TOPS Lexington - September 2020

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SEPT

the throwback issue

VOL 14 NO. 9

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Photos:

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Did You Know?

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32 36 38 40

Throwbacks of Lex Kincaid Towers 10 Cool Things That Happened in the Last 50 Years Photos:

Breaking the Bronze Ceiling The Sound of Music Digital Playbook:

Tackling the Digital World

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Vintage Airstream:

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Retro Fashion:

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Retro Fashion:

55 56 59 62 65

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Cruisin’ You Got the Look! Timeless The Preppy Handbook The Scent Remembers When... Inspiration:

Desiree Cross I Saw the Sign Don’t Go There Hair

STAY CONNECTED

Keep up with the Who’s Who, What’s New and What to Do by following us on social media, subscribing to our email newsletter and visiting our website!

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SEPT

the throwback issue 66

Dancing Through the Decades

68

WOW Wedding:

73

Pro to Know:

77

Throwback:

78 81 82 84 86 89 90 109 114

Angela & Cade MSI Productions Bridesmaid Dresses Gone Wrong Wedding Insider:

Timeless Wedding Houseplants Pets:

Curbside Pet Service

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Pet Parade Kids DIY:

Back to School

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Inspiration:

Dr. Shambra Mulder Tour of Homes:

Hip to Be Square Remarkable Remodels Home Décor:

Décor, But Make It Retro!

STAY CONNECTED

Keep up with the Who’s Who, What’s New and What to Do by following us on social media, subscribing to our email newsletter and visiting our website!

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TOPS in Lexington | September 2020





SEPT

the throwback issue 116 119 121

Entertaining at Home:

Get Jiggly with It! Oktoberfest Dining Out For a Good Cause

123

TOP 5 Dining:

124

Dining:

128

Old School Restaurants Seafood Lady A Blast From Our Dining Past

132

Sports:

134

TOP 10:

139 140 143

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Hall Monitor ‘78 Throwback Moments in UK Sports Inspiration:

Tony Delk Let’s All Go to the Drive-In Photos:

Throwbacks of Lex

Next Month

OCTOBER

50 under 50

STAY CONNECTED

Keep up with the Who’s Who, What’s New and What to Do by following us on social media, subscribing to our email newsletter and visiting our website!

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TOPS in Lexington | September 2020









LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER

KEITH YARBER

Hello again Dear Reader, It’s good to see you! Hard to believe it’s September already. Seems like it was June five minutes ago. But then again, in the Summer of COVID-19, nothing seems quite right. Welcome to our first ever “Throwback” issue, highlighting the 70s/80s/90s. For many of us, it was a time we came into our own and made many lasting memories. Some are publishable, some are just... not. (Is it just me, or did those decades just seem like more fun?) This issue has been a blast to put together. Looking back on those decades always brings back a rush of warm memories, good times, good friends. Somehow, we all managed to survive and thrive without social media, smartphones, and constant bombardment of negative news with all of the cable and streaming outlets. If we could all go back and know what we know now! If nothing else, we would savor those years a little more... and maybe make some different choices in the barber’s chair. We are so thrilled to have the amazing Heather Kozar on our 70s-themed cover. This makes the FOURTH appearance for Heather on a TOPS cover. As always, making us look oh so good. Our own Jayme Jackson and Heather were “Out on the Town” with a Halston/disco-inspired fashion theme. Forget what sports season looks like in 2020. Dick Gabriel and Larry Vaught are bringing you some of UK sports’ greatest highlights during the “Throwback Years” in this issue. Be sure you check out our tour of the Miller House. It is a unique home unlike any we have ever featured. This mid-century marvel – designed by famed architect José Oubrerie – has a story you won’t want to miss. (Who knew a piece of vandalism could look so cool?) TOPS Diverse Inspirations this month are former UK Player Tony Delk, Mulder and entrepreneur Desiree Cross. Learn how they’re Dr. Shambra Mulder, each making an impact on Lexington’s future. As always, thank you for being one of our valued readers and advertisers. It is your support that makes this magazine possible every month, and we know who’s boss! If you have any ideas, suggestions, or critiques, please email me directly at kyarber@topsmarketing.com. I would love to hear from you. We’ll see you in October!

io days

Keith in his rad 24

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TOP

notes

RESTAURANT CLOSINGS - Locals’ Craft Food & Drink - Nick Ryan’s

Have some news you’d like to see here? Reach out via our Facebook page! Apologies for any inaccurate information! Reach out to us via DM on Facebook with any corrections. Due to the changing nature of events and restaurant openings, please reach out to hosting organizations or businesses to verify that our information is correct and up to date.

AROUND TOWN/FUN Stone Fences Tours: Bourbon After Hours - contact Stone Fences Tours for Details

- TGI Friday’s - Edley’s Bar-B-Que at The Summit. - The Barn at the Summit Food Hall (Crank & Boom and Atomic Ramen have moved to the 90.) - Shakespeare & Company

INDELIBLE: The Photography of James Archambeault, John Stephen Hockensmith, Linda Bruckheimer and Deirdre Lyons - at the Headley-Whitney Museum of Art September 11 - November 15th

- Smithtown - Bar Louie - Both Denny’s locations

Keeneland September Yearling Sales - September 14 - 26 at Keeneland

- Josie’s (Georgetown location) - Spotz Gelato

RESTAURANT OPENINGS - Papi’s Rapido - The Chatino Buffet - Jack’s Sandbar & Grill - Favor - J. Alexander’s (Reopened as of July 25) - The Engine House (Reopened with new owners) - Alfalfa’s (Reopened with new owners)

EVENT NEWS - KY Bash: rescheduled and virtual

CITY NEWS Election Officers Needed The Fayette County Clerk’s Office is seeking election officers to help with in-person voting for the 2020 election. They need people that can work starting Oct. 13 for early voting through Election Day, Nov. 3, weekdays roughly 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. and Saturdays 8:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. Pay is around $12 per hour. Election officers have to meet several statutory requirements, including being a registered voter in Fayette County. The rest of the requirements can be seen on the Fayette County Clerk’s website. If you are interested, please email the clerk’s office at elections@fayettecountyclerk.com and provide your full name, address, and phone number. - courtesy LFUCG

- AVOL Dining Out for Life: different this year (see page 121 for details!) - Burgers, Bourbon, and Beer: virtual - Bark in the Park/Thirsty Thursday with the Legends (get details on their website/social media) - Bluegrass Creative Market: socially distanced!

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September 2020 | TOPSinLex.com

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throw backs of

Burgers Shakes 1957

Paul Atkinson 1959

Governor John Y. Brown, First Lady Phyllis George Brown and 42nd Vice President Walter Mondale 1978

Rick Pitino cuts down the net after UK beat Auburn 1991 / Photo courtesy of UK

Dave Kruser Krusenklaus 1983

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Family time 1972 / Photo courtesy of Shae Hopkins

TOPS in Lexington | September 2020


Throwbacks PHOTOS

Denny’s Auto Center on Versailles Road Mid 1970s

Vince Da Grava 1970s / Photo courtesy of Renae Da Grava

Larry Jones 1957

Entrance to Rupp Arena 1991 / Photo courtesy of UK

Keith Yarber and George Takei 1980s

Anita Madden Derby Party 1980s

September 2020 | TOPSinLex.com

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throw backs of

Dudley Webb, Pat Brown, Don Webb, Donna Moloney and Wallace Wilkinson 1980s

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Steve Beshear Attorney General of KY 1979-1983

Elaine Harris 1984

Dick Gabriel and four-legged friends 1980s

Memorial Stakes Day 1988

TOPS in Lexington | September 2020


Cheryl Harper and her first car 1974 / Plymouth Duster

World Northal Corp.

Kids on the rail at Keeneland 1938 / Photo courtesy of Keeneland

?

Did You Know

Kincaid Towers resides on Vine Street, its unique blue glass and buff concrete exterior serving as an essential piece of Lexington’s iconic skyline. But did you know that the 421,000 square foot building (and current home to Central Bank & Trust Co.) is a movie star?

Construction on the building began in 1973. Large portions of the movie Steel, starring Lee Majors (The Six Million Dollar Man) and Jennifer O’Neill, were filmed there during the summer of ‘78 as it was being built. Unfortunately, a dark cloud loomed over the production. Stuntman A.J. Bakunas (Dog Day Afternoon) was proud of his record-breaking stunt in Hooper, where he fell 230 feet from a helicopter. His rival stuntman, Dar Robinson, broke that record at a publicity event. Bakunas was determined to retake his jump record... on film. For Steel, he planned to perform a 315-foot jump from the 22nd floor. On September 21, 1978, a crowd of over a thousand people – including Bakunas’s father – gathered to witness the feat. Bakunas performed the stunt perfectly (some estimating that he reached a speed of 115mph), but the safety airbag split upon impact. Bakunas died from his injuries the next day.

Jim and Johnny Martin Mid 1970s

Construction on Kincaid Towers was completed in 1979 at a cost of $20 million. For the next eight years, the 333-foot building was the tallest in the region. It was constructed by the same firm that originally constructed the Hyatt Regency Hotel, Central Bank Center, Rupp Arena and Kroger Field.

September 2020 | TOPSinLex.com

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Commonwealth Stadium is built Kroger Field, formerly known as Commonwealth Stadium, serves as the home field for the University of Kentucky Wildcats football team. In the stadium’s first game, on September 15, 1973, the Wildcats defeated the Virginia Tech Hokies 31-26. Even at a respectable 47-years-old, it is still the newest stadium in the Southeastern Conference (by date of original construction). Its $110 million facelift in 2015 also made it a state-of-the-art venue, and Kroger Field will now host events like concerts.

Lexington Center and Rupp Arena open their doors

1973

1976

Rupp Arena, the centerpiece of Central Bank Center (formerly Lexington Center), serves as home court to the University of Kentucky men’s basketball program. Rupp Arena is named after the legendary Kentucky basketball coach Adolph Rupp (from 1930 - 1972). The arena also regularly hosts concerts, shows, and the KHSAA Sweet Sixteen basketball tournament. The Central Bank Center hosts trade shows, conventions and weddings. Following extensive renovations, it will be a key part of Downtown’s new Town Branch development.

Kentucky Horse Park opens The Kentucky Horse Park is a working horse park, theme park, and a venue for international equestrian competitions. The Kentucky Horse Park also contains the National Horse Center, which headquarters over 30 national, regional and state equine associations. Kentucky Horse Park is known for its many horse sculptures, including Man o’ War and Secretariat. For over a quarter of a century, the park has also been host to the Kentucky Horse Park Foundation’s annual holiday fundraiser, Southern Lights.

A visit from the Queen of England The Queen stayed at Lane’s End Farm and toured multiple Kentucky horse farms. She owned about six or seven mares in Kentucky at one time: she got her first look at one of them during her trip. Her Royal Highness had a private dinner party, toured the farms and attended the church services at St. John’s Episcopal Church before departing for merry ol’ England. courtesy Keeneland

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10

Big Blue is built The Lexington Financial Center, a 31-floor high-rise, was completed in 1987. The signature blue-tinted glass makes it an absolute icon of Lexington’s skyline. It’s the tallest building in the state outside of Louisville.

1978

1986 1987

cool things that happened in TOPS in Lexington | September 2020


1997 2010

First shops open in Hamburg Pavilion Hamburg shopping center is one of the state’s largest shopping centers and continuously develops. The shopping center includes stores, boutiques, restaurants, and hotels. Hamburg Pavilion stands on land that was once part of Hamburg Place Farm

Andrew Fore

Lexington hosts the World Equestrian Games The 2010 FEI World Equestrian ames were held at Kentucky Horse Park, making Lexington the only city outside of Europe to host the games. The events were held in the months of September and ctober. This was also the first time that all events at the games were held at a single site.

2012

Town Branch Distillery opens

2015

Keeneland hosts Breeders’ Cup for the first time

2015

Town Branch is a Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey produced by the Lexington Brewing and Distilling Company on Cross Street. The distillery houses production for Alltech’s four spirits: Pearse Lyons Reserve, Town Branch Bourbon, Town Branch Rye Whiskey, and Bluegrass Sundown. Town Branch Distillery was added to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail in the same year.

From 2008 to 2014, the Breeders’ Cup was held at Santa Anita Park or Churchill Downs. In 2015, Keeneland was selected to host the event. The 2015 event was considered a success with record Friday attendance and a sell-out on Saturday. We’re proud to be hosting the race again in 2020

courtesy Hamburg Pavilion

American Pharoah takes the Triple Crown and runs the Breeders’ Cup Born and bred in Lexington, American Pharoah is a true Kentucky success story. When he went to auction as a yearling, he sold for ust $300,000. But after training with Bob Ba ert, he proved to be a steal. He became the first horse in history to complete the rand Slam of American horse racing (the Triple Crown plus the Breeders’ Cup Classic) after winning the 2015 Classic at Keeneland, setting a track record in the process.

BY EMMA BUCHANAN

Dirk Caremans

Lexington in the last

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September 2020 | TOPSinLex.com

Dr. Michael Huang

years! 33




PHOTOS

“stand ” sculpture

L

exington welcomed five new residents in August. Five women, 20-foot tall suffragists, moving into town to remind citizens of the important contributions women have made to this community, and to celebrate the 100th anniversary of passage of the 19th Amendment, giving many women the right to vote. Here’s a look at the installtion and unveiling of these monumental Lexingtonians.

