BUDDY
THE MAN BEHIND THE MASCOT ENTERS HIS FINAL SEASON
+ Time to Celebrate
St. Matthews Turns 75
ST. MATTHEWS 75TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION
JUNE 7, 2025 • 12-10PM •
ONE IRISH ROVER
CELEBRATING
FOOD TRUCKS • BEER GARDEN LOCAL ARTISTS • RESTAURANTS & PERFORMERS IN THE PARK! MOBILE ZIP
PUBLISHER COREY BOSTON corey@townepost.com (502) 407-0185
KEY CONTRIBUTORS
DEVON DEAN APRIL FETZ
RYAN GABBERT MELISSA GIBSON
CHRISTY HEITGER-EWING
GAVIN LAPAILLE ED PEAK
JULIE YATES
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
MANAGING EDITOR 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
Time to Celebrate
ST. MATTHEWS TURNS 75
Writer / April Fetz
The City of St. Matthews is all about personality. It has a certain charm that needs to be experienced rather than explained. From the way neighbors greet each other by name, to how potholes mysteriously disappear within hours, St. Matthews has all the benefits of a big city, but prides itself on being a hometown that refuses to lose its heart, even as it grows.
In June St. Matthews will celebrate its 75th anniversary as an incorporated city, marking the moment in 1950 when a group of determined residents came together to preserve their community’s identity from looming annexation. But the city’s history actually began more than 260 years ago, when the first settlers came to the area for the fertile farmland and promise of a better life.
“St. Matthews is more than just a city,” says Councilwoman Mary Jo Nay. “It’s a feeling and a sense of belonging. People want to be associated with this place even if they don’t
technically live within its limits.”
That feeling is something the city intends to celebrate in a big way.
On Saturday, June 7, St. Matthews will host a daylong celebration at Brown Park, the city’s most popular green space. From morning yoga to live music, a petting zoo, and even a drone show finale, the event is designed to capture the history and community spirit of St. Matthews.
“It’s going to be a joyful celebration for everyone,” says Nay. “Whether you’re a lifelong resident or just visiting, we want you to feel like you are part of the story.”
The story begins long before the area was known as St. Matthews. It was called many things. The area was first known as Beargrass, named by the Native American tribes that settled the area. In the early 1800s Edmund Sale owned a tavern near
the railroad, lending his name to call the area Sale’s Precinct. In 1851 the post office named the city Lynnford. In the mid-19th century the area was known as Gilman’s Point, named for another local tavern owner, Daniel Gilman.
In 1850 it was the presence of St. Matthews Episcopal Church that inspired the final, enduring name. The following year, the newly established post office officially recognized the city as St. Matthews.
As the community grew, it became a center of agriculture. From the early 1900s through the 1940s, St. Matthews was recognized as the Potato Capital of the World. The St. Matthews Potato Exchange, established in 1910, was once the second-largest of its kind, with Irish potatoes shipped as far as Canada, Mexico and Cuba. The city is also home to Kentucky’s first volunteer fire department, founded in 1919.
“We have a lot of historic roots in our city,” Nay says. “We have a lot of historic people.”
It’s not the history alone that has created a community with deep affection for the city. It’s in the everyday services, from snow removal on every street to the free recycling pickup, the backdoor trash collection, and the 40% discount on property taxes if paid by Halloween.
“When someone calls City Hall, they’re not shuffled around or forgotten,” says Nay. “We don’t have much red tape. If you report a pothole in the morning, it’s usually fixed before the crew heads home.”
Nay says her job as a member of the city council is to spoil the residents. “It's a fantastic community,” she says. “But it’s our police and our work crews that make everybody look good because they do a wonderful job.”
As the city prepares to celebrate this milestone, Mayor Rick Tonini is encouraging everyone to be part of the festivities. "As we celebrate 75 years of progress, community and resilience, I invite everyone to join us in honoring St. Matthews's rich history and bright future,” he says. “This milestone is a testament to the spirit of our people. Let’s celebrate together!"
That spirit is what makes St. Matthews unique in its blend of old and new, civic pride and neighborly warmth. It’s the city
where Halloween brings thousands of children to Brown Park and a drone show will now light up the summer sky.
From longtime residents who remember when Shelbyville Road had more horses than cars, to newcomers drawn to the big-city services with small-town charm, there’s one thing they all share: a deep love for a place that still feels like home.
Whether you’re in it for the live music, the ducks at Brown Park, or just the chance to stroll down memory lane, June 7 will be more than a party. It will be a tribute to more than 75 years of heart.
ST. MATTHEWS TURNS 75 YEARS OLD!
CELEBRATE ST. MATTHEWS’ 75TH ANNIVERSARY – FUN FOR ALL AGES!
Saturday, June 7
Noon – 10pm
Brown Park – St. Matthews (corner of Browns Lane & Kresge Way)
This exciting, family-friendly event is packed with free activities for everyone to enjoy, and food trucks and a beer garden will keep you fueled throughout the day.
