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Out & About
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Couture for the Cure
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Couture for the Cure (cont.)
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Art Museum Night Out
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TOPS March Preview Party
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TOPS March Preview Party (cont.)
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NAWBO Chocolate Affair
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NAWBO Chocolate Affair (cont.)
106 Art of Selling Saddlebreds 172 Bluegrass Trust Antiques and Garden Show 174 Bluegrass Community Foundation Good Giving Guide 176 Good Morning Bluegrass with Coach Stoops 178 Lexington Charity Club Celebrates Coba Cocina 180 Lexington Humane Society Charity Runway Event 182 Christ the King Big Blue Fling 184 Evening of Elegance 194 TOP Shots
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IN EVERY ISSUE 24
Up & Coming
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Sports: Observations of a Kentucky Fan Living in Louisville
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Finance: The Kentucky Pensions
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Gardening: Scented Gardens
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Parties: Derby Parties
116 Etiquette & Entertaining: Games People Play 119 Family: Tooth Fairy Failures 130 Posh Paws: Smelly Cat 170 New Businesses 192 Weddings: The Perfect Send-off, It’s Not About Throwing Rice Anymore
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Up & Coming
4 THURSDAY Central Bank Thursday Night Live: The Payback 4:30p-8p Fifth Third Bank Pavilion at Cheapside Park downtownlex.com
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APRIL 21
5 FRIDAY College Scholarship Day/ Spring Meet Begins Keeneland keeneland.com
Central Kentucky Home, Garden & Flower Show 5p-9:30p Rupp Arena ckyhomeshow.com
Pianolust!
7:30p Lexington Opera House lexingtonoperahouse.com
6 SATURDAY UK World Music Concert 7:30p Singletary Center singletarycenter.com
Central Kentucky Home, Garden & Flower Show 10a-9p Rupp Arena ckyhomeshow.com
Mark Klein
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7:15p, 9:45p Comedy Off Broadway comedyoffbroadway.com
7 SUNDAY Artful Sunday
2p-3:30p UK Art Museum uky.edu
Central Kentucky Home, Garden & Flower Show
5-7
12p-6p Rupp Arena ckyhomeshow.com
2013 Lexington AIDS Walk 2p-4p Third Street Stuff avolky.org
8 MONDAY April Two-Year-Olds in Training Sale Keeneland keeneland.com
Fireworks Night
7p Whitaker Bank Ballpark lexingtonlegends.com
1 1 THURSDAY NAWBO Winners’ Circle Awards
11:30a Marriott Griffin Gate lexnawbo.org
Central Bank Thursday Night Live: Swing Street 4:30p-8p Fifth Third Bank Pavilion at Cheapside Park downtownlex.com
1 2 FRIDAY Lexington Ballet Company: Coppelia
7:30p Lexington Opera House lexingtonoperahouse.com
Moser Performs Shostakovich
7:30p-9:30p Singletary Center singletarycenter.com
Kentucky Music Hall of Fame Induction
6p Lexington Center kentuckymusicmuseum.com
Vic Henley
7:15p, 9:45p Comedy Off Broadway comedyoffbroadway.com
Our photographers are everywhere! Please check our website for updated event information and please be aware of the changing nature of events. 24
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Finance
THE KENTUCKY PENSIONS by Tom Dupree, The Money Man
As financial reality has borne down on all areas of life, our pension systems in Kentucky have not been unaffected. At issue are all of the financial assumptions that have been at work in anticipating what the pensions would be able to pay, for how long, and at what cost to the taxpayers? Look at what is happening in the world of life insurance. Do any of you have older cash value life insurance policies? Have you received a notice from the life insurance company recently telling you that the policy you thought was “paid up” was going to require additional premium payments? Some of these letters may also provide projections of how long the policy will stay in force if you don’t send more money. This may be very different from what the insurance salesperson assured you would be the case when you bought the policy. They may have said that after ten or fifteen years of premium payments you’d be done. Why the big difference?
since these assumptions were made and most pension funds simply have not adapted to this financial reality. It’s easy to blame legislators for not funding the pension plans, but up until four years ago the previous assumptions seemed plausible. It hasn’t been until this major sustained drop in interest rates that gaping holes in the funding of the pension systems has become obvious. With interest rates where they are now, there is probably no amount of catch up funding that can take place that will be able to be born by the taxpayers of Kentucky. The system is broken, and it isn’t going to be fixed, as it exists. There are possible solutions, but that is for another column.
It’s because of interest rates. Since the Federal Reserve Bank under Ben Bernanke began an easy money policy over four years ago, interest rates have dropped to historic lows and remained there. This is great if you are a borrower, but if you rely on interest rates to provide a financial return over a long period of years as insurance companies do, you are having troubles. That’s why insurance companies have had to ask for more money from their policyholders; they are not getting good returns on their investment portfolios because interest rates are so low. And this is the same reason our state pension funds will be unable to meet their obligations. Yes, I didn’t say our state pension funds would be barely able to meet their obligations, I said UNable. Pension funds operate under the same financial assumptions that life insurance companies do. They take in money, invest it, and pay out obligations. The four big assumptions are how much money they take in, what amount of interest they are able to earn on it, when they have to start paying out, and how much they have to pay out. If one of these assumptions changes, it affects the other assumptions. The interest earned assumption has changed in a major way. Most return assumptions for pension funds assume earnings of somewhere around 7.75% a year, but the interest rate on U. S. Treasury bonds for 10 year maturities is only around 2% a year. The world has changed in a big way
Listen to “The Tom Dupree Show” Saturdays from 6-9 a.m. at News Radio 630WLAP or wlap.com.
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Behind the Lens
Despite joyous holidays to the beach with loved ones, Kristin is a pure Lexingtonian through and through. Having attended Lexington Christian Academy, she went on to graduate from the University of Kentucky with a business degree in accounting. Shortly after, she began working for her father’s insurance company and credits much of her business mastery as a result of this experience. Despite her love for taking pictures, it was not until the birth of her first child, a son, that she ever handled a professional camera. “My first digital camera was a Christmas gift from my husband. The excitement of receiving such a great gift was soon trumped by the realization that I didn’t have a clue how to use it. I’m pretty sure my husband regretted giving me the camera at this point, seeing as how I was attached to it 24-7 because I poured countless hours of myself into learning photography!” This passion for learning drew out an innate talent from within and combined with Kristin’s accounting background, she opened her photography business about one year later. “I went to work for my dad right after college and in high school I worked for my uncles and for me, this photography business was just mine, I did this.” By stepping out on her own to pursue her dream, Kristin became inspired to help others blossom their dreams into fruitful realities. Through a variety of outlets, including classes that occur two to three times a year, Kristin shares her wealth of knowledge by mentoring women. Kristin explains, “The Beginners Photography Class is an informative top-value learning experience.” Here, she does everything she can to make your experience as outstanding and helpful as possible. This class is designed for beginners to thrive in a casual environment, with ample time for questions and personal feedback; because, as she says, “today, I not only have a passion for taking portraits and creating art for my clients, but also a passion for teaching others how to capture better photos for their loved ones too.” This four-hour small group class is focused on learning how to get more from your camera and take better pictures; the class size is limited to 15 students so everyone will have an opportunity to ask specific questions. Students can enjoy the casual class atmosphere, sip on a Mimosa, make new friends and take in all the class information. If this fabulous description does not get you excited enough to sign up right now, former clients weigh in on how much they enjoyed their experience with Kristin with a sampling of their personal testimonials from her website. “It’s so worth it! It forces you to sit down and learn the basics because we all know if it were up to us we would never read the manual on our own. The class was a great, condensed summary of all the important things it would take hours and hours to research on your own. It was also great to hear the answers to other participant’s questions that you don’t necessarily think about but would be sure to run into sooner or later. Kristin is a great teacher who will take the time to make sure you know it before you leave the room!”
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Behind the Lens
“I loved how laid back the class was. Being able to ask questions throughout made it so easy to really understand all of the information. I also loved the booklet that we went through step by step!” As Kristin explains, “We just have a great time together and I feel teaching is one of my strengths because I love watching people start to ‘get it’. I can watch the light bulbs turn on during the class and to receive emails of everyone from the class telling me what a great time they had and how they have been practicing already is such a joy.” With her unique philosophy, Kristin ensures that a photography session with her is enjoyable throughout the entirety of the process. This goal to care for and interact with clients from the beginning to end differentiates her from the masses. Kristin explains, “I help style and coordinate my clients before the shoots, we create Pinterest boards for the families, and I will go to the mall or boutiques with them to help pick out their outfits. I give my clients information of what to expect the day of and after the photography session. I specialize in creating beautiful art for my clients and I will go back to their homes and help plan out where they can display these photos of their family as art.” An additional aspect making sessions with Kristin even more special is that she takes exceptional care of the mamas in her photographs. “If a mom is in the photos, I always offer hair and makeup to them because this helps them feel beautiful and it just shows from the inside out. I have also discovered how to help them pose in the most flattering ways and their radiance really comes across in the photos.” Because she devotes so much time to each session, she takes a limited number of sessions per week that generally book up three to four weeks in advance. Though she is most well known for her gorgeous work with families and commercial businesses, here she shares her favorite topic lately. “This past year I have really fallen in love with fashion photography. After being approached by the amazing fashion blogger
Beth Parker of Seersucker & Saddles to work with her, I became involved with the fashion shoots for TOPS. These fashion shoots allow me to shoot to the best of my artistic ability, while enjoying awesome experiences.”