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September 2020 | TOPSinLex.com

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Records

Cassettes

1895 to late 1980s

1963 to early 1990s

Music gets groovy. First made of shellac and they vinyl, records dominated for nearly a century. Records started to decline due to shortcomings of the media including it’s fragility, static popping and lack of portability. However, vinyl still has legions of devotees.

“Magical Mystery Tour” The Beatles / 1967

8 Tracks 1965 to early 1980s

Record Store Day This annual event celebrates musicians, fans and independent record stores around the world recordstoreday.com

Music is a go-go. Eight tracks mark the beginning of music choice in your automobile. The media largely owes its popularity to the automobile industry as the first players were only available in-dash in Ford Motor Company’s 1966 models of Mustang, Thunderbird and Lincoln.

Music mixer. Originally designed for dictation, cassettes gave people the power of recording in their own home. That beacon of personal expression, the mixtape was born.

Fun From 1963 to fact 1988 more than

three billion tapes were sold.

EUNKENTELECHY VS THE PLACEBO SYNDROME Parliament / 1977 8 track sold in August 2020 for

$2,000 Source: valueyourmusic.com

The first karaoke machine, the Juke-8, was invented in 1971 by Daisuke Inoue. The machine combined a microphone, amplifier, coin box and eight-track player in one housing.

Fun fact

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TOPS in Lexington | September 2020

June 1980 Sony released the Walkman, a portable cassette player Image by Binarysequence Own work CC BY-SA 4.0


THROWBACK PLAYLISTS

1970s

music chart toppers “You Light Up My Life” Debby Boone // 10 weeks at #1 “Night Fever” Bee Gees // 8 weeks at #1

CDs 1982 to 2000s Music spins again. While developed to store and play audio, CD technology became commonplace for the storage of media of all types, including audio, images, video and even interactive content such as video games.

C

ss

The first CD player cost

$1,500

LIVING EYES Bee Gees / 1981 was the first album released in CD format

Fun fact

“Tonight’s the Night (Gonna Be Alright)” Rod Stewart // 7 weeks at #1

“Joy to the World” Three Dog Night // 6 weeks at #1 “My Sharona” The Knack // 6 weeks at #1

1980s

music chart toppers “Every Breath You Take” The Police // 8 weeks at #1

“Physical” Olivia Newton-John 10 weeks at #1

“Bette Davis Eyes” Kim Carnes // 9 weeks at #1

“I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll” Joan Jett and the Blackhearts 7 weeks at #1

“Call Me” Blondie // 6 weeks at #1

“Endless Love” Diana Ross and Lionel Riche 9 weeks at #1

1990s

music chart toppers “One Sweet Day” Mariah Carey and Boyz II Men 16 weeks at #1

“I Will Always Love You” Whitney Houston // 14 weeks at #1 Old CDs are sometimes seen hanging from trees in use as bird-deterents since the reflection scares birds.

“Bridge over Troubled Water” Simon & Garfunkel // 6 weeks at #1

“Macarena (Bayside Boys Mix)” Los Del Rio // 14 weeks at #1

September 2020 | TOPSinLex.com

“The Boy Is Mine” Brandy and Monica // 13 weeks at #1 “I Swear” All-4-One // 11 weeks at #1 “I’ll Be Missing You” Puff Daddy and Faith Evans featuring 112 // 11 weeks at #1

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Tackling the Digital World by Chad Howard

YOU THE INTERNET

When you start your small business, the focus is on how to get customers through the door. You may rely on traditional forms of advertising, such as coupon mailers or even big signs on the side of the road.

This is how people do business today. When someone has an interest in your business, whether it is in your niche or if they are curious about your brand, the first thing they are going to do is research online and see what they can find out about you.

While this strategy may bring in a trickle of business, there is a better and easier way by considering the HUGE marketplace of prospects online. No small business should overlook this vast marketplace.

They expect to find you there with a website and on social media. They may be looking for reviews so they can learn what other people are saying about your company and whether it is a good place to do business.

The potential customers that are found online are a much larger group of people than you’re able to attract locally. Using digital marketing, you can reach an enormous audience in a way that is both cost-effective and measurable.

If a potential customer can’t find you online, they may conclude that your business doesn’t appear to be legitimate. Once they have made that decision, they probably won’t be back.

BENEFITS OF DIGITAL MARKETING: • The ability to interact with your prospects and learn exactly what they need • You can save money and reach more customers for less than traditional marketing methods • Get to know your audience and allow them to know you which can help to create brand loyalty • You can track responses to your marketing efforts immediately and keep close watch on your ROI YOUR CUSTOMERS ARE ONLINE Right now. Today. Your target customer is already looking for a business like yours, but if they can’t find you easily, they are going somewhere else.

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YOUR COMPETITORS ARE ONLINE For your business to be successful, you need to pay attention to what your competitors are doing and learn from it. Think of your competitors not just as someone that you are planning to beat, but as people who have something to teach you. When you look at what your competitors are doing, you will get some idea of what is working and what isn’t working. How do they communicate their brand and what makes them unique? How well do they engage with the audience? Do you think you can do better? You can’t if you don’t participate in competing in the digital world. If your prospects begin to search for a business similar to yours and are able to find your competitors’ website but not yours, your business is not even in the running. Your prospects can’t choose you if they don’t know about you.

TOPS in Lexington | September 2020


If your prospects begin to search for a business similar to yours and are able to find your competitors’ website but not yours, your business is not even in the running. Your prospects can’t choose you if they don’t know about you. That’s where we come in. It’s clear that in today’s digital world, the first place the average consumer looks for what they want is online. Whatever product or service they are looking for, they will most likely start their search with Google. If you have no online presence at all, you won’t be found, and you can’t compete. If you have an online presence but your competitors are easier to find and are found first, you still might not be found at all. Besides creating a website, learning search engine optimization is a strategy that can help you move ahead of your competitors just by being the first name that a prospect finds in a google search with keywords that can lead them to your business. Think of digital marketing as a way to make yourself accessible to the people you are trying to reach. By creating a web presence, your business is open for business even when it’s closed. You can create an atmosphere in which your customers can come to you anytime day or night. GET TO KNOW YOUR AUDIENCE Digital marketing allows you to engage with your prospects. You can gradually get to know them and their needs. By interacting with people digitally, you can start to get to know what they are looking for. What is keeping them up at night? What solutions can you offer to them? Instead of trying to guess, digital marketing enables you to find out who your customers really are. You start to build a relationship with your customers. You become

much more than a business. You become a trusted partner. People are much more likely to buy from businesses that they have already bought from. Few forms of advertising are as cost-effective as digital marketing. Small businesses try to get as much as possible done on a small budget. Many forms of digital marketing allow you to communicate your brand and reach a wide target audience even when your budget is very tight. STOP PROCRASTINATING As a small business owner, you are likely to come up with a variety of reasons to avoid digital marketing, but in the end, procrastination is still procrastination. Many of you may prefer to take things slowly and to stick with one or two basic forms of advertising, assuming that your business will grow organically. You may even think the best strategy is simply to wait for customers to show up. This is not an effective approach. There is never a guarantee that your business will attract customers just by existing and even if it does, you may not attract as many customers as you need to make your business become profitable. At TOPS Marketing group, we thrive on assisting small business owners achieve their goals. We understand that many small business owners are suffering during this very challenging time in dealing with a pandemic. We want to help. Reach out to Chad or Lindsey for a free digital consultation and let us help you take on the digital world. •

September 2019 | TOPSinLex.com

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1966 driving music

BILLBOARD YEAR-END HOT 100 SINGLES OF 1966 "Califonia Dreamin’" 1 // The Mamas & the Papas

#

“These Boots Are Made for Walkin’” # 6 // Nancy Sinatra

cruising Story By Donna Ison Photos Courtesy of Leslie Frazier Whaley

“You Can’t Hurry Love” # 13 // The Supremes “Paint It, Black” # 34 // The Rolling Stones “Wild Thing” 40 // The Troggs

#

“Uptight (Everything’s Alright)” # 51 // Stevie Wonder “Barbara Ann” 73 // The Beach Boys

#

er name is Lilly. Born in 1966, she's a classic, all curves and charm. When writer and serial entrepreneur Leslie Frazier Whaley saw Lilly, a 22-foot Airstream Safari, at an antique mall in Ohio, she knew immediately they would be partners in travel and shenanigans. The trailer has proved the perfect place for relaxing, recharging and retrovating. Using her keen design eye, Leslie is bringing Lilly back to her original splendor. She says, "I love that she is perfectly imperfect. She's got little scratches and dents, chips in the wood, a latch just broke last week. But that's just part of her adventure map. I like my tiny time-capsule. My only regret is I don't take her out more often." Leslie enjoys journeying alone but loves meeting fellow travelers at rallies and music festivals along the road. These days, more and more people are loading up and hitting the highway, with RV-ing surging in popularity over the summer of 2020. Perhaps because an Airstream travel trailer is like optimism on wheels, reminding us that there are still beautiful sights to be seen and simple pleasures, like singing to the radio with all the windows rolled down, to be enjoyed.

“Yellow Submarine” # 90 // The Beatles

music notes January 14 Nineteen year old singer David Jones changes his last name to Bowie to avoid being confused with Davy Jones of The Monkees. May 16 Singer Janet Jackson is born. July 29 Bob Dylan is injured in a motorcycle accident.

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TOPS in Lexington | September 2020



Look! You Got the

We are thrilled to feature Lexingtonian and model Heather Kozar on the cover. When we decided to do a throwback fashion shoot, we knew we had to call on this three-time TOPS covergirl. We asked her to tell us about her time as a model and why she loves this city so much. “My modeling career came about when I started competing in local swimsuit contests in 1996, eventually ending up in Hawaii for the National Hawaiian Tropic Swimsuit Contest. “In 1997, I was invited to a party in Los Angeles for New Year’s Eve and pretty much never went back to Ohio. I jumped right into to the indus-

try, doing commercials, promotional appearances and print work. One of my favorite opportunities was being a Barker Beauty on The Price is Right. I had my own parking spot at CBS... a dream job to say the least!

“In 2007, I moved to Lexington. I have enjoyed living here so much and raising my two sons. Chase is 15 and Brady is 11. I spend most of my days at ballparks, whether it’s for one of the two baseball teams Brady plays for or Chase’s football games. We stay busy between games with practices, workouts and school in the mix. I am so blessed and I am so proud of the young men they are becoming!”

photos by Conrhod Zonio Photography hair by Shantelle Horn makeup by Seka Wakefield TOPS would like to thank the Lexington Marriott City Center and Jeff Ruby’s for graciously hosting our fashion shoot throwback photos courtesy of Heather Kozar

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TOPS in Lexington | September 2020


Glitter Bombshell When you want to shine brighter than the disco ball, add shimmer wherever possible. ★ Champagne jumpsuit ($108) and rhinestone gold statement earrings ($25) from Cotton Patch. September 2020 | TOPSinLex.com

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TOPS in Lexington | September 2020


On the Palazzo Big hair, do care. Take your mane – and prints – to the max for the boldest throwback look. ★ Julie Brown NYC “Zana” jumpsuit ($272) and rhinestone gold statement earrings ($25) from Cotton Patch.

September 2020 | TOPSinLex.com

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Better Come Get Your Girl Some nights demand bar hoppin’... literally. This 80s look is givng us all the Olivia Newton John gettin’ “Physical” vibes. ★ “Buddy Love” dress ($98) and star earrings ($25) from Pirie.

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The Talking Tree of Lexington When you think about nostalgia, the magic of Disney may come to mind. In the mid-1950s, Mrs. Corman, the owner of Howard Curry Shoes, had a moment of genius, playing off Disney’s animatronics. But it wouldn’t be in Florida or California... the magic would live right here in Lexington. While strolling on her farm and admiring her trees’ natural beauty, Mrs. Corman decided that a tree – a talking tree – would be exactly what her shoe store needed to change the way Lexingtonians shopped for decades. This tree, lovingly known as “Howie,” created a shopping experience that was engaging for the entire family. A clerk, hidden behind the tree, would speak directly to the children and the parents through a microphone. This magic helped make a fairly mundane shoe-fitting something befitting Cinderella and Prince Charming. Established in 1948, Howard Curry Shoes was located in downtown – and then Southland Drive – before moving to their current home on Nicholasville Road. Todd Stockwell became the owner in 1991, and when he began to plan the move to the new location in 2009, he knew their store wouldn’t be the same without Howie. The mural behind the tree and the tree itself were originally crafted by Corman & Associates. Damon Farmer, a Versailles artist, restored the sculpture when Howie was moved. Parents and grandparents who had their magic moments as children can now pass that same experience of the Talking Tree tradition on to the next generation. And guess what? That fairy tale slipper from Howard Curry Shoes still perfectly fits, even after all of these years. by Emma Buchanan and Jayme Jackson

September 2020 | TOPSinLex.com

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LIFESTYLE

timeless fashion you want to keep

We’ve all heard our moms say “I used to wear my jeans flared like that 20 years ago” or “I can’t believe peasant tops are back in style” and the truth is, mom was right. Fashion to some extent is cyclical and our “trends” were our grandmothers date night specials. But in a time where we aren’t overly concerned about dressing up for events, there are some timeless pieces that every lady should have just waiting for the chance to make an appearance. Here are a few of our faves:

the LBD (little black dress) Every woman should have one but, as a rule of thumb it should be a classic shape like an “A” line or a shift with no embellishments. The dress should fall no shorter than 2-3” above your knee (channel Grace Kelly or Audrey Hepburn while looking). This versatile piece can be worn to work with a blazer, to dinner with a pair of pumps and statement earring and heaven forbid you should need it, a funeral. It will be your trusty go to.

