Below is a list of the official dates for deer season this year…we hope you can make it out!

• Youth and Disability: Sept.10 – Sept. 18, 2011
• Muzzleloader: Sept. 19 – Oct. 2, 2011
• Archery: Sept. 19 – Dec. 31, 2011
• Early Firearm (DMU 19 only): Oct. 8 – Oct.16, 2011
• Regular Firearm: Nov. 30 – Dec. 11, 2011
• Extended Firearms Whitetail Antlerless-Only: Jan.1 – Jan.8, 2012
• Extended Archery Whitetail Antlerless-Only (DMU 19): Jan. 9 – Jan. 31, 2012
• Special Extended Firearm Whitetail Antlerless-Only: Jan.9- Jan.15, 2012 (Open for units 7, 8 and 15 only)
• Shooting Hours: One-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset.

For applications and fees visit the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks at their website:  http://kdwpt.state.ks.us/news/Hunting/Applications-and-Fees

• Regular (firearm/archery): April 11 – May 31, 2012
• Archery-Only : April 1 – 10, 2012
• Youth/Disabled : April 1 – 10, 2012
• Shooting Hours: One-half hour before sunrise to sunset.
• Legal Equipment: long, recurve or compound bows and shotguns and muzzleloading shotguns 20 gauge or larger using shot sizes 2 through 9. Crossbows are legal during April 11 – May 31 season only.
• Limit: Any individual who has purchased a spring turkey permit is eligible for one second turkey game tag. Spring game tags are valid for Units 2 and 3 ONLY.

Visit the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks web page for permits applications, fee schedules and deadlines.  http://kdwp.state.ks.us/news/Hunting/Applications-and-Fees/Turkey

Check it out!

Lake Perry is known for its Crappie!  Come out and enjoy the fishing!

We have been seeing this beautiful Indigo Bunting at our jelly feeder as well as an Orchard Oriole or two!

Whether you sail or power boat, you will love Lake Perry!

Perry Yacht and Marina and Rock Creek Marina provide fuel, mooring facilities, and other supplies.

Day-use fees are required for launching at all Corps operated boat ramps. A daily fee of $3.00 is charged to launch at the ramps. In lieu of the daily permit, an annual permit may be purchased for $30.00. The pass may be obtained at the Information Center or entrance stations and is honored at all Corps of Engineers facilities nationwide.

Water Safety is a primary concern, so please boat smart! Remember that drinking and boating do not mix. Be watchful for obstructions near the shoreline, always wear a Coast Guard approved life jacket, stay alert for changing weather conditions, watch for swimmers and other boats, take spare supplies, and do not overload your boat.

Apple Valley Farm was originally an 1850’s homestead and has been a haven of happiness ever since.  With the appearance of Perry Lake, the valley farmhouse was transformed into a bait shop and grocery store for fishermen and campers, becoming one of the first commercial ventures on the new Lake.

When a local resident, Meredithe Day, began working at the store, she and former owner, Joe Stroup, came up with the idea of serving fried chicken and apple pie to the many visitors exploring this new vacation site.  Fine fried chicken served in a pleasant country atmosphere was the trademark of “The Farmhouse Restaurant” for all its years.  Unfortunately, this tradition ended in 2004 when it was closed and recently the building was torn down. “The Farmhouse Restaurant” will always be remembered in the community as one of the most successful businesses in the area!

The old horse barn was emptied of organic relics in the 70’s and converted into a theater featuring melodrama and vaudeville acts, keeping alive the tent-show tradition.  This heritage was started by Dale Easton and carried on by Ric Averill for years.  Seasoned veterans like Karen Hastings and newcomers like Dan Hurlbert also directed and performed at the Theater.  There have been several Bluegrass shows done over the years as well, and the local group “The Faris Family” were regulars and even ran the barn for a year.  The performances in the theater are no longer part of the routine, but the barn is still a site to see!

The local night spot for the complex has always been “The Grainery Saloon”.  The saloon is a converted barn that now houses “Chunkie Dunkers”, a top notch BBQ restaurant with the most awesome pulled pork and smoked chicken you will ever taste.  They have a full menu of sandwiches and meals and they also offer live music on occasion and have one of the best local followings with great service, cold drinks, and fabulous food!  “Chunkie Dunkers at The Grainery Saloon” promises to afford an evening of fun and frolic!

Apple Valley Farm continues to be a privately owned business.  Joe Stroup, the original owner of 15 years, passed the legacy on to Pegi and Terry Day who ran the business for 18 years.  Finally Jeff and Allison Blodig purchased the business in 2002 and still maintain ownership of the property.  The charm and beauty of Apple Valley Farm is still very much present and we invite you to come see us on the FARM!!