Earth Day 2013

Where did Earth Day start?



NASA image of Earth

The April 22 Earth Day, founded by Senator Gaylord Nelson, was first organized in 1970 to promote ecology and respect for life on the planet as well as to encourage awareness of the growing problems of air, water and soil pollution.

Some people prefer to observe Earth Day around the time of the March equinox. In 1978, American anthropologist Margaret Mead added her support for the equinox Earth Day, founded by John McConnell. She stated that the selection of the March Equinox for Earth Day made planetary observance of a shared event possible


What can you do to show your appreciation for Earth?

You can honor Earth Day by showing your awareness of environmental issues and by letting others know what they can do to make a difference. Some suggestions:

 

1. Pick up litter and roadside trash
2. Reduce, Reuse & Recycle all day long
3. Recycle, conducting various programs for recycling and conservation, using recyclable containers for snacks and lunches.
4. Turn off the water when you brush your teeth, turn off lights when leaving rooms
5. Switch to online bill payments
6. Use public transportation, Car pool or Ride a bike to work 
7. Turn down your water heater,
8. Install energy efficient light bulbs 
   
9. Plant a tree or serveral trees 
10. Sign petitions to governments, calling for stronger or immediate action to stop global warming and to reverse environmental destruction
11. Use energy efficient light bulbs
12. Use earth friendly cleaning products
13. Walk, Hike, Ride a bike
14. Crack open a window, reduce the use of airconditioners running all day
15. Go outside and Play, instead of watching tv and on computer

If you stop to think about it, there are dozens of ways you can lighten your load on the environment and promote a healthy ecosystem. Every day is Earth Day!! Anything to help our environment is a perfect thing to do on Earth Day and every day. Don't restrict yourself to just one day a year; learn about how you can make a difference to environmental protection all the time. And put it into practice - every day!

Patriot's Day 2013

In Massachusetts, 236 years after the famous “Shot heard ‘round the world,” residents and visitors alike are still celebrating the momentous Battles of Lexington and Concord. Patriots Day, a state holiday established in 1969 to commemorate the opening battles of the American Revolutionary War, is observed on the third Monday in April to coincide with the public school system’s April Vacation. Festivities stretch over an entire weekend with parades, reenactments and commemorative ceremonies in Boston, Lexington, Concord and surrounding towns. We invite you to explore this page, Mass Vacation to find out how you can experience it!

 

 

Patriots' Day commemorates the Battle of Lexington on April 19, 1775. Since 1969 this day has been observed on the third Monday in April. In 2013, Patriots' Day will be observed on Monday April 15, 2013. The re-enactment of the Battle of Lexington will be held on the Lexington Green starting at 5:30am, the time of the original battle. This year, because this is Lexington's 300th Anniversary, the Patriot's Day Parade will be held on Sunday, April 14th starting at 2pm. For more info visit The Lexington Minutemen

Lexington Battle Re-Enactment

Paul Revere's Ride

"Listen my children and you shall hear
Of the midnight ride of Paul Revere,
On the eighteenth of April, in Seventy-five;
Hardly a man is now alive
Who remembers that famous day and year......"

 (continue reading this famouds poem by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow)

SPRING IS HERE

Although there still is a bit of chill in the air, nevertheless the sun is out shininh bright on Cape Cod and SPRING is officially here today on March 20, 2013. Besides saying goodbye to the cold days, snow and putting away the heavy sweaters and bulky jackets, the start of Spring on Cape Cod brings along the start of many events & activities to look forward too. In Spring the scenery can be just as stunning as summertime, and there are plenty of fun things to do and places to dine and shop.

 

 

A few places opening in Spring:

 

Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf

There’s just something so beachside summer vacation about mini-golf. Cape Cod has scads of courses and Pirate’s Cove is one of the most popular with its splashing water falls and sculpted ‘mountains’.Children between the ages of 3-10 are the perfect age for this thrillseeking, treasure hunting voyage into Hyannis Harbor. Once aboard the Sea Gypsu every child will be transformed into an official member of the Sea Gypsy Crew. With painted faces and donned sashes your little mate will be ready for adventure aboard our working pirate ship. The Activity is nonstop, with flags to hoist , water cannons to blast, and maps to read, there is no time for lolligagin!Take your kids on an old-fashioned, swashbuckling adventure they’ll be spinning yarns about for years to come, Open Memorial Day. 728 Route 28, South Yarmouth; 508-394-6200 or 508-394-5252.

