Governor Beshear and the First Lady Unveil 2012 Derby Poster

Buy the 2012 Governor's Derby Celebration poster online!

2012 Derby Celebration Poster

Commemorative print depicts Barbaro’s run to win 2006 Kentucky Derby

Can you believe we’re approaching time to start talking about the Kentucky Derby already?! March Madness came and went (and left all of us in Big Blue Nation) thrilled beyond belief.  Those of us who are also fans of the U of L Cardinals, Murray State Racers (what a year!!!!), and Western Kentucky Hilltoppers are also very proud of these programs.  The way Coach Pitino handled himself after losing to the Cats made me an even bigger fan of this legendary coach.  After his UK Wildcats beat Calipari’s UMass team, Coach Cal told Pitino after the game, “Go win your championship.”  So after Cal’s Cats beat Pitino’s Cardinals, Coach P told Calipari, “Go win your championship.”

Let history show that each mad did as told!

Kentuckians are also still buzzing about the Murray State Racers. Dickie V came to town, baby! I hope they pick up right where they left off. All Kentuckians are so proud of them.

Another team I’m still beaming about is the UK Wildcat’s women’s team. WOW! We have two outstanding teams in blue and white on the court these days and I couldn’t be happier. Our ladies are fast becoming one of the strongest women’s programs and I think remarkable things are ahead.

Speaking of remarkable things ahead, I wouldn’t be at all surprised if Coach Pitino and the U of L Cardinals don’t win it all. I don’t look for the trophy UK just won to go far at all.  If we hadn’t lost 5 (!!!) to the NBA, I’d say UK was a shoe in to repeat…  Then again, with Coach Cal and the Big Blue, anything’s possible.

Having said all of that, I suppose it’s time to take a break from talking about Cats, Cardinals, Racers, and Hilltoppers and start talking about a different kind of champion and “racers” with different faces altogether: Let the horse talk begin!

Governor Steve Beshear and First Lady Jane Beshear today unveiled the 2012 Governor’s Commemorative Derby poster. This year’s poster features a photograph by John Stephen Hockensmith, in which he captures the undefeated thoroughbred Barbaro as he rounds Churchill Downs’ first turn on his way to winning the 2006 Kentucky Derby.

“We are honored to continue this time-honored tradition of unveiling the commemorative Derby poster,” said Gov. Beshear. “This artwork exemplifies the excitement and enthusiasm that surrounds the greatest two minutes in sports and serves as a wonderful memento for the public.”

Barbaro’s 2006 Derby margin of victory was the biggest since Triple Crown winner Assault won in 1946. Following his impressive victory, Barbaro was the strong favorite going into the Preakness. But after breaking prematurely from the starting gate, Barbaro suffered catastrophic injuries in his right hind leg, causing him to pull up quickly when the race was re-started. The following day, Barbaro underwent surgery and battled to overcome ensuing complications after the operation. The public followed Barbaro’s battle to survive for more than eight months until his team of veterinarians and owners concluded that he could not be saved.

“Barbaro is one of the most beloved thoroughbreds in racing history – not just for his victories, but for his heroic struggles after his Preakness injury,” said Mrs. Beshear. “John Stephen Hockensmith’s photograph truly highlights the Derby champion at the top his game, and this year’s poster is a beautiful keepsake for Barbaro fans and all racing enthusiasts.”

A portion of the proceeds from the Governor’s Derby poster sales will benefit First Lady Jane Beshear’s Horses and Hope Program and the Equine Health and Welfare Alliance Inc. Horses and Hope provides breast cancer education, awareness, screening and treatment referral to uninsured and underinsured employees of Kentucky’s thoroughbred industry. The Equine Health and Welfare Alliance Inc. directly supports efforts addressing equine health and safety in Kentucky.

The 2012 poster is $15 and will be available for purchase Derby morning at the Governor’s Derby Celebration in downtown Frankfort. The poster is also available now for purchase online at Historic Properties Online Store.

Earlier this month, Governor and Mrs. Beshear announced that the 76th annual Governor’s Derby Celebration will be held in historic downtown Frankfort for the second year in a row. This year’s celebration will be held on Kentucky Derby Day, Saturday, May 5 from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Eastern time and is free and open to the public.

