July 31, 2010

News

Posted: May 6, 2010

The Kentucky Proud Incredible Food Show Returns
to Rupp Arena and Lexington Center
October 23 – 24, 2010

Featuring 2 Shows on Saturday with Internationally Acclaimed Celebrity Chef Giada De Laurentiis

Foodies, epicureans and everyone who loves food can rejoice! The second annual Kentucky Proud Incredible Food Show is returning to the Lexington Convention Center and Rupp Arena October 23 – 24, 2010.

Emmy Award-winning personality and acclaimed chef Giada De Laurentiis, who is the celebrity host of The Food Network’s “Everyday Italian” and “Giada’s Weekend Getaways,” will take the stage for two presentations in Rupp Arena, on Saturday, October 23rd at 11:00 a.m. and 3 p.m. Tickets go on sale Friday, August 6, 2010 through the Lexington Center Ticket Office and all Ticketmaster outlets.

Sunday’s program focus is “Farm to Table” with a variety of chefs from the Blue Grass Region providing innovative cooking presentations and featuring inspiring speakers and demonstrations. Following its successful inaugural year, the two-day consumer food show and marketplace will feature approximately 120 exhibitors including Kentucky Proud producers and growers, specialty food companies, purveyors of cooking-related equipment and wineries.

The Incredible Food Show and Marketplace is the only show of its kind in Kentucky, with approximately 10,000 food enthusiasts expected to attend. The Giada De Laurentiis Celebrity Kitchen Theatre, which seats 3,000, will treat guests to the memorable experience of a cooking demonstration, complete with tips by this world-class chef. An exciting line-up of special events, speakers, demonstrations and exhibitors featuring a variety of presentations, demonstrations and “hands-on” expert advice will be announced throughout the summer months and early Fall.

Tickets for the second annual Kentucky Proud Incredible Food Show go on sale Friday, August 6, 2010 through the Lexington Center Ticket Office (859) 233-3535, Ticketmaster.com and all Ticketmaster Outlets. For more information, call (859) 233-4567 or www.incrediblefoodshow.com

Posted: March 11, 2010

— CHANGE IN TRAFFIC PATTERNS —

Beginning March 22 there will be a significant change in traffic patterns for all patrons, delivery and event support related vehicles entering the west parking lot behind Rupp Arena / the Lexington Convention Center. As illustrated in the map below, the streets which are highlighted in red will be closed. Please follow the route indicated with the arrows in green for the new route into this parking lot. ALL DELIVERY VEHICLES GREATER THAN 35' IN LENGTH to include either straight trucks or tractor trailer trucks must use this route to enter and exit this parking lot.
The public parking lots located along High Street will not be affected by the road construction west of the arena.

Click the map for a larger version.

Posted: January 8, 2010

Lexington, KY to host 2010 Creative Cities Summit

How do cities and businesses thrive in dire economic times? They get creative. The Creative Cities Summit, an interdisciplinary conference on 21st century issues challenging evolving communities, will convene in Lexington, Kentucky April 7-9, 2010 it was announced today at a joint press conference by Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear and Lexington Mayor Jim Newberry.

"This summit will provide an opportunity for collaborative brainstorming that will strengthen both cultural dynamics and offer economic solutions," said Gov. Beshear during a press conference at Bakers 360, a restaurant and nightclub overlooking downtown Lexington. "By encouraging innovation and economic development, this summit will have an impact not just on Lexington but on the Commonwealth."

Previously held in St. Petersburg, Florida in 2004 and Detroit, Michigan in 2008, the 3-day conference draws speakers and attendees from all over the world to discuss savvy economic development; how to develop environments supportive of innovation; transportation; sustainability; adaptive reuse and the built environment; the role and value of public art in a community’s quality of life; and the nurturing of local cultural assets.

“The opportunity to host this summit is a credit to our city and the progress we have made. It will give us an opportunity to shine the national spotlight on our creative community. It will also bring in important new ideas so we can build an even stronger community,” Mayor Jim Newberry said.

