TOPS in Lexington: November 2016

TOPS

NOVEMBER 2016 • PRICELESS

W h o ’s W h o //

W h a t ’s N e w //

W h a t To D o November 2016 vol. 10 no. 11

G O R E D F O R WO M E N

HEART SURVIVORS

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CHIEF CHILTON

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MEET JULIE WILKES

NOVEMBER FEATURES the go red issue

Tour Of Homes: A Contemporary You’ll Flip Over

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TOPS Cares: The House That Love Built

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Go Red 93 For Women

PHOTOS

36 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.

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Out + About

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TOPS Preview Party

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TOBA Awards

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Gear & Beer

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Jefferson Street Soirée

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Recycle The Runway

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Celebration of Kentucky Women’s Hearts

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Big Blue Madness

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Empowered

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Keeneland Fall Meet

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Kiss A Pig

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KY Farm Bureau Legislative Appreciation Social

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Conservation And Cocktails

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TOP Shots

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FUNDAMENTALS AT HOME Tour of Homes: A Contemporary You’ll Flip Over

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Gardening: Festively Forced Bulbs

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FACES + PLACES 116

Tops Cares: The House That Love Built

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Go Red For Women

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New & Noteworthy: Whitaker Family YMCA

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Meet the Media: Tom Kenny

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CUISINE

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Dining: Uncle Maddio’s

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Southern Lady Cooks: White Chocolate Cranberry Muffins

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Beer of the Month: New Belgium Accumulation

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Wine of the Month: Scotto Cellars Rare Pinot

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Taste of Thyme: Have A Heart Healthy Thanksgiving

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Skinny Mom: Squash And Kale & Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes

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Top 5 Dining: Pizza | Part 1

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LIFE + STYLE

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Wow Wedding: Teri & Michael Brock

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Wedding Trends: Wedding Shoes That Wow

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Outfit of the Month: Pilgrim Chic

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Holiday Gift Guide

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FUNDAMENTALS FAMILY Family Cares Spotlight: Her Knight

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Super Mom: Shannon Kerkhoff

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In The Buf: Kindness

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Parties: Favorite Fall Desserts

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Pets: Holiday Hazards

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EQUINE 165

Filly of the Month: Allie Knowles

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Colt of the Month: Daniel Cunniffe

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Horse Park Happenings

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COMMUNITY KY High School Students to Receive Basic CPR Training

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Mission: Lifeline

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What’s New, Kentucky?

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Sports: Beware of Briscoe

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Sports: Which Kentucky Fan Are You?

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Sports: Top 10 UK Football Plays of the Last 20 Years

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Calendar: Lex in the City

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CONTRIBUTORS Photographers Paul Atkinson Ben Burchett Tracie Dillon Michael Huang Phillips Mitchell

Ron Morrow Ken Parks Keni Parks Woody Phillips

Writers Michelle Aiello Sarah Boerkircher Jesse L. Brooks Susie Bullock Allison Davis Cynthia Ellingsen Dick Gabriel

Brooke Griffin Amanda Harper Drew Johnson Marsha Koller Meredith Lane Beth Langfels Ryan Lemond

Buff y Lawson Barbara Meyer Michelle Rauch Jen Roytz Deanna Talwalkar

Judy Yeager

Interns and other contributors: Madison Rexroat, Megan Rose and Rosie Ecker

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Cover Image by Phillips Mitchell Have a great idea for a story?

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NEXT MONTH

DECEMBER holiday issue TOPS Cares will get the scoop on Shop with a Cop. The glitz and glamour of the holiday season will be on full display with our Holiday Fashion spread.

Top 5 Dining: Pizza | Part 2!

in LEXINGTON est. 2005

Keith Yarber Publisher kyarber@topsmarketing.com Kristen Oakley Editor-In-Chief kristen@topsmarketing.com Danielle Pope Director of Promotions & Marketing Host of TOPS TV danielle@topsmarketing.com

Top Marketing Group 465 East High Street, Suite 201 Lexington, KY 40507 859.543.TOPS (8677) | 859.514.1621 (fax) TopsInLex.com

Volume 10 No. 11 Amanda Harper Production Manager amandah@topsmarketing.com

Teri Brock Advertising Sales Manager teri@topsmarketing.com

Bonni Jiunta Advertising Account Executive bonni@topsmarketing.com

Jen Brown Content Manager & Graphic Design jen@topsmarketing.com

Debbie Hodges Advertising Account Executive debbie@topsmarketing.com

Jenny Button Scearce Advertising Account Executive jenny@topsmarketing.com

Haley Walls Graphic Design haley@topsmarketing.com

Niki Dillman Advertising Account Executive niki@topsmarketing.com

Melissa Meatyard Art Director & Associate Editor melissa@topsmarketing.com

Keni Parks Photography Manager photos@topsinlex.com

The views and comments expressed by the authors are not always that of our editors or publishers. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this publication, TOP Marketing Group accepts no responsibility or liability for any errors, omissions or resultant consequences, including any loss or damage arising from the reliance on information in this publication. All images contained in TOPS in Lexington Magazine are subject to copyright of the artist or photographer as named, but not limited thereto.

Reproduction of any part of this magazine without prior written permission is prohibited.

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OUT + ABOUT | SOCIE T Y

Wear Red Day at Keeneland

Noah Gann, Nicole Lyon and Julie Gann at the grand opening of Lexi + Lou

Grand Opening of The Weekend Drift Featuring Tommy Bahama

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Mr and Miss KSU Coronation

Lynn Martin Inducted into KBA Hall of Fame

Keller Williams Ribbon Cutting in Georgetown

PHOTOS | Preview Party Market on National | October 5th | topsinlex.com | Photos by Woody Phillips

Carolyn Bentley and Shawnda Pulley Sylvia Cerel-Suhl, David Cash, Laura and Hugh James

Niki Dillman, Sasha Bowlby and Libby Workman

Melissa Burkhart and Karen Keck

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Michael and Gabriel Huang

Victoria Meyer, Jenny Scearce and Diane Gevedon

Sherri Skoien and Bobbie Niehaus

Gwen Hart

Ralph Coldiron and Doug Flynn

Leanne Brooks and Ray Triscik

Keith Yarber and Ron Tritschler

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PHOTOS | Preview Party Market on National | October 5th | topsinlex.com | Photos by Woody Phillips

Amber Philpott, Steve Hill and Ron Morrow

Debbie Hodges, Davonna Saier, Angie & Jay Ballard

Kelly Bates and Holly Browning

Mike Turner and Bonni Jiunta

Teri Brock and Houston Hall

Clare Henson and Michelle Jimenez

Analisa Wagoner and Melissa Karrer

Dionna Huang and Dan Glass

Matt Freier and Jody Oney

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PHOTOS | TOBA Awards Stone Street Farm | September 10th | toba.org | Photos by Jim Burgett

Frank Taylor and Marie Jones

Barbara Banke, Chris & Ariel Jackson

Christina Lawton and Erin Hogan

Dan Metzger and Chad Lashbrook

Jane Lyons

Jay Goodwin and Meredith Krupp

Mr. & Mrs. Randy Bradshaw

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Tom Riddle, Kathleen Sullivan and Katie O’Brien

Peter Fenwick

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PHOTOS | TOBA Awards Stone Street Farm | September 10th | toba.org | Photos by Jim Burgett

Marc Guilfoil and Elisabeth Jensen

Nancy, Maddie and Tim Hamlin, Allen Poindexter

Buck Wheeler and Ken Ramsey

Jimmy Bell and J. David Richardson

Barkley Porter

Kim & Andy Hils

Matia & Andrew Cary

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Mr. & Mrs. Ford, Jude Florio, Christina Bossinakis and Patrick Metzger

Stephen & Missy Turner

Jim Schenck

Palmer Tolly and Paul Osbourne

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PHOTOS | Gear & Beer Benfiting Surgery on Sunday | J & H Lanmark | September 10th | surgeryonsunday.org | Photos by Paul Atkinson

Karen Parsons and Claire Hart

Aaron Kupferer and Griffin Appel

Anna Taylor

Misti Ottaiano and Kate Ekmann

Cayla Turner and Kitty Moore

Chris Atkinson Kim & Dave Jones

Andy Moore and Rachel Gunn Weaver

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Kevin Foster

Layson & Brett Tweeten

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PHOTOS | Jefferson Street Soirée Jefferson Street | September 14th | Photos by Ron Morrow

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PHOTOS | Recycle The Runway Benefiting Dress for Success | Grand Reserve | September 20th | lexington.dressforsuccess.org | Photos by Ron Morrow

Analisa Wagoner, Made Astri Karniani and Renee Shaw

The fierce runway models

Beverly Bowen, Luke Fister, Made Astri Karniani, Cheryl Weiss, Marishia Hamilton, Catrena Bowman, Leidy Borges, Jacqueline Ringo, Angie Kean and Theodore Ware

Diana Emrich, Dawn Alvarado, Judith Piazza, Heather Quinn and Cassy Preston

Jonathan Hamilton, Roy Woods, Kim Parker Brown, Lisa Parker Woods, Analisa Wagoner, Carolyn Dunn and Ashlee Hamilton

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Hunter Lisle, Pamula Honchell and Bret Melrose

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PHOTOS | Celebration of Kentucky Women’s Hearts Governor’s Mansion | September 20th | heart.org | Photos by Woody Phillips

Rachel Furnish, Ashley Orberson and Laura McDonald

Celebrating at the Governor’s Mansion

Rebecca Gray, Denise Lutz, Julie Babbage, Taft McKinstry and Sylvia Cerel-Suhl

Rena Elswick, Janie Head and Noelle Dick

Mike Turner, Cindy & David Whitehouse

Jill Bell

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Joey Maggard, Donna Arnett, Stephanie Sarrantonio and Kristen Oakley

Cordelia Harbut

Michelle Landers

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AT HOME

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Tour of Homes: A Contemporary You’ll Flip Over

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Gardening: Festively Forced Bulbs

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A CONTEMPORARY 56

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YOU’LL FLIP OVER I

f you think the two ponds and bridge leading to the pivoting front door at 444 Lakeshore Drive are unusual, you should see the “lazy river” swimming pool and waterfall in back.

Turn the pool jets on, and you can drift aimlessly for hours to the sound of water cascading from the roof of the pool house. Want to get your heart rate up? Swim or walk laps against the current. Need to work on your golf game? Take the bridge to the putting green on the island in the middle of the pool without getting wet.

Children might have a tough time deciding between playing in the pool and romping on the Lakeview Park playground on the other side of the backyard fence.

These are a few of the many features that set the newly updated three-story home apart from almost everything else on the market in Central Kentucky.

It’s also unequivocally contemporary. In Central Kentucky, where traditional architecture styles such as neo-traditional, Georgian, bungalow, Colonial, and Cape Cod dominate the landscape, the 5,614-square-foot residence stands as an example of good design that has stood the test of time and improved with age.

Renovation team Eric and Rebecca Burnworth and Bryan and Cathy May of Lexington knew they had the tools to successfully execute their plans for the 38-year-old Lakeview neighborhood house. For starters, Rebecca is an architect, interior designer and a Realtor. She and Cathy, a designer and Realtor herself, collaborated on colors, fixtures, and finishes.

Eric’s company Burnworth Builds oversaw construction and made Rebecca and Cathy’s vision a reality. Meanwhile, Bryan, regional vice president with Century Mortgage Company, helped with financial aspects of the project.

Even though the home’s footprint didn’t change, the scope of work needed to bring the home to standards one would expect in a $1.2 million home required extensive work inside and outside, Rebecca said.

“We didn’t want to overdo it. We wanted to respect the home’s design by choosing materials and finishes to accentuate its clean, simple lines,” she added. A neutral color palette, interesting textures, bold geometric tile patterns, juxtaposing straight lines with curves, and repeating certain shapes worked together to give the property a fresh, new identity.

Written by Susie Hillard Bullock Shaun Ring Photography

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n 1978, a few years after immigrating to the U.S. and earning a degree in civil engineering at the University of Kentucky, Indonesia native Hiang Thé (pronounced She-ung Tay) bought a half-acre corner lot on Lakeshore Drive. There, he designed and built a contemporary house “which was fairly new for the late 70s,” wife Jeannie Thé recalls.

“Watching Hiang build 444 (Lakeshore) from an idea, to sketching his vision, to drawing the blueprints, to doing some of the hands-on craftsmanship himself right up to the third floor was impressive,” she recalls. “It had an indoor pool, sunken living room, three stories with balconies, and beautiful stone fireplaces.

The exterior was gray and stone.”

The Thé residence became, and remains, a Lexington landmark of sorts. Hiang and Jeannie moved in 1986 following the birth of their second child, yet some folks continue to refer to it—erroneously—as “the Sin Thé house.” A martial arts instructor like his younger brother Hiung, Sin Thé never lived there. The house got its nickname primarily because Sin’s name was easier to pronounce than Hiang’s, Jeannie Thé believes.

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“THE HOUSE DEFINITELY HAD GOOD BONES,” REBECCA RECALLED THINKING.

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he moment they walked through the front door, 444 Lakeshore captivated the Burnworths and the Mays. The threestory fieldstone fireplace still draws them in, like moths to a flame.

Original square posts extending to the ceiling support low walls on the secondand third floors give definition to the two-story foyer. Four bedrooms, three bathrooms, a second-floor family room, and multi-purpose space on the third floor offered the open-concept floor plan with the privacy and flexibility that families want.

Creating the interior design around the fireplace-- the “centerpiece of the house,” in Rebecca’s words-- was a no-brainer.”

The key was to stick with neutral and earth tones that blended with the soft hues of the stone. White walls (Napier’s Painting), ceramic tile in bold, geometric patterns, gray wide-plank oak flooring (Interior Solutions), solid oak doors stained brown (Neil Peterson Woodworks) and steel accents (Iron Horse Forge) combine to form an aesthetically pleasing backdrop of texture and color.

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he designers’ plans unfold in different and sometimes surprising ways, depending on the room. In the dining room, for example, a sheet of steel covers one whole wall. Though a work of art in itself, it’s also plain enough to focus most of the attention on the fireplace.

On the other side of the foyer, Iron Horse Forge wrapped the treads and risers of the steps leading to the sunken living room with the same steel, custom cut and molded for a tight fit.

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“THIS PLACE IS MADE FOR ENTERTAINING. COMPLETELY.”

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o give the room a focal point, the designers put in a wood-burning fireplace, framed it with smooth white floor-to-ceiling tile, and painted exposed brick walls on either side charcoal gray—a stunning effect.

They enclosed the adjacent patio and converted it to a family room with direct access to the deck and pool. Rebecca enlarged the doorway and window openings in the wall between family and living rooms to bring in natural light and vistas of the back yard oasis.

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hile the fieldstone fireplace rules the house, without the proper blending of color and texture, it could have looked oddly out-of-place amid its modern surroundings. Nowhere is the designers’ experience and expertise more evident than in the kitchen, where Rebecca and Cathy melded old and rough with new and sleek to perfection.

An all-white island anchors the double-galley kitchen from Architectural Kitchen and Bath. The same style cabinetry with a warm brown finish highlights deeper shades in the stone, the steel wall in the dining room and the floating steel staircase.

White quartz countertops with waterfall edges keep things light and bright, and the dreamy blue-gray glass tile backsplash softens the look. A picture window that spans the better part of an entire wall provides a panoramic view of the back yard. Oversized door pulls that might look silly in a smaller, fussier kitchen match the style and scale of this one.

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few steps away, the powder room also is a study in contrasts. One wall is covered with tile in a bold, geometric pattern. Perpendicular to it, a thick slab of walnut with a natural, unfinished edge (Neil Peterson Woodworks) holds a trendy oval countertop sink.

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he second floor has back-to-back fireplaces – one in the family room and one in the owner’s suite, which Rebecca describes as “large enough for two king-size beds and sitting areas,” with enough space left for his-and-hers walk-in closets. An oval soaking tub flanked by twin cantilevered vanities commands most of the attention in the bathroom – so much that you don’t immediately notice the glass-and-tile shower that’s so big it doesn’t require a door.

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Jack-and-Jill bathroom connects two smaller bedrooms on the second floor.

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he third floor has its own bathroom, but the rest of the space is left open. It can be used as sleeping quarters for guests, an office, playroom or exercise room.

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he team gave the exterior of the house a major facelift. Demonstrating that a little can go a long way when you choose the right colors and materials, they didn’t touch the handsome stacked stone and fieldstone flanking the front door. Instead, they enhanced it by replacing tired-looking 70s-era siding on other parts of the house with gray concrete Hardie board siding and cedar stained an earthy brown to blend with the landscape.

“I find it interesting that the original owners used two different textures on the front,” Rebecca said. “It works, and I love it.”

For years, a dirt berm with tall plantings blocked views of the house. The new owners removed it and put in new plantings to accentuate the new exterior colors. They also limbed up a healthy, mature pine tree that had outgrown its space near the semi-circle driveway to give it new life.

Then and now, the back yard adjoins the park and beyond that, green space known as Henry Clay woods.

The owners spiffed it up, as well, with groupings of hydrangea planted behind curved stone retaining walls. Whoever buys the house can rest easy, knowing that there will never be a house built behind this one – which might be the biggest selling point of all.

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Gardening: festive l y forced bul bs T

ime is of the essence. If you want to enjoy the blooming beauty of tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, amaryllis, paperwhites and lily of the valley, try forcing bulbs. Forcing bulbs out-of-season is a practice that dates back centuries. In addition to bringing the beauty of spring indoors during a cold winter, there is the added benefit of viewing the growth process that is normally obscured underground. Paperwhites daffodils, hyachinths and lilly of the valley all add a wonderful springtime fragrance to your home.

The art of forcing a bulb to bloom begins when it is removed from a cool environment and exposed to warmth and light. Paperwhites, amaryllis, and hyacinths are three of the easiest varieties to force. Unlike other bulbs, these are able to grow in a watertight container like a glass vase. Hyacinths even have a special pinch necked vase often called a forcing vase that is made for the purpose of forcing bulbs.

by Michelle Rauch Gardening Enthusiast

To grow your bulbs in a glass vase, line the bottom with about two inches of pebbles to support the bulb. Put the bulbs

root side down and add water. Fill just enough to reach the bottom of the bulb.

Bulbs can also blossom when they are planted in a pot filled with loose soil and a drainage hole. Leave the nose of the bulb exposed and just add water. Within four weeks you should have the fragrant beauty of spring filling your home for the holidays.

Bulbs require TLC. Check the water level in the vases or the moisture of the soil frequently. As you wait for the bulbs to take root, keep them in a a cool, dry area. A basement, crawl space, cold frame or refrigerator will work as long as the temperature is steady, around 40 degrees give or take. Once the bulbs are blooming they can be moved into a warmer location like the living room or kitchen. Just avoid direct sunlight.

In order to extend the life of the blooms, its recommended to move the flowers to a cooler spot in the evenings. The downside, after forcing bulbs, they are spent. All the energy is depleted so they won’t bloom again if you plant them outside.

With proper planning and care, bulbs can supply color for the home from late November until early April, to tide you and your green thumb over until you can get outside and dig in the dirt in the spring.

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FACES + PLACES

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TOPS Cares: The House that Love Built

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Go Red for Woman Heart & Stroke Survivors

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Julie Wilkes: Live with Passion

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Chief Kristin Chilton

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New & Noteworthy: Whitaker Family YMCA

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Meet the Media: Tom Kenny

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TOPS

The House that LOVE Built THE LEXINGTON RONALD McDONALD HOUSE STRENGTHENS FAMILIES BY KEEPING THEM TOGETHER

by Sarah Boerkircher

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s you approach the Lexington Ronald McDonald House, located behind the University of Kentucky’s Commonwealth stadium, you would probably see what you expect – a house nestled in between trees, awaiting 21 families during a time in their lives that they never anticipated needing to stay away from their home for a child’s medical needs.

“What you won’t see until you walk through makes us a ‘home away from home,’” said Development and Communications Manager Sarah Jordan. “There are amazing volunteers preparing dinners, cleaning rooms and just about every amenity one would need when away from their home. Most importantly, there are other families going through similar hardships who want to support one another and lean on each other. It’s a recipe that can only be created with the support of this generous community and the incredible hearts of volunteers.”

“Our vision is to be the recognized community leader in the provision of quality and innovative services, facilities and support that positively impact the health and well-being of children and their our doors is what families,” Jordan explained. “This vision centers around one specific task; ‘keeping families close.’ We believe RMHC could not operate the well-being of families is strengthened when families remain together during the without the generous most difficult of times and we trust that this support of volunteers and also helps the pediatric patient grow stronger donations from the com- and healthier…faster.”

munity. To learn more about volunteering or making a donation, visit rmhclexington.com or call (859)268-0757.

Serving the Bluegrass for 32 years and counting Since 1984, the mission of the Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Bluegrass® (RMHC) has been to create and support programs that directly improve the health and well-being of children and to strengthen families by keeping them together in times of medical need.

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family visits RMHC, their stay is short. None of our families plan on being at the House, so if you show up with the clothes on your back, we’ll take care of the rest.”

Thanks to the fundraising efforts of committed volunteers and four founding organizations (Lexington Medical Society, Lexington Medical Society Auxiliary, McDonald’s® of Central and Southeastern KY and The Parents Group), a 17-bedroom House opened debt-free in December 1984. Now in its 32nd year, the House has served more than 25,000 families. While most families are from central and eastern Kentucky, the House has served families from all counties in Kentucky, 38 states and 10 foreign countries, the farthest being Japan.

RMHC lessens the financial strain that is put on families when there is a need to travel for medical care or to stay in Lexington to seek medical treatment.

The University of Kentucky Athletic Department provided the 1.43 acre site near Commonwealth Stadium and conveniently located near area medical centers. Each year, RMHC leases the space from The University of Kentucky Athletic Department. Thus far, RMHC has invested $32 in the space – $1 for each year that RMHC has been in Lexington.

“We serve families of children with all medical ailments from in utero up to 21 years of age,” said Jordan. “Our hope is that when a

When RMHC celebrated its 30th anniversary, the House received an extensive renovation to all of its guest rooms thanks to

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generous support from community donors. Renovations included deconstruction of all rooms down to the studs, replacement of wiring and plumbing, installation of insulation and soundproofing materials as well as all new surfaces, fixtures and furnishings. Additionally, green technologies and materials were utilized throughout the project, which resulted in significant operating cost savings.

This project allowed for the House to expand to 21 rooms. Each bedroom accounts for one patient and up to four individuals may stay per room, so when at capacity, the House can provide a stay for 84 individuals.

Arianna Schaus

Photo by Ryan Worthen

“To support ongoing operations, we encourage – but do not require – guests to make a donation of $10 per night in order to ensure the availability of the House for future guests,” Jordan said. “If this presents a hardship for the family, the donation may be reduced or deferred.”

The average amount families were able to contribute per day (based on 2014 impact figures) was approximately $2. As Jordan explained, no family has ever been turned away due to an inability to contribute. The cost to provide lodging per night per family is $79. Thanks to RMHC, the average amount each family saves in hotel costs is $1,100.

Photo by Ryan Worthen

Three times per day, volunteers provide transportation to area hospitals and local outpatient surgery centers for any guest in the House. Families staying at the House for the first time must be referred by a physician, hospital or medical center personnel. The House accepts referrals from all of the following area hospitals and medical centers; Baptist Health Lexington, Cardinal Hill Rehabilitation Hospital, Kentucky Children’s Hospital, Kentucky Clinic, Ridge Behavioral Health System, Saint Joseph East Hospital, Shriner’s Hospital and local outpatient surgery centers.

One misconception is that RMHC is not a locally supported organization.

However, the founders of the Lexington RMHC chapter were all Lexingtonians. As Jordan explained, many of those individuals have continued to support RMHC over the last 32 years.