Double ruffle sheath dress in black | Ann Taylor

tan trench trend This must have will be something you reach for all fall and winter. To ensure the perfect fit, leave some extra room through the sleeves and shoulders to allow for layering and this little gem should fall below your bottom. Throw the trench over your LBD, a V-neck t-shirt and jeans with flats or your black cotton tunic and leggings for an instant put together look.

vintage denim

Trenchcoat in beige | H&M

If your lucky, Mama has a really vintage one that has patches from adventures and dreams of her younger days that you can, shall we say repurpose? Plain, embroidered or patched, a jean jacket should be your BFF. Wear it over a maxi dress with booties, a tunic and yoga pants or as a “Canadian Tuxedo” which implies denim on denim (Some people feel this is a fashion no-no but we love it). Embroidered denim jacket | Pretty Strange Things

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LIFESTYLE Fate crossbody leather bag in mustard by Hobo | Olive You Boutique

a boho classic Boho-inspired patchwork embroidered military jacket by Johnny Was | Olive You Boutique

A lightweight jacket is essential for the cool mornings and warm afternoons a bluegrass fall brings. There is no better classic than the military jacket. It’s neutral enough to pair with any outfit. This boho-inspired option from Johnny Was (available at Olive You Boutique) incorporates feminine patchwork and florals with a classic cut! Plus, pair it with a leather crossbody in a pop of color, like this FATE mustard bag (also available at Olive You Boutique), to keep that 70s look in-style today!

September 2020 | TOPSinLex.com

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LIFESTYLE WOW Wedding

From the office to date night.

Button up tunic in white by Lysse | Cotton Patch

Blossum blue print skirt by Molly Bracken | Cotton Patch

Having that go-to white tunic is a must for any girl’s wardrobe. Pair it with sleek black leggings and heels for work and then throw on a fun skirt for date night! Either way, you’ve got a timeless look! Calypso bangle by Julie Vos | Cotton Patch

Mother/Daughter duo Isobel Chewning (owner of Cotton Patch) and Martha Chewning-Trent (owner of Pirie) have been styling Lexingtonians make the best dressed list for decades. They offer the perfect combination of trendy and timeless pieces to keep you on point year after year.

Lansdowne Shoppes • 3367 Tates Creek Rd. 859-269-8839 • cottonpatchofky.com 52

TOPS in Lexington | September 2020

Faux leather leggings in black by Spanx | Cotton Patch


WOW Wedding LIFESTYLE

Cashmere v-neck sweater in olive by Cupcakes & Cashmere, $98 | Pirie Boutique

Isobel Chewning

Skinny jean in black by Just Black, All jeans under $70 | Pirie Boutique

You can’t go wrong with staples like a pair of black skinny jeans and a loose fit sweater. The perfect pair for fall and years to come! Just accessorize with a statement earring, like these Rosé All Day cuties from Pirie and you’re set!

Martha Chewning-Trent

A blend of trend and traditional.

Rosé All Day earrings, Earrings ranging from $8-$28 | Pirie Boutique

Lansdowne Shoppes • 3369 Tates Creek Rd. 859-309-9938 • pirieboutique.com September 2020 | TOPSinLex.com

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WOW Wedding LIFESTYLE

the Preppy Handbook BY AMANDA HARPER AND ELLIANA VINCENT

The Official Preppy Handbook,, the classic satirical “prep school guide,” offers snarky insight into the upper-middle class and the old money society ways of living. First published in 1980, this clever handbook was the must-buy gift for a generation of WASPy high school and college graduates. Topics covered in the handbook range from how to party in college to transitioning into “the Country Club Years.” While the tone was cheeky, the handbook had the unexpected effect of making upper-class style feel more within reach. The book inspired the founder of J. Crew and helped boost the growth of L.L. Bean. The book includes an extensive questionnaire of lists of physical requirements to qualify as a Preppy. Fellas were expected to don a navy blazer, an initial ring, bagg y khaki pants and an optional smirk - no pimples in sight, lest they veer into “nerd” territory. Girls were told to focus on “The Debutante Scene”, which was all about catching men’s eyes and making an entrance. With advice like “wearing of pink and green is the surest and quickest way to group identification,” there’s no doubt that this book was an insider’s guide. The book’s editor and creator, Lisa Birnbach, deciphered the curious practices of upper-crust society during her time in prep schools and Brown University. She worked with three Preppy friends to write the book (paying them from a checkbook emblazoned with her very Preppy nickname, “Bunny”). Over the course of 224 pages, they created a timeless peek into a culture that will never really go out of style, particularly in the South. Take their chapter, “The Politics of Monogramming.” “Preppies have known it for years: who needs LV or YSL when you can lay claim to a discreet EBW III?” It continues, “In fact, most Preppies are so proud of their monograms that they put them on virtually everything in sight.” Go ahead and slap your monogram on aprons, polo shirts (“monogram where the crocodile would be”), Kleenex box covers, hip flasks and tennis racquet covers, they advise; just please, don’t do your dog’s collar (“ostentatious”) or china (“it will look like a hotel”). The Official Preppy Handbook was reprinted a whopping 32 times before going out of print in 1995. Its successor, True Prep, debuted in 2010 with Preppy advice for the new millennium. If you have a copy of either on your bookshelf, it’s time to take it down and revel in the wit and knowledge from this clever little parody prep guide book.

September 2020 | TOPSinLex.com

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LIFESTYLE

I

t’s happened to all of us. That innocent moment when you are walking through a mall with your mom or your BFF at Christmas and that certain scent just waifs in; slowly while you pass the perfume or cologne counter and then suddenly without warning, you feel the slight pang of the wind being knocked out of you. Fragrance. Such a small nondescript word that connotes an entire lifetime of feelings.

The first fragrance that I can remember was my Aunt Marilyn who always wore Charlie. Charlie debuted in 1973 by Revlon and was an amazing success. The 70’s were an interesting decade where women were becoming prevalent in the work force while disco balls where shimmering at night. This created an era of musky, woodsy scents, think sultry, and sequins while making a pot of coffee at the office all rolled into one. Aunt Marilyn was quick to point out the art of the “signature scent”. This is something that always stuck with me. One scent, that identifies you- summarizes you in one whiff. Are you floral, spicy, sweet or a combination that will always bring a smile to someone’s face years after you are gone like my Aunt Marilyn; when you smell, that smell; her smell. Then, there is cologne. Talk about a gut punch. I’m a 90’s girl and so I often smell Ralph Lauren’s Polo, Eternity, CK One, Obsession and Drakkar Noir and I’m instantly transported back to many, many first dates, football Friday nights, homecomings and my guy friends. So many hopes, wishes and prayers centered around crushes and actually asking the Lord to intervene that some certain polo wearing jock would ask me to my junior prom (insert the song ‘Sometimes I Thank God for Unanswered Prayers’). Don’t act like y’all can’t think of exactly that guy’s cologne right this second. But the best scented memories creep up on you when you thought no one was watching or should I say smelling? Enter the high school reunion when that certain guy walks up to you from 20 something years ago and says “I always remember you used to wear Victoria Secrets Pear Glaze”. You try not to audibly gasp at the sheer news that he ever even knew you were alive. “Every time I have smelled that for the last 20 years, I’ve thought of you and smiled”. And this is the exact moment where you are waiting on the Hallmark movie crew to say “cut tape”, like a dream movie. I will never forget when that happened to me. Luckily, we are both happily married and they no longer make Pear Glaze.

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S

o, what’s your signature scent? For the past few years I wear 2 scents, Gucci Bloom and Tom Ford’s Lost Cherry. I didn’t get the gift of chemistry that my Mama or Aunt Marilyn got of spraying a few squirts on your wrists and you can smell it all day. I have to dowse myself in perfume each day hoping I faintly smell good. The Tom Ford is extremely pricey but my husband loves it and I wear it to bed every night, it’s not strong enough for daytime on me.

Savin’ Face LIFESTYLE

Turn up the scent and the volume! Every teen during the 80s will tell you Electric Youth was the must-have fragrance and it’s safe to say singer and fragrance designer, Debbie Gibson will agree. The album Electric Youth was the highest-charting album of Gibson’s career, staying at the top of the US Billboard 200 albums chart for five weeks! So grab a bottle for a spritz and turn up the volume to truly jump back in time.

Back in the day a half ounce bottle would cost $8.50.

So, this begs the question, what’s your signature scent? Here is a list of the oldies and some recommendations of the new winners. I’m certain this list will make you think of someplace or someone and when you do, I hope you smile. Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

by Jayme Jackson

September 2020 | TOPSinLex.com

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INSPIRATIONS:

Desiree Cross Sparkles and Shines!

BY DONNA ISON

For as long as she can remember, Desiree Cross would not leave the house without a sparkling, statement ring on her finger and a tube of shiny lip gloss in her back pocket. So, she followed these loves down the entrepreneurial path and founded DesireeLiyah Inc., a luxury lip gloss and jewelry brand that launched in May. Cross said, “I knew when I started that I didn’t want to put out just any ring or any gloss. It had to be perfect, and just authentically me.” The company was years in the making. According to Cross, “I have been working on finding the perfect products for me and my brand for years now. Even when I wasn’t in a financial position, I was saving different styles, doing research, and sending emails.” She advises others interested in launching a business to do the same, making certain to research, get organized, and have a solid plan. In her words, “Nowadays with such quick clicks and access, one wrong post or wording can change the game. That’s why it is so important to curate your content and make sure what you’re putting out matches your desires and philosophy of your company.” Cross also believes in the power of putting in the work — “Work until you can’t work anymore because if you’re passionate about it, the reward will outweigh the exhaustion.” Along with Cross, the DesireeLiyah team of brand ambassadors is made up of women of all shapes, sizes, and colors, and includes Promise Cross, Faith Cross, Raenah Hawkins, LaShayna Nicole, Mervielle Mbonekube, Kaelen Frazier, and Jhaliyah Robinson. This diversity embodies Cross’s belief that “inclusivity is important in our world and especially in the moment we are in. We have to make sure we are always spreading love and light to those around us.” Spreading love and light is the company’s larger mission. Cross hopes her DesireeLiyah brand inspires women to embrace their “feminism and beauty” and for all people to recognize and fulfill their potential. She states, “I want to encourage women and men of every age to love who God made them, and to feel confident even in our weakest moments. I want to be in a position to motivate, lead, and give as much energy as it takes to help my world. I hope by working together, we can make our mark here in the city of Lexington and soon, worldwide!” •

PHOTO BY RANDALL ROUT

“Work until you can’t work anymore because if you’re passionate about it, the reward will outweigh the exhaustion.”

September 2020 | TOPSinLex.com

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I Saw the Sign! Hey, baby... what’s your sign?

Astrology might be more popular now than in its heyday in the 70s. While most people would say they don’t take it too seriously... just about everyone knows their sign and has fun taking a peek at their horoscope. In that grand tradition, we have your September forecast... plus a birthstone bauble just for you. All jewelry available at The Castle (thecastlejewelry.com). photos by Keni Parks

(December 22 - January 19) Your mind is especially sharp this month. Do the research on any big decisions you’ve been putting o ... but don’t put the plan into action until you’ve looked at all the angles. Almondite garnet and diamond ring $3,795

(January 20 - February 18) Revelations incoming! By the middle of the month, things will solidify into choices: consider the possibilities with care. Don’t let your unpredictable nature take the wheel. Amethyst and diamond bracelet $3,795

(February 19 - March 20) Now is the time to focus on professional matters. Come to the table prepared to negotiate. Know what you are (and are not) willing to meet in the middle on. 4.5 carat aquamarine and diamond ring $3,295

Capricorn Aries

Aquarius Taurus

Pisces Gemini

(March 21 - April 19) Meditate on what you want the rest of your year to look like, and how you will manifest that. The atmosphere will change in the last two weeks of the month. Be bold! 4.03 carat diamond ring $79,500

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(April 20 - May 20) Think about what you’ve been meaning to communicate, and put it to writing. Surround yourself with music in the middle of the month. Let go of your stubborn ways and go with the flow. 14k gold emerald and diamond bracelet $ 2,795

TOPS in Lexington | September 2020

(May 21 - June 20) Conditions are right for a breakthrough or breakdown. Be careful with your words in the first part of the month, but know your truth. Try to calm your frantic mind. 23.5” strand of pearls $699


Throwback Track:

“The Sign” - Ace of Base Released by Swedish pop group Ace of Base on October 29, 1993, this tune was an international hit. It ended 1994 as the top song on Billboard’s year-end chart. It received a Grammy nod for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals. Ace of Base had other hits with All That She Wants (1992) and Don’t Turn Around (1993). The group is still together and occasionally release new music

(June 22 - July 22) Your mind is fertile: allow your creativity to steer you toward the future you’ve been envisioning. Don’t stay in your shell, keeping problems to yourself this month... share the load! Ruby and diamond earrings $2,495

(July 23 - August 22) Look for open doors and walk through them with your head held high. Luck will be on your side in the middle of the month. Your victories are worth celebrating! Vintage peridot and diamond ring $899

(August 23 - September 22) Balance your analytical side by pursuing something that is close to your heart. Let your tendency to worry take a back seat this month. 6.54 carat sapphire ring surrounded by 1 carat of diamonds $2,995

Cancer Libra

Leo Scorpio

Virgo Sagittarius

(September 23 - October 22) It’s time for serious self-care. Lessen the pressure wherever you can and take time to step back and appreciate the changes around you. Trust that good things are coming. 4.15 carat opal and diamong ring $3,395

(October 23 - November 21) This month may feel like running in place, but the possibility for resolution will open up by the end of the month. For now, focus on self-development reading... it’ll prove valuable. Cushion cut citrine ring surrounded by diamonds $319

September 2020 | TOPSinLex.com

(November 22 - December 21) Pay attention to what is happening within you and around you. Direct that churning energy into service for others... it will soothe your generous heart. LeVian turquoise and diamond pendant $725

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r i a H

don’t go there

We asked readers to share some of their hair-raising moments from the past... and y’all did not disappoint. From lush Farrah Fawcett feathered looks to Molly Ringwald vibes, these really turned up with the AquaNet! Now come on, how many of you rocked these radical ‘dos?

