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2008 Please check this site often, as the information is updated frequently. If you have questions or need assistance, call Niki Heichelbech at (800)848-1224 or (859) 244-7707 or email lexmedia@visitlex.com Click here to access the archives. May 6, 2008 Bluegrass Region Celebrates 5th annual Take Pride in the Bluegrass, May 10-18, 2008 May 5, 2008 Governor Beshear Declares National Tourism Week in Kentucky April 24, 2008 New Arena Gets Busy. Kentucky Horse Park Attracts Major New Shows to Kentucky April 9, 2008 Talon Winery Brings Home a Win March 28, 2008 Talon Winery Sweeps Kentucky Derby Winefest Competition March 21, 2008 Blue Grass Airport Now Offers Non-Stop Service to Minneapolis March 17, 2008 Kentucky Tourism Council Announces New President March 4, 2008 Hotel, condos, shops, offices planned for central downtown block February 5, 2008 Blue Grass Trust Antiques & Garden Show Selected as Spring Top Ten Event February 5, 2008 Mayfest Selected as Spring Top Ten Event January 31, 2008 Kentucky Horse Park Hotel Back On Track January 30, 2008 Volunteer Recruitment Begins For 2010 Games. Volunteer Web Site Now Active January 29, 2008 Lincoln Expert to Visit Centre College January 9, 2008 Thoroughbred Industry's Highest Honor will be Awarded to the Kentucky Horse Park January 9, 2008 Schickel joins the Lexington Convention and Visitors Bureau Click here to access the archives. May 6, 2008 Bluegrass Region Celebrates 5th annual Take Pride in the Bluegrass, May 10-18, 2008 The region is gearing up for the 5 th annual Take Pride in the Bluegrass celebration. Take Pride in the Bluegrass, May 10-18, is National Tourism Week and National Preservation Week all rolled into one. Planners and city officials are busy preparing for the FEI World Equestrian Games. Take Pride in the Bluegrass is an excellent way for residents of the region to familiarize themselves with area attractions and ensure we are all good ambassadors when we welcome the world in the fall of 2010. A record sixty-five attractions are participating with free admission, and nine with discounted admission. Eighteen hotels are also on board with special offers. There is a full schedule of Take Pride in the Bluegrass events including horse farm tours, special dinners, wine events, lectures, a Bourbon Boot Camp, and more! More than 100 special events, some including transportation, will take place throughout the celebration. Take Pride in the Bluegrass is a cooperative effort of the Lexington Convention and Visitors Bureau, the LFUCG Division of Historic Preservation and regional industry partners. The entire celebration is focused on reminding Bluegrass residents of the wonderful attractions found right outside their doors. Specially designed “Bluegrass Passports” are available at participating venues and tourist commissions. Local citizens are encouraged to pick up a Passport to present at area attractions for free admission. All participating attractions will be listed in a Lexing ton Herald-Leader pull-out section Wednesday, May 7 th, prior to Take Pride in the Bluegrass. All the details are available at www.visitlex.com/TakePride2008.html Source: Lexington Convention and Visitors Bureau ### May 6, 2008 Six Million Barrels and Counting. Distillery legend returns to roll six millionth barrel of bourbon produced since Prohibition. Buffalo Trace Distillery will celebrate a major milestone Wednesday, May 14 as the six millionth barrel of bourbon since Prohibition rolls off the production line and into an aging warehouse. To commemorate barrel number six million, Buffalo Trace will host a celebration at the distillery. The event is open to the public and will begin at 3:30 p.m. Making this already noteworthy event even more special is former Warehouse Supervisor, Jimmy Johnson. Johnson has helped roll out each millionth barrel since Prohibition and at age 92, he’s excited to get another one under his belt. “I’m thrilled to be able to come back to the distillery and help with the six millionth barrel,” said Johnson. “This is history and I’m honored to be a part of it.” Buffalo Trace is the oldest continually operating distillery in the country, remaining operational during Prohibition for “medicinal purposes.” The distillery was the first in the U.S. to produce two million barrels after Prohibition and a special single barrel warehouse was constructed to house that barrel for aging. Warehouse V is the world’s smallest bonded warehouse. It has housed each millionth barrel produced at the distillery since Prohibition and is currently storing the last barrel of the twentieth century. “Warehouse V is a very special warehouse here at the Trace,” said Harlen Wheatley, Master Distiller. “We make a lot of whiskey here, but each millionth barrel is very special and a tremendous milestone. We’re looking forward to putting our six millionth barrel in there and we’re thrilled Jimmy will be on hand for the festivities.” Buffalo Trace Distillery is open for tours year-round and special Hard Hat Tours are available during distilling season by reservation. All tours are complimentary. For more information please call 800-654-8471 or go to www.buffalotrace.com. Source: Buffalo Trace Distillery ### May 5, 2008 Governor Beshear Declares National Tourism Week in Kentucky Gov. Steve Beshear today declared the week of May 10-18 National Tourism Week in Kentucky, noting the importance of tourism to the state’s economy. “Tourism in Kentucky is the third largest industry and second largest employer,” Beshear said. “We want to make sure Americans and the rest of the world knows about the natural beauty and tourism destinations in Kentucky.” Beshear also announced that the Tourism Industry Association indicates that tourism in Kentucky grew by 6.5 percent in 2007, compared to the previous year. The figures show tourism has a $10.7 billion annual economic impact in the state. The Tourism Industry Association of America is celebrating the 25 th anniversary of tourism week. In Kentucky, the Department of Tourism is using the week to encourage Kentuckians to visit places in their home state with the theme “Discover Your Own Backyard.” Beshear signed a proclamation for National Tourism Week during a ceremony at the Kentucky History Center before representatives of the state’s tourism industry. The History Center brought out some of its “treasures,” including a watch owned by Abraham Lincoln. The Department of Tourism is also sponsoring an online prize giveaway for Kentuckians starting this month to highlight attractions in the state. The prizes include gift certificates, tours, concert tickets and dinner-for-two coupons. All prizes are valued at $50 or more and were contributed by businesses and attractions from throughout the state. To sign up, visit www.mykentuckybackyard.com. First Lady Jane Beshear, who is helping promote Kentucky tourism, announced the first two winners of the prizes. The contest will continue during the summer. For more information about events and attractions throughout Kentucky, visit www.kentuckytourism.com Source: Kentucky Commerce Cabinet ### April 30, 2008 Lexington, KY Selected as Site of Little League's Silver Anniversary International Congress More than 1,500 Little League volunteers representing every U.S. state and dozens of countries around the globe will chart the course of the world’s largest organized youth sports program for the following three years when they attend the 25th Little League International Congress in Lexington, Ky., March 12-15, 2010. More than 600 of those attending will be volunteer district administrators, who serve as liaisons between the local leagues and Little League International. District administrators are elected by their constituent leagues to provide support and to represent their interests as delegates to the International Congress. “The democratic process of Little League’s International Congress has been in place since 1956, and provides an excellent opportunity for us to meet with and listen to those volunteers that are so critical to Little League,” Stephen D. Keener, President and Chief Executive Officer of Little League Baseball and Softball, said. “This is one of the ways hundreds of thousands of dedicated volunteers around the world can have input in the operation of the Little League program.” The four-day International Congress is held once every three years, with a primary purpose to amend rules and regulations. In the years leading up to each Congress, volunteers from dozens of nations submit their ideas for changes to a steering committee, and an agenda is prepared. Attending delegates meet in round table discussions, making any necessary changes in the proposed amendments, then vote on the changes on the final day of the Congress. A two-thirds vote is required for passage. Those amendments receiving the necessary vote are then presented to the Little League International Board of Directors for final approval. The Congress in Lexington will be the first in Kentucky and the first held in a state overseen by Little League’s Central Region since 1975 ( Chicago). Co-chairmen for the Congress will be John Roll (Kentucky District 1 Administrator and member of the Little League International Board of Directors), and Kentucky District 3 Administrator Bill Bradley. “Hosting the International Congress will be a committed state-wide and Central Region-wide effort,” Mr. Roll, in his 57 th year of association with the Little League program, said. “My job is not only to bring the Congress to Kentucky, but to make sure everyone has a wonderful time. “Kentucky offers accessibility, with 75 percent of the Congress delegates being able to reach Lexington in a single day of travel,” Mr. Roll, who was an employee of the U.S. Postal Service for 33 years and a U.S. Army reservist for 27 years, said. “This is a win-win situation for everybody. The 2010 Congress seems like a long time away, but we all know it will be here before you know it.” Mr. Bradley, a retired Kentucky state police officer, has been the District Administrator in Kentucky District 3 for 22 years. He has been a Little League volunteer since 1973, serving as umpire, board member, and league president of Richmond Little League. “I am thrilled to have the Little League International Congress coming Kentucky,’ Mr. Bradley, who attended his first Congress in 1987, said. “I’ve dealt with youth athletics for 35 years and Little League stands above all the rest. As a life-long Kentuckian, I feel the people of Little League will enjoy the good old-fashioned hospitality you’ll find in Kentucky. When the Congress comes to Lexington, we’ll show everyone that we are known for more than just basketball.” Delegates and their assistant district administrators also will attend training seminars and informational assemblies at the Congress. Little League provides transportation to and from the Congress for all U.S. delegates, as well as half of each delegate’s room rate and a per diem. Delegates attending from outside of the United Statesmake their own travel arrangements and will be responsible for all travel related expenses. They do receive a travel reimbursement stipend in addition to an expense reimbursement stipend. The Congress hotels will be the Radisson Plaza, Hyatt Regency and Crowne Plaza. All Congress events will be held at the Lexington Convention Center, which is connected to the Hyatt Regency and accessible via skywalk from the Radisson Plaza. The Crowne Plaza also is located nearby. Another Congress function is the nomination for election of field representatives on the International Board of Directors. Delegates from the five U.S. regions and each of the four international regions will vote on a representative nominee. Once elected, the nine field representatives will serve on the board for terms of three, four or five years. Past Little League International Congress host locations: 1956 – Chicago, Ill. For more information on Little League International Congress, log on to the Little