LIVE MUSIC ALL DAY:
• The Rigbys (Beatles tribute)
• Sheryl Rouse (Motown classics)
• The Heart of Rock & Roll (Huey Lewis tribute)
• Pat Garvey and One Irish Rover (Van Morrison tribute)
FAMILY FUN INCLUDES:
Bounce houses, petting zoo, mobile climbing wall + zip line, toddler train, balloon animals, face painting, circus performers, karaoke, silent disco, caricature artist, 360 photo booth, and cooking demos.
Bring your family, friends and neighbors to celebrate this huge milestone in St. Matthews’ history, enjoy amazing food, and experience a day full of music, fun and community spirit! Admission is free, with food and drinks available for purchase from on-site food trucks and the beer garden. Free parking at the Baptist Health building across from the park. Don’t miss the grand finale – a spectacular live drone show lighting up the night sky.
bluehalomedspa.com
THE NEW FRONTIER
INDIANAPOLIS COLTS DRIVE GIRLS’ FLAG FOOTBALL GROWTH
Writer / Melissa Gibson
Flag football is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world. It will be added to the 2028 Summer Olympic Games in Los Angeles. More than 50 colleges are expected to have girls flag football teams by 2028 in response to overwhelming interest.
That’s why the Indianapolis Colts and the Jim Irsay family committed $1 million to growing the girls high school flag football program in Indiana. In order to make flag football a sanctioned sport with the Indiana High School Athletic Association, 100 high schools must participate in the program.
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They’re calling the new campaign “Road to 100” and they’re nearly halfway there.
In 2023 the Colts formed a high school football league with eight teams, and in 2024 the league expanded to 27 teams. It’s a statewide network to grow the game in Indiana and help connect young athletes to NFL FLAG-sanctioned programs.
There are 43 Indiana high schools, including Beech Grove, Warren Central, Pike and beyond, that have committed to offering a girl’s flag football program, with more signing up every day.
When a new team is launched, the Colts help offset costs with funds for equipment, uniforms, training and coaching.
“We want to drive participation to the game and continue to support and amplify the game,” said Andy Matis, senior manager of football development at the Indianapolis Colts. “As we grow, we’re
able to incorporate more audience, which is a key focus.”
Unlike tackle football, play consists of two 24-minute halves. It’s a five-on-five format and players rotate positions throughout the game. The field is smaller than a standard tackle football field, 40 yards in width and 100 yards in length. Of course, instead of tackling the opponent, the goal is to pull a flag from their waistband. Point scoring is similar, with six points for a touchdown.
It’s safe to say that in the past, young women have not had the same elite-level options in football as young men have had, but when the Colts opened up the opportunity for a women’s league, they were met with plenty of interest.
In fact, 50% of the girls coming out for flag football tryouts have signed up for their first high school sports program ever.
“Even in youth leagues they’ve consistently offered coed options, but there’s two girls
in the midst of all the boys coming out for these,” Matis said. “They might not feel inclined even though they’re interested. Now, having your own space in sports, you don’t have to ask if you love the game enough to try tackle. You have your space in the sport.”
Young women from the original eight teams have enjoyed the nature of the game and the relationships formed through the process, just like many other tight-knit sports teams. It’s a memory they’ll never forget.
Players from the Colts team have been supportive as well, happy to see the sport continue to grow in unique and inclusive ways.
Indianapolis Colts linebacker Zaire Franklin has recently been named Global Flag Ambassador for the NFL’s commitment to growing flag football across the nation. Franklin has been working with the league over the past few years, and wants to help drive support and make the program fun.
“This is just a great opportunity,” Franklin said. “Everyone loves the game and football has taught me so much about life. This program gives young women the opportunity to learn those lessons and build those bonds.”
He’ll be hosting a clinic for flag football teams in the state soon and hopes to invite a few individuals from the U.S. team to get involved.
“Last year I had the chance to help coach girls flag football players at Lucas Oil Stadium and I was so impressed by the skill, tenacity and passion of these young ladies,” Franklin said. “I look forward to helping grow flag football in Indiana and around the world, and providing more opportunities for girls and boys alike to learn, play and connect through this awesome sport.”
Like most team sports, flag football offers physical and mental health benefits, hones teamwork skills, and teaches discipline and resilience.
Just in the past few years, reports from high school athletic directors across the state have been positive. Young women who were having a tough time in school are now getting better grades. Attendance is up and the empowerment they feel is evident.
“We’re building the next generation of strong adults,” Matis said. “The appetite is there. The interest is there. To see these girls come out and bring their competitive fire to this sport has been really inspiring.”
School representatives interested in participating can find more information at colts.com/ footballdevelopment/flag/ high-school-girls-flag.
