VISION OF VALUE
THE LYNN FAMILY ARE LEADERS IN EYE HEALTH AND COMMUNITY IMPACT
DREAM • DESIGN
PUBLISHER COREY BOSTON corey@townepost.com (502) 407-0185
DEVON DEAN GAVIN LAPAILLE RENEE LARR HELEN E. MCKINNEY ED PEAK GRACE SCHAEFER
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 Have a story idea or suggestion for the magazine?
NEARLY 8 IN 10 AMERICANS ARE IN DEBT. HERE’S A LOOK AT THE NATIONAL DEBT DILEMMA.
HAVE YOU EVER CONSIDERED THE CONSUMER DEBT OF THE AVERAGE AMERICAN? THINK ABOUT YOUR NEIGHBORS, COWORKERS, FAMILY MEMBERS, FAVORITE COFFEE SHOP BARISTAS AND TEACHERS ACROSS THE STATE AND BEYOND. YOU MAY BE SURPRISED TO LEARN THE FOLLOWING.
Less than a quarter of the American population has no consumer debt, according to the Federal Reserve. Simple math illustrates that the majority of people, nearly 8 out of every 10 individuals, do have debt.
It is also worth noting, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor, the average U.S. annual salary in Q4 of 2023 was $59,384. Meanwhile, the average consumer debt is $104,215. This six-figure sum takes into account a blend of various debt types. Remember, not everyone has only student loans, automobile loans, credit card or different types of home debt. Americans may have a combination of one or all of these items. Additionally, we cannot forget each American’s share of government debt, which includes national, state and local debt. By adding these items into the equation, the results are shocking. CHART 1 illustrates a family of four and includes consumer debt and national debt on a per citizen basis.
GOVERNMENT DEBT
The average share of national, state and local debt on a per person basis is $127,328, of which $104,215 is the national portion of the debt. This includes every living man, woman and child — taxpayer or not. [b]
However, when the government debt is considered on a per taxpayer basis, the taxpayers share balloons to a whopping $296,283. If it is assumed that a family has two working, taxpaying adults and two children, then the burden of this hypothetical family increases to the following:
$1,219,720
CHART 2 illustrates a family of four and includes consumer debt and national debt on a per taxpayer basis.
Many national business leaders and politicians have referenced the extremely high level of national debt. Several have argued that this issue is the greatest threat to the American democracy. America’s national debt has exceeded $34 trillion, or 123% of the gross domestic product. On a ratio basis, our debt has surpassed America’s debt level to support World War II. The U.S. is on course to spend more than $870 billion on interest payments this year. That is more than America spends on the defense budget.
It is logical to conclude that individual consumers with debt are responsible to repay their consumer debt. However, somewhat distressing on taxpayers, it is also logical to conclude that only taxpaying Americans will repay the national, state and local debt.
$1,557,630
Independence Bank has been delivering financial solutions for decades. As Kentucky’s largest privately held bank*, we offer products, services and expertise as diverse and unique as the communities and clients we serve. Independence Bank possesses the size and experience to serve large and complex clients and the liberty for consumers and businesses to reach long-term goals. As we navigate the changing economic landscape, Independence Bank welcomes you to visit at 3901 Shelbyville Road in St. Matthews or online at 1776bank.com
(a) Consumer Data obtained from Business Insider: Average American Debt in 2024: Household Business Debt Statistics, written by Jennifer Streaks, edited by Libby Kane, July 17, 2024.
(b) National Debt Data obtained from usdebtclock.org as of August 15, 2024.
(1) Assumes only two adults have consumer debt.
(2) Assumes each member of the household has government debt.
(3) This includes (on a per adult basis) average debt for mortgage of $244,498, HELOC of $42,139, auto loan(s) of $23,279, credit card of $6,501 and student loan of $38,787.
(4) Assumes each adult has $296,283 per taxpayer basis and each child has $127,328 per citizen basis of government debt. *According to data from Independence Bank
MAGNIFICENT MINISTRY
ST. MATTHEWS AREA MINISTRIES PROVIDES LOCAL ASSISTANCE THROUGH VARIOUS FORMS
Writer / Gavin LaPaille
When community members are in need, St. Matthews Area Ministries (SMAM) hopes to get them back on their feet and living life fully.
For over five decades, SMAM has provided programs and assistance by uniting congregations, communities and nonprofits to benefit everyone who lives in their neighborhood and beyond.
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization,
SMAM was founded in 1972 as a joint venture of three neighboring churches, Beargrass Christian, Harvey Browne Presbyterian, and St. Matthews United Methodist, looking to combine assets, expand their potential and further help members. All three remain part of the organization today, along with other local congregations and parishes, including Crossroads Christian Church, Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, St. John Evangelical
Lutheran Church, St. Matthews Baptist Church, St. Matthews Episcopal Church, and Sojourn Community Church East Campus.
“Programs have come and gone over the years, but the mission remains the same: to meet the unmet needs of our neighbors in their times of crisis,” said SMAM Executive Director Julie Abbott. “In this day and age, people of all ages and backgrounds cannot get on their feet. We are small but mighty, and are serving our community year-round.”
SMAM puts on several events each year that raise funds and awareness for various initiatives, including the St. Matthews 5K Run/Walk (every July), The SMAM Golf Classic (every August), Give for Good Louisville (every September), and An Art Affair (every November). SMAM also collaborates with various community partners and associate members, including The Association of Community Ministries, Community Winterhelp, Dare to Care Food Bank, LG&E, Louisville Metro Government, Louisville Water Company, and Metro United Way. All of these entities support their programs and services, with the food pantry being one of the most wellknown and utilized. Abbott said many of the food items SMAM provides are claimed quickly after being donated, and the stock is always needing to be replenished.
“We have our own St. MAM food pantry that is filled by community donations from our churches and government entities,” Abbott said. “We also have a larger partnership with Dare to Care Food Bank, where we are an agency partner and they
in turn provide weekly trucks providing St. MAM with perishable food. We are blessed to provide produce, canned goods, toiletries, meat products and microwave meals that are a huge supplement to a regular grocery store shopping spree.”
