lakefront Fireworks – 10:00 pm

Blue Heron Inn
4th of July Weekend
Fri, Sat & Sun, July 3, 4 & 5
Serving Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
9:00 am – 9:00 pm (later on the 4th)
Come watch the fireworks from our deck!

Peek ‘n Peek Resort & Spa
-  4th of July weekend
    offering discounted tee times

-  Art, Jazz & Wine Festival @ the Peek
   Sat, July 11; 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
   Enjoy artistic talent while sipping on a variety of wines from  
   Vetter Vineyards, Blueberry Sky Farms & Winery, Merritt Estate 
   Winery and more. Info: 716.355.4141 or www.pknpk.com

Great Blue Heron Music Festival
-- located in the Amish countryside of Sherman, NY --
Fri, Sat & Sun, July 3, 4 & 5
Featuring over 100 performers including Donna the Buffalo, Rusted Root & The Horseflies
- Main Stage/Large Dance Tent
- Old-time Jams/Songwriter’s Circle
- Instrumental Workshops
- Drum Circles/Dance Instruction
- Children’s Activities 
- Marked hiking & Biking trails
- Swimming pond
For more info:  Great Blue Heron Music Festival

Findley Lake Cruise-In
Sun, July 19, 2009; 10:00am-3:00pm  


Classic & Antique Cars & Boats
Stroll the street, browse the shops, enjoy music & a variety of vendors. No admission free & no registration fee - the public is welcome to register their vehicles.

 

New at Nostalgia

        

Check out our cool new Findley Lake tie dye tees!

 


The flavored Crickets and Scorpion & Worm lollipops have been a BIG hit! Casey, Austin & Braydon say the salt & vinegar crickets are the very best of the 3 flavors; they say "they taste like sunflower seeds". YUM -- thanks for being our taste-testers guys! 

Lots of new items are arriving daily -
come check out the “coolest store in town!”

Findley Lake “Friday Nights”
Although the Blue Heron Inn offers year ‘round Friday night dining, shopping & lodging, the big news is that the rest of Findley Lake is now open for business on Fri nights this summer.

The restaurants are serving 'al fresco' and the local shops are now open until 8:00 pm every Friday night. Take advantage of the great weather - relax with a cocktail or dine on the Blue Heron deck. There are lots of reasons to kick off your weekend 'Findley Lake-style'! Come browse your favorite shops - we've stocked the shelves with fine gifts for giving and great gifts for keeping!

Add one of several new charms to your collectible Findley Lake charm bracelet. Plan an overnight stay; look around the shops, take in a game of golf, tour he wineries or the travel the Art Trail the next day. Make Findley Lake part of YOUR summer season!

    o . o . o . o . o . o . o

We love this Deborah Devonshire quote we found the other day :

        "It's not how far away you go. It's how far away you get!”

Whether you’re planning to go far or stay put, we wish you a warm & wonderful holiday celebration with your families & friends. And as we celebrate our independence we give 3 cheers to those who keep us safe, both here and abroad.

Cheers to a happy & safe 4th of July!
Tobi & Bruce

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AFTER THE “CRASH”

Yes, I’m finally back to update the blog. My laptop’s hard drive crashed 2 weeks ago & required 2 new hard drives to get the system up & running. No thanks to DELL – this experience left much to be desired as far as their customer service is concerned. Not the front line techs – they were great. But the mid-management know-nothings and their “Dell doesn’t do that” mantra have finally pushed me across the isle – my next computer purchase will be a MAC.

