LEO Weekly is published by LEO Weekly LLC. Copyright LEO Weekly LLC. All rights reserved. The opinions expressed herein are exclusively those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the position of the Publisher. LEO Weekly is available free of charge, limited to one copy per reader. No portion may be reproduced in whole or in part by any means, including electronic retrieval systems, without the express permission of LEO Weekly LLC. LEO Weekly may be distributed only by authorized independent contractors or authorized distributors. Louisville Eccentric Observer (LEO) is a trademark of LEO Weekly LLC.
Jade Kern
DEAR READER
BY MARC MURPHY
“Every time a newspaper dies, even a bad one, the country moves a little closer to authoritarianism”. Richard Kruger, Winner of the 1997 Pulitzer Prize
I write this in my first days as President of the Association of American Editorial Cartoonists. I’m humbled by the honor, and have big shoes to fill. We have, moreover – all of us, not just political artists – work to do.
We’re in the middle of a Mass Extinction Event and the air is filled with the smell of rot. Newspapers are dying and Richard Kruger was right. A lot of “little moves closer to authoritarianism” has put us not on its doorstep but inside the door and sitting numbly in its kitchen. This extinction isn’t an accident and the authoritarians are winning.
Sure, changing business and reading preferences can be blamed. Those are beyond the scope of this piece and well-documented. There is another cause, though, more pernicious and generally unreported because that would require the publishers point fingers at themselves: Newspapers aren’t dying of natural causes or unavoidable market forces. They’re being killed, and the call is coming from inside the house from a phone on the publisher’s desk.
We’ve been watching in real time as the Washington Post kills itself, including the forced resignation of Pulitzer artist Ann Telnaes. Papers as large as The Post draw attention when they self-immolate on the twin altars of oligarchy and sycophancy. When we lose a national newspaper we lose curious and objective eyeballs on Congress and the President. More dangerous than this, I believe, is the loss of smaller-town newspapers and journalism. Like the Latrobe Bulletin.
To be clear, the Latrobe Bulletin, like The Post, is still, technically publishing. But it actually died for all intents and purposes on January 18, 2025. That’s the day its publisher David Cuddihy rejected a (very tame) political cartoon and bragged to his readers that, henceforth, he would no longer run any political cartoons because they had, in his words “run their course”. His statement, in goose- I mean lockstep with other now-former journalists lamented the so-called divisiveness of political art and assured his sensitive and infantilized readers this was because the Bulletin was a “community paper”. The “community papers” Cuddihy and his like want to sell aren’t newspapers at all. They’re newsletters for the Chamber of Commerce, or whomever the publisher
is afraid of offending. As such, of course there’s no place for robust reporting or opinion. Gannett, among others, went down this road long ago. But the death of the Latrobe Bulletin, you must understand, is in some ways a bigger loss to the citizens it’s supposed to inform and serve than, even, the loss of a paper like The Post. By far a majority of the decisions made by elected officials that affect the Bulletin’s readers are made on the Bulletin’s beat, not The Post’s: In the state legislature, at the city council, in the mayor’s office, and at the school board. Darkness kills democracy wherever it finds it, and much of it is happening just down the street or highway from you.
But you’ll never know. The hedge funds or investment firms will fire the reporters, and publishers like David Cuddihy will make sure no one complains because at today’s newspapers “the customer is
always right” as if he’s selling used cars and not a member of The Fourth Estate. Surgeons don’t keep patients awake during surgery in the event they need to ask where their liver is. My clients didn’t tell me when to object during trial. The guy in Seat 23B shouldn’t tell the pilot how to land our plane. And newspapers should write what the public needs to know, not what they think they want to know.
The American public has never in our history needed to know like they do now. They have never before needed political artists more than they do now to comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable. And it has never been more important for publishers to act with courage and principle. Instead, they’ve covered themselves with shame and run away.
The artists who are members of the AAEC don’t run away. They risk jobs, health insurance, careers, and sometimes
friends to show you the truth and hold those who would rule you now - not govern - accountable. The new Administration has promised retribution to all of its enemies, and has demonstrated a willingness to exert pressure and exact punishment in ways heretofore unimagined in the United States. You may not draw or, before now ever cared about political art. You should start.
Marc Murphy is the President of the AAEC. He is a law professor, trial lawyer, and award-winning political artist. The opinions expressed here are his own.
HOW KENTUCKY’S GAMBLING BOOM IS WREAKING HAVOC ON LIVES—AND WHAT’S BEING DONE TO STOP IT
With gambling addiction on the rise and calls to helplines skyrocketing, Kentucky races to combat the dark side of its booming gambling industry
BY CALEB STULTZ
Kentucky, a state where gambling is deeply rooted in its identity through such sporting events like The Kentucky Derby that is coming up on its 151st year, is undergoing a seismic shift in how it addresses the challenges of problem gambling.
The expansion of legalized gambling—spanning the Kentucky Lottery, parimutuel wagering, historical horse racing (HHR) machines and now online sports betting through mobile applications like FanDuel and DraftKings—has led to a cultural and economic boom. However, alongside this growth lies a rising tide of addiction, mental health challenges and societal costs.
The Kentucky Council on Problem Gambling (KYCPG) is stepping up to address these challenges. Through public awareness campaigns, legislative advocacy and partnerships, KYCPG is working to stem the tide of addiction, rebuild lives and reduce the significant social costs of gambling in the Commonwealth.
H3: The Gaming Commonwealth Kentucky’s relationship with gambling runs deep. The state’s annual legal gambling expenditures exceed $2 billion, with $400 million in tax revenues filling state coffers.
For many, gambling is a pastime—a few lottery tickets, a bet on the Kentucky Derby or a night at a casino. But for a growing number of Kentuckians, gambling has spiraled into addiction, tearing apart families, finances and futures.
A recent survey found that 78% of Kentucky adults participated in gambling in the past year, equating to over 2.5 million residents. Shockingly, this isn’t just an adult problem: 26% of high school seniors admitted to gambling at some point in their lives, and 2% reported financial or personal harm caused by their gambling.
Between 47,000 and 64,000 Kentuckians are classified as gambling addicts, while as many as 165,000 exhibit problem gambling traits. Problem gamblers are more likely to suffer from depression, anxiety, or PTSD, and 19% have considered suicide. For addicted gamblers, the suicide rate is even higher than any other form of addiction.
“We’ve already seen the impact of calls to the 1-800- GAMBLER helpline due to the increased public awareness created by the volume of sports gambling and lottery advertisements, all of which include the helpline number and words to the effect,” said Mike Stone, Executive Director of KYCPG. “As the stats reflect the amount of gambling in KY before sports betting, there always have been gamblers in the state. Now, there is more awareness that excessive gambling
can be a problem, maybe even an addition. The calls to the helpline follow.”
Funding Help for Addiction
The legalization of sports betting in Kentucky in 2023 marked a turning point. Signed into law by Governor Andy Beshear, House Bill 551 allocates 5% of sports betting revenue to the newly created Problem Gambling Assistance Account. This fund—starting with an estimated $1 million— will be used to establish publicly funded problem gambling education, prevention, and treatment programs.
“KYCPG is submitting proposals to the Department of Behavioral Health, Developmental and Intellectual Disabilities to fund counselor training programs from the newly available Problem Gambling Assistance Account,” Stone said. “At that time, Kentucky’s commitment to fund problem and disordered gambling services will be significantly increased.”
While the funding represents a major step forward, it remains a fraction of what is needed. National averages suggest that states spend $0.28 per capita on problem gambling services. For Kentucky, with its population of approximately 4.5 million, that would equate to $1.2 million annually.
Modern Gambling’s Impacts on the Average Bettor
The rise of digital platforms like FanDuel and DraftKings, coupled with the popularity of mobile apps, has fundamentally altered the gambling landscape. Today, gambling can be
accessed from the palm of a hand, creating new challenges for regulators, treatment providers, and public health advocates.
“It is too early to make any general conclusions. We need to see what is funded and the results from the proposals submitted to the Problem Gambling Assistance Account,” Stone noted. However, he acknowledged the need for constant vigilance: “The biggest challenge may be just staying abreast of technology and its impact on gambling and then gambling’s impact on society.”
This ubiquity of gambling increases risk. Studies have shown that proximity and opportunity are among the strongest predictors of gambling addiction. With online gambling now more accessible than ever, the stakes are higher.
Human Costs of Gambling in the 21st Century
Beyond the financial devastation of problem gambling—where gamblers frequently rack up debts exceeding $43,000—there are far-reaching consequences for families, workplaces, and communities.
