Light In Winter: Ithaca Arts and Science Festival

Upstate New York is alive and well with ideas and knowledge.  Each February, Cornell University offers its Light in Winter Festival, which explores the science of everything from the world to art in everyday life.  If you have a craving to learn, consider a Trumansburg getaway to the Inn at Gothic Eves during the weekend of February 22, 23, 24, 2013.  Enjoy the relaxing and personalized bed and breakfast experience,  and spend a day of discovery in nearby Ithaca.

There are many offerings of knowledge through these great programs:

• The Hall of Wonders might be compared to a true Science Museum.  A number of scientific projects and theories are brought to life in a hands-on format.
• The Dispora of Coffee is a learning/tasting experience.  Ever wonder where coffee came from?  Have you wondered what causes the underlying flavors in different roasts?  Find out here!
• The God Particle has topped the news frequently during the fall of 2012.  But what is it?  What does it teach us?  And how was it found?  Have all your questions about the Higgs Boson particle during this program.
• You may have seen numerous photos on the news coming back from the Curiosity Rover which landed on Mars in August, 2012.  What other information is being found thanks to this robotic vehicle?  Find out at Mars Exploration Part I: Curiosity Lands.
• Details in Genetic Ancestry can be found in everyone's DNA.  Find out more about how links can be found in humans who aren't of the same "family".
• Watch a representative demonstrate Corning Museum of Glass Flame Work using a torch and glass tubes.
• Rushing down a mountain on a bike is the ultimate thrill for some.  For others, using a skateboard to get around is the ultimate in "green transportation" and thrills.  Learn about the science (mass, momentum, etc) behind these exciting sports at Physics of Skateboarding and Mountain Biking.
• Are you an aspiring writer?  Then join in the LIW Creative Writing Workshop and explore the ideas of this year's programs.
• Star Wars has made us familiar with the idea of walking machinery for years, from C3PO to the Walkers (war machines).  Oddly enough, not many of these inventions have come to pass in today's world.  Find out why not as the difficulties of bi-pedal balance and proportion are discussed at the Walking Machines discussion.
• The discoveries of the Mars Rovers are not the only considerations about our current impact on the Red Planet.  What does it mean when our own creation tells us as much about ourselves as this distant planet?  Find out in From Curiosity to Wall-E.
• There are many out there who believe that the Earth's destruction will come in the form of a large object flying through space, causing a collision that will demolish the very planet.  Find out more about those "close calls" with objects that threaten our very existence in The End (And I Feel Fine).
• What is it about humans that they willingly allow themselves to be easily tricked?  What are the physics behind the art of deception?  Find out in Magicians, Mentalists, Math Geeks, and the Hidden Powers of the Mind.
• Explore the physics behind the sounds of the violin at The Secrets of the Devil’s Box.
• Take in a show by Stringfever!  This group takes the idea of a "string quartet" to the extreme.
• See Galumpha astound with amazing physical comedy and acrobatics, bringing together science and art for an amazing entertainment experience.
• Much like Galumpha, Life in Balance focuses much more on the physics of acrobatics.

A full program and event schedule can be found at the Light In Winter website.  These references will be updated as the event date approaches.

There is so much to learn and know about in the world, and this annual event is a great way to satisfy your curiosity.  Even more, if you have kids of a questioning nature, this event may just set them on their future course of learning and discovery.  While you're at it, you can enjoy the current Birthday Special for reduced room rates and great extras to make your stay a true pleasure.

Myer Farm Distillers: A New Activity in the Finger Lakes Region

When you think of hard spirits in America, what comes to mind?  Kentucky Bourbon.  Appalachian Moonshine.  Patron Liquors from Nevada.  What about spirits from the Finger Lakes Region?  Upstate New York is proud to welcome Myer Farm Distillers, a new player in the "spirit world."  Just 14 miles from Trumansburg, the new distillery makes a perfect destination during your bed and breakfast stay.

The Myer brothers (Joe and John) come from a very long line of farmers.  In fact, their ancestors were the first to settle in Ovid, where the distillery is located.  Both brothers have a background in agriculture, and John has been running the now fifth-generation family farm - one of the oldest in the area, producing wheat, corn, soybeans, barley, oats, and more.  Does that ingredient list sound at all familiar?

Photo from Myer Farm Distillers

The fact that they use their very own raw ingredients means that Myer Farm Distillers actively upholds the area dedication to using locally-grown, organic raw materials.  Their farming and production practices give a whole new meaning to the farm to table philosophy!  But the brothers aren't looking to mass-produce mediocre products, as they also follow the local trend of using skill and care to create true artisanal offerings.

While the name 'Myer' may bring to mind a German ancestry, the brothers show their love for Scottish lore, designing the Distillery itself with a nod to malt houses found in Scotland.  The Still, however, is distinctly German, having been built by that country's oldest still-maker CARL, Gmbh.

