We’re off to an exciting start this Derby season with our dedicated team delivering our best Derby issue yet—my third edition. We’re delighted to feature (note: Amelia, the article does not mention his Woodford collection. It is about Churchill Downs.) Bill Carstanjen, known for his impressive collection of every Derby-edition Woodford Reserve bottle. Additionally, we’re interviewing the artist behind this year’s Woodford Reserve Derby bottle, exploring his creative inspiration for Derby 151.
Speaking of special releases, I have a ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME announcement for you! Gonzo Whiskey’s exclusive one-time release, “Decadent and Depraved.” Whiskey enthusiasts and Hunter S. Thompson fans shouldn’t miss this special opportunity. Furthermore, we invite you to join us for the premiere of “Secretariat’s Race Home,” celebrating the Secretariat’s 50th anniversary with an intimate look at his legendary journey through the perspective of Penny Chenery’s family as the 1st statue of Secretariat makes it to his birth home in Ashville, Virginia.. Reserve your spot by visiting our website!
We are honored to showcase the Derby Princesses on our cover. Congratulations to Lilly Deljoo, Madeline (Maddie) Duff, Erica McPheeters, and Hannah Rager—each an incredible Derby Princess. A special congratulations to Elizabeth King for being crowned Kentucky Derby Festival Queen. These remarkable young women represent Louisville beautifully, embodying grace and strength. Ladies, enjoy the next few weeks this will be a derby you all won’t soon forget!
Additionally, we’re pleased to honor the legacy of Paul Kling, the renowned violinist and Holocaust survivor who served as concertmaster of the Louisville Ballet. His story continues to inspire, and we look forward to sharing more about his extraordinary life.
On a personal note, recent challenges have reminded me of the importance of self-care. Prioritizing my health, I’ve embraced Pilates, achieving significant wellness milestones (I’ve lost 25lbs) and finding a sustainable routine that enriches my life.Lastly, we pay tribute to Junior Bridgeman, whose impact on Louisville was profound. His dedication to our community and advocacy for peace and respect will long be remembered. We extend our deepest condolences and support to his family during this difficult time.
And to Christina “Elise” Wobbe’s family, for someone who lost her life so young, she lived an incredibly fulfilled life. I wish I had the opportunity to meet Elise. Thank you for sharing her journey with us. We are sending your whole family warmth, love, and compassion.
To the many VOICES of Louisville, Cheers!
This is for you.
Amelia Frazier Theobald
EDITOR’S NOTE
Spring is in full swing, and here in Louisville, that means Derby season. The horses are fast, the hats are big, and the fashion is anything but subtle. One minute it’s sunny, the next it’s pouring rain—but hey, that’s part of the charm, right? Whether you’re a seasoned Derby pro or just here for the mint juleps and bourbon, this issue has you covered.
Derby fashion is all about making a statement, and we’re unpacking the creativity, personality, and, let’s be honest, the occasional questionable outfit choice that makes it so fun.
But Derby isn’t just about letting loose and looking sharp, it’s also an opportunity to give back. Let us all keep in mind the incredible organizations and events that use the season’s excitement to support great causes. Because nothing pairs better with a fancy outfit than a little generosity.
Here’s to the horses, the hats, the weather (for better or worse), and the unforgettable stories that come with them. Cheers to Derby season!
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 & EDITOR, ALISHA PROFFITT
DISTRIBUTION, KELLI & RAGAN VAN HECKE, JILL & JOHN MINNIX
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: ALISON CARDOZA, ALISHA PROFFITT, ANTONIO PANTOJA, CARRIE FOSTER, CHRIS MORRIS, JACKIE ZYKAN, KATHRYN HARRINGTON, KELSEY KNOTT, KEVIN MURPHY WILSON, MCKENNA GRAHAM, REMY SISK, RENAE ISON, RUSS BROWN
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: GIOIA PATTON, HUNTER S. THOMPSON ESTATE, JACKIE ZYKAN, JOE GATTO, KEVIN SIVAKUMAR, LOUISVILLE CITY FC, LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA, MARTIN BOLING, MAVERICKS/DWIGHT YOAKAM, SONIA REID, TONY BENNETT, WOODFORD RESERVE
BONDED BY BOURBON: Celebrating 20 years of Bourbon’s Bistro
By Mckenna Graham
Photos by Matt Johnson
Redefining How You Move
Pilates Fit Studio Owner Erica Walters Talks Passion and Profession
By Remy Sisk
Photos by Matt Johnson
Styled by Carrie Foster
Photos by Matt Johnson, Antonio Pantoja, Kathryn Harrington & Martin Boling
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Chance & Charm: Mark Your Calendars for the Spellbinding Spectacle of KMAC Couture’s Lucky #13
By VOICE-TRIBUNE
Cardoza
Go Green This April: Earth Day 2025 Celebrations
The Years Will Not Be Kind: Raul Malo Talks Kentucky
When Life Gives You Lemons, Make Sour Party
Alisha Proffitt
Famed Grizzly 399 Bronze Monument Sculpture in Progress: A Lasting Tribute to the Grand Matriarch
By VOICE-TRIBUNE Photos by Sonia Reid and Matt Johnson
Kling: A Legacy of Unbreakable Musical Spirit
Building a Fortress: Staying Nearly Perfect Again at Home Will Be a Key to LouCity FC’s Season By RUSS BROWN
Obituary: Christina Wobbe
Kathryn Harrington’s Society
A Love Affair: Kelsey, Cards and Fans Developed a Fondness for Each Other During a Surprising Season
RUSS BROWN
YOU TO SPONSORS
BITTNERS
designing for the way you live
A CONVERSATION WITH BILL CARSTANJEN, CEO OF CHURCHILL DOWNS
By VOICE-TRIBUNE • Photos By Matt Johnson
As the CEO of Churchill Downs, Bill Carstanjen oversees one of the most iconic brands in sports and entertainment, leading its evolution while maintaining the traditions that define the Kentucky Derby. Under his leadership, Churchill Downs has expanded its reach, investing in major renovations, enhancing guest experiences, and solidifying its position as a premier destination for racing and hospitality. In this conversation, Carstanjen discusses the business strategy behind preserving a 151-year legacy, the economic impact of Churchill Downs, and the forward-thinking investments shaping the future of the Derby.
VT: Churchill Downs has such a rich history. How do you balance preserving its traditions while innovating for the future?
BC: Balancing the rich traditions of Churchill Downs with the innovative spirit required for the future can be a delicate dance but it’s one that we try to carefully choreograph. It’s important to draw inspiration from the past and the lessons learned to guide us forward while at the same time remaining committed to change in order to always offer our guests a contemporary world-class experience.
The Kentucky Derby stands as a testament to the enduring power of tradition, but embracing change is imperative if we expect to live up to those legendary standards. An event simply cannot thrive for a century and a half without a commitment to innovation. As we commemorated last year’s special milestone with the debut of the new Paddock, we noted that it was not the culmination of our work, but rather a steppingstone that propels us into the next chapter of the Kentucky Derby, where we plan for this legacy to endure for generations to come.
VT: With the Kentucky Derby being the most famous horse race in the world, what goes on behind the scenes to ensure its continued success?
BC: A tremendous amount of dedication and effort goes into making it the most famous horse race in the world. Our team members recognize the responsibility they carry as stewards of this iconic event. However, we recognize that the endearing success is not a credit to our team members alone. It can be attributed to the tireless work of countless individuals who play crucial roles behind the scenes: trainers, jockeys and owners who commit themselves to making their mark on this rich history. It’s also, in large part, thanks to the fans and our entire community who infuse the Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports with passion, pride and enthusiasm that make this event more than just a success but something that feels truly special year after year.
VT: Churchill Downs has been investing in major renovations and improvements—what can guests expect to see in the coming years?
BC: We have a series of major projects to unveil in the coming years that will result in a significantly enhanced experience for our guests. This year, we will debut the Starting Gate Courtyard and Pavilion project which will transform lower-end bleacher seats into around 8,500 premium stadium and trackside box seats while greatly improving the amenities for those ticket holders. Last month, we announced one of the most ambitious projects in the history of the property that reflects our commitment to world-class hospitality for many decades to come. What has been known as the Skye Terrace will be transformed and expanded into what will become The Skye with improved track views and upgraded amenities.
We revealed a new concept called the Conservatory Project that will replace the temporary suites that are installed each year for Derby week in the infield with new permanent structures that will provide a premium experience and truly unprecedented vantage points alongside the Kentucky Derby winner’s circle. We also announced our intention to introduce three new permanent buildings within the infield that will improve amenities for those general admission guests and create ticket upgrade opportunities to include exclusive entertainment and rooftop viewing options.
Along with those major developments, we are investing in several infrastructure projects both on the backside for horsemen and on the frontside. For example, we plan to construct a new tunnel to the infield that will not just facilitate seamless access for our guests, but will also serve as an immersive underground experience with storytelling platforms that will serve to build excitement for those guests as they move throughout.
VT: The Derby is known for its spectacle and pageantry. Do you have a favorite Derby tradition or moment?
BC: My favorite Derby tradition is a bit of a personal one. It’s not unusual for me to spend early mornings on the backside Derby week which has a very special energy, but I always enjoy getting to the track early on Derby morning to walk the frontside and backside long before the gates open. There is a sense of quiet and calm that will escalate quickly to the spectacle that we all know and enjoy. I like to take those early hours to interact with the team, thank them for their hard work and hopefully help motivate and energize them as they are up against a long day of challenges and hopefully rewarding triumphs. Many of our team members work the entire year to make this day possible; it’s important to be there with them as we amp up to start the day.
VT: What’s been the most rewarding part of your tenure as CEO? Any standout moments or personal highlights?
BC: I find my job as CEO of Churchill Downs rewarding in so many ways. I’m personally proud of what our investments as a company do in terms of job creation for the communities in which we operate, especially here in Louisville, Kentucky. Our developments have a significant economic impact on our local communities and create opportunities for people to start meaningful careers. At the Kentucky Derby each year, the reality is that I need to always be ready to deal with what comes up during the day, so there aren’t moments where I let my guard down and enjoy the day like a fan. Being ready to meet those responsibilities and challenges is something I take very seriously. There is never a time when I walk into Churchill Downs without feeling a direct and personal commitment to making sure everything goes well for the approximately 150,000 guests in attendance. I guess you could say that in and of itself is incredibly rewarding.
VT: If you could give one piece of advice to someone attending their first Kentucky Derby, what would it be?
BC: Most people know that the actual race itself is a mile and a quarter, but for a first-time guest I would tell them that the day is a
Whether you are testing products or capturing a memory at one of the photo stations, it can feel like a theme park atmosphere between races. Then of course the newly designed Paddock now provides an opportunity for everyone to enjoy watching the horses from multiple perspectives before they compete.
VT: How do you see the role of Churchill Downs evolving within the broader entertainment and hospitality industry?
BC: Our recently announced series of capital projects as well as the hospitality spaces we have unveiled over the last three years really demonstrate our commitment to exceeding the ever-changing expectations of our guests who seek to celebrate tradition while enjoying modern amenities. As we work toward our goal of being a world-class entertainment destination, we have several guiding principles that we adhere to and let guide our decisions: create once-in-a-lifetime experiences for our guests; encourage innovation within our team to create new options for our guests at all ticketing price points; remain focused on the time-honored traditions and history of Churchill Downs; and minimize construction impact from our projects on the current year’s running of the Kentucky Derby to ensure that our guests can have a bucket list experience every year.
VT: With the continued evolution of gaming and entertainment, how do you envision the future of Churchill Downs in 10 years?
BC: Churchill Downs Incorporated as a company and Churchill Downs Racetrack as an event venue have both evolved a great deal in the last 10 years and there is a lot of continued growth on the horizon. In the last 7 years, we’ve been able to develop a solid infrastructure for the horse racing industry in Kentucky, unlike anywhere else in the country. We like to say we keep Kentucky running strong. It’s a winning model that supports and protects the entire ecosystem of Kentucky horseracing. As customer habits and expectations continue to change around gaming and wagering, we are poised as a company to stay nimble and respond to what’s next. It’s exciting to think about what the future holds for us if we continue to work hard and take smart chances. No one is allowed to rest on the laurels of the past here. It’s all about what we do moving forward.
VT: How do you personally prepare for Derby Day, and do you have any superstitions or Traditions?
BC: I am not personally superstitious, but it’s important for me to get as much rest as possible and to stay healthy leading to the busy Derby season. Because of the demands of my job during Derby week, I like to prioritize time with my family as much as I can in the weeks ahead. I also absolutely do not look at or discuss “long-range weather forecasts.” We hope for the best but prepare for the worst… and there is no point fretting over things you can’t control.
Scan to view this month’s collection of featured properties
By VOICE-TRIBUNE • Photos by Matt Johnson • Hair and makeup by J Micheals Spa & Salon and Matt Goodlett • Sponsored By Mamili
Featuring styles from Mamili Boutique, Mad Hatter 502, and jewelry provided by Aesthetics in Jewelry
As the city of Louisville steps into another Derby season, the 2025 Kentucky Derby Festival Royal Court takes center stage in stunning fashion styled by Melissa Huff. Photographed aboard the historic Belle of Louisville, the five newly crowned Derby Queen and Princesses are seen in ensembles from Mamili Boutique, complete with exquisitely crafted hats by Mad Hatter 502.
The Royal Court has long been a cherished tradition of the Kentucky Derby Festival, celebrating accomplished young women who embody intelligence, leadership, and civic dedication. This year, the Court is as impressive as ever, each Princess with their own unique mission and accomplishments.
The Belle of Louisville, a true icon of the Ohio River and Kentucky Derby Festival, provides the perfect backdrop. As the world’s oldest operating Mississippi River-style steamboat, the Belle carries with it an aura of timeless prestige, one that mirrors the rich legacy of the Derby Festival Royal Court.