A KYCPG needs assessment highlighted the cascading effects of gambling addiction:
Family Impact: Problem gambling is linked to domestic violence, divorce and severe financial strain. Research has found that children of problem gamblers are up to 10 times more likely to develop gambling problems themselves
Crime: Gambling addiction often drives individuals to illegal activities, including embezzlement, fraud and even violent crimes. One-third
of gambling addicts admitted to committing robbery, and 13% reported assaults to obtain gambling money
Suicide: The suicide rate among problem gamblers is higher than any other addictive disorder. KYCPG President RonSonLyn Clark underscored the importance of suicide screening, saying, “It is a primary duty of care for the client because the suicide rate of problem gamblers is so high, and they are so effective at keeping their addiction hidden”
Kentucky is making strides toward addressing the issue of problem gambling in the Commonwealth. KYCPG has spearheaded efforts to train certified gambling counselors, investing $35,000 to expand the state’s counseling workforce. While this initiative has increased the number of certified counselors from six to 11, the state still falls short of the 14-24 counselors recommended for its population size Education and prevention are also key. KYCPG’s “Whether, When, How Much?” campaign promotes responsible gambling habits, while partnerships with schools and community organizations aim to reduce youth gambling rates. These efforts have shown promise: since gambling awareness initiatives began, high school gambling rates have dropped by nearly half
KYCPG is advocating for a statewide prevalence study to identify the demographics, geographic spread, and scale of gambling addiction.
“That is one of the proposals being discussed for possible funding through the Problem Gambling Assistance Account,” Stone said in an email to LEO Weekly.
KYCPG’s Call for Collaboration KYCPG recognizes that tackling problem gambling requires a unified approach. The organization has already established partnerships with the Department of Behavioral Health, Developmental and Intellectual Disabilities, the Kentucky Mental Health Coalition, and the Kentucky Coalition for Healthy Children. “As groups gain an understanding of gambling’s impact, we anticipate forming more partnerships,” Stone said.
For those in need, help is available 24/7 at 1-800-GAMBLER. The road to recovery may be long, but for thousands of Kentuckians, it starts with a single call.
EAT, DRINK AND SEE IN THIS WEEK’S STAFF PICKS
ENTIRE MONTH OF FEB.
Louisville Unions Baseball Team
Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory | 800 W Main St | $24+ | tickets.sluggermuseum.com/
Learn the hidden truth of the Louisville Unions, a talented baseball team silenced in history. Browse the historical photographs and enjoy a bit of bourbon along the way.
—Ezra Knapp
ALL FEB. LONG!
Louisville Comedy Club Lineup
Louisville Comedy Club | 110 W Main St | Pricing Varies | louisvillecomedy.com/ | Times Vary
Laugh the night away with the Louisville Comedy Club’s incredible February lineup. Enjoy the comedic genius of Trey Kennedy, Shane Smith, Tommy Brennan, and Bill Bellamy, or try your hand at RuPaul’s Drag Race trivia!
—Ezra Knapp
FEBRUARY 18 & 19
Elmer Lucille Allen Conference
Spalding University | 901 S 4th St | Donations
Only | spalding.edu/ | Times Vary
Join Spalding University for their seventh annual Elmer Lucille Allen Conference, with this year’s theme as “Environmental Injustice in the Black Community.” Don’t forget to visit the exhibition in the Huff Gallery, displaying works from local Black artists.
—Ezra Knapp
THURSDAY, FEB. 20
The After Show Show
Actors Theatre | 316 W Main St | $5+ | purchase.actorstheatre.org/ | 10 p.m.
Enjoy an enchanting blend of cabaret, Broadway, and drag hosted by the always incredible Dusty Ray Bottoms and magnificent May O’Nays! Try some tasty beverages and lean into the local Louisville talent joining the queens.
Although he has been playing around the area for 30 years now, it wasn’t until 2023 that Louisville blues legend Tyrone Cotton released his debut album Man Like Me. And quite frankly, it is a masterpiece! Easily one of the greatest records ever to come out of Louisville, Man Like Me is absolutely essential listening. His lyrics are a deeply personal reflection of his own experiences, exploring connection, loss, hope and resurrection, punctuated by a voice that is hauntingly evocative yet equally warm and alluring, backed by his original compositions that embody a vast landscape of soul, folk, blues, jazz, and rock. And you’ll be able to catch the man himself live backed by his band on Valentine’s weekend for what is certain to be an incredible night of music.
—Jeff Polk
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21
Yellow Cellophane Single Release with Quiet Confidence & Normac
The Whirling Tiger | 1335 Story Ave. | thewhirlingtiger.com | $10 | 8 p.m. | 21+
After taking a brief hiatus from live shows for the past few months, Louisville indie bedroom dreampop band Yellow Cellophane welcome us all back to the cowboy disco by returning to the stage for a new single release from their upcoming EP, (due out early this year). The band has been through some changes recently, but says of the upcoming show: “If you’ve seen us before, you haven’t seen us like this, so definitely don’t miss this one!” Sharing the bill are indie alt-pop band Quiet Confidence, (whose song “What Do You Say” made LEO Weekly’s list of favorite local songs of 2024), and rockers Normac.
—Jeff Polk
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21
Satchel’s Pawn Shop with Dewey Kincade and The Navigators Gerstle’s | 3801 Frankfort Ave. | gerstles.com/ louisville | $5 | 7:30 p.m. | 21+
Celebrating their 30th year as a band in 2025, Louisville alt-country/neo-honky tonkers Satchel’s Pawn Shop bring their “Y’allternative” sound to Gerstle’s main stage. The band’s three-album discography was recently released online for streaming, so give them a spin if you haven’t already. Sharing the stage will be none other than Dewey Kincade and The Navigators, which features an all-star lineup of Louisville musicians. Kincade is celebrating the release of his incredible new album The Heights, (read the review in the previous issue of LEO Weekly). This is the first time that the two bands have shared the stage, as Kincade puts it, “since flannel was a fashion statement.” Not to be missed!
—Jeff Polk
THURSDAY, FEB. 27
Parkland Library Grand Reopening Parkland Library | 2743 Virginia Ave | Free! | lfpl.org/parkland | 11:30 a.m.
Join the Parkland Library for their official ribbon cutting and grand reopening! Return on Saturday for Parkland Library Family Fun Day, with plenty of free activities and fun for all ages.
—Ezra Knapp
SATURDAY, FEB. 22
5th Annual MOLO Village African Gala Muhammad Ali Center | 144 N 6th St | $125+ | eventbrite.com/ | 7 p.m.
Come support the MOLO Village Community Development Corporation for an evening of cultural immersion, dancing, and live music by the Unlimited Show Band.
—Ezra Knapp
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22
Distillery Dogs with Vile Things and Shock Probation
Air Devil’s Inn | 2802 Taylorsville Rd. | facebook.com/airevilsinn | $5 | 9 p.m. | 21+
The Distillery Dogs are a new band out of Bardstown, KY made up of some notable musicians who’ve been around the local music scene for some time now: Buckshot George, Lorn Fountain, Dead End Dave (Wathen), and Rob Lyon. If those names ring a bell, then you already know you’re in for a wild night! And they’re bringing their original brand of trashy punk rock n’ roll to the stage for the very first time. If that’s not enough, then throw in two more new bands: old school punk rockers Vile Things (Lexington, KY), who are also making their debut performance, and Louisville punk rockers Shock Probation, featuring ex-members of The Jereactors, Charisma Society, and Last Hope.
—Jeff Polk
SATURDAY, MAR. 1
Tailspin Ale Fest Bowman Field | 2700 Gast Blvd | $60+ | tailspinalefest.com/ | 3 p.m.
Browse over 250 craft beers and enjoy an afternoon full of live music, local food trucks, a bit of boxing, and the wonders of aviation! Check it out and support Pints for Parkinson’s | TKO.
—Ezra Knapp
FRIDAY, MAR. 7
Great Bourbon Spelling Bee Mellwood Arts Center | 1860 Mellwood Ave | $125+ | onecau.se/ejbee | 6:30 p.m.
Indulge in an evening of bourbon, trivia, and F-U-N at the Third Annual Great Bourbon Spelling Bee! Enjoy a night full of word games and great treats, all in support of Educational Justice.
