Kentucky Tourism, Arts & Heritage 2021 Annual Report

KENTUCKY TOURISM, ARTS & HERITAGE CABINET

2021 AN N UAL R EPO R T

TABLE OF CONTENTS 1

Welcome to Kentucky: A Diverse Travel Destination ​

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Message from Governor Beshear​

4

Message from Secretary Mike Berry​

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Kentucky Tourism: An Economic Engine for the Commonwealth

6

A Premier Business Destination

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Investing in Economic Recovery​

10 Growing Kentucky’s Economy Through Tourism & Economic Development 11

Modernization of Kentucky’s State-Owned Tourism Attractions & Destinations

13 Our Commitment to Helping Kentuckians 15 Kentucky: A Place Full of Outdoor Adventure 17 Exploring the Nation’s Finest: Kentucky State Parks 19 Discover Kentucky Through Agritourism 23 Supporting Arts in Kentucky 24 The Curtain Rises Again: Performing Arts Return to Kentucky 25 Fostering a Culture of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion 27 Our Commitment to Tourism, Arts and Heritage 29 Cabinet Leadership 30 Join Our Team

WELCOME TO KENTUCKY: A DIVERSE TRAVEL DESTINATION

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Kentucky Tourism, Arts & Heritage Cabinet

Kentucky Tourism, Arts & Heritage Cabinet

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MESSAGE FROM GOVERNOR BESHEAR​ Dear Team Kentucky: Since day one, we have been committed to supporting businesses that make the important decision to invest and expand in Kentucky, bringing good paying jobs and living wages for Kentuckians. Last year, we announced the single largest economic development project in our state’s history – a nearly $6 billion investment in the future of our economy. With over $11.2 billion in private-sector investment, Kentucky shattered every economic development record in the books.

The economic momentum we experienced brought new investments to Kentucky’s $8.9 billion tourism industry. Throughout the pandemic, companies such as Cumberland Run in Corbin and Log Still Distillery in Bardstown have invested in the tourism industry, bringing new unique travel experiences to new communities. In 2021, we welcomed a total of seven tourism development projects to the commonwealth totaling $276 million in project investment.

The historic investment Kentucky has experienced is the direct result of our unique economic landscape, which offers the ideal environment for businesses to grow and expand. Our economic momentum has placed us at the forefront as a national leader that can attract both new visitors and businesses. Kentucky is known for being diverse and welcoming – no longer a flyover state, we are the destination to live, play and work.

Sincerely,

Governor Andy Beshear

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Kentucky Tourism, Arts & Heritage Cabinet

MESSAGE FROM SECRETARY BERRY Dear Legislators, Partners and Staff: 2021 was a historic year for the commonwealth. The economic momentum we experienced has positively impacted every business sector in Kentucky, and the tourism industry is no exception.

Kentucky’s abundance of outdoor recreation continued to be a major economic driver in 2021, especially for our state parks. Traveler demand for camping and golf resulted in another record-breaking year, bringing much needed travel revenue to our parks and the communities they serve. This past year was also a reminder of the important role our parks play in supporting rural communities. Seven of our state parks served as emergency shelters providing temporary shelter and food to more than 800 displaced Kentuckians.

Our cabinet is full of talented professionals who are committed to supporting tourism, arts and heritage in the commonwealth. Our annual report showcases our efforts to support tourism in Kentucky and serves as reminder of the incredible resource our cabinet agencies are to the commonwealth.

Sincerely,

Secretary Mike E. Berry Kentucky Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet

Kentucky Tourism, Arts & Heritage Cabinet

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KENTUCKY TOURISM:

AN ECONOMIC ENGINE FOR THE COMMONWEALTH ​

K

entucky is a national leader in the tourism industry that has been recognized as a safe travel destination for the commonwealth’s COVID-19 efforts. Throughout the pandemic, Kentucky’s abundance of outdoor adventure attracted new travelers resulting in nearly 67.8 million visitor trips to the commonwealth. Tourism in Kentucky is a $8.9 billion industry that touches various industries including equine, arts and culture, outdoor recreation and more.

Each of these industries support the economic success of Kentucky, and play a vital role in ensuring the commonwealth is known both nationally and internationally as a diverse, welcoming travel destination.

​EQUINE INDUSTRY ​

$3.4

BILLION ECONOMIC IMPACT ​ ​OUTDOOR RECREATION​

$5.9

BILLION ECONOMIC IMPACT ​ ​ ​PERFORMING ARTS ​

$4.9

​ ​ARTS & CULTURE ​

BILLION ECONOMIC IMPACT

$2.3

EVENTS & CONVENTIONS

$184

MILLION ECONOMIC IMPACT

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Kentucky Tourism, Arts & Heritage Cabinet

​TOURISM​

$8.9

BILLION ECONOMIC IMPACT

BILLION ECONOMIC IMPACT

A PREMIER BUSINESS DESTINATION ​

B

usiness and convention travel are major economic influencers for many of our urban communities. While the spread of COVID-19 has greatly impacted business and convention travel, two of our state owned venues, the Kentucky Exposition Center and the Kentucky International Convention Center, have continued to be recognized nationally as best-in-class facilities in the United States. The Kentucky International Convention Center was selected as the Stella Awards Gold Winner for the Best Convention Center in the Midwest for a second consecutive year. This past year, the venue also won its second consecutive Convention South’s Annual Readers’ Choices. Both of these premier business venues hosted 204 events in 2021. The Kentucky Exposition Center and the Kentucky International Convention Center are key drivers of our tourism economy, especially for the community of Louisville.

