THE SHOP LOCAL ISSUE WILDLINGS BOOKSHOP, L.V. HARKNESS, HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE & MORE! RECIPE FOR SUCCESS RESTAURATEUR ILIAS PAPPAS
Small-Business Spotlight
Known for wedding registries, equestrian trophies and elevated gift items, L.V. Harkness celebrates 25 years
Recipe for Success
From food truck to franchise, a look at how Greek restaurateur Illias Pappas has grown his brand over the past decade and a half
Building A Creative Commons
ArtFarm provides a new cooperative space for making, gathering and mutual aid
Wildlings Bookshop A new children’s bookstore tucked inside the Kenwick neighborhood market Wilson’s Grocery
We head inside the kitchen with Ouita Michel and one of her biggest fans to provide a trio of holiday recipes
November tadoo List
Lexington’s best art exhibits, performances and other local haps taking place this month
Nick S. Morrow, DMD W. Scott Jenkins, DMD, MD
Matthew N. Gayheart, DMD, MD
Contributors
Michelle Aiello is a Chicago-born writer, editor and indie publisher. Her interests include living room karaoke, snail mail and all things vintage. She contributes to our monthly “tadoo list” (our calendar of cultural happenings, page 53).
Smiley Pete contributor Shannon Clinton (“Craveworthy,” page 7, and “Recipe for Success,” page 23) is an Elizabethtown native who now lives in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky. A graduate of Western Kentucky University’s journalism program, she has been a full-time freelance writer for 21 years for publications across the Southeast. When she’s not writing, you can find her tending to her collections of vintage Pyrex and hot sauce.
With a passion for live music and Appalachia, Madylin Goins (photography for “Recipe for Success,” “On Our Table” and “Building a Creative Commons”) is a Lexington-based journalist and photographer committed to promoting artists and the stories that keep the hills alive.
Fascinated by the elements that build the culture of a community, Brent Owen (“Small-Business Spotlight: Wildlings Bookshop,” page 12) has contributed to a variety of publications over the past two decades, including Kentucky Monthly, LEO Weekly and Voice-Tribune.
Tanzi Merritt (“Small-Business Spotlight: L.V. Harkness,” page 8, and “Building a Creative Commons,” page 47) is a writer and marketing and communications professional born and raised in Lexington. Passionate about her cats and plants, she can often be found stirring up dust in her 120-year-old downtown home, deeply absorbed in a documentary, or with her nose stuck in a murder mystery.■
PUBLISHER: CHRIS EDDIE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: SARAYA BREWER
COPY EDITOR: NIKOLE CHRISTENSEN ART DIRECTOR: DREW PURCELL
SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES: AMY EDDIE, DONNA HODSDON, ANN STATON
SALES MANAGER: EMILY MARKS EVENTS DIRECTOR: AMY EDDIE
Dr. Danny Steckler
CIVIC CONNECTIONS
Shopping Local
BY TYLER MORTON DISTRICT 1 COUNCILMEMBER
In Lexington’s 1st District, small businesses aren’t just part of the economy — they are the economy. From the buzz of Greyline Station to the creative energy of The MET on Midland, the small businesses are the heartbeat of a community built by neighbors who believe in their craft, their culture and each other.
Once a 1920s bus depot, Greyline Station has been reborn into one of Lexington’s most vibrant community spaces. Every business inside is locally owned and operated, creating a one-stop destination for food, art, retail and connection. Patrons can savor the flavors of Dominican or Ethiopian cuisine at one of the pop-up culinary stands, or treat themselves to a fresh pretzel, wings, gourmet popcorn or a healthy meal The building also houses RadioLex, Lexington’s community radio station, and The Market Kitchen, where many local food entrepreneurs get their start. Recently, Chocolate Holler joined the lineup, bringing sweet treats and local love to the mix. Also inside, Bespoken Spirits is a local bourbon distillery that’s putting District 1 on the map in Kentucky’s signature industry.
Just down the road, The MET (an acronym for cross streets Midland and East Third) continues that same spirit of community-driven growth. It’s home to DV8 Kitchen, a restaurant that helps individuals in recovery rebuild their lives through meaningful work and career development, as well as ArtHouse Kentucky, which provides space for local artists and small makers to create, sell and showcase their products. The ground floor also features a mix of locally-owned businesses, that reflect the creativity and resilience of our district.
District 1 is one of Lexington’s most diverse and unique areas. Every neighborhood — Winburn, East End, Castlewood, Pralltown and beyond — is home to small businesses that reflect its residents. From tucked-away family-owned Mexican grocery stores, to neighborhood barbershops and ice cream parlors that have served families for generations, these hidden gems bring color and connection to our community every day.
Why Buying Local Matters
When we shop local, we are investing in our own future. Every dollar spent in a locally-owned business circulates right back into Lexington: creating jobs, supporting schools and strengthening neighborhoods. Local entrepreneurs sponsor youth sports, donate to local causes and show up when our community needs them.
Supporting small businesses is about more than convenience, it’s about community care. It’s how we make sure Lexington’s growth remains grounded in people, not just projects.n
MORTON
For 25 years, L.V. Harkness has o ered heirloom-quality china, silverware, fine collectibles and other elevated home and gift items.
PHOTO FURNISHED
SMALL-BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
L.V. HARKNESS
STORY BY TANZI MERRITT
From Big Blue Nation to the Bourbon Trail, Lexington has its share of traditions — but perhaps none as long-standing as the city’s deep connection to horse culture. For the past 25 years, another tradition for many Lexingtonians has been the purchase of heirloom-quality china, silver, and fine collectibles from L.V. Harkness, a family-owned boutique known for wedding registries, equestrian trophies and custom-engraving services.
Founded in 2000 by Meg Jewett, a fourth-generation steward of her family’s historic farm, Walnut Hall, L.V. Harkness is named after Jewett’s great-grandfather, Lamon Vanderberg Harkness. Harkness, who was one of the largest investors in Standard Oil, established Walnut Hall in 1892 and became a successful breeder of Standardbred horses. His family, however, remembers him as a collector of one-of-a-kind treasures from around the world. This passion for collecting has passed through the generations, with Meg’s daughter-in-law, Jennifer Jewett, taking over operations at L.V. Harkness, making some changes while honoring the store’s established traditions.
At the top of that list of adjustments is that she wants to make the store more “shoppable” for more people.
Jennifer Jewett now leads L.V. Harkness, the family-owned boutique her mother-in-law founded in 2000. The downtown Lexington shop is known for its wedding registries, equestrian trophies and custom engraving.
PHOTO FURNISHED
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DESIGN BUILD MAINTAIN
WINTER’ S WORK
BECOME S SPRING’ S REWARD
“Instead of just being a place to register for wedding gifts, I want you to be able to come in every week and find something small for yourself or your home,” Jennifer Jewett said. “A large part of that has been updating the inventory and the types of products we carry — for example, we added clothing items from Barbour, which is a fun brand to have. We have more personal and daily use items as well. And I used to be a chef and I love cooking, so I’ve expanded our selection of kitchen items.”
Even with a shift toward the more everyday, L.V. Harkness remains a place where couples can register for unique items or shoppers can purchase special gifts from brands that can’t be found anywhere else in Lexington. Jewelry, candles, toys, bedding, perfume, clothing and home décor exist alongside an extensive selection of fine china, crystal, silver and limited edition collectibles.
“We carry a number of brands that can’t be found in any other store locally — Meissen china, everyday tableware by Juliska, and Herend porcelain are just a few,” said Jewett.
She added, “Meg created such a great store with so many amazing brands, so we are revisiting those brands and updating our inventory based on their new product lines and colors. We are committed to honoring the strong relationships she built.”
L.V. Harkness continues to do a great deal of business in trophies and corporate gifts, engraving on both glass and silver.
“We do lots of horse racing trophies,” Jewett said. “We do trophy business all over the world, but also a lot locally. We also do a lot of corporate gifts. We do some beautiful work, and we do all engraving and personalization in house, so our turnaround time is very quick.”
As the store continues to celebrate its 25th anniversary, L.V. Harkness is planning to extend its annual holiday open house and sale in December to a full week this year (Dec. 9-13).
“We’ll have a lot of fun that week, with special vendors popping by, food and drinks, and other surprises,” Jewett said.
“We carry a number of brands that can't be found in any other store locally — Meissen china, everyday tableware by Juliska and Herend porcelain are just a few.”