“We are supported 100 percent by this generous community, through in-kind and financial donations. Many non-profits no longer exist on this model, but we are proud to continue to operate this way,” Jordan said. “All financial contributions donated to RMHC stay in Lexington, benefitting the hundreds of families that call our house ‘home.’”

Paying it forward

Photo by Shaun Ring

Serving the Bluegrass for 32 Years and Counting

Arianna Schaus, from Ironton, Ohio, stayed at the Lexington Ronald McDonald House with her family in 2012 for 39 nights. Schaus became so close with staff, volunteers and guests that she chose to spend her 10th birthday baking cookies for the families staying at the Ronald McDonald House.

In 2014, Schaus returned as the Family Ambassador for the Room Renovation Ribbon Cutting Ceremony. Today, she leads a pop tab collection campaign at her school and continues to raise awareness of what the Lexington RMHC does for a family facing a medical crisis with their child.

“As Arianna and many of our guests have proven, life can be normal at the House,” says Jordan. “Birthdays and milestones are celebrated, families can enjoy home-cooked meals, laundry facilities, indoor and outdoor play areas, all while getting support from other guests and volunteers.”

Another lesson that RMHC has learned from guests like Schaus is the importance of paying it forward.

Photo by Shaun Ring

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In 2015 a total of 414 families were served. The average length of stay is 11 nights.

The longest stay in 2015 was a family from Laurel County, who stayed 123 nights.

“The Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Bluegrass is always looking for opportunities to give back to the community,” said Jordan. “We have a community room that can seat up to 25 people that anyone or any organization in the community can use, for free, for off-site training or meetings.

The community room is equipped with a laptop, projection and sound and is a great space for our community to utilize.”

As Jordan explained, when something is donated to RMHC that can’t be used or is about to expire, those items are donated to another local organization for use. When the house had major renovations in 2014, many supplies were donated to the local Habitat ReStore.

Support

Another way that RMHC gives back is through its internship program. Typically five internships are offered throughout various departments within the organization each year.

Serving dinner is one of the most popular volunteer activities at the Lexington Ronald McDonald House.

Photos above and below by Kevin and Anna Photography

Supporting The Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Bluegrass Ronald McDonald House Charities qualifies as a 501(c3) therefore contributions to RMHC may be tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law.

As Jordan explained, there is never a limit for volunteers and opportunities to serve RMHC. Volunteers serve as van drivers, help with yard work and cleaning projects, conduct fundraisers and serve on a variety of committees.

RMHC could not operate without the generous support of volunteers and donations from the community. To learn more about volunteering or making a donation, visit rmhclexington.com or call 859-268-0757.

Donating items* from the House’s Wish List are always appreciated. Items that the House currently needs: Antibacterial wipes Disinfectant spray Individually wrapped snack cakes Snack crackers (cheese, peanut butter) Additional items needed are "Wish Listed" on amazon.com. Search for “Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Bluegrass.” *All items need to be new, unused and not expired to be accepted for donation.

Volunteers from Tempur-Sealy International. Since 2009 Tempur-Sealy International has provided more than 5,000 beds to RMHC houses throughout the country.

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GoRed

Women

for

The Go Red for Women Experience was first introduced in November 2008 and has quickly become one of Lexington’s most anticipated events of the year. Held on Friday, November 4th, attendees can participate in Discovery Village and Educational Breakout Sessions, which offer the opportunity to interact and learn about how to be heart healthy.

An event of this magnitude (over 750 people in attendance in 2015) requires the help and support of its sponsors, committee members and volunteers.

Macy’s has been a national sponsor of Go Red for Women since the cause was introduced in 2004. The annual survivor fashion show is always a special moment. Janie Head from Images Model Agency and Jennifer Maggard from Macy’s ensure that the survivor models are comfortable walking the runway, and are dressed beautifully in the process.

KentuckyOne Health has been the cornerstone and lead cause level sponsor for the Go Red Campaign in Central Kentucky since the first event. They have been instrumental in educational efforts through work at Health Fairs, churches, community events and more. They also helped initiate the first ever Go Red for Women Girl Scout patch for heart health.

Passport Health recently joined the Go Red Campaign as a cause level partner. Together with the AHA, KentuckyOne Health, and churches throughout Central Kentucky, Passport Health helps bring awareness, education and free health screening directly to an at-risk population through the “Have Faith in Heart” program.

This year’s presenting sponsor is Fogle Keller Purdy. In fact, the firm’s owner/partner, Sherri Keller, is the 2016 Go Red for Women Chair.

The Go Red for Women Executive Leadership Team works closely with the Chair to ensure each year’s event is a success.

Their volunteers work tirelessly to put the finishing touches on everything. Joey Maggard, local Executive Director, and Mike Turner, Social Events Director, hold the organization and initiatives close to heart. They rely heavily on the support of Jordan Yates, Administrative Associate, as she is the glue that holds everything together!

For more information on the American Heart Association and the Go Red for Women Experience, visit heart.org or contact Jordan Yates at 859-317-6874 or Jordan.yates@heart.org.

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MEET AHA’S GO RED FOR WOMEN DIRECTOR

Rachel Furnish Q A

Q A

Tell us about yourself: I grew up in London, KY and attended UK. I have always loved Lexington.

Even as a child when my family would come to visit, I knew I wanted to stay after college. My husband, Wes, and I recently celebrated our 7th wedding anniversary and have a wonderful 5 year old daughter, Lyla. I spent 12 years in pharmaceutical sales before joining the American Heart Association.

What drew you to the American Heart Association?

I’ve always loved the idea of working for non-profit and giving back to the community. Heart disease is prominent in both mine and my husband’s families. After losing my Dad this summer, I realized life was too short and I applied for a position with the AHA. A dear friend works for the organization in Louisville, so I knew how awesome it was!

I started on August 8th, and it has been an amazing whirlwind ever since!

Q What does the money raised go toward?

A Money raised by Go Red for Women funds research, educa-

tion and advocacy. In the past 10 years, the American Heart Association has given more than $15 Million dollars to cardiovascular research right here in Lexington.

Q Who is the keynote speaker?

A This year’s speaker is Julie Wilkes, a heart disease survi-

vor who believes she was given a second chance at life for a reason. She owns a yoga studio, is a published author, a life coach and entrepreneur. We had the opportunity to host Julie at a planning meeting and were able to show her around Lexington; she fell in love! She loves the history and hospitality of our great city.

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Q A

What is the goal of the AHA and GO Red For Women?

The mission of the American Heart Association is to build healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke. Our 2020 impact goal is to reduce death and disability caused by heart disease and stroke by 20%, while improving cardiovascular health by 20%. We are making tremendous strides in this direction, particularly for women. The Go Red for Women movement began in 2004 as a campaign designed to help make women more aware that heart disease is their #1 killer. Go Red for Women encourages awareness on the issue of women and heart disease, and action to save lives. The movement harnesses the energy, passion and power women have to band together and collectively wipe out heart disease. Women need to know and reduce their risk for heart disease; we’re giving them the tools they need to lead a heart healthy life. More than 900,000 women have joined the movement since its inception.

Q What can one expect? Is there anything new/different from previous events?

A We kept a lot of the fun elements that attendees look forward

to each year, but have added some new and exciting things. We will have the heartwarming survivor fashion along with a professional fashion show produced by Macy’s. Discovery Village is new this year and will be focused on fun, health and wellness. We have three interactive, educational breakout sessions and are also thrilled to have the female acapella group from the University of Kentucky, Paws & Listen.

Go Red for Women Heart &S troke Survivors

Alisha S tamper A

ll my life I have battled heart problems. I have seen multiple cardiologists, had countless procedures, and have been in and out of hospitals. No one could determine what was wrong with my heart so I was referred to Cincinnati Children’s.

In August of 2011, I was diagnosed with restrictive cardiomyopathy, a rare form of heart disease that causes the heart to be enlarged, thick and unable to pump blood effectively. There is no cure and the only treatment available to keep my heart in rhythm is medication, which I was to take until I could receive a heart transplant.

Between July of 2013 – and February of 2014, my health was declining rapidly. My heart was continually going in and out of rhythm, both at home and when I was at work. I would have to go to Cincinnati, check directly into ICU, be put under general anesthesia, and they would shock my heart back into normal rhythm. This became almost a weekly occurrence until I was finally given a defibrillator and placed at the top of the heart transplant waiting list.

A few weeks before Christmas in 2013, my doctors could not get my heart back into normal rhythm until they set the voltage to the highest level, shocked me several times and changed my medication. It was past time for a new heart.

In February of 2014 my phone rang at 4:04 pm and I got the news that a heart was available. I went into surgery late on February 13th and woke up on Valentine’s Day with my new, perfect heart.

I was sitting up in a chair after just ten hours and discharged after 12 days. And though my recovery was hard, I feel very blessed to be here and blessed for my donor. I was thrilled to meet his family last year.

Photographer: Phillips Mitchell | Creative Directors: Rachel Furnish (American Heart Association) and Kristen Oakley (TOPS) | Clothing Stylist: Jennifer Maggard (Macy’s) Hair: Deata Gregory | Makeup: Danielle Despard and Myah Allen (Macy’s Chanel Counter) Venue: Lexington Fire Station #6 | Survivor profiles by Beth Langfels

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I

DaRae Marcum

work as a caterer and this can be defined as someone who provides hospitality and food to others whenever they need it. My schedule has to be flexible and is ever changing.

It’s never been unusual for me to wake at 3:00 am to prepare for work. But on September 4, 2014, I woke feeling extremely thirsty and craving, of all things, a Popsicle. I was trying to eat the Popsicle and took a bite and it fell out of my mouth and then, out of my hand. No matter how many times I tried, I couldn’t pick it up.

In my confusion, all I could think about was an American Heart Association public service announcement to remember FAST (Face drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulty and time to call 911). It was then that I realized I might be having a stroke.

I woke up my husband, Steven, and when he saw my face and my drooping mouth, he immediately called 911. We were at the hospital within 20 minutes.

I couldn’t talk very well and my left arm wasn’t working but I was given TPA (clot busting medication) immediately and I remained in intensive care for three days. My doctors could not find a reason for my stroke and they sent me home with a prescription for blood pressure medicine and asked me to take a daily dose of aspirin. I also began rehabilitation therapy, where I worked at starting to feel like myself again.

On March 4, 2015, I realized that I was having another stroke. I was unable to speak so it was fortunate that a client and friend, Rhonda Love, just happened to be at the same building. I was treated once again with TPA. And this time, though I didn’t have as many physical issues, my speech was more affected. Two days elapsed before I could say my own name again.

I have been diagnosed with Atrial Fibrillation (Afib) or an irregular heartbeat and, as a result, will always have to take blood thinners.

I have always been surrounded by angels, including my husband Steve, an emergency room nurse, Sharee Brooks and of course, my family and friends, who prayed for me and with me daily. They all carried my load so I could recover. And while it’s been a long road, I am happy that I have my smile back and am able to work at a job I love. I have learned to appreciate every day!

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Dr. Donna Arnett

t was a weekday morning in January 1987 when I woke up at 5am as usual to get to my office by 7am. I felt odd and I knew something wasn’t right.

I had had minor surgery three days prior and was put under general anesthesia and, it turns out, ended up with a blood clot in my leg.

I let the dog out into the yard, started making coffee and when I went to call the dog inside, my words sounded garbled. I remember thinking “did I just hear this?”

As a registered nurse, I knew that this was a symptom of stroke. I was only 27 years old and I couldn’t believe it was happening to me. Consequently, I did everything I wasn’t supposed to do!

I drove to work, sat through a morning briefing of a research study and then turned to my boss (a cardiologist) and said “I think I’m having a stroke.”

I felt no pain, just that very odd, out of sorts feeling. My boss immediately dismissed my symptoms because I was so young and had no risk factors.

As the morning progressed, my symptoms worsened and there was no denying that I was having a stroke. The right side of my face was drooping and I was speaking incoherently and the left side of my body was weak. So I did go to the hospital.

At the time I had my stroke, there was no treatment, only diagnosis. I was fortunate that the stroke was a result of a clot from my heart valve that had been breaking off in small pieces and travelling to my head, rather than a large bleed or clot.

My speech returned to normal within a few days and I started rebuilding the knowledge of all those parts of my brain that I had lost during the stroke.

During my recovery, I became depressed, which was very uncommon for me, and then determined to get back to work and life as usual. Thankfully, I was able to do just that.

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O

Judy Hysel

n September 3rd of this year, I turned 75 years old and this month, I am celebrating my 56th wedding anniversary with my husband and best friend. We have five children, 15 grandchildren and six great grandchildren with another on the way.

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we arrived at the hospital, the pain had not stopped and they told me I was having a heart attack.

In May of 2015, while doing some sewing for my granddaughter, I started having pain that felt like electric shock, running up both arms.

Since my granddaughters were both watching me and I didn’t want them to worry, I waited until I was finished with sewing to find my husband, Ed. I knew it was not good.

I ended up staying in the hospital for two days and had a stent placed, which made me feel much better. I didn’t realize how bad I felt before this happened to me. Within four weeks, I went back to work to a job I love and attended cardiac rehabilitation where I had to work out regularly. I learned which foods were not good for me to be eating and I met a lot of people that had the same problem I had so we could relate to and help one another.

Ed asked me if I was OK, and I took some aspirin but I told him that I was not. We sent our granddaughters home and I told Ed the pain was getting worse so we should go to the hospital, knowing that if we got there and I had no more pain, we could always come home. When

My son and my grandson work with the local fire station and we tell everyone in our family and friends to call 911 right away in the case of an emergency. My entire family works every day to make sure I live a healthy life. I love life and I thank God for giving me this second chance.

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Minnie Hawes

am a wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, daughter-in-law, sister, sister-in-law, an aunt, niece, cousin, a childcare provider, and a friend. I am a survivor.

Before my daughter was born, I had no indication that I had any heart problems. But when I was in the hospital in labor, I unexpectedly went into congestive heart failure. I had just turned 24 years old.

Doctors now say that my aortic and mitral valves may have been damaged as a result of a bout with rheumatic fever when I was a child. I was put on several medications and was scheduled for regular tests and checkups.

In 2006, as I was nearing my 38th birthday, a pacemaker was implanted and my aortic and mitral valves were replaced. I continued checkups, echocardiograms and pacemaker clinic checks afterwards.

In the spring of this year, an echocardiogram, along with several other tests, revealed that a leaflet of one of my valves had torn and I was once again headed to surgery. After ten hours of surgery during which scar tissue was removed, both of my valves were replaced with mechanical valves and my pacemaker was replaced, I was released to recover at home.

My husband, who has given me unrelenting physical, mental and emotional support over the years, helped me recuperate, as did the support of the Mended Hearts, who gave me a gift of a heart pillow.

I began a daily regimen of walks and healthy eating.

One month after surgery, I began a cardiac rehabilitation program where I was monitored during cardio and strength training workouts, attended therapy classes, and was given professional advice.

I now make eating healthy and exercising priorities and embrace those opportunities as part of my daily life. My checkups continue but I am feeling better now than I have in many years. The experience of my heart condition has left me with a rollercoaster of emotions but mostly a collective gratitude for everyone who has been part of my journey.

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I

Denise Hayden

teach second grade at Julius Mark Elementary School and have a very busy life. My family and I were unaware of any cardiovascular risks or concerns until my father passed away on December 9, 2003 of a massive heart attack.

A few months prior to losing my dad, I had begun to experience a feeling like heartburn, followed by a pain between my shoulders. I was under a lot of stress at the time and not quite a year later, doctors found a pin-size blockage that was prohibiting blood flow to my heart. I ended up having surgery and was in the hospital for six days.

After about four weeks of recovery, I went back to work and though I did not attend cardiac rehab, I was given advice to eat a low fat diet. I ended up signing up for the Ornish program and totally eliminated all animal products from my diet. I also started measuring my food.

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I’m doing well today and am fully recovered. I’ve lost 35 pounds and I’m walking four days a week for an hour at a time.

My symptoms mimicked gallbladder issues, and in fact, I went to see a gastroenterologist for the problem. But because I continued to listen to my body, I knew I had to get a second opinion and this is why I know God allowed me to have a second chance at life.

I’ve learned to guard my heart above all else, eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly. I am eternally grateful to my pastor, our church family, my sorority sisters, my family and friends for their continual support.

“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it,” Proverbs 4:23

I

Janice Hall

n recent years, as it happens with most women as they get older, I started gaining some weight. I also noticed that I began experiencing shortness of breath, knee pain and a strange feeling in my left arm, when I exerted myself.

One weekend, while chaperoning my daughter’s band competition, I didn’t feel right. I waited until the next day and then I went to the emergency room, where I was immediately referred to a cardiologist. I underwent a stress test and I failed miserably. I had blockages in my arteries that were so significant that I needed surgery as soon as possible.

In October of 2015, I underwent triple bypass surgery. While in the hospital, I learned about a new program for cardiac rehab patients called the Ornish Reversal. It differs from traditional cardiac rehab because it actually helps reverse the effects of coronary artery disease.

I was hesitant at first because the plan called for me to cut out all meat, chocolate and caffeine (for me, these were the three basic food groups). But I decided to begin the class in March of 2016. It was challenging at first, but after a few weeks, I felt significantly better and the change in diet was not the issue I thought it would be. I also began incorporating exercise into my daily routine and even trained for and finished walking in a half marathon in April.

Support group and yoga classes have been a surprise hit for me. They have added so much to my life and make it more worthwhile. This program has helped me reset my lifestyle and establish healthier habits and for this I am very grateful.

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Janet Spearman I

have a family history of heart disease. My mother passed away from heart failure at the age of 61 and as I got older, I started to feel less like my old self and more unwell.

I was diagnosed with heart failure in the fall of 1999. I had surgery to repair a leaky mitral valve in November of that year and afterward, my heart function, though still not normal, improved significantly. I was stable until near the end of 2014 when I started experiencing shortness of breath. I ended up in the hospital and was diagnosed with pneumonia, was treated and sent home, with the condition that I would follow up with my cardiologist.

When my cardiologist sent me for an echocardiogram, it showed that my heart was only functioning at 20% and I was referred to a hospital to determine if I needed a heart transplant. After a series of tests, I was placed on the transplant list the summer of 2015.

While waiting to get a new heart, I ended up being admitted to the cardiac care unit (CCU) on September 23, 2015, with my health rapidly deteriorating. While there, I was finally matched with a donor heart and looked forward to getting a second chance at life.

It is such a joy to feel alive again today! I will be forever grateful to the donor and the family who made this possible. I am also eternally grateful to all my doctors, surgeons, cardiologists, the transplant team, therapists and staff at the rehabilitation center and the home health aides who helped me along the way.

I wouldn’t be here without these dedicated individuals.

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Mary Jane Hall

never considered myself a high risk for heart disease or stroke. I was an avid runner with minimal family history of cardiovascular disease when I began experiencing classic stroke symptoms on New Year’s Eve of 2014.

I was busy preparing for a holiday gathering at my home in Danville and my husband, Daniel, who had been out running errands, stopped back at home. When he walked into the house, he noticed the vacuum cleaner was left running in the hall and he found me in the bathroom.

When he yelled to me, I responded with slurred speech, so he grabbed me, turned me toward him, and then realized what was happening.

Daniel called for our son to dial 911 and EMS arrived within ten minutes. After an initial consult with an ER physician, the team decided they would fly me directly to a hospital in Lexington, which saved precious minutes.

Within one hour of the onset of symptoms, I was receiving TPA, the clot busting drug that stops and often reverses damage caused by stroke. I was diagnosed with a 100% occluded right internal carotid artery on that day and, after extensive testing over the next year or so, the cause of my stroke is still unknown.

I was in the hospital for a few days and then was released to recover for several weeks at home. I was able to resume my normal work and exercise routine, thanks to the quick response of my family, EMS personnel and physicians who knew what to do. I am grateful for every single day now, and have learned to relax.

I feel that through divine intervention my life was spared. I am extremely blessed and challenged every day to try to live my life a little better to bring good into this world.

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Janet Duncan

W

hen I was 57 years old, I had my first heart attack and found out I had two serious blockages in my arteries. At that time, I had a stent inserted and was put on medication. The following year, I had another heart attack due to Atrial Fibrillation, which is an abnormal heart beat. After that heart attack in 2014, I received an internal defibrillator.

Afterwards my entire life changed and I couldn’t do much of anything. It was an absolute chore just to get dressed in the morning. My blood sugar was too high and I could barely function.

My doctor introduced me to the Ornish program, a healthy lifestyle change that includes four components: nutrition, exercise, group support and stress management. When I started the program in April of this year, I could barely walk on a treadmill. Today I work out three times a week for a total of three hours, have learned how to eat healthy and I’m doing things I never thought possible, including climbing ladders, walking up steps and cleaning my own house.

My blood sugar has dropped into normal range and I have lost 30 pounds. My overall health has improved tremendously thanks to my doctor and this program.

Today at the age of 60, I feel absolutely amazing and plan to live this lifestyle for good. I have plans to watch my grandkids grow up and I have a dream to meet American Pharaoh, the horse who won the Triple Crown in 2015. We both raced across the finish line to a much better way of life and I firmly believe that in doing so, I was able to save my own life. The program gave me back my joy and I feel blessed beyond measure.

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Kyser Bottoms

was born with a heart defect and my mom says I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for a very smart nurse who was on duty when I was born.

The nurse knew that something wasn’t right with me so she insisted that the cardiac team at the hospital come in to check me over. I had an echocardiogram and they diagnosed me with a condition of the heart called Tetralogy of Fallot, which means I have a larger aortic valve, thick walls in my ventricle, and other defects that limit blood flow to my lungs.

I went home from the hospital with my mom, but when I was four weeks old, my oxygen levels had dropped to a really low level and I needed surgery. When I was four months old, I needed another corrective surgery.

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This summer, I celebrated my tenth birthday and my mom and dad say you can hardly tell there is anything wrong with my heart. I love to swim and play volleyball and was so excited to throw out the first pitch at the Lexington Legends Go Red night in June!

My parents say I will have to have my heart valve replaced sometime in the future, but for now, I am doing great! Today all new babies in Kentucky are required to take an easy test that can tell whether their oxygen levels are too low before they leave the hospital. My family is so thankful to the American Heart Association for the work they do to bring more attention to babies born with heart defects like mine and for the need for funding and research.

Rabiya Varcie V

enous. Sinus. Thrombosis – three words that changed my life.

I am only 30 years old and on the morning of April 9, 2016, I had a stroke.

My mother discovered me on the bathroom floor having a seizure (caused by a brain bleed). For two weeks, I was under sedation.

I didn’t know that a bone flap in my brain had to be removed to prevent herniation of the brain and to save my life.

I survived a rare type of stroke caused by a protein deficiency and by complications from diabetes. It happens to only about one in five million people per year in the United States. I still find it hard to believe that I am one of those people.

The week that I had my stroke, I had received a promotion at work, along with an opportunity to work in another country, beginning in August of 2016. However, the stroke left me partially paralyzed on my left side and I am now unable to work or drive for at least a year.

I started therapy after three months and after two successful skull surgeries, I am now in an outpatient rehab program, which has further encouraged my independence. I went from being totally bedridden to doing most things on my own, thanks to my neurosurgery team and the brain injury unit at my rehabilitation center in Lexington.

And though five months is a short time to recover from a rare and serious illness, I am doing well with medications, by eating a wellbalanced diet and by exercising. When I awoke after my stroke, I was surrounded by my family. Without their love, support and constant motivation, I would not have recovered as quickly as I did. Today I have a new lease on life.

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Julie Wilkes:

" Live with Passion"

by Barbara Meyer

J

ulie Wilkes has a beautiful heart. It has guided her to a life full of purpose – inspiring and helping others to pursue every day with gratitude, as they share their own gifts and talents with those around them. You can experience Wilkes’s uplifting message when she comes to the Bluegrass on Nov. 4, as the keynote speaker of the 2016 Go Red for WomenExperience.

