Middletown Magazine January 2026

+ Community Support in Action

Middletown Police Foundation Strengthens Public Safety

Serving Tradition RESTAURATEUR SHARES CULTURE, FLAVOR & COMMUNITY

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Rescuing Hope The Arrow Fund Helps Heal Animals Hurt by Cruelty JANUARY 2026

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PUBLISHER COREY BOSTON corey@townepost.com (502) 407-0185 KEY CONTRIBUTORS MELISSA GIBSON GAVIN LAPAILLE AMANDA SPALDING CARRIE VITTITOE

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Middletown Police Foundation Strengthens Public Safety

26

COMMUNITY SUPPORT IN ACTION

10

TEMPORAL LANDMARKS & THE POWER OF FRESH STARTS

The Arrow Fund Helps Heal Animals Hurt by Cruelty

30

RESCUING HOPE

14

STRINGS OF COMMUNITY

JANUARY 2026

JANUARY WORD SEARCH PUZZLE

Louisville Dulcimer Society Builds Friendship Through Music

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SERVING TRADITION

JANUARY CALENDAR OF EVENTS

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LEADING DOWNTOWN FORWARD

Louisville Downtown Partnership Director Honored For Vision & Community Impact

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

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What makes the difference in The Best Senior Care?

Compassionate, devoted and tenured team members make all the difference.

We would know at Christian Care Middletown. Recently several of our employees were awarded for their dedication to excellence.

We would like to take a moment and thank a few of those team members.

Atong Chiman, Trainer on our caregiver team and Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement committee member and has been with us for two years. Nancy Siegel, Office Coordinator, has cheerfully greeted families and residents for four years. Josie Sabie, our Director of Resident Services, has been on the team for twenty-one years, which is the longest of any staff member! Maria Self, experienced Leader and member of the Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement committee, has been on our team for eight years.

Please join us in thanking these individuals who make a positive impact on our residents lives daily.

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Specifically, many of these team members work with our Assisted Living residents.

Rated as The Best Senior Living 2025 by A Place for Mom, we take pride in the care we provide.

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Josie Sabie, said this, “I just want to express my appreciation for this award and say how much I enjoy caring for my residents!” Learn more about the Christian Care Middletown difference by calling us today and stop inside to come meet our team!

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COMMUNITY SUPPORT IN ACTION MIDDLETOWN POLICE FOUNDATION STRENGTHENS PUBLIC SAFETY Writer / Melissa Gibson

The Middletown Police Department (MPD) was formed in 2017 to provide a dedicated local law enforcement presence, while continuing to work closely with the Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD) to ensure the safety and well-being of Middletown residents.

Upon its formation, the city leadership got to work, providing an initial budget.

However, to grow and excel, it became apparent to Middletown Mayor Byron Chapman that more needed to be done.

In 2021, Chapman appointed six community members to a nonprofit

committee, creating the Middletown Police Foundation to benefit MPD. “The mayor recognized there was a need for extra things for the police department that is not typically covered in the budget,” says Ann Hurst, president of the foundation. “As a nonprofit 501(c)(3), we’re able to accept donations, host fundraisers and apply for grants where the police department cannot.

You cannot give a police officer $10 and thank them for their service.”

They’ve created and gifted coloring books to children at community events, and childidentification material is available to the parents of elementary school children to record data on their child in the event of an emergency.

Hurst says every dollar that comes in the front door of the nonprofit goes out the back door in the form of a grant to the MPD, and the benefits are already clear to many in the community.

More than 150 bicycle helmets are given to families each year at the Middletown Chamber of Commerce’s Easter EggStravaganza, and the police department has been able to host crime-prevention programs for seniors in the community with literature regarding scamming issues and other common and dangerous seniorrelated issues.

One branch of the foundation focuses on community safety.

Another focus for the foundation is supporting law enforcement in a variety of ways.

The foundation is prepared to pay for training above and beyond the rigorous training the department participates in regularly, in areas such as de-escalation techniques or responding to mental health crisis situations, for example.