Karen Abshear Wilson

Gwyn Everly

Jennifer Sisson

Robin Swartz

Dana Back-Pack

an ode to the

y k c u t n e K l l a f r e t a w Mullets remain one of the most fascinating hair trends of all time. The “business in the front, party in the back” style is not one many could pull off. Here’s three Kentucky-born gents who managed just fine.

George Clooney in All in the Family (CBS)

Billy Ray Cyrus in his video for Achy, Breaky Heart (BillyRayCyrusVEVO)

Trisha Clark Lauritzen

Johnny Depp in A Nightmare on Elm Street (New Line Cinema) September 2020 | TOPSinLex.com

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Dancing Decades! through the

B EMMA BUCHANAN AND AMANDA HARPER

D

ance fads come and go. From The Worm to The Dougie, just about everyone has busted out a trendy move on the dancefloor.

These are some of our favorite fad dances from the 1970s til the turn of the millennium. While it would be impossible to catalogue them all, we thought these ten were worth remembering.

The Hustle (1972) Arguably, this is the dance fad that started modern dance fads. Van McCoy and the Soul Symphony’s single The Hustle debuted in 1975, helping the dance become an international craze. Saturday Night Fever featured variations of the dance and cemented The Hustle’s status as an icon.

Electric Slide (1976) The Electric Slide is a four wall line dance set to the popular song Electric Boogie. Broadway performer and choreographer Ric Silver created the dance, giving future generations something to do at weddings.

YMCA (1978) When disco group The Village People appeared on Dick Clark’s merican andstand, a dance cra e was born. But one of the songwriters and band members thinks it was all a misunderstanding: the group’s original choreography for the song just involved them clapping above their heads, holding their hands in an exa erated ... audience members ust carried on spelling out the rest.

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Thriller (1983) Michael Jackson’s riller is an awardwinning music video, featuring Michael Jackson performing this ghoulish dance with the undead. The music video was such a hit, it doubled the sales of the riller album, making it the best selling album in history. Lexington’s annual Halloween Festival and Thriller Parade is one of the nation’s largest annual riller dance events.

The Running Man (1986) The Running Man is originally an African dance. It was performed by Janet Jackson in the music video of her hit song Rhythm Nation. Also called The Hungry Caterpillar, this dance was also (unfortunately) performed by MC Hammer, Bobby Brown, Milli Vanilli and Vanilla Ice, sending it into eye-roll territory pretty quickly.

The Carlton (1990) The Carlton became an instant sensation afer its first airing on e resh rince of el ir. Actor Alfonso Ribeiro actually improvised the dance, basing it on Courtney Cox in the Bruce Springsteen video for Dancing in the Dark.

Boot Scootin’ Boogie (1990) Blame this one for all those line dances you learned: this Brooks Dunn song’s success is largely credited with renewing interest in line dancing across the country. This was the honky-tonk answer to The Hustle and it can be found wherever cowboy boots are worn.

Macarena (1992) Los Del Rio’s Macarena (Bayside Boys Remix) spent 14 weeks at the top of the charts. The dance created by a flamenco teacher and consisting almost entirely of arm movements and a hop is one of the most infamous dance cra es of the 90s. Admit it: you definitely still remember all the moves.

Moonwalk (1980)

Cha Cha Slide (2000)

Cab Calloway and others originated this dance in the 1930s, but when a choreographer taught the move to Michael Jackson, the King of Pop made it unforgettable. riginally called The Backslide, Jackson renamed it and made it his signature move for the song Billie Jean. This dance has a simple look but takes practice to master. Spoiler alert: you’re probably doing it wrong.

Sliiide to the left D Casper has the brilliant idea to release a song that served as the dance instruction manual. While the track could’ve easily been titled Something to Do at Weddings Pt. 2, it stands as a testament to the power of viral marketing. Everybody clap your hands. •

TOPS in Lexington | September 2020


September 2020 | TOPSinLex.com

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LIFESTYLE

story by amanda harper photos by kendra r. photography

A

fter being set up on a blind date by friends in 2011 and dating for 7 years, Cade planned a romantic night on the Bow Bridge in New York City where he got down on one knee and asked Angela to spend the rest of their lives together. The bride and groom were both born and raised in Kentucky. When Angela’s parents bought their house, they had the idea that the family would host their weddings in the 50’s-era barn one day.

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WOW Wedding LIFESTYLE

When Angela and her twin sister, Lindsey, got engaged a week apart, the remodeling process began. The men in the family rolled up their sleeves, replaced all the wood covering the barn, repainted the sides and roof, and then added a handcrafted copula by Cade’s cousin, Chance. Creating family memories is important to both Angela and Cade. Wherever possible, the couple incorporated family sentiments and had their loved ones pitch in to make every moment as special as possible. The bride wore a topaz ring that belonged to her grandmother and a veil that belonged to her twin sister. She also took lace from both her mothers’ and twin sisters’ wedding dresses and had pieces sewn onto the bottom layer of her dress. She was so excited to walk down the aisle that she forgot her bouquet. Cade was just as excited and forgot his matching boutonniere! The couple was married beneath a flowered trellis that sheltered the bride’s parents during their own wedding 35 years prior. The china plate settings used at the reception were a mix that belonged to both sides of the family. Along with the china, the unity table, toasting glasses and cake cutting utensils also had family sentiment, belonging to Angela’s late grandparents. The centerpieces were built by hand from her uncle while her family created the rest of the floral pieces. The bourbon barrel that held their cake had also been passed down from her two sisters’ weddings. The couple topped their cake with custom made figurines of their three furry family members. September 2020 | TOPSinLex.com

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LIFESTYLE WOW Wedding

L

ike many other couples with 2020 wedding dates, Angela and Cade were faced with the hard decision of postponing their wedding or continuing with a limited guest list. They decided to continue with their date with immediate family only. Missing their friends on their big day, the bride and groom’s sisters had a surprise in store for the couple. After the night seemed to dwindle, the couple was asked to stand in the middle of the barn with their backs facing the door. To their surprise, they turned around to see cheering, dancing and clapping by 20 of their closest friends. The rest of the night was spent dancing under the stars with family and friends. The newlyweds finished the night by being taken to the historic Boone Tavern for their wedding night. They plan to take an official honeymoon in 2021. The night was everything they wanted and more. Looking back, the couple says they wouldn’t change a thing about it.

the vendor team PHOTOGRAPHER Kendra R Photography. VIDEOGRAPHER Wandering Hills Visuals CATERING Tri County Catering SWEETS Bespoke Bakery and Café

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RENTALS Central KY Tents and Events FLORIST Village Florist BRIDAL GOWN Twirl Boutique GROOM/GROOMSMEN Honchell’s

TOPS in Lexington | September 2020

ALTERATIONS Lynn Barnes HAIR Meredith Ellis MAKEUP Planet Salon and Spa, Paige Lush STATIONERY/CALLIGRAPHY Kendall Lamb



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PRO to KNOW

MSI Production Services

Innovating to Help Local Businesses Thrive It is said that necessity is the mother of invention and that adversity introduces a person to themselves. In the face of a global pandemic and all the challenges that it brings, Sam White, President and CEO of MSI Production Services, has stepped up. In our new normal, he has committed himself to finding new ways to keep his business thriving and to help his clients when his skills are needed most.

“Our specialty has always been technical and creative support, and that hasn’t changed,” says Sam. Social distancing has rewritten the rules of society at lightning speed, and nowhere is that more evident than in the ways we communicate with one another. Business meetings, conferences, and fundraisers have moved online into a two-dimensional world where thoughts and ideas are filtered through a smartphone or webcam so they can fit into the corner of someone else’s screen. by Rocko Jerome

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Sam has met these challenges head-on. As he explains, “We’ve taken this very seriously and began adapting as far back as early March. We were one of the first in Kentucky to do virtual events, and have a special studio just for that pur“We’ve taken this very pose.” MSI’s newest venture makes it possible for businesses and individuals to be seen and heard in the world seriously and began we now live in. adapting as far back

They carved out a space in their Fortune Drive head- as early March. We quarters and equipped it with lighting, high definition were one of the first in cameras, and first-rate audio gear. The result is video Kentucky to do virtual quality that far surpasses the grainy conference calls made on various online platforms. The new studio is events, and have a completely equipped for safe social distancing, too. special studio just for Clients can enter through an exterior door and all the that purpose.” equipment can be controlled from a separate control room. Now, anyone in Lexington has access to the kind of support and expertise that major corporations and institutions have long relied on in a facility that MSI has made convenient and affordable.

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“What we offer is threefold,” says Sam, “We can broadcast internally for companies, charities, and churches, as well as externally across all social media simultaneously. We can also see people watching and put them on the screen right in the studio from across the world.” Pioneering these new techniques, MSI can even broadcast live segments on location from places like restaurants, beaming content back to the studio, where a host presides over the event to entertain and engage with attendees from the comfort and safety of their own homes. These new “hybrid” events deliver much of the impact of a live meeting, without the technical glitches, delay, and mediocre quality that plague so many conventional conference calls. The team at MSI has made a special effort to make the studio user-friendly, and a wide variety of clients have taken advantage of the new service. Some are elected officials and experts who use the studio’s broadcast technology to appear live on network news programs. Some are business professionals who want their meetings and presentations to look their best. And some are just regular people, reaching out to family or friends with a video message on a special occasion.

]

“Don’t cancel your event, change it.”

]

Organizations, colleges, corporations and more are trying to navigate the uncharted territory we’re all facing. Whether you serve an organization trying to bridge their fundraising gap without a gala or you work with a professional association trying to collaborate with members across the country — Sam says, “Don’t cancel your event, change it.” MSI Production Services is a full-service audio/visual rental, staging, and event production company, delivering signature events for both corporate and private clients in Central Kentucky. From the most intimate event to a general session for thousands, MSI provides clients with state-of-the-art technology, top rate personnel, and a knowledge base second to none. After years in the business, Sam started MSI in 1998 and has become the first choice in the region for event staging and execution for many corporations, companies, churches, and other entities. If you have attended an event in Lexington in the last 22 years, you have been in their company. To learn more, visit msiproductions.com.

Did You Know? The Kentucky Events Industry creates $9.5 Billion in direct spending for Kentucky. Every dollar spent from Corporate Meetings returns $1.60 to the economy.* The Kentucky Events Industry creates $5.5 Billion in economic activity from Arts & Cultural events. Over 2.5 million people receive direct or indirect employment because of the event industry each year. When induced jobs are included in this figure, the total reaches almost 6 million positions. *Economic Significance of Meetings to the US Economy Report© 2018 Events Industry Council

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Savin’ Face LIFESTYLE

Bridesmaid Dresses PHOT O CREDIT S (clockwise)

Looking back at bridesmaid dress trends over the years, they’ve definitely had their questionable moments.

1| Pinterest 2| Last Night of Freedom 3| Pinterest 4| Last Night of Freedom

T he first t r y at the mix-matched dress trend!

5| You and Your We d d i n g

Maybe it’s the shoulder poufs that are about 10 sizes too big, or an eyecatching pattern (not in a good way), but don’t we all love reminiscing on these bridal party fashions? Even though they may not be your first choice now, they had their shining moments during their good years so we felt they deserved another shoutout!

If you’re wondering which dress deserves the 1st place trophy for “Worst Bridesmaid Dress”, we have to give it to Rachel Green, right? Look at that flouresent pink and matching hat! However, we all know Jen can pretty much pull off anything, so we’ll let her slide for this one! Do you think this dress comes in 101 colors?

September 2020 | TOPSinLex.com

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LIFESTYLE Weddings Unveiled

the cascading bouquet Over the top and lush florals in light shades of white and ivory are definitely a timeless choice when it comes to your bouquet.

of a timeless wedding Think Duchess Kate, Grace Kelly and Meghan Markle. That’s right, your classic and timeless bride. As little girls we all dream of that perfect wedding day with the perfect gentleman as our groom. We envision the big ballgown, the pretty flowers and the crystal chandelier. Fast forward 20 years and you’re knee deep trying to actually plan your dream timeless wedding and wondering, “where do I even begin?” We’ve pulled the must-have inspo to guide you into creating the perfect classic and timeless wedding day that even the royals would approve of.

the getaway car You can’t go wrong with a vintage car to drive away as Mr. and Mrs. You can’t get much timeless than that!

the go-to color palette PHOTO CREDITS 1 | Afloral take a ite, so let’s all s black and wh e shot of Jacqueline Classic mean tag vin s oon over thi 3 wedding. moment to sw F. Kennedy from their 195 John Onassis and

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2 | Vision Events 3 | Adrian Wood Photography 4 | Adrian Wood Photography All royal/vintage photos | Getty Images


1956

Outfit of the Month LIFESTYLE

royal wedding gowns over the years

Grace Kelly and Prince Rainer of Monaco

1978 Princess Caroline (Grace Kelly’s daughter) of Monaco and Philippe Junot

1994 Lady Sarah Armstrong Jones and Daniel Chatto

2011 Prince William and Kate Middleton

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take in this gown ladies... Kate wore an Alexander McQueen gown that cost over $430,000!