Art’s Dune Tours

Already in existence when the Cape Cod National Seashore was created, Art’s was grandfathered and they’re now the only ones allowed to drive in several protected Provincetown beach areas. Take the one hour tour along the coast and into the spectacular dunes or go with the sunset tour or a clambake, a lighthouse tour or a surf-fishing tour. Rates start at $25 for adults and $17 for kids. Offered mid-April through Halloween. Visit www.artsdunetours.com for details. 4 Standish St., Provincetown; 508-487-1950.

The Cape Cod Winery

Sure, the Cape is known for its exceptional seafood, but wine? This local vineyard proves that our sandy peninsula has got the goods to both dine and wine. Several varietals, ranging from Nobska Red (a Cabernet blend) to a delicious Cranberry Chardonnay, are produced from the estate-grown grapes. Stop in any time for tastings, May through December, or a tour of the winery on Saturdays at 2:00 p.m. in the summer months. 681 Sandwich Rd., East Falmouth; 508-457-5592.

Cape Cod Central Railroad

Anybody will be sure to enjoy a ride aboard this traveling ode to history. Trips range from the two-hour scenic excursion to the three-hour elegant dinner train. Also offered are luncheon excursions and a family supper train with child-friendly entertainment. As you roll along, take time to notice the uniquely Cape Cod landscape. Scenic excursions from $16 to $20 and trains serving meals from $39.95 to $65.95. 252 Main St., Hyannis; 888-797-7245 or 508-771-3800.
 

Herb Farms

At the seven-acre Cedar Spring Herb Farm (159 Long Pond Rd., Harwich; 508-430-4372), you can wander the organic herb gardens and winding woodland trails, or browse the small shop featuring homemade herbal remedies, skin products, fragrances and teas. The farm is open May to November, Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For a different sort of experience, visit the Cape Cod Lavender Farm (Island Pond Trail, Harwich; 508-432-8397). This is the largest lavender farm on the East Coast and consists of some 14,000 plants, which combine to spread a wonderful aroma over the area when the flowers bloom in June and July.

Pilgrim Monument & Provincetown Museum

The Pilgrims first landed in the New World in 1620 at Provincetown, as this 252 foot-tall granite tower so loftily reminds us. Join the millions who have climbed the 116 steps to the top for an incredible view of Provincetown, Cape Cod Bay and the Cape Cod National Seashore. A museum at the base of the monument offers exhibits about building the monument and Provincetown history. Open daily, April through November. Admission: $7 for adults; $5 for seniors and students; $3.50 for children. One High Pole Hill Rd., Provincetown; 508-487-1310.

Olde Barnstable Trolley

Sightsee while seated as Olde Barnstable Trolley takes you on a one-hour narrated tour of the historic town of Barnstable. The tour covers four-miles of quaint streets and history-filled sites, including Olde Kings Highway, Hyannisport, Centerville and more. An excellent way to see the town and get around, the trolley can also be used as a shuttle service between eight different sites. Tickets ($10 for adults, $8 for seniors and $5 for kids) available at the JFK Hyannis Museum, 397 Main St., Hyannis; 978-767-3761 or 508-771-TOUR.

Ocean Science Exhibit Center

Learn about the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution and the vessels and tools developed by its engineers that scientists world-wide now use. Short videos provide an introduction to WHOI, show a day in the life of the deep submersible Alvin, and highlight the 1985-1986 discovery and exploration of the wreck of the Titanic. Step inside a full-size model of the inner sphere of Alvin. Requested donation is $2. Tours available by appointment in March & April.  Closed major holidays and January through March. 15 School St., Woods Hole; 508-289-2663 or 508-289-2700.

Bass River Sports World

A veritable smorgasbord of classic fun; golf driving range, skateboarding park, in-line skating rink, batting and soccer cages, large game room and arcade, and the pièce de résistance: Skull Island Adventure Miniature Golf Course. The 38,000-square-foot golf course is a nod to the Swiss Family Robinson, with features like a large tree house, 20 waterfalls and 25 fountains. Open April 1st to October. Prices vary. 934 Route 28, South Yarmouth; 508-398-6070.

