Inspire • February 2023

Tiffany T. Senior Administrative Assistant

At LG&E, we’re empowering possibilities for everyone in the communities we serve by taking part in efforts to help bring lasting change with diversity, equity, and inclusion across Kentucky.

Our efforts include spending over $185 million with 109 diverse businesses last year and donating $100,000 to help lower the education gap among students of color.

There’s still work to do, but we’re proud to continue fostering a better, more inclusive environment within our organization and our communities. Visit lge-ku.com/diversity to learn more.

Mattea K. Mechanical Engineer II

Fanika S. Service Technician

Alfonso M. Distribution Crew Leader

PRODUCED BY: TOP MARKETING GROUP, LLC. | HOME OF TOPS LOUISVILLE & LEXINGTON (502) 780-7825 | TOPSLOUISVILLE.COM | GETMORE@TOPSLOUISVILLE.COM

CONTRIBUTORS

DAWN ANDERSON WRITER | DICK ARNSPIGER PHOTOGRAPHER | AMANDA HARPER GRAPHIC DESIGNER

HALEY NORRIS GRAPHIC DESIGNER | PETER CHAWAGA WRITER

PHOTOS GDL REPORTER ELLE BOTTOM | BYLINE: LYNNE CHOATE

kyarber@topsmarketing.com

JOHN SHAW-WOO Community Advisor

KEITH YARBER Publisher

JAYME JACKSON President

ANNALISA GUMBRECHT Lead Graphic Designer studiogumbrecht.com

Kentucky

LOUI SV ILLE KE NTUC KY

Inspired

spots:

Black-Owned Eateries You Should Know

courtesy photos

Four Pegs

When is a bar more than a bar? When it offers an incredible menu of smoked barbecue! This Germantown gastropub is a can’t-miss. Do you dare take on “The Greatest” Challenge Burger? It really puts up a fight, just like its namesake!

TOP Pick: 502 Quérrito

1053 Goss Ave. | Louisville, Ky 40217 | fourpegs.net

Dasha Barbour’s Southern Bistro

If you’re looking for soul food classics in a fabulous sit-down environment, look no further. Fried green tomatoes, deep fried catfish, incredible fried chicken, gooey macaroni and cheese… all in the heart of downtown! What more could you need? Don’t miss their Sunday brunch!

TOP Pick: Dasha’s Chicken & Waffles

217 E. Main St. | Louisville, Ky 40404 | dbsbistro.com

Six Forks Burger Co.

Owners Troy and Selena invite everyone to discover their perfect burger at Six Forks. Build your own, or try one of their chef-driven creations. They offer some exotic meat selections – such as alligator – to entice seasoned burger enthusiasts.

TOP Pick: Junkyard Burger

1039 Ash St. | Louisville, Ky 40217 sixforksburgers.com

The Seafood Lady

Craving seafood in the Midwest? We know a Lady! With two great locations, The Seafood Lady has something for just about everyone – fried catfish, crab legs, seafood tacos, chicken wings, all you can eat shrimp and beyond.

TOP Pick: Seafood Tacos Trio

Nulu and Fern Valley | seafoodlady502.com

Happy Belly Bistro

Owner and chef Ashlee Northington brings her style of fusion foods to the table at Ten20 Brewery. Think casual gourmet with a touch of daring. The rotating menu and weekly specials ensure that there’s always something fresh and exciting to keep your belly happy.

TOP Pick: Birria Ramen

1020 E Washington St. | Louisville, Ky 40206 happybellybistro.com

Kizito

Looking for something sweet? Kizito serves up baked goods, cookies and African crafts at their Bardstown Road bakery. What’s even sweeter? You’ll love Elizabeth Kizito’s energy (and her tasty cookies!) You can also find their cookies at a variety of local shops, so keep an eye out!

TOP Pick: Lucky in Kentucky Cookie

1398 Bardstown Rd. | Louisville, Ky 40204 kizito.com

Six Forks

The Seafood Lady

Happy Belly Bistro

Kizito

Inspired

reads:Books by Black Authors

Salvage the Bones

Jesmyn Ward

This novel tells the story of a poor Mississippi family preparing for hurricane Katrina. The motherless children must take care of one another to survive.

The Nickel Boys Colson Whitehead

This heartwrenching book explores devastating abuse at a reform school in Jim Crow-era Florida. This novel won the 2020 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction.

The Vanishing Half Brit Bennett

Twin sisters run away from their hometown. One returns to the town with her daughter even though they look down on her; the other lives passing as white woman.

