This is impressive Kentucky news, and something I know all horse lovers are going to be excited about.

The North American Riders Group (NARG) has released its second annual report of the Top 25 Horse Shows, and three of those shows are held at the Kentucky Horse Park annually – the Alltech National Horse Show, the Kentucky Spring Horse Shows, and the Adequan FEI North American Junior and Young Rider Championships. The Kentucky Horse Park was the only facility in North America to host more than one Top 25 show on the list.

“For the Kentucky Horse Park to host one NARG Top 25 show is certainly a notable distinction,” said John Nicholson, executive director of the Kentucky Horse Park. “Hosting three Top 25 shows is an immeasurable honor. This recognition is an example of what the Kentucky Horse Park has worked so long to achieve, and proves that the park is among the best facilities in the world.”

The North American Riders Group, representing the riders and owners in North America, is composed of the top horsemen from the United States, Canada and Mexico and was formed with the goal of improving the sport of show jumping. In the report of the NARG Top 25 Horse Shows of 2011, the group stated, “The North American Riders Group remains steadfast in achieving an essential goal – improving our sport so that once again show jumping in North America will rank among the greatest in the world.”

The Alltech National Horse Show (ANHS), which debuted at the Kentucky Horse Park in October 2011, achieved the highest ranking for any American horse show, and achieved an overall rating of third among all horse shows in North America on the NARG list. This was the show’s 128th edition, having started in Madison Square Garden in New York City in 1883, and it is known as America’s oldest indoor horse show.

According to the NARG report, “Once one of the nation’s most esteemed and celebrated indoor events, The National Horse Show is making a comeback. With the support of Alltech, as well as other sponsors, this year the renowned event relocated to the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, KY. It appears the show will remain at this home of the 2010 (Alltech FEI) World Equestrian Games (WEG) indefinitely, with great efforts to return it to its bygone excellence.”

“We are thrilled that the Alltech National Horse Show has received such a prestigious ranking from the North American Riders Group,” Nicholson said. “To be recognized by a body whose primary purpose is furthering excellence in show jumping and equestrian sport is a measure of achievement for the National Horse Show team that has worked tirelessly for many years already to restore the show to its glory. The Kentucky Horse Park’s Alltech Arena is the perfect new home for this great show and we look forward to the next 100-plus years of its history.”

More than 560 horses and 350 riders from nine countries attended in 2011 and the show’s debut this past season will go down in the record books as one of the most successful in the history of equestrian events in the United States. The second edition of the Alltech National Horse Show will take place Oct. 31-Nov. 4, 2012, in the Alltech Arena.

Earning an overall ranking of 13 on the NARG report, the Kentucky Spring Horse Shows is a series of hunter jumper shows held back-to-back for two weeks in May. The Kentucky Spring Horse Show and the Kentucky Spring Classic have been held at the park for 20 years, and utilize the park’s Rolex Stadium, Covered Arena, Hunter Jumper Complex and other facilities.

According to the NARG report, “With the space and amenities to host some of the world’s best outdoor and indoor events, including the World Equestrian Games, the Rolex Three-Day Event, the National Horse Show, USHJA Hunter Derby Finals, North American Young Rider Championships and more, the Kentucky Horse Park is hands down one of the top venues in North America.” The report continues, “Currently with an A+ facility and the ranking classes it offers, the Kentucky Spring Horse Shows remains firmly in the NARG Top 25.”

The Kentucky Spring Horse Show will be held May 9-13, 2012 and the Kentucky Spring Classic will be held May 16-20, 2012. Produced by the same management group, the Kentucky Summer Horse Show will be held July 25-29, 2012 and the Kentucky Summer Classic will be held Aug. 1-5, 2012.

With an overall ranking of 14 on the NARG report, the Adequan FEI North American Junior and Young Rider Championships (NAJYRC) is a new event the park was able to attract and accommodate because of its new facilities. Held at the park since 2009, NAJYRC is the highest level competition for qualified young riders in North America to compete in the FEI (International Equestrian Federation) disciplines of Show Jumping, Dressage, Eventing and Reining in a challenging Nations Cup format.

