Weekender Extended Magazine - Jan. 2021 Issue

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TRAVEL PROTECTION WITHOUT BOUNDARIES

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The Weekender Extended Magazine is Published Monthly by BarnettPRO Publishing Corp. 15 East Main St., Shiloh, OH P.O. Box 96, Shiloh, OH 44878 Branch office: 1515 W. 3rd, Sedalia, Mo 65301 PHONE; 419-687-0002 Email: info@barnettpro.com Publisher - Michael D. Arnold mike@barnettpro.com Editor-in-chief- Kathy Barnett kathy@barnettpro.com Places to Go Editor: Sheeree Oney Places to Go Team: Rebecca Embry Samantha Bradley Kelley Ramsey Things to Do Editor: Kandy Derden Things to Do Team: Geremy Sowash Beth Cantrell

Jake McFarlin People to See Editor: Lisa Garcia People to See Team: Lisa Brant Angie Offenburger editor@weekenderextended.com Technical Director - Norman Reed Norm@weekenderextended.com Social Media Editor: Geremy Sowash Visit our Website for event coverage between regular issues at www.WeekenderExtended.com Subscriptions are FREE! Submit name and email address HERE and also be entered in our drawing for a FREE weekend getaway!

Copyright 2020 by BarnettPRO Publishing All rights reserved. Reproductions of any material from this issue is expressly forbidden without permission of the publisher. Advertisements in this publication do not necessarily carry the endorsement of the publishing company.

Cover Photo:

It’s a New Year It’s a new Month; It’s a new Issue Let’s find some NEW places to go, new things to do, and new people to see. Above: The newest member of the Barnett family - Welcome Cooper.

Up Close: From the Editor The phrase “New Beginnings” has never sounded so good! After our stressful past year, I feel we are all ready to forget all about 2020 and move on. And there’s no better way to begin again than with a new adventure. So the staff here at Weeknder Extended Magazine is ready to provide new ideas and suggestions to help with that.

With the new year, Weekender Extended introduces some new and exciting opportunities for our readers. Changes are in store with all the new COVID-19 social distancing rules in place. And we understand they are necessary. However, it doesn’t stop us from wanting that much needed extended weekend getaway every once in awhile. So we shall adapt.

So with all these changes in store, you will begin to see some NEW changes in the format of our magazine. We invite your input on NEW topics to cover. There will be NEW giveaway contests offered this year. There will be more room for interaction with our readers this year. And as always, NEW places to go, NEW things to do, and NEW people to see.

With all our NEW plans,

Let’s Make it a Happy NEW Year!

Kathy Barnett Editor-in-Chief January, 2021 ~ WEEKENDEREXTENDED.COM | -5-

Column-Things to Do:

By Kandy Derden Things to Do Editor

Cooking With a Purpose

I am not a coffee drinker. Perhaps this is because my parents didn’t drink it. We didn’t even have a coffee pot when I was a child. In fact, I still don’t. To me, it makes absolutely no sense whatsoever to depend on a cup of caffeine to help me function.

However, I do like the aroma.

I know what you’re thinking, “You’re one of those people.”

Yes, I guess so. I’ve been told it is an acquired taste. I may never know. Another thing I don’t know is what pairs well with the flavor of this brew. From what I understand, I am in a minority on this one. That is, until recently.

Last month, on the last day of work before Christmas break, we were blessed with an assortment of cookies, truffles, coffees . . . and Cranberry Bliss Bars.

I had never seen, heard of or tasted them before. One of my coworkers gladly volunteered to be the first to sample them and let us all know if they were fit to eat. He told us they were awful and we really wouldn’t like them, but the look of pure pleasure on his face told us otherwise.

Being curious, I tasted one, then two and eventually more. I won’t tell you how many. Only my bathroom scale knows.

At the end of the day, there were a few left so I took a couple home to share with my family. They agreed with my assessment and promptly decided we needed to find the recipe.

Problem: I had no idea who provided them or if they were home baked or purchased. So the search began. It was surprisingly quick to

find because this is a treat available from Starbucks. No wonder I had never heard of them before.

The blogger who posted the baking instructions openly admitted it was a copycat recipe which she had been working on for several weeks.

She claimed to have tinkered and adjusted subtle changes in each batch until settling on the following: CRANBERRY BLISS BARS 1 c. (2 sticks) butter, melted 1 ½ c. packed brown sugar 2 eggs 1 tsp. orange extract (If needed, you may substitute 1 tsp. orange juice plus 1 tsp. orange zest) 1 tsp. vanilla extract ½ tsp. ginger 1 tsp. baking powder ½ tsp. salt 2 c. flour 1 c. white chocolate chips ¾ c. dried cranberries Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a 10 X 15” pan with parchment paper. Beat together butter and brown sugar. Add eggs, orange

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and vanilla extracts. Mix well. Add dry ingredients and beat just until blended. Don’t overmix. Stir in chips and dried cranberries by hand. Spread in pan. Bake for 18-22 minutes until set and golden brown around edges. Don’t overbake. Cool on wire rack.

BLISS BARS TOPPING 8 oz. cream cheese 1 ½ c. powdered sugar (If you prefer stiffer icing, add an extra ½ c.) ½ tsp. orange extract ½ tsp. vanilla extract 1/3 c. dried cranberries, roughly chopped 2 squares white baking chocolate or almond bark, melted Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until creamy. Add orange and vanilla extracts. Mix. Spread on cooled bars. Sprinkle with chopped cranberries and drizzle melted white chocolate over top.

Chill one hour. Use the parchment paper to lift out of pan. Cut into triangles.

A special thank you goes to the generous person who repeatedly tested, sampled, and then shared her recipe on line. It is especially appreciated by those of us who don’t have a Starbucks close by.

Our focus this month is All Things New. Even though these have been around awhile, they are new to me. Besides that, they have quickly become my new favorite Christmas cookie. That being said, I have no intention of waiting until next Christmas to make them again. I’m fairly certain they will be well-received at any party, meeting or gathering I may attend, especially if there is coffee.

Product Review: Items for Safer Travels and Home

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- Works in 5 minutes - Covers 1 sqm - Rechargeable, portable, and easy-to-use Price: $45.99 https://theuvcare.com/ January, 2021 ~ WEEKENDEREXTENDED.COM | -7-

Places to Go:

By Sheeree Oney Places to Go Editor

Where the Money Is Let’s go hunt for the money! Alice in Wonderland Treasure Hunt as announced - Solve the Clues for a treasure worth as much as $20,000.00. With a booty worth somewhere between $10,000 and $20,000 USD, The Wonderland Treasure Hunt puts an interesting spin on a timeless classic.

Somewhere in the North American wilderness, between Mexico and the Canadian border, a treasure chest is hidden. For the finder, a real world treasure awaits. It’s filled with gold, silver, and jewels, and it’s estimated to be worth between $10,000.00 and $20,000.00 USD. The man who hid the chest is David Jacobsen, author of the book “The Hatter’s Hat,” prequel to the celebrated, “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland,” by Lewis Carroll.

“No one knows where the treasure chest is but me,” says Jacobsen. “But absolutely anyone can find it. There are hints and clues in my book, ‘The Hatter’s Hat.’ If you can discover the clues and decipher their meaning, you can find the chest.”

The treasure chest itself is said to be filled with gold, silver, a beautiful ring with over one hundred and forty diamonds, rubies, sapphires, rare valuable coins dating all the way back to the third century Roman Empire, a 24 karat gold-plated Alice in Wonderland charm bracelet, and more. “I wanted the treasure chest to be visually spectacular,” says Jacobsen. “I wanted to create something that would awaken the childhood imagination.

When you open up that treasure chest you’ll feel like you’ve just discovered a piece of history: Blackbeard’s secret stash or the loot of One-Eyed Willie.”

Inspired by books such as “The Thrill of the Chase,” “Masquerade,” and “The Secret,” “The Hatter’s Hat” seeks an audience among treasure hunting buffs and Lewis Carroll enthusiasts. “I didn’t want to write just any old book,” says Jacobsen. “I wanted to do something fun and interesting…I wanted to create an adven-

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ture that anyone could participate in.”

The price of gold, silver, and other real world treasures will fluctuate daily, says Jacobsen, but the value of the chest is estimated to range from around $10,000 to $20,000 USD, based on the original value of the contents therein.

The book that contains the clues to the loot can be purchased on The Hatter’s Hat Amazon Page or on the official Wonderland Treasure Hunt website. To learn more, visit the Wonderland Treasure Hunt Website: https://wonderlandtreasure.com.

People to See:

By Lisa Garcia People to See Editor

Madison Taylor Baez Recently featured on Access Hollywood, Harper’s Bazaar, E!, and Oprah, musical prodigy and Young Hollywood’s newest up-and-coming actress Madison Taylor Baez is taking Hollywood by storm already receiving rave reviews for her breakout performance as young Selena in Netflix’s current #1 trending series “Selena: The Series,” the coming of age story following the late Tejano singer Selena Quintanilla’s journey to stardom. The show is also playing in 190 countries. At only 9 years old, this superstar in the making is also best known as the “Anthem Girl” and is no stranger to singing in front of thousands of people. With an unbelievably effortless, powerful and soulful voice, Madison is used to leaving people’s jaws on the floor!

She also plays 6 instruments! Madison currently released her debut Christmas album Blingle Bells currently available for purchase on all music streaming platforms!

Madison’s life so far seems to mirror Selena’s. Madison was the same age as Selena when Selena began performing with her family in the band Selena y Los Dinos and both had the outstanding support of their fathers in their careers. Madison and her

father are extremely close and is undoubtedly her #1 supporter.

At the age of 3, Madison’s father was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer and during his recovery from surgeries and chemo, Madison sang everyday by his hospital bedside which he admits to having saved his life. For several years, Madison would scroll through her father’s iPod and practiced singing covers to iconic songs by Aretha Franklin, Etta James, and Sam Cooke, for her father. At seven years old, Madison began making waves and garnered the nickname Anthem Girl for her viral performances singing the National Anthem for the Lakers, Dodgers, Rams, Galaxy, Harlem Globetrotters and more. At 8 years old, she became the first to perform two 40-minute shows by herself at the OC and LA fairs.

After singing for her father during his recovery, Madison realized the power of her voice and now aims to help others by performing and donating her time all over California at charity, cancer, and sporting events as well as local fairs and schools.

When Madison is not singing or performing, she is can be found hanging out with her friends or playing video games, soccer, and with her dog Jax. January, 2021 ~ WEEKENDEREXTENDED.COM | -9-

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People to See

Dr. Kimberly Robinson HUNTSVILLE - The Alabama Space Science Exhibit Commission is pleased to announce the selection of Dr. Kimberly Robinson as Executive Director and CEO of the U.S. Space & Rocket Center.

A 31-year veteran of NASA, Dr. Robinson will assume her role Feb. 15, 2021.

Dr. Robinson brings to the position a background that includes leadership, public engagement, engineering, education, flight crew training and hands-on experience shaping the nation’s space program. Dr. Robinson currently serves as NASA’s Utilization Manager for Advanced Exploration Systems and was previously the Payload Mission Manager for Artemis I, the first integrated flight test of the NASA’s Orion spacecraft, the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket and the Exploration Ground Systems at Kennedy Space Center.

Before that, she served as the SLS Strategic Communications manager, sharing the future of human space exploration with the public. She is the recipient of numerous NASA performance awards including an Exceptional Achievement Medal and a Silver Snoopy. She completed her Ph.D. and master’s degrees in Engineering Management and Systems Engineering at the University of Alabama in Huntsville and her Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering from Vanderbilt University.

“Along with her vast experience with NASA, Dr. Robinson brings an innovative spirit and the leadership skills needed to guide the Rocket Center as we plan for the future,” said

Joe Newberry, ASSEC board chairman. “Her energy and enthusiasm are contagious and brought her to the top of a rigorous and exhaustive search for our new Executive Director and CEO.” Louie Ramirez, who has served as Executive Director and CEO since January 2020, will remain with the Rocket Center in a part-time capacity as Chief Operations Officer to assist Dr. Robinson in her transition to her new role.

“I look forward to joining the remarkable team at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center to inspire our next generation of explorers,” Dr. Robinson said. “The Rocket Center is a vital part of our community that honors the Rocket City’s storied accomplishments and helps shape tomorrow’s space industry. I am excited to bring my knowledge and experience from

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three decades in the field of space exploration to the Rocket Center and help plan for our vibrant future.”

Dr. Robinson is married to Keith Robinson and has three sons. She is an avid community volunteer and serves as Vice President for A New Leash on Life animal rescue organization and has taught at Oakwood University and UAH. Listed as the #1 attraction in Alabama, plan to spend a day out of this world at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center. Explore the history of space exploration or get hands-on at the interactive exhibits.

People of all generations can feel like an astronaut for the day or the week! See the National Historic Landmark – an authentic Saturn V moon rocket – one of only three on display in the world! Explore the development and evolution of the Space Shuttle program to the International Space Station and learn about NASA’s latest innovations. Enjoy incredible artifacts from our nation’s space program, hands-on interactive exhibits, space travel simulators and INTUITIVE Planetarium shows. The USSRC is also the home of weeklong Space Camp®, Aviation Challenge® Camp and Robotics Camp programs.

Additional amenities include free parking, restaurants, gift shops, strollers and dog kennels. Stay an hour or stay a week… there is something for everyone!

For more on Alabama, >CLICK HERE

Go, Do, See

What’s New in 2021 Alaska’s resilient tourism industry is ready to give travelers unforgettable experiences and a chance to break free from 2020. Here’s what’s new in 2021...

CRUISES Lindblad Expeditions is setting sail to Alaska in 2021 with four ships, three new itineraries traveling along Alaska’s Inside Passage and a new land extension in Glacier Bay. Crystal Cruises will launch its newest ship the Crystal Endeavor in 2021, and sail with five different itineraries ranging from 11-19 nights with options to cruise in Southeast or Southwest Alaska. This new ship will have luxurious amenities including six restaurants, a spa, pool and more.