$184

212,000

HOTEL ROOM NIGHTS​

204

EVENTS

410,000

MILLION ESTIMATED ECONOMIC IMPACT

ATTENDEES​

Source: Esto Photo, EOP Architects & Hok Chicago Architects

Kentucky Tourism, Arts & Heritage Cabinet

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INVESTING IN ECONOMIC RECOVERY ​

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nvesting in the tourism and arts industries is an ongoing priority for Team Kentucky. The Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet continues to seek investments that will foster economic recovery and support our partners as we transition to a post-pandemic economy. Kentucky has utilized federal funding to develop marketing campaigns to attract new travel markets, support the recovery of non-profit arts organizations and destination marketing venues, and re-open performing arts. This critical funding support has helped foster economic recovery and prime the tourism and arts industries for future growth.

This past year, our marketing efforts focused on driving visitation to local communities by promoting outdoor recreation, safe travel and road trips , the preferred method of travelers. The cabinet utilized federal funds to create new marketing campaigns focused on international travel, motor coach, meetings, groups and sporting events, leisure travel and multi-cultural markets. These new marketing efforts also reinforced are our commitment to diversity and inclusion. For the first time, marketing and promotional efforts were specifically targeted toward attracting multicultural families, African Americans, Hispanic and LGBTQ+ travelers. Funding was also used to create recovery marketing campaigns for each of the nine tourism regions: Western Waterlands; Bluegrass, Blues and BBQ; Caves, Lakes and Corvettes; Bourbon, Horses, and History; Southern Kentucky Vacations; Bluegrass, Horses, Bourbon and Boone; Northern Kentucky River; Daniel Boone Country; and Kentucky Appalachian.

$276

MILLION NEW TOURISM DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS INVESTMENT

$5.3

MILLION RECOVERY OF DESTINATION MARKETING ORGANIZATIONS & TOURISM REGIONS

$7.8

MILLION

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Kentucky Tourism, Arts & Heritage Cabinet

TOURISM MARKETING & ADVERTISING ​ DIVERSITY

$10.1

$1.7 MILLION

MILLION SUPPORT FOR KENTUCKY PERFORMING ARTS​

RECOVERY OF NON-PROFIT ARTS ORGANIZATIONS

$267,665

SUPPORT FOR THE KENTUCKY HORSE PARK​

$2.8

MILLION SCHOOL EMERGENCY RELIEF SUMMER ENRICHMENT GRANT​

$140,000

THEATRE SPONSORSHIPS

Kentucky Tourism, Arts & Heritage Cabinet

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Horse Soldier Farms, LLC - Somerset, KY

Log Still Distilling, LLC - Bardstown, KY

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Kentucky Tourism, Arts & Heritage Cabinet

GROWING KENTUCKY’S ECONOMY THROUGH TOURISM & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ​

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ithin a day’s drive of two-thirds of the U.S. population, our economic landscape for bourbon, manufacturing and tourism creates the perfect recipe for businesses to thrive in Kentucky. The tourism industry experienced positive economic momentum in 2021 as Kentucky welcomed seven new tourism development projects. Through the Tourism Development Act, eligible Kentucky businesses can receive an annual reimbursement for taxes paid on qualifying economic development projects. Tourism development projects in 2021 totaled $276 million in project investment and included new, expanded bourbon experiences, a boutique lodging experience, a horse racing experience and more. These projects represent major economic investment in our local communities and will help ensure that the tourism industry is positioned to thrive in a post-pandemic economy.

Kentucky Main Street was created in 1979 to reverse economic decline in central business districts through historic preservation and redevelopment of commercial buildings. In 2021, 23 Kentucky communities achieved accreditation and were certified by both Kentucky Main Street and the National Main Street Center. Kentucky Main Street communities reported $45.5 million cumulative investment in downtown commercial districts throughout the commonwealth. This positive economic news represents $28.1 million in private spending matched by $17.4 million in public improvements with a net gain of 842 new jobs, 122 new businesses and 66 rehabilitation projects.

