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Kentucky State Parks are Celebrating Valentine’s Day Throughout February

January 19, 2012 By

Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park Lodge

The Lodge at Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park. You should see inside!

Valentine’s Day in Kentucky is always especially sweet. Now our Kentucky State Parks are sweetening the deal even more.

You’ve read enough of my raves about Kentucky State Resort Parks ( from their restaurants to their cottages and lodges) to know I how I feel about them.  We can all be very proud of our beautiful state parks and should visit them as often as possible.

Even if you just go for a meal, you’ll walk away happy. And full!  The Kentucky Hot Browns, the catfish, the hush puppies, onion rings, beans, and rolls.  The chicken, buffet bar, iced tea, and desserts.  And the coffee! I’m as big a Starbucks fan as anyone, but the coffee served at Kentucky State Resort Parks is even better than Starbucks coffee.

Now I have your attention, right?!

Kentucky’s State Resort Parks are offering special events and packages during the month of February to help celebrate Valentine’s Day. How love-ly!

State parks provide a great place for a getaway weekend along with excellent food, entertainment, natural beauty and scenery. Listed below are the parks with Valentine’s packages and programs, and the park phone number. For more information about each park, as well as other state park events, visit www.parks.ky.gov

Here is a listing of special events:

Barren River Lake State Resort Park, Lucas

Honeymooners’ Weekend Feb. 10-12

Honeymooners’ weekend is a tradition at Barren River, so bring your sweetheart for a weekend of fun and romance. Friday night, become part of an interactive murder mystery and help solve the “crime.” Whoever solves it wins a free night’s lodging at Barren River Lake State Resort Park. It will be “An Evening To Die For!” On Saturday, hold your special someone close and dance to the music provided by DJ Cindy Cossey. Or, participate in couples activities including the “Not So Newlywed Game.” Enjoy all this for a two-night lodging package at $279.95 plus tax per couple (includes lodge room, dinners, breakfasts, mystery theater tickets and dance tickets for two). Ask about our one-night lodge room, two-night cottage, and dinner and show packages. For more information, contact Jamie Avery at 1-800-325-0057 or jamie.avery@ky.gov

Blue Licks Battlefield State Resort Park, Mount Olivet

Valentine Dinner Theater Feb. 11

This year’s performance at Blue Licks Battlefield State Resort Park will be a return of Fantastical Theatricals for a cabaret performance featuring a selection of love songs to warm the heart. The dinner theater will be one night only, Feb. 11, with seating starting at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $34.95 plus tax per person for dinner and entertainment. Packages are available for $129 plus tax that include an overnight stay in the lodge room of your choice, two dinner theater tickets and breakfast for two the following morning. Call 800-443-7008 for reservations.

Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park, Buckhorn

Sweetheart’s Weekend Feb. 10-12

Enjoy the tranquil setting and mountain vista with a special discounted room rate of $50 per couple on each night. There will be a special buffet Feb. 12 from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., offering entrees of rib-eye steaks, fried catfish, fried chicken, herb roasted pork lion, mixed medley vegetables, green beans, corn, baked potatoes, garden vegetables, and various desserts. Adults are $13.99 (plus beverage, tax and gratuity). Call 1-800-325-0058.

Carter Caves State Resort Park, Olive Hill

Valentines Dinner Theater Feb. 10-11

Spend a romantic evening in the natural beauty of the Eastern Kentucky foothills at Carter Caves State Resort Park. Romance that special someone in your life with dinner followed by special performance by the duet Heath Eric & Molly G. Heath and Molly present a high-energy, passionate show filled with authentic originals and unique twists on cover songs. For more info on the performers, check out their website at www.heatheric.com Show times are Friday and Saturday evening at 6:45 p.m. Admission fee of $29.95 plus tax per person includes dinner and show. The park is also offering a package that includes the dinner, show and an overnight stay in Lewis Caveland Lodge for just $120.95 plus tax for two people. Call 1-800-325-0059.

Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, Corbin

Valentine Getaway Weekend Feb. 10-12

Cumberland Falls has been considered one of Kentucky’s most romantic attractions for decades. Your weekend begins with a dance and DJ on Friday evening, with music provided by Radioactive Sounds. Saturday evening features a mystery dinner theater where you will help figure out “who done it?” The weekend package is $299 plus tax per couple, which includes two night’s lodging, Friday evening dance and dinner and show on Saturday. Single person price is $239. Call 1-800-325-0063.

Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park, Burkesville

Valentine’s Celebration Feb. 10-12

Dale Hollow will host several events during the weekend of Feb. 10-12 in honor of Valentine’s Day. The Friday night package for two will include one night’s lodging, dinner and breakfast, and a Chautauqua program at 7:30 p.m. featuring Kelly O’Connell Brengelman as Lucy Audubon. The Friday package is $124.95 per couple. On Saturday, the package includes one night’s lodging, dinner and breakfast and a dance featuring Klassyc Times. The package is $169.95 per couple. The dinner and dance only is $74.95 per couple and the dance only is $20 per person. Call 1-800-325-2282.

General Butler State Resort Park, Carrollton

Perfect Harmony Dinner Theater Feb. 11

General Butler State Resort Park presents “Blues Brothers Tribute Act: The Soul Men.” From their knuckle tattoos to their signature hats and sunglasses, the Soul Men impersonate Jake and Elwood to perfection. The Soul Men’s performance is a fast-paced, high energy, audience participating routine that includes all of your favorite Blue Brothers’ songs and gets the audience moving and dancing. The Butler Lodge package for $165.95 plus tax per couple includes one night’s lodging on Feb. 11, Saturday dinner theater and a Sunday breakfast buffet. Individual tickets for the dinner show are $35 plus tax and are on sale through noon Feb. 11. Call 1-866-462-8853.