According to the NARG report, “For many, simply landing in Lexington, KY is an experience in itself. Acres of bluegrass and beautiful barns span the roads to the Kentucky Horse Park. As we’ve noted the KHP is a fantastic place to host a championship competition, with 1,200 acres, multiple arenas and fantastic footing. Aside from some very hot and humid summer weather, it is a magnificent setting and a treasured time for those who have worked hard to earn a chance to compete at NAJYRC.”

The next Adequan FEI North American Junior and Young Rider Championships will be held July 18-22, 2012, and will utilize the Alltech Arena, Rolex Stadium, Covered Arena, Hunter Jumper Complex, Walnut Ring and other facilities.

The North American Riders Group developed the Top 25 ranking system to establish a clear measure of excellence among North America’s horse shows so as to evaluate them fairly so that they could be considered world class. According to the report, “Clearly it is mandatory that a select group of our North American horse shows be considered world class, not only for the benefit of our riders and our continent but also to draw riders from around the world to this side of the ocean to compete.”

“With thousands of multi-day horse shows in the US, Canada and Mexico each year, we only expect 25 events from those three countries to offer the proper mix of ingredients for the top level of our sport.” The report continues, “Whether the location is a large grass field transformed into a glorious grand prix or a multi-million dollar facility, each event should have fabulous footing, courses, ceremony, stabling, hospitality, healthy food, convenient accommodations, strong marketing and be managed by a knowledgeable, friendly staff. NARG divides these key ingredients into eight distinct categories and scores several aspects within each one.”

A copy of the full Top 25 Horse Shows of 2011 report is available at www.NARG.org.

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Carter Caves State Resort Park invites you to step back in time when Native Americans and European colonists lived closer to nature.

The park’s Tracking and Woodslore Weekend, March 2-4, will allow guests to learn about the skills that were needed for survival in the wilderness. You’ll learn about animal tracking, hunting, nature, native plants and more.

The program begins Friday evening and will continue through Sunday morning. Both indoor and outdoor sessions are planned – including some hikes – so guests should bring appropriate clothing and shoes.

The cost of the program is $25 for adults and $15 for youths ages 15 and under. Carter Caves is offering overnight packages for two for $149.95 plus tax, which includes two nights’ lodging and the program. The campground will also be open as well as the park restaurant, Tierney’s Cavern.

For more information and reservations, call the park at 1-800-325-0059. For a list of the weekend’s activities, visit http://winteradventureweekend.com/TrackingWoodsLoreFlyer.pdf

Carter Caves offers cave tours, golf, hiking, mini-golf, fishing, camping, horseback riding and swimming during the summer. Carter Caves also has a lodge and restaurant. To get to Carter Caves State Resort Park from Interstate 64 East, take exit 161 (Olive Hill exit). Turn left off the exit onto U.S. 60 east. Go approximately 2 miles and turn left on KY 182 north. Park entrance is 3 miles from the left turn onto KY 182 north.

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John James Audubon State Park will honor Black History Month with a Kentucky Chautauqua Performance: Reverend Newton Bush, “Freedom at a Terrible Price” on February 11, 2012

February is, of course, Black History Month. Several agencies within the Kentucky Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet will be holding events during February in honor of the month long celebration.

Below is a listing of these events:

John James Audubon State Park, Henderson

Kentucky Chautauqua Performance: Reverend Newton Bush, “Freedom at a Terrible Price”

Saturday, Feb. 11, 2 p.m., Audubon Museum

In 1864 Kentucky became the last state to allow slaves to enlist in the Union Army. The Rev. Newton Bush, like many other slaves, risked his life to escape. He traveled to Camp Nelson and enlisted in the Army to fight for his freedom, the freedom of loved ones, and to preserve the union. Those like Bush soon found that even though they were risking their lives to fight for freedom, this alone did not ensure they would be treated with any more respect and dignity than they received as slaves. This Kentucky Chautauqua performance (by actor Robert Bell) is presented in conjunction with the Kentucky Humanities Council and the John James Audubon Museum. Free. Call 270-827-1893.

