ASHLAND, Ky. — The Highlands Museum and Discovery Center, in conjunction with the KYOVA Mall and Lifestyle Center, is proud to announce the inaugural Veterans Appreciation Weekend.

The event will be held May 20-22, 2011 at the KYOVA Mall and Lifestyle Center.

Indoor events and exhibits will be housed in the former Steve and Barrys store space, while outdoor attractions, including a Living History encampment and cannon firings, will be located outdoors adjacent to the mall.

Friday will feature keynote speaker Ken Lucas, who is a former congressman and now commissioner of the Kentucky Department of Veterans Affairs.

There will also be events and activities throughout the day for children and adults alike.

Saturday will feature a full array of events and activities, including a Kentucky National Guard Static Display and Civil War cannon firings. Kentucky State Historian and Georgetown College professor James Klotter will give an exciting presentation on World War II in Kentucky.

The Focus of the presentation will be on on how the war shaped the state, as well as how the state influenced the war.

Come get “In the Mood” at the USO Show Saturday at 6 p.m.. This 1940’s style USO dance show will feature a live big band and vocalists, as well as comical acts and a few surprises too.

A free buffet-style meal and refreshments will be provided by Mary’s Kitchen Catering of Ashland. Everyone is welcome to attend. We do ask that those planning to attend pre-register as soon as possible.