Dell has forgotten that the only difference between computer companies is the service they offer – as a Gold level service account I was subject to mistakes, defective hardware & a lot of excuses. This was NOT a Gold service event! I spent close to 36 hours installing drivers, removing drivers, re-installing programs (twice) in the effort of restoring my system. And this was over Memorial weekend – the kick-off to the summer season! It was a nightmare & I will not soon forget Dell’s lackadaisical attitude. Nor will I forget to spread the word …

But I do have to sing the praises of www.mozy.com - they saved my life! I cannot stress strongly enough how important it is to back up your files. I bought an extra external hard drive years ago but because I couldn’t understand how to configure it I never used it. BAD move! So when I read about mozy.com’s on-line back up service (costs $6.00 per month) – I signed up. The account is set up to automatically back up my files every day. Although the restore feature wasn’t flawless ( my fault – for crying out loud I don’t know where all my files live!) I was able to restore my document files, e-mail & e-mail contact files & guest reservation database. For the life of me I just couldn’t find my payroll database so I was forced to recreate it – but I’m sure the problem was on my end. Run, don’t walk, to sign up for a mozy account – it’s sure to be the best $72.00 you ever spent!

FINDLEY LAKE “FRIDAY NIGHTS”
Although “Nostalgia” is open on Fri & Sat nights almost year ’round, the big news is that the rest of Findley Lake is now open for business on Fri nights throughout the season!

The restaurants are serving 'al fresco' and the local shops are now open until 8:00 pm every Friday night. Take advantage of the great weather - relax with a cocktail or dine on the Blue Heron deck. There are lots of reasons to kick off your weekend 'Findley Lake-style'! Come browse your favorite shops - we've stocked the shelves with fine gifts for giving and great gifts for keeping!

Add one of several new charms to your collectible Findley Lake charm bracelet. Plan an overnight stay; look around the shops, take in a game of golf, tour the wineries or the travel the Art Trail the next day.

Make Findley Lake part of YOUR summer season!

IN THE NEWS
Just thought I’d share a little blurb that came my way via the Findley Lake, NY “google alerts” that I set up on my computer:

“Showcase” Dining capsules
Published: June 11. 2009 12:01AM

BLUE HERON INN. Dinner at the Blue Heron Inn in Findley Lake, N.Y., is a pleasant way to spend a late-summer evening. Daily specials are offered, but the main menu has ample options. Graze on a "whole earth salad" made with fresh greens, mushrooms, sunflower seeds, walnuts, and raisins. Or satisfy a strong appetite with a 12-ounce New York strip steak.
I ordered the New England clam chowder followed by a mixed grille entree of a half-rack of barbecued ribs and half a chicken with Cajun seasoning. The ribs are parboiled, then char-grilled. I love them.
My companion's Middle East plant, consisting of spiced ground lamb kebabs, homemade hummus, and a small Greek salad with feta cheese, met with her approval. Her husband's crab-cake sandwich was the day's special, and in fact it proved to be very special. If you're inclined to breakfast at the inn, chef and owner Bruce Ahlquist makes a delicious Belgian waffle Benedict and cinnamon French toast with multigrain bread.
The skinny: Blue Heron Inn, 10412 Main St., Findley Lake, N.Y.
(716) 769-7852.  www.theblueheroninn.com. No smoking. Reservations appreciated for dinner. All credit cards accepted except American Express. Wheelchair accessible.

Full review appeared Aug. 21, 2008. www.goerie.com
-- by Floyd Lawrence

It’s crazy to think that we’re already staring at the middle of June! The year is flying by - hope you’re summer is progressing “swimmingly” (pun intended)!

Cheers to the lazy, hazy days we all love!

Tobi & Bruce

HOORAY FOR MAY!

Signs of spring are everywhere; the tulips are up, the flowering trees are in bloom, even the dandelions have awakened! The first baby goslings of the season have been sighted and we’re watching as new families appear each week. Life is reinventing itself all around us. Reinvent yourselves at the Blue Heron Inn!

                                 Cheers to Spring!  Tobi & Bruce

THE AWNING IS UP!

That’s right – they put the awning up early! We’re serving on the deck offering our guests a panoramic view of the lake.Come toast the season with a cocktail or a relax over a great meal ‘al fresco’.
As of Wed, May 13^th, the dining room will be open for breakfast & lunch daily Wed thru Sun. Dinners will be served on Fri & Sat nights & we’ll open for weekday dinners in June.

MOTHER’S DAY IS MAY 10^TH

Treat Mom to Mother’s Day brunch at the Blue Heron Inn! Serving from 9:00 am to 2:30 pm. Reservations, please.