Greenbo Lake State Resort Park, Greenup

Valentine Getaway Package Feb. 11-12

Treat that special someone to a Valentine Getaway Package as Greenbo Lake State Resort Park and the Paramount Arts Center present an evening of dinner theater with a comedy production of “The Kentucky Marriage Proposal.” One night’s lodging, dinner and show for two is $130 plus tax; dinner and show only is $28 per person plus tax, tip and drink or $56 for two plus tax, tip and drink. The Sweetheart Buffet is $17.95 per person plus tax, tip and drink. A ticket for the show only is $10. Call 1-800-325-0083.

Jenny Wiley State Resort Park, Prestonsburg

Valentine’s Day Getaway Feb. 14

Enjoy an evening of romantic music while enjoying your candlelight dinner at the Music Highway Grill with Jody Conley. As a professional musician for over 20 years, he played with local groups, Full House Band, Breakaway, was a founding member of the Kentucky Opry, and was a member of Exile. Serving time is 4-8 p.m. Cost is $25 per couple, plus tax and drink. Lodging package available for $100 plus tax per couple, which includes a lodge room, dinner and entertainment. Call 1-800-325-0142.

Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park, Gilbertsville

Couples Month in February

For $125, receive a one-night stay in Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park’s comfortable lodge, with dinner and breakfast. Upon arrival, you will be greeted in your room with a special gift, which includes a bottle of sparkling cider. Dinner at Harbor Lights Restaurant includes a choice of special entree and desert from our Couples’ Menu. The next morning, enjoy a leisurely breakfast for two again at Harbor Lights with a later check-out time. This package is based on availability thru Feb. 29. Call 1-800-325-0146.

Lake Barkley State Resort Park, Cadiz

Sweetheart Weekend Feb. 10-11

Come celebrate Valentine’s Day at Lake Barkley State Resort Park with your sweetheart. On Friday night and Saturday afternoon, enjoy planned recreation activities, and on Saturday night enjoy dinner and the annual Sweetheart Dance with live music, sweet treats and cash bar. Two-night packages are $215 per couple and include Friday and Saturday night lodging in a lake view room, activities, Saturday dinner buffet, Sweetheart Dance and Sunday breakfast. One-night packages are $165 per couple and include lodge room Saturday night, activities, dinner, dance and breakfast. Call 1-800-325-1708 for reservations or additional information.

Lake Cumberland State Resort Park, Jamestown

Sweetie Pie Valentine Dinner Feb. 14

Show your love for your sweetheart with a special romantic dinner at Lake Cumberland State Resort Park. Sit by a window of the park’s beautiful dining room overlooking Lake Cumberland while enjoying your choice of several special entrees such as beef filet mignon, grilled chicken with cherries jubilee sauce, port-roasted pork tenderloin with apple chutney, or coconut-dusted jumbo shrimp. You’re bound to impress the one you love! Reservations are suggested but not required. Call 1-800-325-1709.

Natural Bridge State Resort Park, Slade

Valentine’s Square Dance Feb. 11

Bring your sweetheart out to Natural Bridge for some easy-to-learn Appalachian square dancing, clogging, line dancing, two-stepping, polkas, waltzes, and many other couples and individual dances. The warm-up begins at 6:30 p.m., and the official start time is 7:30 p.m. The dance will be held in the Woodland Center and typically lasts until 10 p.m. Admission is $3 per adult, and children under 12 are free. Contact Brian Gasdorf at brian.gasdorf@ky.gov or (606) 663-2214 for more information.

Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park, Dawson Springs

Sweetheart Month during February

February is sweetheart month! Come stay at Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park – lodge rooms are $44.95 per night during February. On Friday and Saturday night, stay in a lodge room and add a dinner for $80 a couple. If a cottage is more your style, get a one bedroom cottage for $74.95, or a two bedroom cottage for $84.95. The price for a one bedroom cottage and dinner for two is $105. Call 1-800-325-1711.

Pine Mountain State Resort Park, Pineville

Sweethearts Dinner and Dance Feb. 11

Enjoy a dinner and dance at Pine Mountain State Resort Park whether you’re in a new romance, newlyweds or longtime sweethearts. Celebrate your relationship at this event featuring a night of dancing, with a live music duo and a special sweetheart’s dinner. The park’s $110 (plus tax) package for two includes sweetheart’s dinner, dance admission, and one night’s accommodations. Dinner and dance only tickets are available for $70 plus tax. For information, call 1-800-325-1712.

Pine Mountain State Resort Park, Pineville

That’s Amore Dinner Feb. 14

A romantic, Italian-themed dinner to celebrate your sweetheart on Valentine’s Day will be featured on Tuesday, Feb. 14, from 5-9 p.m at Pine Mountain State Resort Park. The special evening of fine dining featuring authentic Italian cuisine will include lasagna, spaghetti, and a saute station where the park’s chef will prepare shrimp, chicken, and vegetables to your personal preference. Rounding out the evening’s special menu will be a variety of pastas and sauces, Italian-style vegetables, rolls, garlic bread, various pasta salads on the bar, and an assortment of all-time favorite desserts. The cost is $30 plus tax per couple. For more information, call 606-337-3066 or 800-325-1712.

Rough River Dam State Resort Park, Falls of Rough

Sweetheart Weekend Feb. 17-19

Bring your special someone to Rough River Dam State Resort Park for a romantic weekend getaway! Festivities begin on Friday evening with professional ballroom dance lessons, and Saturday is filled with activities and games including the “Not-So-Newlywed Game.” A romantic prime rib dinner buffet and Sweetheart Dance highlight the night. Overnight package starts at $250 plus tax per couple and includes two nights’ accommodations, Saturday breakfast, activities, prime rib dinner buffet and dance and Sunday breakfast. Dinner and dance only packages are also available for $85 plus tax per couple and include prime rib dinner buffet and dance on Saturday. Call 1-800-325-1713.

Filed Under: Events, Featured, Holidays in Kentucky, Kentucky State Parks Tagged With: , ,

Eddie Montgomery’s Steakhouse: The Next Kentucky Restaurant You HAVE to Visit

December 14, 2011 By

Eddie Montgomery's Steak House

Eddie Montgomery’s Steakhouse in Harrodsburg, Kentucky has to be seen to be believed. The place is gorgeous and the food is just as impressive. Whatever you do, you HAVE to order the Fried Green Tomatoes. Read on for something extra special about this appetizer.

