The Mob in Las Vegas

 

 

 

People have always been interested in the mob’s presence in Las Vegas. You can learn everything you’ll ever want to know about America’s Organized Crime in Las Vegas’ Mob Museum. Housed in a former courthouse where big mob trials were once held, this authentic and informative account of gangsters and lawmen is definitely worth a couple of hours away from the casino.

The tour begins on the third floor of the building, and you work your way down. Stories of Al Capone, Bugsy Siegel (who opened the Flamingo Casino in Vegas) and other legendary bad men are told in detail alongside the famous lawmen who took them down. There are many surprising facts, like discovering a real town in Sicily named Corleone. Some displays are interactive, as in seeing yourself in a criminal lineup and by sitting in an electric chair. Many of the artifacts curdle the blood, but one unexpected artifact is the bullet-ridden wall from the St. Valentine’s Massacre.

On the second level, experience the solemnity of the courtrooms where Meyer Landsky and others were tried, and where the Kefauver Committee hearings drilled members of Organized Crime. But you’ll spend lots of time studying the photos and inside stories of lesser-known, modern-day and fictional gangsters – their lives and demise. You’ll learn the secrets behind the technology used by law enforcement. The area that focuses on Hollywood will bring back memories of great films. It also reveals the mob’s attempted stranglehold on the industry.

The gift shop is full of fun and serious items to take home.

The Mob Museum is open seven days a week. Students, the military, seniors, law enforcement and Nevada residents receive a discount on their entrance fee.

 

 

Discovering Beer in Madison

True, Madison never was the beer capital of Wisconsin, but it is the state’s capital. You can’t miss the strikingly beautiful Capitol Building that squats in the center of town. Go inside to view the spectacular rotunda. On Saturday mornings, the Dane County Farmers’ Market sets up on Capital Square. Over 300 local purveyors provide Wisconsin seasonal produce, meat, poultry, fish, sausage, baked goods, plants, cheese (lots of cheese), flowers and much more. Customers are encouraged to walk counter-clockwise, and, amazingly, they do.

           

The only Wisconsin specialty not sold at the outdoor market is beer. But as for independent and craft beers, Madison has a surprisingly large number of businesses. Here are a few of the best:

Capital Brewery was the first company to introduce a quality malt beverage to the citizens of Madison who had been lost in what Capital’s brew master, Kirby Nelson, calls “a beer desert.”  So 25 years ago, the company made Capital Pilsner, fashioned after the pilsners of Bavaria and Bohemia, and Capital Dark, that’s made from four different malts. They still make these beers and have no plans to stop. But for their silver anniversary, they created Eternal Flame. Among their wheat beers is the competitive Door County Lager that’s clean and pleasantly nutty.

           

Otto Dilba had the good sense to open the Ale Asylum in 2006. In five short years, his production has gone from 850 barrels that first year to 10,000 in 2011. As a beer purist, Dilba uses four basic ingredients: malt, hops, yeast and water – no corn or rice. He says, “I make bold flavorful beers that are approachable, but that (sic) connoisseurs can enjoy.” Although his beers are distributed statewide, you can partake in the Ale Asylum’s large taproom.

Try one or more of their superb ales. Sticky McDoogle is a medium-bodied Scotch ale with a hint of hops; Gold Digger Blonde has a perfect blend of hops and malt; discover coffee and chocolate as you guzzle Contorter, a dark Porter ale; and Hopalicious contains 11 kinds of hops, and is the highest selling pale ale in Wisconsin.

In 1994, college buddies Eliot Butler and Rob LoBreglio founded Madison’s first brewpub, Great Dane Pub and Brewery Company. The tavern, that’s located within steps of the capitol, began its life in a mid-19^th century hotel, and soon spread to the adjoining old antique store. The classic pub interior includes a restaurant, a bar and a billiards parlor.

The brewery has 16 beers on tap, including the gold medal-winner German Pilsner. Its inventory highlights many international selections, such as Czech Pilsner, American Pale Ale, German Wheat Beer, Scotch Ale, English Extra Pale Ale and Emerald Isle Stout. Tours of the on-site brewery can be arranged by appointment.

