The No Money Blues Free- events are often overlooked. While on a business trip, I visited the tourist region in the Lakes region of NH- the once very active, hot spot of "The Weirs" the way I remembered some two decades ago, seemed all but catatonic in comparison to it former vigorous and robust night life of decade's past. Could it be the then, thirty somethings have now matured into more sedentary fifty- somethings? Or has the economy dealt a stifling blow to tourism in general?
When Disney reports their tourism is down, that still means endless waits in lines which meander through roped stantions in what seems an eternity for a two minute thrill. At Sea World, at down turn in tourism means on weekends, expect to miss a few shows as the seating for shows requires early attendance to get a seat.
Universal Studios Orlando.. two words. Harry Potter= long waits. Is tourism slacking there? Try getting a room.
Yet among the prestigious mountains and pristine lakes in New Hampshire something is apparently missing in peak season. Tourists. The ever popular Mount Washington, scenic boat tour,located on the Weirs, was less than jam packed on Saturday Night.
Could it be the cost? A family of four will pay close to $200 for three hours of escapism amidst the beauty and grandeur of Lake Winnipesaukee, a bountiful feast of beef from the carving board and melt in your mouth Halibut expertly prepared and a colorful array of fresh vegetables and as well as salads, rolls, beverages, and Viennese style deserts which are sinfully delicious. Not too mention excellent entertainment to accompany your meal. On this particular Saturday it was 80's Night, A flashback to Flash Dance, big hair, and one hit wonders, Under a moonlit cloudless sky, the 440+ foot Mount Washington and it s 144 passengers not counting the accommodating and friendly crew set sail.
If you are singing the Got No Money Blues, the best bang for you buck is FREE.
The Savina Hartwell Free Concert Series on Tilton Island is in its 18th Season. Nestled along the marvelous Merrimack River which careens through the towns of Tilton and Northfield along the Route 3 corridor on a Sunday evening from 6-9pm, you will see the stream of spectators with blankets and chairs in hand.
Stroll across the newly renovated foot bridge leading to Tilton Island Band stand, built by Alan Hartwell as a loving Memorial to his wife of 35 years Savina Hartwell which was recently refurbished as a part of a joint effort by the towns of Tilton and Northfield in time for the start of the 2010 season.
Savina Hartwell, was a cabaret style entertainer, as well as recording artist of Savina and "All That Gentle Jazz" for Love Records throughout her four decades long career, she had the pleasure of performing with and for notables Stan Kenton, Tommy Dorsey, Duke Ellington and legend Frank Sinatra in New York City. Prior to retiring and calling Northfield her "adopted" home town.
Upon her passing, in 1992, Alan decided a Free Concert series would be a fitting Memorial to the love of life, and a way to give back something to the community she grew to love.
Eighteen years later, the concerts continue to be a summer tradition of free entertainment and a favorite free activity for the area locals despite what the economy may be doing enjoying a pleasant summer evening with family on at the Savina Hartwell Free concerts Series is certainly a cure of the I "Got no money Blues"
With lawn chairs and picnic baskets in hand, as gentle summer breezes blow, the music wafts through the air surrounding the island on Sunday evening from July through August. Bringing quality entertainment to locales and tourist alike at a price anyone can afford- they are absolutely FREE.
