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Celebrate 65 Days of Christmas at Dollywood Resorts

Christmas, Dollywood, Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa, Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort, Family & Kids Cooking, Holiday, Holiday dining, Holiday events, Holiday Travel, National Parks, Tennessee, Uncategorized

Starting on November 1, guests staying at Dollywood Resorts in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, will get to experience the magic of the holiday season over the course of 65 days. Dolly Parton’s iconic resorts have been busy adding extra glitz and glam by stringing lights, hanging garland, fluffing trees and lining up festive entertainment to complement Dollywood theme park’s award-winning Smoky Mountain Christmas festival, making the destination a must-visit holiday experience.

Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, shines extra bright with classic green and red décor, warm white lights, a showstopping 30-foot Christmas tree, and a nightly outdoor tree light show that’s synced to holiday tunes.

Santa’s elves make an appearance through Camp DW holiday-themed events and crafts, with opportunities to write letters to Santa. (Crafts come at an additional fee.) The whole family can also enjoy roasting s’mores in the resort’s back yard and listening to bedtime stories – all books selected from Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library – in the barn. This year the resort is also introducing a new entertainment offering in the form of Christmas carolers.

DreamMore Resort’s signature restaurant, Song & Hearth, serves buffet-style family breakfasts and dinners featuring Southern classics made with seasonal flair. For guests visiting on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve, the 300-room resort will offer a curated holiday buffet of comfort foods like warm biscuits, a carving station, popular country sides and specialty desserts.

*Dollywood’s Red velvet-flavored funnel cake, a holiday treat, is topped with sweet cream cheese icing and whipped cream.*

The Spa at Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort gets into the holiday spirit with seasonal treatments designed to help guests de-stress as they navigate one of the busiest times of the year. They can choose from a peppermint and mocha-scented mani-pedi combo, a chocolatey facial that will leave skin hydrated and glowing, or an iced peppermint mocha massage that uses chilled infinite globes to soothe sore muscles and provide complete relaxation. To learn more about the spa and its treatments, check here.

Guests who prefer woodland creatures, Santa’s reindeer and holiday décor inspired by nature should choose a stay at Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort. On December 5, the 302-room lodge will host a tree-lighting event centered around its Murray Cypress Christmas tree, which measures more than 25 feet and that’s traveling from a family-owned farm in Jesup, Georgia. The event will be hosted by Dolly’s niece, Heidi Parton, and include music, popcorn, warm drinks and a holiday sing-along.

The merriment continues throughout the season with nightly musical entertainment, including special performances of holiday favorites at Acoustic Lobby every Friday and Saturday evening, and outdoor fireside sing-alongs of popular Christmas carols. Guests can also visit Camp DW and choose from a variety of festive craft activities available at an additional fee. HeartSong Lodge will also introduce Holly Claus, Santa’s niece, who will interact with guests on select dates from Thanksgiving Day weekend onward.

HeartSong Lodge’s culinary team offers a feast of locally sourced fare at its signature restaurant, Ember & Elm. Dine here for a breakfast buffet or a la carte items, or at dinner for its thoughtfully crafted menu featuring Smoky Mountain Christmas festival favorites. The lodge will also host a family-friendly buffet in its main ballroom on each major holiday.

A stay at either of Dollywood’s pair of resorts is the best way to experience the more than 6 million lights at Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas festival because both hotels offer exclusive benefits like complimentary transportation, TimeSaver Passes, morning priority access to park attractions, package delivery of park purchases and more.

For the ultimate holiday getaway, book the resorts’ Christmas Tree Décor Package, which includes a decorated 3-foot faux Christmas tree, a letter from Santa’s elves, baked cookies, a commemorative ornament, a Christmas-themed gift for each child in the room, and an assortment of holiday candies. The package is available throughout the duration of the Smoky Mountain Christmas festival at a starting rate of $364 per night.*

To learn more about Dollywood Resorts and to book a holiday getaway, please visit www.Dollywood.com/Resorts.

About Dollywood Parks & Resorts

A highly awarded and widely recognized leader in the amusement industry, Dollywood Parks & Resorts – which is celebrating its 40th anniversary season throughout 2025 – consists of the 165-acre Dollywood theme park; the 35-acre Dollywood’s Splash Country; and two award-winning resort properties: Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa and Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort.

*Dollywood sells an average of 2,700 to 3,000 loaves of its famous cinnamon bread daily.*

As unique as its namesake and owner Dolly Parton, Dollywood is the 2010 Applause Award winner, the theme park industry’s highest accolade; winner of 64 Golden Ticket Awards; and recipient of 28 Brass Ring Awards for Live Entertainment.

The park is located near Great Smoky Mountains National Park and earned the Golden Ticket Award for the Best Park in the world in 2023. In 2022, 2024 and 2025, Dollywood was named by Tripadvisor as the #1 theme park in the country based on actual guest reviews. It also has been recognized as a top U.S. theme park by USA Today on multiple occasions.

Dollywood is open mid-March through early January and offers rides and attractions, shows and crafters authentic to the East Tennessee region. Dollywood’s Splash Country, recognized by the Travel Channel and Tripadvisor as one of the country’s most beautiful water parks, operates from mid-May to mid-September. Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa and Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort provide guests with spectacular mountain views and family-friendly amenities next door to Dollywood theme park and Dollywood’s Splash Country. For more information, visit Dollywood.com. Park operating days and hours vary.

Puppetry reigns in Disney’s The Lion King

Cadillac Palace Theatre, Dance, Entertainment, Musical, Uncategorized

By Guest Blogger Eloise Marie Valadez

A majestic production is gracing the stage in Chicago.

