TOPS Lexington May 2022 by TOPS Magazine

TOPS

THE PLACE TO BE SEEN

MAY 2022 • vol. 16 no. 5

TOPSinLex.com | May 2022

’ work is to help art come to life and touch many lives. Because when art’s out there opening eyes, minds and hearts, individuals are enriched and communities rise and shine. With your help we help art be made. And make its way into the world. Annual grants help dozens of regional artists and organizations big and small build the infrastructure they need to light up our lives with music, dance, theater, and the visual and literary arts. Events like our enormously popular LexArts HOP, LexArts Gallery exhibitions, city-wide Public Art projects, online Arts Events Calendar and an exciting new LexArts App (coming soon) that will connect the community with art that’s everywhere. With continued support, our mission continues.

2022

FUND FOR THE ARTS

PACESETTERS

Pacesetters are major public, corporate, and foundation donors who make an early and signiﬁcant commitment to the annual Fund for the Arts, thus setting the pace for a successful campaign. Pacesetters provide exemplary support by establishing the standard for corporate giving to the arts each year. P L AT I N U M

GOLD

Research shows that arts-infused communities rise and shine across Sturgill Family Foundation

the nation, and seriously good things happen to local economies. In ours, a $32

million+ arts and cultural industry supports over 1,200 full-time jobs and kicks in $3.2 million in taxes in city and state coffers. Our programs entertain millions

S I LV E R

of residents and visitors and the education initiatives of our partner organizations engage over 220,000

children every year,

many at no cost. LexArts.org • 161 N. Mill St. • Lexington, KY 40507 • Helping art come to life Jim Gray

Austin Mehr and Jill Hall

Madonna and Craig Turner

Dr. and Mrs. J. Sloan Warner, Jr

Crafted With Excellence. Packaged With Care. Loved By You. Bring The Jeff Ruby Experience Home, Order Your Meal Kit Today! JeffRuby.com 101 West Vine Street • Lexington, K Y 40507 • 859.554.7000

Casual Elegance

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MAY

The Arts Issue 22 24

VOL 16 NO. 5

Editor’s Picks Beauty:

Hourglass

27 34

A Space for Everyone Tour of Homes:

Historic Meets Modern

48 57

Wallpaper Wishes Local Spotlight:

Anderson Communities

5 Outdoor Trends You’ll Want

Style Spotlight:

Boulevard Concierge

Meet:

Beth Dean

Fashion:

Night & Day

80 84

Boldy Gray Beauty:

With Grace

Special Section:

50+ and Fabulous

How Not to Raise a Brat

100

Special Section:

Education

110

Public or Private?

STAY CONNECTED

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

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Purchase tickets to this very special raale, and you may win an entire barrel of Blanton's bourbon along with the full VIP treatment of a Private Barrel Pick Experience. Ticket sales begin on Friday, May 13 with only 2000 tickets available. Don’t miss out on this rare opportunity! www.GodsPantry.org/blantonsraale

Benefiting:

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TOWNES RAWLS TOP Marketing Group, LLC 859.543.8677 TOPSinLex.com

s a Senior Account Executive at TOPS Marketing Group, you have to be willing to establish and nurture client relationships, something Townes Rawls knows all too well. Seeing as he has spent his entire career in advertising, marketing, and publishing, TOPS seemed like the perfect fit for Townes, who says “Sales just fits my personality because at its core it’s about relationships with people.” Being born and raised in Lexington Kentucky, Townes enjoys the outdoors, horse racing and golf, but one of his most favorite activities is meeting and working with fellow Kentuckians who have an affinity for success. This allows him to build strong relationships with his clients, even leading to close friendships. “I’m a friend first and business partner second. Helping my clients succeed is a privilege and very rewarding.” Townes says working at TOPS is like having your finger on the pulse of the community, where you can bring people together and help make meaningful connections. If you love Lexington and Kentucky as much as Townes does, his door is always open to form a new connection.

TOPS in Lexington | SPONSORED CONTENT

KIM BRYANT

Violets Boutique 859.281.1100 V iol ets Bou tique Le x. com

im Bryant has been filling Violets Boutique’s walls and shelves with stylish clothes, elegant jewelry, one-of-a-kind gifts, and candles that warm the heart since 2012. Kim firmly believes that shopping should be fun and has just a little bit of everything for her customers to browse through. Located in the small Chinoe Neighborhood, Kim says she loves the friendly neighborhood aspects of Violets’ location and the everyday interactions with her loyal customers. “Truly, the local customers are the reason why I think of Violets as my happy place.” Kim has degrees in both business and fashion merchandising, and grew up with a family who owned a small business. She has had a passion for business since she was young and set out to one day open her own small business. She gained experience by working as a buyer for Embry’s, and now says, “Experience and customer service skills will always always be number one in my business.” Owning her own boutique has shown her that you can still be trendy as you age, and gain wisdom and confidence to know what you feel good in.

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CAROL SILER Women Leading Kentucky 859.243.5552 womenleadingky.com

omen Leading Kentucky’s mission is to intentionally engage all women through partnerships and innovative programming to advance leadership excellence while being diverse and inclusive. When the role of Executive Director became available, Carol Siler saw this as a way to reinvent herself and work for an organization that supports and empowers women. “I spent my career working in male dominated industries and saw how difficult it was for women to make connections that advanced their careers. I believe my empathy and support for women who need to feel empowered is my greatest asset in my role as Executive Director.” Carol says the success of Women Leading Kentucky isn’t because of her, though. “The hard-working members of our Board of Directors, Advisory Council, and staff are the heart and soul of the organization and I value their leadership.” Carol loves seeing how women are empowered through the connections they make at the organization’s events, such as their Roundtable Networking Luncheons. “So many women have told us that they have been promoted, brought in new business, and made life-long friends as a result of their involvement with Women Leading Kentucky.”

TOPS in Lexington | SPONSORED CONTENT

CYNDI HALL

Positive Impact, LLC & Ohh, Chai! 859.200.8481 p os itiv eimpactk y. com

yndi Hall is a Business and Leadership Coach working with entrepreneurs and companies to clarify the vision of their business and aid their progression from where they are to where they want to be. Cyndi also coordinates and conducts speaking engagements for small and large groups addressing communication, leadership, time management, mindset and other topics to help motivate businesses, their employees and leadership teams. Cyndi is an active member of both the Maxwell Leadership and International Coach Federation (ICF) and started her coaching business over 15 years ago after realizing her passion for helping others reach their goals. This knowledge and experience enhances Cyndi’s ability to help clients navigate challenges, offering an unbiased point of view and exposing the self-imposed limits that often hold individuals back from accomplishing their goals. “There is nothing more rewarding for me than to see others succeed!” Hall says. “True leadership is about being a servant to helping others grow and wanting them to succeed”, which is the foundation of her coaching, “other’s success is your success”. Cyndi also owns, operates and produces Ohh, Chai!, a Kentucky Proud product that is a family recipe chai mix that is a warm, smooth blend made with ground spices and tea that is served in coffee shops throughout central Kentucky.

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VICKI EVANS TOP Marketing Group, LLC 859.543.8677 TOPSinLex.com

hether you’ve personally met Vicki Evans or not, you have probably seen her at an event celebrating one of the many organizations she is involved in. As a Commerce Lexington Ambassador, Vicki enjoys supporting the growth and expansion of corporations and small businesses alike. She takes pride in being involved in her community and is always a friendly presence, making her a natural fit for the TOPS family. “It is a true pleasure to represent TOPS, as we truly are TOPS in all that we do!” Working in varying arenas of advertising for nearly 26 years, Vicki loves playing a role in the growth and success of all her clients, who also become friends – and even family-like figures. “Having come from the corporate side of business, it is such a welcomed change to work for a small business that is locally owned.” Vicki may be on top of the world now, but she has grown and learned so much since her start in advertising. “Success is the direct result of constant learning, hard work, dedication, and perseverance: it simply does not come to you; rather you must go to it!”

TOPS in Lexington | SPONSORED CONTENT

MIKE HALLIGAN God’s Pantry Food Bank 859.255.6592 G o ds Pa n tryFo o dBank . org

EO Mike Halligan and the team at God’s Panty Food Bank are passionate about their mission of reducing hunger and delivering hope to any household, individual, child, teen, and senior experiencing hunger regardless of circumstances or background. Halligan says, “15 of the 50 most food insecure counties in the United States are right here in our beloved hometowns in Kentucky.” The Food Bank works with the community to change those statistics, feeding many of the more than 250,000 individuals who are living with food insecurity. God’s Pantry Food Bank serves 50 counties in Central and Eastern Kentucky in partnership with more than 450 food pantries and meal programs. Mike is a tried and true Kentuckian and is honored his prior experience with food service employers like Quaker Oats and Feeding America led him to God’s Pantry Food Bank. “For me, for God’s Pantry Food Bank, the work is not about us, the work is about placing those experiencing hunger in the center of our efforts, of our immediate plans, and of our longterm strategies and then striving to achieve a nourished life for every Kentuckian.”