Project Investments $24 MILLION

LOG STILL DISTILLING, LLC New Haven, KY

$14 MILLION

900 BAXTER, LLC Louisville, KY

$9.7 MILLION

THE BROADWAY BUILDING, LLC Frankfort, KY

$5.9 MILLION

418 E STEPHEN FOSTER, LLC Bardstown, KY

$25 MILLION

KD HOSPITALITY, LLC Franklin, KY

$103 MILLION

HORSE SOLDIER FARMS, LLC Somerset, KY

$94 MILLION

ECL CORBIN, LLC Corbin/Williamsburg, KY

Kentucky Tourism, Arts & Heritage Cabinet

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MODERNIZATION OF KENTUCKY’S STATE-OWNED TOURISM ATTRACTIONS & DESTINATIONS​

M

odernizing state-owned attractions is part of our ongoing effort to position these attractions to be competitive in the tourism industry. Throughout the pandemic, we have continued modernization efforts of our state parks, which is the direct result of the commonwealth’s bi-partisan commitment to enhancing safety and improving the overall guest experience at Kentucky State Parks. Kentucky State Parks operations consist of 17 resorts parks, 8 historic sites, 13 golf courses, 34 pools and beaches, 15 marinas and 30 campgrounds. Investing in infrastructure is key for ensuring that our state parks can continue to attract visitors to communities throughout Kentucky. In 2021, Kentucky State Parks implemented sewer and 50-amp electric campground upgrades along with new ADA campsites at our park campgrounds. The Department of Parks also dedicated $844,000 to completing IT infrastructure upgrades at six resort parks. WI-FI was also installed at the Kentucky Horse Park campground and All-Tech Arena in Lexington.

Natural Bridge State Resort Park, Slade, KY

Taylorsville Lake State Park, Taylorsville, KY

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Kentucky Tourism, Arts & Heritage Cabinet

Photo Credit: Kentucky Expo Center - Lot C construction

Photo Credit: Kentucky Expo Center

The Kentucky Exposition Center is a key driver of corporate and public events in the commonwealth. Construction was completed on two new meeting spaces in the North Wing increasing the venue’s capacity to host signature events. Major renovations to the Highlands Festival Grounds and Lot C were also completed and will enhance the green space for festival goers and conventioneers. More than 63 football fields worth of dirt was excavated from the Highlands Festival Grounds to level the Lot C to improve parking, demonstration and entertainment space. The festival grounds now also have electrical, water and IT fiber built-in and suitable for activations of almost any scale.

Entrance gates were also renovated and equipped with new signage along with the latest technological capabilities to expedite entry to the venue.

We also invested in historical preservation with the development of a new digitization platform for historical documents. The Kentucky Heritage Council transitioned more than 130,000 survey forms and nearly 4,300 historical reports to the digital library.

Kentucky Tourism, Arts & Heritage Cabinet

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KENTUCKY VACCINE SWEEPSTAKES

Enter to Win: tah.ky.gov

Team Kentucky’s #VaxandVisitKY provides a great incentive to Kentuckians to get their shot of hope: a COVID-19 vaccine! The drawings also raise awareness of how Kentuckians can obtain an appointment for one of the safe and effective vaccines.

Eligible Kentuckians who have received a COVID-19 vaccine can register ​Our Commitment to Helping Kentuckians​ for aromchance to win a safe-cation at any of Kentucky’s 45 state parks. vaccine distribution to offering in-state travel incentives through our Vax and Visit KY campaign, our cabinet Fhas been activelyinclude engaged in the commonwealth’s response efforts. To encourage morecates.

Kentuckians Safe-cations golf, lodgingemergency and campground gift certifi to receive their shot of hope, our cabinet agencies served as vaccine distribution sites to ensure Kentuckians in every community in the commonwealth had access to safe vaccinations. More than 24,000 Kentuckians participated in the Vax and Visit KY outreach campaign.

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@KyTAHC

Kentucky Tourism, Arts & Heritage Cabinet

The December 2021 quad-state tornado is the worst tornado event in state history with at least four tornadoes devastating eight Kentucky counties. The tornado event resulted in the Governor declaring a state of emergency to ensure that federal funding was available to provide emergency resources and rebuild our Western Kentucky communities. The state of emergency activated over 180 Kentucky National Guard members as well as Kentucky State Police, Fish and Wildlife conservation offices and Kentucky State Park rangers. Our state parks rangers and conservation officers helped with human rescues, first aid and emergency transport, traffic control, clearing roadways, safety checks and delivering emergency supplies. Our state parks provided emergency shelter and food services for more than 800 displaced Kentuckians and 250 first responders.

Kentucky Tourism, Arts & Heritage Cabinet

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KENTUCKY: A PLACE FULL OF OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

K

entucky’s abundance of outdoor recreation has continued to be a major economic driver of our tourism industry.

Continued traveler demand for camping and golf has resulted in record visitation at our state parks. Golf rounds increased 25.7% and golf revenue increased 11.4%. Likewise, demand for camping at our state parks resulted in a 10.8% increase of revenue, and 8.0% occupancy increase, despite our busiest campground, Fort Boonesborough, being closed for most of the season due to flooding. Kentucky State Parks finished 2021 with more than $6.1 million in camping revenue. Demand for outdoor adventure has also led to increase in sales for hunting and fishing licenses with 324,341 hunting and 565,220 fishing licenses sold in 2021.