FASHION FIT FOR ROYALTY
Styled in effortlessly chic outfits from Mamili Boutique, vibrant hues bring each look to life, celebrating the season’s most coveted trends while paying homage to Kentucky’s distinct sartorial Derby style. Mamili Boutique, owned by Melissa Huff, a proud member of The Fillies, Inc., has long been synonymous with Derby fashion, offering styles that capture the essence of Louisville’s most celebrated season.
No Derby ensemble would be complete without a standout headpiece, and Mad Hatter 502 delivers with a breathtaking collection of custom hats and fascinators. From delicate feathered fascinators to bold, statementmaking brims, each hat is a one-of-a-kind work of art.
MEET THE 2025 ROYAL COURT
Each year, the Kentucky Derby Festival Royal Court selects five outstanding women to serve as ambassadors for Louisville and the Commonwealth. These young women not only represent the pinnacle of academic and extracurricular excellence but also carry forward the traditions of the Derby Festival.
Queen Elizabeth King (University of Kentucky) – A dual-degree scholar in finance and flute performance, committed to financial literacy education.
Princess Lilly Deljoo (University of Louisville School of Medicine) – A future physician with a passion for global health and human rights advocacy.
Princess Madeline Duff (University of Kentucky) – The UK Student Body President and a dedicated advocate for Appalachian health initiatives.
Princess Erica McPheeters (Kentucky State University) – A political science major and dedicated leader, currently serving as Miss Kentucky State University.
Princess Hannah Rager (University of Louisville) – A dynamic marketing and sports administration student with deep involvement in community engagement.
As the countdown to the Derby begins, the Royal Court will make appearances at dozens of events, each a celebration of the spirit and excitement that defines the Kentucky Derby Festival. Whether they’re gracing the Fillies Derby Ball, the Pegasus Parade, or the iconic Kentucky Oaks, as these Princesses take on their roles as ambassadors, they do so in impeccable style—ready to leave their mark on a season filled with grandeur, grace, and, of course, the perfect hat!
Elizabeth King
Hannah Rager of Bremen
Madeline (Maddie) Duff
A CONVERSATION WITH ARTIST, HUMBERTO LAHERA
By Mckenna Graham • Photos By Matt Johnson
Since 1999 Woodford Reserve, presenting sponsor of the Kentucky Derby, has honored an artist by immortalizing their artwork on a commemorative bottle of bourbon. This year’s artist is Humberto Lahera, a Cuban painter known for his photorealistic style and rich, luscious color palette. His style pairs perfectly with the decadent luxury of the Derby and his painting Carrera Dinámica created for Woodford indulges in the classical beauty and opulence of the event.
Lahera generously took time to sit down with me to talk about his work and share what this honor means to him.
MG: 1-Tell me a little about your creative practice.
HL: Technically speaking, I have tried to merge the best of both worlds. I have tried to use elements of photorealism, which, although I brought from my work in Cuba, was inspired by the masters of the North American avant-garde. I fuse this with effects from Impressionist artists and other more contemporary ones like Jackson Pollock with the use of dripping. I have also added textures with a spatula. In this way, my work has become a mixture of different artistic movements.
In concept, this evolution is mainly reflected in cultural fusion. Conveying emotions is something that characterizes my work, whether in a portrait, a racing scene, or any isolated element. I manifest both energy and moods that range from very dynamic to relaxed. That is why I try to create focal points to draw the viewer’s gaze there and then blur the rest. These emotions are reflected in expressive portraits but also in a horse race, which represents the new culture that is beginning to be part of my life, like a horse that is in constant motion.
My life is like that of an athlete, a runner, or a jockey, full of discipline and sacrifice, always seeking success.
MG: How long have you lived in Kentucky and where is your hometown?
HL: I was born in Cuba and lived my entire life in a city called Holguín. About two years ago, I made the decision to emigrate to the United States, which resulted in a major change in my life, both culturally and emotionally. Immersing myself in a whole new culture and traditions was reflected not only in me as an individual but also in my artistic work.
First, I went through a process of exploration and learning, visiting multiple galleries and museums. Visiting exhibitions in museums in Kentucky, Cincinnati, and the Art Institute of Chicago had a great emotional and visual impact on me. Seeing works by Impressionist masters like Vincent van Gogh or Claude Monet changed my vision of art.
Until then, I had only seen these paintings in books and photos, but the experience of seeing them in person changed me completely.
Kentucky’s culture influenced me a lot, and as an artist who constantly seeks to grow, I keep my mind open to new ideas and style explorations. All this influence led me to start experimenting with different materials and techniques, mixing the old with the new, and my culture with American culture, mainly Kentucky’s.
MG: Describe your process making Carrera Dinámica?
HL: I received a call from Brown-Forman asking me if I was interested in being part of the project, but there were three finalists. After that, they interviewed me, and two days later, they informed me that I had been selected. They told me over the phone that this was going to propel my art to a global level. Then they mentioned that they had been watching me for a year, which confirmed the results of my hard work, creating and showcasing my art on social media or at events. It was exciting.
Afterward, we had a meeting at the distillery where we exchanged ideas, and that’s how the design process began. It was approved immediately once I presented it, and from there, I started painting. It took me a month to paint it due to its level of detail and size. Additionally, I had a full-time job that prevented me from painting during the day, so I could only paint at night, struggling against sleep and exhaustion.
MG: What did you use as your source image(s) for the horse and jockey in Carrera Dinámica? Anyone we might know?
HL: Carrera Dinámica was created to represent the pure energy of the Kentucky Derby, full of symbols such as roses, colors, the Twin Spires of Churchill Downs. At the same time, it embodies the image of a jockey bursting into an explosion of rose petals, chasing his American dream and victory.
Certain previous works for the Derby have been based on specific jockeys or horses, while in mine, I simply try to capture the idea and overall impact of what the Derby represents according to my vision as an artist. In the piece, I use a collage of images to create harmony and balance in the composition, altering colors and giving it an atmosphere very much in my style, with stains, spatula textures simulating both Impressionism and photorealism, or the abstraction seen in the background.
MG: How long have you been painting with equestrian themes? What drew you to the subject matter?
HL: In Cuba, I had the experience of creating equestrian scenes as I was involved in a hotel remodeling project in my hometown, which two centuries ago was a Spanish stable. In modern times, they decided to name the hotel “Caballeriza”(The Stable) in honor of its history and to decorate it entirely with paintings of equestrian themes. I played a very active role there, where I began painting horses, and it was a great experience studying their anatomical features.
Once I settled in Kentucky, the city of Louisville made me feel like they had been waiting for me. I feel like it was destiny for me to come and live here. Its culture started to captivate me, and the Derby is the most important event in the state. I started getting involved in all kinds of events and decided, in addition to the themes I painted in Cuba—mainly portraits and horses—to introduce the new culture that now represents 50% of me. That is where the Derby began to be part of my work.
MG: How does it feel knowing your work will be immortalized in bourbon collections around the world?
HL: Seeing my art distributed on millions of bottles that will travel the world is a dream, not just for me but for any native artist as well. It would be part of the American dream even for an American.
Being a Latin immigrant, Cuban, having lived in the USA for only two years, with no connections, no knowledge of the art markets in this country, no community of familiar people, starting from zero, full of uncertainties, and still managing to break through in a project of this magnitude was a real challenge.
For me, the American dream is fulfilling the desires of your heart, doing what you love, and seeing it come true one day. That is what every immigrant fights for—only many give up and stop dreaming.
For more information on Lahera and his artwork visit his website: www.humbertolahera.com
FILMMAKER MARK ALEX VOGT DISCUSSES HIS VISION OF CREATING
By Remy Sisk • Photos By Matt Johnson
Not many Louisvillians can say they’ve built a costume piece for Beyoncé, but Mark Alex Vogt has done just that. A Louisville native and St. Xavier High School grad, Vogt is a co-owner of MacGuffin Makers, a California-based company specializing in prop building, set piece making, production design and more. He also works as a filmmaker himself, with his sources of inspiration rooted in good ol’ American science-fiction.
“I’ve been a maker for my entire life, as long as I can remember,” Vogt says. He recalls tinkering around in his parents’ garage, working on Star Wars costumes and Nerf guns. Fast forward to the COVID shutdown and Vogt found himself in California for directing but of course, given the pandemic, had nothing to direct. With the downtime, he started making TikTok videos of the prop replicas and other specialty projects he was working on at home, which led to some high-profile attention.
His breakout project came when he got a call to design an X-Wing for rapper Denzel Curry’s set at Coachella in 2022. “I, of course, said yes, not knowing how I was going to pull it off,” Vogt says. “And by saying yes, I scrambled and called a bunch of people and met some people in the special effects industry out here that were also carpenters. And we really hit it off.”
The X-Wing turned out stupendously and Vogt eventually found himself establishing a formal company with his collaborators on the project. MacGuffin Makers is now a thriving operation that offers “an array of fabrication and design capabilities that redefine the standard.” The company has built props, set pieces and more for several high-profile clients, including Beyoncé. For the artist’s 2023 Renaissance World Tour, Vogt and company designed and built her signature silver helmet.
The piece was perfectly up Vogt’s alley in particular as he’s been a longtime science-fiction fan and has embraced the genre as a major influence and inspiration for his design. “I grew up on sci-fi in all forms,” he shares. “And definitely that is where my heart is and where I love to be.”
MacGuffin’s most recent project was right in line with this aesthetic; the team created two promotional robots that were used in marketing for “The Electric State,” a new Netflix film starring Millie Bobby Brown and Chris Pratt. “We got to pull all the tricks out of the hat in terms of aging things, distressing things,” he says. “It was a combination of real metal and printed parts and all this stuff that kind of made up the final look of that weathered sort of ’90s-era tech.”
Science-fiction has also inspired Vogt’s own filmmaking. “Film was, I always said, what I’m born to do,” he maintains. “That’s what I’m going to do. And, you know, the making side of things, especially as I was growing up, was always kind of in service of the directing side of things.” Indeed, when Vogt directed and needed something special, without the cash to commission something, he would just make it himself.
Material-wise, Vogt has worked on commercials for a number of years as well as shorter narrative projects. He affirms directing features is his endgame but also says he’s found a love for the commercial production as well. He recently created an entry for the Doritos Crash the Super Bowl contest, where fans could submit commercials for a chance at a cash prize and to have the commercial aired during the big game. Vogt’s submission – in his signature retro sci-fi style – made it into the top 25, and he looks back on the experience as really proving that the industry is hungry for what he has to offer.
With his key influences ranging from Star Wars and Spielberg to “The Twilight Zone” and “Alien,” Vogt is only continuing upward on his filmmaking trajectory. While hopeful for anything that may come his way, he emphasizes there’s no place like home and perhaps the greatest ambition could be to direct features right here in his hometown. “I live in California, but I have a house in the Highlands, and, you know, I love being home,” he says. “Louisville will always be home. And if one day I can make movies from home, then that’s the dream come true.”
Enjoy an Historic furnished 5,500 square foot home away from home rental centered in the heart of Glenview, Kentucky. Glenview is a suburb city within Louisville, Ky. off of River Road. This home named Cobblecourt is honored to be under the Historic Louisville Landmarks Commission. The grounds we’re designed by renowned Landscape Architect Frederick Olmsted. You are a 15 to 20 minute car ride to anywhere within Jefferson County.
While this home is offered for Rental all year long, if you are in need of accommodations for the 2025 Kentucky Derby this can be arranged and is an idyllic location to entertain family and guest. If you require extended time in Louisville in the lead up to the Kentucky Derby the home is approximately 19 minutes from Churchill Downs.
main street SHAKEN & STIRRED
PRIVATE EVENTS GROUP TOURS
By Chris Morris • Photo of Chris Morris by Matt Johnson | Photos of Barrels Provided by Woodford Reserve
In previous issues of the Voice, we have examined the global standard of identity for Whiskey, in other words we discussed what makes a Whiskey a Whiskey. We followed that with a deep dive into the standards that govern the production of Bourbon Whiskey. And most recently, we have looked at the historical reasons for the use of corn as the predominant ingredient in the production of Bourbon Whiskey. Corn certainly is one of the factors that separates Bourbon Whiskey from the other great Whiskeys of the world like Single Malt Scotch. But the use of corn is not the only outstanding difference.
The bourbon standards also require that the corn rich distillate be matured in oak containers, like the global standard for Whiskey requires, but that the oak containers be both new and charred on the inside. Scotch, Irish, and the other international Whiskey types do not require the use of either new or charred barrels for their maturation vessels. The global standard for Whiskey simply requires the use of oak containers in the maturation process. So, the use of a new charred oak container and let’s call it a “barrel” is one of the definitive requirements/ingredients that separates Bourbon Whiskey from all other international whiskey types.
This leads to the question - why are oak barrels required in the crafting of Whiskey? Why not use some other type of wood? Why even use wood? Again, history and environmental conditions supply us with the answer. First, let’s go back in time to the types of storage vessels that the ancient world used to hold liquids. The archaeological record is quite clear – liquids were stored in fired clay vessels, in other words, “ceramics.” As far back as 9,000–10,000 BCE pottery vessels were used for storing food and water. Storing a liquid in a ceramic vessel will not change the liquid. It simply contains and protects it.
Early civilizations like the Egyptians had made crude types of wooden barrels that would not hold liquid. These were used along with baskets and boxes to store dry goods. Why didn’t these early barrels hold liquid? The wood that was used was the wrong kind! At Brown-Forman we have experimented with making barrels from other types of wood. These included maple, hickory, ash, beech, birch, cherry, and pecan. None of them held liquid like an oak barrel does. Plus, some gave undesirable flavors to the liquid (Whiskey) we stored in them. Other types of wood, like pine, can’t be easily bent into the shape of a barrel and it is the shape that gives it its strength and versatility.
The modern style of wooden barrels has been used for the transportation and storage of goods for around 2000 years. The timing could not have been better for the introduction of barrels made from oak. This was a time of rapidly evolving trade, and the ceramic vessels of the time were fragile. Moving valuable goods like olive oil and wine in them long distances over rough roads or by ship was a risky business. If the container was dropped or jolted during transit it could break, and its contents lost. On the other hand, wooden barrels were both durable and easy to handle. Their shape with the bulge in the middle made barrels easy to roll and turn. The widespread use of barrels developed along with the growth and evolution of trade.
