http://www.vegetariansummerfest.org

http://www.ticketmaster.com

Spring forward toCelebrate WarmerDays Ahead

Signs of Spring are every-where.

I saw my first robin from theoffice window this morning.Tiny buds are trying s. Little greenleaves are trying so hard to breakthrough the protective coverings ofthe buds. It seems, however, thatthe flowers know the calendarplanted Easter a little later thanusual as my crocuses nor daffodillshave dared to show their faces.

Farm markets are beginning todisplay their freshly painted signsand Spring break destinations areoffering specials in their ad promo-tions. The college students arepouring over the brochures after avery harsh winter in several areas.

Festivals are traditionally knownfor celebrating some unique aspectof the community where the eventoriginated. Festivals go back intime as early as Bible days.

In the Christian liturgical calen-

dar there aretwo principalfeasts, proper-ly known asthe Feast ofthe Nativity ofour Lord(Christmas)and the Feast of the Resurrection,(Easter). In the Catholic, EasternOrthodox, and Anglican liturgicalcalendars there are a great numberof lesser feasts throughout the yearcommemorating saints, sacredevents and doctrines.

There is a multitude of festivalsscheduled during Spring months,so this issue of the WeekenderExtended has focused on many ofthe more popular ones. In fact, tokick it off, check out the “Top” fiveblossom festivals listed on on page6. A vegetarian? You haven’t beenleft out. Check out the VegeterianFest in Pa., page 2. For those whowish to visit theme parks, checkout Page 14, 15, 21 & 23. Most ofall, have a happy Spring break,wherever you get away to...

Page 4 www.weekenderextended.com Spring, 2011

Weekender is published quarterly with periodic

updates online by Barnett PRO, 71Plymouth St., Plymouth, OH 44865.

PHONE/FAX: 419-687-0002 email: info@weekenderextended.com

Publisher:Michael Barnett Sr.

email: mike@barnettpro.com

Editor in ChiefKathy Barnett kathy@barnettpro.com

Contributing Editors: Rebecca McFarlin; Kandy Derden;

Photojournalists: Robert Oney

Norman Reed • Lee Offenburger

Visit our Website between regular issues

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Subscriptions are FREE!Submit your name andemail address & we’ll alsoenter it in our quarterlydrawing for a FREE get-away!Copyright '2011 by Barnett Produc-tions. All rights reserved. Reproductionsof any material from this issue expresslyforbidden without permission of the pub-lisher. Advertisements in this publicationdo not necessarily carry the endorse-ment of the publishing company.

CONTENTSTop Five

6 Blossom FestivalsPlaces to Go:

2 Vegeterian Fest, PA10 Smithfield, VA12 Wildcatter Ranch, TX14 Six Flags, TX15 Castaway Bay17 Columbus, OH20 Lavender Fest, PA23 Splash Harbor, OH

People to See3 Jimmy Buffet

18 Paramore19 New Kids on the Block and Backstreet Boys

Things to Do5 Spring Turkey Hunting, MO7 Restart your engines, IN 8 Race, Explore, Perform, NC

11 Spring Tee, GA16 Dine at Pinks, OH21 Dine in Pittsburgh22 Birdwatching, OH

Extended

Kathy Barnett - The Editor

ON THE COVER...Ladies, Relax on Spring Break atWildcatter Ranch Page 12

Letter from the Editor

Written by: Missouri Division of Tourism

November isn't the only time to think about turkey.Each year, the spring turkey hunt attracts hundredsof avid hunters to designated spots in Missouri.Regardless ofwhere you travel inthe state, you'redestined to find theperfect place forturkey hunting.

The DaltonBottoms Accessand Little TarkioPrairie areas inn o r t h w e s tMissouri providegreat sightlines.

In the northeastern part of the state, the Rebel'sCove and Dark Hollow nature areas support thriv-ing turkey populations as well as abundant andbeautiful plant life.

In southeastern Missouri, not far from theArkansas border, Crowley's Ridge enjoys a reputa-tion for good turkey hunting; plus, the area issteeped in Civil War history, making it a worthwhilestop for anyone interested in our nation's past.

If your travels take you to the Ozark region, goturkey hunting in the stunning Barn Hollow area,where countless flowers bloom to life each spring.Spring turkey hunting season opens April 19, whichgives you plenty of time to practice your marksman-ship skills.

Put those talents to the test at the Andy DaltonShooting Range in Bois D'Arc. Step onto the 100-yardrifle range and take aim at targets placed at a varietyof distances (between seven and 100 yards); then getsome turkey-specific practice at the shotgun pattern-ing range, where full-size decoys are provided. Also,the Andy Dalton Range offers skeet shooting andarchery. On March 19, the range holds its DiscoverHunting – Spring Turkey Hunting Clinic. During

this eight-hour session, pros share insights aboutscouting, turkey calling and a whole bunch more.

Want to learn to “talk turkey”? Be sure to sign upfor Discover Hunting – Turkey Calling at the AugustA. Busch Conservation Area Shooting Range in St.

C h a r l e s .Turkeys aren'treally just wan-dering aroundsaying “gob-ble, gobble.” Inthis two-hourclass, learnhow turkeyscommunicate,and gaininsight intowhat calls to

use while hunting. Tammy Price and Tori Price met us there and went

with us. They all had rides on the pedal cars also.

Spring, 2011 www.WeekenderExtended.com Page 05

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• Rebel's Cove Conservation Area-LivoniaThis area is 4,225 acres of primarily forest habi-tat. Nearly five miles of the unchannelizedChariton River runs through this area. 660-785-2420• Andy Dalton Shooting Range - Bois D’ArcFacilities include: a 100-yard baffled rifle/pistolrange with 20 covered booths; target socketsarranged at distances of 7, 15, 25, 50, 75 and100 yards; bench rests and seats for shootersand more.417-742-4361• August A. Busch Conservation Area andNature Center - St. CharlesNearly 7,000 acres of outdoor recreation. Morethan 30 lakes provide a wide variety of fishing. Anumber of nature hiking trails dot the area, alongwith a three-mile trail for hiking and biking.