It has also purchased tools to further assist law enforcement’s day-to-day work, ranging from training equipment to mobile drugtesting equipment.

Just one year ago, they invested in an aerial drone for locating lost individuals, surveying storm damage and conducting surveillance. It was recently on display at the

6 | January 2026 | TownePost.com

annual National Night Out (NNO) event.

In fact, the foundation helps the police department attend community events such as NNO, parades, fairs and holiday gatherings to create a visible presence and positive community atmosphere. Funds are often limited for these types of events, but the foundation has assisted when the need arises.

goes home with him every day. He’ll be ready to be on the street in February. Onyx will be trained in patrol work and narcotics, and there are other costs such as special equipment for Zach’s car for Onyx.”

The addition of a K9 to any police department can elevate the work being done in the community.

Highly trained K9s have enhanced detection capabilities, are able to de-escalate apprehension and foster positive community interactions with residents.

They are also prepared to provide support for officers who suffer injury and their families, but their most recent assistance is in the purchase of their second K9, Onyx.

“We’ve only had Onyx for a couple of weeks and we’re very excited,” Hurst says. “He’s still training with his handler, Officer Zach Prichard. He lives with Zach and

Onyx is a puppy from a training facility in North Carolina and will soon be able to sniff out illegal drugs, act as a deterrent to crime and serve as an extra set of eyes for the officers on duty.

“The result of all of these things is we’re being more effective at preventing and responding to criminal activities,” Hurst says. “I think the department is thrilled to have the foundation because we’re putting their work in a positive light and really enhancing their ability to do a great job.”

The Middletown Police Foundation hosts one large fundraiser each year — a car show at Village

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Square Shopping Plaza. More than 200 classic and modern cars have been on display in the past, winning awards such as Top 50, Classic American, Best Of and People’s Choice, to name a few.

Texas Roadhouse, Dairy Queen, Scheller’s Fitness and Cycling, and Todd’s Place Express Car Wash.”

The proceeds from the car show’s entry fee and raffle held by the foundation benefit the police department through the nonprofit.

They’ve even served as mentors to other community police foundations who have watched how the Middletown Police Foundation has succeeded and supported their police department.

“In addition to the car show, we are writing grants and working with community partners for sponsorships,” Hurst says.

“Some of our community partners include

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for new ideas and new support.

“It’s really been by word of mouth,” Hurst says. “We are always looking for people who are interested. We have an application on the website to join our board. We want people who want to be involved and want to help, whether it’s volunteering for events or contacting businesses for donations. We’re really here to support the police department and the community of Middletown.”

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RESCUING HOPE THE ARROW FUND HELPS HEAL ANIMALS HURT BY CRUELTY Writer / Carrie Vittitoe

Few of us are immune to the distracting pull of cute animal videos.

We can watch with unabashed delight kittens swatting at dust motes floating through the air, and who can resist a playful pup scampering toward a ball or a butterfly or whatever it is that catches the canine’s attention in the moment?

But for all the funny and cute dog and cat videos on social media, there are at least as many videos of animals that have been harmed by humans in some way. Some have been chained up in the heat, while others have been abandoned to fend for themselves, and these may be the lucky ones. Other dogs and cats have been severely and cruelly abused and neglected.

It is because of these gravely mistreated animals that The Arrow Fund began in 2013. Carrie Shoaf, who handles communications for the organization, says it got its start when a Black Labrador was found in Eastern Kentucky wandering through fields. The animal had been intentionally shot and still had an arrow 10 | January 2026 | TownePost.com

in its body.

“At the time, no organization in the state specialized in rehabilitating severe cruelty cases, especially those needing specialty veterinary care,” Shoaf says.

The dog, who was later named Aiden, spurred a group of animal lovers to find and fund his medical treatment. Fortunately, Aiden was not only able to survive his injuries but found a loving home where he lived a healthy and happy life until he passed away in 2024.

“Aiden’s rescue, rehabilitation, and success led to the formation of The Arrow Fund, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit specializing in rehabilitating animal victims of abuse, torture, and extreme neglect,” she says.

