Middletown Magazine May 2024

Fab Four Fest

“Get Back” to Abbey Road on the River Festival

Doing Kentucky

Proud Kentucky Colonels

Represent Nearly a Century of Philanthropy and Camaraderie

LEGENDARY LANDSCAPES

MATT BIZZELL AND HIS TEAM ARE THE HORTICULTURAL HEROES OF CHURCHILL DOWNS

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The Middletown CHAMBER

THEN AND NOW - AND A BRIGHT FUTURE AHEAD

In 2014, the Middletown Chamber of Commerce began under the fierce leadership and direction of Freda Chapman. She and her spouse, Middletown Mayor Byron Chapman, created a strong partnership, focusing on growth between the City of Middletown and the Middletown Chamber, its business owners, and residents, as they strived together to improve community outreach.

The Middletown Chamber began with zero members, and within a year established 100 members. Freda Chapman, past executive director, remembers when the City of Middletown asked her to take the Middletown Chamber of Commerce over, and it was a new beginning. It then grew rapidly to 285 strong.

“The chamber is a viable source to the City of Middletown because of its rapid growth in new businesses, which the chamber reaches out to for support,” she says.

She remained solo until the recruitment of Laura Wright as assistant executive director in 2016. “Laura has taken the chamber to an exciting new level,” Chapman says.

The chamber focuses on building solid business-to-business relationships, with programs that promote the success of those businesses. The Middletown Chamber of Commerce provides various events as well as networking and learning opportunities, including the Business Expo, the popular annual Golf Scramble in May, monthly luncheons, Networking Happy Hours, the New Leads at Lunch program, Coffee Chit Chat, and focus groups like Sr. Synergy, the Young Professionals, and Women Business Networking, to name a few.

The Middletown Chamber of Commerce is fortunate to have the strong leadership of Tom Stone of Stone Legal Group, PLLC as president.

“The Middletown Chamber is an exciting, vibrant and growing organization,” Stone says. “In just nine years since it was restarted, the membership has grown to 615 members. The membership is a diverse group of businesses, many of them small businesses. Through the efforts of Freda Chapman, who was the first executive director and responsible for getting the chamber up and running, and Laura Wright, the current executive director, and staff, the members of the chamber have had a strong advocate and partner to help them grow their businesses. The current board of directors have been proactive and forward thinking to ensure that growing membership will continue in the future to be supported, as members seek to increase their connections and business with other members of the chamber through the networking opportunities the chamber continues to provide.”

Writer / Debbie Walthall Photography Provided

The chamber is active in community events such as the annual Easter Egg Hunt, Halloween Trick or Treat, Light Up Middletown and the Middletown Family Fun Festival. A new quarterly event called the Middletown Market is coming soon.

Atone Band, May 31

River Cities Band, June 21

Gabe Close Band, July 19

Breakroom Microwave, August 16

With the exciting growth of the chamber daily, it operates now with a dedicated and growing staff including Executive Director

Laura Wright, Assistant Executive Director

Debbie Walthall and Executive Assistant

Deanne McQuaide.

To this day the chamber continues to thrive, and operates in the same building at Middletown City Hall at 11803 Old Shelbyville Road.

Come and be a part of the thriving Middletown Chamber of Commerce, as it has something for everyone. For more information, contact 502-245-0404. To see a calendar of upcoming events and for more info on all the programs offered, go to middletownchamberky.com.

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BIGELOW TEA COMPANY

Bigelow Tea products are enjoyed by millions across the United States, with over 150 varieties adorning retail shelves nationwide. Much of that is produced right here in Louisville, thanks to a dedicated team of employees who keep the familyowned business thriving.

Headquartered in Fairfield, Connecticut, Bigelow Tea Company has had a presence in Louisville for over 30 years, manufacturing a billion bags of tea annually at its plant located near Jeffersontown.

“Louisville is a fantastic, centralized spot in terms of distribution,” said Bigelow CEO and President Cindi Bigelow. “It’s our largest facility and we have a great labor force there. It’s a wonderful location and a very business-friendly community.”

Bigelow Tea was founded by Cindi’s grandmother, Ruth Campbell Bigelow, in 1945 after she became dissatisfied with the tea that was common during this time period. Ruth experimented with blending black tea, orange rind and sweet spices, then shared her new recipe with friends to glowing reviews. Thanks to her efforts and with the help of her husband, David E. Bigelow Sr., Bigelow Tea was born.

Ruth passed the company to her son, David C. Bigelow, who led the company for 50 years as Bigelow Tea became one of the top specialty tea makers in the country. Cindi became the third-generation Bigelow family member to hold the role of CEO in 2005 and has continued Bigelow’s growth as a family-owned and -operated business. Under her leadership the Bigelow Tea Company became the #1 tea in America.

That family mindset is prevalent throughout the company’s locations, with Cindi making frequent trips to Louisville, taking on a tradition her father started before her.

“We are blessed to be a family company,” Bigelow said. “We make sure we work really hard to keep that feel in our Louisville facility.”

The Louisville team includes a staff of about 130 and is led by a group of long-term employees who wear many hats and enjoy working alongside each other.

“There’s nothing we wouldn’t do for this company,” said Frank Buzzutto, the plant’s production manager. “It’s work but it doesn’t feel like work. It’s way more personal. That’s not a typical environment in corporate America, but that is what makes Bigelow special.”

Cindi’s father, David, originally identified Louisville as an ideal location for expansion after seeing the growth of the company’s product in the southern part of the country. Recently, Bigelow leaders showed their commitment to the area by purchasing land about a mile from the current facility that will eventually be home to a new, 300,000-square-foot state-of-the-art building in the next couple of years.

“It’s going to be absolutely beautiful,” Bigelow said. “We have a guy leading the project who is from Louisville. He has worked with all the employees and visited the other facilities to figure out the best Bigelow Tea plant layout and that’s what we’re building. It’s very exciting.”

The new facility will feature the latest equipment to keep the company producing high-quality products, while allowing for upgrades that will improve the health and well-being of all employees with a new cafeteria and locker-room space. Bigelow said the company team worked hard to honor the commitment of the Louisville team by keeping the new plant close to the area where most live.