My Old Kentucky Home State Park, Bardstown

Lecture, Luncheon and Kentucky Chautauqua Performance

Friday, Feb. 24, 11 a.m.

Pen Bogert, a preservation administrator in Bardstown, will share his research on slaves at the Federal Hill Plantation. Robert Bell will portray the Rev. Newton Bush, an African-American Union soldier, in “Freedom at a Terrible Price.” This Kentucky Chautauqua performance is sponsored in part by the Kentucky Humanities Council. Lunch will also be served. The cost is $15 a person and reservations are required. Call 1-800-323-7803 for reservations and information.

Kentucky Historical Society, Frankfort

Family History Workshop

Feb. 11 at 10:30 a.m.

The Kentucky Historical Society will present “Entangled Lives,” a dialogue between descendants of a master and a slave with Ann Neel and Pam Smith. This is a free program, but advance registration is required. To reserve a space, email KHSRefDesk@ky.gov before Feb. 10. Smith will also discuss her Kentucky family lines that connect with President Thomas Jefferson’s sister, Lucy Jefferson Lewis, of Livingston County, Ky., and intersect with the noted conservationist, Thomas Wallace, editor of the Louisville Times during the 1930s and ’40s. Smith will instruct the group on how to trace slavery and slaveholding in their own families through pictures, oral histories, census and probate records, information from research trips, and results from DNA testing. It will take place at the Thomas D. Clark Center for Kentucky History, 100 W. Broadway, Frankfort.

Kentucky Humanities Council, various locations

Kentucky Chautauqua Programs

Several Kentucky Chautauqua programs related to African-American history in Kentucky will be presented during February. These programs, sponsored by the Kentucky Humanities Council, feature actors who portray characters from Kentucky history. They include Anna Mac Clarke, portrayed by Haley McCoy, and her experience as an African-American woman in the Army during World War II; the Rev. Newton Bush, an African-American Union soldier, portrayed by Robert Bell; and “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing!,” By Daryl Harris, a musical history of African-Americans in Kentucky. Here are the programs:

• Feb. 2, Anna Mac Clarke, military pioneer, Martin County Historical and Genealogical Society, Inez

• Feb. 9, Anna Mac Clarke, military pioneer, Bluegrass Heritage Museum, Winchester

• Feb. 9, The Rev. Newton Bush, “Freedom at a Terrible Price,” Big Sandy Community and Technical College, Prestonsburg

• Feb. 9, “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing,” Daryl Harris, McCracken County Public Library, Paducah

• Feb. 21, The Rev. Newton Bush, “Freedom at a Terrible Price,” Paul Sawyier Public Library, Frankfort

• Feb. 28, The Rev. Newton Bush, “Freedom at a Terrible Price,” Woodford County Public Library, Versailles

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When it comes to freak accidents, few are any freakier than the one that befell the Eggner Ferry Bridge at the western entrance to Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area. The bridge at US 68 and Kentucky 80 remains indefinitely closed after a Delta Mariner crashed into the bridge Thursday night, knocking out a 322-foot span.

Hopefully, people will rise up to the challenge, as they normally do when catastrophes and “freak accidents” happen. People generally pull together to support their neighbors and the people in the communities around them. Kenlake and Lake Barkle State Resort Parks are open and eagerly await your visit. Whether you go for a weekend (or week long if you need it!) retreat or just dinner in one of their excellent lodge restaurants, know that you’ll be doing your part to support fellow Kentuckians and Kentucky State Parks when they really need you the most.

I hope you’ll visit them this month…. and each month thereafter. I know you’ll fall in love with the area as much as I have. I’ll probably even see you there! I love each of these state resort parks as well as every single restaurant in Aurora:

• Willow Pond (best catfish in the world)
• The Brass Lantern
• Belew’s Dairy Bar (open seasonally)
• Aurora Bar-B-Que

During the winter months, Willow Pond isn’t open every night of the week. You’ll want to check before planning your trip. Call (270) 474-2202 for information. Believe me, Willow Pond’s catfish, hush puppies, beans, and desserts are worth the drive!

