Sophisticated Living Lexington September / October 2020

{Lexington’s Finest}

Sept/Oct 2020 five dollars

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3803 Brownsboro Rd. | Louisville, KY 40207 502.899.2129 | lsir.com

48

ACRES

1150 CONNER STATION ROAD

Julie Beam, 905.0599 / $3,995,000

6307 INNISBROOK DRIVE

Nell Pearce Bradley, 338.2499 / $1,595,000

UNDER

CONTRACT

6712 ELMCROFT CIRCLE

Rick Walters, 649.9410 / $1,149,000

11608 LITTLE LANE

Melanie Galloway, 291.9210 / $1,150,000

7625 BEECHSPRING FARM BOULEVARD

Jon Mand, 417.2837 / $734,900

CONSIDERING SELLING YOUR HOME?

3208 RIDGE BROOK CIRCLE

Alex Holloway, 681.7474 / $699,000

VISIT MARKETING.LSIR.COM AND LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR MILLION DOLLAR SERVICE AT EVERY PRICE POINT.

LIVE SOPHISTICATED

3104 BOXHILL LANE

John Lenihan, 593.2024 / $1,350,000

12391 POPLAR WOODS DRIVE

Lynette Masterson, 643.4445 / $1,299,000

UNDER

CONTRACT

5525 BETH ROAD

Pam Lawson, 558.7064 / $999,000

1007 ALTA CIRCLE

Terri Bass, 424.8463 / $990,000

UNDER

CONTRACT

808 EAST WASHINGTON STREET Laura Rice, 593.3366 / $539,900

1919 SPRING DRIVE

Andrew Beckman, 298.9961 / $450,000

© MMXX Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Sotheby’s International Realty and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered (or unregistered) service marks used with permission.

Each office is independently owned and operated. An Equal Opportunity Company, Equal Housing Opportunity.

One 60 Minute Float = 4 Hour REM Sleep = 3 Day Cleanse

Lighting

for

Your

Lifestyle

Transform your nightlife with the latest technology in LED lighting.

Using experienced lighting techniques within a professional lighting design will allow for the perfect ambiance, preserving certain focal pieces throughout the landscaping as well as showcasing the architecture of ones home. Define your nights by allowing us to light up your world.

Landscape Design and Lighting 502-376-0732

www.PicturePerfectLandscaping.com

Quattroporte

Ghibli Levante

A perfect combination of design, sports performance and comfort.

MASERATI LOUISVILLE 4710 BOWLING BLVD., LOUISVILLE, KY 40207 / 502.894.3929 / www.MaseratiLouisville.com

Š2020 Maserati North America, Inc. All rights reserved. Maserati and the Trident logo are registered trademarks of SpA. Maserati urges you to obey all posted speed limits.

2.82 ACRES

2215 CAROLINA AVENUE Offered for $825,000

22 STONEBRIDGE ROAD Offered for $ $1,190,000

12 RIVER HILL ROAD Offered for $1,180,000

Laura Aubrey

John Stough + Mac Barlow

Joanne J Owen

502.472.1595

502.552.9120 | 502.938.3283

502.648.5330

3.74 ACRES

50 ACRES

13909 RIVER GLEN LANE Offered for $1,695,000

6316 INNISBROOK DRIVE Offered for $1,195,000

10300 COVERED BRIDGE ROAD Offered for $2,950,000

Susie Ades-Pomerance + Shannon Edwards

John Stough + Mac Barlow

Nanette Tafel + George Tafel

502.550.5842 | 502.938.1241

502.552.9120 | 502.938.3283

502.376.1083 | 502.376.1059

7.97 ACRES

6 ACRES

4308 CHENOWETH RUN ROAD Offered for $599,000

1700 RIVERCREST COURT Offered for $2,400,000

4300 HILL TOP ROAD Offered for $798,500

Jackie Strange

John Stough + Mac Barlow

Debbie Bruenderman

502.741.7174

502.552.9120 | 502.938.3283

502.648.8141

K Y S E L E C T P R O P E RT I E S . C O M ©2020 Kentucky Select Properties. All Rights Reserved. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity.

3938 Dutchmans Lane | p: (502) 897 5369 | josephssalon.com |

|

Fo r a n IN STA N T G I F T CA RD Text G C to 5 02. 897. 5369

Three Generations Serving Residential Construction Bringing responsible stewardship and time honored quality and craftsmanship to your home.

New Construction & Remodeling View our portfolio online

502.243.1030

www.EspositoConstruction.com

From the people who brought you your dream car: your next one.

Introducing the first all-electric car with a true Porsche soul: the Taycan. Powered by an 800-volt system architecture delivering up to 750 hp, 0-60 in 2.6 seconds, and, most importantly, sustainable and repeatable high performance driving.

Wearing undeniable Porsche curves, it’s an electric dream come true.

Experience true electrified performance.

The all new Taycan Turbo S.

Blue Grass Motorsport 4720 Bowling Blvd.

Louisville, KY 40207 (502) 894-3428 porschelouisville.com

Š2020 Porsche Cars North America, Inc. Porsche recommends seat belt usage and observance of traffic laws at all times. European model shown. Some options may not be available in the U.S.

{Louisville’s Finest}

Sept/Oct 2020

slmag.net

26

44 Faux Real

Looks from Maison Atia’s fall/winter 2020 collection

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Sept/Oct 2020

five dollars

on the cover: Making Hay While the Sun Shines Steve Wilson and Laura Lee Brown at Barn8.

Photo by Andrew Kung.

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Sophisticated Stars

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Making Hay While the Sun Shines

33

Attitude Adjustment

38

Faux Real

42

Bibliotaph... New & Notable

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Divine by Design

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Of Note... Behind Closed Doors

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Back in Black

54

Cuff Enough

56

Laura Catena

58

Dog Tired

60

Bronco is Back!

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Lapis of Luxury

64

What a Stud!

66

Special Delivery

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Not Your Grandmother's Queen Anne

Eat

Your

Bou rbon

Mark et place

Lunch & Dinner • Grab & Go • Cocktails & Coffee 2 7 0 8 F r a n k f o r t Av e n u e | L o u i s v i l l e , K y 4 0 2 0 6 Menu Online at Bourbonbarrelfoods.com

Sept/Oct 2020

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44 Divine Design

The lava field around the Retreat at Blue Lagoon primarily consists of a single flow from the year 1226.

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Special Section: Sophisticated Giving

2020 JAGUAR F-PACE, I-PACE AND E-PACE

PERFORMANCE RUNS IN THE FAMILY

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Louisville, KY 40207 502.895.2451 jaguarlouisville.com Vehicles shown: 2019 Jaguar F-PACE S, E-PACE R-DYNAMIC HSE and I-PACE HSE. †All prices shown are Base Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price. Excludes destination/handling, tax, title, license, retailer fees, all due at signing, and optional equipment. Retailer price, terms and vehicle availability may vary. † All applications subject to credit approval by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. (“Chase”) and programs may change at any time. Terms, conditions and vehicle restrictions apply. Not available for leases. See Jaguar Louisville for complete details. The Jaguar word mark, the Jaguar logo, and Jaguar Financial Group are trademarks of Jaguar Land Rover Limited and any use by Chase is under license. Retail/Loan and lease accounts are owned by Chase. Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC is solely responsible for its products and services and for promotional statements about them and is not affiliated with Chase or its affiliates.

Top Steakhouse in Kentucky - Tasting Table

EDITOR - IN - CHIEF Bridget Williams ______________________________________________ ASSOCIATE EDITOR Kay Matton ART DIRECTOR Jason Yann

Best Steakhouse in Lexington - Threebestrated.com

CONTRIBUTORS Writers Patti Bailey Victoria Chase Matthew Cottrell Tracy Cottrell Colin Dennis Elliott Greene Lionel Haff Andre James Chris Witzke Photographers Tony Bailey Robert Burge Chad Henle Andrew Kung Rachel Lutz EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Claire Williams ADVERTISING SALES OFFICE 502.582.6563 ______________________________________________ CEO/PUBLISHER Eric Williams Sophisticated Living is published by Sophisticated Living, LLC, P.O. BOX 1229, Prospect, Kentucky 40059 USA. All Rights Reserved. Sophisticated Living is published six times a year. All images and editorial are the property of Sophisticated Living, LLC and cannot be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission. Annual subscription fees are $25.00; please add $5 for subscriptions outside the US. Single copies may be purchased for $5 at select fine retail outlets. Address all subscription inquiries to: Sophisticated Living, PO Box 1229, Prospect, KY 40059. To order back issues or reprints of 100 or more, call 502.582.6563.

SLMAG.NET

See you at our place!

Steer your hunger

Top Steakhouse in Kentucky

Best Steakhouse in Lexington

– Tasting Table

– Threebestrated.com

From the Editor-In-Chief

From the archives. With the Sophisticated Living polo team at our 2019 event at Oxmoor Farm.

Photo by Tony Bailey

One of the first things I do each morning is to input the day's date into the search box on my phone's photo album to see what I'd been up to on the same day over the years. Like going through a longshuttered house and pulling back the musty drapes in light-starved rooms, the exercise illuminates the dark corners of my brain, bringing to life the people and places that comprise moments both mundane and meteoric. Sometimes the light has a melancholier cast when the search results come back with smiling faces of those who are no longer with us or no longer a part of my life in the way they once were.

Still, they are indelible parts of my existence, and I relish the pleasure this daily exercise brings. It helps me start each day with a smile and a grateful heart.

With the abundant exception of new puppy pics, I didn't take many photographs from the middle of March through most of July of this year. There were a few opportunities, but I largely chose not to, which makes me wonder if my subconscious wanted to block out what has been such a trying time for all of us, or if taking photographs just seemed too celebratory for these serious times. Should I continue my morning ritual in the ensuing years, the void of images from the bulk of 2020 will speak volumes about the era.

As I sat down to write my travel story on an island-based trip to the GalĂĄpagos Islands with Classic Journeys, I pulled up my photos from the trip, which commenced nine days before COVID-19 was officially deemed a global pandemic. As we deplaned in Ecuador, there were temperature checks and offers of hand sanitizer everywhere we went. Our group, all seasoned travel writers, were quick to dismiss the notion that the gathering storm clouds created by the virus were about to release a torrent the likes of which we'd never seen. Weeks after we safely returned home, one of my travel mates mused that our group was akin to the last ticketholders to an amusement park before it went up in flames.

On July 25, more than four months after my trip to Ecuador, I boarded a plane for Aruba, one of just 28 countries admitting American tourists. It was a trip booked at the end of 2019, and one I considered canceling many times.

Nervously watching as the list of places I could travel outside the United States continued to dwindle, Aruba put in place several requirements and safeguards for when they reopened to visitors on July 10.