As I mentioned in my last post (an open love letter to Double Dogs in Bowling Green, Kentucky!), Saturday, my husband and I actually ate out twice.  As a food blogger who cooks often (and loves every second of it), this was kind of a departure from the norm.  But, hey, when someone else has to do the dishes and other people take care of the clean up, you won’t find this gal complaining – especially when the food is as extraordinary as it was in each of the places we visited.

I’ve already told you all about Double Dogs, now I’m anxious to tell you all about our supper at Eddie Montgomery’s Steakhouse in Harrodsburg, Kentucky.  First of all, I have to point out that I am the biggest Montgomery Gentry fan in the world.  I have all of their cds, I know all of the songs by heart, and I was in the front row (waving my arms, swaying, and singing out loud) when Eddie and Troy were inducted into the Grand Ole Opry. What a night!

Needless to say, I was beyond excited at the thought of eating in Eddie Montgomery’s Steakhouse.  He’s half of the greatest Country Music duo (or group or anything) of all time, he’s a fellow Kentuckian AND he’s a UK fan. He’s what we call a “sure thing” in these parts.

I have no idea what I was expecting, but what I experienced surpassed my every expectation.  As we turned onto Lucky Man Way (don’t you love it?), my jaw completely dropped.  The restaurant is absolutely stunning. And so big!   My jaw just continued to stay on the ground as we walked into the gorgeous restaurant – it’s even more impressive inside, and that’s really saying something.  Country music and UK fans will think they’ve died and gone to Heaven. If you happen to be like us (crazy fanatics for Country Music and UK), you’ll pinch yourself a couple thousand times.

Before I get to the food (and what food it was!), let me urge you to give yourself plenty of time to look around the restaurant and gift shop. Take in the entire experience, look at the gorgeous architecture inside and out, and.. by all means… check out all of the wonderful pictures on the walls!  Eddie Montgomery’s colorful, outrageous personality comes through in every nook and corner and you’ll want to have time to soak it all in.

Now, onto the food!

We ordered Fried Green Tomatoes as an appetizer and they were brought out almost immediately.  I was terribly preoccupied with the UK game on one of the many (many, many) television screens, as well as with my gorgeous surroundings – so, oddly enough, I didn’t catch the name of our server. She was, however, extremely friendly and had a colorful personality, like Eddie Montgomery, himself.  The woman was on her game and I even told my husband at one point, “I’ll bet she knows as much about the food as the chef does!“  She was able to make outstanding suggestions and even gave us extra information about dishes we were considering.  It’s a pet peeve when you ask a server a question and they look as lost as Judas.  Then they back away, stammering, “I dunno… I’ll go check…”

That certainly didn’t happen with this lady. I was blown away by her expertise.

Eddie Montgomery Steakhouse Fried Green Tomatoes

The Fried Green Tomatoes and Eddie’s outstanding dip.  I took the picture after I’d already eaten one. I never claimed to have any self control.

I was even more blown away by the food!  The fried green tomatoes were absolutely perfect – and they were served with an AMAZING dip that our server said was one of Eddie’s own recipes.  I could have put that dip on one of my shoes and eaten it.  It was Heavenly.

A bread basket (with real butter blended with honey, thank you very much) was brought to our table and refilled as necessary. LOVE that.  The bread was out of this world delicious. Our server said that if diners preferred, they could have regular butter instead of the honey butter – but I can’t imagine why anyone would do such a thing. The honey butter was creamy perfection and a perfect accompaniment to the delicious rolls.

I ordered a steak, baked potato, and grilled asparagus.  I assume my husband ordered something, but, quite frankly, I was in an “Oh My God, This Is All SO Amazing” zone,  so I can’t say for certain what went on across the table.  I found myself so deep in elation that the sound of Dick Vitale’s voice seemed angelic.  Until the plate was empty, then it was business as usual.

Eddie Montgomery Steakhouse Steak

The star of the show: An exceptional steak in an exceptional restaurant. Note the creamy, pale real butter served with the baked potato. No yellow margarine here.

The steak was one of the best steaks I’ve ever had. It, alone, would have been worth the trip. Fortunately, it was accompanied by a flawless baked potato (served with sour cream and real butter – I’m a stickler for special details like  butter, I can be in an amazing restaurant but somehow think a little less of the entire situation if I’m served canary-yellow margarine).  The asparagus was also very flavorful and just crunchy enough.  I HATE when asparagus wilts like a weakling.  This grilled asparagus was perfect… like everything else.

Eddie Montgomery Steakhouse dessert: Bread PuddingThe Bread Pudding! SO rich, so delicious, so perfect.

For dessert, we ordered Bread Pudding. YUM! Apparently the flavor of bread pudding changes, depending upon the day or night you’re there. We lucked out big time because we were served bread pudding with chocolate chips and caramel drizzled on top. Can you say rich deliciousness?!?!

The whole experience was perfection and have told everyone I know (and even those I don’t know) that Eddie Montgomery’s Steakhouse is a MUST SEE restaurant and the food is something you’re going to fall head over boots in love with.  There’s nothing about the place I didn’t love and can’t wait to go back soon.

I urge you to check out the website, plan out your trip, and see what happens when a good ole Kentucky Boy makes a lifelong dream come true.