Information on the Governor’s Derby Celebration, including an electronic invitation, a downloadable version of the Governor’s Derby poster, and more is available at http://governor.ky.gov/derbycelebration/. The website will be updated as more information on the celebration is released.

Mudathlon at General Butler State Resort Park

Get Ready to Sling Mud on June 2!

General Butler State Resort Park will host its first Mudathlon – a 3-mile, 40-obstacle course with a muddy terrain from start to finish – on Saturday, June 2.

Participants can take part in Mudathlon as an individual or member of a team. Waves of 100 will start at 8 a.m. Participants will face obstacles such as the Mud Slide, Cargo Net Climb, Heaping Hay Bales, 40-foot Tunnel of Terror and other fantastic water obstacles. Mudathlon guarantees you will be dripping in mud from head to toe. General Butler State Resort Park offers a great area for a post-race rinse.

The course is designed for all ability levels and prizes will be awarded to the top three men and women. The top three teams will also be awarded and there is a costume contest.

The registration fee is $75 which includes parking, post-race cookout, medal, T-shirt, bandana, and much more. Participants must be 14 years old and those under 18 must have parent or guardian permission. Charity team participants can give $10 back to the charity of their choice. Members of the military are eligible for a $5 discount.

To register or get more information about the Mudathlon, visit www.mudathlon.com

The park’s 53 lodge rooms feature a private balcony or patio overlooking the pool or hillside. This hilltop resort is the essence of river town charm, featuring the warm glow of polished brass and rich woodwork. Enjoy our tennis courts, basketball courts, hiking trails and free Wi-Fi.

General Butler State Resort Park also has Two Rivers Restaurant, cottages, campground, gift shop, and a golf course and hiking trails. Call 1-866-462-8853 for information.

General Butler State Resort Park is located 44 miles northeast of Louisville. From Louisville, take Interstate 71 to Carrollton. If you are coming from the Huntington, W.Va., area traveling west on I-64, take exit 172. Drive north on Highway 1, to the AA Highway (KY 9) north. Take the AA Highway North to I-275 West. Drive West on I-275 to I 71/75 South, then I-71 South to Exit 44. Turn right on Highway 227 to the Park.

“The River of Stars” at Barren River Lake State Resort Park

Saturday, April 28 at the Park's Highland Games Field

Barren River Lake State Resort Park

Celebrate Astronomy Day with The River of Stars at Beautiful Barren River Lake State Resort Park!

It’s always the right time to visit beautiful (and I mean really, really beautiful) Barren River Lake State Resort Park, but this month star gazers will have an especially good reason.

Celebrate Astronomy Day and view the universe as Barren River Lake State Resort Park and the Louisville Astronomical Society (LAS) present “The River of Stars” on Saturday, April 28, at the park’s Highland games field.

Check out the solar observation at 11 a.m. and the Literature & Lecture at 6:30 p.m. “The River of Stars” night observation begins at 8 p.m. Gaze through the telescopes of LAS members to learn about astronomy, or bring your own and learn how to use it.

“Imagine if you will a ‘River of Stars’ floating above you. In its currents are wonders beyond your imagination. Planets, like beach balls, appear before your eyes,” said Ken Alderson, president of the LAS. “Jupiter and its court of moons. Saturn and her rings. Observe the beaches of the Moon’s oceans and the shores where few have trod. See galaxies with stars like grains of sand.”

Barren River will also be holding its Campers Appreciation Weekend – Nature Fest, where guests can camp two nights for the price of one. Nature-related activities will be offered such as fishing 101, wildflower and bird hike, nature crafts and more.

The park is surrounded by rolling, tree-covered hills, on the edge of a beautiful 10,000-acre lake. It has 51 lodge rooms, 22 cottages, and 99 campsites for guests. Enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of an upscale fish camp in the Driftwood Restaurant. If you are looking for something to do during your visit, you can play on the 18-hole golf course, hike along a nature trail, visit the marina to rent a boat, check out a fishing pole or sports equipment, browse the gift shop, or just enjoy a peaceful seat overlooking the lake.