Looking at Wilkes, one sees a lovely, vibrant woman who exudes strength and confidence. Therefore, it’s surprising to learn that she was born with a heart defect so severe, she was pronounced dead at birth. Resuscitation efforts brought her back, but the doctors diagnosed her heart condition unfixable, and deemed that her life expectancy would be 12 years at best.

Instead, day after day, she defied the prognosis by getting stronger. At six months, the doctors wrote the word “miracle” across her chart because they had no further explanation as to why she had not only survived, but thrived. “I grew up living urgently,” Wilkes recalls. “I felt that since I didn’t have a lifetime to make an impact in the world, I had to do it in the time I had.”

ABOUT JULIE Wilkes is the CEO and Owner of Seven Studios, a popular yoga and fitness center in Columbus, OH. She’s also the NA Wellness Lead for a global fortune 500 company, a life coach, motivational speaker, and author of the book The 7 Life Miracles. A successful entrepreneur, Wilkes has her own aromatherapy product lines, an online life coaching series and a public speaking academy. Most recently she introduced “Fetch & Sculpt”, a fun workout app that allows dog owners and their pets to stay fit together.

Wilkes has an MA in Education-Exercise physiology and a BA in International Business. She’s appeared on many television shows and spoken across the globe, including the White House, the US Chamber of Commerce, and many national health and business conferences. She has been featured in a number of magazines and shot over 80 fitness and motivational videos.

Learn more at juliewilkes.com, 7-studios.com, and fetchandsculpt.com.

When she was in the fifth grade, Wilkes met one of the people whose influence shaped her destiny; her gym teacher, Mr. Larson. “There are people who come into our lives for very specific purposes,” Wilkes observes. “He taught me that my heart was a muscle, and that by using it I could strengthen it to heal myself.” His belief in her and encouragement to challenge herself physically was a defining step in her lifelong journey in wellness. After Wilkes completed her first marathon at age 24, she knew that she’d been given a second chance at life. She created a plan to pay forward that gift of life that she’d received by helping others to improve themselves through healthier living. As time went on, taking chances and risks and believing in her dreams led her to Don’tMiss Out professional success.

More importantly, it taught her to live Attend the American Heart Associaevery day with purpose, joy and tion’s Go Red for Women Experience gratitude.

Friday, Nov. 4, at Lexington Center’s “We’re out here living, but are we living our best life?” she adds, “Finding the things in your life that bring you joy will make you feel good and allow you to be the best version of you. As women, we want to help others and say 'yes' when people need us. The key is to focus on putting more time into the things that are of value to us, not just the areas where we put our energy.”

Heritage Hall. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. and the luncheon is at 11:30 a.m. This life-changing event includes educational breakouts, an interactive expo, survivor fashion show, live music and much more.

For information contact Rachel Furnish at 859-317-6882 rachel.furnish@heart.org

“What if you could wake up every day excited to begin your day, knowing it could be extraordinary? That you could conquer even your worst day with boldness and courage?”

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“Listen to your heart, start with small acts. Discover something meaningful each and every day. If you do these

“It’s a gift to have bodies that can be changed and healed,” Wilkes believes. “Through exercise, our bodies create the hormones that help us stay resilient and focused. They help us counter stress responses, clearing the mind and resetting our buttons when we’re anxious or upset. Oxytocin is called the “cuddle hormone” because our bodies release it during the times when we bond with others. There is a healing power to being with people and letting them know that they’re cared about.”

Photo by Todd Anthony

Julie's yoga skills include AcroYoga, a hybrid of yoga and acrobatics. AcroYoga is performed with a partner and blends grounded postures with lifts.

“When we are loved, we are more likely to want to improve, and get better.”

When Wilkes was an infant struggling to survive, the doctors noticed that she showed signs of improvement when her mother was physically present. She thinks that’s also true for all of us today saying, “We need the people in our lives as much as they need us.

Together, we get through things.”

Julie and her dog Cody, her Fetch & Sculpt co-star.

Photo by Christina Cosa

“We all have times in our lives where we experience negative emotions like sadness, grief or remorse. We should allow ourselves to feel the way we do, but establish a time limit on how long we’ll need to stay there," she suggests. "After a point, we’re injuring ourselves and hindering others.”

Wilkes started out with the American Heart Association as a volunteer, telling her story first at staff meetings, then to bigger and bigger groups. As a speaker, she’s happy to be able to support their message about proactive health. “The American Heart Association stands for everything my life is about,” she says. “They have such a direct impact towards heart health. Their work has allowed my heart and those of others to heal.”

things, finding meaning will become the compass in your life. It will change the way you feel, and you'll re-start your own heart.”

To live our best lives, Wilkes recommends identifying ways that we can be happier. For example, she chooses to encircle herself with those in her life who remind her of what she has to be grateful for. “My grandmother is one of the strongest people I know,” Wilkes says. “As she’s gotten older, she has lost much of her independence and the things she had pride in. Through all this, she keeps a smile on her face and never complains. She focuses on the good and on being surrounded by her family. Her example reminds me to always take life by the horns and say, 'I’m in this, let’s do it.'”

“I didn't create my story, my damaged heart did.”

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ChiefKristin Chilton

by Barbara Meyer

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irefighters protect the lives of others. Fire Chief Kristin Chilton and the Lexington Fire Department are committed to helping protect firefighters' lives as well.

The number one cause of death for firefighters isn’t related to burns or smoke inhalation. It’s heart attacks. Chief Chilton and the Lexington Fire Department are helping to change that.

When Chilton was sworn in as Chief on March 24th, she had three main initiatives for the department: increase diversity, support community risk reduction and improve the health and wellness of her team.

Firefighting is a very physically demanding and dangerous job. It involves pulling heavy hoses, moving bulky and climbing while wearing protective gear that can add up to 75 pounds. And that’s before firefighters even begin the job of actually putting out a fire.

In addition, firefighters have the burden and pressure of performing duties on a daily basis that can mean the difference between life and death for themselves, and those in the community whom they protect. “We are bringing the issue of health to the forefront for our firefighting team,” Chilton says. “We fight fires and perform EMS runs, but the duties of this profession create health conditions that are also dangerous.”

Although firefighters receive physicals once a year, Chilton would like to see more preventive screenings for conditions like heart disease and cancer. “As part of our support of proactive wellness, we’re stressing healthier living in general,” she says. “That includes everything from purchasing new fitness equipment to monitoring vital signs on fire scenes. Our team works very hard to take care of their community and we want to take the best possible care of them.”

Another of Chilton’s goals is increasing diversity. Of the Lexington Fire Department’s 562 sworn, non-civilian personnel, 14 of them are female. “When I was young, you didn’t see many women in firefighting,” she observes. “Now, my daughter and her generation are growing up seeing both male and female firefighters together on the line and not knowing any differently.” Chilton is one of only five female fire chiefs in the United States in charge of departments with a membership of 300 or more. She encourages interested women to reach out to the department by calling (859)231-5662 to learn more about the profession and to attend open forums that Lexington offers, like Women in the Fire Service.

Chilton’s third main goal for the Lexington Fire Department is helping to increase community outreach. They have a long history of supporting Go Red for Women’s initiatives to make the Central Kentucky area healthier. The Fire Department teaches hands-only CPR classes to the public, training 2,000 people last year. “An important goal of CPR training is helping people to stay calm, confident and focused in emergency situations,” Chilton remarks. “If someone calls 911, dispatch will give instructions over the phone while firefighters are en route. According

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to the American Heart Association, 70 percent of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests happen in the home, which means more than likely if you’re called to provide CPR, you will be helping someone you know.”

Born in Honolulu, Hawaii, Chilton grew up in a military family who lived on both coasts as her father performed his duties as a Naval Officer. They settled in Kentucky where Chilton graduated from Lafayette High School. She went on to earn a B.A. in Business Management at Transylvania University and an M.A. in Public Health from Eastern Kentucky University.

A 23-year veteran of the fire department, Chilton became interested in the field during a visit to Station 1 on Third Street as part of a first aid class when she was a student at Transylvania. Lisa Daley, a paramedic and Lexington’s first female firefighter, was impressed with Chilton and encouraged her to apply. Chilton began as a firefighter/emergency medical technician and went on to serve as Lieutenant, Captain, Major, Battalion Chief, and Assistant Chief. She spent the first 16 years of her career riding, and later supervising, every type of truck the department uses. For the last seven years she has been a member of the staff directing, managing and setting policy. This broad range of experience and skills made her a natural for her current role in leading the department as Chief.

“You can only be as successful as those around you,” Chilton reflects. “Firefighting is a team effort.

I have always had great people around me — family, friends and co-workers.” Members of Chilton’s firefighting team are confident in her leadership and excited to be a part of her initiatives for the department. “She’s hard-working and fair-minded,” observes Battalion Chief Joe Best, “I’ve known and served with her for many years and seen her compassion and generosity. She has a soft spot for “the little guy” and is there for anyone who needs her help. She’ll continue moving our department forward in our outreach to all the members of the central Kentucky community.”

Firefighter Jessica Bowman agrees, saying, “Chief Chilton never seems to relax. Her work ethic and tireless dedication to our department, her family and this community are an inspiration to not only me, but to many others. She selflessly puts the needs of everyone around her before her own.”

When she’s not working, Chilton and her husband Rick, a retired assistant chief with the Lexington Fire Department, own and live on a small farm with their adopted daughter Inara. There, Chilton is able to indulge in another of her loves: caring for animals, saying “If I hadn’t gone into the fire service, I’d have been a veterinarian”. Keeping active and exercising help her to stay in the top physical condition that her job demands. With so many interests and professional goals to keep her busy, it’s not surprising to learn that Chilton doesn’t own a recliner!

Chief Chilton and Inara with 2016 Junior Fire Chief contest winner Ryan Frisby

Firefighting — one of the most admired and respected occupations.

On 9-11, the entire world witnessed the bravery and fortitude of America’s firefighters firsthand. In the 2016 ranking of the nation’s most prestigious professions published by Forbes Magazine, firefighters were at the top.

Chilton encourages men and women who are interested in firefighting: “It’s a very rewarding career if you’re hardworking and motivated, no matter who you are, you can succeed. Firefighting gives you a flexible schedule with family time, good pay and benefits and a great retirement system. You don’t have to come in with previous education or certifications. We’ll teach you what you need to know.

During the course of your duties, you won’t be asked to do anything you haven’t been trained to do.

Depending on your interests, you can specialize in different areas like rescue or media relations.”

Firefighters have a special bond that makes them like family. “Firefighters put in shifts where they are at the fire station 24 hours at a time, off for 48 hours, then back on again, including weekends and holidays,” Chilton explains. “It’s important to forge a bond by working on tasks at the station together, because firefighting is a serious and dangerous job and we have to be able to depend on each other."

Chief Chilton with retired firefighter Lisa Daley and retired Fire Captain Wilbur White

“The response we get from the community is overwhelming,” Chilton says. “People reach out to us through social media, letters and cards to thank our firefighters for their help. We’re grateful and honored by their support. It’s important to me to share those messages and recognize individuals for what they do, and let them know how their work makes a difference in the lives of people in our community.”

The Lexington Fire Department is proud to support Go Red for Women in helping keep central Kentucky hearts healthy. “Heart issues affect everybody,” Chilton says, “People have either had one themselves, or know someone who has. My grandfather, who was a volunteer firefighter, died at age 54 of cardiac arrest. Last year, our EMS crews responded to 328 cardiac arrests. The Lexington Fire Department is committed to decreasing that amount by helping people in our community, including our own firefighters, take the best possible care of their heart health.”

Learn more about the Lexington Fire Department at: lexingtonky.gov/browse/public-safety/fire-and-emergency-services

(L-R) Assistant Chief Chris Sweat, Chief Kristin Chilton, Assistant Chief Harold Hoskins, and former Chief Keith Jackson

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Whitaker Family

YMCA

at Hamburg Place

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exingtonians — especially those living and/or working in the eastern corridor of the city — have been anxiously awaiting the new YMCA opening in Hamburg Place! And alas, it is finally open! Located at 2681 Old Rosebud Road, the new Whitaker Family YMCA is a 62,000-square-feet state-of-the-art facility near Hamburg Pavilion.

Believe me, you will get excited about this place even driving into the parking lot! The building is incredible.

The new Y features a whopping 10,000-square-feet in their Wellness Center, which includes premium cardio equipment like treadmills, ellipticals, ARC Trainers, rowers, recumbent bikes, spin bikes, stair climbers and more. There’s also a wide variety of strength and free-weight equipment including multiple circuits, plate loaded pieces and free weights.

If you’re like me and work out better in a group atmosphere, enjoy one of the more than 300 group exercise classes that are offered each week at the YMCAs across Lexington. There’s truly something for everyone, including Mat Pilates, Boot Camp, Zumba®, Step, R.I.P.P.E.D., Body Pump, PiYo®, Vinyasa Flow, Indoor Cycling, TRX®, Kickboxing, Insanity®, Kettlebell, Water Fitness and more. There are also special classes for seniors such as Gentle Yoga, SilverSneakers® Circuit and SilverSneakers® Classic.

If you like to work out on your own or with a personal trainer, no problem! The new Y’s got you covered there too, with a 3,000-square-foot performance and functional training room that allows for a variety of body weight exercises, as well as the use of many functional training accessories such as resistance bands, suspension trainers, medicine balls, training ropes and more. This room is available for personal training, small group training and sports specific training. Youth fitness camps and clinics can utilize it for an additional fee. Members can enjoy the gymnasium for pick-up basketball, sports leagues and more. On the second level, runners and walkers can enjoy the three-lane track, with a view that overlooks the gymnasium.

Then there’s the stunning Aquatic Complex, with a 25-yard lap pool, a recreational pool with spray features and slides and a relaxing spa area

which includes a sauna, steam room and a whirlpool. There are four lap lanes available for use along with water fitness classes, plus swim lessons, for the whole family to enjoy in their fantastic new pool. There’s also the Splash Pad, which is an interactive, zero-depth water park designed for all ages. Splash Pad activities include spraying, splashing, dumping and walk-through features. There is also comfortable seating and tables for families and individuals to use during the warmer months while enjoying the outdoor space.

The Y’s youth development wing is perfect for the kiddos to enjoy after school programs, camps and academic activities. Members can also drop their kids off in the Child Watch area, which is a free fun and safe place for children to play while parents and guardians enjoy the Y. Membership at the YMCA of Central Kentucky offers a lot of perks. Members can enjoy access to all of the YMCA of Central Kentucky facilities, free new member fitness orientation, drop-in child care when you use the facility, A.W.A.Y. member privileges plus statewide reciprocity to use at other Ys, priority registration and reduced fees for all programs they offer like Youth and Adult Sports, Youth and Adult Swim Lessons, Pilates Reformer, Personal and Small Group Training and much more. On top of that, if you are in need of a healthy meal or mid-day pick me up, the Press Juice and Health Bar is located in the lobby of the Y. There is also free WiFi throughout the facility, making it easy to stay connected.

Membership can be purchased online or on-site at www.ymcacky.org, but if guests can’t afford a membership, the Y offers financial assistance to those unable to pay those costs. An important part of the YMCA’s membership is that no one is denied membership because of inability to pay.

The Whitaker Family YMCA is open Monday - Friday from 5:30 am -10 pm, Saturday 6 am - 8 pm and Sunday 10 am – 8 pm.

by Meredith Lane, City Scout

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MEET THE MEDIA

Tom Kenny

by Michelle Rauch photos courtesy of Tom Kenny

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orn and raised in Peoria, Illinois, Tom Kenny was the youngest of three children and the only boy. “Spoiled. Just ask my sisters,” Kenny said.

Kenny grew up above his dad’s bar. Hilltop Liquors was downstairs in the house they converted into a bar, and the family lived upstairs.

That made for tight living quarters. There were only two bedrooms for the family of five. Growing up, he never had a bedroom or bed.

“I slept on the sofa. I went from the crib to the couch,” he said. He slept with his clothes on the floor in a very neat pile by the sofa and, to this day, he is a neat freak. “So, I slept on a couch in a bar. That’s my story,” he said, laughing.

The neighborhood was blue collar and rough. “High crime. It was fight or flight,” he said. While the neighborhood outside had its risks, inside, spirits were flowing both literally and figuratively.

Hilltop Liquors was a place full of the regulars who sat at the same place and didn’t have to order because the Kennys knew what they drank.

“Of course it’s incredibly illegal, but I started bartending when I was fourteen because maybe dad was upstairs taking a late lunch.

He would say ‘go down and open up the bar’ because it was twentytwo steps down from my living room.

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The regulars affectionately remember the day Kenny was born.

They retold the story time and again about his dad running out of the bar to take his mom to the hospital, leaving the extended family to close the bar for the night. “Cherished memories, no doubt,” he said.

Among those memories are those of the beer delivery man. As a student athlete, Kenny had two-a-day practices for basketball. He had to be at the gym at six in the morning. His mom worked with his dad at the bar and had a second job. His dad worked seven days a week trying to make ends meet until 2am. Scheduling made it hard for them to take Kenny to practice so early. “Well you know who is out at six in the morning? Beer truck drivers making their runs. So the Budweiser driver used to drive me to my morning practices and drop me off in front of the gym in a Budweiser truck!

I was the most popular kid at school,” Kenny said, smiling.

That was the family atmosphere the bar fostered, with everyone chipping in to help. The bar regulars were such a part of the family they would show up to Kenny’s games. Those who didn’t cheer from the sidelines did so back at the bar. “They couldn’t watch so they would turn down the TV in the bar and turn up the radio.” Instead of going to the post game dances, Kenny headed back home and to the familiar faces at the bar. “Everybody would cheer and we

would sit around and debrief about the game and the plays because they had all listened or seen it in person. It was like going back to your family and running through what happened at the game,” Kenny said.

During an all-state banquet celebration Kenny’s senior year, while other teammates had a table of family and friends, Kenny had four tables full of fans. “Everyone from the bar came because they were all invested in me.” Polite applause was given when other players were recognized. But when Kenny’s name was announced, “The guys at my tables had gone to happy hour. They had a head start before the program. They just roared! They got up and were hootin’ and hollerin’.

Just tore the place down. I had never been more proud. Most people would say they were embarrassed. Not me because that was family.

That was a neat experience,” he recalled. “That was the environment I grew up in. Again, it was a very bad neighborhood, but there were good people. They were great supporters of mine growing up.”

Kenny hoped for a career in basketball after such success in high school. He suffered a career shattering knee injury his senior year.

“It just abruptly ended my sports career. I was planning to go to college on scholarship in basketball. Eighteen years old, and the thing you love more than anything in the world is just cold turkey, abrupt, boom, gone! I took a step back and said, ‘alright, if I can’t play sports how can I stay close to sports?’” he said.

A front row courtside seat was the next best thing, short of coaching.

He took his mess and turned it into a mission. “In the end it worked out. It was a painful message at the time,” he said.

A New Path Broadcasting came naturally for Kenny. “I could do it and I was not nervous doing it. I was never scared stepping up to a microphone speaking in front of a group of people,” he said. “I was never intimidated.” He credits athletics for that calm under pressure.

Kenny went to Western Illinois University. Having the advantage of knowing what he wanted to do as soon as he went to school, Kenny worked at the campus radio station and a local commercial radio station. “I had already had my first paying broadcasting job in 1979 at the age of 17, as a public address announcer at baseball games in Peoria,” he said. After college he worked at a new commercial radio station covering news and sports. “I loved play by play. That was my true love and passion,” he said. “I loved being able to tell a story, to paint a picture for the listener because they couldn’t be there. I was their ears, their eyes, everything.”

Kenny credits his hard work and discipline to his late father. “My dad told me early on in life that you have to do what needs to be done when it needs to be done, whether you like it or not. He always told us not to use the word fair. You will always have to work hard for everything you earn,” he said.

Kenny Comes to Lexington When Kenny was ready to move into television, he interviewed at LEX 18 on a Monday and Tuesday in 1984. He drove back to Peoria on Wednesday, was hired Thursday, accepted Friday and got in the car to move to Lexington on Saturday. His first day of work was the following Monday.

“I didn’t even have a place to stay. I slept in my car in a Randalls’ parking lot the first night I drove down here,” he recalled. Kenny couldn’t get a hotel room because LSU was in town for a game. “I had no money because I wouldn’t get paid until Friday. I had no idea where I was going.”

He started as weekend sports anchor since then sports director, Alan Cutler, left for a job in Pittsburgh. But it was short lived.

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Cutler returned to Lexington. The bosses came to Kenny. “They were like, hmm, a young, green Tom Kenny or superstar Alan Cutler? So they said Tom, guess what? You won’t be in sports here anymore. How would you like news and weather?” With unemployment being the other option he took on the early morning and noon shift doing news, weather, and sports.

In 1990 his new assignment was to cover the Miss Kentucky pageant.

That’s where he saw Nancy Cox for the first time. “I said that is the most beautiful woman I have ever seen in my whole life,” he said. Cox was crowned Miss Kentucky that year. “I said, ‘I am going to marry that woman.’” Two years later Cox was hired at LEX 18. In just four years the two became man and wife. They are approaching their 20th wedding anniversary. “Like most men, I married up. Way up,” he said.

Family Life The Kenny’s have two children, son Thomas, who is a freshman at Centre college and daughter Campbell, who is thirteen. “Everything they say about parenting is true. It’s the hardest thing you will ever do and the most rewarding thing you will ever do. Sometimes we are not very good, but if it’s always cloaked in love you’ll probably be ok,” he said.

Kenny joined WTVQ 36 in June 2001 as a general assignment reporter. Then he started doing investigative reporting and anchoring the weekday noon show before moving onto the morning show. “I was named main anchor 8 years ago this past October,” he said. For the Kennys, juggling two careers in the news business takes a lot of planning. “Our days are all about logistics. Getting to dance and baseball practice. Who is doing four loads of laundry. That’s our life. It’s in fifth gear a hundred miles an hour,” he said.

When it comes to having two well-known parents, “Our kids are thoroughly unimpressed with what we do for a living. They grew up with it. It’s no big deal. They just want our time. They don’t want our successes,” Kenny said.

Kenny is immersed in the Wildcats and loves supporting all the surrounding schools. “I also love horse racing. There is no other place that looks like this. A city that is vibrant, surrounded by the most beautiful horse farms in the world. Not everyone gets to go to work and drive

by Calumet farm. I have never taken it for granted. That’s why I stayed.

I fell in love with the people, fell in love with the culture,” he said.

He also loves telling stories. “I love to be able to be the first to tell you something or alert the community to something is going on. In the news you always have to be fair and balanced in what you do. There are two sides to every story and the truth is somewhere in the middle,” he said.

Kenny has been in Lexington for 32 years and wants to sit at the anchor desk as long as he can. “Every day I come to work I still have the bug. I am still excited. I am still curious. I still want to be able to hold people accountable, shine a light in dark places and see who runs.

I love serving this community. At the end of the day my customers are the viewers. It’s an obligation,” Kenny said.

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CUISINE

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Dining: Uncle Maddio’s

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Southern Lady Cooks: White Chocolate Cranberry Muffins

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Beer of the Month: New Belgium Accumulation

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Wine of the Month: Scotto Cellars Rare Pinot

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A Taste of Thyme: Have a Heart Health Thanksgiving

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Skinny Mom: Roasted Butternut Squash with Kale and Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes

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TOP 5 Dining: Pizza Part 1

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UNCLE MADDIO’S

PERFECT PIZZA, PRONTO.

by Michelle Aiello photos by Keni Parks

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ocated next to the Chevy Chase Kroger at 630 East Euclid Avenue, Uncle Maddio’s is a modern, fast-casual pizza restaurant that lets diners create their own customized pizzas. After choosing from a variety of crusts, sauces, cheeses, meat, and fresh vegetables, the pizzas are baked to order in six and a half minutes.