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Redbud WeekendApr 15 - 17Cacapon Resort State ParkBerkeley Springs, WEST VIRGINIAContact phone: 304-258-1022 or 800-225-5982Located at 818 Cacapon Lodge Drive, This time of

year the Redbud Trees abound with their beautifulcolor. The roadsides and town of Berkeley Springsare brimming with the pinkish-purple hue of thisflowering tree. Sponsored by the Morgan CountyEcology Coalition. Several events and activities willbe provided throughout the area. Wildflower walksand spring talks will be held this weekend atCacapon.

Dogwood Arts Festival April 1 - May 6Knoxville, TN - Celebrate the arrival of spring and

enjoy the Dogwood Arts Festival in Knoxville, tak-ing place April 1 – May 6, 2011. This unique festival,in its 51st year, transforms Knoxville into a monthlong springtime celebration offering residents andvisitors from across the nation and worldwide amemorable experience of the rich woven customs,perspectives, and creativity of our Southern region.

Dogwood Festival April 14-17Camdenton, MO - The 61st annual Dogwood

Festival is fun for the entire family: parade; craftshows; art show; carnival; food vendors; dog con-test; pageants; golf tournament; 5K run/walk; fishfry; young eagle flights; garage sales; and free enter-tainment. Thu.-Fri., 5 p.m.-10 p.m.; Sat., 9 a.m.-9p.m.; Sun., noon-9 p.m. For more information, call573-346-2227.

99th Cherry Blossom FestivalMarch 26-April 10Washington D.C. - The National Cherry Blossom

Festival is the nation’s greatest celebration of springand occurs over 16 days, including 3 premier week-

ends. Daily events fea-ture diverse and creativeprogramming promot-ing traditional and con-temporary arts and cul-ture, natural beauty, andcommunity spirit.Celebrating the gift ofcherry blossom treesand the enduring friend-ship between the UnitedStates and Japan.

Kids take charge dur-ing the kickoff of theFestival at Family Day. Don’t miss “can”-struction -a 3-D creation built entirely of food cans fromSafeway! The activities and sounds from two stageskeep families entertained for hours. For more infor-mation, call 202-638-8374.

Pinkest Party on EarthMarch 18-27Macon, Ga. - Although this celebration may be

one of the most unabashedly Westernized of thegroup, this International Cherry Blossom Festivalcan also lay claim to being one of the biggest, withover 300,000 Yoshino cherry trees spread throughoutthe city. It all began in 1952 after Macon realtorWilliam A. Fickling Sr. made a fateful trip to thenation's capital. Enraptured by the pretty pinkbloom, he began handing out cuttings from hisbackyard cherry tree to local friends and neighbors.Soon, the city was awash in pink every spring.Nowadays, the 10-day cherry blossom festivalincludes a beauty pageant, a huge street party, afireworks show, and a "balloon glow" — a nighttimedisplay of illuminated hot-air balloons.

Don't Miss the Bed Race on Cherry Street, inwhich teams of locals race decorated beds throughhistoric downtown For more information, visitwww.cherryblossom. com

Spring Blossom Time - Top 5Top 5

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Restart Your Glass-Half-Full Engine: KOKOMO - In the 1800s a large deposit of naturalgas was discovered in the Kokomo area, and manyglass-making factories moved there to make use ofit. Today you can still find studios, galleries and fes-tivals dedicated to the craft of glass. Enjoy a publictour at Kokomo Opalescent Glass Company, theworld's oldest manufacturer of opalescent andstained glass. Check out The Greentown GlassMuseum, home to more than 1,700 pieces of the rareglass valued by collectors worldwide. You can alsomeet modern-day glass artisans in their shops alongthe Indiana Glass Trail.

Restart Your Swinging Engine: http://visitindianagolf.comClubs are cleaned, balls and teesare purchased, and you're ready tohit the links, right? With more than400 public accessible courses, don'tforget to order your 2011 IndianaGolf & Travel Guide first. You'llfind all the great don't-miss cours-es in Indiana, both public and pri-vate. When you order the guide,you'll also receive complimentarycopies of the official Indiana TravelGuide and Travel Map to planyour upcoming getaways. Toorder, visit www.in.gov/visitindi-ana and then click on “travelbrochures.” Select the Golf andTravel Guide or call 800-677-9800for more information.

Restart Your Discovery Engine: You probably know that Indiana has 24 miles ofsandy beach along the coast of Lake Michigan innorthern Indiana. But what's beyond the beach?Discover it all along the Beyond the Beach Discovery Trail. Hike the forests. See five Century ofProgress Homes showcased in the 1933 Chicago'sWorld Fair. Visit a 1929 Spanish Colonial Revival-style train station, home to a history museum andlocal art. Satisfy your sweet tooth at the MapleSugar Time Festival at the Bailly Homestead andChellberg Farm.

Things to Do: Restart your Indiana Engines...

Skip the spring cleaning and fill up the social cal-endar with happenings that span Charlotte Knightshome openers to family-friendly Easter excitement.

Race a lotA telltale sign that spring has

arrived, the state-of-the-art racecourse at Brooklandwood plays hostto Queen's Cup Steeplechase alwaysscheduled on the last Saturday in

April. Some of the most athletic thoroughbreds com-pete at speeds of up to 30 miles per hour. The jockeys,dressed in bright colored silks, push their sleeksteeds to clear four and a half foot jumps over a twoand a quarter to as much as three mile rolling turfcourse. The prestige of over $90,000 in purse moneyto the winning owners and the opportunity to baskin the glory of the winner’s circle is what it’s all aboutfrom the horse’s connections.