“One of the reasons why we bought property only a mile away from our current property is because when we mapped out where our current employees lived, it

Writer / Gavin LaPaille

Photography Provided

David and Eunice Bigelow with their daughter, Cindi

would have been a tremendous inconvenience for some of them if we moved out,” Bigelow said. “We worked really hard to honor where they lived and still fill our need to expand. We’re very fortunate to find that space so close to us that our employees will not be inconvenienced when we make the move.”

While communication could seemingly be challenging with facilities thousands of miles apart, Louisville team members said they have no issues ensuring they are working towards the company’s overall goals.

“We handle communication very well,” said Nico Campbell, the plant’s day shift lead operator. “We get our marching orders and we get it done. We all work as a team - all three shifts.”

In addition to keeping things fun during working hours, the Bigelow Tea leaders also strive to keep their employees engaged when they’re not working. One of Bigelow’s biggest events is the annual Tea Pot Dinner, which brings together all employees who have been with the company seven years or

longer for a night of food, dancing, and fun. The company also participates in a number of philanthropy events throughout the city, including the annual Kentucky Derby Festival Bed Race.

“We like to bring all of our shifts together,” said Thad Judy, human resource manager. “Some folks on nights don’t see the others on days, so we try to create that bond where everyone knows everyone. It’s all a lot of fun.”

The Bigelow family values have imprinted on the company and its workforce as a whole. Cindi Bigelow makes it a point to communicate and share with employees during big events and anniversaries, while speaking with as many team members in person as she can while visiting.

“It’s important you visit and you send

other people from [Connecticut] who have that same cultural commitment,” she said. “It takes a long time to build that kind of culture, and then you have to keep it going.”

Employees have taken the actions from the Bigelows to heart and use them as motivation to make the Louisville factory the best it can be.

“We have the Bigelow values and we preach that to everyone,” said Wayne Hendrix, factory manager. “We make sure we treat everyone the right and fair way. That is how Cindi and her family want this company to be run.”

Louisville Manufacturing Plant with employees

Employees out on the production floor

David and Ruth Bigelow with their son, David

TW I LIGHT WISH

NONPROFIT GRANTS WISHES BIG AND SMALL FOR LOUISVILLE’S AGING POPULATION

Writer / Grace Schaefer Photography Provided

There’s a new nonprofit in town. And for Louisville’s elders, it could be life-changing.

It’s called Twilight Wish, and it exists to grant “wishes” to seniors - anything from trips to Normandy, to a couple jars of special spaghetti sauce.

“Every single wish has been meaningful for me,” says Julie Hartmann, director of the new Louisville chapter. She has worked with the organization since 2009 and was instrumental in bringing a chapter to Kentucky.

Hartmann began a career in physical therapy in 1985, and in the course of her work, began to serve in geriatrics. “That really solidified my love for the older adult,” she says. “I met people from all walks of life,

from farmers who lived way out to highlevel executives who ran a company, and really gained an appreciation for growing older and what it was all about. I just always felt like there was something I could do to give back.”

She began to search for a way to do so, and discovered Twilight Wish.

The organization is dedicated to granting the wishes of men and women over the age of 65. Seniors or their families may fill out a form, found on the foundation’s website, requesting a wish. This is then reviewed and, if possible, the wish will be granted.

“If you’re in a nursing home, you automatically qualify, and veterans automatically qualify,” Hartmann says. She adds that they honor a history of

servanthood, helping those who “give back to the community in some way, shape or form. It can be anything from ‘I started the Red Cross’ to ‘I knit Afghans for local nursing homes.’ There’s some way that people are giving back.”

The goal is to do something special for the senior that they would not have the means to do for themselves, whether for financial or other reasons. “I think in all the years I’ve done it, there’s never been somebody who hasn’t met those criteria,” Hartmann says.

Because eligibility allows seniors from so many backgrounds to participate, a wide scope of wishes are represented. A “simple needs” wish may be having an accessibility ramp built at one’s house; “celebrating a life” is for those with limited life expectancies and may include returns to a

job or hometown. “Living life to the fullest” wishes range from meeting celebrities to cross-country, 18-wheeler trips, and any experience in between.

There are also “veterans’ wishes,” which make up a third of those granted and can overlap with any of the three categories. No matter the wish or the recipient, the end goal, as summed up in the foundation’s brochure, is this: “to make the world a nicer place to age, one Twilight Wish at a time.”

When Hartmann discovered Twilight Wish in 2009, only six years after its inception, a few hundred wishes had been granted. She says there have now been over 5,000.

“I’ve left crying because of the impact of a wish,” Hartmann says. “It made me take a step back in my own life and realize how good I have it. Sometimes we just don’t think about that. We spend a lot of time complaining about things, but then somebody’s wish is time with a therapy dog or two jars of special spaghetti sauce, or time with a family member that they haven’t seen in a while.” It’s a reminder of the importance of the seemingly simple.

When she’s at events, Hartmann asks older adults what they might want if they could wish for anything. The common response is, “I’ve got everything I need.”

Today, Louisville has its own chapter. The startup process wasn’t easy; Hartmann says it included learning about a host of local organizations that could “help me get the word out, and help connect me to people who maybe have organizations that might want to donate or help. It’s a learning curve to know the city.”

Hartmann and others involved were persistent, and the Louisville chapter opened in June 2023. It was granting wishes within three months of opening.

Hartmann says the Louisville chapter will recognize and celebrate older adults that live in the area. “It’s a great place to age, so let’s celebrate it in every way possible,” she says. “Let’s find the adults that are kind of quiet behind the scenes that deserve more. That’s who I’m looking for.”

These behind-the-scenes people come from all situations. “One lady wanted a flagpole,”

Hartmann says. “She was dying of cancer and she said, ‘I want a flagpole for my son to be able to look at every day and think about strength.’”

One man’s wish was for a new pair of shoes

and socks. “He was in assisted living,” Hartmann says. “He walked out in the parking lot every day and his shoes were worn out, so he just wanted a pair of shoes and socks. He went up to Dick’s Sporting Goods and he got to pick out a pair of shoes and socks. It was so exciting for him. He wouldn’t take them off.”

The Louisville chapter recently bought two iPads for Nazareth Home. “One of the Bellarmine University classes is going to go over and teach them how to use them,” Hartmann says.

Many of these wishes may look small on the outside, but to these seniors, they’re a blessing received with a grateful attitude that people of any age can learn from.