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY!

FINDLEY LAKE TRIVIA CONTEST

April’s Winner:  Congratulations to
Mary Knight-Strong of Harborcreek, PA!

May Question: Is Findley Lake a natural lake and for whom was it named?

This month’s prize winner will  receive a Lolita wine, martini or pilsner glass at NOSTALGIA, “the coolest store in town”! Send your answers to stay@theblueheroninn.com with the subject title: “Trivia Contest” and we will draw one winner from the correct entries. Entries accepted until May 30^th.

“NAME THE GIRAFFE” CONTEST

Nostalgia is celebrating its newest addition with a brand new contest, “Name the Giraffe”. Come visit our 5-foot tall giraffe & enter your favorite giraffe name!

The winner will receive a $50.00 gift certificate to Nostalgia, second place winner will win a $25.00 Nostalgia gift certificate. The contest will run until Memorial Day, May 25, 2009. No purchase is necessary and children 10 and under may register as many times as they wish. Come in & register; we’re receiving some very cool name choices …

ARTS & CRAFTS WEEKEND GET-AWAY

Chautauqua-Lake Erie Art Trail
Open Studio Tour Friday/Saturday nights – May 22 & 23

Put an artistic twist on this year’s Labor Day Weekend. Twenty Chautauqua-Lake Erie area artists and galleries hahave combined forces to offer an Open Studio Tour, May 23-24. This event features 19 artists in Chautauqua County in close proximity to route 20 running from Silver Creek, NY to Sherman, NY. Artists’ studios will be open to the public from 10 AM to 5 PM on Saturday and from 11 AM to 4 PM on Sunday.

Enjoy a  2-night stay, full breakfast each morning and Saturday night  dinner for two in the Blue Heron dining room.This is the perfect opportunity to learn about and support our regional artists.

All-inclusive Package Cost: $369.00 – 399.00 double occupancy (package requires 2 night stay and includes all above amenities)

ERIE AREA “GARDEN TOUR” WEEKEND GET-AWAY Sat/Sun, May 23 & 24

Attention gardening gurus & flower fanciers!
Visit 6 of the Best Private Gardens in the Erie, PA area on Sun May24th. Directions, garden descriptions and admissions tickets are available on the web site: www.opendaysprogram.org. Sponsored by The Garden Conservancy, the Open Days program is America’s only national private garden-visiting program, made possible by the work of hundreds of volunteers.

Enjoy a 2-night stay, full breakfast each morning and Saturday night dinner for two in the Blue Heron dining room. The Garden Tour tickets are on us, as well as tips on points of interest in proximity to the gardens.

$369.00 – 399.00 double occupancy (requires 2 night stay)


ROGER TORY PETERSON BIRDING WEEKEND 
June 4, 5 & 6

Guests who register for the Festival will
receive 20% off a two-night stay

The Roger Tory Peterson Institute in nearby Jamestown, NY will honor Dr. Peterson’s
legacy at the first annual  Birding Festival.

This festival will provide an entertaining and educational experience through activities including the showing
of re-mastered Peterson films, keynote speakers Kenn Kaufman
and Pete Dunne, workshops with Kaufman, Dunne, Lang Elliott
and John Rappole, and field trips to area birding hotspots
led by knowledgeable local birders.

To register, download the registration form and mail it to Birding Festival, 311 Curtis Street, Jamestown, NY 14701. You can also download a schedule of events and a checklist of the birds of Chautauqua County.

Technorati Tags: blue heron inn,findley lake,ny,chautauqua county,bed and breakfast,country inn,lakefront lodging,wine trail,winery,winemaker dinner,wine weekend,birding,birders,roger tory peterson,weekend get-away,mother's day,arts & crafts,memorial weekend,chautauqua-lake erie art trail,chautauqua county galleries,chautauqua county artists

SPRING IN SIGHT

WINEMAKER’S GET-AWAY

Tuesday, April 21, 2009 – 6:30 pm

Celebrate Spring with this one-night Winemaker’s Get-away. The Chautauqua-Lake Erie Wine Trail will host its inaugural Winemaker’s Tasting Dinners on Tuesday, April 21, 2009.