Photo from Myer Farm Distillers

You can try each and every one of the distillery's products in their beautiful tasting room while having a look into their production through a window into the distillery itself.  As of this post, Myer Farm Distilleries offers vodka, gin, and corn whiskey.  Waiting in the wings (and they may already be producing these) are a strawberry mint wheat alcohol, and straight wheat products.  Please note that because the distillery is new, it will be years before proper aging of their whiskey occurs - you will be tasting an infant product for now.

So why not plan a visit to the area's newest producer of quality spirits during your Upstate New York getaway?  Your innkeeper Rose will be glad to give you directions and suggestions for a great tasting experience.  In fact, bring a bottle back and enjoy your spirits in the warmth and coziness of the water, the inn's common rooms, or your cozy guest room.  Plan to visit before March 31, 2013 for the Birthday Special featuring reduced stay rates and use of the inn's new hot tubs!

Gothic Eves Certificates: The Perfect Gift for Anyone

The answer to your last-minute holiday shopping needs is right here at the Inn at Gothic Eves!

Upstate New York is the perfect place for a relaxing getaway, no matter the recipient!  Here you will find beautiful and relaxing rooms, personalized service, and great amenities.  Who wants to stay at a cold hotel when they can have a bed and breakfast experience here in the Finger Lakes Region?

Trumansburg offers a true getaway for anyone looking to escape the rigors of everyday life.  Our relaxed pace, gorgeous scenery, many activities, and award-winning wineries provide a great vacation opportunity for anyone on your gift list.

Innkeeper Rose will be happy to help you with your gift-giving needs.
Whether you choose a night's stay, a spa treatment, or even a contribution to a total stay, a Gothic Eves gift certificate will be met with delight and thanks!

Cornell University Chimes: Music in the Air

The seconds tick away, the minute hand moves, and suddenly chimes emit from a bell tower: haunting tolls that work their way into music.  Whether you live in a large city or small town, you're likely familiar with the sound.  Some people love them, some people hate them; but when they're part of a community's very being, they are both revered and loved.

If you have ever visited Ithaca, you may be familiar with the beloved tradition of chimes ringing from the John McGraw Tower at Cornell University.  If you have not visited Ithaca, you're certainly in for a treat!  The Cornell Chimes have been an honored tradition since 1868, and continue to chime the hour to this day.  The bonus is that 15-minute bell concerts are played up to three times daily, depending on the time of year.  Hearing the chimes and the mini-concerts is an unforgettable experience, and is a perfect way to spend part of a day during your Upstate New York getaway at the Inn at Gothic Eves!

While some chimes are actually digital recordings blasted through speakers, the "bells" in the top of the John McGraw Tower are just that:  true-to-life bells.  21 of them, to be exact.  As the primary landmark of the University, the tower rises 173 feet into the air.  Not only is it the home of these historic musical instruments, but the tower also houses a museum and a practice room, among other things.  But the soaring notes ringing from the boughs are what usually draw attention to the imposing spire beside Uris Library.

And how are these soaring musical pieces played?  Would you believe that they are produced by the two hands and two feet of a human player known as a chimesmaster?  These professionals are truly dedicated to the beauty of the chimes, and a 10-week process is held each year to fill empty chimesmaster slots, involving mastering the "standards," sight-reading unknown music, and being coached in a "concert" of music from which the new members of the ranks are selected.

It is truly amazing to consider how physically fit the chimesmasters are.  Even before their scheduled concert, they must climb the 161 steps up to the chimes room at the top of McGraw tower.  They must then manipulate the chimes by manipulating a series of levers with hands, feet, or both.  Think of it as a full-body aerobic workout for each song played.  Usually, different chimesmasters are responsible for playing each song during the 15-minute concerts.  Occasionally, an intricate duet is performed requiring the efforts of two players at once.

And what will you hear those chimes play?  You never can tell!  Classical compositions by the likes of Schubert, Bach, Beethoven, and Handel.  Traditional marches by Sousa.  Ragtime pieces by Scott Joplin, and swing from Glenn Miller.  Popular tunes that you may hear on the radio, and original pieces by the musical faculty.  Even favorites from the Beatles and television shows like The Muppets and Mickey Mouse.  The number of compositions available for play on the chimes is quickly approaching 3000!

For the most part, pieces can not be repeated if they have been played in the three weeks prior.  The ONLY exception to this rule are the three trademark tunes played each weekday:  the very challenging Jennie McGraw Rag begins each day, the Cornell Alma Mater is played each midday, and the very last song of the day is always the Cornell Evening Song.

If you love the sound of the chimes but want an even more "personal" experience, each days' "concerts" are open to the general public!  Attending a concert does require that you be able to ascend the 161 stairs yourself, after which you can gather around the playing area and watch the chimesmasters at work.  During days when Cornell holds classes, the concerts are held at 7:45 am, 1:10 pm, and 6:00 pm from Monday through Friday.  On weekends, there are just two daily concerts at 10:40 am and 6:00 pm.  Concerts are scarce during University breaks including summer, Christmas Break, and Spring Break.  A full concert schedule can be found at the Cornell University Chimes website.