Call 1-800-325-0057 for information and reservations.

The resort is located 44 miles southeast of Bowling Green. Take I-65 to the Cumberland Parkway east, to US 31E south.

Check out pictures of Barren River Lake State Resort Park.

Spring Into Fun at Kentucky State Parks!

Fun Events for the Whole Family

Udderly Delicious Dairy Desserts, Kenlake Marina on Kentucky Lake

Udderly Delicious Dairy Desserts – Kenlake State Resort Park’s Marina. You’ve never tasted better ice cream. And the view? Breathtaking!

 

Spring has sprung, lovely readers, and I couldn’t be more excited.  The amazing Kentucky Wildcats won the National Championship, Murray State had a remarkable season, and the University of Louisville caught everyone by surprise with their tenacity.  Even better, Coach Pitino showed the world what graciousness in defeat looks like. Frankly, I thought he wore it beautifully and I became an even bigger fan than I was before.  Tomorrow, baseball (another addiction of mine!) returns and all seems right with the world.

I’m also excited about all of the opportunities for fun in the sun at our beautiful Kentucky State Parks.

The Kentucky State Park resorts have lodges, cottages and restaurants, as well as recreational opportunities for families. These include trails, playgrounds, tennis and basketball courts, fishing and wildlife viewing. Spring break is a great time to get outside and explore some of the natural beauty at these parks. All state park campgrounds will open in April.

Listed below are some of the special offers and programs in March and April. (Offers based on availability, for individual travel only. Not to be combined with any other discounts or offers. Applicable taxes apply.) For more information or to make a reservation, call the park or visit www.parks.ky.gov

Barren River Lake State Resort Park, Lucas

Barren River Lake State Resort Park is offering spring break packages for two to eight people. The Bed and Breakfast Package for an adult and one child includes one night’s lodge room and breakfast for $49.99. The Family Package for four people includes one night’s lodge room, a pizza, drinks and cookies for $69. There are also packages for cottages starting at $69.95 a night. Prices good through May 24. The park has biking and hiking trails, tennis and basketball courts, free fishing gear and is just 25 miles from Mammoth Cave. Call 1-800-325-0057.

Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park, Buckhorn

Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park is offering overnight lodging packages for families starting at $49.95 a night. This includes a lodge room, free Wi-Fi, continental breakfast, mini golf, hiking trails, wildlife viewing, fishing, a playground and more. A cottage package is available for $89.95. Offer good through May 24. Call 1-800-325-0058.

Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, Corbin

Cumberland Falls is offering its Spring Break Adventure, April 1-4. Activities include canoeing, whitewater rafting, a rock climbing wall, archery, wildflower walks, astronomy and hikes to waterfalls and natural arches. Activities may be changed due to weather conditions. There is a fee for rafting and canoe trips; other programs are free to guests. Some activities are limited and are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Call the park for schedule details. Lodge room rates start at $69 a night. Call 1-800-325-0063.

Kenlake State Resort Park, Aurora

Kenlake State Resort Park is offering packages through March 24 that combine overnight lodging with court time at the park’s tennis center. The packages include one night’s lodging, continental breakfast and two hours of court time for $69.95 plus tax. (Available for one or two adults and up to three children). Packages with one- and two-bedroom cottages are also available starting at $89.95 plus tax per night. Kenlake sits along Kentucky Lake and also has hiking trails, fishing, golf, playgrounds and more. Call 1-800-325-0143. See pictures of Kenlake State Resort Park in our gallery.

Rough River Dam State Resort Park, Falls of Rough

Rough River Dam State Resort Park is offering a lodge package starting at $69.95 that includes one night’s lodging and breakfast for the family. Also available is a cottage package for $139.95 for a family of four (two adults and two children 12 and under) that features one night in a cottage, dinner and breakfast. The park has many outdoor recreational opportunities such as tennis, basketball, trails, fishing, golf and a playground. Package good through May 8. Call 1-800-325-1713.

Barren River Lake State Resort Park

Beautiful Barren River Lake

Grand Rivers Variety: Music and Mayhem in the Month of April

Fans of Johnny Cash, You Won't Want to Miss This!

