Kokomo Magazine July 2024

PASSIONATE PASTORS

CO-PASTORS JACOB AND TARA BURGEI CELEBRATE

NINE YEARS AT FUEL

CHURCH

financing available *oac

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5 JULY CROSSWORD PUZZLE 7 THE THIN RED LINE

Doug Mygrant

10 THE GEAR’S HERE

Screwball Paddles Equips Pickleball Players of All Ages With Gear and Apparel

12 MEN IN BUSINESS Q&A 15 PASSIONATE PASTORS

Co-Pastors Jacob and Tara Burgei Celebrate Nine Years at Fuel Church

18 WELL-STAGED

Bourbon & Beyond and Louder Than Life Festivals Returning Bigger Than Ever

20 KOKOMO’S PAWPULAR PETS

PUBLISHER KIM SENKUS kim@townepost.com (317) 501-1743

KEY CONTRIBUTORS JOHN BOLINGER NATALIE PLATT JULIE YATES

3 TIPTON’S PAWPULAR PETS 4 MAUCKS MEATS

Trey and Kayla Mauck Show Their Local Love With Tipton-Raised Meat Business

THE THIN BLUE LINE

Captain Ray Sheppard

TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. FOUNDER, CEO TOM BRITT tom@townepost.com (317) 496-3599

PRESIDENT JEANNE BRITT jeanne@townepost.com (317) 810-0011

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR ERIN TURK

CREATIVE DIRECTORS VAL AUSTIN TONI EADS

DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL SERVICES DEVON DEAN

COPY EDITOR JON SHOULDERS

TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. 8800 North Street, Suite 117 Fishers, IN 46038 Phone/Text: (317) 810-0011

CONTACT THE PUBLISHER

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JULY CROSSWORD PUZZLE

DOWN

1. Feather holder?

ACROSS

1. Some trophies

5. Slant

9. Hit in the ring

12. “Carmen” selection

13. Poor, as excuses go

14. Outback runner

15. Pulmonary problem

17. Child occupier

18. Collar, as a perp

19. Puts on the line

21. Staff of life

24. Unexciting

26. Salad topper

27. Miles off

29. Application blank

33. Classified material?

34. “The Pirates of Penzance” heroine

36. Smidgen

37. Prepared to drive, with “up”

39. Curious, plus

40. “No ___”

41. Grand Canyon-esque

43. Out of practice

45. “Peter and the Wolf” bird

48. Oregon ___

2. Caterer’s dispenser

3. Bake sale offering

4. Hot spot

5. Amorphous mass

6. First name in spy fiction

7. Who or where follower

8. Browns

9. Fleet components

10. Crazily

11. Acquires

16. Palindromic title

20. Charge carrier

21. Bridge site

22. Fair feature

23. In addition

24. Wooden shoe

25. Mining finds

28. Clappers

30. Mall conveniences

31. Spar

32. On pins and needles

35. Songlike

38. Deep vein thrombosis (abbr.)

42. Ancient fabulist

44. Asia/Europe divider

45. Hoo-ha

46. Downtime

47. Like a crone

48. Pugilist’s weapon

51. Enough to tango

52. United

53. Turned on

54. Ang or Spike

55. Compliment to the chef

49. Haul

50. Impassively

56. Start and end of the Three Musketeers’ motto

57. Has

58. In ___ of

59. Layer

60. Versifier

61. Kind of cell

The Thin Red Line Doug Mygrant BUILDING BONDS

DADCAMP STRENGTHENS

FATHER-SON CONNECTIONS

Writer / Natalie Platt

Photography Provided

DADCAMP is not just a camping or fatherchild activity. It’s an experience where dads are inspired to become the best dads they can be. DADCAMP aims to bridge the gap between disengaged fathers and children, and rebuild strong relationships and leaders with a ministry-focused experience that is fun for both the child and dad.

Since 2006, the team at DADCAMP has endeavored to reach as many fathers in the world as possible, and after more than a decade of consecutive growth, the leaders of the nonprofit think they have found an effective strategy to do so. DADCAMP works off of the core desire of wanting to be a good father, and leverages that by creating life-changing father-child experiences. This transformative retreat is designed to empower fathers and provide a place to

come together to learn, grow and connect with their kids in a meaningful way.

The experience serves dads with kids in kindergarten through high school all over the world. DADCAMP serves Indiana, Texas, Montana, Illinois, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Michigan.