2018 Prince Harry and Meghan Markle

by haley norris Owner of Haley Michelle Designs

www.haleymichelledesigns.com

September 2020 | TOPSinLex.com

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Houseplants

Care for them and they’ll care for you!

Don’t call it a comeback. Houseplants are the throwback trend that never really went away. While Pinterest and Instagram may have popularized #plantmomlife, it’s a timeless art… literally. From Chinese penjing to Roman courtyards, ancient cultures pioneered creative ways to bring nature into their homes. And whether it was the groovy macrame planters hanging between beaded curtains or posh conservatories of Victorian Britain, we’ve carried on the tradition in big ways. As Scandi, mid-century and 70s furniture became trendy in recent years, so did houseplants. Succulents were the first major trend, serving as the perfect little touch for both the rustic/ boho vibe and modern spaces. Those minimalist decorators began to add fiddle leaf figs in rope baskets for a hygge vibe; while the look was almost universally loved, the care required was more than most people could take on. So trendsetters and influencers began trying out other houseplants. It led to full-on plant maximalism, a clear throwback to the Age of Aquarius. And who can argue? The benefits of keeping houseplants are well-documented. The presence of houseplants can boost your mood, productivity, mental well-being and even natural healing ability, according to Prevention Magazine. They can also help your overall quality of life through a sense of accomplishment and reduced stress. They can even offer actual therapy! According to the American Horticultural Therapy Association, house plants can be used within a more organized recovery and wellness treatment plan as a tool for overcoming a host of obstacles. Of course, to get those great benefits, you actually have to keep your potted friends alive. You must choose the right plant for your unique situation. In order to find the plant that fits you best, you should evaluate a few key points:

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chill plants for beginners

Pothos - these vines are basically Plant 101. ZZ Plant - can survive low light and only needs to be watered every 2-3 weeks! Snake Plant - these can tolerate just about any lighting. Air Plant - these don’t even need soil! Just soak them in water for 5 minutes every one or two weeks. Spider Plant - this retro friend just keeps on goin’.

BY AMANDA HARPER

Light - Your lighting situation is the most important factor in determining what plant is best. Take note of what direction the window faces and how much light comes in. Is there any direct sunlight? Some plants soak up the sun while others can’t tolerate any direct rays. Air Conditions - Is your space unusually warm or cold? How’s the humidity? Does the air move, or is it pretty still? Some houseplants are very picky about their environment. Take into consideration how the air will change in the winter (usually low humidity) versus summer (cold A/C can mess with some plants). The Care You Can Give - Be honest with yourself about your skill level. If you’re busy or forgetful, it’s important to choose a plant that can tolerate a few missed waterings. On the flip side, if you’re a bit of a worrywart, you may need a plant that can stand being fussed over. Your Pets and Household - Many houseplants are poisonous to pets – and anyone else who might ingest them. Some houseplants do produce pollen, so allergy sufferers should steer clear of those varieties. The best way to discover the right plant for you is to talk to a houseplant professional. Come prepared with this information and they can suggest some great plants that might pique your interest. Learn to care for your houseplant and it will have a lot to give you in return! •

September 2020 | TOPSinLex.com

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AT HOME

Pets

CURBSIDE Pet Service story by jean gibowski, cvpm brighton animal clinic

What’s going on? When can we come into the clinic with our pets again? We know you are getting frustrated with sending Fluffy in without being able to see what is going on, and we miss seeing you! Most veterinary clinics in Lexington are still doing curbside concierge service, and Brighton Animal Clinic is no exception. However, there is no reason to fear, your pets are still getting all of the TLC and spoiling you have come to expect from us. From the moment you hand over Rover’s leash or Fluffy’s carrier, our team of top rated puppy kissers, cat snugglers, and doggie treat dispensers are on the job! Brighton Animal Clinic is an American Association of Feline Practitioners Feline Friendly Gold Standard practice. This means that your spoiled felines have their own special exam room and also have a hospital area away from barking dogs to keep them feeling calmer if they need to stay for treatment. Our staff is trained in low stress handling techniques to ensure your kitty has the best possible experience. And if it’s Rover you are concerned about, all of our staff are trained with Fear Free handling techniques which means that your dog or cat has a selection of favorite treats to choose from to make the exam go better, low stress handling to get through the exam, and a variety of calming treats or medicines for our more nervous patients. Waiting in the car with your pet before the exam is actually much less stressful for your pet. There is no stress of meeting strange dogs in the waiting area and they are accompanied right into the exam room where there is little wait time before they get to see the doctor….and receive lots of treats! We know it’s difficult for you to stay in your car and hand your furry baby off to us but we do appreciate your trust and understanding and cannot wait until you can join us inside again.

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meet firefly

meet jax



pet

parade Stirling Photo from Rebecca Boardman Hester

Christian Grey Photo from Lori Martin

Rio 6 year old Coonhound mix Up for adoption at the Lexington Humane Society

Gatsby & Prince Photo from Chris Hancock

Bo & Ziggy Photo from Jim Plaisted

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Handsom Sam Photo from Phyllis Arnold


Pet Parade PHOTOS

Bailey Photo from Donna Moloney Vlad 2 year old domestic short hair Up for adoption at the Lexington Humane Society

Ginny 2.5 year old Boxer mix Up for adoption at the Lexington Humane Society

Luna Photo from Jen Brown

Denny Photo from Courtney Barnett Rice 7 month old domestic short hair Up for adoption at the Lexington Humane Society Chewbacca

Weller Photo from Grace Slater

Photo from Barbara Foley

Heidi Photo from Fran Elsen

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AT HOME

DIY with Kids

Back to School This year we may not be back to school the way we’d like to be. Most families are learning from home, and as a parent you may be “Doing it Yourself”- probably not the DIY project we had in mind! The good news is that our youngsters are easy to please, and it doesn’t take much time or materials to fill your child’s day with fun activities that are also educational.

Find the Missing Letter Name Practice

Even as an elementary school teacher, I’m guilty of finding myself browsing Pinterest or Instagram for activities that take too much time to set up for the amount of time the kids actually spend using them! It does not have to be that hard! A roll of paper, some Post-Its, dot stickers, and painters tape allow for an endless amount of activities for kids of all ages! And I’ll admit, a lot of these ideas I’ve not come up with on my own (thanks to other Momma’s blogging about their at-home adventures), but I have been able to get creative with my boys in trying new activities that we’ve come up with together.

Name Recognition Activity

I love to tape a big sheet of paper to the wall, whether you’re allowing some time for free drawing or have a matching activity set up, it’s always more fun to do on the wall than on a plain sheet of paper! Using painters tape & Post-Its to set up sorts is another favorite. My one year old does color sorts with Post-Its, but you could even sort words or math equations for your older child. Think simple, think fine-motor, think applicable. Make holiday sorts, create spelling activities, matching games, or allow for free play… all with just a few cheap materials on hand. Learning can be fun, even for you!

Follow the Pattern Fine Motor Activity

Post-It Co lor Sort for Toddle rs

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You would be surprised how creative you can get with everyday household objects and office supplies!


DIY with Kids

AT HOME

Animal Line-Up Toddler Activity

Our Favorite Materials

JESSI TURNER Fruitful Phases Blog @fruitfulphases

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INSPIRATIONS:

Dr. Shambra Mulder Advocates for the “Least of These” BY DONNA ISON

Using her passion for equity, educational training, and God-given gift of discernment, Shambra Mulder, PhD, champions the causes of children and adolescents throughout the state. According to Dr. Mulder, “I am most motivated by doing things that improve the future of young people. I am focused on ways that I can influence policies and make changes that affect large groups of people who have been marginalized.” This calling to advocate for those considered “the least of these” led her to found the Abundant Living Psychological and Coaching Services for Children and Adolescents. Its mission is “to provide psychological and coaching services to individuals and families that will increase their hope, coping skills, emotional intelligence, resilience, and capabilities for making healthy choices toward living a life of abundance.” In addition to her work at Abundant Living, Dr. Mulder also serves as executive director of the Office of the Ombudsman and Administrative Review within the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, as appointed by Governor Beshear. Dr. Mulder holds her doctoral degree in educational psychology from the University of Kentucky (UK). In addition, she utilizes her God-granted intuition. She explains, “The gift of discernment is the ability to glean information of what is not said, read nonverbal cues, determine right from wrong, reflect and provide insights that is often overlooked by the average person, and speak to the experience of marginalized groups.” In 1996, she began serving the community, personally, when she joined Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc., a leading, historically African American Greek letter organization on the campus of UK. Her first foray into social justice advocacy, professionally, was while serving as a school psychologist. In her words, “I saw how students of color and poor students were primarily affected by the negative outcomes of the special education system. So I wanted to complete a PhD to study the impact of the education system on students who have historically underperformed.” Dr. Mulder is still advocating for marginalized students in her role as education chair for the Kentucky state and local NAACP. She says, “It has allowed me to use my educational training and heart for people to fight social injustices with the power of the oldest Civil Rights organization in the country.” Realizing the unique challenges facing children today, Dr. Mulder offers parents this advice: “Be patient, check in with them constantly and consistently, take advantage of all resources within the schools and community, pay attention to your kids verbal and nonverbal communication, and stay engaged by advocating for your students within the school system.” •

“I am most motivated by doing things that improve the future of young people. I am focused on ways that I can influence policies and make changes that affect large groups of people who have been marginalized.”

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Hip to Be

Squ are Story By Donna Ison Photos By Shaun Ring

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From any of its multitude of angles, The Miller House is a modern masterpiece.

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THE STYLE Stepping through the bright green door of The Miller House feels a bit like falling down the rabbit hole into an architectural wonderland. Jennifer McClure, who has resided in the home since 2018, recalls her initial impression, “I walked inside the living room and immediately knew what a truly amazing home this was. I just started twirling around in amazement and looking up at the most amazing design, and at craftsmanship that was out of this world. I couldn’t get enough – I was a kid in a candy store I ran from room to room taking it all in. I was trying to imagine all the thought, planning, time, attention to detail. I walked around and thought genius, absolute genius.” This is exactly why the structure was included by Kenneth Frampton and David Larkin in their book American Masterworks: Houses of the Twentieth & Twenty-first Centuries. The Miller House exemplifies the cubic tradition in architecture. The style, which emerged in the 1970s and gained popularity in the 1990s, uses a series of cube shapes to build houses with clean lines, mixed materials, and versatile living spaces. Concrete, glass, metal, and wood are seamlessly intermingled throughout the nearly 5,000 square foot home. The structural façade of the three-story structure is primarily poured concrete, with white wood accents, in a series of connected cuboids. On every side, rectangular windows, in varied sizes, and balconies, with railings in a metal grid pattern, add visual interest. And, a cool catwalk leads to a second-floor entrance.

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The interior, which can be accessed through several exterior doors, is open and airy, evoking a sense of calm, with a nod to fun. In perfect balance to the light wood that dominates the space, bright splashes of color in red, blue, yellow, and green pop from walls. Additionally, metal railings, stainless steel appliances and tubs, and soaring pipe columns lend an industrial element.

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THE CONCEPT The original owners desired a space that could accommodate both them, as a couple, and their adult children, giving each an autonomous area, while also allowing for ample family interaction. Thus, the home was created as a 9-square grid with a central gathering space surrounded by three selfcontained living quarters, enabling the inhabitants to live both interdependently and independently. McClure, who resides there with her 15-year-old twins, explains, “The home was designed so everyone has a separate living area—your own private two-story apartment. You have a private entrance, bedroom, closets, private bathroom, living room and office, so even with the open floor plan you can still have your own private space.”

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Prior to purchase, the home was vandalized. McClure kept one wall’s graffiti “damage” to maintain the story of the home.

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THE ARCHITECT Completed in1991, the home was designed by architect Jose Oubrerie. Oubrerie was a protégé of Le Corbusier, pioneer of what is now referred to as modern architecture. According to Oubrerie’s bio from the Austin E. Knowlton School of Architecture at Ohio State University, where he is a Professor Emeritus of Architecture, he and Le Corbusier collaborated on such famous projects as the Brazil Pavilion, Hotel d’Orsay, and the Strasbourg Convention Center. But, perhaps Oubrerie’s most celebrated structure is the Firminy Church, which was named the second most important structure built in the 21st century in the 2010 World Architecture Survey.

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Obrerie’s role as an educator in equally important. In the late eighties, Obrerie served as Dean of the College of Architecture at the University of Kentucky. He has also taught at the Architecture School of Beaux-arts in Paris, The Cooper Union, Columbia GSAPP, CCNY School of Architecture, Cornell University, and the School of Architecture at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Obrerie and his wife still pay visits to the home and are two of McClure’s favorite guests. She states, “It is an honor to know them. I love to learn about the house, and I am so happy to have met them.”

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The open-concept of the great room allows for furniture to be arranged in a multitude of ways and makes for a perfect party pad. McClure says, “The house was designed to entertain; it’s an amazing home for parties.” A poured concrete double-sided fireplace anchors the space.

