MARCH
Volume 14 Number 3
the leaders of lexington
COMMUNITY 26 33 35
Leading from the Sidelines Lexington Business Facts Feature:
The Leaders of Lexington
130
Breaking the Bronze Ceiling:
132
Non Profit Spotlight:
134 137 143
Women’s History Month Party for a Purpose Five Ways to Give New & Noteworthy Branching Out:
26
Girls Night Out
LIFESTYLE
152
154
STAY CONNECTED Keep up with the Who’s Who, What’s New and What to Do by following us on social media, subscribing to our email newsletter and visiting our website! 8
TOPS in Lexington | March 2020
147
Editor’s Pick:
148
Outfit of the Month:
151
Savin’ Face:
152
Wedding News:
154
Wow Wedding:
Spring Break Essentials Spring Fever Style + Comfort Catching up with Monte Durham Morgan & Ethan
MARCH
the leaders of lexington
AT HOME
160
160
Tour of Homes:
171
Color Catalog:
172
Pets:
Health Tips for your Feline Friends
176
Dining:
181
TOP 5:
Infinity Breweries Dining Guide Recipes:
BBQ Bourbon Glazed Meatballs
186
Art in the Bluegrass:
189
Art in the Bluegrass:
192 195 196
STAY CONNECTED Keep up with the Who’s Who, What’s New and What to Do by following us on social media, subscribing to our email newsletter and visiting our website! 12
Chinese Porcelain
EATS & ENTERTAINMENT
182 184
189
Man Caves
TOPS in Lexington | March 2020
Art with a Purpose Public Art Project - I Was Here Equine Update BBN:
Heart of a Wildcat - Reggie Warford BBN:
March Madness Predictions
MARCH
the leaders of lexington
PHOTOS 22 198 202 204 206
Out & About TOPS:
February Preview Party
on the COVER
Dreamers and Doers:
Voices of KY Women CHI Saint Joseph Health:
Annual Medical Staff Dinner & Casino Night
208
Coach John Calipari Photo by Chet White courtesy of UK Athletics
Blue Grass Community Foundation Celebrates
$100+ Million in Grantmaking
208
Japan/America Society of KY
210
Fifth Third Bank Presents
212 218
Shinnenkai Commerce Lexington Annual Dinner
218
Her Knight Dance TOP Shots
Event photo captions are typically provided to TOPS by the event organizers. We do our best to check names and spelling… but we are all human and make mistakes. Please contact kristen@topsmarketing.com with any corrections and we will make note of it in the next issue.
NEXT MONTH
APRIL Kentucky Proud, Spring Fashion & 55+
STAY CONNECTED Keep up with the Who’s Who, What’s New and What to Do by following us on social media, subscribing to our email newsletter and visiting our website! 16
TOPS in Lexington | March 2020
PHOTOS Out & About Relix Bridal One Year Anniversary Party
OA
Ronda May and Jennifer Fuson at the Lexington Women’s Health Ribbon-cutting and Open House
Ramen Station at Lundy’s Client Tasting Experience
AJ Rose with local boy scouts at the Good Scout Luncheon 22
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TOPS in Lexington | September 2020
March 2020 | TOPSinLex.com
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COMMUNITY
26 33 35 130
Leading from the Sidelines Lexington Business Facts Feature:
The Leaders of Lexington Breaking the Bronze Ceiling:
Women’s History Month
132 134 137 143
Non Profit Spotlight:
Party for a Purpose Five Ways to Give New & Noteworthy Branching Out:
Girls Night Out
side
Leading from the
sidelines
story by Dick Gabriel photos by Dr. Michael Huang, Ron Morrow & Woody Phillips
Leading from the Sidelines John Calipari, during a timeout, seated among his players like a great Buddha, ready to dispense the wisdom it would take to lock down another victory for the Wildcats… Matthew Mitchell, surrounded by his charges on the Memorial Coliseum sideline; they await instruction and encouragement… Mark Stoops, standing amid dozens of helmeted warriors who are ready to charge out of the locker room with his words ringing in their ears, eager to do battle on fields throughout the SEC… Mitch Barnhart, seated at a conference table, owning the eyes and ears of a staff that is the spine of an athletic department funded by a budget north of $100 million… They’re leaders – each successful in his own right, each for different reasons. They coach, they push, they prod, they challenge. But it might surprise you to know that one of the most effective leadership techniques they employ doesn’t necessarily include words of insight, delivered with gusto on the waves of thunderous tones. In fact, at the most vital of times, they might not be speaking at all. “He’s listening.” Read those words again. They come from Lynn Bowden, himself a leader as the man who quarterbacked Kentucky to a most unlikely victory in the Belk Bowl this season. He was talking about Stoops, about what makes his redheaded spitfire of a coach successful, although he may as well have been talking about any of them. When it came time to answer the question, Bowden didn’t reach back to recall a wall-rattling, paint-peeling speech or a canned philosophical mantra some coaches like to trot out when it’s time to rally the troops.
COMMUNITY
he doesn’t like,” he says. “He lets us talk. At least, he listens.” Although, naturally, Stoops and his players realize who has the ultimate responsibility. “At the end of the day,” Bowden says, “he has the final word.” Such is the case with Barnhart when it comes to UK Athletics. But he also knows that if he leads by example, others will follow. That was never more apparent on a rainy night in March, 2017, at Cliff Hagan Stadium in Lexington. It was the night of a NCAA regional tournament baseball game between the Wildcats and North Carolina State. A violent thunderstorm had chased the 5,005 fans from their seats to whatever shelter they could muster only now, the skies had cleared and the umpires had said, “Play ball,” in a ballpark with a grandstand that was soaking wet. “Mitch Barnhart looks at the stadium and says, ‘We need towels.’” Nick Mingione, then Kentucky’s rookie head coach, remembers what happened next. “They went and grabbed a bunch of towels. Mitch Barnhart was the first one to start drying off the seats,” Mingione says. “So you know what everyone else started doing. To me, that’s just a beautiful example of what a servant heart looks like.” And according to Mingione, Barnhart leads by guiding his people to the realization that before you reach out, you have to look inward. “He wants us to be people of integrity,” Mingione says. “He wants us to be educated. He’s challenged us to read things.
No, says Bowden. Stoops is willing to make certain the conversation runs in both directions. “He gives us a voice, even if some things
ing a d l i u b “He’s RHOOD E BROTH making and feel y d o b y ever MILY.” LIKE FA
March 2020 | TOPSinLex.com
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He’s asked us to be good stewards and he wants us to compete like crazy. But the very first one is people of character. He wants us to listen to our heart.” Matthew Mitchell and his wife Jenna got a clear, strong signal from their collective servant heart when they decided to do more than just urge people to be good stewards of their community. They literally put their money – a lot of it – where their mouth is, giving toward construction of the new Town Branch Park in downtown Lexington. “Jenna and I feel extremely blessed to call Lexington home,” Mitchell said on the day of the announcement, back in October. “We’ve received so much love and support from virtually every segment of the community and this is an opportunity for us to give back in a meaningful way.” It’s not the first time the coach and his wife have shared their good fortune. In 2014, the Mitchells donated $1 million to the UK Athletics department. “We’re all one family,” Mitchell said at the time. “I have complete confidence in the leadership and I told Mr. Barnhart to use it where it’s needed most.” Athletic teams that like to end shared experiences by huddling and putting all hands in; they break by counting down to a specific word and so often, it is “family.” Teams and coaches share so much more than words; it’s the experiences, both good and bad, that build bonds. Lynn Bowden says, that’s where leadership from Mark Stoops is so strong. “He’s building a brotherhood and making everybody feel the family,” says Bowden, “and making sure everybody knows that outside of football, we have him. If we need him, we can go to him.” The best coaches, the ones who have built the strongest bonds of trust with their players, are always there when
ho w ne s of o e , th t bond ays s e ach nges e alw o c st tro rs, ar s e b e The built th ir playe e . e hav with th eeded n t trus when needed. e r e John Calipari th tries to make his players, past and present, understand that by telling them, they have a “scholarship for life,” meaning, those who choose to pursue the riches of professional basketball before they graduate can always return to the University of Kentucky and pursue their degree. Among those who have taken him up on that is John Wall, whose contract with the NBA’s Washington Wizards is worth a cool $170 million.
Of course, not all of his players have signed such a fat contract, although many have gone on to huge paydays in pro ball. Still, while he makes no secret that he’s all about helping aspiring professionals realize their dreams, Calipari sees his primary role as one of servant leadership – the same lesson he imparts to his players. And he said as much on the day he was introduced to the Wildcat faithful, back in 2009. “Our role is to serve the players, inspire them to reach higher than they thought possible,” he said in a news conference broadcast nationally on TV and radio, “to build exceptional men.” Not just exceptional players, which he’s done. Exceptional men. “This is about integrity,” he said. “Pure integrity. Our mission is to prepare our young people for the rest of their lives.” He’s accomplished that and not just with words. His first team, including Wall, Demarcus Cousins, Patrick Patterson and others, joined Calipari at the WKYT-TV studios in December, 2009, after Hurricane Harvey ravaged Haiti. Calipari worked with station personnel to quickly put together a telethon that raised more than $1 million. Six months later, he flew to the island, which had since been devastated by a 7.0 earthquake, to
“The tr ue lead er should ne self abo ver value v attitude e an o and co f care mpassi on for oth ers.”
- John
work with the American Red Cross, distributing shoes to needy children on the island. Taking a cue from his coach, Wall has been active with charity work in the D.C. area, donating $400,000 to agencies that support homeless children. Cousins worked with VSP Global to provide free eye exams for people in need in Sacramento. And for years, he has quietly supplied backpacks and school supplies for underprivileged kids in his hometown of Birmingham. In 2018, he was nominated for the Seasonlong NBA Cares Community Assist Award. When it comes to building a team – a “family” – unselfishness is the strongest undercurrent in Calipari’s brand of leadership. He explained his principles in a speech to Franciscan University of Steubenville, Ohio, in 2013. He invoked the oft-told story of his 2012 NCAA championship team, led by freshmen Anthony Davis and Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, who a few weeks later would be chosen 1-2 in the NBA Draft. “Your best player, the number one draft pick, takes the fifth-most shots on your team,” Calipari said. “The second pick, fourthmost. Our best players played for their teammates more than they played for themselves.” Other coaches, both past and present, publically marvel at
30
Quiston
II
the job Calipari does each season, teaching players to check their egos at the locker room door, tuning out the posse members who may be along for the ride to riches. He knows he has to lead them past all that, but they must realize it on their own. “My job is to love them,” he says. “Their job is to love each other. ‘Players first’ does not mean ‘player first.’ ‘Players,’ plural. One of the things we’re trying to do is create that environment where you have a shared vision of what you’re trying to do, where you’re trying to go together.” Calipari would probably appreciate a nugget of wisdom posted recently on social media by a former Kentucky football coach. Bill Curry enjoys sharing thoughts of coaches, orators and authors when the subject is leadership. After all, he DID play for Vince Lombardi, one of the most renowned leaders in the history of football. So Curry knows a good line when he encounters it. One of his recent favorites came from author John McQuiston II: “The true leader should never value self above an attitude of care and compassion for others.” That would work anywhere – in a conference room, a sideline or a huddle.
TOPS in Lexington | March 2020
March 2020 | TOPSinLex.com
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s t r a t It S at the
P O T to pho | l e i abr ck G i D y by stor
s illip h P y ood by W
In 2008, the number 15 began to pop up on signs all over the UK athletic department. A retired number, perhaps? A tribute to a long-retired Wildcat who wore the same digits?
now running their own shops: Rob Mullen (Oregon), Greg Byrne (Alabama), Kevin Saal (Murray State), Scott Stricklin (Florida), John Cohen (Mississippi State) and Mark Coyle (Minnesota).
No. It was a commitment to excellence, a gauntlet thrown down by athletics director Mitch Barnhart.
And then, there are the coaches.
Barnhart had overseen growth within his department in his first seven years. But he wanted a solid goal, something easy to remember for every coach, athlete and administrator on campus: 15 conference or national titles and a top-15 ranking for the department (not to mention an overall 3.0 GPA). Mission accomplished. UK athletics hit the target and in the five years since, has kept growing under the leadership of Barnhart. And for his efforts, he was named the 2019 national Athletic Director of the Year by Sports Business Journal. Now in his 19th year, Barnhart has excelled at the two most visible criteria for an AD: facilities and coaching hires. On his watch, UK has made dramatic improvements in its football stadium, golf house and track; built a sparkling, stateof-the-art baseball stadium; has plans for a major overhaul of Memorial Coliseum and built adjacent softball and soccer stadiums. The facilities price tag since 2007: $300 million and not a single dollar from Kentucky taxpayers or the University itself. He’s also produced leaders. His “AD tree” includes former staffers
32
John Calipari: NCAA championship, six Final Fours 12 SEC titles (5 league, 7 tournament), three-time national Coach of the Year. Mark Stoops: four straight bowl games, 2018 SEC Coach of the Year. Matthew Mitchell: three Elite Eight appearances, an SEC championship, two-time SEC Coach of the Year. Nick Mingione: national Coach of the Year and the school’s first NCAA regional baseball championship, in 2017. And don’t forget Craig Skinner, whose volleyball team has won three-straight SEC crowns. Or Johan Cedergren: his men’s soccer team swept the Conference USA league and tournament titles last season. Both got their shot at the head coaching job at Kentucky thanks to Barnhart. And now, with 15-by-15 behind it, UK athletics has a new mission: Elite 1-3-5. Barnhart wants each UK team to be No. 1 by winning a conference or national championship, sustain a department-wide 3.0 grade-point average and rank in the top five of the Learfield IMG Directors’ Cup standings by 2022. Don’t bet against it. •
TOPS in Lexington | March 2020
Local Stats
Lexington
LEADS
COMMUNITY
in Business
There are 70,000+ students enrolled within a 40-mile radius of Lexington. That’s great, because we rank as #7 Best Cities for New College Grads (SmartAsset) and #15 Best Cities for Young Professionals (GOBankingRates.com).
Fayette County’s labor force totals 176,061... that means our colleagues could fill Rupp Arena seven times over! Our unemployment rate sits at 2.9%... that’s lower than the national average of 3.7%! The largest industry by number of primary jobs is health care and social assistance, accounting for 18.3% of local jobs.
According to StatsAmerica’s Innovation Index 2.0, the Lexington-Fayette Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) is the state leader in innovation and entrepreneurship.
There is $121 million in capital investment for projects locating or expanding as of Q2 according to LFUCG Metrics.
The Bluegrass region’s population is projected to reach 725,000+ by 2025.
#11 Best Untapped Cities for Startups in 2020 according to Fundera.
The future is bright! We’re in the Manhattan Institute’s Top-10 Midwest Success Stories.
TOP 10
Cities for Entrepreneurs
PennyHoarder 2018
2 6 2 State for Most Top Micropolitan Areas
Site Selection Magazine, 2018
Cities with the Lowest Startup Costs
Smart Assets, 2019
Top State for Economic Development Projects
per capita, Site Selection Magazine 2019
Special thanks to LFUCG, Commerce Lexington and Lexington Chamber of Commerce for providing these statistics
March 2020 | TOPSinLex.com
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DIGITAL MARKETING
36 TOPS in Lexington
VENUE WITH A VIEW
38 Mane on Main
LIVE EVENT PRODUCTION
Leaders in
39 MSI Production Services
BUSINESS +SERVICES
HOSPITALITY
Lexington Marriott 40 City Center ENTREPRENEURIAL ENDEAVORS
41 Joshua Barrett Enterprises SIGNATURE EVENTS
42 Lexington Event Company WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY
43 Conrhod Zonio Photography March 2020 | Sponsored Content
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
Kentucky Life Property
44 Management TIRE SALES
45 Bill Morgan Tire Company PRESCHOOL
46 Walnut Hill Day School EVENT SECURITY
48 CK Tactical Security CO-WORKING SPACES
48 Your SMARTOFFICE Solution VIDEO PRODUCTION
50 Studio 46 Media
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
51 Be More Consulting BRAND BUILDING
52 The Malicote Creative Company 35
TOPS Leader in
DIGITAL MARKETING TOPS SALES TEAM
TOPS in Lexington
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For 15 years, TOPS in Lexington has been the leader in Who’s Who, What’s New and What to Do. “As the most widely read magazine in Central Kentucky, our goal is to represent our amazing community in a positive, informative and entertaining way,” says Editor-in-Chief Megan Hillenmeyer. Since the company launched in 2005, TOPS has grown to offer clients a range of marketing solutions. “In addition to the TOPS magazine, website, social media outlets and email newsletters, we now offer a full range of digital marketing solutions. We are truly a full-service marketing company,” shares President Kristen Oakley. Clients turn to TOPS for premium print and digital campaign execution, not only just in Lexington, but across the region. TOPS offers SEO, SEM, programmatic display, social media ads, social media management, IP targeting, streaming radio and tv and so much more. With digital marketing on the rise, TOPS knows the importance of growing, training and developing their own digital department. VP of Digital Marketing Chad Howard leads the team with a focus on client development. With more than 17 years of experience in digital marketing,
TOPS in Lexington | Sponsored Content
client service, thought leadership and brand development, Howard develops effective, integrated digital solutions for TOPS digital clients. Digital Strategist Lindsey Ball focuses on campaign implementation and reporting. Ball has five years of experience in digital marketing and shares, “I enjoy the challenge of finding the best digital solution for each client’s unique needs, and then seeing the success with our proprietary reporting dashboard.” “Chad and Lindsay represent our major commitment to providing TOPS clients with a full-service portfolio of digital marketing products. Many of our clients have already experienced powerful, trackable results and exceptional ROI with TOPS Digital Solutions,” shares owner Keith Yarber. Yarber explains, “The best business advice I ever received was to hire
people smarter than me. I attribute my success to my amazing team. I am thrilled to welcome Chad and Lindsey, and I am so grateful for my existing team that has been with the company for years.” The advertising sales team is made up of Kristen Oakley, Megan Hillenmeyer, Jayme Jackson, Meg Martin, Townes Rawls, Destin Smith and Claire Tauer. While they have received extensive training in both traditional media and digital marketing, customer service is where the TOPS team shines. VP of Marketing and Client Relations Jayme Jackson shares, “A brand to a company is like a reputation to a person. Our brand focuses on first hearing the client, then exceeding their expectations with an effective campaign.” 465 E High St. Ste. 201 // Lexington // 859.543.8677 topsinlex.com
This March issue marks TOPS’ 150th published magazine in Lexington. March 2020 | Sponsored Content
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TOPS Leader in
VENUE WITH A VIEW SARAH FITZGERALD, HEATHER MARTIN + JASON BUSSENI
Mane on Main
Located on the 15th floor of the Chase Bank Building, The Mane on Main is both literally and figuratively the pinnacle of event venues. Known as “Lexington’s venue with a view,” The Mane on Main offers a visual feast for the eyes with its panoramic views of the city and the best in farm-to-table food and drink from the well-established and long-respected Dupree Catering + Events. Venue Coordinator Heather Martin elaborates, “There is a lot of excitement about the venue as it is still considered new, but being paired with Dupree Catering, who has been in business for thirty years, allows us to offer clients something new and something well-established with great credibility.” The space, which was once home to the Lafayette Club, has been architecturally designed with different rooms of varying sizes to accommodate intimate affairs for 20 or galas for 450. Sarah Fitzgerald, Business Manager, adds, “Every event is designed to be as unique as the client hosting it.” Offering top quality food with impeccable service, Dupree Catering + Events is also the only Kentucky caterer to be 3-Star Certified for environmental sustainability. 201 E Main St #1500 // Lexington // 859.231.0464 // themaneonmain.com
Mane on Main is the only event space in Lexington with a view of the entire city. 38
TOPS in Lexington | Sponsored Content
TOPS Leader in
LIVE EVENT PRODUCTION SAM WHITE
MSI Production Services Sam White, president and founder of MSI Production Services, has been an innovator in the event business for over 30 years. White got his start in event production by touring with entertainment acts in the 1990s and has since produced unforgettable events for Top Fortune 500 and 100 companies, politicians, sporting clubs, universities, nonprofits, trade associations and concert markets in the United States and abroad. Despite working worldwide, White loves doing business in Lexington. He states, “I see my clients socially in Lexington quite often. The local connection is what spurs our business relationship.” White understands that a great event impresses guests at every turn. He says, “This industry is constantly evolving. Our team uses top of the line equipment, stays ahead of industry trends, and really listens to our clients. The future of event production is only limited by your imagination and determination.” MSI specializes in providing full scope event production services to their clients, including audio, video, lighting and scenic elements, as well as event management, and any and all services related to producing a live event. White says he is motivated to keep growing and innovating by “the look on my clients’ faces when they are amazed by the outcome of their event.” 2330 Fortune Dr. Ste. 180 // Lexington // 859.264.9496 // msiproductions.com
March 2020 | Sponsored Content
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TOPS Leader in
HOSPITALITY BARRY KUHNKE
Lexington Marriott City Center Residence Inn Lexington City Center Infinity Sky Bar & Café Hospitality is more than just an industry, it’s a magnanimous way of thinking and being, which Barry Kuhnke, general manager with Marriott City Center perfectly exemplifies. At just 16 years old, Kuhnke started as a bellman and has been working his way up ever since. Kuhnke states, “I’m motivated through leading others to success. I get to be the head coach of our business, and I get to see the team have victories, small and large. The team’s success is my success, but the joy and pride the team feels after those victories motivates me to challenge all of us to continue to find ways to keep winning.” This dedication toward excellence has garnered Kuhnke and his team a multitude of awards, including General Manager Service Excellence Award, General Manager Sales Excellence Award and the Marriott International Quarterly Award for Community Service, among many others. Under Kuhnke’s management, the Marriott City Center continues to grow as a leader in the hospitality industry. Kuhnke states, “The two new hotels and rooftop restaurant/bar in Lexington are primed to offer world class service with guest rooms that are inviting and well-appointed; meetings and events that spark creativity and fuel imagination; and unique and inventive dining experiences.” 121 West Vine Street // Lexington 859.253.1000 // LexingtonMarriottCityCenter.com LexingtonResidenceInnCityCenter.com
Infinity is Lexington’s only rooftop restaurant with a retractable roof! 40
TOPS in Lexington | Sponsored Content
TOPS Leader in
ENTREPRENEURIAL ENDEAVORS JOSHUA T. BARRETT
Joshua Barrett Enterprises As the owner of four successful businesses, you can say Joshua Barrett is a “Josh of all Trades” and a master of many. At the age of 25, Barrett ventures include JT Barrett Land Holding, Josh Barrett Homes, Richmond Paint Center, and Real Estate Advisor with Cravens Realty. Barrett says, “through the many irons I have in the fire, I am able to better serve the consumer, and do so at a high-value rate, whether that be helping them build, buy or sell a home, find a rental, remodel, or invest.” Each of Barrett’s companies works together to provide clients a single reliable source for their buying and building needs, saving them time, hassle, and money. According to Barrett, “We are truly a one-stop-shop. We can do almost anything that you need five to seven other companies to do. We make it easy to love where you live, thus creating value.” Of their role in the Lexington future, Barrett, who has been in real estate since 2012, says, “We will be there to make sure that the Central Kentucky market continues to grow without harming the beautiful horse country we are known so well for. We will continue to rehab and breathe life into blighted properties, making sure we do our part to create affordable housing.” joshbarretthomes@gmail.com 859.582.7975 // joshbarretthomes.com
Josh is actively involved in state and local politics and started his first business, a small auto detailing company at age 16! March 2020 | Sponsored Content
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TOPS Leader in
SIGNATURE EVENTS KAELYN QUERY
Lexington Event Company and LexEffect Venues In high school, while most students were thinking about hanging out with their friends, Kaelyn Query was thinking about business. She says, “I’ve spent the better part of my life exploring and learning all the ins and outs of the hospitality and event industry. From catering to event planning and management, to production and marketing, I’ve worked in almost every aspect of the business. I started my first event planning company while in high school, and have devoted my time to learning and growing so I can exceed all my clients expectations.” Query, the president of Lexington Event Company, and her staff bring their vast variety of experience to every event. “Our experience with weddings helps our corporate clients, our experience with corporate helps our non-profit clients, and our experience with venues helps us with everyone. You get a wealth of knowledge and a team of people working towards one common goal.” Lexington Event Company produces weddings, corporate events, fundraisers, festivals and much more, with an emphasis on fully customizing their services to the client. According to Query, “We don’t have ‘packages’ because every event is unique, and so must be our services.” Though based in Lexington, the company has satisfied clients all across the U.S. hello@lexingtoneventco.com // 859.230.5365 // lexingtoneventco.com
“I am terrified of ducks, and the dark.”
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TOPS in Lexington | Sponsored Content
“I tear up at every wedding, sometime during the day.”