However, the DADCAMP team members remember their roots - right in Kokomo with Co-founder Doug Mygrant, a local firefighter of nearly 30 years.

Mygrant was born and raised in Kokomo. His family owned and operated Mygrant Music House, a music store on Mulberry Street. He was hired by the Kokomo Fire Department in May of 1996, and has been honored to serve the Kokomo area.

“I have created a lot of great relationships and good memories - and tough memories too,” Mygrant says. “God has blessed me with that career and my family.” That family includes his wife, Dea, and children, Mollee and Macee.

He co-founded DADCAMP with Jason Braun through Oakbrook Church because

he loves seeing dads spend quality time with kids, to build stronger relationships and become stronger fathers.

“I love seeing so many dads that I know in this community and surrounding communities invest in their kids and families,” he says. “This is something that we all need all over the world and I have witnessed it firsthand.”

For DADCAMP events based in the U.S., weekend events start on Friday evening and run until midday Sunday. Events have three main sessions: Saturday morning, Saturday night and Sunday morning. During these sessions, which are 90 minutes each, leaders build a curriculum for the dads while the kids go outside and play different camp games.

On Saturday of the weekend event, the dads receive two 90-minute sessions of teaching, one-on-one time with their child, lots of free time to enjoy the camp amenities, and many campfires to grow close with the other attendees. The international events typically involve a one-day event. These don’t involve an overnight experience due to the amenities of the locations, and are mini versions of the U.S. events - but just as impactful.

Since its founding, DADCAMP has grown from a grassroots initiative to attracting fathers and families from across the country. Its impact extends far beyond Kokomo and inspires broader conversations about the importance of fatherhood in today’s society.

To learn more, explore dadcamp.org.

THE GEAR’S HERE

SCREWBALL PADDLES EQUIPS PICKLEBALL PLAYERS OF ALL AGES WITH GEAR AND APPAREL

In the landscape of recreational sports, pickleball has carved out its own place across America, including Fishers. One national chain, Chicken N Pickle, plans to open pickleball facilities at Fishers District in the next year. The unique indooroutdoor entertainment complex includes a restaurant and sports bar that boasts

Writer

pickleball courts and yard games.

Leaders of another company are keeping things closer to home, opening a new business in the community where they already live and work.

Enter Screwball Paddles, a Fishers-based company that emerged in 2023 from the shared passion of three dedicated pickleball enthusiasts, Lilia Hutchinson, Paul Armstrong and Steve Gillig. Screwball’s tagline, “Quality pickleball paddles at an affordable price,” appeals to the increasing number of casual players of all ages and backgrounds.

“We are all Fishers residents who run our own businesses in marketing, manufacturing and sales,” Hutchinson says. “We wanted to have a ton of fun building

a business that provides a great paddle at a reasonable price.”

The paddles can be bought on shopscrewball.com, and range from $70 for a single paddle to $200 for a set of high-level paddles that includes two balls and a padded bag. Customers can also buy pickleballthemed shirts that show off the humorous personality of Hutchinson, Armstrong and Gillig.

As pickleball continues to gain momentum in Fishers, the team at Screwball is expanding its local growth by partnering with local pickleball clubs and negotiating with soon-to-open facilities to carry the Screwball brand. Fueling the driving force behind pickleball’s surge and growth is the social aspect.

“Anyone, no matter their age or talent level,

/ Natalie Platt Photography Provided

“ANYONE, NO MATTER THEIR AGE OR TALENT LEVEL, CAN ENJOY PICKLEBALL.”

can enjoy pickleball,” Hutchinson says. “We think pickleball is here to stay. The largest age group of players are ages 18 to 34, which is the demographic that Screwball is targeting.”

Hutchinson notes the paddles are for all ages, however, event grandparents getting out and competing against their grandchildren while having a great time.

“It’s such a great sport and the courts are separated into different levels of play,” Hutchinson says. “You can show up by yourself or with a friend and you’ll meet some new people. There are some great public parks in Fishers that have courts to get out and play on.”

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a curious beginner, grab a paddle, head to the nearest

court and join the pickleball craze.

“It’s here to stay,” Hutchinson says.

Customers can shop for paddles at shopscrewball.com, and follow the store on Facebook and Instagram.

