Jeffersontown Magazine March 2024

NEW HEIGHTS

DANA WALKER LINDLEY PENS FICTIONAL ACCOUNT OF WORLD WAR II BOWMAN FIELD FLIGHT NURSES

Natural Touch The Waterfront Botanical Gardens Holds a History as Intriguing as Its Natural Wonders

Now Hear This Dr. Melanie Driscoll, Audiologist, Improves Her Patients’ Quality of Life MARCH 2024

• Eye & Vision Exams • Annual Diabetic Exams • Vision Therapy • Vision Rehab • Sports Vision Therapy • Contact Lens Exams • Sunglasses • Optical Services • Safety Glasses • Treatment of Dry Eye Syndrome • Accepts Most Insurances

2021 RECIPIENT OF THE KOA CLIFFORD C LEADINGHAM AWARD

Dr. Stuart Young • Dr. Lauren McKinch • Dr. Daniel Bowersox

EXPERTS IN VISION, EXCEPTIONAL CARE C E L E B R AT I N G 2 5 Y E A R S O F E XC E P T I O N A L C A R E !

3701 Hopewell Road, Louisville • 502-398-3937

Mon/Wed/Fri: 8:30 - 5:00pm • Thur: 12:00 - 8:00pm • Tue: 5:00pm - 8:00 for Vision Therapy

403 Washington Street, Shelbyville • 502-647-3937 Mon/Wed/Thur/Fri: 8:30 - 5:00pm • Tue: 12:00 - 8:00pm

BowersoxVisionCenter.com

Did you know...

That when you prepay your funeral with us, the prices are guaranteed against future price increases!

9318 Taylorsville Rd (502) 266-9655

5317 Dixie Highway (502) 447-2600

owenfuneralhome.com

HELPING YOU FIND A HOME YOU’LL FALL IN LOVE WITH. We have a passion for Jeffersontown. We were born and raised here and our hope is to make a positive impact on our community.

Our focus is to make home buying and selling a seamless process.

We look forward to speaking with you.

Nick and Hannah Novak (left) Geoff and Kelsey Novak (right)

10535 Watterson Trail, In J-Town • louisvillekyhouses.com • 502-938-5388

Come See Our New Renovations!

Call to Learn More and Schedule a Tour!

(502) 499-1393 Independent Living • Assisted Living • Memory Care 3451 S Hurstbourne Pkwy, Louisville, KY 40299

LIVING STONY BROOK

©2024 Vitality Living

TownePost.com | March 2024 | 3

10 20

NEW HEIGHTS

Dana Walker Lindley Pens Fictional Account of World War II Bowman Field Flight Nurses

20 6

SPRING FORWARD IN JEFFERSONTOWN

10

MARCH 2024

NATURAL TOUCH

NO SMALL FEAT

Families for Effective Autism Treatment Supports and Funds Programs Through Multiple Means

30

MAKING MEDITATION ACCESSIBLE

Incorporating Mindfulness Effectively in Everyday Life

14

MELODY MAN

Dr. Melanie Driscoll, Audiologist, Improves Her Patients’ Quality of Life

/JEFFERSONTOWNMAG 4 | March 2024 | TownePost.com

KEY CONTRIBUTORS MARIAM BALLANTINE CHRISTY HEITGER-EWING GAVIN LAPAILLE RENEE LARR GRACE SCHAEFER CARRIE VITTITOE

26

The Waterfront Botanical Gardens Holds a History as Intriguing as Its Natural Wonders

NOW HEAR THIS

PUBLISHER COREY BOSTON corey@townepost.com (502) 407-0185

35

The Musical Journey of Kool & the Gang Alumnus Odeen Mays Continues Right Here in Louisville and Beyond

TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. FOUNDER, CEO TOM BRITT tom@townepost.com (317) 496-3599 PRESIDENT JEANNE BRITT jeanne@townepost.com (317) 810-0011 PRODUCTION COORDINATOR ERIN TURK CREATIVE DIRECTORS VAL AUSTIN TONI EADS COPY EDITOR JON SHOULDERS TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. 8800 North Street, Suite 117 Fishers, IN 46038 Phone/Text: (317) 810-0011 FOR FRANCHISE INFORMATION, VISIT FRANCHISING.TOWNEPOST.COM

/JEFFERSONTOWNMAGAZINE

CONTACT THE PUBLISHER Have a story idea or suggestion for the magazine?

TownePost.com | March 2024 | 5

EGG HUNT, INFLATABLES, MUSIC AND MORE ON SATURDAY, MARCH 23

SPRING FORWARD IN JEFFERSONTOWN Hello, Jeffersontown Residents!

As we welcome the blossoms of spring and the warmth that comes with it, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey we've shared over the past year. It has been an honor serving as your Mayor, and I am immensely proud of what we have achieved together so far.

Together, we've overcome challenges and celebrated successes that have made our city an even better place to live, work, and thrive.

I want to express my gratitude to all the wonderful employees of the city for their support and dedication. Your hard work and passion have been the driving force behind our accomplishments, and I am excited to continue working hand in hand with you in the coming year.

Looking ahead, I am thrilled to announce

MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR

Mayor Carol Pike

the launch of several new projects and events that aim to enhance the vibrancy and wellbeing of our community.

Some of the key focuses for the upcoming year is the completion of the Jeffersontown Amphitheater and the new Jeffersontown Police Department.

A new event coming to Jeffersontown will be the start of the new Trolley Rides around the city, beginning this spring!

I am also excited to announce the City’s participation in the 2024 Great Bed Races as part of the 150th Kentucky Derby Festival.

I believe these endeavors will not only enrich our community but also create opportunities for us to connect, learn, and grow together.

Together, let's make this spring a symbol of new beginnings and shared achievements.

Here's to a successful and exciting year ahead!

JEFFERSONTOWN PAVILION RENTALS TO START MARCH 1 Jeffersontown City Hall will now be accepting bookings to rent the six pavilions available in Veterans Memorial Park, 10707 Taylorsville Rd. These pavilions are adjacent to an all-accessible playground, bathrooms and the monuments in the park. Prices vary per pavilion. Call 267-8333 to book your date today!

JEFFERSONTOWN FARMERS’ MARKET TO OPEN APRIL 27 Applications are available to vendors who want to apply for the upcoming 2024 season of the Jeffersontown Farmers’ Market through our city website at jeffersontownky.gov .

The Farmers’ Market will start the season off on April 27th through October 26th, located at the Jeffersontown Pavilion, 10434 Watterson Trail, from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., every Saturday.

6 | March 2024 | TownePost.com

Easterfest 2024 is already around the corner and we are so excited to welcome the Easter Bunny back to Jeffersontown! Festivities are scheduled for Saturday, March 23rd at Veterans Memorial Park, 10707 Taylorsville Rd. The event will be from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. with the big Easter Egg Hunt starting at 11:15 a.m.! There will be inflatables, face painting, pictures with the Easter Bunny and more, so we hope to see you there!

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN JEFFERSONTOWN? Jeffersontown is partnering with the University of Louisville in two graduate level courses to focus on the Historic Gaslight Square District in downtown Jeffersontown.

The two classes are in the College of Arts & Sciences and the School of Urban and Public Affairs. The students will produce a document titled Design Improvements Proposal for Economic Vitality and Quality of Life for Historic Gaslight Square District.

We Want You! To be the first to try out a new type of transit service –TARC On-Demand. Jeffersontown has been selected to be part of a six-month pilot program where TARC will test the feasibility of on-demand style service.

Instead of buses and schedules, this will be like ride-share service and take you where you want to go within Jeffersontown – on your schedule. The pilot program will debut on April 1.

Check out ridetarc.org/TARCOnDemand for more details.

“CREATING VIBRANT COMMUNITIES ” GRANT Jeffersontown has been awarded a grant by the state that will proactively plan for land use, transportation, and economic development. The city will create an actionable plan that will outline the vision, conceptual development plan, and next steps necessary to create a transformative and unique destination for Historic Gaslight Square District in downtown Jeffersontown. The action plan will serve as a roadmap to actively attract and convey the community’s vision to potential development partners. The plan will analyze: A. Potential land uses B. Economic Development Strategies necessary to promote transformative development sites.

C. Transportation network for all modes.

D. Potential development patterns, scale, and architectural direction for private development E. Design elements that should be included within the future public roads that reinforce the character of the community.

F. Action steps for the local government and partners to take to turn the vision of the plan into a built Reality.

EGG HUNT, INFLATABLES, MUSIC AND MORE ON SATURDAY, MARCH 23

SPRING FORWARD IN JEFFERSONTOWN Hello, Jeffersontown Residents!

As we welcome the blossoms of spring and the warmth that comes with it, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey we've shared over the past year. It has been an honor serving as your Mayor, and I am immensely proud of what we have achieved together so far.

Together, we've overcome challenges and celebrated successes that have made our city an even better place to live, work, and thrive.