The event has strong local support from some of the region's largest employers including Lexmark, UK, LFUCG, Central Bank, Stoll Keenon Ogden and many others interested in addressing difficulties in the attraction and retention of “Creative Class” talent ranging from hi-tech entrepreneurs, urban planners and researchers to engineers, architects, artists. These professionals, considered a key driving force for economic development in the post-industrial cities of America include those working in healthcare, business and finance, the legal sector, and education. Highly educated, they draw on complex bodies of knowledge to solve specific problems.

Scheduled to appear during the event at the Lexington Center are: renowned urban theorist Richard Florida, author of Rise of the Creative Class and Professor of Business & Creativity at the University of Toronto; Rebecca Ryan, founder of NextGeneration Consulting and an expert on issues confronting young professionals; Charles Landry, author of The Creative City; Bill Strickland, McArthur Genius Grant recipient, CEO of Pittsburgh’s Manchester Craftsman’s Guild and Bidwell Training Center; and Lexington native Ben Self, co-founder of Blue State Digital which created Barack Obama's official campaign website. This international lineup will be joined by experts and practitioners from all over Kentucky and the region.

Summit organizers anticipate a diverse audience, ranging from economic development professionals and arts and cultural advocates to urban planners, architects, business leaders, government officials, young professionals, and college students. The common thread is a desire to make their communities better places to live, work and play.

Breakout sessions will focus on Social Media and the City; Mayors Panel featuring Lexington’s Mayor Newberry, Mayor Elaine Walker (Bowling Green) and Mayor Jerry Abramson (Louisville); New Strategies for Economic Development; Best Practices in Young Professional Development; Nurturing Technology Entrepreneurs; Small Towns and the Rural Creative Economy; The Black Creative Class; Churches and The Creative City; and Developing Social Innovation.

The full conference package is available with early bird registration for $199. A limited number of scholarships will be available.

For more information go to www.creativecitieslexington.com.

Posted: August 19, 2009

KENTUCKY PROUD INCREDIBLE FOOD SHOW ANNOUNCES NEW MENU OF SEMINARS, WORKSHOPS AND COOK BOOK AUTHORS!
First-Ever Consumer Show to Run October 3 – 4 in Lexington Center and Rupp Arena

Lexington Center officials announced today that a menu of tasty new ingredients has been added to the first-ever Kentucky Proud Incredible Food Show October 3-4, 2009.

A partial list of cookbook authors and a seminar/workshop schedule have been added to the programming and can be viewed on the recently launched Web site at www.theincrediblefoodshow.com.

This first-ever, two-day consumer show will also feature two live performances by Food Network celebrity chef Bobby Flay in Rupp Arena at 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 3.

"New seminars, workshops and exhibitors are being added to the programming daily," Lexington Center Event Manager Theresa Lloyd said. "It is very exciting to discover how many talented chefs and purveyors of fine local food products are located in the Bluegrass and the surrounding counties in Kentucky."

In addition, cooking demonstrations and seminars by regional and local chefs will be presented on the hour by Sullivan University’s culinary school. More programming information will be announced as details become finalized.

Seminar offerings and workshops that are currently scheduled include:

Cheesemaking with Susan Miller of Bleugrass Chevre, a goat farmer and cheese producer, and Kenny Mattingly of Kenny’s Farmhouse Cheese
What's Brewing - Coffee selection with Mark Newberry of Marco's Coffee
Apples 101 with Cindy Peake of Bramble Ridge Orchard
On the Farm and Vegetarian Cooking One Meal at a Time with Barbara Napier of Snug Hollow Farm Bed & Breakfast
Everyday Cooking Skills presented by Sullivan University Culinary School Chef
Kick, Pass, Run, Talegate - Tailgating ideas with Kelli Oakley, co-author of Kentucky TALEgating
Sharpen Up - Knife sharpening skills presented by Sullivan University Culinary School Chef

