TOPS Louisville February 2022

TOPS Who’s Who // What’s New // What To Do

february 2022 // Priceless

january 2022 // Priceless

For

LOVE & Money Featuring Louisville's

MONEY MA$TERS

february 2022

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

MEET

Elle Smith

2021 MISS USA

Vol 6• No. 2

That’s the power of flowers

WARMER DAYS ARE COMING AT

CONTENTS top notes

8 10

Business at Breakfast More than a House

life+Style

CHECK OUT OUR NEW ARRIVALS! @magnoliafig

@magnolia_and_fig

(502) 253-4567 12623 Shelbyville Rd, Louisville • Mon-Sat 10-5, Sun 12-4

MAGNOLIAANDFIGBOUTIQUE.COM

16

Red/Pink Fashion

21

Sweet Gift Ideas

24

Making an Impact: Elle Smith

28

Black Bourbon Industry

30

Kimani Bridges The Storyteller

32

Pillars of Building America

36

Money Matters

43

Money Masters

health+beauty

56

Heart Healthy

58

Red Alert

63

Heart Notes

66

Follow your Heart

68

Diet Trends

Cuisine

76

Top 5 Valentine's Date Nights

Community

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84

tops cares: The Fillies

90

tops cares: Metro United Way

94

Veteran Valor

TOPS LOUISVILLE | february 2022 5

THE PL ACE TO BE SEEN

TOPS

+ Cupid = A Happy Valentine’s Day!

Vol 6 • No. 2 Keith Yarber

Publisher kyarber@topsmarketing.com

Kathy Thuerbach Editor-in-Chief and Senior Advertising Account Executive

VP, Sales

tj white

VP, Digital Marketing

Chad Howard

CONTRIBUTORS

tj@topslouisville.com

chad@topsmarketing.com

Photography: Danny Alexander, Dick Arnspiger, Marty King, Andrew Kung

Haley Bottorff

Bridget couch

Account Executive

Graphic Designer

haleyb@topslouisville.com

bcouch@topslouisville.com

Rocko Jerome

Brand Ambassador & Staff Writer rocko@topslouisville.com

Amanda Harper

Graphic Designer amandah@topsmarketing.com

Haley Norris

joseph yarber

Graphic Designer

Digital Strategist joseph@topsmarketing.com

haley@topsmarketing.com

Katie Winfree

Digital Strategist kwinfree@topsmarketing.com

Photo: Andrew Kung

Clothing:

Dress by Aknvas Shoes by Christian Louboutin Mikhail Schulz, JMichaels Salon and Spa

6 TOPS LOUISVILLE | february 2022

TOP Marketing Group 100 EXECUTIVE PARK, SUITE 101 LOUISVILLE, KY 40207 (502) 780-7825 • TOPSLOUISVILLE.COM

The views and comments expressed by the authors are not always that of our editors or publishers.

While every effort has been made to ensure th accuracy of the information in this publication, TOP Marketing Group accepts no responsibility or liability for any errors, omissions or resultant consequences, including any loss or damage arising from the reliance on information in this publication. All images contained in TOPS Louisville magazine are subject to the copyright of the artist or photographer as named, but not limited thereto. Reproduction of any part of this magazine without prior written permission is prohibited.

On the cover:

Hair and makeup:

Writers: Dawn Anderson, Alison Cardoza, Rocko Jerome, Heather French Henry, Shauntionne Mosley, Taylor Riley, Kathie Stamps

TOPS LOUISVILLE | february 2022 7

notes TOP

Business at Breakfast

BY KATHIE STAMPS • COURTESY PHOTOS

We know how important business is to the economy and to everyday life. And we know that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Greater Louisville Inc. brings them together several times a year with Business at Breakfast, the organization’s longest-running event series.

GLI’s first Business at Breakfast of 2022 is scheduled for Thursday morning, March 10, 7:30-9 a.m. at the Speed Art Museum.

“Our March event is a special program to celebrate Women’s History Month,” said Sydney Doctor, senior director of event management for GLI. “We are excited to convene a panel discussion about women leadership in education.”

When Sydney and her team were planning the Business at Breakfast for March, they quickly decided to spotlight the women leading the region’s colleges and universities. Dr. Lori Stewart Gonzalez, interim president of the University of Louisville, will begin the session with special remarks as she joins virtually. Then Renee Murphy with Jefferson County Public Schools will moderate the discussion with panelists Dr. Susan Donovan, president of Bellarmine University; Dr. Sue Ellspermann, president of Ivy Tech Community College; and Dr. Tori Murden McClure, president of Spalding University.

8 TOPS LOUISVILLE | february 2022

“We will explore both the dynamics of women leadership and the future of education to support ongoing workforce challenges,” Sydney said.

TOPS Louisville is a supporting sponsor of the March event at the Speed Art Museum. “This gives each of us the opportunity to learn the best ways to support each other,” said Kathy Thuerbach of the event. She is editor in chief of TOPS Louisville magazine. “TOPS is proud to be a supporting sponsor of GLI’s Business at Breakfast as we all continue to protect and promote the interests of Louisville’s business community, especially as we navigate the ‘new normal.’”

Business at Breakfast began in 2001, just four years after Greater Louisville Inc. itself was formed. It was in 1997 that the Louisville Area Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Louisville Economic Development Partnership merged to become one entity. GLI will be 25 years old in September.

top notes

As the voice of the regional business community, GLI’s main mission is to grow the regional economy. “That means providing supports for existing businesses through advocacy, attracting new businesses through economic development strategies, and ensuring there is a strong talent pool when businesses bring new jobs to our region through talent attraction, retention and development,” Sydney said. “GLI plays a critical role in keeping our community vibrant and our region economy growing.”

Each year, GLI presents two to four Business at Breakfast events for around 200 attendees.

“For every Business at Breakfast event, we identify a speaker who can provide insightful and relevant content to our audience, which is primarily made up of business leaders,” Sydney said. She has heard participants rave about the high-level networking experience. “Like with all GLI events, we ensure there is ample time for networking and one-on-one relationship building.”

Register for Business at Breakfast at www.greaterlouisville.com/events.

TOPS LOUISVILLE | february 2022 9

notes TOP

More Than A House: Ronald McDonald House Charities of Kentuckiana

How the Rushing Family found support at RMHCK

BY TAYLOR DURDEN • COURTESY PHOTOS

Ronald McDonald House Charities of Kentuckiana is more than a house. It’s a “home-away-from-home” for families with sick children in the hospital, like the Rushing family.

Erica Rushing gave birth to her daughter Allison at 23 weeks and one day, weighing one pound, three ounces.

A medical helicopter rushed Allison to a NICU in Louisville, more than 100 miles from home.

“She’s a fighter and seeing the fight in her gave me the motivation to keep going,” Erica said. “It was hard to see my baby hooked up to so many different machines and to fight for her life.”

While Allison stayed in the Louisville hospital for months, the Rushing family found the comforts of home at Ronald McDonald House Charities of Kentuckiana (RMHCK).

“Ronald McDonald House provides a different kind of hope. We’re a family of faith, but here in this atmosphere you get

10 TOPS LOUISVILLE | february 2022

a different sense of hope because you’re not the only one going through this,” Jermonte Rushing, Erica’s husband, said.

Only a few blocks from the hospital, RMHCK provided the Rushing family a place to stay, at no cost to them, thanks to generous donors who keep the house running.

“It’s so convenient, right across the street to see my baby at any given time,” Erica said.

“The Ronald McDonald House is a blessing,” Jermonte said. “It’s truly a blessing to have a place that sees the situation more than the dollar signs.

They see what you’re going through and they welcome you. And even when you leave, they don’t forget you.”

Hear more of the Rushing family’s story, and find out how you can help families like them, at RMHCK’s 21st annual Red Tie Gala on March 5, 2022, starting at 6 p.m. For tickets and more information, visit redtiegala22.org.

Save the Date!

MARCH 1ST – MARCH 5TH

RED TIE GALA Online Auction Benefiting the families at Ronald McDonald House Charities of Kentuckiana

Auction features bourbon baskets, weekend getaways, local art, jewelry, salon and restaurant gift certificates, and more!

WWW.REDTIEGALA22.ORG

12 TOPS LOUISVILLE | february 2022

VISIT US! Louisville Location: 4340 Summit Plaza Drive Elizabethtown Location: 56 Public Square Bardstown Location: 117 N 3rd St.

www.thatcutelittleshop.com @shopthatcutelittleshop TOPS LOUISVILLE | february 2022 13

14 TOPS LOUISVILLE | february 2022

Life Style

16 21 24 28 30 32 36

Red/Pink Fashion Sweet Gift Ideas Making an Impact: Elle Smith Black Bourbon Industry Kimani Bridges The Storyteller Pillars of Building America Money Matters

TOPS LOUISVILLE | february 2022 15

k n i P + d e R s e l y st t e Swe

16 TOPS LOUISVILLE | february 2022

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Notch Collar Wrap Coat ($248 anntaylor.com)

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outfitters.com) rban u 5 13 ($

Davis Gold Multistrand Necklace ($128 kendrascott.com)

Striped Mockneck Sweater ($99.50 ralphlauren.com)

Tie Waist

.50 79 ($ ts

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Everday Spade Bundle ($59 katespade.com) Heart Pattern Knit Top ($24 shopcider.com)

TOPS LOUISVILLE | february 2022 17

Genuine Pink Opal Earrings ($339 evhjewelry.com)

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Valentine’s Day Large Reversible Tote ($329 katespade.com) to Cu

Angie Carved Heart 18k Vermeil Huggie Earrings ($160 kendrascott.com) 18 TOPS LOUISVILLE | february 2022

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Heart Knot Headband ($24.50 anntaylor.com)

Lovely Floral Oblong Scarf ($59.50 talbots.com)

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TOPS LOUISVILLE | february 2022 19

Sweet Gift deas IGetting your significant other the perfect gift for Valentine’s Day can be difficult, to say the least. Women (typically) don’t want heart-shaped jewelry, men don’t want to hide yet another tie they’ll never wear, while some people don’t enjoy celebrating Valentine’s Day at all. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of gifts for him, her, and your favorite loved ones, that you can gift for Valentine’s Day – or any other day throughout the year! From blankets to bourbon, there’s something on this list your loved one is sure to enjoy. by Allyson Mattingly

TOPSinLex.com | February 2022

TOPS LOUISVILLE | february 2022 21

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Procedure 360 System ($310 susanneilmd.com) Antica Farmacista "Sandalwood Amber" Bubble Bath ($42 violetsboutiquelex.com)

Aquamarine Baguette & Pearl Open Ring ($350 nordstrom.com)

Ultrasonic Aromatherapy Diffuser ($39.95 grove.co)

How Do I Love Thee From A-Z Love Letter ($20 uncommongoods.com)

Tumbled Chestnut Utility Bundle ($300 claytonandcrume.com)

DY Madison Chain Small Bracelet, 8.5mm ($325 davidyurman.com)

22 TOPS LOUISVILLE | february 2022

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Bou rbo nC h Bou rbo nC h

White Jasmine & Mint Cologne ($145 jomalone.com)

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For Him Blackstone 28" Griddle Cooking Station with Hard Cover (cabelas.com)

Old Fashioned Needlepoint Cufflinks ($75 smathersandbranson.com)

Date Night Ideas Scratch-off Card Game ($23.42 homefurniturelife.com)

280-ThreadCount Pima Cotton Percale Sheet Set ($119 llbean.com) Cashmere Sweater-Blazer ($298 jcrew.com) Nespresso® ($209.99 bedbathandbeyond.com)

A Dozen Reasons I Love You Dad ($40 uncommongoods.com)

Tom Ford Tabacco Vanille ($365 tomford.com) Eagle Rare 10 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon ($99.99 thehouseofbourbon.com) TOPS LOUISVILLE | february 2022 23

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24 TOPS LOUISVILLE | february 2022

AKING IMPACT: 2021 MISS USA

BY HEATHER FRENCH HENRY PHOTOS BY ANDREW KUNG, FELIPE ESPINAL AND COURTESY PHOTOS

She is beautiful, well spoken and could literally stop traffic with her beautiful curly locks and vivacious smile. She’s a woman on a mission having pounded the pavement as a reporter for WHAS TV and marched down the runway on an international stage. Ladies and Gentlemen, she is Elle Smith, Miss USA 2021 and she is ready to take on the world!

TOPS LOUISVILLE | february 2022 25

lle fell in love with pageantry when she was 15 watching a friend navigate the process. “She was smart, beautiful, and involved in everything. She didn't limit herself,” remarks Elle. “I wanted to be like that. I wanted to expand my interest, go explore the world.

I also saw the opportunities that the Miss USA Organization provided her.”

Growing up her mother and family encouraged her to be well rounded and explore opportunities. Elle became involved in a multitude of activities that would help prepare her for the journey.

“My family always wanted me to be outside of the house, so they had me in ev-

ery activity possible. I did volleyball, basketball, tennis, and swimming. I also did theater. I took those skills from theater to reporting, and then I took those communication skills from reporting to being Miss Kentucky USA to being Miss USA.” Upon graduating with a degree in journalism from UK, Elle became a reporter for WHAS TV in Louisville. It was an adviser at UK who had encouraged Elle to pursue a path in journalism. “I don't think you can really appreciate the role of a journalist until you've worked in a local market,” states Elle. “I will be forever grateful for my time at WHAS TV because they took a girl who was right out of college and put me in a top 50 market and trusted me even when I didn't trust myself.”

With those skills, Elle forged a path toward Miss Kentucky USA and Miss USA. She looked at each step of the process, watched and took notes. But in the end she also wanted to enjoy the experience.

“I walked in wanting to have fun. But I don't think anything can prepare you for the nerves that will set in. I remember during prelims right before I walked out for the first time on stage, I almost froze!”