Meet the winemakers and enjoy a multiple-course grazing dinner paired with specialty wines at either South Shore Wine Company in North East, PA or Quincy Cellars in Ripley, NY

All inclusive Package Cost: $275.00 double occupancy ( package includes 1 night stay and Winemaker’s dinner for 2)

“FINDLEY LAKE TRIVIA” CONTEST

Starting this month we will feature a Findley Lake Trivia question in each of our newsletters.

April question: In the winter of 2008/09 Findley Lake received 306 inches of snow. How many inches of rain are equal to one inch of snow?

This month’s prize winner will receive a $25.00 gift certificate towards lunch or dinner at the Blue Heron Inn.

Send your answers to stay@theblueheroninn.com with the subject title: “Trivia Contest” and we will draw one winner from all the correct entries.

Entries much be received by April 30, 2009.

“NAME THE GIRAFFE” CONTEST

Nostalgia is celebrating its newest addition with a brand new contest, “Name the Giraffe”. Come visit our 5-foot tall giraffe & enter your favorite giraffe name!

The winner will receive a $50.00 gift certificate to Nostalgia, second place winner will win a $25.00 Nostalgia gift certificate. The contest will run until Memorial Day, May 25, 2009.

No purchase is necessary and children 10 and under may register as many times as they wish. Come see if he/she looks most like a Gerald, Giselle, Ginny …

“WINE, CHEESE AND HERB” WINE TRAIL WEEKEND
Friday/Saturday nights – May 2 & 3

Honor Mother’s Day with a special Wine Trail Weekend

Enjoy a 2-night stay, full breakfast each morning, Saturday night dinner for two in the Blue Heron dining room and tickets to the Wine Trail Event.

More information about the Wine Trail Event can be found at Chautauqua Wine Trail

Package Cost: $430.00 – 450.00 double occupancy (package requires 2 night stay and includes all above amenities)

PUT “IRISH SUNDAY” ON YOUR CALENDAR!

Sun, May 3, 2009; 1:00 - 3:00 pm

We're calling the first Sundays of the month "Irish Sunday" for a good reason!

That's when a group Irish players (with members from all corners of the region) sit in for a live jam session at the Blue Heron Inn.

Let the house chores & the yard work wait -- come listen as they play; join us for lunch, tip a pint & taps your toes!

ARTS & CRAFTS WEEKEND GET-AWAY

Chautauqua-Lake Erie Art Trail  Open Studio Tour

(Photo Credit: Cyn Gailey)
Friday/Saturday nights – May 22 & 23

Put an artistic twist on this year’s Memorial Day Weekend. Twenty Chautauqua-Lake Erie area artists and galleries have combined forces to offer an Open Studio Tour, May 23-24.
This event features 19 artists in Chautauqua County in close proximity to route 20 running from Silver Creek, NY to Sherman, NY.

Artists’ studios will be open to the public from 10 AM to 5 PM on Saturday and from 11 AM to 4 PM on Sunday.

Enjoy a  2-night stay, full breakfast each morning and Saturday night  dinner for two in the Blue Heron dining room. This is the perfect opportunity to learn about and support our regional artists.

All-inclusive Package Cost: $369.00 – 399.00 double occupancy (package requires 2 night stay and includes all above amenities)

NEW WEB SITE

The new web site is up & we continue to tweak it. You’ll find a comprehensive four-season guide to indoor and outdoor activities exclusive to Chautauqua County, NY. The site also features:

· on-line reservations

· last minute lodging specials

· an up-to-date county-wide event calendar

· links to our Blog, our Facebook page (become a fan!)

· tons of recreational info and a whole lot more

Like all good things the web site is a work in progress  - feel free to forward pertinent links and information that pertains to Chautauqua County. Check it out: Blue Heron Inn

“THINK SPRING” LODGING STIMULUS PACKAGE

Our “buy one - get one free” special was so popular we're extending it through April! Buy one night's accommodations & get the 2nd night FREE! Come relax with your special someone - the shops & restaurants are open and he wineries are gearing up for the season.