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“The house was designed to entertain; it’s an amazing home for parties.”

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Throughout, beautiful built-in elements abound, with an abundance of clever storage from large freestanding closets to custom cabinetry to cozy cubbies. Series of elaborate shelves, resembling mazes turned on their side, grace several of the walls, along with comfortable window seats. The myriad of windows on each floor welcome light to pour in from all directions. As the day progresses, an interplay between sunlight and shadow offers an everchanging background of hues and moods. A set of windows in the master bedroom was placed at precise coordinates to showcase the phases of the moon. According to McClure, “Each night I wake up to a beautifully framed moon shining on me.”

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REMARKABLE e

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LAKESIDE WOODWORKS

(859) 559 6240 LakesideWoodworksKY.com

Nick Arlinghaus President / Owner

What services does your company provide? Our goal is to craft spaces that create an environment reflecting our client and their needs ranging from custom-designed furnishings, a complete refresh or outfitting new developments.

Tell us about this project. This office wanted to create a welcoming space for clients fitting their historic downtown location that captured the essence of our community. We crafted multiple pieces for their office, including this unique sycamore slab table that was previously one of the largest trees in downtown Georgetown.

AFTER

What sets your company apart from others in your industry? Every piece we make is unique. Clients can tell us the exact thing they want, but we can also take direction from them and bring extra features or elements to take it to the next level. We will explore your vision and create a custom, gossip-inducing bar and entertainment room in your basement and everything in between. Did you come across any challenges? The waterfall feature of the table that runs down the brick wall was the statement piece the client wanted. Mounting this piece to the brittle mortar that had been in place since the late 1800s, but we were up for the challenge. What advice would you give a home owner looking to renovate? Start with an overall feel for what you would like your space to be by analyzing your current area. The elements you’re seeking may already be in the favorite room of your house. It’s also imperative to find the right balance between customizing your home to fit you and having a broad enough appeal for resale value.

BEFORE

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AFTER

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J. PARRISH PROFESSIONAL BUILDERS

(859) 621-4104 JParrishBuilders.com

J.P. Barlow President / Owner

Tell us about this project. The thing that really intrigued me about this project was the enthusiasm the homeowners had for the house. These are the kind of projects you want to be a part of; you aren’t just a contractor anymore. Instead, you become a conduit for the customers’ vision, which allows all their creativity and passion to flow through you and into the home.

Did you experience any challenges with the project? The HVAC portion of this job was especially tricky. We did not have enough attic space to place a unit, so we had to be very creative with the second-floor design to ensure we did not have to make any space sacrifices. What is your favorite element of the finished remodel? The kitchen was always going to be a fantastic space. However,

BEFORE it just did not have enough natural light, so we placed two slender windows on each side of the kitchen hood. The windows not only served as a means to provide more natural light but also ended up being a great design feature. What advice would you give a homeowner looking to renovate? Ask for references from past customers! From there, it is critical to establish a relationship with your builder. Trust, friendship and shared vision are the starting points of a successful project. When you focus on that, the work will follow.

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AFTER

DESIGN LINK

(859) 225-0310 designlink.us

Tell us about your company. We are a full-service residential and commercial interior design firm. What was the scope of this project? When our clients, who hail from Great Britain, decided to move to Kentucky from L.A., they purchased a lovely horse farm featuring a beautiful home that was in need of some updating. We were thrilled to be given the opportunity to partner with them on this substantial remodel. The scope of the project included floor plan modifications, new flooring, paint/wall coverings, lighting, plumbing, furniture, area rugs, bedding, window treatments and more. How did you help achieve your client’s vision? Our clients didn’t move to Kentucky until the house was completely finished. As a result, many of our appointments were done over the phone or via email. During the eight month remodel process, we were in constant communication with them. As always, it was very important to understand their personal style and their vision for their new home. Once we

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BEFORE established that, we were able to make finish selections, create and modify the floor plan, select furniture, etc. for every room. We communicated those selections either via email or presented to them during one of their quick visits to Kentucky. Give our readers a helpful tip to help them make their home more “current” and up to date. Neutralize! Paint the walls a very light neutral color (almost white or white).

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AFTER

SERVPRO OF LEXINGTON

Jason Phillips Owner

(859) 225-3193 servprolexingtonky.com

What services does your company provide? We are a locally-owned and operated leader in restoration. We offer fire, water, mold and rebuilding services 24/7 for both residential and commercial. What were the challenges with the project? This home was damaged by fire, which means that smoke and water damage added challenges.

Jeff Smith Co-Owner

What sets your business apart? Our amazing technicians and office staff make sure our customers know that they are our main priority through consistent communication and attention to detail. Our team makes it a point to maintain excellence at whatever job they are working—no matter how big or small. We will also work with your insurance to ensure a stress-free claims process.

BEFORE What advice would you give a homeowner looking for emergency and disaster restoration? Since disasters never seem to strike at convenient times, choose a business that offers 24 hours, seven days a week service. It’s also a good idea to check to see if your chosen restoration service company has the applicable certifications to handle your specific project properly.

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AT HOME

Home Decor

DÉCOR,

but make it retro!

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Lustered Coupe Glasses, Set of 4 ANTHROPOLOGIE | $56

C6 Turntable by Crosley Radio NORDSTROM | $179.95

Novogratz Retro RET02 Pastel Rug RUGS DONE RIGHT | $181

Smeg 2-Slice Toaster in Cream BLOOMINGDALES | $169.75

Mid-Century Modern Velvet Sofa in Pink TARGET | $1,499.99

Tatum Chair MODERNO DESIGN HOUSE | $3,640.00

Carmel Sideboard in Various Colors BURKE DECOR | $1,395

Industrial Distressed Accent Mirror PERIGOLD | $1,492

Caracas 16-Arm Ivory Chandelier by Jonathan Adler LUMENS LIGHT + LIVING | $2,250.00

Hollywood Urchin Clock in Gold FRANCE & SON | $81

Roar + Rabbit Embellished Wall Art WEST ELM | $280

Pink Car Retro Patining - Acrylic on Canvas ETSY - JackGrunskyArt | $276.40

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An eclectic mix of both old and new forms. A kaleidoscope of contrasting features, a bold array of color and shapes, often times a result of combining unique pieces from the decades of the 50’s, 60’s, and 70’s. Also referred to as being “vintageinspired”, you can find materials ranging from hammered metals to tufted velvet. The English word retro derives from the Latin prefix retro, meaning backwards or in past times. We had fun piecing together some of our modern-day retro favorites that encompass this whimsical style.

Home Decor

AT HOME

check this out!

Talk about a modern and eclectic kitchen that truly takes you back in time! The bold colors and organic shapes of this space, designed by Kitchen Concepts, make for a fun and exciting design that a true 70s lover would enjoy! September 2020 | TOPSinLex.com

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Getting Jiggly With It

G E L AT I N :

alads, molds, pies, and, yes, even shots, past to present, that's how we gel. Let’s reflect on adventures in aspic.

Most modern tastebuds may find sweet layered desserts dotted with suspended fruit, a charmingly nostalgic addition to a party spread. However, a fish mold comprised of canned tuna, mayonnaise, onion, pimento, cucumber in a lemon gelatin base, with or without a strategically placed olive serving as the fish's eye, is likely to be considered unpalatable. And could even have today's party-goers questioning your sanity and your taste buds.

Gelatin, that shapeshifting wonder food, made midcentury housewives masters of orderly yet over-the-top prepared food presentation. And perhaps no other ingredient has been so influential on potlucks and church picnics.

The savory period of gel cookery came to a close in the 1970s, and the Jell-OTM brand eliminated flavor offerings like celery, mixed vegetables and "Italian Salad." However, as it has since medieval times, gelatin endures.

From Mold to Modern

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Story By Jen Brown

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Images opposite page: Top left: courtesy of The Hellmann’s and Best Foods/Unilever and Starkist/Dongwon Industries Top right: Tupperware mold courtesy of MegsandMomsFinds/ebay Bottom right: Image courtesy of The A.1. Sauce Company/Kraft Heinz Jell-O is a trademark of Kraft Heinze

Beyond the standard rainbow salad of potlucks, jiggling kids' snacks and bubble tea, there are elevated gelatin offerings in line with today's tastes and trends. The timeless gelatin mold gets a modern makeover as a raindrop cake—a transparent, round gel dessert that looks like a drop of water with optional injected flower shapes. Even Jell-O shots have gone upscale with the addition of wine or champagne, sparkling sugar garnishes and creative molding. So, not all old traditions are bad, but can we please make a promise to keep gelatin sweet?

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EATS & ENTERTAINMENT

Dining Guide

TOPS TOPS Dining Guide

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Dining Guide EATS & ENTERTAINMENT

And the beer goes on Oktoberfest, held in late September, is the world’s largest folk festival. About six million visitors annually descend on Munich, Bavaria, Germany, to celebrate traditional German culture. The festival lasts more than two weeks and includes parades, music and dancing, games, rides, food and its namesake beer. Ever so much beer—it’s estimated that beer consumption at Oktoberfest is around two million gallons. Our local craft breweries will be celebrating with traditional brews, even if the actual event in Munich is canceled this year due to COVID-19. BLUE STALLION

So how did it begin? Well, a bride and groom walk into a bar after a horse race–okay, not quite. The annual event began in October 1810 with the marriage celebration of Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen to Ludwig I, who became King of Bavaria. An exciting horse race capped off the five-day festival. Between 1811 and 1817, the annual event comprised of the horse race and an agricultural fair. In 1818 food and drink vendors were added. Over the ensuing centuries, Oktoberfest has grown and evolved to include a mayoral keg-tapping kick-off, a history program, traditional costumes, a family-friendly program and much more.

Oktoberfest / Lager - Märzen Blue Stallion has a wealth of German style beers. Don’t miss their Dunkel while you’re there. COUNTRY BOY BREWING

Oktoberfest / Lager - Märzen ETHEREAL BREWING

Oktoberfestbier / Lager - Märzen MIRROR TWIN BREWING

Wade Boggs Style / Lager - Märzen ROCK HOUSE BREWING + DREAMING CREEK BREWING

Traumhaus / Lager - Märzen (Brewery collaboration)

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EATS & ENTERTAINMENT

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Dining Guide

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TOP 5

EATS & ENTERTAINMENT

“old school” RESTAURANTS

Story By Amanda Harper

Alfalfa // alfalfarestaurant.com | 141 E. Main St. Before locally-sourced restaurants were cool, there was Alfalfa. When a group of students pooled $2,000 to start a restaurant in 1973, they couldn’t have known that they were creating a local legend. New owners Tiffany El-Amin and Wali Yusuf El-Amin hope to reestablish it as the local-first community hub that it was founded to be. Look for a number of vegan and vegetarian options as well as plenty of gluten-free choices.

The Merrick Inn // themerrickinn.com | 1074 Merrick Dr. Originally a pre-Civil War manor house on one of the area’s lush horse farms, The Merrick Inn became a restaurant over 40 years ago. In that time, it’s become synonymous with genteel Lexington living. Try the Pecan Crusted Pork Tenderloin, which is sautéed, then topped with Maker’s Mark apple chutney and maple chipotle butter. You’ll be a regular in no time.

Tolly Ho // tollyho.com | 606 S. Broadway Since 1971, Tolly Ho has been a day-and-night refuge for Lexington’s weary, hungry, tired and wired. This comforting dive serves breakfast, dinner and dessert 24-hours a day to people in tuxes right alongside folks in their ratty, just-rolledout-of-bed sweats. Wherever you come from, The Hot Mess will cure what ails ya, with bacon, sausage, eggs, American cheese and hashbrowns served on Texas toast.

Parkette Drive In // theparkette.com | 1230 E. New Circle Rd. Originally opened by Joe Smiley in 1951, the eatery underwent a renovation in 2008 with new owners. You can dine in or pull up to the old fashioned service booths for an amazing throwback dining experience. Try the Big Lex Burger, featuring two burger patties with American cheese, sauteed onions, bacon and barbeque sauce on Texas toast. Top it off with a malt!

Burger Shakes // 219 E. New Circle Rd. Opened in 1957, this old-fashioned joint offers a no-frills menu. The retro sign above the building proudly proclaims the price of a burger (spoiler alert: it’s impressively cheap!) The classic burger comes dressed with mustard, onion and pickles, with additional toppings by request. Crinkle cut fries and a milkshake makes for a quick, nostalgic meal on the fly.

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Meet

hat originated as one lady serving up seafood to her friends and neighbors has quickly evolved into two food trucks, three brick-and-mortar locations, numerous accolades, and this is just the beginning.

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Dining EATS & ENTERTAINMENT

As you pull up to The Seafood Lady located next to WiseGuys Barbershop at 833 Georgetown Street, you'll feel as though you've stumbled upon a hole-inthe-wall hidden gem that few know about. But you'll soon come to find out that you're one of many that have traveled from all over the state eager to get their own taste of chef Nichelle Thurston's renowned seafood dishes.