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Kentucky Restaurant Reviews
When writing Kentucky Restaurant Reviews, I try, very hard, to accentuate the positive, while spending as little time with the negative as possible.  However, in fairness to my readers, the negative can’t be glossed over or ignored. However, when a “negative” is addressed by a restaurant, I always go back and edit the original post. It’s my pleasure to do so!  A few of my pet peeves when it comes to restaurants are:

  1. Crummy sides. I hate for a restaurant to rest on the laurels of their meat and/or main dishes. If it’s on your menu, it should be able to stand on it’s own, as if it were the ONLY thing on the menu.
  2. Unfriendly servers. If you read a restaurant review on Genuine Kentucky and the server is not mentioned, rest assured that they either weren’t very friendly or weren’t exactly on the ball. Or both!
  3. Unfriendly hosts and hostesses.  Hello?!  You’re paid to be friendly. Your job exists to welcome visitors and make them feel like you’re glad to see them.
  4. Off brand condiments.  I LOVE to see a restaurant owner who cares enough about his/her guests to serve them Heinz or Hunt’s, Red Gold at the very least.  Off brand Ketchup is gross.  It screams “Someone’s cutting corners!!!”
  5. Overcooked fries.  Come on, take them out before they’re brown.  Brown fries aren’t cool.
  6. Watery soft drinks. Servers should be taught that if you see the beverage come out of the machine and there is NO fizzle, DO NOT serve it to the guests. Blech.
  7. Servers who “Push the Wrong Button.”Servers charging the wrong price for menu items is becoming an alarming trend. A server can get annoyed with a customer and, bam, “accidentally” hit the wrong button.  A word to anyone who eats out: Examine your ticket. For example, if the restaurant offers 1/2 off Sushi, make certain your server doesn’t charge you the full price.
  8. I am, by nature, a very friendly guest when I visit restaurants.  I always, always leave tips.  When the service is good, I don’t just tip, I over tip! My oldest daughter is the same way. One sweetheart of a server in Olive Garden once got a $10 tip from us for lunch.  She made us smile, so we wanted to make her smile. It’s really as simple as that.
  9. Real butter is always better than Margarine.
  10. Options, Please.  As someone with a vegetarian daughter, I love for restaurants to offer completely meatless dishes.  Bonus points for the restaurants, like Denny’s, with Boca Burgers on their menu.

Filed Under: Country Music, Famous Kentuckians, Montgomery Gentry, Restaurant Reviews Tagged With: , ,

Kentucky State Parks: Holiday Events

November 28, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Owl Christmas Tree Ornament

We’ve lived in several states (in addition to our home state of Kentucky) during the holidays, so I’m more than qualified to say, “There’s no place like Kentucky for the holidays!“  As a Kentucky girl, I think Thanksgiving SHOULD be surrounded by fallen leaves and crisp, cool weather – just as Christmas should bring with it the hopes of a White Christmas.  If you ask me, Kentucky is the best place in the world and it’s never more obvious than during the holiday season.

Our beautiful Kentucky State Parks are embracing the holiday season in Kentucky as much as I am. Read on for beautiful events planned around Kentucky this month.

The Kentucky State Parks will be ready for the winter holidays this year with special meals, decorations, candlelight tours, entertainment and other special events planned.

State parks are a great place for holiday gatherings in December. All 17 resort parks have restaurants, meeting areas and gift shops that offer unique gift ideas. That includes Kentucky Unbridled Spirit gift cards that are valid at Kentucky State Parks, the Kentucky Horse Park, the Kentucky Historical Society and the Kentucky Artisan Center at Berea.

Many state resort parks will also be holding New Year’s Eve parties and dinners on Dec. 31. For more information about these and other events, visit www.parks.ky.gov

Here is a listing of holiday events at Kentucky State Parks:

Barren River Lake State Resort Park, Lucas

Dec. 3 and 10

Santa’s House and Breakfast with the Grinch

Have you ever wondered what Santa’s house looked like? Here is your chance to take a tour of this magical villa decorated for the holiday season at Barren River Lake State Resort Park on Dec. 3 and 10, from 9:30 a.m. -11:30 a.m. and 5-7 p.m. CST. During your tour, visit with Santa to give him your wish list. Don’t forget to bring your camera if you would like to have your picture made with him. Have green eggs and ham with the Grinch on Dec. 10 at 9 a.m. CST. Don’t worry, this Grinch won’t try to ruin your holiday, and he’s brought his favorite story for us to read to you, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” After breakfast, make a holiday craft to remember your visit. Registration fee is $5 per person. Contact Jamie Avery at jamie.avery@ky.gov or 1-800-325-0057 or 270-646-2151.

Blue Licks Battlefield State Resort Park, Mount Olivet

Dec. 16-17

Golden Girls Murder Mystery Dinner Theater

Laugh in the holidays with the players from Fantastical Theatricals as they perform a holiday whodunit. As Dorothy, Blanche, Rose, and Sophia are planning a holiday party, Dorothy is making plans of her own to announce her engagement to smooth-talker Arthur Walters, but poor Arthur is murdered. All are invited to celebrate the holiday with us and solve the mystery with Lt. Caramba. Overnight packages are available for $129 per couple, which include two tickets for the show, one night’s lodge room and meals. The show is $34.95 per person for the show and dinner the night of the play. For more information call 800-443-7008.

Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park, Buckhorn

Dec. 3

Holiday in the Park

Bring your children for holiday-themed crafts at 1 p.m. CST. Adults can make holiday-themed crafts at 3 p.m. Santa will arrive with reindeer at 4 p.m. From 5-8 p.m. in the lodge dining room, the park will have its annual holiday dinner buffet. Entrees include ham, catfish, fried chicken, and turkey and dressing with sides of buttered corn, mashed potatoes, sweet potato casserole and green beans. On the dessert bar, there will be banana pudding, fruit cobbler and cheesecake. All of this will be offered for $12.99 for adults, not including tax and gratuity. (Children 5 and under eat free.) Another opportunity to see Santa will occur during the buffet. Gather around our cozy fireplace in the lodge lobby as we share a reading of the famous “The Night Before Christmas” at 8 p.m. Call 1-800-325-0058 or 1-606-398-7510 for information.

Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, Corbin

Dec. 3, 10, 17

Holiday Hayride

Bring the family to enjoy a holiday hayride through the park to visit Santa Claus. The cost is $3 per person, and hayrides are available 6-9 p.m. EST. Come early and enjoy dinner at the Riverview Restaurant inside Dupont Lodge. Call 1-800-325-0063.