—Ezra Knapp
LArts&Entertainment Guide
ouisville has a kaleidoscopic array of visual art exhibits, dance performances, outdoor festivals, film screenings, live music, and theater in town. From ballet to short films to the return of local legends, here is LEO’s guide to some of the most tantalizing celebrations and recreation happening this spring
VISUAL ART
JANUARY 2025–FEBRUARY 2025
The SuperNatural 2.0 21c Museum Hotel | 700 W. Main St. | 21cmuseumhotels.com/louisville
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 7–FRIDAY, APRIL 4
Persistence of Vision: Photographs by Steve Plattner 2510 Portland Ave. | outsiderartky.com
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22
Made You A Mixtape
Aurora Gallery and Boutique | 1264 S. Shelby St. | auroragallerylouisville.com
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27
Diagrammatic Color Games: A Lecture by Brianna Bass
Ekstrom Library, Chao Auditorium | 2215 S. 3rd St. | events.louisville.edu
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28
Leavings: Jarrod Becker garner narrative | 642 E. Market St. | garnernarrative.com
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 5
Mary Bates Neubauer: Data Streams in Sculpture and Public Art
Ekstrom Library, Chao Auditorium | 2215 S. 3rd St. | events.louisville.edu
THURSDAY, MARCH 6
Biennial Student Show
Schneider Hall Galleries | 2300 S. 1st. St. Walk | events.louisville.edu
FRIDAY, MARCH 7
Metamorphosis: Natasha Sud Revelry Gallery | 742 E Market St. | revelrygallery.com
FRIDAY, MARCH 21
Clearing: Stephen Cartwright & Ché Rhodes
Cressman Center for Visual Art | 100 E. Main St. | events.louisville.edu
THURSDAY, APRIL 10
Hite Institute of Art and Design
Spring BFA Thesis Exhibition
Schneider Hall Galleries | 2300 S. 1st. St. Walk | events.louisville.edu
SATURDAY, APRIL 12
Fire & Art 8
Cressman Center for Visual Art | 100 E. Main St. | events.louisville.edu
FRIDAY, APRIL 18
Stills: Shawn Marshall garner narrative | 642 E. Market St. | garnernarrative.com
SATURDAY, APRIL 19
KMAC Couture 2025: LUCKY #13 KMAC | 715 West Main St. | kmacmuseum.org
DANCE
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21–
SUNDAY, MARCH 2, 2025
Choreographers’ Showcase
The Louisville Ballet Main Street Studios | 315 E. Main St. | louisvillepalace.com
FRIDAY, MARCH 14
Odesa National Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre: Don Quixote
Louisville Palace | 625 S. 4th St. | louisvillepalace.com
FRIDAY, APRIL 4–SUNDAY, APRIL 6
Cinderella
Whitney Hall at The Kentucky Center | 501 W. Main St. | louisvilleballet.org
FESTIVALS
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28
Dead of Night and the Dark Market — Dies Natalis
Art Sanctuary | 1433 S Shelby St. | a rt-sanctuary.org
SATURDAY, MARCH 1
Tailspin Ale Fest — Louisville’s Winter Warmer
Bowman Field | 2700 Moran Ave. | tailspinalefest.com
FRIDAY, MARCH 21–SUNDAY, MARCH 23
Tattoo Fest Louisville
Kentucky International Convention Center | 221 S. 4th St. | louisvilletattoofestival.com
SATURDAY, APRIL 5
Paristown Garden Show
Paristown | 731 Brent St. | paristown.com
THURSDAY, APRIL 17
Republic Bank Kentucky Derby Festival BourbonVille
The Ice House | 226 E. Washington St. | icehouselouisville.com
SATURDAY, APRIL 26
Kentucky Derby Festival Cars and Coffee Waterfront Park | 129 River Rd. | discover.kdf.org/cars-coffee
FILM
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 8–
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 23
Jewish Film Festival
Trager Family JCC | 3600 Dutchmans Ln. | jewishlouisville.org/the-j/j-arts-ideas/ film-festival/
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14–
SUNDAY, MARCH 2
2025 Oscar Nominated Short Films
Speed Cinema | 2035 S. 3rd St. | speedmuseum.org/cinema
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 16
Dog Star Man
Speed Cinema | 2035 S. 3rd St. | speedmuseum.org/cinema
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 23
Below the Line: Short Films
Whirling Tiger | 1335 Story Ave. | thewhirlingtiger.com
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 24
Genre Film Club: Giallo
Hereafter Cocktail Parlor | 119 S. 7th St. | hereafterlou.com
SATURDAY, MARCH 8
ILYBNLILM
Pamela Brown Auditorium | 315 W. Broadway St. | actorstheatre.org
SATURDAY, MARCH 22–
SUNDAY, MARCH 23
Dawn of Impressionism: Paris 1874
Speed Cinema | 2035 S. 3rd St. | speedmuseum.org/cinema
LIVE MUSIC
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27–
SATURDAY, MARCH 1
Music Without Borders: Myths and Legends The Jeffersonian | 10617 Taylorsville Rd. | louisvilleorchestra.org
SUNDAY, MARCH 2
AMPERS&ONE 앰퍼샌드원 Art Sanctuary | 1433 S Shelby St. | art-sanctuary.org
SUNDAY, MARCH 2
Robyn Hitchcock
Zanzabar | 2100 S. Preston St. | zanzabarlouisville.com
THURSDAY, MARCH 6
Umphrey’s McGee: Cruising Altitude Tour
Old Forester’s Paristown Hall | 724 Brent St. | www.paristown.com
FRIDAY, MARCH 7
Stravinsky’s Firebird
Whitney Hall at The Kentucky Center | 501 W Main St. | louisvilleorchestra.org
FRIDAY, APRIL 25–
SUNDAY, APRIL 27
My Morning Jacket
Louisville Palace | 625 S. 4th St. | louisvillepalace.com
THEATER
FEBRUARY 20, 22, 23, & 27 and MARCH 1, 2, 6, 8, & 9
Disney’s High School Musical Center Stage at the Trager Family JCC | 3600 Dutchman’s Ln. | jewishlouisville.org/ the-j/j-arts-ideas/centerstage/
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21
This Little Light of Mine The Brown Theatre | 315 W. Broadway St. | kentuckyperformingarts.org
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28
Matt Mathews: Boujee On A Budget Tour
Louisville Palace | 625 S. 4th St. | louisvillepalace.com
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 5
SATURDAY, MARCH 8
Louisville Punk Rock!
The Rosetta Chapel | 112 N. 20th St.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12
Disturbed: The Sickness 25th Anniversary Tour
KFC Yum! Center | 201 W. Main St. | kfcyumcenter.com
Jim Henson’s Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock Live! Louisville Palace | 625 S. 4th St. | louisvillepalace.com
MARCH 15,22 & 29
Lilly and the Pirates Stage One |501 W. Main Street | stageone.org/
SATURDAY, MARCH 22
Nurse John: The Short Staffed Tour Louisville Palace | 625 S. 4th St. | louisvillepalace.com
FRIDAY, APRIL 4
Pygmalion Kentucky Opera Center for Cultural Health | 708 Magazine St. | kyopera.org
SATURDAY, APRIL 5
Disney on Ice Presents: Magic in the Stars KFC Yum! Center | 201 W. Main St. | kfcyumcenter.com
SUNDAY, APRIL 13
Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon: The Super Live
Whitney Hall at The Kentucky Center | 501 W. Main St. | kentuckyperformingarts.org
MAY 8, 10, 11, 15, 17, & 18
9 to 5 the Musical Center Stage at the Trager Family JCC | 3600 Dutchman’s Ln. | jewishlouisville.org/ the-j/j-arts-ideas/centerstage/
EXPLORING ASIAN - LATIN FUSION AT DRAGON KINGS DAUGHTER.
BY JOE D eSENSI
What is Veg Out?
A food exploration column about Louisvillian’s with eating restrictions finding hidden gems at eateries other “restricted” foodies might not know about.
Here’s why Veg Out is back in 2025 after 4 years off:
In early 2019, the editor of The LEO Weekly asked me to write a food column since, and I quote, “You write books and are annoyingly picky and have weird eating restrictions, right?” I responded, “Well, I am a gluten-intolerant vegetarian that avoids fried foods.” To which the editor said, “Bingo. . . I am smelling some high-maintenance gold.”
From the go-go, carefree, pre-pandemic days of 2019 through the first year or so of the soul crushing plague, I wrote this column, Veg Out, so that those avoiding gluten or those steering clear of animal carcasses could read a little about restaurants to which they might not venture without a solid recommendation.
I just finished my 6th book which has taken up most of my discretionary writing time for the last couple years, so I decided to dust off my restaurant reviewing office supplies and get back into the game.
The format of the column follows the hijinks of my wife, Dr. Hope Zoeller, and I, as we try a local hot spot. Hope gives some meatier recommendations to go along with my tree-hugger write ups, and we try to imbibe a bit along the way so you can pair some good liver damage with your expanding waistline.