“Here, you can make your own pizza without getting your hands dirty,” said Billy White, who co-owns the franchise along with brothers Todd, Matt, and Robb Sackett. “All of our ingredients are fresh, the pizza dough is made inhouse each day, and we have locally-grown veggies delivered every morning.”

Seating for 100 and garage-style doors that open onto an outdoor patio make the dining experience at Uncle Maddio’s both relaxed and modern. With an ordering concept similar to Jimmy John’s, Subway, and Chipotle, customers can interact directly with the pizza maker, telling them exactly how much or little of each ingredient to include.

Uncle Maddio’s extensive pizza menu features three different dough options for their New York style thin crust pizzas – traditional white flour, whole wheat, and gluten-free. With six different sauce options including old favorites like tomato basil and off-the-beaten-path choices like buttermilk ranch, herb pesto, and spicy buffalo, plus over 45 different cheese, meat and veggie toppings to choose from, customers can create just about any pizza imaginable. Daiya vegan cheese and grilled tofu are also available.

Alongside the custom-pizza options, Uncle Maddio’s offers a variety of signature pizzas, like the Steak & Blue (grilled steak, mozzarella, blue cheese, roma tomatoes, spinach, garlic olive oil and balsamic glaze) and the Southwest Baja (tomato basil sauce, mozzarella, cheddar, southwest spices, grilled chicken, black bean and corn salsa, picked jalapenos, cilantro and chipotle ranch dressing).

Their salads, such as the Greek, Santa fe and Chicken Caesar, come in entrée and side salads: you can also create-your-own salad. The restaurant offers “foldwiches” – unique sandwiches folded into handmade pizza crusts. Several varieties are available, including the Spicy Italian and the Chipotle Turkey. They offer a selection of seasonal craft beers and wine as well.

White and the Sackett brothers are no strangers to the restaurant business.

Over the past 16 years they have owned and operated 11 Jimmy John’s sandwich shops in Lexington and Richmond. White said that they decided to expand after their success with Jimmy John’s because they love Lexington and noted that the fast-casual pizza market is rapidly expanding. Based in Atlanta and currently operating 39 restaurants in 13 states, Uncle Maddio’s is growing consistently, with more than 250 restaurants currently in development. In addition to the Chevy Chase restaurant, two more Lexington locations are in the works.

Most of all, White and his partners want the public to know that Uncle Maddio’s is a great place to hang out and bring the family, and the perfect spot to dine before the game. And for those looking for a restaurant franchise, it’s a great new opportunity.

“The Lexington community has a lot of choices when dining out, but we think Uncle Maddio’s will become their favorite,” he said. “Our New York-style thin crust pizza is Americans’ favorite, and with our fast service and fresh ingredients, we plan to win over families, friends, busy lunchtime diners, and any other guest that wants to join us. So come on in, have a Country Boy or Blue Stallion draft and let us make you a custom pizza. Six and a half minutes later, that pizza will be at your table.”

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Q&A BILLY WHITE

(CO-OWNER)

You’ve worked in a few different industries.

How did you get into the restaurant business?

Our youngest partner, Matt Sackett, approached his older brother (and partner) Robb and me back in 1999. We knew Jimmy John and his business model and we found it to be a great opportunity. Nine Jimmy John’s locations and one Uncle Maddio’s later, we are doing all right and really enjoying Lexington!

Tell us about the origin of the name Uncle Maddio’s.

Founder Matt Andrew’s nieces and nephews call him Uncle Maddio!

What’s one ingredient that is always in your kitchen?

Garlic. I use it with almost everything I cook.

What is your personal favorite Uncle Maddio’s pizza?

My favorite is traditional crust with red sauce, Uncle Maddio’s handmade meatballs, fresh mozzarella and black olives or mushrooms. My partner Todd Sackett, who runs the place, is always coming up with crazy and awesome tasting combinations of our 47 toppings, and 5 sauces.

You’re from Chicago. In your opinion, who makes the best pizza there?

For me, it’s Lou Malnati’s – no contest. The thick butter crust is incredible, cheese portion is large and the sausage is ONE huge flat patty on the top of the pizza with red sauce on top. It’s phenomenal!

What is it like working in your kitchen?

Fun, I hope! It’s always important to bring positive energy to everything that you do. My employees feed off of that, and so do our customers.

People have lots of choices for dining out. We want to make them feel the most welcomed and relaxed.

Why did you choose to move your family to Lexington?

Lexington is where our restaurants are located. As Marketing Manager, my mission is to get to know the Lexington community (University of Kentucky, the healthcare and horse industries, schools, etc.) and be part of the neighborhood. I feel that getting to know the people of Lexington and what’s important to them will only improve our business. And it’s been a blast!

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places that feel local. Nice people, great service and exceptional food.

Lexington is full of places like that, and I believe Uncle Maddio’s is one of them.

Something people would be surprised to know about you?

Most of our Jimmy John’s restaurants will not let me near the food preparation line! The same is true at Uncle Maddio’s. They make fun of me when I try to make a pizza or a Turkey Tom. If someone wanted to open a restaurant, what 3 things would you tell them?

1. Do your research and make sure there is a fit for your concept.

2. Deliver positive energy and input at all times.

3. You gotta love it!

Besides pizza of course, what is your second favorite food?

Ribeye steak, charred rare and served with thickly sliced Vidalia onions and asparagus, right off the grill.

Tell us about your family.

My wife Barbara and I have been married 27 years and she has a successful consulting business in Chicago. Daughter Audrey (22) is an aspiring writer and a sustainable farm hand in her senior year at the University of Iowa. Our son Andrew (21) is a senior at the University of Missouri and studies Strategic Communications. He also loves UK Hoops! Rachel (17) plays soccer and has been visiting college campuses like Butler, Colorado Sate University and Air Force Academy.

What are some of your favorite places to eat out in Lexington?

The Sage Rabbit, Cole’s, Tony’s, West Sixth Brewery for beers, and Smithtown Seafood for fried oysters and grits. I enjoy local places or

What do you enjoy doing on your time off?

I enjoy golf, getting some exercise, horse racing and spending time with our Australian Shepherd, Toby. But mostly, I enjoy traveling back to Chicago to see my family.

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White Chocolate T

Cranberry MuďŹƒns

hese cranberry muffins will quickly become one of your favorite recipes. My family loves anything with cranberries and we eat them all year. We like them in salads, desserts, muffins and we even like the cranberry sauce in the can. These muffins are wonderful with coffee or milk for breakfast or a snack anytime. They are wonderful to serve your guests and family during the holidays. The chocolate chips really add to the flavor of these muffins and the cranberries are so pretty.

Muffin Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1 stick butter or 1/2 cup or 8 tablespoons, melted 3/4 cup white granulated sugar 1 cup buttermilk 1/4 cup sour cream 2 eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 cup chopped fresh cranberries 1 cup chopped nuts, pecans or walnuts 1 cup white chocolate chips Glaze Ingredients: 3/4 cup powdered sugar 3 tablespoons milk 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (Optional)

Muffin Preparation: Whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt and baking soda. Stir in the melted butter, sugar, buttermilk, sour cream, eggs and vanilla extract with a spoon. Mix well. Fold in the cranberries, nuts and chocolate chips. Spray a 12 cup muffin tin with cooking spray. Fill cups to top. Bake in preheated 350 degree oven 35 to 40 minutes or until centers are done and muffins are brown on top. Makes 12 muffins. Enjoy!

A Note From The Southern Lady: You can just sprinkle these with powdered sugar, add the glaze below or leave plain. We like them with the glaze. I have not tried them with frozen cranberries but see no reason why you could not use the frozen ones. These muffins keep well for several days and can be reheated in the microwave. I keep them in a plastic container in the fridge.

Glaze Preparation: Whisk together and drizzle over muffins. Can add more sugar or more milk to get the consistency you like.

Judy Yeager of The Southern Lady Cooks had no idea when she started her food blog in 2008, that she would have such an amazing following... 800k and growing on Facebook!

She loves to feature many traditional Southern recipes, along with family recipes and dishes created in her Kentucky Kitchen. She has two published cookbooks and a third on the way!

For more great Southern Lady recipes, visit www.TheSouthernLadyCooks.com

by Judy Yeager The Southern Lady Cooks

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Have a Heart-Healthy Thanksgiving

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ovember is just the start of the downward spiral of classic holiday overeating.

First, there is the leftover candy from trick-ortreating, then come the pies, pumpkin rolls, fudge and candies. With the holiday season around the corner, your waistline and your health are at risk. During Thanksgiving, it’s easy to go overboard with the calories and consumption. Temptations of gooey pecan pie and dense sweet potatoes topped with crackly marshmallows make it seem impossible to be disciplined. It doesn’t have to be this way.

There are some excellent options and recipes available for all the classic Thanksgiving sides and sweets, without all the nonsense and dense calories, AND it can still taste amazing. I hate the look some people give me when I say something is gluten free or low calorie, and they automatically think it doesn’t taste good – in all honesty, it can taste better!

November is not just the month for Tom the turkey and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade, but a month we draw awareness to the Go Red For Women campaign. Only 55 percent of women realize heart disease is their No. 1 killer and less than half know what are considered healthy levels for cardiovascular risk factors like blood pressure and cholesterol.

The Go Red For Women movement works to make sure women know they are at risk so they can take action to protect their health.

One quick way to start improving cardiovascular health is through lifestyle and exercise.

I use the word lifestyle instead of diet because I don’t believe in diets. Diets are temporary and if you are committed to improving your health (especially your heart health) then it is anything but temporary, and it’s a lifestyle choice where you focus on the food you eat, why you are eating certain foods, and how those foods can benefit your body and the health of your heart from the inside.

I have put two wonderful, heart-healthy Thanksgiving sides and a bonus heart-healthy dessert together, along with healthy tips on why you should be cooking more with these amazing products.

Enjoy, have a great Thanksgiving and many more to come in the future!

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Food Photography © 2016 Theresa Stanley

Holiday Broccoli Salad Ingredients

• 3 heads of broccoli crowns, stalks removed and chopped into small thumb size florets • 1 red onion, diced small • 10oz bag of lightly salted peanuts • 10oz bag of dried cranberries or cherries • 2 granny smith apples finely chopped • 1 can of coconut cream • 2 Tablespoons of red wine vinegar • 2 Tablespoons of sugar or substitute with 100% pure maple syrup • Salt and Pepper to taste • ½ lemon juiced • Pomegranate arils (seeds) for garnish Directions In a medium bowl mix the florets of broccoli, diced red onion, cranberries, peanuts, and apples. In a separate bowl whisk the coconut cream, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, sugar, and salt and pepper. Adjust seasoning to your taste. If you prefer a sweeter dressing add another tablespoon of maple syrup or honey. Pour the dressing over the broccoli salad ingredients and toss to generously coat the salad. This is best prepared a day or two ahead so the flavors have a chance to marry together. Before serving garnish with a handful of pomegranate arils for a pop of color and an extra boost in antioxidants.

Healthy Tip: When it comes to your health, you really can’t go wrong with vegetables. But green vegetables may give an extra boost to your heart. These are high in carotenoids, which act as antioxidants and free your body of potentially harmful compounds. They’re also high in fiber and contain tons of vitamins and minerals.

Pomegranates contains numerous antioxidants, including heart-promoting polyphenols and anthocyanins which may help stave off hardening of the arteries. If you don’t like pomegranates or can’t afford them, reach for apples, which also contain plenty of healthpromoting compounds.

Creamy Coconut Cauliflower Soup

Dark Chocolate Pomegranate Bark

• 1 Tablespoon olive oil (rosemary-infused adds great flavor) • 1 medium onion, diced • 2 medium stalks celery, diced • 1 teaspoon garlic (approx.

1 clove, minced) • 3 large potatoes, scrubbed and roughly cut into small chunks • 1 head of cauliflower, washed and cut into florets • 6 cups chicken broth • 1 can of full-fat coconut milk or coconut cream • 1 Tablespoon ground turmeric • 1 lemon juiced • Sea salt & fresh pepper, to taste

• 10oz bittersweet chocolate (60-70% cacao), broken into 1-inch pieces • 1 cup fresh pomegranate arils (from 1 large pomegranate) • 1½ Tablespoons minced candied ginger • ¼ teaspoon pink Himalayan sea salt

Ingredients

Directions Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and celery and a sprinkling of salt and pepper, stir and let sauté over medium low heat for about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic puree or garlic and let cook for another minute. Add potatoes, cauliflower, broth and turmeric. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a bubbling simmer for 20 to 25 minutes until potatoes and cauliflower are soft. Remove pot from the heat and, using an immersion blender, blend until smooth. Stir in coconut milk, lemon juice, and add more salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh chives (optional, but pretty good!)

Healthy Tip: Turmeric has been shown to generate incredible overall health benefits. The main active compound in turmeric, curcumin, is often responsible for turmeric’s benefits due to its anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Ingredients

Directions Line a baking sheet with a silicone baking mat or waxed paper. Put the chocolate in a wide, shallow microwavesafe bowl and microwave on high until it just starts to melt, about 1 minute OR use the double boiling method on the stove over a small saucepan of water. Stir with a spatula until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth, heating in additional 15-second increments, if necessary.

Gently stir half of the pomegranate seeds, the ginger (break up any clumps with your fingers), and the salt into the chocolate. Scrape the chocolate mixture onto the baking sheet and spread it into an 8x10-inch rectangle. Sprinkle the remaining pomegranate seeds and Himalayan sea salt evenly over the top, pressing them into the chocolate. Refrigerate until fully set, about 30 minutes. Break the bark into chunks with your hands (be careful not to crush the seeds), and serve.

Healthy Tips: Several studies have now shown that dark chocolate may benefit your heart, including one in 2012 that found daily chocolate consumption could reduce nonfatal heart attacks and stroke in people at high risk for these problems. The findings applied only to dark chocolate, meaning chocolate made up of at least 60-70% cocoa. Dark chocolate contains flavonoids called polyphenols, which may help blood pressure, clotting and inflammation. Unfortunately, milk chocolate and most candy bars don’t make the grade when it comes to protecting your heart.

Ginger is an amazing root with many healing powers, helping with: appetite, arthritis, cellulite, pneumonia, colds, sea sickness, nausea, preventing blood clots and increasing circulation. Ginger is also used for blood pressure, cholesterol regulation, increased circulation and overall heart health.

by Allison Davis Chic Chef

wildthymecooking.com

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Roasted Butternut Squash with Kale Raise your hand if you’ve ever been intimidated by kale. Well, you shouldn’t be! There are tons of ways to incorporate it into your diet other than raw in a salad… such as this sweet side dish! The brown sugar and natural sweetness of the butternut squash help to balance out the bitterness of the kale, and you’ve got an extra bonus of dried cranberries to carry the sweet note throughout the entire dish.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 25-30 minutes 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 8 cups butternut squash, cut into 1-inch pieces ¼ teaspoon cinnamon ½ teaspoon salt black pepper, to taste 1 shallot, thinly sliced 1 tablespoon brown sugar 4 cups kale, cut in bite-sized pieces

2. In a large mixing bowl, toss 1½ tablespoons of oil with the squash, cinnamon, salt and black pepper.

3. Spread the squash in a single layer onto the prepared baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until fork-tender but not mushy.

4. While the squash is roasting, heat a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Add the remaining ½ tablespoon of oil and cook the shallots until soft, about 4-6 minutes.

5. In a large mixing bowl, toss the brown sugar, kale and Craisins together.

8 ¾ cup servings | Nutrition Facts based on a 1 cup serving

6. In the last 5 minutes of roasting time for the squash, spread the kale mixture on top of the squash and finish cooking until the kale shrinks and wilts.

Calories 140 | Fat 4g | Cholesterol 0mg | Sodium 160 mg | Fiber 6g Carbohydrates 29g | Sugar 8g | Protein 2g | Smart Points: 2

7. Gently toss the cooked shallots into the butternut squash and kale mixture.

½ cup Reduced Sugar Craisins® Dried Cranberries

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1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and spray a baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray or line with a silicone baking mat.

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Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes This is a fun alternative to a sweet potato casserole, since the contents will be served back in the potato skin. Instead of a calorie and fat-laden casserole recipe, we scooped out the centers of our sweet potatoes, added some nonfat Greek yogurt, cinnamon, brown sugar and nutmeg, mixed it all together and came up with these sweet and delicious sweet potatoes. The yogurt adds a slight tang that controls the sweetness of the brown sugar and potato.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 70 minutes

1. Preheat the oven to 375° F.

4 medium sweet potatoes

2. Wash the potatoes and dry them on a paper towel, then poke several holes in them with a fork, and brush the oil on the outsides of them.

½ tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

3. Wrap each potato in foil, and place on a baking sheet in the oven for 40-60 minutes, or until fork-tender. Decrease the oven temperature to 350° F.

½ cup plain, nonfat Greek yogurt 2 tablespoons brown sugar

4. When the potatoes are cool enough to touch, cut them in half lengthwise, and scoop out the centers in a large mixing bowl.

1 teaspoon cinnamon ½ teaspoon nutmeg

5. Add the yogurt, brown sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg to the mixing bowl with the scooped out potato centers. Mix in stand mixer, or handheld mixer until smooth.

2 tablespoons pecans, chopped 64 mini marshmallows 8 servings | Serving size: 1 filled potato half

6. Evenly spoon the mixture back into the potato skins, and top with the pecans and 8 marshmallows per potato.

Calories 91 | Fat 3g | Cholesterol 1mg | Sodium 36 mg | Fiber 1g Carbohydrates 14g | Sugar 7g | Protein 3g | Smart Points: 4

7. Bake for 10 minutes, or until the marshmallows are toasted and melting.

by Brooke Griffin, Skinny Mom

Griffin is originally from Corbin, Kentucky and strives to educate, motivate and inspire other moms to live their healthiest life.

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DINING

by Rosie Ecker

PIES & PINTS

Pizza

PART 1

Pies & Pints serves an assortment of delectable specialty pies with over 30 beers on tap. While they do serve up classic pies like the Margherita or Pesto, Pies & Pints takes it to a whole new level with favorites like the Grape & Gorgonzola pie topped with red grapes, gorgonzola cheese and fresh rosemary. Feeling spicy? Try the Sriracha Shrimp pie topped with sriracha marinated shrimp, fresh garlic, red onions, fresh pineapple, scallions, basil, mint, cilantro and sriracha aioli.

401 W Main St #106 • (859) 231-7437 • piesandpints.net

MELLOW MUSHROOM

With over 10 specialty pizzas, “mellow-out” and enjoy every last bite they have to offer. Try the Holy Shiitake pizza topped with shiitake, button and portobello mushrooms, caramelized onions, mozzarella and MontAmoré cheese. Or even try the Mellowterranean with grilled chicken, onions, roasted red peppers, black olives, chives, feta and mozzarella cheeses with a side of tzatziki sauce. These humorously-named options will leave you both laughing and satisfied.

503 S Upper St •(859) 281-6111 • mellowmushroom.com

PAZZO’S

With 3 full bars, 27 TVs and 3 projectors, not to mention its pizza and drink options, Pazzo’s is a sure collegiate favorite. Choose from over 10 specialty pizzas where anyone’s taste buds will be satisfied. Ranging from the Mexington with seasoned ground beef and other savory toppings to the Bourbon Bootlegger with grilled chicken, bacon, red onion and house-made bbq sauce, Pazzo’s knows how to win over any Lexington native. It doesn’t stop there, however; with 47 beers on tap and 65 bourbons/whiskies, you can create your own great pairing.

385 S Limestone •(859) 255-5125 • pazzospizzapub.com

JOE BOLOGNA’S

Located in a former synagogue with hard to miss stained-glass windows, this local favorite has just about everything under the Italian sun.

Ranging from the Zucchini Parmesan Sub with deep-fried zucchini slices, marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese, all the way to the Sfingione pizza with a sauce of sautéed onions, anchovies and tomatoes with mozzarella and Romano cheese, there are options for everyone. There is even the chance to see Joe Bologna himself, diligently making his celebrated breadsticks.

120 W Maxwell St •(859) 252-4933 • joebolognas.com

OLD CHICAGO

This tavern and taproom brings authentic Chicago-style pizza right into Lexington. With everything from lighter-fare meals to deep-dish pizza, you will surely leave satisfied. Try the Kick’N Canadian Bacon deep dish pizza with jalapeño cream cheese, mozzarella and pepper jack cheeses, Canadian bacon, diced tomatoes topped with green onions. The Chicago7 Stromboli is a great option for those who don’t want to share a single bite; it features Italian sausage, pepperoni, green peppers, red onions, mushrooms, black olives and mozzarella baked in Old Chicago’s classic dough. Wash any choice down with their state-of-the-art beer on-tap selections.

1924 Pavilion Way • (859) 977-4640 • oldchicago.com

Hungry for more? Check out our Dining Guide at topsinlex.com!

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LIFE + STYLE

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WOW Wedding: Teri & Michael Brock

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Wedding Trends: Wedding Shoes thas Wow!

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Outfit of the Month: Pilgrim Chic

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Holiday Gift Guide

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Holiday Picks

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Small Business Saturday

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WOW Wedding:

Teri & Michael Brock June 23

O

ver twenty-five years ago, Theresa and Michael Brock experienced love at first sight in World Civilization class at Tates Creek High.

The stolen glances during class eventually led to an introduction at a house party, where they started dating. The two reconnected years later when one of Mike’s friends invited Teri to his forty-fifth birthday party as a surprise.

Teri and Mike got engaged on New Year’s Eve, 2015. They were driving to dinner when Mike pretended to have car trouble. He pulled off on a side street, checked for a flat, and asked Teri to hop in the driver’s seat and move the car forward. Instead of climbing out of the car, Teri hopped over the console and waited, wondering what on earth was taking him so long. She finally got out to check and found Mike down on one knee. As he asked her to marry him, she realized they were parked in front of the same house where they first met so many years ago. To maximize the nostalgia, they celebrated their engagement at Merrick Inn, the same restaurant where they always had dinner before the school dances.

Teri and Mike were married on June 23, 2016 at Talon Winery. The day was filled with storybook drama: the skies were pitch black, a tornado watch went into effect, and Teri lost her ring in the gravel driveway of the vineyard! Yet, the couple was so ecstatic to finally start their lives together that they only saw the positives: the weather made for exciting pictures and the lost ring, a great story.

Fortunately it cleared up after the rain and was a lovely evening.

The reception was a down-home, rustic event in the barn with gorgeous floral arrangements and tobacco cloths hung from the rafters. The delectable spread of southern comfort food included mini hot browns and chicken bite appetizers, with a hearty salad, beef brisket, mashed potatoes, and asparagus for the main course. There was plenty of sweet tea to go around, in addition to the Talon wine. Guests danced the night away to music from the eighties and nineties, with a healthy dose of Journey thrown in. The newlyweds shared their first dance to Journey’s “Faithfully”, which has always been their song.

Written by Cynthia Ellingsen Photography by Keni Parks

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Teri and Mike loved the playful spirit of their wedding.

Teri’s brother kept photobombing the pictures, and he snuck a piece of cake long before the newlyweds. Danielle Pope, one of Teri’s coworkers, was determined to keep picking her up. Danielle is over six feet tall and Teri, just five foot one, so the recurring joke was nothing short of entertaining.

The evening turned sentimental with toasts from the newlyweds’ children. Teri and Mike have four children from their previous marriages, and their speeches were so special for the couple. Teri’s daughter, Shelby, also serenaded them with a beautiful rendition of “Hallelujah”. Nash, Teri’s son, cracked everyone up by ending his toast with “God bless the Dallas Cowboys!”

When Teri and Mike were asked what advice they would offer other couples planning a wedding, they said: “Do everything for your own happiness…it’s your day. If you want to get married in all neon—do it. It’s all over so quickly. Focus on just remembering it and being happy.”