MEN IN BUSINESS Q&A

NICK BYRD, SENIOR PRODUCTS SPECIALIST

WHAT INFLUENCED YOU TO START YOUR BUSINESS?

I’ve been working as an occupational therapist for almost 30 years, with the last 10 years being the rehab director at a couple of assisted-living facilities [ALFs] in Kokomo. Being the director of the rehabilitation departments, I was always tasked with getting the Medicare cards and explaining to the residents their rehab benefits. The residents at the ALFs are like everyone else - they have cell phones and they get all the unsolicited phone calls too.

It became clear to me that many of them were being taken advantage of by telemarketing agents, and they needed someone who could help them navigate the Medicare system, so I got my Life and Health Insurance License and did the Medicare training, and became an agent. I’ve been in rehabilitation since 1996, and I’ve always enjoyed working with seniors. Since I have this unique background with working with seniors and working within the Medicare system, I believe I can offer a different perspective to those who are aging into Medicare or have some other Medicare questions than someone who is just an insurance agent.

WHAT IS A HIGHLIGHT SINCE YOU’VE OWNED YOUR BUSINESS?

I think I’ve had two items that need to be highlighted: being on the cover of, and having an article published in, last year’s senior edition of Kokomo Magazine, and connecting with and developing the relationship I have with Lisa Brady and Brady Insurance Group. Being highlighted and published in Towne Post helped to give me exposure and to boost my credibility within the Kokomo community. Being associated with Lisa Brady and Brady Insurance Group allows her to offer clients a value-added service of Medicare or marketplace health insurance counseling. That has been wonderful because she gives me additional exposure within the community, and has allowed me to help many more people than I thought possible.

WHAT LOCAL GROUPS, ORGANIZATIONS OR EVENTS DOES YOUR BUSINESS SUPPORT?

I was born and raised in Kokomo. I’m a 1983 graduate of Taylor High School. Except for eight years in the Army and three years of college, Kokomo has been my home. I am all for supporting local businesses and teams. Personally, Mindy and I frequent Half-Moon, PASTAriffic, Mi Familia, Scoops, and Cone Palace. Nick Byrd Sr. Products and Medicare supports The Kokomo Jackrabbits, Brady Insurance Group and of course Towne Post’s Kokomo Magazine.

DO YOU SEE YOUR BUSINESS CHANGING OVER THE NEXT 10 YEARS?

As of April 2024, there are 67 million Americans on Medicare. By 2030 it is expected that 20% of Americans will be over age 65 and 80 million will be on Medicare. Of the 67 million Americans on Medicare now, it’s about 50% on Original Medicare with a Medicare Supplement or Medigap plan and prescription drug plan, and 50% on a Medicare Advantage Plan. Anyone who works in healthcare already knows of the regular changes to reimbursement for services from Medicare and have worked through the constraints placed upon them by the Medicare Advantage Plans, which are managed care plans. All the changes to reimbursements or restraints placed by managed care plans are designed to save money. How is Medicare going change going forward? The only factor we know for sure is that there will be a push to put more people into the managed-care Medicare Advantage plans, and out of Original Medicare and Medigap plans. The real questions are how will Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and Medicare encourage or incentivize more people to go to go the Medicare Advantage Plans?

TERRY TRACY, ALL-PRO PLUMBING

WHAT INFLUENCED YOU TO START YOUR BUSINESS?

Kim [Tracy] and I started All-Pro Plumbing in Kokomo in 1998, but I’ve been doing plumbing for over 42 years. Growing up in California, my dad and uncle each had a plumbing and drain cleaning business, so I started working in both their businesses when I was 12. I liked what I was doing; I enjoyed working with my hands and the mental challenges that came with figuring things out while solving problems for people. I knew this is what I would continue doing, and I’m thrilled that our son, Josh, and our daughter, Kristina, have joined us in our business.

I love what I do, but no doubt there’s more to running a business than I realized when I started. For me, the plumbing is the easiest part.  The most challenging but rewarding part is helping apprentices become licensed plumbers. It’s more than learning a few parts and gluing pipes together. As an employer we’re teaching a skilled trade, but as part of our company philosophy, we intentionally foster a multitude of life skills including critical thinking, relationship building, financial literacy, respect for themselves and others, while developing customer service skills.

WHAT IS YOUR GOAL WITH THE BUSINESS?

