This month, our team had the privilege of visiting several nonprofits in our community, each one delivering a powerful message: this could happen to any of us, at any time. I never anticipated how quickly this truth would resonate with me. Just days ago, while crossing an intersection in St. Matthews, I stumbled and fell directly into the path of oncoming traffic. In that fleeting moment, a thought crossed my mind—Is this my moment? Thankfully, the driver reacted quickly, slamming on the brakes and checking to see if I was okay. With slightly bloody hands and knees, I was reminded of how unpredictable life can be and how close we all are to circumstances that could change everything in an instant.
As we approach the holiday season, I encourage each of you to cherish moments spent with loved ones and seek ways to give back to our community. Whether it’s enjoying a cozy bingo night with grandparents, building resilience through programs like Rock Steady Boxing—founded by Scott C. Newman after his diagnosis with Parkinson’s disease at age 40—or joining hands with the Festival of Faiths in a spirit of gratitude and celebration, these experiences remind us of our shared humanity.
Consider taking a step—big or small—toward change. This could mean supporting local organizations like Change Today, Change Tomorrow in their fight against hunger, choosing to shop local, or checking out our nonprofit giving guide to help the local community that sustains us all. This issue highlights inspiring nonprofits and seasonal celebrations, each with a unique way to make a difference. I hope their stories motivate you to explore, engage, and celebrate what it means to be part of this compassionate and resilient community.
Let’s make this season one of gratitude, unity, and action. Together, we can create lasting change.
Highlights:
• Online Events Calendar: Catch the best of Louisville’s events and subscribe to our online calendar, or visit our website for a printable copy!
• New! Online Event Submission Form: We have limited spots every month, so the sooner you reach out, the more likely we are to cover your event.
• Video Voice Interviews: Look out for several new interviews at www.VOICE-TRIBUNE.com.
• New and Exclusive VOICE-TRIBUNE Events: That’s right! We’re bringing back VOICE-TRIBUNE events, where the community can connect and network with the people featured in our publications. Want to be a part of these, just reach out to info@voice-tribune.com and we can get you more information!
Our team does this monthly for the Many Voices of Louisville.
We hope you like this volume!
Amelia Frazier Theobald
EDITOR’S NOTE
REFLECTING ON COMMUNITY SUPPORT
‘Tis the season of giving back and if there is one takeaway I hope our readers gain from this month’s volume, it is how essential it is to engage with and invest in the community we call home and our fellow neighbors. Community support isn’t always grand gestures; more often, it’s the everyday acts of kindness that bind us together. It’s the small business owner who opens early to help a loyal customer, the volunteer who consistently dedicates their weekends, or the neighbor who checks in with others especially those who are going through a challenging time. These moments don’t always make headlines, but they quietly build the foundation of a community that thrives on care, empathy, and collective strength.
We’ve dedicated the pages of this volume to the theme of community support, curating a collection of stories that I hope will inspire our readers to action. Whether that be through buying local, volunteering, donating to your favorite non-profit, or simply saying “Hello in There.”
“So if you’re walkin’ down the street sometime and spot some hollow, ancient eyes; please don’t just pass ‘em by and stare, as if you didn’t care. Say, ‘Hello in there, hello’.”- Hello in There, John Prine
Take care,
Alisha Proffitt Chief Director of Editorial & Co-Editor
PRESIDENT/CEO, AMELIA FRAZIER THEOBALD OPERATIONS MANAGER, MARY ZOELLER
CHIEF REVENUE OFFICER, JULIE KOENIG
CHIEF DIRECTOR OF EDITORIAL & CO-EDITOR, ALISHA PROFFITT
FASHION & EDITORIAL PHOTOGRAPHER & VIDEOGRAPHER, ANTONIO PANTOJA DISTRIBUTION, KELLI VAN HECKE, JILL & JOHN MINNIX
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: ALISON CARDOZA, ALISHA PROFFITT, DR. RANDY WHETSTONE JR., JACKIE ZYKAN, KELSEY KNOTT, KEVIN MURPHY WILSON, LISA HORNUNG, MCKENNA GRAHAM, NAILAH SPENCER, REMY SISK, RUSS BROWN
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: AARON TYLER, BARR FARMS, FESTIVAL OF FAITHS, GIOIA PATTON, HELLO IN THERE FOUNDATION, JACKIE ZYKAN, KEVIN KLOTZ, THE SKIN GROUP, UOFL ATHLETICS, BILL WINE, DR. RANDY WHETSTONE JR, KEVIN SIVAKUMAR, MEDICI, KENTUCKY BOURBON HALL OF FAME
CONTRIBUTING STYLISTS & MAKEUP ARTISTS: MATT GOODLETT
Sisk
Makeup Artist: Matt Goodlett
Models: Kanada Esteppe, Cleo Heine, & Jessica Zehnder
BITTNERS
With an enduring style, our handmade bourbon box pays tribute to Kentucky’s bourbon industry. The unique piece is made from solid American walnut burl with each top handcrafted from reclaimed American walnut burl finished with a satin sheen. The limited edition bourbon boxes are tailor-made by our on-site master craftsmen.
By VOICE-TRIBUNE • Photos by Matt Johnson
In this Q&A, we sit down with Angela Hagan, the new executive director of Louisville Visual Art (LVA), to explore her journey, vision, and passion for the arts. With deep roots in the Midwest and a long-standing connection to Louisville, Hagan’s background in urban and public affairs complements her enthusiasm for fostering vibrant communities through art. As a seasoned nonprofit leader and advocate for community health, she brings fresh energy to LVA, aiming to create inclusive spaces and champion underrepresented artists. Here, she shares her insights on leadership, collaboration, and the future of LVA in Louisville’s thriving arts ecosystem.
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and your personal background?
I grew up in deep southeastern Illinois, where my parents still live. After college at the University of Illinois, I looked at Louisville for graduate school because my father, Ron Stallings, had graduated from UofL and played basketball on the 1972 Final Four team. Aside from a short stint from 2003-2006 where my husband, Ken, and I were in Illinois, I’ve made Louisville my home since I moved here for graduate school in 1997. Ken and I were introduced by his college friend Josh who was in one of my classes. We became friends and finally started dating in 1999 and got married in 2000. A few years later Josh was introduced to one of my childhood friends, Ginger, and they got married. Now we’re all business partners in the guys’ Left Bank bourbon venture.
Ken and I have two children, Bel (18), a freshman at University of Cincinnati, and Audrey (16), a junior at Atherton High School. We live in the Cherokee Triangle but previously lived in Indian Hills, Old Louisville, and Germantown.
I love Louisville and all its neighborhoods, its arts and culture, and the general friendliness. We have a real treasure in this community. As a “city doctor,” (PhD in Urban & Public Affairs), I am keenly interested in the ecosystem that contributes to healthy, vibrant, thriving places. That includes factors like housing, transportation, social connections, food systems, education, parks, and of course the arts! Throughout my 20+ year career, I’ve worked in several of those spaces either directly or as a volunteer/board member.
What inspired you to return to the nonprofit arts sector after your time at Humana?
After close to 10 years at Humana, most of it working in community health and health equity, but a bit removed from the operational aspects of the community-based organizations on the ground with whom we partnered, I found myself wondering what’s next for me, and “please let it be in Louisville!” I have remained involved in the nonprofit community in general as well as with KMAC and generally engaged in the art scene as a supporter and aspiring collector and have built some dear friendships because of that passion. So, it was fortuitous when I met up with former fundraising/development colleague Lisa Resnik, who was working with the LVA Board to recruit an executive director, and she encouraged me to submit and interview. I suppose it was meant to be?
What are your main priorities for Louisville Visual Art as the new executive director?
I think about our work in three main buckets of mission: art education; support the growth and development of emerging and established Louisville visual artists; and promote public art as an integral part of community health and vibrancy. In the coming year, we have a couple of key objectives in those buckets:
Celebrate the 100th year of fine art classes for children and youth through what we call our “Children’s Fine Art Classes” program that takes places in schools and neighborhood centers throughout the Louisville area, both in and out of school times. We’re hoping to get in touch with more people who participated as youth. Some people might not have known what it was called but were in classes and camps. Our Board’s very own Lucie Stansbury is one! Not everyone who took the classes works in art, but I’ll bet that experience with art helps with creative problem solving in their fields today.
Finishing out our building on Lytle Street in the Portland neighborhood! As one of the early pioneers in this area, I’m excited by the investment and thoughtful strategy coming together to infuse energy into this storied community. We hope to be a community hub.
Could you tell us more about the renovation plans for LVA’s multi-purpose art facility and what this will mean for the community and artists?
We will have four dedicated art classrooms, additional dedicated gallery space, meeting spaces, and more opportunities for artists’ studios. We’ll be able to host more events on -site with improved HVAC, too!
Currently, thanks to a visionary and generous donor, there’s work in progress for the exterior with the fabrication and upcoming installation of the Spark, a large paint, metal and light emitting sculpture that will extend around the corner of the building. I hope that it becomes a metaphor for what we will have when the interior is finished: a spark of imagination in our arts education; a spark helping ignite an artist’s career; a spark of light as a beacon of welcome in the neighborhood.
You’ve mentioned plans for a new strategic initiative at LVA. What areas of the organization do you see as key to evolving in order to integrate more of the arts community?
I’m still in the meet and greet and discovery phase at three weeks in, but in general I would like for us to collaborate more with other visual and performing arts organizations, to strategize and develop new programming. For example, where the different disciplines are complements. Louisville Orchestra and Louisville Ballet are moving in this way, and it helps them connect with new audiences. And specifically in the visual arts space, how do we work together to align or coordinate scheduled shows and events to maximize attendance or impact, creating energy and critical mass?
One of your goals is to broaden exposure for underrepresented artists. How do you plan to achieve this through LVA’s programming?
I think it starts with outreach. That can be as simple as using different channels of communication and different media and social outlets. It means continuing to partner and enhance partnerships with art schools, perhaps outreach at art supply stores, and attending lots of shows in smaller and/or newer galleries. And it also means asking questions, being curious, and LISTENING, and looking out for new events and art outside the mainstream. Sometimes those artists are not connected to galleries and are working to create a social media following or are known in smaller circles.
I also want to clarify when I say underrepresented, I mean a broad swath of socioeconomic groups that have not always been or felt truly included in the art world. Of course, that means Black, indigenous and other people of color. It also means people with disabilities, people who didn’t go to art school because of financial means or living in a rural area, etc.
Many people were delighted at the return of the biennial show at LVA this fall after over 10 years of not doing one. Over 50 artists’ work was represented. Large group shows and open calls for submissions, as long as we are getting the call out to more communities, can help too. We’re debriefing and planning how to prep for 2026.
Another example: Some friends and I attended the recent inaugural Artists and Afros art show at the Norton Healthcare Sports and Learning Center at 30th and Market. Shauntrice Martin, Sadiqa Reynolds, and E&S Gallery, which specializes in the work of Black artists, organized it. Clearly there is a need and demand to elevate and showcase more artists of color and create opportunities to engage with them. We want to coordinate our timing and opportunities with them next year.
How does LVA’s commitment to the Imagine Greater Louisville Cultural Plan align with your personal vision for creating a more inclusive and equitable arts scene?
We believe LVA is working to address all five of the priority areas: Access; Cultivation; Education; Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion; and Promotion. We have a rich history in art education. We have been growing our professional development programming for artists and there is more I’d like to see us do. Our work with the Mural Arts Program has helped to create art in more places for more people. We have a relatively new program called Curate Purchase Inspire that also engages more voices and puts art in front of more people, including many historically not engaged in the arts.
You’ve mentioned that Louisville has a “related ecosystem” of people working across sectors like housing, education, and the arts. How do you plan to leverage this interconnectedness to foster greater collaboration for LVA’s future projects?
No single actor/organization has all the answers. It’s really about the community working together. In the health space, we know that where you live, work, and play every day drives the majority of your wellbeing. How do we pool human and financial capital and work together across sectors and disciplines toward a common goal of healthy, vibrant places. By each playing our part but coordinating together with achievable goals, we create real change. You can build new mixed-income housing, but without zoning that restricts the number of dollar stores and provides incentives for fresh food markets or allows for protection of some green space and trees, or doesn’t include sidewalks and lighting with aesthetic, peaceful community gathering space with art features, you’re not solving for the real problems but sticking band-aids on them. The innovators in our community are planning these things together. Look at what the Urban League has been able to achieve with thinking about creating community space, while considering transportation routes, car access, multifaceted needs like health care and meeting spaces, leverage and partner with groups like Feed the West, looking toward building community gardens, etc.
What long-term changes or initiatives would you like to see LVA undertake during your tenure as executive director?
I want to really see us lean into the access to art initiative with Our Curate Purchase Inspire program. CPI engages artists, teachers, and others who have a curatorial mindset in partnership and planning with artists and community organizations to purchase work from local artists and place site-specific art installations on permanent loan in those nonprofits. I was delighted to learn that The Cabbage Patch Settlement House, where I once worked and also served on the board, was one of those sites. We’re in our third year of the program, and I’d like to see us leverage artist and philanthropist Clare Hirn’s generous gift as the spark to endow additional funding and expand the program’s reach. We’re currently working to assess impact to date and size up future opportunities.
How has your personal background in creative arts shaped your leadership style and goals for LVA?
I’m sure my time on KMAC’s team and on the board, as well as being a life-long audience member, museum and gallery attendee, etc. feed into my empathy for artists and those working in the space. One of the things I told the team is that I don’t want to ever ask people who work in creative fields for a living to donate their work to a fundraiser event, and especially for the idea of “exposure” if they are emerging or haven’t realized their full potential. An artwork could take someone days or weeks. That really feels like taking advantage of someone, not being respectful of all that they put into it. We need to value the worth and pay the worth.
And a favorite reminder Ken always gives me: “Never conflate effort with results.” To me, that means, let’s focus on impact not output. Presence or continuing to work at a task isn’t always productivity. If we need to take a step away and regroup with more creative thinking and get it done more effectively, so be it.
As far as leadership style, I might credit my parents and my grandparents, and growing up in a small town with instilling a sense of empathy, as well as curiosity, that guide my whole life. That doesn’t mean I don’t make mistakes or continue to learn and grow each day, because I do, and humility is definitely a practice each day. I try to meet people where they are and be as transparent as I’m able.
By Dr. Randy Whetstone, Jr. • Photos by Matt Johnson
Many may not know about the collaborations that help to undergird the success of spirit brands around the nation. After speaking with two founders – who may have been birthed as industry siblings – organizational partnerships have been needed to combat societal issues such as homelessness. I met with the Founder of Bourbon Brotherhood, Bruce Corwin, and the Founder of Whisky Chicks, Linda Ruffenach to learn about their most recent milestone they accomplished collectively.
Most recently, you all have come together as organizations to raise some needed fundraising dollars in the city of Louisville. Collectively, if I’m not mistaken, Bourbon Brotherhood and Whisky Chicks together have raised $750,000 for the Coalition for the Homeless?