Conrhod Zonio TOPS Leader in
WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY LESLEE + CONRHOD ZONIO
Conrhod Zonio Photography Gone are the days of posed and plastic wedding photos. Now, couples want pictures that tell their unique story. Wedding photographers Conrhod & Leslee Zonio make that happen. Cohnrod says, “Our business is all about understanding how our couples enjoy life and how they connect with their environment and the people they chose to enjoy experiences with. This is where beauty is found, not in the posing or the planning, but in experiencing life and what it has to offer.” He adds, “We aim to capture joy, love and emotion by blending photojournalistic, editorial, and documentary styles of photography.” For the Zonios, the reward is in the relationships—”Our experience, client care, reputation, and involvement within our community is inspired by our desire to connect with people to foster authentic community with the people we encounter. It is not about what is yours and what is mine, it is about what we get to share.” Conrhod brings a vast variety of experience. He states, “I have photographed for magazines, sports, fashion, landscapes, wildlife and, of course, people. By far, weddings have been my favorite avenue of photography.” Even after 20 years, he admits, “I tear up at every wedding, sometime during the day.” info@conrhodzonio.com // 859.229.6550 // conrhodzonio.com
March 2020 | Sponsored Content
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TOPS Leader in
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT HEATH GREEN + JOSH SHEPLER
Kentucky Life Property Management
Considering their innovative approach, social media savvy and ongoing education, it is no wonder Kentucky Life Property Management is the fastest growing property management company in the state. The company currently manages over 1000 properties throughout the Bluegrass, from single family homes to multi-family apartment communities to farms. According to Owner Josh Shepler, “We help real estate investors take back their lives and provide peace of mind through a seamless management experience, all while helping them create wealth through real estate. We rent properties faster, for top dollar and with the least amount of problems.” The company believes education is key. According to Shepler, “We attend continuing education almost every single month. We believe you must work to learn before you work to earn.” They also host quarterly educational events for their clients to share the latest knowledge. Kentucky Life Property is also on the leading edge of AirB&B management, with an array of properties from chic downtown condos to stunning horse farms. Shepler states, “We are paving the way as one of the only companies offering this service, as we work with local council members to educate the community on the benefits of welcoming hundreds of guests monthly into our commonwealth.” Info@kentuckylifehomes.com 859.309.9648 // LiveTheKentuckyLife.com
“Our favoirte place on earth is Kauai, Hawaii.”
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TOPS in Lexington | Sponsored Content
Bill’s favorite quote is: “The only thing to fear is fear itself” - Franklin D . Roosevelt
TOPS Leader in
TIRE SALES BILL MORGAN
Bill Morgan Tire Company Despite being just 26 years old, Bill Morgan has been working in the tire industry for nearly 10 years. Morgan states, “I grew up in the industry, and watched my father work as a professional throughout the state of Kentucky, as well. I personally posses an eclectic understanding of the business, having served in all facets of the industry. After graduating college, I started this company with a clear vision and it allowed me to execute the experience and knowledge that I’ve compiled thus far.” Bill Morgan Tire Company is a full service tire company that currently serves the commercial truck tire and farm tire industry throughout the commonwealth. According to Morgan, “We do everything. From your wheelbarrow tire to your car tire to your farm tractor, we can serve you.” Youth and forward thinking go hand in hand, so, this May, the company will be launching a mobile car tire service in Lexington and the surrounding areas that is equipped to travel directly to the customer and provide full tire service. Morgan says, “We are particularly excited about this endeavor, as it will allow us to reach more of our community and interact with some of our everyday neighbors.” 619 E Irvine Street // Richmond // 859.661.0121 // billmorgantire.com
March 2020 | Sponsored Content
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TOPS Leader in
PRESCHOOL BOBBI TODD
Walnut Hill Day School Tomorrow’s leaders are today’s preschoolers. And Walnut Hill Day School is ensuring they get the early skills needed to build bright futures through providing the highest quality early childcare for students ages 2 through kindergarten. At Walnut Hill, students learn in all areas of development, including social, emotional, intellectual, and physical. Director Bobbi Todd says, “We are committed to providing our students with a loving environment that is safe, caring, and educational in which they can achieve their individual potential.” In addition to the core curriculum of the school, students are able to explore Spanish language, music, physical education, and piano lessons as well as Summer Camps. Through the years, Walnut Hill has served a diverse population, with students from Japan, Africa, Korea, Sri Lanka, China, India, the Middle East and Ecuador, and that diversity has enriched the preschool experience for all. For the past 34 years, Walnut Hill Day School has been in the forefront of early education. Todd attributes this to three main elements: teachers, location, and supportive families. Of the teachers, many of whom have advanced credentials and all of whom share a love of teaching, Todd states, “Walnut Hill has a combined three hundred and forty-three years of teaching experience. WHDS’s dedicated teachers have certainly seen their share of smiling faces at Walnut Hill. Our teachers are here because they truly love children and love to teach. They bring diverse backgrounds and unique talents to the students. It is such a joy to see the children come in with smiles and hugs for their teachers.”
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Walnut Hill has over 350 years of teaching experience.
Second is their convenient and peaceful location. Situated just minutes from downtown, Walnut Hill is nestled among beautiful bluegrass horse farms. According to Todd, “Our school’s serene location overlooks prestigious Juddmonte Farms and provides a perfect venue for the school’s island of excellence.” The third component that sets Walnut Hill apart is the supportive families who are invested in its success. “We owe a nod of thanks to the praise our families have spread in the community. Our thirty-four years of success now span two generations as ex-students are enrolling their children,” states Todd. Todd purchased the school from its founder, her mother-in-law Marilyn Todd, in 2014. She explains, “I really don’t view this position as a job but more of a family tradition. Investing in our students is truly something that I enjoy.” Todd has been at the school for 25 years in many capacities, including learning the day-to-day operations in the office and teaching multiple age levels. Therefore, she has seen first hand what a rewarding and enjoyable experience learning can be for little ones. She says, “I love giving families a tour of our facility and having them recognize and comment about how cheerful all the teachers and students are. Walnut Hill is a ‘happy place’ full of love and learning.” 575 Walnut Hill Rd // Lexington // 859.263.2807 // walnuthilldayschool.net
March 2020 | Sponsored Content
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“I have a pet pot bellied pig that lives in my house. Her name is Louise, she is almost 3 years old and is about 60 lbs.”
TOPS Leader in
EVENT SECURITY TOM RAMSEY
CK Tactical Security Keeping people safe—that is Tom Ramsey’s, CEO of CK Tactical Security’s only objective. Ramsey, a veteran of the United States Marine Corps, says, “People are our greatest assets. We must understand that the emphasis that we put on safety can not be rivaled. So creating a culture of safety inspires me each morning.” Locally-owned and operated, CK Tactical is a full-service security company providing event security, regular onsite guarding, assistance with workplace violence issues, threat assessment and all other security related services. The company boasts a management team with over 25 years of law enforcement experience and 15 years in the private security field, as well as a seasoned professional security staff. CK prides themselves on having worked some of the most respected events in Lexington, including the Land Rover Three-Day event at the KY Horse Park and The PGA Barbasol Championship. They will also be partnering with the Lexington Legends for their entire upcoming season. In closing, Ramsey points out, “Today’s society creates many security challenges. We now live in the information age. With that comes great responsibility. Our pledge to you is that we will continue to make our clients and customers as safe as we can.” 476 Locust Fork Rd. // Stamping Ground, Ky // 859.361.3293 // cktacticalsecurity.com
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TOPS Leader in
CO-WORKING SPACES TYLER HOLLOWAY
Your SMARTOFFICE Solution For business owners, daunting, day-to-day details often get in the way of the dream. Your SMARTOFFICE Solution (YSOS) is there to make sure that doesn’t happen by providing a state-of the-art space to work without all the capital. YSOS is a full-service co-working space, located in downtown, offering fully-furnished office spaces with ultra high speed connectivity, a high-tech business lounge, and meeting facilities. In addition, YSOS can provide professional reception, mail handling and general administrative support, among a variety of other things. Of this office space model, Business Center Manager Tyler Holloway says, “Co-working spaces are so great because you have the opportunity to interact with so many different people from various fields. This, coupled with a attitude of service, allows us to get in there and work along-side our clients creating an atmosphere that allows them to utilize our space and their time here in the most effective way possible.” Holloway is leading the way in Lexington in an industry that is destined to grow. He explains, “Co-working is growing and the projections for this growth are solid. Startups, entrepreneurs and private, small businesses all benefit. I’m just grateful to be getting involved in the early stages of this growth.” tyler@yoursmartofficesolution.com 859.977.9767 // yoursmartofficesolution.com
“I have a passion for cooking and food. I hope to own my own restaurant one day where I do the menu planning and cooking!”
March 2020 | Sponsored Content
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Studio46 Media was initially launched, to support their parent company, Elliot – an electrical contractor founded in 1946.
TOPS Leader in
VIDEO PRODUCTION CHARLES THOMPSON + ADAM WILSON
Studio46 Media
We are living in the video age. No one knows this better than the team at Studio46 Media. “Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat, TikTok, broadcast and streaming services have made video content as prevalent and necessary as it’s ever been. So, within the current climate, if you’re not producing compelling video content you need to start now, otherwise you risk being left behind,” says Business Development Manager Charles Thompson. Studio46 has assembled a crew of some of the best in the business to ensure businesses are being seen…and viewed… at their very best. Videographers, editors, writers, live event producers, and FAA licensed drone/UAV pilots, with decades of experience, all work together to make certain the right message reaches the right audience. According to Thompson, “Studio46 is motivated to show that great video content can be produced in Lexington. Organizations within the Commonwealth don’t have to work with companies in New York City, Los Angeles or Atlanta to get the quality of video content that will impress their customers and clients.” In addition to video production, Studio46 Media offers expert live event management for conferences, sporting events, and stage performances, as well as creative services, making it a one-stop shop for any company’s needs. 657 Blue Sky Parkway // Lexington // 859.977.5846 // studio46media.com
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TOPS Leader in
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COACH COLENE
Be More Consulting As far as Coach Colene is concerned, fun is not optional, it is required. “My promise is to have fun while helping you get the outcomes you desire. I don’t think work needs to be serious all the time. And, with the changing demographics of the workforce, things like fun at work are factors considered for overall workplace happiness. We bring an element of fun into everything we do,” says Coach Colene. Coach Colene is the owner of Be More Consulting, a personal and professional development firm dedicated to “working with organizations and individuals to create transformation at work and in life.” When leaders are struggling to meet target goals and employees aren’t performing at their capacity, Be More Consulting develops a customized plan to help that corporation think through where they are currently, where they want to be and exactly how to get there using a transformative, informative and enjoyable process. Coach Colene explains, “We help organizations create better teams, leaders and results.” In addition, Coach Colene’s passion for seeing women in leadership positions led her to start the EmpowHer Conference, in 2019, which was designed to help women “Speak Up, Step Up and Show Up” for leadership. Photo by The Malicotes. Colene@CoachColene.com 859.494.6865 // BeMoreTransform.com
“Ice cream is my love language!”
March 2020 | Sponsored Content
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TOPS Leader in
BRAND BUILDING VICTORIA BENSON, MATT MALICOTE + KELSEY MALICOTE
The Malicote Creative Company
The Malicote Creative Company believes the best way for a small business to set themselves apart from others in their industry is to put the heart of their business right in the forefront for the world to see. That’s where they come in. COO Victoria Benson explains, “Through purposeful and heartfelt branding, we help businesses tell their story.” Malicote Creative brands both small and creative businesses, and offers such services as brand development, website design, business coaching, content generation, social media education and stylized photo sessions. The company has created a unique process, blending meaning and function for each client by focusing on clear communication and expectations, education and intuitive design. Matt Malicote, who owns the company along with his wife Kelsey, says, “After seeing the wide range of benefits from rebranding ourselves, we realized the process we developed could serve small businesses across the board. Our proprietary formula has been proven to work for every one of our clients.” As for the future, Kelsey Malicote shares, “We are ever evolving and growing. The world is ready for more brands who want to give back. To create true impact. The future consumer wants more than just a product. They want to feel something. They want to make a difference.” info@themalicotes.com // themalicotes.com
“Our guilty pleasure is Taco Bell!”
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LEGACY PLANNING
Powerful Legacy Insurance
62 UniямБed Trust Bank
COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE LENDING
64 Kentucky Bank
54 and Financal Services
55 Traditional Bank
Leaders in
FINANCE
RETIREMENT PLANNING
Meridian Wealth 56 Management SMALL BUSINESS BANKING
58 Forcht Bank
MORTGAGE LENDING
59 Swan Financial Corporation SUCCESSION PLANNING
Brennan and Associates at 60 Merrill Lynch
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WEALTH MANAGEMENT
CUSTOMER SERVICE
STRESS-FREE MORTGAGES
65 Fairway Independent Mortgage INNOVATIVE INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT
66 Spectrum Financial Alliance, Ltd. COMMUNITY BANKING
68 Community Trust Bank SOCIAL SECURITY PLANNING
69 JT Davis Asset Management
INCOME TAX PREPARATION
70 WR Ramsey & Associates, Inc.
BUSINESS LOANS
Peoples Exchange Bank March 2020 | Sponsored Content
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TOPS Leader in
LEGACY PLANNING KRISTINA PING
Powerful Legacy Insurance and Financial Services Kristina Ping is determined to leave a legacy for her clients and her community. Ping says, “Leading is not just the economic impact of having a multi-million dollar company in our awesome city, but it is the ability and willingness to give back. Our hearts are open to giving through multiple charities and investing in local businesses, as well.” Ping is the CEO of Powerful Legacy Insurance and Financial Services, a boutique firm specializing in safe money solutions and income distribution for retirement strategies. With over 15 years experience in the field, Ping has the financial finesse to guide clients through a detailed personal needs analysis, and then develop an unstoppable strategy to grow their wealth and protect their future. At her firm, client service is the top priority. “Not only do we have solid strategies, but we treat our clients like family, and it makes us the very best. We are consistent in our caring and monitoring client goals and strategies to give them peace of mind,” states Ping. When not spreading her wealth of knowledge to clients or supporting local nonprofits, Ping is busy collecting bourbons and wines to fill her home cellar–a personal passion of hers. 3260 Blazer Pkwy. Ste. 100 // Lexington // 859.208.2511 // yourpowerfullegacy.com
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TOPS Leader in
COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE LENDING DAN MASON + BUDDY SCHNEIDER III
Traditional Bank Traditional Bank has provided straightforward loan and deposit solutions for businesses and individuals for 118 years. They are the fifth largest bank in Lexington by market share based on FDIC reporting, and are a consistent market leader in commercial real estate lending. Due to their size and strong capital, Traditional Bank is able to accommodate loans up to $27 million within the local market. As a locally owned bank, they are able to offer term and loan structures based on their clients’ unique lending situations. According to Dan Mason, President and Buddy Schneider, Chief Lending Officer, what really sets Traditional Bank apart is their ability to make quick decisions. They attribute this to the expertise of the bank’s loan officers and underwriting professionals, along with a management team and board of directors who reside locally. “We value the importance of communicating consistently throughout the lending process, getting answers as quickly as possible and delivering on our promises,” Schneider said. Mason added, “Commercial real estate continues to show strength as we move into 2020. We are optimistic that we’ll once again see growth in the markets we serve, including Lexington.” 16 Banking Centers in six counties 859.263.2801 // traditionalbank.com
Every Traditional Bank lender in the Lexington market is a Kentucky native. It doesn’t get more local than that! March 2020 | Sponsored Content
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TOPS Leader in RETIREMENT
PLANNING
SUZANNE BAYS POWELL, CHRIS BRADY + KATIE LOCKWOOD, CFP®, CFA
Meridian Wealth Management
For Suzanne Bays Powell, vice president of Meridian Wealth Management, a large part of being a leader is giving back to the community and encouraging others to do the same. She advises, “Be active and present in the community by giving back your time, resources and expertise.” She adds, “All of our advisors are active with various board roles and charities.” Suzanne serves as the chair for Arbor Youth Services, Central Kentucky’s only homeless shelter for unaccompanied minors and at-risk children with the vision of “a community where every child and youth has a stable home.” Other philanthropic organizations that staff members are involved with include the Appalachian Regional Healthcare Foundation, Lexington Humane Society and The Salvation Army, among many others. In addition to their community relationships, the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professionals, Chartered Financial Analyst®, attorneys and licensed wealth management advisors that make up Meridian, value their client relationships above all else. Meridian advisor Chris Brady says, “While maintaining a great relationship with our clients, we always put their interests first, provide retirement planning and investment advice, and we do that in such a way that it distinguishes us from other firms. Meridian, a growing Registered Investment Advisor firm comprised of wealth management advisors with offices in Arizona, Tennessee, and Kentucky, provides comprehensive fiduciary advice and unbiased guidance for clients that range from institutions and business professionals, to professional athletes and retirees. These relationships are not only long standing, but far-reaching. According to advisor Katie Lockwood, “We are building tremendous relationships with our clients that have resulted in continuing to manage their money as they retire to various parts of the world.” Meridian Wealth Management was founded in 2009 by wealth management advisor Greg Couch. The firm has since grown to include 20 advisors and five support staff members described by Powell as “selfmotivated, high energy types that love our clients and care for each other.” As for the future, Powell, Brady and Lockwood are in agreement when they say, “We are always trying to grow, as people and as advisors and keep up on the trends and planning techniques that allow our clients to put their faith in us, knowing that we can lead them to their retirement dreams without undue risk or stress.” Amidst this growth, meeting each client’s specific need is still the company’s primary goal. Powell points out, “The future is not about transactions or lowest cost, it is about providing the most value to your clients and developing relationships that are successful through different types of economies and markets.” Advisory services offered through Meridian Wealth Management LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor. 250 W. Main St. Ste. 3150 // Lexington // 859.543.4516 // meridianwealthllc.com
Their motto: Success isn’t just about what you accomplish in your life, it’s about what you inspire others to do! March 2020 | Sponsored Content
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Forcht Bank has collected over 127,000 non-perishable food items for needy families through their Stick a Forcht in Hunger Food Drive!
TOPS Leader in
SMALL BUSINESS BANKING
LARRY FORESTER, HOUSTON HALL + JENNY WYGANT
Forcht Bank
The leaders at Forcht Bank believe effective leadership comes down to one word: commitment. They explain, “Leadership takes commitment. We’re committed to staying true to what has helped build Forcht Bank to what it is today—hard work and a partnership with local businesses in the communities we serve.” Holding leadership roles within the bank, Hall, Market President; Forester, SVP, Commercial Lending and Wygant, Treasury Management describe Forcht Bank as “a community-focused bank with the mission of seeing small local businesses grow.” They know the bank’s success is dependent on their client’s success and state, “We know that if our communities and small businesses grow, then Forcht Bank will grow as well.” This philosophy was ingrained by Chairman and Founder Terry Forcht, who started the bank in 1985. As someone who also owns companies in healthcare, insurance, financial services, broadcasting, newspapers, construction, and real estate industries, Forcht understands what small businesses need to be successful. “Forcht Bank is the leader in small business banking because it’s in our DNA. Our size allows us to be agile and provide quick response to our customers,” they explain. “We are the entrepreneur’s bank.” Lansdowne, Southland + Hamburg // Lexington // forchtbank.com 58
TOPS in Lexington | Sponsored Content
TOPS Leader in
MORTGAGE LENDING BRIAN LYKINS
Swan Financial Corporation To see why Brian Lykins, Vice President of Sales for Swan Financial Corporation, is a leader in his field, you need to look no further than the numbers. In 2019 alone, his offices served over 1,000 families across nine states, with Lykins personally assisting 216 happy families and closing $50,091,890 Million in new home loans. Brian was awarded Top 100 purchase Loan Officer nationwide. He says, “What sets me apart from others is our ability to shop multiple lenders with zero lender fees to my customers during their home buying process. With our platforms, we’re able to find the perfect mortgage, provide personalized service and deliver consistent communication that they can’t get elsewhere.” Swan Financial Corporation is an independent mortgage broker with access to hundreds of loan products from a wide range of lenders, and can thus provide the best mortgage option for a client’s specific needs. Lykins, Swan’s top producer for eight years running, is currently licensed as a mortgage broker in eight different states, including Kentucky. “My mission is simple; to deliver an honest, accurate, well communicated, knowledge-based lending experience to my clients and realtors.” Being in the top 1% loan originators nationwide and in Kentucky for 2019, Lykins adds, “Helping families across the country to achieve their dreams of homeownership in that process is something I take great pride and find true joy in doing.” photo by Danny Alexander 320 Whittington Pkwy. Ste. 106 // Louisville // 502.773.4834 // swanhelp.com
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TOPS Leader in
SUCCESSION PLANNING MOLLIE L. H. BRENNAN, CIMA®
Brennan and Associates at Merrill Lynch Mollie L. H. Brennan joined Merrill as a Financial Advisor in 1994. Her desire to become an advisor grew out of personal experience. She vividly remembers the market swoon on Black Monday in 1987, when her family lost money on many of their investments. Although she was just 14 at the time, that life-changing experience became the catalyst for Mollie to study the markets. She brings a perspective to individuals, families, and businesses that has been forged from first-hand knowledge of the thin line that separate success from financial challenges. In her practice, Mollie listens carefully to each client’s story, crafts customized strategies and constantly reassesses those strategies with clients, and recommends changes as necessary. Her insistence on transparency is a way she demonstrates to clients that their interests come first. She focuses on the financial needs of business owners and executives and has a deep understanding with situations specific to them. Mollie is a Certified Investment Management Analyst® professional and is the Senior Resident Director for Merrill in Lexington. Mollie is also active in her community where she serves as the current Chair of the Children’s Charity Fund of the Bluegrass, and as the Chairman of Finance for Calvary Baptist Church as well as the board of deacons. 300 W. Vine St. Floor 10 // Lexington 859.231.5246 mollie_brennan@ml.com
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TOPS Leader in
BUSINESS LOANS MATTHEW WHITE + AMY SHERROW
Peoples Exchange Bank
Offering a full scope of banking services for businesses and individuals, Peoples Exchange Bank is committed to meeting their customer’s needs. For decades they have helped Kentuckians build their businesses through smarter lending, including shortterm and long-term borrowing options. With local decision-makers and quick turnarounds they are simplifying the lending process. Leading the Lexington team is Market President Matthew White, who has 25 years of experience lending to families, businesses, and real estate operators. White, describes their bank as “locally-owned, hard-working and committed to Lexington.” When asked what sets Peoples Exchange Bank apart from others in the industry, Amy Sherrow, Vice President of Commercial Lending, says without hesitation, “Our team. We have assembled some of the best people that the banking field has to offer to ensure that we are able to meet all of the customer’s goals. We all work together seamlessly for a common goal. I am only as good as the person sitting next to me.” Sherrow, White, and the rest of the team share a common creed—client first. Sherrow elaborates, “Every client, regardless of business size or success, is given one hundred percent effort and undivided attention by our team of skilled professionals.” White adds, “I love seeing customers succeed.” 3101 Clays Mill Rd. Ste. 100 + 901 Richmond Rd. // Lexington 800.364.3631 // pebank.com
Peoples Exchange Bank has been serving our neighbors for over 108 years since 1912! March 2020 | Sponsored Content
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TOPS Leader in
WEALTH MANAGEMENT WEALTH MANAGEMENT TEAM
Unified Trust Company According to Kevin Avent, Managing Director of Wealth Management at Unified Trust Company, “A leader must always put the needs of others above their own. They must set an example of how others should be treated. Unified Trust is a leader in wealth management because our client’s goals always come first.” For over 35 years, Unified Trust has been dedicated to meeting and exceeding its clients’ goals. As a national bank trust company headquartered in Lexington, Unified Trust serves individuals, businesses and nonprofits through financial planning, investment management, retirement planning, income strategies, estate and tax planning, charitable planning and more. Nationwide, Unified Trust manages over one billion dollars in wealth management assets. In an industry where investments aren’t always aligned with the clients’ needs, Unified Trust is honored to be among the first investment advisors in the world, and the first trust company, to be certified for fiduciary best practices by the Centre for Fiduciary Excellence (CEFEX). The company’s fiduciary investment advisors hold the Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) designation, the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA®) designation, as well as many additional degrees and certifications. The certifications are further evidence of Unified Trust’s belief in complete transparency and taking a true no conflict of interest approach. Avent states, “Most people don’t understand how their advisor is getting paid, which is concerning. We eliminate that concern by providing every client a quarterly invoice so they know exactly what they are paying us. We’re also fee-based, which means we cannot make any more or less based on what investments are selected. In fact, any revenue sharing we receive from the fund companies is passed back to our clients to offset their fees to us.” This unique model was established by Dr. Gregory Kasten, the company’s founder who left the medical world to change the landscape of the investment world. Kasten felt the financial services industry needed to operate under the same principals of the medical field, meaning to always act in the best interest of the patient…or in this case, the investor. For this altruistic approach, he was named as National Advisor of the Year and inducted into the Advisor Hall of Fame. In closing, Avent offers these words, “Being a leader of Lexington isn’t about flashiness, it’s about substance and heart. It’s about doing the right thing, the right way, for the benefit of others.” 2353 Alexandria Dr. #100 // Lexington // 866.680.7000 // unifiedtrust.com
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Kentucky Bank is the title sponsor for the USTA Pro Circuit tennis tournament that uali es players for the US OPEN!
TOPS Leader in CUSTOMER
SERVICE
SAMI WEBB, DEBBIE WEATHERSPOON + CHRIS LEMASTER
Kentucky Bank
As a community bank, Kentucky Bank knows it’s all about relationships. For Sami Webb and Debbie Weatherspoon, it’s even in their job titles. As relationship advisors, both relish the opportunity to provide each and every customer with the premier service that Kentucky Bank is known for. Weatherspoon says, “I find true joy in helping my clients make great financial choices and building lasting relationships to assist in the financial milestones of their lives.” Webb adds, “I make sure we provide that five minutes of sunshine to everybody that walks in the door.” AVP/Mortgage Lender Chris LeMaster also prides himself in being able to serve his customers with years of experience and great products. He says, “My role with the bank allows me to help people find the best way to finance one of their dreams, owning their own home.” To ensure each of their employees is equipped to provide the best in customer service, the bank has a dedicated internal team that delivers position-specific training incorporating Kentucky Bank’s four pillars of customer service: treating customers with courtesy and respect; providing consistent, outstanding service throughout the bank; treating personal information with the highest degree of privacy; and always looking for ways to exceed expectations. 18 Branches in 11 Kentucky Communities // 800.467.1939 // kybank.com 64
TOPS in Lexington | Sponsored Content
TOPS Leader in
STRESS-FREE MORTGAGES DANA BACK-PACK
Fairway Independent Mortgage At Fairway Independent Mortgage, every employee is guided by Fairway’s core value of ensuring that the trust they are given is backed by accurate, timely processing, which is delivered with the best technology available. As branch manager, Dana Back-Pack is committed to exceeding customer expectations, guaranteeing satisfaction and earning her client’s trust. BackPack says, “My goal is to act as your trusted advisor by providing highly personalized service and guiding you through every step of the loan process. My experience and integrity will guide you through the most important financial purchase you will make.” Having been in the mortgage industry since 2001, Back-Pack says she has had the privilege of working with and learning from some of the best in the business. According to Back-Pack, “I have learned to always listen and have the clients best interest at heart. I appreciate their trust and make myself available when they need me, seven days a week.” At Fairway Independent Mortgage, where “customer service is a way of life,” you cannot only expect great rates, but some of the fastest turn times in the industry. Back-Pack closes with, “Fairway’s core values have allowed me to be recognized as the mortgage leader of choice in central Kentucky.” 505 Wellington Way Ste. 110 // Lexington 859.621.0169 // loansbybackpack.com
Dana’s stellar service and her ability to have loans ready to close early earned her the nickname “The Mortgage Ninja”! March 2020 | Sponsored Content
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TOPS Leader in
INNOVATIVE INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT Spectrum Financial Alliance Ltd.