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HOW NOT TO RAISE A by Ja ym e Jac k so n

1. DON’T MAKE IT EASY. “Kids today..” how many times have we said this or heard it? Throughout history, every generation swears that their generation is the last “great generation”. Baby Boomers will swear they have a better work ethic, Gen X’ers will tout that they have the best experience in technology and the “old ways” of doing business making them the perfect hybrid. As for Millennials, they may be faster but they all want to graduate high school or college and land a job with the title of VP all whilst working from home. I don’t agree that one generation is better than the other, but I do understand that how we raise the next generation will have some bearing on the type of adults that enter the work force and ultimately become our caregivers. Recently, I read an article by Julie Revelant, a health and journalist consultant, who recommends 10 tips to ensure we are raising responsible kids and grandkids. And let’s face it, we’ve all made some parenting missteps!

“It is more difficult in many ways for this generation to raise a wonderful child than it is to raise a brat,” said Elaine Rose Glickman, author of “Your Kid’s a Brat and It’s All Your Fault.” Parents in previous generations acted like parents: They expected obedience and respect and wanted to raise children who were resourceful and happy, “but they didn’t expect their children to be happy at every single moment,” she said. If you’re always trying to make your child’s life easy by solving their problems, offering them every single opportunity, and being their full-time cheerleader, it’s more likely they’ll be spoiled.

2. SET LIMITS. Most parents have no idea how to set limits, so they either don’t do it or only enforce those limits until they’re at the end of their rope, said Dr. Laura Markham, a clinical psychologist in New York City and author of “Peaceful Parent, Happy Kids: How to Stop Yelling and Start Connecting.” If you don’t set and stick to clear limits, your kids will push and push until they get their way. Realize that setting limits doesn’t have to be delivered as a harsh punishment, however, but in a firm, kind way that is still respectful of your child.

3. FOCUS ON WHAT’S IMPORTANT. Although you don’t want to set rigid expectations about everything, you should have rules about things that you consider non-negotiable. So although it might annoy you that your child doesn’t put his socks in the hamper, treating others with respect is a must. “Get clear about your values and act on those values and it will be easy to set limits,” Markham said.

TOPS in Lexington | May 2022

4. ACKNOWLEDGE THEIR FEELINGS. Everyone wants to feel that their feelings matter and kids are no different. When your children are upset and acting out, acknowledge how they feel so they know you’re listening and concerned, but make sure they know they can’t behave any way they want. Your kids actually want you to set expectations and find comfort knowing that they’ll be enforced. “It’s a form of love and it’s a form of care to assert our authority with our children,” Glickman said.

5. DON’T GIVE IN. It can be hard to stay firm, especially when your kid is whining non-stop or other parents seem to be passing judgment when your kid is having a meltdown. But when you give in, more bratty behavior will ensue. Instead, be confident in who you are and what you want to accomplish as a parent. When you’re strong, your kids will realize that their behaviors won’t get them what they want at home or in the real world, Glickman said.

6. BE A ROLE MODEL. If you fly off the handle at a moment’s notice, chances are your kid will have temper tantrums too. “The research shows that children learn to regulate their emotions from their parents,” Markham said. The next time you feel overwhelmed, take a few deep breaths or go into another room for your own time out. If it’s a pattern, read a parenting book or find a mental health professional to learn some coping strategies.

7. ACT QUICKLY. Swift action is ideal to maintain behavior standards. For example, if your kids are fighting and you want to intervene to help them handle it, don’t wait. “Step in before you’re going to lose it,” Markham said.

8. INSTILL A SENSE OF GRATITUDE + GENEROSITY. When kids help others in need, it helps them be grateful for what they do have. They key however, is not to force good deeds down their throats. For example, instead of making them throw away last year’s toys, let them come up with their own ways to help contribute to the greater good. “The research shows that children learn to be generous by having the experience of giving to someone else or sharing with someone else and noticing how it feels,” Markham said.

9. BE A CONFIDENT PARENT. Instead of reacting to try to make your child happy when you discipline, accept their feelings and have the confidence to stick by your parenting because you know you did it to teach them an important lesson.

10. RIDE IT OUT. When you’re exhausted and stressed out, and you only have a few hours with your kids, it can be tempting to give up and give in to their bad behaviors. Yet when you’re consistent, your children will realize that you’re in charge, which will help you relax and have more fun with them. “In order to have a happy life with your children in the long run, you have to have a couple of unhappy times with them in the short run,” Glickman said.

May 2022 | TOPSinLex.com

STARTING MAY 31! HOSTED IN-PERSON ACROSS ALL BRANCH LOCATIONS

For a full list of summer events: lexpublib.org/events For questions or assistance: 859-231-5500

s n o i t a l u t a r g n o C Class of 2022 ll a e t a r b ele c ok o t o l d d e n t i a c ex ay We are rd work this M ou pursue your ha to watching y es! forward ths as graduat bold pa

K E NTUCK Y ’S FIRST UNIVERSIT Y | L EXINGTON, KY | TRANSY.EDU

Join us for our Groundbreaking Ceremony on Thursday, May 5, at 5 PM. Visit trinitylex.org/newcampus Lexington's Premier Private Christian Classical School | PreK-12 To contact our admissions office, call (859) 271-0079 or email admissionsoffice@trinitylex.org

Gwenda Bond

EARLY LEARNING Open House May 12, 2022, at 9 AM

Trinity Christian Academy - Lower Campus

COFFEE Jo in us !! + GOODIES

3 Year-O ld

PreK | J unior Kin derga

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rten | T raditio

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May 2022 | TOPSinLex.com

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Weighing the Options:

PUBLIC SCHOOL vs. PRIVATE EDUCATION Weighing the pros and cons of public education versus private schooling can be daunting for parents. Here are some thoughts to consider:

Public School Public schools are the most affordable option for families, as they are funded through tax dollars. This is what the majority of families choose for their children. In the 20192020 school year, 647,987 students were enrolled in Kentucky public schools over 171 districts. In general, experts agree that public schools offer a more diverse experience for students, creating more interaction with peers of different backgrounds. Public schools have a standard of certification, training and professional development. Public schools also have tightly regulated accommodations for students with special needs and different learning abilities. There’s a misconception that public schools take a “one size fits all” approach. Public school systems offer lots of opportunities for students to learn and grow. It’s essential to stay connected with your public school system so you can learn about all they offer. The bottom line: Public school is the popular choice! This affordable option provides an excellent education. Be sure to stay “in the loop” on programs your school system offers.

Private School According to the Private School Review, Kentucky has over 350 private schools that serve 66,899 students. The average tuition is $7,500, which is generally lower than the national average. The benefits of private schools include smaller class sizes, impressive educational outcomes and tailored learning. Private schools have varying requirements for their educational professionals, which can sometimes be more or less strict than public schools. Some private schools specialize in particular modes of education, sometimes tailoring their curricula to differing learning styles and needs. Many private schools are religiously-affiliated, which is a consideration for parents. Many think of private schools as stodgy institutions, churning out future college students. While they do have great post-secondary enrollment stats, students at private schools generally enjoy rich, textured student life. The bottom line: Each private school is a unique institution. It’s important to thoroughly review all of the information available about a school to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your family. In the end, deciding which option is right for your child comes down to what feels like a good fit. Each child has unique needs and what’s most important is that you work with your child and educators to foster learning.

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May 2022 | TOPS in Lexington

GET A CHECK UP FROM THE NECK UP! Start here with a free screening:

www.mhaky.org/mhascreenings

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/MHAKentucky

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@mhakentucky

TOPS in Lexington | May 2022

d salads l o C

RECIPES

Warm Weather

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Greek

Chicken salad let t uce wraps Prep Time: 25 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes

INGREDIENT S:

PREPARAT ION:

1½ pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts ½ cup plain, nonfat Greek yogurt ¼ cup light sour cream 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped small salt, to taste black pepper, to taste 1 red bell pepper, diced ¼ cup diced red onion ¼ cup slivered almonds ¼ cup sliced kalamata olives ½ cup reduced-fat Feta cheese 10 Bibb lettuce leaves

Place the chicken breasts in a pot large enough to hold them all, and fill the pot with enough water (or chicken stock) to cover the chicken by about 1-2 inches. Add two dried bay leaves, fresh parsley stems, and whole peppercorns to flavor the cooking liquid if desired, then bring to a boil over high heat. When the water comes to a boil, cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Simmer the chicken for 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the thickest part of the breast reads 165º F. Using tongs, remove the chicken and reserve on a plate. When it is cool enough to touch, shred or dice it and set aside. Meanwhile, in a medium mixing bowl stir together the yogurt, sour cream, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper. Add the rest of the ingredients and the chicken and toss gently to combine. Spoon a ½ cup of chicken salad into each bibb lettuce leaf and serve two wraps per person.