“The Lion King” is currently running through Oct. 19 at Chicago’s Cadillac Palace Theatre. The show is a must-see production and shines on stage with a colorful set, fascinating costumes, creative puppetry elements and a strong cast.

In promotional materials for the show, it’s touted as “the world’s #1 musical” and that’s definitely not hype. “The Lion King” surely draws audience members in with its strong theatrical elements from powerful vocals, colorful sets, a standout soundtrack and more.

“The Lion King” tells the story of the young cub Simba, who after the death of his father Mufasa, must eventually take control of the throne. There are many adventures awaiting Simba as he grows and he must battle his evil uncle Scar on his way to the throne.

This hit production has been touring North America for nearly 25 years and has been capturing theatergoers’ hearts throughout its celebrated run. It originally opened on Broadway on Nov. 13, 1997.

Starring in the current touring production are Peter Hargrave as Scar, David D’Lancy Wilson as Mufasa,, Mukelisiwe Goba as Rafiki, Robert Creighton as Timon, Nick LaMedica as Zazu, Danny Grumich as Pumbaa, Gilbert Domally as Simba and Thembelihle Cele as Nala.

Standout out musical numbers include “Circle of Life,” “Hakuna Matata,” “I Just Can’t Wait To Be King” and “Can You Feel The Love Tonight.”

FYI: “The Lion King” continues to Oct. 19 at Cadillac Palace Theatre, 151 W. Randolph St., Chicago. Tickets are $45 to $180. Visit BroadwayInChicago.com.

About Eloise Marie Valadez

Guest blogger Eloise Marie Valadez, a frequent contributor to Travel/Food, is a professional journalist/writer and editor with four decades of experience covering the arts, entertainment, and culinary industries. A native of Chicago, she has a passion for the written word.

Taste New and Returning Culinary Delights at Dollywood This Spring

Adventure, Dollywood, Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa, Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort, Historic foodways, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, Tennessee Mountain Home, Uncategorized

Dolly Parton’s East Tennessee theme park, Dollywood is recognized for its live entertainment, world-class rides, incredible guest service, and tributes to the traditions and culture of the Great Smoky Mountains. As part of that commitment to heritage, the park showcases Southern and Appalachian cuisine. Instead of simply offering traditional amusement park fare, Dollywood makes an extra effort to serve high-quality options that range from family-style comfort foods to unique items created especially for its various seasonal festivals. As part of its ongoing commitment to bringing guests the best dining experiences, Dollywood has debuted a new restaurant this spring for its 40^th anniversary season. Guests can feast on their favorites and try the new offerings as well.

Guests who visit the park during Dollywood’s Flower & Food Festival from now through June 8 can indulge in Southern-inspired springtime foods that can be enjoyed individually or by using the Flower & Food Festival Tasting Pass. Those with the tasting pass can sample up to five festival items, including new creations like loaded street fries, pesto caprese paninis, Smoky Mountain grilled corn, blueberry pie milkshakes, wild berry cream cheese funnel cakes and a Salad of Many Colors (named for Dolly’s beloved song, “Coat of Many Colors”). The pass can be purchased in the park or online for $42.99 plus tax.

Dollywood will introduce its newest dining venue, Wilderness Pass Restaurant, during the festival. Opening in early May, the restaurant is set to serve a variety of smoked meats along with Southern classics like hush puppies and mac and cheese. Wilderness Pass will also debut a brand-new menu item for the park: rotisserie chicken. The restaurant, which features both indoor and patio seating, can accommodate 400 people and will allow guests to order their food in line before choosing their table.

Dollywood has also become famous for some iconic foods that are offered all season long. For generations, park-goers have flocked to the Grist Mill to devour Dollywood’s world-famous cinnamon bread, which can be enjoyed “naked” or with a side of icing and/or apple butter. The theme park’s original restaurant, Aunt Granny’s (named for what Dolly’s nieces and nephews call her), is consistently named among the best theme park restaurants in the country and serves Southern favorites like fried chicken and pot roast. Spotlight Bakery, located right near the park’s entrance and exit – making it a great first or last stop of the day – provides an array of desserts, including a 25-pound apple pie that’s baked in a specially made, huge cast-iron skillet.

Dollywood’s culinary team acknowledges the food allergies and avoidances that park guests have. With that in mind, they developed a Start Fresh program that ensures vegetarian and gluten-free items are available throughout the park. And when guests inform the culinary team about food sensitivities or allergies, the team ensures that foods are prepared without any cross-contamination.

For more information about Dollywood’s culinary offerings and to plan a trip during its 40^th anniversary season, please visit Dollywood.com.

About Dollywood Parks & Resorts

A highly awarded and widely recognized leader in the amusement industry, Dollywood Parks & Resorts – which celebrates its 40th anniversary season in 2025 – consists of the 165-acre Dollywood theme park; the 35-acre Dollywood’s Splash Country; and two award-winning resort properties: Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa and Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort. As unique as its namesake and owner Dolly Parton, Dollywood is the 2010 Applause Award winner, the theme park industry’s highest accolade; winner of 64 Golden Ticket Awards; and recipient of 28 Brass Ring Awards for Live Entertainment.

The park is located near Great Smoky Mountains National Park and earned the Golden Ticket Award for the Best Park in the world in 2023. In 2022 and 2024, Dollywood was named by Tripadvisor as the #1 theme park in the country based on actual guest reviews. It also has been recognized as a top U.S. theme park by USA Today on multiple occasions.

Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa as well as Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort provide guests with spectacular mountain views and family-friendly amenities next door to Dollywood theme park and Dollywood’s Splash Country. For more information, visit Dollywood.com. Operating days and hours vary.

All photos courtesy of The Dollywood Company.