League website at: www.LittleLeague.org. Little League Baseball and Softball is the world’s largest organized youth sports program, with nearly 2.7 million players and one million adult volunteers in every U.S. state and scores of other countries. ### For more information contact: Christopher D. Downs, Media Relations Manager. (570-326-1921, ex. 238; Cell: 570-337-2511); Media E-mail: cdowns@LittleLeague.org; WEB Site: http://www.LittleLeague.org April 24, 2008 New Arena Gets Busy. Kentucky Horse Park Attracts Major New Shows to Kentucky Today the Kentucky Horse Park announced several major horse shows that have already signed contracts or are confirmed to host their events beginning in 2009 in the new Indoor Arena, which is currently under construction. John Nicholson, executive director of the park, stated, “ Kentucky’s investment in our new Indoor Arena is already paying off. For several years the managers of a number of prestigious shows have expressed an interest in holding their events at the Kentucky Horse Park, if there came a time when we had the facilities to accommodate them. Today I am very pleased to welcome some of those show managers who have signed contracts to hold their events in our new Indoor Arena beginning in 2009.” These new shows include: Sport Horse National Arabian & Half-Arabian Championships, September 2009 and 2011-2013 The Tradition Futurity – The East Coast Championships, September 2009, 2011 and 2012 Kentucky Breeders Classic Sale & Exposition, January 2010 Intercollegiate Horse Show Association National Championships, May 2010 Indoor Hunter/Jumper Winter Series, November 2009-March 2010 On hand to make the announcement was Kentucky’s first lady, Jane Beshear, who is an accomplished horsewoman and has served on the board of the Kentucky Horse Park Foundation for many years. Representatives from several of the horse shows were also in attendance. Bill Pennington, the Sport Horse Nationals Show Commission Chairperson said, “The Kentucky Horse Park possesses all the features of a facility that will allow Sport Horse Nationals to expand to include more events and more horses. The park is known throughout the world as a premier horse facility and we are excited to be a part of such a renowned reputation.” Nicholson concluded, “It is a tremendous compliment to the Kentucky Horse Park and the Commonwealth of Kentucky that these show organizers have placed their confidence in us by committing their events to our new arena while it is yet unfinished. Our state will reap benefits from the investment in this arena for decades to come.” Park Hours and Rates: From March 15 through October 31, the park is open seven days a week. Admission is $15 for adults, $8 for children 7-12. Children six and under are always admitted free of charge. Admission includes the International Museum of the Horse – In Association with the Smithsonian Institution - and the American Saddlebred Museum. ### Source: Kentucky Horse Park
April 9, 2008 Talon Winery Brings Home a Win WINES WOMEN LOVE! Talon Winery was awarded a Bronze medal (Bluegrass Blush) at the International Women’s Wine Competition in California, making Talon the only Kentucky winery to be awarded a medal in this prestigious competition. Talon’s “Bluegrass Blush” has been included on the 2008 Wines Women Love! Shopping list. More than 1,900 wines were submitted for competition, making the National Women’s Wine Competition one of the largest competitions in the United States. Wineries from 30 states and from 10 different countries participated in this prestigious international wine competition. TALON WINERY WINS AT Talon Winery was awarded four Bronze medals (Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2005, Monarch 2005, Chardonnay 2006, and Moondance) at the Finger Lakes International Wine Competition, making Talon the only Kentucky winery to be awarded medals in this prestigious competition. More than 2,300 wines from nearly 500 wineries spanning 39 states and 14 different countries were submitted for judging. Talon’s winning wines, by winemaker Kerry Jolliffe, are available for tasting at the Homestead Tasting Room, located in a 200-year-old, historic farmhouse once owned by the family of Isaac Shelby. Talon winery, located at 7086 Tates Creek Rd. (five miles south of Man-O-War Boulevard) is open Monday – Thursday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday and Saturday 10 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and Sunday 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. Source: Talon Winery ### March 28, 2008 Blue Grass Airport Opens Three New Restaurants. Quiznos, Knob Creek Bourbon Lounge & Caffé Ritazza Blue Grass Airport is pleased to announce the opening of new food and beverage facilities for its passengers. Today, Quiznos sandwich shop and the Knob Creek Bourbon Lounge opened their doors, and Caffé Ritazza is expected to open by the end of next week. Source: Blue Grass Airport ### March 28, 2008 Talon Winery Sweeps Kentucky Derby Winefest Competition Talon Winery was awarded three Gold medals (Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve 2005, Monarch 2005, and Coyote Red) at the Kentucky Derby Festival WineFest. Judging was held Tuesday, March 25 th at Louisville’s Brown Hotel. Participating wineries submitted wines in one of 8 different categories – from red or white, Native American or vinifera, to dessert and fruit wines. More than 70 Indiana and Kentucky wines were submitted for competition. In addition to winning more Gold medals than any other participating winery, Talon was also awarded a Silver medal (Cabernet Sauvignon 2005) and three Bronze medals (Sweet Evening Breeze, Bluegrass Blush, Vintner’s Select Chardonnay 2005). Talon’s winning wines, by winemaker Kerry Jolliffe, are available for tasting at the Homestead Tasting Room, located in a 200-year-old, historic farmhouse once owned by the family of Isaac Shelby. Talon winery, located at 7086 Tates Creek Rd. (five miles south of Man-O-War Boulevard) is open Monday – Thursday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday and Saturday 10 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and Sunday 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. Source: Talon Winery ### March 21, 2008 Blue Grass Airport Now Offers Non-Stop Service to Minneapolis Blue Grass Airport is pleased to announce Northwest Airlines will offer new non-stop, seasonal jet service between its hub at Minneapolis/St. Paul and Lexington, Kentucky. One daily flight will be offered from June 5, 2008 to August 18, 2008. “Northwest Airlines is excited to give our customers in Lexington the opportunity to choose from all Northwest hubs, adding Minneapolis/St. Paul to our Memphis and Detroit service,” said Dennis Newman, vice president of network planning and scheduling. “This new route allows us to offer our Lexington customers convenient access to all destinations that Northwest flies, just in time for the summer vacation season.” The new service will be operated by Northwest Airlink partner Pinnacle Airlines using the Canadair Regional Jet, which seats up to 50 passengers. Lexington —Minneapolis/St. Paul Service: Minneapolis/St. Paul— Lexington Service: Flight Departs Arrives Flight Departs Arrives NW 5638 5:00 pm 5:58 pm NW 5639 1:10 pm 4:07 pm “ Blue Grass Airport welcomes Northwest Airlines’ decision to add a new non-stop jet flight from Lexington to a third hub,” said Michael Gobb, executive director at Blue Grass Airport. “Northwest has been a generous partner in our efforts to connect central Kentucky to the world, and we look forward to expanding that partnership through this new service to Minneapolis.” Northwest is offering 1,000 WorldPerks Bonus Miles for roundtrip travel between Minneapolis/St. Paul and Lexington from June 5 through July 15, 2008. Registration is required prior to travel. Additional terms and conditions apply. Details can be found at www.nwa.com/offers/msplex08. The new flights between Minneapolis/St. Paul and Lexington are now available for sale at www.nwa.com, through travel agencies or by calling Northwest Airlines Reservations at 800.225.2525. About Blue Grass Airport About Northwest Airlines Source: Blue Grass Airport ### March 17, 2008 Kentucky Tourism Council Announces New President Frankfort , Kentucky — The Kentucky Tourism Council (KTC) is pleased to announce that Kay Berggren has been hired as president and CEO. Berggren will be responsible for leading the statewide association, which offers marketing opportunities, professional development and continuing education opportunities and legislative/governmental support to Kentucky’s tourism- and travel-related individuals, businesses and organizations. “Berggren brings an outstanding mix of talents and experience to the Kentucky Tourism Council,” said David Lord, chairman of the Kentucky Tourism Council and president of the Lexington Convention and Visitors Bureau. “Through her work at the Danville-Boyle County Convention and Visitors Bureau to her leadership roles with Kentucky Tourism Council and Kentucky Association of Convention and Visitor Bureaus, she will be an excellent leader for Kentucky’s $9 billion tourism industry.” Berggren served as executive director of the Danville-Boyle County Convention and Visitors Bureau for 14 years. During that time, she also served as chairman of the Kentucky Tourism Council and president of the Kentucky Association of Convention and Visitors Bureau. She has worked closely with the Kentucky Department of Tourism and the Bluegrass Region, traveling frequently to national group tour marketplace conventions. In addition, she worked closely with Great American Brass Band Festival, held annually in June in Danville. “It is my great honor to be named President of the Kentucky Tourism Council,” Berggren said. “I have thoroughly enjoyed my work in the tourism industry, and I am looking forward to serving the membership of KTC at this exciting time in our state.” The Kentucky Tourism Council is a statewide, member organization that is headquartered in Frankfort. Berggren currently serves on the Danville Sister City Committee and the McClure-Barbee House Foundation. She and her husband, Tom, live in Danville. Source: Kentucky Tourism Council ### March 13, 2008 Blue Grass Airport Receives New Air Service. Northwest Airlines Announces Third Daily flight to Memphis. Northwest Airlines has announced that it will upgrade its current daily air service between Lexington and its Memphis, TN hub with a third daily flight between the two cities. This flight will begin service on April 8, 2008. “We are pleased to partner with Northwest Airlines to offer a third daily flight to Memphis. This new service will provide an additional travel option to those customers who are flying to or from the western United States” said Michael Gobb, executive director at Blue Grass Airport. “Given the challenges in the aviation industry today, Northwest’s decision to expand daily service in Lexington shows that our region continues to be a very attractive location for new air service.” The schedule for service between Lexington and Memphis is as follows: Lexington , KY— Memphis, TN Service: Memphis, TN— Lexington, KY Service: Flight Departs Arrives Flight Departs Arrives NW 5929* 7:05 am 7:30 am NW 2700 9:15 am 11:57 am NW 2705 12:22 pm 1:12 pm NW 3104 2:20 pm 5:06 pm NW 3057 5:36 pm 6:27 pm NW 5924* 7:35 pm 9:55 pm * New flight The new flights between Memphis and Lexington are now available for sale at www.nwa.com, through travel agencies or by calling Northwest Airlines Reservations at 800.225.2525. About Blue Grass Airport About Northwest Airlines ### Source: Blue Grass Airport March 4, 2008 Hotel, condos, shops, offices planned for central downtown block Construction of a $250 million complex, including a four-star hotel, condominiums, retail and office space and parking, is expected to begin this fall on a central downtown block, developers said today. Danby Turner, an attorney representing the Webb Companies, said the CentrePointe