Animals that have been horribly abused come with a unique set of needs. Many of them require extensive and complicated surgeries, which then often leads to longer-term physical rehabilitation and

recuperation. There are also the emotional and behavioral needs of the animals who, having been harmed by humans, are rightly scared of them and need to learn to trust people again.

Unlike some other animal rescue organizations, The Arrow Fund does not have a facility, which means it relies on volunteers to care for animals in their homes. Typically, animal rescuers or shelters in the state will contact The Arrow Fund to let them know there is an animal in need.

Members then create a plan of action that involves locating a foster, which is the first and most important step.

“We cannot take responsibility for a new case until a foster has been secured for that particular pet,” Shoaf adds. “Once a foster has been confirmed, we arrange immediate transport of the injured animal for evaluation by one of our animal hospital partners here in Louisville.”

Shoaf notes that because of the nature of the abuse that The Arrow Fund animals experience, it can be emotionally draining to witness the ones that come to the organization.

“Front-line rescuers bear witness to some of the worst devastation from animal abuse at the hands of unimaginable human cruelty,” she says. “Burnout among those who work many hours and expend much energy to save innocent victims of abuse is always a challenge for rescue organizations.”

Unfortunately, these rescuers know there are too many abused and neglected animals in need of assistance. In fact, the state of Kentucky ranks among the worst for animal welfare. A 2023 report by the Animal Legal Defense Fund shows that Kentucky ranks fifth worst for laws that protect animals, with only North Dakota, Alabama, Idaho and South Carolina having higher rankings.

While animal abuse is obviously horrible, it

also has a financial cost, which people may not realize. Shoaf says “the cycle of abuse costs Kentucky taxpayers $150,000 or more annually.”

People who abuse animals often don’t face charges or experience any consequences, and so their behavior continues.

To make matters even worse, there is a strong correlation between animal abuse and child abuse. According to the Child Maltreatment 2023 report from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Kentucky’s child abuse rates are double the national average. The abuse of the small and weak, it seems, goes hand-in-hand.

The Arrow Fund is a small outfit, so it is always in need of volunteers, especially people willing to foster animals. While fostering may seem like a big ask, there are certain benefits to fostering that people may not have considered. The Arrow Fund provides everything that the rescued animal

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needs. Carrie says all medical expenses, supplies, food, bedding, toys, litter and treats are covered by the organization so that fosters can focus their energy on providing stability and care to the animal.

Another benefit to fostering is it gives people who love animals an opportunity to love on them but without the lifetime commitment. Adults who have retired and want to travel may find that fostering allows

them the best parts of being a pet parent, they can foster for a time while an animal is recuperating and then take a break.

There is always a need for “more compassionate people to provide a safe and loving home while an animal recovers until the pet is cleared by a vet for adoption into its new, forever family,” Shoaf says.

Because the medical expenses for grievously

abused animals are high, The Arrow Fund has four fundraising events each year to help save as many animals as possible. In the late winter months, The Arrow Fund participates in Kentucky Animal Action Day in Frankfort, while April is when they host their Furry Derby Paw-tay at Noble Funk Brewing Company. During the months of May through September, volunteers with The Arrow Fund can be found at the St. Matthews Farmers Market every Saturday from 8 a.m.-

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Finally, in September, the organization has a booth at the Jeffersontown Gaslight Festival where they sell treats, logo gear, magnets and various other goodies to raise funds.

Since its inception, around 600 animals have been rescued and helped by The Arrow Fund but, of course, not every animal can be saved. Shoaf notes that those animals that are too injured to recover are given a humane passing. Despite these losses, volunteers know that these animals, in their last moments, were cared for, and that provides them some solace. These losses sometimes motivate volunteers to work even harder to find and help animals.

If you would like to be part of making a difference in the lives of abused and neglected animals, whether it is through donations, fostering or adopting, please visit thearrowfund.org to learn more.

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Strings of Community LOUISVILLE DULCIMER SOCIETY BUILDS FRIENDSHIP THROUGH MUSIC Writer / Melissa Gibson

Betty Hansel, a member of the Louisville Dulcimer Society, took piano lessons as a child, played guitar in college and participated in choir most of her life. Years later, she went through a divorce and had a daughter to raise.

this group and my daughter could go and enjoy it with me,” Hansel says. “She grew up going to our gatherings and it was a good family thing to do.”