Recipe Courtesy of Popculture.com is the nation’s go-to source for all things pop culture and speaks to fans that eat, sleep and play amidst today’s prevailing trends and provides an authentic, one-of-a-kind view of the contemporary landscape.

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May 2022 | TOPS in Lexington

Potato German-st y le

salad

INGREDIENT S: 2 lbs. purple and Yukon Gold potatoes 2 T canola oil salt pepper ¼ c. apple cider vinegar 2 T whole-grain mustard chives, chopped

PREPARAT ION: Preheat oven to 450º F. Chop potatoes into roughly 1-inch pieces. Toss with oil, salt and pepper. Transfer to a baking sheet. Roast 20-25 minutes (or until tender and browned), stirring once. Combine vinegar, mustard and chopped chives. Drizzle mixture over potatoes. Season with salt and pepper, to taste, and top with fresh chives. Serve warm or cold. Alternative: crisp four slices of bacon while the potatoes roast in the oven. Remove the bacon to a paper towel to drain. Add chives, vinegar and mustard to skillet for 1 minute, stirring to incorporate browned bits of bacon. Crumble bacon and add to mixture, then spread that over the potatoes.

TOPSinLex.com | May 2022

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w a l S

! e som

ADD IN:

• Red or Napa cabbage • Radishes or daikon • Kale • Jalapeños • Onions • Dried or fresh fruit

Slaws are your secret warm-weather Swiss Army knife meal; slaws can do it all! They're an easy shortcut to a delicious, vibrant meal, packed full of veggies... no sweat (literally!) It's easy to get in the green cabbage, carrot and mayo dressing rut, so here are some fun way to mix up your slaw game!

TOss IT W IT H:

• Honey mustard • Olive oil • Apple cider vinegar • Mustard • Greek yogurt • Ketchup (look up red slaw)

GIVE IT FLAVOR: • Creole seasoning • Fennel or dill • Lime juice • Celery seeds • Cilantro • Caraway seeds

May 2022 | TOPSinLex.com

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NE W

LIS TIN G!

2375 Heather Way | Lexington, KY 40503 | $355,000 Beautiful Ranch home with 3 Bedrooms and 2 Full Baths. Open layout with loads of natural light & tons of character. Large living room with bay window, crown molding, built-in shelving, & hardwood floors. Dining room fire place, abundant counter space and newer tile flooring. Current owner has added a lovely 2nd living room addition with French doors, lots of windows overlooking the backyard & functional as an office or den. Incredible flat backyard with mature trees, lovely landscape, oversized patio and fenced for room to play. pla

NE W

PR IC E!

3613 Hidden Pond Rd | Lexington, KY 40502 | $1,025,000 Beautiful all brick home in the peaceful Castlegate Neighborhood. Boasting 6 bedrooms, including a first floor suite, 4.5 bathrooms and 5,287 sqft. Formal sitting room, large newly painted kitchen with granite counters & abundant space, living room with vaulted ceilings & additional family room. This home has tons of Natural Light! Basement has an additional bedroom, full bath and workout den. 3 Car Garage and tons of storage in the unfinished section of the basement! Stellar Lexington location - inside New Circle! JU ST CL OS ED !

3125 Montavesta Rd | Lexington 4BD 3.5BA 2,528 sqft

SA LE PE ND IN G!

3421 Pinas Bay Dr | Lexington 3BD 3BA 2,400 sqft

Pink!

T HINK

The start of warmer weather means some of our favorite fruits and vegetables are coming back in season. While we're certainly excited for the delicious flavors of some of this produce, we're really thrilled about the powerful health benefits. Many red fruits and vegetables are filled with powerful antioxidants, such lycopene and anthocyanins, that may do everything from reduce your risk of macular degeneration to fighting heart disease. Watermelon, for instance, is a solid source of lycopene, which can lower LDL cholesterol.

While you're out shopping this season, reach for tasty pink and red produce. It may just help you enjoy even more warm Kentucky days! Enjoying this "watermelon pizza salad" couldn't be simpler: slice a watermelon cross-wise, then cut into slices, deseeding as you go. Top with feta, mint, lemon zest and a sprinkle of salt. Drizzle with olive oil or dunk in balsamic vinegar.

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May 2022 | TOPS in Lexington

AND Grapefruit Salad! INGREDIENT S: Roasted beets, chopped Ruby red grapefruit, segmented Feta Red onion, sliced Walnuts Lettuce Olive oil Plums, chopped

PREPARAT ION: Toss ingredients together in your desired proportions. That's it!

Beets are a solid source of folate, lycopene and anthocyanins, which are a great antioxidant. Pink and red grapefruit is a source of Vitamin C, lycopene and pectin, which can help lower cholesterol. Plums contain soluable fiber, phytonutrients and anthocyanins. Onions bring quercetin to the party, an antioxidant that can fight inflammation.

TOPSinLex.com | May 2022

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Gazpacho!

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Tomatoes are a great source of lycopene, which may help protect you from prostate or breast cancer. They're also good sources of potassium and Vitamin C! Red bell peppers are a good source of Vitamin A, which can help support eye health, as well as help your skin, bone and teeth. Bell peppers also contain as much Vitamin C as an orange!

INGREDIENT S:

PREPARAT ION:

2 lb. tomatoes 1 cucumber (about 8” long), peeled ½ red bell pepper ½ small, mild onion, peeled 1 clove garlic 2 T. red wine vinegar 2 tsp. salt freshly ground black pepper ½ c. olive oil

Chop tomatoes, cucumber, onion, bell pepper and garlic. Add to a blender with vinegar and salt, then blend. Drizzle in olive oil, blending until combined and smooth. Taste the mixture. If it needs brightness, add an additional splash of vinegar. Pepper to taste. Cover and refrigerate until chilled. Garnish with croutons and fresh parsley or basil. Serve with crudité or grilled cheese triangles. Store gazpacho over ice if you’re serving outside to keep it perfectly chilled.

May 2022 | TOPS in Lexington

May 2022 | TOPSinLex.com

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Now that warm weather has finally joined us, there’s nothing better than sitting on a breezy patio and enjoying your favorite cocktail or appetizer at one of our local restuarants. Whether it’s for brunch with your girlfriends, a business lunch or a weekend date night, there’s just something about a patio that feels oh so right during the summer season.

May 2021 | TOPSinLex.com

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CARSON’S Patios

859.309.3039 | carsonsfo o danddrink.com

What draws people to your patio? There is nothing quite like Carson’s Chicken & Waffles and a round of mimosas with great friends while relaxing on our beautiful patio. With our’s being one of the only patios on Main Street, the life of the city is right next to you as you enjoy a friendly reunion or romantic evening, making patio season THE time to visit Carson’s! Tell us a little bit about Carson’s offerings and ambiance. We offer a variety of elevated American cuisine. With savory burgers, fresh salads, juicy steaks and seafood, there’s a little something for everyone. Every dish we offer is sizable and flavorful, and just hits the spot.

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Not to mention our marvelous selection of bourbons and ryes! Grab a drink, pull up a chair and relax in our refined speakeasy setting. What is the most popular dish on the menu for patio season? What drink would you pair with it? Patio weather always brings out a hunger for ribs, and its hard to find a better set of ribs than our “Sweet & Spicy Ribs”; Tender ribs coated in our house Sriracha Bourbon BBQ sauce with sesame seeds and jalapeño slices. Pairing this with any of our Draught Beers or our “Classic Woodford Rye Old Fashioned” is a sure way to have a great time!

TOPS in Lexington | SPONSORED CONTENT

favorite menu item

favorite cocktail

We love going here for their... Chicken and Waffles during brunch!

We love going here for their... Woodford Rye Old Fashioned!

What do you expect will be popular specials this summer? We have our “Old Fashioned Happy Hour” from 3 to 6pm ($2 off Appetizers, Well Drinks, and Draughts) and our fabulous new selection of Seasonal Cocktails; including such favorites as “the Bourbon Smash”, “the Sweet & Spicy Pineapple Martini” and “the Passion Fruit Martini”. We can’t wait to see you there!