6.1 MILLION

CAMPING REVENUE

79,622

CAMPING RESERVATIONS ​

162,479

LODGING RESERVATIONS

$18.3 MILLION LODGING REVENUE ​

155,138

GOLF ROUNDS​

5.4 MILLION GOLF REVENUE​

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Kentucky Tourism, Arts & Heritage Cabinet

Our cabinet is committed to ensuring that Kentuckians and our guests have access to safe recreational boating and fishing opportunities. In 2021, the Department of Fish Wildlife Resources opened mobility-impaired-accessible kayak launches at Lake Reba (Madison Co.) and McNeely Lake (Jefferson Co.), and a boat ramp in west Louisville on the Ohio River at Shawnee Park (Jefferson Co.). To combat the increasing trend in boating fatalities and to enhance safety of boaters and anglers enjoying Kentucky’s public waters, new Life Jacket Loaner Stations were installed at Beaver Lake (Anderson Co.), Lake Reba (Madison Co.), Mill Creek Lake (Monroe Co.), and Phil Moore Lake and Romanza Johnson Park (Warren Co.).

Kentucky Tourism, Arts & Heritage Cabinet

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The Cullan at Mineral Mound State Park, Eddyville, KY

Lincoln Homestead State Park, Springfield, KY

Lake Malone State Park, Dunmore, KY

EXPLORING THE NATION’S FINEST: KENTUCKY STATE PARKS

K

entucky is home to 45 state parks including 17 resorts and 13 historic sites. Our parks staff are committed to providing a sustainable system of parks that delivers quality programs, amenities, and services. At parks, our goal is to create memorable experiences by preserving the historic and natural integrity, and traditions of Kentucky for existing and future generations. We pride ourselves on promoting Kentucky and our parks as a diverse travel destination with experiences the entire family can enjoy.

In 2021, we celebrated the opening of a new pickleball complex at E.P. Tom Sawyer State Park. Pickleball is one of the fastest growing sports in the nation and the new complex is already attracting sports groups and tournaments to Louisville.

In partnership with the Muhlenberg County Tourism Commission, Kentucky State Parks opened “Big Twigs,” a family of 14-foot wood giants. The “Big Twigs” family features larger-than-life characters at the park’s campsite, lakeside fishing area and hiking trail.

Last year, we joined members of the Eddyville community to celebrate the life and legacy of Cullan Brown and dedicate the golf course at Mineral Mound State Park in his honor. As a native of Eddyville, Cullan grew up playing golf at Mineral Mound State Park. He was diagnosed with osteosarcoma in 2020. Today, we remember him for his warmth, generosity, and oversized personality.

At Lincoln Homestead State Park, we celebrated the opening of the newly renovated golf pro shop. Located just north of Springfield, Kentucky, Lincoln Homestead encompasses 120 acres with historic and reproduced homes of Abraham Lincoln’s family. The 18-hole regulation golf course displays the natural rolling hills of Central Kentucky.

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Kentucky Tourism, Arts & Heritage Cabinet

A new two-mile trail that connects historic Cherokee State Park and Kenlake State Resort Park was dedicated in memory of the first superintendent of Cherokee State Park, Coach Lester Mimms. Historic Cherokee State Park, located in Hardin, Kentucky, opened in 1951 as the only state park in Kentucky for African Americans during the era of Jim Crow. The park is one of three Kentucky projects that received $50,000 to preserve historical sites that represent African American history and culture in the commonwealth.

Kenlake State Resort Park, Hardin, KY

Many of our Kentucky State Parks were recognized as part of the Kentucky Living 2021 Best in Kentucky awards, which highlight the best travel destinations and experiences across the commonwealth. ​ ⊲ Barren River Lake State Resort Park Golf Course, Lucas (1st Place Best Golf Course) ​

⊲ My Old Kentucky Home State Park, Bardstown (2nd Place Best Historic Site) ​ ⊲ Barren River Lake at Barren River Lake State Resort Park, Lucas (3rd Place Best House Boating, Best Public Hunting/Fishing Area) ​

THIRD PLACE

Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill, Harrodsburg

DAY TRIP WINNER

Mammoth Cave National Park, Mammoth Cave National Park, International Biosphere Reserve. UNESCO World Heritage Site.

A timeline that tracks back 325 million years when prehistoric seas of the Mississippian Era deposited layers of limestone in a place that would eventually become the 15th state. The longest known cave system on Earth. Kentucky’s oldest tour attraction. Is there anything Mammoth Cave can’t do—or be?

SECOND PLACE

Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience, Bardstown

Variety of BANDS Friday Night & Saturday 11 a.m. until 11 p.m.

Red River Gorge Geological Area, Stanton

HANDCRAFTED & HOMESPUN Craft Market Two Air Shows, Antique Tractor Display Saturday & Fireworks Saturday Night

FARM TOURIST ATTRACTION WINNER

Hinton’s Orchard & Farm Market, Hodgenville Four seasons of reasons to browse and 2021 Best carouse at the farm: the flowers, herbsin and veggie plants in spring; the bounty of summer with sweet corn, tomatoes, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 25 peppers, blackberries, watermelons and those oh-so juicy tree-ripened PLACE peaches; fall’sSECOND pumpkins, mums, apples Tyler County and Farmland playChilders, area withLawrence hayrides, barrel train and corn maze; and THIRD PLACEgift and winter’s selection of custom Stone Cherry, Edmonton fruit baskets,Black live wreaths and precut Christmas trees ready to take home and trim. PLACE FOR LIVE MUSIC

Amateur & Pro KCBS BBQ Competitions Delicious Food Vendors & Spirits

FREE ADMISSION September 10th & 11th Point Park, 101 Main Street, Carrollton 502-732-7036