Cookbook Authors to be featured for book signings and meet-and-greet opportunities in the Joseph-Beth Bookseller Kiosk include:
Sharon Thompson, Flavors of Kentucky
Rita Smart, Bennett House Cookbook
David Dominé, Adventures in New Kentucky Cooking
Jayna & Kelli Oakley, Kentucky TALEgating
Linda Alison-Lewis, Kentucky’s Best
Michelle Stone, Derby Entertaining
Paula Cunningham, Another Serving
Joy Perrine, Kentucky Bourbon Cocktail Book
Gary West, Eating Your Way Across Kentucky: The Recipes

For a complete list of seminars and exhibitors, visit the web site at www.theincrediblefoodshow.com. Tickets are on sale now at the Lexington Center Ticket Office, Ticketmaster.com and all Ticketmaster Outlets. Tickets are priced as follows:
Adult General Admission - $12
Children ages 4 – 12 General Admission - $5
Children 3 and under – Free!

General admission tickets include cooking demonstrations, food- and entertainment- related presentations and product sampling on the exhibit floor. Additional tickets are required for Bobby Flay presentations. The Bobby Flay presentation tickets, which also include admission to the food show exhibit halls, range from $35 - $75. The $75 ticket includes an autographed copy of Bobby Flay’s book Mesa Grill.

Posted: May 28, 2009

KENTUCKY PROUD PRESENTS
THE INCREDIBLE FOOD SHOW COMING TO LEXINGTON CENTER
OCTOBER 3 - 4, 2009
at The Lexington Convention Center and Rupp Arena
Featuring 2 Shows with Food Network Chef Bobby Flay!

The Kentucky Proud Incredible Food Show is the event of the year for everyone who loves food, cooking and entertaining.

Coming to the Lexington Center and Rupp Arena October 3 - 4, this two-day food lover’s dream is packed with more than 120 exhibitors including Kentucky Proud producers and growers, specialty food companies, cooking-related equipment and wineries. In addition, cook ing demonstrations and seminars by regional and local chefs will be presented by Sullivan University’s culinary school.

The Incredible Food Show is highlighted by two presentations featuring Chef Bobby Flay, author and show host of Food Network’s Throwdown and Boy Meets Grill and one of the featured chefs on the Food Network’s Iron Chef. Catch one or both presentations in Rupp Arena at 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. on Saturday.

"I am thrilled that Chef Bobby Flay is coming back to Kentucky for The Incredible Food Show," Agriculture Commissioner Richie Farmer said. "We will have one of the world’s most famous chefs and fresh, healthy, delicious Kentucky Proud foods all under one roof. This will be the biggest event of the year for Kentucky food lovers."

Tickets go on sale Friday, July 10 at the Lexington Center Ticket Office, Ticketmaster.com and all Ticketmaster Outlets. Tickets are priced as follows:

Adult One Day Pass - $12
Children ages 4-12 One Day Pass - $5
Children 4 and under – Free!

General admission includes cooking demonstrations, food and entertainment-related presentations and product sampling on the exhibit floor. Additional tickets are required for Bobby Flay presentations. The Bobby Flay Celebrity Kitchen Theatre tickets, which also include admission to the food show exhibit halls, range from $35 - $75*.
*$75 Ticket includes autographed copy of Bobby Flay’s Mesa Grill.

Posted: January 27, 2009

LEXINGTON CENTER ANNOUNCES NEW STORE OPENING: The Kentucky Proud Market!
ELK CREEK VINEYARDS AND KENTUCKY PROUD PRODUCTS TO BE SHOWCASED IN NEW DOWNTOWN LOCATON

Elk Creek Vineyards, Kentucky's largest winery, will launch The Kentucky Proud Market in the Lexington Center it was announced today by Elk Creek Vineyards proprietor Curtis Sigretto and Bill Owen, Lexington Center President and CEO.