Hope and I enjoy so many places around town about which we can’t wait to write, but we are
always looking for recommendations too. If you have a restaurant or some specific dishes that you think might be good fodder for a Veg Out column, please email me. I am always looking for new “favorite” eats.
Dragon King’s Daughter (Louisville)
Dragon King’s Daughter offers amazing Asian fusion flare accented with veggies and spices from Latin America (and has an impressive cocktail and spirits game, to boot). And with daily happy hour specials from 3-6 PM, you can explore their incredible menu without breaking the bank.
My wife, Hope, and I go to DKD at least once a week and usually we have our niece Hazel in tow. Hazle has been going to DKD since she was 2 (now 10) so she has literally grown-up with specialty sushi, gyoza and edamame.
Let’s start with appetizers. Their salted edamame is a great ‘energy for ordering more food” snack while figuring out your culinary game plan. Hot, fresh, and joyous to see someone not familiar with eating edamame launch a soybean across the restaurant. Also, another veggie friendly app (or entrée if someone wanted to belly up to the trough) is the spicy tofu nachos. Crisp, homemade chips, fresh veggies, a little heat from some peppers, and a deluge of cheese makes for fun for the whole table.
Though not gluten-free, the veggie gyoza are incredible. Before I found out I was gluten intolerant, this was my favorite hors d’oeuvre
Dragon King’s Daughter
1543 Bardstown Road Louisville (502) 632-2444
facebook.com/DKDHighlands
in the’ Ville. (Just as a quick side note: until I found out that the root of many of my skin and digestion issues was gluten related, I always thought gluten intolerance was just something Millennials made up for fun and/ or drama-related purposes).
While soybeans were being popped and menus were being downloaded to everyone’s respective phones, Hope was reviewing the wine list like someone in a Dan Brown book trying to find the secret hiding place of the Holy Grail. When she came up for air after being submerged in vino offerings, we decided to order a German varietal, Gruner Veltliner. Think of the crisp mineraliness of a Sauv Blanc with the hearty viscosity of a pinot grigio ($10 off the bottle during happy hour).
Attention anti-pescatarians and sea-ophobes: if you do not like fish or seafood in general. . . there are many selections at DKD that will turn your fish frown upside down. They offer about a dozen veggie rolls and many can be made gluten free with just a small modification or two.
My normal go-to is a one-two combo of a summer salad roll (Fresh mozzarella, spring mix, red onion, avocado, cucumber, & cilantro inside…drizzled with spicy mayo) and a
Buffalo Roll (Fresh mozzarella, cucumber, & avocado inside). I could eat this meal twice a week and never tire of it. But to branch out just a bit and try something a little heartier, my meal-de-jour was their veggie Bibimbap (which are scalding clay pots with rice and a flurry of ingredients that finishes cooking right in front of you). I ordered the Esquites which takes some of the black bean, cheeses, corn and avocado from the latin-side of the Asian fusion dynamic and mixes it with mozzarella, pickled Japanese veggies, and some sizzling rice. WARNING: YOU WILL BURN YOUR MOUTH ON THE INNAUGURAL BITE! It’s a rule.
Hope opts for her favorite; a Son of Jade (red tuna inside with Salmon and avocado on the outside) with a side of Ginger dressing. Since I am zero for 47 trying to teach proper chopstick usage techniques. . . to my shame, Hope uses a fork to demolish her roll. Hazel has her own favorite. . . and off-the -menu item that the GM made for her that he dubbed “The H Roll.” It is the kids shrimp roll plate, but with the whole roll tempura-fried and then drizzled in spicy mayo. Kids plates come with a side of steamed rice and a small portion of edamame (which my niece has told me is NOT shareable with the table. . . especially not uncles).
We usually tap out on the dessert course, but if you have a sweet tooth, DKD has several Asian-inspired goodies like their Oreo Roll (Oreo cookie crumbles with cream cheese in a soy wrapper and then tempura-fried) or their Banana Pudding Wontons (Caramelized banana, cream cheese, & vanilla wafer. Topped with caramel & cinnamon sugar walnuts. Served with vanilla ice cream.)
Son of Jade roll, and yes! A kid’s plate! Only at Dragon King’s Daughter Joe Desensi
LISTEN LOCAL: NEW LOUISVILLE MUSIC
New releases by Ron Whitehead, Tin Zelkova, and more!
BY JEFF POLK
Ron Whitehead
The Way of the Heart: Old Age Suite in Four Movements - EP
it’s not every day you get an email from a living legend asking if you’d review their new album. In fact, I believe I can count on one finger the number of times that has happened to me. And that one time was from U.S. National Lifetime Beat Poet Laureate, author of over 30 books and more than 40 albums, and the man that Hunter S. Thompson himself called “crazy as nine loons,” Ron Whitehead. On The Way of the Heart: Old Age Suite in Four Movements, the latest release in Whitehead’s long and storied career, he once again teams up with composer Gabriel Walker, who is a legend in his own right. Together Whitehead’s words are the grass, the trees, and the sky that you lose yourself in, while Walker’s music is the breeze that you feel all around you. This is beauty, wonderment, happiness, excitement, curiosity, love and sadness all at once. It’s a reminder that while life is truly a blessing, it’s also only a fleeting moment. Throughout this all-too short EP, Whitehead expounds his truths and wisdoms that could only have been learned through a lifetime of experience, while Walker’s score gently guides the listener through synesthetic soundscapes that bring Whitehead’s words to life. Whitehead’s poetry paints the picture and Walker’s score is the wall in which it hangs. Together they provide the listener with a journey through every emotion. Although the focus here is on growing old, common themes of art, love, togetherness, and joy are always present; which, in a nutshell, also seems to describe Whitehead’s own life. This is absolutely essential listening, and I give it my highest recommendation.
tappingmyownphone.net
Addults
The Wrong Windows - album
Going into listening to this album for the first time, the only information I had on the band was the two-sentence bio sent to me by vocalist/guitarist Mike Karman that read, “Addults are a 4-piece band from Louisville KY doing indie rock, weirdo folk, garage-art, etc. There is a strong focus on painting lyrical pictures and not being too limited by genre.” Well Mr. Karman, you’ve certainly piqued my interest! This could be anything. So feeling a bit like a kid at Christmas, I hit play not knowing quite what to expect but excited to find out. And immediately I’m swept up and fully immersed in the weird and wonderful world of Addults. What you get here are 12 extremely well-crafted songs played four guys, (and a few guest musicians), that obviously have a wealth of experience behind their instruments. Musical comparisons run the gamut and really depend on which song you’re listening to, but you can certainly catch glimpses of Wilco, Pavement, Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds, NRBQ, Tom Waits, Lou Reed, Leonard Cohen, and even The Beatles, and David Bowie throughout their songs. Obviously this is not your run-of-the-mill indie rock band here. The lyrics are heavily metaphoric, yet read like beautiful poems. Each word is as meticulously thought out as the music that accompanies it. If you’re not already on the Addults Bandcamp page buying this, then plan on doing so ASAP. This is something very special here!
addults.bandcamp.com
LEO Weekly has Spotify playlists for each Listen Local column featuring selected tracks from each reviewed release. Search Spotify for LEO Weekly and have a listen!
Want to see your music reviewed in LEO Weekly? Louisville and Southern Indiana-based bands/artists, send a link to your music on the streaming site of your choice along with a band/ artist bio, a high-resolution pic of the release’s cover art, and any additional information that may be helpful for the review, (the more, the better), to music@leoweekly.com.
Tin Zelkova
When the body rejects the soul, signs begin to show. - album
As a trans woman living in a deeply red state, Cory Liner has obviously been through a lot of emotional trauma. But it is trauma that she is reclaiming on her own terms through Jane Deere, a character of Liner’s creation. In Deere, Liner sees a “powerful, god-like figure” who is “damaged and in a constant cycle of healing.” Deere is her voice, her escape, her way to “have more fun by disconnecting from the more painful moments.” The mix of electronic, trap, pop and rock music create a dark, mysterious, ethereal and sexy atmosphere that serves as the perfect vessel to bring to life the real star here, which are the lyrics. As explained in the bio, “Liner’s real-life experiences inspire most of her album; then Jane dramatizes that into a poetic fantasy,” and the results are downright staggering. Desperation, despair, heartache and pain, (both emotional and physical), form the basis of these songs, and it is told through honest and unflinching eyes. However, it is the power, strength, will, and self-confidence to overcome and control the situation that makes these more than just lyrics, but inspirational stories of triumph over adversity. It’s as if Liner, through Deere, is telling the world “Hit me with everything you’ve got. I’ll take it all and ram it right back down your throat!” This is true power here, folks! Written, recorded, and produced by Liner, this album has been three years in the making, and the message makes it all worth the struggle. Headphones on for this one!