Victory Cruise Lines will be debuting in Alaska in May 2021 with its ship, Ocean Victory. The itinerary is an optional 12 or 13 days. The “Alaska Insider” will travel along Alaska’s Inside Passage with stops in Ketchikan and Wrangell while traveling from Vancouver to Sitka, or vice versa.

TOURS Alaska Tour & Travel is offering new multi-day, escorted winter tours that highlight experiencing the Iditarod or Denali National Park and Preserve and aurora chasing; or a longer combination of the two. They are also offering a worry-free cancelation policy, allowing visitors to cancel without penalty up to 31 days prior to tour date.

John Hall’s Alaska is offering a new itinerary in summer 2021, the Catamaran Platinum Experience, a day catamaran with overnights on land in Juneau or Sitka for a more intimate experience of Southeast Alaska. John Hall’s

will also be offering a new “Fish and Float the Kenai Peninsula” itinerary this summer with an emphasis on experiencing the wildlife of the area.

PARKS Coming Jan. 2021, Alaska State Parks will have a brand new reservation website. This park-specific website will provide an easier way of finding public-use cabins, pavilions or campsites in the Last Frontier.

The Anchorage Park Foundation unveiled a new initiative, known as The Moose Loop. This 32-mile bike loop is a way for travelers to be able to celebrate moose by experiencing four of Anchorage’s main trails - Lanie Fletcher Chester Creek, Tony Knowles Coastal, Campbell Creek and Ship Creek Trails and when connected, form the shape of a moose when viewed on a map.

For More On Alaska, > CLICK HERE January, 2021 ~ WEEKENDEREXTENDED.COM | -13-

Go, Do, See: SCOTTSDALE /New French restaurant FRANCINE Laurent Halasz, the acclaimed restaurateur behind FIG & OLIVE, opened his first restaurant concept in Scottsdale. FRANCINE, a fine dining experience featuring a French Mediterranean menu in a sophisticated, plant-filled 5,000 square-foot space. Among the signature dishes, guests can enjoy Grilled Octopus, Zucchini Terrine, Salad Nicoise, Salmon Carpaccio, Spring Pea Ravioli, Grilled Mediterranean Branzino, Seared Duck a la Provencal. For lunch and afternoon, the menu offers salads, carpaccio, pizza, and shareable dishes. FRANCINE is located at the luxury wing of Scottsdale Fashion Square, alongside Nobu, Toca Madera and Ocean 44.

What’s New this Year

Arizona Backcountry Llamas A new guided hiking company offers excursions with llamas.

Family-owned and operated, offers a variety of guided llama hiking excursions around Prescott.

Hikers will explore the granite boulders, cool pines, and one of the many lake areas. Owners Chris and Janice Dunn have spent decades exploring Arizona and the west, packing with llamas.

The guiding business allows the couple to share their enthusiasm for Arizona’s natural and cultural history. The Dunn’s ranch is home to four male llamas and five female llamas.

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TUCSON - A modern boutique hotel located in the heart of the city, The Tuxon, has 112 guestrooms, a pool with cabanas, a bike shed, a fitness center, and an onsite restaurant and bar. The room’s interior is designed with rustic wood fixtures, leather, potted succulents, and artwork that resembles the desert. The restaurant’s menu, curated by Jess Keene and Drew Record offers fondue, crudités, marinated veggies, puffy pastries, chips and dips, all driven by market fresh seasonality-- and full of Southwestern flair.

For more on Arizona >CLICK HERE

Things to Do:

Try Luck at the Casino Southland Casino Racing, West Memphis Southland Casino Racing in West Memphis has begun a $250-million expansion that will expand gaming offerings to 2,400 gaming machines and as many as 60 live table games.

A new 113,000-square-foot casino complex will feature new and expanded dining options. The signature component of the expansion is a 20-story, 300-room hotel tower.

Onsite parking will be expanded via a new, covered parking garage with 1,250 spaces.

Saracen Casino Resort, Pine Bluff

Saracen Casino Resort in Pine Bluff is a $350 million casino, hotel and event venue under construction in Pine Bluff. The casino opened in late 2020 and features 2,000 slot machines and 50 table games. A 300-room hotel, spa, restaurants, sports bar, coffee shop, conference center, an entertainment venue and a museum and cultural center are scheduled to open in late 2021. The Saracen Casino Resort is located on 110 acres at Martha Mitchell Expressway and U.S. 63/79 in Pine Bluff. saracenresort.com

For more on Arkansas, >Click Here January, 2021 ~ WEEKENDEREXTENDED.COM | -15-

Go, Do, See:

Tahoe Sands Resort

NORTH LAKE TAHOE/ PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Grand Paciific Resorts will bring its 30-plus years of timeshare management experience to Tahoe Sands Resort, a lakefront resort on Tahoe’s North Shore. Owners of Tahoe Sands Resort, the fourth resort in the Lake Tahoe region that Grand Pacific will have the honor to manage, began Jan. 1.

“We are thrilled with our decision in selecting Grand Pacific Resorts as our management company,” said Robert Wemheuer, President of Tahoe Sands Resort’s Board of Directors. “Grand Pacific Resorts’ operational expertise, award-winning culture, and thorough knowledge of the Tahoe region made them a clear choice for our resort. Their professionalism and focus on Owner/Guest as well as Employee satisfaction are the key ingredients in making Tahoe Sands a world class resort.”

Perched on Tahoe’s North Shore, Tahoe Sands Resort spans four acres of pristine lakefront property, featuring an expansive private beach and stunning wa-

ter views. Suites are available as studios or 1-and 2-bedroom standalone cottages. An ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts, the resort offers direct access to the lake with a private beach and is close to miles of trails and all of the Tahoe area ski resorts.

Included in the full-service management agreement with Tahoe Sands Resort are resort operations, Owner services, and exchange and rental services.

Grand Pacific Resorts will also service maintenance fee billing and collections through its affiliate Advanced Financial Company (AFC). In addition to their existing benefits, Owners will have access to weekly and nightly rentals as well as extended vacation opportunities through Grand Pacific Exchange (GPX), an exclusive Owners-only exchange network from Grand Pacific Resorts.

“We greatly look forward to serving the Board and timeshare Owners of Tahoe Sands Resort,” said Nigel Lobo, RRP, Chief Operating Officer of Grand Pacific Resorts. “Enhancing our presence

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in North Tahoe will allow us to leverage our resources and create memorable experiences worth sharing. We are excited to bring our award-winning service culture and resort management expertise to the Tahoe Sands Owners and Associates and welcome them into our Grand Pacific Family.”

Grand Pacific Resorts is proud to have a long-established presence in North Lake Tahoe. Grand Pacific Resorts currently manages Red Wolf Lakeside Lodge, also located in Tahoe Vista, along with Red Wolf Lodge at Squaw Valley and Olympic Village Inn, both nestled in Olympic Valley, home of the 1960 Olympic Winter Games. Each resort offers spectacular views, convenient access to the sites and activities, and a home-away-from-home type of comfort that Owners, renters, and exchangers alike love.

For More Information on California,

>CLICK HERE

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Things to Do:

Take It Outside GRANBY /PRNewswire-PRWeb-The COVID-19 pandemic has upended everybody’s life and schedule. The world as we know it is radically different than it was last year with plenty of messages about how to stay safe and sane.

Grand County Colorado just announced its pandemic playbook, “Take it outside.”

The recreation and hospitality industries take all the recommendations and guidelines very seriously. Their easy prescription in the months ahead is to take the recreation outside. Outdoor recreational activities include skiing, snowboarding, Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, sleigh rides, snowmobiling, dog sled rides, ice fishing and ice-skating.

The area features more than 600 miles of mapped and marked trails, one national park, two national forests, six wilderness areas, two national scenic byways, two major Alpine ski resorts, four Nordic ski areas, four world-class dude ranches and four mountain golf courses. Grand County’s extensive water network includes Colorado’s largest natural lake, 1,000 miles of streams, 1,000 acres of high-mountain lakes and 11,000 acres of reservoirs.

on their snow-covered slopes.

Dozens of other quiet trails and snowy meadows throughout the county allow for social distancing as you play in wide open spaces.

Granby Ranch Resort has a new management team in place for the upcoming season—Ridgeline Executives.

Nordic and Cross-Country skiing

Backcountry skiing is an ideal way to escape the crowds and soak up some mountain serenity.

Winter Park and the Fraser Valley are known as Mountain Bike Capital USA during the summer months and that extensive network of bike trails that rope their way throughout the valley are swiftly transformed into Nordic ski paths after a few winter storms. For beginners just looking for a gentle meander through the woods, there are options like the Fraser River Trail stretching from Fraser for six miles to Winter Park Resort. The Jim Creek Trail with its trailhead directly across from the Resort’s main entrance offers an out-and-back moderate climb up a forested creek drainage. The Bamse and Travis Dog Loops at the YMCA of the Rockies about five miles outside Granby offer an easy and scenic loop on the Downhill Skiing northern section of their Nordic and Snowboarding Center that allows skiers to bring Winter Park Resort and Granby their four-footed buddies along Ranch Resort have attracted skiers for the workout. And the Grand and riders for decades and both Lake Nordic Center has several are innovating and implementing groomed and intersecting trails strategies to keep guests happy that allow skiers to do a variety of

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circuits of varying lengths.

Snowshoeing

Not so sure about kicking and gliding on cross country skis?

Modern snowshoes that strap onto an individual’s own waterproof winter boots open up literally hundreds of miles of trails throughout the Arapahoe National Forest. Groomed trails are purely optional with these claw-bottomed footwear devices that are both simple to use and sturdy underfoot. They can be used on both groomed and unpacked snowy trails, leaving much of Grand County’s public forest lands accessible for exploring, or simply escaping.

The outdoor combination The all-inclusive Latigo Ranch with its cozy and contemporary cabins in the midst of an outdoor playground is the ideal place to retreat and recreate. With 50km of groomed cross-country trails and more than 200 miles of ungroomed powder, it is easy to social distance while taking in abundant fresh air and giant vistas. Meals and rental equipment are included with the first guests checking in on Dec. 19.

Other options

Few things capture winter solitude and serenity the way ice fishing does. Fishing with Bernie in Granby or Spirit Lake Outfitters in Grand Lake can help novices get started in this unique winter pastime and assist with rods, bait, and how to punch a hole in the ice. From there, the thrill of trying

to catch either Rainbow Trout or Kokanee salmon begins with the potential of bringing home dinner.

For a roaring good time, consider climbing aboard a snowmobile for a tour along Continental Divide tour with Grand Adventures in Winter Park or exploring trails that surround Grand Lake and skirt the edges of Rocky Mountain National Park. If there are kids in the crowd, snow tubing is a must with tow-rope service at Winter Park Resort and in the town of Fraser at The Tubing Hill.

touch-free meal to your door.

Takeout offerings ran the full cuisine gamut throughout Grand County. Deno’s Mountain Bistro is known for great burgers and pizza while Fontenot’s is a magnet for Cajun-style specialties and much more. The Granby Garage and Brick House 40 in Granby will have meals ready to go when ordered in advance for easy pickup. Debbie’s DriveThrough offers quick service right at your car. And if you are thinking about hot coffee and a breakfast sandwich, Java Lava and Mid Town Cafe in Granby can manage the takeout order.

Dining And after a busy day taking in Grand Lake village has a loyal clientele who love the ribs at the views and burning plenty of the Sagebrush, the burgers and energy in the cold, crisp mounsoups at Squeaky B, with fresh tain air, there is nothing more baked bagels at Bighorn Bagels. relaxing than settling into your Classic comfort food that can accommodations and having dinbe taken back to your lodging ner delivered right to your door. is also available on the west On the east and central sections side of the county. Bait Shop of Grand County, restaurants Grill in Hot Sulphur Springs such as Hernando’s, Elevation is the “go-to” spot to pick up Pizza, and Azteca in the Winter some classic Colorado menu Park/Fraser area will deliver a

items to top off a day outdoors.

Heading west on Highway 40 – Kremmling offers a variety of take-out options from Grand Adventure Brewing Company to Dean West or for a taste of the Far East while in the mountain west, the Mt Dragon Chinese & Sushi Restaurant.

Social distancing is easy for visitors to the wide-open spaces of the Rocky Mountains. With a few minor tweaks and the occasional use of a face mask for brief periods when in public places, an extended weekend getaway in Grand County can still deliver all the exhilaration and relaxation visitors have come to expect while staying safe in these unusual times and circumstances.

For more information onGrand County, visit www.visitgrandcounty.com.

For more on Colorado

>Click Here

January, 2021 ~ WEEKENDEREXTENDED.COM | -19-

Things to Do:

Go Play in the Snow

MIDDLEFIELD - From tubing to snowboarding, Powder Ridge Mountain Park has all the active winter activities you can think of.

Powder Ridge Mountain Park and Resort is a year-round venue featuring skiing, snowboarding, tubing, synthetic snow (year round skiing, boarding & tubing), zip line, disc golf and mountain biking adventures for all ages. The Ridge also host cultural events, sports competitions, music festivals and beer fests.

The newly renovated lodge blends country elegance with modern sophistication and is accented by repurposed barn board and two floor-to-ceiling fieldstone fireplaces. The flexible open floor plan accommodates over 200 guests making it the perfect wedding or corporate

meeting venue. Larger groups will benefit from pond and mountain views from an outdoor tented site on Base Mountain. Destination restaurant located on the second floor of the lodge is home to Fire at the Ridge, serving artfully-inspired regional cuisine and Ridgeside Tavern for casual gatherings and can accommodate 150 guests along with private meeting and dining spaces. Day rooms are available for day or overnight accommodations. The living room settings are outfitted with desks, couches and full baths.