Linda
“Bruce and I got together to connect and see what the other one was up to. What became really apparent in our first meeting - and this was 10 years ago - was that we both had a commitment to giving back. Both of us were doing it as a labor of love and we wanted to be able to give back to the community. So, after a little brainstorming, we said ‘Well, why don’t we host a co-event together?’ We hosted our first event at Evan Williams Bourbon Experience. In that first year, we raised $10,000.”
Bruce
“Back then, there was only one bourbon experience downtown, which was the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience. It was a brand new thing, and they agreed to let us host an event there. As Linda mentioned, we raised $10,000 that first year, and then we’ve grown over the years. Each year it’s gotten bigger and bigger and cumulatively over those 11 years we’ve raised three-quarters of a million dollars, which we never thought we’d hit a milestone like that.”
Tell us what it means to contribute and to give to the Coalition for the Homeless. What does it mean for your organization?
Linda
“I go back to the very first one (event) that we did. I was on the board of the Coalition for the Homeless at that time, and they were on a mission to end veteran homelessness. What was really cool was some of the work that we did over that year and following years, reduced veteran homelessness to a functional zero. This means that all identified homeless veterans have access to permanent housing, and there are dedicated resources to ensure that newly homeless veterans find housing within 30 days. So that’s probably one of the areas that’s been huge for me; and then these last couple years, it’s been around youth homelessness and other big topics like that.”
Bruce
“You see the homelessness at every intersection, it seems, off every ramp and downtown. You see a lot of that. It’s very heartbreaking to me. You always wonder what can you do? If I give $20 to that person, is that really helping them? You want to know that you can do something to help but, you’re not sure what would really help these folks. By working with the Coalition for the Homeless, they’ve got 30 different partner agencies that they work very closely with. These are food banks and shelters and all kinds of organizations that help in different ways the homeless community. They help to coordinate those efforts. They help to get grants from the state and from the federal government to help fight homelessness and it’s an ongoing challenge in our community. It’s something that I’m glad that there’s so many people out there that have helped Linda and me to raise these funds and fight against homelessness.”
Bruce and Linda, I’m a big fan of building synergy. There’s so much more we can do collectively as the sum of the parts, instead of as an individual. So, it makes me think about the importance of organizational partnerships. Can you all speak about how important it is to partner with other organizations to help tackle some of the challenges we see in our Community?
Linda
“I don’t think we could have pulled this off individually. I think it took both of us together. It wasn’t like one plus one equals two. It was one plus one equals four, because we were able to get more people involved and engaged. I think part of it also goes into the spirit of the bourbon industry and this whole idea of ‘all boats rise’, where, outside of marketing, they’re very collaborative within the industry.
“A great example of that is, as Bruce mentioned, Evan Williams was the first visitor center on Main Street. Angel’s Envy was the second one, and Evan Williams went out of their way to help Angel’s get their visitor center off the ground. They showed them best practices. They told them what worked (and what) didn’t work. One might think, ‘Well, aren’t you competing against each other?’ but the reality is they saw it as an opportunity to get visitors to come to Louisville to visit our bourbon centers. And if you’ve got a great bourbon experience, then it’s a chance that they’re going to come check out my bourbon experience as well. And so that kind of feeds into the whole culture around bourbon.”
COUNTRY-FOLK LEGEND JOHN PRINE’S FOUNDATION HELPS REGIONAL CAUSES
By Lisa Hornung
Though he wasn’t born here, John Prine’s Kentucky roots make him a son of the Bluegrass State, tightly embraced by anyone who’s heard the song “Paradise” and sung along with joy and tears.
An unofficial anthem for Kentuckians, the song evokes nostalgia for a place most of us have never been -- a town completely removed to harvest its coal. It also showcases his love for his parents’ home in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky.
Prine died in April 2020, an early victim of COVID-19, just about a month before his scheduled Louisville show at the Louisville Palace. Over the next year his widow Fiona Prine, his sons and some of his friends created the Hello In There Foundation, named after one of Prine’s most popular songs. Prine wrote “Hello in There” at age 22 while delivering newspapers to a senior center. He noticed the loneliness of the elderly, a small example of his caring and kindness.
The foundation “firstly was established to continue John’s legacy of kindness and generosity,” Fiona Prine said. “If you knew anything about John, you knew that he was both kind and generous. Certainly, as his wife and our family know that his generosity just knew no bounds really. From personal family kindnesses and generosity to just, he would never pass by a veteran on the street without stopping. So, we use that as our gold standard.”
The couple had talked about setting up a foundation. They had given to many causes throughout their lives, but never got around to creating an official fundraising organization. The first major fundraising event was scheduled for October 2021 to celebrate his birthday on Oct. 10. But COVID came roaring back, and they decided to cancel until the following year, Fiona Prine said.
This year the organization had its third annual fundraiser, You’ve Got Gold, in October. Between that and the annual campaign, Fiona Prine said she expects to be able to contribute $300,000 to hurricane relief in the wake of hurricanes Helene and Milton. She said the organization plans to donate $180,000+ to Gulfport, Florida, where she owns a home and the rest to other areas in need of post-disaster help. Fiona Prine also said the foundation was able to help areas of Kentucky hit by tornadoes and floods in recent years.
“There’s a big affinity, obviously, with Kentucky. … Just being able to tap into the region, you know. [John’s] parents would say that he was pure Kentuckian. And we visited a lot there, every year, a couple of times.” Fiona Prine said.
Creating the Hello In There Foundation was a way to honor Prine’s memory, but it also helped with Fiona Prine’s grief or at least delayed it.
“I think initially it [helped] because it kept me busy,” she said “Last year, even though we were still busy and having my son Jack Prine, a board member of the Hello In There Foundation, and then having Celine Thackston as executive director, they took a lot of the workload for me last year because I was having a particularly difficult time with grief. So I feel that I finally got into my grief in 2023 but yes, being busy always does help. But sometimes, if you’re over-busy, it can just delay the inevitable. And I think that might have happened to me.”
The transition from wife to widow was particularly hard for her because of the closeness of the couple. “We met in 1988, and we were pretty much together from the time that we met all the way up until his final moments. We spent all of our time together. So it was a huge loss, a huge life change for me.”
The Hello In There Foundation’s mission is “to identify and collaborate with individuals and communities to offer support for people who are marginalized, discriminated against or for any reason, are otherwise forgotten.”
The foundation supports many organizations, including Ella’s House to help pregnant and parenting student mothers attending college in the greater Nashville area, Central Appalachia Health Wagon, Tennessee Justice for Our Neighbors to provide compassionate immigration legal services to those seeking humanitarian relief, Musicares for a safety net of critical health and welfare services to the music community, Muhlenberg Music Mission, Color Me Country to support representation of Black voices in folk, Americana, and country music, Healing Appalachia to save lives and fight the opioid epidemic, National Coalition for Homeless Veterans to give emergency and supportive housing, food, health services, job training and placement assistance, legal aid and case management support for homeless veterans, Tennessee Immigrants and Refugee Rights Coalition to advocate for immigrants and refugees, Comfort Connections to help with their work with children and families affected by the Covenant school shooting in Nashville, and many more.
“We value the community that supports us,” Fiona Prine said. “I would like to express my gratitude to them, to let them know that we are mindful and thoughtful about every cent that we spend. We’re fully transparent and we just love that John’s community is, along with us, creating some goodness in the world. It feels very right.”
The
OCTOBER 25 TH - NOVEMBER 30 TH
Join us over the upcoming weekends as we build excitement for our next chapter! Enjoy special entertainment, guest chefs, and exclusive events, all leading up to a Champagne Send Off on November 30th. Be part of the celebration before we close for an exciting renovation. Stay tuned for all event details on our website and social media!
LIFTING LOUISVILLE’S LITTLE ONES IN LITERACY
By Kelsey Knott • Photos by Matt Johnson
It’s true! Dolly’s “little book program” has successfully made its way to every zip code in Jefferson County! Maria Gurren, the Executive Director of Imagination Library of Louisville, kindly shares about this nonprofit and the immense importance of having access to books and reading regularly for children and parents alike.
What began as an all-volunteer initiative in 2016 for a few high-need Louisville zip codes became available to every child in Jefferson County last summer. Founded by Dolly Parton in 1995, the Imagination Library started as a literacy initiative for her home in Sevier County, Tennessee. Her father, who never learned to read, founded the program with Dolly, and it celebrates its 30th anniversary next year. The model and mission are simple: “We send a free book in the mail every month to kids from birth to age five to help them develop a love of reading and get them ready for kindergarten.” On average, children may receive 38 books before kindergarten, but 60 if signed up at birth, and local affiliates cover the cost of each book mailed. Imagination Libary serves 1 out of every 3 kids under age five in Jefferson County.
Child literacy experts, most connected to the University of Tennessee, consider various factors when selecting Imagination Libary books: character diversity, story diversity, developmental milestones met, illustration quality, and story quality. Gurren states: “They’re highly curated for the age group of kids, which is helpful to parents. Parents are busy, and they don’t have to do the research to know, ‘This would be a good book for my two-and-a-half-year-old or for my four-year-old.’ Books just show up on their doorstep.” Two books a year on average are dual language, and one nonfiction. From classics like Corduroy to new picks like How to Get Your Octopus to School, Dolly orders over 3 million books from Penguin monthly.
Kids are registered locally and entered into the book order system to enroll. Within about nine to ten weeks, the child receives The Little Engine that Could, everyone’s welcome book, and then a book a month until they turn five. On imaginationlibrary.com, you can check eligibility before registering with contact information like street address and child’s name and birthday.
Not only does Imagination Library take book selection seriously, but also the gifting experience. Many families express how excited their children are the day they receive their book. There’s a personal attachment when children see their name on the shipping label of a book wrapped in plastic: “There’s a little bit of an unwrapping element, and Dolly has always called it her book gifting program, so I think that’s part of it. Every child deserves access to high-quality books in early childhood, and every kid loves getting mail with their name on it.” Dolly also plays a part in the connection experience: “The first book has a little note in it from Dolly welcoming them to the program, and she usually signs her notes. ‘I will always love you.’ Then the graduation book is Look Out Kindergarten, here, I Come.”
Gurren emphasizes the developmental importance of regular reading in early childhood: “So much crucial brain development happens in the first five years of life. Over 50 percent of kids show up to JCPS not kindergarten-ready. We want to change that, and part of that lack of readiness is a lack of access to books in early childhood. Studies show that reading books in early childhood creates all kinds of important neural pathway connections–brain development, auditory memory, language acquisition, and building vocabulary. Part of what we try to do when we’re out in the community is also educate parents on the importance of reading.”
While some may find their children too young for books or want to wait until starting school, Gurren reiterates that it’s never too early to start instilling a love for reading! “Just 15 minutes a day of reading out loud to your child can create an important bonding experience. It really is something that can enhance that parent-child relationship that extends beyond just story time.” In a recent partnership study with UofL’s Early Childhood Research Center, 81 percent of parents stated they read more frequently now with their child than before enrolling in Imagination Library. “When families are given the tools, they’re going to read to their kids,” Gurren says. Parents also report hearing their kids use vocabulary from the books as well as asking to read together more frequently, and reading strategies on the inside cover can further enhance the educational experiences of storytime.
Gurren reminds us that we share the collective responsibility as a community to take care of our children and look out for their wellbeing. Their survey showed that 96 percent of survey respondents told another parent about the program. “We want every child under five to sign up. We also have a specific focus on eight equity zip codes where we know that families probably have more barriers to accessing books.” Imagination Library pays special attention to communities more likely to be book deserts or places where getting books at home may be more challenging: “People are really struggling, and a book is a luxury. You can’t eat a book; you can’t pay rent with a book. Dolly made a commitment–this program will always be free to participants… For the vast majority of families. They had less than 50 books in their home before starting the program and for a significant number of families, their only books in their home are Imagination.”
Imagination Libary has many partners helping them with their mission: Headstart and early childcare centers, UofL and Norton Children’s hospitals, Americana, La Casita Center, Kentucky Refuge Ministries, pediatricians and family health centers, neighborhood houses, community centers, and more. The program is completely funded by grants, corporate sponsors, foundations, and individual donors, so you can get involved and support through a donation to imaginationlibrarylouisville.org/give!
A YEAR OF BABY BOOMS AND EXOTIC NEW FRIENDS
By VOICE-TRIBUNE • Photos Provided By Louisville Zoo
The Louisville Zoo has been bustling with excitement this year as a wave of new arrivals has brought fresh energy to its exhibits. From rare binturongs to koalas, and an array of baby animals, visitors have plenty of reasons to plan a visit. Here’s a roundup of some of the new additions that are captivating zoo-goers.
BIANCA THE BINTURONG
One of the most unusual arrivals is Bianca, the binturong, now residing in the Islands pavilion. Often called a “bearcat,” binturongs are actually more closely related to civets than either bears or cats. Weighing up to 70 pounds, Bianca has a unique prehensile tail and a scent similar to buttered popcorn, a product of a compound called 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline. This distinctive scent helps her mark her territory.
ADDAX CALF
Born on August 23, 2024, the zoo welcomed a female addax calf, weighing 19 pounds. This critically endangered species faces a real risk of extinction in the wild, making her birth and the zoo’s successful breeding program all the more exciting. The calf’s mother, Reesie, and father, Winfield, are part of this ongoing effort with the young addax rotating into view in the Africa Zone.
FIRST GIRAFFE CALF IN OVER A DECADE
August also brought a rare sight for the Louisville Zoo: a Masai giraffe calf named Nyasi, the first giraffe born at the zoo in 12 years. Standing six feet tall at birth, Nyasi was welcomed into the world by his parents, Kianga and Baridi. His Swahili name, meaning “grass,” celebrates his connection to the African savannas. Nyasi is usually visible to the public between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., delighting visitors with his playful demeanor.
KAJI THE SUMATRAN TIGER CUB
Marking another historic moment, the Louisville Zoo recently celebrated the birth of a rare Sumatran tiger cub for the first time in two decades. Born to parents Kami Sambal and Jingga on July 23, the cub has been named Kaji—a blend of both parents’ names. Kaji’s birth contributes to the conservation of this endangered species, and while he’s currently resting after a minor paw injury, he’ll soon be back on exhibit.
GORILLA NEWCOMERS: ABEO AND PATTY
The Gorilla Forest habitat has also welcomed new members. Abeo, a young western lowland gorilla, was born in Seattle and brought to Louisville after bonding efforts with his biological mother didn’t succeed. The zoo’s experienced surrogate gorilla, Kweli, has stepped in as Abeo’s foster mother, giving him a safe and nurturing environment.
Additionally, the habitat gained an 11-year-old female named Patty. This socially skilled gorilla has joined a troop that includes veteran members, and her integration is going smoothly.
RED PANDA AND KOALAS
Visitors will also spot Gansu, a female red panda who arrived from Knoxville in July, joining Sundara in their charming new exhibit. And for the first time since 2000, the zoo has welcomed koalas—Dharuk and Telowie—from San Diego. These iconic Australian animals are a unique addition to Louisville, offering a rare glimpse at one of Australia’s beloved species.