Another service SMAM provides is financial assistance with rent and utilities. Individuals living in the 40207 zip code or portions of the 40220 zip code can reach out to SMAM for help, and potentially receive relief on these types of bills for a brief period of time. Residents can visit louisvilleministries.org/assistance to see if they qualify for services from SMAM, or find another community ministry in the area that can assist them.
“With limited resources and funding, we can’t help everyone, so we are restricted at St. MAM to those in our area,” Abbott said. “When families come in for our programs, the first thing we must identify is whether they live within our territory. The Emergency Assistance Program is the tie that binds all 13 community ministries, but each may have additional programs to offer. It allows us to help someone in need with rental assistance, LG&E, Louisville Water, and food.”
With a small staff, SMAM relies heavily on volunteer hours to keep these kinds of programs running strong. Abbott has two staff members who work closely alongside her, with volunteers filling roles such as distributing food from the pantry or delivering meals to those unable to leave their homes. Last year SMAM benefited from nearly 6,000 volunteer hours
BELMONT VILLAGE — A LEADER IN MEMORY CARE PROGRAMMING
Belmont Village’s Circle of Friends Program was developed to slow the cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer’s Disease and other forms of Dementia. This one of a kind, seven day a week program includes mental and physical activities focused on building cognitive reserve to maintain brain function.
If you think this program might benefit your loved one, don’t hesitate, contact Belmont Village St. Matthews today.
contributed by dedicated individuals, and is constantly seeking more individuals eager to make a difference.
“The volunteers are the heartbeat for how we exist,” Abbott said. “In this day and age, small nonprofits like us do not have the funding to have a large staff. When the pandemic happened in 2020, we had a huge volunteer turnover. It has been a rebuilding phase to build awareness for those who want to volunteer. If someone is interested, please schedule a time to meet with us, and we can discuss and explore opportunities for collaboration. Attending a volunteer orientation and shadowing our activities will provide valuable insights into our work. If it is more administrative support, we can show them what that looks like, or if they just want to lend a hand during our annual fundraisers, there are all kinds of different opportunities. Additionally, we need to fill gaps, especially as people are on vacation or get sick. Most of our dedicated volunteers are here every single week. They believe in
our mission and we could not do it without them.”
Abbott has dedicated 18 years to SMAM, joining the organization when she sought a new direction after the birth of her second child. In 2014 she was promoted to the role of executive director, and enjoys raising awareness of the organization's missions. Last year SMAM underwent a physical address change and is now located inside St. Matthews United Methodist at 319 Browns Lane.
"We've worked tirelessly to raise funds and navigate changes to get where we are today," Abbott said. "It's crucial for people to understand that we are not a church, but a 501(c)(3) nonprofit renting space from a member church. This past year has been a period of substantial growth and numerous obstacles. It is clear that many are unaware of our relocation or our continued presence. Despite moving, we remain operational and thriving at our new location. People always
associate St. Matthews as a very affluent community, but need knows no season, race, gender or zip code. When you think about our programs, we serve the tiniest newborn baby all the way up to 90-year-olds who must choose to pay for their medicine or food. People think there are no needs in this area of town, but we can say definitively that there are, based on our monthly statistics.”
Looking ahead, the SMAM team is committed to expanding its programs and providing valuable education on overcoming life's obstacles. Overall, Abbott hopes SMAM can continue to be a resource people can count on in their times of need.
"Our continued success in serving others depends on the community embodying our slogan of ‘Pulling Together,’” Abbott said. "It is truly a collaborative effort.”
For more info, go to stmam.com.
CRUCIAL CONSERVANCY
RIVER FIELDS HELPS TO PRESERVE AND PROTECT RESOURCES ALONG THE OHIO
RIVER
Writer / Renee Larr
Rivers are critical for safeguarding Earth’s most precious natural resources for future generations. Rivers provide clean drinking water, transportation, irrigation, and habitats for fish and other wildlife. Founded in 1959 in Louisville, River Fields is among the oldest river conservancies in the United States and the largest such group on the Ohio River.
“We serve the Louisville Metro area along a 50-mile stretch of the Ohio River from Westport, Kentucky, to West Point, Kentucky,” says Kristin Faurest, president and CEO. “Our mission is to protect, preserve and enhance natural and cultural resources on both sides of the Ohio River between Westport and West Point, Kentucky, as well as the region surrounding it, for the benefit of the public. River Fields accomplishes its mission through three main programmatic areas: advocacy, conservation and education.”
River Fields owns 10 properties totaling 64 acres along the Ohio River, all of which are accessible to the public. One of these properties is Garvin Brown
Preserve, a 46-acre, biodiverse nature preserve with 1,800 linear feet directly along the Ohio River. The scenic area is rich with wildflowers and an ideal spot for birding. It is open to the public 365 days a year. Another is Fairview, a scenic pull-off from River Road offering sweeping views of the Louisville skyline. River Fields’s other holdings include delicate wetlands and open spaces that maintain the scenic pastoral nature of River Road, Jefferson County’s only state-designated scenic byway, and provide a habitat for threatened flora and fauna. In addition to the property it owns outright, River Fields holds 19 conservation easements that protect an additional 2,177 acres of land from development.
“Many people don’t understand the difference between conservation easements and outright ownership,” Faurest says. “Conservation easements are legal agreements between a landowner and a land trust that place permanent restrictions on the use of property. Most conservation easements, including all the easements held by River Fields, restrict those uses forever, permanently conserving the property while allowing landowners to retain
ACCOUNTING FOR
• Tax Preparation- All Individual Returns
• Tax Preparation- All Business Returns
• Non-profit Returns
• Payroll ServicesW2s & 1099s
• LLC & Corporation Formation
• Projections/Budgeting/ Forecasting
• Monthly Bookkeeping
• Tax Planning
• Financial Planning
Research shows that play is essential for your child’s development. It sparks curiosity, boosts motivation, and nurtures creativity. Through play, children explore, experiment, and develop key cognitive and emotional skills for lifelong success. Join us at Providence CCPS to see how our professionally facilitated, play-based program for infants to prekindergarten can unlock your child’s full potential.
many of their rights to the land, including the right to use the land for agriculture, sell it, or pass it to their heirs. The River Fields easement program includes preserving significant historic structures and landscapes in the river corridor. Nearly half of the organization’s conservation easements are co-held by the Kentucky Heritage Council. This partnership allows the Heritage Council and River Fields to share resources and expertise that enable us to protect historic properties comprehensively. Our organization contributes significantly to preserving our community’s culture, nature and history. Once a structure, or place of history and natural or cultural richness and beauty, is lost, it is lost forever. I plan to never lose sight of that.”