I want to express my gratitude to all the wonderful employees of the city for their support and dedication. Your hard work and passion have been the driving force behind our accomplishments, and I am excited to continue working hand in hand with you in the coming year.

Looking ahead, I am thrilled to announce

MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR

Mayor Carol Pike

the launch of several new projects and events that aim to enhance the vibrancy and wellbeing of our community.

Some of the key focuses for the upcoming year is the completion of the Jeffersontown Amphitheater and the new Jeffersontown Police Department.

A new event coming to Jeffersontown will be the start of the new Trolley Rides around the city, beginning this spring!

I am also excited to announce the City’s participation in the 2024 Great Bed Races as part of the 150th Kentucky Derby Festival.

I believe these endeavors will not only enrich our community but also create opportunities for us to connect, learn, and grow together.

Together, let's make this spring a symbol of new beginnings and shared achievements.

Here's to a successful and exciting year ahead!

JEFFERSONTOWN PAVILION RENTALS TO START MARCH 1 Jeffersontown City Hall will now be accepting bookings to rent the six pavilions available in Veterans Memorial Park, 10707 Taylorsville Rd. These pavilions are adjacent to an all-accessible playground, bathrooms and the monuments in the park. Prices vary per pavilion. Call 267-8333 to book your date today!

JEFFERSONTOWN FARMERS’ MARKET TO OPEN APRIL 27 Applications are available to vendors who want to apply for the upcoming 2024 season of the Jeffersontown Farmers’ Market through our city website at jeffersontownky.gov .

The Farmers’ Market will start the season off on April 27th through October 26th, located at the Jeffersontown Pavilion, 10434 Watterson Trail, from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., every Saturday.

Easterfest 2024 is already around the corner and we are so excited to welcome the Easter Bunny back to Jeffersontown! Festivities are scheduled for Saturday, March 23rd at Veterans Memorial Park, 10707 Taylorsville Rd. The event will be from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. with the big Easter Egg Hunt starting at 11:15 a.m.! There will be inflatables, face painting, pictures with the Easter Bunny and more, so we hope to see you there!

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN JEFFERSONTOWN? Jeffersontown is partnering with the University of Louisville in two graduate level courses to focus on the Historic Gaslight Square District in downtown Jeffersontown.

The two classes are in the College of Arts & Sciences and the School of Urban and Public Affairs. The students will produce a document titled Design Improvements Proposal for Economic Vitality and Quality of Life for Historic Gaslight Square District.

We Want You! To be the first to try out a new type of transit service –TARC On-Demand. Jeffersontown has been selected to be part of a six-month pilot program where TARC will test the feasibility of on-demand style service.

Instead of buses and schedules, this will be like ride-share service and take you where you want to go within Jeffersontown – on your schedule. The pilot program will debut on April 1.

Check out ridetarc.org/TARCOnDemand for more details.

“CREATING VIBRANT COMMUNITIES ” GRANT Jeffersontown has been awarded a grant by the state that will proactively plan for land use, transportation, and economic development. The city will create an actionable plan that will outline the vision, conceptual development plan, and next steps necessary to create a transformative and unique destination for Historic Gaslight Square District in downtown Jeffersontown. The action plan will serve as a roadmap to actively attract and convey the community’s vision to potential development partners. The plan will analyze: A. Potential land uses B. Economic Development Strategies necessary to promote transformative development sites.

C. Transportation network for all modes.

D. Potential development patterns, scale, and architectural direction for private development E. Design elements that should be included within the future public roads that reinforce the character of the community.

F. Action steps for the local government and partners to take to turn the vision of the plan into a built Reality.

TownePost.com | March 2024 | 7

Louisville East

Hardwood, Vinyl, Plank, Carpet, Tile, Laminate, Step, Runners, Area Rugs.

Book your FREE in-home consultation!

12 months 0% Financing Available* (*call for details)

Call Today 502-709-7788

JOIN MOTORIZATION NATION! AMP™ Motorization easily manages motorized shades with the power to perform.

FEATURES & BENEFITS

• Integrated Li-ion battery pack in headrail, no external battery pack necessary • Micro USB Charger Port • Provides up to 500 cycles on a single charge • Battery charge status available with the AMP™ APP

WE OFFER FREE SHOP AT HOME SERVICE! CALL TODAY TO SCHEDULE YOUR IN-HOME APPOINTMENT.

2420 Holloway Rd • (502) 266-0079 • www.blindsdirect.com 8 | March 2024 | TownePost.com

Freedom to do the things you love

Exclusive Amenities . Lock & Leave Lifestyle .

Zero-Step Entries . Award-Winning Floorplans Nothing matters more than having time to do all the things you want to do. Traveling, visiting family or just getting to take up a new hobby. When you buy a new luxury garden home in The Courtyards at Curry Farms, you will have that time to do what matters most. Our community offers a low maintenance lifestyle with a clubhouse with an exercise room, a heated pool and pickle ball courts.

Lux u ry G arden H omes FROM THE UPPER

$300K New Community Coming Soon!

A truly unique garden home community, The Courtyards at Oakland Hills, will be off Bardstown Road nestled into rolling hills and lush greenery, and right next door to Broad Run Park.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

MICHELLE HEARETH New Homes Specialist

502-509-5067

USE PHONE CAMERA TO SCAN QR CODE TO EXPERIENCE COMMUNITY.

Contact New Homes Specialist to join the VIP list for first access to community launch information.

NATURAL TOUCH

THE WATERFRONT BOTANICAL GARDENS HOLDS A HISTORY AS INTRIGUING AS ITS NATURAL WONDERS Writer / Renee Larr Photography Provided

T

he Waterfront Botanical Gardens in Louisville provides urbanites a respite from the city’s everyday hustle and bustle. Its mission, as stated on the organization’s official website, is “to cultivate urban botanical gardens that educate, inspire, and enhance appreciation of the relationship between plant life and a healthy environment.”

The area where the garden now sits was once part of a larger neighborhood known as The Point. “In the mid-1800s, The Point was filled with beautiful summer homes where prosperous French families from New Orleans would spend their summers as the weather was cooler here,” says Megan Bibelhauser, director of marketing and communications. “In the late 1800s/early 1900s, the area was heavily devastated by floods, destroying the homes.”

Due to the devastation of the area from the flood of 1937, the site became an unofficial dump, with wild pigs roaming for food.

People would discard ash and hot coals, igniting other trash in the Ohio Street Dump, as it was later named. In the late 1960s, Interstate 71 was completed, passing right by the unsightly refuse.

Louisville, so in 1973 it closed,” Bibelhauser says. “A very stringent eight-year closing plan took place. Part of that plan was a dirt fill cap of approximately 25 feet, along with monitoring the water quality of the nearby Beargrass Creek. From then on, it was just a large mounded field.”

In 1993, Botanica was created as an umbrella organization for the local gardening community to help enlighten, entertain and educate the community about the botanical world. In 1999, active Botanica member Helen Harrigan left a $1.5 million trust to build a botanical garden and conservatory in Louisville. In 2009, Botanica chose the former Ohio Street Dump as the site for the new garden. In 2019, the area officially became known as the Waterfront Botanical Gardens.

The three-phase master plan for the 23acre site includes an education center, classrooms, a Japanese garden, Hillside Theatre, a visitor center, an arboretum and many green garden spaces. Currently the organization has developed about three of the 23 acres.

“The first phase was the Graeser Family Education Center, the Mary Lee Duthie “It wasn’t a very welcoming site to the city of Garden and the Ellen T. Leslie Botanical 10 | March 2024 | TownePost.com

Classrooms,” Bibelhauser says. “Those are sort of the hub of our educational, horticultural and events programming. We rent out the space for special events, so we do lots of weddings and lots of corporate events. We also have lots of adult education programs and youth programs. Of course we’ve got our horticulture team, and so they’ve also got their space.”

Adult programming includes horticulture and gardening, art and design, science and environment, health and wellness, nature photography, city and waterway history, and distance tours and trips. Youth and family programming includes gardens story time, field trips, outreach programs, Scouts programs, Sprouts camps, and virtual learning programs.

“We offer a broad array of advanced registration adult programs,” Bibelhauser says. “It might be anything from a garden walk and talk with one of our horticulturists learning about what is in the garden. We’ve even partnered with the Japan-America Society of Kentucky to bring Japanese cultural programs like Japanese calligraphy or sushi-making classes. Our classes aren’t just about gardening. Our beautiful range of programs can open up a lot of creative and artistic outlets.”

The second phase of the master plan includes the Tree Allée (a paved walkway lined with benches and 24 American Dream swamp white oak trees), the Japanese Garden and the Beargrass Creek overlook. Bibelhauser says the area also consists of an entry garden, children’s garden and visitor center. The final or third phase will be the conservatory, since it’s a large undertaking. Currently there isn’t a timeline for all stages to be finished, due to a need for additional funding.

Bibelhauser says the Japanese Garden is now slated to open in 2025.

There is no cost to visit and wander the Waterfront Botanical Gardens.