The Louisville Zoo’s commitment to conservation and education brings joy and awareness to visitors year-round. With these exciting new additions, the zoo warmly invites everyone to witness the growth of its vibrant and diverse animal family.
FOREST & ARBORETUM
L+A+N+D- LANDSCAPE + ART + NATURE + DESIGN: AN EXPERIENCE OF DISCOVERY
By Alisha Proffitt • Photos by Matt Johnson
Summer 2024 marked the debut of L+A+N+D at Bernheim Forest and Arboretum, an immersive outdoor exhibition with art installations addressing humans’ connection to nature, beauty in the landscape, biodiversity, conservation, sustainability, and climate change. The latest art initiative opened to the public on October 12th, showcasing bold installations that explore our connection to nature. Adding a fresh approach to Bernheim’s Arts in Nature program — even the most sophisticated connoisseur will leave with a bit of earth under their nails and a spark in their soul. Just as the forest changes with the seasons, so will the exhibit, with annual additions and ephemeral pieces that appear fleeting, as natural cycles often are.
Inspired by the International Garden Festivals at Jardins de Métis in Quebec and Domaine de Chaumont-sur-Loire in France, L+A+N+D draws from decades of artistic collaborations, bringing together architects, designers, and artists from every hemisphere. (“Explore L+A+N+D at Bernheim | Bernheim Forest and Arboretum”) Visitors can wander these installations like a modern-day Thoreau, pondering the dance between wilderness and whimsy. Bernheim’s President and CEO, Dr. Mark K. Wourms, sums it up perfectly: “Bernheim Forest and Arboretum has been a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts and a source of inspiration for researchers and artists for the past 95 years. We are proud to have upheld Isaac Wolfe Bernheim’s vision and are excited to continue delivering meaningful experiences that foster a deep appreciation for our natural world.”
Bernheim’s latest Arts in Nature experience is not a mere walk through the woods; it’s a conversation about the planet. L+A+N+D is an encounter with art in the wild that feels as organic as the landscape itself. Artists have woven their visions directly into Bernheim’s leafy fabric, the result is beautiful and thought-provoking.
The current artists and featured works at Bernheim’s L+A+N+D exhibition include Chrysalis by Denver-based environmental artist and activist Nikki Pike; Bernheim Burl and Sylvan Sycamore by British artist Stuart Ian Frost, currently residing in Norway; Becoming Nutrient by Colorado sculptor and 2023 Artist in Residence’ Nicole Banowetz; Within the Forest: Without the Forest by Raffy Mardirossian and Paul Matevosyan of DOMM Architecture Studio in Pasadena, California; H2OH! by Studio MAYO Architects of Louisville, Kentucky; Bloom, Wither, Repeat by Charlotte-based, award-winning artist Johnathon Pellitteri; BIOS by Chilean bio-artist Radix Lucis; and Walk in the Fictional Woods by Merve Tiryaki with T Urban Design Studio from Ankara, Turkey.
Through partnerships with creators from across the globe, L+A+N+D is positioned to grow into an ever-evolving experience, always holding space for fresh voices and perspectives. A tribute to how nature itself is the world’s greatest artist. Arts in Nature Curator, Jenny Zeller, expresses that “L+A+N+D is a natural evolution to the nature-based programming that has contributed to the organization’s mission of connecting people to nature since its founding. Celebrating 45 years in 2025, Bernheim’s Artist in Residence program has long attracted visual artists who make site-specific work inspired by their total immersion experience with the landscape that connects visitors to the natural world in new and unique ways.”
Since Isaac Wolfe Bernheim founded Bernheim Forest & Arboretum in 1929, it has grown into one of the largest private conservation areas in the eastern United States, covering over 16,000 acres. With its 40 miles of hiking trails and more than 229 bird species (and even the occasional armadillo) as well as hosting fun, educational programs for youth and adults alike, Bernheim is a naturalist’s dream and an artist’s muse. Recent enhancements to the L+A+N+D site include expanded parking, new restrooms, accessible paths, freshly designed trails, and thoughtful landscaping. Ten Tom’s Circle and Magruder Meadow roads have been closed to car traffic and transformed into a multipurpose path, welcoming pedestrians and cyclists alike. As Bernheim celebrates its 95th anniversary this year, it also celebrates winning the 2024 Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award — honoring only the top 10% of destinations worldwide.
Bernheim welcomes visitors daily (excluding Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day). While members enjoy complimentary access, non-members are encouraged to contribute a $15 per car donation — a small gesture that goes a long way in preserving for future generations and the vast spectrum of life that calls Bernheim home.
Whether you’re an environmentalist, art aficionado or simply someone who finds solace among trees, this exhibition’s sentiment is as enduring as it is inspiring.
Visit bernheim.org for more information.
LOUISVILLE
In a city as vibrant and close-knit as Louisville, the spirit of giving back is at the heart of what makes our community thrive. This Giving Back Guide highlights local nonprofits that are making a real difference in the lives of our neighbors. Whether you’re looking to volunteer your time, donate resources, or simply spread awareness these organizations offer meaningful ways to make a positive impact. Together, we can strengthen the bonds that keep our city strong by
SUPPORTING THE CAUSES THAT MATTER MOST.
Yew Dell Botanical Gardens is an internationally-recognized center of gardening, plants, and education, all offered in a stunning site of significant historical importance. Our mission is to spark a passion for plants and gardening through accessible science and inspiring beauty. With your help, we can continue to preserve and grow inspiring garden displays, provide educational programs, and more. Supporting our mission can be through monetary donations, becoming a member (which includes several benefits), or donating your time through our numerous volunteer opportunities. Shopping at our Garden Gift Shop, Online Plant Market, and on-site café- Martha Lee’s Kitchen- also helps our gardens grow!
UofL Health is a fully integrated regional academic health system with nine hospitals, four medical centers, Brown Cancer Center, Eye Institute, over 200 physician practice locations and more than 1,000 providers in Louisville and the surrounding counties, including southern Indiana. Additional access to UofL Health is provided through a partnership with Carroll County Memorial Hospital.
With more than 14,000 team members – physicians, surgeons, nurses, pharmacists and other highly-skilled health care professionals, UofL Health is focused on one mission: to transform the health of communities we serve through compassionate, innovative, patient-centered care. UofL Health is home to the region’s only level I trauma center at UofL Hospital, and to Peace Hospital, one of the nation’s largest mental health facilities. Every year, we serve tens of thousands of patients from across the commonwealth and nation.
Donations to UofL Health impact community health in the following ways:
• Increase our capacity to meet the unique and growing health care needs of our community.
• Advance academic medicine and cutting-edge care in Kentucky’s largest city and the surrounding region.
• Bring opportunities for compassionate care to the community’s most vulnerable and meet the needs of the medically underserved.
Our transformative care and community programs are not possible without the support of our community partners and friends. To learn more about our mission, visit UofLHealth.org. To donate and impact your community, visit UofLHealth.org/Giving
The mission of The Healing Place is to reach individuals struggling with addiction, provide the tools for recovery and restore meaningful, productive lives. Serving Louisville and surrounding areas since 1989, The Healing Place provides a variety of services to give clients the best chance at long-term sobriety including detox, short-term residential, long-term residential recovery program, outpatient services, transitional housing, overnight shelter, and dedicated programming for homeless and addicted veterans.
Getting involved with The Healing Place is a meaningful way to support our mission of providing hope and healing. You can make an impact through volunteering your time, donating essential items, or giving a monetary contribution. Our volunteers and in-kind donations are vital in helping with daily operations and supporting those in need. Financial donations help sustain our programs and services. To learn more about how you can contribute, visit our website at www.thehealingplace.org. Every act of generosity makes a difference!
ENHANCING LIVES. EMPOWERING FUTURES.
The Nazareth Homes Foundation raises funds to make a difference in the lives of Nazareth Home residents, families, caregivers, and team members. Donations enable the highest quality wellness services, life-giving programs, innovative equipment, and welcoming facilities.
You can support the mission and ministry of Nazareth Home in various ways through your time, talent, or treasure. We invite you to explore how your gifts could impact the Nazareth Home community: www.nazhome.org/give.
The Nazareth Homes Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization established in 2017, EIN Number: 83-2123072 to receive and administrate gifts to support and sustain Nazareth Home, Inc.
KMAC Contemporary Art Museum connects people to art and creative practice. As the only educational contemporary art museum in Kentucky, KMAC creates transformative experiences that spark curiosity, inspire connections, and nurture a sense of inclusion and belonging. We meet the artistic and social needs of our whole community through exhibitions, education, and outreach. We measure our success not just by the number of people we engage, but by the impact we have on their worldview. We recognize the power of art to open windows to our shared humanity. Our exhibitions encourage conversations about local and global challenges and provide space to explore our own ideas. The arts are vital to creating a strong community and KMAC stands ready to meet this need.
“Your donation helps provide a home and care for those at the end of life who have no home or loved ones to care for them so that they may die with dignity.”
Please generate a code for us and point it to www.hildegardhouse.org
Heuser Hearing & Language Academy is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting children with hearing loss and speech/language delays. The Academy serves children aged 3-6, offering specialized preschool and kindergarten programs. With a strong commitment to early literacy, language development, and inclusive education, the Academy ensures that students receive personalized attention in small classrooms led by certified teachers of the deaf.
Through community partnerships with organizations like the Louisville Ballet and the Louisville Orchestra, Heuser provides a holistic educational experience, incorporating the arts to help students express themselves beyond spoken language. The Academy also offers comprehensive audiology services, ensuring that each child receives the necessary support for hearing health. By fostering early development and engagement, Heuser Hearing & Language Academy empowers children to reach their full potential in communication and learning.
PHILANTHROPIC GUIDE EF KENTUCKIANA
The mission of the Epilepsy Foundation of Kentuckiana (EF Kentuckiana) is to improve the lives of people affected by epilepsy through education, advocacy, research, and connection. The agency serves children/adults/veterans affected by seizures/epilepsy throughout Kentucky and southern Indiana. Services are designed to educate, advocate, and support individuals with epilepsy and their families and include: providing comprehensive educational materials, providing seizure recognition/first aid training to thousands of school personnel, school nurses, first responders, healthcare workers, daycare workers, senior organizations, veterans, employers, students, parents/caregivers, and others each year. The EF Kentuckiana also provides two support groups for adults, a monthly youth activity group, case/crisis management, and consultations. Assistance is also provided for social services programs and referrals to prescription assistance programs, legal services, utility/landlord/tenant assistance, and SSI/SSDI assistance. The EF Kentuckiana also offers its Operation Outreach program to veterans to assist with issues associated with post-traumatic epilepsy, psychogenic non-epileptic seizures, and post-traumatic stress disorder.programs and referrals to prescription assistance programs, legal services, utility/landlord/tenant assistance, and SSI/SSDI assistance. The EF Kentuckiana also offers its Operation Outreach program to veterans to assist with issues associated with post-traumatic epilepsy, psychogenic non-epileptic seizures, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives, dedicated to ensuring equitable health in communities throughout Kentucky and beyond. Through collaboration with numerous organizations and millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources, and have been a leading source of health information for the last 100 years. We have funded more than $5 billion in cardiovascular research – which includes medical marvels like the artificial heart valve, CPR techniques and heart transplant capabilities. There are currently 30 active AHA-funded research grants in Kentucky totaling $6.8 million. Other dollars are being invested locally around CPR and AED education and awareness, blood pressure control and hypertension initiatives, and our work with hospitals, clinics, and community organizations, to support their efforts with quality programs around blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes. At the state and local level, we continue to advocate to ensure that all Kentuckians, regardless of who they are or where they live, have access to quality healthcare. Last year in Kentucky, we trained 190,000 people in the lifesaving skill of CPR and more than 12,000 students participated in our Kids Heart Challenge program, learning about nutrition, exercise, healthy sleep, CPR, signs of stroke, and more. As we forge ahead into our second century of bold discovery and impact, our vision is to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere. To support our mission, learn more, or get involved, visit www.heart.org/kentucky and follow us on social media (@heartkentucky).
Since 1995, Bluegrass Land Conservancy has conserved over 34,000 acres in Kentucky’s Bluegrass region through permanent conservation easements.
As a nationally accredited, community supported, 501(c)(3) nonprofit land trust, we work on a voluntary basis with landowners, community groups, and municipalities to encourage the preservation of land for agricultural viability, natural habitat, rural heritage, and scenic open space.
We seek to ensure a future where the Bluegrass region’s distinctive soils, cultural heritage, scenic vistas, natural resources, and farms are preserved – forever. We aren’t just protecting land from development; we are conserving it for everyone – to achieve both economic and environmental goals; to promote harmony between people and places; to uphold quality of land and quality of life.
Our mission and focus remain stronger than ever as we continue to grow to meet an increasing demand for conservation. We currently have over 10,000 acres in new active projects in the following counties: Fayette, Oldham, Nelson, Henry, Washington, Woodford, Mercer, and Bourbon. These projects include historic properties, cattle farms, equine operations, general agricultural farms, and natural areas. Join us in Making a Difference – Help save the heart of the Bluegrass!
TALKING WITH NONPROFIT LEADER TAYLOR RYAN
By Kevin Murphy Wilson • Photos by Matt Johnson
A Black woman-led nonprofit organization based in Louisville, Ky, Change Today, Change Tomorrow leans into several key pillars of service: Food Justice, Community Engagement, and Public Health. This powerful project was designed to protect, defend, and meet the needs of those who have been counted out. As such, its stated mission is to provide for the most marginalized communities within our city. This is largely because, as founder Taylor Ryan puts it, “when you show up for the most marginalized, you show up for everyone.” We recently caught up with Ryan to hear more about it.
VT: What led you to a service-oriented career path?
I have always been knee-deep in the community. During my time at Mississippi State University, I was in the Summer Bridge program. I lived in the service freshman dorm and I was a middle school mentor. While attending the University of Louisville I helped run the Association of Black Students and Empowering Ladies Together, the largest Black girl organization on campus outside of Greek life. My time at Marshall University was no different. I thought I was going to work at a university in DEI, then I thought I was going to work for a nonprofit. I never knew I was going to start my own.
VT: Were there any particular folks along the way who helped mentor or nurture you?
At Marshall University, I was under the guidance and mentorship of Dr. Shelvy Campbell. She would want me to tell you all she is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Dr. Campbell runs the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Office at Marshall University’s School of Medicine, where I worked during my time in Huntington, WV. She taught me how to conduct research, write grants and believe in myself.
VT: Can you please speak to the mission of your organization and the impact you have in the city?
Change Today, Change Tomorrow is devoted to eradicating the food justice and public health barriers that plague Black and marginalized communities. We serve about 20,000 folks each year whether that be with our free grocery program, monthly working groups, our youth advisory council or our winter holiday giving program.
VT: How many people are currently employed there altogether?
We have three full time staff members, seven part-time staff, two interns and about ten daily volunteers.
VT: Are there any notable partners in the community?