Faurest says as the new leader of River Fields, she hopes to build on an already outstanding legacy, and enhance and expand educational offerings. She has served as an educational leader at several environmentally focused organizations, and is also an adjunct lecturer in landscape architecture at Weihenstephan-Triesdorf University in Germany, so education about land and environment, and engaging people with nature, have always been at the core of what she does.
“River Fields’s advocacy work centers on encouraging planned development within the Ohio River corridor,” Faurest says. “River Fields works with developers and the Louisville Metro Planning Commission to ensure that the integrity and scenic beauty of the river corridor is not marred by industrial and commercial developments that clash with the area’s bucolic, scenic setting and rich history. The River Fields
board and staff are skilled in using historic preservation laws, environmental regulations and elements of Louisville Metro’s comprehensive plan to hold back the heavy commercial and industrial uses that once plagued Louisville’s waterfront. Sharing that information to advocate and educate others is an important part of this organization’s ethos. Our conservation program, which includes both properties held in fee simple and conservation easements, protects the same resources safeguarded through our advocacy work.”
Faurest says the organization’s educational arm ties together the River Fields advocacy and conservation programs. River Fields regularly hosts tours and nature walks of its protected properties, to allow the public to reconnect with the natural world and learn about some of Louisville’s most spectacular conserved properties. Besides tours, River Fields publishes content-rich e-blasts and newsletters to keep people abreast of developments affecting the river corridor. River Fields also freely consults with neighborhood organizations and individuals looking to better understand the protections afforded by the National Historic Preservation Act, and how those protections can help defend historic homes and neighborhoods.
River Fields hosts varying events throughout the year. Most recently, the nonprofit hosted a wildflower walk at Wolf Pen Branch Mill Farm and a historic walk at Edyalmoor. This storied estate is one of the organization’s easement properties. Faurest says their annual fundraising event on October 25 is a fantastic way for Louisville residents to learn more about River Fields’s tireless work for the environment.
“We are a nonprofit, nongovernmental organization, so public support is critical to our being able to continue doing what we do to protect the land,” Faurest says. “Coming to our programs and events, and becoming a supporting member, are a great way to do that. Any contribution of time, talent or treasure is appreciated. The public can sign up for email, become a member with a contribution of any size, or volunteer on the River Fields website. I am working on enhancing and increasing our programming offerings in the future.”
Faurest says that, like any other nonprofit organization, River Fields is totally dependent on the support of the citizens of Louisville. She says each person can and does make a difference in its mission.
“Few organizations in the United States take the comprehensive approach to conservation employed by River Fields,” Faurest says. “Many land trusts own property, many others hold conservation easements, and some engage in advocacy work. However, very few employ every tool possible to protect open spaces, historic properties, wetlands, farms and forests. This organization has an incredible history of standing up for the land and the people who occupy it. That’s what I plan for us to continue doing. I grew up on the Ohio River and have a profound - you might even say sacred - relationship with it. It’s my personal mission for River Fields to continue to be a voice for the land and the river and, equally important, to be a voice for the people who depend upon both.”
For more information or to get involved, visit riverfields.org.
Spreading the Word
BOOK IT TO THE 43RD KENTUCKY BOOK FESTIVAL
Writer / Grace Schaefer
On November 2, book lovers will converge for a celebration of literature at the annual Kentucky Book Festival. Now in its 43rd year, the festival, a program of Kentucky Humanities, is a day of all things literary; readers can meet authors and illustrators, get signed books, hear presentations and participate in book-based activities.
“It was started by a journalist named Carl West in Frankfort,” says Katerina Stoykova, the festival’s director. “For the majority of its existence, the festival has taken place in Frankfort, and then it moved to Lexington and was at the Horse Park.”
Now, the festival is hosted at Joseph-Beth Booksellers, an independent bookstore in Lexington.
This year, attendees can expect a wide variety of authors and activities, with the festival running from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. “Patrons can come meet your favorite
author and buy signed books,” Stoykova says. “Also, children 14 and under will be able to receive a free book while supplies last - but we are prepared to give away hundreds of books. There will be a lot of free activities for kids: face painting, pumpkin painting, six story times and three illustration workshops.”
Among the 150 authors and illustrators in the event lineup are Jonathan Eig, Pulitzer Prize winner for his Martin Luther King Jr. biography, “King: A Life”; children’s author and First Lady Britainy Beshear, with illustrator Anita Hatchett; Chef Edward Lee; poet Frank X Walker; culinary memoir author Crystal Wilkinson; and 16-year-old Yolanda Renee King, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s granddaughter, bringing her first book, We “Dream a World.”
Brother Paul Quenon, poet, photographer and nonfiction writer, is also scheduled
to attend and speak. As a monk from the Abbey of Gethsemani, his appearances are quite rare. For a full list of authors and illustrators attending, readers can visit the Kentucky Book Festival website, where festival-featured books are listed along with book descriptions and statements from the authors. Not only will visitors be able to meet with and buy signed books from their favorite authors or illustrators, but some authors will also be reading, presenting and giving talks across five stages.
With so many opportunities packed into one day, it might seem that the festival would come with a cost. “People often call and say, ‘What’s the price?’ or, ‘Are there tickets?’” Stoykova says. “The festival is free. All this celebration, all this programming - all that is free.”