Early civilizations like the Egyptians had made crude types of wooden barrels that would not hold liquid. These were used along with baskets to store dry goods. Why didn’t these early barrels hold liquid? The wood that was used was the wrong kind! I have experimented with making barrels from other types of wood. These included maple, hickory, ash, beech, birch, cherry, and pecan. None of them held liquid like an oak barrel does. Plus, some gave undesirable flavors to the liquid (Whiskey) we stored in them. Other types of wood, like pine, can’t be easily bent into the shape of a barrel and it is the shape that gives it its strength and versatility.
It was the Roman empire that introduced the world to oak barrels. As the Romans expanded their Empire into what is now Central Europe they encountered the Celts. The Celts are credited with the development of the modern barrel around the beginning of the first millennium. They inhabited a temperate zone that oak thrives in – so when they made barrels from the prominent local wood it was discovered that it was the wood of choice. It was tough but pliable and most importantly it held liquid. As in the case of most discoveries, probably an accident or an oversight occurred when a barrel made from oak, intended to be filled with dry goods, was filled with a liquid and it was discovered that the barrel held that liquid. It could’ve been water, wine, beer or something else but it doesn’t matter, an important lesson was learned.
The Romans capitalized on this discovery and began to use oak barrels throughout their Empire’s vast trade routes. As certain liquids spent time in these oak barrels during their journey to market it was discovered that they had changed. Unlike a ceramic vessel, an oak barrel imparted flavor to the liquid stored in it. In some cases, for the better! So naturally once Whiskey was created it too would eventually be stored and transported in oak barrels like other liquids. And it would improve as well.
So today Whiskey is required to be stored in oak barrels due to the history of how our ancestors stored and moved liquids. This resulted in the eventual realization that the oak barrel had become a part of the Whiskey flavor profile. So why oak? Why change a good thing!
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 pours alongside fresh, local, and seasonal botanicals.
A tonic is a term referring to a preparation which supports general well-being or provides nutritive benefits. Many are familiar with tonic water, the bubbly bar staple and the other half of the gin and tonic cocktail. The notoriously bitter profile of this carbonated mixer is due to the presence of quinine, an extract of cinchona tree bark which was used in malaria treatment. In fact, the curious medicinal history of so many back bar bottles are what drove my particular interest into the industry so many years ago. Everything from infused spirits, bitters, aperitif, digestif, liqueur, aromatized or fortified wine (vermouth, anyone?) has an example of a concoction once made to highlight the gifts of the plants and spices in its recipe. Regional herbal elixirs to manage regional ailments were and are quite commonplace. The only setback it seems is the taste. Botanical ingredients can be inherently bitter in nature, and in Kentucky some of spring’s earliest risers are no exception. This palate conundrum is quickly resolved with the incorporation of sugar and fruits to soften the bite of bitterness and make consumption a more enjoyable experience. This month, we explore achieving an antioxidant packed version of the classic tonic water, with softer bittering agents coming from local super greens and a surprising new player on the alcohol-free market.
Featured Kentucky Product: Kentucky Hop Water (kentuckyhopwater.com)
If you’re looking for a native non-alcoholic beverage, Kentucky Hop Water resonates across multiple categories of imbibers. For the IPA hound, the hop profile of this sparkling sipper will certainly scratch that itch on days when you want something lighter or sans booze. Loaded with an infusion of Citra and Amarillo ® hops in Kentucky’s own limestone filtered water, this effervescent refresher is clean, citrusy, floral, and has a refreshingly bright bitterness. The product is not sweetened, opening it up for a multitude of uses as a long cocktail ingredient or perhaps your newest favorite flavor in sparkling water. I find gin to work especially well with this profile, which is why this month’s featured recipe is a hyper-localized play on a ginless - gin and tonic. In lieu of traditional tonic’s quinine, the recipe relies on the soft bitterness of spring’s most familiar local botanicals and the support of KY Hop Water’s citrus forward hop profile.
Many of these local edibles are perceived as weeds when they begin appearing in lawns and fields during early spring. The dandelion is a familiar resident, and is entirely edible, however its bitter green leaves from which its namesake is derived are the focus for our recipe. Dandelion greens are more nutrient dense than many commercially available greens such as spinach or kale and are saturated with vitamins and minerals. Something to note, they are deliciously less bitter with a morning harvest in early spring, should you want to use them in a salad as opposed to your cocktail. Much like the dandelion, hairy bittercress is a charmer found in abundance here, with a subtle peppery flavor.
Harvesting this darling little weed before it goes to seed prevents its excessive spread which can have quite a benefit. It is a notorious host for pests such as mites and whiteflies, so managing its population can benefit your outdoor plants and garden.
Henbit Deadnettle is one of my favorite spring sightings, as it is usually one of the first to appear and therefore announces the end of winter at last with its cheery purple-pink blooms. It has a subtle sweet yet grassy flavor and has long been used as a reliable anti-inflammatory in both internal and external applications. Last but certainly not least are wild violets. Their leaves are a major source of vitamins and antioxidants, and the blooms have just the right hint of floral and berry-like flavor. Any assortment of these edibles can be used in the following recipe and can be curated to achieve the desired level of bitterness for your tonic. To increase bitterness, use a larger proportion of dandelion leaves. For a softer and sweeter profile, lean into the violets and henbit. Happy foraging!
Directions: Combine syrup, lemon juice, and hop water in a glass over ice and stir. Garnish as desired.
For an alcoholic libation, simply add 1.5 oz of your preferred spirit (I recommend gin or vodka).
Spring Greens Oleo Saccharum Syrup
3 large lemons, peeled (keep fruit for juice in recipe)
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup various fresh spring greens
¾ cup hot, not boiling, water
Directions: Combine lemon peels, sugar, and greens in a bowl. Refrigerate overnight or until lemon peels appear translucent. Add hot water and gently stir to dissolve any remaining sugar granules. Strain using a fine mesh sieve. Keep refrigerated. For increased bitterness, muddle greens before adding water.
A Note About Oleo Saccharum
One of my favorite ways to embrace the true brightness of citrus in a syrup is by preparing the blend to create an oleo saccharum. Literally meaning oil-sugar, this process involves saturating citrus peels in sugar, which draws out their oils over time. What results is an intense and bright flavor with unmatched aromatics. When purchasing citrus fruits for this use, aim for those with thick, waxy, plump peels. Washing the fruit before use is essential considering the main ingredient in the process is the outside peel. The use of a potato peeler for removing the peel is recommended to get the least amount of pith (white underside) as possible, however a knife will do just as well. Be careful to avoid slicing off pulpy flesh with the peels, and note that the more pith in the mix, the more bitter the syrup will be. The leftover “naked” fruit can be saved in the refrigerator for juicing.
When foraging wild plants always be completely certain of identification and follow the rule of “when in doubt, don’t”. Only take what is needed, leaving plenty for our native pollinators and fauna. Avoid harvesting from areas which are exposed to pesticides or other chemical applications. The statements in this article are for entertainment purposes only and are not meant to diagnose, treat, or medically advise. Please drink responsibly, you are loved by many.
By Russ Brown | Photos Provided
Move over Bob Dylan, here comes Hunter S. Thompson.
Dylan started his own bourbon and whiskey brand, Heaven’s Door, a few years ago and opened “The Last Refuge” restaurant and bar in NuLu. Now Thompson, or at least his name, is getting into the spirits market too.
The late Louisville native and originator of Gonzo journalism, who died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound at age 67 on Feb. 20, 2005, at his Aspen, Colorado home, was a well-known lover of whiskey. Sometimes in quantities that, shall we say, were not in his best interest.
BOURBON, RYE HONORING HUNTER THOMPSON TO BE INTRODUCED AT THURBY PARTY
And where else better to introduce Gonzo Whiskey than in his hometown during Derby Week. More about that later, but first some background.
Thompson rose to fame in 1967 with the publication of Hell’s Angeles in 1967 after spending a year living with the Hell’s Angels. In 1970, Thompson descended on Louisville to write about the Kentucky Derby, which he did. Sort of. Instead of a run-of-the-mill story about the race, he produced a drug-addled, booze-soaked romp for Scanlon’s Monthly titled “The Kentucky Derby Is Decadent and Depraved.”
That raised his profile as a countercultural figure and led to a genre termed New Journalism that Thompson labeled “Gonzo”, a style in which the writer is a central figure and participant in the story.
He is best known for “Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas (1972), along with his unsuccessful run for sheriff of Pitkin County, where Aspen is located, on the Freak Power ticket; his intense dislike of President Richard Nixon; his coverage of George McGovern’s 1972 presidential campaign for Rolling Stone and his iconoclastic contempt for authority.
There’s much, much more to Thompson’s story, both professionally and his lifestyle, which he often referred to this way: “I hate to advocate drugs, alcohol, violence, or insanity to anyone, but they’ve always worked for me.” But you get the idea. So, moving on. . .
The concept of Gonzo Whiskey grew out of a meeting in Aspen in 2018 between Thompson’s widow, Anita Thompson, and Dr. Matt Patel, to discuss his vision for an innovative distillery just six miles from Hunter’s beloved Owl Farm.
Patel, a Cincinnati native, is an emergency medicine physician in the Queen City and also has a home in Aspen. He is a longtime fan of Thompson and his writing. He had bought some property in nearby Basalt and decided to build a distillery.
“I had gotten to know Anita and a lot of Hunter’s close friends,” he said. “So as I was developing the distillery project we sat down and said, wouldn’t it be fun to do a super premium whiskey and bring back the energy of the community of Hunter in a way that would be fun to engage with friendship and shared stories, and combine it with Hunter’s love for whiskey? That was kind of the origin.”
Over five years, Patel and Hunter’s estate carefully conceived every detail -- blending Kentucky’s rich bourbon heritage, where he was born, with the untamed spirit of his Colorado home.
“Originating at Aspen Distillers, a LEED Platinum distillery, we now carry the Gonzo flame between the rugged peaks of Aspen and the whiskey-soaked soil of Kentucky,” Patel said. “This whiskey is as Dr. Gonzo would have wanted it -uncompromising and fearless.”
(LEED is Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, a green building certification program used worldwide).
The first offering, “Fear and Loathing,” which pays tribute to Thompson’s most famous work, was introduced at a private party at the Jerome Hotel’s J Bar in Aspen on Thompson’s birthday, July 18, 2024.
Anita Thompson said in a phone interview that she’s excited about the project and was happy to have the estate involved because of the quality of the product.
“I think it’s wonderful to have a high-quality whiskey to honor Hunter, who was a bourbon-lover for sure,” she said. “Quality was the most important thing to me. One of the selling points was their dedication to the best grains and the process.”
However, although she has sampled the initial bourbon and declared it to her liking she won’t be buying it in high quantities.
“I know it sounds ironic, but I’m not much of a drinker,” she said. “Somebody had to try and keep Hunter sober. And it worked because he started writing again in 2000.”
That was a reference to a period when Thompson’s output declined as he struggled with the consequences of substance abuse. The original intent was to distill 100% of the Gonzo Whiskey and age it at the Colorado facility, “but with wildfires and all those things in the high country, if you’re storing liquor, it doesn’t make any sense,” Patel said.
So, an independent company, which is Gonzo Whiskey, was created that isn’t associated with the Colorado distillery. The company has a shared agreement with a distillery in Ohio where it can distill its own mash bill, store in their rickhouses and do the barrel dump using their equipment.
Gonzo Whiskey, in partnership with Hunter’s estate, will formally introduce its first two bottles -- Dr. Gonzo, a wheated bourbon and a rye called Buy the Ticket Take The Ryed -- at a Thurby Party at The Eagle on Bardstown Road on May 1. The ticketed event (Gonzowhiskey.com) will start at 5:30 p.m. and end “whenever they kick us out,” Patel joked (or maybe not).
“Gonzo Whiskey features a limited line of premium whiskeys and we’re super proud of the first two core expressions,” Patel said. “Just like Hunter’s writing, this juice is uncut and unfiltered, with just enough burn to keep you coming back for more.”
Thompson always had a soft spot for where he grew up, saying at one time, “If I could think of a way to do it right now, I’d head back to Louisville, sit on the porch drinking beer, drive around Cherokee Park for a few nights, and try to sink back as far as I could into the world that did its best to make me.”
And the Bluegrass State has honored him in many ways, including making him a Kentucky Colonel, featuring him in exhibits in the Frazier Museum and the Kentucky Derby Museum and his induction into the Kentucky Journalism Hall of Fame.
“He is a true Louisville icon,” Patel said. “So, what better place to introduce Gonzo Whiskey to the world where it all began and celebrate his first truly Gonzo piece. The Eagle is located just a few blocks from Hunter’s childhood home, with a prime view of the Gonzoville mural picturing Thompson.
“We want to kick off this Derby season Hunter style,” Patel said. “It will be a party to remember, featuring the decadent and the depraved, from fried chicken and caviar to live art and who knows what else. Whatever it is, it will be a hell of a party and an even better story.”
CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF BOURBONS BISTRO
By Mckenna Graham • Photos By Matt Johnson
When Jason Brauner and John Morrison opened Bourbons Bistro back in 2005, they could never have imagined that the name of the spirit emblazoned on their establishment’s exterior would become the wildly trendy beverage it is today. They just simply liked to drink it!
Heralded as the nation’s first bourbon themed restaurant outside of hotels, Bourbons Bistro has been focused on educating patrons and collaborating with the bourbon community all while offering a casual upscale atmosphere that keeps both locals and tourists coming back for more.