What You Need to Know:
Guests traveling to Lake Barkley and Kenlake State Resort Parks should be aware that the U.S. 68/KY 80 bridge over Kentucky Lake is closed to traffic. It was struck Thursday night (Jan. 26) by a cargo ship, destroying a main truss.

Both parks are open. Guests should use alternative routes, such as Interstate 24 on the northern end of the Land Between the Lakes.

For more information, guests can call the parks. The number for Lake Barkley is 1-800-325-1708. The number for Kenlake is 1-800-325-0143.

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Gorgeous Cumberland Falls State Resort Park is a PARADISE for hikers and a dream come true for photographers. They’re hosting a “First Saturday of the Month Hike” starting Feb. 4 and it’s something you won’t want to miss.

The 10 a.m. trek will be a guided, interpretive hike on the Blue Bend Trail, a 4.5-mile loop. The first 3 miles of trail follow the Cumberland River along a hemlock grove and then ascend the hill leading to a “surprise” at the top.

Participants should bring a lunch and drinking water and should dress appropriately for the weather. This event is free. Participants should meet in the Great Room of Dupont Lodge at 10 a.m.

Cumberland Falls State Resort Park has a lodge, Riverview Restaurant, cottages, campground, hiking trails, fishing, horseback riding, rafting, other recreational activities and a great view of Cumberland Falls.

Call the park at 1-800-325-0063 for information.

Learn more about Cumberland Falls State Resort Park on Kentucky’s State Parks’ beautiful website!

Cumberland Falls State Resort Park Art Prints:

Cumberland Falls,…
Diane Johnson
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Cumberland Falls,… 
Panoramic Images…
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Dogslaughter…
Adam Jones
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As I’ve said (and said, and said, and said…) there’s always something going on in Kentucky’s Land Between the Lakes.  Whether it’s spring, summer, fall, or blisteringly cold winter – it’s always the right time to take a trip to Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley.

Below is information, from the Friends of Land Between the Lakes.  They’d also like you to know that the welcome mat never rolls up in the LBL region. It’s always out and you’re always treated like a long lost family member.

Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area is presenting Cross Creeks National Wildlife Refuge Tour on Saturday, February 11, 2012, from 9am-12pm. Cross Creeks National Wildlife Refuge, which is managed by the U.S.Fish & Wildlife Service in Stewart County, TN, provides one of the area’s best wildlife viewing hotspots.

The tour is $10 for adults and $7 for children. Registration is limited. Reservations and full deposits are required. Call 270-924-2020 to reserve your space. Meet at South Welcome Station. Dress for the weather and bring binoculars.

“Come join us as we explore this bottomland habitat in search of harriers, sandhill cranes, eagles, and thousands of migrating ducks,” said Sharon Waltrip, LBL’s Program Manager for Environmental Education and Interpretation. “Morning will be our best shot at catching some great wildlife viewing opportunities!”

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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.

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Kentucky’s beautiful Land Between the Lakes is a nature lover’s dream come true and a photographer’s Heaven on earth, year round. It’s just as beautiful in the fall and winter as it is in the spring and summer. The colors are different, and, of course, some birds have packed their bags and headed off for their vacation down south, but the nature-viewing (and photographing) are most definitely abundant.

As someone who is, admittedly, OBSESSED with watching birds and other wildlife, I have a little secret for you – you can often see more birds in the winter. Once the leafy green curtains on the trees have fallen, you can see the birds more clearly.  In our own yard, I always marvel at how many more birds I’m able to watch in the winter.

