Muhammad Ali Center Welcomes Thousands for One-Year Anniversary Celebration Open House

LOUISVILLE, KY  (November 20, 2006) … Over 7,000 people came out to a community open house celebrating the Muhammad Ali Center’s one-year anniversary on Sunday, November 19 which honored “Louisville’s Ali” and his international center.  Muhammad Ali’s wife, Lonnie, was in attendance welcoming guests and receiving many well wishes for the center’s anniversary.  Lonnie conveyed how pleased she and Muhammad are that the center inspires so many people and expressed their gratitude for everyone who helped make their dream a reality.

 “We could not be more proud of the enthusiastic support from the community on this very special occasion,” said Mike Fox, President and CEO of the Muhammad Ali Center.  “For people of all ages to now better appreciate Louisville’s ‘native son,’ Muhammad Ali, his place in global society, and the core values upon which the Ali Center is built is everything we had hoped for and more. We look forward to this type of continued interest and support.”

Guests enjoyed self-guided tours of the two-and-a-half levels of exhibits and presentations of the film “Through the Eyes of the World” and video of last year’s Grand Opening Gala event.  Children enjoyed participating in artistic crafts and received “Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee” balloons.  Adults received postcards of the 2005 inaugural year LeRoy Neiman poster based on the painting entitled Muhammad Ali-Athlete of the Century as commemorative gifts.

Various multicultural performances created a festive atmosphere in the Main Lobby featuring everything from Mexican folklore dance to jazz music and poetry presentations.  The River City Drum Corp, University of Louisville African-American Theater Program, and Farnsley Middle School Dance Team provided some of the entertainment.

A steady stream of guests throughout the day participated in a media history project by sharing their personal stories about Muhammad Ali.  These stories on video will become part of the Center’s Library and Archives collection. 

Complimentary refreshments were provided by Jarfi’s Bistro and Heitzman Bakery provided the beautiful anniversary cake.