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Set a different course! When C. Kelly Buckley, CFP®, MBA, began his career as an investment advisor three decades ago, he realized that his background as a United States Air Force fighter pilot had prepared him extremely well. He was still involved in an endeavor where precision, demonstrated performance, protection of those he was responsible for, and accountability for results was at the forefront of every day’s business mission. Kelly realized that, like flying a supersonic jet, investment management requires rapid, accurate decision making – based on limited information and a mission first attitude. After beginning his career at a major national brokerage firm, Kelly established Spectrum Financial Alliance Ltd., L.L.C. (SFA) and set a different course. SFA, unlike stockbrokers and insurance agents, is always legally required to put their client’s best interest ahead of their own. As a Registered Investment Advisor, SFA eliminates conflicts that create bad investment results for its clients. There are never sales meetings and SFA employees have attained an education, certification and experience standard that allows them to guide, and well manage, the precious dollars of their many clients.
TOPS in Lexington | Sponsored Content
SFA’s core values – “Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence in All We Do” – are integrated into their successful, unique investment philosophy – which is based on “concentrated, active management, and predictive investment style.” SFA’s outstanding results, calculated by the independent third-party Morningstar, Inc., have been achieved by making investment results the highest priority and eliminating overly broad diversification that clearly reduces investor returns. In SFA’s view, competitive market-based returns lead to better outcomes in their clients’ retirement lifestyle, in the education of their families, and in their legacies. SFA’s investment services are exclusively on a fee basis, meaning there are never commission conflicts of interest. SFA does not recommend mass consumed
packaged products – like mutual funds or variable annuities - that tend to reduce returns and increase expenses markedly. SFA’s active investment style and daily hands on portfolio management activity is critical to keeping their client’s wealth on course. “Our belief is that our client investment outcomes are critical and all our efforts, as a firm, are directed at producing highly competitive investment returns and reducing our clients’ cost, and account volatility, as much as possible. This is our mission and our focus.” Your financial future is too important to leave to chance – give them a call today! 105 Wind Haven Dr. // Nicholasville 859.223.6333 // spectrumalliance.com
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TOPS Leader in
COMMUNITY BANKING LARRY JONES
Community Trust Bank As a graduate of the Stonier Graduate School of Banking, with 50 years in the industry and two degrees from Mississippi State University, Central Region President Larry Jones knows banking. He has seen the industry change from face-to-face to a more digital connection with customers. But, it is still the connection that is most important. Jones says, “Our company focuses on relationship building, and our method is to ‘network,’ and then build on those relationships.” This business model perfectly aligns with his personal motto of “understand needs, meet needs, build relationships.” Community Trust Bank has been building relationships with Kentuckians since its founding in 1903. First opening in Pikeville, the bank now serves the personal, business, and wealth and trust management needs of people in Kentucky, West Virginia and Tennessee. Jones has a deep love for Community Trust Bank and our community, and strives to make Lexington an even better place to live. He says, “Community Trust Bank is almost like ‘working for family’. We have a lot of talented leaders, who are all anxious to help our customers grow and prosper. This is an excellent company.” jonesla@ctbi.com 859.389.5350 //ctbi.com
Larry knows that being a leader in change is essential to banking success: “No change, no change.”
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TOPS Leader in
SOCIAL SECURITY PLANNING JOHNATHON T. DAVIS
JT Davis Asset Management / Financial Advisory Firm If you dream of spending your golden years lounging on a tropical beach, drink with umbrella in hand, you are not alone. However, lounging later requires planning now. And, that is where Johnathon T. Davis, founder of JT Davis Asset Management can help. Davis states, “We help pre-retirees figure out the pieces of this crazy puzzle called ‘retirement.’” This includes “providing financial advice, including Medicare and social security planning, as opposed to selling proprietary products.” According to Davis, two things set his firm apart: “One, we listen twice as much as we talk. We ask a lot of questions before we ever determine what role we might play, if any. Second, we only accept clients who trust us to manage their ‘serious money.’ If you are primarily interested in a broker to run all of your ex-brother-in-law’s crazy stock tips past, we are not the firm for you.” Having been a licensed member of the financial services community since 1992, Davis has seen a multitude of market changes. He states, “I do not profess to know it all, but with apologies to the great James Taylor, ‘I’ve seen fire, and I’ve seen rain.’ Market conditions change. Cogent social security and financial planning does not.” 444 E. Main St. # 101 // Lexington // 859.359.3390 // jtdavisky.com
Johnathon was a UK basketball player from 1988-91!
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TOPS Leader in
INCOME TAX PREPARATION
LOU ANN HYDER, LARRY WHEELER, CPA + JACKIE CHRISTIANSEN, MSA
WR Ramsey & Associates, Inc.
WR Ramsey & Associates was founded in 1990, by William R. Ramsey, EA, from a desire to deliver income tax and accounting services to individuals and business owners. President and partner, Lou Ann Hyder states, “With our longevity in this community and the collective experience of our team, we are intentional and strategic with our clients in providing them with services which generate value, both personally and professionally.” The firms service offerings are broad and numerous, including income tax preparation, IRS representation, payroll, sales tax, bookkeeping, QuickBooks set-up/training, new business formation and Kentucky Small Business Tax Credit assistance. The firm maintains ongoing industry-related continuing education and offers a diversified package of services to clients. On being identified as a leader in their industry, Hyder says, “It’s a group of people with a commitment to the team, to a common goal and to a common vision. It’s understanding that our success depends on the work of every team member, and the success of our clients is dependent upon us delivering what we promise.” Hyder, herself, is motivated by “the happy clients we serve who don’t just recommend us, they insist their friends and families do business with us.” photo by Keni Parks 3201 Summit Square Pl. Ste. 100 // Lexington // 859.268.0765 // wrramseyandassociates.com
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RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE & MARKETING
72 EXP Realty
CONTRACTOR CUSTOMER SERVICE
73 J. Parrish Builders
Leaders in
HOME + GARDEN
FABRIC PROTECTION
Fiber Seal of Southwest 74 Ohio & Kentucky SMART HOME SOLUTIONS
75 Rely Technology MARBLE
76 Bluegrass Marble & Granite HOME REMODELING
77 J&R Construction MOVING
78 Wildcat Moving CABINET DESIGN
INTERIOR DESIGN
80 Design Link
ELECTRONICS DESIGN + INSTALLATION
81 AVID FINE FURNITURE
82 Lexington Furniture LIFESTYLE FURNITURE
83 Market on National LUXURY REAL ESTATE
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices de Movellan 84 Properties ARCHITECTURALLY CORRECT DESIGN SOLUTIONS
85 Architectural Kitchens & Baths LUXURY LIVING
Norwalk Furniture & Design by 86 The Fine Living Group
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TOPS Leader in
RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE & MARKETING MARYANNE SIMMONS
EXP Realty
As a Guild member of the Institute For Luxury Home Marketing, MaryAnne Simmons is one of only 100 “Leaders in Luxury” agents, nationally, invited to their yearly networking and training conference. Also, MaryAnne holds certifications as a Real Estate Staging Association-Professional (RESA-Pro), Home Staging Expert (HSE), Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) and Accredited Buyers Representative (ABR), among others. In addition, MaryAnne brings 37 years experience in real estate marketing, sales, consulting and staging expertise to each client. Though she is licensed as a real estate broker in seven states, MaryAnne currently concentrates her service on the residential and luxury markets in Central Kentucky and Naples, Florida. But, it is not just her plethora of certifications and years of experience that put MaryAnne at the forefront of her field—it is her faith and integrity. Simmons says, “I have a servant’s heart. Service is all we have to give. And, I have a huge desire to help others make wise real estate decisions.” This spirit of service led MaryAnne to co-found The Ezekiel Foundation, a non-profit which helps provide affordable housing for persons with special needs, income restrictions and the elderly. MaryAnne is also a member of the board of directors for Lighthouse Ministries. 859.983.4663 // luxuryagents.house ezekiel-foundation.org
MaryAnne played basketball and tennis for the University of Kentucky. 72
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JP is a proud father of 5 kids!
TOPS Leader in
CONTRACTOR CUSTOMER SERVICE J.P. BARLOW
J. Parrish Builders For JP Barlow, owner of J. Parrish Builders, being a leader now takes a backseat to leaving a legacy later. “It may seem cliché, but being a leader is not really my pursuit. I want to leave a legacy behind that shows that I care about all the people involved in the process. This doesn’t stop with the customers, but the subcontractors and vendors that we partner with as well. I really believe in win-wins,” says Barlow. This is why Barlow, who has been building and remodeling homes since 2001, believes in putting the client’s needs above the bottom line. He states, “My goal is to meet customers at the precise and unique place they are at in life. When you have this in mind, the goal becomes helping potential clients make good decisions for their home owning future. Sometimes taking this approach will result in helping people realize not doing the project is the right choice. With this as your framework, ‘sales’ becomes a byproduct of making wise decisions for the customer, as opposed to a goal unto itself.” J. Parrish Builders specializes in building custom homes, tailored remodeling projects and finding creative ways to meet the ever-changing needs of homeowners in central Kentucky. To see more of JP’s work, check out houzz.com/pro/jpbarlow. 859.621.4104 // jparrishbuilders.com
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TOPS Leader in
FABRIC PROTECTION TRACY MCELVEEN
Fiber-Seal of Southwest Ohio & Kentucky Fiber-Seal’s tagline is, “We make the pretty practical and the luxurious livable.” And, that is just what they have been doing in Lexington for over 40 years, by providing fabric protection for rugs, carpeting, upholstery, wall coverings, draperies and more. Sales Consultant Tracy McElveen states, “Our clients invest in fine furnishings and we want them to be able to enjoy them without worrying about stains or spills.” Fiber-Seal’s team of dedicated technicians are trained at their corporate office in Dallas in the use of the specially-formulated Fiber-Seal protection and cleaning products in order to properly care for homes, corporate offices, private clubs, medical facilities, hotels and even yachts, jets and other specialty interiors. McElveen says, “We understand that when you’ve created a first-class space, you want it to stay that way. With the Fiber-Seal Fabric Care System, your space will look newer longer.” Fiber-Seal will also pick up outdoor cushions, rugs and umbrellas, and then clean, protect and store them for the season. Come spring, they will be delivered to your door fresh and protected. In addition, the company is an excellent resource for interior designers who may want more information on the cleanability and durability of certain fabrics. 859.254.4837 // lexington.fiberseal.com
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“I read a book a week. My favorite topics include personal development, business, Christianity and sci-fi/fantasy fiction.”
TOPS Leader in
SMART HOME SOLUTIONS JOSH CLARK
Rely Technology Technology has the ability to make our lives more streamlined, more secure and more satisfying. And, Rely Technology has the ability to fill all of your home theater, smart home and security needs. It all starts with assessing a client’s specific requirements. Owner Josh Clark explains, “We like to understand a client’s technology needs throughout their home. Many people have different remotes or apps that control systems in different rooms. We love giving clients a simple, consistent experience so that no matter what they’re using or where they’re using it, they can enjoy their home more easily.” Having been in business since 2008, Rely Technology prides themselves in eliminating the frustration of improperly installed or difficult to use products and replacing them with superior, user-friendly solutions. With new advancements happening every day, it is an exciting time to be in the business of audio, video, and smart home solutions. According to Clark, “As smart homes become smarter, it’s just a matter of time before you can walk in your home and it will automatically respond to your family’s routines and habits. In fact, much of what you do every day can already be automated with today’s smart home solutions.” 1143 Brock McVey Dr., Ste. 150 // Lexington // 859.402.1413 // relytechnology.com
March 2020 | Sponsored Content
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TOPS Leader in
MARBLE
LINDSEY GUZMAN
Bluegrass Marble & Granite Lindsey Guzman’s motto is “Don’t go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.” Of course, this trail would most likely be fabricated from either exquisite marble or stunning granite, since Guzman is the showroom manager for Bluegrass Marble & Granite, which is owned by her husband, Kevin. Located in Richmond, the company specializes in kitchen and bathroom countertops, but can also provide unique looks for fireplaces, outdoor grills and other areas of your home. Describing her job, Guzman says, “I make my clients vision boards come to life by creating the perfect countertop design to fit their home.” The process is fivefold. First, you select from their wide selection of stones and surfaces, including a vast variety of quartz and full slabs of natural stone. Next, a customized template is created for your project. Then, the template is brought back to their fabrication shop where their professional team of on-site fabricators carefully cuts and polishes your stone to perfection. And, after tearing out your old surfaces, expert employees, trained by the owner himself, install, clean, and seal to your satisfaction. To make the process even easier, free in-home consultations are also available. 635 1/2 Big Hill Ave // Richmond 859.575.1558 // bluegrassmarblegranite.com
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TOPS Leader in
HOME REMODELING JIMMY MCKINNEY
J & R Construction Construction is in Jimmy McKinney’s DNA. Both his great grandfather and grandfather ran saw mills in Eastern Kentucky and participated in a multitude of handcrafted building projects. Continuing this legacy, McKinney founded J&R Construction, a full service “design/build” home remodeling company with services including kitchen remodeling, bathroom remodeling, finishing basements, room additions, decks, porches, whole house remodeling and more. As a design/build company, J&R Construction provides both the design and drawings, along with construction services. Knowing that home remodeling can be “an emotional and stressful” process, J&R Construction’s focus is on relationships and helping everyone enjoy the process of home remodeling as much as possible. McKinney says, “Did you know that 10% of couples get divorced as a result of a home remodeling project? This is why we spend time hand holding you throughout this process. Because we operate under the guiding principle that relationships matter, we make sure that we’re honest with our clients about the inevitable roller coaster of emotions that they’ll experience during a typical remodel.” As for his greatest influence, McKinney points out, “Jesus Christ was the ultimate carpenter and is my number one role model.” In alignment with this faith, his staff spends time in prayer every Monday. 633 West Main St. // Lexington 859.225.0162 // jrcsi.com
“I spend many weekends on Lake Barkley watching some of the most beautiful sunsets in the state.”
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TOPS Leader in MOVING RALEIGH BRUNER
Wildcat Moving Humble beginnings taught Raleigh “RJ” Bruner lessons that have proven to be invaluable in his business career. “I’m the oldest of six kids and my parents struggled when we were young. I grew up believing that through hard work and dedication anyone could achieve the American Dream.” This gritty perseverance is the foundation of Wildcat Moving. Upon graduating from the University of Kentucky’s MBA program in 2010, RJ founded Wildcat with an old Ford Bronco and a motorcycle trailer. A decade later Wildcat Moving maintains a fleet of 22 trucks and is widely regarded as the best in Kentucky. Wildcat has been the top-ranked moving company in Kentucky on Angie’s List since 2012 and is BBB A+ rated and accredited. One of the secrets to Wildcat Moving’s success is that its employees earn industry-leading wages. “Movers make between $17 and $27 per hour,” he explains. “I understand that happy movers make happy customers. Paying well allows us to retain responsible and respectful movers who genuinely care about doing a great job.” Through Wildcat Moving, RJ supports a myriad of local non-profits and other community-bolstering organizations. “The Lexington community feels much smaller and close-knit than our population would suggest. Having grown up here and now raising three kids of my own, I feel like I am somehow connected to everyone. My family is my greatest motivation. I’m proud that my kids will grow up knowing that I run our family business with honesty and integrity.” 236 Big Run Rd. // Lexington 859.948.3553 // wildcat-group.com
Wildcat Moving is one of the ten companies that make up The Wildcat Group!
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“Our Lexington team has 75 years of design experience!”
TOPS Leader in
CABINET DESIGN KIM LUCKETT, MARITA MAJOR + EMILIE HILL
Hager Cabinets
One of the most effective ways to add style and function to a room is with new cabinetry. For over 50 years, family-owned Hager Cabinets & Appliances has been providing central Kentucky contractors, remodelers and homeowners with quality and selection. Showroom Manager Marita Major, who started at Hager as an office assistant and then learned the industry from the ground up, says, “I believe that our customer service is what sets us apart from everyone else. We give each job, large or small, the same attention.” Hager carries an array of cabinet lines, from contractor-grade to near custom. The company also offers a large selection of quality granite and quartz countertops, tile, laminate flooring, appliances, and hardware, as well as in-home design consulting and measuring, making them an all-in-one design destination. In addition to their exceptional selection, Hager Cabinets has a knowledgeable staff who is eager to assist. According to Marita, “Our designers have a vast knowledge of trends and design that will give you exactly the look you are going for. Our team understands style, planning and project budgets.” And, they all embrace and embody Hager’s motto of “A name you can trust. Products you can be proud of.” 1300 E New Circle Rd #190 // Lexington // 859.253.0798 // hagercabinets.com
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“We are family!” Nancy is Jessica’s aunt.
TOPS Leader in
INTERIOR DESIGN NANCY ELAM + JESSICA CULL
Design Link
The team at Design Link follows the philosophy of “whatever you do, work at it with all your heart.” With over 25 years of combined experience and LEED and NCIDQ certifications, their five-person design team is prepared to give clients their very best. According to owners and designers Jessica Cull and Nancy Elam, “Simply put, we love what we do. We are passionate about design and we love our clients. That combination has produced a business that we are very proud of.” Design Link is a full service commercial and residential interior design firm that can take your home or business project from start to finish, starting with space planning through selection and procurement to choosing and placing the last accessory. Cull and Elam point out, “Unlike most design firms, we specialize in both commercial and residential design. We have an extensive resource library that supports both trades. We have accounts with literally hundreds of vendors, allowing us to not only select but procure furniture, lighting, area rugs, accessories, wallcovering, fabric and more, making us a one-stop shop.” Of their multitude of loyal customers, they say, “We are so grateful for these long-term relationships and their continued support.” 2437 Fortune Dr. # 175 // Lexington 859.225.0310 // designlink.us
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AVID will be celebrating 30 years in business in 2021.
TOPS Leader in
ELECTRONICS DESIGN & INSTALLATION MARK PROFFIT + CHRIS GREENE
AVID
Electronics have been a lifelong passion for both Mark Profitt and Chris Greene, owners of AVID. Along with installer, Steve Bertram, they have over 80 years of combined experience in the custom electronics’ industry. With technology being a part of our everyday lives, AVID is using their expertise to “seamlessly integrate state-of-the-art technology into homes and businesses.” From the simplest audio/video system to the most elaborate integration network, AVID can take care of all of your electronic system design and installation needs from lighting/shading control to a fully equipped theater or boardroom. Regardless of the scope of your project, AVID is with you every step of the way, from the initial design phase through the programming of the system. What sets AVID apart is their customer service long after project completion. The firm is dedicated to staying upto-date on their swiftly changing industry and maintains membership in CEDIA (Custom Electronics Design & Installation Association), where they regularly receive continuing education and training. AVID has completed and maintains projects in multiple states, as well as outside of the country. Profitt and Greene love being the premiere design firm in Central Kentucky, and say, “Lexington is small enough to allow us to build strong business relationships and large enough to develop a substantial clientele.” AVID is thankful to be celebrating 30 years in the electronics industry in 2021. 437 Lewis Hargett Cir. # 180A // Lexington // 859.275.1125 // avidky.com
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Lexington Furniture was originally located where Rupp Arena stands today.
TOPS Leader in
FINE FURNITURE HUGH JAMES, JENNIFER ROLLINS + MARK THOMPSON
Lexington Furniture
Hugh James, owner of Lexington Furniture, learned about dedication and honesty from his parents. He says, “My father, who started Lexington Furniture Company, was the hardest working man I knew. He taught me the importance of having the discipline to work hard, while my mother showed me how honesty would take me far in life.” These qualities have led Lexington Furniture to becoming the premier destination for fine furniture and accessories in the Bluegrass. The store, established in 1960, was originally located in downtown Lexington, where Rupp Arena stands today. Since then, the location has changed several times, but their mission has remained the same. “Our goal has never changed. We give our customers the quality furniture they expect at the best price. We have a number of customers who are now third generation because of the way we have done business for the last sixty years,” states James. Working relationships with established brands carrying top quality lines has led to this longevity. According to James, “Our success comes from giving our customers great value on quality furniture. As Lexington Furniture evolves, we will always work hard to help our customers and prioritize truth and fairness in our business model.” 1132 Industry Rd. // Lexington // 859.254.4412 // lexfurniture.com
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All three girls studied interior design at UK.
TOPS Leader in
LIFESTYLE FURNITURE MICHELLE JIMENEZ, TAYLOR FUSSELL + EMILY HANNAN
Market on National
With soft music, burning candles and an attentive team of designers, visiting Market on National is an ever-evolving shopping experience. Specializing in furniture, rugs, lighting, artwork and home accessories, Market on National offers a fresh perspective on design paired with personalized customer service. Your vision for a beautiful home is easily attained with Market on National’s complimentary design services and “try before you buy” program on in-stock artwork, rugs and accessories. At Market on National, the designers focus on sharing product knowledge and their sense of style to help you put colors, patterns and textures together for a customized and completed look. They help guide you towards the best furniture selection for your lifestyle, budget and design taste. Whether you are looking for a single item or to furnish an entire home, Market on National has something for everyone. 730 National Ave. // Lexington // 859.327.3876 // marketonnational.com
March 2020 | Sponsored Content
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“I have been honored as the number one ‘Top Producer’ in my company for twenty-one years!”