One of a Kind Cottage Lifestyle and Lakeside Living Show Returns to Downtown Grand Rapids This Spring

Great Lakes, Great Lakes Life, Lake Life, Lake Michigan, Lakeside Living

Michigan is the Great Lake State – comprised of thousands of acres of woodlands, miles of rivers and streams, more than 11,000 inland lakes (and, of course, the Great Lakes)! More than a century ago, steamers and trains brought vacationers to Michigan to enjoy leisurely summers at the family cottage and over time that grew into the state’s thriving tourism industry. The modes of transportation may have changed, but one thing remains strong –time at the lake – whether that is full time or for shorter, seasonal visits – is a cherished family tradition where memories are made. The Cottage & Lakefront Living Show honors that life and you’re invited to join in the celebration, March 28-30 at DeVos Place in downtown Grand Rapids.

Whether you’re looking to buy, build, renovate or decorate your vacation or lakefront home, we have you covered! An impressive line-up of companies will be on hand in the Exhibit Hall including nearly a dozen builders and contractors (log and timberframe – including a full size, 360-square-foot fully-furnished Amish built loft log cabin), four realtors, and companies offering everything from maintenance and service to landscaping and remodeling – including unique indoor and outdoor furniture. You’ll also find companies ready to help with your seawalls, docks and lifts as well as those who are offering the latest in motors, kayaks, paddles, floats and other water toys.

The Monroe Street Beach is the hottest spot inside the show as kids of all ages dig their toes in the sand to kick off the upcoming summer season. Try your hand at building a castle or other creations in this giant sandbox, or watch as experts like Janet Moore Schrader – The Sand Pirate – and her team dazzle you with their sculpturing skills. After surviving cancer nearly 20 years ago, Janet turned to the shoreline of Lake Michigan for answers and what she found – among the treasured pieces of beach glass, rocks, driftwood and fossils – was a sense of peace. She now spends her summers on the beaches of Michigan teaching, sculpting and enjoying all the lakeshore has to offer.

Other Monroe Street Beach highlights include Free Ice Cream from 2 – 4 pm on Friday, March 28 courtesy of Protein Pints! Friday and Saturday are also hopping with the annual Dock Party with a cash bar and live music from 5-8pm on Friday and Saturday featuring Dutcher Snedecker on Friday and 56 Tomados on Saturday.

If lawn games are your thing, don’t miss the YARD PARTY where you can play a round of Corn Hole and giant Jenga. Pickleball is also back for those who have wanted to give this hot new sport a try. Purchase Green of West Michigan has set up a full-sized court in the back of Hall B and they are even providing the paddles and balls, so there are no excuses to not give it a go.

The Seminar Stage will again offer a wealth of information from respected experts talking about things such as finding and buying a summer cottage, styling and furnishing your lakefront home, when to tear down and start over or simply remodel, and navigating cottage rentals from a owner, guest and community standpoint.

Looking to freshen up your cottage look? The Cottage Art Show features local and regional artists who work with wood, metal, glass, time and natural materials. Discover unique and one-of-a-kind pieces, many crafted from reclaimed materials. This area also showcases handcrafted wooden and bark canoes. The Lakefront Marketplace offers a treasure trove of unique home décor as well as speciality gift ideas, including Michigan wearables and accessories, gourmet foods and more.

Whie in this area of the show, be sure to vote for your favorite picture as part of our Water & Woods Photography Contest. You can submit your image for consideration (deadline: Friday, March 14) and our judges will narrow the field down to the Top 10 (with these individuals each winning 4 tickets to the show). Then, attendees will vote to determine the #1 images for 2025 with the winning photographer scoring a Pfish Board and Hoodie from Hydrowake.

Looking for a cottage to rent for a couple weeks? Or perhaps one to buy? Check out the Cottage For Sale / Rent Board at the show right inside the main entrance. If you are looking to sell or rent your lakefront property, Click Here for instructions and to fill out the submission form to have your information featured at the show. In the same area, relax for a few minutes, work on a puzzle, and be sure to pin your vacation home’s location on our map of Michigan.

The Cottage & Lakefront Living Show is one of 14 consumer expositions produced by ShowSpan Inc., in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Founded in 1945, ShowSpan – a John D. Loeks / Studio C Company – has grown to be one of the largest producers of consumer shows in the Midwest.

2025 Cottage & Lakefront Living Show

LOCATION:

DeVos Place – 303 Monroe Ave NW in downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan

DATES & TIMES:

Friday, March 28 (12-8pm)
Saturday, March 29 (10am–8pm)
Sunday, March 30 (10am–5pm)

ADMISSION:

Skip the line – buy your tickets at GRCottageShow

Advance Online Opening Day Ticket: $10 (not available after 12am on 3/27)

Adults – $12
Children (6-14) – $5
5 and under – Free

PARKING:

Take the complimentary trolley…just park in Dash Lot Area 9 on Seward ($3 total) and hop aboard the Trolley which will be making runs on a 15-minute loop beginning an hour before the show opens until an hour after the show closes each day.

There is also plenty of nearby parking – beneath DeVos Place, across the street and connected by a skywalk. For more information, click here.

LOCATION: DeVos Place – 303 Monroe Ave NW in downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan

DATES & TIMES:

Friday, March 28 (12-8pm)

Saturday, March 29 (10am – 8pm)

Sunday, March 30 (10am–5pm)

ADMISSION: Skip the line – buy your tickets at http://www.GRCottageShow.com

Advance Online Opening Day Ticket: $10 (not available after 12am on 3/27)

Adults – $12

Children (6-14) – $5

5 and under – Free

PARKING: Take the complimentary trolley. Just park in Dash Lot Area 9 on Seward ($3 total) and hop aboard the trolley which will be making 15-minute loops beginning an hour before the show opens until an hour after the show closes each day.