Your Story Matters
THE LOUISVILLE STORY PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS THE VITALITY OF THE LOUISVILLE COMMUNITY
Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing
Everybody has a story. Most of those stories, however, will never be told, and certainly never be published. Through the Louisville Story Program, Darcy Thompson set out to not only share stories, but also represent people from communities that have historically been underrepresented or misrepresented in the public discourse.
Prior to launching this documentary organization, Thompson worked for the nonprofit Teach for America. As a seasoned national staff member, he participated in a weeklong professional development retreat in New Orleans, Louisiana, doing a neighborhood, community-based story project.
“Writing and oral history mean a lot to me,” says Thompson. “I was energized to see the voices being published that you normally don’t get to hear from.”
When he got home to Louisville, he was inspired to introduce a similar model. In
2013 he began the Louisville Story Program as a one-man operation, for which he partnered with people in and around the city to develop books, exhibits and digital collections that document the richness and vibrancy of their respective communities.
“This intensive process of co-creation strengthens our community by making connections along the way by honoring legacies, building skills, educating audiences, and demonstrating the brilliance that abounds in every corner of our community,” says Thompson, Louisville Story Program’s executive director. “Often folks perceive the communities we serve as being rare exceptions of talent, when the truth is that there’s an abundance of creativity, resourcefulness, leadership and brilliance.”
Each book shares stories about different slices of Louisville life.
“My hope is that by celebrating these authors and their work that we can all learn,
appreciate and hopefully spark some good civic dialogue to help us understand our city better and more fully.”
The first project by Louisville Story Program, called Our Shawnee, was written by eight high school students who were attending The Academy @ Shawnee (formerly Shawnee High School). At that time, the school had the lowest test scores in Kentucky.
“Largely, test scores tell you about the economic demographics of a school more than anything else,” Thompson says. “We wanted to give these students the opportunity to talk about their lives using their own words.”
Our Shawnee, published in May 2014, became the bestselling book in Louisville that year. Articles touting it were published in the Courier Journal and USA Today.
Another book called I Said Bang!: The History of the Dirt Bowl includes 37 authors and details a decades-long,
community-wide, grassroots basketball tournament. Published in 2016, the book won two national awards from the American Association for State and Local History. It also received a History in Progress award, which is only given to one or two projects a year in the country.
To date, the Louisville Story Program has produced 12 major publications, including the most recent from September 2024 called I’m Glad About It. It’s a book and boxed set about the legacy of gospel music in Louisville that features 83 restored recordings that were originally released on vinyl records between 1958 and 1981 by local gospel artists. Some of the projects have been photography based. For instance, Available Light, a coffee-table book, documents and preserves the legacy of Louisville’s black photographers. It honors the legacy of Bud Dorsey, West Louisville’s most iconic photographer who snapped more photos of life in black Louisville from 1970 on than anyone else in the city.
The Louisville Story Program also completed a youth project on the Kentucky School for the Blind.
“It’s the only book that’s ever been written by blind and visually impaired teenagers talking about their experiences in the world,” says Thompson, noting that they made three editions of the book, including a braille, large print, and standard print.
Better Lucky Than Good documents the backside of Churchill Downs, home of the Kentucky Derby. Written by 32 people who work in the barns performing various jobs such as stable hands, hot walkers, grooms, outriders, jockeys and gate workers, the book provides various perspectives and shows the collective effort it takes to put on the iconic race.
While the Louisville Story Program initially began with Thompson seeking out people to share their stories, as word spread, more people began knocking on their door to ask
about a collaboration.
“We love it when people come to us with an idea,” says Thompson, who makes sure that during this collaboration between author and editor, he gets it right.
“We are accountable to them,” Thompson says. “It’s important because people are trusting us with their most precious stories.”
Right now the Louisville Story Program is working on a book called The Peacekeepers Project that will launch in the fall in conjunction with a national conference that will be held in Louisville.
“We were approached by a national organization called Cities United,” Thompson says. “They work with folks in 130 cities to help build safer and healthier communities by reducing community violence.”
After each project is complete, the Louisville Story Program holds book launching events where they invite the community to participate. On average, around 400 people come out to each book launch. While some people are friends and family of the authors, many are community members who are there to celebrate the project. Clearly, the community wants to hear these stories.
“There are experiences people have been affected by, in which they feel a connection through honesty and candor,” Thompson says. “Seeing their experience represented can be really powerful.”
In the case of Our Shawnee, for instance, many students go into school facing challenges with limited access to resources. Thompson explains that a student’s trauma may manifest in anger or frustration. What often follows is blame to the student and/or their family, which
isn’t fair. This book shows the amazing writing students are capable of when they are supported and championed.
“That was really powerful for them because the world is always telling them and their families that they are nothing,” Thompson says. “To pour iron into their spine is really amazing.”
And then there is simply the human element that mustn’t be forgotten.
“As humans, we are wired for connection,” Thompson says. “That’s why sharing our stories is so important.”