Johnny Cash Ring of Fire at Grand Rivers Variety

Grand Rivers Variety in Grand Rivers, Kentucky in April is THE place to be if you love Johnny Cash music or laughing. Or both!  One of their popular comedic shows, Smoke on the Mountain brings back its colorful characters with an all new show: Smoke on the Mountain: Homecoming, while one of Grand Rivers Variety’s best shows continues to rock and roll Johnny Cash style.

Ring of Fire: The Johnny Cash Musical Show

Johnny Cash fans will absolutely love Ring of Fire: The Johnny Cash Musical Show. Sing along with some of the Man in Black’s greatest songs and relive the life of an American legend.  Without a Johnny Cash, I’m not convinced we’d have a Tim McGraw, Kenny Chesney, or Jason Aldean.

You can read my Ring of Fire: The Johnny Cash Musical Show review by clicking the link. Please note the dates will be different, of course!  This is a show you don’t want to miss. You’ll be talking about it for weeks.

Ring of Fire will be shown on the following dates in April:

  • Saturday April 7 @ 7:00 pm
  • Saturday April 14 @ 7:00 pm
  • Saturday April 21 @ 7:00 pm
  • Thursday April 26 @ 2:00 pm
  • Saturday April 28 @ 2:00 pm and 7:00 pm

 

For ticket information, please click HERE.

Smoke on the Mountain Homecoming at Grand Rivers Variety

Smoke on the Mountain: Homecoming

If kicking back while the talented cast of Grand Rivers Variety makes you split your seams with laughter sounds like fun, you’ll want to grab tickets to see Smoke on the Mountain: Homecoming.

About Smoke on the Mountain: Homecoming

In Part 3 of the ‘Smoke’ trilogy, the Sanders Family are back together again! It’s 1945, the war is over and America’s years of prosperity are just beginning.

Reverend Mervin Oglethorpe has been called to preach in Texas, and is preparing to ride into the sunset with his wife June, who is eight months pregnant. Tomorrow morning, young Dennis Sanders takes over as Mount Pleasant’s pastor.

Join the Sanders Family as they send Mervin and June off in style, with hilarious and touching stories and twenty-five toe-tapping Bluegrass Gospel favorites. – From Grand Rivers Variety

Smoke on the Mountain: Homecoming will be shown on the following dates:

  • Friday April 6 @ 7:00 pm
  • Saturday April 7 @ 2:00 pm
  • Friday April 13 @ 2:00 pm and 7:00 pm
  • Saturday April 14 @ 2:00 pm
  • Friday April 20 @ 7:00 pm
  • Friday April 21 @ 2:00 pm
  • Friday April 27 @ 7:00 pm

If you’ve read any of my Grand Rivers Variety reviews, you know that my husband and I are huge, huge fans.  We’re all very fortunate to have this quality of entertainment in the Kentucky Lake area.  If you’ve never been to a Grand Rivers Variety show, please make this the month you check them out. You’re going to fall in love with the entire experience.  If you HAVE been, go again!  And again… and again… and again…

 

Kentucky Opry April 2012 Schedule

Kentucky Lake Attraction for Music Lovers

Kentucky OpryIf you’re looking for things to do in the Kentucky Lake area, and you happen to love great music, you’ll want to grab your calendar and a pen.  Kentucky Opry has a lot of exciting things going on in April 2012 and you won’t want to miss a thing.

  • April 6th JPFOB Bluegrass Night  - Featuring local and regional bluegrass groups. No Admission – free show.
  • April 7 -LAST NIGHT of open competition Kentucky Opry Talent Search sponsored by Peppers Automotive Paris,Tennessee Adult $16, Senior $15, Student $10, Child $7.50
  • April 14 – Beginner/Instrumental Eliminations of Kentucky Opry Talent Search Adult $17, Senior $16, Student $10,Child $7.50
  • April 17 – Senior Day Show 2pm Food & Fun Show only $7.50, Lunch & Show $17. Choose from Ponderosa, Majestic’s, Cactus Jacks & Habernaro Mexican.
  • April 21 – Junior/Sr Adult Eliminations of Kentucky Opry Talent Search Adult $17, Senior $16, Student $10,Child $7.50
  • April 28  - Adult Eliminations of Kentucky Opry Talent Search Adult $17, Senior $16, Student $10,Child $7.50