development may be the largest private investment ever made in downtown, but will not be possible without tax increment financing (TIF) for public infrastructure elements. The plan will be presented to the Urban County Council at today’s work session Turner said. This will be Lexington’s first TIF project and will need approval by the Urban County Council and the state. The proposed CentrePointe development is expected to have a significant economic impact on the local economy. The total project cost is estimated to be $250 million. It will generate approximately 2,500 construction jobs annually, for a two-year period. Upon completion, approximately 919 jobs will be generated on an annual basis. Turner said that with an aggressive schedule, the hotel would open in time for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games. Mayor Jim Newberry said the project will bring new life to a central downtown block. “This is an enormous step forward for our downtown,” Newberry said. “It will build on the recent successes we have had in bringing new residents downtown, and will also attract new businesses, more visitors and new activity through street-level retail space, new restaurants and new entertainment opportunities.” The complex would be built on the block bounded by Vine, Lime, Main and Upper streets. “Since the Woodworth building was torn down on this block several years ago, there has been a gaping hole in our downtown,” Newberry said. “However, there are also still some important businesses on this block, and we will work diligently to try to help them find new locations downtown. These businesses have crated a lot of activity downtown, and they are very important.” CMMI, an Atlanta firm specializing in hospitality design and Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) projects, is the architect of the project. CMMI is working with the Lexington architectural firm of Sherman-Carter-Barnhart, with Charlie Barnhart in a lead role. Barnhart said the design will add a significant new element to Lexington’s skyline, while remaining interactive at the street level. Harold Tate, president and executive director of the Lexington Downtown Development Authority, said the developer wants to take a new direction. “This project will be designed looking toward ‘green’ development,” Tate said. “It will be LEED certified.” The developer will work with the city’s Commissioner of Environmental Quality Cheryl Taylor to ensure that Lexington will have its first “green” urban project. The plans for complex include: A 430-foot central tower, which will house hotel rooms and 77 condos. The tower will be almost as tall as the Lexington Financial Center, Lexington’s tallest downtown building;
Newberry said Phoenix Park will be redeveloped as part of the project to bring it up to ground level and provide an urban gathering spot. The redeveloped park will feature public art and a JumboTron, large screen television technology that will allow for Friday and Saturday night outdoor movies and can be used during the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games. Developers of the project are the Webb Companies, Lexington and JH Anderson Holding, Inc., based in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. Anderson is a University of Kentucky alumnus. Source: The Webb Companies ### February 11, 2008 New Kentucky Lincoln Heritage Trail Web site now online. Visit the virtual trail at www.kylincolntrail.com FRANKFORT , Ky. – A new Web site taking visitors on a virtual visit to historic sites along the new Kentucky Lincoln Heritage Trail has been launched in advance of national and statewide Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial commemorations Tuesday in Hodgenville. Like the real locations along the trail itself, the Web site at www.kylincolntrail.com maps the Kentucky people, places and events that shaped the Lincoln legacy and tell the story of his early years in Kentucky. The Kentucky Lincoln Heritage Trail is a project of the Kentucky Heritage Council/State Historic Preservation Office in partnership with the Kentucky Historical Society, Kentucky Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Commission, Kentucky Department of Tourism and Kentucky Transportation Cabinet. The first marker along the trail will be unveiled by Gov. Steve Beshear and other guests during a special ceremony at 3 p.m. (EST) Tuesday on Lincoln Square in downtown Hodgenville. The Kentucky Lincoln Heritage Trail is a scenic route across central Kentucky to be designated by 27 markers and including signature historic sites in Hodgenville, Lexington, Louisville, Frankfort, Elizabethtown, Nicholasville, Springfield and Richmond as well as additional sites across the state that illuminate Lincoln’s life. Highlighting each of these, the Web site also features other historic Kentucky places located nearby, to extend visitor interest beyond the trail itself. This new trail reinterprets and updates the original Lincoln Heritage Trail which was created in the early 1960s through Kentucky, Indiana and Illinois. The inaugural marker to be unveiled Tuesday by Governor Beshear depicts the founding of Hodgen’s Mill – the community that came to be known as Hodgenville – and the connection between this early settlement and the Lincoln family. Remaining markers will be placed throughout the spring, including directional and highway signage. "These historic sites are important nationally, and visitors from around the globe are drawn to Kentucky because of a persistent fascination with President Lincoln. Because his formative years were spent in Kentucky, that had a strong influence on the man he ultimately became," said Lindy Casebier, executive director of the Commerce Cabinet Office of Arts and Cultural Heritage and vice chair of the Kentucky Lincoln Bicentennial Inaugural Committee. "Through projects like the new Kentucky Lincoln Heritage Trail, the Kentucky Heritage Council works to preserve and celebrate our historic sites and make our past accessible." In addition to the Web site, the trail is featured in a colorful new folding map designed to guide automobile travelers along the route. Research and development of the trail, signs and collateral materials were developed through federal Transportation Enhancement funding with support from each of the partner agencies. "We're very proud that together, these agencies have exponentially increased the value of this investment for Kentucky taxpayers and that this funding has served as a catalyst for additional public and private support," said Donna M. Neary, Heritage Council executive director and state historic preservation officer. "Also, we all recognize the Internet as a key marketing tool for the 21 st century, and this Web site creatively showcases Lincoln sites and this new interpretation of the trail." The Web site was designed by New!West Public Relations, Advertising and Marketing of Louisville. A key feature is an interactive map of Kentucky with icons and pop-ups offering more information about each of the heritage trail sites including driving directions, Web links and phone numbers. The Web site includes a numbered listing of the markers and text on each as well as information and links about the local community and nearby points of interest. For more information about Lincoln Bicentennial events in Kentucky, visit www.kylincoln.org. ### Source: Kentucky Heritage Council / State Historic Preservation Office February 5, 2008 Blue Grass Trust Antiques & Garden Show Selected as Spring Top Ten Event The Kentucky Tourism Council has selected the Blue Grass Trust Antiques & Garden Show as one of the Commonwealth’s spring “Top Ten” events. The Blue Grass Trust Antiques & Garden Show showcases 18 th, 19 th, and early 20 th century furniture, jewelry, porcelain, art, textiles, architectural pieces and even antique sporting equipment, vintage prints, posters and more. Held at Keeneland’s Keene Barn and Entertainment Center March 14-16 it is the year’s largest fundraiser for the Blue Grass Trust for Historic Preservation. A panel of impartial judges selects the Kentucky Tourism Council “Top Ten” Events for each season. Criteria for selection include popularity of the event, its impact on the local tourism economy as well as cultural and historical significance. For more information, contact the Lexington Convention and Visitors Bureau at 859-233-7299. Source: Kentucky Tourism Council ### February 5, 2008 Mayfest Selected as Spring Top Ten Event The Kentucky Tourism Council has selected Mayfest as one of the Commonwealth’s spring “Top Ten” events. Mayfest held at Historic Gratz Park in downtown Lexington on May 10-11 is a literary, performing and visual arts festival. This event includes a wide range of entertainment and activities and is perfect for the entire family. Mayfest features live music, street performers, vendors selling handcrafted items and over 100 literary and visual arts performances. A panel of impartial judges selects the Kentucky Tourism Council “Top Ten” Events for each season. Criteria for selection include popularity of the event, its impact on the local tourism economy as well as cultural and historical significance. For more information, contact the Lexington Convention and Visitors Bureau at 859-233-7299. Source: Kentucky Tourism Council ### January 31, 2008 Kentucky Horse Park Hotel Back On Track The Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority (KEDFA) today approved an inducement resolution for a conduit bond issue for the construction of a 267-room resort hotel and conference center to be constructed at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington. Conduit bonds are not an obligation of the commonwealth or KEDFA, but are the responsibility of the borrower. “I know that many are excited that the Kentucky Horse Park Hotel is once again moving forward,” said Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear. “It’s something we’ve worked hard to obtain during the first seven weeks since taking office because of its positive economic impact on Kentucky.” This is the first hurdle in the two-step bond approval process. KEDFA will meet again Feb. 15 to consider a final resolution for the bonds. Additionally, KEDFA will vote on a $3 million loan to the Commerce Cabinet, which will be utilized for the project if it is necessary. The resolution must then receive approval from the State Property and Buildings Commission and the Capital Projects and Bond Oversight Committee, which will meet Feb. 18 and 19, respectively. If final approval is granted on this schedule, construction of the hotel and conference center will be completed in time for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games at the Kentucky Horse Park. Delays in the project’s progress were due to the limited availability of financing as a result of the fallout from the sub-prime mortgage crisis. “I challenged the developer and my team from the Commerce, Economic Development and Finance cabinets to develop a solution to make the hotel a reality,” Gov. Beshear added. “I am optimistic we are now on the right path. Hopefully, the financial markets won’t throw us any more curve balls.” A request for proposal (RFP) for the privately-developed hotel was issued by the Commonwealth in November 2006. The winning vendor was selected through a competitive bid process, and a lease agreement was signed with Bluegrass Equine & Tourism Foundation, Inc. A recent economic impact study conducted by Economics Research Associates on behalf of the Kentucky Commerce Cabinet found that a resort hotel at the Kentucky Horse Park would: Result in more than $1.3 billion of incremental trade and spending in the Commonwealth;