TOPS: What inspires you? Kristin: Beautiful lighting is an inspiration to me. My kids are a big inspiration to me. The biggest inspiration, however, comes from working with my clients on the actual photo shoot. If I can put them in good lighting and capture that love on film, I’m inspired.
TOPS: do you direct YOUR SUBJECTS? Kristin: People I am photographing ask me, “what do I do?” I tell them I want you to sit there and be in love. There is nothing better than capturing families who are completely in love. So much of photography entails juggling technical aspects, but I feel that I have that ability to pull out the genuine expression of my clients. It’s such a wonderful moment to realize you are capturing this incredibly pure emotive reaction! I get to capture it in their looks and smiles and it’s just amazing. For example, when I’m working with children, I’ll tell them I’m practicing my ABC’s and I’ll start singing, A B C Q P…and they laugh, “No, that’s not it!”
TOPS: What are your Upcoming projects? Kristin: My best friend and I have actually just launched a branding and design business ELLAMINT, which combines our talents. On our bio it shares that I am the Chief Spreadsheeting Officer, while designer Geneva is the free spirit and through ELLAMINT we get to help other small businesses develop a brand that suits their style and shouts it from the rooftops. We have created a relational branding initiative designed to support creative, passionate entrepreneurs.
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Behind the Lens
TOPS: Do you have any passions aside from photography? Kristin: My family is my first passion. I have really made a conscious effort for my family to turn work off between three pm and bedtime so I’m with them while they are home every day and I love that. I love this about photography so much because I get to set my own schedule and have the flexibility to be mommy, wife, and daughter to my amazing family while managing a career I am passionate about. With everything on my plate it’s hard to juggle it all, but I’m so blessed to have the love and support of my family in everything.
TOPS: On a final note... Kristin: I often tell those that I mentor that you have got to find something different about yourself to set yourself apart from the masses. It is also important that while you are pursuing your dreams, you take the time for your family, and that’s why I love this business. I always say that if you play to your strengths and do what you love, you will love doing it. If you find what you are good at, what you are strong at and you love to do it, you will succeed with it. You will put your heart into it and do whatever it takes to make it.
For more information about KristinTatem, visit her websites: kristintatemphotography.net and ellamint.com
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Spring Fashion
Fashion: Trackside Trends
Avery top in vanilla by Parker; Bromley blazer in ivory and tennis shorts in indigo by Rag & Bone; Infinity pod pave bangle by Melinda Maria (Você). Cutler hat by Bailey Of Hollywood (Keeneland Gift Shop). Photographer: Kristin Tatem Photography | Styled by: Kristen Oakley and Ryan Dawson with Lauren Henry, Renia Joseph, Alana Aban and Crystal Patrick Hair: Ryan Dawson, Você Salon + Boutique | Makeup: Brenda Iniguez, Você Salon + Boutique | Location: Spindletop Hall | Models: Heyman Talent Agency, Louisville Boutiques: Bella Rose, Cotton Patch, Dillard’s, Embry’s, John G. Roche, Keeneland Gift Shop, Monkee’s, Peppermint Palm, Sassy Fox, Shelia Bayes Fine Jewelers, Você
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Spring Fashion
Sandrine dress by Lilly Pulitzer (Peppermint Palm). Twisted crow dress hat in fuchsia by Kat Landry (Dillard’s). Bit bangle in hot pink by Fornash; Striped bangles in turquoise and white by Toss Designs (Keeneland Gift Shop). Venus 3 drop earrings in turquoise and sterling silver by Lagos (Shelia Bayes Fine Jewelers).
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Spring Fashion
Jacquard dress in white with navy polka dots by Theia (Embry’s). Candy necklace and bracelet in pearl by Fornash (Keeneland Gift Shop). Signature cable sunglasses in tortoise ametrine with silver by David Yurman (John G. Roche).
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Spring Fashion
V-Neck seamed crepe dress in navy, by Vince Camuto (Dillard’s). Candida hat in navy and green by Christine A. Moore; Triple candy necklace in green, pearl & black by Fornash; Liz mini quilted shoulder bag in gold by Eric Javits (Keeneland Gift Shop).
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Spring Fashion
Silk skirt bottom dress in blue geometric print by Nell; Sunglasses by Tom Ford; Drop earrings in gold by W&M (Monkee’s). Candy necklace in blue by Fornash (Keeneland Gift Shop). Large and small bangles in white and navy by Ben-Amun (Você).
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Spring Fashion
Genevieve dress by Raoul; Pearl necklace with vintage coral brooch by W&M Custom Jewelry (Bella Rose).
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Spring Fashion
Antigua Gingham Whale shirt in toucan by Vineyard Vines; Raleigh washed twill pant in french blue by Peter Millar (Keeneland Gift Shop).
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Spring Fashion
Sport coat in tan by Perry Ellis; Spread-collar dress shirt in white by Cremieux; Unbeweavable tie in gold by Roundtree & Yorke; Classic chino pant in hunter green by Roundtree & Yorke (Dillard’s). Cutler hat by Bailey Of Hollywood (Keeneland Gift Shop). Afton frames in taupe gradient by Oliver Peoples (John G. Roche).
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Spring Fashion
Dress in green and black print by Ali Ro (Sassy Fox). Inside/out diamond oval hoop earrings in 18K white gold; Batu Bedeg tear drop milky quartz pendant in sterling silver by John Hardy; Diamond and black alligator rope bracelet in 18K white gold by Cassis (Shelia Bayes Fine Jewelers).
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Spring Fashion
Jacquard dress in white with black lace by David Meister; Hat with large black flowers by EggCup Designs (Embry’s). Jeweled cuff in black by Todd Designs (Keeneland Gift Shop). Platswoon pumps in black by Stuart Weitzman (Monkee’s).
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Spring Fashion
Strapless dress in black and white by Tibi (Sassy Fox). Ribbon two-tone fascinator in black and white by Scala; Candy necklace and bracelet in pearl by Fornash (Keeneland Gift Shop). Platswoon pumps in nude by Stuart Weitzman (Monkee’s).
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Parties
DERBY PARTIES by Deanna Talwalkar Party Planner
There is no bigger day in Kentucky than Derby Day. On the first Saturday in May, all eyes are on our beautiful state. One of the most exciting moments of the Kentucky Derby is the crowning of the winner with the traditional Garland of Roses. The red rose has been the official flower of the Kentucky Derby for more than 100 years. If you won’t be making a trip to Churchill Downs on Derby Day, you can still celebrate in style. Here are a few tips for setting up a beautiful Derby party. Décor: The Derby is also known as the Run for the Roses, a great theme around which to build a Derby party. Set the tone for your party with a rose themed invitation. TOPS website has a rose inspired invitation that you can download and print for free. If you are going a more casual route for your party, many websites offer rose and Derby themed digital e-vites. Other rose themed paper goods, such as place cards, cupcake toppers, and drink flags are available for free download on TOPS website. Fresh red roses can also be incorporated in your décor. Scattering vases or extra mint julep cups filled with red roses around the house are a good bet. A rose centerpiece placed on the main food table is also a winning choice. Food: If you are serving appetizers or a meal, many Kentucky themed foods work well for a Derby buffet. Menu items, such as Kentucky Burgoo, mini Kentucky Hot Brown appetizers, Country Ham Biscuits, and Bibb Lettuce Salad with Bourbon Vinaigrette, can be made ahead of party time. Since these items can be made earlier in the day, you can keep with the Bluegrass-themed menu without sacrificing time spent mingling with your party guests. And, don’t forget those Mint Juleps! Guests can simply serve themselves at a Mint Julep Bar. Set up bourbon, mint, crushed ice, and a variety of flavored syrups so guests can make their own Mint Julep. A party celebrating the fastest two minutes in sports also needs Derby themed desserts. Bourbon Balls are a perennial Kentucky dessert favorite. Try updating classic bourbon balls into trendy Bourbon Ball Pops. Another traditional Kentucky Derby dessert is a gooey brown sugar, pecan and dark chocolate pie. Instead of the predictable pie, Derby Cupcakes inspired by that delicious pie will be a new hit at your party. Strawberry Rose Meringues carry out the Derby rose theme. Each of these desserts are a great choice because they can be eaten without a plate and fork, allowing guests to clutch a mint julep or racing program in their other hand.