Fort Boonesborough State Resort Park, Richmond

Dec. 9-10

Christmas on the Frontier

The fort will be lit with candle lanterns and bonfires, and decorated with natural materials from the Cantuckee wilderness from 6-8 p.m. EST. Learn how some of our present-day customs originated and how some have been lost to our past. See how cultures blended on the frontier and different traditions were observed. Enjoy the music, sample the tastes of holiday fare and experience a frontier Christmas. Tickets for adults are $5; children ages 6-12 are $3; under 5 are free. Call 859-527-3131.

General Butler State Resort Park, Carrollton

Dec. 3

Festival of Trees & Winter Wonderfest Day

Christmas trees decorated by local schools, churches, organizations and businesses will adorn the Butler Lodge to help ring in the holiday season. Winter Wonderfest Day is full of surprises for the young and young at heart! Santa will be featured for breakfast on Saturday morning, along with morning activities in the Lodge lounge and an evening holiday concert. Call 1-866-462-8853.

Greenbo Lake State Resort Park, Greenup

Dec. 3-4

Holiday Open House

Greenbo Lake State Resort Park and the Greenup County Homemakers present “Country Christmas Memories.” This marks the 26th year that the Greenup County Homemakers have decorated The Jesse Stuart Lodge. There will be plenty of holiday decorations and treats to view and sample. Join the park for a festive time and joyous occasion for the entire family. Call the park at 606-473-7324 for more information.

Jenny Wiley State Resort Park, Prestonsburg

Dec. 17, 18

Breakfast with Santa and Frosty

Jenny Wiley State Resort Park invites you to come celebrate the Christmas season with a breakfast buffet to remember. While you enjoy your breakfast, you and your children can visit with Santa Claus and Frosty as they have made a special trip from the North Pole to visit everyone at Jenny Wiley. Have your picture made with both of our wintertime friends. Santa will have a special treat for each child. Adult buffet is $7.49 plus tax and children ages 6–12 are $5.49; children age 5 and under eat free. Contact Park Naturalist Trinity Shepherd at 1-800-325-0142 or email at tshepherd@suddenlinkmail.com for more information.

John James Audubon State Park, Henderson

Dec. 10 10:30-noon

Santa’s at the Park

Come join the elves at the annual “Santa’s at the Park,” Saturday, Dec. 10, from 10:30-noon CST, for children ages 3-7 and their families. Share the holiday activities: art, storytelling and treats with Santa. Class fee will be $7. Photos with Santa will be optional for an extra fee. Pre-registration required. Staff Contact: Kim McGrew-Liggett, Audubon Museum, 270-827-1893 or kim.mcgrew@ky.gov.

Kenlake State Resort Park, Aurora

Dec. 11

Christmas in the Park

Stop by the park from 2-4 p.m. CST and let the children spend some time with Santa and make a great Christmas craft. Refreshments will be provided. Please bring a canned food item to donate. Help someone else along the way! Lunch will be available beginning at noon. For more information call 1-800-325-0143.

Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park, Gilbertsville

Dec. 10

Breakfast with Santa and Frosty

Come visit Santa as he stops by for breakfast with all the boys and girls in the Harbor Lights Restaurant from 8-11 a.m. CST. Frosty will join us in all the fun! You can have your picture made with Santa and Frosty and let Santa know what you would like under the tree on Christmas morning. All children will receive a small gift from Santa and a Christmas sugar cookie to decorate. Adult breakfast is $6.99 and children ages 6-12 are $4.99. Under 6 are free. Call 1-800-325-0146.

My Old Kentucky Home State Park, Bardstown

Nov. 25-26; Dec. 2-3; Dec. 9-10

Christmas Candlelight Tours

Sample the elegant past during “My Old Kentucky Home” annual Christmas candlelight tours 5:30-8:30 p.m. EST. The glow of candlelight will adorn the mansion in splendid 1800’s fashion. Elaborate period holiday costumes, music and traditional refreshments nightly. The park’s gift shop offers unique Kentucky handmade crafts, foods and holiday gifts. Adults are $5.50, seniors are $5 and children ages 6-12 are $3.50. Children under 6 are free. Call 502-348-3502.

Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park, Dawson Springs

Dec. 3

Visit Santa and Enjoy a Buffet Dinner

The park is decorated beautifully for the holiday season. Come enjoy the festive atmosphere inside and out. You may take your own photos or have us email you a copy of photos we take of your family with Santa from 5-7 p.m. CST in the lodge lobby. A buffet dinner will be served from 5-8 p.m. at Clifty Creek Restaurant. For information, call 1-800-325-1711.

Rough River Dam State Resort Park, Falls of Rough

Dec. 3 Supper With Santa

Dec. 14 and 16 Holiday Buffet

Supper with Santa will include children’s activities, holiday crafts and a visit from the big guy himself. Grayson’s Landing Restaurant will host a special buffet from 4:30 to 8 p.m. CST with adults at $7.99 and children at $4.99 (plus tax). The festivities begin at 4:30 p.m.

Grayson’s Landing also will host a Holiday Luncheon Buffet on Dec. 14 and a Holiday Dinner Buffet on Dec. 16. Small businesses and the general public are invited to attend and enjoy the special holiday menu. Pricing is $7.99 for lunch and $12.99 for dinner (plus drink and tax). Call 1-800-325-1713.

Waveland State Historic Site, Lexington

Dec. 10-11

Christmas Candlelight Tour

Waveland State Historic Site will host its Christmas Candlelight Tour on Dec. 10-11 from 6-9 p.m. EST. The tour is a beloved holiday tradition. Waveland mansion will be decorated in the style of the 1840s, along with period entertainment. Refreshments will be served in the plantation’s 200-year-old log cabin. The cost is $7 for adults, $6 for senior citizens and $4 for students of any age. Children under 6 are given free admission. Call 859-272-3611.