The Kentucky Opry is 5 Miles South of Kentucky Dam on Hwy 641 in Draffenville.  It’s dangerously close to some outstanding food, too, I might point out: Catfish Kitchen (also on Hwy 641), Majestic Pizza & Steak House (some of the best pizza in the world!) and Ponderosa in Draffenville.  Draffenville also has a Mr. Gatti’s Pizza and Habanero Mexican Grill.

For ticket and tour information, please visit Kentucky Opry’s website.

Gardening the Easy Way

Issue on Stands Until June 6, 2012

Gardening the Easy Way

You’re looking at a beautiful gardening magazine that has not left my side for 3 days. I carry it with me from room to room… I guess I’m afraid to let it out of my sight.  So far it has sat on counters watching me cook, on a desk watching me work, and by my side during the exciting NCAA Basketball tournament.

If you’re like me, you have already mentally planned your herb bed and flower gardens. You already know which varieties of tomatoes you’ll plant, how many okra plants you’ll put out, and what you’re going to do to keep rabbits out of your lettuce.  You’ll definitely want to grab this particular gardening magazine the next time you’re in the store. It’s filled with countless tips and ideas as well as beautifully inspirational pictures.

Within the issue you’ll read about:

  • how to have a beautiful garden on your patio
  • how to solve common lawn problems (yellow patches, brittle grass, brown sections, trampled paths….)
  • what to do if you want tulips but forgot to plant them in the fall
  • how to grow peonies, dahlias, and climbing roses
  • how to plant a gorgeous overflowing pot of flowers, making your porch come alive
  • top 10 plant shopping secrets (there were a few even this bedding plant veteran didn’t know!)
  • tropical and exotic plants you can grow
  • .. and a lot more!

Easy Projects detailed in this issue:

  • The 1 hour herb garden
  • Homegrown window boxes
  • Make a potting bench

Gardening the Easy Way provides month by month tips and “to do“s that’ll lead you to the most beautiful summer and fall your yard has ever seen.  Be sure to grab a copy asap.

Kentucky Crafted: The Market is Number One Again

For the Third Year in a Row!

Kentucky Crafted: The MarketKentucky Crafted: The Market, which is coming to the Lexington Convention Center this weekend, has been voted as No. 1 in the nation for the third consecutive year by the readers of AmericanStyle magazine. No other American craft fair can make that claim. This is AmericanStyle’s eighth annual Fairs and Festivals competition, and Kentucky Crafted: The Market has been in the top spot four of the past five years.

“Kentucky Crafted maintains a lock on the top spot for the third year in a row, proving you can’t beat its ‘bluegrass blend’ of traditional and contemporary fine craft,” writes Kat McKerrow of AmericanStyle magazine, the leading journal for fine craft collectors in North America.

Kentucky Crafted: The Market – where tradition meets cutting edge – features more than 150 artists offering shoppers jewelry, wearable art, home decor, furniture, paintings, prints, photographs and artisan foods along with Kentucky-related books, CDs and DVDs. The Market also brings an exciting lineup of hourly performances by musicians to the Kentucky Stage and offers workshops and hands-on activities.
Kentucky Crafted: The Market
Lexington Convention Center, Lexington, Ky.

Saturday, March 3, 2012 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. EST
Sunday, March 4, 2012

10 a.m. – 5 p.m. EST

One-day ticket: $10
Two-day ticket: $15

The Kentucky Arts Council, the state arts agency, creates opportunities for Kentuckians to value, participate in and benefit from the arts. Kentucky Arts Council funding is provided by the Kentucky General Assembly and the National Endowment for the Arts.

Spring Keeneland Race Meet

Kentucky Horse Racing Trots into 2012

Keeneland Thoroughbred Racing

I hope wherever you are today is as gorgeous as it is here in Owensboro. I’m having a difficult time staying indoors, but carrying my desk, computer, monitor, and chair out to my patio seems a little extreme. So, here I am. Sigh.