Photos & Styling by Mirabelle Creations
Activities: The main event for any Kentucky Derby party is watching the big race. The more guests you invite, the greater access to viewing you’ll need to provide. One large television or several smaller ones will guarantee that no one misses the big event. Guests will appreciate access to a daily racing form. Consider looking online for racing forms to download and print. If you’ll be hosting children at your party, you could also look online for jockey silk coloring pages for kids to color in their race day pick’s stable colors. A few other activities for your party could include a Derby hat contest, a game of horseshoes, and wagers on the winner. To download the paper templates shown here, visit topsinlex.com/Read/3925/derby-parties
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Earth Day
Earth
Day by Michelle Rauch
Reduce. Reuse. Recycle. It’s a modern day mantra that actually dates back farther than you may think. It’s been more than forty years since the first Earth Day was celebrated. In 1970 an activist in San Francisco, who perhaps was ahead of his time, started a grassroots effort to raise awareness about environmental issues. What a difference four decades has made. The condition of our earth has changed dramatically and the environmental movement has exploded. Earth Day is always recognized on April 22nd. The most common practice is to plant a new tree. There are many benefits to this. Trees clean the air by absorbing odors and pollutant gases. They provide oxygen and conserve energy. Trees also prevent water pollution by absorbing runoff. Flowering trees produce food for wildlife. Trees planted along the street shade the concrete, which cools the neighborhood. It also makes money sense. According to the Arbor Day Foundation trees planted around your home can increase your property value up to 15% or more. Here’s another good deal. The Arbor Day Foundation will send you ten flowering trees with each membership. Gardeners can make small adjustments that will go a long way to improve the environment. Start with an organic vegetable garden. Choose bush varieties. Instead of growing up, these crops grow low to the soil and will absorb more water. Conserve water. Watering first thing in the morning or late afternoon will prevent loss of water through evaporation. A drip system also helps conservation efforts. Using a rain barrel to collect rainfall from downspouts and gutters is an excellent way to save water and use on your garden, especially during periods of drought. An earth day observation can be the beginning of small, daily practices that become second nature. Here is a suggested list to get you started. Start carrying a reusable bag Bring a travel mug to the coffee shop Walk or bike instead of driving Install a water filter on your tap in lieu of bottled water. Use rechargeable batteries Stop using paper plates, towels, and napkins Start composting Use a smart power strip, which automatically senses when electronics aren’t being used and cuts power to avoid phantom power use 9. Cut your time in the shower; limit it to ten minutes 10. Carpool every chance you get 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.
Whether you are a budding environmentalist, a veteran, or someone who just wants to do their small part each day, there are many
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wonderful resources. The University of Kentucky College of Agriculture has Green Tips and other environmental issues on their website. ca.uky.edu/enri/earthday.php Pick Five for the Environment is a program sponsored by the Unites States Environmental Protection Agency. Visit their website to learn how conserving water, saving energy and reducing waste can benefit our earth. The EPA also has resources for sustainability, ecosystems and green living. epa.gov/pick5/ “Sustainability Gone Postal” based on a blog-series inspired by the United States Postal Service’s “Go Green” stamp collection. “Sustainability Gone Postal” describes practical, real-life tips for achieving a greener lifestyle. Each colorful chapter offers valuable insights from leading experts in ecology, environmentalism and energy efficiency. phinix.net Earth 911 promotes more ideas and less waste. If you are looking for ways to live a waste-less lifestyle, this website has a wealth of information about recycling hundreds of materials. earth911.com LOCAL EVENTS Tuesday, April 16 5:45-7:30 pm Carnegie Center for Literacy and Learning in Gratz Park FREE Educational activities and crafts designed to show appreciation for the environment. This is a family friendly event. Sponsored by Kentucky American Water! Registration is required for ALL Family Fun and Learning Nights. FREE dinner is provided to families who pre-register, and a free book is given away to every child. Only for families with children ages 3-12. Friday, April 19, 2013 Downtown Trash Bash 10a-3p | Fifth Third Bank Pavilion Volunteer for the 2013 Downtown Lexington Corporation’s Downtown Trash Bash. Help clean up your city in honor of Earth Day. Families, clubs, schools, business people and everyone in between are welcome! Volunteers will receive bags and gloves to clean up the streets. Early birds will receive a free volunteer t-shirt! All the trash collected is trash saved from being washed down the storm drains and into our local rivers. The event is sponsored by the Downtown Lexington Corporation and is held in conjunction with the Great American Cleanup, which is coordinated locally by the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government. In case of rain, the Downtown Trash Bash will be held on Friday, April 26.
Photo by Michele Johnson Rogers
TOPS IN EQUINE
Lisa Sheehy, Equine Features Editor
Out of the Gate and Breaking for the Lead! The fans of racing, the patrons of equine events, and horses lovers of all kinds, are the lifeblood of the dynamic Bluegrass horse culture. While many publications are geared toward industry insiders, our special section celebrates the horse industry across the board. TOPS in Equine provides a platform that has never been offered in our market. There has been a gap in coverage of the equine world and we are providing an exciting, unique, and intimate look at all the facets of the Horse Industry in the Bluegrass.
Horse racing is only one component of Kentucky’s complex and rich equine traditions and industries. TOPS in Equine – a special section in TOPS in Lexington and TopsinLex.com – will feature events and stories from all disciplines of the equine world with monthly features that will be entertaining and informative. While many pros in the racing world offer “Sure Bets,” Mark Ketzner and Ryan Ritz end up in the winners circle almost every time they enter the track. “TOPS Tips,” sponsored by BeTheSmartMoney.com, was created by true racing fans that have for years used statistics to fine-tune the art of handicapping into consistently winning. Through BeTheSmartMoney.com, we are offering this invaluable resource to our readers as a free download on TopsinLex.com every day of the spring Keeneland Race Meet. While most days at the track are won by luck, these tips will help you hedge your bets and have you cashing tickets all day long. One unique monthly feature will be “Horse Park Happenings”. Sponsored by L.V. Harkness and written by Laura D’Angelo, this feature informs readers about all of the wonderful and exciting events taking place at the Horse Park. From the Rolex event to galas and family events, “Horse Park Happenings” will provide a calendar of thrilling events for horse lovers from all “trots” of life. Every issue will feature a ‘Filly in the Workplace’ featuring women who are leading the pack in traditionally male-oriented industries. This month we are profiling Anna Seitz Ciannello, Client Relations and Marketing at Fasig-Tipton. We will also take a personal look at top owners, trainers, jockeys and farms, in a way that shows behind the scenes looks into some of the most legendary and iconic players in the racing world. This month TOPS in Equine goes into the world of Kenny McPeek, one of the top thoroughbred racing trainers in the world. In May, we will feature: Horse Aid Live – by Cyndi Greathouse, Horse Park Happenings – by Laura D’Angelo, Governor’s Downtown Derby Celebration – by Lisa R. Kindle, Feature Equine Artist – by Greg Ladd, Mill Ridge Farm & Nicoma Bloodstock – by Mary Hemlepp. Fillies in the Workplace by Kathie Stamps will profile Equine Lawyer, Writer, and Horsewoman Laura D’Angelo, Gainesway Farm Stallions – by John Engelhardt, an Historical Overview of Anita Madden’s Glamorous Derby Parties – by Frances Dwyer, How Much Green for the Best Blue Grass – by Bill Justice, Fasig-Tipton Events, Churchill Downs Events, and Equine Happenings. I am thrilled to be a part of this new venture, as we will reach over 90,000 readers and millions of on-line page views, making a distinct impact in the horse community. The Equine Industry is the crown jewel of the Bluegrass Region, celebrating prestige, tradition, athletic feats, natural beauty, and unsurpassed pride for Kentucky’s most iconic culture. This is a labor of love for those who support the equine industry and I want to know what our readers would like to see in this special section. Please contact me (lisa@topsmarketing.com) and let’s talk horse! As they say “Off to a Flying Start!”
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TOPS IN EQUINE
HANDICAPPING like a
PRO
by Ryan Ritz & Mark Ketzner
GET SMART. BE SMART. BET SMART. AT THE APRIL KEENELAND MEET
P
assionate about horseracing but frustrated with betting the track favorite for little or no return? Fortunately, you are not alone. Thanks to business partners Ryan Ritz and Mark Ketzner, you can impress your friends and family at the track by implementing their brilliant horse racing handicapping system, aptly named Be The Smart Money (BTSM). In his own words, Ryan explains how he and Mark created the most advanced handicapping system on the market, driven by a mutual love for horseracing.
A Handicapper is born: Ryan Ritz The evolution of my love for horseracing began with my father. Growing up on long island, he read the race results in every newspaper as his mother explained their meaning—a handicapper was born. Pen to paper, he tracked results and attempted to find trends. He quickly learned handicapping wives tales: “never bet on a horse that just broke its maiden,” “gray horse on a gray day,” “lone early speed kills…” A natural mind for math, he was accepted to MIT at the age of sixteen. His first order of business – develop a handicapping ‘cheat sheet’ for nearby Suffolk Downs and use the MIT logo to sell them, with a money back guarantee. His second order of business
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– promise the Dean he would never sell another “MIT” cheat sheet, money back guarantee or not! Needless to say, this passion for horseracing became something we shared during my youth. When I was seven years old, my father started taking me to the racetrack, lying about my age to admission attendants from Baltimore to Boston. As I grew older, we continued this tradition. We spent days (and nights) at the track, pouring over racing forms and watching others win; there was so much data and so many factors, that I struggled to figure it all out. I would try to whittle down the field to three or four horses where their most recent works were all good, they had similar speed figures, weren’t jumping in class,
TOPS IN EQUINE
Like to bet the long shot? Look for Non-Maiden races on the poly - they have an ROI of 5.9% over the past 6 years Short: Betting bias at Keeneland in April. From meets from 2007-2012, horses that went off at 10:1 or higher produced a +6% ROI. Strong favorites have the highest win-rate of 26% but produce a very unattractive -43% ROI. Check out those long-shots on the All-Weather this April. Verbose: As we mentioned earlier, BTSM was designed to develop a handicapping system that not merely picks winners but also applies a formula based on proprietary odds to take advantage of differences in track odds and expected payout to make smarter betting decisions and maximize your earnings. This is accomplished by balancing how much you flex your wager on the favorite and what other horses in a particular race show value. This means they are not the track favorite, but the BTSM data and statistical models predict a horse is undervalued and you have a very good chance of getting paid 10 to 1 money on a horse we believe is really a 6 to 1 horse. So if you are the type that wants to hit the big payout rather than betting on the heavy favorite, then consider the ROI on All Weather Non-Maiden races at Keeneland. As one of the tougher type of races to pick, BTSM analysis shows horses going off with final odds greater than 10 have an ROI of +6%! - with 1,668 horses ran at those odds. Yes, your win percentage will be higher on the favorites, but the smart money is taking a long odds horse in an All Weather Non-Maiden race. Now that’s staying in the black! Selecting the best 10+:1 horse on the All-Weather, BTSM helps you there.