Overcoming a bit of stage fright, Elle would go on to win Miss KY USA on her very first try! Next up for her was the title of Miss USA. “I think the prep for Miss Kentucky USA is at a different level, but then the prep for Miss USA just takes it five times higher,” remarks Elle.

Elle entered into the arena of competition having prepared but also wanting to have a great time with the other amazing contestants who had become her friends.

“I'd already met the contestants at a retreat at Nizuc Resort and Spa in Mexico a couple of months prior to Miss USA. So I knew the girls that I was competing against, it didn't feel like a competition.”

It may not have felt like a competition but Elle brought her game to the pageant confidently. “So they called a top 15 and we went through swimsuit, evening gown, and then the top eight did the round table discussion and then final question. I'm going to be honest, I didn't have time to think,” Elle remembers. “So they called my name and you can see I was in complete shock!”

After her blissful win, there was little time to reflect as Elle was immediately thrust into preparations for Miss Universe. “I flew to Houston the day after the pageant. Then that next day, I got on a flight to Israel.” Elle would then have to quarantine for 72 hours before joining the other contestants who had already been there for a week. “I was a little nervous but, thankfully, everyone was really welcoming.” Elle and the other contestants would eventually round out their final competition at 2:00 a.m. in Israel so that it could be aired live here in the United States. “But, it was fun,” Elle laughs. “I got to meet Steve Harvey, so it was a good time. We had been awake all day and I think I got my makeup done at midnight!

Then we filmed from 2:00 a.m. to 5:00 a.m.”

Elle went on to advance to the top ten.

Although, she did not walk away with the title, she is excited what the future holds as Miss USA 2021. “It was a win-win situation for me either way, because being Miss USA is such a great honor. My reign has just started. I get to move to LA,” says Elle. “I'm going to have a year of endless opportunities!” Elle will not only spend her year focusing on networking in the entertainment world but also promoting the national partnership between Miss USA and organizations like Best Buddies and Smile Train. “I'll also be working with the National Cervical Cancer Coalition to push out content to bring advocacy and education in regard to cervical cancer throughout my year.” Cervical cancer is an issue close to Elle as she lost her Grandmother to the disease in 2015.

Elle has already started creating change. Not too long after her year of service began, she had the opportunity to work with First Lady Brittany Beshear on the recent tornado relief efforts. “We went to Taylor County. It was the first time that I got to see the devastation in person. I saw endless amounts of pictures and videos, but to see it in person, I don't think anything can prepare you for that.

There, the perseverance, the strength, the resilience was so incredibly evident,

but also the support that they're going to need long term was also evident as well.”

Elle is excited about getting on the road to travel our nation even in the midst of a still ever present pandemic. However, Kentucky will always be first place in her heart. “I'm proud to represent Kentucky on the national stage. I am Kentucky proud through and through."

I'M PROUD TO REPRESENT KENTUCKY ON THE NATIONAL STAGE. I AM KENTUCKY PROUD THROUGH AND THROUGH."

TOPS LOUISVILLE | february 2022 27

black history month

Kentucky Black Bourbon Guild Announces

Freddie Johnson Distilling Scholarship

A third-generation employee of Buffalo Trace Distillery, Freddie Johnson has inspired countless visitors with his love of family, history, and tradition. He’s also inspired a new effort focused on increasing minority representation in the distilling industry.

The Kentucky Black Bourbon Guild has announced a new scholarship, named in Johnson’s honor, that will provide financial aid for students at Kentucky State University who are interested in entering the distilling industry.

Five $1,000 scholarships will be awarded each semester to students majoring in hospitality, business, agriculture, chemical engineering, chemistry, and the KSU fermentation and distillation certification program. To be considered for the scholarship, students will complete an application and a 500-word essay. Award winners are eligible to re-apply in subsequent semesters.

The awards are underwritten by three organizations that have partnered with the guild: Kentucky State University, Uncle Nearest Whiskey Distillery, and Truist Bank.

28 TOPS LOUISVILLE | february 2022 152

TOPS in Lexington | December 2021

black history month “Our mission is to honor all minority involvement throughout bourbon history, whether it’s from the past, present or future,” said Robert Beatty, founder of the Kentucky Black Bourbon Guild. “Freddie’s ongoing legacy is critical in guiding KBBG’s mission to develop inclusivity in the industry by educating our community of consumers and enthusiasts.”

Johnson, who started working at Buffalo Trace in 2002, traces his lineage much farther back. His father, Jimmy Johnson, Jr., worked at the distillery alongside famed master distiller Elmer T. Lee. His grandfather, Jimmy Johnson, Sr., worked for Col. Albert Blanton at what was then the George T. Stagg distillery. Even as a child, Johnsons says, the distillery was his “playground,” and he’s honored to be part of an effort that will help a rising generation.

“We walk this earth, and you never have any idea of the impact that you’re going to have on others,” Johnson said, reflecting on having a scholarship named in his honor.

“That’s probably the most humbling piece of this whole thing.”

When he first heard about the scholarship, Johnson said he was “blown away.” In conversation with Beatty, though, he realized that it was about something bigger — it was about legacy, Beatty told him.

“Robert said, ‘this is our way of giving back and recognizing the heritage and the contribution that our families and other generations before us have made,’” Johnson remembers. “‘This is our way of doing that, but honoring you and your family at the same time.”

For Donation Consideration: Kentucky Black Bourbon Guild 217 E. Main St., Suite 603 • Louisville, Ky 40202 Attn: Freddie Johnson Scholarship Fund

Legacy is what KBBG is all about, too. The guild was founded in 2018 as a way to educate minority consumers about bourbon, as well as the essential role people of color have played in the development of the state’s signature industry.

Just as the guild plays a role in uncovering stories that should never have been forgotten, Beatty says the new scholarship has a role in creating a new story about the distilling industry.

“The distilling industry created $9 billion for the Kentucky economy last year, but only 1% of people working in the industry are African American,” said Robert Beatty, founder of the Kentucky Black Bourbon Guild. “Our scholarships will play a role in changing that number by being a educational pipeline for students and consumers by building working relationships with distilleries both large and small.”

For Johnson, always a visionary, the scholarship points beyond the immediate financial impact toward generational change.

“I always say this — old men have dreams; young men have visions,” Johnson said. “These kids have dreams, they have hopes — but sometimes reality just smacks you in the face. Some recover, some don’t. Maybe we can’t fix it all, but maybe we can plant some seeds. That seed might be a scholarship of just a few dollars, but those few dollars allow them to get to another plateau, and then all of a sudden they realize, ‘Hey, I can give back like somebody gave for me. I can get to the next level. I can help someone else get to the next level.’”

To learn more about KBBG, visit:

kentuckyblackbourbonguild.com TOPS LOUISVILLE | february 2022 29

black history month

KiMani Bridges The Storyteller

BY SHAUNTIONNE MOSLEY PHOTO BY DICK ARNSPIGER

torytelling is a huge part of the world’s history. Without hearing the true accounts of life, whether it be from song or verbal story, the diverse narratives inspired by the living and dying things around us would be lost. KiMani Bridges, an upcoming composer and flutist, picked up a sort of family heirloom when gravitating towards the flute as a young child. Hearing the skillfully played, whistle-like notes coming from the flutes of her mother and grandmother is what first sparked her curiosity in the instrument. Years later, Bridges has made the talent her own by winning the 2020 G. Schirmer Prize for Luna Composition Lab for her piece, The Flower. This scenic composition for flute, violin, viola, and percussion creates a still life picture in the listeners mind of the birth and death of a flower. For this Louisville, Kentucky native, it’s not enough to just stop and smell the roses. Through her work, Bridges aims to make you feel the moment and embeds the story in your memory through song.

As you can imagine, this talented creative is busy balancing school and creative opportunities. Her studies at Louisville’s award winning YPAS (Youth Performing Arts School) at DuPont Manual High School has quickly turned into her doing “basically two degrees” at Indiana University Jacobs School of Music where she is a sophomore. In this unique interview for Tops Magazine, Bridges is interviewed by close friend and fellow student artist, Maurine Mosby. An English Creative Writing and Screenwriting student at the University of Cincinnati, the two’s friendship spans just a little over a decade and it’s evident in their video call. The giggles, playful jabs, and deep understanding between artists who are friends gives us an intimate side of KiMani Bridges the masses have yet to see.

30 TOPS LOUISVILLE | february 2022

Maurine: When describing your piece, “The Flower”, you’ve said you were inspired by nature and how a flower grows.

From the time a seed is planted, all the way to bloom and death. Do you think that people can see sound? If yes, then what do you do to help listeners see?

story arc. And so, for The Flower, imagine a still film where it’s like the time lapse of a flower growing and that flower dying.

I don’t think people can see sound, but I think people can feel sound. Like, feel emotions through sound. You’re putting your own story to the piece.

KiMani: Well, all of my pieces are kind of like movies. I would say I watch a lot of movies. More than the average person should I guess. So all my stuff has that…

Maurine: When I listen to your stuff I can get a clear picture in my head but I can’t necessarily see it, but I can in my mind. I get what you’re saying. Since you’re obvi-

black history month ously a composer yourself and pursuing it as a career, do you have a favorite composer?

KiMani: I have favorite people. Not exactly, composers? Because I listen to a lot of music and some of the classical music I listen to…I don’t know who wrote it, but I have it saved (both laugh). I need to get better at that. I’m learning. I have favorite people that I take inspiration from.

Like Ellen Reid, Valerie Coleman, Misty Masoli, those are people I’ve talked to the most in this career and they are some of the most inspirational people I know.

They’ve helped me with composition and how to handle the spotlight in the sense of being around people way older than me.

Maurine: That’s a great segue to my next question for you. Who inspires you the most? Like, who inspires you the most to continue doing the work that you’re doing?

KiMani: Um so, all the people around me, including my professors at IU, and my flute professor. They all encourage me and help build my confidence in this field. They’re like…grounding points I would say. Because you know me. I panic about things I really don’t need to panic about.

Maurine: (laughs) Yeah.

KiMani: When I do that, these are the people that say, “KiMani, do you know how to live?! Breath! Calm down!” (laughs). They help me not overthink things and guide me on the different things to apply for, how to network and navigate through a field that is predominantly dominated by white men. All my mentors, the top ones that I discussed, are women composers and one of them is a Black person. We’ve talked about how to get more artists of color involved in composition and be more presented. It looks better now than in the past, but there’s still concern (about diverse representation in the field of music composition).

Maurine: Ok so, we’re both Black and we’re both pursuing careers I guess, you don’t see a lot of Black people in. And I didn’t know this until earlier, but Florence Price was one of the first Black women to be recognized as a composer in the

early 1930’s. I guess, what we all wanted to know is, what does it mean to you to be a successful composer as a Black person?

More specifically, a Black woman?

Maurine: I’ve seen your playlist…I know.

KiMani: I would say that I am very lucky in the sense that when I first started composing I already had a support system and a lot of people don’t have that. I’m very proud to be Black. I wouldn’t see myself any other way, and I’m proud to be a woman. But I have been made aware of everything against me. We’re in this age where I think there’s other people that want to help bring us up. I think I’m at a good spot as in, if I were born twenty years ago…I wouldn’t be able to do this. I think I’ve chosen the best career in terms of my own aspirations and how I want to be as a composer and as a performer. And I wouldn’t have it any other way. Did I answer your question?

Maurine: I’m just saying, I know what your playlist looks like and what kind of music you listen to (laughs).

Maurine: That’s a fantastic answer.

You’re very good at this! I don't know why you think you’re not good at answering questions.

KiMani: (nervously laughs) I get nervous.

Maurine: Hey! Nervousness can push you to do good things. Great things in fact.

KiMani: It’s also really cold in my house too so that’s not helping.

Maurine: Just warm yourself up over there I guess! Ok, so…how has being brought up in Louisville shaped you as a classical artist?

KiMani: Ok first of all, great thanks to my mother and grandmother who have shown me art since I was very young.

Taking me to see plays like the Nutcracker at the Kentucky Center for the Arts. My first introduction into art was dance and I still really love to dance. I did a little bit of acting, and I’m now doing singing. I did a little bit before. I was a nervous, shy person, a couple years ago and it wouldn’t have worked out, but now it works. So, having my mother and my grandmother and encouraging me to be involved with music. My mother played the flute. I tried other instruments, but the flute stuck. I didn’t grow up in a classical music house.

We did mostly R&B. I was very into Pop and Disney majority of the time.

KiMani: You know what Maurine… (laughs).

KiMani: My love for classical music started when I went to YPAS. Everything kind of took off there because it’s an art school. So you’re around it all the time.

My peers inspired me to work harder, to keep practicing the flute, to start writing compositions, and so I have to give it to my high school and my parents.

Maurine: What most of all do you want people to take away from your composition pieces?

KiMani: Each piece is its own album. I associate a lot of color with my music. All of them tell a story. They’re all my story.

Even the little tiny pieces that are 1-3 minutes. They all are personal to me. I have my own storyline. I encourage my listeners to create their own storyline. Just listen to the sounds they hear. Especially, with this upcoming piece like, you’ve heard the midi. It’s completely crazy.

Maurine: (nods with a smile) Yeah.

KiMani: So, I highly suggest you pick one instrument and listen to that one instrument and instrument section. It might require multiple listens, but it’s gonna have to be that way. I put my heart and soul into each piece I do. Especially if it’s a flute piece. The solo in my piece alone next month took 2 and a half weeks to write and I’m excited for everyone to hear it.

Maurine: Well I’m excited. I’ve personally loved everything you’ve sent me. Even with as much as you tell me you need to get it done and you’re sick of looking at it (laughs). And I’m happy to be one of the few people who gets to hear your work first so I can brag about that when you do become a famous composer. I can be like, “I listened to it first!”

