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Georgetown, KY – December 2, 2025 – The Georgetown/Scott County Tourism Office announced today that Executive Director Lori Cooper Saunders has been honored with the Kentucky Recreation and Park Society’s 2025 David Lose Award for her work in developing partnerships with and steadfast dedication to Georgetown–Scott County Parks & Recreation. Saunders’ leadership and vision have helped to bring the highest standard of recreational opportunities to Georgetown and enhanced the quality of life for the community.
“I’m incredibly humbled to receive the David Lose Award. Georgetown and Scott County are special because of the people who pour their hearts into this community, and our Parks & Recreation team is at the center of that spirit. It’s been a privilege to partner with them to support the programs, green spaces, and recreational experiences that make our community such a vibrant place to live and visit. This recognition truly reflects the strength of our partnerships and our shared commitment to creating a healthy, active, and welcoming Georgetown–Scott County. I am excited about all the good work still ahead of us,” Lori Saunders, Executive Director of Georgetown/Scott County Tourism said.
A long-time and passionate tourism professional, Saunders currently serves as president of the Kentucky Association of Convention and Visitor Bureaus (KACVB), vice chair of Kentucky’s Bluegrass Region, a board member of the Kentucky Travel Industry Association (KTIA), and the Kentucky Delegate for the Southeast Tourism Society’s Legislative Team.
A graduate of the Southeast Tourism Society’s Marketing College, Saunders and the Georgetown/Scott County Tourism team have earned multiple KTIA Traverse Awards over the years, including recognitions in 2024 and 2025 for major initiatives such as the multi-jurisdictional “Kentucky After Dark”, “Horses, Horsepower, and Hollars” projects, and the regional “Joy Ride” campaign. Award-winning efforts for Georgetown/Scott County include “That’s Georgetown, KY for Ya!” and the “Bourbon Genesis” campaigns. She was also named KTIA Member of the Year in 2022, Georgetown, KY Citizen of the Year in 2018, and Georgetown Woman of the Year in 2014.
Saunders has a strong record of support for the downtown Georgetown business district and Georgetown–Scott County Parks & Recreation (GSC Parks) through fundraising and grant opportunities, her collaboration with the parks department to coordinate special events with the public and business community, and marketing GSC Parks throughout Kentucky through attendance at state and national tourism events.
The David Lose Award is presented annually by the Kentucky Recreation and Park Society to an agency, organization or individual that has “developed and/or established a successful partnership or relationship to significantly help advance and impact the cause of the parks and recreation movement and whose dedication to the field parallels the same dedication and zeal towards parks, recreation and conservation that was exhibited by the late David Lose.” Lose was a landscape architect whose greatest professional interest was parks and recreation and who spearheaded notable park projects in Nashville, TN.
“While Lori has invested many hours in planning recreational events and opportunities for the community of Georgetown, she has also fought for funding and better partnerships that bridge the gap between local business owners and the world of recreation as well,” said Katie Posey, Pavilion Recreation Manager at Georgetown-Scott County Parks and Recreation, who nominated Saunders. “Tourism is the largest industry in the world but fueling many tourism destinations are the recreational opportunities offered.
“Lori believes in our community and its natural green space, gardens, historic lands and beautiful waterways. She has helped with initiatives that encourage a healthy lifestyle and physical activity within parks and has truly built a healthy partnership between tourism and parks,” Posey added. “We look forward to seeing continued progress for the community through our joint partnership with her.”
Georgetown Mayor Burney Jenkins cited Saunders’ excellent leadership as executive director of Georgetown/Scott County Tourism.
“Lori continues to be an asset to Georgetown–Scott County Parks & Recreation and the City of Georgetown by building relationships and keeping our community engagement at an all-time high in improving citizens’ quality of life,” he said.
“Georgetown and Scott County are incredibly proud of our tourism director for being honored with the David Lose Award, one of Kentucky’s most respected statewide recognitions in parks and recreation,” added Scott County Judge/Executive Joe Pat Covington. “Lori’s leadership continues to strengthen our local economy, elevate our outdoor assets and enhance the visitor experience for everyone who comes to enjoy Scott County.”