There is also plenty of nearby parking – beneath DeVos Place, across the street and connected by skywalk. For more information, click here.

LODGING: Experience Grand Rapids | Kent County Hospitality Association | West Michigan Tourist

GRCottageShow.com | facebook.com/grcottageshow | instagram.com/grcottageshow

Photos courtesy of ShowSpan

Discover Indianapolis in the Spring

Black History Travel, Indianapolis, Indianapolis Zoo, Soldiers and Sailors Monument

Museums & Attractions

The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis (the world’s largest!) is celebrating 100 years with an exciting lineup of events, including:
- Mickey Mouse Clubhouse (Feb. 22 – Aug. 1): Kicking off its national tour in Indy before traveling across the Midwest.
- Centennial 110-ft Ferris Wheel launching March 15, coinciding with the Sports Legends Experience expansion.
- Ruth E. Carter: Afrofuturism in Costume Design (March 22 – Sept. 7): Featuring 60+ original costumes, including some from Black Panther.
- Take Me There: Peru exhibit opening this summer—fun timing with the Paddington in Peru movie release this Friday.
Conner Prairie (Smithsonian-affiliated Museum)

Promise Land as Proving Ground—a new exhibit opening March 25 focused on African American history in Indiana. This exhibit has been three years in the making.
Indiana’s first and only Forest Therapy Trail—guided tours begin in May, blending history and nature for a unique outdoor experience.

Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum reopens April 2 after an $89 million renovation, featuring cutting-edge tech and immersive sensory experiences. Offering visitors a way to experience the Indy 500 any day of the week.

Giant tortoises are coming to the Indianapolis Zoo in May, following the successful launch of the International Chimpanzee Complex last year—home to one of the largest groups of chimpanzees in human care.

Hotel development:

Indy’s newest hotel, the InterContinental Hotel, will be perfectly positioned right off Monument Circle, the epicenter of Indy. While once on a list of Indiana’s 10 most endangered landmark buildings, the hotel will offer a rooftop bar with an unobstructed view of Lady Victory, sitting above the iconic Soldiers and Sailors Monument. Opening later this month.

Sports

NFL Combine is back at the end of this month with a chance for families to step into Lucas Oil Stadium for free and see 300 – 350 prospects trying to make it in the National Football League. Plus, there is a free fan festival outside the stadium as well.
March Madness takes over Indy next month with 43 games across 29 days, including: Big Ten Men’s & Women’s Tournaments and Men’s Sweet 16 & Elite 8.
WNBA All-Star Game (July): With Caitlin Clark expected as the #1 draft pick for our hometown team, this will be huge!

Black Heritage & Legacy Trail

Launching this June, Indy’s Black Heritage & Legacy Trail is a self-guided tour highlighting iconic landmarks pivotal to Black history in Indianapolis. One of the neighborhoods on the trail includes Belmont Beach, the beach where Black families were granted access to swim in the city in the 1920s. At that time, and up until a couple years ago, the water was polluted. Now, Belmont Beach is transitioning from a story about segregation to celebration, as it is now a place for gathering for people of all ages, races, etc.

The Black Heritage and Legacy Trail is part of $150 million in trail expansions and improvements currently underway, making Indy one of the most connected cities in the country—fitting for the “Crossroads of America.”

Indianapolis Cultural Trail Expansion: In fall 2024, Indy celebrated a two-mile expansion of the Indianapolis Cultural Trail, bringing it to 10 miles total. This wheelchair- and scooter-accessible trail has been recognized by the Project for Public Spaces as one of the “biggest and boldest steps by any American city.”

The recent expansion now links Indiana Avenue—Indy’s historically Black cultural district—by the Madam Walker Legacy Center, as well as the South Street corridor, leading to Lucas Oil Stadium (home of the Colts).

Indy’s riverways & trailways project reaches a major milestone this fall, further solidifying Indy as one of the most connected communities in the country. A new resource highlighting Central Indiana’s Trailways network will launch alongside America’s 250th celebration.

All photos courtesy of Visit Indy.

Discover the History of Road Trips at the Airstream Heritage Center

Authentic travel, Columbus, Ohio, Travel trends

When Horatio Nelson Jackson packed for the first road trip across the United States, a trip that started in San Francisco on May 23, 1903, and ended up 63 days later in New York City, he didn’t pack a cooler and money for tolls. Instead, Jackson, who was accompanied by his chauffeur Sewall K. Crocker loaded a 1903 Winston with sleeping bags, blankets, tools such as an axe and shovel, a Kodak camera, both a rifle and a shotgun, spare automotive parts, rubber suits and coats, and as many cans of oil and gas as would fit in the open touring car.

It was all part of a bet. Jackson, a doctor from Burlington, Vermont, wagered $50 (about $4,358.84 today) that he would cross the country in a car, something that had never been done before. The trip ended up costing $8,000 (approximately $3,563.05 in today’s money) and used 800 gallons of gas.

Jackson paid for the entire trip and none of it was offset by the $50 wager as it was never paid. As a plus, Jackson and Crocket acquired a pitbull named Buddy in Idaho who accompanied them for the rest of the trip.

Cars back then (often referred to as machines) weren’t totally unheard of, but road trips were very unique back then. First of all, there weren’t many petrol stations Second of all, roadside motels didn’t exist when the Milestone Mo-Tel in San Luis Obispo, California opened. It was the first “motel” in the world. But that didn’t happen until 23 years later in 1925.

Ten years before that, the first auto camp opened in Douglas, Arizona. But that didn’t help out Jackson and Crocket. Their choices were hotels that could be found in cities and towns but when there was nothing but long stretches of road, the options were to pull to the side of the road and sleep in your car or knock on a farmer’s door and for a small fee, park in a field and get a home cooked breakfast the next morning. 1913 was also the first time that the number of automobiles in the nation reached one million. As of February 1923, there were 275,913,237 motor vehicles in the U.S.