Black Leopard, Red Wolf

Marlon

James

This fantasy series kicks off with mystery and adventure, interwoven with African history and mythology. Gripping and ambitious, you won’t want to put it down.

The Violin Conspiracy

Brendan Slocumb

A classical violinist’s priceless instrument is stolen on the eve of a major competition. This novel is as much a thrilling mystery as a coming-of-age story.

Perfect Black

Crystal Wilkinson

This book combines poetry and prose to explore pain, loss, love and life as a Black woman in Southern Appalachia. An 2022 NAACP Image Award Winner.

Black L.O.V.E. Philanthropic Partnership

Live. Own. Vote. Excel.

The mission of the Black L.O.V.E. Philanthropic Partnership is “to advance a culture of philanthropy rooted in generosity, justice, and shared accountability. The BLPP envisions a philanthropic culture that attacks the roots of systemic inequality powered by the expertise and leadership of impacted people and communities,” explains Metro United Way.

Based on BMc Community Black L.O.V.E. agenda, this partnership helps pool philanthropic resources to invest in seven core focus areas recommended by the Black Social Change Funders Network:

• Civic Engagement & Political Power

• Organizing & People Power

• Policy Advocacy & System Reform

• Economic Development & Economic Power

• Research & Intellectual Power

• Communications/Narrative & Social Power

• Leadership Development & Strategic Convenings

A key component of the BLPP is remaining communitydriven, with initiatives steered by members of the community. This allows their philanthropic strategies to

be more responsive and more impactful to the needs of the Black community in the Greater Louisville region. In the initial round of investments in 2021, the 19 funded partners from the Metro United Way’s seven-county region received a total of $1 million over two years. Nonprofit partners were selected by a volunteer-led committee based on the priorities outlined by Black L.O.V.E. Ten of those were brand new partners to the MUW.

Metro United Way works “every day to lift our community by mobilizing people and maximizing our community’s resources to advance opportunity and equity for all.” They add, “Metro United Way drives efficiency and impact through best practice sharing, data-informed decision making, advocacy, and accountability for quality and results. We harness the power of donors, volunteers, thought leaders, experts, other nonprofits and government at all levels to ensure positive, sustainable change. Our vision and mission reflect our fundamental belief that all people belong and deserve fairness, justice, and inclusivity.”

Want to help support this mission? Donate to the Black L.O.V.E. Philanthropic Partnership by visiting metrounitedway.org/donate-to-black-l-o-v-e

Some of the Black L.O.V.E Grant Recipients at the Metro United Way’s 2021 Recipient Reception

BLPP Priorities:

• Live: Access to affordable and healthy food, equitable justice, safe and efficient transportation, health and human services, parks and green spaces.

• Own: Affordable, safe housing and home ownership, public safety, economic development.

• Vote: Increase of Black voter registration and turnout.

• Excel: Equitable access to quality education, living wages, job training and strong neighborhoods.

The Faces Changing History in Louisville: Aaron Jordan

BY DAWN ANDERSON | PHOTO BY DICK ARNSPIGER | COURTESY PHOTOS

Black Complex Louisville has exciting announcements for 2023, including the 4th annual Louisville Juneteenth Festival to be held mid-June 2023. Aaron Jordan, Founder + CEO of Black Complex Louisville, created the Louisville Juneteenth Festival out of the social unrest of 2020. “The theme of Black History Month 2023 is Black Resistance,” says Jordan, “and this year’s Louisville Juneteenth Festival is prioritizing its connection to economic empowerment and development.”

Aaron Jordan graduated from Tennessee State University in Nashville, Tennessee, with a degree in Integrated Marketing and Communications. He is also an artist, songwriter, musician, and producer who became involved in music entertainment and activism after college, spending some time with Sony Music and Tree Sounds Studio in Atlanta, Georgia. Jordan’s vision for Louisville Juneteenth Festival grew out of his desire to “amplify and elevate social justice and economic empowerment.”

Inspired by the Sunday Service album and choir directed by Jason White, Jordan began making plans for Juneteenth 2020. “I asked friends to help put together a choir to represent Louisville on a national platform.” The Juneteenth Choir’s one-million-plus views “amplified the cause in terms of demanding justice for Breonna Taylor.” Jordan leverages his talents and skill set to grow the Louisville Juneteenth Festival year after year.