Coryliner.bandcamp.com
“Ain’t What You Was” / “Loser” / “Juliet” - singles
One thing you can never call Tin Zelkova is lazy. Easily one of the most prolific rock bands in Louisville, they sent me “Ain’t What You Was” to review right around Halloween. Since then, they’ve already released two additional new singles, (three songs in less than four months). Since I fell behind on reviews, I’ve decided to give them all a spin. “Ain’t What You Was” is song talking directly to and about someone dealing with addiction that is, oddly enough, set to a very upbeat tune with an extremely catchy guitar riff that I can’t get out of my head. Think early 70’s rock like Rush’s first two albums, Free, and T. Rex mixed with a tiny flare of Southern rock. “Loser” is a tune about the end of a toxic relationship that takes a bit of a darker turn musically and is driven by a somewhat heavier, more plodding beat. This one is certainly more in the modern rock camp, but with that trademark 70’s classic rock feel that Tin Zelkova is known for. The band really drives this one home in the last minute of the song. And finally the brand new track “Juliet”, which was just released on Valentine’s Day. Loosely based on Romeo and Juliet but influenced by real relationships, this one has a great bluesy stomp to it and combines a nice mix of both classic and modern rock that this band is so damn good at! So if you’re keeping score, add another three solid tracks to an ever-growing catalog of nothing but solid tracks from Tin Zelkova!
linktr.ee/TinZelkova
Jane Deere
THE LOUISVILLE JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL RETURNS
The month-long festival is presented by the Jewish Community of Louisville and sponsored in part by LEO
BY ARIA BACI
The Louisville Jewish Film Festival returns this February. Now in its 27th season, the festival will feature 11 films created by — and telling stories about — the Jewish diaspora. The festival will present six event programs at cinemas across Louisville, including Baxter Avenue Theatres Filmworks and Speed Cinema, as well as virtual screenings available for streaming.
ARIES (March 21-April 19): Love requires stability and steadiness to thrive. But it also needs unpredictability and imaginativeness. The same with friendship. Without creative touches and departures from routine, even strong alliances can atrophy into mere sentiment and boring dutifulness. With this in mind, and in accordance with astrological omens, I offer quotes to inspire your quest to keep togetherness fertile and flourishing. 1. “Love has no rules except those we invent, moment by moment.” —Anaïs Nin. 2. “The essence of love is invention. Lovers should always dream and create their own world.” — Jorge Luis Borges. 3. “A successful relationship requires falling in love many times, always with the same person, but never in quite the same way.” —Mignon McLaughlin.
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): In celebration of the Valentine season, I suggest you get blithely unshackled in your approach to love. Be loose, limber, and playful. To stimulate the romantic and intimate qualities I think you should emphasize, I offer you these quotes: 1. “Love is the endless apprenticeship of two souls daring to be both sanctuary and storm for one another.” —Rainer Maria Rilke 2. “Love is the revolution in which we dismantle the prisons of our fear, building a world where our truths can stand naked and unashamed.” —Audre Lorde. 3. “Love is the rebellion that tears down walls within and between us, making room for the unruly beauty of our shared becoming.” —Adrienne Rich.
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): To honor the rowdy Valentine spirit, I invite you to either use the following passage or compose one like it, then offer it to a willing recipient who would love to go deeper with you: “Be my thunderclap, my cascade of shooting stars. Be my echo across the valley, my rebel hymn, my riddle with no answer. Be my just-before-you-wakeup-dream. Be my tectonic shift. Be my black pearl, my vacation from gloom and doom, my forbidden dance. Be my river-song in F major, my wild-eyed prophet, my moonlit debate, my infinite possibility. Be my trembling, blooming, spiraling, and soaring.”
CANCER (June 21-July 22): Cancerian author Elizabeth Gilbert wrote, “The universe buries strange jewels deep within us all.” One of those strange jewels in you is emerging from its hiding place. Any day now, it will reveal at least some of its spectacular beauty — to be followed by more in the subsequent weeks. Are you ready to be surprised by your secret self? Are your beloved allies ready? A bloom this magnificent could require adjustments.
You and yours may have to expand your horizons together.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): In 2025, the role that togetherness plays in your life will inspire you to achieve unexpected personal accomplishments. Companionship and alliances may even stir up destiny-changing developments. To get you primed, I offer these quotes: 1. “Love is a trick that nature plays on us to achieve the impossible.” —William Somerset Maugham. 2. “Love is the ultimate outlaw. It won’t adhere to any rules. The most any of us can do is sign on as its accomplice.” —Tom Robbins. 3. “Whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same. Yet each day reveals new constellations in our shared sky.” —Emily Brontë.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Psychotherapist Robin Norwood wrote that some people, mostly women, give too much love and kindness. They neglect their own self-care as they attend generously to the needs of others. They may even provide nurturing and support to those who don’t appreciate it or return the favor. Author Anne Morrow Lindbergh expressed a different perspective. She wrote, “No one has ever loved anyone too much. We just haven›t learned yet how to love enough.” What’s your position on this issue, Virgo? It’s time for you to come to a new understanding of exactly how much giving is correct for you.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Are you ready to express your affection with lush and lavish exuberance? I hope so. Now would be an excellent time, astrologically speaking. I dare you to give the following words, composed by poet Pablo Neruda, to a person who will be receptive to them. “You are the keeper of my wildest storms, the green shoot splitting the stone of my silence. Your love wraps me in galaxies, crowns me with the salt of the sea, and fills my lungs with the language of the earth. You are the voice of the rivers, the crest of the waves, the pulse of the stars. With every word you speak, you unweave my solitude and knit me into eternity.”
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Among its potential gifts, astrology can raise our awareness of the cyclical nature of life. When used well, it helps us know when there are favorable times to enhance and upgrade specific areas of our lives. For example, in the coming weeks, you Scorpios could make progress on building a strong foundation for the future of love. You will rouse sweet fortune for yourself and those you care for if you infuse your best relationships with extra steadiness and stability.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): I want you to be moved by intimacy and friendships that buoy your soul, inspire your expansive mind, and pique your sense of adventure. To boost the likelihood they will flow your way in abundance during the coming weeks, I offer you these quotes. 1. “Love is a madness so discreet that we carry its delicious wounds for a lifetime as if they were precious gems.” —Federico García Lorca. 2. “Love is not a vacation from life. It’s a parallel universe where everything ordinary becomes extraordinary.” —Anne Morrow Lindbergh. 3. “Where there is love there is life. And where there is life, there is mischief in the making.” —my Sagittarius friend Artemisia.
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Every intimate alliance is unique, has its own rules, and shouldn›t be compared to any standard. This is a key theme for you to embrace right now. Below are helpful quotes. 1. “Each couple’s love story is a language only they can speak, with words only they can define.” —Federico Fellini. 2. “In every true marriage, each serves as guide and companion to the other toward a shared enlightenment that no one else could possibly share.” —Joseph Campbell. 3. “The beauty of marriage is not in its uniformity but in how each couple writes their own story, following no map but the one they draw together.” — Isabel Allende. 4. “Marriages are like fingerprints; each one is different, and each one is beautiful.” —Maggie Reyes.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Borrowing the words of Aquarian author Virginia Woolf, I’ve prepared a love note for you to use as your own. Feel free to give these words to the person whose destiny needs to be woven more closely together with yours. “You are the tide that sweeps through the corridors of my mind, a wild rhythm that fills my empty spaces with the echo of eternity. You are the unspoken sentence in my every thought, the shadow and the light interwoven in the fabric of my being. You are the pulse of the universe pressing against my skin, the quiet chaos of love that refuses to be named. You are my uncharted shore.”
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Love and intimacy and togetherness are fun, yes. But they’re also hard work — especially if you want to make the fun last. This will be your specialty in the coming months. I’ve assembled four quotes to inspire you. 1. “The essence of marriage is not that it provides a happy ending, but that it provides a promising beginning — and then you keep beginning again, day after day.” — Gabriel García Márquez. 2. “The secret of a happy marriage remains a secret. But those who follow the art of creating it day after day come closest to discovering it.” —Pearl Buck. 3. “Love is a continuous act of forgiveness.” — Maya Angelou. 4. “In the best of relationships, daily rebuilding is a mutual process. Each partner helps the other grow.” —Virginia Satir
Homework: What’s the most outrageously loving act you could engage in?