 “Bands & BBQ at the Point Carrollton KY”

Augusta

WINNER Joel Ray’s Lincoln Jamboree, SECOND PLACE

Works Progress Administration-designed, Civilian Conservation Corps-built: The Audubon Museum and Nature Center inside the John James Audubon State Park, Henderson. Photo: Kentucky State Parks

Hodgenville Dennison’s Roadside Market, MUSEUM Horse Cave This country music show has gained a WINNER reputation for extraordinary talent at a Lincoln Museum, Hodgenville reasonable price in a family atmosphere THIRD PLACE Travel just 3 miles from the Abraham includes a restaurant, campground Cates Farm, that Henderson Lincoln Birthplace National Historical and gift shop with jams, jellies, souvePark and you can learn about young nirs and Kentucky-made items.

Abe’s formative frontier days, the chores Says manager Jay Henderson, “It’s the he did and the people who influenced kind of place that encourages you to sit him during his years living in a cabin. andMiranda watch the show, forgetting all your has opened for Lambert and The exhibit is among the life-size dioraand taking you back to a time Montgomeryproblems Gentry, among other mas,18: wax figures, funeral train exhibit the world was aand simpler place.” national acts;when appeared on CMT; September Swingtime the River andbymore at one of Kentucky’s favorite sung the state song at the Kentucky SECOND PLACE museums, located in the Downtown Derby. His newest album, Straight September 25 & 26: Paramount Arts Center, Ashland From Kentucky, was released earlier Civil WarHodgenville Historical National Historic District.

Weekend this year.

ENTERTAINMENT KENTUCKY MUSICIAN/ BAND WINNER

JD Shelburne, Taylorsville Taylorsville’s favorite son has said he feels he was “born to play music, write songs and entertain people.” And does he ever! Shelburne has logged over 2,500 performances to date. He

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

facebook.com/augustakentucky Speed Art Museum, Louisville

Saloon CONTINUED Bush’s ON PAGE 28 & Dance Hall, Glasgow Chubby Carrier performs at the W.C. Handy Blues & Barbecue Festival, Henderson. Photo: W.C. Handy Blues & Barbecue Festival

▼

(606) 756-2183 THIRD PLACE

Audubon Museum and Nature Center at the John James Audubon State Park, Henderson

EVENT OR FESTIVAL WINNER

Lincoln Days Celebration, Hodgenville Pioneer games, rail splitting, twinning with Lincoln, live music, classic car show and more take place at this twoday event that has been going on for half a century. Held in the birthplace of Abraham Lincoln, the festival also includes one of oldest, continuously held art shows in the state.

KENTUCKY LIVING

BEST IN KENTUCKY 2021

THE KENTUCKY WILDLANDS CONGRATULATES OUR REGION’S SECOND PLACE

BEST KENTUCKY Marion County Country HamIN Days, Lebanon

FINALISTS

Cumberland Falls at Cumberland Falls THIRD PLACE State Resort Park

W.C. Handy Blues & Barbecue Festival, Corbin, KY Henderson Home to “Niagara of the South” Cumberland Falls, historic DuPont Lodge,

hiking, fishing, kayaking, horseback riding, gem mining and more adventures Finalist Categories: PLACE FOR ADVENTURE | LONG WEEKEND GETAWAY

Red River Gorge Geological Area

Where do the mountains echo with folklore, music and resilience?

Come have fun at the Lincoln Days Celebration, Hodgenville, held in early October each year. Photo: Melanie Wells

Stanton, KY Kentucky’s 29,000-acre geological wonder with 150 natural arches, waterfalls, natural bridges, rock climbing, 600+ miles of hiking and biking trails, whitewater and more Finalist Categories: PLACE FOR ADVENTURE | DAY TRIP LONG WEEKEND GETAWAY | CAMPING SPOT

Green River Lake at Green River Lake State Park Campbellsville, KY Recreational paradise offering shoreline camping, fishing, a sandy beach, houseboat, fishing and ski boat rentals, kayaking, mini golf, hiking, biking and horse trails Finalist Categories: CAMPING SPOT | HOUSEBOATING LAKE PUBLIC HUNTING, FISHING AREA

⊲ Cumberland Falls at Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, Corbin (3rdplace Best Place for Adventure) ​ ⊲ Audubon Museum and Nature Center at the John James Audubon State Park, Henderson (3rd Place Best Museum) ​

THIRD PLACE

Win a Getaway see page 36

Explore My Old Kentucky Home State Park, Bardstown, with its exquisite mansion and lush formal gardens and hear the iconic Stephen Foster song performed by talented tour guides. Photo: Kentucky State Parks

Win a Getaway see page 36

⊲ Green River Lake at Green River Lake State Park, Campbellsville (1st Place Best Camping Spot, 2nd Place Hunting and Fishing, 2nd place House Boating) ​

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`

⊲ Cumberland Falls at Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, Corbin (1st Place Best Long Weekend Gateway) ​

Bands & BBQ

at the Point

Lake Cumberland

Known as the Houseboat Capital of the World featuring countless houseboat rentals for any size party and water recreation fun along 1,200 miles of shoreline