TOPS Leader in
LUXURY REAL ESTATE SUZANNE ELLIOTT
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices de Movellan Properties Suzanne Elliott was the number one agent in residential sales volume for homes over $750,000 during the last decade, according to the LexingtonBluegrass Association of Realtors. On her success, she says, “During my thirty-four years in the real estate business, I have learned the unique requirements of clients in the luxury market.“ Despite her wealth of knowledge, Elliott continues to educate herself. “It is my belief that you should never stop learning, so I have attended hundreds of real estate classes and seminars throughout my career and continue to do so. But, I have learned the most by simply working with clients and listening carefully to their needs,” she states. Elliott is also ardent about her clients having the knowledge needed to make the best buying decisions. When asked what propelled her to the top of her field, Elliott says, “My love of the business and the joy I derive from educating clients about the real estate market and guiding them through the buying and selling process. This has helped me develop many wonderful relationships over the years. As a result of my passion I have been honored as the number one ‘Top Producer’ in my company for twenty-one years. Although I have helped many clients purchase and sell ‘high end’ properties, I also work with people in all price ranges and stages of their life. I truly enjoy helping everyone.” 171 Prosperous Place // Lexington 859.806.6234 // suzanneelliott.com
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TOPS Leader in
ARCHITECTURALLY CORRECT DESIGN SOLUTIONS BRENT RICHARDS
Architectural Kitchens & Baths At Architectural Kitchens & Baths, clients are rewarded with architecturally correct design solutions instead of “off the shelf” shortcuts. According to Brent Richards, owner and AIA architect, his team specializes in space planning and cabinetry designs by balancing layout, family needs, current products and future design trends. “Technology continues to revolutionize the design world and many clients come in educated and savvy about kitchen and bath products and options. My designers are able to take this information, understand it, absorb it, and convert it into a work of art that is also a functioning space. No small feat.” As a native Lexingtonian, Richards finds doing business in the Bluegrass especially rewarding. He states, “Being born and raised in Lexington, I have watched neighborhoods grow and evolve over the years. It is important to me to positively impact the quality of life for individuals that make up these communities. Helping them make their dreams come to life is very rewarding.” 345 Lafayette Ave. // Lexington 859.268.0800 // akandb.com
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TOPS Leader in
LUXURY LIVING KELLIE CLARKE, BRYANT STANLEY, TAWANA PALMER + JUSTIN MORRIS
Norwalk Furniture & Design by The Fine Living Group “Dream, Design, Reality” is the motto of Norwalk Furniture & Design. With a 3,500 square foot showroom and custom design center offering over 300 vendors from local to couture, no one is better equipped to take a client’s vision and bring it to fruition. This locally-owned and operated business, which boasts a full range of professional design services, stunning showroom store, and its own warehouse with a fleet of delivery trucks, could best be described as a design firm within a retail furniture store. Their passionate team of award-winning, professional designers will come to your home, business or venue and guide you through any venture, big or small. Norwalk is eager to accommodate any style and budget with its fine furniture, custom upholstery and bedding, window treatments, antique rugs and gifts. Between them, the owners and staff have degrees in design, communication and public relations degrees, as well as 15 years of business ownership and over 40 years of design experience, all working together to bring you “modern design with southern charm.” Owners Kellie Clarke, Justin Morris, Tawana Palmer and Bryant Stanley bring their elegant aesthetic, community connections and straightforward approach to business to the company, as well as BBB accreditation. When it comes to leading a company, these “design quadruples” say, “It is all about building relationships, enjoying people, loving creativity, being confident, being a great listener…and, in the end, that your client will be happy.” The team at Norwalk understands that being a leader in the fast paced, ever-changing field of fine furnishings entails knowing that “change is constant and flexibility is key.” Therefore they strive to always be on the “cusp of the latest style and design.” However, the design crew says they receive their greatest inspiration from the customers themselves—“We are newly inspired everyday by each and every lovely person that enters our showroom doors.” Norwalk believes what sets them apart is “the passion we have for people, originality of design, and the pursuit in our commitment to providing high quality products and exceptional service.” In closing, the Norwalk team stresses, “We always want to be welcoming, comforting and helpful. We never want anyone to feel intimidated to begin a design project or buy a sofa. We want to build relationships, forge pathways and develop generational homes and spaces for an array of budgets and tastes. We want everyone to know that this will be a seamless and painless experience. Our clients become our friends.” 2200 War Admiral Way // Lexington // 859.263.0322 // norwalklexington.com
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STEAKS
Tony’s Steaks and Seafood
89 of Lexington
CAR BUYING EXPERIENCE
94 Don Franklin Auto Mall
FARM-TO-TABLE CATERING
Leaders in
MEN’S SUITS AND SPORT COATS
SHOPPING + DINING
90 Logan’s in Lexington Green SAFE DRIVING LUXURY VEHICLES
91 Quantrell Volvo
UPPER CASUAL DINING
92 Carson’s Food & Drink GIFTS
93 Queen Bee Gifts
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TOPS in Lexington | Sponsored Content
96 Dupree Catering + Events
AFFORDABLE CONTEMPORARY FASHION
97 Peplum
FINE DINING EXPERIENCE
98 Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse BRIDAL GOWNS
100 Relix Bridal
“Privileged to be here Honored to serve you Let’s become friends”
TOPS Leader in
STEAKS TONY RICCI
Tony’s Steaks and Seafood of Lexington The mission of Tony’s Steaks and Seafood is simple—provide the best product and service at a reasonable price, while giving back to the community you are serving. Owner Tony Ricci elaborates, “We make such a strong impact on our guests that they trust us to visit a second time, then a third time and so on. The genuine attitude that we have in providing service, coupled with the humility that’s portrayed in its delivery, literally develops a personal/professional relationship with our guests making us a trusted source for dining. Tables are touched by our management team to ensure that we are living up to our standards.” This service model, along with their impeccable selection of fresh modern fare, is how the restaurant became such a big Lexington favorite in such a short time. Ricci says, “The way Lexingtonians greeted us and continue to support us is unsurpassed. It’s truly been a humbling experience that I know will continue for many years to come.” Ricci adds, “It’s a fun place to have dinner. We are not your typical chain steakhouse. Esthetically we provide an urban chic atmosphere that is welcoming and comfortable. Our service and quality are unparalleled.” 401 W Main Street // Lexington // 859.955.TONY(8669) // tonyssteaksandseafood.com
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TOPS Leader in
MEN’S SUITS AND SPORT COATS JAMIE BURCH, CONNOR HOBBS + DARRELL MCCARTY
Logan’s in Lexington Green
Good taste is timeless…but not effortless, which is why for over 55 years, Logan’s of Lexington has been outfitting Kentucky’s style-conscious gentlemen. Founder, Harlan Logan, stood by two guiding principles—always believe in the product you are selling and always provide the best service you can. The store offers a selection of over 2000 suits and sport coats, from top designers including Hart Schaffner Marx, Jack Victor, Hickey Freeman, Ralph Lauren and Baroni, ensuring there is something for every man for every occasion. And, at Logan’s, it all begins with the perfect fit. The sales staff is skilled in providing the best fit possible, either off the rack or made to measure. And, if you’re in a hurry, Logan’s even offers same day, in-store tailoring! To what do they attribute their longevity? In the words of the sales team, “Without a doubt, personal service and taking pride in each and every outfit we send out the door. Whether a first suit, a job interview, a wedding suit or whatever the occasion, we will work hard to help you look your best. We have a relaxed atmosphere in our store, and it is a fun environment to work, as well as to shop.” 161 Lexington Green Circle #14 // Lexington // 859.273.5766 // logansoflexington.com
Logan’s opened in 1964 in Midway, KY as a general department store. They relocated to Lexington in 1992, with a focus on men’s clothing. 90
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TOPS Leader in
SAFE DRIVING LUXURY VEHICLES BOB PECK
Quantrell Volvo Volvo is a brand that, while retaining the quality and dependability that made them a leader in the industry, is looking toward the future. According to their website, by 2025, Volvo will have a full line of electric cars, and from that year and beyond will use recycled materials for 25% of plastics or more. Much the same, Bob Peck, a senior sales consultant at Quantrell Volvo, brings 29 years of experience in Volvo sales, and still looks forward to “the feeling of selling a vehicle that is safe and durable that families can pass down to their children.” Quantrell Volvo, which is the only Volvo dealer in Lexington, is part of the Quantrell Auto Group, a family-owned business in operation since 1969. Peck attributes Quantrell’s success to “the loyal employees, some of whom have been at Quantrell for over thirty years, a strong customer base, and support and involvement in the local community.” He adds, “It starts at the top with Bonnie Quantrell, someone who has good ethics and is a priest.” Peck feels being a leader means following the Golden Rule –treat others as you want to be treated. In the words of Peck, “Taking care of people is the bottom line.” 1500 E New Circle Rd NE // Lexington // 859.266.2161 // quantrellvolvo.com
Bob Peck has been a Music Director at his church for over 35 years March 2020 | Sponsored Content
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TOPS Leader in
UPPER CASUAL DINING KYLE ZIMMERMAN
Carson’s Food & Drink As the general manager of Carson’s Food & Drink, Kyle Zimmerman says, “From the host stand to the dish tank, I am involved at every step. My goal is to ensure that all guests have the extraordinary experience that they deserve and expect from Carson’s.” Carson’s offers the perfect blend of “a rustic, yet refined concept with chef-driven recipes paired with prohibition cocktails, hand-selected wines and craft beers” making it the perfect fit for Lexington’s love of casual, yet upscale dining. After being in the city for a decade, Zimmerman states, “Lexingtonians have come to expect elevated food and drinks and actively seek that out.” Carson’s bar also boasts the best bourbon selection at the best prices in town. For Zimmerman, it’s all about giving customers an unforgettable meal every time. He says, “We give people an experience that they won’t soon forget. From the moment they walk in our doors, they feel at home. From our unique decor, using leather, wood, brick and elegant chandeliers balanced with industrial materials, to our outstanding food and perfectly prepared cocktails, you’re sure to become a regular.” In addition, Carson’s is a proud Green Check Member, meaning they actively take part in green initiatives and recycling programs. 362 E Main Street // Lexington 859.309.3039 // carsonsfoodanddrink.com
Our motto: “Believe in the good things coming.”
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Angie is the Godmother of the American Countess Steamboat based out of New Orleans, LA.
TOPS Leader in
GIFTS
ANGIE HACK
Queen Bee Gifts When you want to get a very special someone a very special something, Queen Bee Gifts is the place to go. Owner Angie Hack, who founded the business in 2014, has curated an unmatched selection of women’s clothing and jewelry, eccentric equestrian decor, wedding gifts for her and him, newborn baby bundles, seasonal essentials, pillows, candles, wreaths and so much more. “We strive to offer the latest trends in clothing and accessories with an unparalleled selection of beautiful home decor,” states Angie. Heather Stewart heads up Queen Bee’s home seasonal design. According to Angie, “Heather and I work closely together to create stories that our customers can envision in their home or as the perfect gift.” Angie likes to think of herself as the visionary and of Heather as the master creator. Queen Bee Gifts makes it easy to spread joy with the perfect gift, and giving back is at the heart of the business. Angie says, “It’s not just about gift giving for us...it’s about giving back to our community. We’ve donated thousands of dollars to local charities. We’ve been fortunate enough to partner with two instrumental cancer awareness and research fundraisers. And, we’ve been blessed to employ students, helping them to foster excellent business skills and making lasting relationships.” 3735 Palomar Centre Dr #100 // Lexington // 859.224.2240 // queenbeelex.com
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TOPS Leader in
CAR BUYING EXPERIENCE NICK CUNDIFF + SHANNON JONES
Don Franklin Auto Mall
Selling your vehicle should be an easy process, one with guidance and expertise, and at Don Franklin Family of Dealerships, that’s exactly what you’ll experience. Managing partner, Nick Cundiff explains, “Our number one focus is the customer and making sure we exceed their expectations. We take pride in treating every customer with respect, no matter if they are buying from us or selling us their vehicle. Our customers can rest assured that we give them the most value for their vehicle.” Don Franklin Family of Dealerships has 24 locations across Kentucky. They must supply inventory for all 24 locations, which is why they can offer more for your vehicle than any other dealership. It is a win-win for the customer and for Don Franklin. Every dealership has experts on hand to assist you in the process, including Lexington which is the #1 KBB Buying Center in the state. As the inventory manager and KBB Buying Center manager, Shannon Jones says, “Customers’ lives are very hectic and selling your vehicle on your own can be a stressful and time-consuming process. Our goal is to provide a simplified, stress-free option to selling your vehicle. We do things differently than your typical auto dealer. Selling your vehicle can be easy and fun, and we demonstrate that daily.” No matter where you are located, Don Franklin provides convenience to customers by utilizing the Kelly Blue Book Instant Cash Offer on all their websites. So, if you are curious about your vehicle’s worth, you can get an instant cash offer in just a few easy steps. While many national online dealers advertise to sell your vehicle to them, it’s important to note that certain vehicles have more worth in Kentucky than in other places in the United States. “We want to educate customers on things that could affect the value of their vehicle. For example, exterior/ interior condition, tires, trim level, service history, etc. That’s why it is so important that you allow us to see your vehicle in person. There have been many times where we have offered the customer more than the KBB offer and we most always beat the local competitors,” Cundiff states, “and if for some reason we can’t beat it, we’ll give you $200 just for giving us a chance.” For over fifty years Don Franklin has been fulfilling Kentuckians’ auto buying, selling and service needs. “Our philosophy is ‘service above self’ and no matter how many dealerships we expand to, our core principles will remain the same,” says owner Eddie Franklin. 859.263.5020 // donfranklinautomall.com
Don Franklin Auto has created more than 600 jobs in the state of Kentucky.
March 2020 | Sponsored Content
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Dupree is the only caterer East of the Mississippi to have a 3-star Certification in ecological sustainability from the Green Restaurant Association (GRA).
TOPS Leader in
FARM-TO-TABLE CATERING JANEY THOMPSON, ERIK FOWLER + HALIDA CINDRIC
Dupree Catering + Events
Dupree’s skilled and passionate team of chefs and event planners are committed to preparing locally-sourced food from scratch and delivering it with fun and excellence throughout the central Kentucky region. Executive Chef Janey Thompson leads a team of talented and dedicated chefs who go above and beyond every day to deliver some of the best food anywhere in Lexington. Dupree Catering + Events is also setting the standard for ecological sustainability as the only caterer in Kentucky - and one of only 13 nationally - to be 3-Star certified by the Green Restaurant Association (GRA). Owner and General Manager Tom Evans is proud of his team and motivated to “share what we have learned over 35 years in this business for the betterment of our community.” He adds, “Our clients are trusting us with some of the most important events in their lives - weddings, graduations, bar mitzvahs, funerals and other milestones. We do not take that responsibility lightly. We are committed to delivering amazing, delicious local food with gracious hospitality.” 201 E Main St #1500 // Lexington // 859.231.0464 // dupreecatering.com
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TOPS Leader in
AFFORDABLE CONTEMPORARY FASHION COLLEEN COSTELLO
Peplum
We all want to look like a million bucks. But, what if you could look like a million for much less? Shop at Peplum and you can. General Manager Colleen Costello says, “We work incredibly hard to source pieces that look and feel more expensive than they actually are. Our goal is to provide value to our clients. We want you to walk out of Peplum with a $100 dress that looks and feels like a dress that should cost $400.” The store, which offers on-trend, contemporary clothing at an affordable price (everything is priced under $150), is in the heart of the Chevy Chase shopping district. Of their location, Costello says, “Chevy Chase has such a great network of female owned businesses. We do a lot of cross promoting to help support our neighbors.” With the proliferation of faceless online shopping, Peplum promises a personal touch. According to Costello, “Our passion is to instill confidence in women. We do that by building up our clients and treating them with kindness and respect while they are within our four walls. Our success at Peplum is proof that consumers still enjoy the personal and individualized attention that we provide during their shopping experience.” 824 Euclid Ave #103 // Lexington 859.269.0009 // peplumlexington.com
Lauren West, co-owner of Peplum, owns Drybar next door to Peplum!
March 2020 | Sponsored Content
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TOPS Leader in
FINE DINING EXPERIENCE JEFF RUBY
Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse In 1981, soon after opening his first restaurant, The Precinct, Jeff Ruby realized that guests didn’t patronize the place simply because they were hungry. Ruby explains, “They could’ve just gone to their refrigerators if they were hungry. They were coming to my place to celebrate life and I was going to give them a total culinary and entertainment experience unlike any other so they could do just that. Almost four decades later, we strive to do the exact same thing every night.” With the opening of Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse in downtown, Lexingtonians are now relishing “The Jeff Ruby Experience,” which Ruby describes as “a unique combination of elements like ambiance, culinary expertise, décor, music, hospitality, rhythm and flow, sense of arrival, service, and so much more.” This experience has drawn national attention. According to their website, Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse has garnered awards such as OpenTable’s Top 100 Steakhouses In America; Travel + Leisure’s Top American Steakhouses; and USA Today’s Best American Steakhouses, among many others. Ruby credits the origin of his success to his high school football coach and mentor, Jeep Bednarik, who took an interest in him after Ruby fled from a troubled home and became self-sufficient at the age of 15. Ruby says, “He taught me the value of striving to become a better person, hard work and more. I wanted to make him proud. As a result of his mentorship, I went from failing grades to straight A’s. From not winning a wrestling match my sophomore year to not losing one my senior year. From riding the bench to All-State football honors and a scholarship to Cornell University. He is one of the single greatest influences I’ve had in my life.” Now, Ruby has moved into the mentor role and is passing his positive influence down through his employees to his guests. According to Ruby, “In the restaurant business, everything is important, but perhaps nothing more so than making our guests feel really important. The only way to make that happen is to make our employees our most important thing. If we offer them extraordinary opportunities, they’ll offer our guests extraordinary experiences. When we make an emotional connection with our employees, they make an emotional connection with the guests they serve. I would’ve never been successful if my employees didn’t want me to be.” Ruby also gives back through The Jeff Ruby Foundation which aims to alleviate childhood poverty by first addressing challenges faced by the most vulnerable population in our community - those without parents as well as those in the current foster care system. 101 W Vine Street // Lexington // 859.554.7000 // jeffruby.com
“In the restaurant business, nothing is more important than making our guests feel really important.”
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BRIDAL GOWNS CHASTA FOUST + DEBBIE FEEHAN
Relix Bridal
Relix is not your mother’s bridal shoppe. “Everything we do is different. From our open concept store which allows customers to browse collections freely, to our no-fuss process which includes us walking the customer through every step of the process, and ending with our seamless alterations process, Relix strives to offer an experience you will not find anywhere else,” says Co-founder Chasta Foust. This modern and fresh bridal boutique offers a “uniquely curated” collection of bridal gowns and bridesmaids dresses found no where else in Kentucky. Since entering the market in 2019, Foust, along with Boutique Curator Debbie Feehan have brought innovative lines and exclusive designers that were not previously available in the Bluegrass. Foust states. “Combining our many years of experience in the New York City and Southern bridal markets, we strive to bring the newest trends and unique collections to this market, giving our customers the convenience to find their perfect dress right here in town.” Relix also understands the significance of gathering family and friends to select the perfect dress—“Shopping for a gown is a huge part of the memory of a bride’s special day, and making the most of this experience is what we will continue to expand on.” 118 Marion #130 // Lexington 859.523.1273 // relixbridal.com
Chasta and Debbie are exactly the same age and have both been in the industry for 10 years.
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COOLSCULPTING
107 CoolBluLex PRENATAL CARE
Lexington Clinic 108 Obstetrics-Gynecology FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC WELLNESS
Leaders in
HEALTH + BEAUTY VEIN TREATMENT
102 Lexington Vein Institute MOMMY MAKEOVERS
Commonwealth
103 Plastic Surgery PATIENT CARE
104 Baptist Health Lexington COSMETIC TATTOO
106 Feather & Blade
109 Complete Chiropractic DYSPORT
110 Hourglass Aesthetics LASH EXTENSIONS
111 Hourglass Aesthetics LUXURY DAY SPA
TATTOOING
117 To the Grave Tattoo Company WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY
Center for Weight Loss Surgery 118 at Saint Joseph East LABOR AND DELIVERY
Women’s Hospital at
120 Saint Joseph East
SALON EXPERIENCE
122 Dry Art BOTOX
123 Center for Anti-Aging MedSpa HEARING HEALTH CARE
112 Woodhouse Spa Lexington
124 Commonwealth Audiology
PILATES REFORMER
COMPASSIONATE COSMETIC SURGERY
113 Reform Pilates
WOMEN’S WELLNESS
Lexington OB-GYN 114 Associates PERSONALIZED WELLNESS CARE
Elevate Chiropractic
116 & Wellness Center
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125 Patel Facial Plastic Surgery GRADUATE NURSING EDUCATION
126 Frontier Nursing University
COLLABORATIVE WOMEN’S CARE
127 Lexington Women’s Health ADDICTION TREATMENT
128 2nd Chance Clinic
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TOPS Leader in
VEIN TREATMENT FADI BACHA, MD
Lexington Vein Institute With one out of 20 people suffering from venous insufficiency and 50 percent of the population dealing with unsightly spider veins, we are fortunate to have the Lexington Vein Institute for comprehensive evaluation and treatment of all venous related disease. The Institute is headed by Dr. Fadi Bacha, a certified diplomate of The American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine. Dr. Bacha has met rigorous standards of education, experience and evaluation and is considered a leader in the field of phlebology. Lexington Vein Institute is the only practice in Lexington dedicated to creating a safe and healing space that concentrates on vein and lymphatic disorders. Dr. Bacha specializes in the treatment of varicose and spider veins, offering innovative in-office procedures, which means no down time, no expensive outpatient center surgical fees and minimal to no discomfort. By using the latest technology and most minimally-invasive procedures, Dr. Bacha is determined to make the experience as pleasant and pain-free as possible for the patient, from beginning to end. He states, “It starts with the appearance of the office as soon as you enter, then meeting our highlytrained staff and finally, seeing our amazing results. Patient satisfaction is our number one goal.” 3116 Harrodsburg Rd. // Lexington 859.687.0023 // lexvein.com
Did you know? Women are a ected by aricose eins about twice as o ten as men 102
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TOPS Leader in
MOMMY MAKEOVERS JARED NIMTZ, MD
Commonwealth Plastic Surgery Mothers often focus on attending to the needs of others, yet long to have their body restored to their pre-pregnancy appearance. According to Jared Nimtz, MD, “Mommy makeover is my number one requested and performed procedure. Not all mothers need the same package, so we tailor our mommy makeover to meet the patient’s needs, lifestyle and budget. We listen to patients to know what is most important to them aesthetically, and combine that with surgical and medical training, so our methods are safe and effective.” A mommy makeover entails a customized series of operations, which commonly includes a tummy tuck, breast augmentation and liposuction, but could entail Renuvion to tighten lose skin in the belly, legs and face. Dr. Nimtz, is a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in cosmetic plastic surgery using the most advanced surgical techniques to “enhance each patient’s inherent beauty.” While the traditional mommy makeover may enhance the body, moms should not forget about rejuvenating their face to restore a youthful appearance. At Commonwealth Plastic Surgery, proper patient education is essential for patients to make surgical and nonsurgical decisions. Nimtz says, “The amount of information patients have can be overwhelming and confusing. We want patients to be confident in their surgical plan, and enjoy their results.” 715 Shaker Dr. #100. // Lexington 859.277.9435 commonwealthplastics.com
Look for Doctor Nimtz and his wife’s podcast focusing on the insider secrets behind plastic surgery, launching this spring! March 2020 | Sponsored Content
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TOPS Leader in
PATIENT CARE Baptist Health Lexington
According to William G. Sisson, President, the mission of Baptist Health Lexington is to “demonstrate the love of Christ by providing and coordinating care and improving health in our communities”. Our physicians and staff strive to treat every patient the way we would want to be treated, every time, at every Baptist Health location. Opened on Mother’s Day in 1954, Baptist Health Lexington follows the Christ-centered mission to bring medical care, health and wellness to the communities it serves. For over 60 years, they have hired the most qualified physicians and medical professionals, built the most modern facilities and brought the most advanced medical technology to the Bluegrass. Their ongoing aim is to provide “quality, compassionate, award-winning care to patients and families.” These awards span from commendations for cardiac care to being touted for technology. The hospital has consistently garnered recognition from the American Heart Association as a leader in cardiac care as well as stroke education and treatment. They are designation a Comprehensive Stroke Center, and consistently give birth to more babies every year than any other hospital in the region. Initially designated a Magnet® hospital in 2005, they recently attained their fourth designation, more
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than any other Kentucky hospital. Less than one percent of hospitals in the United States have earned this designation four or more times. This voluntary credentialing program for hospitals recognizes excellence in nursing and is the highest honor an organization can receive for professional nursing practice. Hospitals must reapply for recognition every four years, based on adherence to Magnet concepts and demonstrated improvements in patient care and quality. “Magnet recognition is an incredible honor that shows our commitment to delivering the highest quality of care in this community,” said Karen S. Hill, Chief Operating Officer/Chief Nursing Officer. Baptist Health Lexington is a repeat recipient of The Leapfrog Group’s Grade “A” for hospital safety. In 2019 Baptist Health made the Becker’s Health list of “100 Great Hospitals in America” and
received a four-star rating from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services’ Hospital Compare program. As well as its state-of-the-art Nicholasville Road hospital, there are numerous outpatient and urgent/express care locations in Fayette County, as well as in surrounding counties. In the fall of 2020, they will begin construction on eagerly anticipated medical office buildings, an outpatient surgery center, emergency room and cancer center on 123 acres in Hamburg in east Fayette County. Both Sisson and Hill look forward to Baptist Health Lexington continuing to provide the compassionate care that families in Central and Eastern Kentucky count on. 1740 Nicholasville Rd. // 859.260.6100 baptisthealth.com
Baptist Health celebrates its fourth Magnet® designation from the American Nurses Credentialing Center.
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Holly is due with her first baby this spring!
TOPS Leader in
COSMETIC TATTOO
HEATHER SHALLAL, HOLLY MEREDITH + KRYSTAL DAWN
Feather & Blade
Seeing is believing, which is why social media has played a huge role in the growth of Feather & Blade, a restorative boutique specializing in cosmetic tattoo with locations in both Lexington and Louisville. According to Proprietor Holly Meredith, “We get more clients from Instagram than any other medium. Many say they followed us for some time before booking an appointment and appreciated seeing so many examples of our work on @featherandblade to establish a level of comfort with the procedure and our team before even stepping foot in the door.” Feather & Blade restores body parts using cosmetic tattoo and their signature services are eyebrows and lips. Just under 2,000 clients have trusted them for their unique needs. In the words of Meredith, “Feather & Blade is powered by the relationships built with our clients and community at large, and buoyed by the lives and stories of women.” As the area’s only shop with multiple Cosmetic Tattoo Artists, Feather & Blade offers a range of styles, services and pricing. Meredith says, “Our dedicated team has devoted the time to train in a variety of techniques in order to right fit our clients in the best method to achieve their goals. We are the only cosmetic tattoo business in the area with several thousand procedures worth of experience.” photo by Ron Morrow 332 N. Ashland Ave. Ste. 120 // Lexington // 859.667.BROW // fbbrows.com 106
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TOPS Leader in
COOLSCULPTING AMANDA HARMS
CoolBluLex
When people ask Amanda Harms what she does, she jokingly says, “I freeze fat.” But, as COO of CoolBluLex, Harms sees her job as so much more. She explains, “I was honored to help save lives in a literal sense when I worked in the ER in my former career. Now, as the leading CoolSculpting expert in the commonwealth, I take the responsibility of saving a patient’s confidence and sense of self-worth just as seriously.” CoolBluLex uses a no-nonsense, individually-tailored approach to help patients develop a positive body image. Each patient receives an in-depth consultation, followed by a customized plan, and then counseling on precisely what level of body transformation to expect. All treatments are performed under the auspices of board-certified plastic surgeon, Stephen Schantz, MD. Harms has immersed herself into this specialized field with extensive training to master her aesthetic craft and body assessing techniques. Using her educational background in both science and law, she manages all operational aspects of the company. Her ultimate goal is to “raise the standard of care for non-invasive fat reduction, challenging other CoolSculpting providers to become better educated on the different components of an ideal candidate and up to date on the latest technology to help ensure all CoolSculpting patients achieve exceptional results.” 3288 Eagle View Ln. Ste. 30. // Lexington 859.254.5665 // coolblulex.com
manda’s motto is or hard, ha e fun and be ind! March 2020 | Sponsored Content
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TOPS Leader in
PRENATAL CARE SASHA NEACE, DO + LINDSEY EASON, DO
Lexington Clinic Obstetrics-Gynecology As mothers of young children, Drs. Neace and Eason know from experience that a new baby is one of the most exciting events in a person’s life, but also that it can be daunting. With the best in obstetric medicine, from advanced prenatal services through labor and delivery and into postpartum after care, Lexington Clinic Obstetrics and Gynecology is there every step of the way with complete and compassionate care. As a leader in prenatal care, Lexington Clinic Obstetrics and Gynecology offers counseling, exams, screenings, ultrasounds, risk assessment and a range of other tests during each trimester of pregnancy. The Obstetrics and Gynecology team makes sure patients are comfortable, conďŹ dent and supported throughout. For convenience, they have an ultrasound technologist and phlebotomist on-site and they can provide on-site treatment for nausea and vomiting associated with pregnancy. In addition to their outstanding obstetrics, Lexington Clinic offers a complete range of services, including gynecological exams, reversible contraceptive options, menopausal counseling and treatment, Reclast infusion for osteoporosis, STD testing and counseling, and a range of minimally invasive surgeries using the latest technologies. 160 N. Eagle Creek Dr. // Lexington 859.258.5220 // lexingtonclinic.com
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TOPS Leader in
FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC WELLNESS SARAH FOX + TJ FOX, DC
Complete Chiropractic According to Dr. TJ Fox of Complete Chiropractic, “We live in a world where we are drowning in information, yet starving for wisdom. It’s my personal goal to provide clarity, and the proper steps to guide you down your own path to wellness.” A large part of this path is taking an individualized approach to each patient’s treatment plan based on what they determine they want and need. Dr. Fox explains, “Our progressive approach to traditional chiropractic gets away from the “one size fits all” model. We pride ourselves on being multidimensional and customize care according to the unique needs of our patients.” As a graduate of Palmer College of Chiropractic who holds several specialty certifications, Dr. Fox has the ability achieve a comprehensive diagnosis of each patient’s overall lifestyle, and then employ cutting-edge chiropractic technology, progressive adjustments and tried-and-true techniques to advance the patient toward overall wellness. Dr. Fox is committed to serving Lexington with honesty and genuineness. He says, “The people of Lexington are smart and loyal, thus value an honest and realistic approach, especially in terms of healthcare. I meet with every patient before accepting a case to ensure our office is the right fit for their wellness goals and expectations.” 524 E. 2nd St. // Lexington 859.268.7501 // completechirolex.com
Dr. Fox is an avid soccer fan! He played as a goalkeeper most of his life and went on to play Division 1 soccer in college.