White Hall State Historic Site, Richmond

Dec. 2-3, 9-10

Victorian Christmas

Visit White Hall to learn about holiday practices from the past and how they are still used today. The historic home will feature holiday lights and other seasonal decorations, open 6-8 p.m. EST. Tickets for adults are $7 and children ages 6-12 are $4. Group rates for 10 or more. Bring a canned item for a food drive. Call 859-623-9178 for information.

Filed Under: Featured, Holidays in Kentucky, Kentucky State Parks, Winter in Kentucky Tagged With: ,

Murder and a Meal at Lake Barkley State Resort Park

September 1, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Lake Barkley Lodge

Beautiful Lake Barkley Lodge

A lot of times when I see the phrase, “Back by Popular Demand,” I kind of give a skeptical smirk – but if there’s ever been a time when I believe it body, mind, and soul it’s now.  One of the funnest shows I’ve ever seen was the last Murder and a Meal at Lake Barkley State Resort Park’s Dinner Theater (you can read the review here).  Every single person there had the time of their lives, including my own family.

This is the sort of entertainment that the entire family will enjoy.  And the food?  You won’t find better food in any restaurant.  It’s outstanding.

From Lake Barkley State Resort Park Dinner Theater:

Back by popular demand, Lake Barkley State Resort Park’s Dinner Theater series presents another murder mystery where you, the audience, try to figure out who done it! “Silence of the Hams,” a murder mystery about a serial pig killer troubling the town’s annual pig festival, will be performed by Laughing Corpse Production Company out of Nashville with lots of audience participation. So grab your magnifying glass and mystery solving skills and head out to Lake Barkley State Resort Park on Saturday, Oct. 1, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. While piecing the clues together you will also enjoy a themed, all-you-can-eat buffet.

Enjoy the feasting and the fun, but keep your eyes peeled as we see who ends up a pork chop and who’ll be bringing home the bacon. Tickets are on sale now for $45 a person and that includes dinner and entertainment. Limited seating is available so get your tickets now! For tickets or additional information call the lodge at 1-800-325-1708 or email mary.schmidt@ky.gov.

Besides the lodge and a spectacular view of the lake, the park includes cottages, the Windows on the Water Restaurant, a seasonal campground, 18-hole golf course, fitness center with indoor pool, marina, fishing, tennis courts, hiking trails, gift shop, and recreational and nature programming. The park is near Cadiz and the Land Between the Lakes at 3500 State Park Road just off I-24. Exit at Highway 68. From the exit go west toward Cadiz and the park.

Filed Under: Entertainment, Lake Barkley SRP Tagged With: ,

Enjoy Summer Even More at Badgett Playhouse in Grand Rivers, Kentucky

August 5, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Here’s an interesting interview with Bill Minihan from Badgett Playhouse in Grand Rivers, Kentucky. Bill talks about the shows that are being put on at Badgett Playhouse. Every show being put on this summer is an absolute winner and I guarantee you’ll have the time of your life.

After watching the video, check out Grand Rivers Variety for upcoming shows and specials. Also, click HERE for my review of Red, White, and Tuna – an absolutely side-splitting and hilarious show who’s time is running out! Catch these zany and colorful characters while you have a chance. Unless, of course, two hours of laughter and fun doesn’t appeal to you…

Filed Under: Entertainment, Grand Rivers, Grand Rivers Variety, Summertime in Kentucky Tagged With:

Kentucky State Fair: They’re Going ALL Out this Year!

July 26, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Kentucky State Fair 2011

The Kentucky State Fair, a tradition since 1902, is merely days away. The 2011 Kentucky State Fair will run from Thursday, August 18 to Sunday, August 28. I couldn’t possibly go into all of the different attractions, performances, shows, rides, food, and exhibits, so I’ll just hit on a couple and leave you with links to more information. After all, it took the Kentucky State Fair an entire website to cover everything, it’d be crazy for me to attempt it within one post!

One of the exhibits is called Main Street Kentucky and sounds like something every Kentuckian would really enjoy:

Housed inside the air-conditioned South Wing, Main Street Kentucky offers exhibits that represent the cultural heritage and diversity of the Bluegrass State. The exhibit’s creative displays provide numerous hands-on activities for fair-goers of all ages and interests. Main Street Kentucky’s exhibitors offer information on anything from education and government to the environment and arts. – Ky State Fair.org

Free Concerts at the Kentucky State Fair 2011:

  • The Oak Ridge Boys with The Grascals
  • Ted Nugent
  • Joe Nichols with special guest Phil Vassar
  • Boyz II Men
  • Candlebox with Cowboy Mouth
  • John Michael Montgomery with special guest Lorrie Morgan
  • Luke Bryan
  • And more!

Main Stage Concerts:

(Tickets for the Kentucky State Fair Main Stage Series events will be available at Kentucky Exposition Center Ticket Office, KFC YUM! Center Ticket Office, Kentucky International Convention Center (KICC) Ticket Office and all Ticketmaster outlets.)

  • Jason Aldean with Chris Young and Thompson Square
  • Lady Antebellum with Lee Brice
  • Def Leppard with Heart
  • Maroon 5 and Train with Matt Nathanson

Civil War Buffs, You’re Going to Love This:

Visitors will be able to watch a Civil War re-enactment as  a tribute to the 150th anniversary of the war. The exhibit is titled “United We Stand, Divided We Fall: Kentucky and the Civil War + 150,” and will include a 10,000-square-foot exhibition featuring encampments as settings for living history re-enactors.

Other features will include touch-screen interactive stations, a communication exhibit outlining major advances such as the development of the telegraph and a floor map that is 32 feet wide and contains graphics and images of state-specific Civil War scenes and sites.

What’s more, an original mini-musical, “Kentucky’s Civil War Song: From Reveille to Tattoo,” will be performed on an adjacent stage. The production was written and produced by faculty, alumni and students of Louisville’s Youth Performing Arts School.

For more information, head over to the colorful and fun Kentucky State Fair website.  You can also follow them on Twitter and Facebook.