The park is home to 20 feature-rich trails for all skill levels, complete with snow tubing for winter fun, Mt. Biking trails for summer and now New England’s only 365 Synthetic Snow park. Skiing enthusiasts enjoy the boarder and ski cross course, racing family and friends down a four-lane

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track pitting boarder against boarder and skier against skier. Our Instructors implement a new terrain-based teaching method and is home to Connecticut’s only Burton Riglet snowboarding program for children as young as 24 months.

The Lodge offers a cafeteria, locker facilities, retail sports shop. For artfully-inspired regional cuisine, visit the Fire at the Ridge restaurant, offering lunch and dinner.

NEW: Heated outdoor seeting; complimentary bag check; relocated retail store for additional space to social distance; and updated day rooms for family gatherings. For more, visit https://powderridgepark. com/

For More on Connecticut,

>Click Here

Things to Do

Stay in New Hotel

NEWPORT/PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Harvey, Hanna & Associates, Inc. (HHA) has announced the development of two new Hyatt branded hotels located in Lewes, Delaware and Kent Narrows, Maryland.

Hyatt House in Lewes recently broke ground near the intersection of northbound Highway 1 and Marsh Road – south of Five Points. The new 105 room extended stay contemporary hotel will be the first of its kind in Delaware and will feature all suite rooms with kitchenettes, fitness room, dining/bar area, meeting rooms, regulation indoor lap pool, and outdoor common area featuring firepits and gas grills. The Hyatt House is well-positioned to accommodate patrons related to the expanding healthcare systems in Sussex County; the University of Delaware College of Earth, Ocean, and the Environment; and of course, long term stay guests and resort beach visitors.

The Hyatt House will be the second Hyatt branded hotel located in Coastal Sussex, joining the HHA developed Hyatt Place Hotel in Dewey Beach. Bancroft Construction (Wilmington, DE) will serve as the general contractor for the hotel. WSFS Bank provided the construction financing for the project. Hyatt

House Lewes is currently scheduled for a Summer 2021 opening.

GGA Construction (Middletown, DE) will serve as the general contractor for the hotel. Hyatt Place Kent Narrows is currently scheduled for a Spring 2022 opening.

Both hotels will be operated by TKo Hospitality Management, located in Newport, Delaware.

“After having proudly established the very first Hyatt branded hotel in Delaware, in Dewey Beach, we committed early on to expand the world renowned Hyatt offerings on the Delmarva Peninsula for our loyal patrons,” stated Thomas J. Hanna, President, Harvey, Hanna & Associates. “While COVID 19 has disrupted the hospitality industry nationwide, we strongly believe in the fundamentals that exist within the mid-Atlantic’s drive-to resort markets.”

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Things to Do:

A Getaway For Work

SOUTH WALTON – With millions of Americans still working from home, Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa is debuting their new Home at Hilton work-from-hotel program catering to remote workers interested in moving their home office beachside for an extended Florida workcation this winter.

Home at Hilton offers business professionals seeking a warm-weather relocation two discounted package options, a 14-night Change of Scenery and a 30-night One Month Life Swap, both providing amenities and benefits to create a home-away-fromhome setting at Hilton Sandestin. Available for bookings now through February 28, 2021, each of the Home at Hilton packages includes spacious beachfront accommodations with a workspace, off-property shuttle service, access to the business kiosk, as well as free reign of the resort’s white sand beach to use for a morning run, mid-day meditation break,

or as the backdrop for Zoom calls.

Additional benefits for those who choose the extended month-long stay include daily breakfast, a complimentary cocktail every afternoon, beach rentals and laundry service.

“We’re making it easy for anyone who is remote working or learning to switch up their virtual living situation and move to our beautiful beachfront resort for an extended working vacation,” said Gary Brielmayer, Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa General Manager. “It’s a chance to escape the cold and enjoy some warm weather, fresh air, and our charming beach town experience. We look forward to welcoming guests for a break from everyday life in the new normal.”

Hilton Sandestin sits along the white sand beach of Northwest Florida’s Gulf Coast and provides guests with easy access and shuttle service to nearby attractions, including golf, cultural centers, state parks, shopping outlets, and

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the vibrant Village at Baytowne Wharf, which is known for its array of boutiques, galleries, restaurants, and nightlife. The resort also offers a variety of on-property activities such as bike rentals, watersports, tennis courts, a world-class spa, as well as dining options, including the area’s only AAA Four Diamond steakhouse, Seagar’s Prime Steaks & Seafood.

Guests who choose the 14-day stay will receive a 30 percent discount on the best available nightly rate. Pricing begins at $90 per night for those who choose to swap homes for the longer 30-day time period. For more information on the Home at Hilton program visit www.hiltonsandestinbeach. com/home-at-hilton or call 850.267.9500 to make reservations

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Places to Go:

Albany

ALBANY—Finding adventure and fun sprinkled with a little heritage and culture is the recipe for a perfect extended weekend getaway in one of the Peach State’s most prized communities

Accommodations

If you want to add a more local lodging experience to your getaway, look at a first-class boutique-style inn.

Merry Acres Inn was built in 1952, features 110 rooms and is a lovely historic inn that offers a prized proximity to the heart of the city along with beautifully renovated spaces that create the ambiance of a bed and breakfast.

Fabulous amenities are plentiful and second only to genuine hospitality and sweet Southern charm.

Also, drop in at the Manor House Pub at Merry Acres for good eats

seasoned fries, salads and more.

Super hungry? Check out the Captain’s Platter!

and drinks. (Note that Merry Acres Inn has a shuttle available for transportation to area restaurants.)

Restaurants

Adventure

Albany’s oldest family-owned and -operated eatery is a fantastic place to fuel up for a day of exploring, but be warned: Pearly’s Famous Country Cookin’ is known to have lines waiting for a taste of this scrumptiousness.

Southern favorites you can sink your teeth into include blueberry pancakes and cathead biscuits with gravy along with a morning cup of Joe. Pearly’s is equally delicious for lunchtime with a good handle on the meat and three possibilities.

An additional family dining possibility is Blackbeard’s Bar-B-Que with pulled pork, fresh seafood,

Family experiences begin with Chehaw Park with more than 700 acres filled with fun! There is a 100-acre zoo home to more than 230 animals, a large play park, animal programs and more.

Radium Springs Gardens is one of Georgia’s Seven Natural Wonders (and the state’s largest natural spring).

The Flint RiverQuarium is a phenomenal adventure, one of only a few open-air aquariums across the globe. For more information, see VisitAlbanyGA.com.

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Tamarack Resort announces the opening of The Reserve, a new upscale restaurant located in the heart of The Village at Tamarack.

Along with a classy yet comfortable ambience, guests will experience a hearty fusion of Mediterranean, Italian and American flavors featuring fresh, seasonally sourced ingredients as well as craft beer, wine and handcrafted cocktails prepared with homemade syrups and shrubs.

TAMARACK /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Tamarack Resort announces the opening of The Reserve, a new upscale restaurant located in the heart of The Village at Tamarack. Along with a classy yet comfortable ambience, guests will experience a hearty fusion of Mediterranean, Italian and American flavors featuring fresh, seasonally sourced ingredients as well as craft beer, wine and handcrafted cocktails prepared with homemade syrups and shrubs.

The Reserve will be open for lunch and dinner seven days a week, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Reservations can made on Resy.com or via the Resy app (available on iOS and Android).

“The opening of The Reserve marks a historic turning point for Tamarack Resort,” says President of Tamarack Resort Scott Turlington. “Opening a restaurant of this caliber, led by a team of culinary experts and guest-service professionals, then add to this that The Reserve is in the heart of America’s newest Alpine Village flanked by a majestic all-season mountain resort, and the experience for our guests will be unforgettable.”

New Upscale Restaurant

The Reserve’s chic, modern design is highlighted by floor-toceiling windows, which create a stylish, relaxing environment accented by rustic wood tables and plush restaurant and bar seating.

Guests will also appreciate the al fresco seating available on the restaurant’s expansive balcony.

Tamarack’s culinary excellence is led by Executive Chef, Gabriel Ortega. Ortega joins Tamarack after leading culinary efforts at several award-winning restaurants and hotels including The Ritz-Carlton Chicago, formerly The-Ritz Carlton Chicago (A Four Seasons Hotel) and The Drake Hotel Oak Brook in Chicago. Having started his culinary career at a young age, Chef Gabe became an executive chef at age 24, later winning the prestigious Chef of the Year award from the Illinois Hotel and Lodging Association. Chef Gabe’s passion for cooking was heavily influenced by his mother and those influences continue today in his cooking styles and techniques.

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The Reserve will be led by General Manager Mike Blanchard, who returns to his Idaho roots from Sonoma Valley, California, where he held progressive roles in the food and beverage division with Fairmont Hotels & Resorts.

Tamarack Resort is a four-season destination situated on 3,500 acres, located 90 miles north of Boise in Donnelly, Idaho. From on-site lodging, dining and event space to the full range of outdoor recreation in the Idaho mountains, there is adventure for all seasons.

Winter brings 2,800 feet of vertical on 2,000 mountain acres for skiers and snowboarders, along with Nordic and snowshoe trails. During summer, the resort is home to mountain biking, hiking, rafting and watersports on Lake Cascade.

For more information on recreation, lodging and real estate, visit http://www.tamarackidaho.com.

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Things to Do:

Unusual School Getaway

Photos courtesy of The Davie School Inn

ANNA - Start out the year with trying something unique and different - but like staying in a school?

Yes! Built in 1910, The Davie School Inn is considered one of the most unique places in Illinois. Converted into a bed and breakfast, eight of the historic classrooms have been converted into subject-themed suites and three have been turned into romluxury suites. Original classroom chalkboards, bookcases and hardwood floors remain and the spacious suites even match school subject themes like math, art, geography, earth science and history.

Each suite is comfortably outfitted with its own Keurig coffee station; ample coffee, tea and hot chocolate pods; refrigerator, microwave and kitchenette sink. Additionally, all 11 suites have their own bathroom, shower and jetted Jacuzzi bathtub.

There is free Wi-Fi throughout the facility and deck. And, all Davie School rooms have dedicated climate control.

After some well-deserved relaxation and a hearty breakfast served in your room, visit some of the local wineries located along the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail. There are also incredible hiking and biking trails in the nearby Shawnee National Forest.

Perhaps you’d like to find hidden treasures in one

of the many antique stores nearby. When it comes to cuisine, the area has some delicious options as close as two blocks from the inn.

For more information or to make reservations, visit https://www.davieschoolinn.com/

Important Note: Details and operations for the attractions included are subject to change due to COVID-19 restrictions. To ensure the safest travel experiences possible, the Illinois Office of Tourism recommends the following: •When visiting Illinois destinations, please wear a face covering over your nose and mouth in public settings, practice social distancing and wash your hands in compliance with the Illinois Department of Public Health and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

•Please contact any Illinois destination or attraction directly prior to visiting to learn about their business operations and safety measures.

•*For Chicago locations* - Chicago has issued an Emergency Travel Order stating that travelers from certain states should quarantine for 14 days upon arrival in Chicago. This includes both Chicago residents returning from travel to a designated state, and travelers arriving in Chicago from a designated state. To determine if your state is included click here.

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Go, Do, See:

Bottleworks District

INDIANAPOLIS - Indianapolis is also set to debut one of its most anticipated projects: a multiuse neighborhood in the northeast called the Bottleworks District, so named for the Coca-Cola bottling plant that occupied the area from 1920 to 1969. The $300 million development, which will include a mix of restored Art Deco architecture and new construction, kicks off with the opening of the 139room Bottleworks Hotel, featuring a lobby with restored terrazzo floors, plaster detailing, and brass Art Deco–patterned doors, plus a front desk that stands where the building’s filler-machine room once did. In early 2021, The Garage food hall will open with two dozen local vendors, including a taproom for craft beer makers Daredevil Brewing Co. and a revival of La Chinita Poblana, a

beloved Asian-fusion taco spot, followed by an independent movie theater.

A $300 million, 12-acre urban mixed-use development, Bottleworks will reimagine the iconic Coca-Cola building in downtown Indianapolis.

The largest private development of itskind in Indiana, Bottleworks will serve as a culinary, arts, and entertainment hub, featuring the city’s first food hall, a boutique hotel, unique residential options, as well as 180,000 square-feet of flexible office space and 175,000 square-feet of prime retail space.

The Bottleworks District will build a legacy, showcase local talent, and create a true third place for generations to come.

THE GARAGE The Garage at Bottleworks, a 30,000 square-foot local-focused food and

market hall, will anchor the project, occupying two of the bottling plant’s original garage buildings. The food hall will feature 1930s Art Deco terra-cotta facades, industrial architecture, and large roll-up doors for a seamless indoor-outdoor experience.

When complete, The Garage will play host to more than 25 food and beverage vendors, bringing top culinary talent, artisan craftsmen, residents, and visitors together in the heart of Indianapolis. It will be a supportive environment where chefs, producers, and artisans are pushed to be their best. To make reservations at the hotel, visit https://www.bottleworkshotel.com/

For more information on Indiana,

>CLICK HERE

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People to See:

The Cleverlys

DAVENPORT - Indulge in some of your favorite comfort foods while enjoying the one-of-a-kind comedy/music stylings of The Cleverlys. They take the stage Thursday, Jan. 21, 7-9 p.m., at the Rhythm City Casino Resort. Your event ticket gets you access to five exciting food stations, six drink tickets (three per person) that you can redeem at the bar and a top notch concert featuring The Cleverlys.

The Cleverlys are a one-of-a-kind comedy/music blend coming from the remote part of the Ozark Mountains, near Cane Spur, Arkansas.

Digger Cleverly, along with his nephews Ricky Lloyd, Sock, DVD and Cub, make up The Cleverlys. They have traveled the globe, if the globe only consisted of the United States, performing at music venues and some of the nation’s largest festivals like Stagecoach, Telluride, CMA Music Fest and even the Grand Ole Opry.