Chapurr Roan
Meet our superstar - Chapurr Roan! This 5-year-old Domestic Shorthair mix struts through life like it's a never-ending music video This sweet girl also has a cozy side to her, as she loves to relax and snuggle up to humans She even gets along swimmingly with kiddos! Think this loving girly could be your purr-fect match? Come meet her at our East Campus - 1000 Lyndon Lane, today!
Hazel
Hazel's looking for a place to call home - could you be his paw-fect match? When this goofy one-year-old isn't stealing hearts left and right, you'll probably find him romping outside with his canine pals Hazel has lived successfully with dogs and cats in the past and is approved to go home with children 15 and older He would like to meet any potential roommates (two or four-legged) at our Sam Swope Pet TLC prior to adoption Stop by 241 Steedly Drive to meet Hazel today and see for yourself what makes him so paw-some!
LOW AND SLOW
BY DAN SAVAGE
Dear Readers: When I open a column with “Dear Readers,” it’s usually to let you know I’m taking a week off. But this is a brandnew column! All new questions, all new answers. But I intentionally dug through the mail for relatively simple questions because I’m just fried from the news. So, if you wrote in this week about a particularly thorny interpersonal conflict that would require me to think and focus before responding… you’re not going to find your letter. All the questions below are easy pitches — low, slow, and over the plate — because those were the only ones I felt capable of taking a swing at after the week we’ve all had.
—Dan
Hey Dan: I’m a newly-out gay man who is also exploring kink and leather for the first time. It has been fun, especially because I love daddies, and some wonderful older men have been my guides to this brave new world of rubber and slings. However, a few have ghosted me because I end up texting too much due to the fact that I’m worried they’re losing interest. I’m realizing this is a red flag to others. I’m needy but it’s rooted in the fact that this is all new to me AND since I feel late to the party, I need to move things along quickly to make up for lost time. How do I parent myself through this situation and stop pushing Daddies away with my neediness?
—Boy Losing Opportunities With Incessant Texting
If you’ve gotten unambiguous “you’re too intense/you’re too much/you’re too needy” feedback from multiple guys — verbal and/ or non-verbal — you should be able to correct course. I mean, you may have just come out, BLOWIT, but you’re a grownass man and a grown-ass man can resolve to do things differently. So, how about you identify a friend whose phone you can blow up with messages about your latest sexual adventure? Then after blowing up your friend’s phone for 24 hours, you can send a single thank-you text to the nice guy who set up his sling for you and let him know you’d love to take another ride. Playing it cool is not to be confused with playing games. People who play games lie about their interest or their availability in order get things they want from people who wouldn’t give them those things — their time, their attention, their holes — if they knew the truth. When you play it cool, you’re being honest about your feelings (“I had so much fun and would love to meet up
again”) but you’re being thoughtful, considerate, and strategic about when and how you express them.
And if you wind up regularly getting with a guy that you played it cool with at first, BLOWIT, then you can tell him you were so excited after your first session you sent 300 giddy text messages about him to your best friend. He won’t just be flattered that you felt that way about him — and relieved you didn’t blow up his phone —but even more attracted to you than he was already, BLOWIT, because the ability to self-regulate is something people look for in partners, both play and life.
Hey Dan: How does one navigate unrequited crushes while in a monogamish marriage? My wife has been crushing on someone that has proven to be a mess and is practically unavailable. They have an attraction for one another and have exchanged some flirts and kisses, but this person doesn’t have the time or energy for her that she hoped he would. I’ve stayed out of it because it hasn’t caused any issues for us as a couple. However, at this point it’s the same song and dance without any change of perspective on my wife’s part. How can I support her so she can move on? We go out fairly often to find different cute lesbos. She’s still hung up on this hot mess who, to me, isn’t worth the effort beyond a purely platonic friendship. Always appreciate your advice. —Hoping On This Mess Exiting Sometime Soon
Married poly people — or poly people with primary and/or nesting partners — are often asked how it feels to watch our spouses go through the NRE (“new relationship energy”) stage of a new relationship. (Some of us feel fine about it, others are threatened by it; some of us wanna hear every detail, some of us wanna be on a needto-know basis.) But we’re rarely asked what it’s like to watch our partners suffer through an unrequited crush, a shitty first date, a disappointing or disqualifying first sexual experience with someone new, etc. Short answer: it sucks — watching someone you love suffer always sucks — and figuring out how to help (or whether you’re the right person to help) isn’t always easy. Sometimes the spouse just wants you to listen, sometimes the spouse wants you to weigh in. So, HOTMESS, if you have the kind of relationship where you’re welcome to weigh in on your wife’s other relationships — if you generally talk about the other people you’re pursuing or doing — you
could gently point out the mess your wife is currently too blinded by lust to see. But if you typically don’t discuss other partners or prospects, you would be well advised to keep your mouth shut. If your wife’s crush was negatively impacting you and/or your marriage in some tangible way, HOTMESS, I would urge you to speak up. But it’s not — you said it wasn’t — so you shouldn’t. Love makes fools of us all, as they say, and right now it’s your wife’s turn to play the fool. When she comes to her senses, HOTMESS, you can be there for her with a pint of ice cream and some enthusiastic oral. (Always does the trick for my husband.) You can gently point out the signs she missed, if she wants to talk about it, and make her promise to be just as patient when it’s your turn to play the fool.
Hey Dan: Quite a few years ago I was tricked into participating in a threesome with my ex and his friend when I was high. I brushed it off as a bad experience and did nothing about it. I’m starting to hear that it was an act of conquistadorial machismo since I’ve moved back home. It was suggested that the boys planned the event to use the interaction as blackmail or gossip material. Should I report this to the police? I’m starting to fear the gossip might turn violent. Looking for advice! —Tricked Into Threesome
If you have reason to fear for your safety or if your ex has threatened to blackmail you, TIT, you should be speaking to the police right now and not sending emails to sex-advice monkeys. But if what you’re dealing with is lingering (but totally valid) anger over being talked into doing something dirty while high (but not incapacitated), along with hearsay about gossip (not a crime) and blackmail (a crime if attempted)… then no, the police are not gonna swoop in and arrest your shitty ex and his equally shitty friend. Unless and until something actually happens, you’ll have to go back to brushing this off.
Hey Dan: I recently ended an affair with someone younger than me. We work in the same industry and were in the process of changing our relationship to only being professional and friends. After speaking with her confidants, she let me know that I groomed her during our relationship. Beyond sex, there was a transactional exchange (of a sexual nature), since we live in different states. I am a bit confused since she’s 30 and I am 45 and I presumed a 30-yearold woman had agency. I always encouraged
her to reach out to her friends and never tried to isolate her. Is it possible that a 45-year-old adult was grooming a 30-year-old adult? I am gutted, I’ve always tried to follow your campsite rule. Other than being shitty for having an affair, this all makes me feel terrible since despite me helping her with her career, she feels worse now than when I met her.
—Gloomily Ruminating Over One Mostly Elicit Relationship
Some men convince themselves they’re doing good things when they’re actually doing deeply shitty things. Other men, aware they’re doing deeply shitty things, will toss in a good deed or two to compensate or cover for the deeply shitty things they know they’re doing. And #NotJustMen: we all — men, women, enbies, all of us — have the capacity to construct the kind of self-serving rationalizations that help us sleep at night.
Now, since I don’t have the security footage — and since I can’t subpoena you both and take your depositions under oath — I can’t say whether you were being any shittier than the average person having an affair. (Even when justified, all affairs involve some shitty behavior.) Likewise, I don’t know if you were honoring the campsite rule or just going through the motions. And I don’t know whether your offer of professional support turned what was already transitory and transactional into something exploitative. Did your affair partner feel that way all along? Or is she reassessing things now that it’s over and revising your history together to paint you — with the encouragement of her confidants — in the worst possible light? I don’t know and I can’t tell you.
But I know and can tell you this: You didn’t groom anybody. When we’re talking about sex — not hair care or ski hills — grooming has a very specific meaning. It’s not a 45-year-old adult having consensual-if-ill-advised-and-regrettable sex with a consenting 30-year-old adult. Grooming is when an adult insinuates himself into a child’s life, gains the trust of that child’s caregivers, and then sexually abuses that child. Whatever else you’re guilty of, GROOMER, you are not guilty of that.
Got problems? Yes, you do! Email your question for the column to mailbox@ savage.love! Or record your question for the Savage Lovecast at savage.love/askdan! Podcasts, columns, merch, and more at Savage.Love!
