Jetsettersblog

Second spring gobbler license sales to close at midnight on April 20

HARRISBURG – Pennsylvania hunters who would like the opportunity to harvest a second spring gobbler can purchase a second spring gobbler tag until midnight on April 20, according to Game Commission Executive Director Carl G. Roe. In fact, thanks to the Pennsylvania Automated License System (PALS), hunters can purchase a second spring gobbler tag at any issuing agent or through the agency’s website.

Roe cautioned that those who plan to purchase the second spring gobbler tag through the agency’s website should expect to wait seven to 10 days for shipping, depending on the volume of other online purchases. Also, all sales of the second spring gobbler tag will cease at midnight on April 20, which is the day before the one-day season for junior license holders and those participating in the Mentored Youth Hunting Program.

“Prior to the implementation of PALS, hunters had to wait until Jan. 1 before submitting a license application for the second spring gobbler tag, and then wait for the agency to mail the license back to them,” Roe said. “The old process was necessary to enable the agency to spread out the administrative workload of processing and handling licenses for the fall hunting seasons.

“However, thanks to PALS, hunters can now purchase the second spring gobbler tag at any issuing agent and walk out of the store with the license in hand, or they can purchase it online and wait for it to be mailed to them within 10 days.”

Roe noted that all general hunting license holders are able to take one spring gobbler as part of their general hunting privileges; the second spring gobbler tag license affords those hunters interested in this additional opportunity to take a second spring gobbler. Hunters may only purchase one second spring gobbler license during a license year, as the season limit remains two spring gobblers, and the daily harvest is one bird per day.

“So, if you are looking for that application in your digest or online to mail in, you won’t find it,” Roe said. “You can just purchase the special spring gobbler license either through the Game Commission’s website or visit your local license issuing agent.”

Fees set by state law for the special license are $21.70 for residents and $41.70 for nonresidents. For online orders, there are additional shipping and handling costs.

The 2012 spring gobbler season is set to run from April 28-May 31. Legal hunting hours for the opening day of the spring gobbler season through the third Saturday (April 28-May 12) will be one-half hour before sunrise until noon; the remainder of the season (May 14-31) will have legal shooting hours of one-half hour before sunrise until one-half hour after sunset.

The one-day Spring Gobbler Youth Hunt will be held on April 21, and will run from one-half hour before sunrise until noon.

To Connect with Wildlife, visit the Game Commission at the following:
Website: www.pgc.state.pa.us
Twitter: www.twitter.com/PAGameComm
YouTube: www.youtube.com/pagamecommission
 Facebook: www.facebook.com/PennsylvaniaGameCommission

The American Civil War Trails are now documented in a new brochure which features routes through six states, including West Virginia, to attract and guide history buffs to the region and experience the history found in this area. There is also a dedicated website: www.civilwartrails.org

As part of the Civil War Trails, there are a number of museums, historic small towns, plantations, and military cemeteries that can be visited. All of these attractions, including the battlefields, offer informative tours that appeal to tourists with little knowledge of the history.

The trails which run through these states all include interactive stops, as well as self-guided audio tours. Tours by Segway and bus to the areas most affected by the war are also included.

West Virginia is said to be the home of the start of the Civil War. In Harpers Ferry, abolitionist John Brown began a raid, which many consider to be the beginning of the war. Being the origin of the war, West Virginia is rife with history and events pertaining to the Civil War.

The town, which is on the Appalachian Trail, is full of historic buildings. West Virginia is also the only state to be born as a direct result of the Civil War, after it split with Virginia because of its political differences. The state plans several celebrations and remembrance ceremonies beginning this year and lasting for the next few years.

Great Maps of the Civil War by Miller, William J.; Gragg, Rod Edition ILL, - When Union General George McClellan marched toward the Confederate capital of Richmond in 1862, he encountered the Warwick River where it wasn’t supposed to be, causing a delay in his strategy and criticism from Northern press. McClellan was following a map created by an esteemed and experienced topographer, but the map was wrong! The map McClellan was following, reproduced in Great Maps of the Civil War, shows lines in pencil along the true course of the Warwick, apparently drawn after it was too late.Most people interested in the Civil War are fascinated by maps – for what they tell about the battles, for what they tell about the terrain, and in some cases for their artistic beauty. But maps reproduced in books have limitations and there is not a good way of preserving a map collection – until now. Fifteen chapters in Great Maps of the Civil War each contain two or three maps that can be pulled out of a pocket. Ten of the maps are 18 x 24; others are smaller. In addition to a discussion of the battles and the roles of the maps, the book tells about Civil War mapmakers and the methods they used.Stunningly designed, this unique full-color book will make a significant addition to the library of any Civil War enthusiast or those who are fascinated by maps and mapmakers.