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Details

Photographer: Keni Parks Venue: Talon Winery Catering: Dupree Catering Cakes: Martine’s Flowers: Best of Flowers Groom & Groomsmen Attire: Geno’s Rings: The Castle

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Wedding TRENDS

Wedding Shoes that WOW!

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bride’s glory is her wedding attire.

That’s all there is to it. Every bride wants to have the most divine dress that makes her look absolutely the best she’s ever looked. But there is actually icing on that cake; the wedding shoes!

Every woman, down to every little girl, loves, loves, loves shoes. Why? They always fit, you can make a statement, and you can change up any outfit on a whim. You can go way over the top with a fab shoe and today’s wedding shoes are magnificent. Forget about simple dyeable, creamy white shiny satin, or matte peau de soie wedding pumps. Now you can choose embellished and fantasy styles that will make your heart skip a beat.

To Budget or Not to Budget You can easily spend $1500 to $3000 on a pair of magnificent Christian Louboutin’s. And yes they are delicious! But there are completely gorgeous wedding shoes to be had for under $100, and even less if you are smart and look at past season styles available on Ebay and beyond. Keep a close eye on the 75% off racks at big box stores – there are always super blingy shoes that not everyone can pull off.

Red Bottom or Red Tag – they will be beautiful!

You Don’t Have to Choose Just One The tightwad in me says “Of course choose just one pair!” But the heart wants what the heart wants. If you just can’t decide between two favorites and it doesn’t break the bank, choose a second

pair for the reception, especially if you change your look. Some brides “decompose” their gowns to a shorter look or remove a train and veil, and a second pair of shows can just add to the fun. Some grander, taller styles may not be at all dance friendly, and you may want to choose a more comfortable reception shoe.

Alright, Mr. DeMille, I’m Ready for My Close-up.

Remember to make your fabulous wedding shoes a star of the show by giving them special attention in your wedding photo lineup. Do get a shot of your fancy footwear peeping out beneath your gown, but also work with your photographer to stage a “beauty shot” featuring just your shoes. Arrange your shoes with a few of your wedding touches, from rings to flowers, and I bet it will be one of your favorite photos.

Stay Tuned There are so many directions you can take with your wedding day shoe choices that we will take a deep dive into the fantastic options you have over the next few issues. And even if you are not a current bride, all these fantastic footwear choices can take you from ballrooms to bars – wherever your feet lead you!

by Marsha Koller Wedding Consultant

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OUTFIT OF THE MONTH

Pilgrim Chic

Most people might not automatically think of fashion when the word “Thanksgiving” comes up, but you would be surprised just how many trends are inspired by Colonial Plymouth. For this month’s outfit, we are showcasing our take on how to have a little theme fun with pilgrim inspired pieces. At the center of our look is a quintessential pilgrim dress, but with a new modern, high-end spin. Saint Laurent’s black velvet dress typifies the label’s pristine vintage aesthetic: the silhouette has bracelet-length sleeves with smart button-fastening cuffs, and a white silk-twill collar with a black silk-satin neck bow. It’s finished with a prim button-down fastening, and will add instant ladylike decadence to your wardrobe. With pilgrim style on our minds, there was no question about our shoe choice. Lanby Jesse L. Brooks vin’s black pumps are set on a patent-leather high-block heel to enhance the sumptuous feel of the plush velvet construction. The outsized buckle-fastening strap supports and flatters your foot, and is reminiscent of the footwear found on the Mayflower.

Since the festive holiday is all about giving thanks, we decided to express our gratitude through jewelry. The Getana Grateful Diamond Bracelet is crafted from yellow gold and decorated with sparkling diamonds, serving as a reminder to always be appreciative of what we have. Purses may not have been a big must-have item back in the 1600s, but nowadays a bag is a necessity when creating the perfect outfit.

To complement our black and white frock, we added a bag that isn’t too flashy, but is sure to take the attention away from the turkey and dressing. The GG Marmont bag has fast become something of a Gucci icon. This softly structured top-handle style is crafted from black and white chevron-quilted leather, and stamped with the instantly recognizable gold-tone logo plaque on the front. Taking inspiration from the cranberry sauce, we rounded out our look with a little lip action. Lipstick Queen’s Seven Deadly Sins gloss in “Lust” offers an indulgently rich and luxuriously texture without any of the sticky consequences of traditional lip gloss. It also adds a pop of color to our otherwise muted look. Whether you’re preparing the big meal or simply attending a get together, in this outfit you are sure to be the most “Pilgrim Chic” lady in the room.

1. Getana Grateful Diamond Bracelet | 2. Gucci GG Marmont Quilted Leather Bag | 3. Saint Laurent Lavallière-neck Velvet Midi Dress 4. Lipstick Queen Seven Deadly Sins in “Lust” | 5. Lanvin Buckle-detail Velvet Pumps

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE:

At Home for 5

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1) Collectible Christmas ornament and stand ($40/ornament; $19/stand). My Favorite Things 2721 Old Rosebud Rd #110, (859) 264-0923 2) Hanging Christmas Wagon. Two Chicks 124 Southland Drive (859) 276-0756 3) Personalized Authentic Bourbon Barrels ($139.99). Peggy’s 112 Clay Ave. (859) 255-3188

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4) Picture Frames from “KY Reclaimed” Collection ($24-$75). Miller Framing/Cutting Board Pro 188 Woodland Ave (859) 455-8927 5) Vintage French Advertising Poster Circa 1920 ($1,800). Heritage Antiques 154 N. Broadway (859) 253-1035

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the Holidays 3

4 1) Bourbon + Candles = The perfect match ($20). Wixology Candle Co. Lexington, KY. wixologycandles.com 2) Italian Gold Leaf Chandelier with Handmade Porcelain Roses ($750). Heritage Antiques 154 N. Broadway (850) 253-1035

3) Corkcicle Canteen and Tumblers ($26-$32). Queen Bee Gifts 3735 Palomar Center Dr (859) 224-2240 4) Shu Fa (calligraphy) Stone - Fluorite - popular in traditional Feng Shui.

AURA : Available at House. auraathome.com (859) 629-0665

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Kentucky Spirit

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1) Cats Crew Neck Sweatshirt by blueOriginals Craft Tee Boutique. lue Originals 301 E. Vine Street #160 blueoriginals.com 2) Reclaimed Barnwood Kentucky Christmas Sign ($40). Barnwood & Bluegrass 214 E Main St (859) 314-1913 3) UK Champions Collection Tempur-Pedic Soft & Lofty Pillow, Queen ($129). Exclusively at Sleep Outfitters. A portion of the proceeds goes to support community initiatives of The Calipari Foundation

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6 4) Hand-embroidered 20’ x 20’ Derby pillow artisan made by Catstudio ($168). Pretty in Pink 173 N Main St Versailles (859) 873-7465 5) Holiday hooked pillows by Peking Handicraft ($62.50-67.50). My Favorite Things, 2721 Old Rosebud Rd #110 (859) 264-0923 6) Quilted UK vest available S-XL ($48). Exclusively at Rose & Lime. 535 S Upper St Center Ct (859) 317-9550

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Stocking Stuffers

5 1) Athenian Grill gift Certificates available in any amount. 115 N Locust Hill Dr (859) 368.9725 2) Arthur Murray gift cards include 2 private lessons, 1 group lesson and 1 private session ($29). 1801 Alexandria Dr. (859) 278-7711 3) J. Renders gift card available in any amount. 3191 Beaumont Centre Cir #110 (859) 533-9777

4) Give the gift of skating, laser tag and mini-golf ($20-$100). Champs Entertainment Complex, 297 Ruccio Way visitchamps.com 5) The Holidays are all about the Details - Gift cards available. Dings Dents “N Details, 2253 Nicholasville Rd 859-285-9268

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE:

Jewelry

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6 1) Men’s watches by Mad Style ($19.95-$26.95). House by JSD 250 Walton Ave #130 (859) 523-3933 2) Black and gold necklace by Mignonne Gavigan ($348). AJ’s 867 E High St #120 (859) 253-1798 3) Leather and Freshwater chokers by Bourbon & Boweties ($26.99). Peggy’s 112 Clay Ave. (859) 255-3188

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4) Greek key hing bracelet by Julie Vos ($330) Cotton Patch 3367 Tates Creek Rd (859) 269-8839 5) Gold hammered fuchsia stone pendant necklace & matching earrings by Amrita Singh ($76). Rose & Lime. 535 S Upper St Center Ct (859) 317-9550 6) Sea La Vie by Spartina necklace and earring boxed sets in silver & gold ($28-36). Violet’s Gifts 1060 Chinoe Rd #174 (859) 281-1100

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2 1 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE:

Baby it’s Cold Outside 5

1) Best selling Blanket Scarves ($24.99). Peggy’s 112 Clay Ave. (859) 255-3188 2) Cashmere poncho by Spartina ($158). My Favorite Things 2721 Old Rosebud Rd #110 (859) 264-0923 3) Cashmere poncho with fringe by Claudia Nichole ($206). Cotton Patch 3367 Tates Creek Rd (859) 269-8839

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4) Frosty Tipped Pile ½ zip pullover in vintage blue by True Grit ($149.50). Country Club Prep 807 Euclid Avenue 554-6971 5) Genuine Silver fox fur by Linda Richards ($1,795). Carl Meyers 111 Clay Ave (859) 252-2004 6) Spartina Handbags - a variety of shapes and sizes ($89-$165). Two Chicks 124 Southland Drive (859) 276-0756

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Barney Miller’s

232 E. Main St. | Lexington, KY 859.252.2216 | BarneyMillers.com The holiday season means lots of intimate gatherings, family dinners and festive parties. Having a great music system from Barney Miller’s will certainly make your get-togethers merry and your spirits bright!

Barney Miller’s offers a great selection of affordable streaming music players from Sonos, Bluesound and Paradigm. This puts millions of songs at your fingertips, sending crystal clear music throughout your home.

These players can be added as a source to your already existing system or configured to a custom set-up, tailored to your exact needs.

Love vinyl? The holidays are the perfect time to dust off that record collection. Discover Barney Miller’s new line of Thorens Turntables. They make wonderful gifts for music buffs, as well!

Not sure what will work for you? No worries! The friendly, professional staff at Barney Miller’s can educate you on the options and offer you guidance on the right system for your home or business.

adelé

805 Chevy Chase Place | Lexington, KY 859.266.9930 | adelelexington.com

Named a 2016 Retail Star by Home Accents Today magazine, adelé (pronounced a-de-lay) has offered Lexingtonians a product mix consisting of jewelry, gifts, home décor and interior design services since 2011. With a traditional yet fashion forward aesthetic, adelé stocks design led merchandise including stylish finds and lines that are exclusive to the area.

Local owners Heather Hacker Reilly and Meghann van den Dool scour the New York and Atlanta markets twice a year to access the latest trends to bring back and merchandise in their colorful lifestyle store. American made upholstery from Society Social sits beautifully alongside jewelry from some of the Southeast’s most talented emerging designers. Vivid artwork and lighting meld seamlessly with that perfectly unique hostess gift.

Pretty pieces make for a pretty life and adelé wants their customers to take delight in the beauty of things whether it’s for them, a friend or their home.

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Seasons Catering

333 N Ashland Ave. | Lexington, KY 859.266.6661 | SeasonsEvents.com Kellie@SeasonsEvents.com Seasons Catering has the perfect menu and presentation for all holiday events, corporate parties, and special occasions.

For more than 20 years, Seasons Catering has been Central Kentucky’s choice for classic occasions. The staff combines their unique vision and amazing foods with superior service to create memorable events.

Winter holidays mean lots of private and corporate parties and gatherings.

Seasons Catering excels at creating the events of your dreams. Whether large or small, formal or fun, their team utilizes years of experience and expertise to make your next party an experience to remember.

Discover their extensive menu of offerings on their website. Their accomplished reputation means they can create a story you will share again and again for years to come.

Lexington Ice Sculptures

Designs By: Michael & Matthew Stoddart 333 N Ashland Ave. | Lexington, KY 859.425.9988 | LexingtonIceSculptures.com How many events fail to make a lasting impression? Don’t let that happen to you!

No one ever seems to forget an ice sculpture. These incredible works of art are the WOW factor at any social event.

With the ability to carve ice sculptures as unique as your event, from pieces with embedded logos to ice luges, Lexington Ice Sculptures can create something with real personality that will ensure that every guest remembers your gathering.

Lexington Ice Sculptures has been the premier provider of ice sculptures in the region for more than 15 years. Their award-winning talent will certainly leave a lasting impression.

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Violets

1060 Chinoe Rd. | Lexington, KY 859.281.1100 | Find them on Facebook Entertaining this holiday season? Stop by Violets to get your home ready for guests. They have everything you need to make your table look beautiful and your home smell yummy. Heading out? Violets is the perfect stop for hostess gifts!

Searching for unique gifts for everyone on your list? Violets features great jewelry, accessories, home accents and apparel, as well as UK fan goods, equestrian-themed items, wedding, baby and more. Violets features gifts that will wow! They offer Spartina, Cinda B, Mudpie, Tyler Candle, Corkcicle, Scout and other great brands. Let one of their friendly and knowledgeable staff help you select the perfect gift today!

With the approaching holidays, Violets is a one-stop shop for getting prepared for the festive fun of the season. They have holiday home accents, serving pieces and ornaments. They are pleased to offer corporate gifts and gift baskets. You’re sure to find the perfect touch for your holiday party.

Violets, a Gift Boutique with Southern Roots, is celebrating 4 years of serving the Bluegrass. Located in the Chinoe Center, this fun boutique will be a holiday and everyday destination for years to come!

The Spa at Marriott Griffin Gate 1800 Newtown Pike | Lexington, KY 859.288.6175 | thespaatgriffingate.com

GIVE THE GIFT O F R E L A X AT I O N The holidays are here and our spa has just what you need for that special someone on your list. Let them unwrap the choice of a revitalizing spa service or product from our Spa Boutique this season.

CHOOSE OUR SPECIAL HOLIDAY GIFT CARD, OFFERING A SIGNATURE MASSAGE, PEPPERMINT SCRUB OR SIGNATURE FACIAL FOR JUST $99.

Must use by March 31, 2017. Not valid with any other offers.

Valid for 50-minute treatments only.

THE SPA AT GRIFFIN GATE 1800 NEWTOWN PIKE LEXINGTON, KY 40511 THESPAATGRIFFINGATE.COM 859-288-6175

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With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, there is no better gift than relaxation. Rejuvenation is perfect for anyone on your list, and an escape from the everyday awaits right here in Lexington at The Spa at Griffin Gate.

Unwind as they take luxury and rejuvenation to a whole new level.

Indulge in a massage, facial, body scrub, manicure, pedicure or body wrap in their full service spa, plus they offer full hair salon and makeup application services. Tensions melt away, muscles completely relax and your whole body is refreshed with new energy. All spa treatments include complimentary valet parking, use of the fitness center and pool facilities and access to their steam room with eucalyptus spray.

The Spa at Griffin Gate offers gift cards for the Holidays or any occasion.

Gift cards are available in any denomination, so they can create their own day of luxury. Great last minute gifts are also available at their Spa Boutique.

The Square

401 West Main St. | Lexington, KY 859.525.7575 | TheSquareLexington.com Surround yourself with stylish brands, distinctive dining and festive entertainment during The Square’s annual Holiday Open House on Saturday, November 26th from 2-8pm. This delightful event features activities and offerings to thrill every member of the family!

In the atrium from 2-6pm, children can visit Father Christmas and receive an adorable elf hat (while supplies last). Create a keepsake holiday craft or ornament together while you enjoy live holiday music. Make a minimum $10 purchase from a participating store and bring the receipt to the atrium, where you will select a candy cane and get a gift certificate to one of The Square’s great shops or restaurants!

Continue the memories with a visit to Luminate Lexington in Triangle Park from 2-7pm with a holiday market, ice-skating and live entertainment.

Enjoy the tree lighting ceremony at 6:30pm.

With incredible shopping, dining and entertainment, The Square is your fun-filled holiday destination!

Kentucky State Parks 502.564.2172 ext. 248 parks.ky.gov/gift-cards

If you’re looking for a great holiday gift that says Kentucky, then consider the Kentucky Unbridled Spirit Gift Card.

The card is good at all Kentucky State Parks, the Kentucky Artisan Center at Berea, the Kentucky Horse Park and the Kentucky Historical Society museum and gift shop. The card never expires and never charges a fee to use it, reload it or spend it.

The card can be used for golf, camping, dining or an overnight stay at a state park, admission to the state history museum or the Kentucky Horse Park or used to purchase one of thousands of different items at the Kentucky Artisan Center at Berea made by over 650 artisans living all across Kentucky.

Unbridled Spirit Gift Cards can be purchased at the Kentucky Artisan Center at Berea, the Kentucky Horse Park, the Kentucky Historical Society museum and gift shop as well as Kentucky State Parks. They are also available online or by phone.

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The Gift Box & Tea Room 3330 Partner Place | Lexington, KY 859.278.2399 or 859.219.0445

The Gift Box & Tea Room has everything you need to make the holidays merry and bright! From great gifts to Thanksgiving desserts, find great shopping and dining in one convenient location, just off Keithshire Way near Reynolds Road.

The Gift Box is a local favorite gem for unique gifts, accessories and jewelry, open 10am-4pm. Their carefully-selected inventory includes wonderful equestrian and UK items, as well as gifts for baby. For a truly special touch, they offer personalization. Don’t miss their beautiful selection of Christmas items!

The Tea Room is open for lunch 11am-3pm. In addition to offering delicious teas from around the world, they also serve up soups, salads and sandwiches.

Put in your order today for Thanksgiving pies and cakes! Call for information and pricing.

Whether you need a place to entertain your holiday guests for lunch or the perfect gift, make The Gift Box & Tea Room your pick!

Appliance Pro

2320 Fortune Dr. Ste. 160 | Lexington, KY 859.299.6254 | applianceproky.com Appliance Pro can get your kitchen chef-ready this holiday season! Appliance Pro has been LOCALLY OWNED and operated since its inception in 2006, offering quality name-brand appliances you can depend on. Their sales and management staff has over 64 years combined experience. Appliance Pro has established a caring tradition built on honesty and integrity that always provides you, the customer, with an exceptional buying experience.

Appliance Pro is proud of their association with Nationwide Marketing Group–a 12 billion dollar buying group–which brings you the combined power of thousands of retail stores across the country. This huge “buying power” is passed along to you by means of lower, competitive prices on the finest name brand products in the nation.

Appliance Pro specializes in new and “Scratch & Dent” home appliances; all scratch and dent items have the full manufacturer factory warranty. They have the largest selection in Central Kentucky with over 500 appliances on display in their showroom. Appliance Pro offers the lowest prices on the brands they represent. Appliance Pro will price-match as well; just bring in your quote and they will be happy to match the price.

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The LUXE for the home 193 Kentucky Ave. | Lexington, KY 859.983.4663 | TheLUXEinLEX.com

The LUXE for the Home features beautiful dĂŠcor for every area of your home for your holiday shopping and event planning needs.

At The LUXE, you will find Persian handmade Kashmir Oriental rugs, Pink Himalayan salt gourmet cooking plates (Salt Rox) and remote controlled Luminara (Disney technology) safe candles with incredible real life look but with no fire hazard. Fine original works of art, vintage and antiques, are offered in their quaint boutique. You will also find a collection of unique one of a kind custom designed jewelry by Jane Logan Designs.

Come shop for that unique gifts and a delightful shopping experience at The LUXE for the home and The LUXE art gallery at 193 Kentucky Avenue, Lexington, KY. Call or text for an appointment first at 859.983.4663.

While you are there, find something special for the holidays.

SHOP SMALL ON SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY : November 26

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FAMILY

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Family Cares Spotlight: Her Knight

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Super Mom: Shannon Kerkhoff

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In The Buf: Kindness

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Parties: Favorite Fall Desserts

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Pets: Holiday Hazards

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White, Greer & Maggard

her Knight Fe

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very little girl dreams of feeling like her favorite princess. Who wouldn’t want to be picked up by her prince charming and dance the night away at the ball? This dream can be a reality for your sweet girl at the Her Knight Dance.

Every February, over one thousand little girls descend upon the Keeneland Keene Barn for a magical evening with their knights in shining armor. This is an opportunity to show girls how much they are valued and loved by their father or another special knight in their lives.

However, there is so much more to this event than just a dance.

The unforgettable evening for girls ages 2-12 includes dancing, tasty food, photos, and a special gift. Girls even get the chance to meet a couple of their favorite princesses thanks to White, Greer and Maggard Orthodontics, who is one of the event’s three premier sponsors. Her Knight is run entirely by unpaid volunteers and that is what drives the team. Their goal is for each girl to experience God’s love through their relationship with their father. For some girls, their stepfather, grandfather, uncle, or another special knight fills that role.

Studies show that the presence of an involved, loving father-figure has long-lasting, positive effects on children. Because of this, Her Knight was created. The Her Knight Dance began in 2011 with a group of Lexington women who shared a common passion for celebrating girls and strengthening families. One of these founding members is Anita Brauch.

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Anita and her family have made Her Knight a necessity to their family’s life.

She and her husband, Barry, are raising three daughters: Lydia, 16; Sophia, 12 and Grace, 5. “Our older girls attended the very first Her Knight Dance and loved it! It was one way Barry could show them how special they are to him.

There’s no way to measure the impact on them, but I think it has been tremendous,” said Anita. Although Lydia, the oldest, has aged out of the event, she returns each year to volunteer with Anita.

When the Brauches adopted their youngest daughter, Grace, at age two, the dance was just a few weeks away. Anita said, “It was so special to see her take it all in - the music, the decorations, and the costumes. The dance helped show her how special she is to Barry early on in their relationship. When we see a fancy dress she always points out that she could wear it to the next dance with Daddy.” Grace has now attended three Her Knight dances and talks about it all year long!

The Brauches moved to Louisville in 2015 but could not imagine being away from the special event. Each February the family returns to Lexington to volunteer and dance the night away. Anita continued, “When we decided to move to Louisville, we agreed on two things we couldn’t give up: Her Knight Dance and, of course, cheering for the Cats!”

The Her Knight Dance is open to the public and scholarship tickets are available as well. You can even have assistance with your date night wardrobe! “We want everyone to feel welcome. We have complimentary dresses for girls who need them and can also assist knights in putting their outfit together,” Anita explained, “the dance is a great way for dads from all backgrounds to come together with a common goal: loving their girls and showing them they are priceless.”

The event has grown exponentially from the time it was hosted at The Signature Club of Lansdowne. Her Knight quickly outgrew the previous space and is now held at Keene Barn. The unexpected growth is an amazing representation of how much fathers want to build special bonds with their daughters and are looking for opportunities to do so. The growth is also evidence of the community’s support of Her Knight’s mission. Thanks to the event’s premier sponsors: White, Greer & Maggard Orthodontics; Chick-fil-A; and Keeneland for making it possible to host another year.

SAVE THE DATE Feb 3rd & 4th Registration opens

Mon Nov. 14th herknightdance.org

www.wgmortho.com | www.herknightdance.org

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SUPER MOM

Shannon Kerkhoff husband: Brad | children: Colton + Lizzie Shannon Kerkhoff starts her day at 5:30am. She squeezes in a workout and shower before her son, Colton, and daughter, Lizzie, wake up. Everyone is fed, dressed and ready to walk out the door by 7:20am. After Kerkhoff drops off Colton and Lizzie at school and daycare, she is off to work at Greer Companies where she is the Director of Marketing. Typically her day wraps up by 5pm, so that she can pick up the kids and head home for their evening routine. The Kerhoffs sit down and eat together as a family most nights. Kerkhoff and her husband, Brad, help the kids with homework before getting them ready for bed.