Public Notice
Pursuant to KRS 376.480, the following abandoned mobile home located at 3416 Kramers Lane, #88 in River Oaks MHP LLC. Community, Louisville, Kentucky shall be sold by River Oaks via sealed bid on Friday, March 21, 2025 at 10:00 AM to recover rent, storage and legal fees incurred by the owners of said mobile home. The sealed bids will be accepted at River Oaks MHP, LLC 3416 Kramers Lane, Louisville, KY 40216. Title to the mobile home is not warranted, subject to prior liens and all sales are final. Seller reserves the right to bid. Terms of sale cash only.
Louisville MHC LLC
Unknown Heirs or Beneficiaries
Unknown Owner(s) or Creditor(s)
Year: 2001
Make: Clayton
Model: Unknown
VIN: Unknown
Located at 3416 Kramers Ln, #88. in River Oaks MHP, Community
Public Notice
Pursuant to KRS 376.480, the following abandoned mobile home located at 3416 Kramers Lane, #94 in River Oaks MHP LLC. Community, Louisville, Kentucky shall be sold by River Oaks via sealed bid on Friday, March 21, 2025 at 10:00 AM to recover rent, storage and legal fees incurred by the owners of said mobile home. The sealed bids will be accepted at River Oaks MHP, LLC 3416 Kramers Lane, Louisville, KY 40216. Title to the mobile home is not warranted, subject to prior liens and all sales are final. Seller reserves the right to bid. Terms of sale cash only.
Louisville MHC LLC
Unknown Heirs or Beneficiaries
Unknown Owner(s) or Creditor(s)
Year: 2002
Make: Clayton
Model: Unknown
VIN: Unknown
Located at 3416 Kramers Ln, #94. in River Oaks MHP, Community
Public Notice
Pursuant to KRS 376.480, the following abandoned mobile home located at 3416 Kramers Lane, #87 in River Oaks MHP LLC. Community, Louisville, Kentucky shall be sold by River Oaks via sealed bid on Friday, March 21, 2025 at 10:00 AM to recover rent, storage and legal fees incurred by the owners of said mobile home. The sealed bids will be accepted at River Oaks MHP, LLC 3416 Kramers Lane, Louisville, KY 40216. Title to the mobile home is not warranted, subject to prior liens and all sales are final. Seller reserves the right to bid. Terms of sale cash only.
Louisville MHC LLC
Unknown Heirs or Beneficiaries
Unknown Owner(s) or Creditor(s)
Year: 1973
Make: Castle IND
Model: Unknown
VIN: Unknown
Located at 3416 Kramers Ln, #87. in River Oaks MHP, Community
Public Notice
Pursuant to KRS 376.480, the following abandoned mobile home located at 3416 Kramers Lane, #8 in River Oaks MHP LLC. Community, Louisville, Kentucky shall be sold by River Oaks via sealed bid on Friday, March 21, 2025 at 10:00 AM to recover rent, storage and legal
fees incurred by the owners of said mobile home. The sealed bids will be accepted at River Oaks MHP, LLC 3416 Kramers Lane, Louisville, KY 40216. Title to the mobile home is not warranted, subject to prior liens and all sales are final. Seller reserves the right to bid. Terms of sale cash only.
Kaysi Demma
Unknown Heirs or Beneficiaries
Unknown Owner(s) or Creditor(s)
Year: 1972
Make: Liberty
Model: Unknown
VIN: Unknown
Located at 3416 Kramers Ln, #8. in River Oaks MHP, Community
Public Notice
Pursuant to KRS 376.480, the following abandoned mobile home located at 3416 Kramers Lane, #25 in River Oaks MHP LLC. Community, Louisville, Kentucky shall be sold by River Oaks via sealed bid on Friday, March 21, 2025 at 10:00 AM to recover rent, storage and legal fees incurred by the owners of said mobile home. The sealed bids will be accepted at River Oaks MHP, LLC 3416 Kramers Lane, Louisville, KY 40216. Title to the mobile home is not warranted, subject to prior liens and all sales are final. Seller reserves the right to bid. Terms of sale cash only.
Fedon Rashaun
Unknown Heirs or Beneficiaries
Unknown Owner(s) or Creditor(s)
Year: 1981
Make: Elcona Homes
Model: Unknown
VIN: Unknown
Located at 3416 Kramers Ln, #25. in River Oaks MHP, Community
Public Notice
Pursuant to KRS 376.480, the following abandoned mobile home located at 3416 Kramers Lane, #30 in River Oaks MHP LLC. Community, Louisville, Kentucky shall be sold by River Oaks via sealed bid on Friday, March 21, 2025 at 10:00 AM to recover rent, storage and legal fees incurred by the owners of said mobile home. The sealed bids will be accepted at River Oaks MHP, LLC 3416
Kramers Lane, Louisville, KY 40216. Title to the mobile home is not warranted, subject to prior liens and all sales are final. Seller reserves the right to bid. Terms of sale cash only.
David Younce
Unknown Heirs or Beneficiaries
Unknown Owner(s) or Creditor(s)
Year: 1997
Make: Fleetwood
Model: Unknown
VIN: Unknown
Located at 3416 Kramers Ln, #30. in River Oaks MHP, Community
Public Notice
Pursuant to KRS 376.480, the following abandoned mobile home located at 3416 Kramers Lane, #89 in River Oaks MHP LLC. Community, Louisville, Kentucky shall be sold by River Oaks via sealed bid on Friday, March 21, 2025 at 10:00 AM to recover rent, storage and legal fees incurred by the owners of said mobile home. The sealed bids will be accepted at River Oaks MHP, LLC 3416
Kramers Lane, Louisville, KY 40216. Title to the mobile home is not warranted, subject to prior liens and all sales are final. Seller reserves the right to bid. Terms of sale cash only.
Dianna Thornsberry
Unknown Heirs or Beneficiaries
Unknown Owner(s) or Creditor(s)
Year: 1972
Make: Champion
Model: Unknown
VIN: Unknown
Located at 3416 Kramers Ln, #89. in River Oaks MHP, Community
Public Notice
Pursuant to KRS 376.480, the following abandoned mobile home located at 3416 Kramers Lane, #83 in River Oaks MHP LLC. Community, Louisville, Kentucky shall be sold by River Oaks via sealed bid on Friday, March 21, 2025 at 10:00 AM to recover rent, storage and legal fees incurred by the owners of said mobile home. The sealed bids will be accepted at River Oaks MHP, LLC 3416 Kramers Lane, Louisville, KY 40216. Title to the mobile home is not warranted, subject to prior liens and all sales are final. Seller reserves the right to bid. Terms of sale cash only.
Pam Riddle
Unknown Heirs or Beneficiaries
Unknown Owner(s) or Creditor(s)
Year: 1988
Make: Fleetwood
Model: Unknown
VIN: Unknown
Located at 3416 Kramers Ln, #83. in River Oaks MHP, Community
Public Notice
Pursuant to KRS 376.480, the following abandoned mobile home located at 3515 Crossland Way, #C43 in Fort Bluegrass MHP LLC. Community, Louisville, Kentucky shall be sold by Fort Bluegrass via sealed bid on Friday, March 21, 2025 at 10:00 AM to recover rent, storage and legal fees incurred by the owners of said mobile home.
The sealed bids will be accepted at Fort Bluegrass MHP, LLC 3510 Bluegrass Park Drive, Louisville, Kentucky 40218. Title to the mobile home is not warranted, subject to prior liens and all sales are final. Seller reserves the right to bid. Terms of sale cash only.
Bluegrass Mobile Home Court
Unknown Heirs or Beneficiaries
Unknown Owner(s) or Creditor(s)
Year: 1964 Make: AVA
Model: Unknown
VIN: 1439
Located at 3515 Crossland Way, #C43 in Fort Bluegrass MHP, Community
Public Notice
Pursuant to KRS 376.480, the following abandoned mobile home located at 3516 Bluegrass Park Drive, #F2 in Fort Bluegrass MHP LLC. Community, Louisville, Kentucky shall be sold by Fort Bluegrass via sealed bid on Friday, March 21, 2025 at 10:00 AM to recover rent, storage and legal fees incurred by the owners of said mobile home.
The sealed bids will be accepted at Fort Bluegrass MHP, LLC 3510 Bluegrass Park Drive, Louisville, Kentucky
40218. Title to the mobile home is not warranted, subject to prior liens and all sales are final. Seller reserves the right to bid. Terms of sale cash only.