The new showroom, formerly occupied by Orvis - The Outdoor Store, will be an Elk Creek Vineyards venture with the endorsement of the Kentucky Department of Agriculture. The Kentucky Proud Market will feature the entire selection of award-winning Elk Creek wines, Jean Farris and other Kentucky wines and a large variety of Kentucky Proud products, including meats, cheeses, sauces, spices, crafts and Kentucky Crafted merchandise.

According to Curtis Sigretto, Founder of Elk Creek Vineyards, "The Shops at Lexington Center is an ideal place to showcase Kentucky's premier winery and serve as headquarters for Kentucky Proud products. We want to encourage people to stop by for tasting events, meet the producers firsthand and discover the incredible selection of fine products produced right here in Kentucky."

"With over 1 million visitors – local residents, in-state and out of state tourists alike -- coming to Lexington Center on an annual basis for UK Games and other sporting events, concerts, family shows, conferences and conventions what better venue to become the ‘go to’ place for signature Kentucky items," added Bill Owen.

The Kentucky Proud Market will encompass both The Shops retail location and e-commerce. Sigretto envisions The Shops store will be a prototype for many more similar stores to open across the Commonweath in major malls and airports. The e-commerce site will be set up to sell products and to offer special baskets of Kentucky Proud items to ship across the country.

According to Richie Farmer, Department of Agriculture Secretary, "I am excited to announce the opening of this new venue for the promotion of Kentucky Proud and Kentucky Crafted products in the Commonwealth. We know that Kentucky is a state with a wealth of products to share with the rest of the country and we hope that this project will be another step in sharing our wealth and pride with visitors to the Commonwealth."

Curtis Sigretto, owner of Elk Creek Vineyards, brings to this project a 20 year history in the world of retail. He is the creator and franchiser of Halloween Express, a seasonal storefront business which currently boasts 165 stores in 40 states.

The new Kentucky Proud Market showroom will open in late February and will be located on the second level of The Shops at Lexington Center. The Shops features a collection of upscale, locally owned and operated boutiques, fine gift and specialty shops and food court in a relaxed, comfortable setting. Hours of operation are 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 a.m., Monday – Saturday. Sunday hours vary. Three hours free parking with merchant validation.

For information, call (502) 484-0005, www.elkcreekvineyards.com or, (859) 233-4567, www.lexingtoncenter.com

Posted: December 18, 2008

Rupp Arena Goes Green!

In an effort to be an environmentally responsible corporate citizen, Lexington Center announced today at its monthly board meeting that Lexington Center Concessions is transitioning from using non-recyclable PET (petroleum oil-based) container products to compostable PLA (Poly Lactic Acid) "greenware" products made from renewable resources.

Cocktail and beer cups as well as most soft drink glasses (16 oz and 24 oz) made from PLA, a compostable resin derived from natural starches such as corn, rice, or potatoes will be provided at all Rupp Arena and Lexington Center events through the in-house concessions department. Other product containers serving hot food and liquid such as coffee cups, paper plates, and plastic utensils are made from bagasse, derived from sugar cane pulp.

Aside from the benefit of using a compostable product that will not leave toxic chemicals in a landfill, the switch to PLA products also makes environmental sense because:

PLA will react in landfills like other organic waste such as food.
PLA products generate 69% fewer greenhouse gases than fossil-fuel based plastics.
The manufacturer of the resin purchases renewable energy (wind and solar power) to power their plant, thus reducing greenhouse emissions.
Manufacturing petroleum-based plastics uses approximately 200,000 barrels of oil per day. Using PLA products means being less dependent on foreign oil.
PLA requires lower water usage than some of the petrochemical polymers.

According to Bill Owen, Lexington Center CEO and President "These choices, while obviously the right thing to do, come with the challenge of balancing economic realities against environmental imperatives, which often are at odds. Sometimes the environmental response is more costly. We are in a transitional time of demand for environmental sensitivity and we believe the marketplace will make that response best from an economic aspect as well."