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KENTUCKY LIVING | SEPTEMBER 2021

Finalist Categories: HOUSEBOATING LAKE

Paramount Arts Center

Ashland, KY A magnificently restored historic theatre and Ashland icon since 1931 hosting live musical concerts, theatrical performances and arts programs throughout the year Finalist Categories: PLACE FOR LIVE MUSIC

Tipton’s Traditions Bakery CUMBERLAND RIVER

Welcome to The Kentucky Wildlands, a vast unspoiled region filled with

Ashland, KY Ashland’s beloved bakery offering beautifully designed wedding and birthday cakes, mouthwatering pastries, cream horns, eclairs, turnovers, cupcakes and cookies Finalist Categories: SWEET SPOT

jaw-dropping natural wonders, one-of-a-kind outdoor recreational adventures and cultural experiences unlike anywhere you’ve ever seen.

Visit exploreKYwildlands.com for your guide to new adventure and fun.

TKW_Kentucky 0921 KY Wildlands.indd Living_BOK_Issue_2page 2-3 F.indd All Pages

This material is based upon work supported under a grant by the Appalachian Regional Commission to Eastern Ky PRIDE, Inc. Any opinions, findings and conclusions or recommendations expressed in the material are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of the Appalachian Regional Commission.

8/17/21 8/16/21 11:40 3:23 PM AM

DISCOVER KENTUCKY THROUGH AGRITOURISM ​

A

griculture represents one of the state’s leading and most vital industries that is constantly evolving to keep up with consumer demand and the ever-growing world population. Throughout Kentucky, travelers can find agritourism experiences that merge the commonwealth’s unique agricultural landscape with the our signature tourism industry. Through our Travelin’ the Bluegrass: Agritourism Edition podcast, our cabinet highlighted agritourism attractions such as Purple Toad Winery in Paducah, Bardstown Bourbon Company and Ed Mar Dairy in Northern Kentucky. The podcast also featured some of our cabinet’s agritourism travel experiences including a stop to see the bison at Big Boone Lick Historic Park, a trip to Eastern Kentucky to see the elk at Jenny Wiley State Resort Park and a gallop over to the Kentucky Horse Park.

Jenny Wiley State Resort Park, Prestonsburg, KY

Old Friends Farm , Georgetown, KY

Purple Toad Winery, Paducah, KY

Kentucky State Fair, Louisville, KY

Hermitage Farm, Oldham, KY

Bardstown Bourbon Company, Bardstown, KY

Ed-Mar Dairy Farm, Walton, KY Kentucky Horse Park, Lexington, KY

Churchill Downs, Louisville, KY

Big Bone State Historic Site, Union, KY

Jenny Wiley State Resort Park, Prestonsburg, KY

DISCOVER KENTUCKY THROUGH AGRITOURISM CONTINUED​ The Kentucky Horse Park is a premier agritourism attraction that offers a diverse travel experience for guests seeking to engage, learn and be enchanted by the beauty, strength and spirit of the horse. The Horse Park is home to 30 breeds and a few Kentucky Derby winners. In 2021, the Kentucky Horse Park was voted “Favorite Horse Show or Venue” in the Chronicle of the Horse Reader’s Choice edition for the fifth year in a row. ​ The Salato Wildlife Center in Frankfort is another one of the commonwealth’s state-owned tourism attractions that offers guests a unique agritourism experience. The center features snakes of Kentucky, bison, elk, and other unique wildlife exhibits. In 2021, the Salato Center welcomed more than 25,000 guests.

The Kentucky State Fair serves as the commonwealth’s largest agritourism event and celebrates our state’s agricultural roots and equine heritage. In 2021, the commonwealth hosted the 117th Kentucky State Fair at the Kentucky Exposition Center and State Fairgrounds in Louisville.

21,845

2,435

MEMBERSHIPS

811

SCHOOL GROUPS

SALATO WILDLIFE CENTER

GENERAL ADMISSION

50,622

NIGHTS OF CAMPING

77,000

80+

KENTUCKY HORSE PARK VISITORS

EQUINE EVENTS

KENTUCKY HORSE PARK

KENTUCKY STATE FAIR

75+

UNIQUE DAIRY ACTIVITIES

335

VENDORS

13,889

GENERAL ENTRIES

7,398

LIVESTOCK ENTRIES

Kentucky Tourism, Arts & Heritage Cabinet

22

SUPPORTING ARTS IN KENTUCKY​

T

he arts play an integral role in our culture, education, and economy. Arts and culture is a $2.3 billion industry in the commonwealth and an important part of our tourism industry. To support the economic recovery of the arts, the commonwealth invested $1.7 million in federal funding into the arts, which directly impacted 120 art organizations and 21 Kentucky artists.

In 2021, Gov. Beshear and the First Lady invited Kentuckians to lend their artistic talents to the new Team Kentucky Gallery. The Capitol is the peoples’ house and there is no better place to highlight the voices of Kentuckians as represented through the arts.