The Great American Steamboat Company will operate three Civil War voyages during the inaugural season of the American Queen. The eight- and 10-night theme cruises will include visits to battlefields and on-board entertainment including actors, impersonators, lecturers, balladeers and reenactments.

Fares start at $2,295 per guest, double occupancy, which includes a pre- or post-cruise hotel stay, bottled water and soft drinks, wine and beer at dinner and complimentary shore adventures in each port of call.

The Aug. 10 to 20 voyage sails from New Orleans and visits Vicksburg and Helena, Miss.; Chattanooga, Memphis and Savannah (for Shiloh National Military Park), Tenn.; Paducah, Ky.; and Decatur, Ala.

The Aug. 20 to 30 voyage between Chattanooga and Vicksburg visits Decatur and Florence, Ala.; Savannah for Shiloh National Military Park; Paducah; and Ashport Landing and Memphis, Tenn.

The Aug. 30 to Sept. 7 voyage between Vicksburg and Louisville, Ky., visits Helena, Ark.; Memphis; and Henderson, and Louisville, Ky.

The Aug. 10 voyage, presented by American Experience and Artful Travelers, will feature Ric Burns, who co-produced the PBS series “The Civil War” in 1990, and Mark Samels, executive producer of “American Experience” on PBS.

The Aug. 20 cruise will feature historian A. Wilson Greene, manager with the National Park Service and founding member of the Association for the Preservation of Civil War Sites; James I. “Bud” Robertson Jr., executive director of the U.S. Civil War Centennial Commission; Barry Meadows, who portrays Gen. Ulysses S. Grant; and Al Stone, who portrays Gen. Robert E. Lee.

The Aug. 30 cruise will feature the Hon. Frank J. Williams, founding chairman of the Lincoln Forum and retired chief justice of the Supreme Court of Rhode Island, and Harold Holzer, vice chairman of the Lincoln Forum and co-chairman of the U.S. Lincoln Bicentennial Commission.

Pittsburgh, PA,– Love is in the “Fair” – Fairmont Pittsburgh, that is. Just in time for Valentine’s Day, Fairmont Pittsburgh introduces the Romance Package, an overnight package including luxurious accommodations, valet parking, a bottle of champagne and decadent house-made truffles.

Fairmont Pittsburgh’s Romance Package is perfect for couples looking for an unforgettable Valentine’s getaway, as well as those celebrating anniversaries or just looking for a romantic evening throughout the year.

The Romance Package is available Thursday-Sunday through December 31, 2012 (certain blackout dates apply).

Rates start from $295 per night based on availability.

To reserve this package, please call (888) 270-6647 or visit www.fairmont.com/pittsburgh.

Fairmont Pittsburgh is located in the heart of Downtown Pittsburgh and within walking distance to entertainment, shopping, theatres, restaurants and more.

The Four Diamond, 185-room property is LEED certified at the Gold level and features a contemporary art and industry design.

ABOUT FAIRMONT HOTELS & RESORTS

Located in world-class destinations around the globe, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts is a celebrated collection of hotels that includes landmark locations like London’s The Savoy, New York’s The Plaza, and Shanghai’s Fairmont Peace Hotel.

With more than 60 hotels, Fairmont is known as much for its warm, engaging service and culturally rich experiences, as its classic hotels that imbue a sense of heritage, sophistication and social importance and are often considered destinations in their own right.

A community and environmental leader, Fairmont is also regarded for its responsible tourism practices and award-winning Green Partnership program.

Fairmont is owned by FRHI Holdings Limited, a leading global hotel company with over 100 hotels under the Fairmont, Raffles, and Swissôtel brands.

The company also manages Fairmont and Raffles branded estates and luxury private residence club properties. For more information or reservations, please call 1-800-441-1414 or visit the banner below.

Become a fan of Fairmont. Join our online communities at www.everyonesanoriginal.com, www.twitter.com/fairmonthotels , and www.facebook.com/fairmonthotels.  For career opportunities, visit www.facebook.com/fairmontcareers.

The Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau (PCVB) has launched a website designed to feature tax-free shopping on shoes and clothing in the Philadelphia region.

The site, www.taxfreephilly.com , includes travel deals and shopping details translated for Philadelphia’s top visiting international travelers from the U.K., Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Brazil and the Netherlands.

All versions of the site contain news and facts about shopping in the Philadelphia region, as well as travel packages.

These packages, which consumers can click and purchase directly from the site, list hotel and airline deals from each country’s major tour operators. In addition, “hot deals” show information including cost comparisons on name brand items and enter-to-win shopping vouchers.