Their hearty pub fare features man-sized sandwiches and platters alongside Wisconsin specialties. Face it -- you can’t visit a place without consuming at least one of its iconic dishes. Great Dane Pub serves several: Brats and Mash, starring a juicy Wisconsin bratwurst banger (sausage); Wisconsin Style Cheddar Mac, a twist on the traditional macaroni dish that’s oozing with a creamy combination of Wisconsin cheese and Great Dane’s Pilsner; and Beer Battered Cheese Curds, a beer-infused version of the deep-fried Wisconsin favorite. Join the Madison tradition to feast at Friday night’s Fish Fry, and Great Dane Pub goes one step further with its New London Bridge Fish Fry. According to legend, during the establishment’s renovation, workers discovered King William IV’s recipe for frying fish. Whatever… this English-inspired version offers a crunchy crust on haddock filets, which are accompanied by homemade Tartar sauce, Kohl slaw and pub fries.

Madison is keeping up Wisconsin's reputation as the home of exceptional beer.

(This is an excerpt from my article in Pathfinders Travel Magazine.)

Albany, Georgia is Naturally F-F-Fun

When a city’s trademark is a turtle, it’s a sure sign that the natural world matters. I became aware of Albany’s love of nature when I noticed the cement in center city giving way to parkland. The city gives the Albanians (residents of Albany, not Albania) RiverFront Park, located on the shores of the scenic Flint River: six acres of manicured outdoor recreational space with pavilions and picnic groves, and one and one-half miles of natural trails.

I strolled along the paved Riverwalk that runs three miles – it’s a wonderfully safe and easy way to see the river. Kids find fun at the park in a play fountain and Turtle Grove Play Park that features recreational areas for children ages one to 14. Activities range from a Tot Lot to a Rock Climbing Wall.

You can climb to the Horace King Overlook near the historic bridge built in 1858 by the former slave and master bridge builder, Horace King. I had learned about King when I started my day at the Albany Welcome Center. It’s housed in the 19th century Bridge House, and sits at the end of the famous bridge. At the entrance to the ancient span are detailed markers that tell the history of the bridge.

Read more: http://gonomad.com/5191#ixzz2bJsR8Opy

Family Festivals at Peddler's Village

 

I recently spent a hot, sunny afternoon at Peddler’s Village in Lahaska, Pennsylvania. It’s about a 90-minute drive from Philadelphia, and is known for being a spectacular shopping destination, but it offers so much more. This time, I went to experience the Bluegrass and Blueberry Festival.

Several bluegrass bands and square dance groups performed from 10 am to 5 pm around the property. My friend, Lorraine, and I toe-tapped to the lively sounds of Borderline, a local bluegrass band. Other listeners gathered in and around an old-fashioned gazebo where the band had set up.

There were blueberry goodies at every turn. Cock and Bull Restaurant served blueberry and white chocolate chip bread pudding; Skip’s Candy Corner created blueberry fudge; Buttonwood Grill stuffed French toast with blueberries; and even Casa Casale, which specializes in Italian foods and items, offered free tastings of blueberry balsamic vinegar over mozzarella chunks. But the treats at the Town Crier Bakery were over the top: blueberry butter cake, blueberry scones, blueberry pie, blueberry crepes, blueberry shortcake and more.

Lined up along the paths were stalls selling blueberry products. You could buy fresh blueberries, preserves, pancake mix and other things blueberries. And that, folks, is only a sampling of the blueberry mania.

It’s going to be an annual affair, but if you can’t wait until next year, then get ye to the Peach Festival on Saturday, August 10 and Sunday, August 11. In addition to loads of peach confections, (shopper alert!) you’ll be able to scoop up bargains at the Annual Sidewalk Sale.

Unlike the festivals that are created for adult tastes, like beer and mushrooms, Peddler’s Village’s festivals are family-friendly. Autumn brings the Scarecrow Festival on September 21 and 22 and the Apple Festival on November 2 and 3. They pull out all the stops during the holiday season with the Christmas Festival on December 7 and 8. Since peaches are one of my favorite fruits, you know where I’ll be in August.