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Don’t be fooled by this faux-family band - they are all accomplished musicians putting their unique bluegrass spin on cover songs from any genre. The Cleverlys’ set list includes genius arrangements of tunes like Psy’s “Gangnam Style,” a medley of Blackstreet’s “No Diggity,” and Flo Rida’s “Low” that recently went viral on Facebook, with over 11 million views from a local TV appearance.

Rolling Stone Magazine says Digger’s “out-ofdate eyeglasses are as thick as his hillbilly accent, but whose comic sensibilities are a hilariously off-kilter hybrid of Homer & Jethro and The Office.”

Tickets are $25 a piece and must be bought in sets of 2 or 4. www.rhythmcitycasino.com/index.html

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Go, See, Do;

Santa Fe Trail Turns 200 2021 marks the 200th anniversary of the Santa Fe Trail. Plans are being made for various events across Kansas and will be ongoin all year.

In 1821, the Santa Fe Trail became America’s first great international commercial highway, and for nearly sixty years thereafter was one of the nation’s great routes of adventure and western expansion.

Mindful of this, the Santa Fe Trail Association (SFTA), a non-profit association with a 501 (c)(3) status, was created in 1986 to help protect and preserve it. The U.S. Congress likewise recognized the significance of the Trail to American history by proclaiming it a National Historic Trail in 1987.

Legendary singer/songwriter Michael Martin Murphey will be the honorary chair of Santa Fe Trail 200. Murphey’s career has spanned decades with such hits as “Wildfire” and “Carolina in the Pines,” and “Geronimo’s Cadillac.” His recent album, Austinology, has met with critical acclaim and paired Murphey with old friends Lyle Lovett and Willie Nelson, among others. He has been a champion for the history of the American West and the Santa Fe Trail.

You are invited to come and join the celebration at any of the following locations.

For more information on Kansas,

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Michael Martin Murphey Honorary Chair

Jan. 30: Quivira Chapter of the Santa Fe Trail Association, “Santa Fe Trail Film Festival,” McPherson Opera House, 219 S Main St #4843, McPherson, KS 67460.

For more information:www.santafetrail2021.com Feb. 9: Program at the Elyria Christian School, 1644 Comanche Rd, McPherson, KS 67460. Pauline Sharp as her ancestor, “Chief Lucy.” Lucy Tayiah Eads was the adopted daughter of Chief WahShun-Gah, Principal Chief of the Kanza Tribe. Lucy was elected the first woman Chief of the Kaw. www.santafetrail2021.com March 25-27: Historical Society of New Mexico, 2021 New Mexico History Conference at the Hilton Santa Fe Historic Plaza Hotel, Santa Fe, New Mexico. Proposed topics include the Santa Fe Trail and its 200th anniversary, as well as the 100th anniversary of the

19th amendment. More information at: http://www.hsnm.org/ April 22, 2021: SFTA and National Trails Office-Santa Fe WORKSHOP, Larned, KS. For more information: info@santafetrail.org April 23: SFTA Board of Directors Meeting, 9:00 a.m., Santa Fe Trail Center, 1349 K-156 Hwy, Larned, KS. For more information: info@ santafetrail.org April 24: Fort Larned Old Guard Spring Mess and Muster, Fort Larned National Historic Site near Larned, KS. For more information: wagonmaster@santafetrail.org April 25: Wet/Dry Routes Chapter of the Santa Fe Trail Association, Spring Meeting and Program, Larned, KS. April 27: Inman Historical Society Annual Meeting, Santa Fe Trail theme program (to be determined).

For more information www.santafetrail2021.com

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For more on Kentucky For more>Click information on Indiana, Here >CLICK HERE

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Places to Go:

Top Winners This state enters the winner’s circle for multiple awards deemed by mbpr Public Relations Firm this year. Top honors were named for the most friendly, versatile, resilient, delicious, and charming. So when you are ready for your next extended weekend getaway, here are Mindy’s suggestions:

Most Friendly: Houma

Nobody is a stranger for long in this part of Louisiana, located just 55 miles from New Orleans. Also called “Louisiana’s Bayou Country,” Terrebonne Parish is accented by plenty of Cajun culture and hospitality. Home to fascinating swamps and vast wetlands, this region also boasts plenty of history and heritage. In non-COVID times, the town of Houma is teeming with lively music and plenty of festivals. Residents have an undeniable passion for life, food, music, fun and their fellow human. Ask for directions at a local gas station and you’ll likely score an invitation to a backyard crawfish boil ... and maybe even someone’s wedding!

Most Versatile: Jefferson Parish

Next-door neighbor to New Orleans, Jefferson Parish is the true “utility player” of the state’s tourism industry. It offers year-round fun and provides an enviable combination of history (it’s where the famed pirate Jean Lafitte liked to hang out), outdoor recreation (from swamp tours to fishing), parks and green space including walking trails through the swamp, and phenomenal dining. Don’t miss the Oyster Trail! It’s all within minutes of the Big Easy, but things here are even easier than they are next door. Experiences are that much more authentic.

Most Resilient: Lake Charles

You’ve read it over and over in this space: Nobody knows how to bounce back like a Louisianan, and this year, Lake Charles on the southwest border of the state got a one-two punch. Hurricane Laura hit the area in August, and then Hurricane Delta blew through six weeks later. Though the region is temporarily down as residents and most especially the tourism industry rebuilds, it’s not out. Lake Charles anticipates a recovery in the second quarter of 2021 and looks forward to welcoming visitors back to its hotels and shores just as most Americans are ready

to return to a more standard travel routine.

Most Delicious: Cajun Bayou

Located less than 45 minutes’ drive south of New Orleans, this little region is all about life on Bayou Lafourche. Locals treat it as their own grocery store.

Great food is part of the unique Cajun culture you’ll find here, and the Cajun Bayou Food Trail gives visitors access to authentic Louisiana foods served by some of the most fascinating people you’re likely to meet on any journey. You’re guaranteed a great meal here, plus a glimpse into a world that may seem foreign at first. You’ll quickly discover they welcome you like family.

Most Charming: Louisiana Northshore

A short drive north from New Orleans – over the famous Causeway Bridge -- you’ll find St. Tammany Parish, also known as Louisiana Northshore. Here you’ll discover the relaxed hospitality you’d expect in the Crescent City, but in much littler towns. Small towns like Abita Springs, Covington, Madisonville, Mandeville and Slidell offer rich historic districts, distinctive restaurants, delightful shops (including an old general store in Covington, a sweet soda shop in Slidell, and plenty of antique vendors and boutiques), and recreational opportunities that allow you to enjoy the great outdoors at an easygoing pace.

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People to See

at the Portland Stage PORTLAND/ PRNewswire/ -- Portland Stage, a professional regional theater is one of a handful of theaters nationwide to have won the endorsement of the Actors Equity Association to produce live theater with an audience. “Talley’s Folly” by Landford Wilson, winner of the 1980 Pulitzer Prize for Drama, had its first performance in October. with a digital on-demand production available for streaming afterward.

“Working under strict Equity guidelines, the theater company knows its success in producing live theater will have implications for stages nationwide,” writes Portland Press Herald staff writer Bob Keyes.

To address safety, the theater installed a bionic ionization system trapping virus in its HVAC units; performers and crew are regularly tested; audiences of 50 out of 288-seat theater are required to wear masks, and the infection rate in Maine is low.

PBS NewsHour’s Jeffrey Brown asked Portland Stage’s Anita Stewart, “Is this a viable financial model for you, though?

Stewart answered, “Long-term,

this is not viable. This is about providing a service right now.

And it’s a service of the heart. It’s a service of the soul. It’s a service for the artists that we can employ.

And it’s a service for the small number of people that will be able to come in and see the work.

The selection of the award-winning romantic comedy offers a timely and hopeful dialogue relevant to the current socio-political climate today. Set in 1944, it is a gentle reminder that 2020 is not the first time people have survived isolation and despair further inflamed by bullying attacks from

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family and neighbors.”

Portland Stage is dedicated to creating intimate, personal exchanges through live theater that affect people and shape communities.

For more information and dates for shows, visit www.portlandstage.org/

For more on Maine,

>CLICK HERE

Go,Do,See:

What’s New in 2021 GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY CHESAPEAKE & OHIO CANAL NATIONAL HISTORIC PARK – The C & O Canal will celebrates its 50th anniversary of being designated a national park in 2021.

TOBY’S DINNER THEATRE COLUMBIA - A new dinner theater will be built at Symphony Woods as part of a larger arts district.

Once they break ground, they hope to finish in 12-16 months. They will only close for about 2 week as the move into the new theatre. They hope to open in 2021. Seemore at https://tobysdinnertheatre.com/ Showing now: Elf The Musical (Thru Jan.10, 2021); and Something Rotten (Jan.15-Mar.21, 2021) NEW TOURS WATERMARK has a few new tour offerings: Scandalous Side of Annapolis Tour – This lighthearted, tongue-in-cheek tour is presented by a guide in the character of a colonial indentured servant who works odd jobs day and night to make ends meet – colonial style.

USNA Tours - 90-minute and 2 hour and 15 minute VIP Tours. Watermark USNA Tours are the same as the USNA tours with the same certified guides and can go in all the same buildings. The groups are smaller and guides meet the groups outside the gate and walk the groups through security.

Women of Achievement – 90-minute tour; visit sites that are connected with women who demanded the right to vote, first appointed Maryland official printer, women who helped runaway slaves, the woman who was the “invisible member of Lincoln’s cabinet, etc. (Can be done as a walking tour or stepon-guide tour)

CLASSIC MOTOR MUSEUM – A new museum is open in St. Michaels, 7 days a week. The living history showcases motoring classics of all kinds, from antique farm tractors to fine examples of the cars that have fueled American’s love affair with the automobile.

HOTELS Columbia Town Center Hotel – Autograph Collection

by Marriott – The Sheraton Columbia Town Center Hotel will soon undergo $20 million in renovations to bring the property up to par with the four-star standards of its new Marriott Autograph flag. The new room count will have 230 rooms.

Comfort Inn Baltimore – An 80-room hotel is planned for 17 S. Gay Street for a hopeful August 2021 opening.

For more on Maryland

>CLICK HERE

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Things to Do:

Relax in an Igloo

TRAVERSE CITY - Take a dip in a 95° outdoor heated pool, then stay toasty in your very own igloo.

West Bay Beach, a Delamar Resort, offers an outdoor winter experience featuring heated pool and igloos by the lake where guests can enjoy dinner, cocktails and even listen to their own music on a bluetooth speaker.

Igloos, accommodating up to six people from the same household, are heated to approximately 35° above outdoor temperature. While the igloos are nice and cozy, guests are encouraged to dress warm and bring a blanket. Seating times are 12pm, 2pm, 4pm, 6pm, 8pm.

Guests will be given a direct phone number for their server and can control the level of contact. Servers will never step into igloos unless asked.

Igloos are deep cleaned and fully sanitized with a BioSpray machine after

each use.

Igloos may be reserved by hotel guests and the general public by calling 231.421.2130. For hotel reservations, call 231.947.3700 or visit westbaybeachresorttraversecity.com.

Recently acquired by Greenwich Hospitality Group, West Bay Beach, a Delamar Resort, is a 173-room full-service hotel on the Lake Michigan waterfront. The iconic property, originally built in 1968, is wellknown among generations of locals and visitors for its guest rooms with stunning water views and beachfront patio with live entertainment. Having undergone recent upgrades, West Bay Beach will see future renovations over the next year, elevating food and beverage options as well as service levels. The resort welcomes guests year-round who enjoy being walking distance to Downtown Traverse City

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with its local art galleries, boutique retailers, antique shops, and eateries. Also, within close proximity are many of the best vineyards and wineries in the country, microbreweries, cideries, and Sleeping Bear Dunes, a four-season national lakeshore park offering miles of trails. Among the hotel’s amenities are a 24-hour airport shuttle, an Indoor and outdoor heated pool with sauna and hot tub, free parking, and on-site watercraft rental and nauti-cat sailing charters.

Traverse City Tourism proudly presents its all-new Winter Visitor Guide for the 2020-2021 season. This winter-specific, 84-page guide is the first of its kind from the CVB in over a decade.

For more information on Michigan,

>CLICK HERE

Places to Go:

Osprey Wilds

This residential environmental learning center and conference & retreat center, nestled on the shores of Grindstone Lake near Sandstone, MN, is a close-to-home, 780-acres refuge powered in large part with renewal energy systems. Here you will find a range of events and programming options for all ages – wildlife, natural history, science, team-building, challenge courses, outdoor skills and environmental education.

Visit Osprey Wilds, open yearround, and you will see a well-maintained, educationally rich landscape and leave wanting to spend more time in this special place with our caring, committed, professional staff. Osprey Wilds is here to help you embrace winter. Now, more than ever, we need to get outside and enjoy nature. You pick the activity and the date. Our naturalists will provide the equipment and will

meet you on-site at Osprey Wilds to guide you along our trails.

Choose from hiking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, or our high ropes course! Except for our high ropes course, these events are free!

Skis and snowshoes are provided.

Join together for a long weekend filled with family-focused activities.

The staff will work with you and your group to set a tentative schedule. Activities include snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, snow sculpture competition, high ropes course, animal tracking, raptor programs, guided hikes, stargazing, and a winter survival course.

Prices are all-inclusive and include three nights of lodging, all meals and snacks, programming, and equipment: 2-person household: $650 3-person household: $900 4-person household: $1125

5-person household: $1325 6-person household: $1500 7-person household: $1650 8-person household: $1775 Check-in: 4:00 PM on Friday Check out: 2-4 PM on Monday To maintain social distancing and ensure a safe visit for everyone, space is very limited, and household groups will be independent of one another. Households will sign up for their own schedule of classes and activities. Our staff will work with your group to set a tentative schedule.