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Hourglass is moving to Clay Avenue this summer!
TOPS Leader in
DYSPORT
BROOKE TINCHER, APRN, BETH HOURIGAN + LYNSI PERRAUT, RN
Hourglass Aesthetics
We all want to look younger, but not at the cost of looking like a mannequin. Luckily, injectables like Dysport provide a more youthful appearance without sacrificing expressiveness. According to the Hourglass Aesthetics website, “Dysport is a prescription injection proven to help smooth the appearance of moderate to severe frown lines without changing the look or movement of the rest of your face.” Beth Hourigan, CEO and founder of Hourglass, elaborates, “Dysport is our go-to injectable for relaxing fine lines and wrinkles. It’s very versatile if you understand the molecule, know how to dose it and know where to inject it. Dysport has the ability to have a soft effect when dosed appropriately or to be very hard working on stubborn strong glabellar muscles. It’s quick acting molecules leave a beautiful, more youthful patient.” Hourigan is a former Dysport injection trainer who has been working with the product since it’s introduction in 2009. “Having aesthetic procedures can be intimidating for some newer patients,” says Hourigan. “At Hourglass, we want every patient to feel completely comfortable, be entirely informed and have the best outcomes possible. All of our patients, both men and women, should leave feeling like their best self.” 867 E. High St. // Lexington // 859.904.LASH // hourglasslex.com
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Whitney has been doing Beth’s lashes for 6 years!
TOPS Leader in
LASH EXTENSIONS
BETH HOURIGAN + WHITNEY STARK
Hourglass Aesthetics
Every woman could use that extra five minutes in the morning and lash extensions are one way to get it. “Lash extensions cut down time in the morning routine, so you wake up ready,” says Beth Hourigan, CEO, owner and founder of Hourglass Aesthetics. As the first lash extensions bar in Kentucky, Hourglass has been offering lashes tailored to each patients’ special and unique eyes for over two and half years. After a lifelong love of “all things beauty” and decade and a half of working in the cosmetic, spa, and medical aesthetic arenas, Hourigan decided it was time to go into business for herself. She says, “Hourglass was born and I have never looked back. Seeing our patients leave with such confidence and hearing all the success stories fuels me to keep growing our business and working harder every day.” Hourglass Aesthetics is a medical spa and wellness center focused on “healthy skin and making our patients feel their most beautiful self.” To accomplish this they offer an array of services, in addition to extensions, including anti-aging services, injectables, skin care, full body waxing, laser treatments, laser hair removal, spray tanning, lash lifts, tints and custom brow shaping. 867 E. High St. // Lexington // 859.904.LASH // hourglasslex.com
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TOPS Leader in
LUXURY DAY SPA Woodhouse Spa Lexington In this lightning-paced world, we all deserve to slow down and steal some “me” time. No place offers a more tranquil and transformational environment than Woodhouse Spa. Owners Jeff Chapman and Cheryl Rose explain, “With over seventy treatments designed to purify and nourish your body and mind, our Woodhouse Signature Treatments set us apart by delivering therapeutic results while enveloping our guests in an environment designed for their renewal.” After traveling the world and experiencing the most beautiful spas around the globe, Chapman and Rose made it their mission to “bring that vacation spa experience home.” This unparalleled guest experience begins the minute you step through the door. They say, “From the time you are welcomed by the concierge staff and spa smells and sounds when you enter the beautifully appointed retail area, through the unhurried time in the quiet room before your chosen treatment, until the concierge staff opens the door for your exit, you will be treated like the five star guest that you are.” The pair is thrilled to have opened their location here in 2019 and say, “Lexington has a unique culture all its own and the spirit of the community make this the perfect location for our spa.” 161 Lexington Green Cir. // Lexington 859.800.5397 lexington.woodhousespas.com
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TOPS Leader in
PILATES REFORMER AMANDA STAMPER
Reform Pilates Amanda Stamper was introduced to Pilates in 2011 and immediately fell head over heels in love with the system, which was developed by Joseph Pilates and has been popular since the 1920s. Since 2014, she has been helping clients sculpt rock hard cores; attain long, lean and strong muscles; and improve flexibility and posture by following the fundamental Pilates movement principles. However, Stamper believes “innovation and the willingness to take risks” are the keys to success. She says, “To be a leader you have to be willing to step up and look at things differently. Just because something has been done a certain way for a long time doesn’t mean it can’t be improved or built upon.” So, at her Reform Pilates studio, Stamper takes a different approach. “Our classes are more athleticbased and focus on toning and sculpting the body through safe movements that build upon the classic Pilates foundation. You won’t just find the classic goodies here but a huge repertoire of moves that will keep you challenged, sweating and wanting more,” she explains. “We do all this while following the proper form, alignment and breathing techniques that go along with the classic Pilates practice. We are all about results.” photo by The Malicotes 309 N. Ashland Ave. // Lexington 859.230.6059 // reformlex.com
“I LOVE big animals, including my 200 lb Newfoundland, Pippa, and my 1200 lb Thoroughbred, Everest!”
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WOMEN’S WELLNESS Lexington OB-GYN Associates
For women, “one size fits all” does not apply to clothing, lifestyles or healthcare. Lexington OBGYN Associates understand that each woman’s wellness needs are as unique as the woman herself. According to their physicians, “At Lexington OB-GYN Associates, we create personal treatment plans that consider individual needs and goals while building long standing relationships with our patients and their families. From well women exams, to pre conceptual counseling and pregnancy care, to coping with infertility, to managing menopause, our comprehensive services cover women at all stages of their life.” The doctors and nurses at Lexington OB-GYN appreciate being a part of a very personal relationship with their patients. From educating teens, helping patients that struggle with fertility, safely delivering amazing babies, as well as medically and surgically managing gynecology problems, they treat every patient as an individual person, not a number. Since 1986, Lexington OB-GYN Associates’ focus has been on “prevention and healthy lifestyle.” Of course, the practice also monitors for adverse health issues, and provides the latest and safest treatment for these diseases and conditions. Together with gynecologic and obstetric care, they offer
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in-office ultrasounds, bone density scans, blood work, vaccinations and MonoLisa treatments. With 200 years of combined experience, their dedicated and highly-trained staff of nine physicians, all board-certified by The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, four nurse practitioners, six registered nurses, certified lactation consultant, childbirth educator and support staff supply a surplus of topnotch care and quick, reliable information. They recognize that “Registered Nurses are an integral part of our health care team and provide advice and emotional support to our patients and their family members.”
them grow up and become leaders in our community.” In the past 34 years, 30,000 babies have been delivered directly by a member of the Lexington OB-GYN practice. The physicians admit, “The rewards of bringing new life into the world are well worth the long hours. We love going out and being able to run into our patients and watching the babies we have delivered grow up.” Lexington OB-GYN Associates have two convenient locations in Lexington and Georgetown. And, thanks to technology, patients can now receive care via telemedicine, in addition to face-to-face. photo courtesy of Lexington OB-GYN Associates
Of course, the most rewarding part of a day’s (and sometimes 1700 Nicholasville Rd. Ste. 701 // Lexington night’s) work is bringing a brand new Kentuckian into the world. 206 Bevins Ln. // Georgetown The staff shares “the enjoyment of delivering babies and seeing lexingtonobgyn.com
Lexington OB-GYN has delivered over 30,000 babies in the past 34 years!
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TOPS Leader in
PERSONALIZED WELLNESS CARE CHRISTIAN ROSEVEAR, DC
Elevate Chiropractic & Wellness Center Dr. Christian believes that “healthy people make healthy choices, and healthy choices make healthy people. Most people understand, on some level, that the body was made to heal and function on its own.” He explains, “That’s all we do: figure out why the body is not functioning properly–as God designed–and then execute a treatment plan. Each treatment plan is tailored to the patient according to the results found on an array of tests including x-rays, functional movement assessments, advanced nutritional testing and DNA testing to name a few.” Along with 20 years experience, Dr. Christian holds a bachelor’s degree in sports medicine, bachelor’s degree in life science and doctorate in chiropractic, along with multiple nutrition certifications. This fall, he will be sitting for the Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician (CCSP) which would qualify him to treat Olympic athletes. Philosophically, Dr. Christian believes “your quality of life is in direct proportion to the amount of and the quality of service you provide to the people you touch while you are here on earth.” Therefore, the Center recently launched a mission project called Operation Save KY, with the goal of “objectively improving the health metrics of the bluegrass state.” 4250 Saron Dr. Ste. 175 // Lexington 859.629.3131 // elevateky.com
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li e by the uote, on’t ta e life too seriously: you’ll ne er et out ali e,’ by an ilder eor e
TOPS Leader in
TATTOOING
CRISTINA WARNEST, GEORGE PATRICK + KRISTOFER WOODS
To The ra e Tattoo ompany
“Tattoos are becoming more widely accepted, especially in professional industries. More people are considering their tattoos long term verses getting a tattoo on a whim. Tattoos are being viewed as art in a world where they were previously thought of as much less,” says George Patrick, the owner of To the Grave Tattoo company. To the Grave is a custom tattoo and piercing studio with a focus on providing the best in tattooing and piercing in a comfortable, clean and friendly environment. Their top of the line artists have over 50 years of combined experience and have garnered more than 100 awards from tattoo conventions all over the world. In addition, all of their artists and piercers have been through apprenticeships and stay up-to-date on their first aid/safety/blood borne pathogen certifications. To wrap up, Patrick states, “Tattooing has been an industry that has flourished and will continue to grow in popularity. We aim to stay at the forefront of the future of tattooing.” So, after six years on Nicholasville Road, To the Grave is excited to be moving to the Hamburg area on June 1st. There they will continue their tradition of amazing art, community consciousness and superior service. 4013 Nicholasville Rd. #140 // Lexington // 859.433.0652 // tattoolex.com March 2020 | Sponsored Content
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TOPS Leader in
WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY
THOMAS GREENLEE, MD; ALBERTO ZARAK, MD; JOSHUA STEINER, MD + KAREN HILLENMEYER, PA-C
Center for Weight Loss Surgery at Saint Joseph East Obesity currently impacts more than 100 million adults and children in the U.S. This is according to a recent article from US News and World Reports, which also declares obesity as one of our nation’s leading public health issues. Fortunately, Lexington has a resource to combat this epidemic—the Center for Weight Loss Surgery at Saint Joseph East. The Center for Weight Loss Surgery is a multidisciplinary team that addresses the disease of obesity. The team focuses on the education and support of the weight loss surgery patient to assure that they achieve optimal results from the operation we perform. These operations include gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy. For those who do not qualify for weight loss surgery, The Center for Weight Loss Surgery offers a medical weight loss program. Their surgery team, who has been with the Center since its inception, includes: Thomas Greenlee, MD, Joshua Steiner, MD and Alberto Zarak, MD, all three of whom are boardcertified surgeons, specifically trained in advanced laparoscopic surgery. Since 2002, they have performed more than 7000 procedures, making the facility the longest standing and highest volume center in Kentucky. The Center holds the American Society of Metabolic & Bariatric Surgeons Center (ASMBS) of certification of Excellence. Director of Bariatric Surgery Karen M Hillenmeyer says, “As members of the ASMBS, we have access to peers nationally and internationally. Interaction with such a vast pool of knowledge keeps us above the standard of care in our field.” In addition to superior surgeons, their staff of dedicated medical professionals contribute years of experience in various specialties. According to Hillenmeyer, “Unquestionably our support staff is what sets our team ahead. Our bariatric team of exercise physiologist, registered dietician, nurses, psychologist and support staff are a dynamic, integrated group of professionals that truly want excellent outcomes for our patients.” As part of CHI Saint Joseph Health, a nonprofit, Catholic health system, is “committed to creating healthier communities, delivering exceptional patient care, and ensuring every person has access to quality health care.” The team at the Center for Weight Loss Surgery further embodies this philosophy and fulfills this mission. Hillenmeyer explains, “I think that we all look at each patient individually and through the eyes of ‘Do unto others.’ Both our faith-based facility and our own personal beliefs push us to treat others as we would want ourselves or our family members to be treated.” 160 N. Eagle Creek Dr. #201 // Lexington 859.967.5520 // CHISaintJosephHealth.org
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TOPS Leader in
LABOR AND DELIVERY
KELLY RAY; AMY CARILLO, DO; KRISTINE LAIN, MD + KHALDON JUNDI, MD
Women’s Hospital at Saint Joseph East
Many factors put the Women’s Hospital at Saint Joseph East at the forefront of maternity care, beginning with their philosophy. The hospital prides itself in having “women caring for women.” According to Director of Women’s Services Kelly Ray, “We just want to be the best. We take care of everyone as if they are our sister, mother, daughter.” In order to be the best, Saint Joseph East employs the best. Their team of board-certified physicians includes, Kristin Kain, MD, a specialist in maternal-fetal medicine, Neonatologist Khaldon Jundi, MD and Amy Carillo, DO, whose focus is in obstetrics and gynecology. In addition, the hospital has nurse practitioners, midwives, lactation specialists, and other seasoned staff all ready to provide compassionate care in their state-of the-art facility. Aware that women want the option of personalizing their birthing experience, the Women’s Hospital offers a variety of choices. Both midwives and laborists are available 24/7, as is anesthesia coverage. The Women’s Hospital is also the first in Lexington to provide nitrous as an option during delivery. And, to make certain women have all the information they need to feel confident before, during, and after their delivery, the Women’s Hospital offers free of charge maternity education and lactation guidance. And, the Women’s Hospital is poised to manage the most difficult pregnancies and births. With their Level III NICU and close coordination between obstetricians, high risk fetalmaternal specialists and the neonatology team there have been much improved outcomes, as well as shorter hospital stays, for infants who require intensive care support. Dr. Lain states, “We pride ourselves in helping women have healthy pregnancies and strive for each patient to have a positive experience. Although most women will have uncomplicated pregnancies and deliveries, we have the services and people in place should you or your baby need extra care.” Described as “a community hospital located in a city setting,” the Women’s Hospital at Saint Joseph East is a stand-alone building with ample parking, 60,000 square feet and three floors all designed to be patient-and family-friendly. Currently, the hospital delivers 2,400 babies annually, and this is expected to rise. According to Dr. Jundi, “As health care continues to change, hospitals will remain the mainstay for caring for expectant women and their children. With the population growth that we are witnessing in Fayette and the surrounding counties, we expect substantial increase in births throughout this decade.” 170 N. Eagle Creek Dr. // Lexington 859.967.5000 // CHISaintJosephHealth.org
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TOPS Leader in
SALON EXPERIENCE LINDSAY BRAMEL
Dry Art
When most people think of art, they imagine painters, sculptors, photographers, authors and musicians. Dry Art Salon creates an environment within the salon that encompasses all of the elements of artistry. Hair design is one of the most critical and criticized arts, always open for the world to see each and every day. Owner Lindsay Bramel wants Dry Art customers to not only love their hair, but also enjoy the salon experience. She believes that staff education elevates the services and professionalism at Dry Art. “Aside from talent, the salon truly feels like home, and we want every guest to be a part of the family. We understand that life is hectic, and strive to offer our clients with the most relaxing, inviting, and positive experience that we possibly can,” Bramel adds. Getting your hair done should be the best part of your day! From the moment you walk into the chic and bright salon, clients feel welcome and relaxed.
Stay tuned for big news from Dry Art this Spring!
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Dry Art specializes in various techniques specific to the client’s individualized needs and hair type, as well as personalized color services, wedding and special event hair design, cosmetics applications, waxing and more. For clients that want to achieve that salon-fresh look, they also hold styling workshops, so that they can learn how to recreate the salon’s hairstyles – such as beach waves and blowouts – from the comfort of their own home. This empowers clients to look their best every day, armed with advanced professional techniques. 309 N. Ashland Ave. // Lexington 859.303.5364 // dryartsalon.com
TOPS in Lexington | Sponsored Content
TOPS Leader in
BOTOX™
KARLA STEPHEN, MD
Center For Anti-Aging MedSpa Looking our best plays a major role in being our best. Karla Stephen, owner and sole physician at the Center for Anti-Aging MedSpa, explains, “When we present ourselves to others we want to present how we feel, not necessarily how we look, so helping someone appear more rested, happy, youthful and approachable is usually the goal. It’s not just about preventing wrinkles and correcting volume loss, it’s mostly about helping that person feel confident and happy about their appearance.” The Center for Anti-Aging is the only MedSpa where you are guaranteed a physician will perform your injection. As the sole injector at the facility, with experience in Botox, Dysport, Newtox, Restylane and Juvederm treatments, Dr. Stephen is able to ensure patients receive “exceptional, natural-looking results, while maintaining consistency with dosage and maintenance requirements.” To best serve, Dr. Stephen stays abreast of the latest innovations. She states, “Learning and observing new technologies and networking with other MedSpa physician owners helps keep me up-to-date on the latest and safest options to offer our patients.” The team at the Center also provides a full-range of facial services, including the popular HydraFacial, non-surgical body sculpting such as SculpSure, i-Lipo, Venus Freeze, Emsculpt and much more. 535 Wellington Way Ste. 360 // Lexington 859.402.2005 // antiaginglex.com
The Center for Anti-Aging is the only med spa where you are guaranteed a physician will perform your injection. March 2020 | Sponsored Content
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TOPS Leader in
HEARING HEALTH CARE TIFFANY BREWER, AU.D
Commonwealth Audiology Compromised hearing often leads to difficulty communicating, frustration, and decreased quality of life. Tiffany Brewer, Au.D., owner of Commonwealth Audiology, offers a solution with accessible and affordable comprehensive hearing care. Dr. Brewer says, “I take a fresh and innovative approach to bring hearing aid access to as many individuals as possible.” This includes a thorough evaluation, selection, fitting and follow-up care. In addition, she is the only provider in the Lexington/Georgetown area to offer an unbundled solution making hearing aids accessible for many patients who may not have been able to obtain the devices previously. She states, “We are all very aware that hearing aids are an investment, but they should not be unattainable. There is no reason you should have to pay upwards of ten thousand dollars for hearing aids.” The average person takes approximately seven years from noticing hearing loss to pursuing treatment. Dr. Brewer urges patients to seek treatment sooner. She states, “Hearing aids are not what they used to be. They are not what our grandparents were wearing years ago. Hearing aids have greatly decreased in size and increased in functionality.” At Commonwealth Audiology, patients can also expect the latest technological advances and best fit the industry has to offer. 204 Bevins Ln. Ste. B // Georgetown 502.642.4322 commonwealthaud.com
Dr. Brewer loves the NFL. She is the reigning champ in their fantasy football league! 124
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TOPS Leader in
COMPASSIONATE COSMETIC SURGERY AMIT PATEL, MD
Patel Facial Plastic Surgery Amit Patel, MD, once had the privilege of going on a mission trip with the real-life Patch Adams. The facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon says the impact it had on his life, both professionally and personally was immeasurable. Dr. Patel states, “Philanthropy is a fuel for my passion. Collectively, my cancer patients have been a tremendous teacher. They have been the seeds for my current project, ‘Lips 4 Luv.’” With the Lips 4 Luv program, for every patient who undergoes lip augmentation, Patel donates to the University of Kentucky’s Camp Kesem, which provides free camp for kids affected by a parent’s cancer. “My partnership with Camp Kesem means so much to me since many of my patients are postcancer removal reconstructive surgeries. Every patient I treat, I treat them in the same way that I hope a doctor would treat my parents or my sister,” says Dr. Patel. In his words, Dr. Patel provides “customized creative care.” He explains, “I custom plan all of my surgeries/care, whether it be through hand drawing or using 3D modeling to create a surgical plan. Complex cosmetic and reconstructive patients generally get my undivided attention; I often schedule these as my only surgery for the day.” info@amitpatelmd.com 859.667.4865 // amitpatelmd.com
Dr. Patel went on a mission trip with Patch Adams! March 2020 | Sponsored Content
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Frontier Nursing University will be opening a campus in Versailles this fall!
TOPS Leader in
GRADUATE NURSING EDUCATION
SUSAN E. STONE, DNSC, CNM, FACNM, FAAN + JOAN SLAGER, CNM, DNP, FACNM
Frontier Nursing University
With 2020 being designated the “Year of the Nurse and the Midwife” by the World Health Organization, it is an especially exciting time for Frontier Nursing University. The designation gives recognition to nurses and midwives for the vital role they play in providing compassionate caring to families, mothers and children. For 80 years, Frontier Nursing has been preparing nurse-midwives and nurse practitioners to administer crucial care within their communities. The university’s focus is “educating primary care providers to serve diverse, rural and underserved populations.” With 2,400 students from all 50 states currently enrolled, Frontier Nursing University is one of the largest not for profit universities in the United States for advanced nursing and midwifery education. The school’s programs are available through online courses, followed by a clinical experience in the student’s home community. President Dr. Susan Stone and Dean of Nursing Dr. Joan Slager are shaping the future of the university through their leadership approach, and work nationally to bring attention to the impact of nursing and midwifery in rural communities. Dr. Slager says “Leadership at Frontier starts with believing in the mission and vision. It comes easily when you have a passion for the work being done.” 859.251.4700 // fnu@frontier.edu // frontier.edu 126
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“We are all avid, life-long UK fans too!”
TOPS Leader in
COLLABORATIVE WOMEN’S CARE
ALISHA MORGAN, CNM, ALLISON COOK, MD + ERICA COLLIER, APRN
Lexington Women’s Health
Ten thousand—that is the number of babies that have been delivered by Lexington Women’s Health, a collaborative medical practice providing considerate care for women since 2007. The practice is comprised of obstetrician/gynecologists, certified nurse midwives(CNM) and advanced practice registered nurses with 150 years of combined women’s health experience and a “passion for providing the best medical care for women of the Commonwealth.” According to Marketing Director Tanya Bolton, “We have experience, both professional and personal, to help you through almost any situation. Chances are whatever you face, we’ve been there.” Lexington Women’s Health was originally founded by Jennifer Fuson, MD, with a goal to “work as a team to attend to each of our patients as if they were our sisters, friends, or neighbors.” At this practice, patient respect is paramount. Alisha Morgan, CNM states, “At Lexington Women’s Health we foster an environment of respect. Respect for each other, respect for our colleagues, and most of all respect for our patients.” There are now three locations where women can receive a full scope of services, including maternity care ranging from midwifery to cesarean section; gynecology; alternatives to hysterectomy; daVinci robotic surgery; bio-identical hormone replacement therapy; weight loss programs; PCOS programs and aesthetics, such as Botox™, Juvederm and Latisse to name a few. Hamburg, Nicholasville Rd. + Brannon Crossing // 859.264.8811 // lexingtonwomens.com March 2020 | Sponsored Content
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TOPS Leader in
ADDICTION TREATMENT
LYNH TRAN, TUYEN TRAN, MD, MBA, FACP, FASAM, MARVIN BISHOP, MD, MBA + SUSAN BISHOP, DMD, MHA
2nd Chance Clinic
Addiction does not discriminate, and neither does 2nd Chance Clinic, where the team believes every individual deserves an opportunity to overcome addiction and move on to lead a productive life. According to CEO Tuyen Tran, MD, “All of our physicians and staff will truly support our patients on their journey to recovery. We will treat every patient with dignity and render no judgment. We will walk beside each of our patients on their journey.” Dr. Tran, who is board certified in addiction medicine by the American Board of Preventive Medicine, founded the clinic in 2012 with partner and CFO, Marvin Bishop, MD. Dr. Tran states, “We initially began the clinic to treat patients with opioid addiction—prescription opioids such as hydrocodone, oxycodone, dilaudid, heroin and fentanyl. The opioid epidemic was claiming many Kentuckian lives prematurely and we wanted to participate in the solution.” Since its creation, 2nd Chance Clinic has expanded their outpatient services to cover all chemical types of addiction including alcohol, cocaine, methamphetamine, amphetamines, benzodiazepines and marijuana. Their approach is comprehensive. Dr. Bishop explains, “2nd Chance is one of the few clinics that provides a full treatment regimen for patients who are affected by addiction in an outpatient setting. We provide the full spectrum of physician-led treatment, counseling, and case management. We treat the patient as a whole-person.” Dr. Tran elaborates, “When a patient craves their drug or is experiencing withdrawals, the priority in their mind is the drug, how to get it, and how to satisfy their need. Once our physicians manage that craving medically, patients can focus on psychosocial therapy. And through intensive psychosocial therapy, delivered by our master’s trained counselors, we hope to effect positive behavioral change.” Knowing that patients can never truly engage in recovery until their fundamental needs are met, 2nd Chance case managers identify the social barriers, such as domestic violence, lack of transportation, food, shelter and legal threats, which may impede successful recovery, and provide resources accordingly. With the goal of helping patients “reintegrate back into society as law-abiding citizens,” 2nd Chance partners with organizations such as Jubilee Jobs, the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce and the College for Technical Education in Kentucky to assist with education and employment once the program is completed. Dr. Tran, who has witnessed the devastating effect of addiction in our state first-hand, says, “We started the clinic because we cared.” 1420 N. Broadway // Lexington // 859.368.8820 // 2ndchanceclinics.com
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Pop quiz: when is Women’s History Month?
breaking the
BRONZE CEILING:
Women’s History Month
Despite the fact that it has been celebrated each year since 1987, many people are still unaware that March marks Women’s History Month in the United States. Organizations like Breaking the Bronze Ceiling and the National Women’s History Alliance are trying to raise awareness of this important celebration and the incredible achievements of women. Join Breaking the Bronze Ceiling on March 11th 6-8pm at Open Spaces Art Gallery for I Am Woman Hear Me Pour, in partnership with Maker’s Mark. Enjoy free admission in honor of Women’s History Month. View art for sale from local female artists, or purchase a personalized collectible caricature bottle of Maker’s Mark (must be 21). Mix and mingle with the Breaking the Bronze Ceiling monument artist, Barbara Grygutis. Proceeds benefit Breaking the Bronze Ceiling.