For more information on upcoming festivals and events, go to peddlersvillage.com.   

A Horticultural Extravaganza at Pennsylvania's Longwood Gardens

Acres of flowers, shrubs, trees and not a weed in sight. For over 200 years, the property now known as Longwood Gardens has been devoted to botany. In 1798, the Peirce family, who purchased the land from William Penn in 1700, began planting an arboretum on their farm. By mid-nineteenth century, it showcased one of the America’s best tree collections, and created one of the first public parks. In order to save those trees from demolition 1906, Pierre DuPont bought the farm. Through his vision and gardening talents, the arboretum expanded to become an exceptional horticultural showplace. DuPont had been inspired by the great gardens of Europe, and the entertaining water displays he had observed throughout his life.

The grounds

Today, Longwood Gardens ranks as the world’s preeminent horticultural venue. On a pleasant day, stroll along the Flower Garden Walk and through Peirce’s Woods. Explore the Forest and the Meadow. The Idea Garden will inspire you to improve your own garden. And don’t miss the expertise of the gardeners in the Topiary Garden. And that’s just a sampling of what you’ll find.

The conservatory

But, rain or shine, the conservatory is a “must-see.” The four-and-a-half acre climate-controlled facility contains the unforgettable Orchid House and the Rose House, a unique water lily display, the amazing Cascade Garden, an enormous Orangery and much more.

All through the year

Besides the permanent exhibitions, Longwood Gardens offers music programs, culinary events, horticultural classes and seasonal displays and programs, such as the magnificent Christmas spectacle and ice skating show. Summertime brings entertainment under the stars. Until September, watch water spouts frolic while fireworks thrill you during the Festival of Fountains. Don’t miss the music of Dmitri Shostakovich (also with fireworks) on the evenings of July 20 and August 31, 2013. The renowned Philadelphia Orchestra performs on July 18 and 19. As the sun goes down on Fridays, it’s time for families with special fun activities geared to kids. And oenophiles should reserve their place for the four-course gourmet wine dinners before they are sold out.

Longwood Gardens is located in Kennett Square, a short trip from Philadelphia.

For more information and tickets, go to www.longwoodgardens.org.

All photos by Valerie R. Hutton

Don't Forget Apalachicola

Along the unspoiled “Forgotten Coast” of Florida’s Panhandle, Apalachicola, as part of Franklin County, sits atop Apalachicola Bay and at the mouth of the Apalachicola River. This rustic seaside fishing village has retained its maritime heritage. In the 19^th century, it flourished because of the South’s cotton that was shipped from its port, the third largest on the Gulf of Mexico. Later came the lumber industry, and then the commercial harvesting of oysters, blue crab, shrimp and finfish.

With more than 900 historic sites, the National Trust for Historic Preservation named it as one of America’s Dozen Distinctive Destinations in 2008. The city reflects the “true” (meaning: pre-Disney) Florida coast with meticulously-restored Victorian homes, clapboard cottages, independently-owned shops, one small theater, lighthouses and a grimy working waterfront. With no high-rise glitzy hotels, visitors usually rent vacation homes, or check into historic inns or quaint B&Bs.

The Bay

Apalachicola Bay rates as one of the world’s most productive estuarine systems with 186 species of fish. Just ask the 40% of the area residents who work on the bay. Oystermen make up a large portion of those workers. Underwater oyster bars bring both good and bad news to fishermen: the bars can be hazardous to boats, but, on the other hand, they attract the fish. An expert fishing guide knows where the fishing hot spots are and where to avoid the troublesome oyster bars. If you choose to go it alone, follow a good chart.

The Beach

Locating a fine, pristine beach is like looking for hay in a haystack, but many people head for the one at St. George Island State Park because of its reputation. It has been on the list as one of the “Top Ten Beaches in America” by Dr. Beach for three years. Bathers like the white powder sand, but birders come looking for migrations in the spring and fall.