The Louisville Story Program is located at 859 Library Lane in Louisville. For more information, call 502-583-3326, email hello@louisvillestoryprogram.org, or visit louisvillestoryprogram.org.
Hop Aboard our Trains
QUALITY PLUS MORE
WINDOWS PLUS GEARS UP FOR BUSY SUMMER SEASON
When Todd Ovington graduated from high school, he took what he thought was a short-term job with a friend’s dad installing windows. Now, Ovington owns Windows Plus, one of Louisville’s largest window companies. Since 2017 Windows Plus has strived to put quality first, by providing a variety of services that can improve the appearance and value of homes for many years.
Writer / Gavin LaPaille
Serving central Kentucky and southeastern Indiana, including Louisville, Lexington, Elizabethtown and Clarksville, Windows Plus uses high-quality products for solutions towards window replacement, door replacement, home siding, kitchen cabinet refacing and bathroom remodeling. From initial design consultation to expert installations that are quick, easy and mess free, the Windows Plus team wants to provide superior customer service at every phase of the remodel process.
“We have a true lifetime warranty so we only offer products that we can stand behind,” Ovington said. “Most companies offer a limited lifetime guarantee with a lot of exclusions. Windows Plus warranty does not reflect that.”
Ovington’s journey into owning a window installation company was long, as he worked for several different companies performing various tasks before branching
out on his own. While out on jobs, he often felt the quality of products was not up to the standards he would want for his own home. Ovington’s main motive for starting Windows Plus was to ensure customers are getting what they are expecting when purchasing windows.
“I wanted to work independently to ensure customers received the quality they deserved; your home is a safe place,” Ovington said. “As a subcontractor replacing windows, I noticed that many customers were being sold subpar products. When I started my own company, I wanted to offer a product that would stand the test of time with a warranty that supports that. I’m a pretty meticulous person. I take pride in my attention to detail in the home improvement industry. I realized after doing it for many years not everyone is as meticulous as I was. I always strive to be the best.”
With over 50 employees and a wide variety
of services offered, Windows Plus offers expertise in all of its products to ensure the greatest quality. Warranties protect the entire lifespan of the products as set forth by the manufacture, and can be transferred to new homeowners. The attention to detail has paid off, as Windows Plus comes with high praise. Windows Plus has an A+ rating and accreditation with the Better Business Bureau, and was the 2018 recipient of Angi Super Service Award.
Initially providing just windows and door remodeling, Windows Plus eventually expanded to other services including siding and guttering, before eventually adding shower and bathroom remodeling to its repertoire. Recently Windows Plus has started kitchen cabinet styling, an area of the business Ovington hopes to grow over time.
“Everything is handled in-house; we have W2 employees,” Ovington said. “We focus on training and hiring a specialist for each specific product. Our systems and training processes are fully documented to ensure that every team member is highly skilled and effectively installing the products we offer.”
Known as the Pink Team, Ovington chose pink as the official color for Windows Plus, as no other companies seemed to use pink. Windows Plus also partnered with the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation in Louisville for several years to further highlight its association with the color pink. The color makes Windows Plus very visible, with its headquarters right off Interstate 64 near the Blankenbaker Parkway exit, and its
trucks driving around Louisville.
“My aunt was diagnosed with breast cancer around the time I started the company,” Ovington said. “I noticed an increasing number of people being diagnosed with breast cancer, which inspired me to support the cause. When I founded Windows Plus, many companies used colors like red or blue, but none had embraced pink.”
On its website, Windows Plus shows the numerous past projects its staff has completed on a wide range of homes all over the region, generally servicing
about 100 customers per week. With the interactive map, customers can easily see the location of Ovington’s past work and what products were purchased, with the ability to filter down to the different job types. Also on the website there are many customer testimonials supporting Ovington and his team for work they have completed, and a regularly updated blog gives tips on how to approach different remodeling projects. Costs can vary considering the size and scope of the home’s needs, but Ovington is committed to ensuring his team doesn’t cut corners and gives customers exactly what they paid for.
“We want to make sure customers choose a product that fits the area we live in,” Ovington said. “Our windows and doors are built to withstand all four seasons, and we’re the ones actually doing the work. Many competitors rely on subcontractors to complete the work. When an issue occurs, homeowners can often feel frustrated and get the runaround. We call this the home improving waltz, where no one wants to take responsibility for the mistake, and homeowners are left chasing down someone to fix it. At Windows Plus we take full responsibility for our installations. Many competitors add service fees for products
still under warranty, charging the customer for labor or repairs. At Windows Plus we believe this should be included. If you call us, you deal directly with our team. We respond promptly without service fees.”