“We read our bedtime stories, say our prayers and then I lay down for a few minutes with each kiddo to spend some quiet time,” says Kerkhoff. “I try to relax a bit while running some laundry and dishes. Then I get ready to do it all again the next day.”

Written by Sarah Boerkircher | Photos courtesy of Shannon Kerkoff

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As a working mom, Kerkhoff says her biggest challenge is making sure that she stays organized while being the best mom to her kids and balancing her full-time career.

“If my calendar is not up-to-date with the kid’s activities and what they need for school, something is going to be forgotten,” she says. “It is important to me that I be at every basketball game, soccer game and dance recital. It can be exhausting, but it is truly a labor of love.”

Thanks to social media, there is constant exposure to unsolicited advice on how to be a good parent. Kerkhoff tries not to worry about what others are doing, but instead focuses on doing what feels right for her and her family.

“When we worry about what other people think, we won’t be our individual best.

Sometimes our best is happy faces and dirty dishes or other times it is time-outs and learning lessons. If you give each day your unique best, you will be a super parent,” she says.

An organization that is near and dear to Kerkhoff ’s heart is a group called Humble Pie, which was started in Louisville by her sister-in-law, Amy Kerkoff. Kerkhoff serves as the Lexington chapter leader of the children’s volunteer group, which encourages kids to give back to their communities. Activities include visiting residents in nursing homes or making care packages for the local Ronald McDonald House.

When we worry about what other people think, we won’t be our individual best.

Sometimes our best is happy faces and dirty dishes or other times it is time-outs and learning lessons.

“These kids are learning the importance of kindness and compassion. If I do anything right as a mom, I will raise Colton and Lizzie to love God and to love people.”

While having a full-time job, raising two kids and leading a volunteer organization takes a lot of coordination, Kerkhoff says she is unconvinced that the perfect balance exists.

“I have an amazing husband, parents, in-laws and friends who are all there for me when I need them, and that support system is the key to my unpredictable schedule. It is because of them that I can be a ‘super mom.’”

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Kindness C

razy, crazy crazy! This world can be one difficult place to reside with ease. Like my grandma Lawson used to say, “If it’s not one thing it’s another!” And changing times with fast-paced lives have made things more hectic than ever, causing some to be very selfish or rude people.

Many things are beyond our control and we learn to roll with the punches and make lemonade out of lemons…or sign up for happy pills with a doctor. Whatever floats your boat!

I recently began shopping at a small, simple grocery store as I was told that the produce is excellent and prices even better. However you must bag your own groceries, pay a very minimal amount for the bags themselves (or bring your own) and pay a quarter for your shopping cart. Upon returning the cart to the appropriate place, you get the quarter back. Not so bad considering the quality and price of the groceries!

I keep a quarter for that cart in the front of my dashboard and guard it with my life! The kiddos have tried to snag it for gum on many occasions, but they were told it is OFF limits. I am terrible about not carrying change and don’t want to have to place my grocery items on my head, so this quarter has become very important to me.

Or so I thought.

The first time I visited the store I held the big shiny quarter in my hand ready to claim my cart and begin my newfound shopping experience. As I walked towards them a nice lady yelled, “Hey! Do you need a cart?” Yes! I said holding my hand out prepared to pay

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her. “No worries!” she replied, giving me the cart without accepting my change. I thought to myself, “Wow! How nice of her!” She just smiled, told me to have a great day and left on her merry way. On my way out of the grocery, I saw a sweet man walking towards the store. “Do you need a cart?” I asked. “Why, yes ma’am,” he said holding his hand out to give me his quarter. “No worries!” I said handing over my cart to him without accepting his quarter.

I know that I should have been thrilled for all of the money I saved that day from the discounts of the store itself. But what I was impressed by was the common kindness that clearly goes on in that parking lot each day. People giving away a quarter to a perfect stranger for no good reason other than to pay something forward.

I have been shopping at that store for about six months, and I can tell you that I still have the very same quarter that prevented my children from buying gum. I always carry it with me fully prepared to unlock that cart, but have yet to use it. How very cool.

The small “we’re all in this crazy world together” feeling that I get each time I shop there makes my day every single time. I can’t help but wonder what this crazy world would look like if every parking lot in the world provided each of us the common kindness that I have learned still does exist. And that’s one heck of a great happy pill!

by Buffy Lawson Relationship Veteran

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Parties Favorite Fall Desserts :

by Deanna Talwalkar, Party Planner Extraordinaire

No party or dinner is complete without one or more yummy desserts! Celebrate all that you are grateful for with your family and friends this holiday season.

Apple Pie Pops These Apple Pie Pops are so addicting. The apple cinnamon flavor isn’t overpowering – just the right amount! These are great to take to a party because you can make them ahead, as long as you store them in the refrigerator.

• 1 package family size Golden Oreos • ½ cup apple pie filling • 6 ounces cream cheese, softened • 8-12 ounces white chocolate chips or white chocolate melting bark • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil • ½ teaspoon cinnamon • Crushed cinnamon graham crackers (optional) Using a food processor, crush cookies into a fine crumb. Beat cream cheese and apple pie filling, until fluffy. Add Vanilla Oreo crumbs to cream cheese mixture, beat until fully combined. Using a mini ice cream scoop, make a ¾″1″ ball. These balls will be fairly gooey so roll in your hands until formed into a ball. Place balls into refrigerator for 1 hour.

After the Oreo balls have hardened in the refrigerator, melt ¼ cup of white chocolate in microwave until smooth.

Remove balls from refrigerator and reroll to assure a smoother, less bumpy, ball. Dip one end of lollipop stick into white chocolate, push into ball, about ½ -⅔ way. Place balls back into the fridge overnight or for several hours.

Melt remaining chocolate. Add vegetable oil into melted chocolate, mix in until fully combined. Add cinnamon to chocolate mixture and stir to combine. Dip entire Oreo ball into white chocolate, shake off excess chocolate.

If desired, sprinkle with cinnamon graham cracker crumbs. Place pops onto wax paper to cool and harden. After completely cooled, place Oreo pops in refrigerator until ready to serve.

Makes about 24-28 Apple Pie Pops.

Photo & Styling by Mirabelle Creations

Whole Grain Pumpkin Muffins with Vanilla Glaze If you’re looking for a healthier version of a fall flavored muffin, these Healthy Whole Grain Pumpkin Muffins are a delicious little choice!

The vanilla glaze on top adds just the right amount of sweetness to these muffins. They are like a mini pumpkin pie, but without all of the guilt!

Muffins: • 3 cups white whole-wheat flour • 4 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice • 2 teaspoons baking soda • ½ teaspoon baking powder • 1 teaspoon salt • 4 eggs • 1 cup coconut oil, melted • ½ cup maple syrup • ½ cup honey • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • 1 15 oz can pumpkin puree Glaze: • ½ cup powdered sugar • 4 tablespoons skim milk • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line 24 muffin tins with cupcake liners.

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Add eggs, oil, maple syrup, honey and vanilla to bowl and stir together until fully incorporated. Using an ice cream scoop fill muffin tins ⅔ full. Bake muffins for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the muffins comes out clean. Makes two dozen.

For the Glaze: Stir together powdered sugar, milk and vanilla extract.

Drizzle onto tops of muffin immediately before serving.

Chocolate Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting and Chocolate Ganache Chocolate cake paired with peanut butter frosting and chocolate ganache makes for a rich, delicious cake.

For the cake, use two boxes of Ghirardelli Double Chocolate Premium Cake Mix. Make the cake according to the directions on the back of the box. Butter and flour the bottoms of three 9″ cake pans and pour three equal amounts into the pans. Bake cakes according to the back of the box, let cakes cool completely before frosting.

Peanut Butter Buttercream Frosting: • 1½ cups butter, softened • 1 cup peanut butter • 2 to 3 cups powdered sugar • 3 to 4 tablespoons milk Cream together butter and peanut butter.

Gradually add 1 cup powdered sugar alternately with 1 tablespoon milk, beating on low speed until blended and smooth after each addition.

Assemble the cake: Once cakes have cooled, spread ¼ of frosting on the top of first layer of cake. Repeat with the next layer and top with third layer of cake. Spread remaining ½ of frosting on the outside of cake. Place cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before making ganache.

Chocolate Ganache: • 8 ounces good quality semisweet chocolate chips • ½ cup heavy cream • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Heat the chocolate chips, heavy cream and vanilla extract over low heat until completely melted and incorporated, stirring occasionally.

Let ganache cool for about 10-15 minutes. Spread chocolate ganache on the top of the cake and around the sides.

Now for the fun part! Decorate your cake with candy or fruit. Top cake with candies, like crushed Butterfinger, Hershey’s chocolate bar, Lindt truffles and strawberries.

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Holiday Hazards I

t may be hard to believe given our recent warm weather, but the holidays and winter are just a few short weeks away. Holiday hazards and cold weather calamities can turn cheer into fear; if your furry loved one becomes ill. There are steps we can all take to protect our pets and preserve our good tidings.

Our pets are naturally curious and often want to share in our holiday feasts. However pancreatitis, gastroenteritis and even toxicities can develop with dietary indiscretion. Bones from chicken or turkey can splinter or cause obstructions. Chocolate, coffee, onions, and yeast dough can also cause serious problems. As we’ve shared before, the artificial sweetener xylitol is very dangerous and can cause low blood sugar and liver failure. Be sure to keep food items out of reach or safely stored away from pets.

Christmas trees and other holiday decorations present an interesting novelty for pets. Cats may climb trees and dogs may be interested in an ornament on a higher bough causing it to fall over. Electric cords and their risk of shock pose a hazard to pets that like to chew on curious objects. Likewise, pets that eat tinsel can experience intestinal obstructions; and water in the trough of a Christmas tree stand can harbor bacteria or fertilizer leading to illness, if consumed. Lastly, sweet-smelling and brightly colored holiday plants can be a risk to pets’ health. Lilies, poinsettias, holly and mistletoe can cause various ailments, if eaten.

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Be sure to choose safe locations protected from curious noses for your holiday foliage displays.

Dogs and cats often appear to be immune to cold weather with their natural fur coats. However cold weather dangers for pets are no different than their human counterparts. Extreme cold temperatures, prolonged exposure to cold weather, and snow can cause frostbite. Cold, wet weather is especially dangerous. Hypothermia can set in if activity level is decreased or if fur becomes wet. Frozen water bowls can result in decreased intake and lead to dehydration. A dry shelter for any outdoor pets that maintains water in a liquid state is important during the cold months. After taking your dog for a walk, wipe their paws with a washcloth and their coat with a dry towel. Be sure to clean between their toes. Ice melt can cause skin and mouth irritation.

All of these tips may take some extra time, but they are worth it. Studies show that caring for pets reduces anxiety, stress and depression in their owners.

Taking that extra minute to give your fluffy pup a nice, drying massage after a cold, winter walk will not only warm them up, but your heart, as well and we can all use some holiday warmth!

Erica Radhakrishnan Hospital Administrator, BVS

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Kids ‘R’ Kids

Learning Academy of Beaumont Each classroom program is centered around three important components: loving relationships, stimulating environment and developmentally-appropriate practices. We know that experimenting learning is fundamental during the toddler years and is the foundation for future development.

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oddlers - So much to learn, so much to do! Being a toddler is such an exciting time for both child and family. Designed with your child’s natural curiosity in mind, our Kids ‘R’ Kids Curriculum addresses the needs of your toddler: •

Sign Language Program

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DevelopmentallyAppropriate Practices

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Pre-Literacy Skills

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Toddler Curriculum Activities & Lessons

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Indoor & Outdoor Activities

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Sensory Play

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Small Group Activities

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Individualized Daily Reports

The Toddler Big Steps Curriculum™ continues to build on the Big Steps Curriculum™ practiced during infancy. Toddlers bound into an environment that invites interaction with play materials and organized place spaces. Quality teachers provide daily meaningful experiences to support and increase the fast pace at which toddlers grow and develop. They experience literacy through sign language, books, puppet play, music, singing, games, and conversation with peers and adults. Their cognitive skills blossom with many activities designed to unleash their inquisitive and creative nature. The Toddler Big Steps Curriculum™ playfully and lovingly provides the supporting framework for toddlers growth and development.

Kids R Kids Learning Academy of Beaumont 3271 Beaumont Centre Circle | Lexington 859.224.3210 | kidsrkidsky.com

Nature’s Expressions

Outdoor Design & Construction

D

o you often think to yourself, “I want our house to be THAT house - the one where my kids want to hang out, the one where my friends want to hang out, the one where I want to hang out.”?

Creating the right space that allows you to not only enjoy time with your family, but one where you can entertain your friends, or where your kid’s friends can’t wait to hang out, is what many of us long to see in our backyards. Making it happen is what Nature’s Expressions is all about.

Their designers are experts at creating the elements that will make your house THAT house. Whether it be a firepit or a fireplace, a pergola or a full cabana, a BBQ station or an outdoor kitchen, they will be your personal advisor and guide you in determining the unique fit for your needs and your budget.

The Nature’s Expressions team will work with you on a personal basis to provide you the solutions that will capitalize your backyard space.

Whether it is a large scale job or a smaller project, you’ll be sure to experience our signature customer service, which includes:

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In depth consultation and planning to ensure the project achieves your vision

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Respectful work crews keeping your property, safety and personal requirements a priority

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Safe work site with minimal disruption

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A specially assigned project manager

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Available maintenance service to keep your new outdoor space looking great

Nature’s Expressions Outdoor Design & Construction 150 Hendren Way | Nicholasville 859.885.0015 | KentuckyBackyard.com NOVEMBER 2016 | TOPS MAGAZINE

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EQUINE

Filly of the Month: Allie Knowles

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Colt of the Month: Daniel Cunniffe

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Horse Park Happenings: November 2016

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Filly of the Month:

Allie Knowles A

llie Knowles has never been afraid of a little hard work… or a lot of it. At just 29 years of age, her hard work has earned her the reputation as one of the most promising upand-coming riders in the eventing world.

Based in Lexington at Valley View Farm, Knowles competed in her fourth Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event this past April with her Thoroughbred, Sound Prospect. The pair were subsequently awarded a grant to compete at the Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials in England and were later named the 2016 Rood & Riddle Thoroughbred Sport Award, which recognizes the top Thoroughbred competing in non-racing competition each year.

It was a long road to get to Lexington for Knowles. Growing up in a military family in Northern, California, being a top eventing rider wasn’t always her life goal, or even of significant interest.

“My sister and I grew up doing Pony Club,” said Knowles. “I wasn’t that solid of a rider as a kid, actually. My sister got into eventing and I followed suit, because if she did it, it was cool, and I wanted to be cool. It was a hobby for me, though. A fun hobby, but it wasn’t what I wanted to do with my life.”

Knowles had her mind set on being a teacher and, upon graduation, enrolled at Chico State College, part of the California State University system of campuses.

THE SWITCH FLIPPED Her collegiate focus was English and Spanish which put her on track to become a high school Spanish teacher upon graduation. While in college, Knowles was still riding regularly, but was focused on college and all the things normal college students pack into those years.

“I read an article about someone who won a big competition and it was like a switch just flipped. All of a sudden, I had a clear vision of what I wanted to do with my life.”

After many discussions with her parents and some serious soul-searching, she made the decision to leave college to pursue her riding goals. Knowles soon found herself a working student position with two-time Canadian Olympian eventing rider Hawley Bennett. After two years with Bennett, Knowles then landed a position with Bennett’s coach, Buck Davidson, one of the top eventing riders in the world.

Knowles served as Davidson’s working student for a year before making the decision, with Davidson’s blessing, to go out on her own coaching students, bringing along horses and competing.

Knowles found success quickly. Her good nature and Profile by Jen Roytz | Photos by Keni Parks

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congeniality combined with her worldclass foundation of training with Bennett and Davidson made her a sought-after coach for young eventing riders within the vicinity of her Northern California base.

Life was good for Knowles. Younger than most of her contemporaries, she had a strong group of horses in training and an equally promising group of students under her tutelage in California. Plus, she was still able to train with Davidson out of his Pennsylvania-based farm when on the East Coast for competitions in the summer.

Her skill and success was soon recognized by others across the nation, and she received an offer from Dashaway Farm in Paris, Kentucky to take over their training operations. Flattered by the offer, Knowles opted to decline, as with things going so well in California, the timing wasn’t right.

Several years later, the offer was presented a second time.

“I loved California and had a solid business going there,” said Knowles.

“I was in Pennsylvania preparing to go to the Netherlands to compete and my mare got hurt,” said Knowles. “So, I was all of a sudden at Buck’s farm NOT preparing to go to Europe and found myself with no real long term plans when the offer was made again. At that point, I was ready for a change and the timing was right, so I went back to California, packed up my two dogs, six horses and all of my stuff into two trucks and trailers, and my dad helped me move across the country.”

MY NEW KENTUCKY HOME Knowles moved to Kentucky in 2012 to a 200 acre farm in Paris, Kentucky – about 190 acres larger than the farm she had trained out of in California.

“I had never run a farm myself. I didn’t know about mowing, baling hay or business plans. Buck was a great advisor through the process and one of his first pieces of advice was “whatever you budgeted, double it,’” said Knowles.

Working at Clay’s Restaurant to make ends meet during that first year in Kentucky, Knowles quickly found her stride. She attracted students and clients in short order and also found success at the top of her sport, competing at the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event – America’s premier eventing competition – just a year after moving to the Bluegrass.

Knowles’ talent has continued to get her noticed, and in January of this year she was offered the opportunity to move her training operations to Jim and Katherine O’Brien’s Valley View Farm, a world-class equestrian facility located off of Leestown Road in Midway.

“I had it in my mind that I had to move from the farm that I was at in Paris,” explained Knowles. “The workload was too much for one per-

son. I’d done it for four years and didn’t feel like I didn’t have enough resources to do it the way I wanted to. This year I’ve finally started to feel like I have a solid business, rather than a mass panic to make it all work.”

BUILDING A STABLE BUSINESS It may no longer be the “mass panic” that she felt the first few years after starting her Kentucky operations, but Knowles definitely hasn’t slowed down. Her typical week includes teaching about 40 riding lessons and riding up to nine horses per day.

In addition, she somehow finds time to spend with her fiancé, Daniel Cuniffe, owner of Homepride Farm, a Thoroughbred farm in Paris.

“It was love at first sight,” said Knowles of Cunniffe. “We are both extremely committed to our farms and our horses, and many times that takes our time away from each other, but it also allows us to understand and relate to each other.”

Knowles has now competed at the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event four times since 2013 and plans to make it five times in 2017 with her top mount, Sound Prospect.

“We’re hoping to go to Rolex again next year and my goal is to finish in the Top 10,” said Knowles. “I’d really like to compete with him in Europe. He definitely has the talent and we are such a good fit together. He is amazing on cross-country, which is historically been my weakest of the three phases. His weakest phase is dressage, which tends to be my strongest.”

A former racehorse, “Sounder,” as he’s known around the barn, is a retired racehorse who has quickly proven himself to be one of the top competitors in the world of eventing. He is owned by a syndicate that includes the O’Brien’s (Jim, Katherine and Madeline), Andy Clark, Kathleen Sullivan, Jeanne Gauchat and Christie Campbell.

“The people we have in the syndicates for Sounder and some of my other top horses are just such great people. They all come to the events and cheer their horses on – they’re so supportive,” said Knowles.

Knowles hopes that she can reward their support by bringing them to new heights in the eventing world in the coming years and has some lofty goals in her crosshairs.

“I want to represent the United States, whether that be in the Olympics or in the World Equestrian Games. That’s been a lifelong dream and it’s something I really want to do for the people who have supported me,” said Knowles. “I want to be the best. That’s an elusive goal and not a judge-able thing, but as long as I keep striving to be the best rider I’m capable of being, it’ll keep me headed in the right direction.”•

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Colt of the Month:

Daniel Cunniffe B

orn in suburban Dublin, Ireland, Daniel Cunniffe always knew he was meant for a different lifestyle.

“Born and raised in the city, I did not have a country background whatsoever,” said Cunniffe. “I just always had a love for animals and for the outdoors. I always wanted a more rural way of life.”

In Ireland, the academic system is structured differently than that in America. Instead of a four year high school, they have a six year model, with government exams at year three and six to determine your collegiate placement.

“It’s not as prevalent now, but back then in the fourth year you are meant to get work experience outside of the classroom. I was sixteen and had an uncle who lived in New York training show jumpers, so I took the opportunity to come to America and learn from him. That’s really where I first fell in love with horses,” said Cunniffe.

That year, Cunniffe traveled with his uncle on the East Coast show circuit, working as a groom and learning to ride. The experience made it clear to him what he wanted to do with his life and he would have been happy to quit school and remain with his uncle’s stable. His mother, however, was adamant that he return to Ireland to complete his schooling and focus on pursuing a college education.

Once back home, it was a career counselor at his high school who identified a collegiate program that turned out to be the perfect next step. It was a hybrid approach, the result of a partnership between Gurteen Agricultural College in County Tipperary and Athlone Institute of Technology in County Westmeath in which students received a unique combination of animal husbandry and business classes.

“I wasn’t what you would call an academic growing up. I was always in trouble and just not overly interested in school, but once I went to college I was at the top of my class,” said Cunniffe. “Once I was studying something I wanted to learn about, I was interested and fully invested. It made a big difference in my life.”

GOING INTERNATIONAL. . . AGAIN Cunniffe earned a degree in Equine Business Management and upon graduation was awarded the Joss Collins Scholarship in 2007, which offers international experience in the Thoroughbred industry for 18-to-25-year-olds. He took full advantage of the opportunity, going first to New Zealand for six months and then to Lexington, Kentucky for an additional six months.

“In New Zealand I experienced it all, from broodmares and foals to yearling prep and handling stallions. Then, when I came back to America for the next six months I was at Darby Dan Farm and worked mostly on the broodmare side of things,” said Cunniffe. “When I finished by term with Darby Dan, my employers in New Zealand paid for me to come back and work the breeding season for them in 2008.”

Due to being in opposite hemispheres, New Zealand and North America’s breeding seasons occur during opposite times of the year. Daniel traveled back to New Zealand and then back to the States several more times, working six breeding seasons in the span of three years.

By 2009, Cunniffe was ready for an off-season and wanted to set down roots in America. Offered the position of Broodmare Manager at Dapple Stud, and the following year he was named the farm manager.

When Dapple Stud closed down their farm in 2014, Cunniffe felt it was the right time to go out on his own.

“I had an idea the end was coming, so with the blessing of my clients’, I started my farm and several of the clients I’d known through Dapple joined me,” said Cunniffe.

Profile by Jen Roytz

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A PERFECT MATCH: A few years ago, Cunniffe was invited to a dinner arranged by a friend to help someone new to Kentucky make a few new friends. That “Bluegrass newbie” was upper-level eventer Allie Knowles and, as she said in her profile as Filly of the Month, it was love at first sight.

“The dinner was at Perico’s in Paris and Allie and I hit it off immediately,” said Cunniffe.

As it turned out, Cunniffe’s and Knowles’ farms were separated by just a single road and the pair began spending more and more time together. Last year, Cunniffe asked Knowles for her hand in marriage, and the pair plans to wed next year in Ireland.

Cunniffe and Knowles both acknowledged how difficult it can be to make time for each other while each running their separate (and equally time-consuming) businesses, but Cunniffe says it’s a combination of mutual respect and understanding for what the other does that makes their relationship so strong.

MAKING A NAME FOR HIMSELF While Cunniffe didn’t work with horses or ride until working with his uncle at age 16, he says it is something that came strangely easily to him.

“I just seemed to take to it and never found it difficult,” said Cunniffe.

“I struggled with everything growing up except for anything horserelated. Everything with horses just seems to come easily.”

In 2014 Cunniffe’s HomPride Farm officially opened for business.