Sport a sundress or seersucker and you'll fit right inas you cheer on the thoroughbreds and socialize withfriends. Also not-to-be-missed at this event, donyour most elegant (or inventive) hat to compete inthe annual Hat Contest and check out the K-9 AgilityExpo pre-race. For more information, visitwww.queenscup.org or call 704-843-7070.

Explorea lotOpen for weekends beginning

April 2, join Carowinds for thrillrides like the spine-tingling Intimidator, family-friendly fun with the Peanuts gang, live performanc-es like Charlie Brown's Hoedown, games and somuch more. Look for new features this summer likeSnoopy's Starlight Spectacular, a million dollar night-time walk-through LED lights experience, Nights ofFire firework shows, and extended park hours.

The night will light up with fun and excitement thissummer as the “thrill capital of the Southeast”debuts an exciting nighttime lineup highlighted bythe extension of its hours till 10PM every night fromJuly 1 through August 7. Snoopy’s StarlightSpectacular debuts May 28 and will light up the sky-line of Carowinds. Designed using a diverse mixtureof low energy and high efficiency LED lighting, thisimmersive light and sound spectacular stretchesfrom County Fair through the entrance of PlanetSnoopy and features more than one million LEDlights adorned from trees and buildings. As part ofthe experience, guests will get the chance to walkthrough several PEANUTS™ themed areas, com-plete with light boxes and animated displays syn-chronized to a custom designed soundtrack. Formore information on the nighttime lineup, visitwww.carowinds.com

Perform a lotBest-selling blockbusters return to

the Queen City beginning withAvenue Q April 5 – 11 at the KnightTheater. With the charm of SesameStreet combined with kitschy adult

appeal, this musical for grown-ups will have yourolling in the aisles. Then April 19 – 24, Blue ManGroup brings its wildly popular comedy, music, andtechnology to Belk Theater, a surefire crowd pleaserfor all ages, languages, and cultures.

The mission of the North Carolina BlumenthalPerforming Arts Center is to present the best in theperforming arts and in partnership with others, shareand employ the arts as a major catalyst to strengtheneducation, build community cohesiveness andadvance economic growth. For more information,visit online at www.blumenthalarts.org or call 704-348-5750.

Page 08 www.WeekenderExtended.com Spring, 2011

Thingsto do:

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April 2 Saturday CAROWINDS THEME PARK OPENS; 1-800-888-4386; www.carowinds.com

April 5 Tuesday – 10 Sunday AVENUE Q;Knight Theater;704-372-1000; www.blumenthalcenter.org

April 7 Thursday – 10 Sunday FOOD LION AUTOFAIR;Charlotte Motor Speedway; 1-800-455-3267; www.charlottemotorspeedway.com

April 15 Friday AN EVENING WITH SMOKEY ROBINSON;Ovens Auditorium; 1-800-745-3000; www.ovensauditorium.com

April 15 Friday – 16 Saturday EAST COAST WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP FINALS RODEO; Bojangles’ Coliseum; 1-800-745-3000; www.bojanglescoliseum.com

Sports Teams & Events:

3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

Featured Events:

AHL CHARLOTTE CHECKERS 704-342-4423; www.gocheckers.com4/4 vs. Norfolk Admirals 4/8 vs. Worcester Sharks 4/9 vs. Worcester Sharks

April 15 Friday – 16 Saturday SPRING FESTIVAL; U.S. National Whitewater Center; 704-391-3900; www.usnwc.org

April 28 Thursday CRAIG FERGUSON; Ovens Auditorium; 1-800-745-3000; www.ovensauditorium.com

April 30 Saturday FOR SISTERS ONLY; Charlotte Convention Center; www.charlotteconventionctr.com

QUEEN'S CUP STEEPLECHASE; Mineral Springs; 704-843-7070; www.queenscup.org

USHER AND AKON; Time Warner Cable Arena; 1-800-745-3000; www.timewarnercablearena.com

For more sports events please visit the calendar at charlottesgotalot.com/events

NBA CHARLOTTE BOBCATS704-BOBCATS; www.bobcats.com4/3 vs. Washington Wizards 4/6 vs. Orlando Magic4/10 vs. Detroit Pistons 4/13 vs. Atlanta Hawks

CAROLINA SPEED INDOOR FOOTBALL TEAM704-231-8456; www.carolinaspeed.com4/1 vs. Erie Explosion 4/8 vs. Harrisburg Stampede

AAA CHARLOTTE KNIGHTS BASEBALL704-36-HOMER; www.charlotteknights.com4/7 – 4/10 vs. Norfolk Tides 4/11 – 4/13 vs. Durham Bulls 4/23 – 4/25 vs. Gwinnett Braves4/26 – 4/29 vs. Scranton WB Yankees4/30 – 5/3 vs. Columbus Clippers

Charming Smithfield & Isle ofWight County, located in TidewaterVirginia is conveniently locatedbetween Williamsburg and VirginiaBeach. In fact this “quintessentialsmall town” is the #1 Daytrip desti-nation from Williamsburg!

Smithfield is known as the“Ham Capital of the World.”Members of the English monar-chy had standing orders for Smithfield’s famoushams prior to the Revolution andSmithfield Foods, a Fortune 500company, is headquar-tered here.

A trip toSmithfield is astep back in timeas visitors stroll thelovely, historic MainStreet or the brandnew downtown river-side park. AndSmithfield has just beendesignated as Virginia’snewest Arts & CultureDistrict! But there’s some-thing for history buffs as well since the area’s strate-gic location on the James River makes it home toseveral significant historical sites.