 

There are so many more things going on in Spring as well as the activities available year round:

 

Ryan Family Amusements

Ryan Family Amusements centers feature candlepin and/or ten pin or duckpin bowling. They also have huge games rooms with the hottest, newest, coolest arcade games. and party rooms for all occasions. Offers Candlepin/Ten Pin/Game Room/Birthday Parties, League & Recreational Bowling, Mystic & Bumper Bowling, Automatic Scoring, Beer, Wine, Perky's Pizza and Snacks Available 

1067 Route 28, So. Yarmouth, MA 02664 or  441 Main Street, Hyannis, MA 02601

 

Cape Cod National Seashore

Forty miles of pristine sandy beach, marshes, ponds, and uplands support diverse species. Lighthouses, cultural landscapes, and wild cranberry bogs offer a glimpse of Cape Cod’s past and continuing ways of life. Swimming beaches and walking and biking trails beckon today's visitors.
(508) 255-3421 Route 6, Eastham, MA Corner of Nauset Road and Route 6 in Eastham 9am-4:30pm daily

Cape Cod Rail Trail
The Cape Cod Rail Trail follows a former railroad right-of-way for 22 miles through the towns of Dennis, Harwich, Brewster, Orleans, Eastham and Wellfleet. Its paved surface, few hills, and well-marked automobile crossings make it ideal for cyclists. The trail has a wide unpaved shoulder on one side to accommodate horseback riding, walkers, and runners.There are many opportunities to get off the trail and visit a beach. Food and water are also readily available and public restrooms can be found at Nickerson State Park, Salt Pond Visitors Center at Cape Cod National Seashore and the National Seashore Headquarters. If you do not have a bike, bike rentals are available at many points along the way. For people with disabilities, a limited number of hand-cycles are available for rent at specific bike concessions. For more information call Nickerson State Park at 508-896-3491.Rail Trail Printable Map:

Check out our Pinterest boards for more activities and local events in Cape Cod

Now is a good time to start planning your vacation, as many properties offer a reduced rate in the spring season in comparison to the Peak season on Cape Cod in July and August. The Lighthouse Inn opens on May 24, 2013 for their 75th Diamond Anniversary season. To reserve a cottage or room perhaps with an Ocean view, contact the reservations office at (877) 208-2244 Ext 300.

Lighthouse Inn

 

National Margarita Day

The number one selling cocktail in the U.S. has its own special day. In recognition of today being, National Margarita Day, we thought we'd share some history on this cocktail along with a few delicious recipes to try yourself on this day or any other.

Although here is no solid proof who "invented" the Margarita. There of course are many stories of where the famous beverage originated from, and one of the most accepted of all is that the Margarita was invented in October 1941, at Hussong's Cantina in Ensenada, Mexico, by bartender Don Carlos Orozco. Supposedly, one slow afternoon, Don Carlos was experimenting with mixing new drinks when a prestigious visitor arrived: Margarita Henkel, the daughter of a German ambassador, who lived with her husband Roy Parodi near the city in Rancho Hamilton. Don Carlos offered the drink to Margarita, and named it after her for being the first person to taste it. He concocted a mixture of equal parts tequila, orange liqueur and lime, served over ice in a salt-rimmed glass. However, Don Carlos' recipe was made with Damiana Liqueur, not Cointreau orange liqueur. He may have named his drink after Margarita Henkle, but it is not the drink the world enjoys today. Another common story related the Margarita being invented a few years earlier at the Rancho La Gloria Hotel, halfway between Tijuana and Rosarito, Mexico, by Carlos "Danny" Herrera, for a former dancer named Marjorie King. This story was related by Herrera and also by bartender Albert Hernandez, who is acknowledged for popularizing the Margarita in San Diego after 1947, at the La Plaza restaurant in La Jolla. Hernandez claimed the owner of La Plaza, Morris Locke, knew Herrera and visited Mexico often. Another common origin tale begins the cocktail’s history at the legendary Balinese Room in Galveston, Texas where, in 1948, head bartender Santos Cruz created the Margarita for singer Peggy (Margaret) Lee. He supposedly named it after the Spanish version of her name, Margarita, and it’s been a hit ever since.

Another explanation, however, is that the Margarita is merely a popular American drink, the Daisy remade with tequila instead of brandy, which became popular during Prohibition as people drifted over the border for alcohol. There is an account from 1936 of Iowa newspaper editor James Graham finding such a cocktail in Tijuana, years before any of the other Margarita "creation myths".Margarita is Spanish for Daisy. It is likely that Orozco, Herrara, and Cruz merely perfected the "Tequila Daisy"

Margarita Glass

 

Margaritas may be served in a variety of glasses, most notably the stereotypical margarita glass, a variant of the classic Champagne coupe; this is particularly associated with blended fruit margaritas, and the glass is also used for dishes such as guacamole or shrimp cocktails. In formal settings margaritas are often served in a standard cocktail glass, while in informal settings, particularly with ice, margaritas may be served in an old-fashioned glass.