May 2022 | SPONSORED CONTENT

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favorite menu item

We love going here for their... Chicken Street Tacos!

favorite cocktail

We love going here for their... Classic Margaritas!

Patios

~ MI PEQUENA HACIENDA 859.245.4679 | Nicholasville: 859.309.3840 mip equenahacienda.com

SERVING CENTRAL KENTUCKY SINCE 1996! Lexington’s fun, festive, casual neighborhood restaurant is open and ready to serve you! Mi Pequeña Hacienda’s patio is perfect for gathering with amigos or stopping in for a casual lunch during the workday or weekend. Known for its relaxed dining experience and great family atmosphere, the Mi Pequeña Hacienda patio at the Lansdowne Drive location offers guests more to love with ample outdoor seating to enjoy all season long! Enjoy the best in authentic Mexican food with a Baja Californian flair, freshly prepared sauces and salsas, and warm hospitality on our colorful patio with 2-for-1 margaritas Tue-Thur-Sun from 5 to close. Now offering our new brunch menu at both locations 11-2 every day! Don’t forget to visit our Brannon Crossing location for a totally different experience!

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TOPS in Lexington | SPONSORED CONTENT

favorite menu item

We love going here for their... Kalamity Katie’s Border Benedict!

favorite cocktail

We love going here for their... Award Winning Bloody Mary!

Patios

WILD EGGS 859.543.0532 | 859.277.0402 wildeggs.com

Is the Wild Eggs patio... wild?

What are some of your most popular menu offerings?

We have two great Lexington locations and actually, the ambiance on our patio is relaxing, warm and welcoming. Plants and flowers surround the patio tables and large umbrellas provide shade. Our patio is full service, with the same great service and cuisine that we serve up indoors.

Our most popular dish is our Kalamity Katie’s Border Benedict. Paired with a tequila sunrise made with our fresh squeezed orange juice, it makes an unmatched breakfast experience for someone who loves to dine with flair.

What is your restaurant’s objective? Our well-trained staff consistently delivers innovative dishes that offer a fresh, contemporary approach to breakfast, brunch and lunch. We are a family-oriented restaurant with menu items for everyone.

What’s new? Come enjoy our award winning bloody-mary or some fresh squeezed orange juice makes for the best mimosa in town! We now offer new salads and sandwiches for lunch, plus online ordering for take-out! We are also now taking online reservations and call-ahead seating.

May 2021 | TOPSinLex.com

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favorite menu item

We love going here for their... Spring Beet Salad: whipped capriole goat cheese, pistachios, local strawberries & Kentucky mint!

Patios HONE Y WOOD 859.469.8234 | Honeywo o dRestaurant.com

As a Kentucky-forward bistro that focuses on local ingredients and boasts a beautiful setting, Honeywood is the perfect place to experience all that an outdoor Lexington dining experience has to offer. Our patio is a lovely place to stop while shopping at the Summit at Fritz Farm,” Honeywood’s staff said. “Enjoy a full bar, including delicious craft cocktails, a captivating wine list and local beer. We also offer snacks or you can enjoy a whole meal. Regardless of what you order, it will become clear just how important local, fresh ingredients are to Honeywood. The highest-quality produce finds its way into every dish and drink. “Our staff farmer, David Wagoner, curates a small herb garden for our bar and kitchen, including bay leaves, mint, oregano, sweet Annie, chives, edible flowers, basil, thyme, and more,” said the staff.

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TOPS in Lexington | SPONSORED CONTENT

favorite menu item

We love going here for their... wings with Nashville Hot dry rub!

favorite drinks

We love going here for their... 16 beers on tap!

Patios

ROOSTERS

Richmond Rd: 859.554.7124 | South Lexington: 859.271.9464 | G eorgetown: 502.570.9464 ro osterswings.com

Tell us all about Roosters!

What do most people order when they’re out on your patios?

Roosters is a family restaurant with a huge menu; we’re known for our wings and chicken, but we have so much more! We offer a fun, casual atmosphere with a full bar. We have two locations in Lexington – 2640 Richmond Road and 124 Marketplace Drive – and one in Georgetown – 114 Marketplace Circle!

Lots of our guests keep it simple: they order boneless wings and a local craft beer. There are 16 draft beers at each location, so you’re sure to find something you love! Do you have any specials? Sure sure do! We offer a special on Mondays with 79 cent boneless wings all day! There’s no better time to come – and bring a friend!

Give us the details on your patios. There are covered and uncovered options, depending on the sunshine, and TVs outside. At our Richmond Road and Georgetown locations, enjoy a bar outside, as well!

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Patios HARRY’S AMERICAN BAR & GRILL 859.335.6500 | BluegrassHospitality.com Harry’s American Bar & Grill, a Lexington staple known for its contemporary American fare and extensive drinks menu, boasts a patio that can be enjoyed year round — with an open-air atmosphere during warm weather months and an encased glass facade for cooler months. “Whether visiting for a leisurely lunch or dinner, winding down after work or catching your favorite team on one of the flatscreen TVs, Lexingtonians love our patios,” the Harry’s team explained. As a tribute to Kentucky’s rich horse racing history, it’s hard to imagine a better place to spend a perfect Lexington meal than at either of Harry’s two locations, which are also home to Aqua sushi, an infamous offering of signature cocktails and hand-picked wines. Find them in the Palomar Shopping Center or in Hamburg and be prepared for an unforgettable patio dining experience.

Patios

DRAKE’S

859.335.6500 | DrakesComePlay.com

Drake’s is a restaurant that loves beer and a bar that loves food. With over 20 craft beers on tap, big burgers and the freshest sushi in town, it’s no wonder that Drake’s is a perennial patio season favorite among locals! What’s their best dish? “It’s hard to pick one! The Baked Lava Roll is one of our newest sushi rolls with crab and avocado rolled in seaweed and sushi rice, then topped and baked with a spicy crab salad, spicy mayo, sushi sauce, tempura crunch and green onions,” the Drake’s team says. “Pair it with one of Drake’s specialty craft cocktails. We release a new menu every season and the summer cocktail list is made for patio hangs!” Drake’s offers something for everyone! Burgers and sushi, craft beer and cocktails, which you can enjoy on indoor and outdoor patios. They have garage doors that go up in the summer and a fire roaring in the winter for year-round enjoyment. Visit Drake’s in Branon Crossing, Hamburg and the Lansdowne Shoppes; and stay tuned for a new location opening on Leestown Rd later this year! 130

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Patios CRÚ 859.971.9463 | cruwinebar.com Crú offers upscale dining with dishes designed to provide something for everyone. They provide a wide range of choices, including Wagyu Meatballs, Lobster and Shrimp Potstickers, Stone Fired Pizzas, Brussel Sprout and Arugula Salad, and Filet Mignon, to name a few. Guests especially love the Pear and Gorgonzola Pizza paired with a “Patio Weather White” flight of wine during patio months! With plenty of space right in the heart of The Summit, their patio is a cozy, relaxed spot with heaters and a fire pit. It’s always pet-friendly, as well! Weekends are better with Crú. They are open for brunch at Noon on Saturday and Sunday. Want to stay in the know? Sign up for email alerts on all of their wine tasting events and holiday specials – and enjoy a free entrée on your birthday!

Patios

SEDONA TAPHOUSE

859.221.5500 | SedonaTa phouse.com

Sedona Taphouse — which boasts one of Lexington’s most extensive beer, wine and cocktail lists along with an elevated food menu — is the perfect place to treat yourself to an outdoor dining experience (and don’t forget, groups are welcome). With firepits, TVs, covered areas, live music, a deal-loaded happy hour —plus great food and great drinks, of course — guests can bask in plenty of summer vibes while enjoying the Southwestern-tinged contemporary American fare. Classic brunch staples like Nutella french toast are complemented with innovations like “Desert Fire” stuffed jalapeños. The infamous STH Burger goes perfectly with the venue’s 47 rotating beers on tap. And entrees like the bourbon pork chop are paired with dozens of cocktails and an extensive wine list. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget.

favorite sips

We love going here for their... wonderful wines! Afterglow, Moondance and Southern Rosé are some of our faves!

Patios

TALON WINERY 859.971.3214 talonwine.com

Who will love your patio? We have tons of beautiful, open space for large groups with great photo-ops! It’s great for a first date or a girls night. With over 20 wines, there’s something for everyone! People can bring their own food and just hang out and “wine down.” It’s chic and Southern at the same time.

and surrounding area artists. Bring extra chairs or picnic blankets because our tables fill up fast! You’re welcome to bring your own food to enjoy with our award winning wines. What is your most popular warm-weather wine? Our Southern Rosé is this summer’s must-have sip! Pair it with some charcuterie to make your picnic pop.