The Kentucky Horse Park hosted more than 900,000 visitors and 15,000 competition horses in more than 100 special events and horse shows in 2006. Upon completion of all planned park improvements, including a new outdoor stadium and an equine arena, annual attendance is expected to increase to more than 1.6 million visitors annually by 2014. The Bluegrass Equine & Tourism Foundation is a non-profit organization established specifically to benefit the equine and tourism industries in the Commonwealth through development of the Kentucky Horse Park Hotel. The Foundation will lease the land from the Kentucky Horse Park for a nominal fee plus a percentage of the gross receipts. After expenses are paid, all net profits will be redistributed into the equine and tourism industries both at the Kentucky Horse Park and throughout the Commonwealth.
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January 30, 2008 Volunteer Recruitment Begins For 2010 Games. Volunteer Web Site Now Active The World Games 2010 Foundation today announced it is launching a volunteer recruitment Web Site, through the online services of The Registration System, to manage the thousands of volunteers needed for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games. Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer can log on to www.feigames2010.org and click on “Volunteer Information” in the “Quick Links” box, to register and receive more information about volunteer opportunities and benefits. Volunteers are needed before, during, and immediately after the Games. Interested volunteers must also fill out a profile detailing when and how they could serve. “With more than two years until the 2010 Games, we have already had countless requests for volunteer information,” said Cathy Rutter, Director of Community and Volunteer Relations. “The Registration System’s recruitment site is going to allow the Foundation to both communicate with our volunteers, and give us access to volunteers that we need right now—not just for the 16 days of competition in 2010.” “TRS, The Registration System, cuts large events into manageable pieces. It is an online solution we developed to solve the common challenges faced by event planners like the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games,” said Florence May, President of Simply Hospitality. “We provide an event mission control for our clients, including registration, e-mail communications, payment processing, and management report packages specifically for large and mid-sized sporting events, festivals and conferences.” All volunteers will be required to go through an orientation and training program before they can begin to serve with the Foundation. Volunteers will receive a variety of benefits for their efforts, including official 2010 Games apparel, volunteer credentials, and general admissions tickets. “We plan to give our volunteers special recognition during the Games for their efforts,” stated Rutter. “We are depending on our volunteers to help make the Games a success—and that it’s going to be both hard work and an incredible experience. At the end of the Games, we hope our volunteers walk away with the feeling that they had an impact on the Games’ success.” Rutter said nearly 17,000 people have already registered through the Games’ informational Web Site, www.feigames2010.org. Those people will not have to re-register, but will receive an email asking for an update on their profile information through the new recruitment system. TRS was custom-built in 2001 to support the Men’s and Women’s NCAA ® Final Four, the American Association of Museums and the National League of Cities. TRS is now used for more than 250 North American events each year. Simply Hospitality clients include the Indy 500 Festival, Chick-fil-A Bowl, Ottawa Bluesfest, FORD Model T Centennial, USA Track & Field Olympic Trials and the VA Golden Age Games. For more information about the volunteer registry, contact Cathy Rutter at crutter@feigames2010.org, or call the World Games 2010 Foundation at 859-255-2010. Source: World Games 2010 Foundation ### January 29, 2008 Lincoln Expert to Visit Centre College Centre College is excited to announce that Andrew Ferguson, author of " Land of Lincoln: Adventures in Abe's America," will be visiting campus this fall as part of its "Year of Lincoln" celebration. Ferguson's visit will inaugurate a series of exciting events currently being planned at the College in recognition of the man many consider to be the nation's most influential president. Incoming freshmen at Centre are assigned a required reading book, and this year the book selection committee decided to tie the reading into the campus's celebration of Lincoln. Members of the committee perused or read more than 20 books before unanimously choosing " Land of Lincoln." "Everyone who surveyed Ferguson's eclectic book immediately concluded, 'That's it!'" says committee member Milton Reigelman, professor of English and director of international programs. "We were looking for something that a wide variety of incoming freshmen would not only read cover-to-cover, but also be excited about. Ferguson's inclusiveness and intelligent journalistic style were just what we were searching for." Penelope Wong, committee member and assistant professor of education, says that Ferguson's book about Lincoln was the only one she didn't want to put down. "Nothing is sacred to Ferguson. Lincoln haters and Lincoln admirers alike are given their say, and their responses are fascinating-and often entertaining," Wong says. "On the literary road trip through Lincoln historical sites, Ferguson provides the reader with not only scholarly information about Lincoln, but also fascinating glimpses into what ordinary people around the United States think of him." Centre will also help kick off its "Year of Lincoln" during the 2008 Brass Brand Festival held in Danville in June. The College received a Kentucky Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Commission (KALBC) grant through the Kentucky Historical Society to help fund "Strike Up The Band: Lincoln Comes Home," a presentation by actors portraying Lincoln and his lifelong friend and law partner John Todd Stuart. Stuart, Centre Class of 1826, helped set Lincoln on the road to extraordinary success when, in 1832, he loaned his good friend Lincoln his first set of law books with which to study. Wong says that all Centre students should learn about Lincoln. "No matter what one might feel about his policies and legacy, he was undisputedly one of two of the most influential individuals in the 19th century," she says. "For that reason alone, it would seem necessary to have a basic understanding of this individual. I think it's important for people-not just students, but anyone-to have the opportunity to discuss and examine Lincoln 'the individual' in an intellectual setting." The book selection committee members hope that these and other special campus events, along with the traditional book discussions, will result in engaging conversations and examinations of Lincoln throughout the year. About Us The Kentucky Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Commission (KALBC), including its administrative team at the Kentucky Historical Society and its Commerce Cabinet partners, has positioned Kentucky as a leader in the Lincoln Bicentennial scheduled for 2008-2010. The mission of the KALBC is to commemorate, in conjunction with the National Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Commission, the 200th birthday of Abraham Lincoln, emphasizing Kentucky's contribution to his thoughts and ideals, and to serve as a coordinator of statewide efforts to convey Lincoln's Kentucky story and his legacy of freedom, democracy, and equal opportunity for all. For more information about the Kentucky Lincoln Bicentennial Commission, visit www.kylincoln.org. Source: Kentucky Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Commission ### January 25, 2008 Kentucky Horse Park Executive Director Accepts Highest Honor in Thoroughbred Industry John Nicholson, executive director of the Kentucky Horse Park, was honored on behalf of the park Monday night at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in California, by three of the Thoroughbred Industry’s most significant organizations. The National Thoroughbred Racing Association (NTRA), the Daily Racing Form and the National Turf Writers’ Association unanimously bestowed the Special Eclipse Award on Nicholson for the park’s “outstanding individual achievements in, or contributions to, the sport of Thoroughbred Racing.” Nicholson accepted the highest honor in the Thoroughbred industry at the black-tie gala surrounded by Hollywood celebrities,horse racing royalty, elite breeders, owners and trainers, and remarked, “We are mindful, always, of what is the heart and soul of our mission, and that is to give honor and reverence to an animal that has given far more to us than we could ever give in return.” A video clip produced by TVG of Nicholson accepting the award is posted on the NTRA’s website: www.ntra.com/video.aspx?id=30479. “The Eclipse Award steering committee strongly believed that the Kentucky Horse Park was most deserving of the Special Award for its extraordinary contribution and dedication to the Thoroughbred industry and the wonderful experience that its millions of visitors have enjoyed over the years,” said Alex Waldrop, president and CEO of the NTRA. “The special care for the great racehorse John Henry in his retirement, and his most dignified passing in 2007, symbolizes the love and devotion of the men and women who work at the Kentucky Horse Park each day.” ### Source: Kentucky Horse Park January 9, 2008 Thoroughbred Industry's Highest Honor will be Awarded to the Kentucky Horse Park The Kentucky Horse Park will be honored with the 2007 Special Eclipse Award from the National Thoroughbred Racing Association (NTRA), National Turf Writers Association (NTWA), and the Daily Racing Form. The Special Eclipse Award recognizes outstanding individual achievements in, or contributions to, the sport of Thoroughbred Racing. John Nicholson, executive director of the park stated, “This award represents an enormous effort by many people and horses at the park who played a role in the celebration of the special bond between horse and man. For 30 years, the Kentucky Horse Park has honored, cared for, chronicled and assisted horses of all breeds and disciplines, and we humbly and gratefully accept the honor being returned to us in this way. “There has always been a deep, abiding, intangible something that binds the hearts of man and horse. This relationship is the soul of the Kentucky Horse Park,” continued Nicholson, who will accept the Special Eclipse Award on behalf of the Kentucky Horse Park by the NTRA on January 21 in Beverly Hills. (Last year’s recipients of the Special Eclipse Award were Roy and Gretchen Jackson and the New Bolton Center for their excellent care of Barbaro.) Kentucky governor, Steve Beshear, noted, “We are delighted that the Kentucky Horse Park, which honors horses of every breed, has received the highest recognition in the Thoroughbred industry. Jane and I have served on the Kentucky Horse Park Commission and the Foundation for many years. We have seen the tremendous amount of hard work, and the equal amount of affection, that have been invested in the park for the past 30 years. We couldn’t be happier for all of the people who have made the park a labor of love for so long.” “The Eclipse Award steering committee strongly believed that the Kentucky Horse Park was most deserving of the Special Award for its extraordinary contribution and dedication to the Thoroughbred industry and the wonderful experience that its millions of visitors have enjoyed over the years,” said Alex Waldrop, president and CEO of the NTRA. “The special care for the great racehorse John Henry in his retirement, and his most dignified passing in 2007, symbolizes the love and devotion of the men and women who work at the Kentucky Horse Park each day.” Tandy Patrick, chair of the park’s governing body, the Kentucky Horse Park Commission, stated, “In everything we do, the Kentucky Horse Park pays tribute to the extraordinary relationship that exists between horses and humans. We are thrilled and grateful that our daily work is being acknowledged with a