Beau Haddock Toll free: (888) 592-7238 (KY CRAFT), ext. 4817

For the 10th time in 11 years, the Southeast Tourism Society has named Kentucky Crafted: The Market as one of the Top Twenty Events In The Southeast. The Atlanta-based society has always recognized the many unique and diverse events in the southeastern region and selects 20 of the top events and publishes them to over 300 newspapers, magazines, radio and TV stations, as well as 125 AAA publications. STS continues its dedication to promoting and developing tourism in its member states of Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia.

Now in its 24th year, this award-winning annual Kentucky handcrafted market is scheduled to open its doors to the public on March 5 and 6 at the Kentucky Fair and Expo Center, South Wing A, Louisville. Over 300 exhibitors of fine traditional, folk and contemporary crafts, two-dimensional visual art, musical recordings, books, and food products are expected to participate in the 2005 Market. Kentucky cultural entertainment and children’s craft activities (ages 4-12) will also be included. The Product Showcase area will feature great products for every room in your house plus your garden and the One-of-a-kind Gallery Section will return for 2005!

The craft industry in Kentucky contributes 252 million dollars to the state’s economy and has an impact of additional 147 million dollars from out-of-state sales. The Market is a collaborative effort among several state agencies and cabinets, which promote Kentucky’s rich cultural heritage while supporting the state’s economy and generates 2 to 3 million dollars in direct sales.

“Southeast Tourism Society (STS) has established itself as a leader among other travel organizations nationwide. The recognition and additional marketing support STS gives us makes it possible for us to reach new and expanded audiences we could normally not afford. We are so very honored to receive this award,” says Fran Redmon, Director, Kentucky Craft Marketing Program.

The Kentucky Craft Marketing Program is a division of the Kentucky Arts Council, Commerce Cabinet, Commonwealth of Kentucky.  For more information, call 888 KY CRAFT (592-7238) ext. 4801; or visit the Program's site at www.kycraft.ky.gov.

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Since 1981, the Craft Marketing Program's mission is to develop the state's craft industry, support and empower Kentucky artisans and craftspeople, create an economically viable environment for craft entrepreneurs, preserve the state's craft traditions, stimulate and support product development, and generate public awareness, public support and public/private partnerships.

The Program provides assistance to Kentucky residents, individuals, or groups wanting to develop as craft professionals through economic opportunities and training, to other outside entities (e.g., craft retailers, craft and art organizations, community and government agencies), and the general public. The craft industry in Kentucky contributes 252 million dollars in annual sales and Kentucky is recognized as a model state for its craft programs and its role in the $14 billion national craft industry.