My goal is to help every person that works with us be the best version of themselves possible, and to ensure success in their futures. We want them to learn the very best trade practices while using the most advanced technology available. In addition to providing the full range of plumbing and drain cleaning services, we’re able to also offer trenchless technology, leak detection services, and ongoing training and education, to help both our team and community, while ensuring a strong future for All-Pro.

LES FELTON, MOTOR WISE OF KOKOMO

WAS YOUR BUSINESS PART OF YOUR FAMILY, OR DID YOU START IT? WAS ANYONE IN YOUR FAMILY PART OF THIS FIELD? DO ANY OF YOUR RELATIVES WORK FOR YOU NOW?

I started Motor Wise in September 1991 with my dad, Leslie Felton Sr. I have my grandson here these days, starting to take an interest in the business.

WHAT OR WHO INFLUENCED YOU TO START THE COMPANY/TAKE IT OVER?

My dad wanted to own an auto repair shop so we decided to open our own business before he retired from Indiana Bell. I had recently gotten out of the Army so we got together one weekend and decided to do it.

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE PEOPLE TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS THAT THEY MIGHT NOT ALREADY KNOW?

We are 100% veteran and family owned, from right here in Kokomo. We have local employees who have been here a while with me. Several have been with us for many years.

TELL US ABOUT A HIGHLIGHT IN THE TIME YOU’VE OWNED YOUR BUSINESS. WERE YOU FEATURED ON THE NEWS? IN A MAGAZINE OR A LARGE NEWSPAPER?

Working with my dad was probably the best time of my life. I’m not sure many people get to experience that. We were featured in the Kokomo Tribune and right here in this magazine a few years ago.

WHO DO YOU WANT TO THANK FOR YOUR SUCCESS IN YOUR BUSINESS?

Les Felton Sr., my dad, was the inspiration and reason we opened. I have had a lot of people in

my corner from the start. Junior Merritt helped me a lot when we first started, along with Clyde Wilkerson. Ezra Beachy was incredible with his vast knowledge of engines. We were right across the street from him so he was probably sick of me. Duane Keisling at Western High School auto shop, along with Larry Hall and Dave O’Neil at Ivy Tech, tried their best to educate me to not only do things right, but to be respectful and honest while doing it. Success is measured by your customers. I like to call them guests, many of whom have been with us since the very beginning. That sounds like a lot of success to me.

TYSON SCHOOLMAN, RIGHT PATH PHYSICAL THERAPY

HOW LONG HAVE YOU OWNED YOUR BUSINESS? HAS IT BEEN WHAT YOU THOUGHT, OR IS IT COMPLETELY DIFFERENT? HOW?

I have owned my business for a year and a half with my business partner, Abbee Summers. In most ways, it has been what I expected. What I did not expect was the rapid growth due to tremendous community support. Our business appears like it has been in operation for many years. In reality, we are more like a toddler, learning and developing as we grow.

DO YOU SEE YOUR BUSINESS CHANGING MUCH OVER THE NEXT 10 YEARS? IN GROWTH, PRODUCT, SERVICES OR OTHERWISE?

I definitely see tremendous potential for growth in our business. In addition to providing physical therapy, we also have a Parisi Speed School inside for training youth athletes. We have begun focusing on growing that portion of our business recently, along with bringing in two personal trainers to offer additional fitness options.

WHAT’S A HIGHLIGHT IN THE TIME YOU’VE OWNED YOUR BUSINESS?

WERE YOU FEATURED ON THE NEWS? IN A MAGAZINE OR LARGE NEWSPAPER?

During our first year of business we were a finalist for the Chamber of Commerce Small Business of the Year.

HAVE YOU ALWAYS BEEN INTERESTED IN THIS LINE OF WORK?

My honest answer would be yes and no. My interest evolved over time. I started out working as a personal trainer in the fitness industry for 10 years. As that time was coming to an end, I went back to school to become a physical therapist assistant. After spending about 10 years doing only physical therapy, I realized I loved the combination of the two fields. When Abbee and I decided to open our business, it felt like the right time to bring both passions together under one roof.

DIRK WEBSTER, RUOFF MORTGAGE

HOW LONG HAVE YOU OWNED YOUR BUSINESS? HAS IT BEEN WHAT YOU

THOUGHT OR IS IT COMPLETELY DIFFERENT? HOW?