Feeling confident I could be diligent and stay safe, I decided to continue with the itinerary, despite the hoops required to get there. As a travel writer and publisher, I understand the importance of my role in supporting tourism, which is vital to the health of economies around the globe. I believe that experiencing first-hand and reporting back on what it is like to be a tourist in the current era can be a crucial step to jump-starting a crippled industry.

While I'll tell the full story in the November/December issue, what I can say is that the "One Happy Island" went to extraordinary lengths to ensure guests and workers' safety without sacrificing one iota of hospitality. I left Aruba feeling hopeful that we can adapt to a new normal by making a few adjustments and graciously bearing some inconveniences that will get us back to doing the things we love more quickly, which for me includes adding to my photo album.

Bridget Williams, Editor-In-Chief

bridget@slmag.net P.S. I am excited to announce that in lieu of the party pics that typically fill the back of each issue, we’ve chosen to highlight several non-profit organizations. While so many charitable events have been cancelled, their needs have not, and in many cases have grown during this time. Our hope is that these vignettes will serve as both a call to action and a celebration of the important work these organizations carry out on a daily basis. If you have a charity you’d like to see highlighted, please send me an email at bridget@slmag.net.

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SOPHISTICATED STARS Happy Birthday Virgo and Libra! This Month's Sophisticated Stars are September born Libra, entrepreneur and SAG actor, Faith Hope Yascone, born September 24th and October born Libra and founder of BTS Media and SkyVey Benjamin Worth Bingham Miller, born October 5th. Libra's will love September as the beautiful new moon in Pisces on September 1st sees them celebrating a longawaited creative career opportunity that has come to fruition. Then in October at the full moon in Aries with Venus and Mars in sweet communication-Venus in Leo and Mars in Aries, Libra will enjoy the romantic and much-needed fun vibe. Each sign will have some news to enjoy and celebrate as we start and move through September! As we Kentuckians approach September, we'll celebrate not only some improved stars, but we'll also enjoy the Kentucky Derby for the first time in history ever to be run on September 5th! Happy Derby y'all, and may you win, place or show!

FAITH HOPE YASCONE Faith Hope is Co-Owner of Frankfort Avenue CoachHouse and Yascone Enterprises. Faith's Sagittarius rising makes her a leader that creates a sense of benevolence and goodwill that she brings to her clients and guests. For Faith, no task is impossible, as her co-ruling planet is Jupiter, the planet of charity and good fortune to others. Faith connects the community by sponsoring in-kind events that support Kentucky Opera, and even traveling nurses needing a place to stay to fight COVID 19. Faith also has the moon in Taurus, which gives her a keen sense of responsibility and drive in business and finance. Faith's Venus in Leo gifts her with a fun and childlike approach to life. Venus is the planet that governs Libra, evidenced by her creativity as a SAG union actor and a great sense of humor. In September Faith can look forward to a new opportunity to do just that, at the new moon in Pisces landing in her house of work. With Pisces being the planet that rules film, music, and the arts, it may highlight a contract in this area of Faith's career. On the new moon in Virgo on September 17th Faith will score a big career victory!

BENJAMIN WORTH BINGHAM MILLER As a Libra ruled by Venus with both the Sun and Mercury in Libra, Worth has the gift of being exceptionally diplomatic and balanced. As a Leo rising, Worth has a warm and playful nature and innate creativity that he utilizes effortlessly with his businesses BTS Media and SkyVey. With

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Written by Joy Yascone Elms MA

the moon in Gemini ruling writing and storytelling, Worth has a natural journalistic instinct, and the ability to write in a way that reaches the heart and soul of many. With Jupiter in Aquarius, Worth will have his Jupiter return next year, which occurs only every 12 years, signaling a phenomenal year of dreams come true! This month, at the new moon in Pisces on September 1st, Worth can look forward to some excellent financial news in business. At the new moon in Virgo September 17th, he'll garner an intriguing new contract or client to boot. On October 1st, the full moon in Aries sees ancient lovers Mars and Venus planning a date night, with Venus in Leo and Mars in Aries, in a beautiful communication that will be Worth celebrating!

ARIES March 21st – April 19th With the full moon in Pisces on September 1st, you'll accept a new job or role crystalizing a new money-making venture. You'll be best supported to start this venture at the new moon in Virgo on September 17th. At this same new moon, it is the absolute best time to commence a new fitness regimen to see great results.

In October at the full moon in Aries on October 1st, be sure to nurture your well-being while also enjoying the romantic mood of Venus in Leo in harmonious communication with Mars in Aries.

TAURUS April 20th – May 20th You'll enjoy the full moon in Pisces as it may crystalize an opportunity to enjoy time with friends and socialize, even if virtually. You may also accept a new board assignment at this time that will delight you. Then at the new moon in Virgo on September 17th, you'll enjoy a delightful romantic episode or hear exciting news regarding your children. If you've wanted to adopt or conceive, this is a perfect time to start the process.

This new moon may also signal a new creative project that will bring you joy!

GEMINI May 21st – June 20th September 1st finds you celebrating a career victory at the full moon in Pisces. If you have applied for a new role, have plans to open a business, or start a fresh career path, this full moon could see the realization of a dream come true! Then, September 17th sees you potentially and happily moving, selling, or buying a property. In October, the new moon in Libra on October 16th is a time to stay close to home and meditate on what you are grateful for. This new moon is a bit challenging, so create good intentions with your vision.

This page, clockwise from top left: Opal and yellow gold ring from Adam Foster Fine Jewelry (fosterjewelry.com). Lotus blue sapphire ear jacket from Ananya ($7,434; ananya.com). Sapphire is September’s birthstone. Sapphire and diamond ring from Cirari (cirari.com). October has two birthstones: opal and pink tourmaline. Picchiotti ‘Essentially Color’ cushion pink tourmaline, diamond, and peridot ring (picchiotti.it/ENG/)

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CANCER June 21st – July 22nd As September starts with a beautiful full moon in Pisces on September 1st, you'll decide to pursue some form of higher education by potentially pursuing a college degree, attend graduate school, learn via travel, or engage in virtual learning.

Cancer, you could not choose a better time to do so. Then at the full moon in Aries on October 1st, you'll crystalize a career win or promotion that will delight you.

SCORPIO October 23rd - November 21st You'll welcome September with the Pisces full moon on September 1st. This tender full moon will light your house of love and romance and should usher in a time of happiness in your love life. You may also find out that you're expecting or get happy news back on an adoption. On the new moon in Virgo on September 17th, you'll take on a new humanitarian cause that is dear to your heart, or board membership.

LEO July 23rd – August 22nd If you bet on Derby this year, you can win, place, and show big with the full moon in Pisces on September 1st. This full moon shows a sizable financial gain in your house ruling prize winnings and venture capital, so it's a good time to try your hand at a few bets at the track. You may also be celebrating paying off a substantial debt at this time. Then on the new moon in Virgo on September 17th, you'll celebrate another victory with a pay increase or new income-earning opportunity.

SAGITTARIUS November 22nd December 21st The full moon in Pisces on September 1st sees you celebrating the completion of a home or family project. You may be purchasing or selling your home or making exciting renovations. Either way, you will have exciting news to celebrate at this full moon landing in your house of home and family. On the new moon in Virgo on September 17th, you'll attain a sweet career victory that will see you celebrating.

VIRGO August 23rd - September 22nd Happy Birthday Virgo, what a sweet month you have ahead.

The month starts with a full moon in Pisces on September 1st, giving you a superb opportunity to further your love and marriage commitment. You may get engaged, married, or invest more deeply in your partnership. You may also take on a new venture in your relationship if already married or take on a new business partnership. Then on the sweet new moon in Virgo September 17th, you'll have the golden touch to create or recreate your intended vision to manifest it fully. What a great birthday month you have in store Virgo.

LIBRA September 23rd - October 22nd Happy birthday Libra! The Full moon in Pisces September 1st will bring some happy news concerning the culmination of an exciting work project or job opportunity that will inspire you.

Pisces rules the arts, music, film creativity, and spirituality, so your project may be in that creative realm. It's also a great time to see results on a fitness level with a newly initiated fitness routine. On the new moon in Virgo on September 17th, you'll commit to a fresh wellness routine for body, spirit, and mind that you will love. On October 1st, you'll enjoy a romantic full moon in your marriage and partnership house while Mars and Venus are in a romantic and sweet trine. Nice Libra! At the feisty and somewhat challenging new moon in Libra October 16th, it's best to be nonreactive and meditative, likened to Buddha in the storm's eye.

CAPRICORN December 22nd -January 19th What a fabulous start you have to September with the new moon in Pisces on September 1st. At this time, you'll celebrate a contract and hear exciting sibling news at the same time! At the full moon in Virgo September 17th, you'll celebrate news that excites you in the realm of PR or publishing opportunities. You may also pursue opportunities to learn about a topic of interest or pursue an advanced degree. It's all about the expansion of ideas at this time, Capricorn. What a fabulous time to embrace this exciting journey!

AQUARIUS January 20th – February 18th What a delightful month the stars have in store for you! The full moon in Pisces September 1st will bring the culmination of a raise or a new income-earning opportunity to fruition. The new moon in Virgo on September 17th sees you celebrating a big financial win.

You may bring home a large commission, get a new mortgage, or attract a venture capitalist. You have a happy fiscal month ahead in September Aquarius. Cha-Ching!

PISCES February 19th - March 20th The month starts speaking your language with a full moon in Pisces September 1st. This full moon will bring to fruition longawaited happy news, that will set your September off to a happy start. Then at the new moon in Virgo September 17th, you'll commence a happy new business partnership or say "I do" in love and marriage. What a joyful month the stars have in store for you, Pisces.

Sophisticated Stars Astrologist Joy Yascone Elms MA is the author and founder of The Power of Divine Timing; an annual sign by sign guide based on astrological timing helping readers to find and nurture their blessings and starve their challenges! Joy also offers Divine Timing coaching programs that help clients stay accountable to manifesting their goals and dreams based on their personal divine timing. Visit www.thepowerofdivinetiming.com for more info or email Joy at thepowerofdivinetiming@gmail.com.

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502.894.3436 alfaromeolouisville.net

Š2020 FCA US LLC. All Rights Reserved. ALFA ROMEO is a registered trademark of FCA Group Marketing S.p.A., used with permission

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MAKING HAY WHILE THE SUN SHINES

With the opening of Barn8 at historic Hermitage Farm, 21c Museum Hotels co-founders Laura Lee Brown and Steve Wilson seize an opportunity to celebrate and share all that they love about the Commonwealth.

Written by Bridget Williams / Photography by Andrew Kung Prolific contemporary art collector Steve Wilson is quick to recall the first piece of art he purchased: a Picasso. While it was just an exhibition poster that adorned his college dorm at Murray State University, the acquisition made an impact, as did a drawing instructor who callously ripped up Wilson's assignment in front of the class. Growing up in rural Wickliffe, Kentucky, Wilson said there weren't any art classes in school; the harsh reality check he received in college summarily extinguished any ember of hope he had of becoming an artist.