Our local sponsors include Trader Joe’s, Local’s Food Hub and Pizza Pub Louisville, and Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky. Nationally, we recently completed Black Futures Labs’ Black Policy Institute and the Wallace Center’s Farm to Food Assistance Learning Lab. Both were cohorts that involved funding, learning and resource sharing.
VT: Overall, what makes this endeavor special to you?
Change Today, Change Tomorrow is special for many reasons. I started the organization with a one-year-old on my hip while I lived in the back room of my homegirl’s house. I had just moved back to Louisville and the nonprofit I was working for was not paying me what I needed to sustain. Part of CTCT’s story is that of resilience and perseverance of a single mother trying to survive. What makes CTCT special to others is our ability to serve without judgment, build trust, intentionally eliminate barriers, receive feedback and adjust accordingly, take initiative and accountability, and actually serve people.
VT: In this type of vocation, how do you measure success?
I consider myself an opportunity facilitator, so I am personally tracking how many connections I have made for people. This includes connecting our fiscal sponsor organizations to grant opportunities, connecting our base to professional development opportunities, connecting people to job opportunities, connecting healthy food to Black people who would not have access to fresh healthy options.
VT: Is there anything else you would want the world to know about you?
I want people to know I started this organization when I was 28 years old. I had nothing but a baby and an attitude. I want people to know that we are building something beautiful over here. We are not empowering people, we are activating people. We are the people we serve. We know Black people are dying and we are the Black people that are going to do something about it. If you want to join a supportive network that is going to play hard and work harder then check us out at: www.change-today.org
“Kentucky National Champion Slippery Elm Tree, Masonic Home”
By RUSS BROWN • Photos by Matt Johnson
Most people’s idea of a blacksmith over the years was probably formed by Western movies that contained scenes of a livery stable with a blacksmith shoeing a horse or pounding a horseshoe into shape on an anvil. Blacksmithing tools and workplaces are different from those of historical blacksmiths with welding guns, electric grinders and other modern instruments having replaced or supplemented the hammer, anvil and chisel. Blacksmiths are incorporating more machinery into their craft and infusing it with technology and knowledge.
Blacksmithing, which can be traced to ancient times, has been experiencing a modern revival for at least several decades due in part to interest in traditional art forms, historical restoration and demand from homeowners and hobbyists.
And perhaps no better example of fusing the present with the past can be found than Falls City Ironworks owned by blacksmith Lewis Meyer, a 33-year practicing veteran of the craft.
Meyer, 55, works out of the old Fred Hutt Blacksmith Shop at 853 South 7th Street in Louisville, having purchased the building from Hutt in 2000. Hutt’s grandfather, Jacob Hutt, emigrated from Germany in the 1800s and eventually started the business. The building is the oldest continuously-functioning blacksmith shop in Louisville and maybe the U.S.
“Fred told me he had a copy of a deed from 1852, but I haven’t made it to the deeds office to confirm,” Meyer said. “The shop is in the old city directories back into the early 1860s, which is as far as they go. They show John Smith and his sons working as blacksmiths there before the Hutts. I’ve found a few tools in the shop stamped ‘J Smith’, so they presumably predate Jacob Hutt’s ownership in 1895.”
“The building was clearly built for blacksmithing and wagon work and has been used for such its entire existence. The Hutt family kept the business going through the 20th century, when most other shops closed, by doing various tool-making and sharpening work and being one of the few businesses in the area to install trailer hitches. They probably sharpened thousands of jackhammer bits when the expressways were being built in the area.”
Meyer said he isn’t aware of any other blacksmith shops in the country that have been in continuous operation since the 19th century. He believes there are older shops, and some of them may even be used for blacksmithing again, but none have been a working shop the entire time.
Meyer, a native of State College, Pa. where his parents taught at Penn State University, received a BA from Vassar College in Poughkeepsie, N.Y. in 1991 and moved to Louisville where he worked in construction and also for blacksmith Craig Kaviar. He moved to Memphis in 1994 and did an apprenticeship in the blacksmith shop of the National Ornamental Metal Museum. Afterwards, he became an assistant in the Iron Studio at Penland School of Crafts and worked with other blacksmiths in Memphis. In 1997. He moved back to Louisville and opened Falls City Ironworks, originally located in Jeffersonville, Ind.
So how did a graduate of Vassar become interested in blacksmithing?
“After graduation with no idea what to do for an actual job, I was visiting a renaissance fair in upstate New York and I saw the blacksmith there and thought, ‘I did that for three hours in high school. That would be a cool job.’ A month or so later I was visiting my father, who now taught at the University of Louisville, and I looked in the paper to see what the job opportunities were and there was an ad for an apprentice blacksmith. I started working for Craig later that week.”
Meyer says blacksmithing has been growing since the hippie craft revival in the seventies.
“There are far more opportunities to learn and much easier access to tools and materials than there was when I started 30 years ago,” he said. “It’s really taken off in the last decade with the popularity of (reality TV series) ‘Forged in Fire.’”
As for his own business, Meyer says he mainly focuses on forged steel work -- metal crafts focusing on making and repairing of objects from basic metals such as iron, steel, copper, brass, tin, gold, silver and pewter.
“Get it hot, hit it with a hammer, making all the parts myself,” he said. “As a solo operator I mostly do furniture size or smaller projects. I’ve made tables, fireplace screens and tools, curtain rods, light fixtures and other household objects.”
He also makes garden tools and kitchen utensils for his personal use, as well as some gates and railings and repairs to the main gate and public vault door at Eastern Cemetery.
In addition to the traditional hammers and anvil, he also uses a pneumatic power-hammer, a hydraulic press, a coal forge variety of tongs for holding hot metal, various other machines, two coal forges that are original to the building, a gas forge that runs on propane, a number of vises and several racks full of tools that only another blacksmith would recognize. Visitors to his shop will also see and hear Meyers’ constant companion -- a scruffy, gray tabby cat he says “meows a lot.”
Similar businesses in the Louisville area include Kaviar Forge, which offers group lessons; Iron Touch Forge, specializing in wrought iron and non-ferrous metals Sculptural and Architectural Blacksmithing; Gianni Zanata, and Maynard Studios in Lawrenceburg.
By Kevin Murphy Wilson • Photos by Matt Johnson
This month, to commemorate the inaugural semester of its new Experimental Fashion and Performance Pathway the Kentucky College of Art + Design proudly presents Disguise, Mischief, and Freedom at the 849 Gallery (849 S. 3rd Street). According to the show’s Curator Vincent Tiley this provocative exhibition, which opens Nov. 7 and runs through Jan. 31, “explores garments, adornment and the narratives they proclaim about ourselves.”
Tiley also told the VOICE-TRIBUNE that “this multidisciplinary event celebrates costume and artifice as strategies for play and critique in a society obsessed with authenticity.”
Beyond that, for Disguise, Mischief and Freedom Tiley assembled a stunning cast of participating artists that ought not be missed: Leigh Bowery; Jake Brush; Dietmar Busse; Peter Cage; Fergus Greer; Terence Koh; Ana Mendieta; Narcissister; Rose Nestler; Breyer P-Orridge; Edwin Ramirez; Web Richards; Cindy Sherman; and Jake Ford.
We recently caught up with Ford, who grew up in Southern Indiana and graduated with a BFA in Sculpture from the University of Louisville, to discuss his practice and the upcoming festivities at KyCAD.
VT: What put you on the creative path in the first place?
JF: “My parents exposed me to the arts at a young age. I grew up tinkering around my father’s wood shop in his garage and playing on my mother’s sewing machine. My art teachers at Our Lady of Providence High School also encouraged me. J.D. Dotson, Rick Stuber, and Donna Burden were all practicing artists and entrepreneurs. Seeing their passion and creative lifestyles definitely influenced my choice to pursue a studio art practice.”
VT: Were there any specific artists that you wanted to emulate?
JF: “Ernesto Neto is one of my all-time favorite artists. His work references the interior body and systems. Neto’s large-scale immersive and often interactive architectural installations create a playful and intimate experience between the viewer, the artwork, and other participants. This playful intimacy is something I try to emulate in my work. Other personally inspirational artists are Beck and Col, Daisy Collingridge, Charlotte Kingsnorth, and Patricia Piccinini. I also love immersive experiences and collaboration. Visiting Meow Wolf in Denver was an amazing experience. Group play with adults does not happen very often. Immersive art spaces like Meow Wolf allow for a return to childlike wonder and exploration. Some musical performances were very impactful on my art practice as well. The Flaming Lips, Of Montreal, and Yeasayer all use visual and theatrical elements in their performances. For me, this elevated environment creates a connected communal experience with the audience, which has influenced my work.”
VT: How would you describe your visual art in general? Is there a medium/genre/area of research that excites you? Have your techniques or interests evolved over the years?
JF: “Mostly I work with additive 3D sculptures using fabric, foam, and other soft materials. However, I love to explore all art-making practices. I have made work from traditional painting to more experimental sound and performance experiences. Recently, I combined my interests in woodworking and painting in a new series of stacked wood panel paintings called Between Bodies. In this series I explored how form and color can evoke emotions around identity formation. Psychology and queer theory are areas I often research. I reference Carl Jung’s writing about archetypes and symbols and Judith Butler’s theory of gender performativity. Sci-Fi and horror films have also been sources of inspiration for me. Specifically body horror and depictions of aliens. These films often show our internal anxieties manifested into a physical form. I try to create a similar but more playful experience in my work. I love the idea of confronting parts of ourselves that we often try to repress. David Cronenberg’s Videodrome was the catalyst for this theme that continues to run through my work.”
VT: Do you see any overlap between your professional practice as an artist and your dabbling as a musician?
JF: “I wouldn’t call myself a musician. I fiddle around with my guitar and love to incorporate soundscapes into my work when appropriate. Music has the ability to transform our psychological environment in a way that visual art cannot. I look at music and sound as another material to create an experience. Physical mediums, video, light, and sound are all fair game for creating art in my opinion.”
VT: What can you tell us about the upcoming exhibition at KyCAD?
JF: “For the upcoming show Disguise, Mischief, and Freedom, I created an interactive sculpture about deconstructing categories I often let constrain my identity expression. I reupholstered a standard fixture in many family homes, the recliner chair. Instead of being a throne for the household patriarch to watch football, my chair was transformed into a cute yet monstrous nest for pleasure seeking and play. I used many different fabrics and added new forms to create an uncomfortable but inviting interaction between the participant and other viewers.”
VT: Looking back from this juncture, what are you most proud of? And what are your hopes for the future?
JF: “Finding a good balance between maintaining a comfortable life and leaving time to make art is a skill. In the future I would like to do more collaborations with other artists, musicians, and performers. One of my proudest moments was seeing a sculpture I made for the Choreographer’s Showcase used in a performance by the Louisville Ballet. The dancers and choreography by Sanjay Saverimuttu brought the sculpture to life in a way I had never seen before.”
For more information about Disguise, Mischief, and Freedom, visit www.kycad.org
In this month’s Voice-Vault, we reflect on Louisville’s cherished fall traditions. From spending quality time with family and friends, decorating for the holiday season, lending a helping hand to those in need, getting out in nature and home games — we’re revisiting the moments that have made the season special throughout the years.
By: RUSS BROWN
Photos
Provided By
Kevin Klotz
Shortly before she was to appear for the first time in a Young Hearts Theater production, Sandy Hendricks suffered a broken humerus bone, but in the grand tradition of “the show must go one,” she took the stage and performed with her arm in a sling.
That type of dedication is typical of the senior citizens who write, direct, perform and take care of a myriad of other responsibilities for the 50-year-old organization in Louisville.
Consider 92-year-old Willa Fougnie, who is in her 21st year with Young Hearts and is still going strong, serving as the music director, along with writing, directing, acting and dancing in the productions. More about the energetic former teacher who Henderson says “flies around and never sits still” later, but first a history lesson.
Young Hearts Theatre is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization that never charges for any of its shows although tax deductible donations are always welcomed to help defray production costs, insurance, and other expenses. Young Hearts was founded in 1979 by Eloise Terry, a retired internationally known professional ballroom dancer and a veteran of WHAS TV and radio. She collaborated with George Partridge, who had produced and directed shows at Bowman Field during World War II that featured both servicemen and civilians. Terry died in 2019 at age 103.
According to a description on its Facebook page, Young Hearts is designed to provide retired professional and non-professional performers the opportunity to contribute to the community and satisfy their desire to remain active in the performing arts. To join you must be age 60 or over and audition at the published audition dates prior to rehearsals for the show. Young Hearts produces two major original shows each year in the spring and fall, as well as performing mini shows” for various clubs, organizations, assisted living and nursing facilities between productions. It is believed to be the only theater of its kind in the area.
This summer’s production was “The Church at Hidden Creek,” written and directed by Carol Fessler, with music and choreography by Fougnie.
Fougnier has written and will direct the first show of 2025, “Of Trains and Things, A Visit to the Past,” which she describes as “jokes and music to make people laugh and have a good time.” It will feature cloggers, tap dancers and a politician named Sen. Phil-A-Buster. Fougnie’s shows are heavy on humor -- she also wrote “The Frisky Fifties.”
Fougnie, a graduate of the University of Louisville School of Music, recently was honored by the UofL Trager Institute of Aging with a “Gold Standard of Optimal Aging Award” given to those 85 and older who lead engaged and flourishing lives and inspire those around them with their zest for life. She joined Young Hearts after retiring from Whitfield Academy, and her husband, Emil, also now 92, handled spotlight duties.
Fougnie said one of the main things that initially appealed to her was the fact that the plays are free since many seniors couldn’t afford the rising costs of music theater, and there are numerous advantages healthwise.
“It’s excellent for cognitive health due to memorizing scripts and it’s excellent for physical health,” she said. “It’s excellent exercise for seniors, with the constant walking around, dancing and other activities requiring correct breathing and building lung strength.”
Fougnie and others also point to the benefits for mental health as a byproduct of the camaraderie, companionship and support that provide valuable components to the fun of performing. Hendricks, who has sung in a rock-n-roll band and performed at country jamborees in the area, treasures memories of performing with her mother at Young Hearts.
“I feel like since my mom has passed, she’s left me with this whole new family that’s always looking out for each other,” Hendricks said. “If someone is missing from rehearsal, we immediately call to make sure everything is okay. That’s extremely important at our age. It’s been a blessing. It means a whole lot to me.”
“We uplift each other,” Fougnie said. “Everyone is very knowledgeable of what’s going on in each other’s personal lives. We look after each other.”
Barbara Sutherland, 83, who has been associated with the group for four years also likes the social aspect of Young Hearts, along with staying active. “I’m one of those people who don’t like to be sitting at home,” she said. “I like to keep moving.”
Fessler has been involved in theater in the area most of her life and that’s where she met her husband, Ben, who was also an actor. She has performed in 33 Young Hearts shows and directed 10 of them, including “Cabaret Trifecta,” “The Travel Bug,” and “Westward Ho,” all original. Fessler and Fougnie co-wrote a show in Terry’s honor called “A Toast to Eloise,” in 2019, the year she died.