In 2005, Lexington Center committed to an extensive, company-wide recycling program that has resulted in the annual recycling of over 25 tons of cardboard alone. Recycling bins in all employee offices, convention center meetings, and trade shows and exhibitions, Rupp Arena concerts and family shows are filled and collected. A virtual forest of blue "Rosies" are serviced regularly and trucked to the LFUCG Recycling Center.

The transition to greenware and the expansion of the recycling program were both initiatives instigated by the Rupp Arena Management Team, explained Owen. "The combined initiatives of Director of Arena Management, Carl Hall and Event Manager Theresa Holmes, Facility Services Manager Tony Clevenger and his staff, and the general interest and commitment of all of Lexington Center employees to get behind this effort illuminate the leadership role that Lexington Center wants to play as an environmentally sensitive, proactive, corporate citizen."

Posted: December 3, 2008

Cheerleaders and Dancers Invade Lexington!

Big-Time Cheerleading and Dance is coming to Lexington. On December 13, 2008, JAMfest Cheer and Dance Events will host the annual Winter JAM in. More than 2,500 cheerleaders and dancers will "take the stage" for The Winter JAM 2008, a cheer and dance event at The Lexington Center.

This event will feature more than 140 cheer and dance teams with athletes representing four states: Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio and West Virginia! More than 6,500 spectators are expected to travel to Lexington, KY to watch these athletes compete for awards in their respective all-star and school divisions. Admission is free, and the event is open to the public.

Teams will compete at this "Mega-JAM Championship" for awards in their respective divisions and for overall Grand Champion awards. Each team will win a trophy regardless of place of finish. All first place teams will receive individual medals, and second and third place teams will receive ribbons.

The Winter JAM 2008 is produced by JAMfest Events, LLC. located in Louisville, KY. JAMfest is in its 14th season of producing events and currently produces more than 60 events all over the United States between September 2008 and April 2009. For more information, please visit http://www.jamfest.com.

Posted: November 5, 2008

Lexington Center to Host Presentation and Community Forum On It's Future Development

The Lexington Center today announced that it will make a presentation to the Lexington community regarding the proposed future development of Lexington Center and how the facility should evolve to accommodate 21st century expectations and demands. Topics will include the implications of building a new arena on the surface parking lots between High Street and Maxwell Street and changing Rupp Arena to other uses.

The proposed project?s chief designer and architect, HKS from Dallas, Texas will take part in the presentation and discussion to follow. The meeting is open to anyone in the community who has an interest in this project. The designers are sensitive to the impact of this project on the community as a whole and especially those residing or doing business in the adjacent area.

This event will take place in the Lexington Center Bluegrass Ballroom on Tuesday, November 11 at 7 p.m. Free parking will be provided in the Lexington Center lots across from Rupp Arena.

For more information, please call (859) 233-4567. ext.3285

Posted: October 16, 2008

American Gem Expo and Bead Show is coming to Lexington, KY

The American Gem Expo and Bead Shows features exhibitors selling cut gems, jewelry-grade gemstone beads, fine jewelry, and beading supplies for making jewelry. Visitors to any of the American Gem Expo and Bead Shows will find several types of beads, jewelry, beading supplies, lamp-work beads, swarovski crystal beads, seed beads, Pearls, beading materials, antique beads, gifts, and other beading supplies, gifts & Jewelry. Our Gem and Bead Show brings gem and jewelry grade bead suppliers, buyers and instructors that teach Jewelry Designs with genuine gemstone beads, together in one place. Our trade shows are open to the public and wholesale buyers. Some of our shows feature certified Gemologists and Jewelry Making and repair Craftsmen.

The American Gem Expo and Bead Show of Lexington, KY is scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, November 29 & 30, 2008 at the Lexington Convention Center in downtown Lexington. The hours are 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. both days. There is a onetime admission charge of $4 and is good for both days, under 12 years admitted free.

For additional information, visit www.americangemexpo.com or call the Lexington Convention Center at 859-233-4567.