“I learned how to play the dulcimer through

The Louisville Dulcimer Society has been

That’s how most people find the group.

Through retirement or other life changes, The circumstances and need for community they look for something to do for brought music back into her life in a big way. connection, activity and friendship.

14 | January 2026 | TownePost.com

in existence for approximately five decades.

The musicians meet weekly, practice together and often perform together at various events across Louisville and beyond.

“It all started with Nancy Barker and her lessons at the Doo Wop Shop,” Hansel says.

“Several of our members took lessons from her around 50 years ago. People had so much fun, they wanted to play more often and to perform, and that’s how the society was born.”

A dulcimer is a stringed folk instrument with two different varieties. The hammered dulcimer has strings over a trapezoidal shape, and the musician strikes the strings with two small hammers.

The second variety is the Appalachian dulcimer, a narrower version with three to five strings and played similar to the guitar.

Hansel says it’s an American instrument, created by immigrants from Europe, Scotland, Ireland and other countries in search of the sound they were accustomed to. When musicians such as Jean Ritchie, dubbed the “Mother of Folk” in the 1930s and ’40s, brought the dulcimer into their recorded music, it cemented the instrument into folk music culture.

“A dulcimer could be made out of a shed in the backyard if you wanted,” Hansel adds.

“Of course, the ones we have today are beautiful, handcrafted workmanship, but back then, they could easily make and sell dulcimers and the family had something

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One might think this is an exclusive group, however, you don’t have to play the dulcimer to join the society.

“Anything that doesn’t plug in is welcome,” Hansel says. “We have lap dulcimers, hand dulcimers, banjos, guitars, penny whistles and other instruments. You might be surprised at how good it sounds. If I walk away and come back, I’m always amazed at how all of these instruments complement each other.”

At the weekly Louisville Dulcimer Society session, all are invited to come and play, sit down and listen to the music, or bring your own instrument and they’ll teach you too. they could sing along with. Sort of a backporch instrument.”

The Louisville Dulcimer Society created a place for musicians to practice their skills and share music with others.

When Hansel joined, they were hosting

“A lot of people have a dulcimer that hangs potluck dinners. Everyone brought their children, and entire families joined in on the over their mantle and they don’t know what to do with it,” Hansel says. “If you’ve never jam sessions. played and you walk in with one, we’ll show you how.”

Over time, things changed. Now, they get together once per week, and a few times per Over the years, the society has met at year they schedule those popular potluck local churches but has settled at the community gatherings.

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Jeffersontown Senior Center Ballroom for the past several.

“We sit in a circle and play music,” Hansel says. “There’s a list of songs selected each week so we can know them ahead of time, and when we finish the list, we start picking tunes like a jam session.”

Approximately 20 to 40 people attend, depending on the time of year, and the group continues to grow.

“I think it’s getting more and more popular,” Hansel adds. “I play with other jam sessions in the city and they are all growing. A lot of young people are really getting into the folk music and bluegrass.”

More than 25 years ago, several members of the club suggested taking a weekend to get away and play their music.

They formed the Ohio Valley Gathering and rented rooms in areas across Kentucky,

Indiana and Illinois.

“The first time, I think 500 people came out,” Hansel says. “It was our group and similar clubs that wanted to participate. We will play together and then often break into groups for a beginner class or to teach new songs. I’m doing a dulcimer finger-picking class at our next one. We’ll also have guest speakers: someone to come in and show how to string your instrument or how to care for them.”

They spread their love of music through the community by playing a few times per month at nursing homes, churches and other community gatherings.

“We don’t charge for performances, we are all volunteer, but we do accept donations,” Hansel says. “We have a membership fee of $20 per year per family and it’s just so we can pay for the insurance and rent the space for practices.”

They also have an instrument sale each year.