In 1903, there were about 8,000 cars but only 150 miles of paved roads. Hence the rubber suits—traveling was either dusty or muddy. Goggles were necessary, even Buddy wore a set. It was such an adventure and so unique, that news reporters followed them or were on-hand when they entered a town.

Fast Forward three decades

By the time the first Airstream in the 1930s was manufactured, road trips were much more comfy. But Airstream kicked up several notches. An invention by Wally Byam who first concocted the idea of a travel trailer in the 1920s when he erected a tent over the chassis of a car. If that doesn’t sound like a fun experience, you’re right. And so Wally went back to the drawing board. By 1931, he had opened a trailer manufacturing plant in Culver City, California. At the time, Wally’s trailer company was one of only 50 in the U.S. By 1937, there were approximately 400. Today only Airstream remains.

For those tracing the company’s history—as well as the history of road travel in America—there is now a landmark addition to the vintage collection on display at the Airstream Heritage Center in Jackson Center, Ohio.

“It’s believed to be the first rounded, riveted aluminum travel trailer produced by Airstream, Clipper #1, that was designed and built by Airstream founder, Wally Byam himself,” says my friend Nate Swick, who is impressed with the iconic style of the Airstream, considered one of the world’s premier recreational vehicles.

Here’s the story according to Nate

That first model was documented extensively in the 1930s in an effort to market the travel trailer to travelers seeking a premium way to see the country. All that changed after World War II. The whereabouts of Clipper #1 became almost mythological. Had it been used in a traveling Mexican circus or had it been sold to Lázaro Cárdenas, then President of Mexico?

Decades went by and then in 2017, the Clipper #1 was discovered in Mexico City. After 40 weeks of restoration, it now is part of the extensive collection at the Airstream Heritage Center, on display between both 1938 and 1941 models. The three are only 12 Clipper models known to still be in existence.

The 750,000-square-foot headquarters, where the travel trailers are manufactured, offers tours as well as designs from the last 90-plus years. Some fun facts to keep in mind while visiting are: it takes 350 hours to build each Airstream travel trailer, using 3,000 rivets and 1,200-square-feet, on average, of aluminum.

Courtesy of Airstream Adventure.

Those visiting Jackson Center, population just over a 1,000, consider adding some other stops to your trip. The following are within two hours of the Airstream Heritage Center. airstream.com

Don’t Miss These Other Nearby Destinations

The Center of Science and Industry (COSI) in Columbus features exhibits for all ages including the American Museum of Natural History Dinosaur Exhibit, a planetarium, and an exhibit on the Titanic with over 200 artifacts recovered from the wreck and full-scale room recreations. cosi.org/

Photo courtesy of Center of Science and Industry (COSI).

The National Aviation Heritage Center near Dayton is the world’s largest military aviation museum. You’ll find many rare and one-of-a-kind aircraft and aerospace vehicles on site digging into the history of air and space travel (all the way back to the Wright Brothers). As an added bonus, admission is free. visitnaha.com

Photo courtesy of the National Aviation Heritage Center.

The Westcott House, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, was built in 1908 and is open for tours. It is one of many historic buildings in the Greater Springfield Region and this year there are 20 tours for those interested in history, historic architecture, and design including walking tours, bicycle tours, and happy hour tours, westcotthouse.org

Photo courtesy of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Westcott House.

This article originally appeared in the Northwest Indiana Times.

Sammy Hagar & Michael Anthony Ignite NFL Sunday’s Las Vegas Raiders vs Denver Broncos Game with Halftime Performance Featuring Powerful Military Tribute To Celebrate 2025 Residency

Las Vegas, Park MGM, Sammy Hagar, Uncategorized

On the heels of announcing their 2025 Las Vegas residency, Rock & Roll Hall of Famers Sammy Hagar and Michael Anthony ignited Allegiant Stadium with an electrifying halftime performance during the NFL Raiders vs. Broncos game today. Delivering a powerhouse set of “I Can’t Drive 55,” and “Right Now,” the duo celebrated the news that their top-grossing summer tour is coming to Las Vegas this spring as an exclusive The Best of All Worlds Tour residency at Dolby Live at Park MGM. Tickets for the residency are on sale now: www.ticketmaster.com/SammyHagarVegas or RedRocker.com.

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – NOVEMBER 24: Sammy Hagar and Michael Anthony pose for a photo with members of the United Staes military at Allegiant Stadium on November 24, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Denise Truscello/Getty Images for Live Nation)

The performance was highlighted by a heartfelt tribute to honor the bravery and dedication of the U.S. military. During the iconic Van Halen hit, “Right Now,” Hagar invited members of the military who participated in the Raiders’ “Salute to Service” reenlistment ceremony to join him on stage and sing along. At the end of the performance, the crowd chanted “USA! USA!” and the members of the military were given rockstar treatment with high fives from fans as they exited the stage.

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – NOVEMBER 24: Sammy Hagar attends a Las Vegas Raiders’ game at Allegiant Stadium on November 24, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Denise Truscello/Getty Images for Live Nation)

Hagar’s highly anticipated The Best of All Worlds Las Vegas Residency is set to run April 30 through May 17, 2025. Today’s performance offered fans a taste of what’s to come in the intimate, high-energy residency, featuring career-spanning hits from Montrose, Van Halen, Chickenfoot, and beyond.

The tour will reunite the rock powerhouse band of Hagar, Anthony, Joe Satriani and Kenny Aronoff with a new “only in Las Vegas” setlist, representing a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see this band of brothers deliver one of the most legendary hits-packed live shows of their careers.