Windows Plus offers free estimates, and it typically takes about six to eight weeks from order to install, with products usually installed in just one day. Ovington understands not everyone can afford to pay for all services up front. Windows Plus offers finance options that offer the flexibility some customers are after. Potential customers can obtain a free quote by submitting their name, address, phone number, email and project type they are envisioning. From the time of purchase, every customer’s job is reviewed by multiple departments to ensure the remodel process is completed accurately and efficiently. Even with the unpredictable nature of local weather patterns, Windows Plus rarely reschedules jobs and works in all conditions. The company regularly offers
ACCOUNTING
special promotions and discounts, and welcomes any questions.
At Windows Plus the focus isn’t just on selling products; its ensuring homeowners have all the information they need to make the best decision for their home. “We’ll come out and do a full, healthy home inspection at no charge,” Ovington said. “We create a priority list for the customer, so if and when they decide to move forward, they have all the information they need to make a decision.”
Windows Plus serves a diverse range of homeowners, from those in million-dollar estates to those in mobile homes. “I wouldn’t say there is a typical customer,” Ovington said. “We work with all types of homes and homeowners, ensuring that everyone receives the same level of care and quality service.”
Being locally owned and operated means Ovington lives in the same community as his customers, making him passionate about ensuring a high-quality standard.
At Windows Plus, customer-centered service is a top priority, something that sets the company apart in an industry dominated by franchises and large corporations. “We’re not a franchise or a corporation,” Ovington said. “Most of the options out there are.”
By maintaining full control over both product quality and customer service, Windows Plus delivers a level of accountability and care that larger companies often cannot match. For homeowners that means peace of mind, knowing they are working with a team that stands behind their promise every step of the way.
“We ensure that our customers receive exactly the service, product and warranty they deserve,” Ovington said.
For more information on Windows Plus, customers can call 502-632-3112 or visit windowsplusky.com.
MAY CROSSWORD PUZZLE
BUDDY AT THE BAT
THE MAN BEHIND THE MASCOT ENTERS HIS FINAL SEASON
Writers / Ed Peak and Devon Dean
As the Louisville Bats celebrate their 25th season of baseball at Slugger Field, a changing of the guard will take place at the end of the season for one of the team’s most beloved fixtures.
Jeremy Sharfe, an assistant principal at Dixie Elementary, is embarking on his farewell season as the man behind the mask, so to speak. Sharfe will retire from his role as Buddy Bat after 22 seasons.
Sharfe’s career as a mascot began during his college years at Western Kentucky University, where he spent two years as “Big Red.” After graduation, he made appearances as a mascot for Pepsi.
But Sharfe wanted more. After graduating from Western Kentucky with a degree in education, he called both the Louisville Bats and Churchill Downs. Both organizations interviewed him, culminating in him taking the role of “Churchill Charlie” for some time before deciding to focus on Buddy Bat.
FOR THE LOVE OF THE GAME
Sharfe’s passion for baseball is part of what drew him to audition for Buddy Bat. “I love baseball and sitting in the dugout before games and talking with the players,” said Sharfe. “I was a Cubs fan before the Bats. I loved Ryne Sandberg.” Sharfe recalled a memorable moment when Sandberg, managing Lehigh Valley, remembered him days after a brief conversation. “When I walked past, he said ‘hi Jeremy.’ That was neat he knew who I was.”
Louisville Bats President Greg Galiette told a story of how Sharfe’s passion got him in a bit of hot water once, with Buddy Bat being one of the first-ever baseball mascots to be ejected from a game by an umpire. Galiette wouldn’t get into too many specifics, other than saying, “Buddy did not agree with a close call at second base.”
BEYOND THE BALLPARK
Performing as Buddy Bat has involved more than just game-day antics. Sharfe used to make over 100 appearances a year outside of Bats games, including visiting hospitals and working to cheer up patients of all ages. “I used to go to hospitals 20 to 30 times a year. Now it’s about four or five,” said Sharfe. “Seeing those kids with cancer... I’ve cried inside the costume. It’s tough.”
Being Buddy Bat has not come without its challenges. The physical toll of the role is significant. The Bats’ costume is notoriously warm, and the large headpiece has caused Sharfe neck problems. “Kendrick Haskins of WAVE-TV has wanted to put a thermometer on my neck to find out just how hot it is in the suit,” he said. “He hasn’t done that yet. But maybe he will this year.”
Throughout the years, Sharfe has gone through three or four costumes annually, especially as the large hands wear out and get slick each summer.
HANGING IT UP
Sharfe is retiring to focus on his family, as well as his music career. Sharfe is an accomplished, multi-instrument musician. He plays acoustic guitar, mandolin, harmonica, and piano. He has even played the National Anthem before the game in the suit. “We had a special head created with a hole cut out so Jeremy could play the trumpet as Buddy,” said Galiette.
The decision to retire wasn’t easy. When Sharfe informed Galiette and the team this winter, it was an emotional moment. “I was in tears,” said Sharfe. “Greg and Michelle Anderson have been great to me and everyone in the organization as well.”
Galiette admitted whoever is the eventual successor will have some big shoes to fill.