“Personally, I love the smaller wishes,” Hartmann says. “I think they’re much more meaningful for me and for the person.”

As the Louisville chapter grows, Hartmann encourages the community to get involved. Whether this is through volunteering - even volunteering to grant a wish - or through donating funds or goods, any help can be a

big help. The impact, however, can be even more widespread. “Everybody has needs; everybody has things that they can offer,” Hartmann says.

She encourages everyone, no matter the time or place, to “be supportive of the older adults. Listen to what they are saying. Be respectful.”

It’s both a community-wide effort and a personal privilege. “The older adults that we’re dealing with, they’ve been through a lot and they’ve seen a lot,” Hartmann says. “We can learn a lot from them if we take the time. Don’t forget about the older adults in your life. Reach out, continue to be a part of their life, support them. If there’s a wish that they might want, let us know.”

This kind of support, whether affiliated with Twilight Wish or not, is an easy way to improve the lives of our aging loved ones, peers, coworkers and community members.

“There’s no playbook for getting older,” Hartmann says. “There’s going to be a big variety of people, from those who are doing really well and have a great support system

to those individuals who are alone and have no support, and could use a little bit of Twilight Wish in their life.”

The process is different for each and every person, but in every situation, the community can play an important role in making Louisville a nicer place to age, one moment, one smile, and one Twilight Wish at a time.

To learn more about Twilight Wish, including how to apply for a wish and how to get involved, visit twilightwish.org.

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“GET BACK” TO ABBEY ROAD ON THE RIVER FESTIVAL

Writer / Carrie Vittitoe Photography Provided

We’ve all heard the adage that to be especially happy in your profession, ensure you’re doing something you’re passionate about. While Gary Jacob, founder and producer of Abbey Road on the River (AROTR), didn’t expect that he would produce the world’s largest Beatles-inspired music festival, he always had a passion for the band and their music.

“I first saw The Beatles on ‘Ed Sullivan’ in 1964 like so many people of my generation,” he says. “I guess they were always my favorite band through the years.”

In 1984, the 20th anniversary of The Beatles’ invasion of the United States, Jacob says he “backed into” music festival production. At the time he had his own restaurant in Ohio and converted it for two weeks into a Beatles restaurant. This initial dabbling in event production led to his work on music festivals in the greater Cleveland area.

As part of the lineup for these shows, Jacob would often hire several Beatles look-alike bands and found that they were as well-attended, if not more popular, than the headliners. “That always stuck with me,” he says.

Years later, in 2002 he was hired to produce a grand opening for a venue. Based on his various Beatles-related experiences over the years, Jacob suggested a Beatles festival theme. With the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame being so close, it seemed like a natural and exciting fit. Abbey Road on the River was born, and continued in Cleveland in 2003 and 2004.

FAb FOUR FEST

In 2005, however, the festival moved to Louisville. One of Jacob’s clients lived in Louisville and suggested the city would be very receptive to a Beatles-inspired music festival. Jacob himself had, in the late 1980s, met with Mayor Jerry Abramson and discussed some business possibilities, but the stars didn’t align until after the millennium.

“AROTR was just doing OK in Cleveland,” Jacob says. “We were competing against the Cleveland Indians, the Cleveland Browns and the Cavaliers for sponsorships.” Cleveland was also one of Live Nation’s biggest markets, which made it harder for Abbey Road on the River to break through.

Louisville had a responsive tourism bureau and mayor’s office, as well as a river, so the festival name could remain the same. Plus, the city wanted AROTR to take place on Memorial Day weekend as a signature event, which delighted Jacob. “Fifth Third Bank agreed to be the title sponsor after hearing a 10-minute pitch,” he says. “When everything came together, we said ‘We’re moving.’” Despite some negative press in Cleveland about the relocation to Louisville, he felt like it was the right decision.

For several years AROTR took place at the Belvedere, but by 2015 Jacob and his team began to consider a change of venue. There were some structural issues that concerned him, with the weight of the stages and trucks on the Belvedere. Plus, similar to Cleveland, competition grew from sports and other music events in downtown Louisville.

“We knew sponsorships in Louisville were going to be harder to

acquire,” Jacob says. “Jeffersonville called us and we just fell in love with it.” In 2017 AROTR was held at Big 4 Station Park, a site that has been developed and offers plenty of restaurants, parking, and space for festival attendees.

Now, producing a music festival in Kentuckiana while living in Cleveland is no picnic. Jacob estimates he has driven back and forth at least 100 times, which clocks in at about 70,000 miles (he could have traveled across the globe a little under three times at that number). “I know every exit on 71,” he says. Despite the distance, throughout his time producing AROTR, he has developed a great network of Louisville and Jeffersonville event professionals who make the process much easier.

Aside from travel, one of the challenges of producing a music festival can be keeping things the same for individuals who love routine, while also freshening things up for attendees who don’t want to see the exact same thing every year. “We’ve always worked on adding fresh elements, but we’ve had major headliners going back to 2012 when we first started bringing in national classic rock hall of famers,” he says. “What stays the same is the music of The Beatles. It’s so timeless. They are as important today as they were 60 years ago.”

One of the most critical areas of focus is keeping the event family oriented and affordable, because young people are the future of AROTR. “We cannot keep this thing fresh if all of our customers hit retirement age and have to start doing other things with their savings instead of traveling to Jeffersonville,” he says. Jacob and his team are committed to this family focus, with a policy of free admission for anyone aged 21 or under.

Crescent Hill resident

Steve Bennett and his youngadult son, Tanner, share a love of Beatles music and regularly

the music’s ability to transcend time,” Steve says. “For me it’s a nostalgic journey, yet surprisingly present.”

His son echoes this enthusiasm. “I attend because I’m a huge fan of The Beatles,” Tanner says. “The setup and bands are always amazing.”

Sheila Quire of Jeffersontown and her husband, Jack, try to make it to at least one day of AROTR every year. “Abbey Road brings in some of the best Beatles tribute bands in the world,” she says. “My favorite is the Rigbys from right here in Kentuckiana.” Even more than the music, the event is just a good time. “Everyone is happy and friendly,” she says.

Aside from a fantastic lineup, which this year includes Dean Torrence from Jan & Dean’s Beach Party, the Royal Guardsmen and the Cyrkle, attendees can expect comfort and security, which are integral aspects of the festival. “We keep the event comfortable, and I’m not sure there is another music festival in the area where there is as much space and comfort for people,” Jacob says. “I know our security is the best.”