The day of the Kentucky Book Festival is packed with activities, but its organizers
put on a variety of events beforehand as well. “Kentucky Book Festival has several events in the week of the festival,” Stoykova says. “We have the Literary Luncheon, which this year will be on October 31 at noon at Fasig-Tipton.” In this ticketed event, participants can enjoy a meal catered by Chef Ouita Michel and Holly Hill Events, while hearing culinary memoir author Crystal Wilkinson in conversation with food writer Ronni Lundy. That evening, Stoykova says, “people will have an opportunity to socialize and to test their literary trivia. It is an exciting event and people get competitive. It’s a lot of fun, and it’s free and open to the public.”
In addition to week-of activities, the group also puts on year-round events to cater to a wide variety of interests, from history to creative writing. “We have something called pop-up events, which are events throughout the year that are Book Festivalrelated events to remind people of what we
do and to keep connected to the public,” Stoykova says. Among the events hosted earlier in the year are a presentation at the Henry Clay Estate by historian H. W. Brands, a poetry open mic, and a book reading and discussion with author Angela Correll.
The Kentucky Book Festival website features other events like these, and those interested can check regularly for updates on upcoming events. The group also hosts School Days, where authors visit Kentucky schools. Each student receives a signed book, but the school pays for nothing. Events like these truly show the Book Festival leaders’ passion for and dedication to fostering a love of reading among Kentuckians of every generation - particularly those of a young age, where the effects can last a lifetime.
Stoykova speaks of the hopes those who work with the Book Festival have for
WELCOME TO JUMBO BUFFET
Jumbo Buffet is where you’ll find some of the best Asian dishes available in the Louisville area!
Kentuckians statewide: to introduce and provide access to new books, from the adult who has attended many festivals to the child who is picking up a picture book for the first time.
“I have been to the festival as an author myself, I have been at the festival as an attendee, and I have been at the festival as an administrator, so I’ve seen it from those versions,” Stoykova says. “Our Executive Director Bill Goodman says the Kentucky Book Festival is one of the best days that Kentucky has to offer, and we put it up there with the Derby and other very popular events. Books, in our opinion, should have as wide an appeal as horse races. So, we think that it’s an opportunity to celebrate books, and we have the hope that kids will walk away with books, and with a relationship with a book of their choice, and with painted faces, and with bookmarks, and having heard stories. All of these positive associations and
Open Hours Sun-Thurs: 11:00am - 9:00pm Fri & Sat: 11:00am - 10:00pm
memories with books, they change lives. They could really influence young people. I have noticed that in my own life.”
Kentucky Humanities, the statewide nonprofit that runs the Kentucky Book Festival, has a goal to tell Kentucky’s story, and by supporting the gathering where Kentucky’s readers meet authors and illustrators, they are doing just that. At the same time they are teaching the next generation - those next in line to tell Kentucky’s story - the value of the written word.
But this influence doesn’t happen alone. The festival couldn’t run, and the stories couldn’t be told, without a wide array of writers and illustrators, and just as wide an array of volunteers. “The event needs over 100 volunteers,” Stoykova says. “We have many different opportunities for volunteering and we appreciate our volunteers very much.” For those
interested in helping, Kentucky Book Festival’s website includes a volunteer sheet with links to sign up for various positions. Roles range from working with parking to taking authors to their presentations, and from unpacking books to bringing authors coffee.
Whether volunteering or attending, for the first or 43rd time, Stoykova urges readers to visit. “The Kentucky Book Festival has something for everyone,” she says. “Whatever you like, whatever genre you like, whatever you read, there’s a good chance that you will find it at the festival. Browse all books. You never know what you’ll find, and you never know - maybe you are about to meet your new favorite author.”
For more information about the Kentucky Book Festival including a list of attending authors and illustrators, event locations, and volunteer details, visit kybookfestival.org.
Sponsored By:
OCTOBER CROSSWORD PUZZLE
DOWN
1. Benchley classic
2. “Could I interrupt?”
3. Figure of interest?
4. Long Island university
5. Bro’s sibling, maybe
6. Mandela’s org.
7. Child’s ammo
8. Certain helicopter
9. Filming locale
10. It tests the water
11. Worn out
17. Court call
19. Take a bough?
22. Little spasms
23. Brown ermine
25. Referee’s guideline
26. Administered with a spoon, say
27. Soul mate
28. Dieter’s measure
29. Heat, at times
30. In the center of
31. A deadly sin
35. Military trench diggers
38. You can count on them
40. Baby syllable
42. Make known
45. Golden ___ Bridge
47. A bit cracked
48. Revolver innovator
49. Hoopla
50. Band aid
51. Forest female
52. Do some yard work
53. Life story, in brief
54. Novelist Deighton
50. Praiseworthy
Pride partner
56. Debatable, as a point
Grandstand section 58. Matterhorn, for one
Chapel fixtures 60. Many millennia
Abbr. on a road map
NOW THERE ARE 3 LOU LOU’S TO LOVE!
This Creole Champion of St. Matthews, Lou Lou Food & Drink has thrived for years by delivering Louisville’s Louisiana connection in culinary delight. The New Orleans vibe is also alive at Lou Lou on Market.
The Lou Lou Tradition continues with the grand opening of our Middletown location this October.
Connecting and Creating
SCULPTOR WYATT GRAGG FINDS MANY CONNECTIONS TO HIS ARTWORK
Writer / Helen E. McKinney
Sculptor Wyatt Gragg discovered his creative side after being diagnosed with benign brain tumors in 1995, and diagnosed again several years later. Instead of discouraging or holding him back, it gave him a new lease on life.
He says he was diagnosed at the time with “my first of three meningiomas, a benign tumor on the left side, or executive side, of my brain. The result was damage to math skills, some decision making, and short-term memory problems.”
He made the tough decision to leave the security of the corporate world of teaching and sales. Gragg had attended Transylvania University in Lexington, and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Education, having no idea he would one day enter the art world.
He taught middle and high school in Lexington for five years before entering sales. He has worked in pharmaceuticals, public relations and advertising at Louisville’s WRKA, and as an account executive in fine color commercial printing. A native of Lexington, he relocated to Louisville around 1976, focusing on his career in marketing and commercial printing.
the recuperation process, Gragg became bored. Remembering an art project he had worked on with his father on their family farm, he began to slowly focus on becoming a sculptor.
the animals there: sand castings of deer, bear, mountain lions and more.