TOPS LOUISVILLE | february 2022 31

black history month

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black history month

Moving black america forward

BY JOHN HOWARD SHAW-WOO, FOUNDER AND CEO, NOIR BLACK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE INC.

As we begin 2022, Black Americans are facing a continuum of economic and social turmoil across the country stemming from the decline of democracy, increase in racism, a widening gap between the rich and the poor, and an awareness of an unwearyingly class system, which our country’s White forefathers crafted deliberately and which continues to divide America into extreme sects each passing day with no resolution. It is time for Black Americans to move forward on their own.

America has always prided itself as being the land of the free and the brave, but reality, not history, tells a much different story for Black America.

As Black Americans head into February, designated as Black History Month, we must unravel our thinking behind Black History Month and consider its origin in order to clearly understand why and how to move forward as a people. Was this designation created for Blacks to celebrate their history and existence, or was it created to relieve the conscience of our oppressors? With the ongoing perpetual disparity war on Black Americans, how can Blacks celebrate their history in this country without acknowledging the societal and economic woes Blacks experience daily?

For centuries, Black America has focused on moving forward as a collective, but the unanswered question is: has that effort resulted in the economic and social growth Black Americans need to catch up with their White brethren’s economic and social standing? Over the more recent decades there have undoubtedly been gains through voting rights and affirmative action laws, but despite these efforts, Hispanic Americans have reached higher rates of intergenerational mobility, more similar to Whites than Blacks. In addition, Hispanics have surpassed Blacks in homeownership and 28% of Hispanics have made it to upper middle class or higher economic standing as compared to 35% of Whites and only 14% of Blacks.

Moreover, 14% of middle-class Hispanic kids have made it to the top of the income scale as compared to 19% of Whites and just 7% of Blacks. The question that lies before each Black American currently is: how can we as a people reach economic and social mobility in America that equals that of White Americans?

One major solution is a national economic development roadmap for Black Americans that could lead to

“individual successes”, which in turn will contribute to the collective success of all Black Americans. Noir Black Chamber of Commerce Inc., a Louisville-based national 501C3 economic development organization, and certified Community Development Entity (CDE), under The U.S. Department of Treasury has created such a roadmap.

The Chamber’s mission is to “Move Black America Forward” through the creation of innovative programming that will lead to economic and social mobility for Black Americans. In doing so, the Chamber has identified ten critical socioeconomic and educational pillars that it has crafted into a strategic plan, which it calls “The New Black America Roadmap”. The Chamber believes if intentional programming is created around these ten pillars, Black America will begin to see positive economic and social change within one generation, through investments in our next Black generation, 9- to 24-years of age, and their learning of basic business education early. In addition, national programming needs to be created and funded through the solicitation of governmental and private funds to: (1) support Black Entrepreneurs in their start of companies, (2) growth education for Small Black Businesses, (3) Midsize Black Business support through the awarding of federal contracts, and (4) Black Corporate Professional advancement. In addition, Black Communities are also in dire need of national programming centered around: (1) Black Community Trauma, (2) Black Teen Higher Professional Career Attainment, (3) Non-collegebound Student Apprenticeship and Job Training, (4) Black Talent Corporate Placement, (5) Homeownership, and (6) Welfare Reform.

If we Black Americans intend to improve our economic and social standing, we must first realize that we have got to do it largely ourselves, by committing to the task at hand, eliminating the dependency on systems that continue to fail, blocking out the daily noises that distract, and focusing on the ultimate goals of investing in our next generation. We need to engage in programs that will uplift and not S PO NS ORE D BY L G & E denigrate and celebrate individual successes that will lead to a stronger collective.

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black history month

the NEW BLACK AMERICA ROADMAP ten pillars: BUSINESS:

I. Entrepreneurs Phase I – START – Active Noir Black Business Club Initiative This program is aimed at entrepreneurial startups to assist with business plan development, business formation processes, financial forecasting, and mentor pairing to provide support and guidance.

II. Small Black Businesses Phase II – GROW – Active Noir Black Business Club Initiative This program is aimed at small businesses launch.

III. Mid-Size Black Businesses Phase III – SUSTAIN – Active Noir Black Business Club Initiative This program is aimed at company streamline processes, develop expansion strategies, and contract readiness.

IV. Black Corporate Professionals – RISE – Active Noir Black Business Club Initiative This program is aimed at growing black corporate professionals through personal brand, holding on to personal values, leadership and communication skills, and professional etiquette.

COMMUNITY: V. Black Community Trauma – Active Noir Black Business Club Initiative This program is aimed at establishing a national black community trauma platform for black adults, teens, and children to learn about trauma and how to identify, work through, and move past it.

VI. Black Teen Higher Professional Career Attainment Program – Active Noir Black Business Club Initiative This program is centered around moving black teens toward higher professional career attainment where they strive to become accountants, architects, business S PONSOR ED B Y L G & E

executives, doctors, dentist, engineers, nurses, lawyers, pharmacist, scientists, etc.

VII. Non-College-Bound Black Teen Apprenticeships and Job Training This program aims at reaching non-college- bound high school before they graduate from school or receive their GED to move them towards apprenticeship and job training programs before they get lost in the system after high school.

VIII. Welfare Reform This program aims at bringing lawmakers and entitlement recipients to the table to require eligible entitlement recipients to either enroll in a job training program or college. As they graduate and make more money, their entitlement services are deceased. The program is centered on weaning families off welfare.

IV. Homeownership – Active Program & Noir Black Business Club Initiative This program aims at advancing black homeownership in America. The chamber has created The Noir Homebuyer Program, where a representative walks each potential homebuying clients through an 11-Step process that leads to homeownership. The chamber, in partnership with eHome America, has launched the chamber’s online HUD Certified Homeownership Course, which results in a completion certificate that clients can use for city’s down payment assistance programs.

X. Black Talent Corporate Placement – Active Noir Black Business Club Initiative This program aims at teaching black university student’s basic business knowledge centered around entrepreneurship, intrapreneurship, personal branding and marketing, interviewing skills, public speaking, internships, corporate placement, etc. •

"THE FUTURE SUCCESS OF BLACK AMERICA IS NOT HINGED ON THE COLLECTIVE, BUT RATHER INDIVIDUAL SUCCESSES!"

M

mat 36 TOPS LOUISVILLE | february 2022

A full month into 2022 and with tax season upon us, this is high time to get those budgetary ducks in a row. We researched moneysaving tips and rounded up some housing market and retirement planning experts to help guide you to a more secure financial future.

BY DAWN ANDERSON • COURTESY AND STOCK PHOTOS

MONEY

atters TOPS LOUISVILLE | february 2022 37

MONEY-SAVING TIPS According to Bankrate’s December Financial Security Index, two-thirds of U.S. consumers are pessimistic about seeing any improvement in their personal finances. Contributing factors include rising inflation, the COVID pandemic, and private debt. Among Generation Z, optimism about improved finances in 2022 is highest, while it diminishes for each successive older generation.

Respondents said they prioritize paying down debt and building savings, yet 56% of Americans do not have adequate funds to cover an unexpected $1000 emergency expense.

Even if you are in great financial shape, someone you care about may be struggling. How can we prepare to weather any economic uncertainties now and through 2022? From consulting a financial services professional to simply downloading a money management app, there is a range of options for crunching numbers and getting organized. Don’t be afraid to offer or reach out for help.

We rounded up some helpful hints and handy resources to turn the ship around.

There’s an app for that! NerdWallet recommends the following “Best Budget Apps for 2022”: Mint, Goodbudget,

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YNAB, EveryDollar, Personal Capital, PocketGuard, Honeydue, and Fudget.

In addition, Truebill not only provides spending insights, budgeting, and autopilot savings, but it can also manage your subscriptions and even wait on hold for you and negotiate your bills.

Cutting the cord on cable can be a confusing proposition with so many alternatives. But a little research can net some serious savings. Load up on some free streaming services before you sink that savings right back into the paid ones.

You may think you have no time for meal planning, but preparing meals in advance will reduce takeout expenses and delivery fees. Bonus tip: When you do order out, contact the restaurant directly and pick it up yourself, especially from a locally-owned establishment. Convenient though they may be, third-party delivery services cut into the bottom line of small businesses.

Be intentional about your spending going forward. Build Wish Lists on

shopping sites instead of your carts. And always sleep on those potential purchases before you hit checkout. You’re more likely to reconsider your impulses in the morning light.

Discover healthier ways to comfort and reward yourself. Read the books you already own but never opened. Shop your stash for a new makeup look or skincare routine. Look at your closet with fresh eyes and mix and match clothes in ways you hadn’t thought of before.

Once you’ve streamlined expenses, consolidate debt onto a lower-interest credit card. But beware of predatory lenders. Do your due diligence and make sure you’re dealing with a reputable financial institution.

“Marie Kondo” your bookshelves, cabinets, drawers, and closets using her KonMari Method. But if it doesn’t “spark joy,” don’t just give or throw it away. Sell it! Amazon, eBay, Facebook Marketplace, Gazelle, Letgo, and Poshmark can help clear clutter and pad your savings or pay

MORTGAGES For most people, buying a home is the biggest purchase and most significant investment they will ever make. We turned to H.L. “Skip” Banister, Jr., President/Broker of Integra Mortgage Group, for tips on new mortgages, refinancing, and successive mortgages.

Skip graduated from the University of Louisville with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. He spent ten years working for a large commercial bank in Louisville before becoming a mortgage broker in 1996. In February 1997, Skip started his home-based business, Integra Mortgage Group, to reduce overhead and provide better value to his customers.

“Integra Mortgage Group is a boutique brokerage with a high level of personal customer service,” says Skip. Integra differs from the typical application process, with the mortgage company passing off the application to a processor, an underwriter, and then to a closer.

“I handle all aspects of the transaction except for underwriting, from origination to processing to closing.”

many inquiries can negatively affect your credit report. Weigh the quoted interest rate with the loan costs and consider the totality of the transaction. You should get a loan estimate within three days of application. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. There are a lot of line items, and escrow accounts are sometimes confusing. Go with who you feel will get you to the closing table in the most efficient manner and guide you to the right decisions.”

Skip suggests getting the process in motion sooner rather than later. “Interest rates are expected to increase this year, but they are still quite low at 3.25-3.5%.

The average 30-year mortgage is 3.64% (as of mid-January 2022), and a higher rate will affect the borrowing amount.”

For more information, visit .integramortgagegroup.com. Connect with Skip Banister on LinkedIn and follow @skip.banister on Facebook.

Concerning refinancing, “Do the math.

Be sure it’s worth doing and that you’re not just following a trend. Don’t believe the “no closing costs” hype. There are always closing costs, often absorbed into the transaction or interest rate. Make sure your reasoning is sound and understand the implications.” The same advice applies to successive mortgages. “A fixedrate/fixed payment or an adjustable-rate Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) is often used to consolidate debt or make a large purchase.”

For first-time home buyers, Skip recommends making sure that your credit is satisfactory. “Address and resolve credit issues before the mortgage process to ensure a better mortgage rate and reduce closing costs.” And the bigger the down payment, the better. “Try to build some savings, if possible. Some programs that allow for the mortgage to cover 100% of the purchase price and a government program that even covers closing costs, but these are only available in certain areas.”

For even the more seasoned home buyers, the instinct is often to consult a realtor first. Skip says this is backward.

“Consult a mortgage professional first.

Find out how much you qualify for and secure pre-approval, which helps in the negotiation process. Being equipped with pre-approval puts you at an advantage.”

But how do you decide which mortgage broker is right for you? A little research is wise. According to Skip, “It’s okay to shop for lenders, but don’t go overboard. Too

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HOME-BUYING As you put your financial house in order and secure financing, home-buying considerations will vary depending on your stage of life. RE/MAX Premier Properties Broker/Owner Jay Pitts advises every residential real estate investment level. As Principal Broker of Jay T. Pitts and Associates, he has participated in over 3,500 transactions. In 2020, the Pitts team purchased a new building for their offices at 10605 Shelbyville Road, encompassing a real estate brokerage, property management company, and mortgage company. Switching to a real estate career that depends on commission sales can be intimidating.

Still, Jay and his team coach and develop agents to find success right away and grow their business without sacrificing their personal lives.

Whether solo or as a couple, first-time home-buyers need to find an agent they can trust. “A lot of the process is unknown to the layperson, including potential pitfalls,” says Jay. “It’s often more about the interpersonal relationship with the realtor versus their level of experience.

You need someone who will shoot straight and advocate for you under different circumstances in a challenging market.” Once you have a down payment and determine your creditworthiness, be prepared to provide all the necessary documentation.

Jay says it is essential to have the end goal in mind for those graduating to investment properties. “With prices up, some may look unattractive due to appreciation in the market.” But low interest rates will provide value over time.

“Know your resources and contractors.

These can be hard to book, and pricing varies. Interview contractors to know their rates and adequately project the cost of renovations.”

Homeowners looking toward their dream home have a choice between building or purchasing an existing home.

“With a new build, you can create what you want versus dealing with what a home already has. But be prepared to pay a 25-30% premium over existing. A large-scale renovation of your current

home would be quicker, less expensive, probably still get you what you need, and add value.” Prepare your existing home for sale before searching for a new one when looking to upsize. “If possible, purchase your new home before selling your current one. Needing to sell first puts you at a disadvantage.”

As for downsizing and retirement, Jay says these sellers need to understand that the tastes of younger generations aren’t necessarily the same as theirs.

“Neutralize colors, remove wallpaper, and refresh the landscaping for curb appeal. These will go a long way to adding value. If you’re interested in buying in a maintenance-free community, start early - well in advance of when you need to move. Stepping down in the market is more competitive at lower price points than higher.”

Jay has more helpful hints about the current real estate market and outlook for 2022. “Somewhere north of 70% of potential home-buyers consider inflation. The Federal Reserve has announced four interest rate hikes this year versus the three previously announced. Get out there sooner rather than later to lock in a lower interest rate.