The five pillars of the festival theme of Black Resistance are:

1| Tourism

2| Economic Empowerment

3| Social Impact

4| Educational Programming

5| Creative Placemaking

Jordan built the organization that produces Louisville Juneteenth Festival as its signature event upon similar

values. “Black Complex Louisville is a coworking space and member community to ensure Black and Brown people are at the helm of decision-making as Louisville benefits from the social economy.” With BCL, “the creative community is supported and at the table.” According to Jordan, “Historically, minorities have been marginalized and undervalued in Louisville, Kentucky.” Black Complex Louisville is partnering with Epping District (eppingdistrict.com) on a new business, entertainment, food, and retail development in the East Broadway corridor at Logan Street in the Smoketown neighborhood.

A series of early June events, including a Block Party, will lead up to the 2023 Louisville Juneteenth Festival. Some repeat events from 2022 will combine with 2023’s “expanding footprint through partnerships.” This year’s festival coincides with celebrations of the 50th anniversary of Hip Hop, “empowering the stakeholders of hip-hop culture.” For example, the City of New York, the NYC Mayor’s Office, and the Universal Hip Hop Museum (uhhm.org) in the Bronx have engaged in a 12-month partnership to celebrate with local community activities in all five boroughs and a global concert.

Aaron Jordan, Black Complex Louisville, and the Louisville Juneteenth Festival continue to seek corporate sponsors, volunteers, talent, and vendors to celebrate throughout June, including Juneteenth weekend. “I strongly encourage everyone to lean in, be bold, and be intentional with actionable steps to create a sustainable, healthy, vibrant Louisville.” Black Complex Louisville’s tagline is “Do Something Black Today!”

For more information, visit blackcomplexlouisville. com and louisvillejuneteenthfest.com. Follow @ blackcomplexlouisville and @louisvillejuneteenthfest on Instagram and @blackcomplexlou and @loujuneteenthfest on Facebook for the latest announcements and updates.

The Faces Changing History in Louisville: Nailah Spencer

BY DAWN ANDERSON | PHOTOS GDL REPORTER ELLE BOTTOM

Nearly a year into her on-air position as Lifestyle Reporter for WHAS11’s Great Day Live, Nailah Spencer has arrived at a full-circle moment she firmly believes she manifested for herself, inspired by other Black women in Louisville media. She recalls being admonished in her middle school AP classes for “asking too many questions” and then being limited by her teachers to two questions per day. Building a successful career out of asking questions is poetic justice.

Spencer, who grew up in Louisville, Southern Indiana, and Dallas, Texas, was a 15-year-old student at Ballard High School in February 2012 when 17-year-old Trayvon Martin was shot and killed in his father’s girlfriend’s Sanford, Florida subdivision by neighborhood watch coordinator George Zimmerman. Zimmerman was charged with murder but claimed self-defense and was acquitted at trial.

“That’s when I decided we need to tell our own stories and change the narrative,” says Spencer. So she began creating YouTube videos about what she saw in the news and throughout the trial. “I wanted to encourage others to stay informed about what was happening in their communities, and to use their voices to speak out against injustices.” Spencer was also involved in debate and theater. Her mother put it all together and suggested journalism.

Spencer joined the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) as a student at the University of Kentucky. “We were able to tour stations, meet mentors, attend seminars, and find a real sense of community.” She also covered politics, news, lifestyle, and entertainment for various student-run campus media organizations.

Although Spencer was finding her niche, she felt pressure in college to straighten the natural hair her mother had always encouraged her to embrace. During her junior and senior years, Spencer had her first experiences with live television. In her 2019 reel, her hair was styled many different ways. “It was hurtful to think that could play a role in whether or not I could get a job.” But in July 2021, Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer signed the CROWN (Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair) Act, banning discrimination based on a person’s natural hair or hairstyles. The CROWN Act is a legislative priority for the ACLU of Kentucky in 2023.

After graduating from UK in 2019 with a B.A. in Journalism, Spencer began her professional career as a news reporter with WTVM in Columbus, Georgia. She covered East Alabama and West Georgia, reporting on issues such as the pandemic and social unrest. Traveling as a Black woman in the Deep South during such a time was difficult.

A counter-protestor waved a Confederate flag in Spencer’s face at a protest in front of a Confederate statue in Hamilton, Georgia. “The work was rewarding, but it took a toll on my mental health. I was internalizing everything and had to reassess my work/life balance.” But Spencer says she received an amazing response from the community. “I was determined to remain fair and balanced, ensuring that people were properly represented and felt seen and heard.”