However, fundraising is paramount to keep the urban oasis growing and advancing. Funds are raised through memberships, paid adult and youth programming, event space rentals, hosted events, donations, sponsorship opportunities, memorial gifts, and gifts of stocks or securities.

Residential • Commercial • Industrial

Don't settle for Epoxy.

Discover the Sullivan's Difference!

Applications: • Garage Floors • Warehouses • Laundry Rooms • Patios • Storage Facilities • Kennels • Laboratories • Basements • retail areas • showrooms • Hospitals • Locker Rooms • Restrooms

“We’ve already done so much, but we cannot continue to grow and thrive without the generous help of the community,” Bibelhauser says. “If you look at the Graeser Family Education Center, there are these beautiful vertical wooden beams. You can sponsor one of the beams and have your name put on the building - or the same with benches in the gardens, or on a brick on the Beargrass Creek pathway. There are so many ways to support our mission.”

Ticket purchases for Music in the Gardens is another creative way the

Designed for Ultimate Durability.

1 Day Expert Installation.

Lifetime Manufacturer’s Warranty.

Free Estimates 502-812-1019 √ 5x Stronger than Epoxy √ Will Not Chip or Peel √ Superior Concrete Coating Technology

√ Easy to Keep Clean √ 100% Antimicrobial, Antibacterial and Easy on the Feet

sullivansconcretecoating.com TownePost.com | March 2024 | 11

Waterfront Botanical Gardens team funds its goals. The outdoor concert series includes live music, cheese and charcuterie from Cultured, and beverages. They also offer a holiday event called Gardens Aglimmer during the winter season.

The Graeser Family Education Center also serves as an event venue and can hold up to 250 guests. Bibelhauser says the thoughtful, immersive design with all-glass walls makes guests feel as though they’re in the gardens while being indoors.

“We are always trying to find opportunities to bring people out to the gardens,” Bibelhauser says. “We like to offer fun, engaging events so they visit us and then be connected to the organization’s larger vision. Music in the Gardens is held every month from May to October. Once a month we bring in a local or regional band or artist of different genres.”

“The beautiful thing about it is, weatherpermitting, guests can hold their wedding ceremony outdoors in the gardens and then the reception in The Graeser Family Education Center, so they get the best of both indoors and outdoors,” Bibelhauser says. “We also host various corporate events including luncheons and conferences.”

12 | March 2024 | TownePost.com

From a landfill that human beings sullied to a landmark garden, the Waterfront Botanical Gardens provides a timeless cultural asset to the residents of Louisville for many years to come. Bibelhauser says they envision the space becoming a well-known, growing asset to the southern Indiana and Kentucky areas.

“We’re providing this engaging and kind of ever-changing mix of activities for all kinds of audiences,” Bibelhauser says. “We want this to be a place where anyone feels welcome and comfortable visiting. We hope to deepen the community’s knowledge and appreciation of plants and nature in our urban botanical garden. I think that part is

so important because you are just minutes from downtown Louisville. When you stand up at the gardens, being so high up on this hill, a former landfill, you look across the parking lot and see downtown Louisville.

To have this green oasis just minutes from the downtown urban area and access to green spaces is extremely important for our residents. There is a unique and interesting tie that we’re still learning about between mental and physical health, and engaging in the outdoors.”

The Waterfront Botanical Gardens is located at 1435 Frankfort Avenue in Louisville. For more information, visit waterfrontgardens.org.

Bibelhauser says she’s proud of what was once known as a dump, and is now a place of beauty where families can make memories for years.

Kentucky Proud since 1998 Over 30 flavors of gourmet popcorn!

BOGO FREE BAG Free bag of equal or lesser value. Limit one per transaction. Cannot be combined with other offers.

Expires 4/30/2024

Only top tier ingredients are used!

Pop in today to grab your own tin or get one for that special someone.

LOCALLY OWNED

9569 Taylorsville Rd In Jeffersontown 502-267-1924 • ThePopcornStation.com TownePost.com | March 2024 | 13

NOW

Hear

THIS

DR. MELANIE DRISCOLL, AUDIOLOGIST, IMPROVES HER PATIENTS’ QUALITY OF LIFE

Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing Photography Provided

A

s a newly divorced single mom of two children, Melanie Driscoll had to find a new way to navigate life.

One day a friend suggested she check out an audiology program at the University of Louisville (Uof L). At the time, Driscoll had an elderly neighbor - a former military man who would come over with his wife every weekend to play cards.

“He had hearing aids that were always squealing, and his wife was always fussing about it,” said Dr. Driscoll, who also had another friend with a little girl who was born deaf. “She had a cochlear implant when she was 2 years old. Having these connections to two different people with hearing issues let me know I was headed down the right path pursuing audiology as a profession.”

14 | March 2024 | TownePost.com

After getting her doctoral degree, she worked for a year at Uof L coordinating the auditory processing disorders program for children before opening Eastpoint Audiology in 2016. The team at Eastpoint Audiology includes Kathleen, Amy, Kerrie, Tiffany, Sophie, Hope, Casey, and

Jean. Dr. Driscoll said her team gives her inspiration every day and she enjoys watching each of them grow as they work with patients. “Without them I would never have been able to accomplish all that we’ve accomplished.”

“As a team, we look at the patient’s overall quality of health because hearing loss affects many aspects in life,” Dr. Driscoll said. “Research has found a link between hearing loss and diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and depression, among other things. Since hearing loss is the number-one modifiable risk factor for dementia when identified and addressed, Dr. Driscoll and her team decided to have patients complete a cognitive screening.

In the early 2000’s, an over-the-counter (OTC) hearing device came on the market.

However, patients would get frustrated with how quickly it stopped working, or that it never worked the way they anticipated.

Buying an OTC hearing device means that there’s no one to help them get a good fit (which is important for good hearing) or troubleshoot any issues with it.

“Back then, most OTC hearing devices were just amplifiers. Are you willing to put something in your ear and run the risk of damaging your hearing? Besides, how do you know you don’t just have wax in your ear?” said Dr. Driscoll. Though OTC hearing devices are now more reliable, that doesn’t mean they are for everyone.

“If you have moderate to severe or profound loss, you’re not going to be a good candidate for OTC hearing devices.” said Driscoll. “Our goal is to educate patients as to what these devices actually do.”

Dr. Driscoll’s favorite audiology stories involve the ones in which her patients cry when they are fitted for their hearing-aid. “It’s such a drastic difference because they usually have a significant degree of hearing loss.” said Dr. Driscoll.

“Just yesterday, two of my audiologists completed an in-home visit and the lady cried tears of joy because she was so happy that she could finally hear her loved ones’ voices again.”

In September 2021, Driscoll found a way to help more people in the community.

She opened Simetria Fall Prevention Center, where patients with vertigo and balance issues are seen. Patients may have benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, which occurs when crystals become loose in the inner ear. They may suffer from other vestibular issues (episodes of dizziness described as rocking, spinning, floating, swaying, internal motion and lightheadness) or traumatic brain injuries.

The end goal is to pinpoint what is causing the balance problem.

“Does it have to do with the vestibular system?” said Dr. Driscoll. “Does it have to do with their vision? Is it something with their medications interacting, or an

issue like diabetic neuropathy where they can’t feel their feet? It’s like a puzzle, and we’re trying to gather all the pieces of the puzzle to figure it out.”

“If someone is dizzy every day and we’re able to pinpoint what’s causing it, whether it is something simple or more complex, we can get them headed in the right direction to resolve the issue, to get them on the path

Welcome Home to Harmony Discover your key to happiness; making Harmony YOUR home.

Scan to G Keys to H et Your appiness Independent Living • Personal Care • Memory Care HarmonyAtTuckerStation.com • 502.694.4673 12523 Taylorsville Rd • Louisville, KY 40299

TownePost.com | March 2024 | 15

to a better quality of life,” said Dr. Driscoll. “That’s our purpose.”

When patients come into Eastpoint Audiology, they can grab a coffee from the coffee station, and on their way out they get a cookie. “We don’t always know what’s going on in our patients’ lives before they walk through our door,” said Driscoll.

“Our goal is to make sure when people leave, they are better for having come to our office.”

Driscoll appreciates how important that is, as she is grateful for her family. In her free time, Driscoll likes to travel, particularly taking cruises and going to the beach. “I don’t even care if I get in the water,” she said. “I love the waves, the sunshine and the sand.”

As a Uof L alumni, Dr. Driscoll has mentored many Audiology doctorate

Feel Better + Look Better In Less Than 30 Minutes At Club Vyfy!

Drug-free wellness tools for anti-aging, pain + stress relief, and improved sleep

Scan to book your first free visit!

106 N Watterson Trail • 502-289-1045 • vyfyky.com 16 | March 2024 | TownePost.com

students. In 2017, Dr. Driscoll established the inaugural “Bright Futures” initiative for all Uof L Doctor of Audiology graduates. Each year since 2017, graduates are presented with otoscopes, an essential tool which helps give the graduates a successful start to their career and links them to the community of successful Uof L Doctor of Audiology alumni.