To commemorate the 147th Kentucky Derby, Lexington artist Lennon Michalaski designed the 2021 Governor’s Derby Celebration Poster to portray the commonwealth’s long-standing history of horse racing. Michalaski’s inspiration came from a time when he once attended the races with his young son, and showcases the excitement of watching from the rail and holding a winning ticket.

The Kentucky Artisan Center hosted the sixth Reveal exhibit, showcasing large format two dimensional works by eleven Kentucky artists. Reveal is an annual competitive exhibit that introduced five new artists to the Center in 2021.

Kentucky artist and CEO of Prometheus Foundry, LLC, Amanda Matthews was commissioned for the construction of the Team Kentucky COVID-19 Memorial. Titled “United We Stand. Divided We Fall”, the memorial will illustrate Kentuckians’ willingness to come together for the betterment of the commonwealth to protect our fellow Kentuckians throughout this pandemic.

Kentucky Humanities hosted the 41st Kentucky Book Festival in Lexington. The Kentucky Book Festival is a celebration of reading, writing, and publishing which takes place each fall. The festival connects book-lovers and authors, sparks engaging conversations, and empowers readers by providing access to new books and educational opportunities.

Kentucky Artisan Center at Berea, Berea, KY

Governor’s Kentucky Derby Poster 2021

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Kentucky Tourism, Arts & Heritage Cabinet

Kentucky Book Festival, Joseph-Beth Bookstore, Lexington, KY

Maestro J and friends, along with featured dancer Phillip Hancock (Cold Coordinator Choreography), use the creative language of music and dance to fight against oppression and recognize our shared humanity, shared vulnerability, and our shared purpose.

THE CURTAIN RISES AGAIN: PERFORMING ARTS RETURN TO KENTUCKY​

T

he performing arts sector is an important economic engine for our tourism economy. Prior to the pandemic, Kentucky Performing Arts contributed $15.8 million to our local economy. Following a national intermission of performing arts due to the COVID-19 pandemic, performing arts officially returned to the commonwealth. In August 2021, Kentucky Performing Arts held its first indoor, in-person performance following a 17-month intermission.

Despite the intermission, Kentucky Performing Arts continued to provide arts and cultural experiences to Kentuckians through a mix of virtual programming and in-person, socially distanced outdoor events. In 2021, KPA presented 33 virtual events, including the original program All Together Now, which brought artists from throughout the commonwealth together at Old Forester’s Paristown Hall for a special streaming concert event. The Connecting For A Cause series was held in Christy’s Garden and brought together 470 people to six live events.

In 2021, the Kentucky Governor’s School for the Arts (GSA) received supplemental funding allowing the program to double in size. For the summers of 2022, 2023 and 2024, GSA will now be able to welcome approximately 500 students to participate in the arts immersion program. In recent years, the class has served about 250 students on one campus each summer.

Kentucky Tourism, Arts & Heritage Cabinet

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Native Reflections, Kentucky State Capitol, Frankfort, KY

FOSTERING A CULTURE OF DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION ​

D

iversity and inclusion are core values for Team Kentucky. Whether you are a local or traveler seeking adventure in Kentucky, we want the commonwealth to be known as a place that welcomes and celebrates people of all backgrounds. Appealing to audiences at home, nationally and internationally as a destination that is diverse and inclusive is an important part of our efforts to promote and market Kentucky. By promoting the diversity of Kentucky, we believe we can attract new and diverse travel markets to every Kentucky community.

In 2021, the Kentucky Arts Council hosted two exhibits that highlighted diversity in the arts. In partnership with the Kentucky Native American Heritage Commission and the Kentucky Heritage Council, the Native Reflections exhibit toured all regions of the commonwealth, showcasing amazing artwork by American Indians living in Kentucky. The traveling exhibit, Our Kentucky Home, is now making its way around Kentucky. The exhibit features artwork by Hispanic, Latinx, and Latin American artists living in Kentucky. The Kentucky Arts Council also hosted a series of virtual conversations with Black artists to address cultural equity in the arts.

Guacamayo by Mercedes Harn

Queso by Cintia Segovia Figueroa

Ocelotl by Clay Mata

Corazon Meztizo by Manuel Hernandez Sanchez

Lexington writer and Kentucky native, Crystal Wilkinson, was appointed by Governor Beshear to serve as the 20212022 poet laureate for the commonwealth. Wilkinson is the award-winning author of “The Birds of Opulence,” winner of the 2016 Ernest J. Gaines Prize for Literary Excellence; “Water Street” and “Blackberries, Blackberries.” She is the first African American women to serve as poet laureate.

The Kentucky Center for African American Heritage and The Courier-Journal hosted, Summer of 2020: Louisville’s Struggle for Racial Justice, an exhibition that documents the racial justice protests that erupted across Louisville sparked by the deaths of Breonna Taylor and George Floyd. The Kentucky Center for African American Heritage, in partnership with Melannaire Marketplace and W. Health Bridges, also hosted a Juneteenth celebration at Fourth Street Live in Louisville. Over 45 African American vendors were showcased as part of the event at the artisan marketplace.

The Kentucky Historical Society received the National Genealogical Society 2021 SLAM! Idea Showcase award for Kentucky Ancestors Town Hall and the series was named one of “75 Best State Genealogy Websites of 2021” by Family Tree Magazine. Kentucky Ancestors Town Hall launched on 7 major Kentucky television networks. The first two episodes in the Louisville market reached nearly 53,000 viewers.