A short timeline of Women’s History Month: MARCH 19, 1911 International Women’s Day celebrated by over a million people in Austria, Denmark, Germany and Sweden
MARCH 8, 1914 International Women’s Day held in Germany; it is now held on March 8 in all countries
MARCH 8, 1967 International Women’s Day begins being celebrated in Europe as a day of activism
MARCH 8, 1975 The UN begins celebrating International Women’s Day as a part of International Women’s Year
FEBRUARY 1980 President Jimmy Carter issues presidential proclamation declaring the week of March 8, 1980 as National Women’s History Week
1981 Support Breaking the Bronze Ceiling in erecting a statue in downtown Lexington to celebrate the 100th anniversary of women’s right to vote. Visit breakingthebronzeceiling. com to donate and be a part of this important movement!
The first Joint Congressional Resolution is passed, proclaiming Women’s History Week, a tradition that continues for the next several years
1987 The National Women’s History Month petitions Congress to designate March 1987 as Women’s History Month; since 1988, US presidents have issued annual proclamations designating March as Women’s History Month, typically giving each year a theme; fittingly, the theme for 2020 (the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment) is Valiant Women of the Vote, honoring “the brave women who fought to win suffrage rights for women, and for the women who continue to fight for the voting rights of others.”
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PARTY FOR A PURPOSE by Lauren Rogers | photos courtesy of Woody Phillips & DeAnn Stephens
Non-Profit
COMMUNITY
Beloved in the Bluegrass and beyond for her positive and inspiring roles in both TV and radio, DeAnn Stephens’s altruistic efforts with her organization, Party for a Purpose, are taking her passion for giving back to new–and greater–heights. With Party for a Purpose, DeAnn and her team are spreading goodness each time they gather, and are profoundly impacting the lives of others by raising money for various 501c 3 charities in and around the Lexington community. DeAnn explains, “Our goal in creating a Party for a Purpose was truly to encourage others to get together with friends and when you do, make it for the good of others in some way.” But for DeAnn, life has certainly not always been a party. She shares, “I lost my dad in January of 2019. It was a horrible year for me. I took the year ‘off’ so to speak to grieve, reflect and figure out how I could use my platform to do something that would make my dad proud because he and my mom always encouraged me to serve and give back.”
Here, DeAnn discusses her vision for the organization moving forward and offers insight into how her father’s servant heart continues to live on in her. TOPS: What has it been like to watch your vision come to fruition in Lexington? DeAnn: From the beginning, I knew we couldn’t do it without the help of our community. The businesses and people of Lexington have showed up in a HUGE WAY! I am overwhelmed with gratefulness!
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TOPS: What is your main goal this coming year? DeAnn: Our goal for the coming year is to let people know what we are doing and encourage them to follow the lead: Party for a Purpose! It doesn’t matter how big or small, just gather for the good of others! TOPS: What is the best way to get involved and give back? DeAnn: The best way for others to get involved is to plan a party, pick a charity, a family in need or an organization that could use the help and let us know about it! We want to highlight what others are doing on our website and social media pages! Hopefully in the end, we’ve all made some sort of small contribution to making this world a better place and isn’t that what we are called to do? I sure hope my daddy is proud! For more information, please check out Party for a Purpose at partyforapurposeky.com and be sure to follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
Our goal in creating a Party for a Purpose was truly to encourage others to get together with friends and when you do, make it for the good of others in some way.
March 2020 | TOPSinLex.com
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In order to keep herself occupied, DeAnn moved her annual December party to January 23rd, just one day before the anniversary of her father’s death. At the inaugural Party for a Purpose “Pajama Party” she says, “We raised close to $8,000 for the Refuge for Women (a non-profit, faith-based organization providing specialized long-term care for women who have escaped human trafficking or sexual exploitation) which will buy all of the bedding and linens for their new emergency house. Each woman who came also brought a pair (or 2... or 10 pairs) of pajamas to donate to the women at the Refuge. In all, 500 plus pajamas were donated which will provide more than a years’ worth of PJ’s for the women at the Refuge!”
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COMMUNITY
Non-Profit
5 Ways to Volunteer Spring is just around the corner and it’s the perfect time to get outside and volunteer! Here are some opportunities to celebrate the spring season by giving back and spending time in the sunshine: SEEDLEAF is a community gardening organization that offers horticultural training and supports the practice of gardening and small-scale farming in urban space. Beginning March 15 and running through November 1, Seedleaf holds weekly “Get in the Garden Events” for new and experienced gardeners to provide weekly community garden maintenance. Instruction and tools are provided for this family-friendly volunteer opportunity. Interested volunteers can learn more and sign up here: seedleaf.org/sign-up. LEXINGTON HABITAT FOR HUMANITY seeks volunteers to help build houses with local families! No previous experience in construction required. All volunteer opportunities can be viewed on the Lexington Habitat volunteer calendar at lexingtonhabitat.volunteerhub.com. For group volunteer opportunities, please contact volunteer@lexhabitat.org. Or sign up to run or walk in the Shamrock Shuffle 3K on March 14 at shamrockshuffle3k.com. All net proceeds benefit Lexington Habitat for Humanity.
Help clean up the stream bed of Stonewall Creek in Wellington Park with LIVE GREEN LEXINGTON and the CITIZENS’ ENVIRONMENTAL ACADEMY on March 22 at 2pm. Attendees should wear warm clothes and boots. Garbage bags and gloves will be provided. This event is part of Water Week: visit lexingtonky.gov/WaterWeek to learn about this and other activities. Attend THE ARBORETUM’S annual volunteer open house on March 28 at 10am to learn how you can provide valuable assistance with the Arboretum’s 2020 programs, such as volunteering in their numerous gardens, or for an event like their upcoming Arbor Day Celebration. More information is available at arboretum.ca.uky.edu. Volunteer with LFUCG PARKS & RECREATION by participating in a park cleanup effort at McConnell Springs on March 28 at 10am. Or sign up for their new Natural Areas Volunteer Program, a 6-session training for those interested in volunteering in the areas of environmental education, interpretation, land management and more. Contact Anna Wiker: awiker@lexingtonky.gov.
Whether you want to learn more about these local nonprofits and hundreds of others? Curious about the work of Blue Grass Community Foundation and how they can help you better organize and simplify your personal or business giving? Lauren would love to hear from you! You can reach her at 859.225.3343 or lauren@bgcf.org.
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Lauren Parsons,
Director of Strategic Initiatives & Communications
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Town Branch Park exceeds fund-raising goal as it completes Phase I Town Branch Park announced in February it has exceeded its year-end fund-raising goal as it completed Phase I of the project. Town Branch Park has raised more than $12.2 million, which propelled it past the $12 million goal. “It is wonderful to see families – some with multigenerational roots in Lexington and some relatively new to our community – come together to make this a better place to live, work, play and connect,” said Allison Lankford, executive director of Town Branch Park. “Families across Lexington realize the importance of this park and want to be a part of it. And, their generous donations have fueled our efforts to move into the final design phase.” Phase I accomplishments also included receiving 501(c)3 nonprofit designation, which established it as Lexington’s first and only park conservancy; finishing environmental assessments, site survey, and geotechnical studies; and completing the Inclusion Report to help ensure the park is welcoming and inclusive to all. End-of-year commitments, which have just been finalized, totaled more than $1 million.
“I bought my office on Main Street 35 years ago,” said Bill Justice, owner of Justice Real Estate, who made one of the yearend donations. “The transformation of downtown since then is exciting. Town Branch Park will be its centerpiece. Cities with downtown parks throughout the United States are thriving and so will Lexington. “Lexington has been good to me, and I want to share in something special for generations to come.” Bob Rouse of the Rouse Family Foundation, which also made a year-end donation, said: “This park is going to be an integral part of the growth of downtown. The whole family grew up here and is raising children here. It’s an unbelievable place to raise a family, and downtown is a huge part of it. This is a wonderful project and will help get Lexington’s downtown where it needs to be.” The park has an overall goal of $31 million in private funds to create more than 9 acres of signature downtown park. It also will function as the trailhead connecting 22-miles of biking/ walking trails leading from downtown to Lexington’s iconic rural landscape. story courtesy of Allison Lankford, Town Branch Park
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Railbird rides again! Railbird Festival will return to the beautiful grounds of Keeneland in Lexington, KY on August 22-23, 2020! Railbird Festival, celebrating music, bourbon and equine is brought to you by AC Entertainment. Railbird will also give back to the community by partnering with local nonprofit organizations Central Music Academy, Central Kentucky Riding for Hope, Fayette Alliance and Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance. Each nonprofit will receive monetary support from the festival, and will have a presence onsite during the event. The lineup of folk, bluegrass, Americana and rock includes Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, Maren Morris, The Head & The Heart, The Decemberists, Tanya Tucker, Cat Power, The Dead South and many more. All tickets are on sale now at RailbirdFest.com. RSVP to the official Railbird Festival 2020 Facebook event and follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for updates about the festival. story courtesy of Railbird
Walk MS to help change the world for those living with multiple sclerosis Ending multiple sclerosis for good will take all of us. Walk MS helps us team up with friends, loved ones and co-workers to change the world for everyone affected by MS. Together, we become a powerful force. And with every step we take, every dollar we raise... we’re that much closer. On Saturday, April 18th at Whitaker Bank Ballpark, central Kentuckians will take that step. One and three mile routes are available and the walk is open to all ages. The site opens at 9am and the walk kicks off at 10am, rain or shine. All Walk MS routes are accessible for scooters, wheelchairs, walkers and canes. Accessible restrooms will be available.
Stonewall Terrace, a first of its kind residence and resource in the Commonwealth AVOL Kentucky, and Winterwood, Inc. announce the receipt of a Low-Income Housing Tax Credit allocation from U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development through Kentucky Housing Corporation to build Stonewall Terrace, a 26unit community residence serving low-income individuals living with HIV in Lexington. Additionally, the facility will be open to medically vulnerable citizens who need close access to social services and support. The facility will also make much-needed community meeting space available for use by other groups and nonprofit organizations. Medically vulnerable populations served by Stonewall Terrace include the economically disadvantaged, racial and ethnic minorities, LGBTQ individuals, the elderly, homeless, those with HIV/AIDS, and those with other chronic health conditions, including severe mental illness and substance use disorders. The health and healthcare problems of the medically vulnerable intersect with many social factors, including housing, poverty, and inadequate education. “This is an absolute gamechanger for our community,” said AVOL’s Executive Director, Jon Parker. “To be able to provide both housing and essential resources at a single location will greatly enhance the services already being provided by AVOL to those in need.” AVOL is partnering with Winterwood, Inc., a real estate company with more than 40 years of experience serving the housing needs of the region, creating safe and affordable places to live. Parker indicated Winterwood has played a critical role in making this opportunity possible. Stonewall Terrace will be located on Versailles Road, close to Cardinal Hill Hospital and Oxford Circle. AVOL plans to break ground this summer and the project is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2021. story courtesy of AVOL Kentucky, Inc.
Walk MS brings together passionate people who connect in communities nationwide and raise funds to change the world for everyone affected by multiple sclerosis. With nearly 300,000 people fundraising and volunteering each year, Walk MS has generated more than $1 billion toward this mission. Each step you take is backed by a supportive community. story courtesy of Walk MS
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Lexington Public Library earns five-star rating from the Library Journal The Lexington Public Library recently announced it has been recognized by the Library Journal as a 2019 five-Star Library. This is the library’s first time receiving such a distinction. “This is a tremendous honor for the Lexington Public Library, the city of Lexington and for our hundreds of thousands of stakeholders,” said Heather Dieffenbach, the library’s Executive Director. “Our score reflects a community that utilizes and appreciates the many benefits of its library.” The rating is formulated using physical circulation, electronic material circulation, library visits, program attendance, public internet usage and Wi-Fi sessions. 2019 was the first year Wi-Fi sessions were included as a metric. With 842,264 Wi-Fi sessions last year, the Lexington Public Library has one of the highest Wi-Fi usages of libraries in the state. “The Lexington Public Library prides itself on listening to and adapting to the needs of our community,” Dieffenbach added. “We pride ourselves on exceeding the expectations of the residents of our city. Our staff’s thoughtful, strategic and forward-thinking approach to providing world-class service while being cognizant of an everchanging world positions us to be one of the foremost trailblazing library systems in the nation.” In 2019, 6,333 public libraries across the country were rated. The Lexington Public Library is one of ten libraries to receive a fivestar rating in the $10M-29.9M expenditure range. A total of 257 libraries nationwide were awarded stars, ranging from 3 stars to 5, in nine different expenditure level categories. For more information on the Lexington Public Library, please visit lexpublib.org. story courtesy of Lexington Public Library
New volunteer program with Parks & Recreation natural areas Lexington Parks & Recreation is offering a six-session training course for those interested in volunteering in the areas of environmental education, interpretation, land management and more. If you are interested in becoming an advocate for natural spaces, engaging with your community, and spending more time outside, the Natural Areas Volunteer Program is a perfect fit for you! The six training sessions will take place on the following Thursdays (participants must attend all six): April 23 • 6-8 pm at Raven Run April 30 • 6-8 pm at McConnell Springs May 7 • 6-8 pm at Raven Run May 14 • 6-8 pm at McConnell Springs May 21 • 6-8 pm at Raven Run May 28 • 6-8 pm at McConnell Springs Each session will involve hands-on learning about interpretation, environmental education, local flora and fauna, Parks & Recreation protocols and outdoor safety, program development and more. After completing the training course, members of the Natural Areas Volunteer Program will be asked to provide a minimum of 40 service hours to the park of their choice and will receive ongoing mentoring and training by park staff. Applications are available online. The deadline to apply is March 15. To learn more about Lexington’s natural areas, including Raven Run Nature Sanctuary, McConnell Springs Park and Hisle Farm Park, visit the City’s website. story courtesy of Anna Wiker, LFUCG
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Blue Grass Community Foundation celebrates $100 million in total grantmaking Blue Grass Community Foundation is celebrating the milestone of awarding $100 million in aggregate grants since its founding in 1967. Because this could not have been accomplished without the generosity of their donors and the communities they serve across Central and Appalachia Kentucky, BGCF hosted multiple special events to celebrate and express their gratitude. During a news conference at City Hall, Mayor Linda Gorton kicked-off the Thanks $100 Million celebration with a Mayoral Proclamation commemorating the event. Blue Grass Community Foundation President/CEO Lisa Adkins and Board Chair Fran Taylor presented executives and representatives of the Urban League of Lexington, The Hearing and Speech Center and Sayre School’s Green Team with grants in honor of the initial round of $100 grants awarded by the Community Foundation back in 1968. BGCF will launch the website bgcf100million.org to share 100 stories of impact about the people, initiatives and $100 million in grants made throughout the Community Foundation’s history. Blue Grass Community Foundation was started in 1967 by local philanthropists C.W. & Irene Sulier. That first year, assets of Blue Grass Foundation (as it was then called) reached $5,000. Fast forward to February 2020. The Community Foundation has grown from one charitable fund to almost 700, each with its own unique charitable purpose. Charitable assets total almost $150 million, with total grants since inception of over $108 million.
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Our community’s generosity has accelerated in recent years. It took 45 years to grant the first $50 million to nonprofits and scholarship recipients, but fewer than 7 years to grant the next $50 million. Over the course of the last 10 fiscal years (FY11 to FY20) BGCF has granted out $87.8M, or 81% of the total. They are confident that the Community Foundation will have an even larger impact as they move forward and continue to grow. But, as President/CEO Lisa Adkins notes, “This is about so much more than numbers. Achieving the $100 million milestone represents progress toward our mission of increasing community generosity. It’s about impact, transformation, changed lives and the generosity of donors who make it possible. Whether it’s the environment and greenspaces, early childhood education and literacy, safer communities, more engaged neighborhoods, or arts and culture, philanthropy powers so much good in our communities.” At the Community Foundation, they believe that one person can make a difference, but know we make the biggest impact when we invest together for our communities. If you’d like to have a greater impact on your community and the causes you love, join the BGCF. They want to partner with you. Contact themtoday to establish a charitable fund to reach your philanthropic goals. story courtesy of Lauren Parsons, Blue Grass Community Foundation
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If you’re like me, girl time is an essential part of your self-care. Have you exhausted your usual happy hour spots? Here are a few ideas to fit every occasion! ON A BUDGET When you don’t have the PTO or the airline miles for a trip to Napa, a Total Wine Class is the next best thing. Whether you want to learn how to make the perfect cocktail or sample wine from different regions – there is a class for everyone. On the topic of wine… I recommend reading The Wine Bible by Karen MacNeil. Order it from a local bookstore! AFTER DINNER If it’s true that laughter and time with friends make you live longer, I’ll see you all in 2120. The hidden gem in Lexington Green, Comedy off Broadway, is ranked as one of the top 5 comedy clubs in America. Tickets start around $10, which makes a comedy show the perfect zero calorie treat after dinner.
OUT
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SPECIAL OCCASION Celebrating a birthday or something special? A Petals & Pop class with Alexandra Pallos is a great way to indulge in some quality time and make memories with your girls. Show up empty handed and leave with a gorgeous floral arrangement that you created. Alexandra has everything you need, including: vases, a huge selection of flowers, and supplies for arranging them perfectly! Your extraordinary host, Alexandra, also provides complimentary drinks, wine, champagne and appetizers. SPLURGE Take Pasta 101 with the masters at Lexington Pasta. Learn how to make fresh pasta with your classmates, and enjoy the finished product alongside drinks and Italian dessert. Keep practicing what you learned at home with the Pasta Club! Life was made for good friends and great adventures.❤
WANNA GO? With all of these, call ahead or book online!
TotalWine.com ComedyOffBroadway.com
March 2020 | TOPSinLex.com
by Megan Martin AlexandraPallosFloralsandEvents.com LexingtonPasta.com
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Editor’s Pick:
Spring Break Essentials Outfit of the Month:
Spring Fever Savin’ Face:
Style + Comfort
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Wedding News:
Catching up with Monte Durham Wow Wedding:
Morgan & Ethan
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Editor’s Pick LIFESTYLE
• spring break essentials •
Palm Print Tunic by Sail to Sable | Cotton Patch
Beaded Cactus Clutch | Peplum
Bogg Bag | Peggys
La Mer SPF 50 UV Protecting Fluid | Cos Bar
Canteen Corkcicle in Pink Dazzle | Water + Oak
Smocked Bandeau Bikini in neon pink | Vineyard Vines
March 2020 | TOPSinLex.com
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LIFESTYLE Outfit of the Month
spring
fever
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As a new season breezes into the Bluegrass, we are more than ready to switch up our wardrobe’s color palette. While winter was nice and cozy, now is the time for much needed sunshine and blue skies. Safiyaa’s slim fit, stretch crepe top with a peplum hem and accompanying high-rise waist and flared leg pants come in a beautiful shade of aqua. It’s perfect for brightening your look on warmer March days. We paired up our solid pieces with delightfully enchanting accessories, including Sophia Webster’s crystal embellished sandals and raffia butterfly bag, chic Gucci sunnies and Kendra Scott’s beloved illusion drop earrings.
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For a shimmering final touch, we opted for a color-shifting swipe of Fenty Beauty’s mesmerizing Diamond Bomb highlighting veil. Even if the weather isn’t on our side, in this outfit we will have ‘Spring Fever’ all month long.
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IN THE LOOK: 1 | Safiyaa Ether Stretch-Crepe Top 2 | Safiyaa Hallie crêpe high-rise flared pants 3 | Kendra Scott Macrame Lee Gold Drop Earrings In Aqua Illusion (Available at The Summit) 4 | GUCCI GG0624S Sunglasses 5 | Sophia Webster Flossy butterfly leather and raffia cross-body bag 6 | Sophia Webster crystal-embellished sandals 7 | Fenty Beauty Diamond Bomb All-Over Diamond Veil
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by jesse brooks
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savin’ face
Savin’ Face LIFESTYLE
STYLE + COMFORT
story by Jayme Jackson
kay, so I don’t want to brag but, I can still wear the same size shoe that I did in high school. That being said, I am realizing that I can’t wear the same kind of shoes I wore back then.
My Mammaw spent her career selling shoes to everyone in our little Eastern Kentucky town and this fostered a natural obsession with her high heels. I was devastated when I outgrew her petite size 6.5 at the age of 9. I still mourn all of those heels that I could never wear, but I have been hunting for the perfect heels ever since. As a working gal, I have found that most of my days are spent on stilts from 9am to 7pm - a podiatrist’s nightmare! I’ve accepted my fate in the 3” heel and below phase of my life. With my hunting skills, I haven’t had to sacrifice style.
Arch support flip flops in black by Archies
The MOST comfortable heel I have ever found is by Naturalizer. Every woman in our office owns a pair of their Anna heel in black snakeskin. Get the wide fit to eliminate the crunched-up bunion look. I own these in 5 colors and I adore gold snakeskin for summer. You can score a 25% off coupon when you sign up for emails! If you’re stiletto days are over, a block heel or wedge offers both style and comfort. I love a good nude block heal from Vince Camuto. I am currently stalking around for the perfect pair of 3” cork wedges that will go with everything from dresses to rompers and white jeans this summer. I currently have my eye on a pair from J. McLuaghlin. Another pro tip: Don’t forget the arch support, even with flip flops! Recently, while coming back from vacation, I wore a cute little pair of Tory Burch flats. Very functional, so I thought. At 40 years old, I have somehow developed plantar fasciitis and wearing a shoe with no arch support for my flat feet hurts like the dickens. I found myself dragging my right foot behind me as I walked through the airport. At one point, the little golf cart that zooms around actually stopped to offer me a ride. From that moment on, I was on a mission to find comfortable yet stylish solutions. I ordered a pair of Archies flip flops. These are inexpensive sandals that are meant for running around town in yoga pants - not for style. They aren’t terribly offensive and they have really helped my plantar fasciitis pain. Can’t sacrifice style for comfort? Arch support inserts help! I like the Enerfoot on Amazon. Don’t retire your heels yet, ladies! Just remember that the taller the heel, the closer to God….and the more you can spread your fat out. I look a lot thinner at 5’10” and it doesn’t have to hurt.
March 2020 | TOPSinLex.com
Anna heel in snakeskin black by Naturalizer Coralina sandal in nude by Vince Camuto
Middleton cork wedge in nude by J.Mclaughlin
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LIFESTYLE Wedding WeddingsNews Unveiled
cwaitthching up
MONTE DURHAM
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onte Durham is an actor, producer, fashion and bridal consultant and a Kentucky enthusiast. As the Fashion Director on TLC’s Say Yes the Dress, Monte knows a thing or two about picking the right dress. This spring, Say Yes to the Dress is featuring local couple, Justin Morris and Bryant Stanley. The co-owners of Norwalk furniture will be picking out their bridesmaids’ dresses on the show. We sat down with Monte to catch up on the show and his love for the bluegrass state.
TOPS: You have become a Kentucky regular over the years. How did you become involved with the horse racing industry? What do you love about it? Monte: Being from West Virginia, I have family members in your lovely state. Hearing stories of the Derby, I never dreamed of one day fulfilling a bucket list of attending one. To be part of the Fillies, Kentucky Derby Festival and the Derby has truly been a dream come true. One of the many things I love about the Derby is the love and respect of animals and land. TOPS: How did you become Fashion Director at Bridals by Lori in Atlanta? How did Bridals by Lori become involved with TLC and Say Yes to the Dress? Monte: I started my fashion career as a personal shopper in major department stores in the DC area. Lori and I met in New York City at couture bridal fashion week; we took an instant liking to one another and became fast friends. When TLC approached her about the show, she called and convinced me I needed to do it with her or at least give it a go. That was 9 years ago! TOPS: How has your celebrity from the show affected your personal and professional life? Monte: Personally, I have tried to keep a very low profile and continue my community service work with Hospice, St.Paul’s and Welsh Terrier Rescue, as well as the Horticultural Society at River Farm. This helps keep me grounded and lends my voice to awareness of my charities. Professionally, the show showcases my talent for speaking and relating to people of all walks of life and has encouraged me to do bigger and better things like the launch of my hair care line MONTE on Amazon. I am soon opening my first salon in Old Town Alexandria Va. TOPS: Local Lexington couple Justin and Bryant are being featured on the show this year, where they will be choosing bridesmaid dresses. When does the episode air and what can we expect from the episode? Monte: We’re told the new season of Say Yes To The Dress Atlanta will be airing in March 2020. photo by andrew samplawski photography
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As with any bridesmaids appointment, you can expect lots of conflict and drama. TOPS in Lexington | February 2020
LIFESTYLE
photos from filming provided by justin morris and bryant stanley
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ustin Morris spills on his experience filming the episode and the importance of include same-sex couples on shows like this.