The local golf courses are open so bring your clubs and get a jump on your golf game. Or relax over that book you've been meaning to crack into, or the many games & magazines we provide for your pleasure.  (Please mention this special at the time of reservation)

Add a discounted Peek ‘n Peak Resort golf package to your stay!

· $20 for 18 holes with cart on the Lower Course

· $40 for 18 holes with cart on the Upper Course

· Call for tee times: 716.679.4141, ext. 7141

** Both courses now open - these rates apply through 4/30/09 **

Open Year ‘Round

Restaurant Hours:

Friday             Dinner:  5:00 – 9:00 pm

Saturday          Breakfast/Lunch:  9:00 am – 2:30 pm   Dinner:  5:00 – 9:00 pm

Sunday            Breakfast/Lunch:  9:00 am – 2:30 pm

Shop Hours:

Friday/Saturday/Sunday  11:00 – 6:00 pm

B&B Accommodations: Seven days a week

”If we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant; if we did not sometimes taste of adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome”  - Anne Bradstreet

Cheers to Spring in all its  beauty!  Tobi & Bruce

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IT’S SPRING IN CHAUTAUQUA COUNTY, NY

WINE, CHEESE & HERB WEEKEND

The Chautauqua–Lake Erie Wine Trail is hosting its seventh annual Wine & Cheese Event on May 2nd and 3^rd. Italian cheese and herbs are the common theme for a progressive Italian supper. Once again, Helluva Good Cheese is the Event sponsor and has provided the wineries with the cheeses used in their recipes. New this spring is the herb inspiration and several wineries will be selling fresh herbs during the Event. Make a weekend of of it! Celebrate the Wine Trail Event at the Blue Heron Inn with our

Winemaker’s Get-away Package

May is the month we honor Mom, spoil her with the gift of a special Wine Trail Weekend get-away. Enjoy a 2-night stay, full breakfast each morning, Saturday night dinner for two at Blue Heron Dining Room and 2-day Event tickets.
Cost per couple:  $430.00 - 450.00 double occupancy (2 night min)

The Wine Trail Event will focus on the individual courses of a traditional Italian supper. A number of wineries will pair their wines with “L’Antipasto” or appetizers such as the traditional taste of antipasto skewers, an appetizer of Italian herbed cheese bread with fresh Amish butter, herbed cheese crackers with parsley-chive cream cheese, sausage-cheddar cheese puffs and fancy grilled cheese made with tomatoes, shallots and mushrooms.  

”Il Primo” or soup or pasta course will be served at several other wineries and their offerings will include French onion soup and cheddar cheese soup with chives. For pasta try cheese manicotti, tortellini with Cayuga cheese sauce and salsa pizza with fresh tomatoes and spices.

“Il Secondo” or main course will feature a savory Roasted Pork Loin with Rosemary & Sage Rub, an Italian wine & cheese casserole and a lighter Acapulco shrimp salad.

On the sweeter side “Il Dolce” or dessert will feature apple turnovers made with Granny Smith apples and cheddar cheese, and grape ambrosia parfait, featuring fresh grapes and kiwi, topped with a dollop of sour cream and brown sugar. 

In addition to the fine wine & food pairings Wine Trail  participants will receive a commemorative wine glass, recipe booklet and a monogrammed wine bag. E-mail us for more information.

Buon Appetito!

TAKE A BREAK IN FINDLEY LAKE

Don’t wait for a special occasion to visit Findley Lake. The shops and restaurants are open, Peek ‘n Peak’s lower golf course is offering terrific seasonal specials and the fishing’s great!. And soon the boats will begin their slow and careful parade into the lake ...


IT WAS JUST A SPRING SNOW 

Although the 10” of snow that fell a few days back met a less than enthusiastic welcome, it pushed the the local 2008/09 snowfall total to 306”.