Located in Paris, Kentucky, the 320-acre farm is truly a full service Thoroughbred nursery, offering broodmare boarding, foaling, yearling preparation, layup and rehabilitation and breaking and training of young horses.

“I love seeing them go through their formative months and years and do well on the track. It lets me know we’re doing something right and putting a good foundation on them,” said Cunniffe. “When we start young horses, we try to put a good mouth on them and a good mind.

It helps them throughout their entire life.”

Cunniffe will soon find out how valuable that foundation truly is, as he will soon be getting one of his earliest training projects back as a working farm horse.

“One of the first horses I bred, foaled, raised, broke and even named recently reached the end of his racing career. He is a gelding, so not one you can go on with and breed, and his owners offered him back to me,” said Cunniffe. “I’m going to try to turn him into a cow horse and use him to work with the small herd of cattle I’ve got on the farm.”•

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“Horses are like children in that they are very time-consuming. When you have two horse people in a relationship – ones who are extremely career-focused and driven – it makes things more difficult,” said Cunniffe. “But we are also very good for each other. We can support and help each other because we’ve both experienced a lot in this business.”

Cunniffe and Knowles hope to someday have one farm that can house both of their businesses. Until then, they will make it work.

“Allie goes to Florida to train and compete in the winters and I’m stuck here foaling mares, and in the summers she’s away on the weekends at events,” said Cunniffe. “When I get free time, I enjoy going to the Kentucky Horse Park and helping Allie, and I know it’s the same for her. When she gets a day off she supports me at Keeneland or with what I’m doing.”

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Horse Park Happenings: November 2016

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ovember brings chilly weather and even the occasional falling snowflake. But even with winter just around the corner, don’t expect the fun happening at the Kentucky Horse Park to cool off anytime soon! There’s still a lot to see and enjoy. Be sure to check with the Horse Park’s Facebook and website to be sure you’re aware of the latest event updates.

November also means that the holiday season is upon us. If you’re hoping to feel a little more festive, the Kentucky Horse Park has your back! With holiday happenings aplenty, you’ll be feeling the holiday spirit in no time. And bonus? If you’re entertaining family and friends, the Horse Park is a wonderful group activity for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re simply introducing out of town guests to our equestrian culture through the International Museum of the Horse or making the kiddos jolly with a drive through the Southern Lights display, make the Kentucky Horse Park your secret entertaining weapon.

US DRESSAGE FINALS Thursday, November 10th – Sunday, November 13th

Alltech Arena The United States Dressage Federation’s national championship rolls into town in early November. In addition to Open and Amateur division classes, a non-championship competition will also take place; the USDF Dressage in the Bluegrass, The 2016 Great American/ USDF Regional Championships and USDF/Dover Adult Amateur Medal Program. General admission is free, so head out and enjoy this incredible event! Visit usdf.org for more information.

SOUTHERN LIGHTS STROLL Thursday, November 17th : 6-9pm It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and it’s kicking off with a stroll! The annual Southern Lights Stroll features a 5K run, along with mini train rides, refreshments and prize drawings. A limited number of free souvenir t-shirts will be given to registered adults, and a number of registered kids will receive a free holiday souvenir.

To learn more, call the Kentucky Horse Park at 859.259.4226.

SOUTHERN LIGHTS: PRESENTED BY THE KHP FOUNDATION Friday, November 18th – Saturday, December 31st The Southern Lights are on! For the 23rd year, this incredible display

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MORE EVENTS AT THE HORSE PARK: CP National Horse Show Tuesday, November 1st – Sunday, November 6th Alltech Arena nhs.org KHSAA Cross Country Meet Saturday, November 5th Kentucky Horse Park khsaa.org Snowbird Dressage Saturday, November 19th Covered Arena kentuckydressageassociation.com The Gobbler Half Marathon Saturday, November 26th Kentucky Horse Park 3wayracing.com Snowball Series Mounted Games Saturday, December 10th - Sunday, December 11th Covered Arena mountedgames.org Snowbird Dressage Saturday, December 17th Covered Arena kentuckydressageassociation.com Kentucky Invitational Truck & Tractor Pull Friday, January 6th – Sunday, January 8th Alltech Arena kentuckyinvitational.com Trainers’ Treasures: Gifts from Saddlebred Professionals Until March 31st Kentucky Horse Park kyhorsepark.com

of twinkling lights will be getting everyone in your family in the holiday spirit. This holiday tradition is one of the Bluegrass region’s must-see events every year. From 5:30-10pm each evening, visitors will be awed by the dazzling display of lights. The drive winds through the Horse Park, wrapping up with indoor holiday displays, local crafts, model trains, mini train rides, visits with Santa and the much-loved petting zoo. These additional Holiday Festival attractions are open every night except November 24th and December 24th-31st. Don’t miss out on this stunning event!

OLEIKA SHRINERS RODEO Friday, November 18th – Saturday, November 19th Alltech Arena Cheer on 90 of the best cowboys and cowgirls in the country as they compete in bareback and saddle broncs, calf roping, steer wrestling, barrel racing, team roping, cowgirl breakway roping and bull riding! The rodeo begins at 7:30pm. Visit oleikarodeo.com for more information. Kids and adults alike will love this fun event of ropin’, ridin’ and more!

More

10TH ANNUAL HOLLY DAY MARKET Friday, December 2nd – Sunday, December 4th Alltech Arena Get your holiday shopping started at the most festive market around! This three-day event is hosted by the Junior League of Lexington. The Holly Day Market combines holiday shopping with festive events and activities designed to get everyone in the holiday spirit. The admission fee goes to support the Junior League of Lexington and the many local non-profit agencies they support.

To learn more, visit hollydaymarket.com or call 859.252.8014.

KHSAA STATE CHEERLEADING COMPETITION Saturday, December 10th Alltech Arena The Kentucky High School Athletic Association Competitive Cheer Championships is one of the most thrilling events of the year. This competition displays the incredible athleticism and grace of high schoolers from across the state. For more information, visit KHSAA.org or call 859.299.5472.•

LOVE EQUINE EVENTS? There are more to discover! Visit www.kyhorsepark.com for a complete listing of all the Horse Park Happenings, and be sure to visit www.TOPSinLex.com/calendar for more great events around town and Central Kentucky!

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COMMUNITY

Ky High School Student to Receive Basic CPR Training 188 Mission Lifeline

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Whats New 194 Sports with Dick Gabriel: Beware of Briscoe

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#BBN Drew’s Take on UK Sports: Which Kentucky Fan are YOU?

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Sports with Ryan Lemond: TOP 10 UK Football Plays of the Last 20 Years

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Kentucky High School Students to Receive Basic CPR Training Governor Matt Bevin signed Senate Bill 33 on Saturday, April 9th which will improve Kentuckians' chances of surviving sudden cardiac arrest.

ardiac arrest is a leading cause of death in the U.S., and nearly 326,000 people experience cardiac arrest outside of a hospital each year. Unfortunately, nearly 90% of cardiac arrest victims do not survive mostly because they don’t receive timely CPR. Our society has the opportunity to change this grim statistic by ensuring more people are trained in CPR, which can double or triple the chances of survival.

C

the House on March 29th with a 97 to 1 vote. Both votes had strong bipartisan support.

Senate Bill 33, sponsored by Senator Max Wise from Campbellsville, ensures that Kentucky high school students receive basic CPR training as part of high school health education, physical education or Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps course that meets the physical education graduation requirement. The new law will take effect in the 2016-2017 school year, making Kentucky the 29th state to pass such a law.

This law is a major initiative of the American Heart Association both in Kentucky and nationally. In 2011, the association released a Scientific Advisory stating that bystander CPR training and an overview of AEDs should be required for all high school students. Such training would rapidly increase the number of people ready to respond to sudden cardiac arrest, a leading cause of death in the United States. Already more than a 1.5 Million students are being trained in CPR each year because of this initiative, and Kentucky’s new law will add more than 39,000 students trained yearly.

“We don’t know when one of us is going to be called upon to save someone’s life,” said Senator Max Wise.

“Teaching CPR in high schools will ensure we have potential lifesavers in communities all across Kentucky.

My experience in the classroom has shown me that students have greater recall of training through the use of a practical application such as hands on training, which is the type of training that will be provided as a result of this legislation."

Senate Bill 33 passed the Kentucky State Senate on January 28th with a 32 to 6 vote. The bill later passed

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“There are more than 4,000 cases of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests in Kentucky each year – this requirement will lead to huge dividends,” said Representative Jeff Greer of Brandenburg. “It’s something I think all high school students should know, and more than two dozen other states already agree.”

High schools can play a pivotal role by creating a generation of lifesavers by making sure all students learn CPR before they graduate. In less than 30 minutes students are given the skills they need to help save someone’s life. Without immediate, effective CPR from a bystander, a person’s chance of surviving sudden cardiac arrest decreases 7 percent to 10 percent per minute.

During CPR, you should push on the chest at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute. The beat of "Stayin' Alive" is a perfect match for this. heart.org/handsonlycpr

#CPR

WHY LEARN

SAVES LIVES

CPR?

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When a person has a cardiac arrest, survival depends on immediately getting CPR from someone nearby.

Almost 90% of people who suffer out-of-hospital cardiac arrests die.

CPR, especially if performed in the first few minutes of cardiac arrest, can double or triple a person’s chance of survival.

Learn more at heart.org

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Push to the beat of "Stayin' Alive"

People feel more confident performing Hands-Only CPR and are more likely to remember the correct rate when trained to the beat of a familiar song.

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MUSIC CAN SAVE LIVES

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MISSION: Lifeline A

heart attack occurs when the blood flow that brings oxygen to the heart muscle is severely reduced or cut off completely by a blockage. Unless the blockage is opened quickly, the person’s health and life may be at serious risk.

The deadliest form of a heart attack is called the STEMI, which stands for Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction. The amount of damage to the heart muscle depends on the size of the area supplied by the blocked artery and the time between injury and treatment. For every 30 minute delay, death from a heart attack increases by 7.5 percent. CDC reports in Kentucky alone, 2,679 died from a heart attack in 2014. Recent data shows early notification can decrease the time to reopening a vessel by nearly an hour.

Why does this matter? The Mission: Lifeline STEMI Systems Accelerator Program is working in Lexington to decrease time from the onset of symptoms to artery opening care,

by Rosie Ecker

according to the American Heart Association. This project is a collaborative, regional effort that works with both ground/air EMS as well as hospitals throughout Central/Eastern Kentucky to improve systems of care for patients having heart attacks. There are several obstacles that have been identified through data collection thus far within this region; one of which is community teaching in regards to delay of care.

In Kentucky, nearly two-thirds of heart attack patients do not receive care in the recommended time frame.

Most delays are due to a person not recognizing the signs and symptoms of heart attack and calling for emergency assistance.

The American Heart Association recommends calling 911 if you experience any of the following signs and symptoms: chest discomfort (pressure, squeezing, fullness, pain), discomfort in areas of the upper body (arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach), feeling short of breath, nausea, or lightheadedness.

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Presentation of AHA Awards and EMS personnel

Delays also occur when patients recognize the symptoms but still fail to contact Emergency Medical Services. Currently, there is a large number of patients in Kentucky driving themselves to the hospital when they feel the symptoms of a heart attack. Some may think it is faster to drive themselves, but in fact, utilizing highly trained and qualified EMS personnel makes for much safer travel as well as faster care at the hospital. Additionally, by taking advantage of access to EMS and equipment such as 12-lead ECG machines, EMS can notify the hospital of a cardiac event before patient arrival.

Mission: Lifeline, an initiative spearheaded by the Duke Clinical Research Institute’s Center for Educational Excellence and the American Heart Association, will aid in the gap in time between

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onset of symptoms and medical intervention.

By working together, Regional protocols have been established to assist EMS in taking a STEMI patient to the closest, most appropriate facility as well as protocols to help guide clinicians in the hospital setting to ensure timely, effective care. By continuing this effort in the region, valuable partnerships will be built in local communities and across the state, ultimately leading to improved processes and lives being saved throughout Central and Eastern Kentucky.

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What’s New, Kentucky?

Patriotic Bling Helps Support Kentucky’s Lady Veterans Women veterans face unique challenges when they come home from serving our country. Supporting these women is easier than ever through Patriotic Bling, an online store started by a woman veteran, Sherry Whitehouse.

A percentage of all Patriotic Bling sales is donated to Sheppard’s Hands, a 501c3 organization founded by Phyllis Abbott. Sheppard’s Hands aims to provide comprehensive services to women who have defended the freedom of our nation. Patriotic Bling’s signature item is their Patriotic High Heel. This star-spangled pump is a bold way for veteran women and their supporters to “Bling and be Seen!”

They also offer other patriotic accessories.

Whitehouse and Abbott partnered together for Lady Veterans Connect, a non-profit organization to assist lady veterans transitioning back to civilian life. This summer, they held a ribbon cutting on the state’s first transitional home for lady veterans, located in Lexington.

The group’s next project will be the renovation of TRAPP Elementary School in Clark County into a home for lady veterans and their children.

Curious about more ways to help Kentucky’s lady veterans? Contact Lady Veterans Connect at 859.806.4297, or find them on Facebook!

PatrioticBling.com | SheppardsHands.org

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TOPS Louisville is Coming This January...

In January 2017, TOPS LOUISVILLE will release their first issue.

Published by TOP Marketing Group, TOPS LOUISVILLE will be a locally produced, locally focused, monthly print and digital lifestyle magazine based on the business model of the successful TOPS in Lexington publication.

The glossy, premium sized, full-color magazines have a local circulation of 25,000 copies that will translate into 115,000 socially active readers. Print editions will be distributed in Kroger locations all over Louisville and the surrounding towns. There will also be copies at over 200 TOPS advertiser and popular locations. An online version of each issue will be available at www.TOPSLouisville.com.

TOPS LOUISVILLE magazine will have a different theme each month, beginning with Fit & Fabulous + Better Living for January, The Money Issue in February, Home & Garden in March, and Derby, Derby, Derby! In April.

Owner and President Keith Yarber is enthusiastic about TOPS magazine: “Louisville is a vibrant, robust city with outstanding civic engagement and a thriving business community that matches perfectly with our format of magazine and digital products.”

Our proven model is to be a valuable partner for non-profits and advertisers giving each tremendous, and powerful exposure delivering their marketing to targeted consumer audiences. My goal has always been to be in Louisville and we felt the timing was right.”

Pam Leet will be General Manager. Leet is the owner and president of TwoCan Marketing Group, a public relations marketing, media management and event planning agency. Her experience includes serving as the Director of Sales and Marketing for Old 502 Winery in Louisville, co-owning Lovers Leap Vineyards and Winery, and consulting on numerous business branding projects in the central KY area.

TOPS LOUISVILLE’s General Sales Manager will be Mary George Meiners. Meiners is the owner and founder of Meiners Group, a Louisville executive search firm. Her 20-year sales and marketing experience includes general sales manager for iHeartMedia and Event Marketing Director for Jacor Broadcasting.

TOPS is a lifestyle magazine, television program and digital media. TOP Marketing Group celebrates the most exciting people and events with a new print and online issue each month. TOPS was founded in 2005 by media veteran and entrepreneur Keith Yarber.

WHO’S WHO, WHAT’S NEW, WHAT TO DO - COMING JANUARY 2017 -

TOPS LOUISVILLE Advertising Opportunities are Available!

Contact General Sales Manager Mary George Meiners: 502-244-9500 | Mary@TOPSLouisville.com For Editorial Inquiries, Contact Pam Leet: 502.780.7825 | Pam@TOPSLouisville.com

TOP Marketing Group | TOPSLouisville.com

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Holiday Open House at The Square Stylish brands, distinctive dining and festive entertainment abound during The Square’s annual Holiday Open House on Saturday, November 26th from 2-8pm.

This delightful event features activities and offerings to thrill every member of the family!

In the atrium from 2-6pm, children can visit Father Christmas and receive an adorable elf hat (while supplies last). Create a keepsake holiday craft or ornament together while enjoying live holiday music. Make a minimum $10 purchase from a participating store and bring the receipt to the atrium, then select a candy cane and get a gift certificate to one of The Square’s great shops or restaurants!

Continue the memories with a visit to Luminate Lexington in Triangle Park from 2-7pm with a holiday market, ice-skating and live entertainment. Enjoy the tree lighting ceremony at 6:30pm.

With incredible shopping, dining and entertainment, The Square is Lexington’s fun-filled holiday destination! Visitors will discover a collection of today’s most innovative food and beverage experiences, a thoughtful collection of fine art, signature boutiques and exciting learning experiences for children.

– 401 W. Main St. | 859.252.7575 | TheSquareLexington.com –

TOPS Subscriptions are Easier Than Ever!

Love TOPS? Hate running around all over town, trying to find the latest issue?

Subscriptions to TOPS in Lexington have never been easier... or cheaper! Just in time for the holiday season, TOP Marketing Group is pleased to offer subscriptions at a steep discount. One year subscriptions are just $19, a savings of 47%!

Save big on our two year subscriptions, as well: they’re just $36, a 40% discount!

TOPS in Lexington makes a wonderful holiday gift. Whether it’s a subscription for your social butterfly spouse or for your friends who have moved away but want to keep up with the latest in Central Kentucky, it’s the perfect way to Share the Lex! TOPS has recently partnered with a subscription fulfillment center to make the process easy and hassle-free. Every subscriber will be notified when their subscription begins, and they’ll be sent a heads-up when the subscription is nearing its end for seamless renewal.

Frequent readers of TOPS in Lexington know just how valuable having a copy sent directly to their mailbox truly is. The subscription price will pay for itself in gas money. And imagine being the first person on the block to have seen the latest issue every single month!

– Subscribe Today : TOPSinLex.com | Find Us on Facebook! –

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Rose & Lime Southern Chic Boutique Rose & Lime Southern Chic Boutique is a local favorite for cute, affordable clothing, accessories, jewelry, boots and gifts. Shop their inventory either in their charming, friendly brick and mortar, or online 24/7!

Rose & Lime carries brands like Tracy Negoshian, Everly, Esley, Blu Pepper, Peach Love, Corky’s Footwear and more. Located on the north campus and locally owned and operated by UK alumna and Transylvania University’s Alpha Omicron Pi Administration Advisor Kathryn Butte, Rose & Lime features lots of products perfect for the stylish student; the boutique features cute sorority gifts and tees, UK fan collectibles and game day or race day apparel. Don’t miss their cold weather apparel and accessories, like boot cuffs, gloves, rain boots and more.

For the Christmas shopping season, Rose & Lime will be closer than ever, as they are headed to local vendor markets. November 3rd and 4th, you can find them at Peppermint & Pearls at Lexington Christian Academy. On November 18th, they’ll be at Mingle & Jingle at The Signature Club. Then, on November 19th, they’re headed to Bourbon County High School’s FFA Christmas Market. Rose & Lime will also be announcing big Christmas season news, so check their Facebook page for the latest!

– 535 S. Upper St. @ Center Ct. | 859.317.9550 | roseandlime.com –

Beth Rice: Realtor In today’s real estate market, it’s essential to have an agent who is professional, knowledgeable and trustworthy. Re/Max Unlimited agent Beth Rice, ABR, E-PRO, ASP, BPOR, SSF is dedicated to providing the absolute finest service and expertise possible for her clients, whether they are buying or selling.

As a Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist, Beth has special expertise in helping sellers list and market their homes. She can also use this knowledge to help buyers better understand their options. As an agent working in Richmond, she has extensive knowledge of the desirable neighborhoods in the area, which are a huge benefit for Lexingtonians looking to relocate away from the hustle and bustle!

113 Jacks Trace Dr | Madison Co $349,900

509 Onward Way | Madison Co $165,900

This home on Jacks Trace Drive in Madison County is an all-brick 2 story 5 bedroom, 3.5 bath house with a 3 car garage and 4,478 sq. ft on 1.47 acres. The Onway Way 1,462 sq. ft. new construction brick and vinyl home features 3 bedrooms and 2 baths.

It’s located less than 10 minutes from I-75.

Beth works hard to provide her clients with a positive real estate experience, from start to finish. She understands that technology is a vital part of today’s real estate industry, and to that end, she provides clients with state of the art web tools and marketing services. It’s just one of the many things that has made Beth one of the most respected real estate agents in her region.

– 330 Eastern Bypass Ste. 2 | Richmond, KY | 859.624.2060 | kybethrice.com –

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Beware of briscoe H

Isaiah Briscoe could shoot it. Oh, sure, he could use his superior quickness to attack the rim, muscling his defender inside. At Kentucky, he’d be sharing the basketball with two other point guards, Jamal Murray and Tyler Ulis, but that was okay. Let them bring the ball up the floor.

And he did – over and over, with little success. Throughout the 201516 season, Briscoe’s jump shots failed with staggering regularity. He finished the season a chilly 44 percent from the floor, a bewildering 46 percent from the free throw line and a frightening 13.5 percent from behind the three-point arc.

And if his body had, indeed, turned on him – inflicting his mechanics with miniscule blemishes that rendered his previously sweet jumper seriously flawed, Briscoe set out this summer to re-gain command.

“I’ve been in the gym,” he said, “trying to get my muscle memory right.”

And there’s only one way to do that.

“Just shooting,” he said. “Shooting, shooting, shooting.”

And from all accounts, it’s paying off. Sophomore big man Isaac Humphries says that in pickup games, Briscoe “never misses.” And his coach has taken notice.

“You know what I’m saying to Isaiah every practice?” Calipari asked.

“You shoot every open shot. If you have a three or a jump shot, you shoot it. If you don’t shoot it, I’m going to get on you”.

It was Calipari who played a major role, predictably, in Briscoe

T

S

Then he turned to the coaches – Calipari and his top assistant, Kenny Payne. And while they acknowledged that Briscoe had been performing well for the scouts, they also suggested that he back up those performances with another season of college ball, one that included him actually making field goals and free throws, so that when the 2017 draft rolls around, he won’t have to sit and wait, heart pounding and palms sweating.

Briscoe would shoot.

“That’s the first time I’ve heard that,” Briscoe said with a smile. He thought for a moment, considering the notion. “Yeah, why not?”

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returning to Kentucky for his sophomore season. The thought that he might actually enter the NBA Draft may have seemed ridiculous to Big Blue fans who suffered every time Briscoe clanged one off the rim last season. But the Newark, N.J. native said private workouts for NBA teams went so well after the season that he actually considered rolling the dice with his professional future.

e arrived last year with the reputation of a guy who could stuff a stat line as well as any incoming freshman in America. And he belonged to John Calipari’s Wildcats – probably for just one season.

He’d been blessed with skills that had carried him to the pinnacle of college basketball, a wide spot on the road to the riches of the NBA. Only, it seemed, his body had betrayed him.

O

And I’m happy to be here.”

“I trust Cal and I trust KP,” Briscoe said. “So I decided to come back.

He might have launched enough bricks to build a barbecue pit, but Briscoe found other ways to contribute last season, which is what kept him on the floor. Slashing to the basket, rebounding, playing defense – ironically, his shooting woes forced him to more quickly develop the other elements of his game.

“Unbelievable on the court, unbelievable,” Calipari said of Briscoe’s pre-season work. “Shooting the ball better, really proud of him. Still the same defending, rebounding guard that he was.”

He’s also working on becoming more of a leader, on and off the court. That’s what a perpetually young Kentucky team will need, every year.

He didn’t say if it was the worst season of his young life, but it’s hard to believe Briscoe ever suffered through anything like it. And now, it’s just a painful memory.

“I got through it. It’s over with,” he said.

“I’m here for a new year.”

by Dick Gabriel BigBlueInsider.com

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DREW’S TAKE ON UK SPORTS

Which Kentucky Fan are YOU?

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he purpose of this test is to ascertain which type of screaming, raving, Big Blue Nation lunatic you are.

There are no wrong answers here, so please, be honest.