The award was presented at Kentucky Recreation and Park Society’s annual Conference and Trade Show, held November 12-14, 2025, at General Butler State Resort Park in Carrollton, KY.
For more information about Georgetown/Scott County, visit www.georgetownky.com.
MEDIA CONTACT
Bailey Gilkerson
Georgetown/Scott County Tourism
502-863-2547
About the Kentucky Recreation and Park Society | KRPS was organized in 1954 as a nonprofit professional association for Kentucky’s parks and recreation professionals. Its mission is to further the growth and development of recreation and park services in Kentucky. This is accomplished by providing conferences, workshops, technical assistance, advocacy and other exchanges of information that enable each professional to become effective in improving the quality of life in Kentucky communities. The Society is affiliate member of the National Recreation and Park Association, headquartered in Ashburn, VA.
About GSC PARKS | Georgetown–Scott County Parks & Recreation is all about creating fun, connection and community. From beautiful parks and trails to exciting programs and special events, GSC Parks is here to help residents of all ages stay active, engaged and inspired. With more than 350 acres of parkland, recreation centers, athletic fields and aquatic facilities, there’s always something happening. Whether it is joining a fitness class, cheering on a youth team or enjoying a festival, GSC Parks is dedicated to making every experience a memorable one.
ABOUT GEORGETOWN KY | Birthplace of Bourbon. Kentucky’s Horse Headquarters. Georgetown is both of these, and more. Sitting in the midst of Horse Country, Kentucky’s fastest growing city is home to horse-centric attractions and events, including the Kentucky Horse Park, Old Friends Thoroughbred Retirement Farm, Kentucky Three Day Event, Festival of the Horse and the National Horse Show. Its beautifully preserved Victorian-era downtown is filled with dozens of locally owned shops, galleries and restaurants. “Only here” attractions: Yuko-en Japanese-style strolling garden and Heirlooms & Gretchen’s authentic stained-glass shop. Outdoor adventure: Elkhorn Creek; Skullbuster Mountain Bike Trail at Lytles Fork Recreation Area; Kentucky Proud family-fun and u-pick farms. Historical sites: Ward Hall Greek Revival Mansion Tour; Scott County/Georgetown Museum; 1917 Rosenwald School. Accommodations: 80+ unique stays, 19 brand name chain hotels, two campgrounds. www.facebook.com/gotogtown

New Holiday Festival Set for Georgetown, KY
Flannel & Frost to transform downtown Farmers Market Pavilion into a festive forest
Georgetown, KY – December 2, 2025 – A new old-fashioned family holiday festival is planned that will transform Scott County Farmers Market Pavilion into a festive forest. The inaugural Flannel & Frost takes place from 6 to 9 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 20. The evening event is created and sponsored by Scott County Parks and Recreation and Georgetown/Scott County Tourism.
“We’ve teamed up to bring special events and entertainment of exceptional quality to the community of Georgetown and believe a Christmas event like Flannel & Frost must take place in the heart of downtown,” said Courtlyn Ledesma, marketing and special events recreation manager at Georgetown-Scott County Parks and Recreation. “We want to celebrate alongside our local shops and vendors and celebrate a season of giving together.”
“This Christmas collaboration shines a light on how Georgetown goes all in in creating holiday events, from family-focused fun to festive atmosphere, which make lasting memories,” said Lori Saunders, executive director at Georgetown/Scott County Tourism.
“This is another example of how well our parks and tourism departments work together to promote our beautiful downtown,” added Drew Beckett, director at Georgetown-Scott County Parks and Recreation. “We hope a large crowd will enjoy the planned festivities and support our local businesses—just in time for Christmas!”
Flannel & Frost features holiday light displays, storytelling by Ms. Claus, Christmas shopping opportunities, axe throwing and live music entertainment, featuring headliner Paint Creek, Mo Bell and the Georgetown Community Singer. Family activities include train rides, face painting and a petting zoo.