Register online at https://www.ospreywilds.org/Joomla/index.php?option=com_civicrm&task=civicrm/ event/register&reset=1&id=321.

For more on Minnesota

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Clarksdale welcomes travelers to spend some time and experience the fun and funky, the music and myths and the heroes and history that are part of life here.

They will also find a mouth-watering mix of Southern food and an eclectic collection of lodging options. And the Clarksdale experience comes with a one-of-a-kind soundtrack — the sounds and stories of the Blues.

It’s home to the legendary crossroads where influential bluesman Robert Johnson is said to have sold his soul to the devil in exchange for his fame. Whether at a downhome juke joint or a street corner stage, the Blues plays on. The world-famous Delta Blues Museum showcases the importance and influence of this uniquely African American genre. It is filled with memorabilia, photogra-

phy and even the cabin from Stovall Farms where Muddy Waters lived.

Food is a big part of the story here.

There are Delta hot tamales and Southern soul food, for sure. There are also a surprising number of ethnic and specialty restaurants. Roadside barbeque joints, downtown cafes and off-the-beaten-path local favorites are all part of the food scene here. In addition to the old-school restaurants, Clarksdale also boasts a tasty array of newer offerings — from locally roasted coffee and homemade bagels to gourmet burgers and fine dining.

All this is set amid the wide-open landscapes and waterways of the Delta. So of course, there’s outdoor entertainment, too. From paddling the Sunflower River and enjoying Moon Lake, with its landing and overlook, to taking a guided excursion on the mighty Mississippi in a handmade

wooden canoe, visitors can kick back, relax and experience the Delta like a local.

The historic Riverside Hotel offers a peek into Clarksdale’s rich musical history while nearby Delta Shacks offer blues travelers a truly unique, rural experience. Original sharecropper shacks remaining in the area have been turned into tourist lodgings to give guests a glimpse into authentic plantation life Clarksdale has a character like no other. With its music, history, outdoor recreation and more, this is the heart of the Delta and the soul of the Blues. It is the perfect spot to begin any visit to the amazing Mississippi Delta.

For more on Mississippi,

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Places to Go:

New Branson Attractions

Aquarium at the Boardwalk opened its doors to the public for the first time today, Monday, Nov 23.

“We’re beyond excited to be able to welcome guests into the Aquarium today and going forward,” said Tej Sundher, Partner at Kuvera Partners, developer of the attraction. “Our Husbandry Team and the entire staff has been hard at work preparing, and we think visitors will be mesmerized with the beautiful fish and thoroughly entertained by the fun activities throughout the experience.”

Guests are sure to enjoy not one, but ten exciting zones with more than 250 different animal species in 400,000 gallons of salt water. Totaling more than 7,000 individual sea animals, there are sharks, seahorses, stingrays, lionfish, octopi, eels and many more!

There are multiple photo opportunities throughout the aquarium and our favorite was the seahorse carousel and a mermaid tail & trident.

Don’t miss the mirrored art installations that give the sense of infinite ocean life or a beautiful 16-foot coral reef.

Guests will also meet the Aquarium’s characters Aquarius, the wise and helpful Giant Pacific Octopus and

Finn, the adventurous Golden Puffer. Not only will these animals be the first they see on the Boardwalk, Aquarius the Octopus is represented in numerous ways throughout the experience, beginning with the 55-foot tall stainless steel sculpture wrapped around the front of the building. Since octopuses are masters of camouflage, Aquarius can also be found hiding in nine fun ways throughout the experience.

“Touch Pools are one of the most popular features in all aquariums. We’re pleased to have two of them, one with rays and sharks and the other with surging water and tide pool animals such as anemones and star fish,” said Sundher. “It’s been our pleasure to see the pure excitement when guests reach into those pools and connect with the animals.

Tickets for Aquarium at the Boardwalk are now on sale at the box office and online at www.AquariumAtTheBoardwalk.com. All tickets are for timed entry so it’s easier to make arrangements online.

This is the first of many planned new attractions at Branson Boardwalk, a new entertainment complex.

The $55 million aquarium is now open daily from 10 am to 7:30 p.m. For more information, or to order tickets, visit For more on Missouri www.aquariumattheboardwalk. com.

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Places to Go:

New Branson Attractions

BRANSON – FlyRide® is a fully immersive ride that allows passengers to experience the thrilling feeling of flight through a sensory phenomenon that includes wind, mist, scents and motion. Passengers will soar above more than 20 of America’s most awe-inspiring national landmarks, giving them a breathtaking flight experience.

“This is one of the first attractions of its kind in the U.S.,” said Robin Turner of Frontpage Attractions, LLC, parent company of Beyond The Lens and FlyRide. “Our partnership with SimEx-Iwerks Entertainment and the MacGillivray Freeman Films has allowed us to deliver a world-class attraction.

This is truly the ultimate in TECHNO-TAINMENT, where guests experience entertainment through technology.”

By the Numbers • More than 5 years in the making • More than $5 million in construction cost • More than $3 million in film production • The curved screen reaches more than 4 stories high • Featuring the latest in projection technology, creating a 60-foot-wide immersive image For more information, please visit www.flyridetickets.com -38- | WEEKENDEREXTENDED.COM ~ January, 2021

ABOUT BEYOND THE LENS! Beyond The Lens! provides TECHNO-TAINMENT for all ages, featuring the best in pop culture, interactive exhibits, virtual reality games, hunt for Big Foot, escape games, fun photo ops, Flip Zone bumper cars and now, FlyRide!

ABOUT SIMEX-IWERKS ENTERTAINMENT SimEx-Iwerks has built more than 350 attractions that incorporate its patented simulation 3D and 4D content from Warner Bros., Twentieth Century Fox, Nickelodeon, BBC Earth, National Geographic, MacGillivray Freeman and many significant others.

MacGillivray Freeman Films is the world’s foremost independent producer and distributor of giant-screen 70mm films with 40 films for IMAX theatres to its credit, including “Everest” and “National Parks Adventure.” Throughout the company’s 50-year history, its films have won numerous international awards, including two Academy Award® nominations and three films inducted into the IMAX Hall of Fame.

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The Place to stay In Branson: Clarion Hotel Located conveniently in the middle of recent new attractions, The Clarion Hotel has an attractionof its own in the lobby for guesst to view.

It’s a brand new Harley Davidson Motorcycle.

The best part of it is it will soon be given away to a lucky guest! Each time you stay at the Clarion Hotel on the strip, you will be given an entry form to fill out for another chance to win this bike.

The hotel has a variety of rooms, including penthouse suites and family units. And they are located in the heart of Branson’s Theatre District, which means live music and entertainment are just steps away. Along The Strip, you’ll find restaurants, museums, and live shows. The new attractions, Wonderworks and Aquarium are so close, they are within walking distance just a few steps away.

Indoor and outdoor pools, hot tubs and sauna, and exercise gym helps make your stay complete.

As with all hotels due to the pandemic, the free

breakfast is provided as individual sack meals to take back to your room. rooms and suites accommodate the needs of business travelers and vacationers alike. Since you never know when hunger pangs will strike, each room has a refrigerator, microwave and coffee maker. And if you need to spruce up for that business meeting or evening out on the town, there’s even an iron and ironing board.

Branson isn’t just a summer recreation spot anymore. Many of the new attractions are open yearround as is this hotel. A winter extended weekend getaway for the winter months is now popular and easily accessible in this area.

For more information or to make reservations, visit online at https://www.choicehotels.com/missouri/ branson/clarion-hotels/

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Places to Go

Shire of Montana

TROUT CREEK/PRNewswire/ -- With all of the disruptive activity happening these days such as politics, climate change and Covid-19, Steve Michaels has offered a respite to all this gut-wrenching activity by offering a free tour of the Shire of Montana which was patterned after the book, The Hobbit

by JRR Tolkien. The Shire of Montana is a private guest home full of enchantment and wonder - nothing like it anywhere else in the world.

This unique Guest Resort features spectacular views of Cougar Peak and Whitepine Ranch. This enchanted abode is an authentic but luxurious dwelling which lies in the colorful forested foothills of the Cabinet Mountains up in the Shire of Whitepine Valley. The dome ceiling provides a peaceful acoustic experience that softens any stressful mood. As a partially underground suite that is embraced within the earth and designed with aesthetic appeal, it offers many modern day conveniences, yet incorporates the mystique and caricature of a cozy home featured in your favorite fantasy books The Shire has been featured in the NY Times, HGTV and other media sources. Steve is also in the process of building “The Castle” which will inhabit his island in a 2-acre pond. The Castle is 90% fin-40- | WEEKENDEREXTENDED.COM ~ January, 2021

ished and can be seen in construction mode and to top it all off, Steve is offering 50% off on all of his art in his new gallery “Art at the Barn”.

Steve has turned half of the barn into a beautiful art gallery with his exclusive abstract he entitles “Expanded Abstract Imagery” along with local landscape photographs which are made on a patented polished metal. This can all be seen with a glorious backdrop of Vermont Sugar Maples in awesome fall colors. You can feed the cutthroat trout, sit on several decks and just soak in the color.

There is no charge to get out of the house and surround yourself with a touch of Vermont, a 20acre Shire and a detailed Castle with a church called Avalon, student dorm, huge castle and even a clock tower.

All it takes is one person to share the beauty of Whitepine Valley in Trout Creek, Montana to lighten anyone’s mood. Mr. Michaels says, “This is my way of giving back.”

For more information, https://theshireofmontana.com/

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Go, See, Do

A Bug's Life

OMAHA -The bugs have taken over at the Omaha Children’s Museum. In this immersive world of insects, children will explore the science behind each bug’s unique abilities and traits while realizing their own superpowers. Families will encounter real bugs and huge animatronic bugs while visiting this exhibit “Bug Squad” through April 11.

Open Wednesday through Sunday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., you can join Scout, the leader of the Bug Squad, as he visits with you about the diversity within our ecosystem and the world around us. You can learn some important skills that will help protect and preserve the nature we live in.

Ever wonder how a hissing cockroach got its name? What makes a spider an arachnid and not an insect?

Why do scorpions have those pointy tails? Get the answers to these questions and more during Bug Encounters. Our bug wranglers will help you get up close and personal with some of our creepy crawly friends!

Listen for announcements indicating program start times.*Note: Due to COVID-19 precautions, bugs will not be handled directly by guests.

When visiting, remember that all children ages 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult 16 or older.

Regular nonmember admission is $14. They are available by reservation online at https://ocm.org/exhibits/bug-squad/#

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People to See:

Alpenglow Sports Winter Speakers

Alpenglow Mountain Festival is a celebration of human-powered mountain sports, events, clinics, equipment demonstrations, critically acclaimed films and more. Established in 2006, the Alpenglow Sports Winter Speaker Series is a free event designed to motivate, inspire and educate. Due to the global pandemic, Alpenglow Sports will take the 2020-21 season “on the road” to living rooms around the globe in a virtual capacity.

Angel Collinson, Jan. 7th, 7-8 p.m.

Her show “Another Half-Mile” will depict funny and serious stories from her childhood, her evolution as an extreme skier at Utah’s famous Snowbird Resort, and how she has utilized these life lessons during expeditions and on some of the most extreme ski descents ever captured on film. Collinson was the first woman to win Powder Magazine’s “Best Line” award and is a mainstay in annual Teton Gravity Research films. To register, visit https:// www.wildboundlive.com/events/alpenglowangel Ingrid Backstrom, Feb. 4th Backstrom, who established herself in Matchstick Production’s 2004 Yearbook, was the only female to be featured as one of Powder Magazine’s Future Big Mountain Heroes in 2002. She has also won the prestigious awards for performances in ski films including “Best Female Performance” and “Breakthrough Performance” at the -42- | WEEKENDEREXTENDED.COM ~ January, 2021

2005 Powder Magazine Video Awards. Backstrom resides in Washington with her husband and young daughter and her show “Little Big Mountain Skiing” will depict a few of her best trips and ski lines, followed by the transition of a continuing ski career while becoming a mother. To register, visit https://www.wildboundlive.com/events/alpenglowingrid Vasu Sojitra, Feb. 25th For 28 years, Vasu Sojitra has navigated life with one leg, an amputation that occurred when he was only nine months old. Now 29, Vasu is one of the top adaptive athletes and backcountry skiers in the world, and is known for putting down First Disabled Descents (FDDs).

However, that’s not where he stops. His true passion lies in making the outdoors accessible to all. He has coined his approach to backcountry skiing as “ninjasticking,” and uses this to bring intersectionality to the outdoor space.

Sojitra’s show will look at this intersectionality in-depth, and how reclaiming and breaking down stigmas that come with a Disability can change how transformation of outdoor spaces are viewed, welcomed and celebrated.

To register, visit https://www.wildboundlive.com/events/ alpenglowvasu

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Places to Go

Mt. Washington Auto Road GREEN’S GRANT - The Glen House, the award-winning hotel in the heart of New Hampshire’s White Mountains, sits at the base of the Mt. Washington Auto Road.

America’s oldest man-made attraction and the most famous mountain drive east of the Rockies, the Mt. Washington Auto Road opened in 1861 to stagecoaches and later to automobiles.

The dramatic roadway climbs 4,618 feet from the base and reaches more than a mile in the sky to the highest point in the Northeast at 6,288 feet. Both the views to the Atlantic Ocean and the ubiquitous bumper sticker, “This Car Climbed Mt. Washington,” are as popular as ever.

To mark the year of the American road trip, The Glen House has created The Auto Road Weekender package, a true best of the White Mountains offer during one of the most dramatic fall foliage seasons in the country. The package comes with a two-night stay, Auto Road passes for your vehicle

and two adults, two adult 4-hour bike rentals from the adjacent Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center, a keepsake cooler with two boxed lunches, and two adult souvenir t-shirts.