Not only does it raise funds for the society, but it supports budding musicians. It’s popular among dulcimer club members in the area. They can purchase instruments at a discounted price and those looking to learn a new instrument can get a great deal.

Most importantly, the men and women of the Louisville Dulcimer Society simply enjoy sharing their love of music.

“It’s always a fun time and the whole thing is about enjoying music together and playing together,” Hansel says.

The Louisville Dulcimer Society meets every Sunday from 3 to 4:30 p.m. at the Jeffersontown Senior Center Ballroom.

For more information, visit louisvilledulcimersociety.org.

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“I love to serve,” Reyes says. “I enjoy helping people. I’m passionate about what I do and I love what I do.”

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first arrived in Kentucky in 1999 and worked as a dishwasher, developing a love of serving others. He always had a dream to do more that would bring the vibrant flavors of his hometown to the area he now called home. Reyes embraced every role in The vibrant interiors, adorned with the restaurant business over the years, from exquisite Mexican art and crafts, reflect the line cook to server, giving him a unique Reyes says it’s important to him that guests deep-rooted love for his heritage. From perspective on all his employees and the get the best meals at an affordable price and the first restaurant to the most recent one, Reyes remains unchanged in his dream to be jobs they do daily. takes pride in how the team comes up with nurtured by hard work and family. many of the selections.

“It really helps,” Reyes says. “I understand the process of everything. I started as a “They’re family recipes,” Reyes says. “We get Reyes says all the locations have proven to dishwasher and I like the environment. I fit his mission and feels very lucky to have the best ingredients and use really highlearned how to cook working in the kitchen. quality meat. We always are working on new them be successful.

Everyone is like a family on my team. It’s recipes at home that are good traditional good to have the experience all the way.”

“They’re great areas,” Reyes says. “They dishes from Mexico.” were the best places for my company. That happened over time. I expected to just have Gustavo’s offers a full bar with special First opening its doors in 2010, Gustavo’s cocktails and signature drinks, featuring one location, but I’ve had the opportunity has grown from one restaurant in margaritas, tequilas, bourbons, wine and to do more, and we’ve taken it. We are very Crestwood to five unique locations spread out across the Louisville area, now including blessed and grateful to have the community whiskey. Many draft beers are also available, as are homemade sangrias and mojitos.

Hurstbourne, La Grange, Norton Commons support we do.” and Prospect Village. Coming from a large family himself, Reyes recognizes the warmth Reyes, who hails from Guadalajara, Mexico, One special draft beer was introduced to the burrito options, chimichangas and cazuelons. A wide variety of sides are available along with smaller children’s plates and vegetarian selections. Deals run frequently, including Taco Tuesdays, discounted kids menus and happy hours.

that big gatherings bring. His restaurants aim to be more than just eateries but places where families come together, creating memories over delicious food.

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menu in 2020. Vida de Reyes is a labor of love inspired by the popularity of Mexican macro lagers in the United States. Crafted to capture the essence of Mexican beer, Vida de Reyes strikes the perfect balance between American tastes and Mexican authenticity. With its clean and refreshing profile, this Mexican lager boasts a slight sweetness and body derived from the addition of flaked maize, a secret ingredient that lends a unique character to Mexican beers. Infused with a hint of jalapeño, Vida de Reyes delivers a touch of spice and complexity, elevating the beer experience to new heights.

a number of different tasting options before landing on the current selection.

Vida de Reyes is personal to Reyes, who created the beverage in honor of his father.

“I did the beer when I lost my father and named it after him,” Reyes says. “When he died, I wanted to do something for my father.”

Reyes also believes in giving back to the community that has helped make him successful. He is part of numerous initiatives, including regular donations to churches, schools and nonprofits, ensuring his impact goes beyond the walls of The drink is a collaboration with Goodwood Gustavo’s restaurants. Career development Brewing Company and is available in bottles is also important to Reyes, and he takes time to nurture the skill sets of each of his and drafts in all Gustavo’s and Goodwood employees while providing them further locations. Cans can also be purchased in opportunities for advancement, like he was local Kroger and Total Wine stores and are given early in his career. popular with all Goodwood and Gustavo’s customers. The idea for the drink came after frequent visits from Goodwood employees “We love to give back to the community because they always support us,” Reyes says. into Gustavo’s, and the team went through

“We are happy to be here. We do a lot of scholarships for schools to support students.