There is no housing bubble that’s going to burst. Get the process going in February or March rather than waiting until May, June, or July, which is the typical season for home-buying and moving.”

Visit www.homesearchlouisville. com and follow @jaypittsrealtor on Instagram.

RETIREMENT PLANNING Of all the financial decisions made during a lifetime, some of the most important involve planning for retirement. Anthony S. “Tony” Roberts, ChFC®, CSA, Founder and President of A. Roberts & Associates, Inc. and Prosperity Asset Management, LLC, is known nationwide as a financial advisor and educator, author, speaker, and retirement planner.

Tony’s Kentucky farm upbringing is a basis for his appreciation of hard work, fairness, and ethics for the people he helps. Tony attributes his problem-solving skillset, utilized for over 35 years on behalf of his clients, to the critical thinking criteria set in place back in the 1970s while earning a degree in Mathematics from the University of Kentucky.

Tony lends his expertise to all ages and stages of working life, including the golden years. For those just entering the workforce, Tony says, “They need to realize it doesn’t take too long for forty years to come and go. When you are young, you feel like you are made of Teflon, and many do not realize the mistake of waiting until your thirties and forties to begin building your retirement nest egg. Losing out on the compounding effect of money can be devastating.

The sooner you start contributing to a 401K, IRA, or thrift savings program, and by all means maximizing company-matching contributions, the better.” He also recommends Roth IRAs and/or Section 7702 Planning to save on increasing taxes As you build your career into your thirties and start to grow your family, Tony says everything above still applies. “But now is the time to add as much as possible to your savings and begin implementing protective measures. With children in the picture, it is time to begin looking at your Estate Plan (i.e., Wills, Power of Attorney Docs, Medical Directives, and Trusts). You may feel your lack

of wealth precludes you from thinking of this need. But imagine if something happened to either spouse. How does it affect lifestyle, the means to raise your children, and the ability of the surviving spouse to meet the dreams and visions each of you had not only for each other but also for the kids? Taking advantage of term life insurance at very reasonable rates ensures your life plans are not disrupted due to an untimely event.”

Tony knows this lesson all too well having lost his father at an early age.

Putting your kids through college is not cheap. The inflation rate for university tuition is increasing at a pace of 4-5% per year which means prices double every 1418 years. His pet peeve regarding college education? “The cost is the same for a degree in Basket Weaving as Mechanical Engineering. Have conversations with your children about their direction in life and attaining a degree in a discipline which allows them to get a job, make a living, and pay back student loans.”

According to Tony, as you approach middle age and are ten to twenty years from retirement, it is time to re-evaluate your retirement savings to make sure you are on track. “As empty nesters, you

TOPS LOUISVILLE | february 2022 41

can probably reallocate more money to your retirement accounts. An additional $25,000 - $30,000 invested per year over a ten-year period could add $300,000+ including interest earnings to your portfolio. This is where having a Specialist who works in your best interest becomes so beneficial.”

legacy to play out and consider the inflated cost of long-term care. Hope is not a plan. Trying to accomplish this on your own may have costly results.”

As you look to aligning yourself with a Retirement Planning Specialist, Tony states three points critical to establishing a superior plan:

Tony believes successful retirement is your ability to maintain the lifestyle to which you have become accustomed immediately into retirement and throughout your retirement years. Those accustomed to living on $250,000 prior to retirement will in all likelihood want to live on $250,000 per year throughout retirement. Knowing we live in a world which requires more income and wealth in 10, 20, and 30 years than now, how do we plan for that to happen? Constant

1. “Have an open mindset to innovative ideas.”

2. “Retirement planning is complicated, knowing how taxes, managing risk, and inflation could possibly cut into your buying power over the next 40 years is crucial. Determine how you want your

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3. “Once a plan is in place, move to action. Nothing is achieved until thoughts are put into motion.”

updating, monitoring, and consultations with your Specialist two to three times per year will assure you remain on track Retirement is not a sprint but a marathon. Knowing you have people on your team to guide you and be accountable to you is paramount in determining your abundant retirement.

As a special gift to TOPS readers, Tony would like to offer a free copy of his most recent two books, Retire Abundantly and Build Wealth Like a Shark (co-authored with Kevin Harrington of “Shark Tank”).

To receive, please call Valarie at (502) 6323340 ext. 102 or visit ARobertsAssociates. com or ProsperityAssetManagement.com.

Louisville’s

MONEY MA$TERS

Meet top local professionals in finance.

PROFILES BY ROCKO JEROME PHOTOS BY DICK ARNSPIGER

TOPS LOUISVILLE | february 2022 43

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MONEY MA$TERS

Anthony Roberts A Roberts & Associates, Inc. Co-Author of Retire Abundantly and Build Wealth like a Shark 502.632.3340 ARobertsAssociates.com

With nearly four decades in the business of financial advisory, Anthony Roberts devotes his energy toward personalized service to his clients, and he's ready to guide you into the kind of retirement you want and deserve. Just as you wouldn't build a house without an architect, it's never wise to proceed into your financial future without an experienced guide to show you the way. For many, Tony Roberts is the man for the job. "To put it simply, I like to think in terms of people, not just products," he says. "I take more of a holistic approach."

Where many advisors seem to advise their clients to try to outrun the market, Tony shows you how to plan properly, so that you have the resources available to let the market recover during down times.

A ChFC®, CSA, and a nationally recognized Financial Educator and Author, Anthony Roberts is the Creator of the Abundant Wealth Process®, as well as Founder of A. Roberts & Associates, Inc. and Prosperity Asset Management, LLC. Tony and his team have been helping business owners, federal employees, professionals, and executives preserve, protect, and pass on their wealth for over 35 years. Tony takes a proactive approach to keep your money in your own hands. "When you're working, are you concerned with what you earn or what goes into your pocket? Probably what ends up in your pocket. The same consideration exists in retirement. Your 401k, IRA and TSP are taxable, possibly as much as 40%.

Every dollar to the IRS decreases what you control. You can build a long-term plan and use the tax code in your favor rather than against you. Every dollar you do not send to the IRS is a dollar you get to keep."

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MONEY MA$TERS

Adam Naville WesBanco SVP & Senior Commercial Lender wesbanco.com

"WesBanco is big as we need to be to present our clients with unlimited service, but small and nimble enough to act in their best interests," says Adam Naville, SVP and Senior Commercial Lender at the bank. WesBanco is one of the larger banks in Kentucky, covering the Louisville metro to Elizabethtown to Lexington, and up through Cincinnati. "Our goal in service is always based upon relationship building," he says.

WesBanco has been around for over 150 years, but is still a growing financial institution and a leader in the application of new technology, all of it at your service. They are your source for individual trust and wealth management, as well as for companies of any size. They can even provide for your insurance and investment needs. "The key is in being responsivewe are those real people that you can call on," Adam says. "Real individuals who know you, your story, and know how to best help you."

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MONEY MA$TERS

louie leger Leger Investments 502.640.7871 www.legerrentals.com

Louie Leger is bringing a big idea most often seen in thriving cities right here to Louisville. "It's really kind of a west coast/east coast concept, but I hold the belief that when something forward-thinking isn't present in a city like this, that doesn't mean it shouldn't be," he says. "It just means you have to put it there." With the help of great partners and investors, Louie is able to bring this inspiration to life. "Our investors have been incredible," he says.

"They also see the vision of the short term rental business, the community has really backed us and we thank them for it”.

To accommodate the on-the-go lifestyle we all share here in the 21st century, Louie founded Leger Investments LLC. It's a real estate investment company with 52 beautifully furnished short term rentals downtown and near all the area attractions, both for living needs as well as office and meeting space.

They are all available for short term rental through Airbnb, Furnish Finder, and similar services, as well as the Leger Investments website. "I also started a vehicle rental business. With a nationwide shortage, I saw a growing need and purchased a fleet of vehicles to assist in meeting the need here in Louisville.” says the Louisville based Louie. "The business endeavors I am involved in are opportunities to help our city stay on the cutting edge, but also to invest in a growing future." Leger Investments is on a scale model and is always looking for more investors to be involved. We are happy to play a role in bringing people to our beautiful city of Louisville and allowing them the opportunity to enjoy everything that Louisville has to offer.

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MONEY MA$TERS

Kristina Ping Kepperling CEO, Powerful Legacy Insurance As the CEO of Powerful Legacy Insurance & Financial Services, Kristina Ping Kepperling is helping clients in Lexington and Louisville secure just that: powerful legacies through retirement strategies, estate and legacy strategies, income protection and guaranteed income strategies. And as a boutique provider, the firm is particularly focused on individual clients that can benefit most from professional advice in these realms.

“After the last major market crash in 2008, I wanted to hone in on the biggest need for income protection with our seniors, giving transparent and easy to understand information with a holistic approach to their full needs,” Kepperling said. “We have the best and most kind folks here and we absolutely love being in our community, enjoying our people!”

It is from this community- and client-focused point of view that Kepperling draws her greatest advice for those thinking about their finances in 2022.

“If you do not have a professional, it is important to have one that is there for you as an individual,” she urged. “Our strategies are not just money, they are emotional, mental, physical and financial.”

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MONEY MA$TERS

Bill Yancey Sr., CLU Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Advisor

Mark Kull, CFP, ChFC, CLU, CASL, RICP Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Advisor Louisville.nm.com 502.562.2400

Recently named to Forbes list of Top Financial Security Professionals, Mark Kull and Bill Yancey Sr. are a pair of exemplary Wealth Management Advisors. It's a small group of distinguished professionals, just 250 across the nation, and they are 2 of just 3 Kentuckians to receive the honor.

"When you interview a financial planner, I think it's vital for them to explain their firm’s values," says Mark.

"Creating long-term wealth is achieved by following a plan that dictates what you need to save at an assumed rate of return to accomplish what is important to you. A roadmap is what most people lack, so noise from the media and the market can easily send them into a panic or paralyze them from taking any steps.

"We don’t have a bias to the products we utilize," Bill says. "We do holistic financial security planning that can withstand any financial circumstances that you may encounter. Every individual and their financial goals are truly unique to them. Each plan is custom-designed for each client."

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MONEY MA$TERS

blvd private wealth (502) 805-5820 https://blvdpw.com BLVD Private Wealth Founder and CEO Chris Brady lives and breathes the financial markets.

He has assembled a veritable dream team of people who share his passion, energy, and fresh perspective on private wealth management.

Together, the BLVD team devote their acumen and dedication to the best interests of their clients, presenting stellar resources for clients through a collaborative effort.

"Everyone utilizes their different strengths so clients always know that they are speaking to a core member of the team who is the very best at what they do," says Ashley Baumgardner, Office Manager. "This is a highly collaborative environment," says Advisor Chad Logsdon.

"We align each member of the team’s greatest strength with their area of responsibility to our clients." Chris has cultivated a working environment where smart, driven people can be autonomous, allowing them to do their best work. "We figure out together the best way to define our roles," says Analyst Margaret Pape.

"We are in a boutique setting that grants flexibility in how we can look after people."

"Everyone here is excellent and could do everything by themselves," Chris says, "but they are in the best individual roles that they play.

We're expecting 2022 to be a fantastic year."

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From Left to Right:

Todd Creek Phocus, CEO

Stephanie Peeler

Independence Bank, Commercial Lender

Louis R. Straub, II Independence Bank, President

When tornadoes ravaged our neighbors in western Kentucky, many in Louisville were moved to help. A coalition was formed that includes Yum! Brands, St. Raphael Church, Sullivan College, along with many entities and people, who donated to a Tornado Relief drive at Independence Bank. Three truckloads and an airplane full of goods were sent which included clothing, toiletries and additional essentials.

Mayyeld native Stephanie Peeler, a Commercial Lender at the Bank, spearheaded the project. While the heartbreak of the situation is monumental, she found solace in the generosity of the Louisville community. "It was a hard thing to see all that devastation," she says. "My parents' ooce is gone, along with so many familiar places, just wiped out. But it's been inspirational how the strength and heart of western Kentucky have endured."

Another group of good samaritans, the team at Phocus, lead a relief eeort. "I'm originally from Bowling Green and have family there," says Todd Creek, CEO of the Louisville-based brand of caeeinated sparkling water made with natural ingredients. "Being a Kentucky company, we felt compelled to do more than just a typical donation. We partnered with ESPN Louisville radio and hosted a radio-thon donation dri drive. Churchill Downs, Tri Arrow, and a number of individuals donated through the drive.

We knew we could work well with Independence Bank because the disaster directly impacted their team. Also, we wanted to partner with local organizations to ensure the dollars donated would go directly to the impacted communities."

Todd knew he could trust that the money was all in good hands. With the help of Louis Straub, Independence Bank's President of the Louisville market and his excellent stae, nearly $200,000 was sent to fellow Kentuckians in their hour of greatest need.

If you’d like to consider making a contribution, visit 1776bank.com/relief

3901 Shelbyville Road • Louisville, KY 40207 • 502-581-1776 • 1776bank.com 1900 Colonel Sanders Lane • Louisville, KY 40213 • 502-313-6776

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Planning for life

Chances are you have several investment goals—helping your children save for their higher education, affording retirement, leaving a legacy. Having a plan can help you work toward them all.

Our Financial Advisor use innovative Advice tools, technologies and experience to create an investment plan that helps you stay on track toward pursuing all your goals . . . now and in the future.

The Louisville Branch of Wells Fargo Advisors 297 N. Hubbards Lane, Ste. 330 • Louisville, KY 40207 Office: 502-561-5000 justin.schappe@wellsfargoadvisors.com wellsfargoadvisors.com

Investment and Insurance Products: NOT FDIC Insured / NO Bank Guarantee / MAY Lose Value Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. ©2022 Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. All rights reserved. CAR-0122-01203

Krystal Jarrell Premiere Cleaning (502) 454-6243

LOUISVILLEPREMIERECLEANERS.COM In these days especially, the importance of cleanliness can’t be emphasized enough.