“Young Hearts welcomes everyone with open arms no matter your theater experience,” Fessler said. “It encourages people to ‘spread their wings’ and try something new and helps everyone be the best they can be no matter how new to the stage they may be. We also found many new friends and a group of people that truly enjoy working together.
A long-time clogger, Fessler introduced clogging in the song, “If You’ve Got the Money Honey,” and it proved to be a success with both cast and the audience, so every show since has included clogging.”
“One of the most fun things is to perform and find your audience singing along, or having someone in the audience greet you after a show and say, ‘I didn’t want to come here, but I’m so glad I did. I feel so much better.’ That makes all the hours spent in rehearsal worth it.”
The plays are written and directed by members and submitted to a 12-member board for approval. They are then reviewed by the script committee. Each production usually has 30-35 performers and 10-12 other volunteers. The family-friendly shows run the gamut from Vaudeville-type variety shows to cabaret to other various musical styles.
For the past 21 years, the performances have taken place at Ursuline Arts Center, 3113 Lexington Rd., but Henderson said the group is searching for a new venue because Ursuline will no longer be available. It’s not going to be easy to find another suitable location, she noted, because among the requirements are seating for 350-400, handicap accessible and free parking. Hendricks said singers, dancers, actors and backstage helpers and front of help support are always needed. Anyone interested can check out Young Hearts Theater Facebook page or email Hendricks at Hendricks1208@twc.com.
Young Hearts also sponsors the Eloise Terry Scholarship based on financial-need diversity for a child who wants to attend Sacred Heart School for the Arts classes.
for an Unforgettable Day with Your Grandparents and Senior Friends
Photos by Matt Johnson
When planning a day out with grandparents or senior friends, finding activities everyone can enjoy is key. Louisville offers an array of activities that are creative, engaging, and fun for all ages. Here are some of our favorite activities where you can connect, learn, and create memories together.
Bingo Night at Hauck’s Corner
Location: 1000 Goss Ave
Bingo is a beloved game that never goes out of style! Every Sunday, Hauck’s Corner in Germantown hosts a bingo night where you can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, friendly competition, and plenty of laughs. It’s a great way to engage with the local community while sharing a nostalgic game with loved ones. From the food and drink menus to the space itself, Hauck’s has something for everyone, making it a perfect spot for all ages to come together, unwind, and enjoy a classic pastime.
Terrarium Workshops at Mahonia
Location: 822 E Market St
For those with a green thumb, a terrarium-making class at Mahonia is a wonderful choice. These workshops allow you to create your own mini-ecosystem and learn the basics of plant care. Working with plants can be therapeutic and rewarding, and grandparents and younger family members alike can enjoy crafting their unique terrariums. You’ll leave with a beautiful piece of living art and new knowledge about caring for plants.
Art Workshops at KMAC Museum and Preston Arts Center
KMAC Museum: 715 W Main St
Preston Arts Center: 3048 Bardstown Rd
Get creative together with an art workshop at the KMAC Museum or Preston Arts Center. KMAC offers workshops that connect art with social issues, while Preston Arts Center provides hands-on sessions in painting, drawing, and more. Creating art side-by-side is a wonderful way to bond, learn new skills, and tap into your creativity.
See a Play at Actors Theatre
Location: 316 W Main St
Actors Theatre of Louisville offers an array of theatrical performances throughout the year, from thought-provoking dramas to delightful comedies. Enjoy a night out where you can experience the energy and magic of live theater together. Plays offer a chance to discuss ideas, laugh, and reflect, making it an ideal activity for all ages. With a variety of shows, you’re sure to find something everyone will enjoy.
Louisville Ballet
Location: 315 E Main St
For a truly memorable outing, head to the Louisville Ballet. Watching a ballet performance is a unique and mesmerizing experience perfect for anyone who appreciates music, movement, and storytelling. The ballet offers shows throughout the year, so there are opportunities to witness anything from classic productions to contemporary works. Sharing a performance like this can be a heartwarming experience and a lovely way to connect across generations.
Watch a Film at Speed Cinema
Location: 2035 S Third St
For a more relaxed outing, check out Speed Cinema’s beautifully curated selection of films. Known for showcasing classic, indie, and international films, the cinema provides a unique movie experience. Whether you’re looking to catch an old favorite or explore something new, Speed Cinema offers something for all tastes.
SILAS HOUSE ON FESTIVAL OF FAITHS AND MORE
By Kevin Murphy Wilson
Silas House currently serves as the Commonwealth’s Poet Laureate. He is the bestselling author of the novels—Clay’s Quilt, A Parchment of Leaves, The Coal Tattoo, Eli the Good, Same Sun Here (co-authored with Neela Vaswani), Southernmost, and Lark Ascending—as well as one book of creative nonfiction and three plays. House is also a former commentator for NPR’s “All Things Considered,” and his writing has appeared in Time, The Atlantic, Ecotone, The Advocate, Garden and Gun, and Oxford American. We recently chatted with House about his storied career and his upcoming slot as a panelist during Festival of Faiths. The 2024 conference is once again co-chaired by Owsley Brown III and Adria Johnson and runs November 13-16 at Kentucky Center for the Performing Arts in Louisville.
VT: Can you tell us a little bit about your family background, education, and early influences as a writer?
“I was raised in a working class family in Southeastern Kentucky and was encouraged by my family and community to follow my dream of becoming a writer. I was fortunate to have great teachers in the public school system who gave me a remarkable foundation. The first big influence for me was actually via a tv show--John Boy Walton on ‘The Waltons’ was the only other boy I knew who wanted to be a writer, and he was from a rural place, too, so seeing him made me feel less alone. I read a lot of Stephen King growing up but eventually I found writers like Lee Smith, Barbara Kingsolver, and others who were writing about my place in the world and giving me more permission to do that, too.”
VT: What was the role of religion in your life? Is your outlook informed by any particular spiritual or philosophical belief system?
SH: “I was raised in a very strict religious sect which my parents have since left. I left it when I was 17 and for many years I searched for a congregation that I felt was accepting and open-minded and serviceoriented. I eventually landed in the Episcopal Church and feel very at home there. But for those years ‘in the wilderness’ I kept my faith alive through the natural world, by fighting for the environment in social justice movements, and by many different kinds of art: novels, poems, music. I identify strongly as a Humanist.”
VT: Why do you think public gatherings like the Festival of Faiths are important?
SH: “Well, for one thing I think that Christianity has been hijacked by a very vocal minority who weaponize religion for politics rather than using it to serve others and to love others. The Festival of Faiths shows that people of faith are more complex than that and that many of us simply seek to serve others and put love into the world instead of judgment. And to me, the arts are always a way to get better in touch with my belief system and the God of My Understanding, so the way the Festival of Faiths puts the arts front and center is important to me, too.”
VT: What does your particular session involve?
SH: “I’ll be talking about where my inspirations for creativity come from and in particular how the secular arts--particularly work by Marilynne Robinson, Alice Walker, and others--have been a gateway to sustaining my faith.”
VT: Can you speak to the overlap between the work of an author and an activist?
SH: “For me, being a writer is an act of protest because I am always writing about what troubles me. Ever since I was a little boy I have been very aware of injustices and have always wanted to be involved in correcting them in any way I can. For me it has mostly been by writing about it. In my writing I always want social issues to be in the background and for the main focus to be on the human story, in the foreground. But as an activist I focus on those social issues front and center. So there are two ways of going about it, because there are many ways to fight back. Art is definitely the main one for me.”
VT: When and how did you become immersed in music journalism? Looking back, which interviews are you most proud of?
SH: “When my first novel came out it got attention for having a lot of musical references and this led an editor at No Depression, which is the major magazine of Americana music, to ask me to do a feature on Lucinda Williams. I enjoyed doing that so much that I’ve been doing it ever since and I was lucky that that feature got a lot of attention and led to other assignments. It was pretty amazing to work with Kris Kristofferson, and he was such a kind, patient subject. Last year I wrote a long piece on the new singer-songwriter S.G. Goodman that I think is one of my best pieces of writing. Also last year I did a piece on Jason Isbell for Time that I’m pretty proud of. I’ve been lucky to get to interview really interesting and articulate people like Kacey Musgraves, Tyler Childers, and others.”
VT: You were even nominated for a Grammy Award this year. How did that project come about?
“Tyler [Childers] asked me if I would write the video for his song ‘In Your Love’ and his only stipulation is that it had to be a gay love story. He wanted to make a video for all the LGBTQ people who love country music but never see themselves there. So that’s what we did. He was very generous to give me complete creative control, so I cast it, I made the show bible (this includes guiding photos of how sets and costumes should look, etc.), I was on set the whole time. And I’m really proud of what we did, especially highlighting that LGBTQ people do live in rural places, and always have.”
VT: You’re also rumored to be involved in a major film adaptation of your work. Is there anything you can share about that process?
SH: “Well, I love the script that was written by Tim Kirkman, and I love the casting that has happened so far. The whole process moves at a snail’s pace but I’m hopeful that they will start filming soon.”
VT: Do you think the literary and broader arts scene here in Kentucky has afforded you more freedom for exploration and collaboration than other places might?
SH: “I think that artists within Kentucky are certainly bonded and in touch in a way that people in other places are not as much. We have a shorthand with each other, we support each other, we are actually together quite a lot and we like each other and are inspired by each other. So that’s a wonderful thing to be a part of because some artistic circles can be cut-throat. I have not experienced that at all among Kentucky writers and musicians.”
VT: Speaking of Kentucky writers and musicians…and apropos of nothing really…who do you think was more famous: Ed McClanahan or J.D. Crowe?
SH: “That’s a hard question but I guess I’d have to say Crowe since he was famous for a longer period of time, about 70 years, from the 1950s until the 2020s. But personally, I knew Ed and he was always so kind to me. Always a smile on his face, always telling a great story.”
VT: The world seems stranger than ever. In this day and age, and at this point in your career, how do you measure success?
SH: “Success for me is being healthy and being loved and loving others. As long as the people I love are safe and healthy then little else really matters.”
VT: So, what comes next for you?
SH: “I’m working on a big canvas, multi-POV love story set in Eastern Kentucky, Louisville, Lexington, and New York City that takes place from the 1920s to the 1960s. It explores themes of desire and faith.”
For more information, visit www.festivaloffaiths.org.
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Why You Should Consider Bringing Local, Sustainable Ingredients to Your Table for the Holidays
By Alisha Proffitt • Photos Provided By Barr Farms
As the holiday season approaches, we encourage our readers to consider the origins of the food they are bringing to their tables and opt to buy locally. For those in Kentucky, Barr Farms is a standout option, with their dedication to local, sustainably raised meat and produce. Located in Rhodelia, KY, Barr Farms has been family-run for eight generations, each one devoted to caring for the land. Adam Barr grew up as the “city cousin” with fond memories of visiting his family’s farm on weekends, where he learned to value the land’s living connection to community and sustainability. After college, inspired by writer and environmental activist Wendell Berry, he returned to work the land, dedicating his life to building a sustainable farm for his family and future generations.
Rae Strobel, Adam’s wife, shared a similar journey, growing up in the suburbs of Louisville but finding her calling in sustainable farming during a farm apprenticeship in Southern Kentucky. Together, Adam and Rae are committed to farming practices that protect the land, nourish the soil, and sustain the environment. They raise organic vegetables, grass-fed beef, and pasture-raised chickens. By using natural compost and avoiding chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides, they ensure their farm contributes to a healthier ecosystem. Barr Farms offers a unique connection to the food they provide. As one of the first farms in the area to offer customizable CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) shares, Barr Farms allows members to personalize their seasonal shares, making it easy for customers to get exactly what they want each week. “We see our farm as part of a larger community,” Rae explains. “It’s a network of people interdependent with each other, and we’re growing food not only for our family but for our entire community.” With over 40 varieties of vegetables and a careful selection of pasture-raised beef and poultry, Barr Farms has earned a reputation for delivering high-quality food that is both nutritious and delicious.
For many people, the holidays are a time to gather around the table and share a meal with family and friends. Choosing local produce and meat is not only a way to enjoy fresher, tastier food, but it’s also a powerful way to support local farms. When asked about the benefits of buying local, Rae says, “There are so many wonderful reasons: you get to know your farmer, you support the local food system and economy, you know how your food is raised, and it’s fresher and higher in nutritional value than store-bought alternatives.” The difference in quality and flavor is often significant. As Rae puts it, “The taste—there’s just no comparison.”
Barr Farms also works with other local farms to offer pork and eggs, and they take pride in the quality of their grass-fed beef. Their Red Poll cows are rotated between fields to ensure they have fresh grass or hay throughout the year, resulting in well-marbled, flavorful meat. Chickens are pasture-raised and moved daily, a process that keeps them healthy and happy and provides some of the most delicious poultry. For holiday meals, choosing sustainably raised, local meat can elevate traditional dishes, allowing families to enjoy a meal that’s both ethical and tasty.
Local food’s impact strengthens rural communities, boosts food security, and promotes environmentally responsible practices. “Smallerscale farmers are much more likely to care about biodiversity and soil quality, limit runoff, and protect the wildlife in the area,” Rae explains. The Barrs participate in the Organic Association of Kentucky’s climate-smart program, a USDA-supported initiative that highlights organic practices as a way to mitigate climate change. “These practices not only reduce environmental impact but improve soils and contribute positively to the environment,” Rae adds.
One common misconception is that buying local is prohibitively expensive. Rae believes that while there may be a slight price difference, the value more than compensates. “The cost of eating out is so much higher than buying high-quality local food and cooking it yourself. And comparing local farm-fresh food to grocery store prices is like comparing apples to oranges.” With Barr Farms, customers enjoy the unique flavors of heirloom varieties, from strawberries picked at peak ripeness to delicata and red kuri squash, and more unique options like purple potatoes and sweet potato greens.
For Barr Farms, CSA memberships are the heart of their operation. Members sign up in the fall and commit to the farm throughout the season, providing much-needed support and stability. “CSA members get our first and best produce,” Rae shares. “It helps us plan, and it’s a commitment both ways. We’re grateful they sign up early and commit to getting their produce from us.”
Beyond the CSA, Barr Farms also sells at local farmers’ markets like Phoenix Hill and Douglass Loop and supplies produce to local restaurants such as Proof on Main, Mayan Café, and Varanese.
Barr Farms is dedicated to making local food accessible to all. They partner with nonprofits to provide reduced-cost or free CSA shares to vulnerable communities in Louisville, participate in the Fresh Rx for MOMs program to support expectant mothers, and are part of the Kentucky Farm Share Coalition, delivering CSA shares directly to workplaces in Louisville.
Looking forward, they hope to deepen collaborations with other farms, expand their fruit and perennial offerings, and explore innovative ways of growing crops, like companion planting for fruit and nut trees. By supporting Barr Farms, customers are investing in a sustainable, resilient local food economy—one that feeds families, strengthens communities, and cares for the earth.