Next he visited the Louisville Zoo. He made track casts of unusual animals like the rhinoceros.
Wanting to expand his knowledge and creativity, Gragg began creating three-dimensional sculptures with the help of bronze sculptor David Kocka. Kocka, who lives in southern Indiana, has been a mentor for Gragg and many others. Kocka studied in Rome, Italy, and in addition to being a sculptor, was a Franciscan priest at the Mount St. Francis retreat center in southern Indiana for a time.
Decades later, Gragg has earned his own reputation by creating commissioned bronze sculptures, which can be found around the country. “My hands continue to surprise me,” he says. “I am truly humbled at being able to provide memorial and public sculpture that allows me to help keep history alive, provide some peace in the cemetery for a grieving family, as well as fine art enjoyed in the home or in the garden.”
After his first surgery, the right side of his brain quickly began to compensate. During
He says he and his father had made plasterof-Paris animal tracks from the animals on the farm. He contacted the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife in Frankfort, and they let him make tracks of
Gragg’s artwork can be found from Washington to Florida to Massachusetts. Locally, his work is on display at Kore Gallery.
He has also branched out into other
mediums. “I have been spending time with acrylics on canvas too - still lifes painted over a minimal background that most often try to dodge tradition just enough to test the eye, and maybe cause the viewer to wonder why,” he says.
“My bronze work has always been wellreceived, but the long months from start to finish forced a lot of my sculpture beyond most people’s art budget,” he adds. “As a result, I am now also creating some new, one-of-a-kind work in hydrocal plaster and garden burlap.”
Gragg says he likes “the more immediategratification approach. Size is not necessarily an issue. The texture combines soft and smooth with the random weave of the burlap. I usually add a skin of acrylic color or colors in a contemporary blend that adds a spirit the bronze just can’t muster. They’re a lot easier to collect and carry home from the gallery.”
Many of his creations are commissioned work. Included in this list is the Daniel Boone sculpture at the Kentucky National Guard post entrance in Frankfort. In Cincinnati at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, the number-two cast of Freedom is placed among their permanent collection, he says.
For Louisville’s Norton Women’s and Children hospital, he has created sculptures of a mother and baby (located in the labor and delivery department) and a set of baby hands located in the neonatal intensive care unit. At Louisville’s Cave Hill Cemetery, Gragg has sculpted many memorials including a group of flourishing doves, pet dogs and cats, and a life-sized “Dancing Couple” commemorating a couple’s first date.
For more personal gardens, he has fashioned butterflies, doves and large garden bells with leaves and flowers gracing the bells’ contours. Such art “provides a great garden focal point with a few chimes softly enhancing the moment as they catch the breeze,” he says.
At the South Central Kentucky Cultural Center in Glasgow, Kentucky, Gragg created a half life-sized sculpture of his wife’s father, representing Kentucky farmers. He said his wife, Mary, grew up on a small farm in Green County, Kentucky, while he grew up in the city. He spent weekends and every summer on his families’ farms in Fayette and Bourbon counties.
The couple has been married for what Gragg labeled “45 fun years. We met at a mutual friend’s engagement party.” Mary paid him 25 cents to “protect” her that evening after a friend of Gragg’s declared, “She’s mine, Wyatt - I saw her first!”
Mary attended Midway University, and graduated with an associate’s degree in nursing and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Bellarmine University. She spent her nursing career as a registered nurse in surgery at Methodist Evangelical Hospital (later Norton Healthcare Pavilion) as a nurse manager until she retired in 2018.
The couple shares a passion for motorcycles, and have cruised the Kentucky and southern Indiana back roads in their Boxster, a small Porsche roadster. Over the years they have enjoyed riding the open roads on several Harley-Davidson motorcycles they’ve owned, logging over 50,000 miles.
Gragg was even able to incorporate his love
for motorcycles into one of his sculptures. He fully understood the love for the bike that his subject matter, Dr. E. Bruce Heilman, had, because he had it too.
Gragg sculpted the “Road Warrior” statue that stands on the campus of the Oldham County History Center in La Grange. It depicts a life-sized image of Heilman, a well-loved Oldham County World War II vet. Heilman is riding his Harley, on which he logged over 200,000 miles.
Heilman’s motorcycle was a special Marine issue, having the Marine insignia on the side that was issued only to veterans by the Harley-Davidson corporation. The sculpture was designed so that visitors can hop on and take a ride with Heilman.
Currently he is working with Falls Art Foundry on two new unique commissions. Gragg says one is of a classical female figure for the Louisville Woman’s Club formal garden. “The life-size figure will be
nestled amongst the beautiful landscaping on a large granite base as she interacts with a pair of small songbirds,” he says.
This bronze will replace a smaller statue that was stolen and never recovered. He says this piece will be very securely anchored because “she is not leaving the garden without the 900-pound granite base!”
The second piece is still making its way through the long foundry process and is affectionately referred to as “Chlorine.” “She is destined to be poolside at the home of a Louisville plastic surgeon,” he says.
This artwork depicts a young lady resting on a forest tree stump while playfully holding a small bird. “They are being watched by a chipmunk, which appears to call the tree stump home,” Gragg says. “Her bare feet and grin should be a beautiful patio focal point year-round.”
The Graggs call the Estates of Glen Oaks, near Prospect, home. “We have some fantastic neighbors,” Gragg says. “We are fortunate to have a yard large enough for one of Mary’s passions, her huge annual vegetable garden.”
The garden usually yields an abundance of squash, zucchini, cucumbers, green beans, tomatoes and onions, which Mary uses to devise new recipes Gragg says are “out of this world.” In addition to gardening, she enjoys genealogy, cross-stitching and cooking. “Her country heritage shows up in the kitchen, so there is always enough on the table in case anyone drops by,” he says.
“There’s always a way to accomplish the task,” Gragg adds. “There’s always a way to create art, and there’s always a way to get from point A to point B without an interstate.”