Luckily, Krystal Jarrell and her team at Premiere Cleaning are expertly qualified to properly clean your home, office, restaurant, school, store or manufacturing company.. With 34 years in business, Premiere is a nonfranchise, locally owned company. They are trusted in this region by companies like the YMCA, JCPS, Merkley Kendrick Jewlers, Starbucks, and Walgreens.

Premiere has received special ISSA certification for the Coronavirus. “Not only can we respond to the virus, we can help prevent it” says Krystal.

Krystal brings a personal touch to her work. Her motto is, Your time is valuable, Our time is available. “I listen to my clients and truly get to know what they are seeking, whether I meet with them in their home or over the phone,” says Krystal. “I provide a sophisticated yet affordable approach, creating the perfect cleaning plan based on their wants and needs.”

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Health Beauty

56 58 63 66 68

Heart Healthy Red Alert Heart Notes Follow Your Heart Diet Trends

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health + Beauty

HEART HEALTHY

BY ALISON CARDOZA • PHOTOS BY DICK ARNSPIGER ADDITIONAL COURTESY AND STOCK PHOTOS

Staying active is incredibly important for keeping your heart healthy. When I asked Karen Lawrence what some of her favorite ways of staying heart healthy were, she was excited to share that she enjoys activities such as golf, pickleball, and skiing; however, walking is one of her most favorite forms of exercise.

“I try to make an effort to walk everywhere and elevate my heart rate. It is a great cardiovascular exercise,” states Karen. “I am a healthy eater and enjoy foods such as salads and lean protein, and eat red meat in moderation.” Karen's go-to breakfast in the morning is cottage cheese; rich in essential nutrients and high in protein helps Karen start her day in a positive way!

HEART HEALTHY SNACKS To Grab on the Go Sunflower seeds, dark chocolate, greek yogurt, edamame, honey, cheerios, strawberries, tuna, dried fruit, popcorn, frozen grapes, kale chips, and frozen bananas.

BEST HEART HEALTHY EXERCISE Aerobic

Increases circulation, decreases blood pressure and heart rate.

Bike riding, walking, tennis, running and swimming are all forms of aerobic exercise. Do some form of cardio every day for at least 30 minutes.

Resistance Training

Lowers body fat and creates lean muscle mass. Many people have extra weight in their midsection (stomach). This can increase risk of heart disease. Resistance training can help reduce fat in stubborn areas. Resistance training can increase HDL (good cholesterol) and decrease LDL (bad cholesterol).

Examples of resistance training techniques are: 1.) weight training (exercises with weight machines and or dumbbells), 2.) calisthenic exercise (exercises against your own body weight such as push-ups and crunches), 3.) isometric exercise (exercises that place tension on muscles without causing movement such as planks and wall sits).

According to the CDC, heart disease is one of the leading causes of death among Americans, affecting over 2,200 people each day.

Fortunately, 80% of cardiovascular disease can be prevented.

With statistics of over 103 million adults living with high blood pressure, and over 6.5 million living with heart failure, it's time to make a difference in your life and encourage the ones you love to be the best versions of themselves. Choose a lifestyle filled with exercise and healthy foods to keep your heart healthy.

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health + Beauty

Alison Cardoza, ACSM Certified Personal Trainer and Fitour Group Exercise Instructor at Baptist Health Milestone Wellness Center.

BS Exercise Science and Sports Medicine with a minor in Health Promotions from the University of Louisville.

Former University of Louisville Ladybird and NFL Colts Cheerleader.

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If you

have never experimented with red makeup, you're probably not alone. It's a daunting hue.

While a red lip is a classic, most are afraid they can't pull it off. Red nails are timeless, but it can feel like a very vampy choice for a Tuesday afternoon. Never mind red eyeshadow!

But red makeup is very much on trend, and it's actually much more wearable than you may think. A subtle swipe of red or cranberry shadow can enhance warm-hued eyes. Red blush is stunning on darker skin tones. And a red tint or gloss looks great on just about any pout.

Red is a power color that commands attention anywhere it's used.

So step out of the shadows! Check out these red-hot hues and let your imagination run wild this month... by Amanda Harper

Fire Engine Flush

NARS Blush in Exhibit A ($30 narscosmetics.com)

RiRi's Pick

Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint in Uncensored ($26 fentybeauty.com)

Spicy Mani

OPI Nail Lacquer in Cajun Shrimp ($10.49 opi.com)

Haute Single

Urban Decay Eyeshadow Single in Relish ($20 urbandecay.com)

Pop Those Peepers

ColourPop Volumizing BFF Mascara in Left on Red ($9 colourpop.com)

Nearly Universal Red Lip NARS Velvet Matte Lipstick Pencil in Mysterious Red ($27 narscosmetics.com)

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February 2022 | TOPS in Lexington

Go Gaga

HAUS Laboratories Le Riot Lip Gloss in Attitude ($18 amazon.com)

Cherry Bomb

Glossier Bomb Dot Com Universal Skin Salve in Cherry ($12 glossier.com)

Multitasker

Milk Makeup Lip + Cheek Cream Blush Stick in Flip ($20 sephora.com)

Dark Circles Be Gone

Charlotte Tilbury Magic Vanish Color Corrector in Deep ($32 sephora.com)

Pick a red lip...

One problem that has plagued beauty mavens since the advent of red lipstick has been picking the right shade for their skintone.

Light skin, cool undertone: blue undertone or berry Light-to-medium skin, warm to olive undertone: warm, fiery reds or orange-based reds Medium skin, cool or neutral undertone: classic, true red Dark skin, warm or neutral undertone: vivid orangebased reds Dark skin, cool undertone: bold with blue undertone

Coral Cheeks

Juvia’s Place Bella Blush ($10 juviasplace.com)

Old Hollywood Pout

Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick in Red Carpet Red ($34 sephora.com)

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Red Eye

Don't believe you can pull off a red eye look?

Think again! The key to making it work for you is a gentle hand.

If you'd like to try red eyeshadow, select a shade that works with your undertone and swipe it into the crease, then surround it with neutrals. Wine hues work great for just about anyone, and serve as a stunning twist on a smokey eye for date night.

If you have green, hazel or brown eyes, a subtle red or reddish-brown eyeliner or mascara will enhance your eyes.

If you have medium-to-dark skin, red concealer might be the answer to your dark circles or patches. It can cancel out greenish, bluish tones under your eyes.

Paint Pot

INC.redible Lid Slick Eye Pigment in Back to ’99 ($10 sephora.com)

Ruby My Dear

Huda Beauty Ruby Obsessions Eyeshadow Palette ($27 sephora.com)

Sweet Scrub

Milani Cherry Sugar Lip Scrub ($9.99 milanicosmetics.com)

Get in Line Shine On

UOMA Black Magic Hypnotic Impact High Shine Lipstick in Savage ($24 uomabeauty.com)

Milani Stay Put Eyeliner in Picante ($8.99 milanicosmetics.com)

Vampy

Merle Norman Liquid Lipcolor in Siren ($22 merlenorman.com)

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February 2022 | TOPS in Lexington

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Get Kissable Lips at Lush FEBRUARY SPECIAL JUST IN TIME FOR VALENTINE’S! GET HALF OF A SYRINGE OF REVANESSE VERSA LIP FILLER PLUS SEMI-PERMANENT LIP BLUSHING FOR $800!

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BluMine Health Concierge Primary Care • Guide • Save

members to healthier outcomes

clients money on healthcare costs

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They say

that scent is the closest sense tied to memory... that means that the right perfume can be absolutely unforgettable. From your sensual date night fragrance to the perfume you wear every day, selecting a scent that is romantic can leave a lasting impression on everyone you meet. These perfumes range from complex and elegant to light, fun and super sweet... just like you! by Amanda Harper

Irresistable Floral

Rosa Nobile by Acqua di Parma ($242/101mL) Notes: Mandarin Orange, Bergamot, Pepper, Rose, Peony, Violet and Lily-of-the-Valley, Musk, Cedar, Ambergris

Like Taking a Romantic Stroll

Springtime in a Park

by Maison Margiela ($135/100mL) Notes: Pear, Bergamot, Blackcurrant, Lily-of-the-Valley, Jasmine, Rose Damascena, Musks, Vanilla Accord, Ambrox

Smells Like Sunshine

Broody Unisex

Floriental by Comme des Garçons ($131/100mL) Notes: Pink pepper, Plum, Incense, Labdanum, Sandalwood, Vetiver

Bitter Peach by Tom Ford ($375/50mL) Notes: Rum, Cognac, Davana, Jasmine, Indonesian Patchouli Leaf, Vanilla, Sandalwood, Tonka Bean, Cashmeran, Benzoin, Styrax, Labdanum, Vetiver

Citrusy, Spiced Rose

Gia by Tocca ($76/50mL) Notes: Tangerine, Pink Pepper, Turkish Rose, Vanilla, Sandalwood, Amber

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e ys e

s

Your Skin, But Better!

Not a Perfume by Juliette Has a Gun ($135/100mL) Notes: Ambrox, Cetalox

So Charming

Refreshing

Peony & Blush Suede by Jo Malone ($144/100mL) Notes: Red Apple, Peony, Rose, Jasmine, Carnation, Suede

Lazy Sundy Morning

by Maison Margiela ($135/100mL) Notes: Aldehydes, Lily-of-theValley, Pear, Rose, Iris, Orange Blossom, White Musk, Ambrette, Indonesian Patchouli Leaf

a

Warm, Sensual Floral

Velvet Orchid by Tom Ford ($95/30mL) Notes: Rum, Honey, Mandarin Orange, Bergamot, Black Orchid, Orchid, Jasmine, Heliotrope, Hyacinth, Rose Oil, Narcissus, Magnolia, Orange Blossom, Vanilla, Myrrh, Suede, Sandalwood, Peru Balsam, Labdanum

Inexpensive alternatives to popular fragrances have always been around, but in the past, they haven't always impressed in terms of quality... or even scent. The days of stinky designer knock-off perfumes are over!

Brands like ALT. are all over your Instagram feed. If you've seen the ads but been scared to give these brands a try, try checking out online reviews, including blog posts and video scent try-ons.

Rihanna Wears This... Sweet, Floral but a Little Naughty

Love, Don't Be Shy by Kilian ($250/50mL) Notes: Neroli, Bergamot, Pink Pepper, Coriander, Orange Blossom, Jasmine, Honeysuckle, Rose, Iris, Sugar, Caramel, Vanilla, Musk, Civet, Labdanum

The verdict seems to be that there are a lot of companies offering convincing dupes for your favorite, pricy scents at a fraction of the cost. So go on, treat yourself to a little luxury on the cheap!

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February 2022 | TOPS in Lexington

Follow your

hearT

learn ways to be kind to your heart with the American Heart Association® - Kentucky

BY DAWN ANDERSON

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Each February 14, we shake off the winter chill by celebrating love and sharing our hearts. What better month to turn our focus to cardiovascular health? Title 36 of the United States Code dedicates American Heart Month to supporting all programs required to resolve the nationwide problem of cardiovascular disease. “The American Heart Association® has been fighting heart disease for almost 100 years,” says AHA® volunteer, Go Red for Women® Executive Chair, and Baptist Health® COO Gretchen Leiterman, “by building awareness of the signs of heart disease, funding research, and finding a cure.”

Heart disease is the #1 killer of men and women. “The American Heart Association®’s overall impact goal is to address health equity for people of color and those in underserved areas and to advance cardiovascular health for all, including identifying and removing barriers to healthcare access and quality, by 2024.”

Leiterman explains that the challenges are even greater now. “We are approaching the loss of one million people to COVID in the US. Increased avoidance of medical care, obesity, and smoking in Kentucky contribute to our cardiovascular health issues. The impacts reflect disparities and have worsened outcomes.”

“People are tired,” says Ashley Sokoler, Executive Director of the Kentuckiana American Heart Association®. “With everything that's happened in the last two years, even people who normally focus on their health have lost their rhythm. Cardiovascular disease is still our greatest health threat, but COVID – and all the complexity of life because of it – is on everyone’s mind. People are experiencing lower physical and emotional wellness. And as a result, heart disease deaths rose significantly last year.”

Acknowledging bad habits and taking personal responsibility for our health can go a long way to mitigating the dangers. “The pandemic has significantly impacted our risk for heart disease and stroke,” cautions Sokoler. “Over the past year, many of us have adopted unhealthy behaviors like skipping exercise, eating unhealthy foods, drinking more alcohol, and using tobacco, which can all increase the risk for heart disease and stroke. Even people who had mild cases of COVID-19 may have changes to their heart and brain health due to their run-in with the virus.”

In her role with Go Red for Women®, Leiterman says their critical focus is on health disparities and improving health outcomes for women. “Cholesterol, blood pressure, blood sugar, and BMI awareness can lower the risk for cardiovascular disease in women.”

Women in their thirties and forties are more than twice as likely to die of cardiovascular disease than breast cancer. Expectant and new mothers are also at risk of preeclampsia and stroke. “Know the symptoms, seek help, and don’t postpone care.” Wear Red and Give on National Wear Red Day - February 4, 2022 - in support and in memory of those affected by heart disease.

Leiterman reminds us, “Movement and exercise are critical to heart health. Eat heart-healthy foods, lots of fruits and vegetables.

Work with your physician to control blood pressure. Learn ways to manage your sleep and stress levels.” And Sokoler agrees, “Losing even one mom, brother, friend, neighbor to cardiovascular disease is too many. This February, we’re rallying our communities with an urgent message to support each other in taking control of your health by creating habits that help you commit to your resolutions.

Now is the time to reclaim your rhythm and take control of your physical and mental health.” •

American Heart Association® events raise awareness, emphasize healthy behaviors, and raise money to fight cardiovascular disease.