AROTR runs from May 23 to 27 and offers numerous ticket packages depending on how many days you’d like to attend. Jacob sums up what attendees can expect. “They are going to be immersed in this amazing music in this wonderful venue, hopefully with lots of sunshine, great food, great vendors and a playground for the kids,” he says. Go to arotr.com for more info.

Maintaining the Integrity of Your Tile and Grout

INSIGHTS FROM A HANDYMAN

Writer / Craig Noon, Done By Noon Handyman Services Photography Provided

As a seasoned handyman, I’ve encountered my fair share of neglected tile and grout, and let me tell you, the consequences of overlooking regular maintenance can be dire. However, with a bit of wisdom and foresight, you can ensure that your tile surfaces remain not just functional, but also aesthetically pleasing for years to come. The following are some valuable insights into the importance of regular maintenance for tile and grout, along with tips on cleaning, sealing and even replacing them when necessary.

First and foremost, let’s talk about the importance of cleaning and sealing your grout. Grout is more than just the filler between your tiles; it’s a crucial component that helps hold your tiles in place and prevents moisture from seeping through. Over time, however, grout can become dirty, discolored and even cracked,

compromising its integrity and detracting from the overall appearance of your tile surfaces.

Regular cleaning is essential for removing dirt, grime and mold buildup from your grout lines. I recommend using a mild detergent or specially formulated grout cleaner along with a stiff brush to scrub away stubborn stains. For particularly stubborn grime, a mixture of baking soda and water can work wonders. Once your grout is clean, it’s important to seal it to protect it from future stains and moisture damage. A quality grout sealer creates a protective barrier that repels water and prevents dirt and stains from penetrating the surface, keeping your grout looking fresh and clean for longer.

But what if your tile and grout are beyond repair? In some cases, completely replacing

the old tile may be necessary. Whether your tiles are cracked, chipped or simply outdated, installing new tile can breathe new life into your space and enhance its overall appeal.

Regular maintenance is essential for preserving the integrity and appearance of your tile and grout. By cleaning and sealing your grout regularly, you can prevent stains, mold and moisture damage, ensuring that your tile surfaces remain beautiful and functional for years to come. And if the time comes for a complete overhaul, don’t hesitate to reach out to your handyman, who can guide you through the process with expertise and professionalism.

You can reach Craig Noon at Done By Noon by calling 502-533-7737.

THE ARTERBURN

ST. MATTHEWS COMMUNITY CENTER GETS

$2.5 MILLION MAKEOVER AND NAME CHANGE

The building previously known as the St. Matthews Community Center is now officially named The Arterburn.

This event facility is a hidden gem that sits among 45.8 acres encompassing St. Matthews Community Park, located across from Mall St. Matthews, at 310 Ten Pin Lane. This little-known facility has undergone some massive changes during its $2.5 million renovation.

Why the Arterburn name? Arterburn originates from the family whose members, Shelton B. Arterburn and C. Bernard Arterburn, the executor of the will and trust of the estate of Covington Arterburn, sold the Community Park property that the current Arterburn building stands upon, to the City of St. Matthews on December 23, 1980. The deed refers to the real estate as “commonly known as Arterburn Park.”

“When the city was in the process of

renovating the building, St. Matthews City Councilmember Mary Jo Nay found, in city records, that the facility was decreed by the city council, on February 26, 1981, to be known as Arterburn Hall,” said St. Matthews City Councilmember Tim Holland. “Councilmember Nay recommended we honor that historic 1981 decision and reinstate the name to once again honor the Arterburn family. The name won’t get lost this time.”

While researching the basis of the action taken by the city council in 1981, it was discovered that the Arterburn family had deep roots in the St. Matthews community. William Arterburn Sr. of Charles County, Maryland, and his wife, Rachel Smoots Arterburn, born in Shenandoah County, Virginia, came to Jefferson County circa 1880. Together they made the trip by flatboat to the mouth of Goose Creek, then overland to Beargrass Creek, and settled in what would be St. Matthews years later, before Kentucky was a state. They settled in

a log cabin by what is now Oxmoor Farm, where they acquired substantial acreage in the area, and together raised nine sons.

In 1872, William and Rachel’s son, Norbourne Arterburn, became one of the richest men in Kentucky. He and his brothers, Covington and William Crawford Arterburn, held tremendous farm holdings on both sides of Shelbyville Road.

Another son, Shelton Bernard Arterburn, was born in 1890 and grew up on the family farm, known as Beechwood Gate Farm, located in what is now Beechwood Village. As a young boy, Shelton was the last Arterburn to work on the family farm. He attended the old Greathouse School, while hauling potatoes to the produce market by horse and wagon for a nickel a barrel. In 1903 the preacher from Beargrass Church came to talk to the young Arterburn while working in the fields. Shelton decided to join the church, and at the time of his death he was the longest-living member of

Story & Photography Provided

the church.

From Greathouse he attended Louisville Male High School, where he was within three months of finishing when typhoid fever struck. He continued to farm for a while, then went to work for PeasleeGaulbert, one of the largest paint manufacturers in the country, for $5 per week.

Then in 1912 he joined Sutcliffe’s, a sporting goods company, to promote tennis. Shelton was the Kentucky state singles tennis champion and Falls City singles champion four times, as well as the Kentucky state doubles champion five times and the Falls City doubles champion three times. Two years after his death he was inducted into the Kentucky Tennis Hall of Fame.

In 1955, upon retiring from Sutcliffe’s as vice president, Shelton agreed to lease a part of the farm to then-Mayor James Noland of St. Matthews. Twelve years later, in 1967,

Shelton agreed, with then-St. Matthews Mayor Bernard F. Bowling, Sr., to grant St. Matthews an option to purchase what is now St. Matthews Community Park. The rest is history!

In addition to a new name, The Arterburn’s $2.5 million renovation gave the facility much-needed upgrades. Currently the city is implementing a facelift to The Arterburn’s facade to enhance the building’s signature look.