Posted: August 26, 2008

Introducing Lexington's New "Hot Spot"
Free Wi-Fi now offered at the Lexington Center Food Court

The?Lexington Center Food Court is open and now, receptive! Free wireless internet connectivity has arrived. Now, lunching with your laptop is a breeze as you stay connected while away from the home or office.

Featuring five casual dining options, Subway, ARBY's, Mr. Kan's Chinese Food, A & W, Mo' Joe's Caf?, and Yesterdays. The Shops' Food Court is conveniently located in downtown Lexington.

"I?m pleased to announce this enhancement to the food court," said Caroline Puterbaugh, The Shops mall manager. "Now our patrons can place their lunchtime orders and power-up!"

While wireless capability has been available in Rupp Arena since 2003 and in the convention facilities since 2004, this latest technological upgrade signifies that 100% of Lexington Center space can offer this state of the art technology.

The Shops at Lexington Center are comprised of 18 locally owned and operated boutiques and casual dining establishments. Hours of operation are Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. ? 6 p.m. Sunday hours vary. For information, call (859) 233-4567 or visit us online at www.lexingtoncenter.com

Posted: July 24, 2008

The ScareFest
Southeast's Largest Horror and Paranormal Convention Set for Sept.12-14

The ScareFest, coming to Lexington, Ky., Sept. 12-14, is the biggest horror and paranormal convention in the Southeast. Attendees will experience three days of the strange, weird and macabre and have a chance to meet some of the industry's top stars and personalities. The ScareFest is hosted by Ghost Chasers International Inc. and will be at the Lexington Convention Center in Lexington, Ky. The event will include top stars and celebrities of the horror and paranormal communities.

Ticket holders will meet noted horror movie stars such as Bill Mosely from "House of a 1,000 Corpses," Sid Haig from "The Devil's Rejects," Kane Hodder from "Friday the 13th," Tom Savini from "Dusk 'til Dawn," David Naughton from "American Werewolf in London" and many more. Paranormal celebrities will include Chip Coffey, psychic/medium, who has his own show on A&E called "Psychic Kids." He has also been featured on A&E's "Paranormal State."

Barry Fitzgerald, Shannon Sylvia and Robb Demarest from the cast of SciFi's Ghost Hunters International will be there. Patti Starr, certified ghost hunter who has been featured on A&E's "Airlines" and "Paranormal State" will appear along with John Zaffis, a demonologist, featured in the Discovery Channel's "Haunted" series.

There will be a number of psychic readers, intuitive healers and aura photography.
On hand will also be several unique dealers offering metaphysical tools, and weird and unusual mystic merchandise, along with the strange and bazaar.

Some of the events and activities planned for The ScareFest include:

Photos with the stars. Buy a photo and have it autographed or bring your own camera;
VIP parties. Meet many of the convention?fs stars;
Seminars and workshops with paranormal personalities;
A midnight Sept. 13 viewing of ?gFriday 13th?h at the Kentucky Theater;
A ?gNightmare Haunted House?h attraction (http://www.2scary.com);
Film reviews of upcoming horror flicks;
18,000 square feet of more than 100 dealers of weird, strange and unique horror and paranormal items;
Psychic readings;
Pictures of aura colors;
Tools and crystals used for healing;
Author meetings with their latest books;
Demonologists;
Room rentals at the Radisson in the ScareFest section on the ?g13th floor?h; and
Dinner with the stars.

For tickets and info, visit TheScareFest.com or call (859) 361-1515.

Posted: July 14, 2008

Lexington Invaded By Jugglers!
61st Annual Jugglers Festival Arrives at Lexington Convention Center

It's all up in the air as jugglers by the hundreds descend on downtown Lexington. The International Jugglers Association arrived today in Lexington, Kentucky for its 61st annual gathering of professional and amateur jugglers from more than a dozen states and three foreign countries.

The volunteer organization meets at a different city each year to trade ideas, share tricks, hold workshops, compete at all levels and perform elaborate shows with costumes and music. It's the first time the festival has ever been held in Lexington.