So as the holiday season approaches, consider buying local for your celebrations. Supporting farms like Barr Farms not only enriches the holiday meal but also uplifts a local community dedicated to preserving Kentucky’s land, health, and future. As Rae says, “When you buy local, you’re not just buying food; you’re supporting families, communities, and the environment.”
For more information on CSA memberships or how to buy from Barr Farms, visit their website at barrfarmsky.com
By Jackie Zykan
With over 20 years of experience in beverage alcohol, and a love affair with the natural world, I am delighted to share some of Kentucky’s finest distilled spirits alongside fresh, local, and seasonal botanicals.
This month, we may find ourselves planning and delegating the tried and true recipes of years’ past and preparing for gatherings which push the seating capacities of our homes. There is something so sacred about the recipe traditions which we share in a community, whether that be among family or friends. Every now and then someone gets creative and introduces a twist on a classic. Sometimes it works and makes its way into the rotation every holiday. Sometimes we’re back to the original never to revisit, or mention, the modern version again. It seems fitting to pay tribute to those bold enough to break free of the cycle of canned cranberry sauce every now and then, and I can’t think of a more versatile classic to play with than the old fashioned. This season brings not only a focus on gratitude, time with loved ones, and chilly nights but also a touch more rain calling forward abundance in the forest for some of Kentucky’s best forageables: mushrooms.
Featured Kentucky Product: In The Curious Kitchen Chocolate Cocktail Bitters
In the Curious Kitchen is a female founded and led food company that produces Southern-inspired products based on heritage recipes. The queen of the brand, MK Hennigan, reimagines classics into fun modern twists and has you covered when it comes to home entertaining. Delicious cocktail mixers are only a slice of the world of MK, with products running the gamut from tasty small bites and accoutrement galore. This month’s featured cocktail recipe includes the chocolate bitters, curious in profile indeed with hints of spices and a warm undertone. These delightful droplets offer the perfect palate bridge between the earthy hints of turkey tail and dark sweetness of cherry and raw sugar.
Featured Kentucky Flora: Trametes versicolor (Turkey Tail)
Plentiful on fallen trees and branches throughout our state, turkey tail is the most studied medicinal mushroom in the world. Known for its anti-cancer properties, this mushroom may not have the ideal texture for consumption- but as a powder, tea, or tincture, its benefits can still be enjoyed. Easily identifiable, these powerhouses are flat, fan-shaped, and grow directly from their woody substrate in clusters. The underside is white, with visible pores. “False turkey tail” can be confused with the real deal, but luckily is not harmful if consumed. With foraging, always double check what you’re identifying and only remove what you need.
Black Forest Old Fashioned
2 oz Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon
½ oz Cherry Turkey Tail Syrup*
½ Dropperful Curious Kitchen Chocolate Bitters
Directions: Combine ingredients in a mixing glass with ice. Stir until chilled. Strain over fresh ice, garnish with skewered cherries and sage sprig.
Mocktail Variation
½ oz Cherry Turkey Tail Syrup
5 oz Sparkling Cider - or - Ginger Beer
Directions: Combine over ice, garnish with a lime.
Cherry Turkey Tail Syrup
yields 4 oz (8 cocktails)
¼ cup turkey tail
½ cup water
½ cup dark pitted cherries, thawed if frozen
¾ cup demerara sugar
Directions: Combine all ingredients in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Bring to a simmer, stirring to dissolve the sugar. Continue to simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat, allow to cool, then strain. Keep syrup refrigerated.
Batching Spirit Forward Cocktails
When it comes to preparing spirit forward cocktails for a crowd, simply multiplying the recipe and combining in a pitcher won’t cut it. Nor will stirring every single drink to order. Here are some easy pro tips for making sure each cocktail is consistently delicious, perfectly balanced, and you aren’t stuck playing bartender for your guests:
Dilution is crucial. Multiply the recipe according to how many servings you anticipate needing. Combine, then add one ounce of water for each serving. This provides the dilution that stirring otherwise would have. Keep this mixture cold, and when ready to serve simply pour over ice.
Quick math. A 750mL bottle has approximately 25 ounces of liquid. A liter has 33. A dash of bitters is 1/32 oz, and a dropperful is about 1 mL. In this recipe, half of a dropperful is called for per serving, which is a rough equivalent to a dash.
A LOOK INSIDE AMY WAGNER’S LATEST DESIGN PROJECT
By VOICE-TRIBUNE • Photos by Matt Johnson
When interior designer Amy Wagner took on the task of designing a home for one of her long-time clients, the goal was simple: to create a timeless and inviting space where elegance meets comfort. But as any designer knows, bringing that vision to life is where the magic happens.
“My client wanted a home that felt timeless and airy,” Wagner shares, reflecting on the overall inspiration for the project. “We focused on a transitional style, something classic that wouldn’t feel dated in a few years. It was important to her that the space felt light and open, without being cluttered.”
One of the highlights of the design is the “Conversation/Living Room,” which Wagner describes as one of her favorites. “That room just came together beautifully,” she says, her enthusiasm clear. “We chose these gorgeous Fairfield Chairs in Stone Fabric – not only are they stunning to look at, but they’re also incredibly comfortable.” The room is anchored by a bold piece of commissioned artwork by local artist Marty Osbourn O’Daniel, adding a pop of color above the fireplace. “Marty completely understood our vision, and the artwork really completes the space,” Wagner explains.
For Wagner, creating a cohesive color scheme across the home was essential. “We went with soothing, peaceful colors to make each room flow into the next,” she explains. “The idea was to create a sense of calm throughout the home, making it feel like a true retreat.”
One thing that sets this project apart is the level of customization involved. From custom-upholstered furniture to one-of-a-kind artwork, Wagner ensured that the home was filled with unique pieces. “We wanted everything to feel personal and tailored to the client’s taste,” she notes. “It was about creating a space that felt like it belonged to her — something that reflected her personality.”
Despite the nod to timelessness, Wagner didn’t ignore design trends entirely. However, she was careful to keep them in balance. “We incorporated some current design elements, but the goal was always to focus on lasting quality. It was important to the client to invest in pieces that wouldn’t go out of style after a few years.”
The relationship between Wagner and her client made this project particularly special. “We’ve been working together for years, and we’ve become close friends,” Wagner says with a smile. “It’s amazing how much our tastes align. Every aspect of the project reflects both her style and mine, which made the whole process enjoyable.”
One of the client’s must-haves was a home that felt light, airy, and uncluttered — a request Wagner was happy to fulfill. “We always give our clients a few design choices for each space, but from the start, she was clear about wanting rooms that felt open and fresh. That really guided many of our decisions.”
In the end, the project was more than just a home design. It was a collaboration built on trust and shared vision, creating a space that feels timeless, serene, and uniquely personal. “Working with this client was a dream,” Wagner reflects. “In the end, we created something that felt like home – a place of comfort, beauty, and lasting quality.”
With this project, Amy Wagner has once again shown that thoughtful design isn’t just about aesthetics – it’s about creating spaces that reflect the people who live in them, spaces that feel like home.
Open to the public for the rst time this is your chance to own an entire barrel of our 110 proof bourbon, accompanied by an immersive distillery experience.
HERE'S WHAT TO EXPECT . . .
STEP ONE - SELECT YOUR BARREL
You and up to ve guests will be given a personalized tour of the distillery with a tasting session of three single barrel bourbons serrated by Master Distiller, Owen Martin, and his team. You'll conclude your tour by thieving bourbon from one of the single barrels selected for you.
STEP TWO - DISCOVER YOUR SIGNATURE PALETTE
e private selection single barrel host will guide you through a tasting of three distinct bourbons, all at 110 proof. In the end you will select the barrel that suits your palette best.
STEP THREE - SAVOR YOUR WORK
After choosing your barrel, it will be ready for pickup at our Louisville Distillery within six weeks from your selection date. Expect a minimum yield of 250 x 750 Ml bottles. is exclusive Angel's Envy Single Barrel Bourbon Experience is priced at $26,327.47
By Nailah Spencer • Photos by Kathryn Harrington
TRIM NuLu is redefining the salon experience in Louisville, seamlessly combining beauty and luxury to elevate their customer’s experience. Located in the heart of NuLu, the salon operates with a departmentalized structure. This setup allows stylists specializing in specific services to focus exclusively on that craft while honing their career skills. While some stylists offer a broader range of services, specialization remains emphasized. According to one of the co-founders, Sean Stafford, this high-end salon caters to a diverse clientele including individuals of all genders, professionals, creatives, and anyone seeking a premium salon experience.
“We take pride in working with all hair textures. Our team of skilled stylists is experienced in handling a wide range of hair types from straight to wavy, curly to coily. We understand that every hair texture requires its unique approach, and we’re equipped with the knowledge, techniques, and products necessary to ensure that each client’s hair is treated with the utmost care and expertise.” Said Stafford.
From the beginning, TRIM NuLu stylists set up a spa-like experience for everyone who walks through the door. Customers are greeted with drinks and magazines to enjoy as they walk in. If you come in for a shampoo, cut, and style, the stylists elevate the experience with a hand massage during your wash. They also offer hot towels, which many clients appreciate, as they enhance the shampoo process. To top it off, the towels are infused with essential oils for added relaxation.
“We’re always looking for the little things that we can add to our services, just so the client feels that they’re incredibly special because they are,” said Stafford.
The salon also specializes in precision haircuts and styling for men and women, hair coloring, blowouts, hair extensions, and grooming for men. Whether you’re looking for balayage, hair highlights, or precision haircuts, they work with you to craft a look that complements your style and enhances your natural beauty.
In addition to operating a fully functioning salon, the founders are dedicated to giving back to the community. One of their initiatives is partnering with Wigs for Kids, a non-profit organization that has supported children experiencing hair loss since 1981. Through this collaboration, they contribute to a meaningful cause, helping to provide wigs and support for those in need.
This innovative salon has achieved remarkable milestones in just four years, including reaching one million dollars in revenue and earning local and national acclaim. Recognized as the “Best Hair Salon in Louisville, Kentucky” by the Courier Journal for four consecutive years, TRIM NuLu stands out for its commitment to excellence and client satisfaction. Its exponential growth in just four years has also caught the attention of Salon Today and Square, a point-of-sale system designed for small and medium-sized businesses. Whether you’re looking for a trendy cut or a luxurious treatment, TRIM NuLu delivers a high-end experience right in your backyard. The salon is currently accepting new clients. For information on their services or to book an appointment, please visit trimnulu.co
HOW THE SKIN GROUP MERGED AESTHETICS WITH MEDICINE AND EARNED LOUISVILLE’S TRUST
By VOICE-TRIBUNE • Photos Provided by The Skin Group • Sponsored
Investing in your skin is one of the smartest long-term commitments you can make for appearances and health. Your skin is your body’s largest organ, and how you care for it now will influence how it looks and feels for years to come and can potentially protect you from common risks like infection, allergies, and cancer. With so much skincare advice floating around online, particularly from influencers pushing sponsored products on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, trying every trending product or hack can be tempting. But following unverified advice can often do more harm than good as we’ve seen with trends such as DIY dermaplaning which can cause damage like micro tears and skin infections without using medical grade tools and lacking the education and training to perform this treatment. The problem with many over-the-counter products or influencer-recommended items is that they lack scientific backing and may not be suitable for your unique skin type, there is no one-size-fits-all skincare routine. These products might contain ingredients that could be harmful or are simply ineffective. Before you invest in any skincare regimen, it’s important to ask, “Is there solid science behind this product?” and “Is it recommended by a board-certified dermatologist?” Instead of chasing the latest viral trend, trust the professionals who have the training and knowledge to understand what your skin truly needs.
The Skin Group focuses on providing medical-grade products that are both safe and effective. Their team of highly educated Nurse Injectors are experienced in recommending the best skincare products for individual needs, ensuring that each solution is customized to suit your skin type. From anti-aging treatments to sunscreens, The Skin Group’s range of products is carefully selected to offer long-term benefits backed by science. “We don’t want anyone to look at TikTok, or social media across the board, and say ‘Oh, this will work for me’, because that’s not always the case.” says Christina Crawford, a Nurse Injector at The Skin Group.
Under the influence of social media, many are damaging their skin in desperate pursuit of a quick fix, but the professionals at The Skin Group remind us that there is no quick fix for healthy skin, it is a journey that requires a consistent routine based on your personal skin needs. “No matter what you do, whatever treatment, injections, peels, lasers- it always is going to go back to that skincare routine,” says Lisa Zax, Practice Manager. “If you use a moisturizer and repair cream but you don’t use sunblock, you might as well take all that money that you spent and throw it in your fireplace.”
In recent years, the influence has extended to young children, who can be seen lining up at beauty outlets to purchase trending products. Many of these products and at home DIY procedures are not appropriate for young skin and can be damaging. “The retinol. The retinol is a big one. Retinols really should not be used until you get into your twenties and thirties. At that age, you don’t know if you’re allergic to something, and these kids have no idea what they are putting onto their skin and what those reactions should and should not look like,” says Christina, “8, 9, 10, 11-year-olds starting skincare routines- all they need is a face wash and a sunscreen. That’s really all they need at that age. And by face wash I mean something really gentle, not a lot of ingredients in it, that’s really just going to help get all that dirt and grime off their face and then enough sunscreen to protect them throughout the day.”
“It’s a positive thing for teens and children to pursue health and wellness and take care of their skin” “I don’t want to take from that, they just need to be educated on doing it the correct way.” adds Tanisha Ellison, fellow Nurse Injector at The Skin Group, “That’s where I think the challenge comes in because they’re so influenced by social media and they don’t consider, hey maybe I need to talk to a dermatologist or someone that specializes in skin health. And that’s what we’re here for.”
A foundational skincare routine should always include three key elements: moisturizing, repairing, and sun protection. Sunblock, in particular, is critical for protecting your skin from damaging UVA and UVB rays year-round and can prevent premature aging and reduce your risk of skin cancer. “SPF is your BFF,” laughs Tanisha. Using high-quality, medical-grade products can enhance the results of any aesthetic treatments you receive, making your skin healthier and more radiant. While using medical grade products might sound expensive, in many cases it is actually more cost-efficient. Even for those with plenty to spend, medical grade products are always going to be the best option for your skin to see real results. “It’s amazing what people will spend, but they don’t spend it on good skin care products”, says Lisa.
Rather than taking chances with questionable products and at home procedures, consult with a professional who can guide you toward a skincare routine that works. After all, your skin is an investment that will represent you for a long time. Take care of it with expert advice and trusted products. Call The Skin Group or book online today for a complimentary consultation and start investing in your skin the right way.
Take the Skin Care Quiz and book your free consultation online at www.skingroup.org
By Mckenna Graham • Photos By Gioia Patton & Jalen
Sushi and sake lovers rejoice! This November the much-awaited Sake a Gogo, a new Asian restaurant concept, will open its doors to the public in the NuLu neighborhood. Taking over the building at 620 Market Street once occupied by Toast, Sake a Gogo is the newest concept from restaurateur Kevin Grangier, owner of La Moo, the Village Anchor and Grassa Gramma.