Of course, the area is a favorite culinary destina-tion as well. See the Guinness Book of WorldRecord's oldest ham at the Ham Museum, stroll thestreets where Paula Dean kicks up her heels-thendine at the fabulous Smithfield Inn where they'vebeen serving up Southern Hospitality since 1752.Visit Darden's Country Store & Smokehouse, a clas-sic country store and smokehouse that has been inoperation since 1952. Enjoy the region’s other

favorite- seafood - atSmithfield Station-a 25 year-old award winning inn,restaurant and marinawith the only lighthousewhere you can spend thenight!....or Capt. Chuck-a-mucks, featured onthe Food Networks,

“Diners, Drive-ins and Dives!”So be sure to visit Smithfield & Isle of

Wight where you’ll find everything you’ll needfor the perfect Spring Getaway – a vibrant arts andculture scene, unique historic attractions, eclecticspecialty shops along a historic Main Street, a river-side park, a variety of overnight accommodationsand great eateries. “Hams, History, Hospitality &Heart” – in Smithfield & Isle of Wight, Virginia!

For outdoors fun, visit the 200-acre WindsorCastle Park located in the Historic District.Celebrating its first anniversary on April 20, thepark features a woodland trail system, picnic area, afishing pier, bike path, and a canoe launch. Thecast will host an open house and cake on the lawnfrom 10 a.m. to noon during anniversary activities.For more information, call 800-365-9339, or visitwww.VisitSmithfieldIsleofWight.com

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Places To Go:

Spring, 2011 www.WeekenderExtended.com Page 11

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"Girlfriend Getaway" Packagecelebrates luxury& fun this Spring

GRAHAM, Texas - Girls just want to have funthis year at Wildcatter Ranch, as the upscaleWestern resort announces its new "GirlfriendGetaway" package for 2011. The offer allowsfemale groups to relax in style on the back porchof rustic cabin suites and catch up with friendsagainst the beautiful backdrop of the NorthTexas Hill Country.

"Our female guests always find the relaxationthey desire at our SAGE spa, infinity-edge pooland plush guest suites," said Anne Skipper,Wildcatter's owner and general manager."Wildcatter already has everything women needfor a great getaway, so we want to offer femalegroups a fun, affordable option for a relaxingtrip with the girls."

Guests will arrive to a chilled bottle of wine inan elegant Western cabin suite, complete with aprivate back porch on which to relax whileenjoying the amazing views of the sprawlingNorth Texas Hill Country.

After lunch and antique shopping in town,head to the pool to take in the breathtakingscenery or experience fun in the sun with a cock-tail by the water. For great custom treatments,visit the SAGE spa, where guests are pamperedwhile relaxing and forgetting about stress. Spendthe day with Wildcatter's hospitable and experi-enced cowboys and lively activities staff whilehorseback riding, feeding longhorn or canoeing.

For dinner, take a walk under the starry Texassky to the Wildcatter Steakhouse for some ofChef Bob's great comfort food. Whether it's asalad, fresh fish or a hand-cut mesquite grilledsteak, guests are never disappointed with the

wide variety of dinner options at theSteakhouse. The Blowout Saloon, a great place togather for drinks, offers some of the best wine inTexas, and has received Wine Spectator's Awardof Excellence four consecutive years in a row.

Wildcatter Ranch & Resort, which was recog-nized in 2007 as one of Southern Living's "10 TopTexas Retreats," is located just 90 minutes north-west of Fort Worth near Graham, Texas. Situatedon 1,500 acres of beautiful, diverse Texas land-scape in the North Texas Hill Country,Wildcatter Ranch is where some of the most col-orful pioneer history took place in the state ofTexas.

Wildcatter has 16 upscale suites, each reflectinga historical theme complete with photos andcommentary that bring its fascinating Texas his-tory to life. The luxuriously appointed suitescontain the most upscale modern conveniences

Thingsto Do:

Gather the Girls for

Spring, 2011 www.WeekenderExtended.com Page 13

including: 300-count sateen sheets, granite vani-ties, Texas stone fireplaces, flat-screen TVs withCD/DVD/VHS players and satellite program-ming, high-speed wireless Internet access, a coffeebar area complete with a microwave oven andunder-counter refrigerator, handmade Texas soaps,and his-and-her Egyptian cotton bathrobes. Mostof the suites have two queen beds, a bath and ahalf, and can sleep up to four people comfortably.

Additionally, Wildcatter Ranch & Resort openeda new deluxe, Victorian-themed hotel and confer-ence center on Oct. 1, 2008. The development,inspired by 1800s-era Texas design, consists of 16additional luxurious guest rooms, a cocktaillounge, four corporate meeting rooms and a grandhall conference center, complete with a dramaticdouble stairwell surrounding a huge, two-storyfireplace, for hosting special events.

For an even more private experience, guests can

reserve The Homestead, a charming two-bed-room, one-bath guest cottage with an open liv-ing and dining space that's perfect for familieswith younger children, or O.T.'s Cabin, a newupscale guest house with two king bedroomsand two private bathrooms, beautifully decorat-ed to reflect the ranch's strong Western heritage.

Wildcatter offers a wide variety of outdooractivities, including horseback riding, canoeing,fishing, archery, hiking and biking trails, skeetshooting, pasture golf, and a hot tub and infini-ty-edge pool overlooking breathtakingpanoramic views of the North Texas HillCountry.

If relaxation is a priority, guests can visitSAGE, the spa at Wildcatter Ranch. From theWestern Cleansing Facial to the Texas StoneMassage, the team of professionals at SAGE hasjust the right treatments to make any stay atWildcatter Ranch soothing and unforgettable.SAGE features a full menu of spa treatments,including massages and Murad facials.