The interior of the restaurant does little to hint at the building’s previous inhabitants. Dating back to the 1870’s, the structure originally served as home to a poultry operation, then several dive bars, first Spect’s Saloon, a working man’s watering hole and next Rascals, a bar that left the historic building in a sad state of disrepair. However, those who have poured their blood, sweat and tears into Bourbons Bistro over the years have done well restoring and preserving the building while cultivating an intimate fine dining experience for patrons. It is a place that tips its hat to the history and importance of bourbon in this community and welcomes contemporary aficionados to linger over a plate of fried oysters while sipping their beverage of choice from the well-stocked bar of nearly 200 whiskeys as well as a selection of wine, beer and spirits. There is no shortage of excellent whiskey choices both familiar and exotic, all carefully curated by Brauner, Morrison and their staff.
“At the time bourbon was not what it is today,” says Morrison, recalling the early days of their business, “it was just beginning the renaissance that had taken place. We were really into bourbon at the time, and it was an excellent backdrop for the food we wanted to serve.” Morrison recollects that when they were developing their whiskey menu in preparation to open the restaurant, he asked Brauner which whiskies they should acquire. Brauner’s response? ALL OF THEM! They opened with approximately 130 bourbons (certainly an impressive number even by today’s standards), but it wasn’t so much about having the biggest list, as some establishments currently like to boast. Rather, it was more about honoring the history inherent in each of those selections and assuring that with a name like Bourbons Bistro, they would have their patron’s favorite whiskey at the ready.
Unlike many bars that were sponsored by distilleries and only served that one brand, Bourbons took a much more diplomatic approach that focused on supporting the bourbon community in its totality. Brauner even went so far as to humorously describe his restaurant as the Geneva of bourbon bars.
“We wanted to showcase everyone we could,” he says, describing their opening concept, “All the brands benefited from what we were doing... Bourbon as a whole, as a category, is what we believed in. Still do.” To this day when owners and staff are asked what their favorite bourbon is, their resounding answer is “the one in front of you!” The world of whiskey has changed quite a bit since those opening days when there were only around ten distilleries making all the world’s whiskey. Now the number of distilleries number in the thousands, however Morrison and Brauner have stayed true to their values around the spirit.
But it is not only the bourbon that has kept diners coming back-- the food and hospitality of its capable staff has too. Chef Jereme McFarland who has worked at Bourbon’s Bistro for the last ten years and served as the executive chef for the past eight describes the menu as being difficult to change dramatically because of its popularity.
“Mostly we do southern cuisine that’s dressed up a little bit,” he says, “We try to keep the core menu the same. Steak frites, mussels, shrimp and grits... very Cajun and creole flavors. We have crawfish rolls right now. We play around with different flavors but usually stick to southern food with a French influence “ Some of the dishes that have stood the test of time include the fried oysters, pork chop and goat cheese spread. Over the years attempts to change or alter these dishes have been met with the backlash of the loyal patronage. Thankfully, the hospitable ears of Bourbons staff listened and valued the satisfaction of their guests over the endless culinary push for the new and different.
Margot McMillen, General Manager, has witnessed first-hand what the staff describes as a “Cheers”-like environment. Regulars cozied up at the bar elbow to elbow with the great names of the distillery business.
“Jimmy Russell, Freddy Noe, Jim Rutledge and Julian van Winkle-- they would all be at our bar consistently all the time.” she says. As an employee who has been there since the opening of Bourbons Bistro, McMillen has worked her way up from a server and bartender to general manager, the milestones in her life overlapping with the unfolding success of her employer. The continual efforts to give back to the community that gave so much to them is evident in everything they do.
“Those relationships were core at our beginning and very important to our success,” says Morrison, “and we felt like we gave as much back as we got.” Though the number of bourbon bars has proliferated in recent years, Bourbons Bistro stands the true testament of time as a place for both foodies and whiskey lovers alike.
PILATES FIT STUDIO OWNER ERICA WALTERS TALKS
PASSION AND PROFESSION
By Remy Sisk
Photos by Matt Johnson
As the CEO and founder of Louisville’s Pilates Fit Studio, Erica Walters works to bring her community a world-class wellness experience defined by globally recognized standards and modalities of instruction that get REAL results. Her company now spans two locations, one in Pewee Valley and one in Indian Hills, and thanks to her genuine passion for Classical Pilates and GYROTONIC®, her refined knowledge and dedicated team, she’s built a thriving business that continues to inspire and change all who walk through her doors.
Walters began her Pilates journey in 2002 while she was a student at Arizona State University. Working as a group fitness instructor, she discovered her passion for Classical Pilates. In 2005, she earned her comprehensive certification in Classical Pilates and taught while traveling across the country with her husband, an Air Force pilot. They lived in various cities, including Scottsdale, San Diego, Dallas, and Oklahoma City.
In 2014, after her husband retired from the Air Force, they moved to Louisville, where Walters started training clients in her home studio. Due to high demand, Walters relocated her home studio to a commercial space in 2017 and expanded again in 2019 when she moved into her current location in Pewee Valley. Recently, recognizing the need for further growth, she decided to open a second location rather than expand her existing studio, which led to the establishment of the Indian Hills location. Walters is the sole owner of Pilates Fit Studio in Pewee Valley and the majority owner of Pilates Fit Studio in Indian Hills alongside co-owner, Andrea Camiolo.
“My passion for the original Pilates work runs deep,” Walters shares. “This work is very special to me, and I believe it deserves to be honored.”
Clients can expect instruction in classical Pilates and the GYROTONIC method. “As a private concierge studio, we prioritize your experience and offer private and semi-private lessons available by appointment. As the regional training center for New York’s renowned Real Pilates Teacher Training®, the studio offers professional certification for classical Pilates,” Walters says. Additionally, the Indian Hills location has physical therapy and comprehensive wellness services for women, which are provided by Dr. Sweeney and Dr. Carostello, both Doctors of Physical Therapy (DPT).
“The classical Pilates method is a systematic method that emphasizes the core muscles, called the ‘Powerhouse,’” Walters explains. “This group of muscles includes the abdomen, back, glutes, hips, and pelvic floor, all supporting the spine. This comprehensive and adaptable method emphasizes low repetitions and focuses on dynamics, rhythm, and flow with spring-driven equipment. The primary goal is to build strength, endurance, and stability.”
The GYROTONIC® method goes beyond conventional strength training and uses a series of circular and fluid exercises that work the entire body through muscular, skeletal, and cardiovascular stimulation. The method uses tridimensional, circular movements on hand-crafted wooded equipment with friction, spring, and weight resistance. It helps develop a balance between maximum strength, flexibility, and spinal decompression.
Walters’s objective for her clients is consistent. “What sets us apart is that we will REDEFINE THE WAY YOU MOVE!” she exudes. “Our workout programs are uniquely designed to meet your goals and needs. We use spring-driven equipment and body weight exercises to transform your body by building strength, correcting imbalances and asymmetries, and improving mobility and stability. We will reshape your body, ensuring every muscle operates at peak condition, resulting in a complete whole-body transformation.”
Walters’s passion for Classical Pilates and the GYROTONIC® method is evident. With her exceptionally high-level training for herself and her staff, clients can rely on an exceptional experience at Pilates Fit Studio that will positively transform their bodies.
Walters is sought after for her keen eye, understanding of body mechanics, and skill in custom programming for her clients. Her teaching style is encouraging, motivating, and welcoming, emphasizing good technique, alignment, and control.
“I established Pilates Fit Studio because the expanding wellness community in Louisville required high-quality training with globally recognized standards,” she says. “Bringing the gold standard of classical Pilates to Louisville was only natural. From our humble beginnings in a 500-square-foot space in Crestwood to our current location in the historic district of Pewee Valley and now our second location in Louisville (Indian Hills), our clients and students have grown to depend on the caring and professionalism that are ingrained in our culture.”
Erica Walters, CEO & Founder of Pilates Fit Studio in Pewee Valley & Louisville.
Certified Classical Pilates Instructor, Real Pilates Teacher Training® Host & Lead Instructor Trainer, Certified GYROTONIC® Instructor. B.S. Exercise Science. Author and creator of the Better Back® Program: Exercising Safely with Osteoporosis.
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By
Have you recently noticed an influx of shear, lace, and crocheted dresses in a soft color palette popping up in your favorite boutiques? What about stripes? Florals? Have you also seen a retro bohemian theme returning to the racks? It’s quite the eclectic mix but they are all trending BIG this spring and I highly recommend you embrace every bit of it this Derby season!
There are a multitude of different events to plan wardrobes for during the rush of tradition and excitement that is the Kentucky Derby. Aside from large-scale public events, for which I highly recommend dressing as comfortably as possible, there are parties galore. Many folks are dressing to a T for these shindigs as well, donning hats and coordinating outfits. Derby and fashion are so synonymous that even people celebrating off-track are opting to spiff up in order to have the full experience.
Of course, the most grand happenings are the races at Churchill Downs beginning the Wednesday before Derby. That’s potentially four separate outfits and matching accessories to plan! We’re pretty lucky here in Louisville to have so many boutiques and milliners who quite literally have you covered and would be delighted to assist you in planning those outfits. They’re no strangers to this time of year; it’s not their first rodeo.
Churchill Downs has quite a range of sections each with their own dress code. From formal Millionaires Row to the casual Paddock area, we go to the track cloaked in attire expressing our personal style. We take pride in our threads and dress to impress for this local holiday. Regardless of your seating situation, it would behoove you to bring a fun pair of coordinating flats for all the walking and plan a matching shrug or jacket so you can be prepared for the elements. We are all painfully aware of how much Mother Nature revels in surprising us every year!
As you peruse the following pages, you’ll notice a wide range of items for varying budgets as well as a diverse array of fabrics and styles. Voluminous sleeves and dresses of organzas and brocades to sleek, form-fitting dresses in figure flattering neoprene. Romantic eyelet lace or crocheted details to bold stripes and tweeds. And an assortment of options for men as well.
It’s a mixed bag but the message is clear, explore your sense of creativity and wonder and show the world who YOU are through fashion. And though it isn’t a requirement to wear something on one’s head, many choose not to, it is ultimately the main event when it comes to Derby fashion. Now, get to shopping!
Carrie Foster is a local costume designer/maker, graphic designer and performer with the Va Va Vixens Variety Troupe.
Stylist: Carrie Foster
Set against the stunning backdrop of Hermitage Farm, beneath the dappled light of trees and against the strength of weathered barns, Derby fashion comes to life in a setting that feels both timeless and new. Flowing silks and fabrics catch the wind, towering hats cast playful shadows, and tailored suits carry the weight of old-world charm with a modern stride. Each look carries the spirit of the main event, a balance of sophistication and celebration, paying homage to a time-honored tradition that continues to evolve.
Featuring a thoughtfully curated selection of fashion from Louisville boutiques, including Glasscock/Glasscock Too, Rodes For Him | For Her, Rodeo Drive, Sassy Fox Upscale Consignments, Mamili Boutique, and Peppermint Palm Lou. Adding a distinctive touch, hats from Mad Hatter 502, Attitudes by Angie, and Hat Haven bring personality and flair to each look. To polish everything off, Aesthetics in Jewelry’s one-of-a-kind pieces catch the light and complement each look.
Dress & Clutch: Glasscock/Glasscock Too Fascinator: Attitudes By Angie Jewelry: Aesthetics In Jewelry
Photo By Matt Johnson
On Conner
Entire Outfit: Rodes For Him
On Conner Shirt, Pant, Hat & Belt: Rodes For Him Tie: Mamili
Photo By Matt Johnson
On Isabella Dress & Top: Rodeo Drive
Clutch: Peppermint Palm Lou
Fascinator: Mad Hatter 502
Jewelry: Aesthetics In Jewelry
Photo By Matt Johnson
On Ryan
Entire Outfit: Peppermint Palm Lou
Photo By Antonio Pantoja
On Vanessa
Dress: Peppermint Palm
Fascinator: Mad Hatter 502
Jewelry: Aesthetics In Jewelry
Photo By Antonio Pantoja
Photo By Matt Johnson
On Christie Dress: Glasscock/Glasscock Too Fascinator: Hat Haven
Jewelry: Aesthetics In Jewelry
Photo By Matt Johnson
On Isabella Dress & Bag: Rodes For Her Fascinator: Hat Haven Jewelry: Aesthetics In Jewelry
On Vanessa
Dress, Jacket & Belt: Sassy Fox
Fascinator: Mad Hatter 502
Handbag: Mamili
Jewelry: Aesthetics In Jewelry
Photo By Matt Johnson
Photo By Antonio Pantoja
On Braden
Entire Outfit: Rodes For Him Belt: Mamili
Photo By Antonio Pantoja
On Isabella
Dress & Clutch: Glasscock/Glasscock Too
Fascinator: Attitudes By Angie
Jewelry: Aesthetics In Jewelry
On Christie
Top & Skirt: Glasscock/Glasscock Too
Fascinator: Mad Hatter 502
Jewelry: Aesthetics In Jewelry
Photo By Antonio Pantoja
On Margaret
Dress: Mamili
Fascinator: Mad Hatter 502
Clutch: Glasscock/Glasscock Too
Jewelry: Aesthetics In Jewelry
Photo By Kathryn Harrington
On Conner Entire Outfit: Rodes For Him
On Vanessa
Dress: Rodeo Drive
Fascinator: Mad Hatter 502
Handbag: Rodes For Her
Jewelry: Aesthetics In Jewelry
On Margaret Jumpsuit: Rodeo Drive
Fascinator: Attitudes By Angie Jewelry: Aesthetics In Jewelry
Photo By Antonio Pantoja
On Alé Entire Outfit: Rodes For Him
Photo By Antonio Pantoja
On Ryan
Entire Outfit: Mamili
On Vanessa
Dress & Handbag: Glasscock/Glasscock Too
Fascinator: Mad Hatter 502 Jewelry: Aesthetics In Jewelry
Photo By Antonio Pantoja
Photo By Matt Johnson
On Vanessa
Dress & Handbag: Glasscock/Glasscock Too
Fascinator: Mad Hatter 502 Jewelry: Aesthetics In Jewelry
On Ryan Entire Outfit: Mamili
Photo By Antonio Pantoja
Photo Credit:
By VOICE-TRIBUNE • Background Photo By Steve Johnson (Pexels.com)
There are events, and then there are experiences. KMAC Couture is an experience. Coming into its 13th year, on Saturday, April 19th this avant-garde runway show takes a turn toward the mystical, with artworks touching on themes of luck, superstition, and the symbols we associate with fortune and fate.