What’s happening among the vines? We have free live music every Friday 6-9 and Saturday 4-7 from local

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favorite menu item

We love going here for their... Luna Pimento Cheese Sliders!

favorite cocktail

We love going here for their... Tequila Mockingbird: Jose Cuervo Silver Tequila, blackberry brandy, lime juice, simple syrup and Jarritos grapefruit soda!

Patios THE GROVE 502.694.2576 thegrovelex.com

RELAXED VIBES MEET A METAMORPHIC ATMOSPHERE AT THE GROVE. Fusing the best of brews, cocktails and wine with charcuterie, food-truck eats and private events, The Grove is not just Lexington’s newest eclectic hot spot. It’s a revelry hub, a micro-community that bolsters small businesses and an archetype for commerce. Open Wednesday through Sunday 7:30am-1am and Saturday & Sunday 8am-1am, The Grove offers multiple experiences in one, right in the heart of Downtown. Enjoy sharable snacks and delicious bites from Luna in the evening or weekend brunch. They’re perfect for enjoying alongside the craft cocktails, wine and beer available in the beer garden. Reserve the cabana for a special, intimate night for up to 20. Check out Nate’s Coffee Hideaway located in the Melodeon, which serves as a coffee shop by day and an event space by night!

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Patios

FIDDLETREE KITCHEN & BAR 859.544.1011 | fiddletreekitchen.com

Fiddletree Kitchen & Bar offers an upscale yet casual and upbeat environment. They serve up Southern hospitality and elevated comfort food. With breakfast, lunch, brunch and dinner offerings, as well as a lovely cocktail menu, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Fiddletree’s on staff Bourbon Steward loves to mix things up! The patio offers covered table seating as well as open-air couch seating with fire pits. The space is set back from the main road and beautifully landscaped for a lush experience. Guests can always enjoy music, whether it’s playing from their music system or it’s live entertainment. Check the Elwood Hotel’s website to see a live music schedule. Reservations can be made on Opentable.com for parties of 8 people or less. Patio availability is based on weather. photo by Alyssa Rosenheck

ELWOOD HOTEL & SUITES The World’s First Plant-Friendly Hotel Drive up to Elwood Hotel & Suites and the first thing you’ll notice is the stunning building mural of flowers and plants. The plant theme is carried through to the public areas which feature additional murals and plenty of greenery — including a huge fiddle-leaf fig plant (the restaurant is named Fiddletree Kitchen & Bar). So it should come as no surprise that the world’s first plant-friendly hotel has also launched a plant-friendly package. The Gardener’s Premier Corner Room Package includes a stay in one of the property’s six king suites specifically chosen for their abundance of plant-friendly natural light. The package includes lush Instagrammable greenery in the room from Pemberton’s Greenhouses, a complimentary potted succulent as a gift to take home and many more amenities. Guests are welcome to check in to the hotel with their own house plants as well. Elwood Hotel & Suites is also pet friendly. To carry on the plant theme, Fiddletree Kitchen & Bar features a plant-focused cocktail: the Garden Mojito made with blackberry syrup, fresh herbs, and edible flowers. Learn more at: theelwoodhotel.com •

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HealthMinded Munchies When you’re looking for a healthy, fresh dining option, your first thought probably wouldn’t be a pizza joint. But Mellow Mushroom proves that you can have a filling, health-conscious lunch or dinner without skimping on flavor. Salads are an obvious choice when you’re looking for something bright and light. Mellow Mushroom’s “Greens” menu is full of options that are made with fresh ingredients and hand-chopped daily. These salads will delight your senses and feed your head. We love the Enlightened Spinach Salad (fresh spinach topped with dried cherries, apples, house-made candied pecans and authentic sheep’s milk feta cheese) because it’s a tasty option that happens to be vegetarian (and they’ll gladly make it vegan for you). But don’t think the deliciousness stops with salads. There are lots of great options on their menu, from their Bruschetta (diced tomatoes, basil and seasonings tossed in balsamic vinegar and olive oil. Topped with authentic sheep’s milk feta cheese and fresh basil, served on garlic toast points, and drizzled with a balsamic glaze) to cocktails like the Jam n’ Juice (Maker’s Mark Bourbon, Aperol, Cherry, Cranberry & Fresh Lime). And just because you’re eating light doesn’t mean you have to skip the pizza altogether. Mellow Mushroom’s Build Your Own Pie option allows you total control over what you have. Their offer gluten-free crust and vegan cheese if that’s your thing! Mellow Mushroom 503 S Upper St | Lexington, KY 40508 859.281.6111 Order online: mellowmushroom.com

SPONSORED CONTENT | TOPS in Lexington

According to the Annie E. Casey Foundation, students ho do not read pro cientl b third grade are four times more likely to drop out of school. Si t e percent o ourth raders read belo grade level contributing to 8,000 students dropping out of high school every day. With declining literacy statistics and school dropouts increasing at alarming rates... it is clear to Hank that something needs to be done! Hank the Horse regularly visits schools and libraries throughout Kentucky to promote literacy excellence and encourage kids to read more while having fun doing so. Through our Pages for a Purpose Literacy Excellence Program, we empower kids of all ages to achieve literacy excellence through horses and equine related learning activities. Our reading programs and rescued horses inspire children to discover their passion for reading. For Hank’s Sake is opening a world of reading to children in need of hope for a better future. With Hank’s visits to schools and libraries, children are given the opportunity to experience the joy of meeting a horse in real life. Hank is stepping up the pace to get more books into the hands and minds of children everywhere. Pages for a Purpose is a program that aims to increase literacy and build self-esteem in children of all ages. Through increased literacy rates we can see students excel in confidence, educational achievement, and have greater success in life. We have created pathways through creative, engaging and effective equine assisted learning activities for children. Hank is on a mission to continue giving children a brighter future through his interactive and fun reading programs.

Hank wants to help!

Know a school, library or organization who could use a helping hoof? Contact Hank by visiting his event page to inquire about a visit: forhankssake.org/hankhappenings For more information about Hank’s Pages for a Purpose Program, please visit: forhankssake.org/pages-for-a-purpose

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CALENDAR of Events What's happening in town this month.

Sports

Live Music

May 3

Mental Health Month Kickoff Luncheon 11:30am Capital Plaza Hotel

May 4

Horse Mania 11:30am Copper Roux

May 5

The Race for Excellence Charity Gala 6pm The Kentucky Castle

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Performing Arts

Community Events

Scott County Woman’s Club Derby Party 6pm Ward Hall

May 10

May 6

Peppa Pig’s Adventure 6pm Lexington Opera House

Amadeus Lex: Four Seasons 6:30pm St. Luke United Methodist Church

May 7

Hats & Horses 5pm Danville Country Club

May 2022 | TOPS in Lexington

Champagne Pairing Dinner 6pm The Kentucky Castle

May 12

Elwood Social Club: A Chance to Dance Trivia Night 6:30pm Fiddletree Kitchen & Bar

Disney on Ice: Let’s Celebrate 7pm Rupp Arena

May 13

May 15

Disney on Ice: Let’s Celebrate 1pm Rupp Arena

Hank Visit 12:30pm James Lane Allen Elementary

Beauty and the Beast 2pm Lexington Opera House

Taste of the Bluegrass 6pm Keene Barn

Hank Visits Baptist Health 2:30pm 110 Southland Dr

Disney on Ice: Let’s Celebrate 7pm Rupp Arena

May 18

May 19

Purses, Pouts & Pearls 6pm Hilton Downtown Lexington

Women Leading Kentucky 22nd Business & Leadership Conference 8:30am Marriott Griffin Gate

May 14

May 20

Hank Visit 11am Woodford County Library Disney on Ice: Let’s Celebrate 11am, 3pm & 7pm Rupp Arena Beauty and the Beast 7pm Lexington Opera House

Gallery Hop Downtown

May 21

Lexington Philharmonic: Beyond the Sky 7:30pm Singletary Center

GGA Community Music Fest 12pm Garden Springs Park

May 22

Alltech ONE Conference 9am Central Bank Center

May 23

Alltech ONE Conference 9am Central Bank Center

May 24

Alltech ONE Conference 9am Central Bank Center

May 26

Wine Tasting with Appetizer Pairing 6pm The Kentucky Castle

May 28

Big Lex 4-Miler 8am Keeneland

Before attending any event, check with the event organizers for the latest information, including potential cancellations or date changes. While we make every effort to ensure our information is correct, some listings may be outdated.