With the storytelling skills she honed in Georgia, Spencer returned to Louisville and freelanced for The Source - The Magazine of Hip Hop Music, Culture and Politics, “The Good Look” blog, and Today’s Woman Magazine. In February 2022, Spencer responded to a Great Day Live job posting. She secured the position, following in the footsteps of her aunt, former WHAS11 news reporter and anchor Donna Lacy Marshall.

Spencer is excited about covering Black History Month, Women’s History Month, AMPED RTBI, health and wellness, the local art scene, Louisville’s Black-owned businesses, and women entrepreneurs in 2023. Last year, she was thrilled to cover Kentucky Derby events she grew up hearing about as a child. For Derby 149, Spencer hopes to shine a light on the history of Black jockeys.

Spencer enjoys repurposing content for social media, with TikTok and Instagram Reels trending heavily. She frequents underrated gems like Dasha Barbours Southern Bistro and The Inner Warrior yoga studio, and Louisville’s most Instagram-worthy locations, such as murals by Kacy Jackson and Jaylin Stewart. “This is a food and art city with many things right in our backyard. Support small businesses to help drive the local economy and venture out of your neighborhood.” Visit whas11.com/great-day-live. Follow @nailahbrianna_ on Instagram and @NailahBSpencer on Facebook.

Fixing a Broken Heart

BYLINE: LYNNE CHOATE | COURTESY PHOTOS

Our heart can endure so much over time. The wear and tear of elevated blood pressure, too much bad cholesterol and a busy life dealing with finances, raising children and working a full-time job all can take a toll on the muscle that keeps blood pumping through the body 24/7. Add a heartbreaking divorce to an already strained muscle, and the combination could be deadly.

That is the situation schoolteacher Pamela St. John found herself in. She didn’t know what the issue was, she just knew she was struggling to keep up with her students at school, struggling to breathe while walking — especially when using stairs — and was exhausted all the time. After a quick trip to see the school nurse, she headed to the hospital.

Pamela went to Norton Audubon Hospital’s emergency department and was admitted for a battery of tests and a complete evaluation. The official diagnosis: heart failure as a result of broken-heart syndrome or stress cardiomyopathy. The stress that Pamela was under was causing her heart to fail.

Emotional or physical stress can weaken the heart muscle quite rapidly, making death from a broken heart a possibility. Stress cardiomyopathy often can affect the heart within a week of a stressful event.

As the test results were coming in, so was a team of specialists who would quickly become lifesavers in Pamela’s eyes. Leading the team was Kelly C. McCants, M.D., executive medical director of the Norton Heart & Vascular Institute Advanced Heart Failure & Recovery Program and executive director of the Institute for Health Equity, a part of Norton Healthcare. He explained that her heart was only functioning at 10%, whereas most people have about 60% to 70% percent heart function.

“Pamela needed our help. Her heart needed to recover from all the strain, and her body needed to recover as well,” Dr. McCants said. “We quickly started her on a regimen of daily medication while also starting to rebuild her stamina with a gradual, medically supervised exercise program.”

agnosis of systolic heart failure. Research has shown that the greatest benefit of improvement of the heart function within this time frame.

“Patients in the recovery program also have the support of a social worker and nurse educator to help make changes to diet, exercise and other lifestyle choices. They’re there to help the heart recover and continue on that path,” Dr. McCants

said. “And these patients will continue to be monitored by the heart failure team to ensure the muscle is

Pamela is grateful to the heart failure recovery team for the care and compas-

“We worked together,” she said. “They taught me how to live better. They gave me the medical tools I needed to reclaim my life,

Reversing heart failure

The Myocardial Recovery Program, part of the Norton Heart & Vascular Institute Advanced Heart Failure & Recovery Program, can help patients overcome heart failure.

Call (502) 636-8266

JOIN THE CONVERSATION

Celebrating Black Women In the Struggle: An Online History Presentation

Part of the Sunday Night Black History collection

SUN, MARCH 5, 2023, 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM CST

Join us for an online presentation celebrating Black Women of History who have contributed to our struggle

Alice Dunbar-Nelson: A Respectable Activist in the Late Victorian Age

Part of the Spring 2023 Events collection

WED, MARCH 8, 2023, 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM EST

Dr. Tara Green discusses Alice Dunbar-Nelson’s early years in New Orleans and Brooklyn from her new book.

African American Culinary Heritage

The leading cause of death among African Americans is heart disease. Among African Americans over the age of 20, 57.5% have hypertension.

