In last week's column I mentioned that I was looking for places to satisfy my craving for the outdoors while living in downtown Jamestown. I had asked for recommendations from my readers, and I received a very helpful one from Judy Hunt, a member of the Chautauqua County Parks Commission.
Hunt directed me towards the trails and parks section of the Tour Chautauqua website at tourchautauqua.com/trails-and-parks.aspx. And, in the past, I've found the website to be a great resource when trying to find things to do in the area. But, I was unaware that it would be particularly helpful when searching for outdoor opportunities. So, I'll definitely be checking out McCrea Point Park, Chadakoin Park and the Findley Lake Nature Center at some point soon.
I also mentioned that I was looking for places to cycle near and outside of the city, and the website even has a link to various cycling routes that are recommended by cycling shops, clubs and race organizers. Each of the 11 listed routes includes distance, a description of the route and a printable PDF map. Users can also visit MapMyRide.com to see additional courses and routes posted by riders. MapMyRide.com is an easy-to-use website that allows its users to plan a trip, do it and then share it with others. Users also have the option to find new places to run, find events, start a training plan, participate in challenges and join a group to run with. But, it doesn't stop there, links are available to hiking and walking too.
Article Photos
Dusten Rader
So, finding new ways to enjoy outdoor recreation is easier than ever.
HIGHLIGHTS
Melissa Etheridge To Perform At Warner Theatre In October: Oscar and two-time Grammy winner Melissa Etheridge is set to embark on a North American Tour in October in support of her latest studio album, "4th Street Feeling." She will appear at the Warner Theatre in Erie on Tuesday, Oct. 23.
Melissa wrote 12 new songs for the album, which features Blair Sinta on drums, Brett Simons on bass, and Zac Rae on keyboards. Melissa takes the lead on vocals, piano, harmonica, banjitar and some of her most stirring lead guitar work to date.
Reserved tickets for the 7:30 show are $95, $76.50, $46.50 and $30 including facility fees. They are available at the Warner Theatre box office or by calling 814-452-4857.
Ted Vigil To Perform Music Of John Denver At Opera House: You won't believe your eyes, or your ears, when Ted Vigil takes the stage as the legendary John Denver. In 2009 Vigil formed a bond with Denver's lead guitarist, Steve Weisberg, and the two began to tour together in a special tribute to the iconic pop star. In just a very short time, Vigil's performance has developed into an act with national appeal, featured at casinos, show rooms, night clubs, fairs and festivals across the U.S. Vigil will perform the late singer's music at the 1891 Fredonia Opera House on Friday at 8 p.m. Tickets to Vigil's performance are $15, $13 for Opera House members, and may be purchased in person at the Opera House Box Office or by phone at 679-1891. They also may be purchased online at fredopera.org.
Opera House To Screen Film: "The Magic of Belle Isle," starring Morgan Freeman and seen only in limited release, is the next featured film at the 1891 Fredonia Opera House.
It will be screened on Saturday at 8 p.m. and Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. as part of the Opera House Cinema Series. Tickets are available at the door for $7 per adult, $6.50 for seniors and Opera House members, and $5 for students.
Reuniting with director Rob Reiner from the hit film "The Bucket List," Freeman plays Monte Wildhorn, a famous novelist whose struggle with alcoholism has sapped his passion for writing. He takes a lakeside cabin for the summer in picturesque Belle Isle. He befriends the family next door, an attractive single mom played by Virginia Madsen and her young daughters, who help him find inspiration again. The film also stars Kenan Thompson, Fred Willard and Kevin Pollak with an original screenplay by Guy Thomas, Andrew Scheinman and Reiner.
HAPPENINGS
To include an upcoming show or event in this column, email drader@post-journal.com or call 487-1111 ext. 253 by Monday.
Tonight
Blue Grass Jam: 7 to 10 p.m., Celoron Legion, 26 Jackson Ave. in Celoron. Area bluegrass musicians are welcome to sit in and play.
Cindy Haight: 6 to 8:30 p.m., Southern Tier Brewing Company, 2072 Stoneman Circle in Lakewood.
Friday
Brian Hanna: 6 to 10 p.m., The Pad, 1064 Route 394 between Falconer and Kennedy.
Cindy Haight: 6 to 9 p.m., The Wine Cellar, 309 N. Main St. in Jamestown.
The Saloonatics: 8 p.m. to midnight, Bellini Lounge at Chautauqua Suites in Mayville.
Saturday
Smokehouse: 9 to 1 a.m., Celoron Legion, 26 Jackson Ave. in Celoron.
Me And My Uncle with Oliver Burdo and Claud Schuckers: 9 p.m. to midnight, Steener's Pub, 322 Route 430 in Greenhurst.