Boat Dealers In Kentucky Article

OPE: Pat, what are some of the exciting attractions exhibitors have planned for this year?

In addition to the giveaways, there are a lot of exhibitor-sponsored features throughout the show floor. Visitors can pose for a picture with Miss Sweden at the Husqvarna booth. Then, head out to the demo area for Kohler's popular Wisconsin Brat Fry, and visit the Honda Racing Display, featuring the Team Green Honda-Powered Champ Car at American Honda's outdoor exhibit.

OPE: What are some of the can't miss events for dealers at the show?

PC: EXPO is a real business-boosting event for dealers who take advantage of all the show has to offer. The Engine Service Association, Tecumseh Products Co., Kohler Co., and Briggs & Stratton have teamed up again to offer Technician Certification Day on Sunday. It's the ideal opportunity for dealers to have their technicians tested and certified at reduced rates. Participants must be registered for the tests by June 23, so dealers should get the details from the EXPO office right away.

The seminar program will offer something new this year. A panel discussion, "Inside the Crystal Ball...How to Prosper and Thrive in the New Millennium," will feature a dialogue with dealers, manufacturers, and suppliers on what is needed for all segments of the industry to prosper and grow. The free panel should be very informative. It is set for Sunday, July 23, 1:30-3:30 pm and is sponsored by the North American Equipment Dealers Association (NAEDA) and the Outdoor Power Equipment Distributors Association (OPEDA).

OPE: What are some of the new and/or returning features on the show floor?

PC: The Tech Center, sponsored by NAEDA, is a real can't-miss opportunity for dealers. In this area of the East Hall, dealers can try out and watch demos of the latest high-tech communications and business products designed to make their businesses more efficient and profitable.

Again this year, OPEI will sponsor the "blue dot program." Large, bluedot hang tags will highlight environment-friendly products throughout the show floor. And, as always, visitors will find new and innovative products around every corner.

OPE: What are some of Louisville's new entertainment options for visitors?

PC: Louisville has added so many new attractions over the past few years, that dealers could plan a family vacation around EXPO.

If you like baseball, the brand-new Louisville Slugger Field, home of the RiverBats, AAA affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds, is a must-see. The RiverBats will play the Norfolk Tides, AAA affiliate of the New York Mets, during EXPO. And, with the Louisville Slugger Museum just blocks from the stadium, baseball fans will surely get their fill of the All-American game.

For the first time, EXPO visitors can also see World Championship Wrestling. The match, scheduled for Friday night, July 21, will be in Freedom Hall at the Kentucky Exposition Center.

Other exciting attractions include Louisville's new Waterfront Park; the Kentucky Horse Park; the newly expanded Kentucky Derby Museum; the Newport Aquarium, located near Cincinnati, Ohio; Caesars Glory of Rome Gaming Boat; and Louisville Motor Speedway for all of those NASCAR fans. Also, discount tickets can be purchased at EXPO for Six Flags Kentucky Kingdom, Louisville's premier amusement and water park.

OPE: OK, if dealers aren't already convinced that EXPO's the place to be in July, what else should they know?

PC: One of the most important reasons to attend EXPO is the availability of the outdoor demo area. You can visit indoor shows anywhere, but where else can you get out on natural turf and try the equipment for yourself? Twenty acres will be filled with equipment just waiting to be tested.

Plus, with 600 suppliers in one place and the comprehensive seminar program, combined with all of the other business and fun opportunities, EXPO is the most time-efficient and cost-effective way I know to stay up to date. It's the industry's permier event, and we really do appreciate all of the dealer support that's helped the show thrive through the years. Don't wait another day to make you EXPO plans. There are hotel and airline discounts if attendees act quickly.