Visitors to the site can also use the interactive map to plot out where they will shop from the list of 200-plus boutiques, specialty-stores, and brand name and department stores. PCVB’s main website includes information about dining, attractions, accommodations, nightlife and other travel-related topics.

Put Your Romance on Ice This Valentine’s at Blue Harbor Resort & Spa

A Romantic Ice Fishing Adventure is the Perfect Way to Warm Up Your Honey!

Sheboygan, WI — Blue Harbor Resort & Spa has the perfect Valentine getaway for the romantic adventurist! Stay in the upscale Blue Harbor Resort and Spa on Lake Michigan in Sheboygan, WI, and enjoy a romantic day on the ice — ice fishing together!

Enjoy a guide provided by Wolf Pack tours and up to six hours of ice fishing.

The Valentine Adventure getaway also includes a lake view guest suite with a fireplace, breakfast, a private luncheon served in your ice hut, and warm-up refreshments.

In the evening enjoy a romantic a seafood dinner of native caught wild Walleye in Latitude’s Restaurant the Resort’s fine dining room.

Your dinner will be specially prepared by the Resort’s Chef, who is an award winning ice fisherman. And as an extra gift, the Chef will provide a selection of his personal recipes to take home.
The Valentine Adventure on Ice getaway is priced at $189* per person (based on double occupancy) for stays Sunday through Thursday evenings and $209* for Friday and Saturday evenings.

The Valentine’s Adventure is available with advanced reservations now through February 28th and is subject to ice conditions and guest suite availability.

For more information visit online at:  THIS LINK.

or by calling 866-701-2583..

About Blue Harbor Resort & Spa

This Classic Lakeside Resort is less than a one hour drive from Milwaukee and a two hour drive from Chicago. The Resort is in the final stages of adding additional sophisticated services and amenities.

All guest suites have been upgraded including flat screen TV’s, plush pillow-top bedding and more open space.

In addition, the Resort’s dramatic Lobby is undergoing a renovation to provide a warm welcome and a spectacular view of Lake Michigan. There is also a renovation to upgrade the function space for weddings and other special events.

The 182 all-suite Blue Harbor Resort & Spa is a beautiful Victorian landmark on the shores of Lake Michigan. The resort is located in Harbor Centre District at 725 Blue Harbor Drive in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, 53081.

For more information and reservations visit: www.BlueHarborResort.com  or call 866-701-2583 (BLUE).
*Rates based on availability. Reservations are required. Does not include taxes, gratuities or resort fees.

F
airmont Chicago Unveils the Ultimate Way to Say “I Love You”

Do you want to make the ultimate gesture for Valentine’s Day? Fairmont Chicago, Millennium Park Hotel is offering a package that every starry-eyed couple will remember for a lifetime.

Their $100,000 Romantic Getaway Package includes everything your heart could desire.

Guests will be transported to and from the airport for a luxurious 2-night stay in the Presidential Suite. Upon arrival at the hotel, guests will be welcomed with a “Charming Rose Petal Red Carpet”, a trail of roses from the foyer to the bed of roses as well as six dozen roses throughout the Presidential Suite.

After getting nestled into the room, the couple may choose to start the weekend with a “Fairy Tale Moments” bubble-bath-for-two, which includes Cristal Champagne and strawberries prior to a lavender-filled bath with rose petals surrounded by romantic candlelight. After a one-of-a-kind bubble bath, slip into cozy personalized robes and soft slippers.

What Chicago trip would be complete without a little retail therapy? Guests will receive a $10,000 gift card to Saks Fifth Avenue Chicago and a VIP personal shopping experience in their exclusive Fifth Avenue Club.

In addition to a one-of-a-kind shopping experience, your lucky lady will receive a stunning 18 karat white diamond and sapphire necklace from Marshall Pierce & Company.

This jaw-dropping piece of jewelry features sixty two oval cut sapphires (22.54 carats) with pave diamond halos around each sapphire weighing at a total of 5.83 carats of diamonds. After roaming the famous shops of Michigan Avenue, the couple will seclude into peace and tranquility by receiving an in-room 90 minute massage-for-two.

Guests will also receive two amazing dining experiences, one of which is a Chef’s Table-for-Two at aria.

A Breakfast Du Jour in Bed is provided each morning as well as full use of your own private butler throughout the entire 2-night stay.

Fairmont Chicago, Millennium Park Hotel’s One Enchanted Moment is offered at $100,000 (plus tax) and is available February 10-14, 2012.