Theres so many differant ways to make a Margerita, however the classic version is made from only three ingredients: tequila, triple sec and lime juice. The trick is in the quality of the ingredients - the better the quality, the better the 'rita!
 

This classic margarita recipe uses the traditional 3-2-1 ratio of three parts tequila, two parts good triple sec and one part lime juice. Serve it on the rocks with salt or serve it up in a chilled glass if you prefer. If you like your margaritas on the sour side, check these out
 

INGREDIENTS

• Diamond Crystal kosher salt
• 1 thin lime wedge
• Ice
• 1 1/2 ounces silver (blanco), 100 percent agave tequila
• 1 ounce triple sec orange liqueur
• 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice (from about 1 lime)
• 1 very thin lime slice, for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Pour enough salt on a small plate to cover it.
2. Rub the lime wedge on the outside rim of a 4-ounce cocktail glass. Holding the glass at a 45-degree angle, dip the outside rim in the salt, rotating as you do, so the entire rim is coated with salt. (Avoid getting any salt inside the glass.) Fill the glass with ice and place it in the freezer to chill.
3. Add the tequila, triple sec, and lime juice to a cocktail shaker and fill the shaker halfway with ice.
4. Shake vigorously until the outside of the shaker turns frosty.
5. Strain the margarita into the chilled glass and garnish with a lime slice.

 

If the classic Margarita doesnt't work for you, try a few other alternative recipes: Check out over 50 Margerita Recipes here. Or check out our Pinterest board on great Margerita and other Cocktail & Beverage Recipes



Check out or pinterest board for great recipes at
http://pinterest.com/lighthouseinnma/cocktails-beverages/

CHEERS!!!!

New Years Eve Safety tips

Great tips for New Years Eve Safety

If you are hosting a New Year's Eve party, following a few simple rules could prevent a tragedy:

• Contact a local cab company to provide rides for your guests.
• Serve non-alcoholic beverages as an option to your guests.
• Stop serving alcohol to your guests several hours before the party ends.
• Provide your guests with a place to stay overnight in your home.

South Coast Today gives these helpful tips:

• Don’t let your guard down. Holidays, including New Year’s Eve, are not an excuse to throw caution to the wind. Be careful not to leave your drink unattended and don’t become intoxicated.
• Stay in groups or use the buddy system – you are more likely to become a target if you are alone. Select a place to meet should you get separated, and check that your buddy got home safely at the end of the night.
• Have a plan for how you will get home. Don’t find yourself stranded!
• Don’t use the festive atmosphere as an excuse to do something you wouldn’t normally do or put yourself in an unsafe situation.
• Øhile out, be careful what you post online. Don’t alert others that you are not at home.
• The beaten path is the better path. Don’t take short cuts and familiarize yourself with the area before heading out.
• Take extra precautions. StreetSafeis a new mobile personal security system that uses your smart phone’s GPS technology to instantly connect to help before a situation turns into an emergency. Street Safe’s “Walk with Me” service offers a live connection to a professional Safety Advisor tokeep you safe when walking in unfamiliar or threatening surroundings and instant access to 911 if needed.

The UNITED STATES ARMY gives these following safety tips for New Years Eve Celebrations in this Dec 2011 article:

New Year's Eve is a night to have fun and celebrate the coming year. However, safety is a must when participating in the festivities. Whether you're staying in and celebrating with friends and family, or you're traveling to a party or city bash, following a few safety tips will ensure that you're safe and sound when the clock strikes midnight, ringing in the New Year!

 

• Designate a Driver: If you are going to be driving New Years Eve, don't drink and drive. If you have a friend who does not prefer to drink, make sure they take the wheel. You might even be on the water this New Years Eve. The person in charge of navigating the boat needs to be cautious, and this still applies to them! It is important to be safe on the water as well, so drink sensibly.

 

• Be Alert: Be aware of your surroundings and how others are acting. Stay away from those who are out of control and might cause harm. Taking preventive measures is key. If someone is really intoxicated, prevent them from trying to drive or leaving with someone they do not know. It's important to keep an eye out for each other.

