
The menu included not only a delicious line up of dishes but also a warm welcome from Dr. Pearse Lyons: "It is hard to believe that this year will mark our 25th Annual Symposium. An annual symposium that is taking place at a time when our industry is facing so many challenges. Tonight, however, as indeed through the rest of our meeting, I'd like you to look at the crisis in the same way as the late President John F. Kennedy said to look at it — as an opportunity. We begin that opportunity at this dinner, as we meet old friends and make new ones from all around the world. [I am] looking forward to seeing you over the next few days, and I offer you my own heartfelt welcome to Kentucky as we prepare for the huge event, The Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games." Dinner was served, including Derby Pie. As the evening continued, vocalists from the nationally known opera program at the University of Kentucky performed Broadway show tunes and Dr. Everett McCorvey, Professor of Voice at the UK Opera Theatre, emceed. With a Baldwin-grand accompaniment, musical selections included: 'Look to the Rainbow,' 'Over the Rainbow,' 'I Could Have Danced All Night,' 'Ol' Man River,' and 'You'll Never Walk Alone.' Hundreds of voices joined to sing 'My Old Kentucky Home' and 'Molly Malone' — it was a great way to end a fine evening.