During your Finger Lakes vacation, why not make the short 30-minute trip to Ithaca and Cornell University to hear, and maybe witness, the heralding bells in the air?  A cozy room and friendly hospitality awaits you here in Trumansburg!

Visit before the end of March to take advantage of the Gothic Eves Birthday Special for discounted lodging and complementary use of the new hot tubs!


Innkeeper Rose Hilbert
POBox 95, 112 E. Main St.
Trumansburg, NY, 14886
info@gothiceves.com
1-800-387-7712 | 607-387-6033

Beer in the Finger Lakes: Upstate New York Breweries and Brew Pubs

When most people think about the Finger Lakes Region, they think wine.  It's true that there are an abundance of award-winning wineries in the area.  But for those whose taste buds trend towards the grains rather than the grape, did you know that we also have some great local beers as well?  In fact, there are a half-dozen breweries in the area between Cayuga and Seneca Lakes (including Watkins Glen and Ithaca), and one of them is right here in Trumansburg!  So all you beer lovers out there are cordially invited to plan a beer-tour vacation to The Inn at Gothic Eves!

It's common knowledge that great produce is grown in Upstate New York.  We are very proud of our organic and cooperative growing practices that produce the ingredients used in homes and restaurants alike.  However, you may be surprised to know that many of these local ingredients lend themselves to beer-making just as readily as general consumption!  Many area breweries and brewpubs are proud to use local corn, hops, wheat, barley, and more to both build their beer bases, and also to flavor their beer.

It is very convenient to stop by some of our great microbreweries and brewpubs during your bed and breakfast getaway.  Scattered among the area, mostly along our beautiful lakes, our beer-brewing establishments are near area wineries, area artists and galleries, and area shopping, making it easy to take a break during your day's itinerary to sample some regional beers.  Or you can simply plan a beer-tasting trip, much like so many who visit for the wine-tasting!  The Finger Lakes Beer Trail makes it easy to locate area breweries and brew pubs for planning your visit.

Why not bring friends for a group getaway - spend the day in separate groups exploring wineries and breweries, and return to the inn to compare your finds in the parlor beside a roaring fire during the winter, or out in the porch or in the gardens during the summer?  Bring your favorites back to the inn for everyone to taste and compare before retiring to your cozy rooms - no driving needed!

In June, you can also enjoy the Finger Lakes Craft Beer Festival held in Watkins Glen State Park to experience at least a dozen Finger Lakes breweries in one spot (even those that aren't a reasonable drive from the bed and breakfast)!  Dates for the 2013 event have not yet been announced, but look for more information right here in our blog early next year.

General information about those breweries and brewpubs "between the lakes" can be found below.  For even more info, follow the links to their websites, or visit the Finger Lakes Beer Trail website to plan the perfect itinerary.

Plan your brewery tour vacation in one of the most beautiful regions in the country today.  Visit before the end of March to take advantage of the Gothic Eves Birthday Special for discounted lodging and complementary use of the new hot tubs!

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3 Herons Brewing Company, Trumansburg:  Offering awesome barbecue, meatloaf, burgers, and Italian/Polish dishes on the weekends!  Okay, so this eatery is technically still working its way to brew pub status, as they have not yet earned their liquor license or have the brewery itself in place, but this roadhouse is fully expected to become THE place for locally-made beer in the coming months.

Wagner Valley Brewing Company, Lodi:  Together with it's sister winery (Wagner Vineyards), this large facility has tasting rooms for both wine and beer under one roof.  Focusing on European-style beers, the brewmasters use only premium ingredients for their rich, quality beers.

Two Goats Brewing, Hector:  You can actually get food to go with your beer here, but if you don't like tender and flavorful roast beef, you're out of luck.  A single tavern room offers a good variety of simple, honest beers in a rainbow of hues.

Bandwagon Brew Pub, Ithaca:  Offering 20 craft beers (5 brewed in-house) and a full lunch and dinner menu.  Get a beer flight of your choosing, or let the staff pair a perfect beer/food combination for you.  Beers feature an amazing variety of flavors, from traditional wheat and hops, to oatmeal, raspberry jalapeno, and even peanut butter/chocolate in a hefty stout.

Ithaca Beer Company, Ithaca:  Located in an old storefront near Buttermilk Falls, this brewery is known for their CascaZilla (a hoppy, caramel-malt red), and a great-tasting Flower Power IPA featuring honey and tropical fruit flavors.  However their full array of beers is well worth a taste!

The Crooked Rooster Brewpub & The Wildflower Cafe, Watkins Glen:  A great place to stop off for a bite to eat while enjoying their Rooster Fish Brewing flavors featuring hops and fruity tones.

War Horse Brewing Company, Geneva, NY:  Part of the 3 Brothers Winery complex, they feature beers from the Three Brothers Wineries & Estates in Geneva, NY.  The tasting room is designed to look like a WWII hangar, providing a spacious and fun atmosphere.



Innkeeper Rose Hilbert
POBox 95, 112 E. Main St.
Trumansburg, NY, 14886
info@gothiceves.com
1-800-387-7712 | 607-387-6033