You can go to topsinlex.com for the daily tip sheet by clicking on TOP Tips. For more information about how to ensure that you can Be The Smart Money, please visit Mark and Ryan’s website, bethesmartmoney.com.
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Post Position: Take the inside in April and the outside in October. Short: April 2007-2012, all races, all surfaces, inside Post Position (1&2), produced a 13.2% win-rate and a -10.7% ROI, as opposed to horses that ran on the outside in April who won only 8.1% of their races and produced a nasty -22.4% ROI. The ‘inside’ looks like a decent bias until October rolls-around, where the betting money over wagers the 1&2 post positions and produces enemic return of -29% ROI. The betting market over-corrects and can give you a competitive edge!
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first track to participate. The idea for the Horses Races Now app originated with McPeek three years ago when he was watching a show on MSNBC called “Planet of the Apps.” Out of curiosity, he Googled ‘horse racing apps’ and discovered there weren’t any. “I decided somebody really ought to pursue this,” he said. “I believe the industry needs to connect to the younger generation. We need to connect to the masses.” He hired the Jockey Club’s technology services to do the code writing for the app and purchased data from Equibase. Launched in 2012 during the opening weekend of Keeneland’s spring meet, Horse Races Now has been downloaded 40,000 times, and counting, in 86 countries. In February 2013, the Android version became available. “Now it’s appropriate for us to start marketing,” McPeek said. Look for the app to be a featured sponsor on NBC during the Derby preps in April. In his spare time, McPeek likes to travel. To a race meet, that is. He has seen horse races in Argentina, Brazil and Chile, in France and Ireland, in Hong Kong and in Australia. “You name it, I’ll try it,” he said of far-off destinations. “I think the sport’s fantastic.” There’s no place like home, though. “Sometimes I wonder if people realize how special Keeneland is,” McPeek said. “We have one of the best racetracks in the world right here in our hometown. It’s an absolute gem.” Keeneland is as good as it gets, according to McPeek. “It’s first class,” he said. “It took a lot of blood, sweat and tears by a lot of horsemen to make it happen. Worldwide, there’s nothing that compares.” Feeding back to the community makes Keeneland one of the most generous companies in Lexington. “It is the model for, really, any and every race track to be set up, but it’s not the case,” McPeek said. “Keeneland is a nonprofit organization with a for-profit mission,” said G.D. Hieronymus, director of broadcast services at Keeneland. “Any of those profits go back into capital improvements on the grounds and in the purse structure.” With one of the highest purse structures in North America, Keeneland is a destination for the top trainers, owners and jockeys every year. “All my clients love winning there and attending there,” McPeek said.
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Because the spring and fall meets are just about three weeks, instead of months on end, Keeneland is more about quality than quantity. It is a pretty classy place. “We are the Augusta of horse racing, the Fenway Park of horse racing,” Hieronymus said. Prior to the 2013 spring meet, McPeek ranks fourth at Keeneland with 165 wins, 20 of which were stakes victories. “I guess a longtime dream would be to be No. 1,” he said. Yes, there’s plenty of glamour in the winner’s circle, but behind the scenes there is a lot of “start early and end late” hard work in being a Thoroughbred horse trainer. “It’s a humbling business,” McPeek said. “You lose a lot more than you win.” Winning is an absolute thrill, of course. “There’s nothing better than the horse you’ve handled, prepared, bought or owned— when it wins, the thrill is hard to describe.”
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In February 2006 McPeek bought a horse farm on Russell Cave Road. Magdalena Farm has 115 acres and a rich equine history. Seattle Slew’s mother was conceived on the property and multiple Thoroughbred champions are buried on the farm. McPeek renovated the farm house and turned a breeding shed into a luxury apartment for hosting cocktail parties and accommodating overnight guests. He keeps 15 broodmares on the farm and has a turf course for training horses on a grass track. “We keep an open-door policy,” he said. “We like visitors.” With a little notice, McPeek’s staff is happy to show the office and grounds to people who want to see a working Kentucky horse farm.
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Fillies in the Workplace: Anna Seitz Ciannello Client Relations/Marketing, Fasig-Tipton
by Mary Hemlepp, APR
Work for a world famous horse trainer.
Travel the world. a great job at Get an international business.
Have Thanksgiving
dinner at Chef Bobby Flay’s house.
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his may sound like a bucket list, but it’s actually part of Anna Seitz Ciannello’s resume. At only 32, Anna has been around the world and spent time with the world famous. She’s worked in Europe, Australia, New Zealand and Canada. She’s friends with horse owners and trainers. And she’s an entrepreneur. It might appear as if her life’s been all fun and games, but it’s been a great deal of hard work, too. She also suffered a health scare two years ago when she was diagnosed with thyroid cancer. “Finally last month I got a clean bill of health,” Anna said. “It has really helped me appreciate my health and well being. My Mom has taught me a lot about organic farming and eating very healthy. It’s important to stay positive and try to gain strength from adversity. I’ve grown a lot from my unfortunate experience.” Speaking of adversity, in addition to the wonderful experiences she had working at the track, there were several years of living out of a suitcase when she worked for multiple Eclipse award winning trainer Todd Pletcher. During her four years with the Pletcher team, Anna traveled the racing circuit spending a few weeks or months at various racetracks between Florida, New York and Kentucky. “I lived in basements of subleased apartments, and some of them were not in the best parts of town,” Anna said. “I didn’t buy things because I moved so much and had to keep it simple. I often wondered if I’d ever own a couch.”
While working for Pletcher, she took advantage of the opportunity to learn everything she could about the business. In addition to working directly with the horses, she also learned about shipping horses internationally, licensing, working with jockeys, veterinarians and communicating with owners. One of the owners she met during that time was Chef Bobby Flay, who had a few horses with Todd. “Bobby and I got along well and he liked that I kept him informed about his horses; he even invited me to his home in Manhattan for a big Thanksgiving Day party. My family was celebrating in Kentucky and since I was working in New York, I decided to take him up on his offer,” she said. “He cooked for all of us and we played Trivial Pursuit after dinner. Men vs. women. It was a lot of fun and a very special experience I will never forget.” The second year she attended, Anna said Flay made dishes representing the states of each guest at the party. For the Kentucky dish he, of course, used bourbon. Even though she was meeting influential people and gaining great experience, Anna said her favorite part of the Pletcher job was getting on the pony and taking horses to the track early in the morning at Belmont Park. She grew up on her parents’ Brookdale farm in Woodford County, so being around horses was second nature. “Dad always made all five of us kids work on the farm,” she said. “He paid us 25 cents an hour when we were little, and I thought it was so much.” Despite loving horses, having a career in the equine business wasn’t really on her radar when she went away to college. Anna majored in anthropology at the University of Notre Dame and said it wasn’t until she was away
from horses that she realized she missed the lifestyle. After college she worked on Brookdale Farm, managing yearlings for her brother. Then there was some backpacking around Europe, Australia and New Zealand, working all the major thoroughbred sales in those countries. Directly before working for Pletcher, she worked for a consigner where she groomed two-year-olds and worked the sales. Today she works in marketing for Fasig-Tipton, a thoroughbred auction firm based in Lexington. “At one time, I wondered if I’d work at the racetrack all my life,” Anna said. “I knew it would eventually pay off, but I didn’t know how. “This business is all about relationships,” she said. “Traveling and working in so many different places has Anna with I’m Already Sexy helped me build friendships all over after her Churchill Downs win the world.” Anna said she is thankful for the wellrounded education she received at Notre Dame and for “a whole other kind of education” she gained on the backstretch. Both prepared her well for her current marketing and client relations position. Her relationship building skills serve her well because she mostly does one-on-one marketing and buyer recruitment, and just like she took care of owners when working for Pletcher, she does the same for owners at Fasig-Tipton. At Fasig-Tipton, part of her job still involves travel because the firm has sales not only in Kentucky, but also in Texas, Florida, Maryland and New York. Additionally, the company’s marketing efforts are international. Fasig-Tipton, the oldest thoroughbred auction company in North America, was founded in1898 in New York at Madison Square Garden and moved to Lexington in the 1970s. Anna traveled to Australia, England and France last year to promote Fasig-Tipton. Anna’s experience in the equine industry also prepared her well for an entrepreneurial venture. A couple of years ago, she began developing partnerships for horse ownership, or racing syndicates. This allows people as a group to buy a small share in a horse, so the financial risk is smaller, and enables those who might not be able to purchase a horse the ability to do so. “With my experience and connections, it seemed like a good idea to try this,” she said. “It’s always been my dream to own racehorses and it is also a good way to introduce new owners to the sport. Maybe they will even go on to buy a horse from Fasig-Tipton. The first one we ever bought, I’m Already Sexy, broke her maiden at Keeneland last fall and then went on to win an allowance race at Churchill Downs. It’s been an incredible ride!” Along with her husband Evan, whom she met at Belmont Park, Anna now runs three syndicates. Evan works for TwinSpires.com, the online
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wagering site owned by Churchill Downs. “He takes care of the books and helps me manage the horses. He keeps me on track. We have different strengths so we balance each other out. He studies the breeding and follows racing, so we work well together.” “I want people to understand this is not an investment and when you buy into a horse, you have to be prepared to not make any of that money back, but hopefully you will have a lot of fun and meet some other new horse enthusiasts,” she said. “I have made some great friends through our partnerships and sometimes we do make money.” Anna is getting ready to launch a new all-women’s syndicate. She said there seems to be many outlets for men to spend time together, so she decided it would be fun to have a social club just for women and they would own a couple of fillies together. The horse industry is still predominately a male business, but Anna said women have made great strides and are working in all avenues of the industry. “There are more opportunities for women now than there probably were 50 years ago because women have earned a lot respect in the industry,” Anna said. Anna’s own role models are her entire family. Her Dad built Brookdale Farm from the ground up and both of her brothers, Freddy and Joe Seitz manage the farm and the sales consignment. Almost daily Anna calls her brothers with some type of horse question and they always have time to help her. “It’s pretty cool being part of such a large family. I’ve got 2 older brothers and 2 older sisters (Jane and Helen) and my whole family has really helped me become the person I am now. They are quick to give me advice and if I get out of line they are quick to rein me in, which is a blessing in disguise. I am very fortunate to have a good relationship with them all.”