I would say that Spring is just around the corner, but today feels like it’s here already – so I’m just going to say, “Isn’t it lovely?!

The spring Keeneland Race Meet is just around the corner, so horse racing fans might want to grab a pen and mark their calendars. Live Thoroughbred racing gets underway at Keeneland Race Course Friday, April 6th and continues through Friday, April 27th. Racing is scheduled Wednesday through Sunday with post time daily at 1:05 p.m. The gates open at 11:00 a.m. General admission is just $5. The annual Kentucky Derby prep race, the Toyota Blue Grass Stakes, is Saturday, April 14th.

Seiously? There are actually still places with $5 admission prices? Good on them.

In addition to a full line-up of graded stakes races throughout the meet, there are a variety of special events you won’t want to miss. Each Saturday morning, head out to the track for Breakfast with the Works. This family-friendly activity begins at 7 a.m. with breakfast served in the Equestrian Dining Room, paddock demonstrations at 8:45 a.m., and a free handicapping session at 11:30 a.m.

Still looking for the perfect Kentucky Derby hat? Visit the Christine Moore Hat Trunk Show Wednesday, April 11 at the Keeneland Gift Shop.

See Keeneland’s Website for more information.  Also, you might want to check out Keeneland’s Online Gift Shop. You won’t believe the hats!

Golf Discount Cards at Kentucky State Parks

Kentucky Golf is a Beautiful Thing

The pictures in the slide above are from Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park’s Golf Course.

As the weather continues to amaze us with unseasonably warm and sunny days, we’re all thinking about our favorite spring and summer activities. While visions of hummingbirds, flower beds and herb gardens dance around my head, countless Kentuckians (including the one I’m married to!) are having a tough time thinking of anything but golf.

While we have a golden reputation in Kentucky for basketball, horses, and fried chicken,  I’m proud to say that we’re becoming very well known as a great place to play golf. Kentuckians love their golf and fortunately there are many wonderful courses to choose from.

Our Kentucky State Parks are certainly great places to play a round of golf.

The Kentucky State Parks Golf Trail is offering something new for golfers in 2012. Golf Discount Cards are being sold at all 18 courses at Kentucky State Parks. The cards, which can be purchased for $20-$25, provide substantially discounted fees (including cart).

  Additional features:

  • A cardholder receives four discounted rounds including cart and the fifth round is free.
  • Cardholder is able to make a 5 day advanced tee time.
  • Discounted rates available for both weekday and weekend.
  • Save over $50.00 for 18-hole courses and $30.00 for 9-hole courses.
  • Receive 20% Proshop discount on merchandise.
  • Buy as a gift.
  • Valid until December 31st.

 

Terms and Conditions

1. This card is good for a total of five rounds (4 paid, 1 free), only at course where purchased.
2. Tee times may be made no more than 5 days in advance.
3. Must play paid discounted rounds in sequence to earn FREE round offer.
4. Cardholder must identify themselves as a discount cardholder when making a tee time.
5. Kentucky State Parks is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged cards.
6. 2012 Kentucky State Parks Golf Discount Cards are valid thru December 31, 2012
7. Rain checks will be issued in accordance with Kentucky State Parks Golf Trail policy.
8. Only golf shop staff (not cardholder) is authorized to punch ball icons when utilizing the card.
9. Discounted rounds and free round cannot be used for/with: outings/tournaments, special groups, golf packages, coupons, special rates or discounted rates.
10. The Kentucky State Parks Golf Discount Card has no cash value and is non-refundable.
11. The Golf Discount card is not transferable to another person. Kentucky State Parks reserves the right to confiscate the card if presenting cardholder is falsified.
12. 1 punch, per round, per cardholder.
13. Card is surrendered upon redemption of free round.
14. Cardholder may be asked for identification.

For more information or to purchase a golf discount card please contact your local state park golf course.

You may also be interested in: For information on other golf courses around Kentucky (listed in a very handy City Guide), see Kentucky Golf Courses.

        St Louis Cardinals 2011 World Series Champion Fans