JENNIFER JEWETT, L.V. HARKNESS OWNER AND OPERATOR
Jewett, who grew up in Los Angeles, acknowledges that moving to Lexington has been an adjustment for her family, which includes her husband, Harky, and their two sons. The family now resides at Walnut Hall, running the farm as well as L.V. Harkness.
Though life is now very different, the adjustment has ultimately been positive.
“There are so many things that we found here that we love and the scenery is gorgeous. There's no such thing as a season in L.A., so we’ve really enjoyed things like that. I also think my kids are a little bit happier here. It's a much different way of life,” she said.
Jewett continues to imagine new ways to keep inventory fresh and grow the customer base while not losing sight of the traditions of L.V. Harkness.
Updating the store’s website to allow for online ordering for the first time in its history was one of the first changes she made, and future plans include refurbishing the shop’s rooftop, which at one time contained a garden designed by famed Kentucky garden designer Jon Carloftis.
“I’m committed,” said Jewett with a laugh. “I want everyone to feel like there's something for them here.” n
Wildlings Book Shop, a family-owned children's book store, opened inside the Kenwick neighborhood market Wilson's Grocery in August.
PHOTO BY EMILY GIANCARLO
SMALL-BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
WILDLINGS BOOKSHOP
STORY BY BRENT OWEN PHOTOS BY EMILY GIANCARLO
Cradled in Lexington’s Kenwick neighbor hood, where Cramer Avenue and Victory Avenue meet, Wilson’s Grocery has been a neighborhood staple for three decades, though the building has anchored the corner since 1928.
Matt and Jill Bastin took ownership of the market in 2023. Matt runs the store, keeping the market stocked with a curated selection of sundries while also keeping the deli’s reputation for simple but hearty lunch sandwiches alive. Along the store shelves are familiar grocery finds, with names like Lays, JIF or Coca-Cola — side-by-side with a selection of local and regional offerings, like Sunrise Bakery bread, Honeyshine Pies, Grippo’s chips and Ale-8-One. A loyal lunch crowd keeps the grocery bustling daily.
The Greek classics you crave. The dining experience you deserve. Welcome to dinner at Athenian Grill.
Initially, Jill focused on her career in commercial interior design while Matt ran things at Wilson’s. But around the end of last year, she started thinking about how to blend her own passion with the energy Matt was cultivating around the store.
“It was not initially my intention to open a second business inside Wilson’s,” she said. “But about a year ago the idea started to percolate a bit, that it might be fun to do something different.”
She needed an idea that could fit nicely in an unused nook of the store and that also felt at home in the area. Inspired by the energy of the neighborhood and conversations with friends and neighbors, Jill eventually set out to open a children’s bookshop called Wildling’s Bookshop inside Wilson’s Grocery.
“Parents need places they can take their kids,” she says of her choice to lean into children’s literature. “I don’t mean places they can just take them — they need places where their children feel welcome. And from a business standpoint, kids’ books are a segment of the [book] industry that continues to grow, while other segments are kind of up and down.”
With that in mind, Jill set out to build a space that invites visitors to slow down, step out of their busy lives, and enter a world that’s silly, cozy and rife for discovery. Once she had the place and the idea, the next step was the momentous task of deciding which books to carry.
Combining traditional cooking techniques with modern innovation, we provide an elevated Greek dining experience. Now with table service at our new beloved brick-and-mortar establishment in Lexington. Welcome to dinner at Athenian Grill.
Beer, wine & liquor menu available.
The store’s space being limited, she knew her inventory needed to be very specialized. After months of research and starting with a list of 3,000 books, Jill eventually whittled it down to a carefully curated selection of approximately 1,600 titles. “I wanted the books to be diverse, inclusive,” Jill says about the daunting task of deciding what to stock on her shelves. “I was trying to make a collection that would be a little curious and a little eclectic.”
It took the better part of a year to bring “the store, inside a store” to life, officially opening to the public in August of this year. In just a few months the response has been enthusiastic, with steady foot traffic and plenty of curious browsers.
Though Wildlings is confined to a small space, Jill’s background in interior design ensures that her shop feels welcoming rather than cramped. Shelves feature everything from board books and picture books to chapter books and comic books. Ageless classics sit comfortably beside modern favorites. There are nonfiction and interactive titles, as well as novels for young adults. And she’s even stocked a few books in the back corner for the adults her young readers bring with them.
“I know things are different than when I grew up,” Jill admitted, “but I can’t be alone in the belief that the feeling of a book in a kid’s hand is infinitely better than a tablet or an e-reader. The experience of a parent and child sitting down with a book, feeling the paper, lost in the illustrations, that will never be replaced. That’s not even to mention how important it is to a child’s development.”
inventory features everything from board books and picture books to chapter books and comic books.
The curated
PHOTOS BY EMILY GIANCARLO
She remembers “The Monster at the End of this Book” and “Where the Wild Things Are,” by Jon Stone and Maurice Sendak, respectively, as being personal favorites growing up. She pointed out books by Phoebe Wall, Oge Mora and Matt Barnett, which all adorn the shelves of her store, as newer works that have resonated with her.
As Wildlings finds its footing, Jill plans to partner with other local like-minded businesses that focus on passions similar to her own, such as reading, making art, music and play. She is building a partnership with ArtPlay Children’s Studios for craft kits, and she recently had a “banned book” event in partnership with Libro.fm, complete with readings and give aways.
Even in solidarity with other local businesses, it’s still daunting to be the proprietor of an independent retail shop in the age of mega stores, Amazon, and free
2-day shipping. “It did seem like independent bookstores were disappearing there for a while,” Jill recalls, lamenting the closing of local staple Morris Book Shop. “It felt to me like the community, me included, was mourning the loss of those neighborhood bookstores, as though they were a thing of the past.”
She notes that her books cost a few dollars more than corporate competitors, because books carry notoriously low profit margins. Giant retailers like Amazon and Walmart can a ord to undercut those low margins for a loss, to increase sales of higher cost items elsewhere. It is a corporate practice that all shoppers have found appealing at some point.
What often goes unseen, Jill noted, is how much more local spending benefits the local community. According to the American Independent Business Alliance, 48% of
each dollar spent at an independent business stays in the community, compared to just 14% when spent at a corporate chain.
The last few months have seen nothing but enthusiasm from people stopping in.
“I think our neighbors sense a positive energy when they feel like they’re an active part of the community,” Jill said. "I feel lucky to be among them, and hopefully guide their little ones toward big ideas.”
Jill and her little shop of Wildlings are a gentle reminder to all that there is power in books and community; and that the finest things are found in unexpected places. So, next time you’re in the Kenwick neighborhood, stop in the grocery on the corner. And check out the nook in the back. That’s where you’ll find all the joy and imagination of childhood, waiting to be set free from the shelf. ■
Wildlings Book Shop owner Jill Bastin
PHOTO BY EMILY GIANCARLO
Smiley Pete’s
Holiday Gift Guide
1. Very Merry Bow Taper Holders
Perfect for lighting up any table during the holidays
Interior Yardage
303 Southland Drive • interioryardage.com
Specializing in home decor and holiday gift items, plus custom drapery, bedding and valances in an array of fabrics.
2. Haflinger Katze Slippers
Signature boiled wool upper with felt insole lining
John’s Run/Walk Shop
317 S. Ashland Ave. • 3735 Palomar Centre Dr. 3090 Helmsdale Pl. • johnsrunwalkshop.com
Lexington’s family-owned running, walking and lifestyle footwear store since 1978
3. Wisebird Cider
Kentucky handcrafted cider — Wise Bird ships to over 44 states! (Bottles range from $18-29)
Wise Bird Cider Co.
1170 Manchester St. #140 • www.wisebirdcider.com
4. Dolly Parton Felt Ornament
Every tree needs a little Dolly!
Lucia’s
328 N. Ashland Ave. • www.luciasworldemporium.com
Lexington’s Fair Trade marketplace, o ering ethically made clothing, jewelry and decor, as well as holiday gifts
5. Gameday Scarf Necklaces
Scarf bandana with a charm pendant necklace
Peggy’s Gifts
112 Clay Ave.• peggysgifts.com
A charming boutique o ering curated collections of stylish clothing, accessories, home decor and distinctive gifts.
6. Estate grown Vidal Blanc
Bright and crisp with apple, pear, and citrus — perfect with turkey and holiday cheer.