Success, so they say, is the best revenge. Wilson said he went on to ace a design class, hinting at the favorable outcome he would eventually enjoy as co-founder of the 21c Museum Hotels brand and his most recent endeavor, Barn8 at Hermitage Farm. Akin to an artist staring at the promise presented by a blank canvas, Wilson said he loves walking into a dilapidated building, envisioning what it could be and seeing it become "something beautiful and real."

"This project wraps up all of our passions—horses, travel, art, and land conservation," said Wilson of the nearly eight-acre Barn8 enterprise, which is nestled amid the more than 600 acres that comprise Hermitage Farm. With subdivisions creeping up like kudzu all around the storied Thoroughbred farm, which has produced a Derby winner and garnered a visit from the Queen of England in 1986, Wilson and his wife Laura Lee Brown purchased the property in 2003 with the simple intention of keeping the bulldozers at bay.

Still very much a working farm, Hermitage is in the business of taking care of Thoroughbred moms and their offspring and preparing them for the yearling sale. Presently offering limited interaction with the horses from a safe distance, Wilson, who currently has two Thoroughbreds in training for racing, likened the valuables stabled in the barn to a bank vault.

slmag.net 27

Steve Wilson and Laura Lee Brown

With more ribbons than a craft store, a trophy room in a renovated stud barn near the nursery bears witness to Wilson's success as a competitive carriage driver. Remarking that he's "serious about anything I do," the four-time USEF Pair Champion retired from the sport earlier this year to focus on family and opening Barn8. "I miss competing, but I was an aggressive rider, and it's a dangerous sport," he added. The stud barn, which is open to tours, provides visitors with an overview of the sport of Combined Driving Eventing (CDE), along with examples of several antique and sport carriages (including one used in the film Gone With the Wind).

Wilson explained that initially, ideas such as a center for CDE competition with expanded equine services and even a distillery were considered as ways to make the farm viable without marring the land. However, they all proved to be too development-heavy.

"It really came down to coming up with the best way to make parts of the property open to the public and sharing what makes Kentucky great," Wilson said of how the concept for Barn8 was developed. Much like he and Laura Lee drew inspiration for 21c from their globetrotting, the impetus for Barn8 was based on visits to celebrated places like Blue Hill at Stone Barns in New York and Blackberry Farm in Tennessee.

While Barn8 isn’t visible from US 42, "Here & Where," an art installation created by French artist Jean Dupuy, stands out among the undulating farmland and indicates you’ve arrived.

Representative of Wilson and Brown's penchant for collecting compelling contemporary art by living artists, the installation also hints at what's to come inside the gates and down a winding road that leads past a stately circa 1830 house. An article about 28 slmag.net

the home in Sophisticated Living's January/February 2017 issue previewed the Barn8 concept: "Plans for the three-part project read like a love letter to the Commonwealth, celebrating all that the couple finds endearing about the Bluegrass."

Slated to open at the precipice of the pandemic, full delivery of the aforementioned epistle was slightly delayed, but like all successful long-term relationships, patience and persistence pay off, and the top-notch team at Barn8 have used the phased opening to perfect their processes.

Barn8's restaurant, a small farm store, a bourbon library, and event loft are housed in a renovated dairy barn, with interiors designed by Douglas Riddle, President and COO of Bittners.

Riddle also designed the farm's historic home and Brown and Wilson's residence at nearby Woodland Farm. Saying there wasn't any question that Riddle would be tapped for the project, Wilson expounded on Riddle's attributes as a designer and friend. "He's just a good person who has innate confidence about what's right and lets the owners' personalities shine through."

The interiors exude a sophisticated farm-chic style that looks casual but is actually extremely calculated. Patrons can opt to dine privately individual barn stalls (apropos for the current era), or at a long table that runs down the center of the space. Whimsical contemporary art is on display throughout, most notably in a swank lounge near the bar. Admitting that restrictions on travel and face-toface contact have taken some of the fun out of art collecting for the moment, Wilson is encouraged by increasing opportunities to buy local, and singled out Susan Moreman's gallery on Main Street and John Brooks' Quappi Projects on Market Street.

slmag.net 29

Horticulturalist Stephanie Tittle

Adam Walpole, Alison Settle, and Erin Delaney

Douglas Riddle of Bittners conceived the interiors, which include Individual dining rooms created from the historic barn's original horse stalls.

Photo by Tony Bailey.

One of several antique and sport carriages on display at Hermitage Farm.

Photo by Tony Bailey.

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There is ample space for alfresco dining.

Photo by Tony Bailey.

A towering bourbon barrel rick defines the staircase to the second floor. Illuminating the landing is a chimerical Murano chandelier whose off-kilter shades conjure Alice In Wonderland tea party vibes. In a large event space, hundreds of globe lights suspended from the vaulted ceiling at varying height are reminiscent of fireflies at play in the surrounding fields.

Calling himself a "big picture guy," Wilson is quick to rely on others' expertise to mind the minutiae. After a nationwide search for a chef, he found Alison Settle at Red Hog in the Crescent Hill neighborhood. Impressed with her demeanor and culinary prowess, he invited Settle to the farm and delivered what he called a "field of dreams" pitch. "What they are doing here is really special," said Settle, a Lexington native who reminisced that two days before Wilson approached her, she'd watched a program about 21c on KET. There is a lot of girl power in the kitchen at Barn8 and Settle works in tandem with Stephanie Tittle, the property's horticulturist to do long-range menu planning. This partnership means that Barn8's use of farm-to-table terminology isn't just lip service. What doesn't come out of the adjacent greenhouse is sourced as locally as possible, including bison from Woodland Farm.

Barn8's delayed opening due to COVID allowed Settle to explore preserving, canning, dehydrating, pickling, and fermenting, thereby extending the enjoyment of the growing season throughout the year. "Being a creative fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants kitchen keeps us cooking with passion," she said. The menu changes

frequently (sometimes daily), with plenty of options for those with dietary restrictions and preferences.

Wilson likes to point out that most people don't consciously make the connection that bourbon is ultimately a farm product, and the beverage program at Barn8 also takes advantage of the cornucopia offered by the farm. For instance, a housemade shagbark hickory syrup is used for their new take on an Old Fashioned. "We like taking the familiar to the next level," said Food & Beverage Director Erin Delaney.

Bourbon Steward Adam Walpole is tasked with building Barn8's single barrel private select program, bourbon tasting flights, and a small vintage collection. Walpole, Settle, and Delaney are all part of the barrel select tasting team, which underscores the spirit of collaboration that pervades the entirety of the operation. To keep things exciting, Walpole said he'll place a rare bottle of bourbon for sale from time-totime in the on-site shop to see happenstance play out.

During my last visit in early August, a crew was hard at work behind the barn building a boardwalk along the creek that will take guests on a unique nocturnal journey. Commissioned by artist Ricardo Rivera of KLIP Collective, this immersive 30-minute program will utilize sound and light to weave a narrative. Scheduled to be open to the public in early September, this engaging installation represents a continuation of Wilson and Brown's commitment, begun at 21c, to make art accessible to all. "Hermitage Farm and Barn8 are to the country what 21c is to the city," he articulated. sl

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For more than 43 years

Louisville’s Best Kept Secret

Aesthetics in Jewelry 410 W. Chestnut St Suite 634 Louisville, KY (502)589-2728 www.aestheticsinjewelry.com

Sunrise on Isabela Island

ATTITUDE ADJUSTMENT

Experience a different kind of island time with Classic Journeys’ Multi-Sport Island-Based Trip in the Galápagos Islands Written by Bridget Williams The first tourists arrived in the Galápagos Islands via cruise ship in 1934, initiating a travel trend that has persisted for decades until operators like Classic Journeys chose to defy the status quo and offer island-based tours of the islands. "It really comes down to the amount of quality time you get to spend engaged in activities, and shuttling back-and-forth to your boat really cuts into that," explained Edward Piegza, who founded Classic Journeys 25 years ago. He added that his company has "kissed a lot of frogs" to assemble island-based tours that use the luxury of time to go beyond where boat tourists tread.

I unwrapped the gift of surplus seconds on my second day in the Galápagos. Rising before the crack of dawn at my oceanfront hotel on Isabela Island, I set out to do some solo exploring with a run along the beach and into the national park. Even before the first boat-based tourists were loading into inflatable boats for transport to shore, I was hurdling the island's famous giant tortoises. These

behemoths, the longest-lived of all vertebrates, appeared unphased by my presence as they languidly chewed tiny green "poisoned" apples along an aptly named tortuga allée. At this early hour, the humidity hung on my shoulders like a weighted blanket, and I was relieved that the sound of bird calls and the rhythmic beating of waves on the beach was enough to mask my labored breathing. By the time our scheduled itinerary kicked off at 9 am, I was elated that I'd already enjoyed my fair share of awe-inducing moments.

Within the first few hours on a Classic Journeys-led trip, it's easy to see why the company was named the World's Best Tour Operator in 2019, by the readers of Travel + Leisure (the second time in the past five years). The secret sauce ladled over its diverse menu of tours around the globe includes heavy hyper-local involvement, which Piegza likens to applying the farm-to-table concept to travel.

From native guides to locally-owned hotels and restaurants, guests receive a comprehensive cultural immersion at every step.

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Hotel Iguana on Isabela Island

Our Galรกpagos adventure commenced at Seymour Airport on arid Baltra Island, home to a United States Army Air Force base during World War II. Sebastian, our primary guide for the trip, awaited us.

The Quito, Ecuador native said he fell in love with guiding at age 17 and feels lucky to have spent the past two decades doing what he loves. Attentive and affable, we knew right away that we were in good hands. A short, scenic small craft flight took us to Isabela Island, where we met another Sebastian, one of the island's 2,000 residents.

He introduced us to his infectious and endearing enthusiasm with a booming "Hello my beautiful travelers!" as soon as we deplaned.

Ninety-seven percent of the Galรกpagos is a national park, and humans have only been living on its five habitable islands since the beginning of the 19th century. On Isabela, buildings reflect island life where resources are scarce (there's no fresh water), and the most is made of what's available. Just outside the heart of town, Iguana Crossing, our home base for the first part of our trip, is a familyowned and eco-friendly beachfront hotel that provides quick access to the aforementioned national park trail.

Classic Journeys offers several versions of their island-based Galรกpagos trips, from a five-day multi-sport jaunt to a nine-day culture and walking tour that includes a stop at Machu Picchu.

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Angermeyer Waterfront Inn.

What I loved most about my small-group multi-sport adventure was the ability to actively explore both above and below the water.