For more information about Wildcatter Ranch& Resort, contact Brooke Cowlishaw of Tucker& Associates by e-mail at brooke@tuckerpr.comor by phone at (214) 252-0900. Information isalso available by visiting the Wildcatter Ranchwebsite, www.wildcatterranch.com. For pho-

tography, contact Tucker & Associates at (214) 252-0900.

Resort' "Girlfriend Getaway" package

• A two-night stay in one of the resort'sspacious suites• Complimentary Texas wine in the room• Ten percent off SAGE spa treatments, including facials and massages• Ten percent off horseback riding and activities• Complimentary breakfast each morning

The "Girlfriend Getaway" package, validthrough December 2011, is priced at $180 perperson (based on four per room) or $360 per per-son (double occupancy).

a Stress-Free Weekend

Page 14 www.WeekenderExtended.com Spring, 2011

With 237 rooms and suites, there area variety of options for fun and afford-able family getaways. Reduced rateson overnight stays and two-night pack-ages offering savings of $50 or moreare now available. These special dealswill include free breakfasts or pizzameal, a family picture with aPEANUTS character or complimentaryT-shirt or backpack. All of the pack-ages include complimentary all-dayadmission to the waterpark from yourday of arrival to your day of departure.

Even for the day, “waterpark only”passes are available, a great idea forfamily outings or a birthday party forthe kids. In Toddler's Tide Pool, the lit-tle ones can splash and slide all daylong.

Warmed to a cozy 82 degrees; it’s theclosest thing to a tropical oasis. A pri-vate spa with a pool and aromatherapywhirlpool allows the adults some quiettime. Visit the fitness center or get amassage, bodywrap or facial.

And kids as well as adults alwayslook forward to the daily visits bySnoopy and his friends.

“These money-saving packages makeit a great time to visit Castaway Bay,”said Tyler Adams, general manager atCastaway Bay. “It is warm, conve-niently located and everyone has lotsof fun.”

Inside Castaway Bay's 38,000-square-

foot indoor waterpark, theRendezvous Run water coasterand three body slides provide non-stop curves and dips, while every-one can splash and body surf inthe Castaway Bay Wave Pool.With four slippery slides anddozens of soaking gadg-ets, the LookoutLagoon FamilyFunhouse and the80,000-gallon CreatureCove activity pool wasa favorite for our kids.When it is time to relax,the indoor/outdoorwhirlpool spa is a perfectplace to rest and re-ener-gize. Besides the water-park, Castaway Bay also hasactivity centers that will pro-vide an assortment of funthings to do. Younger chil-dren can color, play games orread a book at CampCastaway. At night, ClubCastaway has music, danc-ing and visits by Snoopy andhis friends. A huge arcade islocated just outside thewaterpark. Near the resort'slobby are two gift shopsand three eateries.

Visit castawaybay.com forall of the details or call 419-627-2106.

Spring, 2011 www.WeekenderExtended.com Page 15

Places To go:

SANDUSKY, Ohio, - In the face of higher gasprices, Cedar Point's Castaway Bay year-roundindoor waterpark resort is offering $50 savingsand extra perks on special packages gearedtoward young families who are looking to savemoney on a close-to-home vacation.

Castaway BayCastaway Bay

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Hollywood Landmark Pink's ToOpen at Cedar Point This Spring

SANDUSKY, Ohio - Labeled as the “Hot DogTo The Stars,” Pink's, a Hollywood legend formore than 71 years, will serve its special brand ofhot dogs and chili dogs this summer at CedarPoint amusement park/resort in Sandusky,Ohio.

This will be the first Pink's franchise east of LasVegas. Last summer, Knott's Berry Farm, BuenaPark, Calif., was the first Cedar FairEntertainment Company park to operate a Pink'son its property.

World renown for its premium gourmet hotdogs, chili dogs, onion rings and fresh toppings,Pink's has an impressive Who's Who list offamous Hollywood stars and dignitaries whohave frequented the original Pink's inHollywood. Among its customers are BettyWhite, Ryan Seacrest, Adam Sandler, Bill Cosby,Martha Stewart, Jay Leno and Bobby Flay.

In 2010, the Obama girls: First Lady MichelleObama, daughters Malia and Sasha, Mrs.Obama's mother, Marian Robinson, and anentourage of 14 other people stopped in forlunch.

It has also been featured on The View, TheMartha Stewart Show, The Throw Down withBobby Flay, The Travel Channel, the FoodNetwork and the Discovery Channel.

“This is a wonderful opportunity to introduce

Pink's to a new area of the country,” said RichardPink, son of Paul and Betty Pink, who firstopened Pink's in 1939. “Our premium hot dogsand chili dogs prepared with fresh toppings willbecome an instant favorite of park guests.”

In addition to its world-famous hot dogs, chilidogs and onion rings, Pink's at Cedar Point willalso serve mild or spicy Polish dogs, BrooklynPastrami swiss cheese dogs, Coleslaw dogs, plushamburgers, cheeseburgers and French fries.

“Pink's will be a very popular addition to thefood offerings at Cedar Point,” said GaryGochenour, Cedar Point's Director of FoodServices. “Its gourmet hot dogs, chili dogs andonion rings made fresh will have a huge appealto all of our guests.”

Pink's at Cedar Point will be located just off themain midway right next to Toft's Ice CreamParlor. Guests will order inside and be able towatch as their food is prepared in front of themjust the way they want it. Seating will be avail-able inside or on the outdoor patio.

The original Pink's, opened 71 years ago at thecorner of North La Brea and Melrose avenues inLos Angeles, was no more than a pushcart with avery long extension cord that was plugged into ahardware store a block away. In 1946, the opera-tion expanded into its current building at thesame location.