ONLINE / CHECK DATES

“Come Meet A Black Person” Anti-Racism Virtual Series

SUN, MAR 12, 2023 1:00 PM MDT ONLINE

“Come Meet A Black Person” anti-racism networking event where nonBlacks talk about racism and eradicating racism with Blacks

13th Annual Lemon Project Spring Symposium (Virtual)

VISIT: https://www.eventbrite.com/d/online/events-next-month/african-american/?page=1

Join The Lemon Project: A Journey of Reconciliation for our Spring Symposium: “At the Root: Exploring Black Life, History, and Culture.”

FRI, MAR 24, 2023, 8:50 AM – SAT, MAR 25, 2023, 3:30 PM EDT

metrounitedway.org

presents Kentuc Ky’s first bourbon barrel art exhibit

Bourbon with HeART, Kentucky’s first and only artsfocused bourbon charity, is launching Barrels of HeART, a first-of-its-kind art exhibit opening February 2 at the Frazier History Museum in downtown Louisville.

The mission of Bourbon with HeART is to leverage the influence and popularity of Kentucky’s most iconic spiritbourbon - to raise funds, awareness, and education around our local art community. The organization is committed to providing better access and delivering first-class arts experiences to every person in Kentucky regardless of age, race, class, gender, or ability.

“Art is like a good glass of bourbon, it brings people together and encourages self-expression,” said Morgan Hancock, founder of Bourbon with HeART. “I started Barrels of HeART with the goal of creating a space for local artists to showcase their work, particularly those artists who may not always

have that opportunity. Our artists come from all walks of life, perspectives, and experiences, but the one thing they have in common is a love for Kentucky. And each one has poured that love into their piece.”

Twenty local artists were provided a barrel and a supply budget to bring their art to life. Exhibit attendees will vote on their favorite barrel design and the artist of the winning barrel design will be awarded a cash prize along with a donation to the charity of their choice. The remaining proceeds will be donated to area nonprofits.

Each barrel in the exhibit is also sponsored by local companies and bourbon brands who are committed to supporting Bourbon with HeART and Louisville’s arts community.

Learn more at BourbonWithHeart.org

artist profiles by : D aW n an D erson | artist photos by : D ic K arnspi G er

c himel forD

t he b est of Kentuc Ky

Now 33 years old, Chimel Ford began creating pop art at Pleasure Ridge Park High School when he was 14. “Creating art is my passion. I enjoy painting popular art that is bold and colorful and speaks to the heart.”

Chimel is excited about the opportunity and challenge of displaying his art on a barrel for Bourbon with HeART. “I’ve painted art on wine bottles, ornaments, and ceramics, but never on a barrel.” Inspired by everyday things, he loves combining different colors to make art come to life.

Sharing his talent with the world is important to Chimel. “I’m happiest when I’m creating art. It’s my gift to anyone needing something to smile about. Seeing Louisville, Kentucky light up with bright, colorful art brings people together.”

His mother, Helena, says Chimel is something special. “He has autism, but that doesn’t define him. His art does,” she says as she gestures to several vibrant canvases. “My son is self-taught. I had to watch and see it one day. My son paints with both hands, He’s ambidextrous, and I’ve never seen an artist do that.”

Chimel is working to produce a winning design allowing him to split the charitable donation between two organizations, The Hope Village, powered by The Hope Buss, and The Lord’s Kitchen Ministries. He hopes his art “inspires someone to do something they didn’t think they could do.”

barrel sponsore D by:

Keith a n D erson

barrel of D reams

From the bottle to the barrel, Keith Anderson is taking on yet another bourbon-related artistic challenge. The Louisville native is the first artist with the distinction of designing the Woodford Reserve Kentucky Derby bottle for two consecutive years, in 2018 and 2019. Keith is also the first Brown-Forman employee and the first African-American to hold the honor of his artwork appearing on the Limited Edition bottle.

Keith sees Bourbon with HeART as another unique opportunity to showcase his artwork and get his name out there for more exposure. But as with any creative project, this one has a more profound significance, “For me, art is my life. Not only do I enjoy art, but it is also therapeutic. It’s like therapy for the mind, body, and soul.”

With a hospitality background and fifteen years now with Brown-Forman, Keith assists in overseeing the café, catering, and preparation for bourbon tastings. “I was born and raised in Louisville, and art is Louisville. This city is known not only for the Derby but for its love of the arts.