I want kids to have the opportunity to advance and have a career.”

Reyes’ entrepreneurial vision has proven to be successful and continues to evolve as the industry and standards change. Alongside his thriving business, Reyes finds joy in the company of his wife and three children, who inspire him every day.

“I enjoy my work and my business every day,” Reyes says. “There’s always something to learn.

I’m still happy as I was 26 years ago.”

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TEMPORAL LANDMARKS & THE POWER OF FRESH STARTS Writer / Amanda Spalding

The American poet Breton Braley once wrote, “Start where you stand and never mind the past.” It’s a reminder that the present moment offers an opportunity to begin again, regardless of past stumbles or regrets. For many of us, that feeling intensifies at the turn of the year.

New Year’s Day carries with it a curious power: it feels like a reset button, a chance to rewrite habits, revisit dreams, and set intentions for the coming year.

Psychologists have a name for this phenomenon — temporal landmarks. These are meaningful points in time that allow us to draw a mental line between our past selves and the person we want to become. New Year’s Day is the most famous, but birthdays, anniversaries, graduations and even the first day of a new month can work the same magic.

Why do these dates matter so much, and how can we harness them to profoundly change our lives rather than simply drafting resolutions that fade by February? The answers lie in psychology, self-awareness and deliberate planning.

26 | January 2026 | TownePost.com

WHAT ARE TEMPORAL LANDMARKS? In a widely cited paper published in Psychological Science, researchers Hengchen Dai, Katherine Milkman and Jason Riis (2015) found that temporal landmarks serve as psychological “fresh starts.” They mark boundaries in time that separate our past failures from our future potential. By mentally turning the page, we feel less tethered to previous disappointments and more motivated to pursue new goals.

These landmarks don’t need to be major holidays. They can be public events (the start of spring), cultural milestones (a religious festival) or personal turning points (your first day at a new job). As Wharton professor Katy Milkman explained, temporal landmarks “strongly associated with the beginning of a new period cause people (a) to engage in activities designed to facilitate goal initiation and (b) to predict that their own and other people’s motivation to tackle goals will be higher.”

In other words, these markers trick our brains into seeing life as a series of chapters. Just as

we expect a new chapter in a novel to bring change, we instinctively believe we, too, can begin again.

THE FRESH START EFFECT The “fresh start effect” is powerful because it addresses two deep human needs: the desire to grow and the desire to forgive ourselves.

Too often, people abandon goals because they feel overwhelmed by past missteps.

Temporal landmarks offer a clean break.

Think of the difference between saying, “I failed at exercising last week,” and “This Monday marks the start of my new workout plan.” The second statement detaches you from the old you — the one who skipped the gym — and redefines you as the type of person who begins anew.

Psychologists suggest this separation helps explain why New Year’s resolutions, while often short-lived, are so appealing. They represent a symbolic rebirth. But the good news is, we don’t have to wait until January 1. We can create our own mini fresh starts throughout the year.

TAKING INVENTORY: TURNING REFLECTION INTO RENEWAL

markers that provide regular resets. Coach Harper agrees with this, saying, “We need clear ways to track our progress. What gets measured gets managed.”

According to Lindsey Kane, director of nutrition and habit-hacking for Sunbasket, THESE TEMPORAL LANDMARKS one of the best ways to use a temporal COULD INCLUDE: landmark is to perform a self-inventory. This • The first day of each month: treat it as a means stepping back to honestly assess your mini-New Year. progress, your values and your challenges.

• Seasonal shifts: spring cleaning, autumn resets or summer challenges.

Louisville health and wellness coach Ryan Harper of Results by Design Fitness agrees with the importance of reflection. “It’s vital to meet yourself exactly where you are now, then create a roadmap to get to your destination.”

ASK YOURSELF:

• What went well over the past year, season or month?

• Where did I fall short — and why?