“We wanted a character similar to The San Diego Chicken. Someone known for having fun. I think everyone knows who Buddy Bat is. Our goal was to have a brand that exemplified fun for families,” he said, likening the mascot to the popular children’s character Bluey.
Initially, Sharfe and Galiette collaborated to shape Buddy’s personality. “He’s mischievous,” Galiette explained. “Pushing the envelope as a character that is good with kids, with a bit of snark thrown in.” Galiette said Sharfe pushed the envelope in terms of physicality as well.
“Jeremy would walk on his hands in the costume during kids’ races between innings,” Galiette explained. “That’s not an easy skill to master.”
WHAT’S NEXT FOR BUDDY BAT
Dan Peyton, the current “Churchill Charlie,” will step into the role in the interim. Sharfe will stay on to help select an apprentice to carry the Buddy Bat torch. “We want to lean on him to look around at current local high school and college mascots to see who might be a good fit,” Galiette said.
Though the costume will soon be worn by someone new, Sharfe’s legacy as Buddy Bat— bringing joy to fans, supporting the community, and embodying the spirit of the game—will remain a cherished part of Louisville Bats history.
For a complete schedule or to get tickets, visit milb.com/louisville.
At
we believe your home should nurture every part of
lifestyle—including your love for the
and your connection to community. Our thoughtfully designed neighborhoods create the perfect blend of comfort, beauty, and belonging. Whether you’re planting herbs on the patio or sharing garden tips with a neighbor, this is more than a home—it’s where your lifestyle takes root.
CELEBRATING GLOBAL FLAVORS
EL CAPORAL’S 35 YEARS OF AUTHENTIC MEXICAN CUISINE
Writer / Ryan Gabbert
Food is a universal language; a good meal resonates across linguistic, cultural and geographic barriers. Sharing a satisfying meal with loved ones is something we all have in common.
While the act of eating might generally be the same for everyone, food itself means something different in each corner of the globe. Every culture has its unique take on cuisine. From pho in the streets of Vietnam to pickled herring in the fjords of Norway, food reflects culture and the world around it.
Mexican food is no different. It stands out because of the rich harmony of flavors in every bite. It combines fresh ingredients, intricate sauces and recipes steeped in history that predate colonial times.
A prime example of this is El Caporal, which has been spicing up the dining scene for Louisville residents since opening its doors in 1990. Back then Louisville had few options for authentic, high-quality Mexican cuisine. Recognizing this gap in the market, the team behind El Caporal set out to change that.
The first location was out on Preston Highway and it was a huge success, with the community embracing and celebrating the flavorful dishes.
Now celebrating its 35th anniversary, El Caporal operates two locations at Blankenbaker Parkway and Meadow Lane. With a strong base of loyal customers, it continues to uphold its outstanding reputation.
Luis Angeles, owner of the Blankenbaker location, has been with El Caporal since 2003. Originally from Hidalgo, Mexico, he understands what this restaurant has meant to the Louisville community and why it stands out.
“When my partner, Jesus Leon, opened the first location on Preston Highway, it was one of the first authentic Mexican restaurants in the area,” he says. “We wanted to bring quality Mexican food to the people of Louisville.”
Mission accomplished.
Fresh ingredients are the standard for Mexican food, and El Caporal takes that standard seriously. Every entrée is grilled in its own natural juices, and the tortillas do not contain any preservatives or lard. The high quality and commitment to excellence are apparent with each bite. In addition to this, all of the salsas and sauces are homemade with fresh and dried chiles.
Great food connects with people, and El Caporal has that in abundance.
Its menu is vast, beginning with a large selection of alcoholic beverages and soft drinks. There is an impressive selection of Mexican beers, along with a variety of house-made margaritas.
Care that Comes to You
For an authentic experience, the michelada is not to be missed. It features your favorite Mexican beer chilled in a 32-ounce mug with lime, salt, a hint of Cholula hot sauce, Clamato tomato juice and black pepper.
In addition to the drinks, El Caporal offers a wide variety of traditional Mexican dishes. From sizzling fajitas to savory enchiladas and crispy fish tacos, there is something for
every appetite. Customers will find familiar favorites, as well as discover new tastes and spices.
With a variety of lunch specials and items for the kids, it is a great choice for the whole family.
There is also a large number of vegetarian options on the menu, like the Chiles
Poblanos Rellenos. This is a fried, stuffed pepper bursting with flavor.
The menu also includes traditional Mexican desserts such as flan, churros, fried ice cream and even a cheesecake burrito. No, that is not a typo. The cheesecake burrito is made of creamy cheesecake wrapped in a golden brown pastry tortilla and finished with a dash of cinnamon sugar. Delicioso!
El Caporal is locally owned and operated, ensuring only the best for its hard-working customers. The staff at El Caporal want nothing more than to give back to their adopted hometown - a town that has embraced them so openly.
“I moved here in 1993, and Louisville has been and still is a great place to raise a family,” Angeles says.