Keith is very thankful for the opportunity to show off his passion for art. “If my barrel design wins, I can close my eyes and pick which nonprofit to donate my prize to because giving to any charity is a huge plus, especially in these times, and as a society, we need to give more!”

barrel sponsore D by:

DoW n s yn D rome of l ouisville’s aD ult a caDemy class

Tyler, Micheal, Jamia, Charlie, Jenny, Erinn, Grace, and Sheridan are the talented artists representing Down Syndrome of Louisville’s Adult Development Academy, aka “The Academy.” They are students in Mrs. Willow’s art class. The Academy offers a full curriculum for adults with Down syndrome who have completed high school. The curriculum includes literacy, math, computer skills, and elective subjects such as relationships, etiquette, art, music, safety, job readiness, basic health, fitness, nutrition, social engagement, and independent living skills.

Down Syndrome of Louisville

Operations Director Katie Zurkhulen says the organization is excited to participate in Bourbon with HeART. “It is a part of our mission to advocate for and educate our members. So the more we can get out in the community and show people their capabilities and just share their talents with the world is great.”

Katie is looking forward to the impact of showing the community that their adults are, in fact, adults. “They have relationships. They have jobs. Some of them live independently. And this just gives us another chance to share them.” Down Syndrome of Louisville serves over 1200 individuals in 24 surrounding Kentucky and Southern Indiana counties.

For more information, visit dsoflou.org. Follow @ DownSyndromeofLouisville on Facebook and Instagram.

barrel sponsore D by:

left to right, Tyler, Ms. Willow, Michael, Jamia, Charlie, Jenny, Executive Director Julie Torzewski

bourbon an D the bac KsiD e

Born and raised in Louisville, Kentucky, Darryl Montez Tucker is a Wellbeing Consultant for Humana and is married with four children, three of whom have autism. Darryl discovered his talent while attending a “paint and sip” with his wife and is excited by the challenge of creating his art piece on a bourbon barrel. His passion is finger painting, and he hopes to pursue a full-time art career one day.

“Art is essential because it relaxes me and takes me to another space where I can express myself on canvas. Art is important to Louisville because it speaks to each person differently, and people respect that.” Darryl’s attention is drawn to the strength of each of his subjects. “I focus on each subject’s darks and lights and try to bring them out in my paintings.”

If the public should vote for Darryl’s design as their favorite, he plans to support Families for Effective Autism Treatment (FEAT) of Louisville. FEAT of Louisville was created for families by families to support and fund autism programs for the entire family, including the Autism Friendly Business Initiative.

barrel sponsore D by:

latora schmiD t

ali’s louisville

A full-time creative in interior design, canvas art, set design, and staging, Latora Schmidt has found art to be her outlet in the world. “It has been my way as an introvert to connect with people in ways that I typically wouldn’t be able to do in a room.” She was excited to create on an entirely new surface. “I love what bourbon barrels mean to the state of Kentucky, and I look forward to combining two things that I loveart and bourbon! I am also excited to be among so many other great artists who bring different and unique audiences of their own for such a great cause!”

Latora is grateful to be part of Bourbon with HeART. “I’m excited to see what the other creatives come up with and to see the exhibit as a whole. And get the community involved in this.”

Having spent much of her youth in foster care, Latora found her haven in art. “Whether creating or simply admiring the works of others, it allows me to enter a world that can be defined however I want.” If her barrel design wins, Latora would like her charitable donation to go to Home of the Innocents. “What they provide for children in need during very difficult times makes them an organization very close to my heart. They provide children with what my art has given me, a safe space when the world is in chaos.”

barrel sponsore D by:

CAREER

BLACK

InSpire Black Louisville magazine is seeking qualified candidates for an advertising salesperson account executive position. Do you enjoy making money? Do you like to network, and work with Louisville’s best businesses and non-profit organizations? Then InSpire just might be the career opportunity you have been looking for. Full time and part time positions available. Flexible hours and work from home arrangements.

This is an exciting opportunity to get in on the ground floor and grow as the magazine grows.

If this sounds like you, please email a cover letter and resume to kyarber@topsmarketing.com

Women in Business

WRITTEN BY DAWN ANDERSON | PHOTOS BY: DICK ARNSPIGER

Marita A. Willis, President, Community EngagementCommunity Ventures

At Community Ventures, your dream is their mission and, according to President Marita A. Willis, “We have a professional, qualified team that is dedicated to preparing individuals to live, work, and play in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. We invest in people, providing business and homebuyer education along with lending.”

Willis’s career began in modeling, makeup, fashion, and retail before switching to banking. “I started as a bank teller and ended as a VP in Community Development. I was the Executive Director of a nonprofit for two years. I have learned and developed in every situation. I am a servant leader.”