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – NOVEMBER 24: Sammy Hagar performs during halftime at the Las Vegas Raiders’ game against the Denver Broncos at Allegiant Stadium on November 24, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Denise Truscello/Getty Images for Live Nation)

About Sammy Hagar

For more than four decades, Sammy Hagar has been recognized as one of the best and most accomplished lead singers and songwriters in rock music. From breaking into the industry with the seminal hard rock band Montrose, to his multi-platinum solo career, to his ride as the frontman of Van Halen, Chickenfoot, and his latest best-selling supergroup, The Circle, Hagar has amassed 25 Platinum albums on sales surpassing 50 million worldwide.

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – NOVEMBER 24: Sammy Hagar poses for a photo with members of the United States military at Allegiant Stadium on November 24, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Denise Truscello/Getty Images for Live Nation)

Along his journey, he has set the tone for some of the greatest rock anthems ever written with songs like “I Can’t Drive 55,” “Right Now,” and “Why Can’t This Be Love,” and earned the highest respect of the music industry with a Grammy Award and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Since opening his flagship Cabo Wabo Cantina in 1990, he’s turned a lifelong passion for great food, music and spirits into a thriving and iconic lifestyle brand encompassing restaurants and spirits.

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – NOVEMBER 24: Michael Anthony and Sammy Hagar pose for a photo at Allegiant Stadium on November 24, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Denise Truscello/Getty Images for Live Nation)

A pioneer in the spirits industry, he launched Cabo Wabo Tequila in 1996 and catapulted it into the #2-selling premium tequila brand in the United States. In 2010, Hagar sold his interests in Cabo Wabo Tequila to Gruppo Campari in a 9-figure deal that’s widely credited as the start of the celebrity-owned spirits trend. He now owns an award-winning portfolio of top-shelf spirits and beer that embody that same spirit of Baja beach life and rock ‘n’ roll. They include Sammy’s Beach Bar Rum, a partnership with rock icon Rick Springfield, Santo Spirits, a partnership with tastemaker Guy Fieri, Sammy’s Beach Bar Cocktail Co. and Red Rocker Brewing Co.

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – NOVEMBER 24: Sammy Hagar and Michael Anthony attend a Las Vegas Raiders’ game at Allegiant Stadium on November 24, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Denise Truscello/Getty Images for Live Nation)

Never one to hit the brakes, Sammy’s also expanded his successes into publishing, TV, radio and beyond, including five seasons of his hit TV show “Rock & Roll Road Trip with Sammy Hagar” and as host of “Sammy Hagar’s Top Rock Countdown,” a weekly syndicated radio show on 90+ US stations.

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – NOVEMBER 24: Sammy Hagar poses for a photo with members of the United Staes military at Allegiant Stadium on November 24, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Denise Truscello/Getty Images for Live Nation)

He’s a #1 NYT bestselling author, a dedicated philanthropist, donating millions back to local communities through his private non-profit The Hagar Family Foundation, and the first Honorary Ambassador to Los Cabos, an honor he was bestowed in 2022 in recognition of his longtime investment in the people and economy of Mexico. Visit RedRocker.com for more information.

Michael Anthony (Photo by Denise Truscello/Getty Images for Live Nation)

About Live Nation Las Vegas

Live Nation Entertainment (NYSE: LYV) is the world’s leading live entertainment company comprised of global market leaders: Ticketmaster, Live Nation Concerts, and Live Nation Sponsorship. Live Nation Las Vegas produces residency shows from Sammy Hagar, Mötley Crüe, New Kids On The Block, Mariah Carey, Maroon 5, Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars at Dolby Live at Park MGM; Santana at House of Blues; Blake Shelton, Garth Brooks and Rod Stewart at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace; The B-52s, Earth, Wind & Fire, FOREIGNER, Styx and Chicago at The Venetian Theatre at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas; and Scorpions, Black Eyed Peas and Shania Twain at PH Live at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino.

Live Nation Las Vegas also brings other world-famous artists to many of the city’s other premier concert venues including Allegiant Stadium, T-Mobile Arena, MGM Grand Garden Arena, Michelob ULTRA Arena, the Pearl at Palms Casino Resort, Downtown Las Vegas Events Center and more. For additional information, visit www.livenationentertainment.com. Find Live Nation Las Vegas on Facebook, Instagram and follow us on Twitter.

About Park MGM

Park MGM is the Las Vegas Strip’s first smoke-free resort, offering an intimate hotel experience on a grand scale. Park MGM features 2,700 guest rooms and suites in addition to NoMad Las Vegas’ 293 well-appointed guest rooms and suites on the resort’s top four floors. The resort’s robust culinary program features NoMad Library; L.A. legend Roy Choi’s Korean BBQ concept, Best Friend; Hogsalt Hospitality’s renowned Bavette’s Steakhouse; and the 40,000-square-foot vibrant Italian marketplace, Eataly, among other dining and cocktail experiences.

Dolby Live, the resort’s 5,200-seat entertainment destination, is home to special engagements by Bruno Mars, Lady Gaga, Lenny Kravitz, Mariah Carey, Maroon 5, Mötley Crüe and New Kids On The Block, among other top artists. Park MGM also is home to On The Record, a unique nightlife concept from LA-based Houston Hospitality. Park MGM and NoMad Las Vegas are located in the heart of The Strip, next to the entertainment and dining neighborhood created by The Park and the 20,000-seat T-Mobile Arena. Park MGM and NoMad Las Vegas are operated by MGM Resorts International (NYSE: MGM).

For more information and reservations, visit ParkMGM.com, call toll-free at 888-529-4828, or find us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.