Eastpoint Audiology is located at 731 Speckman Road, across from Southeast Christian Church, in Louisville. For more information, call 502-215-3860 or visit eastpointaudiology.com.

Simetria Fall Prevention Center is located at 729 Speckman Road, next door to Eastpoint Audiology.

For information on Simetria Fall Prevention Center, call 502-539-5000 or visit simetriafpc.com.

502 HEMP IS THE OFFICIAL PRODUCTS PARTNER FOR THE KY DERBY FESTIVAL! • Quality, Reliable, and Safe • Boutique Flavors • Proprietary CO2 Extraction • Third-Party Tested • Locally processed • 10+ years of experience • Delta 8/Delta 9 THC • The largest variety of local quality CBD/Hemp products • Knowledgeable and friendly staff!

502 HEMP WELLNESS CENTER

812 HEMP

201 Moser Rd. Louisville, KY 40223

319 E. Lewis & Clark Parkway Clarksville, IN 47129

502-654-7100 502hemp.com

812-912-0045 812hemp.com

Use code DERBY15 for 15% OFF Expires 5/31/2024. Online or in-store.

WE ARE YOUR CANNABIS CONNECTION!

“Our goal is to educate patients as to what these devices actually do.”

Dr. Melanie Driscoll, Audiologist

TWO LOU LOU’S TO LOVE

BLACK RABBIT The Premiere Speakeasy of St. Matthews Libations & Small Bites OPEN LATE

812 East Market Street

Secure Your Reservation By Phone 502-897-9721 Or Book Online: EQUUSRESTAURANT.COM

502-515-9699

108 Sears Avenue 502-893-7776

502-897-9721 • 122 SEARS AVE • EQUUSRESTAURANT.COM TownePost.com | March 2024 | 17

Now Selling Refurbished Lawnmowers - LIKE NEW!

J-town Hardware and Rental Est 1938

Find Us On: TrueValue.com

98.99

238.99

118.99 -20.00

288.99 -50.00

Now offering Handyman services of all kinds.

Plumbing, Electrical, Interior Services, Carpentry Services and much more.

If you need something repaired, we can help!

Free Estimates - Fully Insured - Experienced

Call or Text (502) 821-0332

• We Repair/Make Windows and Screens • Grass Seed Available In Many Varieties • Large selection of rental equipment • Large Fastener Center • Custom Paint matching & mixing • We Handle Most Postal Needs Including UPS drop off • Traeger Grills and Pellets now is stock

PUSH MOWER TUNE-UP

74

$

Repair parts not included ($74 includes tune up, oil change, blade sharpening)

Honda Mowers In Stock

10513 Watterson Trail • 502-267-7406 • www.jtownhardware.com 18 | March 2024 | TownePost.com

t Sponsored By:

SIMETRIA

MARCH CROSSWORD PUZZLE 1

2

3

4

5

12

6

7

8

9

13

15

10

FALL PREVENTION CENTER

11

14

16

17

18

19

20

DOWN 21

22

23

24

26

27

33

34

37

38

41

45

46

25

28

29

35

31

32

54

55

36

39

40

42

43

47

44

48

49

50

56

57

58

59

60

61

ACROSS

30

1. Corner chesspiece 5. Bailiff’s concern 9. Bled, like dye 12. Face form 13. Fabled runner-up 14. Good ___ boy 15. Soaks in sauce 17. Bill’s partner in love

51

52

53

18. Acrobat catcher 19. Reserved 21. Cavalry weapon 24. Simon ___ 26. “___ ideas?”

27. Goes head-to-head 29. Waste, as time 33. Base bed 34. ___ Island National Monument

1. Computer acronym 2. Female gametes 3. Sculler’s need 4. “Dave” star Kevin 5. “Come again?”

6. Teller 7. Tick off 8. Best left alone 9. “___ of Ages” 10. Cream additive 11. Bright light on Broadway 16. Chutzpah 20. It can’t hurt to do this 21. Type of race 22. In a bit 23. Memory unit 24. Tennis champ Monica 25. Tag sale tag

Colorway #8 - Member Colors 36. Vamp’s accessory 37. Cap site 39. Just in case 40. Advantages 41. Minimalist’s goal?

43. Havens 45. Mine passage 48. Corn holder 49. Musician’s asset

28. Misery causes 30. Nile bird 31. Individual 32. Aberdeen miss 35. “Cheers” prop 38. One with a pole position?

42. Practice piece 44. Addis ___ 45. Pursue 46. Robust 47. General assembly?

48. Pickle 51. Common consent 52. Cat hater, stereotypically 53. Kind of dance 54. Manage, with “out” 55. Census datum

50. Moves in waves 56. Glade shade 57. It may get into a jamb 58. Make a cake, e.g.

59. Opener 60. Competitive plus 61. Culminating point Solution can be found on the magazine Facebook page

SIMETRIA

FALL PREVENTION CENTER

NOW SEEING PATIENTS FOR

• DIZZINESS EVALUATION & TREATMENT • IMBALANCE & DISEQUILIBRIUM • BALANCE & FALL RISK ASSESSMENT • CONCUSSION (MTBI)

729 SPECKMAN ROAD | 502-539-5000 | WWW.SIMETRIAFPC.COM TownePost.com | March 2024 | 19

NEW HEIGHTS

DANA WALKER LINDLEY PENS FICTIONAL ACCOUNT OF WORLD WAR II BOWMAN FIELD FLIGHT NURSES Writer / Grace Schaefer Photography Provided

On a wall in the administration building at Bowman Field, Louisville’s first commercial airport, hang the photos of notable men who have been involved, in some capacity, with the location; even Charles Lindbergh’s picture is there. At the end of the hallway hangs a photo from the 1940s that doesn’t match the others - a photo of three women in military fatigues.

It was this single photo that intrigued Dana Walker Lindley a few months before the COVID-19 pandemic began. “I had been [at Bowman Field] a couple of weeks or months 20 | March 2024 | TownePost.com

before COVID struck, and I had noticed that there were these pictures of all these men,” Lindley says. “There’s a rich history of this airport. At the very end of the hallway there is one picture of three women looking up, and I remember seeing that at the time.

I thought, ‘I wonder why these women are here,’ but I didn’t do anything about it until COVID. Then I’m sitting on my front porch and we’re stuck at home and had some time, and I just started researching it.”

What she found amazed her.

The photo dates from the 1940s, when World War II was raging. The United States had officially entered the war after the attack on Pearl Harbor. The Army Nursing Corps recruited nurses with a goal of bringing the pre-Pearl Harbor number (1,000) to an astounding 60,000. “[They] started bringing in nurses from all over the country,” Lindley says.

A special program was started to train air

evacuation, or flight, nurses to retrieve and treat wounded soldiers in C-46, C-47 and C-54 transport planes headed for hospitals. There was much to learn in the few weeks of training.

“When you put people in airplanes, things change in the body in terms of how you evaluate them, treat them - there are all sorts of repercussions about being in an airplane when you treat people,” Lindley says.

Besides learning new procedures, nurses also dealt with a changing environment.

She says the planes were like “big tanks that flew, and they were very, very hot if they were on the ground in a tropical climate - no air conditioning, of course, no bathrooms, and no modern convenience on these planes at all. What you had on the planes were bodies strapped to the wall, lots of bodies, maybe 20, 25, maybe 30 injured men strapped to a wall. You and a handful of other people were responsible for treating them the entire trip until you could deliver them to a hospital where they would be safe.”

Because doctors stayed on ground ready for surgeries, these nurses took on the responsibility of leadership as well. “In most cases, the nurses were the medical person in charge,” Lindley says.

Along with the heavy responsibility, the aviation nurses also faced a challenging lack of supplies. “The nurses were on the planes caring for these patients,” Lindley says. “They never had a satisfactory medical bag. You just used whatever was in your bag, and your bag didn’t have much.”

Lindley found that, despite the monumental impact Bowman Field’s nurses had, today’s Louisville community knew little about the story. Having worked for Better Homes and Gardens, and having written before (including a number of published essays), she decided to write a novel based on what she had found, featuring fictitious air evacuation nurses.

Care that Comes to You Serving the Greater Louisville Area for 10 Years

Care that Comes to You We provide IN-HOME CARE services for Seniors: Serving the Greater Louisville Area for 9 Years

• Bathing & Dressing Assistance

These in-home living assistance services can be provided for a few hours a day up to 24/7 care: • Fall Prevention Bathing & Dressing Assistance | Fall | Assistance with Walking | Meal Preparation • Prevention Assistance with Walking Medication Reminders | Restroom & Hygiene Assistance | Light Housekeeping | Laundry & Bedmaking • Meal Preparation Errands & Shopping | Friendly Companionship | Respite Care for Families | Transitional Care • Medication Reminders Overnight Care | End-of-Life & Specialized Care

• Restroom & Hygiene Assistance • Light Housekeeping • Laundry & Bedmaking • Errands & Shopping • Friendly Companionship • Respite Care for Families • Transitional Care • Overnight Care • End-of-Life & Specialized Care

CALL FOR A FREE CONSULTATION

502.897.6547

126 S. Sherrin, Louisville KY 40207 | kentuckianahomecare.com

Serving the Greater Louisville AreaLouisville I KentuckianaHomeCare.com Serving the Greater Area TownePost.com | March 2024 | 21

The idea for “Ascension: Portrait of a Woman” was born, and preliminary research began.