From coming face-to-face with a sea lion in the water near Santa Fe Island (who let us know quite emphatically that we were getting a little too close to his pup), to hiking 11 miles round-trip to the top of the six-mile-wide crater of Volcan Sierra Negra (one of the most active calderas on the planet), the itinerary accommodated our group's varied interests and physical abilities.

During the volcano hike, where we observed boat-based tourists turning around at the half-way mark due to time constraints, we stopped periodically to taste wild plants and admire a landscape that went from a scrubby beach, up to a lush jungle, and topped out with at a vast lunar-like lava field. As someone who has set off on more than one outdoor adventure woefully underprepared, I appreciated that the guides think of (and carry) everything, from bottled water to fresh aloe vera.

Adventures in the field are supplemented by opportunities to discuss local culture, politics, and quality of life with our guide and fellow guests. Before a dinner at Iguana Crossing, we enjoyed a ceviche-making demonstration and learned that Ecuadorans garnish the traditional Latin American dish with popcorn.

The affable Adriano Cabrera demonstrates how donkey power, elbow grease, and ingenuity are employed to produce everything from coffee to moonshine at El Trapiche.

A giant tortoise at the El Chato Reserve on Santa Cruz Island.

Snorkeling, exploring, and a barbecue on the boat at Santa Fe Island.

Ceviche at Hotel Iguana

Catch of the day on Santa Cruz.

Guide Sebastian explaining the topography of the Sierra Negra shield volcano, one of the largest and most active volcanoes in the Galรกpagos.

Food stalls on Santa Cruz Island.

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Blue-footed boobies are one of three booby species found on the Galรกpagos Islands.

A marine iguana on Santa Fe Island.

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A pink-hued lake in the national park on Isabela Island.

Options to extend your adventures in Ecuador can include a visit to La Danesa, a working dairy, cacao farm and upscale hacienda about an hour drive from Guayaquil.

We island-hopped from Isabela to Santa Cruz via private boat.

The two-hour ride was quite scenic and relatively smooth, which was a great relief for someone like me who is prone to seasickness. Unique lodging continued at the Angermeyer Waterfront Hotel, accessible via a five-minute water taxi from Santa Cruz across Puerto Ayora Bay. While there are a host of upscale lodging options in this high cotton district, only Angermeyer can lay claim to being operated by the first person born on nearby Baltra Island. Teppy Angermeyer's family relocated to the island from Germany in the 1940s to escape the war. "There was literally nothing here," he said while recounting the realities of a subsistence existence. Today Teppy's father's boat is permanently "docked" on the hillside, where it's now into a one-ofa-kind suite. My favorite spot on the property was a 1960s era grotto, where groovy vibes are served up alongside a hearty breakfast buffet.

At the El Chato Reserve on Santa Cruz, we walked alongside giant tortoises, who generally went about chomping grass as if we weren't there. Far lusher that Isabela, the fertile volcanic soils are ideal for growing coffee and sugarcane. Stopping at El Trapiche, an agritourism destination, it's hard not to be smitten by the charm of farmer Adriano Cabrera. He demonstrated how donkey power, elbow grease, and ingenuity are employed to produce everything from coffee to moonshine. Picking up a few bags of coffee beans allowed me to recount this exceptional experience with my morning cup of joe long after returning home.

While the Galรกpagos is a protected ecological wonder, it is not entirely immune from destructive practices, as we learned during a snorkeling trip around Santa Fe Island. En route, our eagleeyed captain spotted something bobbing in the water and quickly realized it was a sea turtle entangled in an illegal dragnet. The crew promptly sprang into action, and in a whirl of activity that had all of our hearts pumping, gingerly freed the traumatized turtle who swiftly swam away.

The boat captain (yet another Sebastian), whose family once fished these waters for a living, estimated that the turtle might have spent months in this precarious position based on the net's condition. "Because of guests like those from Classic Journeys who want to really experience the wildlife in these waters, the octopus I used to catch and sell to a restaurant is now my business partner," he explained. "I can take people to snorkel to his hidden places, and he reveals himself to us."

Following the afternoon's excitement, we enjoyed a barbeque lunch on the boat, taking time to wade into the azure waters and onto dry land to ogle a species of iguana unique to this island.

Reflecting on the adrenaline-packed day, which came at the end of our trip, Piegza said, "I have the best job in the world, creating trips of a lifetime, and Classic Journeys has the wherewithal to make that statement more than just a tagline." sl For more information about Classic Journeys, visit classicjourneys.com.

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FAUX REAL Co-founders Chloe Mendel and Gustave Maisonrouge

Founded by Chloe Mendel, daughter of designer Gilles Mendel, and Gustave Maisonrouge, Maison Atia is the first luxury faux fur brand dedicated to making a difference.

Written by Bridget Williams Maison Atia uses traditional fur ateliers and techniques to create carefully crafted and timeless pieces that push the boundaries of faux fur. Combining a modern aesthetic and sensibility with six-generations of fur heritage craftsmanship, Maison Atia offers a genuinely luxurious alternative to fur coats and accessories.

Cognizant of the impact of fashion on the environment, the brand has pledged to be socially responsible and engaged by aiming to be zero-waste from the outset. They use leftover fabrics from coat production to create chic accessories and recycle what’s unused with FabScrap. In 2019, Maison Atis launched its first fully sustainable capsule collection for babies and toddlers using Kobra fabric, one-hundred-percent made from plants and recycled water bottles.

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The company’s pledge to give back goes beyond the environment.

A partnership with PAWS CHICAGO, a no-kill shelter, resulted in a #BuyACoatSaveAPuppy campaign. Each coat sold provides transportation for a homeless pet from a high-kill shelter to PAWS CHICAGO. For its Fall 2020 collection, the brand continued to expand beyond its core offerings, while looking to the past for inspiration. MA by Maison Atia is a vibrant and colorful capsule line incorporating the Koba fabric from their baby collection.

They also introduced Pink Label, their first hand-embroidered limited edition collection. “We are only creating three pieces of each design to truly make it special and exclusive,” said Gustave Maisonrouge, co-founder and President.

Chloe Mendel, co-founder and Creative Director, explained the collection’s background story. “When I think of the 70s, I think of a time where fashion was full of life, integrating individuality and freedom of expression. This season you will find vibrant colors continuing in the theme of pop art inspired

by Robert Indiana weaving throughout the collection and bringing modernity to our animal print wonderland. I imagine these coats inside the incredible closet of Diana Vreeland. This season is all about celebrating the fashion icon inside every woman.” sl Maison Atia is available at maisonatia.com and select retail partners.

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Bibliotaph... New & Notable

Compiled by Victoria Chase

An examination of the substantial role that Chicago played in the development of the modern single-family home in the twentieth century. Susan Benjamin and Michelangelo Sabatino—Modern in the Middle: Chicago Houses 19291975—hardcover, 296 pages, Monacelli Press (moncellipress.com) Notable for his elegant, sophisticated rooms that combine sumptuous fabrics, well-selected antiques, and contemporary comfort, interior designer Matthew Patrick Smyth shares his design process through some of his most recent work. Matthew Patrick Smyth, Wendy Goodman (foreword), Judith Nasatir (text)—Through a Designer’s Eye: A Focus On Interiors—hardcover, 256 pages, The Monacelli Press A celebration of the scenic route, this book presents 200 once-in-alifetime adventures both near and far. Whether your passions lie on foot, in the saddle, behind the wheel, or at the helm, there’s an itinerary for everyone. Unforgettable Journeys: Slow Down And See The World—hardcover, 320 pages, DK Eyewitness Travel (dk.com) Rookwood Pottery was arguably the most famous company making art pottery in the United States in the late nineteenth century into the twentieth century.

Published to coincide with the company’s 140th anniversary, author and historian Bob Batchelor tells the compelling story of this artisanal ceramics company, still operating in the heart of the Ohio River Valley from its founding to present day. The book is filled with behind-the-scenes artist and creator interviews, stories of Rookwood's avid collectors, as well as never-before-seen images and documents from the company's historic archives. Bob Batchelor— ROOKWOOD: The Rediscovery and Revival of an American Icon—hardcover, 240 pages, Rockport Publishers (quarto.com)

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bib 'li' o 'taph, [bib-lee-uhtaf, -tahf ]: a person who caches or hoards books This entertaining book reveals the identities and lives of some of the most famous characters populating art history. Based on art scholarship but written for the casual observer, these intriguing tales shed new light on familiar masterpieces. Michele Robecchi and Francesca Bonazzoli—Portraits Unmasked: The Stories Behind the Faces—hardcover, 208 pages, Prestel (penguinrandomhouse.com)

Photographer Lorenz Andreas Fischer has traveled to the Alps for years, and this photo book brings together his impressions, showing us the startling beauty of the Alpine mountains. Lorenz Andreas Fischer—THE ALPS: High Mountains in Motion—hardcover, 288 pages, teNeues (teneues.com)

As of press time, the college football season was a maybe. If it happens, this book, offering tailgating tips and tricks from James Beard Award winner John Currence will take your tailgate to the next level If it doesn’t, you’ll have plenty of practice for 2021. John Currence—Tailgreat: How to Crush It At Tailgating—hardcover, 256 pages, Ten Speed Press (penguinrandomhouse.com)

Organized by season and encompassing more than twenty celebrations, iconic tastemaker Aerin Lauder reveals how to bring beauty, style, and joy into everything from milestone events to everyday meals. Available in October. Aerin Lauder— Entertaining Beautifully—hardcover, 240 pages, Rizzoli (rizzoliusa.com) This is the first book dedicated to photographer Ernst Haas’s color photographs of New York City in the 1950s and 60s. Born in Vienna, Haas moved to NYC in 1951 and used his trained eye and Kodachrome film to capture the city’s palpable energy. Phillip Prodger and Alex Haas (foreword)—Ernst Haas: New York in Color, 1952-1962—hardcover, 208 pages, Prestel (penguinrandomhouse.com)

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DIVINE

BY DESIGN The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Written by Bridget Williams Fuzzy-headed and bleary-eyed from jet-lag and with daylight still hours away in this Nordic nation, I felt like I'd stumbled into a futuristic utopian society focused on wellness as I crossed the threshold of The Retreat at Blue Lagoon. Staring out a tall window behind the reception desk, I surveyed frothy, milky blue water covered with a gauzy layer of steam that lapped at the lowslung brutalist-style concrete building whose designed mimicked the surrounding vast lunar-like landscape devoid of trees.

Guests shuffled by in fluffy robes, a look of complete contentment on their faces, while a New-Agey soundtrack

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sprinkled with lyrics sung in a language imperceptible from my own kept the sounds of the whistling winter winds at bay. One of a bevy of rosy-cheeked hosts appeared with a pot of tea, and I could feel my senses awaken with every sip.

I knew that this was going to be a stopover like no other.

Begun in the 1960s and taking off in the early aughts, Icelandair's layover program allows travelers to book a three-day stopover in the country on the way to or from major European cities for less than merely booking a fare with a transfer in Reykjavik Airport.