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Speedy Steiner #BBN

by Larry Vaught | photos courtesy UK Athletics

Abby

Steiner thought she was making the right career choice when she decided to give up soccer and concentrate on track after competing in both sports her freshman year at Kentucky. Her soccer skills initially got her to Kentucky, but her speed on the track proved to be something special. "Everything happens for a reason, and there is a plan for everything in your life. I am definitely happy with my decision. I also knew at the time I gave up soccer where my heart really was. I was definitely something I was sure of when I did it, but it has worked out better than I ever imagined at that time," the UK senior said. The Dublin, Ohio, native has become one of the nation's best sprinters. She won the 200-meter dash at the NCAA Championships the last two years. She was timed in a meet record 22.16 seconds in this year's meet. At the SEC Championships, she ran 22.09 — the fastest collegiate time ever and the second-fastest ever by an American woman. Steiner also set school records in the 300- and 60-meter dashes during the indoor season. She was named the National Women's Track Athlete of the Year by the United States Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association, as well as the Southeastern Conference Women's Runner of the Year. Steiner admits she started to daydream about those kinds of numbers and championships three years ago. "I think once I really devoted myself to track, I hoped for some special results, but I really had no idea my speed on the soccer field would translate to what it is today," Steiner said. "Once I started going through training and doing full-time track, that's when I could see the bigger picture of what my times might look like." She hopes to add to that big picture at the SEC and NCAA Championships, especially after an Achilles injury derailed her 2021 spring season after her spectacular indoor season. She ran the fifth-fastest 100-meter dash in collegiate history (10.92 seconds) and the fastest 200-meter dash (22.38 seconds) with a headwind over 1.7 miles per hour in collegiate history during the Joe May Invitational at Louisiana State University in April. Even with the wind at

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5.6 miles per hour, Steiner had the second-fastest outdoor 200 in UK history. "Last spring felt a little unfinished to me. I did not get a full outdoor season. I didn't get to end the year on my terms," Steiner said. She had been dreaming of a possible spot on the US Olympic team last summer after her 2021 indoor performance, but her injury denied her that opportunity. However, she never looked back and worked to be as prepared as she could be for her senior season. "Everything happens for a reason. This indoor season, it was a blessing to get another year of experience, and the trials you go through just make you want to be back so badly," Steiner said. She's also learned not to let her sport consume her physically or emotionally. She has learned it's important to step away from the track when she has a chance. "I try to hang out with friends, do some reading. Just do things to get my mind off races, so I am not thinking about track all the time," she said. "Even in the middle of the season, I allow myself a little mental break. Thankfully I have learned some pretty good coping mechanisms." What she won't do is slack off on her academic work. She is an academic All-American and was named the SEC Indoor Scholar-Athlete of the Year in February. She has a 3.845 grade-point average as a Kinesiology major with a psychology minor. "I definitely put in a lot of work for the grades I get. I do enjoy school and know the study habits and work habits I am forming now will only help when I go onto graduate school. I take great pride in getting those grades," Steiner said. She's not ready to decide if she will pursue a professional track career or go to graduate school. She'll make that decision when the outdoor season ends. "I am trying not to get too far ahead of myself and enjoy everything about my career now," Steiner said. •

May 2022 | TOPS in Lexington

M Mania Ma ani an nia ia

Horsee

after me to to bring bring the the 22 years aft f er the original, it’s time ft tim blluegrass. uegrass. painted horses back to the bluegrass. Horse Mania 2022 is an odds-on favorite to be a stellar public public art project proj o ect for oj f r the fo streets of Lexington, and one of the largest attractions for for the Breeders’ Cup, set fo to return to Keeneland this November. mber. by Allyson Mattingly

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Melanie Osborne, the artist behind the TOPS painted horse, is a self-taught artist born and raised on a farm in our neighboring Ashland, Kentucky. Her family’s farm had horses and greenhouses, drawing her into the wonderful and challenging art world from a young age. She started her professional career as a mechanical drafter while doing commission pieces on the side, but her passion still stood with her personal artwork. After leaving her job in drafting, she expanded her work to include indoor murals, floodwalls, and buildings, but realized her biggest passions were what originally drew her to art: horses, animals, and flowers.

i a i a a an i an i a an i an i a an a a inia a ain

Osborne says when asked about her mission behind her artwork. “As any artist, I want to appeal to peoples’ senses with my paintings to attract viewers so that they may enjoy the beauty of my work.” Melanie enjoys working with rich colors to achieve a beautiful piece, many of which we see classically presented on the Horse Mania horses. While Melanie is clearly passionate about all things art, that is a small window into her full life. Growing up on a farm where they had several greenhouses, she now enjoys tending to her own garden with a large variety of flowers she considers like fireworks on the fourth of July. Unsurprisingly, Melanie loves horses and attends the Kentucky Derby and Keeneland as much as she can to see both the horses and the beautiful landscapes. “The best part about the races is the last turn when you can hear the thunder of the horses’ hooves coming and the crowd standing and screaming. All of this makes my heart pound with excitement.”

Melanie says she is thankful for the talent God has given her, and so are we; without it, we wouldn’t have the gorgeous horse displayed in front of TOPS! More of Melanie’s art can be seen at Art House Gallery and The Artists’ Studio on LexArts HOP nights.

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FABULOUS AT

GOING STRONG

Marie Hochstrasser was on a mission. And she wasn’t about to be stymied. A long-time artist and educator, Hochstrasser knew the value of the arts to our children and to our community, and she

knew that with an organization to support the arts, Lexington would be all the richer for it.

And so in 1972, Hochstrasser and fellow arts patrons, Faye Porter, Miriam Woolfolk, Marilyn Moosnick and Lillian Boyer pioneered the inaugural Lexington Council of the Arts. These women sparked and nurtured a concept that 50 years later would be a rich, diverse, vibrant - and necessary - component of our social ecosystem. Things got even better when, in 1985, Lexington adopted a United Arts Fund platform and began major fundraising on an annual basis to financially support the burgeoning but underfunded arts organizations that were the cornerstones of the arts in our community. Organizations like the Lexington Philharmonic, Lexington Children’s Theatre, Living Arts & Science Center and Central Kentucky Youth Orchestras had been active for many years prior. However, with an organization to fundraise on their behalf, they could do what they do best—create. Today, LexArts is your combined United Arts Fund and Lexington’s official local arts agency serving the citizens of Lexington and Central Kentucky. And today, funding for the arts remains critical. Perhaps now more than ever. Funding allows an organization to turn on its lights. Funding pays the salaries of the hundreds of Lexingtonians in our creative industries. Funding allows many school children to experience a professional arts performance for the first time, maybe the only time. Funding supports the creative efforts of artists who make Lexington a better place to live - who contribute to the livability of our beautiful city - on a daily basis. Imagine, if you can, our city without art. Just close your eyes and imagine. The arts are an invaluable element of our society. They are the lifeblood that brings a community together. They are a vehicle to help educate our youth. They engage us in conversation. They entertain. CONTINUED NEXT PAGE

All of this is possible because of you. Over the past 35-plus years, your generous commitment to the Fund for the Arts has helped LexArts raise over $35 million to support the social and cultural fabric of our community. “The attention that LexArts brings to the arts in central Kentucky is much more than any of us can do on our own,” said Allison Kaiser, executive director of the Lexington Philharmonic. “And it gives us a place and a way to come together as an arts community. The money the Lexington Philharmonic receives from LexArts Annual Campaign goes towards producing eight to ten large scale orchestral productions and helps to fund LexPhil’s educational and over $35 million to community engagement support the social programs throughout the region.

and cultural fabric

“Region-wide fundraising requires a dedicated infrastructure, and none of our individual arts organizations can do alone hat Lex rts can o collectively aiser continue .

of our community

Lexington hilharmonic is one of five eneral Operating Support Partners - those who receive substantial unrestricted funds to be used at their iscretion. ther artners inclu e Lexington Children’s Theatre, Living Arts & Science Center, Central Kentucky Youth Orchestras and Carnegie Center for Literacy and Learning. These organizations have been integral elements of the arts in Lexington for decades and LexArts support over the years has been tantamount to their success. “It’s so wonderful to watch LexArts’ campaign grow from year to year, sai melia roetsch, executive director of Central Kentucky Youth Orchestras. “Just the rebranding they did a few years ago has been a great springboard to get the conversation happening.