“It was interesting to read the Courier Journal,” Lindley reflects. “I read it cover to cover for 1943 and got all sorts of useful information out of that. I was able to download the actual training manual that governed from the Army Air Corps that govern Bowman Field during that time period. I had to know what were the uniforms like, what were the classes that they took, what was the layout of the field, what buildings were there.”

She also read firsthand accounts of two nurses - rare documents, since, “like so many people in World War II, [many nurses] did not come back and tell their story,” Lindley says.

“I spent about a year researching everything I thought that I needed to know until I felt confident that I had good information in my

22 | March 2024 | TownePost.com

head,” she says. “Of course I had notes too. Then I just started writing. [I spent] hundreds of hours rewriting to make it the best I can make it because that, to me, is what your obligation as a writer is.

I hope it makes Louisville proud. I think it’s a very rich part of Louisville, Bowman Field in particular. Our community came together and really supported a very important mission that really made a difference, and they did it really well. I think we should be proud of that.”

for?’” Lindley says. “It doesn’t have to be World War II. There are infinite ways for us to show our courage, so how can we do that?”

“As far as the individual reader, I hope it inspires people to just always think about, ‘What can I contribute? [Where] can I show my courage? What can I stand up

And she certainly has. The special photo at Bowman Field, with three nurses looking up at the skies they were soon to fly in, may be only one photo; yet because of it, the stories of air evacuation nurses are becoming known. Through painstaking research and diligent care, Dana Walker Lindley is reminding today’s generations of the one that came before: that of “ordinary women who signed up for an extraordinary job,” she says.

“[It] was an honor to write about these women, and I believe that these women who served then and those who serve now, were really amazing for their sacrifice and their courage,” she adds.

“So I was really just honored to be able to tell their story.”

“Ascension: Portrait of a Woman” is available at Carmichael’s Bookstore and at amazon.com.

DEPENDABLE • TRUSTWORTHY • SKILLED

> Bathroom Remodel > DRYWALL REPAIR > FENCE & DECK REPAIR > PAINT & STAIN > TILE WORK

> CARPENTRY > PRESSURE WASHING > FLOORING INSTALLATION > …AND MUCH MORE!

502-533-7737 Adam Noon • Craig Noon • Jim Noon TownePost.com | March 2024 | 23

WELCOME TO

JUMBO BUFFET Jumbo Buffet is where you’ll find some of the best Asian dishes available in the Louisville area!

Sun-Thurs: 11:00am - 9:00pm Fri & Sat: 11:00am - 10:00pm

We put heart and soul into our food. Our best kept secret is that we make everything fresh, keeping guests coming back for more. Come join us for a wonderful dining experience!

2731 S. Hurstbourne Pkwy • Louisville, KY 40220 jumbobuffet40220.com • (502) 742-8550 24 | March 2024 | TownePost.com

Open Hours

TownePost.com | March 2024 | 25

Melanie West, FEAT Executive Director

NO SMALL FEAT

FAMILIES FOR EFFECTIVE AUTISM TREATMENT SUPPORTS AND FUNDS PROGRAMS THROUGH MULTIPLE MEANS Writer / Gavin LaPaille Photography Provided

F

or over two decades, Families for Effective Autism Treatment (FEAT) has sought to actively support and fund programs that help individuals navigate an autism diagnosis.

FEAT was founded in 1999 by a group of families searching for answers to their children’s complex medical problems and educational needs. Since then, the nonprofit organization has continued to expand its reach in the Louisville area while being a reputable source of comfort for a number of families. With the rate of individuals diagnosed with autism on the rise, the need for help with this developmental disability continues to be a high priority.

“At the time, autism wasn’t as prevalent as it is today so there wasn’t insurance to cover expenses,” said FEAT Executive Director Melanie West. “We were still learning about what autism is. FEAT was formed because they saw a need for early intervention.

We’ve been providing support education

26 | March 2024 | TownePost.com

for families and individuals on the autism journey. All year long we have various programs geared towards that goal.”

FEAT reaches individuals mainly by networking and word of mouth.

Doctors and medical providers often will recommend FEAT’s services, and the

organization routinely posts updates on its social media channels.

“We’ve been around for so long, we network with providers,” West said. “We have relationships with Norton doctors and those who are doing evaluations. They get referred to us. A lot of people find us organically.

It’s gotten to the point that so many people know about us, it’s a referral program. We pride ourselves on community partnerships and we think we’re a stronger force when you do that.”

According to the CDC, one in every 36 children is now diagnosed with autism, an increase from even two years prior, when the rate was one in every 44. FEAT offers a number of programs to support those families and raise awareness for autism, including an annual gala and 5K, both of which involve reaching out to all members of the local community for support.

The calendar is full of one-off and recurring

events, including swim classes, holiday parties and nights out for parents. Other initiatives include the Best Buddies program, which matches teens and young adults with autism to a peer from Trinity High School, University of Louisville and Bellarmine University, via a very detailed application process. There’s also the Dreams in Motion summer camp, the only eight-week educational, therapeutic and recreational summer camp for children and teens with autism in the Louisville Metro area.

FEAT has increased its ability to reach adults in recent years. Since there is no

FULL SERVICE OFFICE TECHNOLOGY PARTNER FOR YOUR BUSINESS IT

End to end IT support for desktops and servers alike Network management and implementation services

PHONES

Phone System installation, programming, and support Advanced VoIP Cloud Platform

SECURITY

CABLING

Copper and Structured Cabling jobs of any size Network Drop installation and digital Certification Access Control System Installation and Management Digital IP Camera System Installation and Management

DOCS

“We’ve offered the swim program for two decades and we’ve already expanded it to Oldham County to serve more families and individuals,” West said. “The swim program is really important because autism is one of the leading causes of drowning. Individuals see water as therapeutic and they’re naturally drawn to it, but they don’t see the dangers.”

www.MillerMakesITwork.com

Full Service Print, Scan, Copy, and Fax solutions Secure Document Management with available encryption

WIDE FORMAT

“All year long we have various programs,” West said. “I’m always looking to collaborate with other businesses on new initiatives. We have events all throughout the year for our families. We have monthly parent meetings, and we have a coffee or a lunch for parents to come to. We have two parents on staff with children with autism, so that is a huge asset for us because they are walking the journey as well.”

With drowning as one of the leading causes of death for children with autism, the Get Your FEAT Wet swim program has proven to be an important tool for hundreds of children in the community.

Many children with autism have deficits that prevent them from learning to swim in typical settings, including hypotonia, sensory integration dysfunction and gross-motor-skill impairments.

Collaborating with Home of the Innocents and All About Kids, FEAT has developed and financed a very specialized program that includes a behavior therapist to make the classes easier. West said she is looking to expand the program into neighboring counties and beyond.

Digital Wide Format Printing/Scanning for every budget Full-color CAD/Blueprints in a variety of sizes and media

LET US HELP YOU FIND THE RIGHT SOLUTION

We have helped many of our clients transition to remote working environments or find new ways to leverage technology so that they can work more efficiently within their budgets.

Give Miller a call today for a free consultation.

5 0 2 - 2 5 4 - 5 2 0 0

TownePost.com | March 2024 | 27

cure, an individual with autism never grows out of the disorder, and rather learns to better manage the condition. FEAT has partnered with a number of employers nationwide to provide training on hiring and employing individuals with autism through the Autism Friendly Business Initiative. The program leaders have partnered with businesses across a number of industries in 17 different states to date, providing online or in-person training.

“We work with businesses on modifications to create a welcoming environment - also, to talking to employers about hiring,” West said. “That’s a big gap and that’s something I’m focused on. Even though we’re in Louisville, we can reach others. We want to break down those barriers and show employers this population is full of brilliant individuals. It’s just about learning and hiring strategies. They’re very capable of changing people’s mindsets.”

West said while awareness for autism has

increased drastically over time, there are also a number of misconceptions about what the diagnosis truly means. There is a wide spectrum when it comes to autism, and early intervention is crucial in discovering the best way to move forward.

“Years ago, what they were portraying about autism, it wasn’t that accurate,” West said. “They were showing the worst-case scenarios and that’s not really the case anymore. There is such a spectrum. You could meet someone and not even know they had it unless they told you. Then you have others on the other end that might be nonverbal. Intervention is key, and physical, occupational and speech therapy are critical, especially in the early days. The awareness of educating the community is important so if they see these signs in their loved one, they can act and get help. We can really help the symptoms.”