Anna has now become a role model as well, speaking every spring at the University of Kentucky about her career and the opportunities for women in the equine world. She said young women are now asking her for advice. She is also active with two community organizations that are equine related—Lexington Catholic Equine Academy and Bluegrass Farms Charities. “I think it’s important to give back to the community through volunteering and service, plus it’s a good way to meet new people,” she said. For women who are interested in the equine business, Anna said there are many opportunities, and not just in the thoroughbred industry, but with all breeds. She believes women are well suited to working directly with horses because they tend to be gentle and have a “soft hand.” Veterinary schools draw a large number of women who want to work in the equine field, she said. There are also numerous career options in the business that are not hands-on, such as consigning, racetrack management, working for the Jockey Club, The Breeders’ Cup, sales companies, horse transportation and many other administrative fields. After spending a number of years in the business, Anna knows there are plenty of misconceptions about it. Primarily, people tend to think those in the business are all wealthy thoroughbred farm owners because that’s what the public sees, she said. In reality, there are farms of all sizes and all breeds and not everyone is wealthy. Many farm owners are working hard to keep their businesses afloat. “This business is not restricted to wealthy people,” she said. “There are a lot of jobs tied to this industry and it affects so many of us. But whether you’re an owner or a groom, what brings us all together is the love of the horse.”
I’m Already Sexy breaking her maiden impressively opening day at Keeneland Fall Meet 2012
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by Lisa Kindle
he Kentucky Derby Museum is one of Kentucky’s truly unique gems in Lexington’s backyard, just down I-64 in Louisville, adjacent to Churchill Downs. The museum takes visitors through the Kentucky Derby, step-by-step beginning with the starting gate that draws in visitors to their own Derby experience. Re-opened in 2010 after a complete $5.5 million dollar refurbishment, the Derby Museum creates and re-creates the Derby experience for visitors who may or may not know the Kentucky Derby. First time visitors can “understand the rich history of the Derby, the investment in the horse and appreciate the hard work of the Derby from the birth of the foal to after the race” says Wendy Treiner, Director of Marketing and Communications for the Kentucky Derby Museum.
visitors to feel the tension of the jockey’s stance and the rush of the 2 minute, 1.25 mile race via computer generated graphics. Young and old alike get caught up in their race in the simulator, trying to remain in the jockey stance for the full 2 minutes and win their Kentucky Derby.
As visitors walk through the exhibits, sounds from the Kentucky Derby echo with call to the post, cheers of the fans, thoroughbreds running on the track and descriptions of the Derby experience in the “It’s my Derby” exhibit. The vivid colors of the Derby dresses, Derby Mine That Bird hats, and jockey silks draw the eye into the beauty of the Derby experience—Cyndi Lauper’s red tomatoprint dress and large red hat are particularly eye-catching. The Kentucky Derby Museum also engages visitors by involving them in the Derby – virtually. In the “Riders Up” exhibit, visitors can experience the Derby from the jockey’s perspective on the track by riding a simulator horse. The interactive race allows
On April 15th, 2009 Kentucky Derby winner Mine That Bird is coming to live at the Kentucky Derby Museum until July 4th, 2013, giving fans a chance to meet the gelding longshot winner. Wendy Treiner adds, “Our stable manager, Allison Knight, is thrilled to have a Derby winner on property.”
On the second floor, visitors experience the Kentucky Derby from behind the scenes by showing what goes in to the makings of a thoroughbred from the foal’s birth, farm life, plus training the horse from the owners and trainers perspective. The second floor also reveals the athletic rigors and physicality of becoming a jockey for one of the most prestigious athletic events in the horse racing industry. “Visitors come away with an appreciation/renewed appreciation for racing that they never knew they had,” says Wendy Treiner.
Another April event closer to Lexington is “It’s my Derby” that will take place at Fasig-Tipton, just off of Newtown Pike. This event enables Lexington race fans to meet former Kentucky Derby winners including: D. Wayne Lukas, Jack Van Berg, Gary Stevens, Mike Smith, Michael Matz, and Doug O’Neill. A highlight of the event will be a silent auction with prizes including a one-on-one Derby week experience with racing celebrities.
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“THE INFIELD. THE MOST FESTIVE 26 ACRES IN SPORTS.” | APRIL 9- DEC. 31, 2013 | EXHIBIT INCLUDED WITH GENERAL ADMISSION It’s a party, a tradition, a place for the wild and zany- an atmosphere where anything can happen, and sometimes does! Whether young or not-so-young, those who enjoy the Kentucky Derby infield have stories to tell and the pictures to prove it. “The Infield” exhibit at the Kentucky Derby Museum will showcase the fun and enthusiasm that infield fans share during the races on the first Saturday in May. Featuring life-size cut-outs for photo- ops, three video compilations of the odd and curious events often found in the action and historic events depicted through imagery on the walls—the exhibit will mimic the immersion of the infield scene with vignettes of the festivities. “IT’S MY DERBY”™ | APRIL 19, 2013 | 6:00 P.M.- 9:00P.M. | VIP TICKETS $150.00/PER PERSON, GENERAL ADMISSION $50/PER PERSON Enjoy an exclusive conversation with Kentucky Derby winners: Jack VanBerg, Gary Stevens, Mike Smith, Michael Matz, Doug O’Neill and host D. Wayne Lukas. Reserve your ticket now for an evening of laughter, big personalities, bourbon tastings and the best stories in racing. Hosted in Lexington, KY at Fasig-Tipton. Sponsored by Four Roses and Fasig-Tipton. FOUR ROSES BOURBON TASTING | APRIL 27, 2013 | 1:00-3:00 P.M. | FREE, IN THE FINISH LINE GIFT SHOP Bourbon tasting with Four Roses Master Distiller, Jim Rutledge. Be the first to sample bourbon hand-selected by Secretariat’s Owner, Penny Chenery, for a commemorative anniversary Secretariat bottle sold in limited quantities at the Kentucky Derby Museum. Sponsored by Four Roses. PARTY AT THE MUSEUM | APRIL 27, 2013 | 5:00 P.M.- 7:30 P.M.| $100/PP Beat the traffic for Opening Night at Churchill Downs and support the Kentucky Derby Museum. Enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres along with entertainment before heading to the track. Reserved parking available. Sponsored by BrownForman DERBY DISH | APRIL 28, 2013 | 8:00 A.M.- 10:00 A.M., WITH GIFT SHOP SPECIALS UNTIL 12:00P.M. | $30/PER PERSON AND $25 FOR MUSEUM MEMBERS Enjoy a warm, hearty breakfast and morning workouts on the track where you might see the next Derby winner! Samples, tastings and specials in the gift shop round out a fun morning of Derby-related happenings. Special guest, Derby winning trainer Jack VanBerg (Alysheba, 1987), will entertain guests with his firsthand account of winning the Kentucky Derby. SECRETARIAT ANNIVERSARY DECANTER LAUNCH PARTY | MAY 1, 2013 | DERBYMUSEUM.ORG/SECRETARIAT Celebrate the 40th anniversary of Secretariat’s Triple Crown win with owner, Penny Chenery. On Wednesday of Derby week, Chenery will unveil an exclusive limited edition, retro-style bourbon decanter created in the likeness of Jockey Ron Turcotte and “Big Red”. Be the first to taste the hand-selected bourbon and secure a decanter for your bourbon collection by attending this event. A commemorative Four Roses bottle will also be available for purchase at the event.