The Arterburn now features new flooring, new mechanicals and audio-visual equipment, a bridal room to accommodate bridal-party needs, and a professional kitchen that allows for event catering. There is also an enclosed patio that includes a grass area and sun shade sail for events such as on-site ceremonies, allowing more outdoor space to be utilized as weather permits. A variety of spaces within the facility are offered to accommodate events of most any size, while renters also have the option to reserve the entire hall, which allows for a capacity of 250 people.

“It’s a great asset for the community and

we want people to know that it’s here and available to them,” said Holland, who serves as chair for the council’s rental committee. “An added benefit to St. Matthews residents who choose to reserve The Arterburn is a 10% discount on the rental fee. Current reservations at the facility include retirement and birthday parties, anniversaries, weddings, celebrations of life, corporate events, club meetings and such. Rental periods vary from eight to 12 hours and alcohol is allowed to be served. Weekends are the busiest, however reservations are available for weekdays too.”

More info including the venue’s availability calendar, contract and rates, along with a virtual tour, is available at stmatthewsky. gov/arterburn. Also call 502-895-9444.

Historical facts obtained from “St. Matthews: The Crossroad of Beargrass” by Samuel W. Thomas, and the Arterburn family.

LEGENDARY LANDSCAPES

MATT BIZZELL AND HIS TEAM ARE THE HORTICULTURAL HEROES OF CHURCHILL DOWNS

Writer & Photographer / Jessica Able

As Churchill Downs prepares to host the 150th running of the Kentucky Derby, one thing is sure to be true; the grounds will look absolutely spectacular, thanks in no small part to Matt Bizzell and his team.

Bizzell and his 10-person team are in the midst of preparing the historic grounds for an influx of tourists and locals alike, who flock to the track the first week of May. When they step onto the pavers lining the walkways of the grandstands, take in the grandeur of the newly renovated paddock and look out at the winner’s circle, they will see the thoughtful planning and design that go into ensuring the sesquicentennial racetrack looks in tip-top shape.

Bizzell has worked at Churchill Downs for 25 years, and has been the director of horticulture for the legendary horse park for the last 13 years.

“I came here straight out of college,” he said. “I took a job on a crew and didn’t know what I wanted to do long-term.” Somewhere along the way, he felt at home in the greenhouse at Churchill Downs.

In his work caring for the 190-acre property on Central Avenue, Bizzell takes his role as steward of the grounds with respect. His crew is in charge of everything growing on property, with the exception of the turf track, which has its own crew.

“The trees, shrubs, flowers, perennials,

grasses and everything else is our responsibility,” Bizzell said.

Being a part of something so important to Louisville and to horse racing is an honor, Bizzell said.

“If I meet anyone and I tell them I work for Churchill Downs, almost every time they tell me about the time they went to the Derby, or about their family’s special Derby tradition,” he said. “I really appreciate that connection to people and to the city.”

While the Kentucky Derby is synonymous with red roses, there are actually 100 varieties of plant species on the grounds of Churchill Downs.

“If I meet anyone and I tell them I work for Churchill Downs, almost every time they tell me about the time they went to the Derby, or about their family’s special Derby tradition,” he said. “I really appreciate that connection to people and to the city.”

— Matt Bizzell

“In the past we’ve planted 6,000 to 12,000 tulips every year,” Bizzell said. “With the construction this year, we’ve curbed that. We are still planting tulips, but a smaller amount.”

When the new paddock construction is complete, the plan is to put a brand-new tulip garden back in, Bizzell said.

In the rest of the racetrack, Bizzell and his team have turned to some interesting and unique plants and trees to adorn the property.

“We try to plant a diversity of species,” he said. “When you drive down Central Avenue there are several weeping bald cypress - something that definitely stands out.”

In addition to the cypress varieties, there are a lot of European beech and Alaskan and weeping Alaskan cedar trees. While these are not native to Kentucky, they handle the cold weather well and transplant well. They

start off in big pots and are then planted around the property.

Several native species visitors will find on the property include bald cypress, black gum and many native oak species. One species many Louisvillians will recognize is the southern magnolia tree, which starts to bloom right around Derby time each year.

Bizzell’s team grows the plants in the large greenhouse located on property, on the corner of Longfield and Wizard avenues, across from the VFW Post. The 12,000-square-foot greenhouse grows more than 100 plant varieties and upwards of 18,000 individual plants. Professional horticultural crews have been present at the track for well over a century, Bizzell explained.

Bizzell uses the track’s off-season as a time to strategize what he’ll plant, scour nurseries for unique and unusual plants and trees, and brainstorm ways to make the park stand out

when it’s flooded with 160,000 people on the first Saturday in May.

The largest planting field is the area around the Kentucky Derby winner’s circle. It’s the large, horseshoe-shaped area where the winning jockey, owner, trainer and connections of the horse are presented with the winner’s trophy.

“We have about 6,000 to 8,000 plants in that area,” Bizzell said. “In the past we’ve planted plants in the shape of a fleur-de-lis. We may do something more intricate depending on the weather conditions.”

A slew of coleus plants are planted in the winner’s circle, as well as hundreds of red geraniums.

The Kentucky Derby is fairly early in the season so there is a risk of frost, Bizzell noted. Also, oftentimes the horses and humans accidentally trample the plants. In order to account for this, Bizzell always

grows double the amount needed for the area, so his team can replace as needed.

While Bizzell prefers the slower pace the non-racing months provide, he does revel in the Derby week festivities.

Derby week is showtime for Bizzell and his team. Up until opening day the weekend before the Derby, the grounds team works at breakneck speed in order to get the expansive property up to the standards visitors and locals alike have come to expect.

“We are trying to keep the grass mowed, picking up trash and tending the grounds,” he said.

Once racing begins, the week leading up to the Oaks and Derby events are a blur, Bizzell said. He and his crew are working 12-plushour days.

On Oaks and Derby days, the team arrives by 6:30 a.m. and cleans the perimeter of the

track. Once the gates open mid-morning, they return to the greenhouse and grab a bite to eat. Then, they are back out on the grounds. They are stationed at the starting gate, finish line, paddock gate and everyday winner’s circle, or assisting people in crossing the racetrack when appropriate. To top it off, they clean up the entire property at the end of the day.

“It’s nonstop on Oaks and Derby daydefinitely the longest days of the year,” Bizzell said. “There are 110,000 people here for Oaks. Then we have to turn it around and clean the facility, and open the track back up for 160,000 people the following day.”