When I started as a loan officer at a small, local community bank, I literally typed loan documents on a typewriter. The industry has come a long way since then! Ruoff is an industry leader when it comes to blending personalized customer service along with industry-leading technology. We take pride in the fact that our current turn time from application to clear-to-close is currently less than 12 calendar days - and Ruoff Kokomo’s current Customer Satisfaction Rating is 99.19% out of 100! Fast, friendly & efficient service - that’s what we deliver.

WHAT GROUPS/EVENTS DOES THE BUSINESS SUPPORT (LOCAL SPORTS TEAMS, PARADES, CHARITIES, ETCETERA)? HOW DO YOU GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY?

I currently sit on several boards including the IUK School of Business advisory board, Kokomo CEO, Howard County Sports Hall of Fame, and Sts. Joan of Arc and Patrick School’s finance council. Ruoff Kokomo is also a proud sponsor of the Kokomo High School TechnoKats and Kokomo Jackrabbits. Additionally, we are sponsors of several community events throughout the year including the Haynes-

Apperson Festival and Tipton on Tap, as well as a slew of other fundraisers.

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE PEOPLE TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS THAT THEY MIGHT NOT ALREADY KNOW?   Ruoff Mortgage is celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2024, having been founded in Fort Wayne in 1984.  Ruoff is consistently ranked among the top mortgage lenders in the Midwest and has become one of the fastest-growing companies in the country. We currently have more than 700 employees.

WHAT’S A HIGHLIGHT IN THE TIME YOU’VE OWNED YOUR BUSINESS? WERE YOU FEATURED ON THE NEWS? IN A MAGAZINE OR A LARGE NEWSPAPER?

After spending 27 years with a local bank, I made the move to Ruoff Mortgage in October of 2019. Since then I’m proud to have made the prestigious Ruoff President’s Club for the previous four consecutive years. The President’s Club consists of the topperforming loan officers and branch managers in the company. I couldn’t have accomplished this, though, without a dedicated team and awesome referral partners.

PASSIONATE PASTORS

CO-PASTORS JACOB AND TARA BURGEI CELEBRATE NINE YEARS AT FUEL CHURCH

The mission of Fuel Church, with locations in Kokomo and Westfield, is to fill people up with the grace and hope found in Jesus Christ. Known for its core principle of diversity and walking with people from all backgrounds wherever they are on their spiritual journey, the church recently celebrated its nine-year anniversary. It is led by co-pastors Jacob and Tara Burgei, who

Writer / Julie Yates

Photography Provided

returned home to Indiana in 2015.

“Tara and I were serving as student pastors in New Jersey when we strongly heard the call to establish a church called Fuel,” Jacob Burgei says. “I was raised in Kokomo and she is from South Bend. The concept is a different model than most. We feel church should look like heaven; every race, tribe

and tongue are welcome. The goal is to reach the unchurched, the de-churched and those hurt by church. There is a strong ministry to addicts.”

Although Burgei was raised in church for his entire life and comes from a pastor’s home, there was a time in his life when he rejected Christian teachings. During his high school

years and beyond, he used and sold a variety of drugs. He has firsthand knowledge of falling away from church, and then realizing the need for it.

“Everyone has a void in their life,” he says. “They might run from God and try to fill the void with other things, but the only one that can fill it is God. The only thing that lasts is eternal things. Our mission is to deal hope to people; we have the answer and it is Jesus.”

“We aren’t called to fix people,” he adds. “That’s the Holy Spirit’s job. We are just here to love people, show them grace and preach the truth of God’s word. Love always wins. The Holy Spirit will do the job of freeing the addiction, the heart, the bad attitude and the anger. I believe we all need grace for our yesterday, and hope for tomorrow.”

Fuel Church is deeply committed to the next generation of young people. A variety of different ministries and activities are put in place, all of which instill a feeling of belonging. Small groups for young

people are held every week, meeting throughout the community in places such as coffeehouses and homes. Student Night is held the second Thursday of every month at the Kokomo location. Middle school and high school students play games, hang out and hear an encouraging message while creating connections and life-change.

“Tara and I have a love for young people,” Burgei says. “They are not the church of tomorrow but the church of today. There is a small window between the ages of 13 to 18 when a young person is most likely to commit to Jesus. That’s why we invest in them.”