But don’t despair! Most of the snow has already melted away, as late winter snows tend to do. Findley Lake is focused on spring and the snowfall was merely winter’s last hurrah. The temperatures are on the rise, the trees are waiting for a few more warm days to display the beauty of their full bloom and we’ll soon turn our gardening fantasies into reality. As for winter in Findley Lake, just remember “when we talk snow – we mean business”!

This is also the time of year when, thanks to the coinciding Easter and Passover holidays, it seems all the world is celebrating. If you celebrate Easter, may the bunny bring sunshine and be generous with treats and the love of family and friends. If Passover is your spring celebration may all combinations of matzoh meal, egg and oil  be delicious and the Seder filled with loved ones and even a few of those kooky relatives who always show up for the holidays!

Cheers,
Tobi & Bruce

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SPRING GET-AWAY PACKAGES

WINEMAKER’S GET-AWAY
Tuesday, April 21

Celebrate spring with this one-night Winemaker’s Get-away. The Chautauqua-Lake Erie Wine Trail will host its inaugural Winemakers’ Tasting Dinners on Tuesday, April 21, 2009, beginning at 6:30 pm. Meet the winemakers and enjoy a multiple-course grazing dinner paired with specialty wines at either South Shore Wine Company in North East, Pa. or Quincy Cellars in Ripley, New York.

All-inclusive Package Cost: $275.00 double occupancy (package includes 1 night stay and Winemaker's dinner for 2)

WINE, CHEESE AND HERB WEEKEND
Friday/Saturday nights – May 2 & 3

Come celebrate Mother’s Day with a special Wine Trail Weekend. Enjoy a  2-night stay, full breakfast each morning, Saturday night dinner for two in the Blue Heron dining room and tickets to the Wine Trail Event.

All Inclusive Package Cost: $430.00 – 450.00 double occupancy (package requires 2 night stay and includes all above amenities)

ARTS & CRAFTS WEEKEND GET-AWAY

Chautauqua-Lake Erie Art Trail
Open Studio Tour
Friday/Saturday nights – May 22 & 23

Put an artistic twist on this year’s Labor Day Weekend. Twenty Chautauqua-Lake Erie area artists and galleries have combined forces to offer an Open Studio Tour, May 23-24.
This event features 19 artists in Chautauqua County in close proximity to route 20 running from Silver Creek, NY to Sherman, NY. Artists’ studios will be open to the public from 10 AM to 5 PM on Saturday and from 11 AM to 4 PM on Sunday.

Enjoy a  2-night stay, full breakfast each morning and Saturday night  dinner for two in the Blue Heron dining room.This is the perfect opportunity to learn about and support our regional artists.

All-inclusive Package Cost: $369.00 – 399.00 double occupancy (package requires 2 night stay and includes all above amenities)

ROGER TORY PETERSON BIRDING WEEKEND
June 4, 5 & 6

Guests who register for the Festival will
receive 20% off a two-night stay

The Roger Tory Peterson Institute in nearby Jamestown, NY will honor Dr. Peterson’s
legacy at the first annual  Birding Festival.

This festival will provide an entertaining and educational experience through activities including the showing
of re-mastered Peterson films, keynote speakers Kenn Kaufman
and Pete Dunne, workshops with Kaufman, Dunne, Lang Elliott
and John Rappole, and field trips to area birding hotspots
led by knowledgeable local birders.

To register, download the registration form and mail it to Birding Festival, 311 Curtis Street, Jamestown, NY 14701. You can also download a schedule of events and a checklist of the birds of Chautauqua County.

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APRIL SHOWERS BRING MAY FLOWERS

BLUE HERON INN DEBUTS NEW WEB SITE

Lights, cameras, action! After much ado we are pleased & excited  to introduce our brand-new, much-improved web site.  In addition to the total re-design, new features include:

· on-line reservations

· last minute lodging specials

· an up-to-date county-wide event calendar

· link to our Blog

· link to our Facebook page (become a fan!)

… and a whole lot more. It's long been a work in progress & we’re proud much like new parents! Check it out: Blue Heron Inn

 

SPRING IS HERE – EASTER ISN’T TOO FAR BEHIND!