New Study Reveals The Most Popular Recipes in America

Uncategorized

A recent study by the #1 ranked culinary school in the USA, Escoffier, examined Google search data for October 2024 to identify the top ten most popular recipes in each US state. By analyzing search volume, ingredient costs, and YouTube view counts, the study highlights regional food trends and the dishes Americans are most eager to recreate at home.

A new study identifies the most popular recipes in each US state by tracking Google search data, the cost and ingredients of each recipe, and the YouTube view count.
The banana bread recipe leads with 672,000 searches, particularly being popular in Alaska.
Lasagna has the most watched recipe in 10 states, with many eager to cook this dish at home, resulting in over 93 million views on YouTube.

Methodology: The #1 Ranked Culinary School in the USA, Escoffier, conducted a study to determine the top ten most-searched recipes in the United States from October 2023 to October 2024. The research is based on the search volumes of the recipes using the SEO platform Ahrefs. After identifying search volumes, Google Trends pinpointed the top five states showing the most interest in each recipe. Google Trends ranks states based on their interest in a search term relative to all other searches in that state.

For example, suppose Alaska ranks first for banana bread. In that case, it means that banana bread searches made up the largest share of all web searches in Alaska, not necessarily that Alaska had the highest search volume. This may introduce a slight bias toward smaller states with a narrower range of searches, allowing common searches, like recipes, to rank higher.

To determine the cost per serving for each recipe, Escoffier selected the most popular recipe on Allrecipes and used pricing data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Federal Reserve or, when unavailable, from Walmart. This analysis reveals regional and national trends, showing that a love of food unites people nationwide.

Findings summed up

Recipe Name	Type	Search Volume	Total Making Cost per serving	YouTube views Globally	State where it’s most popular
Banana bread recipe	Dessert	672K	$0.23	12M	Alaska
Meatloaf recipe	Main Dish	410K	$1.34	3.9M	West Virginia
Chili recipe	Main Dish	373K	$2.92	12M	Colorado
Pancake recipe	Breakfast	351K	$0.17	36M	Vermont
Chocolate chip cookie recipe	Dessert	342K	$0.23	38M	Montana
French toast recipe	Breakfast	306K	$0.23	43M	North Dakota
Lasagna recipe	Main Dish	269K	$2.83	93M	Vermont
Alfredo sauce recipe	Main Dish	195K	$1.47	22M	Wyoming
Margarita recipe	Cocktail	183K	$2.18	5.1M	New Hampshire
Old fashioned recipe	Cocktail	182K	$1.86	6.2M	West Virginia

Topping the list is banana bread, with Alaska leading in search interest. This classic recipe has earned 672,000 searches nationwide, driven by its affordability—it costs just $0.23 to make a serving—and simple ingredients commonly available.

Meatloaf is the second most popular dish Americans seek to cook at home, with 410,000 online searches. This recipe is the No. 1 most-searched recipe in West Virginia. Despite its higher cost of about $1.34, largely due to ingredients like ground beef, the recipe has nearly 4 million YouTube views, making it one of the top-searched main dishes in the country.

Colorado leads in chili recipe searches, helping it secure third place on the list with 373,000 searches. While similar to meatloaf in its use of ground beef, chili is slightly more expensive to make at $2.92 per serving. Its 12 million YouTube views reflect the dish’s widespread appeal, especially in colder states.

In fourth place is the Pancake recipe, with 351,000 searches. Vermont is searching for pancake recipes more than any other state. At only $0.17 per serving, pancakes are the most budget-friendly recipe on the list. The “How to Make It” video on YouTube has been viewed over 36 million times.

The chocolate chip cookie recipe rounds out the top five in the list of most popular recipes in each US state, with 342,000 searches. This classic American treat, made with simple ingredients like flour, butter, and chocolate chips, is the most favored in Montana. Preparing the dessert costs around $0.23.

French toast ranks sixth, with 306,000 searches, most notably in North Dakota. This breakfast favorite is both easy to make and affordable, costing only $0.23. Globally, French toast has racked up 43 million YouTube views, proving its popularity as a weekend brunch option.

Seventh on the list is the Lasagna recipe, with 269,000 searches. Vermont shows a particular interest in making this dish at home. It is the second most expensive to prepare at $2.83. The Lasagna recipe has 93 million YouTube views—the highest among all the recipes listed.

The only sauce on the list, Alfredo, ranks eighth with 195,000 searches. The recipe, made with cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese, is a favorite, particularly in Wyoming, and can be prepared for just $1.47. Its 22 million YouTube views suggest a growing interest in this versatile pasta sauce.

Ninth on the list is the Margarita recipe, with 183,000 searches. This recipe is the top searched one in New Hampshire. Preparing this cocktail at home costs $2.18, and its “How to Make It” video on YouTube has gained 5.1 million views.

Closing the list is another cocktail recipe, the Old Fashioned, trailing just 1,000 searches behind the Margarita recipe. Search data shows this was the No. 1 most-searched recipe in West Virginia. Compared to the Margarita, the Old Fashioned is more affordable to make at home, with ingredients costing $1.86.

Visit Escoffier for more information.

THE JAMES B. BEAM DISTILLING CO. CELEBRATING ANNIVERSARY WITH NEW VISITOR EXPERIENCES AND EVENTS CALENDAR

Cocktail Recipes, Distilleries, Gourmet, Historic foodways, James B. Beam Distillery, Kentucky Bourbon Classic, Kentucky Bourbon Trail

Expanded Programming Offers Visitors an Inside Look into the World of Whiskey Making, Beam Family History, and Eight Generations of Craftsmanship as the Clermont Campus Celebrates 90 Years of Craftsmanship.