Supporting autism treatment is personal for West, as two of her nephews are

Heartsong East Adult Day Health Care 10720 Plantside Drive • Louisville, KY 40299

WE PROVIDE OUTPATIENT THERAPY IN THE COMFORT OF YOUR OWN HOME!

A safe & friendly day program for adults...

Peace of mind & relief for their caregivers!

Specializing in the care of people with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia: • Activities and structure for socialization & wellness • Health care by licensed nurse • Assistance with personal care by specially trained staff • Safe, supportive, secure environment

We have the clinical equipment needed in order to treat your individualized needs.

• Proven-successful Covid-19 protocols

Call for a free evaluation today.

MOST INSURANCES ACCEPTED

502.935.3300

Office: 317 332-9861 | Fax: 317 893-4453 www.therapyonwheelsinc.com

“A friend knows the song in your heart and sings it to you when you’ve forgotten the words.”

28 | March 2024 | TownePost.com

autistic. West and her family began their association with FEAT by participating in the 5K and donating to the gala, then began volunteering on a more regular basis. That led to West officially joining FEAT as program manager six years ago after spending many years in the banking industry, and she moved into the executive director position in late 2021.

“I love the mission and have seen firsthand what FEAT is able to accomplish,” West said. “It was a wonderful way to come on and make a difference. My nephews were my why, and like with anything, if you want to make change you have to take action and get involved. It is definitely a shift going from corporate world to nonprofit world.”

“Our goal is to continue to fill whatever the need is and to serve the autism community,” West said. “Even what we’re doing now could look different down the line. There could be a need for a new program, so we’re always trying to think what is the current need and what we can do to help. We want to offer the education and support while expanding on new programs.”

Additional info can be found at featoflouisville.org.

West said FEAT measures impact in a number of different ways, getting feedback regarding hopes for the program’s future.

The team is continually looking for ways to expand, and hopes to reach more individuals in the coming years.

BRING IN YOUR USED MUSIC GEAR: GUITARS, AMPS, DRUMS, PRO SOUND, KEYBOARDS & band & orchestra INSTRUMENTS We test it out, make you an offer and

CUT YOU A CHECK ON THE SPOT.

(502) 495-2199 • MUSICGOROUNDLOUISVILLEKY.COM • 3640 S. HURSTBOURNE PKWY TownePost.com | March 2024 | 29

J Making Meditation

ust about everyone can agree that meditation is good for you. It is a great way to calm the mind, reduce reactivity to stress, and promote overall well-being. But if you ask people how their own practice is going, many will say “I don’t have time,” or “I can’t sit still,” or “I’m not good at it. I can’t seem to empty my mind.”

Accessible

INCORPORATING MINDFULNESS EFFECTIVELY IN EVERYDAY LIFE Writer / Mariam Ballantine Photography Provided

The truth is, meditating does not have to mean sitting on a cushion for an hour and banishing all thoughts from your brain. Starting a meditation practice and reaping the benefits is easier than you might think.

WHY START MEDITATING?

Reasons to start meditating usually involve a desire for greater peace of mind, more living in the present moment, and even improved health. Ironically, spending some time in quiet reflection actually helps you connect more with other people. Meditation creates compassion for yourself and for others. You become more emotionally resilient and better able to separate feelings from facts. Together, these skills have a positive impact on your relationships with other people.

“Mindful meditation has been truly revolutionary for me,” says Sarah Davasher-Wisdom, president and chief executive officer of Greater Louisville, Inc. “I highly recommend it for anyone wishing to develop a greater sense of internal serenity or a stronger understanding of self.”

Meditation also helps in the following ways: Focusing on slower, deeper breathing can cause your brain to release endorphins, reduce stress hormones and lower your heart rate. When you feel like you’re going 100 miles an hour, being able to stop the rush for even a short time can help you regain a sense of control.

Slowing down gives you time to think more deliberately and creatively. Instead of habitually reacting to a situation, when you notice that there’s a gap between the stimulus and your response, you have a better chance of choosing an appropriate and innovative course of action.

Feeling a sense of peace spreads to the rest of your life. Once you’ve learned to slow down and take a few minutes to observe your mind during meditation, you can begin to experience this same sense of peace as you move throughout your day.

30 | March 2024 | TownePost.com

WHAT IF MEDITATING IS TOO HARD?

Experiencing the benefits of meditation has a lot to do with managing your expectations.

You might secretly hope mindfulness is going to be a tranquilizer that instantly calms your mind, but mindfulness doesn’t come automatically to most of us. It takes practice, so don’t allow the flittering mind to become a problem. It might be annoying, but it’s just what minds do. On average (an unofficial estimate), beginning meditators can pay attention to something for about 1.2 seconds, then the mind darts off or attention fades away.

Father Joe Mitchell, a Passionist priest who founded the Earth & Spirit Center, explains more. “When you sit to meditate and try to focus on the breath, you’ll notice how quickly the mind gets lost,” he says. “In fact, your awareness will probably get lost over and over again. Don’t get upset. This is the normal default setting of the untrained

mind. During meditation you get a firsthand glimpse of how incredibly busy the mind is.”

You might have discovered how easy it is to obsess about things and replay the past from a biased perspective. It’s also common to anxiously imagine what the future might or might not be like. What a beginning meditator soon realizes is that the mind is focused on almost anything except what’s happening right now.

As soon as you discover your mind has wandered, don’t try to banish the thought.

Let go of entanglement with the thought or emotion and refocus your attention on the breath. Take delight in letting go. Relish the freedom of not being kidnapped by a thought or emotional scenario.

The goal is not to stop the flow of thoughts.

Thoughts are bound to keep arising. What you are putting effort into is avoiding becoming carried away by them and instead returning to the breath.

WHAT’S INVOLVED IN STARTING A PRACTICE?

Any healthy step you take is more likely to “stick” if you can make it a habit. “Increasing your motivation can make a big difference,” says Tony Zipple, Ph.D. “Building any habit benefits from some ‘nudges’ like visual reminders, support from friends and family, and small rewards. We can also increase motivation by taking a moment to pay attention to the good things we get from meditation, like the feeling of calm and centeredness.”

Mitchell suggests setting aside a specific time to practice each day. It’s helpful to keep in mind your reason for meditating.

Is it about reducing particular stressors, or cultivating a sense of calm that enables you to ride the roller coaster of daily life? Think about what it looks and feels like to reach your goal. How enjoyable is your life with less anxiety? How does it feel to respond rather than react to difficult situations? Keep

FREE DOOR ESTIMATES • SAME-DAY SERVICE

LOUISVILLE’S

GARAGE DOOR EXPERTS

$100 OFF SINGLE DOOR INSTALLED OR

$200 OFF

DOUBLE DOOR INSTALLED May not be combined with any other offers. Expires 4/30/2024.

$25 OFF

502.650.8335 • GarageDoorsLouisvilleKY.com

ANY SERVICE CALL May not be combined with any other offers. Expires 4/30/2024.

TownePost.com | March 2024 | 31

this motivation in mind and let that drive your commitment to meditating regularly.

Here’s how to do it: 1. Find a space where you can sit

Do the best you can. Your focus is on cultivating the habit of mindfulness meditation, not getting it perfect.

or stand comfortably. This could be at your desk, in your car - anywhere that’s quiet.

2. Close your eyes and take a

HOW TO GIVE IT A TRY

“Most of us had very little instruction growing up about how to relate with equanimity to our thoughts and feelings,” says Karen Newton, MPH, an instructor at the Earth & Spirit Center. “We often learn hypervigilance, worry, and problemsolving skills. It’s not surprising that we believe we have to pay attention to all our thoughts. So, it is really important to get connected with solid teachers when you’re learning to meditate. Plus, there’s big value in starting with a group where you can hear about other people’s experience, and how they’ve handled the challenges that come with starting this practice of changing our relationship to both thoughts and feelings.”

However, there’s a short form of meditation you can try on your own: a one-minute meditation that takes just 60 seconds to focus your mind and breathe deeply. This practice can be done anywhere, at any time, making it a convenient tool for managing stress reactivity and anxiety throughout the day.

deep breath in through your nose, breathing deeply and feeling the abdominal muscles expand.

3. As you breathe out, slowly

exhale through your mouth and let go of tension or stressful thoughts.

4. Repeat this breathing pattern

for 60 seconds, doing your best to focus on your breath sensations, noticing that thoughts arise but you can gently return to breath awareness, over and over.

5. When the minute is up, take

one last deep breath and slowly open your eyes.

Incorporating one-minute meditation into your daily routine is a simple and effective way to promote mental and physical health. Taking 60 seconds to breathe deeply and focus your mind can make a world of difference.

HOW MEDITATION INFLUENCES THE REST OF YOUR LIFE

“If you can be successful at never making a problem out of whatever occurs during meditation, you can be a successful meditator,” Mitchell says. Then, you start to take this skill into your daily life. “The moment you step out of the raging stream of thoughts with awareness, your experience of them changes,” he says. “You’re learning to observe thoughts with the calm dispassion of a bystander. You witness a thought or feeling but don’t attach to it. Simply observe it and let it pass down the stream.”