Willis also serves as chair of the boards of MSD, Norton Children’s Hospital Foundation, and Kentucky’s Commission on Women. She is a board trustee of Louisville Collegiate School and Louisville Public Media. She is happiest when she is busy, and credits her family with giving her joy and balance.

But the road to prominence has not been easy. “As a Black businesswoman, I face many challenges that I have overcome again, again, and again,” says Willis. “I serve as a mentor for many women in the business community. I come as one, but I stand with many.” Her advice is to dream big. “Dream BIG - don’t let others tell you what you can or cannot accomplish. God knows the plans He has for you.”

Tracy Biddix, Retail Regional Division ManagerStock Yards Bank & Trust

At Stock Yards Bank & Trust, Tracy Biddix centers relationships in her business philosophy. “Since 1904, Stock Yards Bank has built personal relationships with our consumer and business clients. Getting to know your customers takes time and effort. The reward is trust and loyalty.”

Twenty-four years ago, Biddix was a stay-at-home mom selling Mary Kay Cosmetics but looking for a steady paycheck. She joined Stock Yards Bank, where her mentor, Linda Schaber, accelerated her growth and put her on a management trajectory. “I was like a sponge,” says Biddix, “soaking up everything there was to know about lending, handling conflict, and people management.” Upon Schaber’s retirement, Biddix was promoted to Retail Regional Division Manager. “This role allows me to live out my passion for developing people and creating efficiencies. Working at every level in the branches also prepared me for this next step in my career. I attribute my effectiveness to the fact that I have walked in the shoes of those I manage. I respect what they do and can relate to their struggles.”

Climbing the corporate ladder, Biddix says she hopes to see more female representation. “The higher I go, the more male-dominated it is. I confront this challenge by continually educating myself and seeking quality talent that can bring gender diversity. Knowledge and diversity are powerful tools for reshaping how we relate to our communities and move us closer to equity.” She believes good leaders speak last, listening and taking time to understand others before providing feedback. “My ultimate advice to women in my role is to remain teachable and never stop pursuing knowledge and self-development. When you stop learning, growth ceases, and you eventually become irrelevant.”

Verná Goatley, Executive Director - Louisville Metro Government Human Relations Commission

On July 2, 2020, at the height of the pandemic and social unrest in the city, then-Mayor Greg Fischer appointed Verná Goatley Executive Director of Louisville Metro Government’s Human Relations Commission. The office “seeks to bridge the many ethnic, racial, and religious groups in Louisville Metro through civil law enforcement, business certification, education, and outreach.” Goatley had previously worked in the areas of business development and supplier diversity. Her office’s civil rights work with Louisville Metro’s certification program was recognized by Louisville Central Community Center (LCCC) with the Ralph de Chabert Trustees of Inclusive Equity President’s Award and by the International Association of Official Human Rights Agencies (IAOHRA) with the Bill Hale Award.

Goatley’s passion for diversity, equity, and inclusion extends into her community service work. Since 1989, she has volunteered with the Black Achievers Program at the Chestnut Street Family YMCA. The Shawnee neighborhood resident is involved with the Shawnee Neighborhood Association and the Russell Place of Promise Advisory Committee. She is on the board of directors of NOIR Black Chamber of Commerce, Louisville Wheels Transportation. Chestnut Street YMCA, and Network of Entrepreneurial Women (NEW). Goatley is a member of the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW), NAACP Louisville Branch, and National Action Network.

“Being Black and female, there are always challenges questioning my ability and credentials for the position that I hold,” says Goatley, “but the work that I have done speaks for itself.” She has had her share of doubters, including a high school counselor who said she “wouldn’t amount to anything in life.” But look at her now! Goatley enjoys traveling, meeting new people, and spending time with family. “Family is precious to me.”

Tamika Jackson, Principal Broker/Co-Owner - Noir Realty

As Principal Broker and Co-Owner of Noir Realty, Tamika Jackson is proud of the strong representation of women in the business. “Noir Realty KY covers all aspects of real estate. Our team of women is inclusive of a builder, a general contractor, a property manager, a custom designer, affordable housing advocacy, and housing counseling.”

Jackson began her career path in property management of affordable housing. She later started working and collaborating with colleagues investing in real estate. Jackson became a realtor in 2009 and a broker in 2013. She opened a brokerage “to better market, connect, and collaborate with various individuals and associations that place value and high priority in bettering lives and communities in marginalized areas.”

As a business and community leader, Jackson is involved with the Parkland Business & Development Association, Parkland Preservation District Architectural Review Committee, Kentucky REALTORS®️, and the Louisville Affordable Housing Trust Fund. She finds balance through faith and family.