Mary and Wyatt Gragg
Minimum balance of $25,000 to obtain APY
*Annual Percentage Yield (APY) is accurate as of 08/12/2024. Fees could reduce earnings on account. Rates are subject to change after account is opened. *For
(Penalty for Early Withdrawal / $500 Minimum Balance)
*The Annual Percentage Yield (APY) is accurate as of 08/12/2024.
*For new accounts at Louisville location only.
VISION OF VALUE
THE LYNN FAMILY ARE LEADERS IN EYE HEALTH AND COMMUNITY IMPACT
Dr. Mark Lynn isn’t ready to slow down yet.
A visionary local businessman and optometrist, he continues to expand his impact in the Louisville market with the launch of two groundbreaking ventures: Lynn Family Sports Vision & Training, and Lynn Family Vision. These latest endeavors are dedicated to promoting eye health through advanced methods and technologies.
“I’ve always told my family and staff I’ll probably die in one of my offices,” Lynn said. “Since ninth grade I knew I wanted to be an eye doctor. I consider myself fortunate to have been able to follow my dream throughout my entire career. When you’re doing what you love, it doesn’t feel like work.”
Writer / Gavin LaPaille
FAMILY-CENTERED EXCELLENCE IN EYE CARE
Lynn, his wife, Cindy, and two of their children, Mark and Jackie, proudly operate Lynn Family Sports Vision & Training. This office specializes in treating traumatic brain injuries from sports and other incidents that can affect both eye and overall health. It also focuses on training athletes to reach their peak performance levels through sport vision training.
After selling his original optometry practice, which included 93 locations across six states, Lynn pursued his passion for sports vision, aiming to help athletes and others think and process information faster. His work focuses on the vestibular-ocular connection, which explores how the brain and eyes interact. Discrepancies in this
connection can lead to significant health issues, and Lynn is dedicated to identifying root causes and providing targeted therapy for improvement.
“Most of us have experienced a concussion at some point, whether from playing sports or through other injuries,” Lynn said. “Many people aren’t even aware they’ve had a concussion. Typically a concussion disrupts how the brain and eyes work together. While some issues may resolve on their own, others may stay with you for months or years if you do not get the right help. If you’re experiencing memory issues, difficulty focusing, balance problems or brain fog, it could be related to how efficiently your eyes and brain are working together. We’re here to evaluate and help improve those areas.”
Lynn’s new practice sees a diverse range of patients, from professional athletes to corporate executives. “We work with everyone from professional athletes to gamers and CEOs who want to think faster,” he said. “The majority of our patients have experienced a traumatic brain injury, concussion or stroke, all of which can severely impact brain function. We have a chance to help you, but we won’t know until we do the evaluation.”
In addition to treating traumatic brain injuries and concussions, Lynn Family Sports Vision & Training also assists children with reading difficulties and memory issues. Often these issues are due to their eyes not tracking or using correct quick-eye movements to see the written word. These issues, usually unrelated to visual acuity, can significantly affect a child’s ability to learn.
COMPREHENSIVE EYE CARE AT LYNN FAMILY VISION
Lynn Family Vision, the second new venture, offers a traditional optometric experience, including routine eye exams, contact lenses and glasses. Located in the Hurstbourne and Prospect areas, they stock over 1,000 frames from leading brands like Oakley, Ray-Ban, Nike, Polo, Ralph Lauren, Tiffany, Persol and more. The offices offer same-day appointments, accept most insurance plans
Dr. Mark E. Lynn, Cindy Lynn and Dr. Mark J. Lynn.
and, in some cases, patients can even receive their glasses while they wait.
The two businesses operate across three locations: the Edith Road office, which specializes in sports vision and traumatic brain injury therapy and evaluations, and the Prospect and Hurstbourne offices, which provide routine eye exams, frames and contact lenses. The Hurstbourne office also offers full evaluations and therapy for sports vision, traumatic brain injury, vestibular migraines, concussions and more. Lynn continues to work directly with patients, providing both evaluations and routine exams.
A FAMILY LEGACY OF SERVICE AND COMMUNITY GIVING
Having his family involved in the business is nothing new for Lynn, who has worked alongside his wife for many years, as well as his son, a former professor at the University of Louisville. Recently his
youngest daughter, Jackie, joined the team as a certified billing specialist, further strengthening the family’s commitment to the business.
“My wife, Cindy, and I have worked together for most of my career,” Lynn said. “She’s been involved since the very beginning, even when I was still in school. Now she oversees accounts receivable and payable for my offices and my daughter’s two dental offices. My son manages dayto-day operations across all offices, and ensures staff are trained in our policies and procedures, which is crucial for business growth. Jackie has been instrumental in managing both medical and vision insurance claims for all three offices.”
Lynn has also become more visible in recent years, with his name adorning two prominent soccer stadiums in Louisville. The Dr. Mark and Cindy Lynn Stadium has been home to the University of Louisville
men’s and women’s soccer teams since 2014, while Lynn Family Stadium has hosted both Louisville City and Racing Louisville professional soccer games since 2021.
“We didn’t have soccer when I was growing up, and my first experience was taking my oldest daughter to watch her boyfriend play in high school; I didn’t understand it at all,” Lynn said. “When Tom Jurich approached us about building a soccer stadium at the University of Louisville, my first response was, ‘Are you nuts?’ because I knew nothing about soccer. I realized that if we were going to sponsor the stadium, then I needed to understand the sport! The experience has been incredibly rewarding.”
“Lynn Family Stadium was a little different thought process,” he adds. “It was less about soccer and more about the growth of the city and the state. The good lord has taken care my family, and we’ve been very lucky to be able to have what we have. If we teach our
kids anything, it’s when you get something, make sure you give back. If you don’t give back, it really means nothing. The soccer stadium was our way to give back to the city of Louisville.”
Lynn Family Stadium represents just a fraction of the Lynn family’s contributions to the community. Over the years they have made significant donations to institutions such as the University of Louisville, Bellarmine, Spalding, Simmons, Sacred Heart Academy, Ballard High School, Visually Impaired Preschool Services, FFA, Habitat for Humanity, 4H, Kosair Children’s Hospital, Blessings in a Backpack and many more.