Talon Winery
7086 Tates Creek Road (Lexington) • 400 Gordon Lane (Shelbyville) • talonwine.com
Now in its 26th year of operations, Talon winery has long been one of the region’s most thriving vineyards.
7. Homecourt Home and Beauty Products
Luxurious, non-toxic, vegan and eco-friendly home and beauty products, founded by Courtney Cox
LV Harkness
531 W. Short St. • www.lvharkness.com
A collection of distinctive pieces from around the world. Transform your home with pieces for every occasion.
8. Deeply Hydrating Universal Cream
Multi-purpose, multi-care cream with an advanced Hyaluronic Acid Trio to deliver long-lasting hydration
Merle Norman Cosmetic Studio & Boutique
312 S. Ashland Ave.
A gift boutique o ering a full line of makeup, skin care, ladies apparel and specialty items not found in department stores.
9. Handmade by Survivors: Awaken Joy Collection
Scented soap, candle and bath salts
Greenhouse17
GreenHouse17.org/handmade-by-survivors. Every purchase nurtures the lives of survivors of intimate partner abuse.
10. Mova Globe Roving Tabletop Globes
Perfect for any nature or travel lover!
Worlds Apart
850 E. High St. • worldsapartlex.com
Your destination for seasonally inspired clothing plus home goods, accessories and unique gift items.
Smiley Pete’s
Holiday Gift Guide
11. Cabernet Sauvignon
Bold and smooth with dark cherry, blackberry and oak spice, for pairing with cozy winter dishes
Talon Winery
7086 Tates Creek Road (Lexington) • 400 Gordon Lane (Shelbyville) • talonwine.com
Now in its 26th year of operations, Talon winery has long been one of the region’s most thriving vineyards.
12. Fashion Week Eye Duos
Limited edition shades of fiercely pigmented, soft touch shadow in a chic leopard-print case
Merle Norman Cosmetic Studio & Boutique
312 S. Ashland Ave.
A gift boutique o ering a full line of makeup, skin care, ladies apparel and specialty items not found in department stores.
13. Lip Balm Sampler
Five natural lip balms blended with essential oils
Greenhouse17
GreenHouse17.org/handmade-by-survivors. Every purchase nurtures the lives of survivors of intimate partner abuse.
14. Nutcracker “Let’s Get Cracking” Platter
Perfect for serving festive treats at your holiday party
Interior Yardage
303 Southland Drive • interioryardage.com
Specializing in home decor and holiday gift items, plus custom drapery, bedding and valances, in an array of fabrics.
15. Kim Seybert Tabletop Decor
Luxury placemats, napkins, candlesticks and glassware
LV Harkness
531 W. Short St. • www.lvharkness.com
A collection of distinctive pieces from around the world. Transform your home with pieces for every occasion.
16. Hydro Flask Water Bottles
Light and durable insulated stainless steel, in multiple sizes, styles and colors
John’s Run/Walk Shop
317 S. Ashland Ave. • 3735 Palomar Centre Dr. 3090 Helmsdale Pl. • johnsrunwalkshop.com
Lexington’s family-owned running, walking and lifestyle footwear store since 1978
17. Patchwork Kantha Robe
Handcrafted in India from upcycled sari fabrics
328 N. Ashland Ave. • www.luciasworldemporium.com
Lexington’s Fair Trade marketplace, o ering ethically made clothing, jewelry and decor, as well as holiday gifts
18. Frasier Fir Ornament Candle
A classic scent of oak moss, fir needle & cinnamon
Worlds Apart
850 E. High St. • worldsapartlex.com
Your destination for seasonally inspired clothing plus home goods, accessories and unique gift items.
19. Wise Bird Cider Club
Each quarterly shipment includes two bottles of rare, new or exclusive ciders. $45 quarterly.
Wise Bird Cider Co.
1170 Manchester St. #140 • www.wisebirdcider.com
20. E-Newton Gameday bracelets
Gold-filled, worry-free and made to stack
Peggy’s Gifts
112 Clay Ave.• peggysgifts.com
A charming boutique o ering curated collections of stylish clothing, accessories, home decor and distinctive gifts.
FROM FOOD TRUCK TO FRANCHISE, A LOOK AT HOW GREEK RESTAURATEUR
ILIAS PAPPAS HAS GROWN HIS BRAND OVER THE PAST DECADE AND A HALF
The American notion of teenagers having summer jobs was a foreign concept for Lexington restaurateur Ilias Pappas. Pappas, owner of Athenian Grill, grew up in Lamia, Greece, noting that Greeks typically first enter the workforce around age 25.
Not only was the entrepreneur not wanting to wait that long to hit the ground running, he was willing to move to another country to do it.
STORY BY SHANNON CLINTON
PHOTO BY MADYLIN GOINS
Pappas, who describes himself as an active teenager, said while he wanted to play soccer and be involved with other sports, his primary interest was to follow the lead of his parents, who worked really hard to support him and his brother.
“I wanted to work,” he said.
In 1998, Pappas followed in the footsteps of his aunt, Louiza Ouraniou, and moved to Lexington. He started working in her restaurant and others while studying hospitality administration/management at the University of Kentucky.
On her visits back home to Greece, Ouraniou had witnessed her nephew’s potential, and she knew he’d also inherited his grandmother’s love for cooking and its ability to bring people together.
Ouraniou, who notes that Pappas still uses her own special lamb chop marinade in his restaurants, is retired from the restaurant business now, but she stops in often to check on her nephew and enjoy meals from his family of restaurants.
“He is the hardest working person I’ve ever met,” she said. “He cherishes the time we spend together, and also with his wife and son.”
After a couple years at UK, Pappas transferred to Florida International University, where he studied management information systems and business.
“From the beginning, I had a passion for the food, but I also had a passion for the business.”
ILIAS PAPPAS, ATHENIAN GRILL OWNER
“From the beginning, I had passion for the food, but I also had a passion for the business,” he said.
During a decade spent in Miami, Pappas honed his culinary skills and soaked up as much real-life information as he could outside the classroom about the intricacies of the restaurant business, from employers and other experts in the field.
In 2011, he returned to Lexington eager to open his own restaurant. His first step was to open a pop-up Greek food truck serving the local brewery circuit; the following year, he launched a Kickstarter campaign to help fund a brick-andmortar. The first location of Athenian Grill restaurant, opened in 2013, at 313 S. Ashland Ave.
He pre-sold meals to buy the equipment to furnish the restaurant’s kitchen; from there, growth came swiftly and steadily, dish by dish.
One key to Pappas’ success is his ability to continuously reassess operations and make changes as needed. He opened a location at The Summit at Fritz Farm that later closed, and another at Locust Hill, which he later repurposed as a catering kitchen. In 2019, he opened an Athenian Grill location in the Park Plaza apartment complex on East Main Street.
PHOTO FURNISHED
Using traditional recipes from his Greek family, Ilias Pappas started Athenian Grill as a food truck in 2011. The restaurant now has several brick-and-mortars in Lexington.
PHOTO FURNISHED
SOLAR IS DEAD IN 2026
TAKE ADVANTAGE OF 30% TAX CREDIT NOW THROUGH DEC. 31.
The U.S. government’s 30% federal tax credit for installing solar panels or a geothermal heat pump, disappears completely on January 1st, 2026. We’re talking just three months away. If renewable energy has been on your mind, l’d encourage you to at least find out what your options are while you can still get the maximum tax benefits. An energy assessment doesn’t cost anything, but could save you thousands. Call us today.
Ask the Home Services Expert with Jamie Clark
There’s nothing sexy about insulation but it’s one of the most important components of your home that contributes to your comfort and your utility bill, so as we go into the colder months, I thought it appropriate to focus on a couple of our recent questions about home insulation.
Q: My house was built in the 1980’s and I’ve lived here for 10 years and never thought about my insulation in my attic. I assume the home inspector looked at it when I bought the house, but I don’t remember there being an issue about insulation and now I am concerned there may not be enough. How much insulation should I have?
Lauren, Richmond
A: A study by the insulation institute (a real fun group of engineers, I’m sure) discovered that 89% of all US homes are under insulated and do not meet the 2012 building code. That means basically 9 out of every 10 homes are under insulated and when you get into older homes in my experience, it’s more like 99% are under insulated. So, you really should get an inspection on your insulation or at least go up in the attic with a tape measure and measure the depth of your insulation. You want at least 15 inches and Energy star recommends 20 inches (assuming standard fiberglass or cellulose insulation). I was in an attic in the Chevy Chase neighborhood last week that only had 3 inches of attic insulation, and the owner was complaining about their heating bills being over $1000 a month! We will be spray foaming his attic in a couple of weeks and we will see his bills go down by better than 50 percent!
