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 LEXINGTON, THE BLUEGRASS AND YOU A pediatric residency, like other residencies, is a demanding experience. However, it must leave time for family, social activities, and personal development. Fortunately, Lexington and the Bluegrass area provide a wonderful array of activities and experiences. As a university community, Lexington offers many of the advantages and opportunities of a large city while retaining the atmosphere of a smaller town. With a population of 260,000, it continues to be one of the fastest growing and most attractive metropolitan areas in the country. Nestled among rolling hills of Central Kentucky, the city is surrounded by beautiful horse farms. Cincinnati and Louisville are both within a two-hour drive and, with Lexington, the three cities form a triangle. Lexington experiences four distinct seasons, with modest snowfall in winter. On any given weekend, residents not on call may be found hiking among natural stone bridges and canyons in the Red River Gorge, exploring Mammoth Cave National Park, or boating on one of the many lakes in this area. Closer to home, residents may choose to attend thoroughbred racing at Keeneland Race Course, watch polo or visit a museum on the history of the horse at the Kentucky Horse Park, or shop in a restored downtown area or any of several malls. Lexington is also well known as the home of the University of Kentucky Wildcats. Football dominates the autumn sports scene at the University, where more than 70,000 fans fill Commonwealth Stadium on Saturdays. Rupp Arena with 23,000 seats is the home of the renowned Wildcat basketball team, with basketball being in the spotlight well into the spring. Residents who enjoy participating in sports such as basketball, weight lifting, swimming, racquetball, or tennis may do so without charge in the Seaton Center, which is located within a five minute walk from the UK Chandler Medical Center. Resident softball and volleyball teams are also organized each year. The arts abound in Lexington. Support of the arts is seen in the pride the city takes in its philharmonic orchestra, ballet company, chamber music society, and ongoing program of Broadway theater productions. UK and Transylvania University offer art exhibits, plays, and concerts, including the UK Artist Series, where world-renowned classical musicians perform at the Fine Arts Center, and a nationally recognized "Spotlight Jazz Series" sponsored by the UK Student Board. Lexington's Civic Center, in downtown Lexington, regularly hosts a variety of nationally known entertainers and special events. The city is alive with talented bluegrass, blues, jazz and rock musicians. UK Department of Pediatrics has an annual holiday party in December and an awards ceremony for the residents. The residents also plan numerous impromptu parties and get-togethers. |