“As with all my restaurants, I’ve had the opportunity to define Sake a Gogo based on my own history, knowledge and experiences,” says Grangier. “I’ve visited Asia five times in recent years to satisfy my drive for authenticity.”
Sake a Gogo’s food and beverage program will be led by Executive Chef Bryan Emperor who promises to offer authentic Japanese cuisine and honor his passion for washoku. In addition to his over 25 years of experience Emperor’s resume is loaded with accolades such as winner of Food and Wine’s Best New Chef (Southeast 2016), his work at Nobu, a third-place finish in the Eat-Japan Sushi Awards and an apprenticeship under Chef Yoshihiro Murata in Kyoto. Emperor promises to bring his expertise to the table, both literally and figuratively, with a menu that offers non-Westernized Japanese fare as well as at least forty-five sake labels that have never before been available in this region of the country.
“The philosophy is authentic ingredients from their original source,” says Emperor, “prepared with original technique and method but the presentation is more appealing for a Western palette.”
The 6000 square foot restaurant’s name was inspired by Whiskey a Go-Go, the iconic bar on the Sunset Strip in Los Angeles. The restaurant will include a sixteen-seat sake and bourbon bar featuring a massive hand carved stone Buddha, four dining rooms with a capacity up to 200 guests and a private eight-person omakase room. Omakase, translating roughly to “I’ll leave it up to you”, is a menu-less experience in Japanese dining in which the sushi chef chooses what guests eat based on local availability of the freshest seasonal ingredients. Diners are able to focus entirely on each other and enjoyment of the food while watching the chefs work their magic. Sake a Gogo’s omakase room will be run by three sushi chefs and is sure to be a completely unique and truly exceptional experience.
On September 28th guests at the home of Tracy Lear and Ben Muller were treated to a special sneak peek at some of Sake a Gogo’s menu offerings including crispy spring rolls, Korean pork bulgoki lettuce wraps and an absolutely succulent, melt in your mouth wagyu croquette. As a special treat reflective of the excitement and flair that Sake a Gogo is sure to offer, guests were also introduced to nyotaimori, the art of naked sushi or “body sushi”. An assortment of traditional sushi rolls was served on the mostly nude reclined bodies of one male and one female model, adorned with exotic flowers and banana leaves. Alongside the culinary offerings, guests were also invited to sample from the sake bar. The bar featured several of the sakes that will be available at Sake a Gogo such as Kyodai, an unfiltered sake, and Soto, a low acid all-natural sake made with only four ingredients.
Sake a Gogo is sure to please and excite diners, combining Kentucky’s farm fresh ingredients and love of bourbon with East Asian flavors and unique sake offerings.
“The moment you enter through Sake a Gogo’s 17th century doors you know you’re someplace special in Louisville,” says Grangier. “We’ve worked to stimulate the guest experience at every level— visual, emotional, and of course via both traditional and contemporary culinary offerings. The quality of Sake a Gogo’s seasonal ingredients will set it apart.”
By: Alison Cardoza • Photograhy by Matt Johnson • Sponsored
Muscle mass is gained when the body performs eccentric and concentric movements against resistance. As we age, muscle can atrophy, fat mass can develop, and health can decline rapidly. Gaining control over your muscle mass enables you to add that layer of protective tissue to your joints preventing injuries. It’s never too late to add a weight training program to your weekly schedule. However, if you have never lifted before take advice from the experts.The experts are not always found on the internet. Meet with someone one on one and let them advise you on a program that best suits your individual needs. Baptist Health Milestone has knowledgeable trainers that are ready to get you on your fitness path the right way to avoid injury. Between 3-6 weeks most of our clientele notice a significant change in how they feel resulting in more energy, better posture, and overall confidence in day-to-day activities. Clients at Baptist Milestone have many reasons to weight train. Many get back into the groove of weight training after a surgery, or because their doctor advised them to get moving. Some are told to weight train to avoid or slow down the process of osteopenia or osteoporosis. Some just want to open a pickle jar with ease. Whatever the reason may be, we are ready to help you tackle that obstacle. You are never too old to get moving and build that healthy muscle mass. In order to keep muscle mass, stay consistent. Engage different muscle groups daily or do a full body workout every other day to avoid injury. Replenish with protein after a workout to repair the muscle. Foods such as eggs, beans, chicken, cottage cheese, and salmon are high in protein.
Your body needs anywhere from 10%-35% of the calories to come from protein.
DON’T FORGET -The month of November aims to raise awareness of men’s health issues including testicular cancer, prostate cancer, mental health, and suicide prevention. With holidays fast approaching, it is imperative to never forget a screening. Many find fun and positive ways to support, such as No-shave November, known as Movember. Organizations encourage people to grow out their hair and donate money they would normally spend on shaving and grooming to organizations that fight colorectal cancer and other health issues.
Alison Cardoza, ACSM Certified Personal Trainer and Fitour Group Exercise Instructor at Baptist Health Milestone Wellness Center. BS Exercise Science and Sports Medicine with a minor in Health Promotions from University of Louisville. Former UofL Ladybird and NFL Colts Cheerleader.
By RUSS BROWN • Photos By Matt Johnson
With the goal of raising the Louisville basketball program out of its years-long malaise and restoring it to the glory days that have begun to seem like a distant memory (maybe because they are), new coach Pat Kelsey has come up with a appropriate theme: It’s time for Cardinal fans to jump on the train to ReviVILLE. For a start, that would encompass UofL’s first winning season in four years, first NCAA Tournament appearance in six seasons and first NCAA win since 2019.
Ahead of the season opener against Morehead State on Nov. 4, the high-octane Kelsey -- who has been described as making coffee nervous -- has proven himself to be not only an energetic recruiter during his first eight months on the job, but also a tireless promoter. Because he knows he not only has to win games but also win over an impatient fan base, Kelsey has taken every opportunity to accept speaking engagements and appear at various events around town, so many that he has lost count. Along the way he has stoked optimism for the 2024-25 season, shown an extensive knowledge of Cardinal hoops tradition and complemented UofL fans that he’s hopeful will eventually fill the KFC Yum! Center again.
“This has been my introduction to the city of Louisville, passionate, passionate fans,” he said during the sold-out Pat Kelsey Welcome Event at the Frazier History Museum recently. “It’s been so cool to discover how important basketball really is to this town. People that love the Cardinals. I say this all the time this is one of the most historic, storied, tradition-rich basketball programs in the history of college basketball.”
Earlier in the summer, he released a hype video in which he emerged from a fictional transfer portal wearing a real space suit and proclaimed: “Y’all can tell Card Nation Louisville basketball is back.”
During an invitation-only appearance with season-ticket holders, Kelsey repeated his pledge, saying: “These guys were carefully selected to fit what we’re about. We’re going to be good. Mark this down, we’re going to be really good.”
Kelsey’s messages are designed to sell tickets until his team can do it with their performance on the court. After what figured to be an easy win against Morehead, the Cards will get a chance to prove themselves against one of the elite teams in the country this season when ESPN preseason No. 13 Tennessee visits the Yum! on Oct. 9. More early opportunities to make a statement will come when they play in the Thanksgiving week Battle 4 Atlantis, which has a loaded field that will feature at least three ranked teams. UofL’s first foe in the three-day, eight-team tournament will be No 18 Indiana. Also in the field are No. 6 Gonzaga and No. 9 Arizona, plus four other teams that certainly aren’t pushovers -- Davidson, Oklahoma, Providence and West Virginia.
In all, the Cards will face a minimum of four ranked teams in the first three weeks of the season. In addition to Atlantis, UofL will host No. 20 Ole Miss (Dec. 3), No. 8 Duke (Dec. 8) and No. 23 Kentucky (Dec. 14 in Lexington).
“I believe it’s probably the toughest, most challenging nonconference schedule in the country,” Kelsey said at the ACC Tipoff event in Charlotte, N.C. “Louisville’s fan base is really excited about the teams we’ll play and obviously we’re going to be really, really battle-tested by the time we get into the guts of the ACC season. It may be the toughest schedule in the history of our program.”
At least Kelsey will have an experienced team to take on those challenges, even though they’ve never played together before. After every player on Kenny Payne’s 2023-24 team left after he was fired Kelsey rebuilt the roster from scratch, adding 12 transfers and one true freshman. They make up the most experienced team in the country by minutes played.
Kelsey has said many times that he is comfortable predicting success in his first season because he has confidence “in what we do and how we do it. That’s what I believe. I love coaching these guys. I love their makeup. I love their talent. I love the buy-in that all these guys have in what we’re doing. I just love where we’re heading.”
Those relatively few fans who were able to stream UofL’s two lopsided victories in the Baha Mar Hoops Summer League in Nassau in late August by a combined score of 222-130 got a sense of the kind of team they’ll be watching this winter. And the Cards’ surprisingly strong showing after only 10 days of practice undoubtedly whetted the appetite of UofL fans hungry for a return to the halcyon days of the program following the disastrous two-year regime of Payne.
Louisville followed an 111-59 demolition of the Bahamas Select team with an equally impressive romp past the University of Calgary, a squad that Kelsey felt would give the Cards considerably more resistance than Bahamas. It didn’t. UofL took control of the game at the outset and continued to build its lead throughout.
The Cards were remarkably well-connected, whipping the ball around the court with crisp passing that led to layups or open threes and constantly moving in an effort to create space for the next ball handler. They compiled a remarkable 62 assists on 80 baskets. On defense, they communicated constantly, which led to effective switches in both zone and man defenses and created turnovers.
“We’ve got guys that are veterans, a bunch of seniors.” said point guard Chucky Hepburn, a Wisconsin transfer. “That makes it easier to come together. I love the way they are playing fast, sharing the ball, and playing aggressive defense. I love the direction this team and this program is headed.”
Other indications of what fans can expect during the Kelsey era are that the pace will be at breakneck speed with frequent substitutions, three-pointers will be flying from every direction, and the effort will be consistently high at both ends of the court no matter the score.
The most minutes a player saw on the court was 23 (Koren Johnson and Reyne Smith in game one), and in both games eight players played at least 18 minutes.
“We obviously play at a very fast pace. Huge part of our system is our offensive rebounding, and both of those require great effort,” Kelsey said. “Because of that, it’s important to have depth, and be able to play a lot of guys to be able to play to that standard as much as possible.”
“Obviously, we’re going to play much better teams,” he added. “But one thing we really focus on, and stress is that regardless of the score we try to be great in our system, to have a zero-zero mentality after every timeout. That’s hard to do. Human nature seeps in and it’s easy to feel everything is going our way anyway and just relax and start thinking about getting on the beach and having a good time. We didn’t do that. Our guys were flying around like a bunch of dogs in a summer game when they were up 40 points and that was so great to see.”
The Cards shot a blistering 41.0 percent (32-78) from beyond the arc in the two games. Half of their shots were threes, and they made 50% of their total attempts.
“When the lights came on, it was good to see us make shots,” Kelsey said. “Obviously, we value shooting. We spend a lot of time on our shooting. Had a ton of open looks. Everybody played together, and I think that was the one thing that was great to see -- the chemistry on the floor beginning to build; guys sharing the ball, playing together and making unselfish basketball plays.”
Meanwhile, UofL held Calgary to 31% shooting, including only seven baskets in the second half, and converted 13 turnovers into 20 points. With under three minutes left, the Dinos were 3-of-25. For a little perspective, Calgary returned seven of its top eight players from a team that posted a 20-12 record last season and lost to Wichita State and Yale by an average of just 10.3 points during a summer tour in Greece.
In the two games, UofL forced 38 turnovers and converted them into 48 points while limiting its foes to just 18 offensive rebounds.
“We’re not going to throw parades because we dive for loose balls and crash the glass,” Kelsey said. “That’s the expectation.”
While it was clear there is plenty of talent on this team to cause virtually every opponent problems, 6-foot-10 forward and USF transfer Kasean Pryor looked like he is ready to be one of the stars. His 38 points in the two games led UofL and he scored from both the perimeter and around the basket.
“Everyone knows where everyone is; everyone knows how to make the right play,” Pryor said.
“My expectation is for Kasean to play like a big-time player, because I think he is one,” Kelsey said. “Got us off to a great start. He’s had a really good summer, he’s grown in a lot of ways. He’s going to be a major piece for our team.”
Louisville’s potential balance was on display against Calgary. Hepburn turned in a solid all-around game with eight points, seven assists and five rebounds. Besides Hepburn and Pryor, other players who made significant contributions included Johnson with 15 points, Terrence Edwards Jr. 14, J’Vonne Hadley 13 and Noah Waterman 10. Freshman forward Khaani Rooths grabbed a game-high 11 rebounds, and versatile Aboubacar Traore had eight points, seven rebounds, four assists and two steals.
“We are far, far, far from a finished product,” Kelsey said. “But there’s a lot of evidence that these guys are very, very productive players. They’ve bought into the system, bought into our culture; and I’m really blessed and lucky to coach them and I’m excited about the season.”
Kelsey, who has astigmatism, has quickly become known for his black glasses that soon might become as much of a personal trademark as Howard Schnellenberger’s pipe. He has said he got the idea from rapper Jay-Z’s song, ‘Tom Ford,’ in reference to the designer glasses brand. He is a fan of Jay-Z and took the connection as a sign that was the style for him. One of the few lyrics that can be repeated in a family magazine is, “I rock Tom Ford.”
“I started wearing those when I stopped being able to see very well,” Kelsey said on a podcast this summer. “Everybody talks about the style of them; you know what they do? They help me stinking see.”
But don’t expect him to see him wearing them on the sideline in the KFC Yum! Center any time soon.
“I’m not to the point where I’m wearing them on the sideline yet; think I’ve got to win a bunch of games at Louisville before I start rocking these things on the sideline, but we’ll see. Some people like ‘em, some people don’t. The fact of the matter is my bride likes them, and that’s all that matters to me.”
Before long, the eyewear may start showing up in the stands. They’ve already become such a hit that UofL gave away replicas featuring Kelsey’s signature at the Louisville Live tipoff event in the Yum last month. And who knows, UofL may win enough games this season that he will feel comfortable wearing the spectacles on the sideline sooner than he expects.
By RUSS BROWN • Photos by: UofL Athletics
If you’re a University of Louisville football fan, or even a fan of another team who follows college football, you’re going to be seeing, hearing and reading a lot about Isaac Brown in the future.
Even though his college career is only a couple of months old, Brown has looked nothing like a neophyte while emerging as a game-changer and a likely star of the future for the Cardinals during the first half of the season.
At the midpoint, he was well on his way to potentially becoming a 1,000-yard rusher with 508 yards and seven games remaining -- six regular season contests plus a bowl.
He has also started receiving national recognition following his breakout performance in a 24-20 win over Virginia on Oct. 12 when he rushed for 146 yards and two touchdowns on 20 carries, which earned him Atlantic Coast Conference Rookie of the Week honors in addition to being named to the Paul Hornung Award Watch List and the 247Sports Midseason True Freshman All-American Team.