Whether or not you believe in the charm of a rabbit’s foot, the luck of a four-leaf clover, or fate in a roll of the dice, this year’s couture runway is sure to impress. This show will be an exploration of the talismans, rituals, and beliefs that stir curiosity and open our minds to the unknown. Artists will pull from the deep wells of global mythologies and personal superstitions, crafting pieces that ask: What do we hold onto when we dream?
Each KMAC Couture is an artistic expression of the human imagination, each step on the runway tells a story, each piece an invitation to see the world through the eyes of the artist who created it. From the Roman goddess Fortuna and the ever-watchful Eye of Horus to the beckoning maneki-neko of Japan and the fiery auspices of the Chinese dragon, inspiration is as limitless as belief itself. Will you find luck in a transformative piece that shifts before your eyes? Will a cascade of crimson and black, a nod to prosperity and protection, command your gaze? This year’s KMAC Couture is an unfolding mystery waiting to be deciphered.
Before the first design takes the runway, slip into the evening with a cocktail in hand and when the final look vanishes behind the curtain, don’t think it’s over, the night holds more secrets. Stay for the afterparty. Join the dreamers, the risk-takers, and the believers on a night where fashion defies convention, and fortune favors the bold.
The Wheel of Fortune is turning. Will you be there to see where it lands?
Don’t test your luck! Get your tickets now at www.kmacmuseum.org/kmac-couture-2025
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS
Join us Saturday, April 19th, 2025 at KMAC Contemporary Art Museum Purchase your tickets today!
Kentuckiana Honda Dealers
DAY AT THE DOWNS
THURSDAY, MAY 1 11:30 AM CHURCHILL DOWNS, 4TH FLOOR SKYE TERRACE
Experience the buzz on this action-packed day with the Kentucky Derby Festival! While the first race kicks off at 12:40 PM, the spotlight moment will be the third race, which is named in honor of the Festival.
Get access to perks on top of perks: reserved seating, a chef’s table buffet, open bar, covered views of the races, in-room mutuel tellers for a table of eight, and more.
GET TICKETS (LIMITED SUPPLY). CALL 584-FEST OR SCAN QR CODE:
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By: Alison Cardoza • Photograhy by Matt Johnson • Sponsored
April marks Stress Awareness Month, highlighting the importance of devoting a month to promoting stress awareness and understanding its profound impact on our daily lives. By encouraging open discussions, we gain a deeper understanding of stress’s debilitating effects and its potential to lead to severe health issues, ultimately transforming the lives of those around us in a positive way. Stress does not merely afflict your mind; it can also affect you on a cellular level. Long-term stress can lead to a wide range of illnesses. stomach disorders, headaches, and depression are just to name a few. If stress is not controlled, it can even increase the risk of serious conditions like stroke and heart disease.
3 Types of Stress-
Acute stress is usually brief. It can be triggered by traffic jams, crowds, or uncomfortable situations.
Episodic Stress occurs over time with repeated, short term stress responses. It can last for months or even years.
Chronic stress is the most harmful type of stress. It is a prolonged state of physiological or psychological response to long term stressors.
Ways to Cope with Stress-
Exercise and aim to do 30 minutes of cardio a day. Weight training twice a week is beneficial as well.
Eat healthy and aim to eat small meals that consist of protein, fruits, vegetables and healthy carbs. Stay hydrated consuming 64 oz of water a day.
Sleep and aim to get 6-8 hours a night. Relax and meditate throughout the day.
Havening® is a therapy that uses touch, eye movements, and other sensory inputs to reduce stress. Havening® is a safe psychosensory therapy designed to help people reduce distressing emotions using the power of touch. Havening® is often used to help individuals with PTSD, phobias, anxiety, and negative or traumatic memories. It can even be used for envisioning, goal setting, and promoting a sense of positivity as well. The Havening touch nurtures a sensation of safety and calm. Afterall, the word “Haven,” means to put into a safe place. During a session, the certified practitioner verbally guides the client through specific protocols. The client uses their hands to apply a soothing touch to their face, arms, and palms. The session typically consists of recalling a stressful or unwanted feeling, then applying a soothing touch, while the practitioner uses distractions and other techniques to change how memories are stored in the brain, reducing emotional impact. Ellie Potts, certified Yoga instructor, Certified Havening Techniques Practitioner, and Board-Certified Health and Wellness Coach is educated in these techniques and practices at Baptist Milestone. To learn more, contact Ellie at elliepottscoaching@gmail.com and release your stress today.
Alison Cardoza, ACSM Certified Personal Trainer and Fitour Group Exercise Instructor at Baptist Health Milestone. BS Exercise Science and Sports Medicine with a minor in Health Promotions from University of Louisville. Former UofL Ladybird and NFL Colts Cheerleader.
EARTH DAY 2025 CELEBRATIONS AROUND LOUISVILLE
By VOICE-TRIBUNE • Photo By Felix Mittermeier (Pexels.com)
In honor of Earth Day 2025, Louisville and its surrounding areas are gearing up with a variety of events that celebrate sustainability, conservation, and community action. Whether you’re looking to enjoy live music, participate in hands-on environmental activities, or simply learn more about how to protect the planet, there’s something for everyone. Our community is full of passionate folks working together to educate others and support this planet that we call home; these events offer opportunities to connect with nature and make a positive impact.
With free admission, interactive exhibits, and unique eco-friendly experiences, this year’s Earth Day celebrations provide a chance to appreciate the environment while supporting local initiatives. Whether you’re recycling old materials, planting trees, or exploring nature trails, these events are a perfect way to honor Earth Day and take steps toward a greener future.
EARTH DAY FEST AT THE PARKLANDS – APRIL 18
The Parklands of Floyds Fork invites the community to Earth Day Fest on Friday, April 18, from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Broad Run Park. This free event offers an early celebration of Earth Day with food, live music, and outdoor activities designed to highlight environmental awareness.
Guests can enjoy food trucks, beer vendors, and community partner tables, with live music in the Woodland Pavilion from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., along with Earth Day-themed trivia. For those looking to explore, self-guided and guided hikes through the Moss Gibbs Woodland Garden will feature acoustic musicians and opportunities to learn about conservation.
Attendees are encouraged to bring a chair to relax and enjoy the music. Parking is available at the Cliffside Center, and more details can be found at theparklands.org/events.
JEFFERSONVILLE EARTH DAY FESTIVAL – APRIL 19
The City of Jeffersonville is hosting its Earth Day Festival on Saturday, April 19, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the NoCo Arts & Cultural District. This free event will feature music, food, drinks, and a variety of eco-friendly activities, including a planter exchange, used paint collection, and free native tree saplings from Trees for Southern Indiana.
Families can enjoy a pop-up art space with Jeff Public Arts, where kids can create crafts using repurposed materials. The Jeffersonville MS4 will collect and recycle unused paint, with the first 250 gallons accepted for free. Attendees can also visit information stations to learn about recycling, clean water, and hazardous waste management. A bicycle valet will be available at Maker 13 for those arriving by bike.
Food and drink options include Papu Chos food truck, Kona Ice, and beverages from The Depot bar by The Alcove. DJ Q will provide entertainment throughout the event. For more details, visit cityofjeff.net
WATERFRONT BOTANICAL GARDENS EARTH DAY – APRIL 22
Join Waterfront Botanical Gardens on Tuesday, April 22, for a day of community, conservation, and environmental action. Events kick off with an exclusive Member Morning from 8:30–10:30 a.m., where members can enjoy a peaceful stroll with complimentary coffee and light bites. At 9:30 a.m., Christopher Ross of Apis Rescue will lead a discussion on sustainable beekeeping and pollinator conservation.
From 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., families can explore interactive education stations on nature and sustainability. In the afternoon, volunteers can participate in a Neighborhood Trash Pick-Up along Frankfort Avenue and Beargrass Creek, with partners helping sort recyclables back at the Gardens. The day wraps up with a casual happy hour at Ten20 Brewery at 4:00 p.m. Most events are free with a suggested $5 donation. For more details or to register, visit waterfrontgardens.org
LOUISVILLE ZOO EARTH DAY CELEBRATION – APRIL 27
Join the Louisville Zoo on Sunday, April 27, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for an Earth Day celebration featuring eco-partner exhibits, educational activities, and community engagement. Enjoy $5 off general admission and free parking, courtesy of LG&E and KU Foundation. Visitors can explore displays from local environmental organizations and learn ways to contribute to sustainability efforts. The discount is available at the Zoo ticket windows only.
Throughout April, the Zoo is hosting Recycling Weekends with free community recycling programs, including shoe, eyeglass, crayon, and document recycling, as well as prescription drug take-back events. Additional educational activities include a native plant sale on April 26 and Bellarmine University’s sustainability display on April 6. Funday Mondays offer free community activities every Monday in April.
As part of the Earth Month Celebration, Kids in Action encourages children to design conservation projects that benefit their communities. For more details on Earth Day events and activities, visit louisvillezoo.org
FAMED GRIZZLY 399 BRONZE MONUMENT SCULPTURE IN PROGRESS
By VOICE-TRIBUNE • Photos By Sonia Reid and Matt Johnson
In Jackson, Wyoming, the beloved grizzly bear known as 399 has captivated wildlife enthusiasts for nearly three decades, making her mark as an emblem of conservation, and motherhood. Now, her remarkable legacy will be immortalized in bronze with the Legacy of Love monument, a larger-than-life sculpture envisioned to stand near Grand Teton National Park. This tribute, led by familiar face and renowned wildlife artist Jocelyn Russell and her team, aims to honor the legendary bear and her cubs while raising awareness about grizzly conservation. Horse racing and Kentucky Derby enthusiasts will recognize the Triple Crown Artist’s impressive and recent work– the massive bronze statue of Secretariat that made its journey across the country and through Louisville last year on its way to its final destination, Secretariat’s home city of Ashland, Virginia. Never one to back down from a challenge, Jocelyn and her team are now in the process of memorializing this much-loved grizzly.
“399 was an iconic legend in the National Parks and worldwide. Many people picked up her story and she is the most followed bear. I am excited to be able to work on this project and try to bring her to life for everybody. She represents the elements of being wild yet loving as a mother. I think there are so many things that her story will bring to the forefront in all of wildlife and conservation” said Jocelyn. Jocelyn Russell is a renowned sculptor with over 60 public and private commissions and specializes in monumental wildlife bronzes and works alongside Kristen Douglas-Seitz, a bronze sculptor with nine years of apprenticeship under Jocelyn, and Colleen Moore, a sculptor with a background in marketing and design. Wildlife artist and photographer Sonia Reid contributes as a project consultant.
The fundraising team includes Deanna “de de” Cox, who has over 35 years of experience in nonprofit fundraising and event planning. Robin Hutton, President of Angels Without Wings, Inc., has helped establish several national animal monuments, and Angie Boone Cotton, Project Coordinator, with over 20 years experience as a sales professional, an avid National Parks traveler, and passionate about animal welfare, supports fundraising efforts. Together, they work to raise awareness and support for wildlife conservation.
Grizzly 399’s story is one of survival and adaptation. Over her 28-year lifespan, she gave birth to 18 cubs and numerous grand cubs. Her most famous litter of quadruplet cubs in 2020 drew national attention, solidifying her as a national icon. Unlike other bears that shied away from human presence, 399 displayed a unique intelligence- choosing to raise her young near roads, thereby avoiding dominant male grizzlies that posed a threat to her offspring. Her choices granted thousands of visitors the rare privilege of witnessing a wild grizzly bear with their own eyes.
The Legacy of Love monument is currently in the early stages of development. Russell’s design captures the essence of 399’s commanding presence, standing protectively over her cubs, symbolizing her strength and maternal devotion. The initial clay sketch, standing at eight inches tall, offers a glimpse into the grandeur of what will ultimately be a life-and-a-half-sized bronze sculpture.
“Grizzly 399’s impact has transcended national park boundaries, capturing the hearts of people nationwide,” said Sonia Reid, a Jackson-based artist and photographer. “The new monument will not only celebrate her life but also serve as a lasting tribute to her legacy and the importance of grizzly bear conservation.”
While the final installation site is still being determined, the project team is actively seeking a suitable location near Grand Teton National Park or in surrounding communities. The goal is to unveil the monument on Mother’s Day, May 10, 2026- a fitting date to honor a mother who defied the odds.
The monument project is being funded entirely through donations, with proceeds covering artist fees, production costs, installation, and related expenses. Contributions are tax-deductible through the 501(c)(3) organization Angels Without Wings, Inc., ensuring that all funds go directly toward making this tribute a reality.
Wildlife enthusiasts, conservationists, and admirers of Grizzly 399 can support the project by donating, spreading awareness, and following the latest updates at www.399Monument.com.
As the project gains momentum, one thing is certain- Grizzly 399’s story is far from over. Through this monument, her legacy will endure for generations, inspiring awe and reminding us of the delicate balance between wildlife and human coexistence.
A queen may have fallen, but her spirit remains unshaken, standing tall in the hearts of those who cherished her wild and wondrous journey.
For those interested in more from this team, check out and consider supporting The Bond: Two Hearts - One Spirit, a monument honoring the connection between Cody Dorman and Cody’s Wish, to be placed at the Kentucky Horse Park in October 2025. Designed for accessibility, it allows visitors, including those in wheelchairs, to touch the horse’s nose and experience the bond they shared.
For more information on The Bond: Two Hearts - One Spirit, visit codyswishmonument.com
AMY D WAGNER
• Licensed Professional Realtor
• Award Winning Designer
• Multi-Million Dollar Producers
• Over 16 Years Experience In The Industry
NEST REALTY
By Kelsey Knott • Photos By Matt Johnson
If you didn’t already know how cool the cello is, Ben Sollee is here to show you!