TOPS: What was your experience like on Say Yes to the Dress? Justin: What a fun experience Say Yes to the Dress was! It was a day of entertainment, excitement and many laughs! Lori, Monte and Ashley are all a blast and have an eye for style! TOPS: How did the opportunity come about? Justin: Bryant and Monte met years ago when Bryant lived in New York and Monte was doing Say Yes to the Prom Dress. Monte contacted us to be on the show and coordinated everything with the producers. The episode is currently scheduled to air in March 2020. We are all anticipating the viewing as it will be our first time seeing it as well! TOPS: Tell us about the importance of including same sex couples on shows like Say Yes to the Dress. Justin: Being on Say Yes to the Dress is special to all of us because it is relevant to our current times and the belief that love wins! We at Norwalk embrace all love and believe that everyone should be able to share their commitment and happiness! We have all enjoyed this process so much together and have learned if you have people alongside you that you love, the journey will magically fall into place! We all can’t hardly wait to walk into the Apiary on June 20th for the big wedding day!
March 2020 | TOPSinLex.com
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LIFESTYLE WOW Wedding
Morgan
& Ethan story by lauren rogers
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WOW Wedding LIFESTYLE
A forever love may feel like it takes an eternity to find but, in all actuality, it may have existed right before your eyes all along. This was the case for Morgan and Ethan Spurlin of Stanford Kentucky. Though they had known each other since childhood, a reunion after college set off the spark between them and it spontaneously started to glow. “Ethan and I are from the same hometown, but we did not reconnect until after college when we both moved back home.” On March 16th of 2018, the couple had their first date of which Morgan fondly remembers, “We knew that night that we had found our ‘person’! We got engaged in May 2019 and married that October. We knew we wanted to be married and didn’t see any reason to wait.” With that in mind, Morgan and Ethan began planning for their fall nuptials, eager to rejoice and celebrate the ultimate act of commitment and love that two people can exhibit. Drawn to the natural, simplistic Bluegrass beauty innate to the Waveland Historic Site, they selected it for both their ceremony and reception. “I definitely think it’s a hidden gem and an underrated option because they have so many incredible amenities to offer,” says Morgan. She continues, “Waveland itself is so stunning that we opted to focus on enhancing the natural beauty of the venue with florals created by my uncle, Mike Reed and my cousin, Radonna Bredar, instead of adding a lot of other décor to the space.” Before the ceremony, Morgan and Ethan enjoyed an intimate moment together that quickly became one of their favorites from their wedding. Morgan shares, “We didn’t see each other before the ceremony so getting to hold Ethan’s hand and pause and take it all in for a minute before it started was so special.” She continues, “It was amazing to see Ethan’s face for the first time as I walked down the aisle. Also, being surrounded by all of our family and friends in one place who were there to celebrate our love with us, including my sweet Nanny, was truly memorable.” Ethan echoes the sentiment saying, “I was blown away when Morgan walked down the aisle and we were holding each other, hand in hand. We were looking into each other’s eyes and at this moment, (and every moment after) I knew everything would be okay and I would be spending the rest of my life with my beautiful bride.”
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LIFESTYLE Gorjess: Get the Look Today, Morgan and Ethan are happily settled in Stanford where Morgan owns a clothing boutique, Morgan’s On Main. Ethan is a Funeral Director at Spurlin Funeral Home. They look back on their special day with no regrets saying, “To us, our wedding day was perfect.” They do, however, have wisdom for couples planning their own wedding and advise, “Take a minute and enjoy that phase, and that process, of your life. It’s such a sweet time and it goes by way too quickly. Savor it and don’t take a moment for granted.”
PHOTOGRAPHER Lyndsey Boyd Photography VIDEOGRAPHER Lynn Productions VENUE Waveland Historic Site CATERING Bradford BBQ & Tracey Durham SWEETS Bluegrass & Buttercream FLOWERS Rae’s Bouquets & Mike Reed
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PLANNER Haley Michelle Designs RENTALS/DECOR Goff Tents & Events,
Bryant’s Rent All & Perryville Party Rentals BRIDAL GOWN Luxe Redux Bridal BRIDAL PARTY Azazie
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GROOM/GROOMSMEN Men’s Warehouse MAKEUP Lindsey Cocanougher HAIR Hair by Maddie Woff STATIONERY/SIGNAGE Haley Michelle Designs ALTERATIONS The Needle’s Eye
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AT HOME
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Tour of Homes:
Man Caves Color Catalog:
Chinese Porcelain Pets:
Health Tips for your Feline Friends
AT HOME
man caves In preparation for March Madness, we’ve pulled together our favorite man caves from homes around Central Kentucky. PHOTOS BY SHAUN RING
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Man Caves
AT HOME
underground pub This cave features exposed brick, a fully stocked kitchen and large bar with wire insert cabinetry and brick walls. The cozy seating area includes a modern fire feature below the large TV, perfect for watching the big game. This basement also featured fully equipped gym. Electric Fireplace | Housewarmings
Clayton & Crume Leather Horseshoe Coaster | Keeneland Shop
Henry Dry Goods Small Watercolor Pillow | Keeneland Shop
Classic 2 in 1 Game Table | Steepleton
Budweiser Nitro Reserve Gold
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Man Caves
AT HOME
stylish entertainment Talk about entertainment! This cave features a home gym, infrared sauna, golf simulator and a plethora of other games and electronics to keep boys busy for days! Just when you think it’s all fun and games, you’ll find a custom gentlemen’s closet complete with a colorful tie collection, lighted cabinets to highlight suits and jackets, and cedar lines cubbies for sweaters. Rustic Dartboard Set | Pottery Barn
“Here For The Bourbon” Rocks Glass | Wildcat Wearhouse
Town Branch: Sherry Cask Finished
Trafalgar Armoire | My Favorite Things
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AT HOME
Man Caves
barn hangout This custom built barn has enough to keep you entertained for a night, or even a weekend! The sitting area features a natural burning fireplace and large leather couches with additional bar seating behind each couch. The barn also features a full kitchen and plenty of entertainment with a shufflebaord table and billiards table. Two large glass garage doors lead out to a patio, perfect for smoking meats and cigars.
Mesa Pool Table | Steepleton
Big Green Egg | Housewarmings
Bud Light Seltzer
Hancock & Moore Austin High Back Sofa | Lexington Furniture
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Clayton & Crume Leather Wrapped Rocks Glass Set | Keeneland Shop
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AT HOME
Man Caves
dinner and a show To create the perfect man cave, one must be able to eat, drink and watch all in one space. Mission accomplished. This space features a wrap-around bar with plush leather bar stools, a large sectional couch to stretch out, and 3 screens to watch the big game from every angle. The large projection screen, surround sound and soft up lighting make an ideal viewing experience. 14’ Harpeth Shuffleboard Table | Steepleton Sligh Palisades Media Console | Lexington Furniture
Titan Horse Sculpture | My Favorite Things
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Hancock & Moore Jockey Club Swivel Bar Stool | Lexington Furniture
TOPS in Lexington | March 2020
Yengling Flight
Man Caves
AT HOME
BBN approved For all of those die-hard UK fans out there, here’s some inspiration that will really “blue” you away! This space was made for Cats fans, who can enjoy the game from the comfortable stools at the fully stocked bar or the leather sectional in the seating area. The wine refrigerator and bar area both feature custom blue lighting to support of the Cats.
Maker’s Mark DipBarrel Kentucky Stave | Kentucky Branded
Rustic Gray Bar Cart | My Favorite Things
Monogrammed Cabernet Glass | LV Harkness
Lorenz00s Reserve
Hampton Billiards Table with Drawer | Steepleton
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AT HOME
Man Caves
rustic hideaway This man cave featuring dark and earthy tones and wood accents is perfect for the outdoorsy man. The seating area is complete with modern accent chairs that pair well with the home owner’s antique pieces and taxidermy collection. The exposed brick gives the room a rustic aesthetic, while the rug makes the atmosphere feel warm. This cave is the perfect spot to pour a glass of bourbon. Cavett Leather Wood Frame Chair | Crate & Barrel
Rug | Lexington Oriental Rugs
Kentucky Bourbon Trail Maps Rocks Glass | Kentucky Branded Aleph Rustic Wood Bar Cabinet | My Favorite Things
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Town Branch Bourbon
Man Caves
AT HOME
minimalistic retreat This contemporary space looks simple, but offers all of the man cave essentials. Unlike other underground caves, this space offers plenty of natural light. Featuring a pool table, card table and gym, there are endless entertainment options. The kitchen and bar area make the perfect spot to watch the big game! Hammered Double Old Fashioned Bourbon Glass | Pottery Barn
Bourbon 30
Cheval Bar Cabinet | My Favorite Things
Whiskey Brown Faux Leather Bar Stool | Pier 1
Aria Floor Cue Rack | Steepleton
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Color Catalog
AT HOME
Solana Handwoven Rug ARHAUS
Color CHINESE g PORCELAIN Love the CATS?
Polly Lamp
Morgan Throw
MARKET ON NATIONAL
NORDSTROM
Finding a liveable true blue paint to show your team spirit can be a challenge. It can easily go too bright or too cold. PPG’s 2020 Color of the Year, Chinese Porcelain, strikes just the right balance of warmth and POW! This inky blue brings to mind luxurious cobalt pottery... as well as our favorite sports team! Going Big Blue is a bold move, so it’s important to tread lightly with color throughout the rest of the room. Warm white and grey will not only help break up the color, but also bring some calm. Be deliberate when using patterns in a space that’s dominated by a powerful hue like Chinese Porcelain. If you use the paint as an accent wall, patterns can help pick up the color through the rest of the room. Otherwise, use textures rather than patterns to bring visual interest to the space; a chunky knit or silky fabric can provide a more subtle impact.
PAIR WITH:
Hudson Headboard in Luxuria NORWALK FURNITURE & DESIGN
Brown Clay
March 2020 | TOPSinLex.com
Fresh Dough
Cracked Slate
Gracious Glow
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AT HOME
Pets
Health Tips For Your Feline Friends story by jean gibowski, cvpm brighton animal clinic
It is a popular myth that cats don’t need routine veterinary care, especially cats that live indoors only. The is quite contrary-it is very important that your feline fur baby see the vet every year. Change in health can occur at any point in your cat’s life, and being prey animals, they are very stoic if in pain, so as not to show signs of weakness. This survival skill has been fine tuned over many generations, and even today’s housecats will not show signs of illness. Here are a few of the things your family veterinarian will look for during the annual visit.
meet gunner
Does your cat look like Garfield? Diabetes in cats is on the rise, especially if your cat is “extra fluffy”. Even before your cat is drinking more and losing weight, a simple blood or urine test can determine if his glucose is high and diet and insulin can be discussed and prescribed. Even inside cats need vaccines. In November, a housecat in Michigan developed rabies after playing with a bat inside the home. Cats can sneak out doors or windows when even the most diligent owner isn’t looking, or a visit through the window screen with the Tom cat next door can pass an upper respiratory illness to your cat.
meet remi and sig
Dental disease is much more than a little tarter build up. Many cats have gum disease, cracked teeth, resorptions, or stomatitis, painful conditions that can be alleviated with regular dental check ups and cleanings. If your cat is urinating outside the box, it could be a sign of stress or it could be that he has a urinary tract infection or kidney disease. No matter what the cause, if caught early, we can help with the underlying cause and get kitty’s bathroom habits back on track. We love our Cats (both the furry kind and the UK kind) and want the very best for both. We may not be able to help the Wildcats win, but we can help your kitty live her very best life.
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EATS &
ENTERTAINMENT 176
Dining:
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TOP 5:
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Dining Guide
Infinity Breweries
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Recipes:
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Art in the Bluegrass:
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Art in the Bluegrass:
BBQ Bourbon Glazed Meatballs
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BBN:
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BBN:
Art with a Purpose Public Art Project - I Was Here
Equine Update Heart of a Wildcat - Reggie Warford March Madness Predictions
EATS & ENTERTAINMENT Dining
Infinity Skybar & Café
Photos by Keni Parks Story By Kate Horning Healthy Living Chef katehorning.com
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Dining EATS & ENTERTAINMENT
Grab a bite to eat and soak up the city views atop the Residence Inn at City Center.
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ight floors up in the City Center Mariott and Residence Inn hotel, you'll find what appears to be Lexington's best-kept secret, Infinity: A Skybar & Cafe. With retractable glass wall and ceiling panels and extensive city views, this creative new concept is designed to offer a unique dining experience not accessible anywhere else downtown. Whether you want to pop in for a drink pre-dinner or spend the entire evening on the eighth floor. You're in for a real taste of southern hospitality. "We really want to put on a show for our guests and use ingredients that get them to ask questions," shares director of food and beverage, Ricky Carpentieri as he describes his favorite cocktail on the menu, the Fire is Winter's Fruit—a mezcal and tequila-based drink intended to "open this area up to mezcal." The smoky liquor is paired with sweet honey, spicy habanero shrub, a pineapple foam designed to help wash everything down and finished with citrus ash, created from peels of oranges cooked eight hours in the oven, which gives the cocktail a uniquely bitter citrus scent and showstopping black ash. The Moonlight Kiss is a stunning combination of Town Branch Gin, butterfly pea flower tea, prosecco and simple syrup. A splash of lemon juice is added as the drink heads to the table to turn the tea from a deep blue to a violet purple color. Garnished with an orchid it's almost too remarkable to drink. And if you want a quick cocktail before heading down to Rupp to cheer on the Cats, the New-Era Fashioned is prepared in large batches daily and served on draft so you can experience a high-quality craft cocktail delivered to your table in just minutes at a super competitive price point. "Serving our old fashioned draft-style makes it, so each cocktail is consistently produced at a high quality," shares food and beverage manager, Matt Schulte. While the cocktails might steal quite a bit of the guest's attention, the cuisine is equally as impressive. Chef TJ Harville, a Winchester native, puts his unique stamp on what he describes as a modern American menu. While working in the restaurant business was not where he thought he would end up, Harville shares that he started working with his mom's catering company at the age of ten. While all of his friends were playing, he was busy preparing desserts for three hundred. "Growing up I hated the food business, I tried other options when I got older but kept coming back to food before realizing it was my true passion," shares Harville who now couldn't imagine doing anything else. "I didn't want to be all things to all people with this concept. When you come here, you know what to expect," shares Harville, who lights up as he describes his favorite dish on the menu, Roasted Bone Marrow. "It's been a big hit with our guests, but it's based on an old school French bistro-style dish." Once roasted, the bone marrow becomes a thick, jelly-like spread that is perfect for smearing on toast. It is topped with a red wine onion jam that is cooked down low and slow. The sweet jam pairs perfectly with rich, salty bone marrow and is finished off with bright lemon, an element of acid to help cut through the richness of the dish. Paired with a classic French herb salad of whole herbs such as chervil, parsley and tarragon, the dish is as beautiful and elegant as it is tasty. Another dish that Harville is quite proud of is his Grilled Octopus Salad. "The octopus is something I have had on every menu for the past ten years; it's so unique and fantastic". He also recommends giving the Bluegrass Burger a try, "We get the meat from Purely Meats out of Chicago where they hand-cut their steaks. The beef patties are made from all of their scraps ground together, and they're insanely high-quality," shares Harville. Served atop a brioche bun made by in-house pastry chef, Tyler Donahue, the burger is paired with housemade pickles and topped with Harville's famous "secret sauce." Last but not least, Pan-Seared Catfish is another dish that will steal the show. "You typically see blackened or fried catfish, but we brine our local Kentucky caught catfish in saltwater to tighten up and season the fish. We can then pan-sear the fish without it falling apart while basting the filet with butter, garlic and thyme," shares Harville. Paired with beans and rice and a light, buttery chowchow piccata, you really can't go wrong with this elevated southern classic. It's clear the mission behind Infinity: A Skybar and Cafe is hospitality and service, but the passion for unique food, showstopping cocktails and a one-of-a-kind dining experience is unparalleled.
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EATS & ENTERTAINMENT Dining with
Chef
TJ Harville Favorite veggie? Sunchokes. They're super versatile and different. The texture is kind of like a potato, so they're fun and interesting to cook. I never get bored with them. What made you fall in love with food? Food has always been a big part of my family. We traditionally had big, homecooked meals and I love being able to provide that same experience for others. How do you stay inspired? I read a lot of culinary reference books to give me ideas, and then I visit the farmers' markets. The farmers do the hard work, and I am just trying not to mess it up. Favorite cocktail? I love a good old fashioned. Top: TJ Harville, Executive Chef | Bottom: Matt Schulte, Food & Beverage Manager
Favorite dish from your childhood? My mom is such a great cook, but I would have to say her vegetable soup. It has more meat than veggies, but every time I would come home from college or get sick, it's what she made for me, and it was always delicious. What do you love most about Lexington? Everyone supports and lifts up one another. I truly believe the chefs here are about trying to make one another better. I know I can call a friend if I'm out of romaine, and they're eager to help me out. When you're not working, are you cooking or grabbing carryout? A little bit of both. I hunt, so I often cook with my freezer full of meat, but after those 18 hour days, you'll frequently find me calling uber eats on the way home. What's the last thing you ate? The octopus off our menu. Piece of advice for someone who dreams of pursuing a career in food. You better love it. It's tough, but it's the most rewarding thing you'll ever do in your life.
Recipe
Cashew Outside INGREDIENTS
Bacardi 4yr - 0.75 oz Bacardi Superior - 0.75 oz St. Elizabeth’s Allspice Dram - 0.25 oz
Triple Sec - 0.5 oz Pistachio Orgeat – 1 oz Lime Juice - 0.5 oz
INSTRUCTIONS
Add all ingredients to a shaker, add ice and shake. Strain over fresh ice in a rocks glass. Garnish with dehydrated lime wheel and orchid.
Infinity: A Skybar & Café • City Center, 150 W Main Street, Lexington • (859) 253-1000
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Top 5 Dining EATS & ENTERTAINMENT
TOP
Le ing
BREWERIES story by Amanda Harper
Rock House Brewing 119 Luigart Court • rockhousebrewing.com For craft beer and community, head over to NoLi. Rock House is well known for hosting a variety of events that welcome a wide range of interests, from The Drunken Flea to live music. They have a diverse list of offerings that range from easy-drinking to experimental on tap with tastes sure to please.
Country Boy Brewing 436 Chair Avenue, Lexington • countryboybrewing.com Founded in 2012 by three native Kentuckians, Country Boy has two locations, one near Rupp Arena and one in Georgetown. Their Cougar Bait is an American blonde ale that’s pretty universally loved. For something a little further up the bitterness scale, try Halfway Home, an American pale ale that comes in at 40 IBUs.
Mirror Twin Brewing 725 National Avenue • mirrortwinbrewing.com Their flagship brews are cool and varied and include White Girl Wasted blonde ale and You, Me & Mr. PB, a chocolate peanut butter milk stout. Plus, their rotating menu will keep you coming back. As a delicious bonus, you can get Rolling Oven pizza right inside the taproom.
Blue Stallion Brewing 610 West Third Street • bluestallionbrewing.com Focusing on authentic German lagers and British ales, Blue Stallion works with the purest traditional ingredients wherever possible. Enjoy Dad’s Favorites Deli food with your brews, or play billiards, darts or pinball. Stop by on Mission Mondays, when 10% of taproom sales go to benefit local non profits.
Ethereal Brewing 1224 Manchester Street • etherealbrew.com Located in the Distillery District, Ethereal offers delicious Belgian farmhouse and American craft beers with a creative edge. From game nights to Trivia Night, date night to drinks with coworkers, Ethereal is a great gathering place that offers a little magic for everyone.
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TOPS DINING GUIDE Visit topsinlex.com for more local restaurants
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EATS & ENTERTAINMENT Recipes
BBQ BOURBON GLAZED
MEATBALLS Ingredients:
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
Preparation:
1 (24-count) bag fully cooked frozen turkey meatballs ½ cup reduced-sugar ketchup 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar 2 tablespoons brown sugar 2 teaspoons yellow mustard 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce 1 teaspoon onion powder
Spread the meatballs in a single layer and bake until heated through, 18-20 minutes. While the meatballs are baking, make the sauce by whisking the rest of the ingredients together in a large saucepan over mediumlow heat.
1 tablespoon bourbon
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with foil or a silicone baking mat.
Simmer the sauce for 10 minutes, then add the cooked meatballs to the pan and gently toss to evenly coat. Serve as an appetizer, or with optional rice or quinoa as an entree.
Nutrition Facts: Yield: 4 servings | Serving Size: 6 meatballs Calories 182 | Fat 9g | Carbohydrates 14g | Cholesterol 35mg | Sodium 1,061mg | Fiber 2g | Sugar 8g | Protein 14g
Recipe Courtesy of
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Popculture.com is the nation’s go-to source for all things pop culture and speaks to fans that eat, sleep and play amidst today’s prevailing trends and provides an authentic, one-of-a-kind view of the contemporary landscape.
TOPS in Lexington | March 2020
In Lexington, inspiration is all around us.
ART WITH A
PURPOSE story by Jen Roytz
N
o single piece of art was ever created without purpose and intent. So often the beauty lies not in a piece itself, but how it makes us feel and think about a subject. From the iconic bronze statues of horses scattered throughout the city and murals on the sides of buildings to sculptures that incorporate elements like water, movement and repurposed materials, one of Lexington’s best features is the wide array of thoughtprovoking artistic installations spread throughout the city. Such is the case with “Unlearn Fear + Hate”, an impressive 23 feet wide sculpture that sits above the Courthouse district. According to the artists Kurt Gohde and Kremena Todorova, “Inspired by a need to address growing racial tensions in the United States, the project has promoted public dialog through temporary and permanent activations of the words ‘Unlearn Fear + Hate,’ from a commissioned poem by Frank X Walker, Kentucky's first African American Poet Laureate. It is an invitation for everyone to join the work of diminishing the fears we live with by acknowledging our shared humanity.” Gohde and Todorova have since received two awards for this artwork-the Lexington Forum Spirit Award and the first Georgia Davis Powers Award, established by the Kentucky Council for the Social Studies. Artists Kurt Gohde and Kremena Todorova with Unlearn Fear + Hate
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Art in the Bluegrass EATS & ENTERTAINMENT
Just down the road from the impressive “Unlearn Fear + Hate”, an equally impressive “Surface Reflections” resides. Located across from the Old Courthouse and Cheapside Park on Main Street in the passageway between the Financial Center and its parking garage, this unique hybrid sound sculpture installation by Bill Fontana is a tribute to Town Branch, Lexington’s first water source. Thanks to speakers strategically planted throughout the area, the relaxing sounds of a gently flowing stream fill the years of passers-by, and as the iconic Courthouse bell chimes each hour its tones are digitally mixed with the sounds of the Town Branch water. Another unique piece of art that offers a nod to its Kentucky roots is “Taking Flight,” a tribute piece to the wide variety of bird species that call the Bluegrass home and to the settlers who first came upon them as they made a life for themselves in Kentucky. Located at McConnell Springs, widely known as the birthplace of Lexington, Erika Strecker created this metal sculpture in an effort to evoke the hope and promise of a new beginning as a flock of birds take to the sky. If you’ve ever visited the Downtown Art Center, you may have noticed it is made up of two distinctly different buildings, sandwiched together but widely varying in height and style. Sitting atop its roof and against an exterior wall is “Concordia,” a sculpture created by internationally recognized artist DeWitt Godfrey to honor the diversity within a community and the common bond it creates. The piece is comprised of various sized cylindrical pieces, stacked and fitted together as a buttress between the two buildings to create a single, structurally sound unit, similarly to how a community of individuals from widely varying backgrounds, cultures and lifestyles can come together, balancing various pressures and stresses as a unified system. The city center isn’t the only place to find meaningful artistic instillations. Just a fifteen-minute drive from Downtown Lexington is the beautiful greenspace of Jacobson Park. Offering open fields, wooded areas and a large reservoir, the park is a favorite spot for adults and children alike. Located near the reservoir is “Livestream,” an eco-art installation that consists of a series of brightly colored pipes, intertwined amongst one another. The soundscape combines art, science and technology in an effort to shine a light on one of our most critical resources – groundwater. The piece gathers data on groundwater from throughout Kentucky and transmits the data as sound based on one’s proximity to the pipes. To learn more about these and other meaningful art pieces in and around Lexington, visit lexarts.org. Top: Taking Flight Bottom: Concordia All photos courtesy of LexArts
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PUBLIC ART
PROJECT
I Was Here
story by Jamie Lucke
A
s Louisville and St. Louis prepare to welcome “I Was Here,” the people who brought the groundbreaking public art to Lexington’s streets are still unpeeling its layers of meaning. The fusion of poetry, photography and paint honors the enslaved people who were bought and sold at a public market on Lexington’s Cheapside. VisitLEX President Mary Quinn Ramer remembers that when VisitLEX provided the project with seed money she thought it was “frankly a bit fringe for the kind of stuff we do.” Only recently, she says, has she fully understood how the art is central to tourism and hospitality. “The whole intent of the project is that we truly see each other, which in our business is what we’re trying to do always.” Cierra Spaulding, a life coach and former teacher, is developing an educational resource and reading list for children, teachers and families that will embody the project’s theme “who we were, who we are, who we could be.” In addition to openings in April in downtown Louisville and June in St. Louis at a Wells Fargo Advisors’ diversity event, the tapestries have been the centerpiece of public conversations in Winchester. They can be viewed at several Lexington public libraries. Portraits by Marjorie Guyon in Lexington Public Library - Central Library branch Photo courtesy of Marjorie Guyon
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EATS & ENTERTAINMENT Art in the Bluegrass
An award of excellence from the American Association for State and Local History is spreading interest among historians, who can chronicle in brutal detail what the project’s community liaison Marshall Fields calls the “painful geography of this country, epicenters of sorrow that have been downplayed or excluded by history.” That sorrow weighed on Ramer as she prepared to move a state-of-the-art Visitors Center into the newly refurbished Historic Lexington Courthouse, also on Cheapside. Restaurateur Ouita Michel was opening Zim’s Café and The Thirsty Fox in the restored building and also was struggling, not just with the site’s history of slavery but also with the racial injustices enforced in the courthouse after it opened in 1900. “Ouita and I had no doubt this building would be beautiful, a legacy. We also absolutely knew we wanted a different spirit,” says Ramer. “Ouita and I realized we had a chance to bring a whole new story to this block.”
who we were
While the decision to move Confederate statues from the grounds played out in public, “I Was Here” came together quietly in a painter’s studio overlooking the old courthouse. Artist Marjorie Guyon, who says she felt the presence of enslaved mothers and children in the doorways below, enlisted photographer and actor Patrick J Mitchell and poet Nikky Finney as collaborators. On an autumn Saturday in 2018, Finney read her poem, “Auction Block of Negro Weather,” for the first time publicly and helped lead an audience at the Carnegie Center in one of many conversations inspired by “I Was Here.” Ancestor spirit portraits appeared in the windows of businesses around the old courthouse in October 2018. The spirit portraits looked on as the building was re-dedicated the next month. The portraits are surrounded by words from Finney’s poem and longitudes and latitudes of significant places in the Atlantic slave trade.
who we are
who we could be
Guyon's ortraits shine through the windows of Zim's Cafe at the Historic Courthouse Photo courtesy of Marjorie Guyon
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AUCTION BLOCK OF NEGRO WEATHER a poem by Nikky Finney
Barry Darnell Burton in front of a piece of the "I Was Here" public art project Photo by Patrick J Mitchell
The models for the 21 portraits have taken ownership of the project in significant ways. Barry Darnell Burton wrote a prayer that was offered at a sanctification ceremony last year. Burton also installs the portraits, printed on translucent shades that allow light to shine through the faces. “I love this project. It is powerful. It is informative. It’s always been a spirit-moved project,” he says. Fields, his daughter, Iris, 8, and his mother, Marsha Fields, were models. He said he’s witnessed hearts and minds open in response to the project. “People distance themselves from the suffering of others because they feel the guilt,” says Fields. “Maturity is understanding the difference between fault and responsibility. Is slavery the fault of anyone alive today? No. Is the repair of a nation and its citizens the responsibility of everyone alive now? Absolutely, yes.” The spirit portraits still look out from windows scattered across Lexington, including the Visitors Center and Zim’s in the Historic Courthouse. “It’s hard, when you have a business, to communicate ‘everyone is welcome,’” says Michel. “Those pieces communicate that.” The “I Was Here” team sees the project taking root in other places, instilling hope at what Burton calls “Ground Zero” for slavery’s atrocities and enduring trauma. There’s never been a plan or roadmap, says Mitchell. “The spirits of the ancestors are picking it up and taking it where it needs to be.”