Behind the Beam

A behind the scenes tour with the First Family of Bourbon, taste our finest whiskies and a few of the most sought-after new releases paired with a Kentucky inspired lunch at The Kitchen Table and storytelling led by a Master Distiller.

James B. Beam Distilling Co., Happy Hollow Road, Clermont, KY

Making America’s Native Spirit isn’t a process. Here in Clermont, it’s a 225-year tradition. Get a glimpse behind the scenes at the production methods that helped the First Family of Bourbon build the World’s Favorite Bourbon and an innovative portfolio of small batch whiskies.

In Behind The Beam, you’ll be guided on a behind the scenes tour of the Fred B. Noe Distillery, bottle your own Knob Creek® Single Barrel Reserve, and enjoy tasting and storytelling led by a Master Distiller. Following the tour, you’ll be treated to some of Beam’s finest whiskies and a few of the most sought-after new releases paired with a Kentucky inspired lunch at The Kitchen Table.

In addition to your tour, tasting, and Kentucky-inspired lunch each experience will highlight a different aspect of the production process or how to utilize Beam Distilling made whiskies in your favorite cocktails.

2024 Behind the Beam Dates & Theme:

Themes:

Behind The Beam – Maturation Matters

Ever wonder what it’s like to go select barrels with a Master Distiller? Join Fred and Freddie Noe on an experience through the historic warehouses of James B. Beam Distilling Co. where you’ll learn the secrets of how time, temperature, and wood impact the World’s #1 Bourbon.

Behind The Beam – Little Book® + Country Ham

When Freddie Noe set out to make his own mark on the bourbon industry, he wanted to honor his grandfather Booker by creating a product with one attribute in mind: Flavor. Little Book™ was born with the goal of creating the most flavorful American Whiskey on the planet, using a variety of bourbons, ryes, and single malt whiskeys in the final blend.

Join Freddie Noe as he takes you through the process of blending a new batch of Little Book and taste Little Book against other traditional bourbons to showcase the contrast and what blending can do to elevate flavors. After, you’ll join Freddie to showcase how his innovative flair extends to a family heirloom: Freddie’s country ham. Whether it be in bourbon or cooking, the Beam family has always pushed the boundaries of flavor.

Behind The Beam – Cocktails

Fred and Freddie love nothing more than using Beam bourbons to make libations the world over. Yet with so much mixology experience, what are the favorite cocktails of the Master Distillers of the First Family of Bourbon? An immersive mixology experience in which you’ll explore which cocktails pair best with Beam Distilling brands.

2024 Behind the Beam Dates & Theme:

Thursday October 24th, 2024 – Little Book® + Country Ham
Thursday November 21st, 2024 – Maturation Matters
Thursday December 12, 2024 – Crafting Cocktails

Time: 4 hours
Price: $350
Must be 21+ to participate
Drink Smart®

Walloon Lake: Celebrating 90th Anniversary of 17-Square Meter Sailboats

Boating, Lake Michigan, Northern Michigan, Sailing, Uncategorized, Walloon Lake, Yachting

17s the focus of community events throughout the summer

WALLOON LAKE, MICH—In celebration of this summer’s 90th anniversary of the 17-square-meter sailboats — which were first made in Walloon Lake in 1934 — the Walloon 17 Foundation are organizing a series of public events, including:

Wednesday, July 17 (starting at 2pm) – a sail around the Village to Michigania; the public can view the activities from Melrose Beach.
Saturday, August 3 (starting at 2pm) – a 17 Regatta during the annual Walloon Woodies at The Foot of Walloon Lake
Saturday, August 17 (starting at 2pm) – a Media Race around The Foot of Walloon Lake.*

The Crooked Tree District Library (Walloon Lake branch) also has an exhibit on the 17s on display throughout the summer.

About the 17s

The first boat, 17 #1, was built on Walloon over the winter of 1933-34 by Bill Loughlin & Henry (Jordan) Cawthra and she again sails on Walloon Lake after a recent renovation. A total of 42 17s have been built over their 90-year history, first in wood and later in fiberglass. These boats still actively race 17s on Walloon Lake, the only fleet in existence, thanks to the Walloon Yacht Club and its members.

The 17 Square Meter is a one-design sailing yacht with a sloop rig and spinnaker with a fixed keel with 850 pounds of cast iron or lead and a 1620-pound sailing displacement. It is 24.9 inches in Length, 5’ 1 ½” in Beam with 17 square meters (183 square feet) of sail area, originally. The Class ensign, a red 17 in a Square indicates the vessels are a Square meter boat versus the 12 Meter Class which has a line under the 12 indicating a linear rule. The 12 Meter class raced for the Americas Cup from 1958-87 and other classes are also designed to the linear International Rule, like the 6 Meter Class. There were other popular Square Meter boats such as the 22 Square Meter.

About the Walloon 17 Foundation

The Walloon 17 Foundation was formed to protect, preserve, and perpetuate the 17 Square Meter Class. This includes the design, the boats, and the history of the 17s. The Foundation sponsors training, races and other events to promote 17s and administers the 17 Class. Members have written several articles on the 17s and in 2017 the Foundation published a coffee table book called Seventeens of Walloon Lake written by Frank Grossi and Bill Bray. The 87-page book includes stunning pictures of the boats in action over the years along with histories of the families who owned the classic sloop sailboats. It is available through the WYC website for $59, with proceeds benefitting the Walloon 17 Foundation.

The Foundation invites sailors and Wallooners who appreciate 17s to contribute their knowledge and stories as the group continues finding new techniques to share the history and legacy.

www.WalloonLakeMi.com | www.Facebook.com/WalloonLakeMi

#SummerOf17s

Images courtesy of Walloon Lake Foundation, Walloon Lake Yacht Club, and The Village of Walloon Lake.