Special Eclipse Award.” The Kentucky Horse Park is a 1,200-acre equine theme park and competition complex. As many as 50 breeds of horses call the park “home.” An additional 15,000 competition horses take up temporary residence annually during dozens of horse shows. Nearly one million visitors come to the park each year to see, touch, learn about, and experience horses, and to compete in horse shows. The park includes the International Museum of the Horse – a Smithsonian Affiliate - and the American Saddlebred Museum. Perhaps most conspicuous is the Hall of Champions which has been (and is) home to a pantheon of elite champions of the racetrack and show ring, including Eclipse Award-winning Thoroughbred celebrities Cigar, Kona Gold and the late John Henry. In 2010, the Kentucky Horse Park will host the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, which will be held outside of Europe for the first time. The games will take place over 16 days and consist of the world championship for eight equestrian sports. It will be the largest equestrian sporting event ever held in the United States, and is expected to draw more than 600,000 spectators, be broadcast to more than 460 million worldwide television viewers, and draw nearly 2,000 media from around the world. Nicholson concluded, “The 21st century is the golden age of the horse in America. They are our heroes, our partners and our friends, and as long as that relationship flourishes, the Kentucky Horse Park will be here to celebrate it.” ### Source: Kentucky Horse Park January 9, 2008 Official Housing Bureau Partner for Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games Kentucky 2010 Announces Partner for Private Property Rentals Short's Sports & Events, a division of Short's Travel Management, has chosen Event Home Leasing to be Short's official private property rental provider. Event Home Leasing is based in Louisville, Kentucky and is owned and operated by Dana and Charles Martin. The Event Home Leasing group has several years of experience in private home and property rentals. Dana served as the Player Accommodation Chairman for the 1996 and 2000 PGA Championships at Valhalla, facilitating private rentals for the 1996 and 2000 PGA Championships at Valhalla. She has also facilitated private rentals for the Kentucky Derby each year since 1996. "We are thrilled to work with the professional staff at Event Home Leasing. They impressed us with the level of research, planning and thought that they put forth when responding to our request for proposal to help in this aspect of housing," stated John Johnson, Short’s Executive Vice President of Events/Passport Incentives + Meetings.. "EHL’s commitment to customer service and attention to detail should make the private property rental process for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games successful for all involved." "As the owner of EVENT HOME LEASING , I am honored to have the opportunity to provide ‘Private Property Rentals’ for two of the largest international sporting events in Kentucky's history, the 2008 Ryder Cup and the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games," stated Martin. We will assist in providing accommodations for Event Vendors, Visitors and Participates and look forward to presenting them with an opportunity to experience the ambiance of Southern Living in Kentucky." Anyone interested in private property rental for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games should contact Dana Martin of Event Home Leasing at 502-592-8921 or dana@eventhomeleasing.com. About Shorts Travel Management The Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, to be held at the Kentucky Horse Park September 25-October 10, 2010, are the world championships of the eight equestrian disciplines recognized by the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI), and are held every four years. The Games have never before been held outside of Europe; nor have all eight disciplines ever previously been held together at a single site— both firsts that will be achieved at the Kentucky Horse Park. The 2010 Games are expected to have a statewide economic impact of $150 million. It is anticipated that more than 600,000 spectators will attend the 16-day competition. ### Contact: Krista Greathouse, Director of Events, Short’s Sports and Events (859) 255-2010 Ext. 231 January 9, 2008 Schickel joins the Lexington Convention and Visitors Bureau The Lexington Convention and Visitors Bureau is pleased to announce that Julie Schickel has joined the staff as Ambassador and Information Specialist Coordinator. Schickel will be responsible for coordinating the Bluegrass Tourism Ambassador Program and the Visitor Information staff for the Bureau. She will work closely with tourism partners in the Bluegrass Region as she develops the program. “We’re delighted to welcome Julie to the Lexington Convention and Visitors Bureau. Her previous tourism experience, proven leadership skills and positive energy will bring structure and enthusiasm to the new Bluegrass Tourism Ambassador Program” said David Lord, President of the Lexington Convention and Visitors Bureau. “Her strong customer service and management skills will be invaluable in this newly created position.” Schickel, a Lexington native, has worked in the tourism industry for nearly 20 years, serving most recently as Revenue Manager for the Hyatt Regency Lexington. Her career at the Hyatt also included positions as front desk clerk, reservations agent and reservations manager. The Bluegrass Tourism Ambassadors Program, launched at the end of 2007, is part of a nation-wide certified hospitality training program. The Bureau contracted with nationally renowned hospitality trainer Mickey Schaefer, owner of Mickey Schaefer & Associates and founder of the Tourism Ambassador Institute to develop this program for the Bluegrass Region. The hospitality program certifies volunteers and employees on an annual basis. The program strives to ensure a consistent message and a high level of hospitality from front line employees to make certain visitors have a positive experience in the Bluegrass. About the Lexington Convention and Visitors Bureau ### Source: Lexington Convention and Visitors Bureau December, 18, 2007 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games Announces New Sponsorship Lexington, KY – The World Games 2010 Foundation, Inc. and The Rolex Company today announced that Rolex, the leading maker of luxury wristwatches, has signed on to become the "Official Timepiece of the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games." "Having Rolex become a partner of the Games is exciting and tremendously important to our event," stated Jack Kelly, CEO of the World Games Foundation, Inc. "They have been such an integral part of equestrian sport for so many years, and it is only fitting that they be one of the first partners to join our efforts." Rolex, a strong supporter and sponsor of equestrian sports for more than 50 years, is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland. The company has been a sponsor of the World Equestrian Games since the 2002 Games in Jerez, Spain, and has long been the title sponsor of the highly successful Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event, held annually at the Kentucky Horse Park. The Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games will be held September 25-October 10, 2010, at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington. The event, which is held every four years, will host the crowning of world champions of the eight equestrian disciplines recognized by the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI). The Games have never before been held outside of Europe; nor have all eight disciplines ever previously been held together at a single site. These are firsts that will be achieved at the Kentucky Horse Park. The 2010 Games are expected to have a statewide economic impact of $150 million. It is anticipated that more than 600,000 spectators will attend the 16-day competition. ### Source: 2010 World Games Foundation December 3, 2007 NOBLE Selects Lexington as 2011 Convention Site Representatives from the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) were in Lexington today to announce that they have selected Lexington as their convention site for 2011. Mayor Jim Newberry and representatives from NOBLE made the announcement to a crowd of business leaders and law enforcement officials along with representatives from the Lexington Convention and Visitors Bureau, Lexington Convention Center and hotel operators who all played a role in signing the convention. “ Lexington is thrilled to have NOBLE select our city for its 2011 convention,” Newberry said. “I want to thank Chief Beatty and the Police Department for its work to help us secure this convention. Meetings like this help us show off the city to thousands of people around the country. We know once people visit here and enjoy themselves, they will return and tell others about their experience. I’m also always excited about the opportunity to show off our police services to other leaders across the U.S. We’ve known for a long time that we have some of the finest officers and law enforcement officials and this conference gives us the opportunity to highlight our police force.” Convention planners estimate that up to 4,000 room nights will be booked in four area hotels. NOBLE will use the Lexington Convention Center space for their meetings and events. The conference is tentatively scheduled for July 13-20, 2011. A convention of this size is estimated to have an economic impact of more than $ 3 million for Lexington and the surrounding region. Chief Beatty noted that Lexington was competing with six other cities for the convention including Las Vegas, St. Louis, Pittsburgh, New Orleans, Baltimore and Norfolk. Beatty added that following site inspection tours, Lexington was one of the leaders based on local support, strength of hosting prior law enforcement conventions, hospitality/attractions and the overall city affordability. The Lexington Convention and Visitors Bureau also recently announced a few other conventions that have selected Lexington for their meeting location in the coming years, these include:
### November 20, 2007 Kentucky FFA State Convention To Be Held in Lexington in 2009-2011 Frankfort--The Kentucky Association FFA has announced that the organization will hold its State FFA Convention in Lexington, Kentucky in 2009, 2010, and 2011. Over 2,000 Kentucky FFA Members, Advisors, Sponsors, and Guests are expected to attend the Convention each year. The State Convention is the largest annual gathering of Kentucky FFA members from across the Commonwealth. “I look forward to the opportunity to welcome the FFA to Lexington,” Mayor Jim Newberry said. “As a former FFA member, I know the important educational role the FFA plays in the lives of young people. Today, as mayor, I still use lessons I learned while participating in FFA, as both a chapter and regional president. Many Kentuckians view Lexington as their home away from home, and we will do everything possible to ensure that FFA members have a chance to share Lexington’s rich agricultural heritage while they are here.” The Convention will be held at the Lexington Convention Center in downtown Lexington. Housing for attendees will be provided at the Hyatt and Radisson Hotels which are connected to the Lexington Center. The decision to move the Convention to Lexington was made by a committee of teachers of agriculture, which was appointed by the Executive Committee of the Kentucky Vocational Agriculture Teachers Association. The committee determined that Lexington could best serve the needs of members and chapters during these years. According to committee member Bethany Garmon of Russell County High School, “The city of Lexington presented a great proposal for hosting our Convention. We are excited about the opportunities that this presents for our members.” The State FFA Convention includes statewide competitions known as Career Development Events, a State and National Awards Program, leadership workshops, motivational speakers, an Agriculture Career Show, the election of State FFA Officers for the upcoming year, and delegate sessions where state business is conducted. Both the Kentucky FFA Alumni and the Kentucky FFA Foundation Board hold events in conjunction with the State FFA Convention. The State FFA Convention has been held in Louisville most years since 1930 and at the Galt House Hotel in recent years. State FFA Executive Matt Chaliff thanked the Galt House and the city of Louisville for their longstanding support of Kentucky FFA, “ Louisville has provided a wonderful home for our State Convention for many years. It has truly been a pleasure to work with the people of Louisville and especially the staff at the Galt House Hotel and Suites. We look forward to working with the Galt House during our 2008 Convention, which will be held there on June 12-14.” Chaliff went on to say that work on the 2009 Convention will begin soon. “Changing locations will be a huge undertaking that will involve State Officers, staff, teachers, and supporters from across the state. We want to make sure that the schedule and format of our Convention take full advantage of the facilities and opportunities in Lexington.” State FFA Secretary Celeste Laurent of Caldwell County participated in the Site Selection Process on behalf of FFA members. “ Lexington will present some great opportunities for Kentucky FFA members and I think all of our members should be excited about this,” she said. The Kentucky Association FFA is an organization for students enrolled in Agricultural Education Courses with nearly 15,000 members in 145 local chapters. The mission of Kentucky FFA is to “Make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through agricultural education.” ### November 13, 2007 "Our Lincoln" Gala in Lexington, February 10, 2008. Event will showcase public programs for Lincoln Bicentennial. The Kentucky Humanities Council, Inc. will host a gala Lincoln Celebration at the Singletary Center for the Arts, University of Kentucky. This event will be a major showcase for the Kentucky Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial in Lexington, bringing to public attention the many programs the public can enjoy in the following months. Everett McCorvey, director of Opera at the University of Kentucky, and Virginia G. Smith, executive director of the Kentucky Humanities Council, Inc. will produce the Lexington event. James Rodgers, former chair of UK theatre and director of many UK musical and dramatic events will direct it. This Kennedy Center-style program will be a humanities event. That’s because this multi-faceted presentation will be both entertaining and informative, one in which the audience will learn about Kentucky’s Abraham Lincoln while experiencing artistic illustration of the ideas and themes that make Lincoln Kentucky’s own. Lexington’s Lincoln Celebration features the American Spiritual Ensemble, the Lexington Philharmonic performing Copeland’s Lincoln Portrait with spoken word, and the premier performance of an act from River of Time, a new Kentucky opera (lyrics by Jim Rodgers, music by Joe Barber) about Lincoln as a young man. Lexington native and Chicago Symphony violinist Nathan Cole will solo some of the hunting music made known widely to the public by filmmaker Ken Burns’ Civil War. It will also include vignettes from new Kentucky Chautauqua ® drama: Mary Todd Lincoln and her sister Emilie Todd Helm, Margaret Garner, and Abraham Lincoln. Kentucky’s poet laureate, Jane Gentry Vance, will select her favorite Lincoln poem, and the Kentucky Repertory Theatre will present a cameo from Wade Hall’s drama, One Man’s Lincoln, that will tour statewide in March and come to Lexington’s Downtown Arts Center March 2 and 6. Nick Clooney will be the Master of Ceremonies. “The Kentucky Humanities Council has been preparing for the Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial for three years. Now, thanks to our first-ever support from the Lexington Fayette Urban County Government, we can provide Lexington with a full menu of programs, large and small” said Virginia Smith. “Kentuckians have much to learn about and take pride in our Lincoln heritage, and we want everyone to have the opportunity to be part of this once-in-a-lifetime experience.” The Lexington event on February 10 will be followed by a gala in Louisville on February 11 and the national inaugural event in Hodgenville on February 12. ### Source: Kentucky Humanities Council, Inc. November 12, 2007 World Games 2010 Foundation Hires Director of Ticketing The World Games 2010 Foundation, Inc., the organization responsible for planning, organizing, and conducting the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, today announced that Ruth Mason has been hired as the director of ticketing. As director of ticketing for the 2010 Games, Ms. Mason will oversee the daily ticketing operations, including ticket inventory, production and distribution, as well as manage seat assignments and fulfillment of corporate and group sales. She will also assist in venue planning with regards to seating capacities, and develop operational strategies for ticketing during the 16 days of the Games. “We are very lucky to get someone with Ruth’s extensive ticketing background. She is a veteran of two Olympics, has worked corporate hospitality programs for major international events and has experience with small and large venues,” said Foundation CFO Martin Mathews. “Locating a person with this kind of experience is like looking for a needle in a haystack. We are very fortunate to have found the needle.” Ms. Mason joins the Foundation with more than 14 years of ticketing experience, most recently as the director of ticketing for Homestead-Miami Speedway in Florida. She has also served as assistant manager of Ticket Operations for the 2002 Olympic and Para-Olympic Games in Salt Lake City, Utah, and as a regional ticket manager for the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games. “I love working on big events and the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games is going to be a challenging and rewarding experience,” said Ms. Mason. “This caliber of event is rare, and I plan on enjoying every minute.” Ms. Mason holds a M.S. in Sports Administration from St. Thomas University in Miami, and a B.A. in Communications from Lenoir-Rhyne in North Carolina. ### Source: 2010 World Games Foundation November 12, 2007 Knight to Join Lexington Convention and Visitors Bureau The Lexington Convention and Visitors Bureau is pleased to announce that Patricia Knight has been hired as vice president of finance and operations. Knight will be responsible for overseeing all accounting and finance functions of the Bureau, as well as administrative and technical operations. “Patricia Knight is a wonderful addition to our team,” said David Lord, president of the Lexington Convention and Visitors Bureau. “She brings a great mix of skills and experience to the Bureau, including her thorough knowledge of accounting principles and standards as well as her accomplishments in technology solutions and management leadership. She is innovative, technically adept and scrupulous in her work and will be an asset to the Bureau.” Knight, a Certified Public Account (CPA), brings a decade of accounting and finance experience to the Bureau, serving most recently as finance manager for the National Association of State Auditors, Comptrollers and Treasurers. She has experience in both public and private accounting and has worked extensively with non-profit and governmental organizations. In addition to her accounting experience, Knight also brings experience to the Bureau in the administration of benefits and retirement programs, budgeting and the implementation of software solutions. Knight is a 1996 graduate of the University of Kentucky’s Gatton School of Business and was awarded her CPA certification in 1997. ### Source: Lexington Convention and Visitors Bureau November 7, 2007 Chef Ouita Michel chosen ambassador to Toronto Gourmet Food & Wine Expo Holly Hill Inn of Midway chef Ouita Michel will represent the cuisine of Kentucky and the South at The Gourmet Food & Wine Expo Nov. 15-18 in Toronto. The Gourmet Food & Wine Expo offers 35,000 guests an opportunity to sample more than 1,200 fine wines, spirits and beers, as well as cuisine from around the globe. Chef Ouita and chefs from Mississippi and North Carolina were chosen as Culinary Ambassadors to the show by Travel South USA, a tourism marketing group that promotes 12 Southern states. “Three chefs were ... chosen by a panel to serve as Culinary Ambassadors because they each represent an interesting and unique approach to Southern cooking,” said Liz Bittner, executive director of Travel South USA. Scheduled demonstrations by the Southern chefs on The Food Network Canada Celebrity Cooking Stage are: Executive Chef Martha Foose of the Viking Cooking School, Greenwood, Mississippi, Nov 16; Executive Chef Phil Evans, Herons Restaurant, The Umstead Resort and Spa, Cary, N.C., Nov. 17; and Chef Ouita Michel, owner, The Holly Hill Inn, Midway, Nov. 17. A private, invitation-only dinner media event will be hosted by TSUSA with interactive presentations. Each chef will share their signature dishes, stories, talent, and humor while showcasing the region’s best tastes, produce, wines and spirits. During the Gourmet Food & Wine Expo, Chef Michel will prepare: Pecan-crusted Trout, Lisa’s Handmade Tartar Sauce, Holly Hill Inn’s Extra Creamy Cheese Grits, Seared Yellowfin Tuna with Roma Tomato Confit and Haricots Verts, Slow-baked Wild Alaskan Salmon, Lobster Corn Cake, Peach Pie with Blueberries and the Midway Social Sip. Kevin Brauch, of Food Network’s Iron Chef America and The Thirsty Traveler, is celebrity guest at the expo. Travel South USA’s mission is to promote travel to the states of Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia. For more information about TravelSouthUSA, go to www.travelsouthusa.com. For more information about The Gourmet Food & Wine Expo, go to www.foodandwineshow.ca. For more information about the Holly Hill Inn, Midway, Ky., go to www.hollyhillinn.com. ### November 6, 2007 Preston-Osborne receives international design awards Preston-Osborne has received three international design awards from the 2007 MarCom Awards competition. Preston-Osborne received the highest-ranked Platinum award for the “Bourbon Box Hospitality Gift” entry it designed for the Lexington Convention and Visitors Bureau. This promo item was designed to highlight the region’s bourbon distilleries. A Gold award was received for the “Life’s a Trip” Breath of Life Auction Invitation designed pro bono for the American Lung Association. Another pro bono project, the “Wilderness Trace Community Foundation Web site” entry, received an Honorable Mention. “It’s a nice honor for our creative staff’s talents to be recognized, but it’s most important to work with our clients to develop effective marketing tools they can be proud of, and there couldn’t be anything better or more enticing to market Lexington than a bourbon giveaway,” said Ellen Gregory, chief operations officer at Preston-Osborne. The bourbon giveaway includes samples and a shot glass from four regional distilleries packed in a high-quality cherry finished box with Lexington branded in the wood. An accompanying postcard maps out the distilleries and features a beautiful fall horse farm landscape to give the recipient the full flavor of the Bluegrass. The MarCom Awards is an international competition for marketing and communication professionals. Awards are submitted from professionals working in concept development, writing and design of print, Web, audio and visual materials and programs. Entries come from public relations firms, advertising agencies, corporate marketing and communication departments, production companies and freelancers. The MarCom