“If everyone who has enough for themselves would give back just a little, imagine how much better our world could be,” Lynn said. “There’s a lot of need out there. When you have a chance to help others, especially the kids, that’s our future. Give them an
2024 GENERAL ELECTION
IMPORTANT DATES
Voter Registration Deadline October 7
Online Portal to Request Mail-in Absentee Ballot September 21 – October 22
In-Person Excused Absentee Voting October 23, 24, 25, 28, 29, & 30
In-Person No Excuse Absentee (Early) Voting October 31, November 1 & 2
General Election November 5
Need to find a polling location? Scan to see a list of twenty local polling locations for In-person No-excuse Absentee (Early) voting
opportunity and help out.”
As he looks to the future, Lynn remains committed to his research into traumatic brain injuries, as well as helping people improve their vision and total eye care.
“I’ve never planned too far ahead,” Lynn said. “My guiding principle throughout my career has been to take care of patients one at a time, offering them the best possible care at a fair price and trying to find answers for their problems. We follow simple but effective business rules. First, always do what’s right for the patient. Second, do what is right for the staff. Third and finally, do what is right for the business. By putting patients first, we ensure that every decision will be made for the right reasons.”
For more info, visit lynnfamilyvision.com or call 502-516-4662.
Live
PIGSKIN PROWESS
TRINITY HIGH SCHOOL
JUST KEEPS TURNING OUT FOOTBALL CHAMPIONS
Writer / Ed Peak
Kentucky’s gold standard for high school football resides on Shelbyville Road in St. Matthews - Trinity High School. The Shamrocks have won a record 28 Kentucky state titles.
The 6A favorite this season? Also Trinity.
In his fourth season as head coach, Jay Cobb guided the Shamrocks to a title last
December, beating Lexington Bryan Station in the championship. Cobb began as an assistant in 2014, helping legendary coach Bob Beatty.
Was it a relief for Cobb to coach the team to a title? “I’ve been asked that question a million times,” he said. “When Bob left, we had graduated 44 seniors. Because of those factors, we knew it would be a tough job.
We knew we had a good group coming. We told everybody who would listen - I said the third year is going to be that year that we would get back on top of that mountain again.”
Former coaches Jim Kennedy, Dave Moore, Roger Gruneisen, Dennis Lampley, and Beatty set the bar high. Beatty won 15 titles in 21 years. His teams lost twice in the
Coach Jay Cobb
championship game.
Trinity has long been admired and disliked by the state’s opposing coaches. The Shamrocks have played classic games, winning at Boone County in overtime in the semifinals and stopping the Rebels inside the one-yard line in the ’90s.
There was the classic win over Male in 2002
“What gets overlooked here is the work ethic of our kids, and the time they put in is what makes Trinity football special.” —Jay Cobb
at Old Cardinal Stadium 59-56, when the Shamrocks intercepted a Michael Bush pass in the end zone late in the fourth quarter. Then-Courier-Journal high school editor Jody Demling called it “the greatest game in Kentucky high school football history.”
The 2011 Trinity team (15-0) was voted number-one in the nation by USA TODAY. When opponents come to Marshall
Stadium they can be intimidated. On the scoreboard at Father Harry Jansing Field reads “Trinity For Ever.” They play on turf and the stadium can hold large crowds. Their games are broadcast live on the radio
Heartsong East Adult Day Health Care
and streamed on TV.
The Rocks play in Class 6A, Kentucky’s highest class. They are in District Four with Ballard, Eastern and Oldham County.
So what makes this school so attractive to so many good athletes? “I think it’s the character of our kids rather than just the talent,” said Cobb. “Bryan Station had seven Division I players last year and we beat them twice. We had one kid, Nate Tronzo, who went to [Southern Illinois University] in Division I. Right now we have one Division I kid. What gets overlooked here is the work ethic of our kids, and the time they put in is what makes Trinity football special.”
Wins and losses are important, but they aren’t the barometer. “I’m a caretaker of this program, and want to make sure that I do it justice and elevate the character and faith of these kids,” Cobb said.
Former Trinity quarterback Jeff Brohm is now
the head coach at the University of Louisville, and brothers Greg and Brian, who are on his staff, also played at Trinity. His father, Oscar, is the Shamrock’s quarterbacks coach.
“I think the city is a big Catholic community a lot of Catholic grade-school kids grow up in,” said Brohm. “One of the things is Trinity is a great school, great education, discipline, and a place to set up their academic goals. The sports programs are talented. They’ve won a lot in the past. You get the perfect combination of, ‘Hey, I’m going to have to work in school.’ Students have an organized plan to get to college. The structure, the organization, the history and tradition, all those things add up.”
The Shamrocks have a younger team this year. Sophomore quarterback Zane Johnson is one of the few to start as a freshman. Kaleb Warner is a top receiver. Cobb has coached defense since 2014 when he came from Texas. This year’s defense is solid.
Some starters returned from last year’s team
in JC Wilson and lineman Bailey Vance, who Cobb calls the “hallmark anchor.”
Senior cornerback Allen Evans has college offers from Kentucky and Louisville. Sekou Kamara and Elijah Burns-Crump are standouts.
Chances are St. Matthews is where the state championship will reside once again.
Trinity football’s complete schedule is available at trinityrocks.com/page/football.
Expires 11/30/2024
Expires 11/30/2024
Writer / Devon Dean
The Towne Post Network of publications is proud to announce the launch of a new, hyperlocal community events calendaronline.
Using an aggregating software partner, the Towne Post Events Calendar includes information from more than 200 sources across the regions the company serves. This includes LiveNation, gotolouisville.com, various chamber of commerce websites, and a wealth of other community calendars to give a complete rundown of fun things to do in your area.
As a user, you can filter by date, time, city, proximity, and even by event type. If you are hosting a local event, this is a free service with additional paid opportunities for expanded visibility starting at just $2 a day. As the Towne Post Events Calendar
expands, an email will go out every Thursday to give subscribers the scoop on what’s going on around town each weekend.
“Summer is a busy time and it’s hard to keep track of everything that is happening,” says Towne Post CEO and Founder Tom Britt. “Our goal is to create another point of connection between people and the communities they live in by highlighting all the great local events coming up.”