Q: My house is always dusty, and I heard you on the radio saying insulation can cause a dusty house. Can you explain why?
Ray, Kenwick
A: One of the worst phrases I hear people say about homes is “A house needs to breathe.” We’ve known since the 1980’s houses DO NOT NEED TO BREATHE! That’s because when a house breathes it is pulling air, dust, dirt, humidity and other nasty stuff into your home’s indoor air environment. This is one of the reasons our indoor air is 3-5 times dirtier than outdoor air. When your house breathes it pulls a lot of air from your attic and with it comes tiny little fibers of insulation. Those little floating specs of dust you see in the sunbeam coming in the window are likely insulation fibers. When we spray foam encapsulate your attic we vacuum out all the old insulation, and let me tell you, we find some really gross nasty stuff trapped inside that old insulation. A couple of years ago we found a petrified cat! Imagine how that smelled! Our customers regularly report a pretty dramatic decrease in dust after we encapsulate their attic. Not to mention 30%-50% savings on their heating and cooling bills!
Q: When you encapsulate my attic does it cause a lot of mess?
Joe, Lexington
A: Absolutely not!! Our process of attic encapsulation is surgical, meaning we can come in and do the job without hardly any inconvenience to you and your home. We are usually in and out in 1-2 days and when we are done you never even knew we were there, other than being more comfortable and enjoying a huge savings on your heating and cooling bill!
Do you have a question or a concern about insulation? Reach out to us and we can help you stay warm this winter for less! Send your questions or comments to info@mysynergyhome.com.
This summer, he opened Athenian Grill’s newest location, on Mall Road near Fayette Mall. With a similar menu to the Chevy Chase and Park Plaza locations, the new restaurant offers more seating than those locations and allows customers the option of either ordering at the counter or opting for sit-down table service, for a more relaxed dining experience.
Pappas said flexibility is baked into his business philosophy as much as using family recipes and only serving dishes that he personally enjoys eating (knowing that customers will, too). He’s built his menus from recipes that would be served in the homes of his family and friends in Greece, with appetizer items that include Greek sausage, traditional hummus, and spanikopita, and main courses ranging from gyros and falafel to grilled lamb chops, chicken Santorini, and Moussaka, a traditional Greek casserole with eggplant, ground beef, tomato and béchamel sauce. Decadent homemade sweets, like baklava and a Greek orange cake called portokalopita round off the menu.
For the past few years, Pappas’s food dynasty has included University of Kentucky’s Training Table dining facility, which offers football team members meals designed to satisfy their unique nutritional needs for training and performance while also pleasing their palates.
Josh Pruitt, UK’s director of football operations, said the relationship between Pappas and his program began four or five years ago.
“We were just trying to come up with ideas and different things to provide our players that would be something they would enjoy on a daily basis and change on a daily basis,” he said.
With 115-150 hungry athletes to feed two to three times daily, each with distinct dietary needs, Aramark officials proposed that Athenian Grill run the facility’s kitchen as a restaurant of sorts, using its own employees who are held to high standards of prepping, plating and cooking healthy yet tasty options with locally-sourced ingredients and input from sports dieticians.
“Ilias has done a great job of being able to provide that for us for the past couple of years,” Pruitt said.
To make such a vast operation go smoothly, the Athenian Grill staff must work as a unit much like the sports team they serve, with the support of the university and Aramark.
“It’s an extremely large operation on a daily basis,” Pruitt said. “It’s kind of like a Vegas buffet that never stops.”
Pappas said the UK venture gave him confidence to pursue non-Greek concepts even beyond Kentucky’s borders.
PHOTO BY MADYLIN GOINS
Athenian Grill‘s newest location, on Mall Road near Fayette Mall, strikes a chord between casual and upscale, giving patrons the option of sit-down table service or ordering at the counter.
PHOTO BY MADYLIN GOINS
PHOTO FURNISHED
Partnering with hospitality firms like Aramark and Levy Restaurants, his staff now provides food at universities in South Carolina, Tennessee and Ohio. For example, at Miami University in Ohio, he operates a southwestern food ghost kitchen.
A goal for 2026 is for Athenian Grill to enter the Louisville area, followed by expansion into Cincinnati and Indianapolis markets.
Pappas is even taking a bite out of the Big Apple, with Levy having selected him to open an Athenian Grill at the market at Javits Center in New York. A fast casual Greek concept called Yeero Greek Eatery is also set to debut in New York in mid-November.
“We’re pretty proud that a company that started in Lexington, supported by Lexington, has been chosen to be at the Mecca of food,” Pappas said.
With so many local, expanding and far-flung projects, another piece of the spanikopita (Greek pie) for Pappas is to have a chef-driven management style for each restaurant.
And among his roughly 200 employees, Pappas has curated a group of trusted, adept professionals to whom he confidently delegates dayto-day tasks, such as HR, finance, culinary support and more.
“We continue developing the team daily and recruiting,” he said. “I have a team around me focused on the different departments.”
That leaves him time to seek poten-
tial expansion properties and new opportunities, meet with clients, and travel. He visits his various properties as often as possible to check in, especially the local ones.
He also treasures and prioritizes time with family including his son George, 5, and travels back to Greece for a few weeks in the slower early summer season. There, he finds new flavors and inspirations to add to his menus.
Pappas was hesitant to discuss other ventures like real estate, saying they might distract from his primary focus — his culinary career. But just as an entree is enhanced by its side dishes, this restaurateur has made forays into the real estate sector as a co-owner in the Greek luxury home co-ownership firm Owners.gr.
Even with all his successes to date, Pappas, 45, said he faces any challenges by simply focusing on food, its flavor and execution, doing a good job and building something positive, prioritizing results and trying not to take on more than he can handle.
“I call myself a doer. I get things done,” he said. “That’s my focus. We only took on projects that we knew we could do an extremely good job at.”
Pappas expressed deep appreciation for the Lexington community, which he said has been “an incredible support to me and the family.”
“No matter what, I’m always going to be extremely thankful for that,” he said. n
PHOTO FURNISHED Athenian Grill’s menu features gyros, meatballs, Greek sausage, lamb chops, hummus and more.
PHOTO FURNISHED
HENRY’S SWEET CORN HOECAKES
BY
RECIPE
HENRY BOLLINGER AND OUITA MICHEL
PHOTO BY MADYLIN GOINS
BGCF Executive Committee Members Bill Alverson, Lisa Higgins-Hord, Michelle Hollingshead + Daryl Love with BGCF President/CEO Lisa Adkins
This summer, to kick off 250Lex’s culinary month in conjunction with the city’s 250th birthday, Lexington hosted an event billed as “The World’s First Hoecake Hoedown”: a full-blown, no holds barred celebration of the beloved Appalachian cornmeal griddle cake. At that event, which featured chefs Ouita Michel (Holly Hill Co.) and Paula Endara (“Top Chef”), we met Henry Bollinger, a 13-year-old Lexington boy who brought his own hoecake recipe to the party.
With a huge passion for cooking, sustainability, and local ingredients, Henry might just be Ouita Michel’s biggest fan, having taken a huge shine to her approach to cooking when he was introduced to her cookbook “Just A Few Miles South: Timeless Recipes from Our Favorite Places.” Last month, we were able to connect Henry with Michel to cook up some hoecakes — his recipe is a slight riff of hers — side-by-side in the kitchen of Michel’s historic Midway restaurant, Holly Hill Inn.
If you’re looking to add a classic Appalachian twist to your Thanksgiving table or any family dinner, we hope you’ll consider this simple but delicious recipe. Enjoy!
Henry’s Sweet Corn Hoecakes
Ingredients:
• 1 cup self-rising Weisenberger Mills cornmeal
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• ½ tablespoon sugar
• 1 large egg (beaten)
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/3 cup sweet corn kernels
• Neutral oil for cooking
• Sorghum, whiskey butter or topping of choice
Method:
Whisk cornmeal, flour and sugar in a small bowl.
Add egg, buttermilk and sweet corn. Whisk well to combine. The mixture should be pourable. Let it rest for 10 minutes.
Heat a griddle to 350°F or place an oiled cast-iron skillet over medium heat.
Pour or ladle the batter over the heated surface and cook, flipping when the first side is golden brown and cooking the other side until brown.