Bizzell has undoubtedly one of the best views of what some call the most exciting two minutes in sports. While most people are gathering in the grandstand, looking at the track and anticipating the start of the big race, Bizzell is situated on the turf track looking at the twin spires.

“As the horses come out and ‘My Old Kentucky Home’ plays, I’m looking in the

opposite direction watching all these people gather and sing as the horses go by in the post parade,” he said. “It’s wonderful.”

Once the race is over, on both Oaks and Derby days, Bizzell’s team ensures water is available for the horses and the track gates are open for people to cross.

“On Oaks, myself and my crew put the garland of lilies on the winning horse,” Bizzell said. “It’s a special honor.”

On Derby, the rose presentation is done by the valets who take care of the horse, Bizzell noted.

Once he’s put the week to bed, he does breathe a sigh or two of relief that another year has concluded with minimal hiccups.

“There are many enjoyable things about it, but I’m always happy to have it behind us,” he said. “Derby week is very hard. Even as stressful as it is, it’s a lot of fun.”

Bizzell noted that the men and women

who work on his team are incredibly dedicated to their profession.

“The men and women who work for me just do an incredible job,” he said. “They, like myself, are full time year-round. The amount of work, time and hard labor they put into their job is always impressive. All of them have been here a considerable amount of time, and are dedicated to Churchill Downs and the greenhouse.”

When he’s not at work, Bizzell enjoys doing his own plantings and fixing up his historic house.

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DOING KENTUCKY PROUD

KENTUCKY COLONELS REPRESENT NEARLY A CENTURY OF PHILANTHROPY AND CAMARADERIE

Story & Photography Provided

The title Kentucky Colonel dates back to around 1813. The Kentucky Militia had just returned from a highly successful campaign during the War of 1812. When the militia disbanded, Governor Isaac Shelby commissioned Charles S. Todd, one of his officers in the campaign, as an aide-de-camp on the governor’s staff. Todd’s official rank and grade was colonel.

While early Colonels actually served military roles, the position took on a more ceremonial function in the late 1800s. Colonels in uniform attended functions at the governor’s mansion, stood as symbolic guards at state events, and the like.

In the late 1920s, a group of Colonels started talking about forming a “society.” Governor Flem Sampson gave his blessings to the project, and late one Saturday afternoon in May of 1931, the first meeting of what would eventually become the Kentucky Colonels was held in Frankfort. “Formulate a society to more closely band together this group into a great nonpolitical brotherhood for the advancement of Kentucky and Kentuckians,” Governor Sampson challenged. And they did. Minutes of the early meetings confirm that charitable programs were to be a central part of the

organization. Social events would also play an important role. The group held a Derby Eve dinner for the first time in 1932.

Ruby Laffoon, who seemed to have had an innate sense of public relations and an affinity for Hollywood stars, replaced Sampson as Governor in 1932. Early on, Laffoon didn’t seem to take to the idea of a Kentucky Colonels society and somewhat shunned the organization, which was known then as The Kentucky Colonels. In December of 1932, Laffoon met with Colonel Anna Bell Ward Olson, who owned several movie theaters across Kentucky. A representative of theater owners nationwide who also held a Kentucky Colonel commission accompanied Colonel Olson. The meeting theoretically concerned movie censorship. However, what came out of the meeting was Laffoon’s commitment to Kentucky Colonels, and in particular a “new” organization to be called the Kentucky Colonels. Laffoon appointed Colonel Olson as secretary and keeper of the great seal.

Colonel Olson attacked her new position with fervor. Colonels around the world were contacted and invited to become members of the Kentucky Colonels. Social

events were scheduled to coincide with the Kentucky Derby to attract as many individuals as possible. At the same time, Governor Laffoon started appointing Colonels with a similar zeal. Hollywood personalities such as Mae West, Bing Crosby, Fred Astaire and W.C. Fields not only became colonels, but also embraced the idea of the Kentucky Colonels.

The crisis that motivated the order to make a major impact on the state came with the disastrous Great Flood of 1937. The Kentucky Colonels appointed by Sampson and Laffoon, and organized by Colonel Olson, went to work. New York-based Colonels collected five dollars from each member (the equivalent of nearly $100 today). In California, colonels such as Fred Astaire held benefits to raise money for Kentucky. Recovery from the flood was still ongoing as the war in Europe broke out. As World War II loomed at the change of the decade, the “great nonpolitical brotherhood” was again mobilized.

Colonel Anna Friedman had taken over the duties of keeper of the great seal from Colonel Olson. It was a job that fit her perfectly. Not even Governor Laffoon enjoyed associating with the stars and the

elite business community of New York as much as Colonel Friedman did. As the country prepared for war, Colonel Friedman again used funds donated by these honorary “Kentuckians” to set up recreation rooms for soldiers in training at Fort Knox.

By one count, Kentucky Colonels established and then posted signs in at least 35 facilities. The signs read, “Kentucky Colonels hope you hang out and have fun

here.” Kentucky Colonels also set up and staffed the WAC recruiting office in Louisville.

Kentucky Colonel social events were cancelled during the war. However, a small group of colonels gathered annually at The Forest, Colonel Friedman’s Anchorage home, to drink a toast to the men and women in the service. It was, incidentally, at The Forest that the grand tradition of the Kentucky Colonels’ BBQ Reunion began

Welcome Home to Harmony

in the late 1930s.

The years following the war saw the charitable side of the Kentucky Colonels grow rapidly. In 1946, colonels attending the annual Derby Eve Colonels banquet pledged money to help start the Kentucky “Country Doctors” fund. Today the fund is known, more politically correctly, as the “Rural Kentucky Medical Scholarship Fund.” It has helped hundreds of physicians attend medical school in return for a promise to practice in rural areas of the state. Kentucky’s first cancer treatment center and the Lions Eye Center also continue to serve Kentucky. Kentucky Colonels funded both in large part.

Colonels continue to contribute dollars to the goal of benefiting Kentucky and Kentuckians. Since 1951, as an IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) charity, the Kentucky Colonels have distributed over 7,000 grants to charitable and educational agencies all across Kentucky. For the last dozen years, the Kentucky Colonels’ board of trustees has distributed approximately $2 million each year, impacting the lives for more than 3.8 million people in and around Kentucky.