Mark your calendar: Easter is April 12, 2009

Easter is fast approaching -- time to shop for fabulous Easter basket treats! Don't settle for the same old Easter candy - surprise the family with our old fashioned candy treats! From Nik-l-Nips, wax lips & sugar daddies to delicious chocolate covered pretzels, truffles & gourmet licorice -- you'll be 'top bunny' for sure!

 

IT’S IRISH SUNDAY THIS WEEKEND!

Sun, April 5, 2009; 1:00 - 3:00 pm

We're calling the first Sundays of the month "Irish Sunday" for a good reason! That's when a group Irish players (with members from all corners of the region) sit in for a live jam session at the Blue Heron Inn. Let the house chores & the yard work wait -- come listen as they play; join us for lunch, tip a pint & taps your toes!

 

“THINK SPRING” LODGING STIMULUS PACKAGE

Our “buy one - get one free” special was so popular we're extending it through April! Buy one night's accommodations & get the 2nd night FREE! Come relax with your special someone - the shops & restaurants are open and he wineries are gearing up for the season. The local golf courses are open so bring your clubs and get a jump on your golf game. Or relax over that book you've been meaning to crack into, or the many games & magazines we provide for your pleasure.  (Please mention this special at the time of reservation).

”If we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant; if we did not sometimes taste of adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome”  - Anne Bradstreet

Cheers to Spring!  Tobi & Bruce

MORE MARCH MADNESS! (or reasons to celebrate Spring in Findley Lake, NY)

ROCK MAPLE RACING SNOCROSS

Sat & Sun, March 28 & 29, 2009

Peek ‘n Peak Resort

Top snowmobilers from across the tri-state region will compete in races along a custom built track at Peek‘n Peak. Racing begins at 9:00 am each day and tickets are $12 per day or $20 for a 2-day pass available at the gate. Sponsored by Chautauqua County Federation of Snowmobile Clubs. www.chautauquasnow.com

But don’t let the snowmobilers have all the fun. The Peak’s trails are open for skiing through the coming weekend and will remain open on a “weather permitting” basis. Check out the snow conditions & weather forecast at www.pknpk.com

 

IT’S TIME TO FILL THE EASTER BASKETS

    Mark your calendars: Easter is April 12, 2009

The gardens are starting to show signs of spring which means Easter is right around the corner. Don’t settle for the same old Easter candy – surprise the family with our old fashioned candy treats! From Nik-l-Nips, wax lips & sugar daddies to delicious chocolate covered pretzels,truffles & gourmet licorice --  you’ll be “top bunny” for sure.

And check out the brand new “BOOK NOOK” - featuring our very favorite classic children's’ book titles. The perfect addition to any Easter basket!

 

 IRISH SUNDAYS

 Sun, April 5, 2009; 1:00 – 3:00 pm

We’re calling the first Sundays of the month “Irish Sunday” for a good reason! That’s when a group Irish players (with members from all corners of the region) sit in for a live jam session at the Blue Heron Inn. Let the house chores & the yard work wait -- come listen as they play; join us for lunch, tip a pint & taps your toes!

 

KEEPSAKE CANDLE WORKSHOP

Sat, April 4, 2009; 11:00 am

Beth’s Candle Cottage and the Blue Heron Inn will once again host a Keepsake Candle Workshop on Saturday,April 4, 2009. Participants can choose from a variety of themed buttons, buttons & trinkets or can bring their own collectible objects to craft a personalized keepsake candle. The cost is $25.00 per person and includes all candle supplies, lunch at the Blue Heron Inn and shopping discounts at Beth’s Candle Cottage and Nostalgia @ Blue Heron Inn. No experience is necessary and attendance is limited; please call Beth at the Candle Cottage at 716.679.7874 to make a reservation. Join us - the candles are a great gift idea – the perfect graduation, wedding, Mother’s Day or Father’s Day gift.

