Mother Nature is starting her autumn show of colors, but it’s opening slowly this year. Armchair experts may say that’s because of the abundant summer rains, or the warm temperatures, or the sunfish migration, or the deer feeding habits. Old timers maintain that consecutive days and nights of cold temperatures will make the colors pop. Everyone focuses on “Peak” and tries to narrow that to a specific day or weekend. Actually, “Peak” is a period of time over a couple of weeks at the end of September/beginning of October. McCauley Mountain is a great viewing favorite, providing the best panorama overlooking the Fulton Chain of Lakes. 



Bob Card finishes the paint job on the W.C. Fields fundraising sign

The Strand Theatre will live on past its 90^th year. Due to the amazing efforts of community residents, visiting friends, and local businesses and organizations, The Save Our Strand Committee announced today that the $150,000 fundraising goal has been reached. Strand owners Helen Zyma and Bob Card have secured additional financing for the mandatory digital conversion, which will cost upwards of $300,000. They announced that the theater’s four projectors will be converted in November. Already a community icon, the Strand now grows in stature as a shining example of how a community steps up to get things done.

 

Fall paddlers find good stuff on our Adirondack waters, and on Saturday, September 28^th, they can share that through the Carol M. Baldwin Foundation. Mountainman Outdoor Supply Company host the annual Paddle for the Cure. Participants raise money (either through registration or pledges) for breast cancer research. It’s an added benefit to a great day of leisurely paddling on the Moose River. Paddlers tour about two miles of flat water on the Moose, and enjoy a festive get-together at Mountainman’s riverfront recreation center.

 

The Adirondack Scenic Railroad hosted the Annual POW/MIA train last weekend, honoring all veterans. American Legion Post #893 in Old Forge provided free lunches for fellow veterans and their families at the Thendara Station. The railway corridor management plan is under review by DEC and DOT, and this was an important part of that issue. Like the recently restored railroad service to Big Moose Station, the rest of the railway is the only access to Adirondack wilderness for disabled veterans and wounded warriors, as well as others with physical disabilities and mobility issues.  

With a little extra effort, early risers get the Fall sunrise views such as this one from atop Bald Mountain.