Songbird of the South tells the story of the life of Rhythm and Blues singer Mary Ann Fisher. The Kentucky Center for African American Heritage hosted this one-woman performance that portrays the chronicles Fisher’s life from her tragic and traumatic childhood beginning in Henderson, Kentucky.

A new historical marker is now located at Algonquin Park in Louisville to recognize the home of the historic Dirt Bowl. The Dirt Bowl is a basketball tradition created

by Janis Carter and Ben Watkins in 1969. In 2021, the Kentucky Historical Society invested $150,000 to address the backlog of historical markers. The project replaced or refurbished 82 markers in 57 counties, and the installation of 11 new markers.

DEE JOHNSON PHOTOGRAPHY Dee Johnson, CEO / OWNER LG TV PRODUCTIONS LLC https://deejohnsonphotography.com https://lgtvproductions.com

@deejohnsonphotography

@lgtvproductions

​ UR COMMITMENT TO O TOURISM, ARTS AND HERITAGE

Mission​

● SUPPORT THE PROMOTION AND DEVELOPMENT OF KENTUCKY TOURISM, ARTS AND HERITAGE AS A MECHANISM TO FOSTER ECONOMIC GROWTH, EDUCATION AND EMPLOYMENT FOR COMMUNITIES THROUGHOUT THE COMMONWEALTH WHILE APPEALING AS A DESTINATION TO A DIVERSE AUDIENCE AT HOME, NATIONALLY AND INTERNATIONALLY. ​

Vision

● TOURISM, THE ARTS AND KENTUCKY HERITAGE ARE THE FOCUS OF THE CABINET. THE CABINET FOSTERS TOURISM DEVELOPMENT BY PROMOTING AND SUPPORTING NEW ATTRACTIONS, ACCOMMODATIONS, EXPANDING EXISTING TOURISM VENUES, CONVENTION/CONFERENCE MARKETING, AND SPORTS VENUES. ​

Strategic Goals ● GROW KENTUCKY’S ECONOMY BY ENCOURAGING TOURISM DEVELOPMENT IN RURAL AND URBAN COMMUNITIES TO FOSTER ECONOMIC GROWTH AND TOURISM RECOVERY DURING AND FOLLOWING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC ​ ● PROTECT AND STRENGTHEN LOCAL COMMUNITIES THROUGH COLLABORATION WITH STAKEHOLDERS AT THE INTERNATIONAL, NATIONAL, STATE AND LOCAL LEVEL TO PROMOTE TOURISM IN ALL 120 KENTUCKY COUNTIES. ​ ● INVEST IN EDUCATION AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT BY EDUCATING KENTUCKIANS ABOUT KENTUCKY’S NATURAL AND CULTURAL RESOURCES TO SPARK CREATIVITY AND INTEREST IN PURSUING EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN THE TOURISM/HOSPITALITY SECTOR. ​ ● RESPECT KENTUCKY’S HISTORY AND HERITAGE BY INVESTING IN AND PROMOTING THE RICH HISTORY AND HERITAGE OF KENTUCKY AND ENSURING OUR PROGRAMS AND SERVICES REPRESENT DIVERSITY AND CULTURE.

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Kentucky Tourism, Arts & Heritage Cabinet

Kentucky Tourism, Arts & Heritage Cabinet

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LEADERSHIP DIRECTORY

Secretary, MIKE BERRY

Chief of Staff, YVONNE BOARD

Executive Director, Human Resources, CANNON ARMSTRONG

Executive Director, Finance, MELISSA BREWER

General Counsel, SARAH GRIDER CRONAN

Executive Director, Public Affairs, DANIELLE JONES

Legislative Liaison, BR MASTERS

Department of Fish & Wildlife Resources Commissioner, RICH STORM

Department of Parks Commissioner, RUSS MEYER

Department of Tourism Commissioner, MIKE MANGEOT

Governor’s School for the Arts Director, NICK COVAULT

Kentucky Arts Council Executive Director, CHRISTOPHER CATHERS

Kentucky Center for African American Heritage Executive Director, AUKRAM BURTON

Kentucky Center for the Arts President, KIM BAKER

Kentucky Artisan Center Executive Director, TODD FINLEY

Kentucky Heritage Council Executive Director, CRAIG A. POTTS

Kentucky Historical Society Executive Director, SCOTT ALVEY

Kentucky Horse Park Executive Director, LEE CARTER

Kentucky Kentucky Venues Humanities President & CEO, Council DAVID BECK Executive Director, BILL GOODMAN

JOIN OUR

TEAM! KENTUCKY TOURISM, ARTS & HERITAGE CABINET To apply and see other openings, visit:

TAH.KY.GOV

Kentucky Tourism, Arts & Heritage Cabinet

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KENTUCKY TOURISM, ARTS & HERITAGE CABINET 500 Mero Street, 5th Floor Frankfort, Kentucky 40601 (502) 564-4270 tah.ky.gov

@KyTAHC @KyTAHC @ky.tahc