For additional information about Pink's, pleasevisit pinkshollywood.com, Cedar Point's website at www.cedarpoint.com or call the park'sGeneral Information Line at 419.627.2350.

Things to Do: Eat at Pinks

COLUMBUS – THE WORLDWAS FOREVER CHANGEDwhen, in 1492, ChristopherColumbus set sail searching for adirect trade route to the Indies.Carrying him was the SantaMaria, a wooden 98-foot "nao", ortypical cargo ship. The originalSanta Maria was dismantled afterbeing stuck ashore on IslaEspanola hundreds of years ago.

More than 500 years later, youcan experience the world's mostauthentic, museum-quality repli-ca of Christopher Columbus'flagship. Guided tours dramatizethe daring and determination ittook for these explorers to set outon their mission. Fascinating dis-plays show the far-rangingimpact of the encounter of twoworlds that existed in 1492.

The re-creation of Columbus'flagship that sits anchored atBattelle Park on the Scioto River,is the closest thing you can get tostepping back in time and onto avessel in Columbus' infamousthree ship fleet that sailed to thenew world.

Forty-five minute guided toursbring history alive. Not only areyou led through every part of theship, but inspired guides educatein the ways of the Santa Maria'soriginal explorers. You also havethe opportunity to play thegames of the explorers and use

replicas of the originalnavigational instrumentsthat would have been onboard in 1492.

These tours exploreevery part of this work-ing wooden tall ship anddramatize the daringand determination ittook for Columbus andhis explorers to set out on theirmission. Experi-ence the livesthey led, interact with replicas ofthe navigational tools they used,play the games they played topass the time.

For those seeking a bit moreadventure, gather 30 or more andstay overnightt to play sailor.Discover how the crews rely oneach other to survive such a longand arduous journey across thesea.

Make your plans now to visitthe ship located at the corner ofMarconi & West Broad Street, atBatelle Riverfront Park. Springtour hours: April 1 - May 29

Wed-Fri: 10 am - 3 pmSat-Sun: Noon - 5 pm

Summer Hours: June 1 - Sept. 2Wed-Fri: 10 am - 5 pmSat-Sun: Noon - 6 pmAdmission rates are $4 for

adults, $2.50 ages 5-17.For more information, call

614.645.8760, 614.645.0351 or visitonline www.santamaria.org

Spring, 2011 wwwW.eekenderExtended.com Page 17

Calendar of EventsApril 1 Opening DayApril 3 Ceremonies: atnoon - Cannon Fire, FlagRaising Cceremony by theSea Cadets. Free entertain-ment.May 14, 15 Pirate Weekend:11am-5pm Saturday andSunday. Pirate re-enactorsfrom around the country willparticipate in activities aboardthe ship. They will storm theship at 2 p.m. from the SciotoRiver and in the park.Additional Special ActivitiesJune 18 - Gospel Sail-A-Bration 3-8pm in the park.Gospel music and entertainersfrom around the state will per-form free to the public.August 7 - NavigationSunday: A visit from theColumbus Zoo at 2pm.September 17-18 - Talk like aPirate Weekend: 11-5pmSaturday and Sunday. Piratere-enactors from around thecountry will bring their colorfullanguage and manners to theship for lots of fun and frolic.

Places to Go:

Page 18 www.WeekenderExtended.com Spring, 2011

The last time Paramore hit the road to support theirBrand New Eyes album, it was a less-than-smooth trip.

On the first night, frontwoman Hayley Williams losther voice, forcing the audience to provide her vocals forthe remainder of the show. Then, the band postponed ahandful of dates while Williams recovered from laryngi-tis. And when they finally returned to the road,Paramore battled a seemingly endless string of illnesses,leading Williams to tweet that she was "seriously consid-ering buying a gas mask."

Hopefully, things will go a little better this timearound. Because on Thursday, the band announced theirsecond batch of dates for a lean, mean spring jaunt,scheduled to kick off on April 26 in Knoxville, Tennessee.The band will crisscross the continental U.S. (includinga May 1 stop at the Bamboozle Festival at theMeadowlands in New Jersey) and bring the tour to aclose on May 16 with a gig at the Joint at the Hard RockHotel and Casino in Las Vegas.

Joining Paramore on the trek are Relient K and fun.Tickets will go on sale to fan club members beginningthis Monday (February 1), and will then be made avail-able to the general public starting on February 5 and 6.

For more information, check out Paramore.net.Dates for Paramore's spring tour, according to

Atlantic/ Fueled by Ramen:

» April 26 - Knoxville, TN @ Knoxville CivicColiseum

» April 28 - Charlottesville, VA @ John Paul JonesArena

» April 30 - Atlantic City, NJ @ Mark G. Etess Arena» May 1 - East Rutherford, NJ @ Meadowlands Sports

Complex (Bamboozle Festival)» May 3 - Columbus, OH @ The LC Amphitheatre» May 4 - Grand Rapids, MI @ DeltaPlex» May 5 - Rockford, IL @ Rockford MetroCentre» May 7 - Moline, IL @ I Wireless Center» May 8 - Council Bluffs, IA @ WestFair

Amphitheatre» May 10 - Salt Lake City, UT @ The E Center» May 12 - Seattle, WA @ WaMu Theater» May 15 - Bakersfield, CA @ Rabobank Arena» May 16 - Las Vegas, NV @ The Joint at the Hard

Rock

People

To

See...

PARAMORE

Spring, 2011 www.WeekenderExtended.com Page 19

Absence does indeed make the heart grow fonder.And when it's two of the biggest boy bands in mod-ern history that you're missing, go ahead and dou-ble that longing.