Here’s what 247Sports director of scouting Andrew Ivins had to say in an evaluation of Brown when he signed with UofL:
“A new age scatback with a naturally low center of gravity combined with elite burst makes it extremely difficult for defenders to get him on the ground. Rather elusive when he gets to the second level and has shown that he can make cuts at full speed without really having to gear down. On the smaller side but isn’t one that tries to shy away from contact. Has the potential to be a YAC (yards after carry) machine.”
Brown provided a preview of coming attractions by ripping off 123 yards on only five carries in the season opening 62-0 rout of Austin Peay, the first time any true UofL freshman had gained that many yards in his debut.
So Brown is already in some pretty special company. Eventual Heisman Trophy quarterback Lamar Jackson, who is the Cards’ all-time leading rusher with 4,132 career yards, had 106 yards in his debut against Auburn in 2015. Running back Walter Peacock (1972-1975), who held the UofL rushing record for 42 years before Jackson broke it, gained a mere 70 yards his entire freshman season and Michael Bush, who is considered one of Louisville’s best running backs ever, carried twice for minus-5 yards in his opening game against Kentucky in 2003.
However Brown’s yardage came against Football Championship Series (FCS) competition, a level beneath UofL, so to show he’s the real deal he had to perform against Power 4 teams, which he has done. During the three-game stretch leading up to the halfway point of the season, against No. 12 Notre Dame, No. 21 SMU and Virginia, the Homestead, Fla. product gained 335 yards while averaging an eye-popping 7.8 yards per carry.
“When Isaac came in, we knew he had a lot of talent, a lot of speed. So we’re happy with the way he’s progressed,” UofL offensive coordinator Brian Brohm said. “It’s always a matter of can they translate that to the next level? Can they pick up the offense? And he’s done a great job of studying the offense and knowing what to do. We’ve given him some more opportunities as the season’s gone on and he’s taken advantage of those and proven he can be a real threat for us.”
UofL senior safety Tamarion McDonald knows from going against the Cardinal offense in practice how big a problem Brown poses for opposing defenses.
“He’s real quick,” McDonald said. “Your angles have to be right if you’re going to tackle him in the open field.”
At only 5-foot-9 and 190 pounds Brown is small by major college running back standards, but that obviously hasn’t slowed him. He’s shown he can not only take the punishment from bigger defenders but can shrug it off and excel.
“It comes from my heart, to be honest,” Brown said, “because everybody thinks I’m too small to do things. But I just go out and show what I can do and put the team on my back.
He didn’t expect to get this much playing time so early in his career. Returning running back Maurice Turner, Miami transfer Don Chaney and Toledo transfer Peny Boone all had more experience and plenty of talent. But Boone transferred to Central Florida before the season started, Turner went down with an ankle injury in the second game and Brown has outperformed Chaney and fellow freshmen Keyjuan Brown and Duke Watson.
Brown carried the ball only 16 times in the first three games before establishing himself as a reliable go-to weapon. Except for size, he has everything a coach values in a running back -- speed, acceleration, field vision, elusiveness, toughness and durability, along with some important intangibles.
“He has a good work ethic, and his mental makeup and his natural ability are something you can’t teach,” UofL coach Jeff Brohm said. “He’s quick, fast and elusive. I think as he continues to progress in the weight room and gets stronger, we will get him to understand the nuances of college football better. We need to make sure he touches the ball so many times a game and allow him to do what he does best. He’s dangerous with the ball in his hands. Anytime you play a first-year freshman (early in the season) you worry about him locking up, not knowing the plays, turning the ball over. But Isaac practices really hard and his demeanor and work ethic overcomes a lot of that.
And Brown is just getting started. Stay tuned.
Standing up to Parkinson’s with Rock Steady Boxing
By Remy Sisk • Photos by Kathryn Harrington
In 2006, Scott C. Newman founded Rocky Steady Boxing after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease at age 40. Working with a boxer Newman found his symptoms improved drastically, which led to him starting the nonprofit in order to share that same triumph with others dealing with Parkinson’s. Today, Rock Steady is a worldwide phenomenon, bringing health professionals together with those in the fitness industry to spread this innovative and therapeutic modality to over 800 affiliate locations across 14 countries.
“I’ve been diagnosed with Parkinson’s for 12 years,” says Doug Pifer. “One piece of advice the doctor gave me was to exercise. It’s one of the best ways to possibly reverse the progression of the disease.” Pifer is the president of TKO Parkinson’s, a Louisville organization that offers free Rock Steady Boxing classes for the benefit of people diagnosed with Parkinson’s, their families and their care partners.
Pifer first learned of Rock Steady at a support group and gave it a try at a local gym. “Exercising in this program, I noticed my strength and flexibility improved,” he shares. “In class our routine included 50 minutes of functional exercises, which includes stretching, bending, weight and bad jokes. The jokes break up the session. Then we do some punching, ropes, balance and drumming. All the different exercises help build confidence and strength and stabilize symptom progression.”
Now, Pifer is a leader with TKO, helping others on a similar journey experience the positive effects of this specific style of training – and it’s not just for those with Parkinson’s. Loved ones can also take part, sharing in the experience and helping each other along the way. “People ask what they can do to help a friend who has recently been diagnosed with PD,” says Ann Pifer, Doug’s care partner. “I say ‘be their support!’ Encourage them to exercise, or better yet, exercise with them. Some of our class participants are friends and family that come to our program with their loved one.”
And all of this is at no cost to the patient. Ann shares that the team is cognizant of the financial strain a Parkinson’s diagnosis can place on a family and thus offers Rock Steady at no charge. She recognizes instructor Bob Keene, the volunteers and supporting organization that help make this programming possible. Programming that, as Doug says, sees most participants notice improvement in functional movement and also gain confidence.
While there’s no question that the program provides real concrete benefits, Ann maintains that those who show up to try out Rock Steady already harbor immense strength. “One of the things we didn’t know when we began this journey was that we would meet some of the most incredible people and toughest fighters in the world!” she says. “Daily, they make a commitment to fight PD with the help of their family and support team – doctors, physical therapist, speech therapist, occupational therapist, etc. They can’t do it alone, and with such programs as these, they don’t have to!”
Indeed, in this process, not only do those with Parkinson’s develop new strengths but they also form meaningful connections and find a supportive community. “Participants begin to realize they are not the only ones on this Parkinson’s journey,” Doug says. “They now are a part of a group that’s fighting against the progression of the disease with others. We all understand that we have good days and bad days but it’s always a good day to come and be with the group. It’s an uplifting experience.”
For more information call Ann or Doug Pifer, 502.491.3388 or 502.387.6092.
In-person class is every Monday and Wednesday, 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m., at Buechel Park Baptist Church, 2403 Hikes Lane, Louisville KY 40218. They also offer Zoom class Monday and Wednesday and just Zoom on Friday.
RECOVER REACH RESTORE
“ - Chandra J.
Antonio Pantoja
Written and photographed by Antonio Pantoja
Makeup Artist: Matt Goodlett
Models: Kanada Esteppe, Cleo Heine, & Jessica Zehnder Hi, I’m Antonio Pantoja. I’m an under qualified son of an immigrant and a drug addict. I didn’t make it past the 8th grade, and I lived in a car by the time I was 15 years old.
I shouldn’t be alive. And when I say that I mean that I almost died 2 years ago but I am so grateful to be here, to have a second chance at life.
I had the widowmaker, meaning my main artery had 100% blockage, and it doesn’t show up on a standard EKG. So, if you go into the hospital you appear to be fine. Your heart isn’t beating irregularly. They have to do further testing to determine that you are in fact having a heart attack. And I don’t fit the normal description of someone having a heart attack either. I don’t smoke, I don’t drink, I’ve never done any drugs in my life. I eat clean and I go to the gym every single day. In fact, the heart attack happened at the gym. But when I went, they put me in the ICU overnight and transported me to Audubon in an ambulance to the heart specialists where they did heart surgery on me immediately.
I say all of that to say this; you could be doing every single thing right in your life, but the universe might have different plans for you. But don’t focus on obstacles. The obstacle is the way.
Simon Sinek says that the human brain cannot comprehend the negative. He says:
“I’ll prove it. I’ll give you an example. Don’t think of an elephant. Did you think of an elephant?”
We often reinforce things when we only think of the negative. “I can’t pass this test.” --- “I can’t get this job” --- “I can’t do this” versus “I’m gonna keep doing this”
Pilots know this. It is well known in the pilot community that when you tell a pilot “Don’t hit the obstacle” they’ll hit the obstacle. Because what they’re doing is focusing on the obstacle. Skiers know this as well. If you’ve ever seen Skiers going through trees and you’re wondering how they do this, it’s easy. If you go through trees and you say to yourself “Don’t hit a tree, don’t hit a tree, don’t hit a tree” then you will only focus on trees. And you’ll wonder how anyone can ski through ALL OF THESE TREES. But if you focus on the path and ignore the trees, then you will ignore the obstacles. You’ll only follow the path.
It’s your choice in how you choose to perceive. Don’t focus on the negative. Don’t focus on the obstacles.
Kanada Esteppe
Cleo Heine
Find a way or create a way, but never create an excuse. NEVER focus on the obstacles.
The photos on this set are a representation of overcoming obstacles. The messages embedded in these photos, “Memento Mori” and “Amor Fati” in Latin mean, “tomorrow is not promised” and “Love of fate”. Each model has an accompanying animal as their alter ego.
My talented friend Matt Goodlett sent me an inspirational image and asked me to do a photo for him. He’s a renowned makeup artist and I really wanted to put him in the first ARTIST SPOTLIGHT that I hope to do every month for a different artist. You should get to know him, his work, his passion, and his spirit.
I jumped in the light and shot a photo of myself.
Memento Mori.
There is someone lying in a hospital bed begging God for the opportunity that you have right now.
What would you attempt if you knew you could not fail? Do it anyway. Doubt kills more dreams than failure ever will.
Every situation is a chance to learn, to grow. Nothing happens TO you. It happens FOR you. Change this perspective and you’ll even look at negative situations as an opportunity. Amor Fati.
Let your dreams be bigger than your fears and your actions speak louder than your words.
“FAILURE IS THE FIRST STEP” - ANDY PAUL
Jessica Zehnder
Jessica Zehnder
Matt Goodlett
Cleo Heine
EPILEPSY FOUNDATION - MASQUERADE- UNMASKING EPILEPSY
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By Kelsey Knott • Photos
Shot with analog film by Aaron
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Before The Monarch was The Monarch as we know it, it was Bearno’s Pizza where Sydney Sleadd performed her first open mic night. Shakily playing her three original songs then, it’s a full circle moment for the Middletown native to enter the building and find creative companionship.
With a light-up keyboard her mother gifted her, Sleadd trained her musical ear from an early age, pursuing the country genre at first: “For whatever reason, I could only write country songs. I’m a storyteller by nature.” Under the stage name Alabama Brown and the Inside Outlaws, twenty-year-old Sydney met some success, landing a small record label. When the band broke up, it was time for her to “grow up,” she says: “I had a daughter, and I’m very open about this part of my story, but I needed to get sober.” Fast forward to 18 months ago, and musicians from her Alabama Brown days reconnected to become her current act, Sydney Sleadd and The Swarm.
When making music, Sleadd believes in collaboration and play: “It’s almost childlike. It’s like playing–tapping in and making weird sounds… We’re going to create and not judge it, have fun, and make weird noises–let the magic fill the room. It’s been a beautiful and healing experience for me.”
With J Mitchell on electric guitar, Kolby Tatom on drums, and Keith Sampson on bass, The Swarm is a powerhouse force that lends their years of individual musical experience to this project.
The Swarm is genre-fluid, but they still lean Americana. Influenced by traditional country storytellers like Cash, Cline, Jennings, Parsons, and Prine who have long been known for songs with complex characters struggling through addiction, sex, and loss. Sleadd & The Swarm finally create a space for complicated female characters to exist as well. “One of my favorite songwriters is John Prine. He writes about the human experience, whether in an overarching sense or by creating a character and exploring their story…There might be people who don’t want to hear about some girl getting high and hitchhiking. Good. Be uncomfortable with it. People like me exist; you know?” Female protagonists causing trouble helps work to remove a double standard in a way that artists of the past couldn’t.
Sydney’s powerful voice on Creature Untamed can instantly hook listeners, but her vulnerable songwriting shouldn’t be overlooked: “Compliments around my songwriting are much more personal because I feel like I’ve earned it. I spent time cultivating that.” She emphasizes that there’s no wrong way to write a song and an artist’s process is individual and personal: “I usually write the entire song in one sitting and sometimes I won’t even tweak it. It’s almost coming through me, not from me.” When she’s called to write, she stops, drops, and writes, hoping listeners feel seen and less alone. “I wrote as a means of survival for a long time, especially pre-sobriety to process emotions and make sense of the world. I want people to feel something, whether that’s joy, connection, or grief.”
Sleadd & The Swarm know that the “everybody can win” mentality makes The Monarch special. Sydney says, “You can’t talk about Louisville without talking about The Monarch. Artists who don’t live here say they feel isolation from fear of competitiveness… here, there’s one record label, and they’re great, but we’re not all trying to get the same prize. We’ll all make it–whatever that looks like to us.” They also commend Mark Roberts’s commitment to making artists in the community known. “Mark is a gem in this city. He will speak my name in every room full of opportunities, and any of these artists he’s gotten to know here. He’s dedicated so much time, love, and passion…This place doesn’t exist anywhere else. We have a listening room where people aren’t screaming ‘Free Bird!’ or talking amongst themselves.” The music industry is a grind and “spits people out,” so Sleadd and The Swarm are grateful to have found what works for them as a band.
Performing live is where Sleadd & The Swarm have the most fun. “The hope is whoever feels alone hears the song and feels a little less alone, especially in live performances. I’m spilling my guts out on the floor, and I can see you crying relating to my gut-spilling. In that moment, you’re a stranger, but here we are together. That’s the coolest part. …You need the people to create the energy.”
Sydney Sleadd and The Swarm swept the 2024 LEO Weekly awards: Best Band of the Year, Best Album of the Year, and Best Song of the Year. Beyond Louisville, fans exist as far as Australia and Brazil. Listen to Creature Untamed now, and stay tuned for the release of new singles!
Hildegard House provides a home and compassionate care for individuals at the end of life who have no home or loved ones to care for them as they are dying so that they may have dignity. One homeless Vietnam Veteran, Jim, called Hildegard House, “the best bed and breakfast in town!”
We operate totally on donations. We don’t charge a fee. Can you help someone have a home for Christmas? And help us provide compassionate care for them?
Heuser Hearing & Language Academy provides specialized programs and learning environments for preschool and kindergarten-aged children affected by hearing, speech and language challenges throughout Kentucky and Southern Indiana. We ensure that every child who attends the academy, no matter their family’s ability to pay, receives an individualized and valuable education.
Your support directly contributes to the growth and success of this vital program, making a meaningful impact on the lives of these children and their families.
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Since Heuser Hearing Clinic is a nonprofit, all proceeds from the clinic support the academy. If you need ear, hearing, balance or speech services, please consider Heuser Hearing Institute for your care.
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