Ron Turcotte and Penny Chenery
SECRETARIAT’S JOCKEY, RON TURCOTTE: WORLD PREMIERE OF CANADIAN FILM BOARD DOCUMENTARY | MAY 2, 2013 Few jockeys have won America’s Triple Crown of racing but Ron Turcotte is one of them. In 1973, this legendary jockey rode Secretariat—the greatest racehorse of all time—to victory in the three most prestigious races in the United States, setting record times that have never been broken. In this never before seen documentary, Ron Turcotte, recounts the remarkable journey of a true fighter who became a living legend in the sport of horseracing. Join Turcotte and other riders right here in Louisville for the world premiere of this documentary. Premiering one night only at Baxter Avenue Theatres. FOR TICKETS AND INFORMATION ABOUT ANY OF THESE EVENTS, VISIT DERBYMUSEUM.ORG 104
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April’s Mane Event: Rolex Three Day Event The Rolex Three-Day Event is one of only four so-called “4-star” threeday events (CCI****) in the world (and the only one you can see in North America). The rating refers to the difficulty of the level of competition. Like all equestrian sports, it is among the only Olympic disciplines or sports where men and women compete equally against one another. Each rider competes the same horse in three very distinct disciplines; dressage, cross-country jumping and show jumping. Originally developed as a test for military horses and riders, the sport has evolved into one of the most popular, most exciting and most challenging Olympic disciplines. Because of the level of difficulty, the Rolex Three-Day Event is critical for horses and riders who wish to qualify for their home country Olympic or World Championship teams. This year’s event will serve as an important qualifier for many national and international riders who will compete for their home country at the World Equestrian Games in Normandy, France in 2014. As such you will see the best riders in the world from the USA, Canada, England, Ireland, South America and other countries this weekend. Come cheer on your favorites. Many of those riders are available throughout the various days at the trade fair or other locations to meet fans and sign autographs. These riders couldn’t be more approachable! Family Friendly. So much to see and do! Horse and outdoor enthusiasts of all ages will find something for everyone on this family friendly weekend. Somewhere between 60,00090,000 people will attend the event over the weekend, but it will not feel crowded due to the incredible space available. Pretty and Powerful. While titled a “three-day event”, the event actually takes place over 5 days beginning with the Horse Inspection (where the horses are inspected by a panel of veterinarians to ensure their health and soundness) on Wednesday and continuing with Dressage on Thursday and Friday, cross-country jumping on Saturday and show jumping and awards presentation on Sunday. The event concludes Sunday afternoon in the stadium with the presentation by Rolex and Land Rover to the winning horse and rider combinations. Take in the natural beauty of the Horse Park grounds and the incredible power and grace of these magnificent equine athletes. Shop. Hundreds of vendors from around the country and around the globe are on site in the covered arena and surrounding area selling all things equine including furniture, accessories, horse equipment, horse supplies and wonderful fashionable clothing of all types for all ages. Walk. Want to get in on the action? Arrive at the Horse Park beginning on Wednesday, April 24th at 1pm afternoon and walk the world-famous cross country course (for free!). Walking areas are separate from the galloping areas for the horses and are clearly marked. On cross country day, spectators are encouraged to walk the fields and watch the horses gallop and jump. Bring a lawn chair and enjoy the action. Eat. Food is available in a special food vendor area and around the Park. Also, the Land Rover Tailgate area provides space for advance sales of tailgate spots for those who wish to serve their own food to friends. This is a wonderful area for visiting with friends.
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Opening Night
Kentucky Derby 139
Downs After Dark
Presented by Stella Artois & Finlandia Vodka
Presented by YUM! Brands
Presented by Stella Artois and Finlandia Vodka
Saturday, April 27
Saturday, May 4
Dawn at the Downs Tue-Thu, April 30-May 2
City’s Best Happy Hour Fridays May 10-June 28 | 4-7p
Saturday, June 15 Saturday, June 22 Saturday, June 29
Taste of Derby™
Family Fun Days
Presented by Stella Artois
Presented by Kroger
Thursday, May 2
Sundays May 12-June 30
Kentucky Oaks 139 Friday, May 3 Pink Out
Mother’s Day Celebration Sunday, May 12
April 3 | Texas-Two-Year-Olds in Training & Horses of Racing Age | Grand Prairie, TX The Dallas Metroplex readies itself for the beginning of two major league seasons with the Rangers and Lone Star Park about to commence with Spring excitement. Lone Star Park this year will open solely under the new ownership management of Global Gaming and the Texas horse industry is very excited about the dynamic turnaround that is promised. The overhaul of the Simulcast Pavilion little less than a year ago has set in to motion a face lift that will like most Dallas “work” be done with chic and style. A complete overall of the Grandstand and gigantic infield television screen is what the betting patron will immediately see. While the horsemen have been treated to a resurfaced track and barn area that has had rooms centrally air-conditioned as opposed to the on and off again window units of the past. New hotwalker machines and barn facades are in the process of being integrated into the Lone Star Park Backside.
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To kick off the three month meet, Fasig-Tipton Co. and Lone Star Park, with the sponsorship of the Texas Thoroughbred Association, will host its annual Two Year-old in Training Sale. This year the sale will include several older horses with its new Horses of Racing Age section. The sale is the thoroughbred equivalent of “Draft Day” as prospecting trainers and owners look to purchase their next stake horse. All horses that walk through the sales ring are eligible to be paid up into a Sales Stake that is offered later in the meet giving the winner instant return on their investments. Located only ten minutes from the DFW airport, the sale has attracted out of town buyers from both the East and West coast and several foreign countries over the years. Those who come to Texas for prospecting also enjoy the cowboy scene in The Stockyards of Fort Worth as well as the cosmopolitan scene of Dallas. With venues such as the famed Billy Bob”s or the Turtle Creek Mansion buyers fined more than just good bloodstock.
Etiquette & Entertaining
GAMES PEOPLE PLAY by Sue Ann Truitt Etiquette Consultant
Good manners are often learned by observation. Most of the time, it takes a more direct approach to learn manners. For many years, children’s manners became a part of their lives through praise and punishment. Recent times have relaxed the strictness of learning good manners and perhaps, the actual manners themselves. The importance of practicing a polite way of life is still getting a person ahead. Admission to better schools, better jobs and certainly more friends are the result of better manners. Learning or relearning good manners can be fun. Often it becomes the responsibility of the host to oversee the manners at a party. For example, at a dinner, it is important for each guest to participate in the conversation. To accomplish this, some hosts have resorted to a devise called Table Topics. This is a cube containing a stack of paper with engaging questions and conversation starters. Soon the party becomes fun as friends and family discover something new about one another. Learning good manners can be fun for children, too. No longer do manners have to be stiff and stuffy. Just talking about good manners will cause children to sit up and take notice. Games and activities have proven to be successful teaching skills for today’s younger group. The following ideas can be fun for the whole family and even encourage old Grandpa to sit up straight. Write good table manners on slips of paper – fold and place in a basket. Have each person draw and read silently. They should practice the good manner during the meal. At the end of the meal, everyone should try to guess which manner each person was practicing. Put the slips of paper back in the basket and try again another time! Points can be given for the correct guess. Keep score cards in the basket for another meal. Have each child draw a picture of someone showing good manners. Let the others guess the good manner
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on each drawing. Mount the illustrations on a bulletin board as constant reminder to everyone. Give each person a small sack containing an equal number of pennies. Label the bags with the person’s name. Each player watches all the other players and tries to catch someone exhibiting bad manners. If caught, that person must give up a penny. At the end of a designated period of time, a week, 5 days, etc. everyone counts their pennies. The person with the most pennies gets all the pennies from the rest of the players for his bank. Select a board game, such as Pachisi, and alter the rules of the game. Write a good manner on slips of paper and a number from 1 – 5 at the bottom of the paper. Fold and place in center of the board. Each player chooses a color playing piece. The first person draws a folded piece of paper. He silently reads the good manner and acts it out. Whoever guesses the good manner first, gets to move his playing piece the number of spaces written at the bottom of the paper. The play continues to the other players. The first person to move completely around the board wins. For the above children’s games, prizes can vary from a candy bar to a privilege, a blue ribbon, the name of the winner on the bulletin board or his picture on the refrigerator. The important pursuit is to connect the winner with good manners and how they can be a part of everyday life. As life becomes more hurried, good manners should never be compromised. Whether at the dining table or at a sporting event, good manners will always have an opportunity to shine. The core of good manners is to be polite and to be considerate of the other person. Keeping this in mind will always lead one on the path of the well mannered life.