The evening’s Polar Express will transport visitors from the Scott County Farmers Market Pavilion to Main Street, where they can marvel at the sparkling Christmas tree, enjoy festive photo opportunities, savor kettle corn, watch a holiday movie and discover one-of-a-kind, last-minute gifts at the charming downtown shops.
Festivalgoers are also invited to catch the train back down to the Scott County Farmers Market Pavilion and channel their inner Lumberjack for throwing axes at the Mobile Axe Unit.
“We hope everyone that attends not only enjoys the fun and decorated shops in downtown Georgetown but also finds some Christmas magic in this new holiday event,” said Bailey Gilkerson, associate director at at Scott County Tourism.
Flannel & Frost Festive Forest was originally known as Lumberjack Christmas, an event held by Georgetown-Scott County Parks and Recreation at its Pavilion indoor recreation center. The newly renamed and relocated festival takes place 6-9 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 20, 2025, at the Scott County Farmers Market Pavilion at 134 North Broadway Street. Admission is free. For more information, contact Georgetown-Scott County Parks and Recreation at 502-863-7865.
For more information about other holiday experiences in Georgetown, including its annual Home for the Holidays, visit www.georgetownky.com.
MEDIA CONTACT
Georgetown-Scott County Parks and Recreation
502-542-3081
Attached: Flannel & Frost event flyer
About GSC PARKS | Georgetown–Scott County Parks & Recreation is all about creating fun, connection and community. From beautiful parks and trails to exciting programs and special events, GSC Parks is here to help residents of all ages stay active, engaged and inspired. With more than 350 acres of parkland, recreation centers, athletic fields and aquatic facilities, there’s always something happening. Whether it is joining a fitness class, cheering on a youth team or enjoying a festival, GSC Parks is dedicated to making every experience a memorable one.
ABOUT GEORGETOWN KY | Birthplace of Bourbon. Kentucky’s Horse Headquarters. Georgetown is both of these, and more. Sitting in the midst of Horse Country, Kentucky’s fastest growing city is home to horse-centric attractions and events, including the Kentucky Horse Park, Old Friends Thoroughbred Retirement Farm, Kentucky Three Day Event, Festival of the Horse and the National Horse Show. Its beautifully preserved Victorian-era downtown is filled with dozens of locally owned shops, galleries and restaurants. “Only here” attractions: Yuko-en Japanese-style strolling garden and Heirlooms & Gretchen’s authentic stained-glass shop. Outdoor adventure: Elkhorn Creek; Skullbuster Mountain Bike Trail at Lytles Fork Recreation Area; Kentucky Proud family-fun and u-pick farms. Historical sites: Ward Hall Greek Revival Mansion Tour; Scott County/Georgetown Museum; 1917 Rosenwald School. Accommodations: 80+ unique stays, 19 brand name chain hotels, two campgrounds. www.facebook.com/gotogtown

Home For The Holidays Celebrations Return to Georgetown, Kentucky
Georgetown, KY – November 12, 2025 – As the holiday season approaches, the streets of downtown Georgetown, Kentucky will sparkle with festive cheer during the annual community celebration. Brought to you by Georgetown/Scott County Tourism, Help us celebrate the holiday season in Georgetown, KY with our annual Home for the Holidays Parade on Saturday, Dec. 6 at 6:00 p.m., followed immediately by joyous festivities and the annual tree lighting ceremony.
Families, friends and visitors are invited to experience an evening of holiday magic in the heart of Kentucky’s “Horse Headquarters.” The parade kicks off at 6:00 p.m., with local marching bands, festive floats, appearances by Santa, and twinkling lights winding through the charming historic downtown. After the parade, linger for holiday treats, warm drinks, & Christmas spirit that brings the community together to light up our community tree amongst the crisp winter air.
The event is a perfect outing for families, couples and friends alike. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early for best views of the parade route and to stake out a spot along the sidewalks. Parking is available in nearby public lots.