The 68-room dog-friendly*

boutique property at the base of Mt. Washington is steps from the Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center, which offers 40 km of biking, walking, and hiking trails. After a ride up Mt. Washington and some mountain biking, guests can take in the brilliant red and yellow foliage from the deck of The Glen House. The Notch Grille offers such New Hampshire brews as Auto Road Ale from Tuckerman

Brewing Company and serves comfort food such as short rib tacos, Caesar salad, Mt. Washington burger, lobster rolls and steak frites.

The Auto Road Weekender package includes: •Two-nightsStandard Room.

• Auto Road passes for one vehicle and two adults.

•One keepsake cooler with two boxed lunches.

•Two adult souvenir T-shirts.

•Two adult 4-hour bike rentals from the Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center.

•Starting rate from $229 per night, based on double occupancy for a two-night stay.

• Subject to availability.

• Contact The Glen House for reservations.

Full details are available on the website at https://theglenhouse. com/welcome-back.

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Things to Do:

Try a Micro-Trip

O

ne of the best things about a Cooperstown getaway is the ability to make it a quick trip or a leisurely stay, and everything in between. More and more, visitors are coming for a weekend or overnight trip, and looking for the shortest list of must-dos in town. Well, we’ve got it!

Here’s our list of everything that must absolutely be packed into a short, 24 hour getaway in Cooperstown....

When choosing a place to stay for your micro-trip, consider how far you’ll be from the attractions on your itinerary. You can unwind in a peaceful lakeside oasis that’s just an eight-minute walk to the Village of Cooperstown Nestled on the southern shore of Lake Otsego, The Otesaga Resort boasts breathtaking views of the shimmering waters and surrounding countryside. Go for a swim in the lake or tee off at the award-winning Leatherstocking Golf Course. Rent canoes, rowboats, and paddle boats and get out onto the water. Guests can enjoy charming accommodations all within walking distance of several world-class museums: The Farmers’ Museum, Fenimore Art Museum, and the National Baseball Hall of Fame & Museum. To make reservations or for more information, visit https://www.otesaga.com/ From Doubleday Field to Cooperstown Dreams Park and Cooperstown All Star Village, the village is home to baseball historic sites, memorabil-

ia, and the memories of millions of fans. See just exactly how a top quality baseball bat becomes that strong, sleek work of sporting art during a bat turning demonstration at Cooperstown Bat Company’s Bat Factory.

These pro-model bats are available for players of all levels from the beginner through to the Major Leagues. Cooperstown bat is being used in several MLB organizations, American Legion, Babe Ruth, travel team, and high school players.

No trip is complete without delicious dining options, whether you’re traveling for a short or extended period of time. At Hawkeye Bar & Grill, guests can enjoy comfort food favorites like their famous Butcher’s Burger in a casual environment. The outdoor patio, open seasonally, offers a fantastic view of Otsego Lake. 1909, the newest restaurant at The Otesaga, is a modern steakhouse brimming with local flavors. The cozy setting is perfect for a romantic dinner with

that special someone.

While Cooperstown is home to several world-class museums, it’s also known for its award-winning craft beverage scene. Whether it’s beer, wine, cider, or spirits, the Cooperstown Beverage Trail has it all, including stops at Brewery Ommegang, Red Shed Brewery, Cooperstown Distillery and more. What better way to focus your micro-trip than with a craft beverage tour?

As you daydream about all of the places you’d like to visit in 2021 micro-trips might be the answer to checking off several destinations on your list. Whether you’re a history buff, art lover, baseball fan, craft beverage enthusiast, or all of the above, a trip to Cooperstown is the perfect place to make the most out of your extended weekend

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Things to Do:

Going Big First & Foremost– Check out these little-known big deals in Duplin: Duplin County is the filming location for some well-known Hollywood movies: Nicholas Sparks’ The Longest Ride,” “Iron Man 3” and “Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood.”

Liberty Hall Plantation, the ancestral home of the Kenan family, is said to be the finest restored Southern plantation home in the state. Henry Flagler, founder of Standard Oil Company, was married to Mary Lilly Kenan in its parlor in 1901.

In the 1890s, pharmacist Caleb Davis Bradham created a new beverage first called Brad’s Drink. It was later renamed Pepsi Cola. Mr. Bradham, who started what is now a multi-billion-dollar international business, was born and raised in the Duplin community of Chinquapin.

Muscadine vineyards and award-winning wines are a big deal in Duplin County.

Duplin Winery–In ROSE HILL. The largest winery in the South and largest producer of muscadine wines in the country. The wines are made using native Muscadine scuppernong grapes, the only grape native to North Carolina and U.S. This family-operated business includes vineyards,

wine-making and a retail and entertainment venue. Tours, tastings and special events are offered.

World’s Largest Frying Pan–In ROSE HILL. In 1963, the Ramsey Feed Company created the ultimate tribute to the area’s poultry industry by building the world’s largest frying pan. This beauty weighs in at two tons and is 15 feet in diameter. With a capacity for 200 gallons of cooking oil, the frying pan can cook 365 chickens.

Celebrating Veterans–The streets of Warsaw are home to the oldest consecutively running Veterans’ Day Parade in the country. Warsaw’s celebration has been designated as a Veterans’ Day Regional Site by the Veterans’ Day National Committee

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North Carolina Barbecue–Barbecue is big here! You might even find some dustups about whether it’s better in the east or the west.

Here in Duplin, there is no doubt eastern North Carolina has the best of the best. Just ask them. Or taste it for yourself at one of the local eateries or down-home celebrations during the year. There’s even a Whole Hog Cook-off at the annual Blue, Brew & ‘Que Festival in Kenansville to determine the best authentic #ncbbq.

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Places to Go:

Main Street

The North Dakota Department of Commerce will offer a new round of Main Street tourism grants in 2021.

The purpose of the Tourism Main Street Expansion Grant Program is to support new or expanding businesses that provide an improved visitor experience, with an emphasis on attracting visitors to the core of a city or town.

“By developing more enjoyable experiences in our core business districts, North Dakota communities will offer improved activities and experiences to attract residents and visitors,” North Dakota Tourism and Marketing Director Sara Otte Coleman said. “Today’s visitors are drawn to the unique architecture, local culture and experiential activities that create healthy, vibrant communities.”

The program’s intent is to fund new projects that attract visitors from outside of North Dako-

ta for at least one overnight stay with the goal of giving the community and state another experience to entertain visitors and potential new residents.

“Main Street tourism grants give communities a boost to develop and enhance experiences that will help our cities and towns become and remain vibrant,” North Dakota Commerce Interim Director Shawn Kessel said.

The 2021 Main Street grants are a 2:1 matching grant with a maximum award amount of $15,000.

The deadline to submit grant applications is Jan. 22, 2021, with all projects wrapped up

by June 11, 2021. Application information is available at www.ndtourism.com/information/ north-dakota-tourism-development.

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Go, Do, See

The New Food Trail COLUMBUS – Ohio. Find It Here., the state’s tourism campaign, is challenging people to think beyond their favorite restaurants and explore new places around Ohio to satisfy their taste buds. The Foodie Road Trip, which is part of the Fall in Ohio campaign, offers 14 stops from Cincinnati to Cleveland, including recommendations in Appalachia and Amish Country that allow foodies to get their fix by safely dining in or carrying out “Whatever your tastes, restaurants and specialty food stores throughout Ohio have something for everyone,” said Lydia Mihalik, Director of Ohio Development Services Agency. “While the experience might be slightly different as businesses take steps to keep their customers safe and healthy, you’ll savor the memories you make sampling the many delicious treats available around our state.”

The Foodie route offers a wide array of establishments, such as markets, delis, coffeehouses and biergartens, as well as a variety of ethnic tastes, including Central American, Asian, Mexican and Canadian-inspired options. Each location includes suggested places to visit and stay.

“There are tons of exciting food venues in Ohio, but many of us just have to learn where to find them,” said Mike Bowling, owner of Boomtown Biscuits and Whiskey. “We are excited to be a part of the Foodie Road Trip and can’t wait to meet Ohioans who might explore some new places serving up exceptional food across our state.”

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As businesses continue to operate, protecting customers and staff remains a top priority. Bake Me Happy, a 100% gluten-free bakery in Columbus, says strict safety protocols have been baked in from the very beginning.

“Before the pandemic, our goal was to make it easier for other gluten-free folks to enjoy delicious foods, so we carefully ensure there is no cross contamination with potential allergens,” said Wendy Miller Pugh, co-owner of Bake Me Happy. “That attention to detail and safety continues now as we operate through COVID-19, so come on out and get some treats.”

For more travel ideas and inspiration, as well as additional road trips, follow visit Ohio.org and @OhioFindItHere on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Download photo and video assets or read a PDF version of this press release.

About Ohio. Find It Here. Operating within the state of Ohio’s Development Services Agency, Ohio. Find It Here. works to position Ohio as a destination of choice to enrich lives through authentic travel experiences. The Ohio. Find It Here. brand supports Ohio’s multibillion-dollar tourism industry. In 2019, the tourism industry captured a record-breaking $48 billion in visitor spending and welcomed 226 million visitors into and within the state. The industry also supported 431,000 Ohio jobs. For more information, visit Ohio.org.

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Places to Go:

Red Carpet Country Break free from post-holiday blues and make a resolution to brighten the colder months with a fun winter getaway in Oklahoma.

Come along on an extended weekend adventure and explore Oklahoma’s natural beauty in a different light, warm up with some of the best comfort food around or discover the state’s fascinating history and culture.

Alabaster Caverns State Park offers the perfect chance for outdoorsy folk to escape the elements during daily guided tours of the park’s natural gypsum cave. These invigorating ¾ mile tours of the cave’s formations will satisfy the urge to explore while keeping the icy winds at bay.

Drive a short 30 miles down the road to Waynoka and stop at the Waynoka History Museum & Information Center. Located in a Santa Fe depot next to the famous Harvey House, this lovely museum offers a look into Waynoka’s history as a transportation hub. Next, head to Little Sahara State Park’s observation desk for impressive 360 views of the local sand dunes.

Head over to the corner of Cecil and Church Streets in Waynoka to enjoy a hearty, soul-warming meal of Bavarian delights at Café Bahnhof. They feature German favorites served up in a cozy and welcoming environment by the always-entertaining proprietor Dieter Dorner. Start out with a warm pretzel with mustard before moving on to filling entrees like Jaeger Schnitzel with potatoes, Forelle (pan-fried rainbow trout) or grilled lamb chops with cabbage. Wash it all down with German beer.

Accommodations at nearby Newton Ranch will top off a cozy stay in the Cedar Haven Lodge, a 10-person getaway surrounded by a mesa-lined valley.

The next day after breakfast, head out to Alva.

Stroll through downtown to Holder Drug for some

fun, seasonal shopping. You can also take a self-guided tour of Alva’s many murals. These gorgeous public artworks, commissioned from several talented artists, tell the fascinating story of the town of Alva, as well as Oklahoma’s pioneer era. Take the tour in your car or brave the cold for some snapshots of these memorable landmarks.

Once it warms up a bit, make your way to one of Alva’s cutest attractions. Bradt’s Menagerie is a family farm and special kind of zoo that encourages interaction with traditional farm animals like chickens, ducks, goats and sheep as well as more exotic animals like llamas, highland cows, alpacas, zebras, emus and many more. Kids and adults alike will love this fun walk on the furry side.

Hop in your car for a scenic afternoon trip to Enid. Once you arrive, head downtown for an adventure along the Chisholm Trail at the Cherokee Strip Regional Heritage Center. This award-winning museum highlights the pioneer experience with interactive exhibits and living history events. If you’re itching to for some retail therapy instead, head to Enid’s exciting shopping district filled with lovely antique stores, unique gift shops, quirky boutiques and much more.

Exploring is sure to work up an appetite for Callahan’s Pub & Grille. Start out with a scrumptious Scotch egg before feasting on a hearty, authentic Shepherd’s Pie, a piping hot bowl of savory soup or a perfectly prepared steak.

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Places to Go:

Silver Falls State Park People call it the “crown jewel” of the Oregon State Parks system, and once you visit, you know why.

Silver Falls State Park is the kind of standout scenic treasure that puts Oregon firmly onto the national— and international—stage. Its beauty, boundless recreational opportunities and historic presence keep it there.

Waterfalls

Where else can you walk behind a waterfall? Check out the famous South Falls and see what a 177-foot curtain of water looks like from behind. It’s part of the Trail of Ten Falls, a spectacular, nationally recognized hiking trail that weaves through a dense forested landscape.

The trail passes a series of breathtaking waterfalls along a rocky canyon, and descends to a winding creek at the forest floor. This 7.2 mile loop is considered to be a moderate hike, with an overall elevation change of 800 feet. Several connecting trails with separate access points make shorter routes. For everyone’s safety— absolutely no pets allowed on the Canyon Trail. Pets on leash are allowed on all other trails.

Boots, bikes, paws, hooves

The park offers more than 35 miles of backcountry trails for mountain biking, hiking or horseback riding (see guided ride info below). Bears and cougars live in the more remote park areas.

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Daytime activities

The South Falls Day-use area has spacious lawns, barbecue stands, picnic shelters, tables, a playground, horseshoe pits, an off lead area for dogs, and a charming creek. Ever since the opening day in 1933, visitors have been using these grounds for potlucks, family reunions and weddings.

Guided horseback rides: Silver Falls Riding Stables at Howard Creek offers five horseback rides daily through Sept. 29. Advanced reservation recommended. Visit silverfallslodge.com for times and rates.

Overnight

The main campground has tent sites, RV spots and cabins. Bring your horse and stay in the horse campground. If you need an area for many people, the park also has group tent and RV camps, and the historic Youth Camp for up to 250 campers.

Campground

Book sites at oregonstateparks. reserveamerica.com. Reservations can be made 30 days in advance and required. Some services are reduced due to Covid-19.

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Places to Go:

New in Pittsburgh

Strip District Terminal

Pittsburgh’s iconic Strip District neighborhood is home to historical businesses, offices, apartments and housing units.