Beginning Tuesday morning through Sunday at 3 p.m., the public is welcome to stop by the Lexington Center's Heritage Hall West (known as "the Gym") during the morning, daytime or evening to watch the information demonstrations and impromptu performances by jugglers of all ages performing literally around the clock. A General Admission "spectator pass" can be purchased for $5.00 at the door. Each ticket is good for watching all shows on the same evening.

On Tuesday evening at 8 p.m., there will be a Welcome Show at Heritage Hall West to kick off the week?fs entertainment. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for children under age 10. Beginning at 10:00 p.m. until closing, a stage will be set up in Lexington Center's Food Court, outside of Yesterdays, for "Renegade Night," where an informal, free juggling exhibition and show will be held.

On Wednesday at 7 p.m., at the Lexington Opera House the Youth Showcase will be held followed by Junior Championships at 9 p.m. Tickets are $15 and $7 for children under 10. Each ticket is good for watching all shows on the same evening.

Thursday morning at 11:00 a.m. at Heritage Hall West will feature a free "Planting the Juggling Seed" show for children and families. Lunch will be served immediately following the demonstration and the kids will get a juggling lesson and the opportunity to speak with professional jugglers.

On Thursday evening, Lexington Opera House will host the 18+ Individuals and Teams Championships at 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. respectively. Each ticket is good for watching all shows on the same evening.

Friday will feature the "Numbers Championships" from 12:00 p.m. ?| 3:00 p.m. and "Extreme Juggling" from 4 p.m. ?| 6 p.m. at Heritage Hall West. Tickets are $15 for adults, $7 for children under 10. Each ticket is good for watching all shows on the same evening.

On Friday evening at 8 p.m., the Cascade of Stars will be performed at the Lexington Opera House. The Cascade of Stars will feature internationally acclaimed Russian juggler, Vova and many performers from the Quebec Circus School. In addition, the show will feature 27-year-old Casey Boehmer who was born without a left forearm and through hard work and dedication has become the only one-handed technical juggler in the world.

Saturday events at Heritage Hall West include "Endurance Games" and a festival favorite "The Games of the IJA." A $5.00 Spectator Pass will be sold at the registration table.

Tickets to the Thursday and Friday evening events at the Opera House will be sold at the Opera House Box Office. All afternoon and evening events held at ?gThe Gym?h in Heritage Hall West will be sold at the Registration Table. Cash, Checks and Visa credit card are accepted. For more information, (859) 233-4567, www.lexingtoncenter.com or www.juggle.org.

Posted: April 17, 2008

Can we be remembered as the Greenest Generation?
Alltech 2008 Symposium Invites Nutrition Industry Leaders to Rethink, Retool and Reshape the Nutrition Debate

Alltech, a global leader in nutrition, will once again be hosting the world?s leading nutrition conference when it holds its 24th International Animal Health and Nutrition Symposium in Lexington, Kentucky April 20-23, 2008, and at stake is nothing less than the future of the nutrition industry.

The Alltech Symposium will be inciting delegates ? including experts from around the globe ? to redefine the industry as a leader of the ?Greenest Generation? by rethinking technology and business practices. The Symposium will also urge delegates to find constructive ways in which we, the agriculture industry, can respond to the green revolution.

"We are in the grip of a new green revolution - this is a revolution driven in part by concerns over biofuel production and the spiralling cost of feed and food," said Dr. Pearse Lyons, president and founder of Alltech. "The nutrition industry has a role to play. It is Alltech?s hope that, just as those who came of age in the 1940s are remembered as the ?Greatest Generation,? our industry?s deciders and influencers will make their mark in the wider world as members of the ?Greenest Generation.?

"As always, Alltech?s Symposium is an exciting time to share knowledge and gain new insights into our industry. It?s an incredible opportunity too for individuals throughout agribusiness to come together and discuss pertinent issues such as traceability, supply variability and constraint, and using new technologies to reduce the impact of agriculture on the environment."