What you practice in meditation becomes a new way of living - mindful living. You’re training your mind to practice seeing your emotions and what’s really happening, without participating in them. Becoming a detached observer allows you to make decisions based on facts without the confusion of emotions in the way. Spending short periods of time practicing this detachment helps you start incorporating this approach into your day.

Your cultivation of mindfulness doesn’t have to be restricted to the meditation chair or cushion. Throughout the day, bring your full awareness to whatever you are doing walking from your car, standing in line at the grocery, eating lunch, drinking water, showering, talking on the phone. Be present to whatever you’re doing as you do it.

The Earth & Spirit Center is located at 1924 Newburg Road in the Highlands in Louisville, on a 27-acre campus and nature preserve. There is a wide variety of meditation, social justice, Earth-care programs and classes offered each spring and fall, including Camp Odyssey offered in the summer for elementary-school kids. In addition, the Center team has created the Institute for Applied Mindfulness that customizes mindfulness practices for organizational leaders and leadership teams. Please visit earthandspiritcenter.org to learn more and to register.

Free, in-home design consultations and estimates!

502.425.4728 • 800.293.3744 AUGUST 2018 PROOF

❑ Renewal Update

❑ First

❑ Second

Contact:

DAVE HARNOIS

❑ __

Cell: (502) 777-8316 Email: cca@twc.com

Sensible Solutions for Every Area!

Please Review This Ad Carefully.

Specify corrections and/or changes (written, via email or fax, or verbally to your sales representative) Within 2 Days of receipt of this proof. Errors missed on this proof will NOT release you from any payment liabilities to Family Savings Magazine.

There is no charge to correct typographical errors or to make revisions to your first or second proof. A Charge Of $60 Per Proof Will Apply Beginning With Your 3rd Proof.

If an approval has not been received by the published deadline date, the ad will be printed as shown.

121 Prosperous Pl 5A, Lexington, KY 40509 (502) 554-9956 ı FAX (859) 263-2854 FamilySavingsMagazine.com

Free, in-home design consultations and estimates!

502-425-4728

•

Licensed and Insured

LIMITED TIME OFFER!

888-500-9287

www.closetsbydesign.com ©2018 All Rights Reserved. Closets by Design, Inc.

PLUS FREE INSTALLATION

Call now for a free in-home design consultation!

www.closetsbydesign.com Licensed and Insured

Valid on new orders only. Free installation with any complete unit order of $500 or more. Must present ad at initial design consultation. Not valid with any other offer, discount or on previously placed orders. Discount applied to regular prices. Expires 4/30/2024

Imagine your home, totally organized.

32 | March 2024 | TownePost.com

SCOTTS LAWN PRO 4-STEP PROGRAM $

20 $

FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED SINCE 1946 Equipment Rental • Propane Refill • Key Cutting Window & Screen Repair • Fastener Center • Valspar Paint Cabot Stain • Blade Sharpening • Bagged Mulch Bulk Grass Seed • Mower Tuneups

INSTANT REBATE All 4 steps. See store for details.

119 $ 2000 $ 9999

99 Before Instant Rebate

Instant Rebate* Best Rewards Member Price*

5,000 sq foot coverage

$

50

INSTANT REBATE All 4 steps. See store for details.

289 $ 5000 $ 23999

$

99 Before Instant Rebate

Instant Rebate* Best Rewards Member Price*

15,000 sq foot coverage

Effective 02/01/2024 through 06/30/2024

STORE HOURS

Mon-Friday 7:30-7 Saturday 7:30-6 Sunday 10-5

9608 Taylorsville Road | www.dierufhardware.com | 502.267.5555 Stony Brook Location 9152 Taylorsville Rd Louisville, KY 40299 502.654.7800 Mon-Fri 8:30am - 7:30pm Sat 10:00am - 4:00pm Sun Closed

• Printing & document finishing • Package & shipping • Mailbox services • Postal Products & services • Notary services

$ Notary Services Only

5

Up to 3 signatures

only when presented at a participating location. The UPS Store centers are independently owned and operated. © 2023 The UPS Store, Inc.

15

%

SHREDDING OFF SERVICES

only when presented at a participating location. The UPS Store centers are independently owned and operated. © 2023 The UPS Store, Inc.

The UPS Store® locations are independently owned and operated by franchisees of The UPS Store, Inc. in the USA and by its master licensee and its franchisees in Canada. Services, pricing and hours of operation may vary by location. Copyright © 2023 the UPS Store, Inc. 10963120417

TownePost.com | March 2024 | 33

A ZG entity

ZG |zoomgroup provides day training services and supports for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Come Run, Jump, & Play at KGA Flipping Louisville’s Kids for More Than 40 Years!

For more than four decades, our mission at KGA has been to celebrate each child's accomplishments, no matter how great or small, while encouraging growth with a positive attitude and mutual respect.

Where Every Stroke Tells a Story, Empowering Abilities through Artistry!

We offer Boys’ and girls’ competitive and recreational gymnastics, NinjaZone, open gyms for all ages, day camps, First Stop Preschool, birthday parties, and more!

thezg.us | hello@zoomgroup.org | Louisville, KY | 502.581.0658

kgagym.com / 1160 Avoca Station Court, Middletown / (502) 254-1010

Natural Stone Artisans

Custom Design • Fabrication • Installation

GRANITE QUARTZ MARBLE QUARTZITE

TRAVERTINE LIMESTONE SLATE ONYX Kitchen Countertops Tub Surrounds Outdoor Kitchens Vanity Tops Fireplace Surrounds Furniture Tops

(502) 254-7055 • www.eleetstone.com • 13042 Middletown Industrial 34 | March 2024 | TownePost.com

Melody MAN

THE MUSICAL JOURNEY OF KOOL & THE GANG ALUMNUS ODEEN MAYS CONTINUES RIGHT HERE IN LOUISVILLE AND BEYOND Writer / Carrie Vittitoe Photography Provided

of Kool & the Gang, Odeen Mays, lives right at school, and it seemed he had left the piano behind. That wasn’t actually the case, here in Louisville and is sharing his love of though. He still noodled around on the music with local residents. ivories, picking up bits and pieces like a sponge. He played piano well enough in his To look at a list of his musical credits is to see a man who has had a storied career, and early teen years to perform in his church’s has played with, or written and arranged national youth choir. By the time he was for, some of the greats - Natalie Cole, 20, he had said goodbye to the sax. “I didn’t “Celebrate good times. Come on!”

LeVert, Regina Belle, and Teena Marie. You have to do any prep work to play keys,” he says.

Whether you’re 4, 14, 40 or 84, you’ve heard really can’t help but be in awe when you see an extensive list of the folks Mays has this song. It’s played at community parties collaborated with over the years.

He moved around a bit in his teenage and weddings, anniversaries and reunions. years, from Ohio to California to Georgia, Everyone knows (and let’s be honest, loves) then back to Ohio. When he returned to “Celebration” by Kool & the Gang. While it Mays was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, and Cincinnati, he and some friends formed may be the most widely known of the band’s lived there until he was 15 years old. He a band and began playing in local clubs. always had an interest in music, due in part songs, it is only one of the many in the to his family’s musicality. His father, paternal By the time Mays was 22 years old, he was band’s history, which dates to 1964. playing five nights a week in Cincinnati aunt, and mother all played piano at one time or another. When Mays was 4 years old clubs and restaurants, making a local name If you haven’t followed Kool & the Gang he began tinkering around with the piano at for himself. closely, you may not realize that the lineup his grandparents’ home after preschool. of the band has changed over the years At age 27 when Mays began playing at a adding and shedding band members isn’t supper club in Dayton, Ohio, he received a out of the norm in the music industry. You By the time Mays was in eighth grade, he phone call that changed his life. According may also not realize that a former member was playing the saxophone in band class It begins with the drums, quickly followed by the funk of the guitar. Moments later, the horns chime in. Your body is moving side to side, your feet tapping, but you’re waiting for the “YAHOO!” so you can bounce. The lyrics begin in full.

TownePost.com | March 2024 | 35

to Mays, he said the following to his girlfriend at the time when he answered the call: “Somebody is playing on the phone.

This guy says he’s with Kool & the Gang.”

Mays thought it was a big joke.

played Kool & the Gang on the radio so much,” he says. “I knew how to play some of that stuff already.”

He admits that at first he felt a little intimidated, but ultimately determined “I’m talking to this guy like, ‘Yeah, right. You that he needed to just trust his musical talents. “I finally said to myself, ‘You got called me out of the blue,’” he says. chops. Just play. If you can’t play “Joanna,” “Get Down on It” and “Cherish the Love,” But it wasn’t a game. The following week, you need to stay home,’” Mays says.

Mays received another phone call and traveled to New York, where he auditioned His belief in his talents served him later at Studio Instrument Rentals. He didn’t in his career when he played with The finish the first verse of Donny Hathaway’s Temptations. “They sent me two CDs and “For All We Know” before band reps a plane ticket,” he says. “I didn’t rehearse stopped him and said, “You got the job.” with them. Eventually it dawned on me that these people figured, ‘We got Odeen.