Drizzle with sorghum, whiskey butter or topping of choice and enjoy.
Hoecakes are a versatile side dish, complementing sweet or savory dishes, sauces and toppings.
PHOTOS BY MADYLIN GOINS
GIVE THANKS FOR GOOD HEALTH
Alison Iser, MD* offers compassionate, thorough and unhurried appointments. Her direct primary care includes wellness visits, same or next day appointments, acute and chronic disease management, and discounted labs and medications all for one monthly membership fee that makes it a great value. Schedule a free meet and greet to nd out why Dr. Iser is highly regarded by her patients.
To discover more about the bene ts of a
Specializing in boxed lunches and sandwich platters. Gluten free options available. Send inquiries to stellaskentuckydeli@gmail.com or visit www.stellaskentuckydeli.com to place your order today!
Buttermilk Chess Pie
Featured in Just a Few Miles South: Timeless Recipes from Our Favorite Places by Ouita Michel, et al.
Ingredients:
• 1 9-inch pie crust, blind baked *
• 3 large eggs
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• 1 ½ cup sugar
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
*Use your favorite pie crust recipe, or take it easy on yourself and buy one pre-made. Blind bake refers to baking the shell, either empty or with ceramic pie weights to maintain the shape, before adding a cooked filling.
Method:
Preheat oven to 350°F .
In a large bowl, beat eggs until light and fluffy. Add butter, sugar, flour and salt. Then add buttermilk, vanilla, lemon juice and nutmeg (if using). Mix to combine. Pour into the cooled pie shell. Bake for 40 minutes or until the center is firm and set when lightly touched.
Cool on a wire rack before serving.
“Relaxing the body. Quieting the mind. Opening the heart.”
Mindful, empowered self-care is the heart of healing. Dr. Patterson offers experiential consultations and classes for persons with stress-related chronic conditions –emphasizing a mindfulness-based approach to promoting resilience, managing stress, preventing burnout and cultivating compassion. Mindfulness is heartfulness. Visit mindbodystudio.org for more information.
Iyengar Yoga
Tai Chi and Therapeutic Massage
MIND BODY STUDIO MIND
Yoga unites body, mind and soul. Join instructor Kim Blitch, for Iyengar Yoga classes:
Argentine Tango, the world’s most mindful, meditative, intimate dance. (The social tango, not ballroom.)
If you can walk and hug, you can dance Argentine tango.
• Every Wednesday practice from 8 - 10 pm, with beginner lesson 8 - 9 pm
Singles and beginners welcome. No partner or experience required.
Matt Branstetter is a licensed massage therapist and a graduate of Jung Tao School of Classical Chinese Medicine. He has over 25 years experience in meditation and the martial and healing arts and can be reached for appointment at: embodyingtheway@gmail.com
JOHN A. PATTERSON MD, MSPH, FAAFP, ABIHM
PHOTO BY TALITHA SCHROEDER
A favorite family recipe that Michel’s mom, Pam Sexton, used to make.
Ingredients:
• Button mushrooms (as many as you want to stuff)
• Fresh breadcrumbs
• Grated Swiss cheese (preferably Gruyère)
• Onion
• Fresh tarragon
• Heavy cream
• Salt & pepper
• Parmesan cheese
• Butter
Method:
Delicately wash mushrooms and remove stems.
Grate stems on cheese grater and measure the amount. Add twice that amount of fresh breadcrumbs, and an equal amount of grated cheese. (For instance, if you have one cup of grated stems, add two cups of breadcrumbs and one cup of Swiss.)
For every four cups of filling, add one tablespoon grated onion and one tablespoon fresh chopped tarragon. If it feels a little dry, add a splash of heavy cream. Season filling with salt and pepper.
Dip mushroom caps in olive oil, coating them all over and dabbing a little inside.
Stuff each with the filling, and don’t be afraid to pile it on there! Arrange on a baking sheet. Add a pat of butter to the top of each mushroom and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
Bake for 20-25 minutes at 350° F. n
AMY
FINNELL
Pam’s Stuffed Mushrooms
PHOTO BY TALITHA SCHROEDER
Nov. 6-15, 2025
Savor this 10-day spirited celebration of bourbon culture at over 21 restaurants, distilleries, and bars in Lexington.
Sip, vote, win!
Download the app for Lexington Bourbon Week and score spirited prizes!
A ri on a classic tiki drink called “the undead gentleman,” with Never Say Die Bourbon, grapefruit juice, lime juice, housemade toasted fall falernum and Angostura bitters, shaken and served in an absinthe-rinsed martini glass.
It takes nine decades worth of wisdom to know that the best bourbon cocktail only needs two things, a great bourbon and a glass! The Redeye takes this concept up another notch by pairing a pour of Bespoken Bourbon with a pint of Chevy Chase Lager.
Brown butter washed, pecan-infused barrel proof James E Pepper bourbon, barrel aged maple syrup, and black walnut bitters, garnished with orange peel and a cherry
BELLE’S COCKTAIL HOUSE 156 Market St.
6 p.m.-2 a.m. Thurs.-Sat.
Smoked Old Fashioned ($8)
Castle & Key bourbon, simple syrup, angostura bitters, black walnut bitters; served smoked
DRAKE’S
1880 Pleasant Ridge Drive (Hamburg)
390 E. Brannon Road (Nicholasville; Brannon Crossing) • 3347 Tates Creek Road 11a.m.-11 p.m.
Good cocktails take time. Check the Lexington Bourbon Week app and website for details!
HONEYWOOD
110 Summit At Fritz Farm #140 11a.m.-9p.m. Mon-Sun
Good cocktails take time. Check the Lexington Bourbon Week app and website for details!
Good cocktails take time. Check the Lexington Bourbon Week app and website for details!
RACKHOUSE TAVERN/ CAMPBELL HOUSE
Bespoken Breakfast
Old Fashioned ($13)
Bespoken Twice Toasted Bourbon, breakfast-infused whiskey, banana Liqueur and black walnut bitters, finished with housemade candied bacon and a caramelized banana
MERRICK INN
1074 Merrick Drive 4-11 p.m. Mon.-Sat.
Paddock Sidecar
James E. Pepper bourbon, lemon juice and Grand Gala orange liqueur, shaken and served in a coupe with a brown sugar rim
PADDOCK BOURBON CLUB 319 S. Limestone
Good cocktails take time. Check the Lexington Bourbon Week app and website for details!
THIRSTY FOX AT ZIM’S CAFE 215 W. Main St. #50 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. Mon.-Sat.; 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Sun.
Experience the essence of bourbon during Lexington Bourbon Week, from November 6-15.
Over 21 restaurants, distilleries and bars will serve up exclusive unique, o -menu bourbon cocktails, using one of our partnering bourbons.
Savor this 10-day spirited celebration of bourbon culture and creativity in Lexington.
Stay engaged with the Lexington Bourbon Week app!
Check-in on the app and rate the drinks to be automatically entered to win distillery tours, bourbon barrels, distillery tastings and specialty bottles! Winners will be announced Nov. 21.
Sip responsibly.
Since 2021, Give 270 has hosted weekly ra es featuring the most sought-after bourbon — and in the process, raised nearly $2 million for central Kentucky non-profits and other worthwhile causes. Currently hosting its annual Pappy Palooza, for just $5 per entry, Give 270 o ers participants a chance to win individual bottles of Pappy or four bonus prizes every week!
All five weekly winners will advance to the ultimate round, drawing on Dec. 17, for a six-bottle Pappy Van Winkle Vertical. Purchase tickets during Lexington Bourbon Week (Nov. 5-16) and each will count as a entry toward Lexington Bourbon Week giveaways as well. give270.org/whiskeywednesdays
APPLE STORE
GOOGLE PLAY
2025 Holiday Events
A HANDFUL OF HOLIDAY EVENTS TAKING PLACE IN NOVEMBER AND THE FIRST PART OF DECEMBER. CHECK BACK IN OUR DECEMBER ISSUE FOR MORE GREAT HOLIDAY EVENTS!