833 Georgetown Street seafoodlady502.com (859) 368-9069

If you haven't yet heard of The Seafood Lady, you're late to the party. Thurston has been serving up some of Kentucky's most impressive seafood dishes that have sparked national attention. She's been featured on the Food Network's "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives," has cooked for Muhammed Ali, the James Beard Foundation and is noted on the Food Network's website as one of its "Top Places to Eat." Quite an accomplishment considering she's barely been in business five years and got her unassuming start by cooking her favorite southern dishes for her friends and neighbors. "When I moved here from Pensacola, Florida, the thing I missed the most was good seafood. Back then, you couldn't get that here in Kentucky, so I started cooking my own. I would cook outside, and neighbors would smell my food and flock to come taste. After a while, it got pretty expensive feeding the neighborhood, so I opened my first food truck, and the rest is history," shares Thurston about the humble beginning that is quickly evolving into her growing empire. An empire that is attracting people from all over the state to come to experience Thurston's dishes like Chee-See Fries, a unique combination of crinkle fries topped with the most luscious white cheese sauce (think mac and cheese), sweet flaky snow crab and sprinkled with the perfect amount of cajun seasoning. Another popular meal and one of Thurston's personal favorites is her shrimp po' boy. A twist on the classic, this dish starts with a french sub roll piled high with a generous amount of fried or cajun shrimp, homemade remoulade sauce, hot sauce ketchup, cayenne pepper, paprika and spices to give it a nice kick and garnished with lettuce and tomato for a little fresh flavor and bright color. Add some fries, and you've got yourself the perfect southern meal to enjoy across the street at the park or at one of the picnic tables just outside. "We're currently a carryout only location which has worked out great," shares Thurston. "I love this location; there's a lot of traffic, and the park across the street is perfect for an impromptu picnic. We did well with the food truck, but I hope to open another larger location in Lexington in the future," says Thurston. While the food business might not have been an initial part of her plan, Thurston's grandfather was where she got a lot of her inspiration for how to run a food operation. "My grandparents were amazing in the kitchen; my grandfather had his own catering business and cooked for hundreds of people. My grandmother was equally talented, but more of an old school southern home cook who spent a lot of time cooking for her 12 kids. I learned the business side and the correct way to cook from my grandpa and the southern comfort food from my grandma," shares Thurston. The combination of the two as what she notes to be a large part of her success. That and her innate ability to make things taste good. "I'm always thinking about food and what I can create next," laughs Thurston. So, whether you're in the market for a crab-boil style meal, the freshest fried oysters you'll find in Kentucky, fried lobster atop a waffle sprinkled with powdered sugar or a sweet and spicy slaw unlike any you've had before, you won't regret taking a trip to visit the Seafood Lady. Just don't be surprised if there's a line for her hospitality and her crave-worthy menu offerings.

September 2020 | TOPSinLex.com

Story By Kate Horning H EALTHY L IVING C HEF katehorning.com

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EATS & ENTERTAINMENT

Dining

q+a with

Nichelle Thurston acclaimed chef + owner

What made you fall in love with food? Being around it a lot growing up and eating. I have a big appetite so I love food! Favorite veggie? Broccoli. I like it well done and quite soft, but it always tastes good and can go in many different dishes, it’s very versatile. How do you stay inspired? My kids, my family, and making my customers happy. When I have happy customers, it keeps me inspired to keep going and opening new locations. Do you have a morning ritual if so, what does it look like? I drop on my knees and say a prayer. Every morning is very different but that part doesn’t change. Favorite dish from your childhood? Smothered chicken and rice. It’s a dish my mom makes for me where you take fried chicken and let it cook for like 45 minutes in the most delicious gravy. It gets served atop rice and with a veggie. I never have been able to get it quite right. In fact, I want to call her now and have her make it for me. What do you love most about Lexington? I like Lexington because it reminds me of home. It seems like a very close-knit community. It’s not too big and not too small. I also love that the University of Kentucky is here, and there is such a broad culture. When you’re not working, are you cooking or grabbing carryout? Grabbing carryout from a lot of different places. As I said, I love to eat! What’s the last thing you ate? Hushpuppies!

Photos By Keni Parks

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Piece of advice for someone who dreams of pursuing a career in food. Decide to do it and make a plan. My biggest regret is not planning better. I just jumped right in and had to figure it out the hard way. I made a lot of mistakes, expensive mistakes, but I learned from them. I can say that to get your systems in place, have good food, good service, and you’ll be off to a great start!

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A Blast from our Dining Past The Bistro in Chevy Chase Story By Amanda Harper

For eight years in the ‘70s, this French bistro was the place to see and be seen among the horsey set.

Ed and Fred’s Desert Moon Opened in the 1990s where Portofino now sits, this eatery’s grilled cheese was beloved by the downtown set. The opened closed its doors in 2003 when they moved.

The Bungalow If you thought of yourself as a mover and moneymaker in Lexington in the ‘70s, you probably lunched at The Bungalow on North Mill. If you considered yourself more of a shaker, you went there for drinks.

La Flame Ready to clutch your pearls? This Winchester Road nightclub opened in 1959. From fortune tellers to strip-tease dancers, you could see a show and nosh on lobster tails.

deSha’s There was a time where if you were going to see the Wildcats in Rupp, you were going to grab some cornbread and honey butter (and a drink) at deSha’s in Victorian Square. After 28 years, the eatery closed, though it lives on in Maysville and Cincinnati.

Former Lexington mayor Jim Amato opened this Italian joint on Second Street in 1986. After changing hands and moving to Chevy Chase Plaza, it closed in 1993.

The Coach House

The Saratoga

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Amato’s

This High Street establishment opened in 1953 and served as a second home to a diverse cast of characters.

This local legend opened in 1969 on South Broadway. Stanley Demos’ dishes brought a sophisticated flair to regional cuisine in a truly Old Lexington setting. It closed in 2008.

The Little Inn

Rogers Restaurant

The giant prime rib on the side of the building wasn’t a bait n’ switch: they served up a truly delicious cut of meat. Originally opened in 1930 just outside city limits, it housed slot machines and barflies alike.

When they finally closed their doors for good in 2004, Rogers Restaurant had been open for an incredible 81 years. Originally situated on Main and Jefferson, it moved to South Broadway in 1965.

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EATS & ENTERTAINMENT

Dine out for a good cause I

n the midst of today’s pandemic, an organization remains focused on ending HIV in Kentucky and providing housing opportunities for the medically vulnerable. AVOL Kentucky (AVOL) has announced the eleventh annual Dining Out For Life® (DOFL) event scheduled for Thursday, September 10, 2020. This year’s annual fundraiser will have a slightly different feel due to the coronavirus pandemic. However, there are still several ways for the community to participate and make a meaningful impact on eradicating HIV in the Commonwealth of Kentucky and supporting those most in need.

Participants will be able to donate online anytime at dineoutlex.com. Then, AVOL is inviting the Bluegrass to dine-in or order carry-out/curbside pickup from one of their 30 restaurant partners on Thursday, September 10. A portion of sales will be donated to AVOL by these generous establishments. A complete list of partner restaurants can also be found at dineoutlex.com. “Lexington’s generosity and support of AVOL and Dining Out For Life, over the past decade, has truly been humbling,” said AVOL Executive Director Jon Parker. “We are so appreciative of our restaurant partners and the community for their continued help in fulfilling our mission and delivering essential resources to our most vulnerable neighbors in need.”

OR

D O N AT E A N

Ensuring more people who are living with HIV know their status

Decreasing the number of new HIV infections

Ensuring more people living with HIV are connected to, reconnected to and maintain medical care

Achieve and maintain viral suppression for those currently living with HIV

Working to eliminate health disparities and HIV stigma

NE DI AT

10

O U T LE X .C O M

sept

In keeping with AVOL’s mission to end HIV in Kentucky, all funds raised through DOFL will advance this mission while focusing on:

IM YT

E

“Dining Out For Life allows AVOL to raise critically needed funds while making people more aware of the good work being done by our volunteers and staff in the communities we serve,” Parker added. AVOL provides extensive outreach, education, access to free HIV testing, prevention and connectivity to care. For individuals living with HIV, AVOL responds to and develops new housing opportunities that address critical housing needs. Stable housing as a direct impact on health outcomes. Individuals who are stably housed are more likely to achieve viral suppression and healthy living. So, since you know you are going to eat, might as well make it count.

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HALL

MONITOR a conversation with Joe. B. Hall

A

s we long for happier times, it’s easy for Kentucky basketball fans to allow themselves to drift back to unfettered joy—such as an NCAA championship.

Listen in to a conversation I had with Joe B. Hall, sitting in his backyard prior to the 10-year reunion of his 1978 title team, as he remembered his players. (Note: Hall couldn’t make the dinner for health reasons. His comments were shared that night with the players, but no one else has seen them—until now).

Story By Dick Gabriel Photos Courtesy of UK Athletics

Kyle Macy

The 41 points Givens scored in the title game against Duke, “just put the icing on his career.”

“I remember (NBC analyst) Al McGuire’s quote when he said, ‘To beat Kentucky, you have to kill the snake and to kill the snake you have to cut off its head.’ The head is Kyle Macy,’” Hall said. “He was a true coach on the floor.”

After pro ball, Givens spent more than 20 years in broadcasting and now works in telecommunications

After his pro career, Macy went on to coaching and broadcasting.

Jack Givens “You talk about cool,” Hall said, “somebody with ice water in his veins— Jack was cool from the time he stepped on the floor as a freshman.”

1978 National Championship 40th anniversary halftime celebration on Feb 24, 2018

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Hall by the numbers: Hall served as Head Coach for 13 years (1972 to 1985).

1

& only

13

Hall is the only man to play on and coach a NCAA Championship team for the same school.

years

Hall led the cats to their 5th title win at the 1978 NCAA Championship.

297

5th

Hall led the Cats to almost 300 wins.

title

Rick Robey

victories

Lavon Williams

The 6-foot-11 post man had an eclectic array of skills that betrayed his size. “He had a good attitude, not just with his teammates but his opponents,” Hall said. “He’d help somebody up that he just knocked down.” Robey played eight seasons in the NBA, winning a championship with the 1981 Boston Celtics. After retirement, he became a real estate broker.

Mike Phillips

Jay Shidler

Along with Robey, he was one of the original “Twin Towers” and also contributed more than sheer brawn. “He had a great shooting touch,” Hall said. “He was fearless, a very courageous player. He had a lot of guts and a lot of determination.” Phillips had a successful pro career overseas. Sadly, he died in 2015 of injuries he suffered in a fall at his home in Madisonville.

Truman Claytor Possessed of one of the purest shooting forms UK fans have ever seen, Claytor was “a scrapper,” Hall said. “He was a competitor and he didn’t back down.” After a couple of seasons in the CBA, Claytor became a licensed chemicaldependency counselor, working with mostly troubled adolescents. And for the past 26 seasons, he’s been a high school basketball referee in his home state of Ohio.

He became the “Blond Bomber” as a freshman because of his bleached hair; in ’78 he’d returned to his natural, darker blond but the deadly outside shot remained intact. “It didn’t take him three games to win the admiration of the fans,” Hall said. “He was constant motion.”

James Lee Power personified, Lee thrilled UK fans with his power dunks, including one that capped the NCAA title. “There couldn’t have been a more fitting climax for the national championship for that group,” Hall said, “than for James Lee to make that dunk at the end of the game.” After basketball, Lee spent time working for UPS and now has retired to his hometown of Lexington.

A rugged rebounder and defender, Williams “was almost unstoppable around that basket,” Hall said. Since then, Williams has become an accomplished artist and has been teaching at a middle school in Lexington.

Dwane Casey The reserve guard “was one of the finest young men ever to play at the University of Kentucky,” said Hall. “I couldn’t say enough good about Dwane Casey.” Casey is now head coach of the NBA’s Detroit Pistons.

Fred Cowan Like Williams, Cowan was a reserve forward. “He had a great learning experience, playing with Givens and Lee,” Hall said. “He took a lot of knocks in practice but he hung in there.” Cowan also played professionally overseas and went on to open a print shop in Hopkinsville.

Three players would eventually transfer: Tim Stephens (Cumberland), Scott Courts (Regis) and Chuck Aleksinas (Connecticut).

To learn more about Hall, check out “Coach Hall: My Life On and Off the Court,” his 2019 memoir written with Marianne Walker published through University Press of Kentucky.

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KY vs. IN 1975

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or many older Kentucky fans, there's never been a more iconic moment than the 1975 NCAA Tournament when the Cats beat No. 1 and unbeaten Indiana 92-90 in the regional final in Dayton, Ohio, to advance to the Final Four.

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Indiana had pummeled UK earlier in the season, but this time the Cats matched the physical play and got 22 points from former Indiana Mr. Basketball Doug Flynn—the only time he led UK in scoring all season. Coach Joe Hall mentioned on his postgame radio interview with Cawood Ledford he had told his team it could celebrate in Memorial Coliseum when the players got back to Lexington. Word spread, and when UK's bus crossed the Ohio River, Kentucky State Police cars were waiting to escort the team. Kentucky fans stood on Interstate 75 overpasses with signs for the Cats. Fans lined up along fence rows to cheer for the team. Crowds just kept increasing the closer the team got to Lexington. Hall called it the "greatest" celebration a team could have.

19 B

TOP 10

THROWBACK MO M EN T S in UK sports

Story By Larry Vaught / Photos Courtesy of UK Athletics Picking out the top 10 throwback moments from the 1970s, 80s and 90s for the University of Kentucky sports seems easy because there were many great achievements in those three decades. But having so many to choose from always makes it hard to pick a top 10. After consulting with fans on social media, talking to various long-time UK media members and refreshing my memory, here's my top 10 in chronological order.