The architecture takes advantage of the lagoon’s natural beauty while minimizing the building’s impact on its surroundings.

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Fire Room in the Retreat spa Mineral scrub as part of The Retreat Spa Ritual

It takes just over twenty minutes to go from airport to awe.

Fortified by the tea and armed with my rubber room key bracelet, I opened the door to my Moss Junior Suite and knew this was as close as I'd ever get to feeling like a Bond girl. With an expertly executed lighting scheme comprising small light points only where necessary, my guestroom was a modern minimalist's dream.

The entrance door perfectly aligned with the floor to ceiling windows looking out to an expansive moss-covered lava field as well as a twisting tributary of the UNESCO Global Geopark.

Black plaster walls, nubby putty-colored upholstery, and a mossy green coverlet on the bed carried through on the inside-out theme. Austere but not soulless, the environs invite a measure of introspection and conjure up feelings of inner strength.

A selection of natural Blue Lagoon skincare products created from the bioactive elements of geothermal seawater, silica, algae, and minerals was arrayed on the vanity, inside the walk-in shower tricked out with an Axor brushed black chrome shower system, and on the rim of the deep soaking tub positioned in front of the window. While smart technology is integrated within the rooms, 46 slmag.net

The perforated pattern of a wall in the Retreat Spa is designed to recall the aerated surface of the solidified igneous rock.

Guided yoga is offered each morning

TVs are not, and thoughtful touches like throws made from Icelandic wool soften the contemporary edges.

Opened in 2018, the 62-suite Retreat is literally built into and around the contours of the famous 800-year-old lava fields that serve as the Blue Lagoon’s basin. Guests are privy to 10,000-square-feet of crowd-free soaking in the geothermal, antibacterial, and silica-rich waters, purported to improve psoriasis and eczema and prevent premature aging. Having been to the public area just a few months prior and experiencing the often raucous, selfie-centric crowd, having the lagoon nearly all to myself felt like a dream.

Using nature as a guide, a cinematic sense of drama pervades.

Sigríður Sigþórsdóttir, the Retreat's architect, slept in the lava fields to work out the ideal site placement. Restaurants use custom ebony dinnerware from Royal Crown Derby and Villeroy & Boch. In the corridor that leads to the subterranean spa, amber light filters through the perforated porous material of the walls to create an incandescent lava effect. Doors boasting the heft of a bank vault slide open to reveal myriad treasures contained on the other side.

Lagoon suite

The reception desk in the lobby is carved from lava rock quarried on site. Varying textures and tones of the exposed concrete walls evoke white silica or grey lava.

Photo by Giorgio Possenti.

Private lagoon reserved for Retreat guests.

Photos by Giorgio Possenti.

Moss Junior Suite. Furnishings by B&B Italia.

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The underground Wine Cellar is carved in situ from multi-hued lava spewed forth from an eruption in 1226

Cell phones are prohibited in the cavernous 44,000-squarefoot spa facility, which was staffed by an army of Alexander SkarsgĂĽrd-lookalike attendants. Just past the reception desk is a dine-in-your-robe restaurant serving up hearty and healthy cuisine with a side of unobstructed lagoon views. There are several indulgent relaxation rooms, including a windowless one with a cozy fireplace, and another with fun hanging Nest chairs facing the lagoon. Plunge pools, a steam room, a sauna, and a unique lava spring are all part of this adult playground.

I kicked off my spa experience with an in-water massage, an awkward dance that was part disorientation, and part relaxation thanks to Mother Nature. Suspended on a float with ear warmers blocking outside noise, the tepid towels covering body parts 48 slmag.net

not submerged in the warm waters stood in sharp contrast to the icy raindrops that needled my face. Despite the challenging conditions, my therapist did an outstanding job, and we shared a few genuine laughs along the way.

The algae found in the Blue Lagoon's seawater is so unique that it's patented, and the spa's self-guided multi-step Blue Lagoon Ritual incorporates products made from the algae for exclusive use in the spa. I can say I indulged in the treatment each day to reap the skinsoothing and smoothing benefits. Be sure to stop by the Retreat's gift shop before you leave to pick up Blue Lagoon skincare products only available to guests. Trust me, your skin will thank you for it.

Dining is just as dreamy as the design. Breakfast is served in a sunken lounge area defined by a large expanse of floor-to-ceiling

The Chef ’s Table in Moss Restaurant is made from lava rock quarried on site.

Private lagoon for guests of the Retreat

windows overlooking the lagoon. So cool is the 60-seat Moss Restaurant that it has its own channel on Spotify. We indulged in a stunningly plated multi-course menu that celebrated the diversity of Icelandic cuisine. A Chef's Table within Moss offers an intimate seven-course gourmet journey served on a table made of lava rock quarried on site.

Oenophiles won't want to miss taking a trip underground to the Wine Cellar, carved in situ from multi-hued lava spewed forth from an eruption in 1226. Old World wines with a heavy concentration on French varietals anchor the expansive list, but there is also an exciting lineup of New World producers from the Americas and Australia.

As tempting as it was to soak in the lagoon all day, my pruned skin begged for some dry-land activity. On property,

The lobby lounge.

The lava field around the Retreat at Blue Lagoon primarily consists of a single flow from the year 1226.

Photo by Giorgio Possenti.

there is a well-equipped fitness room, morning yoga, and guided hikes. The number of endeavors you can engage in off-property is limited only by the available time. Hosts can arrange excursions, including driving an ATV across black sand beaches and around extinct volcanoes, touring the Reykjanes Peninsula in a chauffeurdriven luxury sedan, or taking a speedier tour of the highlights via helicopter. If you hope to spy the Northern Lights, you can let the hosts know to alert you should they make an appearance.

Demonstrating the power of good design that makes this natural wonder even more wonderful, the Retreat at the Blue Lagoon is apropos for both a layover or a longer linger. sl Rooms at The Retreat begin at $1,264/night. For more information or reservations, visit bluelagoon.com/accommodation/retreat-hotel.

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Of Note... Behind Closed Doors

Compiled by Colin Dennis

This page, clockwise from top left: Edmondson cabinet from Arteriors ($8,840; arteriorshome.com). Piccadilly cabinet from Boca do Lobo (price upon request; bocadolobo.com). Tesaurus cabinets by Antonio Citterio for Maxalto are available in three different heights and widths with two or four doors, with drawers and flap doors (bebitalia.com). Jonathan Adler Crawford cabinet ($4,950; jonathanadler.com). Ash Ornithological Sketch cabinet from Mineheart ($4,307; mineheart.com). Opposite page, clockwise from top left: Round rattan cabinet from Audenza ($275; audenza.com). Mogg Ritratti cabinet designed by Marzia & Leo Dainelli and made in Italy ($4,500; artemest.com). Sir Ladybug small cabinet by Wonderbold ($3,150; wonderbold.com). Gus Modern Elora cabinet in Chiffon ($1,196; gusmodern.com). Blackland cabinet by Suzanne Kasler for Hickory Chair (hickorychair.com).

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Complete Mercedes-AMG Black Series model lineup

BACK IN BLACK The new Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series boasts the most potent AMG V8 series engine.

Written by Andre James / Photos courtesy of Mercedes-AMG

For those who desire the ultimate in AMG performance, few models can match the exclusivity, rarity, and track-optimized performance of the AMG Black Series models. AMG's most extroverted sibling, since 2006, the Black Series is noted for being uncompromisingly sporty. The expressive design reflects the most direct technology transfer from motorsport to series production.

Black Series models are exclusive automotive rarities. While street-legal, these cars appeal to collectors looking to put them through their fast paces on racetracks. Thus far, only five unique models have worn the distinctive Black Series badge. These include the SLK 55 Black Series, the CLK 63 Black Series, the SL 65 Black Series, the C 63 Black Series, and the SLS AMG Black Series.

Debuting this past July, the Mercedes AMG GT Black Series features the most potent Mercedes-AMG V8 series engine of all time.

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"The new GT Black Series is our latest automotive highlight and continues a tradition established in 2006. The sixth iteration of its kind is another AMG milestone and impressive proof of the incredible development expertise in Affalterbach. I am proud of the team who have created this unique super sports car, which now represents the absolute peak of our successful GT family. The performance, appearance, and driving dynamics of the GT Black Series are second to none. This project was a fantastic end to my work at AMG, for which I am truly thankful," says Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Board at Mercedes-AMG GmbH. Although the new GT Black Series engine is based on the AMG 4.0-liter V8 bi-turbo with dry-sump lubrication, it has been given a new internal code of M178 LS2, due to its numerous modifications. It achieves 720 HP at 6,700-6,900 rpm

and delivers a maximum torque of 590 lb-ft at 2,000-6,000 rpm.

By comparison, the GT-R comes with an impressive 585 HP. The Black Series shoots from 0 to 60 MPH in 3.1 seconds and 124 mph in under nine seconds. The top speed is 202 MPH. Power transfers to the rear wheels via the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed dual-clutch transmission located on the rear axle in a transaxle arrangement for optimal weight distribution, as is the case for all AMG GT 2-door models. It has been specially modified for use in the AMG GT Black Series and adapted to the increased torque of 590 lb-ft. The previous limits governing shift performance and response time have been extended, making them more suitable for racetracks.

These modifications contribute to new and unique characteristics. Not only are the accelerator and engine response more agile - the drive programs, start-up characteristics, and gear changes

are, too. Increased starting revs, more sensitive wheel slip control, and high-performance tires fit for the racetrack make the Race Start function even more impressive.

The similarity to the AMG GT3 and AMG GT4 racing cars is visually and technically more substantial than ever. A significantly larger radiator air inlet stems directly from the AMG GT3 racing car.

The new carbon-fiber hood has two large exhaust air outlets made from black finished carbon-fiber surfaces. The new rear bumper characterizes the rearview with a large diffuser, two rounded twintailpipe trims on the outside left and right, side wheel arch ventilation, and an innovative rear spoiler design.

Getting your hands on the most powerful, technologically advanced, and fastest front-engined supercar produced by AMG comes at a cost, $391,500 to be exact. sl

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CUFF ENOUGH Statement bracelets that stand on their own Compiled by Bridget Williams

Clockwise from top left: Aida Bergsen 18K yellow gold Medusa cuff (aidabergsen.com). Treillage South Sea Keshi Pearl cuff from Assael (assael.com). 14K yellow gold Sea of Stars cuff with diamonds from Marrow Fine ($3,200; marrowfine.com) . Cyclone cuff from Elizabeth Garvin Fine ($10,350; elizabethgarvinfine.com). Star 18K white gold and diamond cuff from Colette ($34,010; colettejewelry.com). John Hardy Lahar cuff with diamonds ($4,900; johnhardy.com). Bespoke cuff from Parulina Couture Fine Jewelry (parulina.com).