This year, someone in every county in the state will be touched by a program funded by the voluntary, tax-deductible contributions of Kentucky Colonels living in every state in the nation, as well as colonels living in 49 nations abroad.So the next time you meet a fellow Kentucky Colonel, you can assume you are with a kindred spirit - someone like you who goes that extra step in kindness, goodwill and pride in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

WITH SHERRY CROSE, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Q: What is your role with the Kentucky Colonels organization?

A: Executive director and keeper of the great seal.

Q: What is the keeper of the great seal?

A: The Honorable Order has several historic items that have been created and celebrated over the decades, the great seal being one. This historic symbol (logo) was created in 1933, fashioned off the Seal of the Commonwealth. With the creation of the actual symbol of the organization, the governor at the time, Ruby Laffoon, appointed Anna Bell Ward Olsen as the first keeper of the great seal. She was from Lexington and appointed secretary to the Kentucky

Colonels, and given the task of “organizing” commissioned colonels into what is today the Honorable Order. She was followed by Anna Friedman Goldman of Louisville in the 1950s. Colonel Anna is recognized as the individual who created a very success barbecue the day after Derby, and the Derby Eve Banquet held at the Galt House. In 1957 articles of incorporation were signed and noted in corporate minutes. The governor could still appoint the keeper of the great seal. That tradition faded after two more individuals were appointed keeper of the great seal, Dorothy Smith and Patty Boston, and by the early 1990s the title was seemly dropped. In 2017 a board of trustees member researched the title and determined that the title and

responsibilities rest with the executive director’s position.

Q: How has the role of the Kentucky Colonels evolved over the years?

A: Kentucky Colonels have been a social bunch since the 1800s, and that continues today. It has just evolved to more formalized events and chapters. Colonels want to meet colonels in their own hometowns, so the Honorable Order of Kentucky Colonels (HOKC) formalized groups by chartering chapters, beginning in 2021. Today there are 41 chapters and five of those are outside of the U.S.A. There is a chapter right here in Louisville, the Derby City Chapter.

Kentucky Colonels are individuals

recognized for their giving nature and care for their communities, and that trait has strengthened over the last almost 100 years. When the flood of 1937 happened along the Ohio River, colonels who resided outside the commonwealth sprang into action and contributed money to help Kentuckians. That gifting generosity continued and has now evolved into a philanthropy program that grants over $3 million annually to over 300 different types of nonprofits in the commonwealth. Those dollars come annually from individual Kentucky Colonels who are touched that someone recognized and took the time to nominate them for their good deeds. Colonels who donate reside in every state and 49 countries, and they know their contributions stay in Kentucky! They know that the nonprofits are carefully researched and vetted by the board of trustees.

One piece of history that has not evolved since the 1930s is the nonpartisan, nonpolitical nature of the Honorable Order. This is the governor’s recognition program. However, HOKC gets the opportunity to take that meaningful title and continue to help Kentuckians.

Q: What is the some of the charitable work that has been done by the order in recent years?

A: The Honorable Order has had a structured grant program beginning in 1951. The colonels granted funds prior to that, but not on a consistent, annual basis. The charitable work spans the spectrum of categories that impact Kentuckians. There are veteran and youth service nonprofits. There are nonprofits that support the poor, needy, and those facing health, rehabilitation or mental illness issues. Historic preservation,

cultural activities, and nonprofits that support the disabled and provide education opportunities for adults and children are also supported, as well as nonprofits that care for our fourlegged friends.

Over $64 million has been distributed since 1951 to over 1,800 distinctive nonprofits. Here in the Louisville area, examples of nonprofits assisted by the Kentucky Colonels are Alley Cat Advocates, Snacks in Sack, the Louisville Leopards, StageOne Family Theatre, Neighborhood House, Scarlet Hope, First Tee, South Louisville Community Ministries, and the Westend Token Club, just to name a few.

Q: What is the most unique grant the Kentucky Colonels have gifted?

A: The most unique in our history were the two reindeer for the Life

Adventure Center located outside of Lexington. These two were gifted to expose interurban youth to an animal they wouldn’t see in Kentucky. Interesting grants recently have included a kitten incubator for a small humane society in Edmondson County; paying for the repair of a leaking conservation pond used to water a community garden that is tended by inmates from the county jail where food is grown, to give away to low-income residents in Marion County; purchasing trendy gym shoes for low-income youths who just want to fit in with their peers; a historic headstone for the first woman who was named a Kentucky Colonel for her work during World War I; and for sensory rooms and play equipment for youths and adults.

Q: What lies ahead for the Honorable Order?

A: The organization is coming up on its 100th anniversary on May 2, 2031, and HOKC would like to help nonprofits in every county in Kentucky. Currently HOKC has helped nonprofits in 76 counties out of 120. It is the goal of the volunteer board of trustees to fund every qualified grant, which doesn’t mean every grant that is submitted. The Honorable Order funds needs - not wants - of nonprofits. The trustees take spending the generous contributions from colonels very seriously, because it is also their donations that support nonprofits in Kentucky. HOKC is organizing more ways for colonels to meet other colonels through volunteer days of service, creating events in other cities outside of Kentucky for colonels, and highlighting amazing achievements of Kentucky Colonels and by Kentucky Colonels.

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CREEPY CRAWLIES TURNED GARDEN BESTIES

MANY SEEMINGLY SCARY OUTDOOR BUGS ARE ACTUALLY YOUR GARDEN GOOD GUYS

Writer / Olivia Wagner Photography Provided

It has happened this way for years - as soon as the air warms and the dirt thaws, I get the urge to put my hands in it. I start new seeds, purchase new plants, and say hello to the ones that have survived the winter in my garden. I pull up some unwanted plants and transfer some to new homes - I am lost in the garden.

I have survived the long winter, the sun is touching my face, and I am fully immersed in the plants. Then, suddenly I am pulled away from this bliss when I come face to face with the creepiest-looking bug I have ever seen. It makes my skin crawl. I hate how it moves, and it looks like it could hurt me. To avoid coming in contact with it, I remove myself from the situation, and my time in the garden is done for the day.

It has been my personal mission to conquer this fear in order to not let the creepy crawlies keep me out of the garden. I have noticed that learning more about them has made them a lot less creepy. I have even learned that some of the creepiest looking are predators whose scary body is designed

not to hurt me, but rather to hunt other bugs that I would consider garden pests.