See what’s happening at townepost. com/calendar. To subscribe for weekly emails, subscribe at TownePost.com and click the “Email Newsletters” button at the top of the website.
ABOUT THE TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC.
Founded in 2004 with a mission to create engaging and relevant publications, Towne Post Network is redefining the magazine industry. With a focus on hyperlocal content and an integrated print and digital marketing approach, their magazines connect businesses and residents in communities like never before. Towne Post Network’s cloud-based platform offers franchisees flexibility and freedom, allowing them to work from home while benefiting from comprehensive support and services. Their success stems from collaboration with local businesses, providing a platform for them to thrive and engage with their target audience. With an expanding network of hyperlocal publishers, Towne Post Network is actively seeking passionate individuals to bring their community-focused magazines to towns across the country. Franchisees benefit from a proven business model and a support system that handles design, distribution and more. For more information about Towne Post Network, Inc. and franchise opportunities, please visit franchising.townepost.com.
“They have an activities sheet every day with many many choices, so I think that’s very good too. Plus, housekeeping is terrific, and they do my laundry once a week and they fold it beautifully. Finally, the care staff here are attentive to me. They show attention. They show care. All in all, I would highly recommend Vitality Living St. Matthews!”
- Matthew Lemberger, Resident
DELICIOUS CONCEPT
THE COTTAGE CAFE OWNER LIKES THE TASTE OF SUCCESS AFTER THREE DECADES
Writer / Gavin LaPaille
Susan Stivers saw a glass ceiling for herself, so she decided to break through it in a different way.
After working in the restaurant industry for a number of years, Stivers was frustrated with the lack of upward mobility and decided to branch off on her own. In 1992 Stivers opened the Cottage Cafe in the historic Middletown district, establishing the small lunch spot as a go-to for homemade soups, sandwiches and desserts.
“When I was in fourth grade I knew I wanted to own a restaurant, and I knew the time was now,” Stivers said. “I found a location that was very specific to the concept I had in mind.”
The menu is full of choices for everyone, with traditional sandwiches, burgers, clubs, soups and salads. There is a selection of two homemade soups daily, and rotating specials featuring many items from the menu. The desserts are very popular, with a wide variety of rotating options including full cakes and pies as well as slices.
“We make the kind of desserts that resemble what you see if you go to your grandmother’s house,” Stivers said. “Ours don’t look like a bakery. We use real cream. We make chocolate cake with cheese and frosting. We make wonderful cheesecake and cream pies. We have so many things.”
The menu fits the location. Before Stivers bought the 100-year-old yellow cottage, the
location was used as a family’s home, and Stivers has aimed to keep the feel of the house in place.
“We kept all the rooms intact that we could,” Stivers said. “I wanted people to be able to have soup, sandwiches and desserts like they do at home in a warm, non-fast-food-type atmosphere. It’s cozy and conducive to what we do.”
Stivers has a small but dedicated workforce that has kept the cafe going, even during the toughest of times. A portion of the 10 to 14 people on staff are adults with special needs who serve a variety of roles, including cooking, dishwashing and waiting tables.
“A third of our staff are adults with special needs,” Stivers said. “I’m really proud of that. I couldn’t do it without them. They’re wonderful. They get drinks, clear tables, run food and help me clean. I have one guy that helps me make meat loaf. People love it. We’ve had people from the school of the
blind, people in wheelchairs, prosthetics, intellectual disabilities. Most of my people have been with me long-term.”
Stivers said when she originally opened the cafe, there was an entity down the street that worked with Down syndrome patients who would frequently walk by and visit the cafe. After developing a relationship, Stivers started hiring their students and had great success. She hopes the Cottage Cafe can be a model for what adults with special needs are capable of.
“We’re very inclusive and supportive of diversity,” Stivers said. “We’re part of a community people are unaware of. When people come in, they see a viable community in the workplace. They’re dependable and I love working with them. We help them grow and they help us grow. It has just been a wonderful addition.”
Located on 11609 Main Street just off Shelbyville Road, Stivers loves being part
of the historic Middletown district, and the advantages it offers to many of her most frequent guests.
“Middletown is charming,” Stivers said. “I love the historic area. We see people from both ends, coming from St. Matthews and from Shelbyville or Simpsonville. There’s a strong business in the afternoon when businesses get out. It’s been a really good choice for us.”
Originally the cafe offered a dinner menu, but Stivers made the decision to focus on lunch as she raised a family in her personal life. Having grown up in New York, Stivers wasn’t familiar with what is popular in the region initially, but has continually evolved the menu over the years to fit what works best for her customers.
“Some of the items I thought might not be as big of a go, turned out to be fabulous - things that are regional I didn’t grow up with, but they have become staples,” Stivers
said. “Items I was introduced to, I made them part of our menu. I’m always looking at things. I try to keep up to speed on what the 30-something age group is doing nutrition-wise. We have a lot of diversity in customers because we do that. I really like our menu. There is something for everyone.”
After being open for over three decades, Stivers and the cafe have stood the test of time. While she has considered opening another location, she said it would have to be the right spot with the right person running it, in order to keep the flavor of the Cottage Cafe alive.
“It’s paid off because we have treated people so well and they have really supported us,” Stivers said. “We’re really proud of our food. We make everything as fresh as we can. I never want to lose the flavor.”
For more information on the Cottage Cafe, check them out on Facebook or give them a call at 502-244-9497.
For advertising information, contact:
COREY BOSTON
corey@townepost.com (502) 407-0185
The Power of Teamwork
At UofL Health – Brown Cancer Center, you’ll find inspiring stories like Kim’s, where being cancer-free is a reality thanks to our collaborative approach, early detection and pioneering treatments. Here, hope comes to life with our expert second opinions, advanced technology and personalized holistic care. We harness the power of academic research and groundbreaking clinical trials, only found here, to help survivors make more memories and keep living their stories.
Experience the power of world-class care, close to home at our three Louisville locations.
find Kim’s story and other survivor stories, visit UofLHealth.org/BCCStories.
Kim L. Breast Cancer, 2019