Ben Sollee was born into a musical family–his mother a singer, his father a R&B guitarist, and his grandfather, Elvis, an old-time musician in Eastern Kentucky. “I picked up cello in public schools when I was nine, and I liked the fact that it was a Swiss army knife type instrument. I could make all sorts of crazy noises with it. It has served me in that way throughout my career.” While his degree from UofL is in orchestral performance, the orchestra is only one of the many places you’ll find Sollee. On top of releasing his own albums, he’s featured in the docuseries “Distilled in Kentucky” and has scored several films, such as Maggie Moore(s) with Tina Fey and John Hamm, Ruth, and Maidentrip.
On his latest record, Long Haul, Sollee explores his healing journey after being sick from COVID for a year and a half. This prompted him to make many lifestyle changes, and performing again reconnected him with music’s health benefits: “I find the act of making music to be a very healthy thing for me. There are health benefits of singing–deep breathing and paced breathing. It keeps me in the game.” While as an entrepreneur he is no stranger to burnout, he approaches life knowing the value of balance and taking the time to take care of your body today, as well as the healing properties art can provide along the way.
Beyond personal health, Sollee sees his work as a public health initiative for communities. Experiencing culture through a suggested algorithm, as we do currently, creates disconnect within communities, but this solitude and loneliness isn’t the only way. “Music and performances help build community and raise awareness of various social and environmental issues. There’s a real health benefit and opportunity to create experiences that grow greater sense of togetherness. What artists contribute have real, tangible implications in a community. They hold a lot of space for grief, they help generate new culture, and they do meaningful work we won’t see in the mainstream media. If you’re not continually making new culture for your community specifically from your community, and not just renting it from some other place, there is a natural attrition to the identity of that, and then slowly, it will fade.” Communities that invest in cultural coherence and processing what’s happening locally through art can thrive and feel a sense of belonging.
To Sollee, songwriting is about self-discovery: “The things that resonate with you, whether it be the words or the musical influences in a song, you don’t really know why. Be curious about what your tastes are. Songwriting is emergent, and once the song comes out, it’s like an object that you can kind of spin around and look at in different ways and say, ‘oh, that’s interesting. I didn’t know that about myself.’ That keeps me writing, and when I do that as a group with other creatives, that’s really exciting because no one’s really in control. We’re all dedicated to the thing that we can make in this moment with this group of people. I find that the most invigorating.” Sollee hopes that through his music, people can reconnect with their bodies, and thus, the rest of the world. “One of the biggest foundational challenges we face is the disconnection from our bodies. If you don’t have a relationship with something, it’s very easy to abuse it and have an extractive relationship to it, like some sort of resource, as if your health or strength or whatever is something to be used as opposed to being in a relationship with it.”
As Sollee tours, he networks with trusted community members who invite friends to shows as he understands the power of connection wherever he goes: “Louisville is infused with cross-pollinating, creativity, and sharing. There’s a lot of work to do to make that equitable and representative of the people that live here now, but creativity just naturally happens here. That’s one of the reasons why I’ve settled and stayed in Louisville. I find it to be much easier to get a ‘yes’ on an idea here.” In uncertain times where we’re drawn to nostalgia and the comfortable, going to a venue with strangers to watch a new artist sing songs you don’t know, sometimes on tough topics, may sound difficult to appreciate and enjoy from the outside looking in. But Sollee recognizes the important niche The Monarch serves in the creative community as a safe place where performers can hone their craft and continue to write and learn in a model that helps involve fans in the process of artist development.
Catch Ben Sollee live at Waterfront Wednesday this July as well as with the Lexington Philharmonic for their 200th anniversary celebration!
BOURBONVILLE
RAUL MALO TALKS KENTUCKY CONNECTIONS AND CONCERTS
By Kevin Murphy Wilson • Photos Provided
Raul Malo is best known as the affable frontman and principal songwriter for genre-bending, GRAMMY Award-winning Americana band The Mavericks. Leaning into his Cuban heritage, Malo frequently weaves Latin rhythms, early rock ’n roll, and neotraditional country into a tapestry of sound that has provided the backdrop for such original hits as “All You Ever Do Is Bring Me Down,” “Here Comes The Rain,” and “Dance the Night Away.” We recently caught up with Malo to discuss his band’s latest record and upcoming Louisville concert date with Kentucky native Dwight Yoakam.
VOICE-TRIBUNE: The Mavericks LP Moon & Stars is as fun and eclectic as anything else in your extensive catalog. What was special to you about the process of assembling it with your bandmates and various guests?
Raul Malo: “For one thing, we brought a different kind of energy to the process by recording parts of it in faraway locations [including New Mexico and Louisiana] before finishing it off at our home away from home, which is Blackbird Studio [in Tennessee], where everything is always comfortable and easy. The other interesting thing about Moon & Stars is that some of the material is not new, we just weren’t ready for it until now. Probably the best example of that is the album’s opening track, ‘The Years Will Not Be Kind’ [a fairly profound co-write with Elton John’s lyricist Bernie Taupin] which had literally been sitting in a storage bin for decades because it would not have been believable if I had been presenting it to the world as a 30-year-old.”
VT: The album closer, “Turn Yourself Around,” was also a nice surprise. It feels like it would have been right at home on an early [Paul] McCartney release.
RM: “Yeah. I guess that’s my tribute to [Harry] Nilsson’s mid-70s work with [John] Lennon. My co-writer on that one was really ‘ going through it’ with his wife at the time and his life was descending into a Nilsson-like madness. So, it resonated spiritually. Musically, it became an exercise in not being subtle, and that’s alright. Sometimes more is just more and that’s better.”
VT: Overall, this collection provides another fine example of why you are considered to be one of the great crooners of our time. Looking back, who were some of your early role models in that realm?
RM: “The ‘OG’ for me was Elvis [Presley]. I remember the day it happened, too. I was playing one of my mom’s albums that was his Greatest Hits or something like that. The first song on side two was, ‘It’s Now or Never.’ I thought, ‘what the hell was that?’ but I kept playing it over and over. It was so different, so brilliant. I have spent my entire [musical] life imitating that record. And I say that proudly.”
VT: Here in Kentucky the Judds are still held in high regard by many emerging artists. What’s the story behind your collaboration with [the late Rockabilly legend] Carl Perkins on that recent Judds tribute project?
RM: “The Mavericks once recorded with Carl Perkins and Duane Eddy, for real, back in the 90s. And, you know, Carl was Mr. Rock n’ Roll, Mr. Blue Suede Shoes, Mr. The-Fucking-Beatles-Have-Recorded-My-Shit. That’s who that was. But yet he was really laid back and easy to work with. So, I was excited to add my vocals to the track they built around his original demo [for the Judds’ 1989 hit ‘Let Me Tell You About Love’] when the opportunity presented itself.”
VT: How is the co-headlining tour with [Kentucky-born musician/actor] Dwight Yoakam going?
RM: “Honestly, being on this tour has been a blessing on so many levels. And it’s been fun as hell. Dwight is formidable. I mean that in as positive and professional a way as you can say it. He’s a powerhouse. And I’m not just saying that because we’re on the road together. I’ve admired Dwight and his records from the beginning.”
VT: Lyle Lovett shared that, without fail, he always makes his way to the bar of the Brown Hotel and orders a Hot Brown whenever he’s in town. Is there anything you like to do when you’re in the area?
RM: “Louisville has a surprisingly large Cuban population, which is fun for me because I love getting my fix of Cuban food whenever I am around. I am a big fan of both Havana Rumba and La Bodeguita de Mima.”
The Mavericks and Dwight Yoakam play Iroquois Amphitheater on April 25. For more information visit, themavericksband.com
Paul Kling
By Kelsey Knott • Photos provided by Louisville Orchestra
“It is not your own persona that counts; rather, you are part of something larger and, if you do not do your part, you damage someone else’s chance.” Paul Kling’s timeless insight perfectly encapsulates not only a musician’s responsibility within an orchestra, but also how we can all find community and refuge in art, even under unimaginable circumstances.
A violin prodigy from Czechoslovakia, Kling was four when he traded the gramophone he was gifted for his brother’s violin. At seven, he played Bach and Mozart concerti with the Vienna Symphony as a soloist, leading to many other solo recitals and symphonies in Europe.
But his early career was halted with the German occupation of Czechoslovakia. “When they took away my violin,” Kling said, “it really sunk in.” At age 13, he and his brother were transported to Theresienstadt, a ghetto meant to appear on the outside as a culturally vibrant village with thriving Jewish inhabitants, though its inmates knew it was merely a stopping point on their way to certain death. Still, it was there he met musical mentors, including Czech-Jewish composers Viktor Ullman and Peter Kien, who didn’t survive to see their work, Der Kaiser von Atlantis (“The Emperor of Atlantis”), performed. Kling rehearsed this satirical opera with them, survivor art thought to be lost for 30 years that went on to become “one of the most significant creations in the spiritual legacy of the Holocaust era.”
During a death march leaving Auschwitz, Kling took his chances and laid down in the snow with other dead bodies, narrowly escaping at age 14. He rebuilt his life, finishing his Prague Academy of Music diploma after the war. Fleeing to Austria, he met pianist Joseph Garai, who advocated for Kling’s talent, granting him an audition and that led to his role as the concert master of a symphony orchestra in Vienna. In Europe, he continued performing as a soloist, recording the works of Beethoven and Brahms before being recruited by the NHK Symphony Orchestra in Japan in the early 1950s. It was there he found two new loves: his wife, internationally celebrated harpist Taka; and teaching, as he became a professor for the Tokyo University of Art.
In 1959, Kling joined the UofL School of Music faculty as well as the Louisville Orchestra as their concertmaster. As a teacher, his students remember him as serious but loving when it counted. A formally-dressed man, he valued collaboration over competition, setting him apart from other stern instructors. One student shared that he walked out of class in a fit of discouragement once, but Kling called him a couple of weeks later, saying “Come see me.” The student ended up back in school and went on to have a 50-year career as a violinist. Other students have recalled instances of his support and encouragement, even when they felt they didn’t deserve his gentleness. An example of focus and drive perfectly balanced by kindness, it is clear how Kling’s former students have gone on to successful careers as concertmasters, soloists and chamber musicians, many maintaining their relationship with him throughout his life.
In addition to UofL, Kling taught at the University of Indiana while in the states, and after 20 years in Louisville, moved back to Europe to teach at the University of Victoria and University of British Colombia, the former of which he served as Director of Music. His later years were spent participating in Holocaust education to honor his colleagues and mentors and ensure that the significance of Theresienstadt compositions and performances were not lost.
Each season with the Louisville Orchestra, Kling performed a concerto, playing Bruch, Mozart #5, Saint-Saens #3, and the Alban Berg Concerto in the early 70s before finally taking his leave in 1975. Karajan, Busch, Woess, Rodzinsky, Sargent and Stravinsky are just a few of the conductors with whom Kling performed and recorded throughout his career as concertmaster and soloist with orchestras in Vienna, Louisville, and Tokyo. He received two medals, one from Japan and one from Austria, and remains an honorary member of the NHK Symphony.
Kling passed away in 2005, but this past January for Holocaust Remembrance Day, the Louisville Orchestra paid tribute to their beloved concertmaster with a performance of Der Kaiser von Atlantis. Teddy Abrams, conductor and music director of the orchestra with Jewish roots, stated, “It felt like we actually owed it to his memory to present this music.” The Louisville Orchestra’s connection with its Jewish community has run deep since its founding in 1937.
While it should not come at the expense of their suffering, artists continue to remind us to embrace life always. Paul Kling exemplifies that no broken spirit, self-pity, or resentment for lost time can stop humanity from seeking refuge in art.
Upon deaf ears:
Model: Bethany Hood
Headpiece/Makeup/Styling: Raina Trimble
Assistant: Clay Cook
By Antonio Pantoja
I’m Antonio Pantoja. I’m the son of an immigrant father and a drug-addict mother.
Thank you to teachers. These are people who have dedicated THEIR lives to helping YOU succeed. Remember that.
You will encounter lots of other teachers in life. They won’t all be educated. You can learn from anyone, regardless of their job title or annual income. So, please don’t stop learning from people.
Please don’t look down upon anyone. The only time you should ever look down on someone is if you are helping them up. And if you’ve seen any level of success, it is your duty to send the elevator back down to bring someone up with you. My mentor Lee Kiper taught me that.
Although I didn’t go to school past the 8th grade, I’ve had many great teachers in my lifetime. But my greatest teacher who taught me my biggest lesson was an immigrant laborer who spoke with a thick Spanish accent.
My dad came here from Peru when he was 19. He didn’t speak English when he first arrived. But, he never passed up a chance to talk to every single person he encountered and make them his friends. Even when people judged him- and I saw them judging him. But it didn’t matter to him. I used to ask him, “Dad why do you talk to every person you encounter?” And he said something so profound, that changed my life forever. He said, “Son, it doesn’t matter if it’s the gas station cashier or the person who signs my paycheck. I treat everyone with the same respect. You can learn from anyone. You know, one time, I had a flat tire on the side of the highway, and I didn’t have any friends in America. It was a gas station cashier I was nice to who pulled over to help me when he recognized me”...and that simple advice has carried me throughout my life.
Every single opportunity I’ve ever received was because I was nice to someone. My respect for people has no discrimination. I treat everyone with the same, and highest level of respect even if they judge me. It doesn’t change the way that I see them or how I will treat them. I will be good to them anyway.
I don’t speak Spanish. When my dad arrived here from Peru, people weren’t very kind to him. It was a different time. But, when I asked him why we didn’t speak Spanish in our home, he would tell me that he didn’t want me to learn it. “You’re American,” he would say. It was an attempt to protect me from judgment. So that I wouldn’t be treated the way that he was.
So, I ask that you please don’t judge anyone for their appearance. Try to see them for their heart. Not their job title. Not their clothes. Not their body fat percentage. Not for their sexual orientation or for the color of their skin. Please give people a chance. You can learn from anyone. Don’t miss an opportunity to learn from people.