Mark your calendar—Saturday, December 6 – 6:00 p.m. – downtown Georgetown. Come celebrate, be merry, and make memories in our community. Parade Participants can find applications online HERE or by contacting Georgetown/Scott County Tourism for more information.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Savannah Dean Reeves, Assistant Marketing
Georgetown/Scott County Tourism Commission
HI- and LOW-RES photos available.
ABOUT GEORGETOWN KY | Birthplace of Bourbon. Kentucky’s Horse Headquarters. Georgetown is both of these, and more. Sitting in the midst of Horse Country, Kentucky’s fastest growing city is home to horse-centric attractions and events, including the Kentucky Horse Park, Old Friends Thoroughbred Retirement Farm, Kentucky Three Day Event, Festival of the Horse and the National Horse Show. Its beautifully preserved Victorian-era downtown is filled with dozens of locally owned shops, galleries and restaurants. “Only here” attractions: Yuko-en Japanese-style strolling garden and Heirlooms & Gretchen’s authentic stained-glass shop. Outdoor adventure: Elkhorn Creek; Skullbuster Mountain Bike Trail; Kentucky Proud family-fun and u-pick farms. Historical sites: Ward Hall Greek Revival Mansion Tour; Scott County/Georgetown Museum; 1917 Rosenwald School. Accommodations: 60+ unique stays, 20 brand name chain hotels, two campgrounds. www.facebook.com/gotogtown

Big Wins for Georgetown Tourism at 2025 Traverse Awards
GEORGETOWN, KY – November 20, 2025 –
The Georgetown/Scott County Tourism Commission (GSCTC) has received multiple highly lauded awards at the recent Traverse Awards for Excellence in Kentucky Tourism from the Kentucky Travel Industry Association (KTIA). The awards were presented during the 2025 Kentucky Travel Industry Annual Conference held November 5-7 at The Galt House in Louisville.
During these awards, GSCTC’s marketing efforts & creativity competed with Convention & Visitors Bureaus across Kentucky with marketing budgets that range from thousands to millions of dollars. Kentucky travel and tourism businesses and destination marketing organizations vie for Traverse Awards in eleven categories. A panel of out-of-state tourism industry experts judge the awards. Award criteria include concept, creativity, results and impact.
“We are incredibly honored to be recognized among so many talented destination marketing organizations across Kentucky,” said Lori Saunders, Executive Director of the Georgetown/Scott County Tourism Commission. “These awards reflect the passion, creativity, and collaboration that drive our work every day. From celebrating Georgetown’s rich bourbon heritage to showcasing the beauty and character of the Bluegrass, our team and our regional partners continue to push boundaries in how we tell our stories."
GSCTC took home Overall Best In Show, a Gold Marketing Campaign Award and a Silver Video or Podcast Award for its involvement in Kentucky Bluegrass Region’s Road Snacks marketing campaign which targeted the growing travel market of road-trippers, inviting them to enjoy Central Kentucky’s scenic byways and explore our home in the Bluegrass.
Another multi-partner project GSCTC was a part of also received a Bronze Award for the press-kit boxes used in its Horses, Horsepower & Hollers marketing campaign.
Lastly, GSCTC received a Gold Destination Management Award, a Silver Digital Marketing Award, a Silver PR Initiative Award, a Silver Marketing Campaign Award and a Bronze Website Award for its Bourbon Genesis campaign which sought to solidify Georgetown, Kentucky’s historical claims as the Birthplace of Bourbon and the Genesis of Kentucky’s bourbon industry.
According to KTIA president and CEO Hank Phillips, “Even more than the huge quantity of over 200 entries, our judges were struck by the entries’ quality and creativity and by their positive impact on communities throughout the Commonwealth.
The 2025 Traverse Awards competition was by far the most intense ever and clearly reflects why tourism has become an economic engine and signature industry for Kentucky.” The Kentucky Travel Industry Association represents and serves all segments of Kentucky’s tourism industry, which contributes over $14 billion to Kentucky’s economy.
The 1,000-member association engages in advocacy and provides its members with education, information and business development opportunities. The association also works to inform the public of the enormous economic, employment and tax revenue contributions tourism makes to the people of Kentucky.
MEDIA CONTACT:
PHOTOS
Additional photos available.