From Land Between the Lakes:

Got the winter blues? Embrace the season by joining us for one of the many wildlife-viewing van tours offered at Land Between The Lakes (LBL) National Recreation Area. During January, February, and March, there are multiple guided tours offering outdoor enthusiasts a chance to witness some of nature’s greatest moments. Registration is required for all tours, and space is limited. Please call 270-924-2020, weekdays from 8am-4:30pm, to learn more about each tour and make your reservation.

Our ongoing Nature Watch tour series highlights many birds that call this area home during the winter. During these tours, you may see everything from pelicans to pintails!

An all-day Nature Watch tour on January 14, will take you in search of eagles and some of the 25+ species of ducks that call LBL home in the winter. We’ll also cover the fascinating story of local bald eagle recovery by visiting several unique landmarks in LBL. The cost is $40/person and includes lunch at a local restaurant.

LBL continues to offer Eagle Viewing Van Tours from 1-4:30pm on Sundays, Jan. 22, 29, and February 5. Winter is the peak season for seeing bald eagles in LBL; both our resident eagles and visiting “snowbirds” are out looking for fish around the lakes. We’ll take you to the best spots in LBL for spotting these magnificent creatures. Cost is $7/adult and $5/child.

On February 11, we will offer a special Nature Watch tour that brings you to Cross Creeks National Wildlife Refuge, just south of LBL. We will explore this bottomland habitat in search of harriers, sandhill cranes, and thousands of migrant ducks. The cost is $10/adult and $7/child and runs from 9am-12pm.

The month of March offers a chance to see hundreds of pelicans as they migrate through the area, as well as our resident eagles on their giant nests, incubating eggs or sheltering their chicks. Join us on either March 18 or 24, for a Nature Watch tour that highlights these two amazing species. This two-hour tour costs $7/adult and $5/child.

Winter doesn’t have to be spent inside! Join us for any of these fun wildlife-viewing tours:

January 22, 29, and February 5 – “Everything Eagles” Van Tours, 1-4:30pm
January 14 – Winter Wanderers: Eagles and Waterfowl Migration, 9am-5pm
February 11 – Cross Creeks National Wildlife Refuge Tour, 9am-12pm
March 18 & 24 – Pelicans and Eagles, times vary

Come Outside and Play at Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area, managed by the Forest Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, in partnership with “Friends of LBL,” to provide public lands outdoor recreation and environmental education. We encourage visitors to review LBL’s official website at www.lbl.org each season, and throughout the season, for our Calendar of Events, updates on programs and policies, safety information, maps, and temporary trail and road closures. Follow us on Twitter @LBLScreechOwl and on our blog at http://landbetweenthelakes.blogspot.com. Additional LBL and “Friends of LBL” information is available on our website or by calling 1-800-LBL-7077 or 270-924-2000.

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If you need a last minute gift, here’s the most delicious idea possible: A beautiful gift basket from the Great Harvest Bread Company!  I got the one above this year and have been THOROUGHLY enjoying everything about it.

• The White Bread is so aromatic it practically fills the kitchen with its goodness. It tastes even better.
• The Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread is Heavenly.
• The Pumpkin Pie Butter is delectable on each of the breads above.
• The Ham Spread is surprisingly a knock out! When I saw it, I thought, “Hmm. Not sure about that.” But I can’t stay out of it! It’s so good, I could smear it on a shoe and eat it.
• The Wild Huckleberry Preserves combine with the white bread (toasted) for an other-worldly experience.
• The Roasted Garlic Potato Soup and I have a date for the day after Christmas: Soup and Ham sandwiches!
• The Cranberry Oatmeal Cookies are some of the best cookies I’ve ever put in my mouth and, believe me, I’ve had every cookie in the world. Cookie Monster has nothing on me.
• The gorgeous basket will be around long after the wonderful food is gone. It makes a beautiful fruit basket.

You’re able to pick out the components of the gift basket, and I must say (as always) my husband did an exceptional job.  This is my second Great Harvest Bread Co gift basket and I’m hoping and praying it’ll be an annual tradition.