Antonio Pantoja
La Ventana and Disintegrate:
Model: Taylor Brynne
Makeup/Accessory: Raina Trimble
Assistant: Donnie Skaggs
Location: Regalo Gifts
Once you start looking at someone’s spirit instead of their appearance, they look different.
I always wanted to be the first person in my family to graduate high school and to make my parents proud. And unfortunately, I didn’t. I grew up in a broken home. I didn’t even make it past the 8th grade and by the time I was 15 years old, I was living in a car. Life wasn’t panning out how I’d hoped.
In December of 2009, I got a phone call from my little brother Vinnie, “Antonio, Dad’s not breathing.” My father had a sudden heart attack and he passed away. He was only 54 years old. When you see the casket close on your favorite person in the whole world, something in you changes forever. In some ways, it puts things into perspective and makes you better. My father passed away before I got the chance to make him proud of me.
In July of 2021, my mother would lose her battle with addiction. The call came in again from Vinnie and before I picked it up, I already knew. She was buried on her birthday.
I was left to explore this world alone, with no real guidance. But my father gave me the best gift that has carried me through life in his absence. The message was received. And when he left this world back in 2009, a piece of him remained. I was kind to everyone. I made friends with everyone just like he taught me. And I continued to learn from so many people who ultimately became my teachers. They didn’t know it, but everyone around me taught me something. Even if it was a behavior that I didn’t want to learn.
Be good to everyone DESPITE. People will judge you before you speak. People will be unkind. People may treat you with disrespect. Be kind anyway.
I was always ashamed of my mother for being an addict. She was addicted to prescription drugs. I had never been involved in drugs in my life, but I think I’m an addict too. I just chose my addiction. I am addicted to goals. I am addicted to helping people. You may be an addict too. Make sure you find a healthy addiction.
A single candle can eradicate darkness. Be that candle.
I’m an underqualified son of an immigrant and a drug addict. But to me, they were so much more. They were my teachers.
Makeup: Matt Goodlett
Assistant: Mark P. Hankins
Model: Heyman Talent Agency
Location: Red Tree Lofts
In the mouth of madness: Model: Kristina Russ
Hair: Dylan Kremer
Makeup: Casey Ritchie
Stylist: Mauricio Crane
Wardrobe: Erick Moore
Assistant: Dusty Leigh
Shipwreck:
Makeup: Nicole Mclinnahan
Styling and Creative: Heather Rous Weeks Model: Katherine Lewellen
2025
OFFICIAL MERCHANDISE
By Kevin Murphy Wilson • Photos Provided
It is an understatement to say that Comedian, actor, author and producer Joe Gatto—best known for creating and starring in the hit TruTV show “Impractical Jokers”—gets around. “Messing With People,” his first ever solo stand-up special for Hulu arrived in January and, alongside that, Gatto has delivered a charming new children’s book, “Where’s Bearry?” that is out now via Penguin. Additionally, he recently debuted the second season of his “Two Cool Moms” podcast with co-host Steve Byrne (via iHeartMedia and the Elvis Duran Podcast Network) and Gatto is currently meandering through his “Let’s Get Into It” North American tour that boasts all new material and includes an upcoming stop at Louisville’s Brown Theatre on May 16.
Gatto claims to be an introvert at heart, but with a little help from his rowdy friends, he evolved into an extremely bold, enthusiastic and lovable figure at a relatively young age. In an interview conducted via ZOOM, Gatto told the VOICE-TRIBUNE that, “I started as a nerdy, quiet loner kid who was obsessed with math and dragons. The switch really wasn’t flipped for me until my junior year at Monsignor Farrell High School in Staten Island, when Sal [Vulcano] made me try out for the improv club that he and Murr [James Murray] and Q [Brian Quinn] were already a part of, because I would always make them laugh at the lunch table just by being stupid. I went to the meeting, did the first scene and I made everyone there laugh, so I decided that this might just work for me after all.”
Gatto also discovered that by employing absurdity he could diffuse volatile situations. “I used to get bullied a little bit, just because there was a lot of testosterone in the halls of our all-boys Catholic High School,” Gatto said. “But I was able to be funny and turn things around with a couple of the football players by doing a bit where I would be the one bullying them. For example, I would come out of nowhere and knock all the books out of their big hands and jump on their backs saying things like, ‘You don’t want any of this,’ and they’d be like, ‘OK, Joe, I’m really sorry.’”
After high school graduation, Gatto parted ways with his improv pals and his bewildered jock acquaintances to pursue an accounting degree in college. “At a certain point, however, I realized that I wasn’t ever going to be happy sitting in a cubicle crunching numbers.”
To make ends meet, Gatto tried his hand at sales, an endeavor he credits with building the powers of persuasion that served him so well when he regrouped with the rest of the gang that became known as the “Impractical Jokers.” “I was doing that 9-to-5 gig when we got the pilot approved and by the time we got the first series order, I went ahead and quit the day-job to go for it. I was all in,” Gatto said.
“It was a truly great experience. I got to learn so many aspects of the entertainment business in the 10 years that I was involved with it,” he said of his time on the outrageously popular TV program. Unlike a typical hidden camera show where innocent bystanders are the ones who get pranked, the genius of “Impractical Jokers” (which contributed to its cult following) is that Gatto and the other aforementioned stars — Sal Vulcano, James Murray and Brian Quinn — are constantly trying to coax each other into embarrassing predicaments. In every episode, the four Jokers dare one another to deliver ridiculous lines to strangers, straight-faced, or partake in competitions in the most unexpected of public settings.
Although it felt empowering to be affiliated with that devilishly dynamic team, Gatto said it eventually became clear to him that he needed to maintain a far-less-grueling schedule if he ever wanted to be fully present as a husband and father. That’s when the idea of creating a solo stand-up act started to make a lot of sense to him. “It was challenging at first because suddenly I was the only one up there on stage instead of being embedded in an ensemble,” Gatto said. “But I love this routine too. It’s special in its own way.”
Not surprisingly, Gatto’s stage show, which lands him in Louisville this Spring, involves a pretty straightforward set of familyfriendly joke sharing and storytelling that sheds light on Gatto’s hilarious Italian upbringing, his long friendship and professional journey with the other Jokers, and his endearing escapades with his two kids and their surprisingly large number of rescue dogs. “I primarily wanted to create an event for everyone to come out to and laugh together. I’m not here to push boundaries or influence people. I live to make people laugh and have a good time,” Gatto said in conclusion.
Catch Joe Gatto’s “Let’s Get Into It” tour stop on May 16 at Louisville’s Brown Theatre. For tickets and details, visit: kentuckyperformingarts.org
By Alisha Proffitt • Photos By Kathryn Harrington
If you’ve ever had a dream crash and burn in spectacular fashion- then Louisville native, writer, filmmaker and actress Samantha Westervelt’s new film Sour Party might just be your new favorite movie. Described as an irreverent comedy packed with absurdity, slapstick, and, yes, even fart jokes, this indie gem is an ode to artistic misadventure.
Los Angeles is a city built on dreams, and also on the crushing weight of those dreams collapsing in on themselves. For Samantha and writer-director duo The Drextons, Sour Party was born from the ashes of their own artistic frustrations. After hitting their breaking point in the summer of 2021, they decided that if they were going to fail, they might as well fail sensationally… and hilariously.
Pooling their resources (read: rounding up every actor they knew and scouting whatever settings they could beg, borrow, or steal), the team quickly realized they had a story to tell. A road trip movie where the protagonists never actually reach their destination? It was perfect. And so, Sour Party was born.
For Samantha, screening the film at Baxter Avenue Theatre was a full-circle moment. “Gosh, it was such a special moment. A real dream come true! I think I might have used the word ‘surreal’ a few times, but I’m not sure that truly encapsulates the feeling,” says Westervelt. “If I could meet my teenage self and tell her about it, honestly, she would probably believe me and say something like ‘well duh,’ because she was a dreamer. And kind of a brat!” Despite the setbacks, despite the madness, despite the literal sound nightmare of filming above a rage room (more on that later), the dream had found its way home.
Of course, for those who couldn’t make the premiere, don’t worry. Sour Party will be available on VOD and BluRay starting this June, so you can experience all its ridiculous glory from the comfort of your own couch.
If you’re wondering what kind of humor Sour Party delivers, let’s just say it runs the gamut. Expect slapstick, gross-out gags, and a mix of on-the-nose and blink-and-you-miss-it jokes. Oh, and a particularly infamous pee-splashing moment that reportedly earns an audible gasp from audiences every time. All jokes aside, at its core, Sour Party is about friendship. That even when everything goes off the rails, your ride-or-die will still be there, probably laughing at your misfortune, but there nonetheless.
Every indie film has its production horror stories, and Sour Party is no exception. Take, for instance, the day they showed up to film a pivotal scene only to find their location had canceled at 4 AM. With mere hours to improvise, director Michael Drexton managed to book a new space, unknowingly right above a fully operational rage room. The crew had to shoot between the sound of smashing plates, thrash metal music, and furious screams.
Still, despite the chaos (or perhaps because of it), the film came together in a way that felt meant to be. Credit is due to production designer Lauren Argo, whose Kentucky roots and unstoppable determination helped shape the film’s distinctive aesthetic. “I have known Lauren for over 15 years, and in that time there are many things I have been inspired by, but her hardworking nature and dedication to executing her vision no matter what obstacles come her way have specifically pushed me to become the artist I am, and without a doubt contributed to her bringing the film’s aesthetic to life,” shares Westervelt. “I don’t want to put words in her mouth, but from my point of view, there is no doubt that her upbringing on a tobacco farm in Cynthiana, Kentucky laid the foundation for her drive and tenacity as an artist. It would be impossible for her Kentucky roots to not influence everything she does, because it’s part of who she is. Thank goodness!”
With screenings lined up in Long Beach, San Francisco, and NYC, Sour Party is continuing to spread its particular brand of joyful chaos across the country. And as for Samantha? She’s already at work on her next feature, set in Louisville, while also completing her first year of training at the William Esper Studio in NYC.
If Sour Party teaches us anything, it’s that failure isn’t the end—it’s just the beginning of the next great adventure. And if that adventure happens to include fart jokes and absurdist humor? Even better.
Follow Sour Party on Instagram @sourpartymovie for updates and keep up with Samantha @lilbiggulp for film news, new projects, and, of course, plenty of memes. After all, what’s life without a little irreverence?
By RUSS BROWN • Photos Provided By LouCity FC
Last season Louisville City Football Club was almost unbeatable at home, posting a 16-1 record in Lynn Family Stadium, and coach Danny Cruz wants to see the same kind of domination this year.
“In 2024, we made Lynn Family Stadium a fortress,” Cruz said. “As we talked about before the season started, it’s about continuing to do that.”
The stadium has seat locations for 11,600 fans and a capacity of 15,304. Cruz’s team got off to a good start with a 2-0 win over Loudoun United in front of a packed house in its home opener on March 22.
“We feed off the energy of the crowd,” forward Ray Serrano said. “I think the energy was the same as last year, so we felt that the fans deserve a show, and we gave them one.”
At the time this was published LouCity was preparing for its second home match against Detroit City on March 29 and another capacity crowd was expected for a special event honoring local multi-Grammy-nominated band My Morning Jacket.
With or without such a high-profile attraction, though, Cruz will be expecting a 2024 repeat for the 15 remaining home matches.
“We want to make this a place where teams are, you know, not excited about coming to play,” he said. “They understand that it’s a difficult place to play with our environment and the way we play.
“A big thing for us playing here is it allows us to play the game the way we want to play. Where, when we go away to some places, we have to change things. We have to make things a little bit different.
“At Lynn Family Stadium we have a big field, unbelievable fans, so the environment can be intimidating at times for opponents. We feel confident playing in our stadium, and I think that ultimately making sure this place is a fortress will put us in the best position possible at the end of the season.”
After finishing atop the Eastern Conference last season, the club fell short of its ultimate goal of a United Soccer League (USFL) championship and Cruz says the disappointing finish was motivation during the team’s preparations for this year.
“I’d be lying if I said it hasn’t kind of fueled us,” he said prior to the season. “We were certainly proud of the things we accomplished last year, the consistency that we had most of the season. But we have a lot more to accomplish.”
The boys in purple hope they set the tone for the season with an important 2-1 road win over Charleston Battery, their main rival in the Eastern Conference. LouCity’s starting lineup featured 10 returning players in its sixth-straight season-opening win.
Serrano scored in the 53rd minute for LouCity, then Adrien Perez had the game-winning goal in the 77th minute.
“I just thought we were relentless,” Perez said.
LouCity’s defense limited Charleston to just three shots on goal, despite the hosts controlling 64% of possessions in the match.
“A difficult opponent to start the season with, but I thought the execution of what we wanted to accomplish was done to the ‘T’,” Cruz said. “I thought our performance defensively was excellent, made it difficult to break us down, especially on the road against one of the top teams in the league.
“We understand that the different environments, the different fields that we play on, the travel, that’s going to play a role. But there are no excuses. At the end of the season, we’re not going to look back and say, ‘Well, we played on a turf field,’ or ‘Well, it was hot.’ That’s irrelevant. We’ll address every game the same, which is to do everything we can to make sure we come away with three points.”
LouCity lost last year’s leading scorer Wilson Harris to Maccabi Petah Tikva FC of the Israeli first division, but Cruz is hoping that Phillip Goodrum, a five-year USL veteran who signed with LouCity in August will be a solid replacement. Goodrum has 48 career goals in the USL Championship and is eager to assume a larger role.
“I’m excited for the opportunity,” Cruz said. “I know what’s expected of me, and I’m ready to lead the attack. We’ve got a lot of talented guys around me, so I think we’ll be dangerous going forward.”
Goodrum’s supporting cast includes playmakers Taylor Davila and Arturo Ordonez, both of whom were named to the All-League First team last year. In all, the squad returns 20 players from last year’s record-setting team.