Birthplace of Bourbon. Kentucky’s Horse Headquarters. Georgetown is the Birthplace of Bourbon. Kentucky’s Horse Headquarters. Georgetown is both of these, and more. Sitting amid Horse Country, Kentucky’s fastest-growing city is home to horse-centric attractions and events, including the Kentucky Horse Park, Old Friends Thoroughbred Retirement Farm, Kentucky Three Day Event, Festival of the Horse, and the National Horse Show. Its beautifully preserved Victorian-era downtown has dozens of locally owned shops, galleries and restaurants. “Only here” attractions: Yuko-en Japanese-style strolling garden and Heirlooms & Gretchen’s authentic stained-glass shop. Outdoor adventure: Elkhorn Creek; Skullbuster Mountain Bike Trail; Kentucky Proud family-fun and u-pick farms. Historical sites: Ward Hall Greek Revival Mansion Tour; Scott County/Georgetown Museum; 1917 Rosenwald School. Accommodations: 60+ unique stays, 20 brand name chain hotels, two campgrounds. www.facebook.com/gotogtown

Small Business Saturday Vitalizes Historic Downtown for the Holidays
GEORGETOWN, KY – November 20, 2025 – Historic Downtown Georgetown, Kentucky invites the community and visitors alike to join in the celebration of Small Business Saturday on November 29th as we go out of our way to shop small and support our amazing local businesses.
This beloved annual event encourages everyone to shop local, explore Georgetown’s charming boutiques, galleries, and eateries, and discover one-of-a-kind gifts while supporting the small businesses that are the heartbeat of our community.
"Small Business Saturday is quite possibly the most important day of the year for a small business," Said Anne Wishart Arnold-Ratliff, Owner of Maime's Fine Wine & Gifts, "Not only does it logistically aide us in keeping our doors open all year long, it instills a spirit throughout an entire community that officially ignites the holiday season. The faces we see, the warmth we feel from the support of our town is what truly makes owning a small business a dream."
Throughout the day, visitors can enjoy holiday specials, festive storefronts, and seasonal cheer as they stroll through the historic streets of downtown. Even Santa Claus himself will be strolling through Downtown Georgetown from 11am-2pm, taking time away from his busy schedule to support the small businesses that make our Historic Shopping District so special.
From handcrafted goods and Kentucky-made treasures to cozy cafés and local dining, there’s something for everyone to enjoy — all while giving back to the people who make Georgetown so unique.
It’s the perfect opportunity to knock out some holiday shopping! So grab your friends, family, and holiday spirit, and make plans to shop small, shop smart, and shop with a smile this November 29th!
To learn more about Shopping in Downtown Georgetown, KY visit:
🌐www.georgetownky.com/shopping
Brought to you by Georgetown/Scott County Tourism
MEDIA CONTACT:
Savannah Dean Reeves, Associate Marketing Assistant
Georgetown/Scott County Tourism 502-863-2547
PHOTOS
Additional photos available.
Birthplace of Bourbon. Kentucky’s Horse Headquarters. Georgetown is the Birthplace of Bourbon. Kentucky’s Horse Headquarters. Georgetown is both of these, and more. Sitting amid Horse Country, Kentucky’s fastest-growing city is home to horse-centric attractions and events, including the Kentucky Horse Park, Old Friends Thoroughbred Retirement Farm, Kentucky Three Day Event, Festival of the Horse, and the National Horse Show. Its beautifully preserved Victorian-era downtown has dozens of locally owned shops, galleries and restaurants. “Only here” attractions: Yuko-en Japanese-style strolling garden and Heirlooms & Gretchen’s authentic stained-glass shop. Outdoor adventure: Elkhorn Creek; Skullbuster Mountain Bike Trail; Kentucky Proud family-fun and u-pick farms. Historical sites: Ward Hall Greek Revival Mansion Tour; Scott County/Georgetown Museum; 1917 Rosenwald School. Accommodations: 60+ unique stays, 20 brand name chain hotels, two campgrounds. www.facebook.com/gotogtown