Upcoming events: February 4 National Wear Red & Give Day February 24 Hard Hats with Heart March 26 Louisville Heart Ball May 14 CycleNation Southern Indiana June 3 Go Red for Women® Luncheon For more information on how you can reclaim your rhythm, visit heart.org/louisville or follow @heartkentucky on social media.

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ADVANCED HEART CARE THAT REVOLVES AROUND YOU. MORE PEOPLE CHOOSE BAPTIST HEALTH FOR THEIR HEARTS. And you can be confident, too, that our skilled team will bring you advanced cardiac technology and treatments. But there’s more to caring for patients with heart disease than just technical expertise. Baptist Health Louisville puts you at the center of everything we do. That means delivering care that focuses on your unique needs, BAPTIST HEALTH LOUISVILLE • FLOYD

your comfort and peace of mind as we help you get back to the things your life revolves around. This is heart care centered on you. Learn more at BaptistHealth.com/HeartCare.

Corbin | Floyd | Hardin | La Grange | Lexington | Louisville | Madisonville | Paducah | Richmond

BaptistHealth.com

The 3 Key Reasons You Should Be Doing Social Advertising!

The business and retail world is changing rapidly, brickand-mortar businesses are seeing a decline in traffic, and it’s important for businesses to adapt by converting online to generate new sales. Here are three key reasons I believe your business should be leveraging social media advertising in some form and how you can benefit from these strategies.

1.) Hyper-Target Customers Did you know there are over a billion active users on Instagram? There are so many people wondering how to reach more potential clients yet not taking note that a huge percentage of the population is active on social media. Their data is available to business owners and advertisers alike to benefit from. One of the main reasons social media marketing is so effective is that brands can hyper-target ideal clients based on exact demographics.

Showing ads to the right individuals is a critical part of the marketing process and must be taken seriously to avoid wasted ad spend.

2.) Build Audiences On top of being able to target specific audiences directly with your marketing, you can then save this data and use it for future campaigns. Building both a social audience and a landing page audience is critical to creating consistent and

future success from your marketing efforts by leveraging historical data.

3.) Track ROI Another key tool for marketers that comes from social media advertising is the ability to directly track return on investment from your marketing campaigns. For example, on Facebook, this information is built directly into its Ads Manager platform, making it possible to view your budget's performance and analyze return on ad spend, cost per website purchase, cost per lead and much more at a quick glance. This is huge for advertisers because you can directly track how your ad spend is performing, making it possible to cut undesirable campaigns and scale wellperforming campaigns to bringing even more results.

So, there you have it: three solid reasons advertising on social media is important. If you want to keep sales afloat and ensure you have a sustainable business for the long run, you should keep these reasons in mind and start implementing social media advertising as part of your marketing efforts. Schedule your Free Digital Consultation today! digital@topsmarketing.com or call (502) 636-9278 CHAD HOWARD

2022

Wellness Trends

Faster Way to Fat Loss

The Faster Way to Fat Loss is not considered a diet, but rather a lifestyle that can repair your metabolic system and, consequently, help you lose weight. It consists of Intermittent Fasting, carb cycling, macro tracking, whole food nutrition, strategic workouts, and most importantly, a positive mindset over a sixweek period. The best part is, your workouts can be done at a gym or at home with minimal equipment. The result of this lifestyle change is better sleep, increased energy, gained muscle, and lost inches.

Keto

The Ketogenic diet, better known as Keto, focuses on foods that provide healthful fats, adequate protein, and a low number of carbs.

This diet works by depleting the body of its sugar reserves, so it breaks down fat for energy.

This process is called ketosis and happens when your body doesn't have enough carbs to burn for energy, resulting in weight loss. Keto boosts your metabolism and reduces appetite, can improve acne and PCOS symptoms, and even reduce high blood pressure.

Intermittent Fasting

Intermittent Fasting is an eating pattern that cycles between periods of eating and fasting.

For example, the most common methods of IF include fasting for 16 or 24 hours twice a week, but you can fast however you see fit. The interesting thing about this diet is it doesn't specify what foods you should eat, but only when you should eat them. Now that probably doesn't mean fasting for 10 hours then scarfing down pizza and cake; instead, you'll be sticking to a healthy, well-rounded diet, relying on intuitive eating to dictate the amounts you consume. Because you're eating less food, this can lead to an automatic reduction in calorie intake, allowing the body to use fat as its primary source of energy.

Whole 30 Diets, equipment, exercises and practices you'll be seeing everywhere this year.

by Allyson Mattingly

Whole 30 is a 30-day nutritional program that isn't traditionally intended for weight loss, but many users shed a few pounds on the plan. This plan focuses on avoiding certain foods that founders claim can cause inflammation and cravings while negatively affecting hormones and gut health. On Whole 30, you can eat vegetables, fruit, seafood, nuts and seeds, unprocessed meat, eggs, and olive oil. Meanwhile, dairy, grains, pasta, bread, alcohol, and added sugar are off-limits.

The MIND Diet

The MIND Diet is not so much about losing weight, but is designed to prevent dementia and loss of brain function as you age. It combines the Mediterranean diet and the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet to encourage people to eat more of the ten foods the diet recommends and less of the five foods that are suggested you limit. Recommended foods include vegetables, fruits, and nuts, while foods to avoid include butter, red meat, and fried foods.

Oprah's Favorite Things 2021: Hydrow Rower ($2,295 hydrow.com)

Peloton

Peloton is a fitness company bringing serious fitness into people's homes in a fresh way with its stationary bikes and treadmills.

There are several Bike packages Peloton offers, from bike basics, including the Peloton Bike and a 12-month warranty, to the "bike family," which includes the Peloton bike, 1-year warranty, two pairs of shoes, headphones, and more. Peloton offers numerous classes, such as strength training, cycling, running, yoga, meditation, cardio, stretching, pilates, and barre. If you're not ready to commit to Peloton's equipment yet, they offer equipment-free classes on the Peloton app.

HIIT

High-intensity interval training, or HIIT, is a training technique with quick, intense bursts of exercise followed by short, sometimes active, recovery periods. This quickly gets – and keeps – your heart rate up and burns more fat in less time. This type of exercise increases your metabolism for up to 48 hours after your workout session. Even better, you can do HIIT workouts anywhere with no equipment necessary. If you want to experience a HIIT workout here in Lexington, we recommend trying out Burn Boot Camp, Proof Fitness, Cycle You, Orange Theory, or Fit Body Boot Camp.

The Mirror ($995+ mirror.co)

Rowing Machines

Rowing machines are quickly becoming a preferred method of working out as they are low-impact machines that reap a high reward in the way of a total-body workout. Rowing improves cardiovascular fitness and muscular endurance while reducing the risk of damage to weight-bearing joints that tend to be prone to injury during high-impact exercise. It's also a versatile workout, so you can do a low-intensity routine on the days where you've already done a HIIT workout or a higher-intensity routine on other days.

Peloton Bike ($1,495+ onepeloton.com)

Smart Mirrors

If you didn't want a smart mirror before, you're definitely going to want one now! These mirrors connect to your phone through Bluetooth or wifi so you can get info like news, weather, traffic reports, and the date and time. You can also adjust the color hue and warmth to provide optimal lighting when you're getting ready for work or a night out. Some more advanced mirrors even play music, offer fitness instruction, and allow you to make phone calls or access the apps on your phone. Some of the mirrors we recommend are the Gesipor Bathroom Mirror, the QAIO Smart Bathroom Mirror, and The Mirror.

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Hiking

Hiking, especially when you're doing it with dogs, dates, or dads, can be a fun and healthy activity. Hiking not only helps you clear your mind but also gets your heart rate up, resulting in a great cardio workout. Like any cardio, hiking reduces your rate of heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Hiking with others can strengthen relationships and bonds while also contributing to your own feeling of relaxation and increased wellbeing. If you would prefer to hike alone, bringing your dog along is a great way to work in some exercise for them and you!

Breathwork

Breathwork is any breathing exercise or technique that can help balance the mind and body, improve mental health, and reduce stress. If you don't have much time to practice breathwork, a 20 to 30-minute session in the morning one to two times per week would be ideal. Some breathwork practices include shamanic breathwork, vivation, clarity breathwork, and transformational breath. Specific exercises you can try are box breathing, 4-7-8 breathing, and diaphragmatic breathing. Inscape, Headspace, Calm, and Breathe Easy are all apps you can download to learn more about breathwork.

Sleep Hygiene

Sleep hygiene refers to healthy sleep habits that are important for mental and physical health as well as overall quality of life. Some healthy habits we recommend are keeping a consistent sleep schedule, turning off electronics 30 minutes before bed, exercising regularly, limiting caffeine intake close to bedtime, and having a comfortable sleep environment. Managing stress before bed can also help you sleep more soundly at night. You can do this by meditating, journaling, reading, or using a weighted blanket to help with anxiety and insomnia.

Adaptogens

Adaptogens are non-toxic herbal supplements that help the body resist stressors of all kinds and adjust to life's little doozies. Benefits include improved attention, lower stress levels, balanced hormone levels, boosted immune system, and improved organ function.

Each kind of adaptogen has a slightly different role, so base your decision on the specific area you want to address. Start off by taking one adaptogen at a time and find a creative way to incorporate it into your routine, like putting it in a smoothie or latte, then rotate the type of supplement every six weeks.

Manifestation Journal

A manifestation journal is a physical journal where you can write down all of the positive things you're hoping to attract into your life.

You can obviously write anything you want in your journal, but make sure to be specific in spelling out exactly what you're manifesting.

Once you've written down your ideas, try to internalize your manifestation to bring them closer to you. Journaling for at least 20 minutes a day, manifesting or simply just writing about your day, can lower depression, improve communication skills, and be more mindful of stress reduction, sleep habits, and creativity.

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Reducetarianism

This may sound like a silly buzz-word, but it's a concept that's been around for a long time: more and more people are choosing to consciously reduce their consumption of meat, dairy and eggs – but not cutting them out completely. While each individual has their own reason for choosing this path, it's a great way to focus on your wellness. For example, many people find that cutting back on dairy helps their digestive health, or even improves their skin! No matter why you choose to try this trend, you'll be giving yourself a reason to get adventurous in the kitchen with ingredients that you might've otherwise skipped. And that's good for anyone! •

show yourself some love this valentine’s day!

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Mention TOPS and receive 10% off! For a full list of services, visit www.MagnoliaLouisville.com.

502.632.2244 • www.MagnoliaLouisville.com 149 Chenoweth Lane • Louisville, KY 40207

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Cuisine

76

Top 5 Valentine's Day Date Nights

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TOP

VALENTINE DATE NIGHTS

Impress your Valentine by pulling out all the stops for a lavish night on the town. These exciting yet satisfying options for drinks, dinner, and dessert tick all the romantic boxes. With their sensual ambiance and exceptional service, all you have left to do is turn on the charm!

BY DAWN ANDERSON • PHOTOS BY DANNY ALEXANDER

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DAT E NIG HTS

cuisine

Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse™ Well-known as a place to see and be seen in Louisville, with local, national, and international celebrity sightings always possible, Jeff Ruby’s elegant atmosphere is full of energy and live entertainment. “From our classic horseshoe bar to crystal chandeliers and hand-painted murals, the restaurant is filled with artifacts hand-selected by Jeff Ruby. Many pay homages to the rich history of the city and state,” says General Manager Tony Shaw. Mr. Ruby himself has said that “guests digest the ambiance with every bite of steak and every sip of wine.“ “The Jeff Ruby Experience” uniquely captures their service philosophy. “It’s a thread that runs through everything we do.” Shaw wants guests to feel like royalty, treating them to a show unlike any other. “This translates exceptionally well to special occasions and life's celebrations.

Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse is the ultimate date night restaurant.”

River House Restaurant & Raw Bar With “top-notch service, an expansive menu that appeals to everyone, and its unique atmosphere on the river,” River House Restaurant and Raw Bar offers multiple venues for romance. Go from the newly revamped Levee Bourbon Lounge to white tablecloth dining to a fully heated covered patio and fire pits in just one magical evening. Chef/Owner John Varanese is one of Louisville’s most decorated culinary talents and restaurateurs.

“Our multiple points of service and knowledgeable staff are well-versed in the menus and spirits,” says Varanese. “They are experts at reading tables for a more intimate dining experience or one desiring more interaction. We train our seasoned servers to find out what you are celebrating and how to make the occasion even more special.”

To start your date night off right, Varanese recommends the “luxurious and sexy” Raw Bar for oysters (long considered a natural aphrodisiac!), sumptuous seafood, and shellfish.

He describes the Colossal Lump Crab Tower as “an unadulterated crab cake.” For entrées, Varanese is particularly fond of the ahi tuna and diver scallops. Blackened Rare Hawaiian Ahi Tuna is topped with tomato and ginger chutney and served over a crispy parmesan grit cake. Seared Diver Scallops served over tasso ham cheddar grits and southern succotash are finished with a smoky corn butter sauce. All You Can Eat Snow Crab Legs are back on Monday nights.

Carnivores will appreciate the ribeye, cherrywood-smoked for two and a half hours.

Varanese suggested a few top-shelf cocktail menu options for drinks with dinner. Booker’s Smoked Old Fashioned has a knockout presentation in a Booker’s box filled with cherry wood smoke. The Blood Orange Rosemary Gimlet is EFFEN® Blood Orange Vodka and Solerno Blood Orange Liqueur with rosemary syrup and lime juice. Refresh your palate with the Strawberry Basil Lemon Drop featuring Varanese-family limoncello with Absolut Juice Strawberry Edition, basil-strawberry shrub, lemon juice, basil leaf, and prosecco float.

Sweet dreams are made of White Chocolate Bread Pudding for dessert. Stay tuned to riverhouselouisville.com and follow @riverhouselou on Facebook and Instagram for details on River House Restaurant and Raw Bar’s 6th Anniversary celebration.