The Rink at Triangle Park. NovemberJanuary (exact dates and times TBA). Ice skating in the center of downtown with friends and family or a special event is a classic holiday tradition. Triangle Park, 400 W. Main St. www.downtownlex.com
Kentucky Castle Holiday Market. Nov 14-16. This holiday market showcases a weekend of holiday festivities at the Kentucky Castle. Friends and family can enjoy celebrating with a variety of local artisan market vendors, appetizers and a hot cocoa bar. Fri., 4-6 p.m. Sat. and Sun., 10-2p.m. Kentucky Castle, 230 Pisgah Pike, Versailles Ky. www.thekentuckycastle.com
Lexington Theatre Company: “A Christmas Carol.” Nov. 20-23. The Lexington Theatre Company combines Broadway veterans, rising stars and local professionals for the stage adaptation of the beloved Dickens novel and film, “A Christmas Carol.” The holiday story follows Ebeneezer Scrooge as he is visited by the spirits of Christmas past, present and future, who hope to change his curmudgeonly ways. Thurs. and Fri., 7:30 p.m.; Sat., 1 and 7:30 p.m.; Sun., 1 and 6:30 p.m. Lexington Opera House, 401 W. Short St. www.lexingtontheatrecompany.org
for more than 20 years. Attendees can drive through more than three miles of extravagant holiday lights before heading inside to meet Santa, visit a petting zoo or take mini-train rides. Open daily 5:30-10 p.m. (closed on Christmas Day). Kentucky Horse Park, 3785 Campground Road. www.khpfoundation.org
Christmas at Mustard Seed Hill. Select evenings Nov. 28-Dec. 23. This historic campus will transform into a glowing spectacle, with a dazzling light display and other enchanting features. Highlights include a magnificent gingerbread exhibit; an artisans’ market with handcrafted gifts; a holiday tent cafè with live music; and gourmet food trucks. Christmas campfires, carriage rides, holiday tea, supper club, and season passes also available. Mustard Seed Hill, 1122 Main St., Millersburg, Ky. www.mustardseedhill.events
Luminate Lexington: Official Tree Lighting Ceremony. Nov. 30. Lexington’s official Christmas tree will be lit with beautiful lights; Lexington’s Hanukkah menorah will shine; and community choirs will sing festive songs that will put everyone in the holiday spirit during this official city holiday festival. 3 p.m.-7 p.m. Triangle Park, 400 W. Main St. www.downtownlex.com
Holiday Castle Tour. Various dates in November. This guided experience offers a charming overview of the castle’s rich past while leading guests through beautifully decorated spaces, including terrace views and rooftop access, complete with sparkling lights, garlands and seasonal displays that bring the castle to life. Appointment times range from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Kentucky Castle, 230 Pisgah Pike, Versailles, Ky. www.thekentuckycastle.com
Lexington Mercantile Co. MixMas Market. Nov 21-22. This juried holiday market will feature handmade items from local makers, boutiques and vendors. Fri., 5-9 p.m.; Sat., 9 a.m.- 3 p.m. Manchester Reserve, 903 Manchester St. www.lexingtonmercantileco.com
Southern Lights Holiday Festival. Nov. 28-Dec. 31. This annual event has been helping Kentuckians get in the festive spirit
Gatton Park Winter Village. Dec. 4-23. Gatton Park will transform into a holiday wonderland, with a brilliantly lit 80-foottall immersive tree, glowing winter playground, holiday crafts and activities, hundreds of thousands of holiday lights, seasonal food and beverages, and other free attractions. 5-10 p.m. nightly. Gatton Park, 795 Manchester St. www.gattonpark. org/wintervillage
PHOTO FURNISHED
Featuring a varity of organizations, bands and floats, Lexington's annual Downtown Christmas Parade will take place at 11 a.m.
Holidays at Shaker Village. Various dates in December. Throughout the month of December, Shaker Village will transform into a holiday wonderland, with lively holiday music, roaring fires, candlelight tours and more. The grounds will feature a variety of performers, programs and tours throughout the month, including photos with Santa, a crafting station at the Elf Shop, bonfires, hot drink stations, a Jingle Bell Shuttle and more. For more, visit shakervillageky.org/event-calendar.
Downtown Lexington Christmas Parade. Dec. 6. Santa Claus is coming to (down) town! This holiday parade presented by Commonwealth Credit Union will feature a variety of organizations, bands, floats, and, of course, Santa himself. 11 a.m. Main Street between Midland Avenue and Mill Street. www.downtownlex.com
Holly Day Market. Dec. 6-7. The Holly Day Market brings together more than 80 vendors from across the country for a weekend of holiday shopping. Vendors sell jewelry, clothes, toys, books, holiday decorations, ornaments, art, food and much more. Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.- 5 p.m., with a specially-ticketed preview party on Friday, Dec. 5, from 5-9 p.m. Alltech Arena at Kentucky Horse Park, 4089 Iron Works Pkwy. lexington.jl.org
Crafted Social Winter Market. Dec. 6-7. This event unites traditional and contemporary artists, craftspeople and functional designers for a two-day festive market ripe with locally made holiday gifts. Preview party on Fri., 6-9 p.m.; main shopping event on Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Greyline Station, 101 W. Loudon Ave. www.craftedsocialky.com
Michler’s Christmas Market. Dec 6-7. Michler’s Greenhouse will provide the idyllic setting for a romantic Christmas Market, featuring Christmas pastries, music, and a diverse array of artists and artisans showcasing locally-made ceramics, jewelry, cards, toys, soaps, scarves, ornaments and more. Sat., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-4 p.m.. Michler’s Greenhouse, 417 E. Maxwell St. www.michlers.com
Collage: A Holiday Spectacular. Dec. 6-7. The Lexington Singers Children’s Choir joins University of Kentucky Choirs for a fast-moving holiday show packed with timeless favorites from near and far. Singletary Center for the Arts, 405 Rose St. www. lexsing.org
Shaker Village Holiday Afternoon Tea. Dec. 6-7, 13-14, 20-21. Reservations are required for this opportunity to enjoy a festive afternoon with friends and family sipping seasonal teas and snacking on freshly baked goods and homemade sweets in historic Shaker Village. 3 p.m. Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill, 3501 Lexington Rd. Harrodsburg, Ky. shakervillageky.org
On Dec. 6-7, the Junior League of Lexington's annual Holly Day Market will bring together a variety of vendors and retailers, with opportunities for the kids to visit Santa and Mrs. Claus as well.
Tran-Siberian Orchestra's The Ghosts of Christmas Eve. Dec. 10. With an unparalleled blend of rock, classical and theatrical spectacle, this show promises a reimagined and expanded presentation of the beloved holiday tradition, “The Ghosts of Christmas Eve,” alongside a special second set of hits and fan-favorites that includes a 25th-anniversary salute to Beethoven's Last Night. 7 p.m. Rupp Arena, 430 W Vine St, Lexington, KY. www.centralbankcenter.com
Lexington Singers and LexPhil: “A Cathedral Christmas.” Dec. 12-13. LexPhil and The Lexington Singers return to the Cathedral of Christ the King for this holiday tradition in a program of timeless orchestral and choral works. This aweinspiring musical experience in a divine setting will transport audience members to a place of peace while evoking the spirit of the holiday season. 8 p.m. Cathedral of Christ the King, 299 Colony Blvd. lexphil.org
Fayette Co. 4-H Breakfast with Santa. Dec. 13. Santa and his 4-H animal friends will be present during this fun family morning featuring a pancake breakfast, crafts, live music, gingerbread house displays and local craft vendors, including 4-H student vendors. 9 a.m.-noon. Fayette County Extension Office, 1140 Harry Sykes Way
Kentucky Ballet Theatre: “The Nutcracker.” Dec. 13-14 and 20. Kentucky Ballet Theatre presents its rendition of this
magical Christmas ballet set to the music of Tchaikovsky. This holiday performance features Drosselmeyer and Clara, along with a cast of snowflakes, mice, soldiers, angels, fairies, and, of course, the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier. Sat., 2 and 7 p.m., Sun., 2 p.m. Lexington Opera House, 401 W Short St, Lexington, KY. www.centralbankcenter.com
Lexington Ballet: “The Nutcracker Sweets.” Dec. 19-20. The classic holiday performance returns with an enchanting production designed to delight audience members of all ages. Join Marie on a magical journey with the Sugar Plum Fairy, waltzing flowers, the Snow Queen and the Nutcracker prince, as they battle the Mouse Queen and travel to the Land of Sweets. Fri., 7:30 p.m. and Sat., 2 p.m. Lexington Opera House, 401 W. Short St. www.lexingtonballet.org
Dolly Parton’s “Smoky Mountain Christmas Carol.” Dec. 26-28. Featuring songs by Dolly Parton and book by David H. Bell, this incredibly heartwarming, unforgettable production and amazing cast imagines Ebenezer Scrooge as the owner of a mining company town, where his callous greed blinds him to the joys and gifts of the season until he is visited by his past and is compelled to see life anew. Fri., 7:30 p.m.; Sat., 1 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; Sun., 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Lexington Opera House, 401 W. Short St. www.centralbankcenter.com n
PHOTO FURNISHED
- John D.