Looking ahead, the team at El Caporal want to keep expanding around Louisville and possibly beyond, with more locations and
more outstanding food. No matter how big the franchise gets, however, it will never lose sight of what made it a success in the first place - being a family-owned neighborhood restaurant.
“We’re still a family restaurant,” Angeles says. “We like to know our customers.”
35 years is quite a milestone for anything, whether in marriage, a career, or - especially - the restaurant industry. Through decades of change, wars, recessions and more, El Caporal and its dedicated team have stood the test of time. Success is never guaranteed, but as long as the people of Louisville appreciate high-quality, delicious food, it’s not going anywhere.
If you would like more information about El Caporal, visit their website at mycaporal. com, follow them on social media, or visit one of their locations.
AROUND THE COMMUNITY, 2025
LOUISVILLE AREA EVENTS
1
2025 TASTE OF DERBY
Kentucky International Convention Center, 221 S. 4th St. kyconvention.com
KENTUCKIANA HONDA DEALERS FESTIVAL DAY AT THE DOWNS
Churchill Downs 11:30 AM - 6 PM eventbrite.com
2
5TH ANNUAL KEG & EGGS
Lou Lou on Market, 812 E. Market St. 9 AM - 2 PM loulouonmarket.com
GIRL’S NIGHT OUT CRUISE Belle of Louisville
7 - 9 PM belleoflouisville.org
10
BEECHMONT FESTIVAL OF FLOWERS 2025
Cornerstone Baptist Church Parking Lots, Southern Parkway & W. Wellington Ave. 9 AM - 3 PM beechmont.org
THROO THE ZOO 5K RUN/WALK 2025
Louisville Zoo 8 AM louisvillezoo.org
12 WWE MONDAY NIGHT RAW KFC YUM! Center 7:30pm 17 20TH ANNUAL FEAT OF LOUISVILLE 5K RUN/WALK FOR AUTISM
The Parklands at Floyds Fork, Beckley Creek Pkwy. 9 AM - 12 PM feat5k.com
JUNIOR EXPLORER: TURTLE DERBY
Ogle Foundation Woodland Pavilion in Broad Run Park, 10801 Lasater Rd. 10 AM
KOKEDAMA WORKSHOP
Waterfront Botanical Gardens, 1435 Frankfort Ave.
1 - 2:30 PM waterfrontgardens.org
22
ABBEY ROAD ON THE RIVER
Big Four Station Park, Market and Pearl Streets
1 - 10 PM arotr.com
25
HOMETOWN HALF MARATHON/10K/5K - LOUISVILLE, KY
Broad Run Park/Cliffside Playground, 10700 Broad Run Pkwy. 7 - 10 AM eventvesta.com
28
GROWN-UP STORYTIME 502 West Sixth NuLu, 817 East Market Street, Suite 101. 7 - 8:30 PM
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 alive at Lou Lou on Market. The new concept continues its traditional Low Country cuisine, but Chef Cristian Garay adds his flair and creates a new menu. 812 East Market Street 502-515-9699
WFPK WATERFRONT WEDNESDAY
Big Four Lawn, 129 W. River Rd.
5 - 10 PM
2025 Season Artists TBD ourwaterfront.org 29
KEVIN JAMES: OWLS DON’T WALK
Louisville Palace, 625 S. 4th St. 7:30 PM
Doors open at 6:30 pm. All sales are final. No refunds or exchanges. Everyone, regardless of age including babes in arms, must purchase a ticket.
MICHELANGELO: LOVE AND DEATH AT SPEED CINEMA
Speed Art Museum 12:30 - 2 PM
Exhibition on screen. speedmuseum.org
VITALITY ST. MATTHEWS
Writer / Gavin LaPaille
Upon entering Vitality St. Matthews, you will be warmly greeted by a team of dedicated and friendly staff, led by Executive Director Mark Witt, who has been with the community for seven years and oversees the care and services provided to 70 senior residents.
One point of pride for Vitality is the substantial number of employees who have served for 20 or more years, contributing to an impressive average staff tenure of 14 years.
Specializing in independent and assisted living, Vitality Living St. Matthews offers older adults the opportunity to lead a vibrant lifestyle, enjoying fine dining, a bustling social calendar, housekeeping services, and the opportunity to develop friendships within the community. For those in need of additional assistance, the community is licensed to provide assisted living services, including support with medications, dressing, bathing, and other daily activities.
Mark Witt emphasized, “We are considered a small, yet special community. We prioritize getting to know our residents well and are proud to have achieved top
customer satisfaction scores. Additionally, we have been recognized by US News for two consecutive years, ranking in the top 10% of all assisted living communities in the state.”
Community Sales Director Ashley Gamlin finds joy in conducting tours onsite, explaining, “Residents maintain the same freedoms they had at home, just within this wonderful community. We focus on understanding and meeting their individual needs.”