Family
TOOTH FAIRY FAILURES by Hallie Bandy
over
Motherboard
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Among the many childhood legends parents are responsible for perpetuating, I have to say playing the part of Tooth Fairy has to be one of the all-time biggest nuisances ever invented. At least other renowned characters like Santa and the Easter Bunny have a background story I can explain to my children. The Tooth Fairy is a different story. The entire tradition makes me a little apprehensive. A grown up, princess-like creature — yes, a stranger — sneaks into your child’s room at night, takes the tooth from under her pillow, and leaves cash. This is supposed to be a sweet childhood fantasy? I know there are plenty of overachieving parents who feel differently. A friend told me, at her house the Tooth Fairy takes each tooth to help build her castle in the sky. And, “she” leaves the kids letters. “They believe!” she told me, quite proudly. I didn’t even bother to ask what the letters say. I’m sorry. At the end of the day, when I’ve finally put my kids to bed, the last thing I want to do is pen a letter under the pseudonym, “Tooth Fairy.” I don’t even know what to do with the little pieces of calcium. It’s a relentless job. I have four kiddos. My math tells me I will retrieve 80 teeth in my Tooth Fairy role. Most of them are in the zip-lock bag in my underwear drawer. And I’ll be honest: my kids are lucky I’ve gotten around to that many. I had good intentions in the early days. My first kid was slow to lose her teeth. So slow, in fact, that her permanent teeth grew in alongside the baby teeth. It didn’t seem to bother her, and she refused any help in dislodging them. You would think with the long wait, I would have been prepared. But, no. When the tooth finally fell out, my cash was depleted. Creatively, I found a new bottle of pink nail polish. Perfect. Not only was she thrilled with the nail polish, she continued to play along with the creative items the tooth fairy often brought her in lieu of cash — hair clips, chocolate, new socks. I think she actually thought “her” Tooth Fairy was cool.
Not so with my second child. As soon as his first tooth was loose, he told me flat out, “Other kids get money from the tooth fairy. Tell her I want money!” He didn’t even really lose his first teeth. He let the Dentist pull them. He obviously saw the opportunity for a revenue stream, because he put them straightaway under his pillow, with a reminder to me about the cash. Of course, I forgot all about it. “She FORGOT!! Mooooommmmm! The Tooth Fairy FORGOT ME!!” he wailed the next morning. “Oh, no, honey. She didn’t forget,” I said, trying to think of something. And then it struck me, and I explained, “It’s my fault, honey. I didn’t place the call in time.” I could see from his face the explanation was working. “Let me call that 800 number again,” I said. “I’ll make sure you’re on her route tonight.” That explanation became my cover-up for the next several years. I’d call that 800 number and the Tooth Fairy’s polite customer service staff always had a perfectly believable explanation. “She was overbooked last night.” “She said she came by, but she couldn’t find the tooth.” “Their office is closed for the holiday. It’s a special Tooth Fairy holiday.” “You’ve hit your quota for this month. She’ll have to come next month.” I’m not sure when they finally figured out I’d made it all up, but one day my third child didn’t bother putting his tooth under his pillow. Instead, he put it in a plastic bag and hung it on his bulletin board, next to an envelope labeled, in capital letters, “TOOTH FAIRY: PLEASE PUT MONEY IN HERE.” And, about a week later, the Tooth Fairy finally put some cash in the envelope. When my youngest started losing her teeth, she was a pro at working the system. “Can you call the tooth fairy hotline,” she would ask, handing me the latest lost tooth. “You can tell her she can come this weekend if it’s really busy.” After a long pause to see if I was really listening, she would add “And, if she’s bringing nail polish, please tell her I like dark pink.”
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Community Spotlight
“A dream is a wish your heart makes,” according to Cinderella, and the Lexington Dream Factory works diligently to help children in Lexington and the surrounding areas who have been diagnosed with critical or chronic illnesses find the hope and happiness to keep fighting. by Kelly Adams
What’s In A Dream?
“We feel it is our obligation to reach out and help these children and their families,” McKenzie notes.
The Lexington Dream Factory was founded in 1988 by a group of 25 couples, many whose lives had been impacted by a child with a critical illness, who recognized a child’s need to just be a kid again and forget about their illness.
Since it’s inception, the Lexington Dream factory has had the opportunity to make 700 dreams come true in our area! That is 700 kids who found a reason to keep on fighting. Seven hundred families who were able to see joy in a loved one’s eyes again.
“Kentucky has many children who, unfortunately, face critical or chronic illnesses on a daily basis. We exist to help them forget about their illness, whether it be for a night, a day or a week,” says Mike McKenzie, president of the Lexington Dream Factory Board of Directors. McKenzie goes on to explain that the children in our community are our most vulnerable citizens and those who battle chronic illnesses are perhaps the most fragile of all.
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Nickolas, Honorary Host of this year’s gala
All this talk about illnesses can get pretty heavy, but clearly the Dream Factory is all about fun. They send their dream recipients on trips to meet their favorite celebrities, shopping sprees and even to Disney World. Not only do these kids get to go, but they get to bring their family with them, making the trip of a lifetime for people who have been worrying about nothing but medical bills and treatments for years.
Community Spotlight
“[The children we help] often live a life that’s filled with doctor appointments and hospital visits, but they are still children who dream the same dreams all children do,” comments Carol Czirr Russell, original Lexington Dream Factory board member and current chair of the Board of Governance. “A simple trip to Disney World, a computer of their own or the chance to meet their sports hero for these kids is the highlight of their lives.”
Get Aware The Lexington Dream Factory board members and volunteers work diligently to help these kids out. Their pay? The satisfaction of making a single dream come true. They could always use a little help though!
Clark goes to Wheel of Fortune
Bret’s Reds Trip
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Community Spotlight
“Awareness of our organization is very important,” implores McKenzie. “We want to fulfill the dreams of all of our children and to do that, our community needs to know about us and what we do as an organization.”
Misty saw Miley Cyrus
Those involved in the Lexington Dream Factory have forged relationships with many of the medical providers within our community. This is where they find many of their recommendations and get physicians’ approval for trips and other dreams. The Dream Factory completely relies on the community to function. Unlike similar organizations, the Lexington Dream Factory stays locally based by assisting those in Central and Eastern KY, and growing! LDF is also unique in that the organization is completely run by volunteers. That kind of passion certainly deserves success.
Johnneka
25 Years of Dreams Can you believe the Lexington Dream Factory has been doing their thing in Lexington for 25 years now? That is 25 years of hopes and dreams come true for residents of our community! It’s pretty unbelievable. To celebrate such an accomplishment, The Lexington Dream Factory will hold their 25th Anniversary Gala, An Enchanting Evening of Dreams, on April 13th at the R.J. Corman Hangar. For a year now, the “Dream Team” has been working hard to make this night their most successful gala yet. “It’s always a moving and heartwarming experience for gala attendees to meet one or more of our dream recipients and their families during the evening,” reminisces Russell, who has been with the Lexington Dream Factory since the beginning. “Supporters are able to hear first-hand what the child’s dream and the Dream Factory has meant to them.”
Seara
The gala also will have live and silent auctions, food, drinks and dancing courtesy of the band “Burning Las Vegas,” who will be travelling from Nashville just for the occasion. “We hope people will leave the event with tired feet, auction items and the knowledge that they made a difference in a child’s life,” says McKenzie.
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Children’s Advocacy
A Beacon of Hope and Healing in the Bluegrass
E
very year 3.3 million reports of child abuse are made in the United States. Of this statistic, 80,000 are reported as sexual abuse. More specifically, one in four girls and one in six boys will be sexually abused before age eighteen, and in Kentucky, about 25,000 children could be affected by this horrific crime each year. Since 1994, the Children’s Advocacy Center of the Bluegrass has worked to reduce the trauma experienced by child victims of abuse by providing services in a nurturing, friendly, and safe environment.
NOT JUST A BAD DREAM… More than ninety percent of juvenile sexual abuse victims know their perpetrator in some way, be it a family member, friend, or peer. Take Angela for example. Angela was fourteen years old when she disclosed that her nineteen-year-old cousin was sexually abusing her. The touching started when she was twelve and occurred every time her family would go to visit his. Angela told her mom that she was scared to be around her cousin, that he had told her to keep this a secret, and that her parents would blame her if she told anyone what was happening. Immediately, her parents sprung into action by contacting law enforcement and a criminal investigation was launched. After the detective made contact with the family, he called the Children’s Advocacy Center of the Bluegrass (or CAC) to arrange a forensic interview.
by Lauren Henry
was able to ask the doctor all of the questions she had and was relieved to hear that her body was okay. Sexual abuse impacts every aspect of an individual’s life. It is imperative that survivors of sexual abuse are given support and encouragement to express their emotions in a safe environment. One such safe environment is provided through counseling at the CAC. After the medical examination, Angela and her mother spoke with an Advocate at the Center. Together, they determined that Angela could benefit from individual counseling with the agency’s child trauma therapist. In therapy, Angela developed new coping strategies and found ways to protect herself from future harm. She realized that the abuse was not her fault and that she did nothing to encourage this action from her cousin.
WAKING UP FROM THE NIGHTMARE… Angela was brought to the Center for a forensic interview conducted by a staff member who is specially trained to conduct these difficult interviews with children. The detective assigned to the case was able to observe the entire interview through closed circuit TV, and although Angela was nervous, she divulged her story to the interviewer. Because she disclosed sexual contact, Angela was scheduled to come back to receive a full medical examination at the CAC. A pediatrician and nurse – experts in evaluating child sexual abuse victims – welcomed Angela into the clinic. A physical examination was conducted to diagnose and treat injury and screen for any other health conditions. Angela
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Children’s Advocacy
Mission inspired… Since 1994, the Children’s Advocacy Center of the Bluegrass has worked to coordinate the investigative, legal, advocacy, medical and mental health treatment services to better serve child victims of sexual abuse. While children such as Angela once had to navigate a difficult and confusing system with multiple, repetitive interviews and exams, the system is now organized under one roof to better support them. The Children’s Advocacy Center is modeled on the simple but powerful concept of coordination between community agencies and professionals involved in the system. Since opening their doors, thousands of children and families have received the support they need to begin a safe path toward hope and healing. In 2012, the Center saw more children than ever before. Center staff members interviewed 586 children who had made an outcry of abuse.