“We’re super excited,” said midfielder Kevon Lambert, who joined the club on loan from Real Salt Lake. “I mean, it’s go time, and I think we’re ready to show everyone what we can do.”
With a mix of returning talent and new faces, expectations remain high for LouCity, which has been among the most consistently outstanding in the USL Championship.
“Our ultimate goal is to win everything,” said veteran center back Sean Totsch, a three-time All-League First Team performer. “It starts with the habits Danny talks about every day and trying to implement those so that we build that winning mentality and winning culture and ultimately achieve our goal at the end of the season. The guys that have joined, it’s been seamless. They’ve come in and not just been a part of the culture, but added to it, and that’s a big thing.”
After the March 29 match, the boys in purple won’t play another match at Lynn Family Stadium until they open a three-game homestand on April 26 against the Richmond Kickers, followed by Lexington SC on May 1 and the Pittsburgh Riverhounds on May 10.
By RUSS BROWN • Photos By Matt Johnson
At one point during the college basketball season as Louisville was winning at a high-speed pace that was totally unexpected, first-year coach Pat Kelsey observed that he was just getting started.
“It’s a book and this is just the first chapter,” he said.
The initial chapter could cover many genres -- biography (the team), autobiography (Kelsey), history (multiple firsts and records), thriller (for exciting victories). but most of all it’s a love story of a mutual bonding between the fans and a group of players new to this hoops-crazed city that quickly endeared themselves to a Card Nation starved for the success they had become accustomed to but that had been sorely lacking lately.
Last November anyone suggesting that U of L was destined to finish second in the Atlantic Coast Conference and reach its first ACC Tournament championship game since joining the league in 2014 would have been laughed at and dismissed as delusional.
“I think most of us were just hoping for a .500 season,” said 80-year-old longtime fan Joe Champa.
By the time U of L appeared in its first NCAA Tournament in five years, the Cards had eclipsed that expectation by miles, winning more games (27) than the past three seasons combined (25). Navigating through a maze of obstacles due to injuries, Kelsey guided U of L to a 19-game turnaround from last year’s 8-24 record, the largest in the country, and became Louisville’s first leader to be named national Coach of the Year. He was also awarded ACC Coach of the Year, the first such honor for a U of L coach since Hall of Famer Rick Pitino’s Conference USA honor in 2004-05.
“This team will be remembered just like the championship teams,” said Champa, a U of L graduate and former baseball player. “I really believe that. This team was so special. The Yum Center started to feel like it used to be, the way it’s supposed to be.”
The Cards had winning streaks of 10 and 11 games and regained national relevance, finishing with a No. 10 ranking in the AP poll. So, there was a lot to love about this team, and the fans responded.
Louisville’s announced attendance for its 18 home games in the 22,000-seat KFC Yum! Center averaged 14,864, which was third in the ACC behind North Carolina (20,521) and Syracuse (18,888) and 15th among the five high-major basketball conferences encompassing 77 schools. The Cards averaged 11,027 scanned ticket attendance this season vs. 6,504 during Kenny Payne’s two seasons that produced a 12-52 record.
Downtown restaurants and bars benefited from the increase and toward the end of the season Yum! partied like it was 2020, the last 20-win season. Opposing coaches took note.
“I want to commend Coach Kelsey, his staff and their team for what they’ve done in such a short period of time with this program,” Pittsburgh coach Jeff Capel said after absorbing a 79-68 defeat. “It’s nothing short of amazing to get this environment back to how it was when I first became a head coach in this league. The energy, the spirit, I thought was a big factor in the game, and I thought the (Cards) played off of it.”
Kelsey was described by mentor Skip Prosser as a guy who makes coffee nervous, and others have labeled the 49-year-old Cincinnati native and son of an auto dealer as “all gas, no brakes.” And those traits were also evident in a team that played with relentless energy, spirit, dedication and purpose while proving that their coach’s ReviVILLE theme was more than just a marketing slogan. It signaled the dawn of a new era.
“I don’t think anybody would have predicted what happened,” Champa said. “When Pat Kelsey was hired, I wondered, ‘who is this guy?’ Then I saw him at the press conference, and he was such a stark change from Kenny Payne. He was scintillating, he provided a spark and an unbelievable transition that I expect to continue. He got those guys to love each other. You could see it. He’s a winner.”
The appreciation for this team and for Kelsey cuts across generations, as evidenced by 26-year-old Floyds Knobs, Ind. businessman Sam Owings, who was attending U of L games as a 3-year-old with his dad when the Cards were still playing in Freedom Hall a year or so before their move downtown. He and his girlfriend, Maris, are now regulars in the Yum.
“My girlfriend and I, growing up during the Pitino days, have fond memories of good, exciting teams and good coaching, when going to the Yum Center was fun. This team brought the fun and everything back like it was years ago. It was a nostalgic feeling for us. I look forward to seeing a lot more games with Pat Kelsey coaching and the new heights they can reach as they pick up steam.”
At 57 years of age Chris McIntyre, an Indiana Hall of Fame baseball coach, bridges the Champa/Owings generations and has similar thoughts about what Kelsey and his first team have meant for the U of L program.
“My first memory of Louisville basketball was the Final Four in 1975 and from that time, all I had known for the most part is success,” McIntyre said. “So, to say the last several years have been difficult is an understatement. U of L fans are knowledgeable and understand the game. We don’t expect a Final Four run every season. But what we do expect is great effort on the floor and a coach who cares about Louisville basketball as much as they do and has a plan. Pat Kelsey and his team have delivered in all areas.
“They played hard and always looked well-prepared. We have two college-age sons, Tyler and Kevin, and it’s been nice for them to experience what it was like when I was their age. Supporters of the program feel the energy Kelsey is putting into the job and there is every reason to believe the Cards will get better every year.”
The fans showed their gratitude and excitement by turning Rupp into a sea of red for the South Region first-round game against Creighton. Estimates were that Card Nation fans comprised 12,000 to 13,000 of the 18,769 who watched the Blue Jays end their team’s season 89-75.
“There was so much red there, there was so much passion, there was so much noise,” Kelsey said. “When you’re looking at these guys in the locker room who are disappointed, who are distraught, this flood of emotions comes through you too, and you just start thinking back to all the stuff you’ve been through with this group. And you realize how special it’s been and how special they are. They will be remembered around here for a long time.”
If the fans loved the players who cemented their place in Louisville lore, the feeling was mutual.
“The love from the fans brought happiness to my heart to know that everybody appreciated us,” said All-ACC guard Chucky Hepburn. “I’m proud to wear this uniform, to be in this city. Wouldn’t want to go nowhere else. We revived this city that was down, and the city revived us.”
“Our fan base was amazing,” forward J’Vonne Hadley said. “They were next level. I’ve never seen anything like it.”
The players said they won’t let the disappointment of how the season ended affect their feeling of accomplishment in resurrecting the program, giving Kelsey momentum and positioning the program for continued success.
“The goal was to come here and change this thing around, and I think we did that,” said senior forward Terrence Edwards Jr.
“There’s no doubt in my mind that this team, this program will be right back at it next season,” Hepburn said. “Coach Kelsey will win national championships.”
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Woman of Impact brings the work of the Go Red for Women movement to life in communities across the country by shining a spotlight on women’s health and the No. 1 killer of women –cardiovascular disease.
Launching annually on National Wear Red Day®, Friday, February 7, this competition inspires changemakers from across Kentucky and the U.S. to leverage their networks to create an impact in their communities.
Together, Woman of Impact nominees and their team members reach thousands of people, inspiring community members to take charge of their health. Each nominee has the opportunity to directly impact the health of her community through impact opportunities such as learning and sharing the lifesaving skill of Hands-Only CPR, encouraging people to safeguard their physical health and mental well-being, and taking action to shape policies that save lives.
At the end of the campaign on April 10th, the nominee who makes the greatest impact and raises the most funds will be named the Kentuckiana Woman of Impact winner, and the nominee who earns the most points in the country will be named the National Woman of Impact Winner. Thank you to this year’s incredible nominees for stepping up to the challenge and making a difference!
Your support can not only help put Kentucky on the map – it can improve and save lives! Scan the QR code or visit tinyurl.com/2025WOI to learn more and make a donation to support women’s heart and brain health.
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Christina “Elise” Wobbe
Friday, February 14, 2025
Christina “Elise” Wobbe, 18, of Louisville, Kentucky, passed away Friday, February 14, 2025, in Syracuse, New York, peacefully of natural causes. She was a life-long Louisville native and a 2024 graduate of the Youth Performing Arts School at duPont Manual High School in Louisville. She attended the Governor’s School for the Arts in musical theatre in 2022, where she studied her passion for music and dance. In August 2024, Elise matriculated as a freshman in the College of Visual and Performing Arts at Syracuse University, in Syracuse, New York, continuing her studies in musical theatre. She was on the Dean’s List for fall 2024.
Elise began dancing at age three and added singing and acting to her repertoire in later years. Her talent and skills in these areas developed throughout her adolescence, landing her roles in the Louisville Ballet Brown-Forman Nutcracker, Kentucky Opera‘s Carmen, and Stage One‘s Frozen, Jr. While as YPAS, she performed in Elf (2021), as the Reno understudy and in Reno’s Angels in Anything Goes (2022), and as Penelope Pennywise in Urinetown (2023). She also performed in roles at Trinity Department of Theatre Arts as Muriel Eubanks in Dirty Rotten Scoundrels (2023), and as Marian Paroo in Music Man (2024). At her core, she was a storyteller, and thrived when she was on stage sharing her story with others.
Her dream and passion was to continue honing her skills in college and she was elated to be accepted at Syracuse, a top-tier musical theatre program. She had a work-study position with Syracuse Stage and recently served as a member of the production staff and crew supporting costume maintenance in the Department of Drama musical, “Pippin.”
Elise is survived by her mother, Susan White (Brook), her father, Thomas (Amy), sister Lily, and step siblings Aubrey and Chrisler White, and Jackson, Ella, Maddie, and Sophia Jamison, all of Louisville, Kentucky. In addition, grandparents Phyllis Upchurch, of Kingsport, Tennessee, Bob Viers, of Bristol, Tennessee, and Rachel Wobbe, of Louisville, and uncle Bill Wobbe (Courtney) and cousins Lauren and Caroline Bosler, and Kaitlin Wobbe of Louisville.
The family thanks Drs. Mallon and Wesselkamper at Cincinnati Children’s for their expert, compassionate care since 2018. They always treated us like family and we are eternally grateful for the care they gave to Elise.
Elise’s smile warmed hearts from the audition room to the theater, and she never knew a stranger. She lived her dream each and every day with exuberance, determination, and genuine kindness, and it’s her family’s wish that this spirit will live as her legacy in the hearts of all those fortunate to know her loving soul.
In memory of Elise, the family established the Elise Wobbe Scholarship at YPAS to be given to a senior studying musical theatre in college. Donations can be sent to duPont Manual High School Alumni Association, Inc., 120 West Lee Street, Louisville, KY 40208.
Donations can also be made online at QR Code below.
Elise’s visitation was held at Pearson’s and her Celebration of Life service was held at Christ Church United Methodist. Her final resting place is at Cave Hill Cemetery.
Ah, springtime in Louisville—the busiest time of the year for our fair and quirky city. Louisville bursts forth with a plethora of activities surrounding the most exciting two minutes in sports, the Kentucky Derby!
While Derby events started off strong in March, April is when the pre-Derby festivities really kick into high gear. There’s definitely no shortage of options! Our event calendar is busting at the seams with Derby fashion shows, galas, official Kentucky Derby Festival events, and, of course, the extravagant star-studded parties leading up to the big day. Let’s trot through a few of the best Derby experiences in town!
Let’s start things off strong with Thunder Over Louisville, a symphony of pyrotechnics set against the backdrop of the Ohio River. The skies ablaze as if Zeus himself decided to throw an impromptu party, complete with a soundtrack that makes you feel like a hero in an action movie. This spectacular event kicks off the Kentucky Derby festivities and draws crowds like moths to a flame—and there are so many ways to partake in the festivities! If you’re really looking to party, get yourself down to the waterfront. However, if you’re looking for a smaller viewing party of the action, there are several venues with great views of the show hosting their own Thunder parties, including the Kentucky Science Center, Slugger Field, Copper and Kings, and the Muhammad Ali Center.
We can’t possibly talk about Derby without mentioning the Pegasus Parade, where floats come rolling down the street like they’re auditioning for a Broadway show. As the streets become a runway, you’ll see everything from giant inflatable creatures to local high school marching bands struttin’ their stuff like rock stars. It’s a visual feast and an impromptu dance party waiting to happen—because who can resist tapping their feet to the infectious rhythm of live music filling the air? With every float that passes, the crowd erupts into cheers, all while trying to catch a glimpse of those elusive candy tosses from the parade participants. You’ll even get to see royalty! Derby Royalty, that is. Make sure to give your best wave to the Kentucky Derby Festival Royal Court as they make their way down Broadway.
If getting dressed up for an evening of elegance is more your speed, there are plenty of galas with incredible parties to follow. Here are several great events that I guarantee will knock your socks off:
• The Kentucky Derby Museum is hosting its annual gala and afterparty to celebrate its 40th anniversary.
• The Louisville Urban League’s Derby Gala featuring a performance by Janelle Monáe.
• If you’re lucky enough to snag an invite, The Barnstable Brown Derby Eve Gala is one of the hottest parties not just of Derby season, but of the whole year! If you can attend, you may even get a chance to rub elbows with a celebrity or two.
• Unbridled Eve at the Galt House never fails to impress, and with your ticket, you’ll be supporting Blessings in a Backpack!
Finally, when race day arrives, get ready for an experience unlike any other. Cheers echo, hats are tipped, and the sound of hoofbeats races through the air. All eyes are on the track, and for those two glorious minutes, everyone is united in fist pumps and hoarse cheers (pun intended). Whether you win, lose, or simply enjoy the ambiance, there’s nothing quite like the Derby spirit.
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Special thanks to Hermitage Farm and the Belle of Louisville for hosting our photoshoots.