 

• Don't Drive: If you don't have to go behind the wheel, avoid it. More people will be driving under the influence on this particular night, so avoid a potentially dangerous accident by staying off the road. Otherwise, be alert and drive defensively. Most importantly, wear your seatbelt! Also, using public transportation is a wise option. If taking a cab is too expensive, crashing at a friend's place nearby is a convenient solution.

Yarmouth offers Operation Safe Ride Home,

 

• Stick Together: This way we can look out for our friends and family. Going out to parties and nightclubs means a fast-paced, crazy night; so be sure to travel in groups. Having a safety net around you in this environment is imperative.

 

• Monitor your Alcohol Intake: A majority of people will be drinking on New Year's Eve, and there is nothing wrong with that. Just be sure to pay attention to how much you and others are consuming. Drinking too much alcohol can have lethal affects. Be responsible.

 

• Don't forget about your pets! They are just as much a part of the family as everyone else. If you are using fireworks, anything with loud noises, or fire, be sure that pets are kept at a distance as well as children. None of these are a good mix.

 

• Be careful with open flames: If you're burning candles, incense or oil burners, remember to extinguish them before you turn in or before you leave the room they are burning in. Pay extra attention to pets and children around open flames.

 

• Be extra careful with Fireworks: If you are letting off fireworks in a residential area, be sure to practice proper safety precautions when using them. Let off fireworks in a field or other open area where homes and power lines are out of site. Have a fire extinguisher nearby and never try to re-light a firework that did not go off when first lit. Also, be sure pets and children are at a safe distance from where fireworks are being ignited. Finally, always have an adult present when using any type of firework.

 

Everyone wants to have an unforgettable night (in a good way!). By simply using some common sense, we can keep it that way. Ring in the New Year safely!

Celebrate New Years on a budget

Celebrate the New Year on a budget

 

Ready to make the most of New Year’s Eve without dropping a load of cash? Try these six fun ideas that let you ring in the New Year on a budget.

http://www.sheknows.com/shopping/articles/979649/fun-budget-friendly-new-years-eve-activities

 

Go bowling with friends

Even if you end up buying a few pitchers of beer, bowling is easy on the wallet. Call your local lanes and find out what festivities are scheduled for New Year’s Eve. Many bowling alleys offer holiday specials like unlimited bowling and free shoe rental. Dress casually and embrace friendly and silly competition with your friends over some fried food, cold beer and loud Top 40 music.

Host your own party

When you celebrate New Year’s Eve at your place, you set the rules and the price tag. Work with a reasonable budget and throw a party that focuses on fun, not luxury. Many ways to have a great inexpensive party. Try footing the bill on booze and asking friends to bring finger food and appetizers. Set up a viewing area for the New Year’s Eve countdown on TV and use existing entertainment like karaoke video games and group board games to amp up the fun. Ask your local liquor store about inexpensive sparkling wine instead of pricey champagne for your guests.

Attend a street festival

Hit your local scene for a cheap or free night out this New Year’s Eve. Check with your local arts district or downtown business bureau to get a schedule of events. On New Year’s Eve, you’ll find live music and vendors at free or low-cost festivals and street fairs. Wear comfortable shoes, dress for the weather and get ready to people-watch as your community rings in the New Year.

Share a table of tapas

Want to enjoy a big, festive meal without a headache of a bill? Go in with your friends on a night of tapas. Tapas, or small plates, often run you less than $10 each. Order a variety and enjoy tasty finger food and plenty of lively conversation over a shared meal. Don’t forget to add a zesty pitcher of sangria for a traditional sweet and savory night of good food.

Pack up a picnic

If your celebration style is more laid-back than late-night, spend New Year’s Eve enjoying an early-evening picnic before things get too crazy. Cook a meal at home or pick up prepared food at a gourmet grocer. Pack a reasonably priced bottle of wine, plenty of napkins and a comfortable blanket. Hit a local park or public area to celebrate New Year’s over a quiet meal. You’ll get home with plenty of time to relax and watch the festivities on your television.If its cold in yur city, pack a picnic to enjioy inside possibly on floor by the fireplace!

View a local fireworks display

Nothing sparkles like a big public fireworks display. Bundle up and head out to see your local fireworks show this New Year’s Eve. Check local media outlets to get the skinny on where to park and where to find the best view. Pack some snacks and a travel mug of hot cocoa or spiced apple cider to keep you warm while you watch the sky light up with color and light to celebrate the New Year.

For great game ideas for adults and children for New Years Eve, read here
Let the kids be apart of a great New Years Celebration, few suggestions.