The Strip District Terminal located at 1600 Smallman Street was once a warehouse terminal dating back to 1926 where merchants would buy produce. The new space will retain much of its historic exterior but will feature more than 163,000 square ft. of revitalized indoor space. The Terminal focuses on pedestrian access and ease-of-use, with a mix of retail, dining and office, and an aesthetic spotlight on local and contemporary art.

The most recently signed tenants to the space include City Grows, Fine Wine and Good Spirits, OnPar now and District Brew Yards.

Garden Room at the National Aviary

Planning an event? The new Garden Room at the National Aviary provides an elegant setting

perfect for weddings, showers, corporate events and parties. And, you won’t want to miss the new Sunday Brunch in the Garden series! The room boasts beautiful stone fireplaces, state-of-the-art sustainability features and large, bird friendly glass windows with access to the garden if you choose. Plan your next event in this breathtaking space unlike any other!

New Breweries in Hazelwood

Three breweries in one building?

Say no more! The Progress Fund, a nonprofit community development financial institution, is leading the project on Lytle Street in Hazelwood.

The building will include separate spaces for each brewery to brew on site, a shared tasting room, a halfacre beer garden and a rooftop deck.

A new happy hour spot or weekend hangout is right around the corner!

Bakery Square Refresh

Located in East Liberty, Bakery

Square is a development featuring open air shops, restaurants, offices and housing units. A refresh is in progress, and new features include The Galley at Bakery Square, täkō, outdoor café seating, outdoor work spaces and more! Enjoy an afternoon strolling the retail stores, dining at a yummy restaurant and relaxing at the new outdoors spaces in this fun neighborhood.

Neighborways

Calling all cyclists! Pittsburgh is getting new streets perfect for pedestrians, bicyclists and other non-vehicular traffic. Neighborways, a type of bikeway composed of a low-speed street which has been optimized for bicycle traffic, offers a safer, more comfortable alternative to busy arterial streets.

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Things to Do:

CinemaUnder theStars

WESTERLY - Enjoy a fun outdoor cinema experience at Weekapaug Inn! Located on the Rhode Island shoreline overlooking Quonochontaug Pond and the Atlantic Ocean just beyond, Weekapaug Inn offers quintessentially New England accommodations that effortlessly combine casual comfort and luxurious furnishings.

The hotel features farm-to-table dining which utilizes the finest and freshest ingredients, locally sourced from Westerly and throughout Rhode Island. With inspired amenities and resort activities, Weekapaug Inn is designed to create extraordinary guest experiences.

Settle into your lounge chair

under the stars, get cozy with a fur heated blanket, and get ready for a classic holiday film. Ticket prices includes a three-course “TV Dinner” bento box meal, candy and popcorn. Warming Thermos cocktails, beer, and wine will also be available for purchase.

Twinkling decorated trees and a festive atmosphere add to this magical experience. All social distancing andsafety protocols will be in place.

Tickets to this event are non-refundable except in the case of inclement weather. There is a different movie scheduled each night of showing. Check the Inn website for details and reservations.

Cinema Under the Stars is also available for a private event venue

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for up to 24 people. It’s the perfect socially distanced special event or holiday party idea! $2,000 per film (plus tax and gratuity). You choose the movie and the night (bookable Wednesday and Thursday evenings). Price includes a “TV Dinner” bento box dinner for each attendee, popcorn and candy. Warming Thermos cocktails, champagne, wine and beer are also available for purchase. To book please call Lauren Heilman at 401.584.7107 or email lheilman@ weekapauginn.com.

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Places to Go:

Thoroughbred Country A great predictor of the but keep in mind there is a future is most often the minimum rider age of 16. past. This seriously rings Since 1882, Polo has been true in Thoroughbred played on Whitney Field Country where reminders and in the current-day, of yesteryear are ever-presyou can still catch matches ent in the antique shops, on Sundays from April to Civil War sites and planmid-June or in the fall from tation homes. True to its September to mid-Novemequestrian roots, there are ber. The whole family will many related events and love this Aiken classic that training facilities to take is the perfect addition to a gander at as you pass any Thoroughbred Country through the region. Make road trip. every moment count by Head over to Cathedral scrolling through ThorBay Heritage Preserve for a oughbred Country’s websample of the Carolina Bay site in advance and jotting phenomenon. Carolina Bays down a list of attractions, es are wetlands that vary in God’s Acre Healing Springs size from an acre to severpecially outdoors where al hundred acres. Bring a God’s Acre Healing Springs folks feel safe and can socamera, binoculars and rain cially distance easily, as not boots, and be impressed by to skip something you’d love.

Mother Nature among the many pond cypress (genTry something new-to-you. Explore the Mennonerally the only tree species to grow in these bays) at ite culture in its authenticity with a visit to God’s this stunning outdoor attraction.

Acre Healing Springs in Blackville. Drink from the Hitchcock Woods is one of the country’s largest artesian well and find education surrounding this urban forests spanning some 2,100 acres of forestgroup who brought wounded Revolutionary War land with 70 miles of various trails. Visitors enter soldiers here to drink and be well—a message we at varying points throughout Aiken offering easy can certainly use today. Just down the road is Wisaccess. Pack a picnic and stay the day experiencing teria Cottage Bed & Breakfast where you might find hikes/walks set to your own pace. For an hour, an lodging that fits your needs. Nestled within beautiafternoon or all day, Hitchcock Woods will grant ful countryside, you’ll find this rustic 1940s cottage just what everyone needs—a breath of fresh air. to have two bedrooms and a bath. And, since you’re Let someone else do the cooking. Enjoy some of visiting the Mennonite community, plan on a meal the Palmetto State’s finest cuisine in Thoroughbred at Miller’s Bread Basket where meat and threes are Country, from down home comfort foods to upscale the staples along with salads and homemade breads. culinary gems. And, the best way to get a taste of Peddle or not, here we come! Explore Aiken on true local flavor is by dining where the locals do. an electric bike rented from Pedego Aiken. Connect with nature on a safe and scenic trail while making For more on South Carolina meaningful memories of a vacation to remember. > Click Here Locks and helmets are included with every rental, January, 2021 ~ WEEKENDEREXTENDED.COM | -55-

Things to Do:

Win a Getaway!

Win a 2021 or 2022 South Dakota Vacation by entering the SOUTH DAKOTA GREAT GIVEAWAY SWEEPSTAKES! Half the fun of a vacation is the anticipation, especially when you’re looking forward to visiting South Dakota’s great places. Enter for a chance to win a $3,500 travel voucher, good for one unforgettable adventure. See the iconic 60-foot stone faces of Mount Rushmore National Memorial. Get a rare chance to see creation in action at Crazy Horse Memorial, the world’s largest in-progress mountain carving.

Wander the otherworldly landscapes of Badlands National Park. Experience history that is alive and waiting for you, from the area’s Native American residents to the Wild West. There’s no other place where you can check so many things off your bucket list.

ENTER FOR A CHANCE TO WIN THE WINNER WILL BE AWARDED A $3,500 TRAVEL VOUCHER TO FUND THEIR ADVENTURE. Deadline to apply is July 31, 2021.

Limit of one entry per person and you must be at the Legal Age of Majority for your state (18 in most cases) or older to enter.

For valid use of the voucher, book your trip by December 31, 2021, and travel by December 31, 2022.

To enter, go to https://www.travelsouthdakota.com/GreatGiveaway -56- | WEEKENDEREXTENDED.COM ~ January, 2021

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Things to Do:

Try the First Robotaxi Boat Concept

PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Buffalo Automation, leaders in AI-powered autonomous water transport, predictive navigation, and maritime safety systems, today announced the demo of the world’s first fully autonomous, AI-driven water taxi concept vessel in Knoxville on the Tennessee River.

Greycraft opens the door for cities nationwide to adopt this ground-breaking alternative form of transportation.

As individuals try to protect themselves during COVID-19, an unmanned water taxi de-densifies the number of people on the craft, adhering to social distancing and COVID guidelines. Buffalo Automation also believes that AI - enabled boating and water transportation shouldn’t be geared toward the top-tiered elite, it should bring future technology to the masses, democratizing

both recreational and industrial water transport regardless of a person’s level of boating expertise.

Greycraft is the only solar powered, autonomous vessel currently capable of carrying passengers and traversing busy waterways. Using the newly released Mayday app, it can also be hailed much like Lyft or Uber. Buffalo Automation has made the possibility of using autonomous water taxis as a safe, reliable, environmentally friendly means of transport, a reality.

“From its inception, Buffalo Automation’s goals have been to improve safety and decarbonize the world’s maritime industry through the use of modern technology,” explains CEO and Co-Founder Thiru Vikram.

“This test run was made possible because of like-minded local leaders who are open to

exploring alternative transport models. Our demo run will solidify our commitment to providing the people of Tennessee a safe, clean energy means of transportation that protects their numerous blueways and natural resources. Running the demo of Greycraft on the Tennessee river is an exciting undertaking. We’re happy that Knoxville officials share our vision and look forward to our impending launch.”

The official launch of the fully operational Greycraft Water Taxi is targeted for early 2021 and will initially be cost-free for residents pending proper transportation permits.

Knoxville, Tennessee Mayor Indya Kincannon, a champion of green technology, is enthusiastic about the potential benefits of Buffalo Automation’s river navigation innovation.

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Continued -

Robotaxi Tennessee boasts a beautiful, complex network of blueways, she says, and none are more important than the Tennessee River, whose headwaters are close to downtown Knoxville.

“The Greycraft test run is exciting and historic,” Mayor Kincannon said. “We applaud companies exploring and investing in green technologies.

As we move forward together, we need everyone’s contributions – government, businesses, transit systems and individuals – to reduce greenhouse emissions. Recreation and transportation on blueways are a significant part of life here in Tennessee. A safer, solar-powered, autonomous water taxi service is a great example of a big idea and a new business model with potential to become a part of the long-term environmental solution across the nation.”

Buffalo Automation’s flagship product, Automate, is a predictive boat navigation system that guides large commercial ships. The system works day and night, utilizing AI, neural networks and thermal imaging technologies to identify even the smallest obstructions and safety issues providing critical warnings and assistance in safely navigating around them. Automate has

already been adopted by multiple commercial ships operating on the US Great Lakes and has garnered global customer interest.

The AutoMate system is available in a consumer version called Pegasus, designed for smaller recreational boats.

Pegasus provides a comprehensive navigation and safety system that safeguards both new and experienced boaters.

While working seamlessly with today’s gas-powered engines, the forward-thinking Pegasus technology has been adapted to provide a fully autonomous boating experience in a new product line called Greycraft that combines electrification, renewable energy and modular design, exemplified by the pilot project in Knoxville.

“The modularly designed Greycrafts can be collapsed and shipped as interchangeable standardized parts each measuring less than 65 inches, fitting into most pickups easily, and can be re-assembled manually at a dock within 2 hours, removing the need for a trailer,” notes Vikram, “Greycraft’s modular design also allows vessel size to be customized easily on the field by users. Since the lack of charging infrastructure is often a significant obstacle for the widespread adoption of electric

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vehicles, Greycraft is designed to be powered primarily by its solar panels with battery capacity reserved only for low-light operation or emergencies. They are also designed to remain operating on the water for several years after assembly and deployment with no maintenance, since they require neither fuel nor manpower.”

Recently releasing a new product based on the company’s existing AI technologies, Buffalo Automation developed the Mayday app, which enables the public to experiment with AI firsthand. Using the app, people can point their phones at their surroundings, and Mayday will identify objects in view. While the app is already programmed to detect watercraft — sounding an alert to boaters if they get too close to another boat or object in the water — Mayday can detect anything once trained to do so. In the case of the Knoxville water taxi, the app can also be used to hail a Greycraft, much like users call for a Lyft or Uber, paving the way for future autonomous ferry and water taxi companies to service the public.

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Places to Go:

The Reimagined Woodlands Waterway

THE WOODLANDS/PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- The design refresh at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel & Convention Center provides a premium elevated experience that speaks to the needs of today’s modern traveler.

The Marriott Hotels brand has undergone a massive transformation, evolving everything from hotel design to associate training.

This hotel is part of this evolution, joining hundreds of Marriott Hotel properties around the world that now represent the transformed brand vision for the next generation of travelers.

The reimagined rooms offer a spacious and upgraded look complete with tailored solutions that are as inventive as its guests. All two-bed guest rooms now include two options, a King/Queen combination or a King with a full-sized pull-out sofa bed. Based on consumer insights, locally inspired accents offer a sense of place and the work surface provides flexibil-

ity to freely move and use technology wherever the guest desires.

“We want our guests to experience forward-thinking, aesthetically pleasing spaces that help foster their inventive nature and allow them to get into their best headspace for success,” said Manny Rappenecker, Vice President, Marriott Hotels. “Marriott Hotels has consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation in travel to create experiences that inspire and nurture our guests’ creativity.

Guests at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel & Convention Center will be able to free themselves of distractions when they step into our hotel, allowing them to focus solely on being the best they can be.”

Located in The Woodlands Waterway Square, the epicenter of The Woodlands, guests are within walking distance to night life, outdoor activities, performing arts and more. Experience unforgettable performances at The Cynthia

Woods Mitchell Pavilion, ranked in the Top 10 Outdoor Amphitheaters in the World. Take a break from your day with rentable kayaks, paddleboards and swan boats on The Waterway, or relax in the outdoor green space. Grab a bite to eat at one of the many dining destinations in the area, all within steps from your hotel room. You are welcome to bring your four-legged fur baby with you on your travels to enjoy all The Waterway has to offer.

An on-site Starbucks conveniently offers your favorite beverage, pastry and snacks. A24-hour fitness center, tranquil day spa, and outdoor pool completes your extended weekend getaway.

COVID-19 precautions are also in place. To learn more or book your next event, please visit us at http://www.WoodlandsMarriott. com.