“Our Summer Camp 24 for grades six to 12 will be held July 19, 20 and 21 at Spring Hill Camp in Seymour, Indiana,” he adds. “I still am a part of student camp, 25 years and counting, and always love to speak the first night. There will be games, kayaking, swimming, a zip line, s’mores, nightly campfires and times of worship. The cost is $200 but there are generous people within the church, and full or partial scholarships

are available. However, kids are encouraged to have skin in the game and raise money in various ways to attend. Throughout the year they can participate in monthly fundraisers such as bake sales and car washes.”

Fuel Church partners with several recovery ministries. One of their strategic partners is Convoy of Hope. It recently donated 26 pallets of dry food such as cereal, oatmeal, breakfast bars and drinks. The Fuel Church Hope Dealer truck has delivered many things throughout the years to places and organizations they partner with in the community, providing them goods and supplies. They recently provided goods to Genesis Recovery to help those walking out their recovery journey and to show them God’s love as they find healing.

On August 20, 21 and 22, the church will host Revival Nights. The event on August 21 will be held at the Westfield campus to celebrate its five-year anniversary. Each night starts with a time of worship and then there will be a speaker. The rest of the evening will be devoted to personal prayer.

“WE AREN’T CALLED TO FIX PEOPLE. THAT’S THE HOLY SPIRIT’S JOB. WE ARE JUST HERE TO LOVE PEOPLE, SHOW THEM GRACE AND PREACH THE TRUTH OF GOD’S WORD. LOVE ALWAYS WINS. THE HOLY SPIRIT WILL DO THE JOB OF FREEING THE ADDICTION, THE BAD ATTITUDE AND THE ANGER. WE ASK FOR GRACE FOR YESTERDAY, HOPE FOR TOMORROW.”

“When people walk through the door, they feel they are with family,” Burgei says. “We have all made mistakes. People are hurting in spirit, soul and body. They are having both mental and physical issues. Everyone has a next spiritual step. If we can help them take one step, then they can follow Jesus and join in the journey. Our goal was never to

build a big church, but to build big people. We are in a great season of growth and can’t wait to see what God has in this next season. Our mission is to reach God’s children and we are big on reaching the lost. In nine years we have 13,878 documented salvationspeople who came to Christ. Together we are making heaven a bigger place.”

Fuel Church is located at 2021 East Markland Avenue in Kokomo, and 18686 Eagletown Road in Westfield. For more info, call 765-456-3926, email hello@thefuelchurch.com, or visit thefuelchurch.com. Also view them on Facebook and Instagram.

WELL-STAGED

BOURBON & BEYOND AND LOUDER THAN LIFE FESTIVALS RETURNING BIGGER THAN EVER

Celebrating its sixth installment, Bourbon & Beyond returns for its biggest year yet. Produced by Danny Wimmer Presents, the world’s largest bourbon and music festival is set to take the stage this September 19 through 22 at Highland Festival Grounds at the Kentucky Exposition Center. With two new music stages and 40 extra music acts for 2024, this expansion brings the total to five dynamic music stages hosting 100 talented artists, alongside captivating culinary and bourbon workshop stages, promising an unforgettable affair.

“Beyond the music, the festival has so many great experiences,” said Chamie McCurry, Chief Marketing Officer for Danny

Story & Photography Provided

Wimmer Presents. “There is something for everyone there. We will have some special programming and great partnership activations throughout the event. It’s an amazing festival experience from beginning to end.”

This year’s all-star lineup of music artists spans generations and genres, with legends Neil Young and Beck on Thursday, Dave Matthews Band and Tedeschi Trucks Band on Friday, Zach Bryan and Cody Jinks on Saturday, and Tyler Childers and My Morning Jacket on Sunday, along with Matchbox Twenty, The National, Whiskey Myers, Black Pumas, The War On Drugs, The Beach Boys, Mt. Joy, Fleet Foxes, Young

the Giant, Maren Morris, The Head and the Heart, Melissa Etheridge, Teddy Swims, and many more.

The festival attracts concertgoers from all over the world. Indeed, Bourbon & Beyond’s annual success has made it a can’tmiss event. Fans come from all 50 states and over 25 countries to Louisville for an unforgettable four-day journey filled with great music, tasty bourbon and renowned restaurant offerings.