BUILDING A CREATIVE COMMONS
AT THE NEWLY OPENED CREATIVE ARTFARM, LOCAL ARTISTS AND ORGANIZERS ARE CO-CREATING A COOPERATIVE SPACE FOR MAKING, GATHERING AND MUTUAL AID
STORY BY TANZI MERRITT PHOTOS BY MADYLIN GOINS
Pictured above, left to right: artfarm organizers Nick Lyell, Beau Green, and Max Puchalsky.
PHOTOS BY MADYLIN GOINS
The history of cooperative organizations in the United States is long, with the first known — the Philadelphia Contributionship for the Insurance of Houses from Loss by Fire, organized by Benjamin Franklin in 1752 — dating back nearly three centuries. From business and agricultural co-ops to housing co-ops, credit unions, and worker-owned businesses, the cooperative model is based on democratic ownership and control, mutual support, and meeting
community needs by providing goods or services that are not available or affordable through traditional channels.
The new local community organization artfarm has adopted the worker-owned cooperative model to establish a commons for art and organizing that “cooperator” Beau Green hopes will lead to “a more free, caring and ecological world.”
“A few years ago, it became clear to a number of artists and organizers that it was tricky to find space,” Green said. “We found that a lot of groups were meeting in
neighbors’ backyards to do their work and stringing things together to make their practices work.”
After gauging there was significant interest among local artists and organizers for a shared space to create and collaborate with one another, Green and fellow cooperators Nick Lyell and Max Puchalsky hosted a few rounds of community visioning sessions and began looking for a location in earnest. They have since refurbished a former pawn shop on Winchester Road, transforming it into a shared space where artists and organizers can work, gather, create and perform.
“We felt really lucky when this space came along,” Green said. “It was ADA accessible and had enough space that we could play around with.”
Located near the Eastland Shopping Center, the building contains 5,000 square feet of space that Green, Lyell and Pulchalsky have modified to include comfortable and functional open space for group collaboration, smaller meeting spaces, artist studios, a dedicated art gallery and a print shop.
“In the front, we have a sort of public living room with a small library forming, in addition to some games and children’s toys, as well as a collaboration and event space with a modular stage that can be moved around,” Green said. “Workshops, classes and events can happen here. We also have the reception area where a little art shop is forming. Members are invited to sell their creations with a portion going back to support the common resources.”
The organization has created six artist studios in the building, which are available for local artists to rent on a sliding scale.
“We also have our print shop, and we hope it will be a resource for members to print their zines, educational materials and flyers for public events,” Green added. The organization utilizes a risograph duplicator, a piece of printing equipment that was popular in the 1980s and can be described as a kind of digital screenprinting printer.
“It uses soy-based ink and is a cool[-temperature] printing process, so it’s more energy-efficient than a photocopier,” Green said, adding that the printer is “very popular with artists.”
Artfarm provides space to some other organizations as well. The Lexington
Tool Library, also founded by Nick Lyell, operates from artfarm, and groups like the Appalachian Rekindling Project, KY Tenants, and Mutual Menstruation have made artfarm their base camp, maintaining small offices and using the larger gathering spaces for their activities. Additionally, artfarm has hosted the Really Really Free Market, and as an extension of that initiative has created a mutual aid pantry, which is stocked with an oscillating set of supplies, ranging from COVID tests, Narcan and reusable menstrual products to shelf-stable foods, garden seeds and hand sanitizer. Green describes it as “a place for everyone, so everyone can take what they need.”
The organization’s structure is officially what is known as a Limited Cooperative Association (LCA), which combines aspects of traditional cooperatives and Limited Liability Corporations (LLC). LCAs allow for flexibility in membership and can have both patron members who use the co-op’s services and investor members who provide equity capital. They also allow for variability in voting rights
within the membership, and the structure and operations of an LCA are more adaptable than a traditional cooperative.
The organization utilizes a sliding scale membership model, with no one turned away for lack of funds. “Memberships make up about half of our budget. We figure if folks aren’t interested in what’s happening here and not signing up for memberships, then we need to rethink or change what we’re doing,” Green said.
“This shared governance approach is something we’re all going to learn together, but the way it looks so far is that all members are invited into the process,” they continued. “Using finances as an example, we hold monthly financial transparency meetings where members can show up, ask questions and provide input. Most importantly, we will hold seasonal or quarterly assemblies where members are invited to come and share ideas and concerns, celebrate milestones, look at the schedule and what’s ahead, and report back about what the teams, which work like committees, are doing.”
The ultimate idea is that artfarm’s resources — not only financial, but also resources related to skills and expertise — come from the people who are using and benefitting from the space.
Artfarm’s cooperators are looking forward to bringing community and value to Lexington and to watching the organization evolve through shared decision making.
“There’s an obviously rich history of organizing toward a more free world in Lexington, and we’re excited to be a part of it and to contribute to that and to Lexington’s creative ecology,” said Green.
“There are a lot of different ways for members to make use of the space and the community, and we know that they’ll surprise us with many interesting ways of using this kind of membership community space.” n
More info on artfarm, including how to become a member or otherwise get involved, can be found at www.artfarm.coop.
Located in a former pawn shop on Winchester Road, the artistic co-op artfarm features artist studios, a performance space, recources for creatsve projects, an art shop and more.
PHOTOS BY MADYLIN GOINS
DRINK OF THE MONTH
SMOKING GUN
AND RECIPE BY CONSTITUTION
At Constitution, we love to ri o the classics. Smoking Gun, one of our signature cocktails, is a take on the Manhattan and o ers a playful alternative to the classic nightcap. The split base of Rittenhouse Rye and Mellow Corn Whiskey blend beautifully and provide a strong 100-proof foundation for this cocktail. We then add a touch of Grind Espresso Liqueur for subtle sweetness and co ee notes. Orange and cardamom bitters draw out hints of baking spices, which absolutely smell divine when combined with the aroma of the flamed orange oil and toasted dehydrated orange.
Ingredients:
• 1 ounce Rittenhouse Rye
• 1 ounce Mellow Corn Whiskey
• ½ ounce Grind Espresso Liqueur
• 1 dash orange bitters
• 1 dash cardamom bitters
• 1 drop saline*
• Garnish: fresh orange peel and dehydrated orange wheel
Method:
Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker. Add ice and stir for 30 seconds. Use a straw to capture some of the drink, to assess dilution level; if desired, stir for another 5-10 seconds. Strain into a chilled glass (preferably a Nick & Nora).
Squeeze the peel to spritz the orange oils through the flame onto the surface of the cocktail.
Lightly toast the dehydrated orange wheel with a kitchen torch or lit match and float on the drink. Enjoy!
*We salt our cocktails for the same reason you salt your food! To make saline for your cocktails, dissolve salt in water in a 20:80 ratio by weight.
In one hand, hold the orange peel with the orange side facing the cocktail, and in the other, a kitchen torch or a lit match.
Editor's Note: Constitution is a Prohibition-style speakeasy located in downtown Lexington at 109 Constitution St. specializing in carefully curated cocktails. ■
PHOTO
Events Calendar
CONCERTS & GIGS
The Infamous Stringdusters. Nov. 4. The Grammy-winning Americana and progressive bluegrass quintet bring intricate ensemble interplay, blazing solos and expansive improvisation to the stage. 7 p.m. Manchester Music Hall, 899 Manchester St. www. manchestermusichall.com
Beach Fossils. Nov. 7. Known for dreamy surf-pop textures, reverb-rich guitars and introspective lyricism, Beach Fossils evoke nostalgic soundscapes that linger long after the show ends. 8 p.m.
The Burl, 375 Thompson Rd. www.theburlky.com
Black Flag. Nov. 7. These hardcore punk legends bring raw riffs, confrontational vocals and a legacy of DIY ethos to the stage. Expect a ferocious set from one of punk’s most influential bands. 8 p.m. Manchester Music Hall,
899 Manchester St. www. manchestermusichall.com
Eric Bolander (Album Release Show). Nov. 8.