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Clockwise from top left: Tempo hand-painted Italian enamel over sterling silver bracelet ($550; belleetoilejewelry.com). Vintage cuff from Jill Heller Jewelry (jillhellerjewelry.com). Marco Bicego 18K yellow gold and diamond Triple Flower cuff from the Petali Collection ($6,400; us.marcobicego.com). Curve bracelet in 18K yellow gold and sterling from Georg Jensen ($4,750; georgjensen. com). Anaconda Mosaic Collection cuff from Vendorafa (vendorafa.net). Lalaounis cuff bracelet (lalaounis.com). From Stephen Silver, an 18K white gold hinged cuff bracelet with a 91.89 carat cushion-cut aquamarine and 7.07 carats of round brilliant-cut diamonds ($95,000; shsilver.com). Cadar Python 18K cuff bracelet ($28,000; cadar.com). Philip Crangi & Co wide Diamondback Pyramid cuff in forged brass with diamonds ($1,450; philipcrangiandco.com).

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LAURA CATENA Argentina’s Wonder Woman Written by Bonnie Graves

It’s rare and kind of cool when a woman becomes virtually synonymous with a given wine region; in an industr y traditionally dominated by men, these female leaders in positions of visibility help to encourage a rising generation of women in the field. In the Champagne region of France, business-savvy women like the widows Clicquot and Laurent-Perrier normalized women in decision-making roles in the 19th century. Today that tradition continues with women running several of the top grande marque houses.

Argentina also has a wonder woman, but instead of a widowed dowager inheriting her husband’s business interests, this one is a practicing medical doctor with an impressive educational background all her own.

Laura Catena may have been born into one of Argentina’s most storied wine-producing families, but her energy and her vision have revitalized the family business in a truly impressive way.

Currently serving as Managing Director of Bodega Catena Zapata, Laura also manages her own winery in Mendoza called Luca while somehow working part-time as a pediatrician in San Francisco.

That’s quite a commute for a busy mother of three!

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The Catena wines are in many ways emblematic of the history of Argentina’s wine industry and its early dependence on immigrant labor.

Because so much of the vineyard work was undertaken by Spaniards and Italians with a healthy daily consumption habit consistent with their homelands, Argentine wine production initially was more about quantity than quality. Frankly, it was anonymous wine sold in bulk, and that’s a reputation that is hard to shake once entrenched in consumers’ minds. (See that more recent cautionary yellow tale that helped drive Australia’s mono-variety shiraz boom down deep into the discount racks.) Founded by Laura’s great-grandfather Nicola Catena, an immigrant from the Marche region of Italy, Catena Zapata’s first vineyard was planted near Luján in the Mendoza Valley in 1902. Malbec, known then as la uva francesa, was popularized

by Michel Aimé Pouget, who touted the grape’s prodigiousness on the vine. Production among these early industrial “smokestack” wineries in the region ramped up, and by just 1915, Argentina had already become the 6th largest producer of wine in the world.

It would fall to Laura’s dad, Nicolás Catena, the grandson of Nicola, to change Catena from a forgettable volume player to a brand that has firmly established Argentina as a fine wine player.

Like Laura, Nicolás also completed some of his education in the US with graduate work at Columbia and at the University of Chicago in Applied Economics.

The legendary “Judgement of Paris” tasting in 1976, combined with a fortuitous visit to Mondavi’s property in the 1980s, convinced Nicolás that Catena could be transformed, a conviction that quickly became a passion. He hired top names like José Galante, Guy Ruhland, and Paul Hobbs, visionary winemakers who brought a new sensibility to both vineyard management practices and to winemaking techniques. The shift from high-yield to better-yield began, and when Laura officially joined the family business in 1995, the time was right to take Catena into yet another period of expansion and improvement.

Essential to Catena’s next-gen push is Laura’s scientific/ medical background. What for many winemakers remained anecdotal or accidental – the notion of “terroir” - was quantified

by Laura’s research into the soils and microclimates of her family’s holdings. Loosely put, terroir is the concept of place speaking through a wine, e.g., the ability to discern site-specific aromas and textures based on a wine’s place of origin.

It’s the polar opposite of manufactured wine, and Laura’s success in founding the Catena Institute has helped to legitimize terroir by grounding it firmly in science. A joint partnership between UC Davis and the Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, the Catena Institute continues to conduct world-class research into the complex relationship between farming grapes and bottling juice.

I met with Laura over lunch a few years back. As a high-energy, bilingual wine enthusiast myself, I came away duly impressed by her enthusiasm and seemingly limitless energy. Recent adventures for Laura have included conducting a tasting of five benchmark Catena wines on the Great Wall of China and hosting a UC Davis lecture entitled “How Science Can Preserve the Ancient Art of Winemaking,” a hot topic that allows both natural, low-intervention wine enthusiasts and more clinically-controlled winemakers to understand each other’s interdependence. And I imagine she has more than a few Zoom meetings scheduled in 2020, too. For anyone interested in top-tier malbec, the flagship red variety of Argentina, the wines of Catena are a must. Their suite of wines, in general, are now unequivocally worldclass. Bodega Zapata Catena and Luca wines are widely available online or at your local retailer throughout the US. www.catenawines.com sl

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DOG TIRED

While chances are our pets are happy with all of the extra time we’ve been spending at home, all of the additional attention (and walks!) can be exhausting. Our selection of pet beds allows you to pamper your best friend without compromising style.

Compiled by Claire Williams

This page, clockwise from top left: Club Nine Pets Orthopedic Mid-Century Dog Chaise from Ruff Houzin (from $287; ruffhouzin.com). Charley Chau Deeply Dishy dog bed in leaf velour ($150; charleychau.com). Loue dog bed from Labbvenn (from $475; labbvenn.com). High-loft pillow Lettino dog bed in crisply tailored Festival linen from Sferra (from $245; sferra.com). Opposite page, clockwise from top left: Luke pet bed in Anthracite from Labbvenn ($200; labbvenn.com). Large Riviera rattan dog bed from Serena & Lily ($548; serenaandlily.com). A completely custom 60-bottle wine rack with built-in dog bed and personalized wine barrel plaque from Rockstar Puppy Boutique ($2,999; rockstarpuppyboutique. com). Custom Double Doggie Den from B & B Kustom Kennels ($2,099 as shown; bbkustomkennels.com).

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2021 two-door Bronco Black Diamond series in Cyber Orange Metallic Tri-Coat with available Sasquatch™ off-road package.

BRONCO IS BACK!

Ford announces a new family of Built Wild™ SUVs, US off-road driving schools, and a unique community for owner and enthusiast engagement.

Written by Andre James

The story of Bronco—from the birth of the iconic SUV during World War II, its life until it was canceled in 1996 (including a notorious police chase in 1994), and the efforts of dedicated Ford employees to bring back a family of Bronco vehicles this year— has created quite a buzz in the motoring world. “The Bronco is on a very short list of American vehicles that provide a true lens through which you can view the changes in the fabric of America,” said Ford Chief Communications Officer Mark Truby.

Ford’s off-road SUV expertise traces back to World War II when the automaker was part of a government competition to build rugged carry-all utilities for GIs in the battlefield. Ford’s entry was called the GP, for General Purpose. More than 270,000 Ford GPs were built for Allied forces. GIs returning home bought Army surplus GPs, but they were too small and uncomfortable for civilian life, according to Ford research from the early 1960s, so Ford developed a more refined, yet durable off-road vehicle to meet this need – Bronco.

The original Bronco was nicknamed G.O.A.T. by Donald Frey, the Ford product manager who championed both Mustang and Bronco nameplates and challenged engineering teams to deliver “go anywhere roadability.” As an agile, sports-oriented offroad 4x4, Ford dubbed the original 1966 Bronco “a completely 60 slmag.net

new line of sports-utility vehicles” at its reveal Aug. 11, 1965 – the first reference to “SUVs” from an American manufacturer.

Early Broncos had a rugged body-on-frame design with short front and rear overhangs, high ground clearance, and a short wheelbase for maximum off-road capability. Bronco’s toughness and agility at high-speed enabled off-road racers like Rod Hall and Larry Minor to capture an overall win at the grueling 1969 Baja 1000 – a victory that no other production 4x4 has replicated in 50 years.

Bronco holds a special place in popular culture and has been featured in more than 1,200 films and 200 songs. Since Ford ended production in 1996, Bronco SUVs have continued to grow in popularity with collectors and enthusiasts. With the January 2017 announcement of the return of Ford Bronco, valuations have skyrocketed, according to Barrett-Jackson, with the average first-generation Bronco sale price nearly doubling from $39,763 to $74,820 in just more than three years. Hagerty valuation guide ranks 1966-77 Broncos as among the highest vehicle price increases of all collectible SUVs over the past three years – a 75.8 percent gain.

Ford took the wraps off the new Bronco during an event broadcast across Disney network channels, including National Geographic and ESPN. The lineup includes a Bronco two-door, a

The instrument panel is inspired by the firstgeneration Bronco, with intuitive, clearly visible LED gauges and controls in this prototype version of the all-new 2021 Bronco four-door.

The four-door 2021 Bronco will have available removeable modular roof sections – left and right front panels, a full-width center panel and a rear section.

Roof panels on both two- and fourdoor models can be easily removed by unlocking the latches from the interior to provide the largest overall open-top view in its class to take in the sunshine or to gaze at the stars at night.

first-ever Bronco four-door model, and an all-new rugged, small SUV, the Bronco Sport. Bronco will be the only domestic brand of SUVs with standard 4x4, a base setup, and advanced 4x4. More than 200 factory-backed aftermarket accessories provide infinite opportunities for maximum personalization, enabling dealers to offer outfitting-ondemand for each customer’s individual adventure needs.

“Bronco gave rise to the fun and versatile off-road SUV in 1966, becoming the first enjoyable sport utility vehicle for those who wanted to live, work and play outdoors,” said Jim Farley, Ford chief operating officer. “Like the original, the all-new Bronco family is engineered to take you to epic places, with the capability to deliver confidence on any terrain.”

Bronco’s advanced topographic trail maps and more than 1,000 curated trail maps are powered by class-exclusive trail content from NeoTreks’ AccuTerra® Maps, Trails Offroad trail guides, and FunTreks trail guides. “The trail mapping system available on Bronco is truly a game-changer in the off-road community,” said Mark Grueber, Bronco consumer marketing manager.

To coincide with the launch, Ford has introduced new owner experiences, including Bronco Off-Roadeos. Opening next year, these off-roading and outdoor adventure playgrounds will suit all skill levels and are designed to inspire Bronco owners to get out in the

Bronco two-door in Cyber Orange Metallic Tri-Coat and Bronco fourdoor in Cactus Gray.