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efore Kentucky won 10 games in 2018, the last time UK won 10 games was 1977. The Cats outscored opponents 252-111 and finished 6th in the final AP poll but were not bowl eligible due to NCAA probation.

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Kentucky won 24-20 at Penn State (it's second straight year to beat Penn State), won 33-0 at Georgia with Prince Charles watching, won 33-13 at LSU and won 14-7 at Florida. The Cats also beat Tennessee 21-17 when backup quarterback Mike Deaton completed a 36-yard pass to Felix Wilson before starter Derrick Ramsey, who could not throw because of an arm injury, came back in to lead UK to the winning touchdown in the 21-17 victory. The only loss was 21-6 at Baylor in game two. The defense was led by All-American defensive end Art Still and six players off that team—Still, Ramsey, Mike Martin, Will Grant, Dallas Owens and Jerry Blanton—were picked in the 1978 NFL draft.


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Headline from Kentucky's 94-88 national championship game victory over Duke in St. Louis was "The Goose Is Golden" after Jack Givens scored 41 points on 18-for-27 shooting against Duke's zone. He had UK's final 16 points the first half while Rick Robey contributed 20 points and 11 rebounds.

However, the game many UK fans will also remember from that 29-2 season was an 85-76 win over No. 15 Florida State in the tourney's first round. Kentucky was ranked No. 1 and trying to end a two-decade national title drought but trailed Florida State 39-32 at halftime in Knoxville when Hall made the most courageous decision of his head coaching career. He benched Givens and Robey, both All-Americans, along with starting guard Truman Clayton and went with little-used reserves Fred Cowan, LaVon Williams and Dwane Casey to start the second half. The daring strategy worked as the smaller lineup helped wear down Florida State.

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19 83

Fans filled Memorial Coliseum to see No. 6 Kentucky featuring Valerie Still, Lea Wise and Patty Jo Hedges play national power Old Dominion. Kentucky won 80-66 in front of a school-record 10,622 fans. Kentucky went on to finish the season 23-5 and finish second in the Southeastern Conference before losing in the first round of the NCAA Tournament. Still, who played at UK from 1979 to 1983, remains the leader among all Wildcats (men or women) for career scoring (2,763) and rebounding (1,525).

Kentucky didn't win the game, but many college basketball observers still consider the 1992 NCAA Tournament East Region final between UK and Duke at the Spectrum in Philadelphia as the greatest college game ever.

Defending national champion Duke won 104-103 in overtime when Christian Laettner—who UK fans still believe should have been ejected early in the second half for stomping on Aminu Timberlake's chest—took a length of the court pass, faked right, dribbled once, turned and hit a jump shot as time expired to send the Blue Devils to the Final Four and deny "The Unforgettables" a chance to win a national title in UK's first year back off probation. The two teams combined to shoot 61 percent from the field, including 63.2 percent in the second half and overtime. Pitino said his mind was "in a total fog" after the game. UK players wept in the dressing room. Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski felt so bad for UK players that he joined Cawood Ledford on the UK Radio Network postgame show to praise the Cats and talked about how many winning plays both teams made.

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USA Today called it the greatest comeback in sports history when the Wildcats rallied from 31 points down with 15 minutes, 30 seconds to play at LSU and win 99-95.

LSU led 48-32 at halftime, and an 18-0 run early in the second half pushed the lead to 31 before coach Rick Pitino's team found a way to score 24 of the next 28 points to cut the lead to 82-74 in nine minutes. Teammates said after the game that point guard Travis Ford told them they were not quitting until they won. Kentucky finally got the lead on Walter McCarty's 3-pointer with 19 seconds to play and held on for the win. McCarty had 23 points, and Ford has 10 points and 12 assists in what became known as the Mardi Gras Miracle.

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19 96

Kentucky's 1996 national championship team earned the nickname "The Untouchables" because it was so dominant all season with a roster that had nine future NBA players. Kentucky went 16-0 in SEC play and had a 25-game win streak during the season after a 10-point loss to UMass in game two and before a SEC tourney final upset loss to Mississippi State. Kentucky set a school record with 86 points in the first half and finished with the highest-scoring road game in its 93-year history in a 129-97 win at LSU where Walker had 28 of his game-high 32 points in the first half.

In the national title game, Delk had six 3-pointers in the first half, and UK beat Syracuse 81-74 to give coach Rick Pitino his first national championship. Delk finished with 24 points to earn Final Four MVP honors, and Ron Mercer had 20 points.

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period four.

There have been few wins sweeter for Kentucky football fans than the 40-34 overtime victory over No. 20 Alabama in 1997. Quarterback Tim Couch hit Craig Yeast with a 26-yard scoring pass on a third down and 11 play that started a celebration that ended with goalposts being torn down by fans and paraded through campus by happy students and fans. Yeast insisted he was the one who called the play, and coach Hal Mumme went along with his call. Current Kentucky defensive line coach Anwar Stewart also returned a blocked field goal 68 yards for a touchdown midway of

It was UK's first win over Alabama in 75 years, and 98-year-old Turner Gregg, the UK quarterback for the 1922 win, was at the game.

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This was Tubby Smith's first season as head coach, and not only did the team lose three home games, but UK fans booed it during a 73-64 Valentine's Day loss to Ole Miss.

But this team captured the hearts of Big Blue Nation by going on a 13-game win streak after the Ole Miss loss to claim the national title. The players earned the nickname Comeback Cats by overcoming double-digit deficits in their final three NCAA Tournament wins. Easily the most memorable comeback was overcoming a 17-point deficit in the second half to beat Duke 86-84 in the South Regional in Tampa with over 40,000 fans at the game. Five Cats finished the game in double figures. Smith said UK "exorcised that 1992 loss" to Duke with the win. Kentucky rallied again to beat Stanford in the national semifinals and then trailed Utah 41-31 at halftime of the title game in San Antonio. No team had ever come back from a double-digit halftime deficit in the national title game to win, but UK won 78-69 behind 17 points from Padgett and 16 from Final Four MVP Jeff Sheppard.

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This was a season to remember for UK fans not just because it ended at the Outback Bowl, the first New Year's Day bowl in 47 years, but because of the excitement of the Air Raid offense. This offense under coach Hal Mumme and directed by quarterback Tim Couch resulted in seven wins.

Kentucky won 39-36 on the road at No. 21 LSU. Kentucky, won 68-34 at Louisville and even beat eventual SEC West champion Mississippi State. A last-second field goal miss cost UK in a loss to Georgia. Couch, a Heisman Trophy finalist, became the first pick in the 1999 NFL draft after completing 400 of 553 passes for 4,275 yards and 36 scores. Craig Yeast had 85 catches for 1,311 yards and 14 scores and running back Anthony White rushed for 437 yards on 97 carries and had 78 catches for 582 yards. Eleven players had 13 or more catches.

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Tony Delk From Hoops to Healing INSPIRATIONS: BY DONNA ISON

Tony Delk’s motto is “The sky is the limit,” which incidentally also happens to be one of his favorite songs, recorded by the late The Notorious B.I.G. This “anything is possible” philosophy has been instrumental in Delk’s success as an athlete, author, coach, commentator, and entrepreneur. Despite his tremendous accomplishments, Delk still considers himself “a small town guy that has continued to grow and push himself to greatness because he understands the future is now.” Delk first made his way north from Brownsville, Tennessee to Lexington in 1992 to play point guard for the University of Kentucky Wildcats, and the city still holds a place in his heart. According to Delk, “What makes Lexington a great place to visit or live is the people. They embraced me as an eighteen-year-old kid. Lexington has always felt like home. It will always be one of my favorite cities. I love Lexington!” After helping lead the Cats to their 1996 NCAA victory, Delk went on to play professionally in the NBA for a decade, and then transitioned into a career as a sports commentator for radio and television. In 2008, he was inducted into the University of Kentucky Hall of Fame. In 2018, the former Mr. Basketball and SEC Player of the Year shared insights into his life and offered a behind the scenes look at the sport in his autobiography, Sh00ter: The Story Behind the Double Zeros. Using his wealth of knowledge, Delk also opened the Tony Delk Basketball Academy for youth, which focuses on inspiring players be their best on the court, and off, by adopting a “championship mindset.” When asked what personally inspired him, Delk said, “On the court, it would have to be my brothers Carnell, Ricky, David, and Leslie. They spent a lot of time helping me perfect my craft. In life, it would have to be my parents Florence and Leslie Delk.” As a lifelong athlete, Delk understands the effect of wear and tear on the body, which is why he jumped at the chance to partner with IMAC Regeneration and become the brand ambassador for the Tony Delk IMAC Regeneration Center, here in Lexington. The center is committed to giving patients options to overcome movement restricting diseases and conditions through non-surgical means using a combination of “life science advancements and traditional medical care.” Founded by Dr. Matthew Wallis, D.C., IMAC Regeneration offers “innovative therapies with scientific support to prevent unnecessary surgeries and prescriptions.” A team of medical doctors, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants formulate an individualized plan, often involving physical therapy and regenerative medicine, for each patient consisting of effective, conservative treatments to remedy sports and orthopedic injuries. Currently, their top regeneration procedure is PRP, which sends platelet rich plasma to damaged areas via injection to promote healing and improve pain and mobility. In recent news, the center became the first outpatient clinic to

receive FDA-approval for the study of umbilical-cord derived allogenic mesenchymal stem cells to be used in the treatment of bradykinesia, one of the debilitating manifestations of Parkinson’s Disease. One of the factors that drew Delk to IMAC Regeneration was the compassion of the staff. According to Delk, “It was beautiful to see how much the employees cared about the patients. After talking with Dr. Wallis about how regenerative medicine worked, I knew it would be beneficial to people who were experiencing pain.” In the past, pain has been an accepted part of life for many athletes. The center is offering hope and facilitating faster healing for players from high school to professional, in a variety of sports. In addition, Delk is savoring the success of his trio of Lorenz00’s Reserve wines—with the “00” paying tribute to the number he wore while playing at UK. His jersey was retired in 2015. The wine line, produced by Wildside Winery in Versailles, has a sweet Riesling, crisp Chardonnay, and very special Cabernet that is aged for one year in a Blanton’s bourbon barrel. For the rest of 2020, 15% of all sales will benefit UK Healthcare’s Kentucky Children’s Hospital, so buy a bottle and drink up. With his many viable ventures, and shots made and shots missed, Delk has gained this wisdom: “Don’t be scared to take a risk. Sometimes you must create an opportunity when there might not be one. No one knows how hard you work but you. Believe in yourself and your higher power will direct you in the right direction.” •

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EATS & ENTERTAINMENT

let’s all go to the drive-in Story By Donna Ison

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ot dogs dancing across the big screen. Angora sweaters and wandering hands. A crackling speaker hanging off the car. These were the sights and sounds of the drive-in movie theater. When the cost was $1.50 per car, you piled as many people as possible in the old Ford Fairlane and headed off to see Rebel Without a Cause. Unless, of course, you and your sweetheart needed the whole backseat to yourselves. Though the concept of the drive-in was patented in 1933, it was the teenagers of the 1950s who made it the most popular place to be on Saturday night. Ever since, small-town theaters across America have been filled with families, first dates, and friends watching flicks and pigging out on concession stand staples like popcorn, pizza, fountain soda, and soft-serve ice cream—yum. You can still get a taste of this fifties favorite, with a double pump of extra butter, right here in central Kentucky at the Bourbon Drive-In. Each weekend through October, you can head to Paris for a classic film and some classic fun in a socially-distanced environment. Either stay in your car or bring a chair, and then tune your radio to 88.3 FM, sit back, relax, and enjoy the show. thebourbondrivein.com

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top movies 1970s

Superman $300,500,000 Box Office Gross

American Graffiti $140,000,000 Box Office Gross

Love Story $136,400,000 Box Office Gross

Fiddler on the Roof $83,300,000 Box Office Gross

The Omen $60,900,000 Box Office Gross

1980s Who Framed Roger Rabbit $329,803,958 Box Office Gross

An Officer and a Gentleman $129,795,554 Box Office Gross

Good Morning, Vietnam $123,922,370 Box Office Gross

9 to 5 $103,290,500 Box Office Gross

The Jewel of the Nile $96,7000,000 Box Office Gross

1990s Indecent Proposal $266,614,059 Box Office Gross

The Mask $351,583,407 Box Office Gross

Jerry Maguire $273,552,592 Box Office Gross

The Fifth Element $263,920,180 Box Office Gross

Shakespeare in Love $289,317,794 Box Office Gross

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Throwbacks PHOTOS

throw backs of

Tony Leonard Equine Photographer belts out a tune at the Kentucky Derby 1998

Waylon Jennings performing at Rolex 3DE 1978

Keni Parks 1986

Richard Nixon at a Derby Breakfast at Spindletop Hall Early 1970s

WKQQ On Air Staff 1980s

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throw backs of

UK students protest the Kent State University shootings 1968 / Photo courtesy of UK

Russell & Doris Rice Date Unknown Dr John C Schantz circa 1981

Corner of Jefferson & Main Streets Date Unknown

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Mr. & Mrs. Walid Bohsali 1983

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Kathie Stamps 1980s


Throwbacks PHOTOS

The Chiara Family 1970s

Kip Cornett, Martha DeReamer and John Schrader 1980s

Gratz Park 1900s

Carol Russell 1972

David Stubblefield 1980

Meadors Gate at Keeneland 1950 / Photo courtesy of Keeneland

Shannon & Larry Hall with Marsha Koller 1980s

Frances & Cawood Ledford 1989

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