The eye wall was human. Black skin could not take off running from this surge & convergence. Legal tender built & brewed this storm into a quick moving cell of half-goodbyes and twisting outstretched arms. A father's wailing mouth turned up to the night sky forever. A mother's eyes sunk below the county's water line world without end. One three X three vortex of epic ongoing drowning. Forests of human oak razed by the zephyr-force winds of banknotes. Family trees broken leaf by leaf then scattered by the winds of profit. Ten million fingers and toes divided up for chicken change. No hats or scarves or wings issued for the highly skilled wearing black skin. Beloveds, the elements, out in the elements. Low tide. Lightning strikes touching the ground where they stood waiting to be sold. Screams pushing the air unmeasured. Six million eyes and arms in whirling disbelief unravelling from each other. High tide. Goodbye Lovey. A deluge of wind is made by the mouths of children being sucked away. Women are opened like bank vaults, their gold coins snatched. Jerome is made to bare his teeth. Boy & girl twins are pulled north and south like sweet fruit on a stem. Hope is ground into a powder that will later be worn around the neck for good luck. Fathers sew their own eyes shut for what comes next. Salt streams each face under the fat and cumulous Negro clouds gathered. Holding her tiny wet hand his long-drown monsoon begins. Her feet are caught running of the wooden stump straight into the air. Don't forget me, Benna. His voice, her barometer, drops in the dew as he disappears in the back of a wagon. Told not to turn & wave. He waves & turns until she is only a black dot in a torn white dress. Amina grows wings that stretch and bear up against the sight of daughters chained around the same feet she rubbed with rabbit oil the night before. You will never be out of my sight, Rose promises the dust in the shape of a son trailing the back of a horse. Jocko and Juju go colorblind when they finally arrive in South Carolina, the rows of cotton there are long squalls of blue and green. A handsome woman stands in the middle of hurricane force winds, her 10-year-old daughter is being led away by a man with a whip whose zipper keeps flying open. The weather vanes of their sweet tobacco breath still hover in every public square of every city of the Republic. I was here they remind us if we dare lift our eyes to dare look their way. The promise of their stolen lives crumbled in between the joists and the starlight of the jet stream. A handsome people who arrived with broken hearts, punctured lungs, liver spots. A lovesome people, who arrived with belly buttons and blackberry moles, who came slew footed & left-handed, cried easily, or not at all. A red-blooded tribe who tried to run away, endured, and molded a nation out of infested swamps, impassable timberland, and eye wall after eye wall of hate. It was cataclysmic. There was water everywhere. Their easy on the eyes hearts pushed back against the sheets of water that kept coming.
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EATS & ENTERTAINMENT Equine
EQUINE UPDATE SNOWBIRD DRESSAGE III March 14 | Kentucky Horse Park - Covered Arena Likened to ballet on horseback, Dressage is a style of riding in which horse and rider perform a series of movements to show the suppleness and trainability of their horses. This installment of the Snowbird Dressage Series will offer Introductory, Training, First, Second, Third and above levels as well as USEA classes. The show is free for spectators. For more information go to kentuckydressageassociation.com.
ROAD TO THE HORSE 2020 March 19-22 | Kentucky Horse Park - Alltech Arena Known as the world championship of colt-starting, Road to the Horse is a competition for elite horse trainers in which horsemen (and women!) take an unbroke and largely unhandled 3-year-old American Quarter Horse and, over the span of three days and in front of a packed arena, train it to not only to be ridden but to navigate an obstacle course. Single-day and weekend passes may sell out and can be purchased at roadtothehorse.com.
KENTUCKY HORSE PARK’S SPRING OPENER March 28-29 | Kentucky Horse Park Over the years, the Kentucky Horse Park has not only been the place to see horses and experience an authentic working horse farm, but it is also home to many equestrian events and competitions. To take the experience to the next level the Kentucky Horse Park is hosting its very own horse show - the Spring Opener. The 2020 Spring Opener horse show will be an unrated, two-day, open level show with a wide variety of divisions of English and Western classes. For more information go to kyhorsepark.com.
PAUL FRAZER MEMORIAL COMBINED TEST AND DRESSAGE SHOW March 28 | 8am-5pm | Kentucky Horse Park The Paul Frazer Memorial is the unofficial kickoff to show season for many equestrians in and around Central Kentucky. Proceeds from the horse show beneďŹ t Central Kentucky Riding for Hope, a therapeutic riding and horsemanship facility that helps military veterans, people dealing with mental health issues and people with cognitive and/or physical limitations. Each year funds raised from the show allow CKRH to provide more than 2,800 therapeutic riding and horsemanship sessions to more than 1,000 children and adults. For more information, go to ckrh.org.
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BBN EATS & ENTERTAINMENT
HEART OF A
WILDCAT story by Dick Gabriel Photos courtesy of UK Library
BBN
Reggie Warford
H
is name is in the University of Kentucky basketball records book, among the hundreds of other lettermen from teams gone by. What you won’t see is the fact that of the 155 African American basketball players to pull on the Wildcat blue and white, Reggie Warford was the first to earn a degree. And now, a cruel twist of fate has caused his former teammates and fellow ex-Cats to rally around Warford, who spends much of his time connected to an oxygen canister. Warford played at six-feet tall and yet, had the heart of a lion. But it was that same heart that failed him later in life, which he expected. Heart disease runs in his family; in fact, Reggie collapsed during his sophomore year and was told he’d never play again. He could only resume his career after begging Coach Joe B. Hall to let him play. “I said, ‘Coach – I’m nothing… without this,” Warford said, tears welling in his eyes at the memory of nearly losing the sport he loved. Hall relented, only after Warford agreed to sign a waiver absolving the university if anything should happen to him. He resumed his career and led the Cats to the 1976 NIT championship. But some years later, Warford needed quintuple bypass surgery and not long after, he underwent both heart and kidney transplants. Just when it seemed he had earned a second chance at life came the heartbreaking news that he had developed sarcopenia, a disease that destroys muscle tissue. Some day, Reggie won’t be able to breathe on his own. But he’s here now, and he’s looking back on the time he spent as a pioneer at UK. It was tough, being the only black player on the UK team when he first arrived, dealing with racism both in the deep south and on the UK campus. But he stuck it out – and he’s hoping others learn from the path he chose. “He paved the way the right way,” Hall said. “He paved the way for all the kids after him.” Ex-teammate Kevin Grevey is now a scout for the NBA’s Charlotte Hornets. “This university should be grateful for Reggie’s path,” he said. “And every African-American who comes here and plays should know who Reggie Warford is. That should be his legacy.” Reggie has thought about just that. “I want them to know who I was,” he said. “That would be a great legacy.” He also wants them to know that battling loneliness, self-doubt and racism paid off. “Everything I went through at Kentucky was worth it,” he said, “because I got the degree.”
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EATS & ENTERTAINMENT BBN
MARCH MADNESS
BBN
PREDICTIONS story by Larry Vaught Photos by Jeff Houchin
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I
n this wacky college basketball season filled with upsets, could the trend hold into the NCAA Tournament? History indicates otherwise. The 72 Final Four teams since 2002 have included 36 teams that were No. 1 seeds and 70 of the 72 teams have been no lower than a No. 8 seed. Kentucky is not going to be a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament. That's a given. Still, the Cats have shown at times that they can play as well as any team likely to be a No. 1 seed and have the right pieces to be a March Madness contender. Unfortunately, UK has also had lapses where it has looked like a team that may not even reach the second weekend of NCAA play. Mississippi State coach Ben Howland, who took three UCLA teams to the Final Four, says the Cats are a "definite" Final Four quality team.
TOPS in Lexington | March 2020
BBN EATS & ENTERTAINMENT "Nick Richards is really one of the dominant bigs in all of college basketball with the way he shoots the ball. They do a good job tonight protecting the paint. They're good. This is a very, very good Kentucky team. Their guard play is outstanding; they don't turn it over," Howland said. Kentucky coach John Calipari has pointed to the parity in college basketball all season. He's noted that some year maybe eight teams had a chance to win the national title and up to 20 with an opportunity to reach the Final Four. "I'd tell you right now that there may be 25 teams that could win the national title. There may be 60, 70 teams that could get to a Final Four," Calipari said in late January. Obviously, the coach has been known to embellish, but the weekly upsets in college basketball and lack of a traditional dominant team has a lot of teams — including Kentucky — believing a hot streak in March could put a national title in play.
2020 NCAA Championship DATES TO KNOW Selection Sunday
March 15
First Four
March 17-18
NCAA Tournament Round 1
March 19-20
NCAA Tournament Round 2
March 21-22
Sweet 16
March 26-27
Elite 8
March 28-29
Final Four
April 4
NCAA Championship Game
April 6
Calipari believes a Final Four team needs a "terrific guard that can bust it and shoot balls and a couple of bigs to provide toughness, rebounding and defense." Many feel Kentucky has the best guard trio — Ashton Hagans, Immanuel Quickley and Tyrese Maxey — in college basketball. Hagans can be a lockdown defender, Quickley is a 3-point threat and lock at the foul line, and Maxey can score in a variety of ways. Richards has to be the SEC's most improved player and has been dominant at times. EJ Montgomery has shown flashes of big-time play. Inconsistency has been a problem for the Cats who have had a propensity to fail to put teams away. UK has also been prone to getting knocked around by more physical teams on the boards. Both could be fatal flaws in tourney play. ESPN analyst Jimmy Dykes believes UK is "built to win on a neutral floor" like the NCAA Tournament. "You've got the three guards that aren't going to turn it over. They're going to guard their tails off, they give you nothing from the 3-point line. That's really big at tournament time," Dykes said. "Kentucky has a legitimate post presence in Nick Richards. To get to a Final Four, you have to be able to hold your own around the rim, and Nick has shown he can do that." Calipari has shown he can get teams to the Final Four — he did so at UK in 2011, 2012, 2014 and 2015. He always gears what he does for March, not regular season play because titles matter at Kentucky. Can UK get on that Final Four type run this year like 2011 and 2014 when the season had a lot bumps? Maybe, but this team has a very small margin of error and won't be able to afford a horrific shooting game, a key injury, deep foul trouble or getting overpowered on the boards. "Kentucky could still get there (Final Four), but there are no givens this year," ESPN analyst Dick Vitale said. "Then again, that's kind of true for everybody in a year that has been as crazy as any I can remember.
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PHOTOS
TOPS
FEBRUARY PREVIEW PARTY Arthur Murray Dance Studio | February 5 topsinlex.com Photos by Woody Phillips HUNTER LISLE, DAN GLASS AND WHITNEY HANNA
PEGGY TRAFTON AND ELESHA BURKHARDT
JANIE OLMSTEAD AND MICHELLE WOOLUM
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EMILY MILLER, KATE NELSON AND EMILY CHAMBERS
CHAD HOWARD, JESSE CAYLOR AND TOMMY BRODBECK
TOPS in Lexington | March 2020
PHOTOS
ETHAN TURNER AND BENJAMIN COATES APEKSHA PATEL, EMMANUEL WASHINGTON AND DANA BACK-PACK
KRISTEN OAKLEY, MEGAN HILLENMEYER, DESTIN SMITH AND MEGAN MARTIN
CLARE SEAGREN, NORMA SANFORD, KATE ZAYTSEVA AND MARK EDWARD COUCH
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BOB LONG AND MELISSA BROWN
LIZ & BILLY TOOMBS
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PHOTOS
TOPS
FEBRUARY PREVIEW PARTY Arthur Murray Dance Studio | February 5 topsinlex.com Photos by Woody Phillips
CATHYA FRANKO, CHUCK ELLINGER AND CRINDE FRANCKE
DON LOCKNANE AND BECKI SCHELL
CHIP & ASTRID SEBASTIAN
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HANNAH LANE, KRISTINA PING AND JENNIFER HOLBERT
ROSIE PICONE, BOBBY DOCHERTY, RAE MICKELWAIT AND DUNCAN KING-WILLIAMS
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PHOTOS
DREAMERS AND DOERS:
VOICES OF KENTUCKY WOMEN Lyric Theatre & Cultural Arts Center | January 28 Hosted by the League of Women Voters of Lexington lwvlexington.com Photos by Woody Phillips
LIZ SHEEHAN AND MICHAEL BREEDING
TONI REISS AND JENNIFER JACKSON
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YAVON AND LORA L. GRIFFIN
PHOTOS
KAREN SUMMERS AND MARY HUGHES
FAYE YOUNG, OPA JOHNSON, YOLANDA COSTNER AND MELISSA MURPHY
KIM SWEEZY AND KIM PARKER-BROWN
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MEMBERS OF THE WOMEN’S SUFFRAGE CENTENNIAL CHORUS
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PHOTOS
CHI SAINT JOSEPH HEALTH
ANNUAL MEDICAL STAFF DINNER & CASINO NIGHT The Venues of Grand Reserve | January 25 chisaintjosephhealth.org Photos by Ron Morrow
PAMELA & JOHN HARRIS
NICK ABEDI AND BRUCE TASSIN TRACY & ELISEO COLON
ALLISON MARTIN, DANIELLE WATTS AND KIM CONNER
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THOMAS & ESTHER VON UNRUG AND MUBASHIR QAZI
PHOTOS
KATIE BURDETTE AND YVONNE EDGE
LOUIE & AMBER FRANCESCHI
BRUCE & MARGEE KOFFLER, LAURIE & JOHN LITTLE
GI SOOK & MOSES KIM
KEATON SAWAYA AND HOLLY HOUNCHELL
RICK & AMY LOZANO, TRAVIS & ANDRA SEWALLS
TINA TURNER AND MARSHA BURKE
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PHOTOS
BLUE GRASS COMMUNITY FOUNDATION CELEBRATES
$100+ MILLION IN GRANTMAKING Lexington Government Center & The Apiary | February 20 bgcf.org Photos by Ron Morrow
PG PEEPLES AND LISA ADKINS
LINDA GORTON AND FRAN TAYLOR
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BOB BABBAGE AND BEN KAUFFMAN
PHOTOS
ZACH JOSEPH AND ANNISSA FRANKLIN
MIKE & HARRIET ADES
ABBY THOMPSON AND MARTI QUINTERO
JASON TATE AND LIZ KIP
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PHOTOS
JAPAN/AMERICA SOCIETY OF KY
SHINNENKAI Governor’s Mansion, Frankfort | January 31 jask.org Photos by Rob Bolson
ANN & DEREK CRAWFORD, KAYOKO FUKUSHIMA AND DAVID CARPENTER,
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BRITAINY & ANDY BESHEAR
MASAYO ISHIGURE
HIROSHI ITO AND TATSURO TAKAHASHI
KEVIN SHURN, TAMMY & KERRY CREECH AND DAVID BROWN
TOPS in Lexington | March 2020
PHOTOS
HIROKI MACHI AND ROBERT BROWN
MASATO YAMADORI, YOSHIO SHIBAZAKI AND TOMO NAKAMURA
BILL QUENEMOEN
KAY SARGENT AND JERRY MONAHAN
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PHOTOS
FIFTH THIRD BANK PRESENTS
COMMERCE LEXINGTON ANNUAL DINNER Lexington Center | January 30 commercelexington.com Photos by Rob Bolson
CRYSTAL NEWTON
LARRY FORESTER, ANDY BARR AND ANGELA EVANS
BILL LEAR, DARBY TURNER AND MARK MANUEL
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ANNISSA FRANKLIN AND LISA HIGGINS-HORD
TOPS in Lexington | March 2020
DANNY MURPHY
JAY INMAN AND LATOI MAYO
PHOTOS
CRAIG & MADONNA TURNER
BEN SHAFFAR, ANN BAKHAUS, ROCKY ADKINS AND TODD ZEIGLER
JAMES BROWN, ADRIAN WALLACE, JOSH MCCURN, DAVID O’NEIL, JENNIFER REYNOLDS AND KATHY PLOMIN
SAMI WEBB, DARRYL TERRY AND LEAH TAYLOR-WRIGHT
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CHERYL EADENS AND BILL DEMARCUS
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PHOTOS
HER KNIGHT DANCE Keeneland Entertainment Barn | February 8 herknightdance.org Photos by Paul Atkinson
TURNER PRINCESSES FLANK PRINCESS BUHR
RUSSEL KING AND HIS PRINCESSES
PRINCESSES READY TO DANCE
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JON SALLEE AND HIS PRINCESS
MARK YORK AND HIS PRINCESS
of Events
CALENDAR
MARCH 5
214
7pm Lyric Theatre
Amplified: International Women’s Festival Kick Off Concert
Blue Grass Trust Antiques & Garden Show Gala Preview Party
MARCH 7
Ain’t I a Woman?
8pm Kentucky Horse Park
8pm Lyric Theatre & Cultural Arts Center
International Women’s Festival 12-5pm Lyric Theatre
MARCH 6 Black Jacket Symphony: Journey’s “Escape”
Central Kentucky Heart Ball 6pm Central Bank Center
Lexington Opera House
Marty Stuart Frankel Cocktails & Casino Night
7:30pm Lexington Opera House
Zac Brown Band
Blue Grass Trust Antiques & Garden Show
7pm Rupp Arena
10am-6pm Alltech Arena
Tails & Ales
Winter Jam
7pm Campbell House
6pm Rupp Arena
Blue Grass Trust Antiques & Garden Show
MARCH 8
Country Unplugged
11am-4pm Alltech Arena
7:30pm The Carrick House
10am-6pm Alltech Arena
7:30pm Singletary Center for the Arts
TOPS in Lexington | March 2020
Blue Grass Trust Antiques & Garden Show
2020 Lexington Bridal Fest Wedding Expo
12-4pm DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Hotel Lexington
MARCH 9 US Air Force Concert Band
7:30pm Singletary Center for the Arts
MARCH 10 FEAST 2020
6-9pm Fasig-Tipton
MARCH 12 Jazz: Live at the Library 7pm Central Public Library
MARCH 14 Lexington St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival 1pm Main Street
Top O’ Mornin’ Brunch
Readers Envy Lexington Legendary Book Bash
9am DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Hotel
Flute Festival 2020!
8am University of Kentucky
10:30-12:30pm The Mane on Main
Shamrock Shuffle 3k
8-10am Robert F.Stephens Courthouse Plaza
MARCH 20 Flute Festival 2020!
8am University of Kentucky
Library After Hours
6-8pm Central Public Library
MARCH 24 Wild n Out
8:30pm Rupp Arena
MARCH 26 Lexington Comic & Toy Con Rupp Arena
MARCH 27 Lexington Comic & Toy Con
MARCH 13 Future of Fashion 2020
7pm The Thoroughbred Center
Dance SCAPA
7:30pm Lexington Opera House
The Kentucky Crafted Market
MARCH 21
Rupp Arena
Reforest 5k
An American in Paris
8am-12pm Hisle Farm Park
Spring Fling
12-5pm Sir Barton Way
7:30pm Lexington Opera House
MARCH 28 Lexington Comic & Toy Con Rupp Arena
Fri 10am-Sun 4pm Kentucky Horse Park
Due to the changing nature of events, please contact hosting organizations before attending any event. Visit TOPSinLex.com for more fun!
CALENDAR of Events An American in Paris
1pm & 7:30pm Lexington Opera House
MARCH 29 An American in Paris
Central Kentucky Home & Garden Show 10am Central Bank Center
The Crucible
7:30pm Singletary Center for the Arts
1pm & 6:30pm Lexington Opera House
Eddie Montgomery
APRIL 1 Double Q Fools Day Comedy Fest 8pm Lexington Opera House
APRIL 3 Central Kentucky Home & Garden Show 2pm Central Bank Center
The Music of Billy Joel & Elton John
Nicole Byer
7:15pm Comedy Off Broadway
APRIL 17 Nicole Byer
7:15pm & 9:45pm Comedy Off Broadway
Manchester Music Hall
Bandstand
APRIL 5 Central Kentucky Home & Garden Show 11am Central Bank Center
7:30pm Lexington Opera House
APRIL 18 Nicole Byer
7:15pm & 9:45pm Comedy Off Broadway
APRIL 11 Monster Jam Arena Tour 3 8pm Rupp Arena
7:30pm Lexington Opera House
The Crucible
APRIL 16
Snow White
10 am Lexington Opera House
Bandstand
1pm & 7:30pm Lexington Opera House
Cowboy Up for a Cure Rodeo Alltech Arena
7:30pm Singletary Center for the Arts
APRIL 4 The Great Pug Run 5k
APRIL 15 David Sedaris
7:30pm Lexington Opera House
12am Pisacano Dr
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APRIL 19 Bandstand
1pm & 6:30pm Lexington Opera House
APRIL 23 Hello, Dolly!
SAVE THE DATE
Barbasol Championship
Keeneland Spring Meet
July 13-19 at Champions at Keene Trace
Kentucky Horse Park
Lillies in Lexington
Woodford Humane Society Summer Gala
May 1 at Keeneland
July 25 at Keeneland
APRIL 24
Derby Day in Lexington
Lexington Restaurant Week
7pm Lexington Opera House
April 2-24 at Keeneland
Kentucky Three-Day Event
Hello, Dolly!
7pm Lexington Opera House
Kentucky Three-Day Event Kentucky Horse Park
APRIL 25 Hello, Dolly!
2pm & 7pm Lexington Opera House
Kentucky Three-Day Event Kentucky Horse Park
APRIL 26 Kentucky Three-Day Event
May 2 at Keeneland
July 24-August 2
Dancing with the Lexington Stars
Railbird
Taste of the Bluegrass
UK Football Home Opener
May 15 at Keeneland
12pm at Kroger Field
Lexington Heart Walk
Bluegrass International Cup
May 9 at Keeneland
September 11 at Mt. Brilliant Farm
KET Summer Celebration
Keeneland Fall Meet
June 6 at Donamire Farm
October 2-24 at Keeneland
Man & Woman of the Year
Breeders’ Cup
May 9 at Marriott Griffin Gate
June 19 at Marriott Griffin Gate
August 22-23 at Keeneland
November 6-7 at Keeneland
Kentucky Horse Park
Due to the changing nature of events, please contact hosting organizations before attending any event. Visit TOPSinLex.com for more fun!
PHOTOS Top Shots
TS
Right On Band brought down the house at the Lexington Marriott City Center Grand Opening Gala
Highgrove Valentine's Day Ball
Impeccably dressed at Omega Mardi Gras
Bashing open the sake at Shinnenkai 2020
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Selma's Catering brought food and fun to the Easter Seals Cardinal Hill 17th Annual Wild Game & Sports Auction Dinner