Shaw’s date night menu recommendations begin with The Raw Bar and Sushi Bar. “Guest favorites include East and West coast specialty oysters flown in daily, jumbo tiger shrimp, and Florida stone crab claws. Our sushi menu includes items unique to Jeff Ruby’s, like the Godfather Roll featuring our signature seared filet mignon.”

From “cattle selected, raised, aged, and cut exclusively for our steakhouses,” Jeff Ruby’s award-winning U.S.D.A. prime steaks are legendary. Indulge for a special occasion such as Valentine’s Day with the exclusive Japanese A5 Wagyu, “a selection of the rarest beef in the world” sourced from the Miyazaki Prefecture.

Gilding the lily though it may be, there are several sauces and accompaniments options with which to crown your steak.

Accompany your entrées with delicious Steakhouse Sides, such as Jeff Ruby’s Baked Macaroni & Cheese with six imported cheeses. Food Network dubbed the dish a “Most Magnificent Side.” Save some room for amazing desserts from the After Dinner Menu.

Classic Butter Pie has cinnamon sugar pecans, powdered sugar, caramel, and is served à la mode. “The Bourbon District” is a sharable masterpiece of Michter’s JR Selection chocolate cigar, Maker’s Mark mousse cake, caramel popcorn, Old Forester bourbon balls, and bitters whipped cream.

For reservations, visit www.jeffruby.com/ louisville. Follow @jeffrubyslouisville on Facebook and Instagram.

TOPS LOUISVILLE | february 2022 77

Swizzle Dinner & Drinks “Sexy. Swanky. Social.” More than mere buzzwords, Swizzle Dinner & Drinks delivers on its promise as a “retro-style supper club for the modern diner.” Swizzle celebrated its grand opening in August 2020, taking its name from an old downtown supper club of the 1930s and 40s.

Assistant General Manager Frances Leary describes Swizzle as “a snazzy space where the focus is exclusively on enjoying dinner and being with each other.”

Perched on the 25th floor of the Galt House, Louisville’s only riverfront hotel, Swizzle features windows on all sides for 360° views, including the river, sunsets, and city lights at night. The intimate low lighting, gold accents, and mid-century modern decor combine with service that is “100% all about the guest to provide the best possible experience,” says Leary. “Swizzle is a great place to come and celebrate your love.”

Swizzle’s menu also focuses on “sharing and relating to each other.”

A Small Chilled Seafood Platter features oysters, shrimp, and crab accompanied by a mignonette, cocktail sauce, and ginger lime cream. The Large size adds lobster tail and tuna tartare. Fancy a steak? The Carnivore Platter includes an 8-ounce Filet Mignon, a 7-ounce Strip Steak, and an 8-ounce Ribeye “served sliced with your choice of three sauces:” 25 Steak Sauce, Bearnaise Sauce, Argentinian Chimichurri, Cabernet Demi-Glaze, Porcini Mornay Sauce, Au Poivre, and “Mâitre d’Butter.”

Swizzle’s sharable sides are just as decadent as the entrées. Choose from the loaded One Pound Baked Potato, Mac n’ Cheese, Truffle Cream, Duck Fat Crushed Potatoes, Wild Mushrooms served with rosemary and roasted garlic butter flambéed with bourbon, and more. Be on the lookout for a newly revamped cocktail menu! In the meantime, you and your date can pore over the wine list of over 200 bottles. If you manage to save room for dessert, the Chocolate Blackout Cake with fudge buttercream and salted bourbon caramel is a mood for love.

Swizzle’s Bourbon Dinner series continues February 17 with five courses plus tastings guided by Woodford Reserve Assistant Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall, CSS (Certified Specialist of Spirits).

For more information, visit swizzle25.com and follow @swizzlelouisville on Instagram and Facebook.

Louisville-Middletown 12949 Shelbyville Rd, Suite 101 Louisville, KY 40243 (502) 874-5848 Louisville-Saint Matthews 4505 Shelbyville Road, Suite 100 Louisville, KY 40207 (502) 835-2001 Jeffersonville 4229 Town Center Blvd Jeffersonville, IN 47130 (812) 288-1154

ORDER ONLINE! WE DELIVER! NothingBundtCakes.com

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Matt Winn’s Steakhouse Named for the man who established Churchill Downs as the premier horse racing venue in the country, Matt Winn’s Steakhouse lives up to the storied history and grand traditions of a bygone era while moving into the future with exciting dining experiences. Matt Winn’s Steakhouse Manager Michael Cooper describes the restaurant as a “world-class environment and experience.” Located at 750 Central Avenue on historic Churchill Downs’ sixth floor with a finish line view, the space was part of an $11 million capital investment. “Our hospitality, culinary, and beverage programs are second to none, including the largest rare, reserve, and allocated bourbon selection and a sommelierdriven wine list.”

Executive Sous Chef Stephen Dunn is proud to present the four-course prix-fixe tasting menu complete with wine pairings for Valentine’s weekend 2022. Your romantic dinner begins with a choice of Citrus Poached Prawn and Lobster Salad or Char Sui Pork. The second course is Pickled Roasted Beet with confit sunchoke, arugula, whipped ricotta, preserved lemon, and hazelnut.

Entrée selections have something for all palates. The 6oz Filet is accompanied by rösti potato (pressed and sautéed crispy potato, cheese, onion), grilled asparagus, and brown butter bourbon demi. Southeast Asian flavors enhance the Grouper Filet with a green curry vichyssoise. Romesco and Parmesan enhance the Gnocchi Pasta, Brussels sprout, and root vegetable. For dessert, Pistachio Cheesecake with roasted strawberry and white chocolate complemented by a glass of Veuve Clicquot to toast your love.

With their custom dining carts, any date night is always made special at Matt Winn’s. Enjoy tableside sliced-to-order Charcuterie + Cheese, Raw + Chilled seafood and shellfish, and the tempting dessert menu on wheels. From the regular Dinner Menu, Chef Dunn recommends the 24oz Black Hawk Farm Wagyu Short Rib with wild mushroom, black truffle risotto, and red wine bone marrow demi-glace.

Matt Winn’s Steakhouse will be open 5 pm - 10 pm throughout Valentine’s weekend, including Monday, Valentine’s Day. For reservations and additional packages, call (502)6364888 or visit mattwinnssteakhouse.com. Follow @ mattwinnssteakhouse on Facebook and Instagram.

Steak & Bourbon: An American Grill With Steak & Bourbon: An American Grill, Olé Restaurant Group COO/ Partner Rick Moir says, “We wanted to create an ‘everyday’ steakhouse, not just for special occasions - a place where couples trying to do date night once a week or twice a month can come without breaking the bank.” He describes the atmosphere as elegant but still comfortable and inviting. “Date night should be all about relaxing.” Steak & Bourbon offers the extraordinary food, premium bourbons, and select wines you expect with friendly, professional service. Steak & Bourbon dishes are great for splitting, and the environment is not so overwhelming as to distract from quality time with the one you love.

Rick made menu recommendations based on what he would order on a date with his wife. “Our appetizers are built for sharing. I would start with the hand pies and shrimp cocktail.” Steak & Cheese Hand Pies are filled with ribeye steak and Monterey jack cheese and served with chimichurri and roasted red pepper sour cream. Raw horseradish and house cocktail sauce accompany the Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail. The Vine Ripe Tomato & Burrata Salad includes red onion, basil, toasted pistachios, olive oil, and aged balsamic vinegar. “The tomato & burrata salad is plenty large enough for a couple to split.”

For entrées, hand-cut steaks with a variety of sauces and add-ons to choose from are an excellent choice, of course. But Rick points to two dishes that have customers saying, “I can’t believe I never ordered this before.” The Short Rib Pot Roast is braised boneless short rib, mashed potatoes, glazed carrots, and horseradish crème fraîche. Seared Halibut is pan-roasted, served with mashed potatoes and sautéed asparagus, and finished with a lobster cream sauce. The entrée portions are so generous you’ll still have plenty to take home.”

To “get your chocolate fix and take care of that sweet tooth,” Rick suggests the Chocolate Cake with Bourbon Chocolate Sauce. The manageable wine list of around 100 bottles is easy to navigate and find what you like while providing unusual choices that guests can only find at Steak & Bourbon. The restaurant will offer a sharable three-course prix fixe dinner on Valentine’s Day. Visit www.steak-bourbon.com and follow @steak_bourbon on Instagram for the latest specials. Follow Steak & Bourbon’s sister restaurant GuacaMole Modern Mexican @guacamolecocina on Instagram for updates on their NuLu location, featuring a tequila bar and jungle/beach-themed Tulum Room!

TOPS LOUISVILLE | february 2022 79

Abrams and orchestra

explore

the Music of the Americas STORY BY : BILL DO OLIT TLE

Taking a trip through the music of the Americas, the Louisville Orchestra presents a two-part Festival of Latin American Music that dances from the stage of Whitney Hall over the weekends of March 4-5 and 11-12.

Director Teddy Abrams says the concerts not only explore the rich and rhythmic sounds swirling out of the Caribbean and southward, but also advance a long-honored and important goal for the Louisville Orchestra – championing new music to be performed by symphony orchestras.

“That’s the job of an orchestra,” says Abrams. “to preserve the music of the past, but also guide the way forward so that composers of the present have access to great musicians. We’re ready to play their compositions.”

To that end Abrams will premiere three new works commissioned by the Louisville Orchestra, including “Tentacion” (Temptation), a seductive piece created by Grammy award-winning Cuban composer Dafnis Prieto. For the premiere, the timba band People of Earth appears onstage with the orchestra — singing, dancing, congas, marimba … a sound Abrams promises, “blurs the lines of salsa club and concert hall.”

Also included are two pieces that Abrams discovered had been commissioned and recorded by the Louisville Orchestra on its First Edition label more than half a century ago, under the baton of symphony founder Robert Whitney.

The Festival also features “Latin-sound” standards from George Gershwin and Aaron Copland, and Leonard Bernstein’s “Symphonic Dances,” from “West Side Story.”

Those are “standards” Abrams loves to present. But his focus remains on the Louisville Orchestra’s role in the music of present and future.

“There are so many composers who are writing in styles that range from popular to experimental,” says Abrams. “The great thing about our orchestra is we can play them all.”

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C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA PRESENTS

THE COLOR, PASSION, AND RHYTHMIC ENERGY OF LATIN MUSIC EXPLODES WITH BRILLIANT WORKS. New works and a First Edition commission celebrate the trailblazing spirit of the Louisville Orchestra, featuring the exciting young timba band, PEOPLE OF EARTH. Prepare for dazzling concerts showcasing the variety and sophistication of music of Latin American composers and those inspired by these vibrant cultures.

WORLD PREMIERE PERFORMANCES FESTIVAL OF LATIN AMERICAN MUSIC 2

FESTIVAL OF LATIN AMERICAN MUSIC 1

Teddy Abrams, conductor 11 MAR 11AM 12 MAR 8PM Kentucky Center

Teddy Abrams, conductor 4 MAR 11AM 5 MAR 8PM Kentucky Center

Heitor VILLA-LOBOS: Alvarada na floresta tropical (“Dawn in a Tropical Forest”) Dafnis PRIETO: Tentación (“Temptation”) WORLD PREMIERES Angélica NEGRÓN: Fractal Isles Leonard BERNSTEIN: Symphonic Dances from West Side Story

Aaron COPLAND: El Salón México Gabriela Lena FRANK: Concertiňo Cusqueňo Jose Pablo MONCAYO: Cumbres (”Summits”) Clarice ASSAD: Nhanderu Arturo MARQUEZ: Danzón No. 2 George GERSHWIN: Cuban Overture

CONCIERTO DE ARANJUEZ Kalena Bovell, conductor Stephen Mattingly, guitar 24, 25, 26 MAR Check website for locations and times

Georges BIZET: Suite No. 1 from Carmen Joaquin RODRIGO: Concierto de Aranjuez Alberto GINASTERA: Variaciones concertantes

502-587-8681

For more information on these concerts, visit LouisvilleOrchestra.org/concerts.

Season tickets still on sale!

Covid protocols apply

TOPS LOUISVILLE | february 2022 81

empowering a culture of inclusion, equality, and diversity for a brighter Kentucky.

At LG&E, we work hard every day to empower business owners and facilitate economic development in the communities we serve. And as an industry leader in supplier diversity, we proactively provide opportunities by mentoring, building relationships with, and buying from companies with diverse backgrounds. Over the last 10 years, we have spent $1.3 billion with Black-, minority- and veteran-owned companies – spending more than $170 million with 144 diverse businesses in 2019 alone. Because we’re all in this together. Visit lge-ku.com/diversity to learn more.

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Community

84 90 94

TOPS Cares Fillies TOPS Cares Metro United Way Veteran Valor

TOPS LOUISVILLE | february 2022 83

community

Tops Cares

The Fillies

BY KATHIE STAMPS • COURTESY PHOTOS

Long before the first Saturday in May takes the national spotlight at Churchill Downs, Louisvillians know there’s a flurry of behindthe-scenes activity. All year long, in fact. The Kentucky Derby Festival and its charitable arm, the Kentucky Derby Festival Foundation, are helped immensely by an organization of 250 women.

The Fillies, Inc. provide thousands of volunteer hours—woman-hours—for the Kentucky Derby Festival and KDF events. The standout fundraiser for KDF each year is the Fillies Derby Ball (April 9, 2022). The Fillies also volunteer their talents and expertise to select, manage and escort the Derby Princesses who are ambassadors of the Kentucky Derby Festival. They produce the Children’s Tea with the Derby Princesses (April 30) and present the Royal Court Float for the Queen and her Court in the Pegasus Parade (May 1). The Fillies manage the sales of the KDF Golden Ticket Raffle, of which only 500 are sold, online at kdf.org. Fillies members provide volunteers at every KDF event and serve on the board of directors for the Kentucky Derby Festival and Kentucky Derby Festival Foundation.