 

THINK SPRING!”  LODGING SPECIAL

Our “buy one – get one free” special was so popular we’re extending it through April! Buy one night's accommodations & get the 2nd night FREE! Come relax with your special someone - the shops & restaurants are open, the wineries are gearing up for the season & the local courses will soon be open so bring your clubs and get a jump on your golf game. Or relax over that book you’ve been meaning to crack into, or the many games & magazines we provide for your pleasure. (This special is applicable 7 days a week and must be mentioned at time of initial reservation).

GENERAL MUSINGS

Yes, I’m still playing Lexulous -- the on-line scrabble game I talked about in an earlier post (http://www.lexulous.com). Yes, I’m addicted – I sneak in a game whenever possible. During the day, at home, at work, in the middle of the night if I’m wide awake. It’s a great down-time activity, challenging, fun and best of all it makes me think! The bonus is the nice people I’ve met & chatted with while playing – makes me feel kind of hopeful about the fate of man/womankind.

This game brings the world together – I’ve played with folks from far away countries (where English is NOT the national language) such as Korea, India, Malaysia, England (just kidding about the English!) Ireland, Australia, even some countries I’ve never heard of. And of course people from all corners of the US. Most are courteous, (offering a hello & the wish of good luck or good game at the start) some introduce themselves and state where they’re from.

I’ll let my cell phone ring if I’m in the middle of a game; hey it’s timed & after all the point is to have fun AND win! My husband & daughter think I’m crazy – I just well might be. It’s free, not against any laws & it’s cool to talk to people an entire world away. Lexulous is a lot of fun & I don’t plan to stop playing anytime soon!

Cheers to Spring!  Tobi

SIGNS OF SPRING

TUNDRA SWANS

One of the surest signs of spring is the return of the Tundra Swans. The Swans are large white migratory waterfowl that spend their summers in the arctic tundra that stretches from northwestern Alaska to northeastern Canada. And these birds are big! The Swans measure 47 - 58 inches long, have a wing span of approximately 66 inches and can weigh anywhere between 10 and 20 pounds. They form lasting pairs and mate for life. Their warbling sounds are loud & sound similar to dogs barking in the distance. Tundra Swans migrate in steps, stopping along their migration route to rest and eat. They typically use wetland habitats, but rely on open water for food and safety, so they will select larger lakes that are slower to freeze, such as the Lower Great Lakes.

Luckily a group of approximately thirty swans lands in Findley Lake for a few days each spring and autumn. The wetland habitat is the perfect feeding venue and the nearby fields provide the added bonus of unharvested grains, tubers, and winter wheat. If food is scarce in the wetland habitats the Swans will make short trips to the fields to find food. The arrival of the Tundra Swans makes us think about the magic of the changing seasons – all part of the “circle of life”.

APRIL SHOWERS BRING MAY FLOWERS

This age-old rhyme may be true somewhere but not here in SW New York State! Our spring typically unfolds like this.

1.  The snow melts away from our streets and yards; the huge mounds of plowed snow are still a few feet high. We walk the yard in every direction, no longer restricted to the single path to the front door.

2.  As we peruse our gardens we see the start of young spring growth; tiny snowdrops, crocuses & pansies stretch through the recently frozen soil to excite us about what’s to come. We also take note of how much work the gardens need after the long winter’s sleep.

3. Then we have the typical St. Patrick’s Day snowstorm, or sometimes the early April snowstorm. The weather reminds that Winter isn’t totally over and Spring is not to be taken for granted, at least not yet.

Come celebrate Spring in Findley Lake! The ice on the lake is melting, soon the brave fisherman will start trolling the shallow waters. Golf at Peek ‘n Peak is just around the corner! And the shops will extend their seasonal hours, filled with new gifts, wearables & collectibles. The Blue Heron Inn is open all week long for overnight guests and serves breakfast, lunch & dinner on the weekends.

And don’t forget about: Blue Heron Inn’s “First Sundays” when local Irish players sit in & jam from 1:00 – 3:00 pm. Next gig: Sunday, April 5, 2009

Cheers to all that’s unfolding!