It’s important for the community to see that the creative voices of our youth are also being heard – loud and clear.” Equally important are LexArts’ Community Arts Development grants. CAD Program Grants are made to arts and cultural organizations with a demonstrated history of providing community-focused programs with a high level of community impact. Programs may include festivals, a series of visual art exhibitions or a performing arts series that may include music, theatre, dance and spoken word. And while these CAD funds are not intended to be unrestricted, that says nothing of the artistic process. According to a recent grant recipient, LexArts funding gives an organization an “unrestricted ability to be creative and expressive.” Through a very transparent and bureaucratic vetting process, each grant application is subjected to a rigorous assessment by both a peer review panel and the LexArts Grants Committee. The grants are awarded in a tiered system and each applicant must have demonstrated success at a certain level before they are eligible to apply for a higher level of funding. An organization’s demonstrated level of success is what a panel of peer reviewers, including a professional from outside Lexington, along with the LexArts Grants Committee, considers each year as applications for the following year’s funding are examined. Resting on laurels is ill-advised and the reason is simple. Lex rts is only a ste ar of the financial resources contributed by you and nearly 1,000 other donors every year. The funds raised through the annual campaign belong to the community and LexArts is charged with awarding grants to the most deserving organizations those with great artistic impact on the greatest number of people.

CONTINUED NEXT PAGE

Last year, Lex rts’ annual campaign raise , , to support both operating an community arts evelopment grants, as ell as extensive community arts programming, an the goal is al ays to eclipse that number. Lex rts presi ent an chief executive officer me eetall says because Lex rts can continue to achieve a higher goal each year, it sho s ho important arts are to our area.

with over 300 artists, none of it happens without all the things that aren’t seen. LexArts’ support is a huge help being able to do a better job with artistic offerings.” hose offerings are in large part the first an only exposure to the arts for many.

“We can be optimistic because more and more wonderful arts organizations are emerging and gro ing. eople are i entifying Lexington as an artful place, here arts are part of our civic i entity, eetall sai . hese are things e’re prou of an efine ho e are as a city, county an region.

According to Lori Halligan of the Living Arts and Science Center, “The overall mission at Living Arts and Science Center is to inspire participation in the arts and sciences for all. We emphasize accessible lifelong learning for everyone, regardless of economic status, age, gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, isability or religion. The generous funding we receive from LexArts allows us to focus on meeting the nee s in our community. bility to pay for a camp or class shoul never be a deterrent to participation.”

aiser sai the money the Lexington hilharmonic receives not only goes to ar s pro ucing the eight to stage pro uctions a year, but also fun s the group’s educational program, which is visible throughout the region.

Lexington Children’s Theater managing director Rachel ay sai the , they get through Lex rts helps keep costs low for programs such as Theater Explorers at area elementary schools as ell as being able to charge area schools less for theater performances.

“But none of this happens without the background infrastructure, she sai . hen you or ith not only our core members, but in the course of a year

ho s e charge for a public performance, e can charge . for schools. n it’s such a broa au ience. o, it really ta es the fun raising pressure off us, ay

said. “We earn 65 percent of what we need every year and we have to raise the rest. LexArts’ support makes that possible for us.” Being able to charge less to students also has the a e benefit of intro ucing a ne generation to the arts, thereby building a future donor and patron base. “Lexington Children’s Theatre is excited to provide many young people ith their first theatre experience, said producing artistic director, Jeremy Kisling. “We are working to provide productions where young people see themselves onstage, using the arts to create empathic, intelligent, and creative human beings.” t’s not ust the beneficiaries of the fun ing that celebrate the campaign. Jeremy Bates with Bates Security and a several-years-long member of the campaign’s individual donations committee calls himself the “poster child” for the campaign and was glad to be a part of it on the fundraising end. “I learned how to play cello through public schools and

got involved in the Central Kentucky Youth Orchestras as child through senior year high school,” he said. “And I ended up critical thinking skills I otherwise would not have been afforded. That would not have happened without LexArts funding of the youth orchestra.” It’s also important to introduce the campaign to new potential onors, sho ing them the benefits of supporting the arts in Lexington and central Kentucky. “My friends support the arts by attending performances, but there are better ways to support the arts across the board,” Bates said. “Individuals who would make good donors are unaware of the campaign. I’m shocked at the number of individuals who don’t give to the arts campaign, and I think that’s a big miss.” Of course, an investment in the local arts also means an investment in local business, Sweetall said. CONTINUED NEXT PAGE

POWERED UP Thanks to LexArts and PNC, discovering the arts in Lexington is getting a lot easier! The LexArts App is a one-stop tool for locating gallery shows, theater and musical performances, public art installations, and cultural events, bringing together information from participating arts organizations and the general public. Art lovers can create a personal profile in the LexArts App and enable notifications for future events, staying in-the-know about what’s going on at their favorite organizations and venues. The app also makes it easy to discover something new and provides a place for anyone to promote their arts or cultural events. Users can easily submit an event that, once approved, will be visible to everyone on this collaborative calendar. “In building this app, our vision was to bring

together information about all the cultural amenities Lexington has to offer and ultimately provide a free comprehensive resource for Lexingtonians and visitors alike,” said Ame Sweetall,

LexArts president and CEO. “We recognize the breadth and depth of Lexington’s cultural offerings and have designed an inclusive resource where all local arts organizations are represented.” Created just in time for Horse Mania 2022, the app’s mapping feature provides a visual guide to the sculptures. Fans of Horse Mania will have a great time locating and visiting all of this year’s fabulous creations. The integrated map will be a favored feature of public art enthusiasts as Lexington’s diverse collection of sculptures and internationally recognized murals are added to the app. Development of the LexArts App was funded by PNC Bank. A longtime LexArts collaborator, PNC has provided hundreds of thousands of dollars in funding over the past 35 years to the arts in Lexington. The app launch is a part of LexArts’ 50th anniversary celebration. The app is available beginning May 10 on iOS and Android devices.

Available

MAY 10

Since the first Horse Mania horses appeared in 2000, the program has captured the hearts and the imaginations of Lexington residents and visitors alike. Revived in 2010, Horse Mania was scheduled to return in 2020, but was put on hold due to the coronavirus pandemic. LexArts President and CEO Ame Sweetall said, “It was disappointing, but when we found out the Breeder’s Cup would be back in Lexington at the same time as LexArts 50th anniversary, it was perfect.”

More than 200 ARTISTS submitted over 400 DESIGNS for Horse Mania, which is presented by Keeneland and Maker’s Mark. The completed horses will be isplaye for the first time at a public preview event at ASHLAND, THE HENRY CLAY ESTATE, on JUNE 17-18. The horses will then be displayed throughout the city until once again being gathered at Keeneland for auction this fall. Horse Mania 2022 includes three special projects. Horse Play, underwritten by the Kloiber Foundation, allows every Fayette County school the opportunity to create its own horse or foal. In addition, the Horse Play program includes a unique internship program that allows high school students to work in the program, both in an artistic capacity and an administrative capacity. At the end of the display period, the foals will also be auctioned at Keeneland, with proceeds benefiting arts e ucation initiatives. Once again, each of Lexington’s Sister Cities will be represented by a Horse Mania horse. Artists from Kildare, Ireland, Newmarket, England, and Deauville, France have been chosen by their respective cities to design and create horses that best showcase their city. These artists will visit Lexington in June to create their horses. Due to ongoing pandemic restrictions in Japan, the horse representing Shinhidaka will be designed

and created by a local Japanese artist. All of the Sister Cities horses will be publicly displayed surrounding the ister ities ayfin ing sign in the tephens ourthouse Plaza and will be included in the auction. New this year is a collaboration with Independence Bank to support the healing efforts in communities affected by December’s deadly tornadoes in Western Kentucky. Students from Graves, Hopkins, and Warren Counties came to Lexington to work with local artists Jerielle Hanlon, Lennon Michalski and De Selby on three very special horses. These three horses were unveiled by Governor Andy Beshear at a special ceremony in the rotunda of the Kentucky State Capitol. Each horse will travel to the representative home ounties for a public display, then return to Lexington for orse ania an finally will be auctioned at Keeneland. Horse Mania, as in the past, promises to delight, inspire, and bring joy to the Bluegrass!

HORSE MANIA UNDERWRITTEN BY

Tickets on sale now at

ArtyPartyLex.com As a means of raising additional funds outside of the annual Fund for the Arts campaign, LexArts created a unique season of experiences for ticket-purchasing guests to attend. Since its establishment in 2015, scores of hosts and guests have entertained and been entertained at a LexArts Arty Party.

Now in its sixth successful season after a two-year hiatus, Arty Parties has raised in excess of $350,000. Each season of parties offers a wide selection of venues, menus, themes and entertainment to appeal to a wide range of tastes. View previous parties at ArtyPartyLex.com.