Mark and Ashley emphasized each resident’s uniqueness, acknowledging that various reasons may have led them to join the community. “Our goal is to learn about each resident and embrace their individuality, ensuring all our interactions are filled with kindness. We strive to ensure that our residents lead a high-quality life by providing regular nutritious meals, aiding with medication, and encouraging socialization within their peer group.”
Mark Witt described the various activities provided for the residents, including outings, shopping trips, and partnerships with local entities such as churches and schools. “We aim to maintain a strong connection to the St. Matthews community,
ensuring the safety and wellbeing of our residents, and offering them an engaging and varied daily schedule.”
Throughout his career in Louisville, Witt has also been actively involved with state associations, stating, “Last year, Vitality St. Matthews reported an average length of stay for their residents that was nine months longer than the state average, indicating purpose and contentment. Residents feel connected, supported, and involved – they are part of our family. I am immensely proud of the dedicated team here.”
He recalls a family member saying to him, “you know there is a difference between providing care for someone and caring about someone. Your team here really cares about my Mom as a person, not just as a task.”
For more information on Vitality St. Matthews, visit their website or call (502) 896-1759. Vitality St. Matthews also maintains an active Facebook page.
CONNECT
(502) 896-1759
SPIRIT AND SUCCESS
EASTERN HIGH SCHOOL CHEERLEADING TEAM WINS STATE
Writer / Julie Yates
state cheer competition, but also placed sixth in the 2025 Universal Cheerleaders Association (UCA) national high school cheerleading championships.
Cheerleading performances
have a long tradition of thrilling and entertaining audiences with tumbling skills, complex stunts and engaging choreography. This year, Eastern High School’s competitive cheer team has taken the sport to its next level. Currently celebrating a successful season full of accomplishments, the team members know all the hard work and long hours of practicing their routine full of complex stunts was well worth it.
The all-girl, small varsity Division I squad not only won state at the annual Kentucky High School Athletic Association (KHSAA)
Coach Merideth Foreman is understandably proud. She is in her second year on staff at Eastern High School. She was serving as assistant coach when the head coach stepped down in the middle of the season. She was a cheerleader in middle and high school and began her cheer coaching career while still in college, beginning with middle school students. Foreman understands that to be a winning competitive team, the sport requires endurance, strength, skill and some serious stunts.
“In Kentucky the sport of cheerleading is very competitive,” she says. “Within the cheer community, there are tons of teams
that are recognized at the national level. Every girl on the team brings something different. The team came together from multiple middle schools and some girls have been members during all their high school years. We benefited from girls with experience. Some are natural leaders and I could rely on them to help and lead the whole team.”
The Eagles’ winning journey began in October at Shelby County High School where they placed first at the KHSAA Region Four competition. This qualified them to compete at the Kentucky State Competitive Cheer Championships, which were held at George Rogers High School in December. After the thrill of becoming state champions, they qualified for the UCA national championships held at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando,
Florida, in February. After breezing through semifinals, they earned a sixth-place win against 112 of the best Division I teams in the country.
“This season, our magic moment was when we won regional to go to state,” Foreman says. “That motivated the girls to put in the hard work that it takes to win state and achieve an undefeated season they can be proud of. Once they get a routine down, the girls like to get it perfect.”
The team’s winning routine is two and a half minutes, and packed with stunts, tumbling and cheer chants. The accompanying music is comprised of 20 second snippets of various songs. When “Whoomp (There It Is)” by the hip-hop duo Tag Team was played, the girls chanted “Swoop, there it is,” in reference to their signature cheer chant, “Swoop up with the Eagles.”
“Tyra Anderson, who used to coach at Eastern, created the choreography for the routine,” Foreman says. “It helps that some of the girls know her, and she made a fun routine. She highlighted the things we like to do. The girls continued to work on the routine and this year we were able to perfect the stunts. One was a freestanding pirouette. The flyer is lifted into the air, hand in hand with the base, and then thrown upright, allowing her to perform a standing spin with supported feet.”
Teamwork extends outside of school through community outreach. Giving back helps the girls bond. Each year the
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.
Little Eagles Clinic is held and participants from around the Louisville area, not just Middletown, attend. A short routine is taught and performed at an Eagles game. Marching in the Family Fun Festival parade and taking part in charity walks to benefit cancer research are other activities the team enjoys.
Although there are still basketball games to cheer at, preparations for next season are starting. Tryouts for the 2025-2026 season will be held in April. Open gym dates are April 14, 16 and 17. Tryout clinics are April 21 and 22. Tryouts will be April 23. Eastern High School is the location for each day, and the times are 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. except for tryouts, which will last until 8 p.m.
“Some girls have been on the squad all their four years and won state in 2021 as freshmen,” Foreman says. “So, they started and ended their high school cheering careers as state champions. I’m so proud of all the girls. They set a goal and achieved it.”
COREY BOSTON
corey@townepost.com
(502) 407-0185
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