That might explain why the boy-band supergroupNKOTBSB (otherwise known as New Kids on theBlock and Backstreet Boys) have announced plansto nearly double the amount of dates on their first-ever joint tour. After initially announcing two dozendates slated to kick off June 2 in Uncasville,Connecticut, and run through a July 9 date inVancouver, British Columbia, the scream-feederpairing will now stay on the road through July 30due to what promoter Live Nation called "over-whelming" demand for tickets.

The 41-date swing will now wrap up with a July 30show at Hersheypark Stadium in Hershey,Pennsylvania. The additional dates include shows inMinneapolis, St. Louis, Orlando, Cleveland andAtlantic City.

In their biggest tune-up to date for the outing, thegroup rocked it in front of millions on "Dick Clark'sNew Year's Rockin' Eve" eight months after they setfans' hearts aflutter by performing onstage togetherfor the first time at a sold-out NKOTB show at RadioCity Music Hall in New York in June.

Then they knocked it out of the park in Novemberwhen they closed the American Music Awards witha medley that included Backstreet's "I Want It ThatWay" and NKOTB's "Hangin' Tough." The tour willfeature appearances by all but one of the groups'original members: Joey McIntyre, AJ McLean,Jordan Knight, Howie Dorough, Jonathan Knight,Donnie Wahlberg, Brian Littrell, Danny Wood andNick Carter (BSB's Kevin Richardson left the groupin 2006). Tickets for the new dates are now on sale.

NKOTBSB tour dates:» 6/2 - Uncasville, CT @ Mohegan Sun Arena» 6/3 - Washington, DC @ Verizon Center

» 6/4 - Boston, MA @ TD Garden» 6/5 - Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center» 6/7 - Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre» 6/8 - Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre» 6/9 - Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre» 6/11 - Uniondale, NY @ Nassau Coliseum» 6/12 - East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center» 6/15 - Pittsburgh, PA @ Consol Energy Center» 6/16 - Detroit, MI @ The Palace at Auburn Hills» 6/17 - Chicago, IL @ United Center» 6/18 - Chicago, IL @ United Center» 6/21 - Nashville, TN @ Bridgestone Arena» 6/22 - Atlanta, GA @ Philips Arena» 6/24 - Lafayette, LA @ Cajondome» 6/25 - Houston, TX @ Toyota Center» 6/26 - Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center» 6/28 -- San Antonio, TX @ AT& T Center» 6/30 - Phoenix, AZ @ US Airways Center» 7/1 - Los Angeles CA @ Staples Center» 7/2 - San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion» 7/3 - Las Vegas, NV @ Mandalay Bay EventsCenter» 7/8 - Tacoma, WA @ Tacoma Dome» 7/9 - Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena» 7/10 - Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena» 7/12 - Edmonton, AB @ Rexall Place» 7/13 - Calgary, AB @ Calgary Stampede» 7/15 - Minneapolis, MN @ Target Center» 7/16 - Kansas City, MO @ Sprint Center» 7/17 - Tulsa, OK @ BOK Center» 7/19 - St. Louis, MO @ Scottrade Center» 7/20 - Louisville, KY @ KFC Yum! Center» 7/22 - Orlando, FL @ Amway Center» 7/23 - Greensboro, NC @ Greensboro Coliseum» 7/24 - Columbus, OH @ Schottenstein Center» 7/26 - Indianapolis, IN @ Conseco Fieldhouse» 7/27 - Cleveland, OH @ Quicken Loans Arena» 7/29 - Atlantic City, NJ @ Boardwalk Hall» 7/30 - Hershey, PA @ Hersheypark Stadium

People to See: NKOTBSBPeople to See: NKOTBSB

Places to Go:

Page 20 www.WeekenderExtended.com Spring, 2011

Places to Go: Lavender Festival near GettysburgLavender takes center stage at

annual festivalFor nearly 10 years, Tom and

Madeline Wajda have openedtheir historic farm nearGettysburg, Pennsylvania, onFather's Day Weekend andinvited thousands to exploretheir senses.

Their specialty - lavender. Asthe Baltimore Sun put it, a"field of purple ... lots of it."

The festival features 75 vari-eties of lavender, three of whichare exclusive to the Wajda'sWillow Pond Farm, in Fairfield,Pa. The farm is certified organicand includes three acres oflavender.

This year, you are invited tojoin the nearly four thousand

people for great food, music,pick-your-own lavender, gardentours and culinary presenta-tions, on June 17-19, 2011.Lavender and other herbs aresold throughout the festival.Also included this year is acooking contest featuring, whatelse but lavender. The winner ineach category will receive a$25.00 Willow Pond Farm giftcertificate. The Grand Prizewinner will receive a $100.00cash prize. Check out the ruleson their website and bring yourbest!

Tom Wajda calls the festival,"a sensory delight."

Advance registration is openfor our Festival make-and-takeworkshops. Learn through a

hands-on exercise with experi-enced teachers, with all suppliesprovided. Due to space limita-tions, workshop registration islimited. Last year many of theadvance spots for workshopssold out, so take a look now andreserve your place.

Willow Pond Farm is locatedjust 90 minutes fromWashington, D.C.

The Pennsylvania LavenderFestival is truly one of a kind inthe Mid-Atlantic Region. Theevent has been featured in theNew York Times, AOL Travel,Pittsburgh Post-Gazette and theBaltimore Sun.

For more information visitwww.palavenderfesti- val.comor call (717) 642-6387.

Page 22 www.WeekenderExtended.com Spring, 2011

Things to Do:Lake Erie Shores and Islands is becoming the capi-

tal of May Birding in North America. The biggestweek in American birding is so big, it lasts 10 days.Lake Erie Shores and Islands®, located halfwaybetween Cleveland and Toledo, is largely regarded asthe best place for observing spring songbird migra-tion.