Unknown Heirs or Beneficiaries
Unknown Owner(s) or Creditor(s) Year: 2017
Make: Champion Model: Unknown
VIN: 125-AC0-H-B004533A
Located at 3516 Bluegrass Park Drive, #F2 in Fort Bluegrass MHP, Community
Public Notice
Pursuant to KRS 376.480, the following abandoned mobile home located at 3503 Crossland Way, #C49 in Fort Bluegrass MHP LLC. Community, Louisville, Kentucky shall be sold by Fort Bluegrass via sealed bid on Friday, March 21, 2025 at 10:00 AM to recover rent, storage and legal fees incurred by the owners of said mobile home.
The sealed bids will be accepted at Fort Bluegrass MHP, LLC 3510 Bluegrass Park Drive, Louisville, Kentucky 40218. Title to the mobile home is not warranted, subject to prior liens and all sales are final. Seller reserves the right to bid. Terms of sale cash only.
HT&T, Inc.
Unknown Heirs or Beneficiaries
Unknown Owner(s) or Creditor(s)
Year: 1959
Make: NEWM
Model: Unknown
VIN: 30872
Located at 3503 Crossland Way, #C49 in Fort Bluegrass MHP, Community
Public Notice
Pursuant to KRS 376.480, the following abandoned mobile home located at 3540 Fleetwood Drive, #D21 in Fort Bluegrass MHP LLC. Community, Louisville, Kentucky shall be sold by Fort Bluegrass via sealed bid on Friday, March 21, 2025 at 10:00 AM to recover rent, storage and legal fees incurred by the owners of said mobile home.
The sealed bids will be accepted at Fort Bluegrass MHP, LLC 3510 Bluegrass Park Drive, Louisville, Kentucky 40218. Title to the mobile home is not warranted, subject to prior liens and all sales are final. Seller reserves the right to bid. Terms of sale cash only.
HT&T, Inc.
Unknown Heirs or Beneficiaries
Unknown Owner(s) or Creditor(s)
Year: 1966
Make: PNC
Model: Unknown
VIN: FF422FL10PA33098
Located at 3540 Fleetwood Drive, #D21 in Fort Bluegrass MHP, Community
Public Notice
Pursuant to KRS 376.480, the following abandoned mobile home located at 3515 Crossland Way, #C43 in Fort Bluegrass MHP LLC. Community, Louisville, Kentucky shall be sold by Fort Bluegrass via sealed bid on Friday, March 21, 2025 at 10:00 AM to recover rent, storage and legal fees incurred by the owners of said mobile home.
The sealed bids will be accepted at Fort Bluegrass MHP, LLC 3510 Bluegrass Park Drive, Louisville, Kentucky 40218. Title to the mobile home is not warranted, subject to prior liens and all sales are final. Seller reserves the right to bid. Terms of sale cash only.
Bluegrass Mobile Home Court
Unknown Heirs or Beneficiaries
Unknown Owner(s) or Creditor(s)
Year: 1964
Make: AVA
Model: Unknown
VIN: 1439
Located at 3515 Crossland Way, #C43 in Fort Bluegrass MHP, Community
Public Notice
Pursuant to KRS 376.480, the following abandoned mobile home located at 3547 Crossland Way, #C27 in Fort Bluegrass MHP LLC. Community, Louisville, Kentucky shall be sold by Fort Bluegrass via sealed bid on Friday, March 21, 2025 at 10:00 AM to recover rent, storage and legal fees incurred by the owners of said mobile home.
The sealed bids will be accepted at Fort Bluegrass MHP,
LLC 3510 Bluegrass Park Drive, Louisville, Kentucky 40218. Title to the mobile home is not warranted, subject to prior liens and all sales are final. Seller reserves the right to bid. Terms of sale cash only.
Alvin Ray Allen
Unknown Heirs or Beneficiaries
Unknown Owner(s) or Creditor(s)
Year: 1959
Make: Buddy Duplex
Model: Unknown
VIN: 50104692
Located at 3547 Crossland Way, #C27 in Fort Bluegrass MHP, Community
Public Notice
Pursuant to KRS 376.480, the following abandoned mobile home located at 3535 Caravan Way, #B17 in Fort Bluegrass MHP LLC. Community, Louisville, Kentucky shall be sold by Fort Bluegrass via sealed bid on Friday, March 21, 2025 at 10:00 AM to recover rent, storage and legal fees incurred by the owners of said mobile home. The sealed bids will be accepted at Fort Bluegrass MHP, LLC 3510 Bluegrass Park Drive, Louisville, Kentucky 40218. Title to the mobile home is not warranted, subject to prior liens and all sales are final. Seller reserves the right to bid. Terms of sale cash only.
Christopher Thienemann
Unknown Heirs or Beneficiaries
Unknown Owner(s) or Creditor(s)
Year: Unknown
Make: Unknown
Model: Unknown
VIN: Unknown
Located at 3535 Caravan Way, #B17 in Fort Bluegrass MHP, Community
Public Notice
Pursuant to KRS 376.480, the following abandoned mobile home located at 3524 Bluegrass Park Drive, #F6 in Fort Bluegrass MHP LLC. Community, Louisville, Kentucky shall be sold by Fort Bluegrass via sealed bid on Friday, March 21, 2025 at 10:00 AM to recover rent, storage and legal fees incurred by the owners of said mobile home. The sealed bids will be accepted at Fort Bluegrass MHP, LLC 3510 Bluegrass Park Drive, Louisville, Kentucky 40218. Title to the mobile home is not warranted, subject to prior liens and all sales are final. Seller reserves the right to bid. Terms of sale cash only.
Nativadad Cruz
Unknown Heirs or Beneficiaries
Unknown Owner(s) or Creditor(s) Year: Unknown
Make: Unknown
Model: Unknown
VIN: Unknown
Located at 3524 Bluegrass Park Drive, #F6 in Fort Bluegrass MHP, Community
TWO-FOR-ONE SPECIAL
BY DERRICK NIEDERMAN
Puzzles Edited by Will Shortz
Derrick Niederman, of Charleston, S.C., recently retired from the mathematics department at the College of Charleston and is the author of numerous books, including ‘‘Math Puzzles for the Clever Mind,’’ ‘‘Number Freak: A Mathematical Compendium From 1 to 200’’ and a mystery novel, ‘‘A Killing on Wall Street.’’ This is his 14th crossword for The Times (all Sundays), going back to 1983. — W.S.
20 Venetian magistrates of old 21 French friend
22 Lead actress in ‘‘The Lovely Bones’’ (2009) and ‘‘The Bourne Legacy’’ (2012)
Informer, informally
Cartoon character inspired by W. C. Fields 29 Gave a darn
3,605, in ancient Rome
Image on a Missouri state quarter
Italian sports cars, informally
Gear tooth
17 ‘‘Ave Maria’’ finale, appropriately?
Buying binge
Desirable condition for hostas
‘‘Cómo ____?’’
43 Divinity sch. subj.
44 Provoked an online fight 47 Treasure 48 Holland/tunnel
49 Figs. on flight boards
51 Onetime Kia model
52 Spot
54 Tik____ challenge
55 Home of the Temple of Poseidon
57 Put-down 59 They put things on the back burner
Smash hit
66 Steamed Chinese bun
Exist
70 Your business start-up?
72 Word often shortened to a letter and a number
73 Catherine the Great, e.g.: Abbr. 74 Average/income
75 Jeans popular in the 1980s
77 Denver/Colorado
79 Name spelled by the initials of five consecutive months
80 The ‘‘E’’ in G.E.: Abbr.
82 Applied to
83 Org. once led by George H. W.
Direction of the wind that brought Mary Poppins
Where ‘‘Cheers’’ is set
Chart-topping Basil or Braxton
91 Start of ‘‘O Come, All Ye Faithful’’
93 Place to buy tickets: Abbr.
Jewel case holders
Architect Maya
Follow 98 Mel who sang the 1949 No. 1 hit ‘‘Careless Hands’’
29 Prompted, in a theater 31 Horse/power
34 Tour aid
35 What Hester Prynne wore in a Hawthorne novel
36 Excessive praise
38 Like some eyeliners
40 Lineage
41 Major shops
45 Honking or screeching, for example
46 Bygone owner of Virgin Records
50 ‘‘Hello there, good ____’’
53 One eager for radical change
56 Kind of line that no one just stands in
58 Party to the left of Dem.
60 Body parts with caps
62 How caviar might be served
63 Will, given the opportunity
65 Sephora purchase
66 ‘‘Help me out here’’
67 Fast-evaporating cleaning agent
68 Sicilian Defense in chess, e.g.
71 Adversary
76 Deli devices
78 Pickleball need 79 Classic British sports cars 81 Conclusion
the
83 What parallel lines never do 84 Ones in the know