As a woman in her industry, Jackson has faced her share of challenges. “Most real estate holdings have been male-controlled and dominated.” She confronts those challenges and overcomes intimidation “by showing up” and being “prepared to move.” Jackson says the most important lesson she has learned in her career is versatility. Her advice is to “develop more expertise in different aspects of your career field - find your niche.”

Black History Month

Black History Month is a time for all Americans to celebrate and recognize the accomplishments and contributions of Black Americans throughout history. In Louisville, Kentucky, the importance of Black History Month is especially significant, given the city’s unique history and ongoing struggles with racism and inequality.

With the killing of Breonna Taylor, Louisville has been placed on the world stage, as a city to address America’s longstanding systematic, economic, and racial disparities that Black Americans have faced for centuries. Louisville has been provided an opportunity to create a more inclusive America, but the question is will it?

Louisville has a complex and fraught history when it comes to race relations. In the antebellum era, the city was a center of the slave trade, and its economy was built on the backs of enslaved people. During the Civil Rights era, Louisville was a hotbed of activism and resistance, with local leaders and activists working tirelessly to challenge segregation and discrimination. Today, Louisville is a city that re mains deeply divided along racial lines, with stark disparities in income, education, and health outcomes between Black and white residents.

In this context, Black History Month serves as an essential re minder of the struggles and achievements of Black Louisvillians throughout history. The month provides an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of people like Muhammad Ali, a Louisville native who became a global icon for his boxing skills and his outspoken advocacy for civil rights and social justice. Black History Month is also a chance to honor the contributions of lesser-known figures, such as activists and community leaders who have worked tirelessly to make Louisville a more just and equitable city.

One of the critical challenges facing Louisville today is the stark and persistent racial disparities that exist across a range of domains. For example, Black residents of Louisville are much more likely than their white counterparts to live in poverty, to lack access to quality healthcare, and to experience discrimination and harassment in their daily lives. These disparities are a product of centuries of systemic racism, from the era of slavery and Jim Crow to more recent policies such as redlining and mass incarceration.

Black History Month can be a powerful tool for addressing these disparities by raising awareness about the ongoing struggle for racial justice and equality. By celebrating the contributions and accomplishments of Black Louisvillians, we can inspire

“With the killing of Breonna Taylor, Louisville has been placed on the world stage, as a city to address America’s longstanding systematic and racial disparities that Black Americans have faced for centuries. Louisville has been provided an opportunity to create a more inclusive America, but the question is will it.”

- John Howard Shaw-Woo

a new generation of activists and leaders who are committed to building a more just and equitable society.

One example of this work in action is the Louisville Urban League, an organization that has been working for over a century to promote racial and economic justice in the city. The Urban League provides a wide range of services to Black Louisvillians, including job training and placement, educational programs, and community organizing. The organization also advocates for policy changes at the local, state, and federal levels to address the root causes of racial disparities and inequality.

Black History Month is also an opportunity to reflect on the progress that has been made in Louisville and across the country in the fight for racial justice. For example, the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which was passed in the wake of the Birmingham protests and other demonstrations, was a landmark piece of legislation that helped to outlaw segregation and discrimination in many areas of public life. However, it is essential to recognize that this progress has been hardwon and is still incomplete. Discrimination and inequality continue to plague many communities, and the struggle for justice and equality is far from over.

One way to continue this progress is by supporting Blackowned businesses in Louisville and beyond. Black entrepreneurs face many unique challenges when starting and growing their businesses, including limited access to capi -

tal, discriminatory lending practices, and a lack of visibility and recognition in mainstream media. By supporting Blackowned businesses, we can help to create economic opportunities and promote equity and inclusion in our communities.

Despite Black residents accounting for 23.4% of Louisville’s population, only 2.4% of businesses in Louisville are Black owned.

“We recognize that we are not going to reverse the effects of redlining, disinvestment and disenfranchisement overnight. It is going to take time and dollars,” said previous Mayor Greg Fischer. “Knowing that Black and other minority-owned businesses do not have access to the same resources that many white business owners do, we are increasing even more our intentionality around additional support structures for those businesses in the Fiscal Year 2022 budget.”

Another way to support the ongoing struggle for racial justice is by learning about the history and culture of Black Americans in Louisville and beyond. This might involve reading books and articles by Black authors, attending cultural events and performances, or visiting local museums and historical sites that highlight the achievements and contributions of Black Louisvillians throughout history.

In conclusion, Black History Month is a vital time for all.

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