While there are still times I violently recoil when I pull a weed and a swarm of ants fall out, I am getting better. Most of the time I can turn my disgust into fascination, and I can appreciate their place in the garden. If you have a similar situation, I hope you will join me in this pursuit, because sometimes you may figure out that the bugs you’ve been scared of are actually your friends, joining forces with you to destroy some of the pests that wreak havoc in your garden. To help you start, here is a list of five creepy crawlies that you can turn into your garden besties this year:

LADYBUGS

We probably all know what ladybugs look like, but like other insects, they go through a complete metamorphosis, and you may not recognize what they look like in all their life stages. Just like caterpillars turn into butterflies, after ladybugs hatch out of their egg, they are in what is called the larval stage. In this stage, they look like miniature

alligators, with long, black and spiky bodies that may put them in the creepy crawly category. However, whatever stage they are in, they are friends to you and your garden. Ladybug larvae can eat up to 40 aphids an hour and can consume up to 5,000 insects in their short lifetime - only about four to seven weeks.

LACEWINGS

These beautiful insects also go through a metamorphosis. You can find their eggs on the underside of leaves or blades of grass. The females place the eggs in a careful row, where the eggs are on the end of long, thread-like strings to prevent the hatchlings from eating each other. The adults have light-green bodies with beautifully delicate, transparent wings. However, just like the ladybugs, they go through an awkward larval phase between egg and adult. The larvae are fast-moving, flattened brown and white creatures with large, curved mandibles. They use these scary-looking mouth parts to eat up to 100 aphids per day, earning them the nickname “aphid lions,” so I would consider them a friend!

ASSASSIN BUGS

The assassin bug really earns the name creepy crawly! There are hundreds of different species that live throughout North America, and they all share a similar body composition. Their heads are narrow, and their legs are long and spindly. But perhaps the creepiest thing about them is their sharp, segmented beak, which can pierce human flesh if they are handled incorrectly. Mostly, they hunt garden pests, from softbodied aphids to hard-bodied beetles, and use their beak to stab their prey and inject a lethal toxin, which liquefies the prey’s insides so they can suck it up. Although this one can hurt humans as well, this skilled hunter is usually on your team if you leave them alone!

HOVERFLIES

Hoverflies may look like small wasps or bees, with black and yellow or white striped abdomens, but they do not have the ability to sting as they are actually flies. They get their name because they will hover over flowers and are considered a very important pollinator species. Their larvae are small brown or green maggots that hatch from eggs laid on plants infested with soft-bodied pests. There has been some interesting research that has shown that aphid-infested potatoes emit particular odors that will attract hoverflies. Amazingly, these odors are capable of activating reproductive capabilities in the hoverflies. The flies will then lay their eggs on the infested plants. If the potatoes are not infested, they will send out a different odor that tells the flies there is no prey available.

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SPIDERS

I know spiders can be scary, but out of the 38,000 known species of spiders in the world, only two of them have bites that are harmful to humans in our area. Luckily, that means the chances of you encountering a spider that can seriously hurt you is small, especially in the garden. Most spiders have fangs that are either too small or not strong enough to pierce human skin. Spiders are hunters that mostly prey on insects. However, they are not picky eaters and will capture beneficial insects just as much as they will capture garden pests. So maybe this one is your friend, but they might also eat your other friends!

This summer, take time to learn about some of the bugs you encounter. You may find that they are not all bad and some might even be helpful. This list is just a start, and there are many more fascinating and helpful bugs all around you, so turn the creepy crawlies into your garden besties.

Garden HomeLiving

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Going on to say, “I’ve made some incredible friendships here and that’s what counts A close-knit place where you can build relationships is something special,” smiled Bunny. We agree that CCCM is something quite special and it’s a fantastic place to call home

Hear directly from one of our residents at Christian Care Community of Middletown (CCCM), Bunny Leep, who arrived almost two years ago to make our community her new home.

“I wanted this wonderful little community to feel like a family, where you can truly learn about one another and even lean on one another when that’s needed,” shared Bunny. She says that she found that feeling here and has enjoyed her garden home more than she could have imagined, not only because of the freedom it provides her, but because of the relationships it has created. Bunny is a bundle of positivity the community has embraced, and her natural leadership supports what she calls her “buddy system” that helps keep everyone connected, promoting health, safety and wellbeing among the residents

Our featured Garden Home is a newly remodeled 1,440 square foot two-bedroom, two bathroom with den, all season sun room, patio and reserved parking.

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Christian Care Communities of Middletown takes care of the hassle of home ownership so seniors can focus on what matters – social activities, time with family, volunteering, and hobbies. Our Garden Homes are the perfect solution for older adults looking for convenient and maintenance-free living in a community that enhances their active lifestyle Tour our Garden Homes today and experience the difference!

FIVE SCHOOL PROBLEMS THAT COULD BE VISION RELATED

focusing, bringing the eyes together or several other problems.

As parents, many of us have been there. A smart child who is underperforming at school always leads to a million questions: Classmate problems? Not connecting with the teacher? ADD/ADHD? Dyslexia or maybe something else?

Surprisingly, many people overlook vision! Many, but not all, eye doctors look for clinical findings that are associated with school and reading problems. Here is what to watch out for:

1. Blurriness, eye rubbing, sleepiness, or getting headaches after 20 minutes of reading. This can be a problem with

2. Using a finger or ruler to keep their place on a page. Typically this is a problem related to moving our eyes in a reading-type movement. This should be normal after age 6.

3. Poor comprehension with reading. Another sign of reading eye-movement problems. If a child can tell you more about a book if you read it to them, versus them reading it alone, vision is a likely contributor.

4. Grades that are not aligned with ability. A or B brain with C or D grades.

Many children don’t work up to their full potential because they don’t know that they are not seeing like their classmates, and can’t explain why they are not doing well in school.

5. Homework is a nightmare! They cry, you cry. They tell you, “I can’t.” It is often seen as an excuse or laziness, but it can be eye related.

Ask your doctor if they specifically look for convergence (eyes coming together, as in reading) and saccadic or reading-type eyemovement skills. If not, ask them to refer you to a doctor that is trained in binocular vision, or you can find a doctor near you at covd.org.

Writer / Dr. Dan Bowersox (Bowersox Vision)

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