2022 CALENDAR

April 11 Martini Monday

6:3O - 9:3O pm | Central Bank Center

April 23 A Culinary Adventure Celebrating Arts Education 5 - 8 pm | The Pittman Home

May 14 Samba on Short

7 pm | Short Street

May 18 A Peek Behind the Curtain

6 - 8:3O pm | Lyric Theatre & Cultural Arts Center

May 20 Dinner with Collectors

7 pm | Home of Gay Reading & John Martin

June 1

Cocktails with the Contessa

June 4

Halcyon Days

June 8

A Blast from Lexington’s Past

5:3O - 7 pm | The Loudoun House at Castlewood Park 7 pm | Halcyon

6:3O pm | Limestone Hall

June 11 Drag Me To Brunch 1O - 1 pm | Base 249

Re d Barn er Burn

June 12 Red Barn Burner Block Party 2 - 8 pm | ArtsPlace

June 14 | The Big Easy

6 - 9 pm | Creaux

June 24 Picnic in The Park

6 - 9 pm | The Loudoun House at Castlewood Park

Buy your tickets to day.

ArtyPartyLex.com

Pick Your 1

Palette! There's no better way to make your eyes sparkle than with a stunning shimmery eyeshadow. While we love the dazzling art of glitter year-round, there's something extra magical about a little lid and body twinkle as the weather heats up. If you're looking for the perfect way to shine, we're sharing some of our favorite shadows from intense glittery goodness, to subtle shimmer.

1: PAT McGRATH LABS Mothership IX Eyeshadow Palette: Huetopian Dream | $125 | Sephora The Mother of makeup herself Pat McGrath is a celebrity makeup artist favorite when it comes to her stunning eye palettes. The quality and dimension of her formulas cannot be matched. They are on the pricier side, but due to their long-wearing performance and luxury packaging they are well worth every penny. 2: NARS Summer Unrated Eyeshadow Palette | $59 | Nordstrom, Ulta This gorgeous palette mixes mattes and shimmers for a spicy look that will carry you through the warm weather months. 3: PATRICK TA Major Dimension II Rose Eyeshadow Palette | $68 | Sephora Patrick Ta's brand new Major Dimension Rose palette features a variety of rich mattes, velvety creams and light-catching pressed shimmers. Pro tip: for extra oomph we recommend using a glitter glue on the lid and applying with your fingertip to really bring the sparkle. 4: MAKEUP BY MARIO Master Crystal Reflector | $24 | Sephora Kim K's world famous, longtime makeup artist Mario Dedivanovic has found great success in his Makeup By Mario line. We especially love the buildable glistening sheen his Crystal Reflector toppers can give to both the eyes, face and body. 5: Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Palette of Pops Luxury Eyeshadow Quad | $53 | Nordstrom, Sephora Charlotte Tilbury's shimmers are often seen on the red carpet due to their silky sheen and diamond-like sparkle. The palette of pops gives a variety of mixable and buildable shadows prefect for special occasions. 6: Nabla Glorious Light Glitter Palette | $25 | Ulta.com Nebula's Glorious Lights palette will have glitter lovers jumping for joy. These beautiful shades are full of endless magnetic and chameleonic reflects with a trichrome accent.

JESSE L. BROOKS, GETTINGGORJESS.COM

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OUT + Events ABOUT

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submitted by Rachel Hensley

submitted by Matt Blackburn

submitted by Jaycea Frederick

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photo by Geof Addison

photo by Carolyn Vorisek

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Events

ANNUAL FARMLAND CONSERVATION AUCTION Fasig-Tipton | April 13 bluegrassconservancy.org Photos by Paul Atkinson

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Sue Van Patton and Steve South

Brutus Clay and Sara Clay

Stephen B Davis and Seth Davis

Joel Turner and Wayne Lyster

Luke Fallon and Nancy Fallon

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Maynard Ferguson and Ashley Greathouse

Will Adams

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Earl Robbins and Ashley Robbins

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Events

APPALACHIAN ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT AWARDS

Hosts Tre Twitty & Tayla Lynn

Mountain Arts Center | April 9 appalachianartsandentertainmentawards.com Photos by Dalton Stevens Photography & Megan Gobal Photography

Best Guitarist Winner Cody Lee Meece

Holly Forbes Performing

Community Arts & Entertainment Award Winner Jonathan Webb

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Favorite TV Personality Winner Lacey Roberts

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Events KEENELAND SPRING MEET Keeneland keeneland.com Photos by Woody Phillips & Dr. Michael Huang

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Charles Boston, Maria Boston, Joan Boston, Allison Boston and Peter Boston

Sterling Jones and Rebekah Jones

Kim Sweazy, Kim Ogle, Susan Elkington, Bridget Partin, Karen Hendren and Justin Posey

Tiffany Brown and Joe Frazier

Sylvia Reed, Missy Meade, Beth Bryant, Krissy Greer and Tammy Pennington

TOPS in Lexington | May 2022

Jess Marez, Logan Martin, Jess Millett, Nia Garth, Chandler Martin, Elise Ketz and Courtland Cook

Jon Wilson and Caitlyn Schlaudecker

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STUDIO46MEDIA.COM

May 2022 | TOPSinLex.com

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Events TOPS LEADERS PREVIEW PARTY Mane on Main | March 31 topsinlex.com Photos by Woody Phillips

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Alpha Financial

Adam Stiles and Casey Mudd

Cathy Davis with her daughters

Ben Pickett and Tiffany Pickett

Allyson Mattingly, Jennifer Baker, Megan Martin, Fran Elsen, Townes Rawles, Joseph Yarber, Rachel Droege, Jayme Jackson and Vicki Evans

TOPS in Lexington | May 2022

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Events LEXINGTON DREAM FACTORY GALA Central Bank Center | April 23 lexingtondreamfactory.org Photos by Woody Phillips

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Dr. Curtis Koons, Julie McDaniels and Dr. John Blackburn

Brock Howard and Kristen Pflum

Joyce Rose, Sheila Kalas, Braxton Crenshaw, Beth Crenshaw and Larry Roberts

Chris Powell and Suzanne Powell

Dr. John Ragsdale, Dr. Lindsay Ragsdale, Dr. Callie Rzasa and Krik Rzasa

TOPS in Lexington | May 2022

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Events LEXINGTON DREAM FACTORY GALA Central Bank Center | April 23 lexingtondreamfactory.org Photos by Woody Phillips

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Mindy Seeberger, Liv Prather and Morgan Dezarn

Lex Sykes and Mackenzie Gates

Susan Coldiron, Ralph Coldiron, Carol Russell and Jack Russell

Luke Morgan and Lou Anna Red Corn

Jordan Counts, Taylor Counts, Ashlee Melnyk and Greg Melnyk

TOPS in Lexington | May 2022

LEXINGTON | 859.268.2410 | 997 Governors Lane NICHOLASVILLE | 859.724.4180 | 104 Springdale Drive

May 2022 | TOPSinLex.com

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James LAST VanMeter BIT E: Stroganoff One of my

favorite steak meals growing up was Beef Stroganoff. It wasn’t until I started my butcher shop that I thought about it again, though. When we decided to promote different recipes, I knew this was one of the first I wanted to share. This recipe is a twist on the one I had growing up. I do not know the exact way my mother made her's, but this is a really good one – and I feel like it is worth sharing! - Rudy Leake

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INGREDIENT S:

MET HOD:

10 oz Certified Angus Beef tenderloin cut into cubes 1/2 stick VMJ Truffe butter 1 cup sweet onion, chopped 1/2 pound gourmet mushroom blend sliced, stems removed 1 cup good quality Milk 1 cup beef broth stock 2 tsp. VMJ flour 1 tsp. Red wine vinegar 1/2 cup Sour cream 1/2 tsp. Regular Salt 1/4 black pepper

Heat up a saucepan and melt the butter. Brown the meat on all sides to desired doneness. Remove the meat from the skillet and add in the onions and mushrooms into the drippings, then cook until transparent. Add in the flour and stir well, then add in milk and whisk to avoid lumps. Add in salt and pepper, sour cream and vinegar. Blend together a third of the mix in the food processor or hand mixer. Combine the two mixtures together. Spread over your favorite egg noodles (prepared according to package instructions.) Top with additional sour cream and chives.

May 2022 | TOPS in Lexington

TOP HOT S of the Month by Bill French Photography in Lexington on 4/19/22 If you would like to be considered for the TOP Shot of the Month, please send your high-resolution photo to fran@topsmarketing.com! 208

May 2022 | TOPS in Lexington

TOPS Lexington May 2022

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