Every single thing the Great Harvest Bread Co. sells is outstanding – the bread, cookies, Kentucky tea (you HAVE to try this amazing tea!), ham spread (uncommonly delicious), etc.  The Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread and Pumpkin Pie Butter are so delicious it isn’t even funny.  Every single thing in the basket is, for that matter!

If you live near Owensboro, Kentucky – our Great Harvest Bread Company is at 3211 Frederica St, across from Kentucky Wesleyan.   The friendliest people in the world work there and the food’s to die for.  Even if you don’t need a gift basket to GIVE, buy one for yourself! That’s what my oldest daughter intends to do.  Smart girl.

You’ll find a lot of great breads, snacks, and desserts to have on hand during the holidays as well. Perfect for family get-togethers and delicious for the bowl games and UK basketball games!  You pick out the food you want in the basket, but trust me, you’d do well to pick out the exact things my husband did.  I’ve trained him so well.

Click HERE to find the Great Harvest near you.

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A couple admiring the beauty at Natural Bridge State Park while getting fresh air and activity. Well played, couple, well played.

Kentuckians, it’s time to hit the Kentucky State Parks running… or at the very least walking and hiking!  According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the most common risk factor for heart disease isn’t smoking, obesity, high cholesterol, or even high blood pressure. It’s inactivity!  Certainly, all of the others add to a person’s risk, but I was really blown away by the fact that inactivity leads the way.

There’s a national effort gearing up for January 1, 2012 aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles throughout the year at America’s State Parks.  Four Kentucky State Parks will be participating in this highly commendable effort.

The movement is called First Day Hikes and it’s sponsored by America’s State Parks.  It will involve all 50 state park systems, and will allow participants to enjoy the scenery and wildlife at each park as they start the new year.

Kentucky State Parks have more than 250 miles of hiking trails that are open year-round. The parks also offer many other outdoor recreational opportunities such as horseback riding, camping, golf, fishing, boating, playgrounds, sports and more. Resort parks also have lodges, cottages and restaurants. For more information, visit www.parks.ky.gov

 January 1 First Day Hikes at Kentucky State Parks:

Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, Corbin

Pam Gibson, trails maintenance supervisor at Cumberland Falls, will lead a hike on Trail 2 from the picnic area to the Pinnacle Knob Fire Tower, then back to the lodge by way of Trail 11. The hike will start at 10 a.m. (meet in the lodge) and will be completed by early afternoon. Pam will be providing interpretation along the way. Bring camera, water and a snack. For information, call 1-800-325-0063.

E.P. “Tom” Sawyer State Park, Louisville

The First Day hike at E.P. “Tom” Sawyer State Park will take place on the Goose Creek Trail, which is 1.25 miles long and is moderate enough for most to hike. The hike will be from 2-4 p.m. and is free. Hot chocolate will be provided at the beginning of the hike. All participants should meet at the picnic grove area across from the archery range. Call 502-429-7270 for information.

Lake Barkley State Resort Park, Cadiz

Lake Barkley State Resort Park would like to encourage everyone to kick off the New Year with a healthy start. On Jan. 1, Lake Barkley’s Fitness Center will be offering free admission, and guests can enjoy its indoor pool, nautilus equipment and free weights. Guests can also tour the fitness center and sign up for discounted individual, family or business memberships.  At 10 a.m., the park naturalist will lead a First Day Hike. The naturalist will guide participants on a 2-mile hike past scenic views and in search of bald eagles, wild turkey, deer and other winter wildlife. Those who plan to hike should meet at the fitness center and dress warmly, wear layers of clothing and sturdy, warm hiking boots or shoes, as well as hats and gloves, and bring water. For more information, contact the fitness center at 270-924-1131, ext. 593.

Natural Bridge State Resort Park, Slade

Douglas Wilder, trails maintenance supervisor at Natural Bridge, will lead a hike on the Original Trail to Natural Bridge and back. The hike will start at approximately 9 a.m. from the lodge and finish at approximately 11-11:30 a.m. Hot chocolate and cider will be served at the end of the hike. Wilder will provide interpretation of history, geology and trees along the way.  Call 1-800-325-1710.

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