Awards is overseen and judged by the Association of Marketing and Communication Professionals (AMCP). The mission of the AMCP is to honor creativity, hard work, excellence and generosity of marketing and communication professionals. AMCP members can submit pro bono entries at no charge. Winners of MarCom Awards receive certificates and Platinum and Gold winners are eligible to purchase trophies cast by R.S. Owens, the same craftsmen that produce the Oscar®, Emmy® and MTV awards. For more information on Preston-Osborne or to view the award-winning entries, visit www.preston-osborne.com. ### October 24, 2007 World Games 2010 Foundation Commissions Leroy Neiman as Official Commemorative Artist The World 2010 Games Foundation, Inc., the organization responsible for planning, staging, and conducting the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, today announced it has commissioned internationally-renowned artist LeRoy Neiman as the Official Commemorative Artist of the 2010 Games. As the Official Commemorative Artist, Mr. Neiman will create an original painting that will serve as the “Official Image of the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games,” as well as a commemorative print that will incorporate each of the eight disciplines that will be featured at the 2010 Games. The Official Commemorative Artwork will be produced and marketed by Cobalt Artworks of Louisville, Kentucky. “The horse has always been a favorite subject of mine, from the work horse to the race horse,” said Mr. Neiman. “ Kentucky is horse country, where this noble animal is prominent and appreciated. Man loves the horse, its beauty, power and speed. It’s going to be fun to paint the eight different disciplines for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games. Count me in to be in attendance at the games with sketchbook in hand.” Best known for his brilliantly colored, stunningly energetic images of sporting events and leisure activities, LeRoy Neiman is considered one of the most popular living artists in the United States. He has been the official artist of five Olympics, four Super Bowls, as well as the Breeders’ Cup and the Kentucky Derby. He was recently commissioned to create the official commemorative image for the 37 th Ryder Cup at Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville, Kentucky, in September 2008. While on location at these championship events, Mr. Neiman has often been televised to an audience of millions, sketchbook in hand, producing split-second records of what he is witnessing. Mr. Neiman’s work has been featured in exhibits at galleries and museums around the world. Foundation CEO Jack Kelly said it is an honor to have Mr. Neiman capturing the World Equestrian Games on his canvas. “LeRoy Neiman’s unique and worldwide-recognized style will result in a very special commemorative piece for the Games official artwork,” said Kelly. “In addition, having an artist of such notoriety and recognition at the 2010 Games is a significant component to the cultural legacy of the event for Kentucky.” ### Source: 2010 World Games Foundation October 22, 2007 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games Announces New Sponsorship. Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital Becomes Second Sponsor of the 2010 Games Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital will be the Official Equine Hospital and Veterinary Partner for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, as announced today by the World Games 2010 Foundation, Inc. Rood and Riddle is the first sponsorship partner since Alltech became the Games’ title sponsor. “We are incredibly honored and excited to be forming this partnership with the highest level of horse sport in the international equestrian community,” said Dr. Bill Rood, Hospital Director. “We are well prepared as a hospital to meet the variety of veterinary services that these World Championship horses may need leading up to and during the 2010 Games.” Lexington-based Rood & Riddle is a full-service equine hospital established in 1986, as a referral center for horses requiring specialized medical and surgical care. Today Rood & Riddle is known and respected throughout the world for its innovative and highly skilled treatment of horses. The hospital facility offers a full range of services including surgery, internal medicine, advanced diagnostic imaging, a focused Podiatry Center and a specialized Reproductive Center. The practice also provides ambulatory services (on-site care) for breeding farms, sport horse facilities, horse shows and events, with a variety of services, including emergency and preventative care, general reproduction, lameness, radiography, podiatry, and internal medicine. “Our reputation stems from our unwavering commitment to quality, both in the care of horses and in our relationship with clients and community,” said Dr. Tom Riddle. “We measure our success by our clients’ success—and to work with the highest level of equine athletes as they come to compete in Lexington, Kentucky, is a landmark achievement in the history of our veterinary practice.” Rood and Riddle’s sponsorship grew from an early interest in creating an ongoing association between the hospital and the equine industry, as well as Alltech. The equine hospital is the second Kentucky-based sponsor of the 2010 Games. “Alltech is dedicated to the equine industry, through our passion for creating excellence in performance through nutrition,” stated Alltech President Dr. Pearse Lyons. “It is only natural for Rood and Riddle to join Alltech in promoting and achieving the highest level of performance for our equine competitors in 2010.” With offices in the heart of horse country, World Games 2010 Foundation CEO Jack Kelly says the international equestrian community will greatly appreciate the hospital’s world-class facilities in 2010. “Rood and Riddle is world-renowned particularly for their specialized services, as well as their individual care for both the four-legged patients and their owners,” said Kelly. “While we certainly hope that no horse will need emergency services during the Games, it is only fitting that an equine hospital with such an outstanding reputation—and a nearby location—is able to sign on as our veterinary partner. Their sponsorship will contribute to the legacy of the Games’ success.” The Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, to be held at the Kentucky Horse Park September 25-October 10, 2010, are the world championships of the eight equestrian disciplines recognized by the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI), and are held every four years. The Games have never before been held outside of Europe; nor have all eight disciplines ever previously been held together at a single site— both firsts that will be achieved at the Kentucky Horse Park. The 2010 Games are expected to have a statewide economic impact of $150 million. It is anticipated that more than 600,000 spectators will attend the 16-day competition. ### Source: 2010 World Games Foundation October 22, 2007 Blue Grass Airport Receives Grant for Air Service Development The U.S. Department of Transportation recently awarded Blue Grass Airport a $600,000 grant to apply towards air service development. Issued under the Small Community Air Service Development Grant Program, this grant will offer risk abatement and marketing funds to recruit, support and successfully establish low fare airline service. “ Blue Grass Airport continuously works with air carriers to bring in new service to its customers,” said Michael Gobb, executive director at Blue Grass Airport. “With this additional monetary support, the airport can better address customer requests for the addition of a quality low fare airline.” The airport worked closely with local and state leaders during the application process for this grant. Support was provided by congressional leaders, Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government, Commerce Lexington and the Lexington Convention and Visitor’s Bureau. “We are fortunate to have tremendous support from our community partners. All of us share a common vision and understanding of the importance of providing a full range of air service to the Central Kentucky region.” added Gobb. “This FAA grant comes at a critical time for the Blue Grass Airport. Lexington and the surrounding communities have been expanding at a rapid rate in terms of population and economic growth. With these changes comes an increased need for access to other localities. Providing affordable flights will strengthen Central Kentucky’s connections and partnerships, said Congressman Ben Chandler. I, for one, am very excited about the possibilities that this will present for citizens and businesses in the Lexington area.” The Small Community Air Service Development Grant Program was established by the Wendell H. Ford Aviation Investment and Reform Act and is administered by the U.S. Department of Transportation. It is designed to help smaller communities enhance their air service and address issues related to high airfares. Seventy-six grant applications were received from communities in 39 states. Twenty-six grant proposals were awarded, with Lexington receiving the second largest grant award. Blue Grass Airport is served by six major airline brands providing convenient non-stop service to 13 major hub cities with direct service to hundreds of destinations worldwide. The airport proudly serves over one million central and eastern Kentucky travelers each year. ### Source: Blue Grass Airport October 19, 2007 Lexington Convention and Visitors Bureau wins seven Kentucky Tourism Awards The Lexington Convention and Visitors Bureau was awarded seven Traverse Awards at the Kentucky Tourism Council Annual Conference held in Owensboro October 15-17. Each year the Kentucky Tourism Council presents awards for excellence in marketing in a variety of categories to tourism agencies, attractions, restaurants and hotels. The Lexington Convention and Visitors Bureau brought home two first place awards, two second place awards, and three honorable mention awards. First place awards were received for the Bourbon Box hospitality gift and the “Lively, Lovely, Legendary” radio spot. Two second place awards were received for the Hometown Host tourism awareness promotion and a direct mail invitation for meeting planners. The LCVB also received three honorable mention awards for Lexington’s Tourism Industry Report, a tourism awareness promotion; the “Lively, Lovely, Legendary” TV spot; and the “Winners’ Circle” direct mail invitation. The Traverse Awards presentation was held October 16 during an evening gala at the Executive Inn Rivermont in Owensboro as part of the Kentucky Tourism Industry Annual Conference. These awards are presented annually for the best work in advertising and marketing among Kentucky tourism businesses and marketing organizations. The Lexington Convention and Visitors Bureau partners with Preston-Osborne, a marketing communications and research firm, to develop advertising and marketing campaigns. “The Lexington Convention and Visitors Bureau is honored to receive seven Traverse Awards from the Kentucky Tourism Council,” said Mary Quinn Ramer, Vice President of Tourism Marketing. “We worked in close collaboration with Preston-Osborne to develop our creative campaign, and we are pleased that peers in our industry have recognized our work.” The Kentucky Tourism Council is a Frankfort-based state association that represents every segment of Kentucky’s tourism industry. The 575-member organization offers continuing education programs, works in the area of governmental relations and provides legislative advocacy for Kentucky’s travel industry. ### October 12, 2007 Advance Registration Begins for Trade Show at 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games The first opportunity to become a vendor at the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games is officially underway. The World Games 2010 Foundation, the