Do you realize that UK football has a legitimate shot at winning the SEC East?

tom. If being at Louisville is what is best for him and his family, God speed and best of luck against everyone except Kentucky.

A. Agree—I follow Kentucky football just as hard as I follow Kentucky basketball. No one can bring down my enthusiasm for Mark Stoops and the future of the program. NO ONE!!!

B. Undecided—will he even be allowed to coach this year? Didn’t I hear something about strippers, paying strippers, recruits getting strippers, coaches getting strippers, and Louisville coaches getting recruits and coaches strippers at Minardi Hall? Or am I still drunk from the Southern Miss and Florida losses? It was something like that, right.

Hold on…WHERE AM I?????? I hate sobering up!

B. Undecided—well, I’m still drunk from the Southern Miss and Florida demoralizing losses. Those two games sprained my soul. When I sober up, I’ll check your information, but I got to tell you I’m dubious.

C. No—wait a second, Kentucky has a football team? Are you talking about those guys that run around in funny looking blue Darth Vader helmets hitting each other? I thought they were just an act for BBN to laugh at before basketball season starts. They’ve always been so awesomely distracting! THEY’RE SO FUNNY! Kentucky basketball will win the national championship in 2017.

Agree or disagree?

A. Agree—banner number eight will be hung with care in Rupp Arena’s rafters. I’ve already designed my national championship tattoo! It’s going to either be on my left butt cheek or my right shoulder blade. I don’t know yet.

B. Undecided—it is football season. I am NOT talking about basketball during FOOTBALL season. Just for asking, it’s your turn on the next beer run. Seriously, quit being “that” Kentucky fan.

C. No—outside of Derrick Willis, UK does not have enough outside shooting. I love Bam, Malik, De’Aaron, and Dom as much as the next guy, but I see an Elite Eight at best.

Do you still respect Rick Pitino?

A. Agree—I don’t like that he’s the coach of Louisville, but I am thankful for everything he did for Kentucky when the program was rock bot-

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C. No—the Rick Pitino, who Big Blue Nation worshipped is no more. Who cares if he won a national championship in Lexington?

He is sleeping with the enemy at Louisville. He is dead to me. DEAD, I tell you!

Do you think Mark Stoops should be Kentucky’s football coach next year?

A. Agree—give the man another year! Geez, people, it is called PATIENCE. Guns N’ Roses sang an awesome song about it! Rome wasn’t built in a day, so Kentucky football sure as hell won’t be either!

He’s got the chops, the bloodlines, and by Year five, he’ll have a quality SEC team. Just you watch.

B. Undecided—I’m not the guy to ask. I just like to tailgate and party. If Stoops is here, great. If not, well, I’m still going to drink beer. Lots and lots of beer.

C. No—Stoops has everything he asked for. It is inexcusable for Kentucky not to get to a bowl game in 2016, especially with the SEC East a dumpster fire. No bowl game means adios to Mark Stoops in my opinion. He had his shot.

by Drew Johnson Sports Junkie

S T R O P S

Top 10 UK football plays of the last 20 years

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his season marks my 20-year anniversary of covering UK football. As UK football fans know, we’ve seen a lot of highs, but we’ve also seen a lot of lows.

I prefer to talk about the highs!

So with that in mind, I’ve come up with what I consider the “Top 10 UK football plays of the last 20 years”. We start with the 1996 football season, so Billy Jack Haskin’s magical run against Tennessee isn’t included on the list because it happened the season before I moved to Lexington in 1995.

Here goes… #10 is now a tie!

10

MacGinnis for the win! – This game just happened. After watching their lead disappear in the final minute against Mississippi State, it all came down to a 51-yard field goal attempt by kicker Austin MacGinnis. WIth everyone in Commonwealth Stadium holding their breath, MacGinnis’s kick just cleared the crossbar giving UK an exciting 40-38 win. The win was exactly what Mark Stoops and his football program needed.

10

McCord’s reverse vs LSU – Back in 1998, Hal Mumme took his Kentucky Wildcats into Death Valley to take on the 21st ranked LSU Tigers. Late in the game, Mumme surprised everyone by calling a reverse for Quentin McCord.

McCord took the end-around for 38 yards, which set up a game winning 33 yard field goal by Seth Hanson as time expired, and giving the Cats the 39-36 upset over the Tigers.

9

Lindley’s INT vs Georgia – UK head coach Rich Brooks needed that coveted “signature win” to jump start the Cats program in 2006. He got it against a Georgia team that had beaten the Cats 9 years in a row, and he got it in front of a raucous homecoming crowd at Commonwealth Stadium. As Georgia mounted a final potential game winning drive in the final minute, Trevard Lindley intercepted a Matt Stafford pass to preserve the 24-20 come from behind win for the Cats, which led to the fans storming the field and the goal posts coming down.

8

Abney did it again – Derek Abney was a human highlight reel during the 2002 season when he returned 7 kicks for touchdowns. But nobody was ready for what Abney did against Mississippi State when he tied an NCAA record with not one, but 2 punt returns for touchdowns in one game against the Bulldogs. When he finally hung up his helmet, Abney had broken or tied 6 NCAA records, 11 SEC records and 14 Kentucky records, but none more exciting than his 2nd punt return for a touchdown against Mississippi State.

7

Dupree’s pick-6 vs South Carolina – Similarly to coach Brooks needing a signature win in 2006, new coach Mark Stoops found himself in a similar situation in 2014. Playing Steve Spurrier and his South Carolina Gamecocks in front of a packed house and “black out” crowd, Commonwealth Stadium exploded when senior Bud Dupree intercepted the pass that had been deflected by Mike Douglas, and took it 6 yards for the game winning touchdown. UK had come from behind twice to beat the Gamecocks 45-38 as the fans stormed the field in celebration.

6

Lorenzen throws it over his head – UK’s Jared Lorenzen had many memorable moments during his 4 years as the Cats quarterback, but none better that his record setting game against 12th ranked Georgia in 2000. Starting as a redshirt freshman, Lorenzen rewrote the record books by throwing for an incredible 528 yards, including one pass completion over his head. For the game, J-Lo hit on 39-58 passes and 2 touchdowns, and he also ran for a touchdown, only to watch Georgia come from behind to beat the Cats 34-30.

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5

Cobb TD beats Spurrier – No person was a “cat killer” like Steve Spurrier. Coming into the 2010 game against UK at Commonwealth Stadium, Spurrier had beaten the Cats 17 times in a row. After trailing 28-10 at halftime, UK and head coach Joker Phillips rallied. Then with only 1:15 remaining in the game, Randall Cobb put the embarrassing streak to rest when he hauled in the 24 yard touchdown pass from Mike Hartline to give UK the stunning 31-28 win over Spurrier’s 10th ranked Gamecocks. In the game, Cobb also became UK’s all-time touchdowns leader.

4

A receiver at quarterback? – Who would ever believe that Kentucky would start a receiver at quarterback against the mighty Tennessee Volunteers who had beaten the Cats 26 straight times? But that’s exactly what happened back in 2011, when Matt Roark was forced into the starting lineup at quarterback after an injury sidelined starter Maxwell Smith. Roark rushed for 124 yards and led the Cats to a 4th quarter touchdown and a 10-7 win over the Vols snapping the embarrassing losing streak. Roark ended his UK career by being carried off the field on his teammates shoulders.

3

Stevie got loose! – Going into the 2007 season, Rich Brooks was still looking for his 1st win over the rival Louisville Cardinals. As a matter of fact, not one player on the UK team had tasted victory over U of L. To make matters worse, the Cards were ranked in the top 10 in the country and boasted Heisman trophy candidate Brian Brohm at quarterback. The Cats were behind and running out of time, until Andre Woodson launced a 57 yard touchdown pass to Stevie Johnson with only 28 seconds left to give UK a 40-34 win over U of L. To this day, I’ve never heard Commonwealth Stadium louder than at that moment.

2

Couch to Yeast – Going into this 1997 match-up with Alabama, Kentucky had not beaten the Crimson Tide in 75 years. Let that sink in, 75 years. But everything changed on this October night in Commonwealth Stadium as the Cats took Bama to overtime. In the OT, we got to witness history.

Tim Couch hits Craig Yeast for a 26 yard touchdown and a 40-34 win. UK football fans celebrated like they never have before tearing down both goal posts and parading them through the streets of Lexington.

1

Kelly stops #1 LSU – There is no doubt that the play that stunned the college football world came when the Cats shocked #1 LSU at Commonwealth Stadium on October 13, 2007. UK was ranked 17th in the country at the time, but found themselves trailing 27-14 late in the 4th quarter. The Cats tied the game and sent it into overtime. It went into a 2nd overtime, and then a 3rd overtime when Andre Woodson hit Stevie Johnson for a touchdown. UK couldn’t convert the 2-point conversion, so the score stood 43-37. LSU took over, and on 4th down, linebacker Braxton Kelly stopped Charles Scott short of the 1st down, and the celebration began.

Granted, if the Braxton Kelly tackle against LSU is number 1, the Tim Couch to Craig Yeast pass to beat Alabama is more like 1a. I do have to admit, of all the UK games I’ve watched at Commonwealth Stadium over the last 20 years, ironically two games that I didn’t attend – the LSU game and the Alabama game. I see a pattern here.

Go Cats!

by Ryan Lemond Kentucky Sports Radio/WLAP

WE BLEED BLUE

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PHOTOS | Big Blue Madness Rupp Arena | October 14th | ukathletics.com | Photos by Michael Huang

Derek Willis, Edrice Adebayo and Sacha Killeya-Jones

John Calipari and John Wall

Matthew Mitchell

Lady Cats

Michael Buffer

Dawn Walters

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The Mitchell Family

Tod and Bo Lanter

NOVEMBER 2016 | TOPSINLEX.COM

Josh Hopkins

Willie Cauley-Stein

Debbie Green and Kim Knopf

Maria Montgomery

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PHOTOS | Empowered Lexington Convention Center | October 3rd | iamempowered.com | Photos by Ron Morrow

Pat & Jim Host, Melissa Bacon

Wil James

Renee Shaw and Wilma Peeples

Don & Mira Ball

Angela Evans, Alan Stein, Emmanuel Caulk and Kathy Witt

Sheri Depp, Jay Box and P.G. Peeples, Sr.

Andy Shea, Kristina Green and Ronnie Bastin

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Samantha Bowie, Damon Cameron, Jenna & Matthew Mitchell

Stephen Pruitt

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PHOTOS | Keeneland Fall Meet Keeneland | October 7th - 29th | Photos by Woody Phillips, Ron Morrow and Benjamin Burchett

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PHOTOS | Kiss A Pig Benefiting The American Diabetes Association | Hilton Downtown | October 15th | diabetes.org | Photos by Woody Phillips

Andy Shea and Kristina Green Ashley Tabb, Tonya & Chris Weikel, Brooke & O’Shea Hudspeth

Susan Tierney, Susan McDonald and Cynthia Bennett

Louanne Cooper and Megann Thomas

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Laura Day & Mark DelCotto

Kristen Branscum and Kate Horning

Marcus & Emily Miller

Stewart & Judy Perry

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PHOTOS | Kiss A Pig Benefiting The American Diabetes Association | Hilton Downtown | October 15th | diabetes.org | Photos by Woody Phillips

Kirsten Rowland, Tracey Drzich and Lisa Edwards

Todd Ziegler, Tom Leach, Tony Bryant, Andy Shea, Laura Day DelCotto, Kate Horning and Kristen Branscum

GD, Lindsay, Kelly and Laura Hieronymus, Jerry Hall

Pig L

Adam Duvall and Connor Edwards

Lindsey DeMoss and Anne Ney

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Tom Leach and David Bertram

Eric Case, Melissa Dickey and Ann H.M. Thomas

Amber Philpott Hill and Dennis Karounos

John Bunton and Bob Babbage

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PHOTOS | KY Farm Bureau Legislative Appreciation Social Hilary J. Boone Center | September 27th | kyfb.com | Photos by Paul Atkinson

Kathy Plomin, Bill Farmer, Jr. and Richard Moloney

Board Photo

Billy Van Pelt and Bonnie Eads

James Brown

Linda Tucker and Megan Harper

Susan Westrom

Larry Van Meter

Scott Travis, Chuck Tackett and Reginald Thomas

Phil Meyer and Susak Speckert

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PHOTOS | Conservation and Cocktails The Apiary | October 18th | bluegrassconservancy.org | Photos by Paul Atkinson

Richard Holder, Cabby Boone and Boo Hardy

Tom & Lisa Biederman, Brereton & Libby Jones

Field & Isabel Ladd

Billy Van Pelt, Jennie Garlington and Brent Bruner Ginny & Neil Howard

Austin & Janie Musselman

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Paul Atkinson and Elizabeth Buxton

Natalie & Gray Lyster

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PHOTOS | Conservation and Cocktails The Apiary | October 18th | bluegrassconservancy.org | Photos by Paul Atkinson

Jan Meyer, Laura Miller and Linda Helton

Kris & John Penn, Barbara & Henry Hinkle, Nina Hahn

Helen Alexander and Griffin Van Meter

Jessie Bessiger

Ashley Greathouse and Sellus Wilder

Jim & Suzanne Elliott

Kat Hancock, Jak Knelman and Mary Catherine White

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Georgeanna & Will Chapman

Bill & Barbara Thomason

November

THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT IS FLOATING THROUGH THE AIR AND QUICKLY FILLING UP OUR CALENDAR WITH FUN, FESTIVE EVENTS.

While the month of November tends to be all about food, football, and giving thanks, it is also the kickoff to the Christmas season. This month’s calendar includes the release of a new blockbuster animated film, dancing toy soldiers, and a Santa approved parade. However, if you aren’t quite ready to embrace tree lighting and ice skating, there’s plenty more to choose from. From a chance to be on a classic game show, a night of New Orleans flare, and an evening filled with the seductive sounds of a multiple Grammy nominee, we’ve got you covered. So pull out those coats and scarves and start planning your night out on the town.

NOV 4

Go Red for Women Experience 8:30-1p | Lexington Convention Center - Heritage Hall

Evening with the Stars 7-11p | Carrick House

AcoUstiKats Concert & Dinner Gala 6p | Signature Club

Celebration of Dignity & Hope 11:30-1p | Hyatt Regency Downtown

March of Dimes Signature Chef Auction 6:30-9:30p | Griffin Gate Mariott Resort

NOV 5

Miles for MiracleFeet 5K 5-6p | Alltech Arena

UK Football vs Georgia TBA | Commonwealth Staidum

NOV 6

UK Basketball vs Asbury : Exhibition Game 7p | Rupp Arena

Songs for Sound “Hear the Music” 5:30p | Manchester Music Hall

NOV 9

Needtobreathe : Tour de Compadres JESSE L. BROOKS Calendar Highlights

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7p | Rupp Arena

Add YOUR event to our online calendar for FREE! Visit TopsInLex.com /calendar_submission.php

NOV 10

The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane

Big in the Bluegrass

Oct 12th & 13th | 2p, 7p | Lexington Children’s Theatre

7-11p | Heritage Hall

Stache Bash

Hoops for Hope

6-11p | Vaughan Tobacco Warehouse #22

4:30p | Rupp Arena

Hosparus Candle Glow Gala

Bids 4 Build Launch Party

6p | Louisville Mariott Downtown

6-8p | 21c Museum Hotel

3rd Annual Cathy Coop Markey Cancer Benefit

NOV 11

6:30p-12a | Hartland Clubhouse

Jason Michael Carroll 7p-12a | Manchester Music Hall

Lexington Philharmonic : To Be Certain of the Dawn 7:30-9:30p | Singletary Center for the Arts

NOV 12

Louisville Music Festival 8p | KFC Yum! Center Some may argue, but the 90’s were some of the best times for Hip Hop and R&B music. Many songs, which some of us may now consider classics came out of the era, and bring a lot of good memories with them. The Louisville Music Festival will feature familiar artists such as Keith Sweat, Mint Condition, Ki-Ci & JoJo and Ginuwine (I think we all loved “Pony” right?). The show starts at 8 p.m. at the KFC Yum! Center, with tickets ranging from $52-$103. For more information on this event or to purchase tickets visit ticketmaster.com.

[ Visit TopsInLex.com for our full calendar ]

2016 Bid & Buy

An Evening in New Orleans 6p | Manchester Music Hall If you are in the mood for a little NOLA charm, come and enjoy a night of New Orleans-style jazz and zydeco music, plated dinner served by “Bayou Bluegrass Catering”, complimentary beer and wine, with silent and live auctions including fantastic vacation packages and local entertainment, and a new commemorative glass for each guest. All net proceeds go directly to Birthright of Lexington’s annual operating costs. Individual tickets as well as tables of ten are avaliable. For additional information please visit eventbrite.com.

NOV 13

ELF The Musical 6p | EKU Center for the Arts

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October NOV 17

KHAKY Trees of Life 30th Celebration

Southern Lights Stroll

7-11p | The Grand Reserve Event Center

6-9p | Kentucky Horse Park

Art After Dark

Chris Issak Live!

6-9p | UK Art Museum

7:30p | Lexington Opera House

The Holiday Mingle & Jingle Market

The Price is Right Live

5-9p | The Singnature Club

10a-3p | Lexington Convention Center Most of us grew up watching it, and dreamed of someday being on that shiny stage. Now The Price Is Right is coming to the EKU Center For The Arts. The hit interactive stage show gives eligible individuals the chance to “Come On Down” to win big. Prizes may include appliances, vacations and possibly a new car! Playing classic games from television’s longest running and most popular game show from Plinko™, to Cliffhangers™, to The Big Wheel™, and even the fabulous Showcase Showdown. Tickets can be purchased for $35-$40 on etix.com.

NOV 17-20 Donnie Baker

7:15p, 9:45p | Comedy Off Broadway

NOV 18

Corey Smith 7p-12a | Manchester Music Hall

LexArts Gallery Hop

NOV 18-DEC 31 Southern Lights Holiday Festival 5:30-10p | Kentucky Horse Park It’s hard not to love a magical stroll through twinkling Christmas lights, and nobody does it better than Southern Lights. Boasting over four miles of lights, this festival continues to grow and improve each year, adding additional holiday displays along the driven route and expanding its Holiday attractions to enjoy on foot. After driving through the lights, guests are invited to park and take in the attractions in the Park’s interior, which are designed to entertain every member of the family-from local crafts, model trains and mini train rides, visits with Santa, to the ever popular exotic petting zoo. These additional Holiday Festival attractions are open every night except November 24th and December 24-31. MondayThursday: $15.00 per car, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday: $25.00 per car. For more tips and directions, check out kyhorsepark.com.

5-8p | Downtown Lexington

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NOV 19

Market 301

UK Football vs Austin Peay

10a-6p | Manchester Music Hall

TBA | Commonwealth Staidum

The Holiday Mingle & Jingle Market

Kentucky Ballet : The Nutcracker

5-9p | The Singnature Club

2p & 7p | Transylvania University

Tree Lighting Festival

No production gets us in the holiday spirit quite like this magical tale. Celebrate holiday cheer and the Christmas season with the classical ballet, The Nutcracker. It’s not the holidays without the famous story, score and cast of characters. Clara, The Mouse King, The Sugar Plum Fairy, and more will tell the story through dance, costumes, and movement. This holiday classic kicks off the holiday season just before Thanksgiving at Transylvania’s beautiful Haggis Auditorium. The Nutcracker will be a treat for the entire family featuring the choreography of Norbe & Rafaela Risco.

Tickets can be purchased at kyballet.com.

2-7p | Triangle Park Kick off the Christmas holiday season with a day full of festive fun in Triangle Park! Festivities include food vendors, arts and crafts vendors, live music and more setting the mood for a delightful day downtown.The traditional tree lighting takes place at 6:30 p.m. Santa Claus will flip the switch. Attendees are also encouraged to check out the The Unified Trust Company Ice Rink for a little skating magic. The rink will be open mid November-January 10th.

For more details please visit triangleparklexington.org.

NOV 26-DEC 4

NOV 25-27

The Snow Queen

Shawn Wayans

7:15, 9:45p | Comedy Off Broadway

presented by The Bluegrass Opera

NOV 26

2p & 7p | Kentucky Horse Park

UK Football vs Louisville TBA | Papa Johns Cardinal Stadium, Louisville KY

Distillery Holiday Weekend Market!

10a-6p | The Grand Reserve

An epic collaboration with Lexington Children’s Theatre, The Snow Queen is based on the timeless story by Hans Christian Andersen. When worlds collide – snowflakes and splinters of the glass mirror fly and Kai chooses the path of the Snow Queen. Now Gerda must strap on her red boots and embark on an epic journey to rescue the boy she loves! Tickets and info can be found on lexingtonoperahouse.com.

OH WHAT FUN! TICKETS: (859) 233-3535 OR

LEXINGTONOPERAHOUSE.COM

[ Visit TopsInLex.com for our full calendar ]

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December DEC 1

DEC 2-4

5p | Buffalo Trace Distillery

10th Annual Holly Day Market

Lighting of the Trace

Kentucky Horse Park

DEC 2

The Holly Day Market is a three-day winter holiday event. Hosted by the Junior League of Lexington. This event combines boutique-style holiday shopping with holiday events and activities designed to get customers 5:30-10p | Waveland Historic Site into the holiday spirit. You’ll find more than 70 booths of Relive Christmas of the past with scenes from the vendors with fabulous boutique-style items unique to Dickens’ classic, “A Christmas Carol”. Since this Christmas our community and other parts of the country! There is classic was written in 1843, it only seems fitting to an admission fee which will go to the Junior League of celebrate Christmas of the past in a historic home that Lexington. There will be a 10th anniversary party from 7-10 was built in the same time period. Follow from room– p.m. on Saturday at the 21C Hotel downtown. For more to-room as the drama plays out right in front of you. A information on prices and early bird options, please call magical Christmas experience! Santa will be in the barn an the Junior League of Lexington at 859-252-5727 or visit hour before the first scheduled performance. He will be hollydaymarket.com. reciting a story and provide parents with a photo moment.

Prices are $10.00 Adults, $5.00 children, 6 and under free. Reservations are required. For more information on Girls on the Run 5K schedules and times contact Charla Reed, 859-272-3611 9:30a | Keeneland or 859-619-8189 or visit parks.ky.gov.

Dicken’s A Christmas Carol

DEC 3

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The Nutcracker presented by Lexington Ballet Company 2p | EKU Center for the Arts

A Rockin’ Christmas with Brenda Lee

DEC 6 Lexington Christmas Parade 7p | Downtown Lexington

To further emerge yourself into the wonderful world of holiday festivities, come luminate Lexington with the annual Christmas Parade downtown. This particular event With more than 100 million units of her music sold globally, is the state’s largest holiday parade beginning at Main and Brenda Lee has been a superstar since childhood, releasing Midland, and proceeding along Main Street to Broadway. her first single when she was only 11 years old, sharing the It’s the perfect way to start feeling merry and bright! Visit stage of the Grand Ole Opry with Elvis Presley at 12, and downtownlex.com for more info! watching The Beatles open for her on tour in Europe before she turned 20. The award-winning vocalist is beloved around the world, and now is your chance to see the songstress live. Join Brenda and her band as she makes her Then Ten Tenors : Home for the Holidays Norton Center debut this holiday season in a concert filled 7:30p | EKU Center for the Arts with cherished classics and Christmas favorites that’ll get your spirits rockin’! Visit nortoncenter.com for all the info!

8p | Norton Center for the Arts

DEC 8

DEC 9

DEC 4

Casting Crowns with Matt Maher

Market 301 6-10p | Manchester Music Hall

7p | Rupp Arena

[ Visit TopsInLex.com for our full calendar ]

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Over The Edge

Austin McGinnis Game Winner!

Arty Party Alan Stein makes a splash at the Whitaker Family YMCA Sneak Preview Gala

Going to be another great year for BBN

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Barktoberfest