The reason, quite simply, is the abundance of pre-served ecosystems along marshy coast, woodlandsand diverse settings friendly to spring migration. Theregion includes more than 15 areas designated byAudubon as “Important Bird Areas.” It’s this south-ern edge of Lake Erie that serves as a barrier thatbirds are reluctant to cross; so they hold up just longenough for the big twitch.Twitch is a British termreserved for those who travellong distances to see species ofbirds that can be ticked off achecklist. The act of the pursuititself is referred to as a twitchor a chase. A rare bird thatstays put long enough for peo-ple to see it is twitchable orchaseable. Ideal habitats for birding at Lake ErieShores and Islands include Black Swamp BirdObservatory, Magee Marsh, Ottawa NationalWildlife Refuge, Kelleys Island, Old Woman CreekState Nature Preserve and Sheldon Marsh StateNature Preserve.

A diverse list of species entices birders from aroundthe globe to visit northwest Ohio each spring, includ-ing more than 30 species of warblers, masses ofthrushes, vireos, flycatchers, and orioles, shorebirds,

raptors, and anabundance ofwaterfowl. TheBiggest Week inAmerican Birding isMay 5-15.

Kenn Kaufman’sall new KaufmanField Guide toAdvanced Birdingwill be out just in

time for The Biggest Week inAmerican Birding. Duringthe 10 day event, Kaufmanwill head an entire series ofbird identification workshopsbased on his book. The muchanticipated event featuresguided activities, half-dayguided tours, workshops such as Birding by Ear, andevening keynote speakers. Visitors can Nest with theBirds or join in Bird Banding on Kelleys Island.

Welcome migrating song birds to this 2,800 acreisland during morning and afternoon guided birdwalks and lectures from May 19 – 22. A Bird Banding

program is held on the islandat Long Point on May 21. Birdbanding is used to determinehow far birds travel, longevi-ty of life, where they nest andwinter. It is also a techniqueused to see if populations arerising or falling. This canprompt important questionsthat lead to examination of

reasons why. For example, if a population is indecline, it may be due to climate change, poisoningfrom pesticides, disease, predation or other factors. Ifpopulations are seen as increasing, experts can lookat data such as bird release programs which mayexplain the trend.

Another key event is International Migratory BirdDay (IMBD). On May 14, individuals and organiza-tions throughout the Western Hemisphere will par-ticipate in activities dedicated to the conservation ofmigratory birds. Many local IMBD celebrations areplanned with bird-related activities for the wholefamily! Visit www.shoresandislands.com for moreinformation. The Lake Erie Shores and Islands regionis referred to more and more as the “Warbler Capitalof the World,” during the spring migration.

The May birding events in the region are open to alllevels of expertise from expert to novice. They deliv-er unsurpassed social networking opportunities forany birding enthusiast. Find more information atwww.SHORESanISLANDS.com.

Bird Watching

Spring, 2011 www.WeekenderExtended.com Page 23

By Kathy BarnettManaging EditorAs this article is being written, the weather channel

predicts blizzard warnings for much of the Midwestand an “ice bath” for thenorth half of Ohio.

Those not suffering fromSeasonal AffectiveDisorder (S.A.D.) will beby the time this weekendis over. Sometimes wejust need a break from allthe winter weather; butwhat about the budget?

Look no further. Bellville is home to

the Comfort Inn®

South featuringSplash Harbor waterpark. The bright red 49-foot looping water slideand dumping water buck-ets are favorites amongkids of all ages while twohot tubs (one for adults andone for families) are popularwith adults. One side of themain pool is lines withwater basketball hoops forthe guys, and tomboys. Thesmaller toddlers haven’t beenforgotten as a whole pool area is reserved for them.

It’s the atmosphere and temperature that drawsme to this tropical setting. Lounges and poolsidetables grace the area among palm trees, making mefeel like I’ve traveled to a southern beach or or exot-ic island.

This Bellville hotel is conveniently located nearSnow Trails Ski Resort for those who do want tocombine an outdoor winter sport with a tropicaloasis adventure inside.

Many great amenities include a free newspaper,game room, fitness center, and meeting rooms. Acomplimentary breakfast, complete with fresh hot

waffles, juice, cereal, boiled eggs, and various pas-tries allows for a great start to any day.

Business travelers will appreciate data ports, largework areas, spacious desks and access to copy andfax machines.

The family pet is even welcome to a point, butsome rules do apply. So make

sure to make arrange-ments during reserva-tions.

Microwaves andrefrigerators are insome rooms and a pub-lic microwave in thesnack area is also avail-able for use. Guest laun-dry facilities are locatedon the property. Handicapaccessible and non-smok-ing rooms are also avail-able.

The Comfort Inn® South ishome to the newly opened

Splash Harbor water park, featuringa 49-foot looping water slide, dump-ing buckets, shooting geysers, twohot tubs (one for adults and one forfamilies), water basketball hoops, afloating raft and kids pool area. Upto four water park passes are

included in all room rates.Be sure to enjoy traditional Amish cooking at the

adjacent Troyer's Dutch Heritage Restaurant and giftshop. The hotel also offers a gift shop, a great placeto find souvenirs of your stay.

When you want to relax and get away for theweekend, the Comfort Inn South in Bellville is as faras you need to go. Whether traveling for business orpleasure, they will make sure your stay in theBellville area is an enjoyable experience for allinvolved.

Rates start from $119 for a family of four andinclude wristbands for the water park. For moreinformation, visit online at www.splashharbor.com

Places to Go: Splash HarborPlaces to Go: Splash Harbor

PresortedStandard

U.S.Postage

PaidPlymouth, Oh.Permit No. 71

Weekender Extended 71 Plymouth StreetPlymouth OH 44865