GET INVOLVED If you are moved to get involved, there are many opportunities to make an impact at the CAC of the Bluegrass. Donations to the Capital Campaign are greatly appreciated and volunteers are always welcome. Here are a few ways CAC volunteers will be of service: • Greet family at the door, making them feel comfortable • Help out with clerical or office work • Assist with fundraising events by soliciting auction items • Help by maintaining the Center grounds (For more information about specific volunteer opportunities, please call Megan Kohler at (859) 225-5437.) There are also numerous other ways to help the Center carry out their very important mission. If donating time is not currently feasible, donating capital, vehicles, or other items on their wish list is greatly appreciated. The Wish List Includes: • Gas Cards/Kroger Cards • DVD-R 8x • Nutritious, individually Wrapped snacks
• Copy Paper • Play-Doh • Gently used laptop computers
To learn more about the incredible work The Children’s Advocacy Center is providing, please visit their website at http://kykids.org/. To report abuse or neglect in Kentucky, call 1-800-752-6200. For reports outside the state of Kentucky, call 1-800-422-4453. If a child is in need of immediate help, dial 911.
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Their medical team administered 140 medical exams and nearly 100 children received individual or group counseling on site. This increased demand for services was the impetus behind the Center’s new Capital Campaign and decision to move to a larger facility. In March, 2013, after more than two years of planning, the CAC moved into a new home located at 162 North Ashland Avenue. This welcoming, child-friendly facility is located in the same quiet, safe, and easily accessible neighborhood they have called home for eighteen years. With more than 8,000 square feet, their new home provides room to grow and expand services while better serving families throughout Central Kentucky. It is their hope that this facility will serve as a national model for excellence in the development of children’s advocacy services.
Posh Paws
SMELLY CAT by Amanda Harper, Pet Aficionado
“Cats bathe themselves.” That’s what Conventional Wisdom tells us, at least. In my experience, it’s true that cats will always attempt to bathe themselves, but that doesn’t meant they’re successful at keeping themselves looking and smelling fresh. Some cats I’ve met are actually pretty awful at self-hygiene. I’ve found that a lot of cat owners simply have to step in and pick up the slack. And sometimes, that means giving Mr. Fluffles a bath. “But cats hate water,” Conventional Wisdom balks. That is more often true than not. There are some cats who don’t mind getting wet at all while others can’t even tolerate the slightest sprinkle of water—never mind a bath. So what’s a pet owner to do? It’s important to understand that your role in cat grooming will vary, depending on your cat’s habits and health. Meticulous self-grooming kitties generally need very little help, while full-fledged Smelly Cats may need a multi-level intervention. Cats often groom in private, so know that while you don’t always see your cat grooming, she may be on top of it. (I almost never see my cat groom herself until company comes over, then suddenly it’s Priority Number One for her.) Kittens are generally bathed by their mothers; a kitten who has been separated from its mother may need a lot of help staying clean. A normally clean cat will need extra assistance when ill or following surgery. If a cat suddenly develops poor grooming habits or begins to smell, visit your veterinarian. This can be a sign of illness. First, every cat with hair needs brushing. Even cats who clean frequently will benefit from a little brushing help. This removes loose hair so that the cat doesn’t have to remove it themselves. Frequent brushing can prevent hairballs and loose hair all around the house, so it’s a win-win for everyone. Choose a brush that’s appropriate for your cat’s coat and brush gently. If there are any knots in your cat’s coat, I advise carefully snipping them loose with scissors rather than attempting to brush them loose. Interested in clipping your cat’s claws? Ask your vet if it’s a good option for you and your cat. Before you dive right into clipping, though, consider how your cat reacts when you touch her paws. She probably pulls them away, right? It’s important to start massaging your cat’s paws before you ever take the dive into clipping. Every day, rub your cat’s legs and paws while offering treats. After a week or two, she’ll be much more amicable. When she’ll let you handle her paws,
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press gently into the pads of her feet to cause her claws to extend. Using sharp cat nail scissors, clip the very tip of the nail just before it curves and avoiding the quick. The first option for bathing a cat is to use pet wipes. For cats who aren’t smelly but don’t lick themselves as often as you’d like, pet wipes can freshen a pet up in a snap. They’re just like baby wipes but have pet-safe ingredients. Just wipe them down, moving with the lay of your cat’s fur. If your pet doesn’t clean his bottom, you should finish up with a gentle dab in that area. Pet wipes are great for hairless cats; it removes dander and gets in spots that your kitty might not be able to reach. However, if your pet feels oily, has been into something icky or smells pretty foul, it’s time for a full-fledged bath. First and foremost, don’t be afraid. If you have a bath mat, place it in the tub to give your cat sure footing on the tub’s slick surface. Run 3-4 inches of warm water and place your cat in. Pet him continually and speak with a soft, assuring voice. Wet your cat using a spray hose or a cup. Massage cat shampoo into his coat, then rinse thoroughly. Avoid the ears, nose and eyes (generally, my cats don’t tolerate any water above their necks. If your cat is dirty in this area, use a wipe.) Dry your cat with a towel. If your cat hates this process, enlist someone to gently hold the cat while petting him and offering treats. There are no zero-maintenance pets. While some cats take care of most of their grooming needs, there is still work you’ll need to take care of. If you’re unsure or concerned about making sure your cat is properly cared-for, call a local pet groomer. Many are more than happy to help keep your feline friend looking (and smelling) fabulous.
Tour of Homes
Right off the kitchen is a lovely breakfast room and cozy hearth room. Custom bookshelves uniquely painted with a red rub over black finish frame the gas fireplace beautifully, as family and friends cuddle up with a good book and a fresh latte.
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Tour of Homes
A screened in outdoor living space is also accessible off the kitchen, making it the perfect gathering place on warm spring nights. Just beyond this porch area lies the parking pad and a sidewalk leading directly to the back patio, pool area, and outdoor kitchen complete with a split level bar and outdoor dining area with a huge grill, oven range, and stove. During the summer, the Ross family basically lives outside near the pool, so they built an outdoor bathroom for added convenience, as well as a large seven-foot porch swing to enjoy on a beautiful day.
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Tour of Homes
Through one of the kitchen’s entranceways, a staircase leads up to more treasures, and down to the basement, which is in the process of being completed to include a full kitchen by Kitchen Concepts, exercise room, and sauna. Up the stairs on a split level is Terence’s handsome study showcasing a huge custom built desk designed to fit the scale of the large room, and a home theater which also functions as a hang out room for the family by implementing an oversized sectional couch instead of the traditional theater style seating. Custom sconces adorn the walls adding a bit of glamour and sparkle to the room. Continuing up the staircase to the fifth and final level of the home, the guest bedroom and remaining children’s bedrooms are located.
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Tour of Homes
Jean Ann says it best when describing the way this modern-day chalet makes one feel, “when you walk into your home, you want to sink into it knowing it is a place where you and your family can relax, and enjoy.� The lovely residence off of Harrodsburg Road is a sanctuary shared by Terence, Shelly and their family where the warmth envelops you from within; where not one inch of space is overlooked, nor one detail forgotten.
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WOW Wedding
The bride walked down a 150-foot cobblestone bridge to the ceremony, creating a serene and gorgeous moment of reflection for her. She walked with her father who was very emotional; she reminded him of moments from her childhood to help him smile. When he gave her away, he kissed her on the cheek and then couldn’t contain his tears any longer. Amanda and Scott agreed that they wanted to remove a lot of seriousness from their wedding ceremony as a nod to their silly sides. The ceremony featured much laughter as the officiant, a good friend of the groom, told funny stories about the couple. The reception was held on the second floor of the Elmer T. Lee Clubhouse at Buffalo Trace; the venue featured a rustic aesthetic that was mirrored by the decor. A DJ played the couple’s “must-play” list and some music in the same vein, ensuring that their guests were on the dance floor. The cake included a topper hand made in England, based on photos sent to the designer of the wedding details. They rented a photo booth that printed out one copy on a magnet for the guests to take home and another copy to place in a scrapbook that guests signed. Guests enjoyed heavy hors d’oeuvres, cake pops and drinks. After the reception, many of the guests headed to Austin City Saloon to cap off the entertaining evening. Amanda and Scott, meanwhile, prepared to begin an exciting new adventure; their lives together, as a newly-married couple.
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WOW Wedding
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WOW Wedding
DETAILS Venue: Buffalo Trace Distillery | Wedding Planner: Bride | Photography: Payne Photography | Florist: house by JSD | Makeup: Anna Crane Cake: Martine’s Pastries | Catering: South Van Catering | DJ: DeeJay Woody | Videographer: ICVideo | Photo Booth: Say Cheese Photo Booth Rentals
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