Staff Writer“Fall Foliage Weekend,” is a family friendly event being held October 11 and 12, 2008, during this Columbus Day Weekend at the Gelston Castle Estate, (GCE) in Mohawk, New York. (GCE) fondly called “Nature’s Palace,” is the place our Nation’s most historic environmental advocate, U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt worked and rested.
From 10:00am to 6:00pm, October 11 and 12, come hear both sides, Republican and Democrat to learn about the parties as the election draws near. Everyone can really get excited, as this November election will be historic! Bring a friend and attend panels and workshops on environmental, economic and healthcare issues. Celebrate the season at GCE – the marvelous colors changing and the excitement of the fall elections! There is no other destination that includes all this for one low admission and they’re letting the little ones in for free. Bring your umbrellas and a sweater as this is a rain or shine event and we’re sure a great time will be had by all. You can also hear a debate with our Theodore Roosevelt’s 1st person historian, Paul Stillman. Paul will wow you with his ability to recite Roosevelt ‘s tone, mannerism and ethics. There will also be an historical tour, horse-drawn 16 person carriage rides through the grounds in which the Monroe’s, Roosevelt’s and Rostropovich’s retreated, by tour guide Elaine Smaldone. Elaine will take you through the property which includes a walk around the Gelston Castle , the original 1787 Henderson Farm house, Chateau Safflyn and down a scenic path through the woods to the Robinson family cemetery. Buried there are the ancestors of Theodore Roosevelt and his niece, First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt.
“Now is the time to see Nature at it’s best, understand why we have to protect it and promote its value. Our property offers a front row education on the advantages of a sustainable life. The Estate encouraged our nations’ biggest environmental advocate, Theodore Roosevelt to lead what he called the Strenuous Life,” said Jason Safford, CEO of Safflyn Corporation and co-owner of the Estate. Mr. Safford is a member of the US Green Building Council, Upstate Chapter, and will deliver a presentation that focuses on environmental and sustainable programs. Mr. Safford will speak on “It is Good to Go Green,” at the event.
Also enjoy a wine tasting by the orchard that was planted by Eleanor Roosevelt, pumpkin carving and face painting for the kids, sporting events throughout the day, entertainment, food, drinks and most importantly lots of smiles. The weekend will also have various workshops, especially featured will be a Diet and Fitness Program hosted by Vanel Sports; presented by top notch fitness consultants Vanessa Charles and Leslie Pieters. This event has been supported by community leaders and will feature businesses from across New York State in a business expo. Business Expo Coordinator Sherry Baylis stated, “Supporting our local and state economy over the holidays should be important to all of us.” Baylis also stressed that you hold on to your ticket stubs, as there will be a variety of giveaways throughout the day.
Safflyn Corporation is a member of the US Green Building Council, which purchased the estate over one year ago and plans to convert to a “green” example. The property is 20 minutes north of Cooperstown , 40 minutes West of Albany and 10 minutes from the Thruway.
General Admission to the festival is $10.00, all access $25.00 and College students $5.00 with identification. Children under 12 are free.
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