Louisville is known for its southern hospitality. It’s where May is Kentucky Derby season, and now September has become festival season, stretching the city’s

tourist season well into the fall. The tourism dollars generated from Bourbon & Beyond and Louder Than Life have made it a true economic boon for the city that welcomes horse racing and sports fans.

Outside of the great music acts are the culinary experiences with Food Network stars and “Chopped” judges Amanda Freitag and Chris Santos, James Beard Award-winning Chef and Author Ed Lee, and Kroger’s Wine and Spirits Expert Chris Blandford. Each day will see bourbon panels, tastings and food demonstrations with artists, bourbon experts and celebrity chefs.

The music lineup at Bourbon & Beyond is extensive and spans generations of music. In fact, new acts are still being announced. Make plans today to attend this year’s festival, whether for a single day or the entire four-day lineup. It’s an adventure you won’t soon forget!

THE LINEUP INCLUDES:

Zach Bryan, Dave Matthews Band, Tyler Childers, Neil Young, Beck, Matchbox Twenty, The National, My Morning Jacket, The War On Drugs, Whiskey Myers, Cody Jinks, Tedeschi Trucks Band, Black Pumas, The Beach Boys, Mt. Joy, Fleet Foxes, Young the Giant, Maren Morris, The Head and the Heart, Melissa Etheridge, Teddy Swims, Koe Wetzel, Milky Chance, The Red Clay Strays, Chris Isaak, Lyle Lovett, KALEO, Sierra Ferrell, Charles Wesley Godwin, Shane Smith & The Saints, The Wallflowers, Cory Wong, X Ambassadors, Sunny Day Real Estate, Dinosaur Jr., Larkin Poe, Bruce Hornsby & the Noisemakers, Lucius, JJ Grey & Mofro, Beth Hart, Allen Stone, Wilder Woods, Niko Moon, Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway, The War and Treaty, Ole 60, Larry Fleet, Josh Ritter & The Royal City Band, Mat Kearney, Arlo Parks, Hiss Golden Messenger, Smith & Myers, BRELAND, Patty Smyth, Wyatt Flores, Cimafunk, Futurebirds, The Bacon Brothers, M. Ward, Soul Asylum, Son Volt, Jade Bird, Neal Francis, Suzanne Vega, Wild Rivers, Dexter and The Moonrocks, KT Tunstall, The Dip, Meg Myers, Samantha Fish, Amigo the Devil, The Record Company, Taylor Acorn, Dan Tyminski, The Sam Bush Band, The Jerry Douglas Band, Yonder Mountain String Band, Tony Trischka’s EarlJam, Sister Sadie, Devon Gilfillian, Robert Finley, Abby Anderson, Abraham Alexander, Vincent Neil Emerson, Andy Frasco & The U.N Royel Otis., Mac Saturn, Jake Kohn, The Castellows, Madi Diaz, Motherfolk, Grace Bowers, Mapache, Maggie Antone, Briscoe, Duane Betts & Palmetto Motel, Hueston, Robert Jon & the Wreck, The Brothers Comatose, Theo Lawrence, Colby T. Helms and The Virginia Creepers, Nicholas Jamerson & The Morning Jays, New Dangerfield, Big Richard, Rob Ickes & Trey Hensley, Chatham County Line, Tray Wellington Band, The Kentucky Gentlemen, Lizzie No, The Jacob Jolliff Band, East Nash Grass, The Local Honeys, Mountain Grass Unit, Kaia Kater, The Last Revel, Kyle Ray and more.

“Our talent team prides itself on putting out the best lineup every year and being better than the year before,” McCurry said. “They have a lot of pride in curating that lineup specifically for the fans. We want to provide something new and something they love so people want to come back and experience it again.”

Passes are available to purchase at bourbonandbeyond.com and fans can lock them in as low as $10 down.

The weekend after Bourbon & Beyond, rock takes center stage for Louder Than Life, America’s biggest rock festival. With 140-plus bands over five stages, Louder will welcome Slipknot, Slayer, Motley Crue, Korn, Disturbed, Evanescence, Judas Priest and many more, September 26 through 29 at the same festival site.

Danny Wimmer Presents and the city of Louisville are ready to shine bright when they welcome the biggest eight days of music in the U.S., and host over 400,000 fans between the two festivals this September.

BEANS

BEAU COOPER FRANKIE

GARETH

INDY

IZZY

LUCY

LUNA SHELDON STANLEY WADE