Bronco Sport

wild for years to come. Current and future Bronco owners and offroad fans and outdoor enthusiasts will be able to connect via Bronco Nation (www.thebronconation.com). This independent online community elevates the excitement of owning an all-new Bronco or Bronco Sport.

Ford is ramping up all-new Bronco merchandise, too.

From Bronco gear to remote control cars, Ford-licensed Bronco merchandise is available at Amazon.com/fordbronco. Enthusiasts can shop for gifts, novelties, collectibles, and apparel. A portion of Bronco merchandise proceeds will be donated to the Bronco brand’s stewardship efforts.

“Bronco delivers on the common thread desired by enthusiasts – authenticity,” said Mark Grueber, Ford U.S. consumer marketing manager. “Building Bronco as Ford’s distinct outdoor brand includes a unique network of experiences, community, and engagement that extends far beyond ownership of Bronco and Bronco Sport models.”

The 2021 Bronco two-door and four-door models will be built at Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, Michigan. MSRP for the base two-door Bronco is $29,995, including $1,495 destination and delivery. Reservations for Bronco two- and fourdoor models can be made for $100 at ford.com. sl

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LAPIS OF LUXURY

Contemporary pieces celebrating the deep-blue metamorphic rock coveted since ancient times Compiled by Lionel Haff

Clockwise from top left this page: Rush Jewelry Design Icon Victoire matte lapis necklace ($4,700; rushjewelrydesign.com). Retrouvai Signature Compass pendant with lapis and emerald ($2,090; retrouvai.com). Emerald Cut Munchkin Blueberry Glazed earrings from Bondeye Jewelry ($1,115; bondeyejewelry.com). Jenny Dee Jewelry Taygeta lapis and diamond ring ($1,680; jennydeejewelry.com). Pamela Love Multi Paillette band with sapphires, white diamonds and lapis cabochons ($3,600; pamelalove.com).

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Clockwise from top left this page: Picchiotti Xpandable lapis and diamond bracelet (picchiotti.it). Arman Sarkisyan Peace on Earth ring in 22K gold with Lapis, sapphire, diamonds and oxidized silver ($6,160; armansarkisyan.com). Mini Mobile earrings in white gold with lapis and diamonds (from $2,080; colettejewelry.com). Lapis and diamond 18K gold Ladder earrings from Karma el Khalil (karmaelkhalil.com). Melis Goral Deep Sea lapis and diamond pendant ($1,136; melisgoral.com).

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WHAT A STUD! Little earrings that make a big statement Compiled by Claire Williams

Clockwise from top left this page: Andrew Glassford Sleeping Beauty earrings with turquoise, tourmaline and multi spinel (andrewglassfordjewels.com). Ananya Lotus stud earrings with tsavorite ($2,564; 1stdibs.com). Picchiotti Classics Buff-Topped ruby earrings (picchiotti.it/ENG). Karma el Khalil 18K yellow gold Hedgehog studs (karmaelkhalil.com).

Origami stud earrings from Walters Faith (waltersfaith.com). Ruby Strawberry stud earrings from Sorellina ($590; sorellinanewyork.com). Milamore baguette diamond studs ($1,250l en.milamorejewelry.com). Mary MacGill Shark Tooth studs ($425; marymacgill.com). Nouvel Heritage Star studs ($1,200; nouvelheritage.com). Brent Neale gold shell earrings with sapphires ($14,500; brentneale.com). Broken Arrow stud earrings with diamonds from Established Jewelry ($2,475; establishedjewelry.com). Nak Armstrong Portrait earrings with green tourmaline, blue zircon and diamonds ($3,600; nakarmstrong.com).

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Some will drive it, all will feel it.

The 2020 Q7 Progressive design and timeless beauty are the hallmarks of the 2019 Audi Q7, creating a striking presence on both city streets and dusty back roads.

With seating capacity for up to 7, and towing capacity up to 7,700 lbs, the Audi Q7 is the quintessential road trip vehicle for you and your family.

Audi Louisville 4730 Bowling Blvd., Louisville, KY 40207 502-894-3427

All model names, and the four rings are registered trademarks of AUDI AG. Š2020 Audi of America, Inc.

SPECIAL DELIVERY

After COVID derailed their March opening date, Postmaster's Pub is finally ready to deliver Written by Bridget Williams / Photography by Andrew Kung and Rachel Lutz Isabel Ladd recalls a pre-COVID meeting this past February with Brian Behr, who planned to open a new concept within 30 days in the building formerly home to The Village Idiot. "My dad loves a project, but he thought we needed a female touch to soften up the lounge," explained Behr.

Shifting into overdrive, Ladd looked to vintage British racing cars—à la a 1958 Aston Martin DBR1 raced by legends Carroll Shelby and Sir Stirling Moss—for interior inspiration. And while the casual observer might not make the connection, it all makes sense once you survey Ladd's use of British racing green, supple leather and brass. “I took a racecar and made it into a restaurant,” 66 slmag.net

exclaimed Ladd with her characteristic verve. The building itself is Lexington's oldest surviving post office. It retains a few interesting period details, including a tin ceiling on the first floor.

Working with the existing shiplap already installed on the first floor walls before she came on board, Ladd had the bottom threefourths painted racing green. A long communal table was swapped out in favor of a trio of booths with marble tops from Counter Culture. Wood from a bowling alley Behr's family once owned was used to fashion the bar top. A black-and-white graphic tile selected for the stair risers draws attention to the second floor, where a private dining room and a chic lounge space awaits.

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Interior designer Isabel Ladd

Jason Huff and Brian Behr

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Ladd's creativity really sparkles on the second floor. She worked with Behr's collection of vintage liquor posters and walls clad in reclaimed wood to conjure a hybrid deco-mod vibe utilizing interesting furnishings executed in leather, stripes, and sumptuous jewel-toned velvet. Underfoot she selected hardworking indoor/ outdoor rugs printed to appear like a well-worn Oriental carpet. "I really felt the upstairs was a lost opportunity for an intimate cocktail space, and Isabel worked out a better flow so that you don't have to walk through overflow dining space to access it," explained Behr.

Behr, who was also the proprietor of The Village Idiot, has a long history of involvement in Lexington's hospitality industry. He presently co-owns Bear & The Butcher in Chevy Chase with this brother Brett. The notion of closing The Village Idiot and remaking it into something else was borne out of customer demand. "The Idiot was very beer-centric. With all of the visitors that come through downtown, they are looking for a bourbon-related experience," Behr explained.

T h e l o c a l l y s o u rc e d g a s t ro p u b - s t y l e m e n u a t t h e Postmaster's Pub retains some familiar favorites from The Village Idiot as well as having a few things in common with Bear & The Butcher. Jason Huff oversees the menu and kitchen at both establishments. "We kept a lot of what the Idiot was famous for," said Huff, who added that their wings "are famous all over town." Working across multiple establishments can be a challenge. Still, Huff said he loves the creativity of cooking and working with his tight-knit kitchen crew and with management that is keen on promoting from within.

A sign of the times, in place of paper menus, the restaurant will use a QR code that guests will scan with their phone, and the menu will open on their screen. Behr explained that not only is cleaner than traditional menus, it also reduces waste and allows changes to be made in real-time. A small silver lining in an unprecedented era. sl The Postmaster's Pub is located at 307 West Short Street in downtown Lexington.

For more information, visit postmasterspub.com.

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NOT YOUR GRANDMOTHER'S QUEEN ANNE After a devastating fire, the owners of a National Register-listed home seize the opportunity to preserve its historic character while making updates conducive to modern family life.

Written by Bridget Williams / Photography by Andrew Kung "We had just finished creating the homeowners' 'dream' master bath when the fire happened," recalled interior designer Crystal Smith of Bittners, who has been collaborating with the owners of a circa 1896 Queen Anne-style home on various projects for nearly a decade. Although the fire was primarily contained in one of the chimneys, the flames activated the sprinkler system, which helped to save the external frame and shingle structure, but waterlogging the interior.

Opting to make lemonade from lemons, the couple worked with Smith to make changes to the floorplan on the first floor while preserving original period details that make the home unique. Interior work included replacing the hardwood floors, rehabbing fireplaces, and the detailed and extensive trim and molding. Avid collectors, antique pieces, including a Steinway grand piano now positioned in the foyer, were sent off to be refurbished.

The home's cheery yellow exterior hints at the liveliness inside. Smith has done a masterful job of juxtaposing old and new to create rooms that defy being pigeonholed into a particular era or style. "It really suits their eclectic and energetic personalities," she remarked.

Smith's adroit eye is on display upon crossing the threshold, where a 19th-century sofa in the foyer sports a vivid contemporary upholstery that mimics a botanical watercolor painting.

A pair of rooms lie on either side of the foyer. In the dining room, Italian strung drapery panels set a formal tone. The light emanating from a grandly-scaled chandelier is reflected in the highly polished surface of a round Bittners-made table placed atop a custom square rug. The backs of the dining chairs sport a vibrant crewel fabric.

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Bittners created the transom window defining the bar area to match the one above the front door. Rug from Anabel’s Oriental Rugs.

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A life-sized framed poster promoting the 1919 movie In Old Kentucky is displayed in the billiards room.

A pool table with purple felt anchors the billiards room. Filled bookshelves on either side of the fireplace serve as a cabinet of curiosities. A life-sized framed poster promoting the 1919 movie In Old Kentucky depicts character Madge Brierly disguised as a jockey.

Smith said that before the fire, the home's galley-style kitchen had an awkward layout. Today, the kitchen is an absolute showstopper, relocated to take advantage of a large bank of wrap-around windows that overlook the pool and water feature that terraces down the sloped lot. Positioned above the dual islands are custom iron chandeliers with a gold finish that were custom made in France in finished in Nashville. A decorative door panel on one of the islands mimics the design of the original stained glass windows in the space. A custom hood crowns a 66" Viking Tuscany range.

The kitchen is open to a family room, a bar, and a unique breakfast room with a coffee bar that was created by enclosing a porch. A transom window separating the bar from the family room was made in the Bittners woodworking shop to match the one above the front door. The sunny disposition presented by the color palette in the family room calls to mind goodies in an Easter basket. Taken as a whole, the rooms conjure up inhabitants who are well-traveled bon vivants.

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Resting atop a custom-made square rug, a Bittners-made table is the focal point of the dining room.

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The kitchen was moved to the front of the home to take advantage of an abundance of windows, including original stained glass. The chandeliers above the islands were custom-crafted in France.

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After the fire the homeowners decided to enclose a porch to create a breakfast room. A potted fern rests atop a vintage brick mold cabinet. The wife found the chandelier, which is reflective of the home’s eclectic character.

View from the multiroom master bath into the bedroom.

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A vestibule dressed with chinoiserie-inspired wallpaper is indicative of Far East influence throughout the home.