Folk singer-songwriter Eric Bolander marks his new album release with heartfelt storytelling, haunting vocals and finely crafted acoustic arrangements. With support from Mule Haggard and Brother Smith. 8 p.m.
The Burl, 375 Thompson Rd. www.theburlky.com
Here Come the Mummies. Nov. 6. This funk-R&B group delivers theatrical, highenergy grooves, punchy horn lines and tongue-in-cheek stage antics that make every performance a party. 8 p.m.
Manchester Music Hall, 899 Manchester St. www.manchestermusichall.com
SFCA Expansive Sounds Series: Tortoise. Nov. 12. Postrock trailblazers Tortoise fuse electronica, jazz, minimalism and rock into immersive instrumental textures in this special performance. 7:30
p.m. Singletary Center for the Arts, 405 Rose St. www. finearts.uky.edu
Same As It Ever Was. Nov. 14. A tribute to Talking Heads and era-defining postpunk, this show reimagines the band’s quirky, cerebral energy through infectious live reinterpretations. Boxy suit jackets optional. 8 p.m.
The Burl, 375 Thompson Rd. www.theburlky.com
Buffalo Wabs & the Price Hill Hustle. Nov. 21. Blend-
ing roots, gospel, blues and Americana, Buffalo Wabs & the Price Hill Hustle bring soulful harmonies and footstomping energy. 7 p.m.
The Burl, 375 Thompson Rd. www.theburlky.com
Magnolia Boulevard: Soul Stuffing Friendsgiving. Nov. 28. Magnolia Boulevard hosts a festive concert filled with sparkling originals, lively covers and a strong sense of community spirit. 7 p.m.
The Burl, 375 Thompson Rd. www.theburlky.com
Tortoise will perform at the Singletary Center for the Arts on Nov. 12.
PHOTO FURNISHED
PHOTO FURNISHED
Magnolia Boulevard will perform a Friendsgiving show at The Burl on Nov. 28.
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ART & EXHIBITS
“3x33–2025: The Power of Three.” On display Nov. 3-Dec. 6. This celebration of local creativity will feature 33 artists, each presenting three related works across painting, sculpture, photography and mixed media (99 pieces in total). Curated by Marco Logsdon and Mary Rezny, the exhibition highlights the diversity and strength of Lexington’s visual arts community. Opening reception Nov. 9; Gallery Hop Nov. 21. Gallery hours: Fri.-Sun., 1-5 p.m., and by appointment. LuigART Event Gallery, 110 Luigart Ct. www.luigartgallery.com
Mona Lisa. On display Nov. 21-Dec. 23. New Editions Gallery presents an imaginative group exhibition inspired by one of the most recognizable faces in art history. For this exhibit — which is gallery owner Frankie York’s final exhibit before she retires — regional and national artists reinterpret the iconic Mona Lisa through painting, sculpture and mixed media, offering fresh perspectives on mystery, fame and artistic legacy. Gallery hours: Tue.-Sat., 11 a.m.5:30 p.m. New Editions Gallery, 500 W. Short St. www.neweditionsgallery.com
Reimagine 2025. On display through Nov. 14. This exhibition consists of work by local artists who have “reimagined” drawings from local elementary students, in their own style and medium. The collaborative originals are auctioned online to raise funds shared among nine participating schools for art supplies. Lexington Public Library Gallery, Central Branch, 140 East Main St. www.artsconnectlex.org
"PRHBTN." On display through Nov. 21. This annual exhibition has facilitated over 40 murals from artists all over the world covering some of Lexington's most prominent walls. Its no-holds-barred ethos has resulted in displaying some of the most provocative artwork in the city each year. This exhibition provides one of the best opportunities for Kentucky artists of all disciplines to present artworks regardless of age, experience, media, discipline, or subject matter. Lexington Art League at Loudoun House, 209 Castlewood Dr. www.lexingtonartleague.org
“Birds of a Feather.” On display through Dec. 5. This exhibit features a new body of work that Feather Chiaverini made in response to the legacy of Lexington’s queer past and its vibrant present, including handmade costumes, watercolor paintings and soft sculptures, offering a fresh perspective on queer history in Lexington. 522 W Short St. www.2ndstory.art
“re:museum - RE:FORM.” On display through Feb. 7. Now in its eighth edition, this exhibit represents new additions to University of Kentucky’s Digital Learning Gallery, continuing to promote a welcoming engagement with art while offering a peek behind the curtain at museum operations. This latest installation applies the notion of “reform” as a thematic umbrella to exhibit artworks that delve into concepts of transformation, iteration, activism and emulation. Gallery hours: Tues.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat. 12 p.m.-5 p.m.. Singletary Center for the Arts 405 Rose Street Lexington, KY. finearts.uky.edu/ art-museum
Mine Okubo's "Abstraction" (circa 1935) is among the works featured in the University of Kentucky's re:museum - RE:FORM" exhibit, on display through Feb. 7.
IMAGE FURNISHED
ART BY HELENE STEENE
For its final exhibition before gallery owner Frankie York retires, New Editions Gallery will host a an exhibition featuring multi-media reinterpretions of the iconic Mona Lisa.
Women 2025. On display March 1-31. Hosted by the
LuigART Women’s Collective, this second annual exhibit is designed to celebrate women in the visual arts. Female artists from Fayette and adjacent Kentucky counties were invited to participate. Cu rated by retired gallerist and artist Mary Rezny, the exhibit features 52 artworks in diverse genres across all mediums. Gallery hours: Fri.Sun., noon-4 p.m. Special events include an artist reception and awards March 8 (5:30-8 p.m.) and LexArts Hop reception March 21 (5-8 p.m.) Luigart Event Gallery,
On display through April 5. This exhibition highlights the work of Lexington artists Kiji Bae, Gayle Cerlan, Dalph na Donnelly, Marta E. Dorton, Chad Eames, Jack Girard, Sarah Heller, Georgia Henkel, Jennifer Dunham, Karen Spears Springate and Brady Saylor. Featuring a diverse range of media, including painting, photog raphy, and sculpture, the show case celebrates the city’s vibrant creative community. Gallery hours: Tues.–Thurs., 11 a.m.–5 p.m.; Fri., noon–8 p.m.; Sat., noon–5 p.m. Pam Miller Downtown Arts Center Community Gallery, 141 E. Main St. www.lexingtonky.gov/aboutdowntown-arts-center
LuigART
"Amapolas" by Adalhi Aranda is among the works featured in Luigart Studio's LuigART Women 2025 exhibit, on display through March 31.
ETC.
Carnegie Classics: “The Wizard of Oz.” Nov. 8. The Carnegie Center transforms into the Emerald City for one night only, featuring themed décor, live entertainment, heavy appetizers and an open bar. Guests are encouraged to dress as their favorite characters from Oz for this whimsical annual event. 7 p.m. Carnegie Center, 251 W. Second St. www. carnegiecenterlex.org
Studio Players: “Having Hope for Home.” Nov. 13-16; 21-23; 28-30. A heartfelt new play exploring the meaning of belonging, refuge and family through intertwining stories of people seeking a place to call home. Studio Players continues its tradition of intimate, thought-provoking theater with this moving production. 7:30 p.m. nightly, with 2:30 p.m. matinees on Sundays. Carriage House Theatre, 154 W. Bell Ct. studioplayers.org
LexPhil Presents Heartsong: Mendelssohn, Guo & Rachmaninoff. Nov. 22. The Lexington Philharmonic performs Mendelssohn’s beloved Violin Concerto alongside Moni Jasmine Guo’s contemporary work “Heartsong” and Rachmaninoff’s lush Symphony No. 2. The evening promises lyricism, power and romantic beauty. 7:30 p.m. Singletary Center for the Arts, 405 Rose St. www.lexphil.org
Lexington Theatre Company presents: “A Christmas Carol: The Musical.” Nov. 20-23. The timeless Dickens tale returns to the Opera House in a musical adaptation brimming with holiday magic. Follow Ebenezer Scrooge’s journey from miser to merrymaker through dazzling performances by Lexington Theatre Company. Thur. and Fri., 7:30 p.m.; Sat., 1 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; and Sun., 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Lexington Opera House, 401 W. Short St. www.lexingtontheatrecompany.org n
Violinist Tai Murray, hailed for her elegance and power, will join LexPhil for a performace of Mendelssohn’s "Violin Concerto" on Nov. 22 at the Singletary Center for the Arts.
PETE’S PROPERTIES
Residential Property Transactions
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