“The Filles are a group of civic-minded women who want to contribute to the quality of life for the community,” said Paula Bishop, 2021-2022 president of the organization. “We also donate to other local organizations chosen annually, usually to benefit women and children, in addition to supporting the KDF events and organization.”

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A former teacher at Sacred Heart Academy, Paula has been a member of the Fillies for 10 years. Her fi rst goal in leading the organization has been to bring it back to as close to normal as possible, after the 2020 and 2021 events had to be canceled. “I try not to spend time thinking about what we missed or what should have been but to move forward with what we need to do for this season,” she said. “We have been working for months to prepare for the Fillies 2022 events and to help the Kentucky Derby Festival with their community events.”

Five years ago, the president of the Kentucky Derby Festival presented the Fillies with the Distinguished Service Award, stating, “The Fillies share our enthusiasm for the Derby Festival and our love of this community.”

The Fillies are active in the community with 17 special committees and 15 standing committees. The 250 members are women of all ages and interests, some working and some retired. There are lawyers and judges, doctors and nurses, teachers and administrators, business owners and entrepreneurs, event planners and fi nancial planners, retail managers, designers, real estate agents, insurance agents and the list goes on. “All share a love of our community and the Kentucky Derby Festival,” Paula said.

Two “Treasured Members” have the honor of being Fillies for at least 50 years. Mary Bartlett Broecker joined the organization in 1965 and served as the 2004-2005 president.

Barbara Men-gel Gargala joined in 1970, the year after she served as a Derby Princess. Her mother, Frances Mengel, was one of the founding members of the Fillies in 1959. “These two ladies are still active contributors and have a wealth of information about our history,” Paula said.

THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEMBERS: From left front row seated: Joanne Hurst, Sheree’ Bollinger, Tabitha Rhodes, Barb Wainwright, Ashley Brooks Hoffman, Jenn Matthiessen, Julie Hinson, Jude ElkinsStanding from Left: Kimberley Gant, Melanie Miller-Kane, Anne Miller, Paula Bishop, Marbeth Gibson, Barbara Gargala, Jocelyn Dave, Jennifer JohnsonNot pictured: Cindy Lewandowski, Michele Oberst, Linda Miller, Pam Hendrickson

FOR TICKET INFORMATION AND APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP IN THE FILLIES, VISIT WWW.THEFILLIES.ORG.

Paula Bishop, The Fillies® president

TOPS LOUISVILLE | february 2022 85

Music by The Cras hers Presenting Sponsors:

Media Sponsor: THE PL ACE TO BE SEEN

TOPS

Tickets on sale at kdf.org Proceeds benefit

hard-working

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trained leader

adaptable

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From DEPLOYMENT TO EMPLOYMENT

HIRE A VETERAN! USA Cares’ career transition program provides veterans with the tools and resources they need to better prepare them for the hiring process, and refers qualified candidates to corporate organizations with open positions of employment specific to their skillsets. a veteran is the right fit for your company. to connect with skilled veterans in your area, Contact Paula Presley at 800-773-0387 ext. 115 or paula@usacares.org

TO DREAM THE POSSIBLE DREAM

RESIDENTIAL OFFICE RETAIL HOTEL ROOFTOP

88 TOPS LOUISVILLE | february 2022

O N E PA R K V I S I O N One Park, led by Ulysses “Junior” Bridgeman, Dr. Mushtaque Juneja, and Kevin Cogan, is a $250 million proposed development at Grinstead Drive and Lexington Road that will receive national acclaim for its architecture, combination of interactive uses, and prominent location next to a major urban park at the gateway to Louisville’s downtown

• The crossroads of four neighborhoods leading to downtown • A gateway into downtown from Interstate 64 • Creating street character that is pedestrian-oriented • Having multi-modal access and connections • Using sustainable principles that benefit the environment • Providing access and views to the recreational uses around it

Jefferson Development Group is a Louisville, Kentucky based real estate development company specializing in the management and construction of luxury, urban properties.

2650 Technology Drive | Louisville, KY 40299 info@jeffersondevelopmentgroup.com | (502) 896-2888 TOPS LOUISVILLE | february 2022 89

community

Tops Cares

Metro United Way

BY KATHIE STAMPS • COURTESY PHOTOS

Metro United Way is one of 1,800 local affiliates (in 41 countries!) of the global United Way Worldwide network, the world’s largest privately funded nonprofit. Founded in 1917, Metro United Way has “empowered individuals and families to achieve their fullest potential by generating meaningful and lasting change in our community,” said Adria Johnson, president and CEO of the Greater Louisville organization. “We use data-driven insights to identify and prioritize the community’s greatest needs with a focus on equitable outcomes for all.”

People who live in Jefferson, Bullitt, Oldham and Shelby counties in Kentucky and Clark, Floyd and Harrison counties in Indiana have so many programs and resources available to them, thanks to Metro United Way. One example is free tax preparation through the VITA program, Volunteer Income Tax Assistance. Another is free developmental screening, books and activities for parents and caregivers of children from birth to five years old. The 2-1-1 help line gives anyone and everyone access to community resources.

“Together, we fight to improve the disparities that persist in education, income, health, housing and racial equality in the seven counties we serve,” Adria said.

The four primary areas of focus for Metro United Way are enhancing impact, closing the education and wealth gaps, adopting a trust-based philanthropy model, and modeling their commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion for

all.

Metro United Way is super involved with all members of the community, bringing together 116 nonprofit partners, 865 businesses, more than 2,000 volunteers and advocates, and more than 41,000 donors. “We are working to create a culture of trust-based philanthropy that addresses inherent power imbalances, dismantles systemic racism and accelerates stra-

tegic investments,” she said.

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Several times a year, Metro United Way presents “Beyond Buzzwords,” a virtual speaker series on diversity, equity and inclusion. On Feb. 22 at 9:30 a.m., author Isabel Wilkerson is the featured speaker, on the topic of America’s caste system. Look for future B eyond B uz z -

w ords events in J une and O ctob er.

For more information on how to give, advocate, volunteer and get involved with Metro United Way, visit metrounitedway.org/join-us-in-the-fight.

TOPS LOUISVILLE | february 2022 91

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TOPS LOUISVILLE | february 2022 93

veteran valor

A Marine Corps Kind of Love: Allen and Mary Broussard

BY HEATHER FRENCH HENRY | COURTESY PHOTO

The story of Allen and Mary Broussard, is one for the books. Not only did they both give decades of their lives to the Marine Corps but, after 46 year of marriage, Allen and Mary have taken the Marines Corps motto of Semper Fidelis, meaning ‘Always Faithful,' to a new level.

Mary joined the Marines at the age of 29. She spent her earlier years teaching in Detroit but when the Catholic School system there folded, she moved out to California to be wth her parents and go back to college to get a degree in business. “I ran into a recruiter on campus and I saw a woman in dress blues! I wanted to join and was sworn in the next week,” Mary says. She became a third generation Marine following her father and grand father. However, Mary was a little hesitant to tell her father. “I didn't tell him until I did it, he went nuts! He’d never met a woman Marine. But once I was commissioned, it was a whole different story.”

Shortly after Mary was sworn in, she was off to Officer Candidate School, followed by the Basic School in Quantico, VA where she eventually met Allen. “I was in the first class of women to go into classrooms with the male officers! We got thrown together because we were among the oldest. For women in the service things started really changing,” exclaimed Mary. “The 1970’s were a big deal!” Allen came to Quantico in 1972 as a Staff Sgt. and selectee for Officer Candidate School. At 28, he already had 10 years in the Corps and one tour of duty in Vietnam. It was during a night on the town with the girls that Mary and her friends ran into Allen and his buddies.

“They had a bar in the quarters and they were fussing at us women because we never came out there,” Mary laughs. “So we drove out there for dinner and went into the bar to be friendly. And the guy with Allen says,‘You can't come in here.

This is our bar!”

After Basic School, both she and Allen were sent to Camp Pendleton in California. “Junior officers travel in the same circles, so we would see each other at happy hours at the officer's club, so we 94 TOPS LOUISVILLE | february 2022

were seeing each other a lot,” Allen says.

They both also had a mutual friend who provided transportation for Allen since he had taken his car home in preparation for his upcoming duty overseas. Mary remembers, “We had a mutual friend and she was giving him rides. One night we were having dinner at my house and we invited him. He spent the evening bragging about taking this woman out to the nicest restaurant in New Orleans when he was back home. And the two of us girls just looked at each other and said, ‘Well, you never asked us out!’ So then he says, ‘Well, what's the nicest restaurant in San Diego?’ And we immediately told him, Mr. A’S. So a few days later, he calls me, and says, ‘I've got reservations at Mr. A's for Friday night.’ All the while I'm thinking, ‘Oh my God, this man thinks I am begging for a date!” Mary and Allen both erupt in laughter.

After a long night of dinner, dancing and talking for hours, Allen actually proposed on the very first date! “We talked for about three or four hours,” Allen chuckled. “I finally asked her to marry me. She said, yes!” However, for Mary, it wasn’t a huge surprise. “I had kissed a lot of frogs. I found my prince. We just started talking about how we grew up.

He has been married before and already had two daughters. Both of us realized, ‘Oh my God! This is the person!’ It's just like God put him in my lap.”

Al left 2 days later for a 1 year tour in Okinawa that eventually landed him in Vietnam for a second time, commanding young Marines during the evacuation of Saigon in April of 1975. Many years later, he was able to show his grandchildren where he and his troops helped Navy personnel handle multiple aircraft landings when South Vietnamese Air Force pilots landed planes overloaded with families, farm animals, weapons, etc.

In October of 1975, Mary and Al were married in the beautiful Ranch House Chapel at Camp Pendleton two days after he returned from that tour. Flexibility was key as he had a two week window for his return - and nothing was ever guaranteed. With just family and one friend

each, there were 13 of us so we had it in a private room at the Officers Club, which just happened to have a dance band that night.

Mary eventually transitioned into reserve status as a Marine while Allen remained on active duty. While Allen already had two daughters from a previous marriage, in 1976 they had a daughter of their own named Rebecca. Now they were a military couple with a military schedule and a baby.

The future would hold for both Allen and Mary another 20 plus years of dedicated service to the our country.

Al retired as Commanding Officer of the Recruiting Station in Louisville as a Major and went on to have an additional career as a Marine Corps instructor with the Marine Corps ROTC at Fern Creek High School. Mary finished out nearly 30 years of service in the Marine Corps Reserves in 2001. Before her retirement, Mary was promoted to Lt. Colonel during her final billet at Camp Lejeune in North Carolina. After it was all said and done, they both retired with Mary slightly outranking Allen, which has become something of a conversation piece today as they continue to serve their community and fellow veterans.

Are moments when rank comes up around the house? Mary says with a smile, “When he doesn't want to make a decision!” Allen responds laughing, “All decisions come from the senior officer.”•

How Can a Savvy Veteran Handle a VA Disability Claim Themself? Ask For This Free Helpful Guide.

“If you find yourself injured after active duty, the government owes you for your great sacrifice.”

You are familiar with military lingo—the endless acronyms and alphabet soup of active duty life.

You know the expectations of military—discipline, determination, teamwork.

You have eaten in the mess hall, stood in formation, and saluted your superiors. You have worn the uniform proudly, and served when needed. You were not prepared for the life changing injury you sustained. Fighting with the VA is a new war, and you must properly arm yourself with the tools to survive and thrive.

Whether you are Army Strong, one of The Few and the Proud, Not for self, but Country, you Aim High, or are Always Ready, you have represented the colors of this great nation. No matter old or young, this country owes you a debt—especially if you have physical lasting effects of your time in service. Your benefits may only be a few forms away.

Veteran and Attorney Karl Truman has put together a few helpful tips to assist you in handling your claim yourself.

Ask us for a free copy, follow the QR Code link below.

Karl Truman Lieutenant Colonel U.S. Army (Retired) Armor Branch

222-2222 420 Wall Street Jeffersonville, IN 47130

10531-B Timberwood Circle Louisville, KY 40223

812-282-8500 502-222-2222

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TOPS LOUISVILLE | february 2022 95 T H I S I S A N A D V E R T I S E M E N T. Service may be performed by other attorneys. COURT COSTS AND CASE EXPENSES WILL BE THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE CLIENT WHEN WE WIN OR SETTLE THE CASE.

Events

TOPS Party at the Grady Hotel Tuesday, January 18 topslouisville.com photos by Dick Arnspiger

Shea Brady and Chris Brady

Shawna Nalley and Greg Nalley

Jana Brewer and Josh Brewer

The NOIR Realty Family

Katie Winfree, Haley Bottorff, Chad Howard, TJ White and Kathy Thuerbach

96 TOPS LOUISVILLE | february 2022

Steph Clark, Hannah Stearns, Ashley Ernspiker and Kristen Morgan

Tony Ware

Timothy L Endicott-Steele, Mary Hall and Gregory Wilson

Kathy Thuerbach and Jon Thuerbach

DJ Symione

Randy Blevins and Matthew Porter

Events

Steph Clark and John Clark

That Cute Little Shop team

Sheri Greene Rukavina and Debra Locker Griffin

Kaitlyn Hubert and Brandon Ray 98 TOPS LOUISVILLE | february 2022

Sarah Dabbagh and Hannah Stearns

more photos online! www.topslouisville.com

Tim Weyrauch, TJ White and R. Christian Garrison

Kristen Klakulak, Rachel Price, Melissa Huff, Maddie Sennett and Lexie Dawson

Anthony Reddington

Kristen Miller

TOPS Who’s Who // What’s New // What To Do

february 2022

Vol 6• No. 2

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