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SALT LAKE CITY - Every winter, Salt Lake transforms itself into Ski City’s urban gateway to The Greatest Snow on Earth®. From vibrant downtown Ski City, it’s just a 40-minute drive to Alta, Brighton, Snowbird, and Solitude, four of North America’s greatest mountain resorts, each one averaging 500” of Utah’s famous powder each winter. Ski City is one of the most unique and extraordinary ski destinations in the world, an urban basecamp for skiers and riders who come to enjoy the winter playground of the Wasatch Mountains.

There’s lodging that’s affordable and family-friendly for all budgets, thanks to the 20,000+ rooms throughout the valley. While après ski and dining have new restrictions this year, there are plenty of cafes, brewpubs, bars, and dining options that are open.

Not surprisingly, the pandemic has brought a host of new rules and considerations this year. Go to Visit Salt Lake for COVID-19 restrictions and updates.

SKI CITY SUPER PASS Skiers and snowboarders in search of a great deal can purchase a Ski City Super Pass, one of the industry’s most flexible and value-laden passes, good at all four Ski City resorts. One- and 2-day Super Passes are available as part of hotel packages, while passes sold in increments of three to 10 days of skiing (valid over a 14-day period), with no blackout dates, and offering solid discounts on lift tickets, are available online.

The direct-to-lift Super Pass also lets skiers bypass the ticket window and comes with free transportation to and from the resorts on UTA ski buses and TRAX light rail, making renting a car an option rather than a requirement.

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Things to Do:

Go Do

Skiing at Ski Ski City C

See

y City

It also offers equipment rental discounts at participating rental locations.

Remember that all four Ski City ski resorts are also members of the Ikon Pass, which requires pass holders wanting to ski or ride Brighton to make advance reservations this season.

Alta Ski Area has a number of Covid-19 policies that include new regulations for parking at the resort. All Alta skiers, even those with a pre-purchased lift ticket, will be subject to parking availability. To help manage that, the resort has introduced a new parking forecast tool on its website to help. As for on-mountain dining, Alf’s Restaurant and Watson Cafe will have 50% indoor capacity, with skiers asked to limit their time to 30 minutes inside these restaurants. Collin’s Grill is closed for the season. Alta is also encouraging grab-and-go food options, available at Baldy Brews, Alta Java, and the two food trucks located in each base parking lot. One new on-mountain activity is Birding on Skis, led by Tracy Aviary’s expert birders. These sessions run from 9 am-Noon on the second Friday of each month starting in December.

They’re free but require registration in advance.

Brighton Resort has addressed Covid-19 concerns and implemented some new policies for the 2020-2021 season. Life tickets can be purchased online and then picked up at a new electronic kiosk at the resort, contact-free. All lift tickets must be purchased in advance either through the resort’s website or through participating retail partners. For winter dining, Molly Greens now serves food in the downstairs area of the A-frame, and it will be open to families.

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Ski City Continued Upstairs will continue to be a 21+, full-service bar and grill, with extra space between tables, and payment by credit card is required. Guests can order grab-and-go food from other Brighton eateries through the resort’s website and eat at provided slopeside seating. Limited indoor dining is still available, and tables will be spread apart to maintain social distancing.

Outdoor dining has been expanded to include more patio space. The brown bag area below Molly Greens has been removed and those who bring their own lunch are encouraged to eat in their car.

Snowbird has implemented Operation Stay Safe to address Covid-19 concerns, a program that includes a parking reservation system allowing Snowbird to safely manage the number of skiers and riders at the mountain on any given day. It also enables guests to lock in a guaranteed parking spot. Snowbird has expanded grab-and-go food offerings across the resort, added an additional 15,000-square feet of indoor space, and extended maze designs for lateral spacing.

Snowbird also launched a brand-new app that features live chairlift status and wait times, mountain conditions, and webcams, as well as the ability to track your day on

the mountain and find friends.

Those who opt for push notifications will quickly learn of lift status changes and road closures.

The app is available for download on both iOS and Android phones. What hasn’t changed this winter is that Snowbird still offers Utah’s longest ski and snowboard season.

Solitude Mountain Resort is not requiring advance reservations for skiing or boarding this winter, but day tickets must be purchased in advance for a specific date. Same-day lift tickets will not be available onsite. Those redeeming Ski City Super Pass vouchers can do so at ticket windows while those already with Super Pass cards can go directly to the lifts. However, reservations for rentals are required this season. The resort will use historic entrance data to set specific daily caps for potentially crowded days. The resort has added grab-and-go food options, additional outdoor seating, and heaters to some restaurants, and spread out the seating

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for indoor dining restaurants.

Touchless faucets, as well as touchless soap and paper towel dispensers, have been installed, as have additional hand sanitizer stations inside the resort.

Ski City is the winter brand of Visit Salt Lake, a private, non-profit corporation responsible for the promotion of Salt Lake as a vibrant, urban destination brimming with unexpected dining, lodging, nightlife, entertainment options, and worldclass skiing and snowboarding, a destination well suited for leisure travel and conventions alike. In partnership with Salt Lake County, Visit Salt Lake’s mission is to improve the area economy by attracting and providing support to conventions, leisure travelers, and visitors while being a leader in environmental responsibility. For more information, visit https://www. visitsaltlake.com/

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Places to Go:

New River Gorge National Park

FAYETTEVILLE – With the announcement of the country’s newest national park – to be called the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve – a new and exciting chapter begins at Adventures on the Gorge (AOTG). This adventure resort overlooks the newly established 70,000-acre national park and preserve Part of the multi-faceted omnibus bill passed by Congress, the new federal designation is the result of a years-long bipartisan initiative advanced by West Virginia’s U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Shelly Moore Capito (R-WV) and Representative Carol Miller (R-WV) and supported by outdoor recreation-focused business such as Adventures on the Gorge, the largest and one of the oldest tourism operators in the region.

“The passage of this bill is a testament to the progress that is possible when legislators and communities undertake a protracted effort for the greater good, and I am immensely proud of Senator Manchin, Senator Capito and Representative Miller as well as my fellow tourism business leaders, local community and community leaders who supported the effort,” said Roger Wilson, CEO of Adventures on the Gorge. “This is a huge win not only for our future visitors but also for our community, staff and their families, and over time it will certainly lead to more jobs and increased economic growth.”

The outdoor recreation industry in West Virginia is a $9 billion industry that supports more than 91,000 jobs. The initiative specifically protects hunt-

ing, fishing and trapping as well as supporting the growing outdoor recreation industry.

“Throughout the National Park system, other natural wonders that have converted into national parks have seen around a 15 to 20 percent increase in visitation,” noted Wilson. “We have treasures here that no one else has, and the beauty of outdoor adventure tourism is being able to share our natural resources and our love for our environment. Someone else can build the biggest roller coaster or the longest zipline, but no one can build the New River Gorge.”

The region began emerging as an outdoor recreation area in the 1970s with the establishment of small river-rafting companies and the completion of the New River Gorge Bridge and Route 19, which offers easy passage through the rugged region.

The outdoor adventure industry has continued to thrive in the region, with rafting on both the New and Gauley Rivers and a variety of other outdoor adventures such as rock climbing, hiking, mountain biking, fishing, ziplining and stand up paddle boarding.

“As I look at the wintry scene outside my window today, I am very happy to know that this place I love will be around for the next generations to enjoy and protect,” said Wilson.

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Go Do See

Unique Wytheville There’s only one Wytheville. It’s true, no other town in the world shares this name. However, guests discover its name is not the only thing making this destination special. There are trails, parks and rivers, and a picturesque downtown that beckons visitors to stay a while Whatever the main interest, Wytheville offers options for a relaxing getaway or an adventurous vacation. Perhaps enjoy a look back through history or a lookout over mountain vistas. Then take a welcoming downtown stroll or a hiking, biking and horseback riding excursion. All in close proximity, Wytheville’s variety of homegrown attractions appeals to those looking for an authentic spot to enjoy.

This classic downtown is chock-full of gems. Five historic museums bring the area’s history to life.

Visitors will also find the birthplace of First Lady Edith Bolling Wilson, the second wife of Virginia-born President Woodrow Wilson. She has been called the “secret president” and the “first woman president” by historians. One cannot miss the iconic “biggest pencil in Virginia” on Main Street or a stop at Crepe House & Creamery for a Wiffle Pop, a famously delicious frozen treat.

These classics are joined by a historic bed and breakfast, a boutique hotel (each perfect for a romantic getaway), two new craft breweries, and a host of local shops and eateries. Nearby, the Wohlfahrt Haus Dinner Theatre has been entertaining audiences for 20 years. This classic venue presents six musical productions each year. And speaking of music, Big Walker Lookout (the oldest privately-owned attraction in Virginia) is home to a series of Mountain Top Music performances, celebrating the roots music born in this region.

Outside of town, the outdoors summons the adventurous to local, state and national recreation areas. Just three miles from downtown the Crystal Springs Recreation Area and Big Survey Wildlife Management Area offer more than 9,000 acres of preserved lands, 13 miles of hiking and mountain -64- | WEEKENDEREXTENDED.COM ~ January, 2021

biking trails and the newly built Terrain Park. Enjoying trails, canoeing, tubing, kayaking and fishing are all popular at the New River Trail State Park & Historic Shot Tower, which includes a 57-mile trail along an abandoned railroad bed beside the historic New River.

There are plenty of ways to enjoy a trip through the winding mountain roads. The Big Walker Mountain National Forest Scenic Byway traverses 16 miles of beautiful mountain roadway. A visit to the Jefferson National Forest, along the Blue Ridge Highlands Fishing Trail or the Claw of the Dragon Motorcycle Trail all offer amazing ways to enjoy this beautiful region, year-round.

To begin the journey, check out visitwytheville. com, then plan some time off the Interstate to enjoy

e Getaway

Wytheville, Virginia. There’s only one. You don’t want to miss it.

Annual Events

Chautauqua Festival in the Park – June (3rd week), Facebook, Instagram July 4th Celebration, Facebook, Instagram Wytheville Wine Festival – July, Facebook New River Trail Challenge Triathlon – September, Facebook Mayhem on Main Street (Zombie 5k) – October, Facebook, Instagram Fast Facts & Trivia Wytheville… There’s Only One! Our branding theme because there is not another town named Wytheville in the entire world.

Named for George Wythe, the first person from Virginia to sign the Declaration of Independence and

the first American law professor who taught Presidents Thomas Jefferson & James Monroe.

Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of beautiful Southwest Virginia at the intersection of Interstates 77 & 81.

Fun Fact: Interstates 81 & 77 run together in a Wrong-way concurrency for approximately ten miles, meaning you are traveling on I 77 Northbound and I 81 Southbound at the same time while actually traveling due West.

Home of Edith Bolling Wilson, second wife of President Woodrow Wilson. Her birthplace is now a museum, one of only eight First Lady museums in the country. The Bolling Wilson Hotel, located across the street, is a chic boutique hotel named in her honor and themed upon her life.

Home to Big Walker Lookout, Virginia’s oldest privately-owned attraction. Featuring a country store showcasing Virginia artisans, authors and local musicians and a 100 foot observation tower allowing a panoramic view of five states.

A Summer Without Children – in the Summer of 1950 Wytheville was hit by the Polio epidemic resulting in the highest number of confirmed cases in the nation, 185 cases. “The worst per capita polio outbreak in the US.” This epidemic is memorialized in a permanent exhibit at Wytheville’s Thomas J. Boyd Museum.

New River Trail State Park is a 57 mile linear trail situated along the New River on a reclaimed rail road bed. Contrary to its name, the New River is one of the oldest rivers in the world, second only to the Nile and like the Nile flows from South to North.

Wytheville was the boyhood home of William Gibson, award-winning Science Fiction author and “Father of Cyberspace”. His 1982 short-story collection entitled Burning Chrome marked the first appearance of the term.

For more information on Virginia

>CLICK HERE January, 2021 ~ WEEKENDEREXTENDED.COM | -65-

Things to Do:

Snowmobiling

EAGLE RIVER - PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Eagle River transforms into the Snowmobile Capital of the World® every time the snow flies. Thousands of snowmobilers take to the area in winter for their own adventures along nearly 100 miles of groomed trails, which are part of a 600-mile network of trails in Vilas County.

Perfect for small groups, snowmobiling is an excellent way to experience the natural world while creating lifetime memories.

Besides snowmobiling, Eagle River is also known for ice fishing. In the perfect social distancing sport, hundreds of anglers set up their ice shacks on many of the area’s lakes, drill fishing holes and arrange tip-ups to haul in the catch of the day.

Cross country skiing, snowshoeing and fat tire biking are

among other popular winter activities. With separate silent sport trails, these physical endeavors offer breathtaking views around frozen lakes and bountiful wildlife throughout wooded areas. Area rental shops can provide visitors with all the proper equipment to embark on these physically engaging outdoor activities.

A statewide favorite, the Eagle River Ice Castle has been known to draw visitors from hundreds of miles away to capture its beauty near the railroad depot. Since the 1920s, a new design is created and built by the Eagle River Fire Department and qualified volunteers with ice harvested from Silver Lake. This undertaking is weather dependent and the fate of this year’s castle is still being determined.

The Eagle River area is also

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planning on continuing a pair of long-time traditions in early 2021*.

The 57th annual World Championship Snowmobile Derby at the World Championship Derby Complex is expected to be held January 14-17, 2021. The Vintage Derby is the weekend before, running from January 8 through 10.

And for the 15th time, Dollar Lake will be the site for the Labatt Blue USA Adult Pond Hockey Championships from February 4-7, 2021.

Both events are taking additional safety precautions to meet recommendations from the Vilas County Health Department, including the restriction of no spectators at Pond Hockey.

For more information visit https://eagleriver.org/.

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Weekender Extended P.O. Box 96 Shiloh, OH 44875

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