Kool & the Gang sent him two cassette We don’t need to rehearse. It’s going to be tapes and a plane ticket, which eventually fine.’ ” It took him until he was in his 50s got him to West Africa, where he went to come to this epiphany. He credits his on stage with the band. “We never did a parents for raising him to be responsible and rehearsal,” he says. At the time, Kool & the professional so people trust him.

Gang were such famous hitmakers that Mays didn’t have to spend too much time In addition to his work with Kool & the practicing before hitting the arena. “They

Gang and The Temptations, Mays also performed with the Ohio Players, a band formed in the 1970s in Dayton that opened for Kool & the Gang during one of their tours. After one of their shows, Mays said to them, “I’m from Cincinnati. I’m an Ohio player. Can I play with you guys when I’m not playing with Kool & the Gang?” They agreed, and another musical relationship was born.

His years in the music business gave him the opportunity to meet some notable

A Quality Product at an Affordable Price

TIRED OF CLEANING YOUR GUTTERS?

FAMILY FARM Fresh

Manufactured locally and installed by quality craftsmen with over 50 years in the industry.

OTHER SERVICES PROVIDED INCLUDE:

Roofing/Siding

Windows

Call us today!

502-267-1700 / hensleyguttering.com

Doors

YOUR LOCAL CULVER’S RESTAURANT: Culver’s of (City)

123 XYZ Street, City, State ZIP (123) 456-7890

Culver’s of (City)

123 XYZ Street, City, State ZIP

36 | March 2024 | TownePost.com

(123) 456-7890

Culver’s of (City)

123 XYZ Street, City, State ZIP

$1 OFF

4630 South Hurstbourne Pkwy (502) 671-2001 The Culver’s Deluxe ButterBurger® (City, ST, Street Name) • (City, ST, Street Name) • (City, ST, Street Name)

Expires MM/DD/YY

Reproductions of this coupon are not accepted.

$1 off regular menu price. Please no substitutions. Not valid with any other offer. Value 1/200 cent. Limit one coupon per person per visit.

Valid only at participating Culver’s® restaurants.

000-00/00

people, including George Benson and Dizzy Gillespie. His extensive traveling all over the world allowed him to see things he never would have dreamed of. “My favorite place was Réunion Island,” he says. “There was no McDonald’s there. There were streams and lakes you could drink from. There was a dormant volcano.”

Traveling can be hard but it is a lifestyle that musicians like Mays eventually get used to, and there are definitely some positive factors involved. “You’re on the road for six weeks and you can’t wait to get home,” Mays says. “You’re home for six days and you can’t wait to get back on the road.”

He realized that he loves hotel rooms.

“There is nothing in that room yet that is going to give you any stress,” he says. He realized that he liked being on tour because it meant being treated like someone special, and being recognized at airports and performance venues. Being at home didn’t provide the attention he enjoyed.

Now in his early 60s, Mays feels a little differently about having a home base here in town. He had been performing at Jeff Ruby’s in Cincinnati when the owner invited him to perform in Louisville, and Mays liked what he saw. He is teaching students several days a week at School of Rock, playing music for his church and traveling for performances at nearby cities.

He has three dogs now, so that makes his travels not quite as far flung as Norway and Australia.

He’s eager to look for more opportunities to share his love of music, whether at local clubs, restaurants or upscale parties.

INJURY LAWYERS - Est. 1993

RUMORSLOUISVILLE.COM

LOCALLY OWNED FOR OVER 35 YEARS!

Jazzy says, “It’s not the size of the dog in the fight, it’s the size of the fight in the dog!”

• We handle all types of injury cases

Auto - Truck - Workers’ Comp - Nursing Home - Falls

• Located conveniently in the East End • Free parking at our door

12339 SHELBYVILLE RD. (502) 245-0366

(502) 245-2333 | harvillelaw.com 2527 Nelson Miller Parkway, Suite 102 (Please read the testimonials on our website)

TownePost.com | March 2024 | 37

(502) 237-5530

ercial sed vice 98

m 35-9898

g.com ET

FFF

47

ND GET

EICE

ers.

y other offers. agazine.

1976

–202

J-Town’s Historic Gaslight District ᐧ 10104 Taylorsville Rd, 40299 abovethedirtgardenshop.com ᐧ 290-4466

3

When you want it done right, When you want it done right, call PLUMBING first! callLEANHART LEANHART PLUMBING first!

We offer quality, professional forallall your plumbing problems.

We offer quality, professional solutions solutions for your plumbing problems.

PRESENT THIS AD AND GET

$25 OFF ANY SERVICE

Valid only with coupon. Not valid with any other offers. Jeffersontown Magazine.

Expires 4/30/2024.

Residential & Commercial Experienced-Licensed

Call us today (502) 935-9898 38 | March 2024 | TownePost.com

HOUSEPLANTS ᐧ LANDSCAPING ᐧ NATIVE PLANTS ᐧ CLASSES

EMPANADA : S Y A TUESD SPECIAL $1 empanada with purchase of a drink from the bar — and 50% off beer!

WEDNESDAYS: 50% OFF

Master License #HM04966

house mojitos, house and swirl margaritas, red and white sangrias

Expires 4/30/2024

Expires 4/30/2024

St. Matthews

Highlands

4115 Oechsli Ave. 502.897.1959

2210 Bardstown Road 502.749.4600

MONDAYS: Three Louisville locations to serve you!

Middletown 12003 Shelbyville Road 502.244.5375

50% OFF APPETIZERS MONDAYS: MONDAYS: MONDAYS: House Mojitos, House 50% OFF APPETIZERS 50% OFF APPETIZERS 50% OFF APPETIZERS EMPANADA : S SPECIALU Y A D S E Margaritas and Sangrias EMPANADA : T S TUESDAY SPECIAL ESDSPECIAL AYS: EMPANADA YS: EMPANADA

ZERS

MONDAYS: EMPANADA

50% OFF APPETIZERS

$1 empanada with k purchase of a drin d from the bar — an 50% off beer!

A U EMPANADA D T S : E S U T Y A D S TUE SPECIAL $2 OFF on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday $1 empanada with $1 empanada with purchase of a drink SPECIAL Sunday purchase of a drink fromand the bar — and $1 empanada with 50% off beer! from the bar — purchase and of a drink 1/2 OFF on Wednesdays from the bar — and 50% off beer! $1 empanada with

AYS: WEDNESDAYS:

jitos, swirl red and ngrias

50% off beer!

purchase of a drink 50% from the barYou! — and Three Louisville Locations to Serve 50% off beer!

OFF house mojitos, Highlands house mojitos, house and swirl margaritas, red and white sangrias

SPECIAL

$1 empanada with purchase of a drink from the bar — and 50% off beer!

WEDNESDAYS: WEDNESDAYS: WEDNESDAYS: 50%

St. Matthews Middletown Highlands d 2210 Bardstown Roa house and swirl 600 502.749.4 house mojitos, Rd.margaritas, 3939 Shelbyville Rd. 12003 Shelbyville 2210 Bardstown house mojitos, red and Rd. Middletown 502.244.5375 502.749.4600 d 502.897.1959 house and swirl 12003 Shelbyville Roa house and swirl white sangrias 5375 locations to serve you!

Three 502.244.Louisville margaritas, red and margaritas, red and Online ordering available at havanarumbaonline.com Highlandswhite sangrias St. Matthews 2210 Bardstown Road 4115 Oechsli Ave. white sangrias 502.749.4600 502.897.1959

St. Matthews

4115 Oechsli Ave. 502.897.1959

50% OFF 50% WEDNESDAYS: OFF OFF St. Matthews

Highlands

4115 Oechsli Ave. 502.897.1959

2210 Bardstown Road 502.749.4600

Middletown

12003 Shelbyville Road 502.244.5375

50%

house mojitos, Louisville locations to serve you!

St.swirl Matthews houseThree and 4115 Oechsli Ave.

Middletown

12003 Shelbyville Road Highlands502.244.5375

2210 Bardstown Road

St. Matthews

Highlands

4115 Oechsli Ave. 502.897.1959

2210 Bardstown Road 502.749.4600

TownePost.com | March 2024 | 39

For advertising information, contact: COREY BOSTON

corey@townepost.com 502.407.0185

gamechanging

experts Get back in the game of life faster.

The UofL Health Orthopedic team are the go-to experts for advanced, tailored treatment plans with less recovery time. In fact, we lead the state in robotic surgical procedures that can minimize pain and improve quality of life in record time. We are renowned for high-level care and customized surgeries that treat everything from shoulders to toes, including spines.

And as the official health care provider for UofL Athletics, we provide that same VIP care to every patient. With access to specialists all in one place, it’s a win-win-win for the fastest journey to recovery.

Visit UofLHealth.org today.

Rodolfo Zamora, MD Orthopedic Surgeon

THAT’S THE POWER OF U