organization responsible for planning, staging, and conducting the 2010 Games, today announced that its Trade Show Advance Registration Deposit Program will begin on October 15 th, 2007. The advance registration program allows vendors to make an initial deposit, and secure priority status for selecting a final exhibit location on the Kentucky Horse Park grounds once plans have been finalized. Approximately 400 vendors from around the world will offer a variety of products, services, and information to more than 600,000 attendees. The nearly 3,000 vendors who have registered with the World Games 2010 Foundation will receive information on October 15 th, notifying them that the advance registration program has begun. Any and all interested vendors will be able to access the registration forms and deposit information on the 2010 Games website, www.feigames2010.org . There, potential vendors can download the program overview and registration forms. All forms must be completed and mailed to the World Games 2010 Foundation with the initial deposit payment. There is no set deadline for the deposit program. “We have had hundreds of requests from businesses that want to be part of the 2010 Trade Show, which is why we are offering this program nearly three years before the Games,” said Foundation CEO Jack Kelly. “It allows potential vendors to secure their place on the list, as well as schedule their payments on booth spaces over the next three years.” The initial deposit amount is $2,500.00 per booth space. Total prices per space are expected to be $12,500-$20,000 for the entire 16-day event. For more information about the advance registration program, potential vendors can contact the World Games 2010 Foundation staff, at tradeshow@feigames2010.org , or at 859-255-2010 ext. 236. ### Source: 2010 World Games Foundation October 8, 2007 He is Gone. One of Thoroughbred Racing's Greatest Stars, John Henry, Will be Sorely Missed John Henry, the legendary Thoroughbred racehorse who was twice Horse of the Year, was humanely euthanized at the Kentucky Horse Park today at 7:00 pm. John Nicholson, executive director of the park expressed, “The mighty heart of the great John Henry has, at long last, yielded to time. The racing industry has lost a legend, b ut more significantly, many people have lost a personal hero. John Henry’s true legacy was written in people’s hearts far more indelibly than his superlative racing career could ever reflect.” He continued, “John Henry was a testament to the fact that a horse’s value is far greater than the sum of his pedigree, conformation, sales price and race record. Winston Churchill said that the outside of a horse is good for the inside of a man, but I would add that horses like John Henry prove that the inside of a horse is even better for the inside of man.” The sad but unanimous decision was reached by a team of people who knew him best. The park’s equine director, Kathy Hopkins stated, “ After continued successful efforts to maintain the quality of John Henry's life, in the past 48 hours he did not respond to our medical intervention. Due to the loss of kidney function and muscle mass, his veterinarian, Dr. Mike Beyer, found it impossible to keep him properly hydrated and comfortable. Over the years, our goal has always been to maintain the highest quality of care and life for him, and it became evident over the weekend that this was no longer possible. Our hearts go out to all of those who so deeply cared for John during his long and charismatic life.” He lived 32-and-a-half years, and went peacefully to sleep surrounded by a small circle of friends who were closest to him, including Cathy Roby, who has been his friend and caretaker for 16 years and his breeder, Verna Lehmann. John Henry overcame numerous well-known obstacles throughout his career, and colic surgery in 2002. His talent, determination, tenacity and toughness inspired thousands of people who didn’t even see him race, but became aware of him many years after his retirement. Some of his fans visited him at least once a month from Toledo, Indianapolis, and other cities in the Midwest, while others made annual pilgrimages to his barn from California, Texas and around the world. When it recently became public knowledge that his health was in a state of decline, many of his fans immediately came to the park to thank their beloved champion for the memories, and to whisper their personal, final farewells to the horse who inspired great respect and ardent devotion. John Henry’s race record included more than $6.5 million in earnings, 39 wins including 30 stakes wins (16 Grade 1 stakes wins) and seven Eclipse Awards, including two Horse of the Year titles. He equaled a world track record for 1 ½ miles in 2:23 at Santa Anita and was the only horse to win Horse of the Year more than once in nonconsecutive years, and the oldest horse ever to win that title - at age nine. John Henry was voted Racehorse of the Decade for the 1980s, and was inducted into Racing's Hall of Fame in 1990. Sired by Ole Bob Bowers out of Once Double, by Double Jay, John Henry was foaled on March 9, 1975 at Golden Chance Farm in Paris, Kentucky. After having passed through several owners and trainers, John Henry finally blossomed under the careful tutelage of trainer Ron McAnally, and with his owner, Sam Rubin. McAnally, who brought out the best in the horse with “carrots, apples and love,” visited John Henry many times during the horse’s retirement and had just seen him again as recently as September, and brought John’s favorite cookies and carrots to his aging protégé. Lewis Cenicola, John Henry’s exercise rider for six years, also visited the horse in September. Tom Levinson, stepson of the late Sam Rubin said, “ John always had fire in his eyes as he circled his opponents in the paddock while they pranced, his eyes glazed with the determination to win. Certainly he was the people’s hero… Sam and Dorothy loved sharing John’s victories with his adoring fans and we appreciate their devotion even to this sad day… We are sure that if Sam Rubin were here today, he and my mother Dorothy would agree that their wish would be for John Henry to be remembered as the mighty, cantankerous champion we all loved. ” Chris McCarron rode John Henry in 14 of his last races and has spent many hours with the horse during his 22 years at the park. Regarding the great horse’s passing, he observed, “What can I say about the legendary John Henry that has not already been said? John meant the world to my family and me. Everywhere he raced, his presence doubled the size of a normal race track crowd. He did so much for racing, even after he retired, that he will be impossible to replace. He will be sorely missed but forever in our hearts.” A public memorial service will be held and will be announced by the park upon completion of the arrangements. Plans will be posted on the park’s website, www.kyhorsepark.com under News & Media and the Calendar of Events. John Henry will be buried near his paddock at the Hall of Champions. Other Thoroughbred champions buried at the park include Man o’ War, War Admiral, Forego, Bold Forbes, Allez France, Peteski and Jay Trump. Recent photos and video of John Henry can be seen on The Horse website at www.thehorse.com by searching for “Hoofing it With John Henry.” A new documentary, John Henry: An American Hero, produced by Open Sky Entertainment (Producer: Rebecca Gebhard, Directors: Chris Koby and Cameron Duddy) is expected to be completed by the end of the year, with the release date to be announced. One of his legions of admirers, Howard McClurkin from Weatherford, Texas, summarized his and many fans’ devotion this way, “John Henry is an anchor in one’s life. When things are not going well and one needs inspiration or perhaps one just wants a moment of happiness by thinking of extraordinary accomplishments arising from such a painfully humble beginning, the thought and image of John Henry are readily at hand. He started in a hole. He started with zero and went on to lasso the stars.” John Nicholson concluded, “The next few days will be terribly difficult for his fans, but especially for the people here at the park who have worked with him and loved him for so long. It was our unparalleled privilege to have John Henry living at the Kentucky Horse Park for the past 22 years.” ### Source: Kentucky Horse Park October 8, 2007 Research Shows Year 3 of "Kentucky Unbridled Spirit" Is an Unbridled Success For the third year in a row, the “Kentucky Unbridled Spirit” brand is the most widely known state brand in this region of the country. According to recently conducted independent research, nearly two of three people in a ten state region were able to identify the Kentucky brand, the highest recognition among those states tested. Also, for the third year in a row, both awareness of the brand and its appeal increased both inside and outside Kentucky. Thanks to the branding campaign and the subsequent tourism promotional efforts, the overwhelming majority of both residents and non-residents questioned indicated they believe Kentucky is a “better place to visit” (90%), “more friendly” (81%), and “more modern” (81%) than it was just several years ago. In fact, nearly two-thirds (64%) said they have a better impression of Kentucky than they used to. Those people who were questioned said they liked the brand because it accurately describes the state, relates to horses, and portrays a variety of aspects that make Kentucky great. “A brand by itself will not get more visitors to Kentucky,” says Tourism Commissioner Randy Fiveash. “However, ‘Kentucky Unbridled Spirit’ is an ‘attention-getter’ that makes people feel good about Kentucky, and then leads them to look more closely at our attractions. Once they see what we have to offer, we have them hooked, and they want to keep coming back” Fiveash says he was particularly excited about the high satisfaction rankings that visitors gave after a stay in Kentucky. The best scores were in such categories as “Overall satisfaction,” “friendliness of employees” and “likelihood to recommend to a friend.” The variety of Kentucky’s attractions also scored high in the research. Some of the highest scores went to Kentucky’s rich pioneer history and variety of activities, events and attractions. The descriptions by visitors included, “pretty country,” “beautiful,” “good place to live or visit,” “horses,” and “lots of things to do or see.” “Brand experts say a good slogan or brand should be unique, specific to the destination and a visible and integral part of all state communications,” said Jerry Henry of Jerry Henry and Associates, which conducted the research. “It should reflect the state’s values, main appeal, character and personality while inspiring people to visit, live there and learn more. Based upon the results of this third brand measurement study in as many years, Kentucky’s “Unbridled Spirit” brand does all of that, and more.” “You have to be able to measure a brand’s effectiveness,” said Fiveash. ”This research shows positively that ‘Kentucky Unbridled Spirit,’ in conjunction with our tourism promotional efforts, have improved the image of the Commonwealth.” The “Kentucky Unbridled Spirit” brand is included on all state stationery, brochures, advertisements, Web sites and other materials. In addition, more than 100 local communities, tourism organizations, chambers of commerce and economic development organizations use the brand, as do several Kentucky businesses. ### Source: Kentucky Department of TourismSeptember 20, 2007 Eventing Course Designer Selected for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games The World Games 2010 Foundation, Inc., the organization responsible for planning, staging, and conducting the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, today announced that Michael Etherington-Smith has been selected as the Eventing Course Designer for the 2010 Games. Mr. Etherington-Smith brings to the Foundation more than 30 years of international experience in com |