All of the bedrooms are on the second floor and boast ornate coffered ceilings. Printed Phillip Jeffries grasscloth wallcovering and subtly iridescent mosaic tile lend a slightly feminine slant to the master bathroom. The same diamond-shaped stained glass windows found on the first floor appear here, casting colorful shadows throughout the day. The idea for a decorative tile border around the scones surmounting the vanity was culled from Pinterest.

A secondary entrance on the first floor received a luxe treatment with chinoiserie-inspired wallpaper from Jim Thompson. It is a continuation of a Far East theme expressed throughout to varying degrees and proof that even in a home full of superlatives, no space is too insignificant for a discerning eye. sl

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12th Annual A Breath of Fresh Air October Benefit - Drive-in Edition

Saturday, October 31, 2020 The Olmsted  3701 Frankfort Avenue 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Drive-in & Tailgate | Dinner & Drinks | Live Music by The Sensations Live auction | Online silent auction | Bourbon pull | Trick or Treat for the Kiddos $150 per car includes two meals, additional meals $25 each Reservations required | Tickets & information at bofakya.org | Sponsorships available Following CDC guidelines - social distancing, masks, observing safe procedures.

Your donations support research‌ help us beat COVID & lung cancer!

Presenting Sponsor:

Silver Sponsors:

Media Sponsors:

Commonwealth Respiratory

Supporting Sponsors:

Beverage Sponsors:

Twilight Sponsors:

BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS

At Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Bluegrass, our mission is to create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth, and our vision is that all children reach their true potential. We work toward that vision by creating lasting relationships that we call matches between mentors and children. Our staff works carefully to make sure that each of our “Littles” is matched with a “Big” who is not only compatible but also safe and reliable. Once matches are made, they are then monitored, supported, and provided with resources and activities that help contribute to the quality time they spend together. We are firm believers in the fact that the power of positive relationships can change the world.

Even though our matches haven’t been meeting in person as much as they used to, they’re still finding creative ways to interact and build powerful relationships that will have an effect on them for the rest of their lives. In this time of uncertainty, when things are constantly changing from day to day, our Bigs remain a consistent source of positivity in the lives of their Littles. They continue to stand in their corner and defend their potential. Unfortunately, our agency has witnessed a significant decline in funding due to the pandemic, and like many other nonprofits, have been struggling to make ends meet, all while making sure the families we serve don’t have to. These past few months have looked a lot different for us. We’ve gone from making and supporting matches behind the scenes, to delivering meals, supplies, and toys, and providing additional resources and support to the families we serve. As we continue to face the uncertainties of this year and beyond, we’re all going to be relying on our relationships to make it through, together. And now more than ever, we’re relying on our relationships with our donors and friends to be able to continue defending the potential of young people for years to come. There are a variety of ways to show your support, from general and monthly donations to our Spare Change program. To make a monthly or one-time donation, visit www.bbbs-bluegrass.org/donate. To learn more about our Spare Change round-up program, where you can contribute by rounding up the purchases you make, visit www.bbbs-bluegrass.org/change.

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BLUEGRASS LAND CONSERVANCY

Join Bluegrass Land Conservancy in celebrating 25 years of land conservation! Since 1995, BLC has protected over 28,000 acres of farmland in Kentucky’s bluegrass region.

We will celebrate our 25th anniversary with a Virtual Auction on September 30th, 2020 featuring special bourbons, halters from Justify and Songbird, one-of-akind Kentucky items, and unique experiences you cannot purchase anywhere else. Visit www.bluegrassconservancy. org or call 859-255-4552 to join us for this exciting event. Bluegrass Land Conservancy’s mission is to protect land in Kentucky’s Bluegrass Region through permanent conservation easements. We seek to ensure a future where the region’s distinctive soils, cultural heritage, scenic vistas, natural resources, and farms are preserved forever. As a nationally accredited, community supported, 501(c)(3) nonprofit land trust, we work on a voluntary basis with landowners, community groups, and municipalities to encourage the preservation of land for agricultural viability, natural habitat, rural heritage, and scenic open space. Land conservation ensures a better place to live, work, and play, not just for today, but for future generations. Clean water, healthy soil, fresh air, and open spaces are key components to happy, healthy communities. The decisions we make today will define the relationships our children and grandchildren have with the Bluegrass tomorrow. Since all relationships are built through deep connections, we need your help in sharing this message with your family, friends, and neighbors. Conservation benefits everyone, and it is critical to sustaining our way of life here in the Bluegrass.

Learn more at www.bluegrassconservancy.org.

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BLUE GRASS COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

At Blue Grass Community Foundation (BGCF), our mission is to create more generous, vibrant and engaged communities in Lexington and throughout the Bluegrass and Appalachia, Kentucky. Launched in 1967 with one charitable giving fund and a single contribution of $1,000, BGCF has grown to over 675 charitable funds, each with its own charitable purpose, and total assets of $131 million. Most importantly, in partnership with our generous donors, we’ve awarded more than $114 million in grants, with 95 percent going to local and Kentuckybased organizations. We invite you to join us! If you’re looking to make your giving more simple, organized and impactful, establishing your own charitable fund may be the right solution. But, helping individuals, families, businesses and nonprofits establish charitable funds is just one way we grow local generosity. If you’d like to help local efforts to provide critical services to those most affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, donate to the Coronavirus Response Fund, a partnership of BGCF and United Way of the Bluegrass. To date, more than $625,000 has been awarded in charitable grants to 45 local nonprofits providing residents with access to food, transportation, information, prescriptions/healthcare and other basic needs. We are $30,000 away from our fundraising goal of 6 $1 million! Learn more and donate at bgcf.org/coronavirus.

If you want to get more engaged with civic and charitable life in Lexington, consider joining BGCF365. By giving just $1 per day, you can become part a powerful, collective giving engine that funds local charitable and civic projects while meeting like-minded Lexingtonians at quarterly social and networking events. Learn more at bgcf.org/365.

If you’re looking to leverage your giving dollars to your favorite local nonprofits (and discover new ones), the GoodGiving Challenge is for you! Launching on Tuesday, December 1 at 9am, this year’s Challenge features more than 130 local nonprofits. Now in its tenth year and raising $11.7 million, givers of all sizes are encouraged to donate at BGgives.org. With hundreds of thousands of match dollars on the table, you’ll help local organizations win their share and make your giving dollar go farther.

At BGCF, we help grow good. Whatever your charitable needs or aspirations may be, we’re here to help. Give us a call at 859.225.3343 or email BGCF President + CEO Lisa Adkins at ladkins@bgcf.org. Together, there’s no limit to the community good we can create!

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THE NEST

For 40+ years, The Nest-Center for Women, Children & Families has been a safe and healing place for individuals and families in crisis, facing adversity, or who have unexpected needs. We provide education, counseling, advocacy, and support in English and Spanish to over 5,000 clients each year. This is achieved through four free programs: Early Childhood Education, Family Assistance for Basic Human Needs, Counseling and Advocacy for Survivors of Intimate Partner Violence, and Education and Support for Parents.

The Nest strives to embrace, encourage, and empower individuals, parents, survivors and children while they move toward stability and self-sufficiency.

WOODFORD HUMANE

Woodford Humane Society has been serving the homeless pets of Central Kentucky since 1975. We pride ourselves on doing things right, and seeing pets leave our care happier and healthier than when they arrived! Woodford Humane Society places no limits on breed, age, or length of stay and is proud to maintain a placement rate of over 95%.

The pandemic has made every part of our operation more difficult this year. This spring, we reworked our entire adoption system to make adoption by appointment a possibility. Thankfully, it’s a system that works well – so we will continue to find loving homes by appointment until we’re able to fully reopen. If you want to add a pet to your family, check ours out at woodfordhumane.org! The biggest challenge, though, has been funding. Woodford Humane Society receives no government funding and relies 100% on fundraisers and private donations. This year, covid has wiped out all of our fundraising events, resulting in a loss of over $160,000 in crucial funding. We’ve turned to virtual events, t-shirt fundraisers, raffles, pet sponsorship campaigns and more to make up as much of that balance as we can, but it remains a struggle. Here are the top three ways you can help: 1. Donate money or essential supplies. You can give as little as $10 through our website; every dollar helps. If you can afford to give more, gifts of $100 or more are eligible to be matched by our SAVE Matching Fund.

Donate securely online at donatenow.networkforgood. org/woodfordhumane/ Or, consider dropping off some of our most used cleaning supplies: bleach and scented liquid laundry detergent are always a need.

2. Sign up for Kroger Community Rewards and make Woodford Humane your charity of choice. It costs you nothing; you just enroll your Plus Card and tell Kroger you want them to donate, and they do the rest. It may not seem like much, but it all adds up to over $25,000 a year. Get started at krogercommunityrewards.com or 800-KROGERS. 3. Set up an automatic monthly donation and give the gift of stability in incredibly unstable times. With so much up in the air until the pandemic subsides, it can be hard to know where our resources are coming from – or if they’re coming at all – with each new month. Every supporter who commits to an automatic monthly donation takes away a little of that uncertainty. To get started, visit donatenow.networkforgood.org/faithfulfriends

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CASA OF LEXINGTON

At the age of 10, Zack was removed from his home because his heroin-addicted father was unable to care for him. His mother was not involved in his life. After his removal, Zack spent time in three different foster homes. Without stability and consistency in his life, it’s no wonder he had failing grades in school. Zack was headed toward troubled teenage years, placing him at higher risk for things like drug addiction, mental health problems or crime. He was not being nurtured or loved in a way that allowed him to grow and learn. But this is when a CASA volunteer stepped into Zack’s life, and his story changed for the better. Zack’s Court-Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) helped get Zack into an adoptive foster home, determined he had learning difficulties and helped get him an individualized education plan, found him a tutor to help him catch up, and exposed him to extracurricular activities. Zack now maintains a B average, has joined the school football team and is in the process of being adopted. Thanks to his CASA volunteer, Zack is in a loving, permanent home. He is thriving.

Unfortunately, there are hundreds of children like Zack right here in central Kentucky. Last year, CASA of Lexington’s volunteers advocated for the best interests of 625 abused or neglected kids. We’re working hard to find more volunteers — and more funding — so no child has to go through such a hard time alone. Every CASA volunteer is a person just like you, who has a heart for helping children and 6-10 hours of time to give each month. They are fully trained and supervised by experienced volunteer managers. While a month of foster care costs about $2,100 in Kentucky, it costs just $1,000 a year to provide a child with a CASA volunteer.

Research has found that children with CASA volunteers find permanent homes on average five and a half months sooner. That represents a savings of more than $10,000 per 6 child or $1 million for every 100 kids.CASA of Lexington is certified as one of the best-managed nonprofits in the nation by Points of Light, and has earned the Gold Seal of Transparency from GuideStar. If you would like to help abused or neglected children like Zack, you can donate or apply to be a volunteer today at www.casaoflexington.org.

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