Filed Under: Country Music, Entertainment, Events, Kentucky's History, Louisville, Summertime in Kentucky Tagged With: ,

Red, White, and Tuna: You’ll Laugh Until You Cry and That’s a Promise

July 21, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Red White and Tuna Grand Rivers Variety

I sat at my computer (much needed coffee cup to the left, much beloved cat to the right) for about 10 minutes this morning trying to think of an appropriate opening sentence for this review.  You see, I’m impossibly obsessed with the Greater Tuna shows at Grand Rivers Variety.  And this isn’t just any review, this is a Tuna Review. Everything has to be just right!

Here’s the thing. One of my most defining characteristics is this: I love to laugh – the more the better.  Got it from my dad. He was incredibly generous with laughs and I’m not the least bit stingy with mine.  Naturally, a lifelong lover of laugher is drawn to things that make them burst out with CRAZY laughter – the kind that makes everything in the world disappear.  Everything except the raining endorphins brought on by laughter.

The Greater Tuna shows put on at Grand Rivers Variety don’t just rain laughter, they cause floods.  It may not have been on the news, but there was a flood in Grand Rivers last night. Fortunately, we were all washed away by “feel good” endorphins as opposed to “get wet” water.

The boys (Bill Minihan and Steve Sherling) were all over their game last night.  These two incredibly talented and hilarious actors could hold their own with anyone – Steve Carell, Jack Black, Robert Downey, Jr., Dane Cook… In fact, and this is no lie – as much as I love this list of comic actors (each are personal favorites), I had just as soon see a Greater Tuna show in Grand Rivers as one of their movies.  I’m not sure how we, as Kentuckians, got such a lucky draw. These guys could be in Hollywood right now, in movies or on tv, making millions do the CRAZY laugh – as opposed to working their mojo in beautiful Grand Rivers, Kentucky.

We got VERY lucky.

Even though it was a Wednesday, the crowd last night was really good.  I was afraid that the middle of the week would cause a problem, but apparently I’m not the only one who loves to laugh.  The crowd (of all ages) was practically in a fit of laughter the entire time.  Some who were sitting around us had never seen a Greater Tuna show and I felt like looking at them and going, “I know, right?!” but it’s hard to speak when you’re doubled over laughing.

Speaking of crazy laughter – why, when we’re in fits of laughter do we hold our cheeks or cover our mouths? Are we attempting to keep our facial parts in place?  I understand the doubling over. One has to find a position in which they can breath. Such gyrations!

At one point, I even slapped my husband’s arm – as though it was his fault I was being swept away in a fit of laughter.  Fortunately he has big arms and was busy laughing, himself.

A little background, in case you aren’t familiar with the Greater Tuna shows. Two actors (the aforementioned Bill Minihan and Steve Sherling) brilliantly portray a town of colorful nuts and hysterical misfits from the fictional town of Greater Tuna, Texas.  When the boys step out in drag, they literally have to wait to say their lines after the laughter dies down.  Words cannot possibly do their characters or their performances justice.   I’ve seen a great number of bucket lists and “Things to See Before You Die” books, but I’d respectfully suggest each one add this one: See Bill Minnihan and Steve Sherling as the ladies (ladies???) of Greater Tuna.

Visions you’ll never, ever forget. Bill makes a lot of woman… a whole lot of woman, and Steve’s footwear was absolutely killer.  The thought of him strutting around in heels makes me laugh even now.  These two performers lose themselves in these deliciously outrageous characters the way LeBron James loses himself in basketball, John Grisham loses himself in writing, and Halle Berry loses herself in hotness.  They are willing to go to any and all lengths to entertain their crowds – and that’s just what they do.

It’s as though laughter is their life source and the more laughter they bring about, the longer they’re allowed to live.  If there’s truth behind this theory, apparently these boys want to live forever.

From Grand Rivers Variety’s website: The much anticipated third installment in the Tuna trilogy takes the audience through another satirical ride into the hearts and minds of the polyester-clad citizens of Texas’ third smallest town. Along with Tuna’s perennial favorites, some new Tuna denizens burst into the 4th of July Tuna High School Class Reunion. This sets the stage for a show full of fireworks and fun!

Fireworks, fun, and a flood.  They forgot to mention the flood.

During the first fifteen minutes, I kept trying to remember favorite, classic lines to tell my daughters (and to include in this post).  However, after about 20 minutes into the show, I’d ran out of fingers to count them on as well as the ability to reason.  It’s all good, though.  Crazy laughter can sweep me away anytime it wants.  I was delighted to see that some new insanely funny characters had been added, but even more thrilled to see old favorites back – more deliciously entertaining than ever.

My husband told me that he’d heard that this one was EVEN funnier than the others.  I kind of scoffed and thought, “As if. Nothing could be funnier than the other Greater Tuna shows.”  At one point (it was either right after I popped my husband’s arm or right at the time the stranger beside me slapped mine), I stopped scoffing and conceded that this one was, indeed, the funniest one yet.

If the thought of three hours of GREAT entertainment, CRAZY laughter, and rushing floods of endorphins sounds like a good time to you, I strongly urge you to head over to Grand Rivers Variety and buy tickets.  Pronto! There aren’t many shows left and this is one you’d be a nut to let get away.

As we were leaving, I noticed that (like us) everyone else was still laughing – and most of us were holding our stomachs. Laughter is such a glorious ab workout.

One final thought: It doesn’t matter what age you are, Greater Tuna will give you an evening you’ll never forget.  Directly in front of us were two rows of high school kids.  They spent the evening doubled over laughing hysterically.  Directly beside us (and in the row behind us) were people who… well, let’s just say they’d been out of high school longer than Elton John’s been out of the closet.  They were also lost in fits of crazy laughter.  All of us had the time of our lives and felt it from our heads to our toes.