Lodging

Coombs House Inn is a posh Bed and Breakfast that Florida Monthly Magazine named “The Best B&B in Florida.” Built in1905, the mansion sustained extensive damage in 1911. It was restored, but in 1960, it was abandoned. The international decorator, Lynn Wilson, bought it in 1994, and transformed the structure into a superior inn. Complimentary amenities include breakfast, afternoon tea, free Wi-Fi, private baths and cable TV. Some rooms have refrigerators.

Gibson Inn was built in 1907 as a first-class hotel and is now on the National Historic Register of Historic Places. I especially admired the “Cracker” architecture, a traditional Florida style characterized by tin roofs, wood construction and wraparound porches. The antique furnishing reminded me of the past when men wore white linen suits and women carried parasols. Within the 30 guestrooms, there are private baths, wireless internet, cable TV and telephones.  

I stayed at one of the houses rented by ResortVacation Properties. Located on St. George Island, 333 houses have from one to eight bedrooms, fully equipped kitchens, central air and heat, cable TV, linens, decks and free Wi-Fi. Some homes are pet-friendly. My house had a large living room/kitchen with two bedrooms, a screened-in porch and a pool.

Must-See

I, like many other people, am fascinated by lighthouses. Cape St. George Lighthouse is the fourth edifice, the first being built in 1833. The third one collapsed in 2005. Following the original blueprints, the lighthouse was reconstructed from 2007 to 2008, using salvaged bricks from the former building. Next door is the Lighthouse Keeper’s House and Museum that displays marine artifacts and rooms that shows how the light keeper and his family lived. Also visit the St. George Island Visitors Center on site.

You don’t hear that much about old-fashioned Florida, but once you visit Apalachicola, you’re sure to remember it.

    

Starring Roanoke, Virginia

It’s common knowledge by now that the Blue Ridge Mountains are spectacular, and Roanoke is its star. Known as the “Star City of the South,” Roanoke struts its stuff with plenty to see and do. To legitimize that claim, a giant (88½-foot tall) light star shines over the city from Mill Mountain.

Railroading for kids of all ages

The Roanoke Valley celebrates its railroad heritage in many ways. The historic and luxurious Hotel Roanoke offers a Train Lovers Package that features a room overlooking the train yard. From there, fans can walk over to the O. Winston Link Museum that displays Link’s nostalgic black and white photographs of steam engines rolling through the rural landscape.

To catch an up-close view of steam engines, visit the Virginia Museum of Transportation. Located in the former Norfolk and Western Freight Station, you’ll see the largest collection of diesel and steam engines in the country, including the huge Class J-611 and Class A-1218.

Under one roof

In downtown Roanoke, Center in the Square houses the Science Museum of Western Virginia, a great family stop with interactive exhibits and a planetarium with IMAX quality films; the History Museum of Western that showcases permanent and temporary exhibitions that reveal the history and culture of the Roanoke region; and Art Beyond Center that presents the affordable works of emerging artists and artisans.

The Historic Farmers’ Market has been doing business since 25 hucksters were issued licenses in 1882. Today its offerings have expanded to include specialty shops, art galleries, country stores, and restaurants, as well as local produce.

Good food warms the spirit

Roanoke has the highest number of eateries per capita of any city in Virginia, so finding good food is no problem.

For elegant dining, the posh Regency Room at Hotel Roanoke is the place to go. Enjoy a romantic dinner by candlelight with live entertainment and dancing on Saturday nights. The chefs purchase locally grown produce and support Virginia wineries. In addition to a gourmet menu, the restaurant is renowned for the popular regional dishes of Peanut Soup and Spoon Bread.

Since 1941, The Roanoker has been dishing out hearty Southern breakfasts of biscuits with honey, grits, fried apples, sausage and its gravy, pork tenderloin, rib eye steak, and much more. The landmark café also serves lunch and dinner.

Real chili aficionados recommend the Texas Tavern. The original “chile (sic)” recipe found its way to Roanoke from San Antonio in 1930 when the tavern was founded. Accolades have poured in for the “chile,” the hot dogs, and the “Best Inexpensive Lunch.” Texas Tavern is also known as the “Millionaire’s Club” because everyone is treated like a millionaire (and plenty eat there) regardless of status.

After Roanoke entertains you, you can head down the Blue Ridge Parkway