A Forum for Debate and Learning

Alltech?s 2008 Symposium boasts an exciting roster of speakers ? ranging from nutrition industry visionaries to decision-makers in political and regulatory spheres. Expect to hear John Y. Brown, former governor of Kentucky and architect of the Kentucky Fried Chicken superbrand, and David Byrne, former European Commissioner for Health and Consumer Protection, air their views on the only subject that matters to the nutrition industry today ? the greener road ahead.

This year?s Symposium - recognized as one of the nutrition industry?s foremost open forums for debate and learning - will also focus on the success stories of companies using new nutritional knowledge and revolutionizing the way we raise animals and feed the world, naturally and cost-effectively. The event will examine how a lack of traceability not only undermines consumer confidence but presents the potential for the introduction of unacceptable ingredients into the food chain. It will show examples of progress ? where agriculture is the custodian of the environment.

Other plenary sessions will include discussions on topics such as:

A Legacy for the Future - The road to a green, knowledge-based economy
The Impact of the Rural Community Biorefinery
Nutrigenomics - Can it be used to guarantee total traceability and transparency in the food chain?
The Future of Food - Where our industry is going

Alltech?s 2008 Symposium will also feature in-depth sessions detailing the latest research in the aquaculture, beef/dairy, equine, feed quality, pig and poultry industries. These sessions will feature leading experts examining issues such as nutrition and gene expression, organic versus natural, nutrition for gut health, and selenium nutrition and stress, among others - subjects identified by nutritionists, breeders and veterinarians alike in attendance at Alltech?s regular series of Industry Roundtables as critical to their business.

Alltech?s Medal of Excellence will once again be presented, and this year?s recipient is Dr. Ronan Power, for his work in advancing molecular biology for practical animal health applications.

Since inception in 1980, Alltech?s presence has grown with offices and distributors in 113 countries and over 1,800 employees around the globe. For more information on Alltech or the 2008 Symposium, log on to www.alltech.com.

Alltech is the proud sponsor of the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games 2010? to be held September 25-October 10, 2010 in Lexington, Kentucky, USA.

Posted: November 21, 2007

Kentucky FFA State Convention To Be Held In Lexington In 2009-2011

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.?

Posted: July 19, 2007

Lexington Convetion Center Wins National "Inner Circle" Award For Excellence

The Lexington Convention Center has been named a recipient of the ?Inner Circle? Award for Excellence by The Meetings Group Publishing Company, it was announced today by the Lexington Center.

Inner Circle Award The Meetings Group cites excellence in the convention industry with its four prestigious awards programs. Each year, readers vote for the most outstanding hotels, resorts, and convention centers that have the best amenities for holding meetings and conventions.

This year, readers of Association Meetings selected the Lexington Convention Center as one of a total of 15 convention centers nationwide that exemplify the highest levels of quality and service, unsurpassed in the meetings and hospitality industry.

Meetings Group award winners are selected by association meeting planners nationwide who cast their vote by writing in their property selections. There are no pre-established lists of properties to select from, ensuring that votes are not swayed.

According to Joe Fields, Director of Convention Management for the Lexington Convention Center, ?We are quite honored to have been selected as one of 15 convention centers in the country to receive an award of excellence from the meeting planning industry. We are always striving for the highest level of service in our facility, and being selected as one of the best by this discriminating group of meeting planning professionals makes the award especially meaningful.?

Winners in all categories will be announced in the upcoming Association Meetings August issue. Winners of this category will be also published in the October and February issues of Association Meetings.

The Lexington Convention Center is a multi-functional facility, fully accessible to all users. For meeting planners and convention attendees, Lexington Convention Center offers 66,000 square feet of exhibition space and 40,000 square feet of meeting rooms and ballrooms, all adjacent to The Shops at Lexington Center and Rupp Arena. For more information, call (859) 233-4567 or visit www.lexingtoncenter.com.

About Lexington Center