At one point (and it’s worth noting that we were only an hour into the hilarity) a woman behind me laughed so hard she snorted.  It was after one of Bill Minihan’s big women sashayed onto the stage.  The lady told her husband, “I’ve never laughed so much in all my life!”  They both just kept laughing and laughing – along with everyone else in the theater.  A bunch of red-faced, doubled-over, laughing, snorting, people having the time of their lives.  People who, if they could take the time to think and reason, would feel woefully sorry for anyone and everyone on the outside of the theater.   There was so much happiness and fun in the air that it crackled.

That, dear readers, is what you can expect from a trip to Greater Tuna.

Again, please go to Grand Rivers Variety and order your tickets right now.  I want YOU to have the same wonderful time we all did last night. I want YOU to remember what it’s like to get so swept away by laughter and fun that everything else slides away.  It’s a natural high that even caffeine can’t touch.

Also, if you’re on Twitter… and you really should be!… follow Grand Rivers Variety (@GRVariety). They’ll keep you updated on new shows, show times, and a lot more.

 

Filed Under: Entertainment, Grand Rivers Variety, Reviews Tagged With: , ,

Summertime in Greenville Means Saturdays on the Square!

July 2, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Saturdays on the Square Greenville Kentucky

The weather’s warm, baseball’s in full swing,  and everyone’s swapping grilling techniques. It must be summertime!  In Greenville, Kentucky that means it’s time to hit the square and shake what your mother gave you!

Satudays on the Square is back for the third year in a row in the friendly little town of Greenville.  The popular outdoor concert series will take place each Saturday night in July and August. The concerts are held on the Veteran’s Plaza Stage between the Courthouse and Judicial Center.

From Tour Greenville’s website: During this nine-week period a different genre of music will be featured each week ranging from southern gospel and classic rock to Motown and dance. Each performance will begin at 8:00 pm with the exception of Bluegrass night which will begin earlier to accommodate two acts (click on schedule below for details). Attendees should bring their lawn chairs and friends and plan to have a great time as they listen to free live music, kick up their heels, visit with old friends, make new friends, enjoy some good eats and just basically have a fun Saturday on the Square!

In the event of rain, the show must go on! The location for any rained out concerts with the exception of gospel night and the grand finale will be at Muhlenberg County High School, East Campus at 2900 State Route 176 in Greenville. In the event of a rain out on gospel night the concert will be moved to the Multi-Ministry Building of Second Baptist Church at 217 West Depot Street, Greenville. On finale night, the concert will take place on the square rain or shine.

For the full schedule and performers, you’ll want to visit Tour Greenville Saturdays on the Square.

Photo Credit: Tour Greenville

Filed Under: Bluegrass Music, Greenville, Summertime in Kentucky

Red, White, and Tuna at Grand Rivers Variety

July 1, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Red White and Tuna Grand Rivers Variety

Are you ready to find out what “rolling on the floor laughing your butt off” really feels like?  If your butt’s game, here’s your chance. A “Greater Tuna” show is back in all of its hilarious glory at Grand Rivers Variety in Grand Rivers, Kentucky.  If you’ve read Genuine Kentucky for very long (and if not, where have you been?!), you’ve no doubt read my Greater Tuna reviews and are well aware that they act upon my funny-bone the way catnip acts upon a cat.

About Red, White, and Tuna:

The much anticipated third installment in the Tuna trilogy takes the audience through another satirical ride into the hearts and minds of the polyester-clad citizens of Texas’ third smallest town. Along with Tuna’s perennial favorites, some new Tuna denizens burst into the 4th of July Tuna High School Class Reunion. This sets the stage for a show full of fireworks and fun!  – Grand Rivers Variety

The writing is outrageously funny and the performances are even funnier.  These shows make you miss the good old days of comedy – when writers and actors depended on humor to get a reaction, rather than shock value.

You’ll lose yourself in the fictional and deliciously zany little town of Tuna as the town’s outrageous characters (male and female) are hilariously brought to life by Bill Minihan and Steve Sherling. I’ve often wished that Grand Rivers Variety had each of their Tuna shows on dvd – they’d make excellent Christmas presents for people who love to laugh!

The seasonal shows at Grand Rivers Variety are just that – seasonal…… as in you’d better act now or they won’t just be gone, they’ll be long gone. Trust me, this one’s far too fun to let get away.  There are only 5 shows for Red, White, and Tuna on the schedule: July 13, 20, and 27 and August 3 and 10. Each of these shows is on a Wednesday and, mark it down, you’ll still be talking about it when the next Wednesday rolls around.

True story: A few days ago, my husband Michael told me the official opening date of Red, White, and Tuna and I laughed.  I said, “I’m laughing already!“  Still am…. yeah, they’re that funny.

Visit Grand Rivers Variety’s website for ticket information now!

Filed Under: Entertainment, Grand Rivers Variety, Summertime in Kentucky Tagged With: , ,

Lake Barkley Hosts Chautauqua Appearance of Grandpa Jones

June 14, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Grandpa Jones
Beautiful Lake Barkley State Resort Park will host a Kentucky Chautauqua presentation June 18 about country musician and comic Grandpa Jones.

Born Louis Marshall Jones in Henderson County, Ky., to sharecroppers, Jones was a singer, banjo picker, song writer and later in life television star on “Hee Haw.” Grandpa Jones was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1978. He never retired and died in 1998.

David Hurt portrays Grandpa Jones for Kentucky Chautauqua, a program sponsored by the Kentucky Humanities Council. Hurt has played the guitar and banjo across the state and has acted at Stage One in Louisville and in Lexington theaters.

The June 18 appearance at Lake Barkley will begin at 7 p.m. It is free and open to the public. For more information, call the park at 1-800-325-1708.

Lake Barkley State Resort Park is the largest state resort park in Kentucky and features a lodge, cottages, the Windows on the Water Restaurant, a seasonal campground, 18-hole golf course, fitness center with indoor pool, marina, fishing, tennis courts, hiking trails, gift shop, and recreational and nature programming. The park is located at 3500 State Park Road in Cadiz. From I-24, take the Highway 68 exit west toward Cadiz.

Filed Under: Entertainment, Events, Famous Kentuckians, Lake Barkley SRP Tagged With:
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