About Fairmont Chicago, Millennium Park

Fairmont Chicago, Millennium Park is a AAA Four Diamond luxury hotel located in downtown Chicago. With 687 guestrooms and 62,000 square feet of meeting space, the hotel provides contemporary elegance and gracious hospitality.

Fairmont Chicago, Millennium Park is also home to eno wine room and aria restaurant and bar, taking guests on an “east meets west” culinary experience. In addition to uniquely inspired dining and stylish accommodations, the hotel features an exclusive lifestyle spa. mySpa affords eight treatment rooms and provides the perfect urban sanctuary from the busy and bustling Chicago streets. For more information please visit www.fairmont.com/chicago

Chicago Neighborhood Tours is marking its 15th anniversary with 15 new excursions, including “Pubs & Micro-breweries,” “LGBT Chicago,” “Historic Hotels of Chicago” and “The Great Chicago Fire.” The 2012 season of Chicago Neighborhood Tours extends from February through November and now features 28 excursions. Visitors can choose from two types — the Neighborhood Tours, which travel across the city for unique sightseeing opportunities, and the Taste of the Neighborhoods Tours, a selection of five culinary journeys.

To book a tour, call 312-742-1190.

Hershey, Pa.) – “Chocolate Town U.S.A.” is preparing for its eighth annual Chocolate-Covered February, a month-long, town-wide celebration of everything chocolate. The town’s sweetest month will feature events and activities for all ages and tastes.

As has become the tradition, the month’s festivities will kick off with the Chocolate Dinner Extraordinaire at The Hotel Hershey on Friday, February 3. This multi-course, chocolate-infused dinner will take place in the Hotel’s Circular Dining Room. The cost is $75.00 per person (plus tax and gratuity); a wine pairing can be added for $45. Reservations are required and can be made by calling 717-534-8800.

New for 2012’s Chocolate-Covered February is an edible chocolate treatment at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey. The Chocolate Spa will introduce a new edible chocolate product for its Cocoa Facial Experience, at last fulfilling guests’ desire to taste one of the Spa’s signature chocolate treatments.

This experience will be the first of its kind not only at the Chocolate Spa, but also within North America. The Spa At The Hotel Hershey will also offer a Chocolate Spa Sampler package, a Chocolate Decadence Day Spa Package, and a Sweet Feet for Two treatment that includes a complimentary glass of champagne. For more information about The Spa At The Hotel Hershey, visit www.ChocolateSpa.com  or call 1-877-772-9988 to make appointments.

In addition to the edible chocolate facial, this February will include another exciting new addition. Every Friday in February (excluding February 3) The Hotel Hershey will host “Cupcakes & Cocktails,” a unique dessert experience that perfectly pairs the two treats.

Hershey Lodge will round out the month with the all-new Chocolate-Covered Tapas Party at 6 p.m. on Saturday, February 25.

The evening will feature chocolate-infused small plates from a variety of cuisines paired with wine, spirits and beer. Guests can enjoy passed selections as well as chef-prepared specialties from action stations, including a mojito station with traditional and flavored drinks. This relaxed event will be complete with live music. The cost for the Chocolate-Covered Tapas Party is $39, and complimentary valet parking will be available.

Reservations are recommended and can be made by calling 717-534-8601.

Additional events at The Hotel Hershey include wine and chocolate pairings and the Hershey’s Chocolate Dessert Buffet. Additional events at Hershey Lodge include chocolate and spirits pairing classes, chocolate and beer pairing classes, and chocolate children’s teas.

Additional events around town include the Hersheypark Chocolate Parade at Hershey’s Chocolate World; and Chocolate Lab classes at The Hershey Story, The Museum on Chocolate Avenue.

Chocolate-Covered February overnight packages can sweeten a stay at The Hotel Hershey or Hershey Lodge on any date during the month of February.

Full information about all activities offered during Chocolate-Covered February is available at www.HersheyPA.com  or by calling 1-800-HERSHEY (1-800-437-7439).

Amtrak is offering discounts of 20 percent for trips in Illinois, Michigan and Missouri through this winter and early spring. Discounts are available on Amtrak routes between Chicago and downstate Illinois, including on Lincoln Service, Illinois Zephyr/Carl Sandburg and Illini/Saluki.

In addition, savings are available on Wolverine Service, Blue Water and Pere Marquette routes between Chicago and Michigan, and on the Missouri River Runner between Kansas City and St. Louis. Terms and conditions vary, but big savings are possible by visiting Amtrak.com and using information under the “Deals” tab to buy the travel using the “Book Now” feature through April 29 in Illinois and Michigan, and April 28 in Missouri.

For more information, call 800-USA-RAIL.