• What habits, routines or relationships no longer serve me?

• What do I want my future self to thank me for?

This process isn’t about judgment — it’s about clarity. Once you’ve reflected, the landmark becomes more than a date on a calendar. It transforms into a launchpad.

• Birthdays: instead of dreading the number, use it as a chance to chart a year of growth.

• Milestones in projects: the completion of one phase can be the perfect cue to start a new habit.

By layering these micro-landmarks into your routine, you create multiple opportunities for fresh starts instead of relying on just one big annual push.

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DESIGNING YOUR OWN LANDMARKS Not all landmarks have to be fixed by culture or tradition. You can design your own. Psychologists call these “microlandmarks” — smaller, more frequent

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THE ROLE OF ACCOUNTABILITY

2. Pair Landmarks with Habits Decide in advance what action each • The Salt Cave (Louisville) or the landmark will trigger. For example, the Salt Room (Crestwood), which offer Temporal landmarks are most effective first Monday of each month could be halotherapy in warm, comfortable when paired with accountability. A date your “progress review day.” environments — perfect for reflection. may spark motivation — but sustaining 3. Celebrate Progress • The Parklands of Floyds Fork — 62 it requires structure. That’s where an Use landmarks not just for resets but miles of trails, meadows and wooded accountability partner — a friend, coach, for celebrations.

Acknowledging wins areas offering quiet spots to reflect. therapist or mentor — can make all the reinforces momentum.

• The grounds or gallery spaces of the Speed difference.

4. Start Small Art Museum, where art and quiet spaces Break goals into micro-steps. Landmarks might inspire clarity and new ideas.

Checking in with someone at each landmark are natural checkpoints for these smaller can reinforce progress and soften setbacks. victories.

FROM RESOLUTION The key is kindness.

5. Stay Flexible TO ACTION: MAKING If one goal falls flat, use the next Accountability should not feel like LANDMARKS WORK landmark to pivot rather than abandon punishment, but like support. After all, SO HOW CAN WE TURN the effort altogether. the whole point of a fresh start is to move forward without being chained to past mistakes.

Set aside time for your own personal reflection. There are many places in Louisville to find peace and tranquility.

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THE ABSTRACT IDEA OF TEMPORAL LANDMARKS INTO CONCRETE RESULTS?

LOCAL AND GLOBAL RESOURCES

Communities often provide resources that align naturally with temporal landmarks. In 1. Mark Your Calendar Louisville, for instance, organizations such Choose a mix of major and microlandmarks throughout the year. Program as The Knowledge Academy and Create Your Life host workshops on goal setting. reminders into your phone or planner.

HERE ARE FIVE STRATEGIES:

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Colleges and adult education centers also offer personal-development programs timed around semesters — built-in landmarks that encourage renewal.

On a global scale, digital platforms provide courses, habit-trackers and wellness challenges designed to align with monthly or seasonal resets. These tools extend the power of landmarks by giving them structure and support.

Also, check with your physician or local fitness center if your goals are health and wellness related. Some fitness centers, like Results by Design, will help you set your goals, break them down into manageable chunks and check in with you at your temporal landmarks to provide accountability.

WHY THIS MATTERS NOW In an age of constant distraction and information overload, many of us feel untethered, drifting from task to task

without clear boundaries. Temporal landmarks provide those boundaries. They remind us that life isn’t an endless blur of days, but a story with chapters. Each landmark is an invitation to pause, reflect and redirect.

And while New Year’s Day may hold the cultural spotlight — it’s just one of many opportunities. Every week, every month, every birthday and even every Monday morning offers a fresh start. By embracing these moments, we can transform our relationship with time — not as something to endure, but as something to design.

By consciously using these landmarks, we can craft a life punctuated by renewal rather than regret. We can forgive our past selves, honor our present efforts and invest in our future potential.

So don’t wait until next January to take inventory or set goals. Look at your calendar, choose your next landmark tomorrow morning or at the start of the next season — and declare it a fresh start.

As Braley urged: start where you stand. The rest of your story is waiting to be written.

CONCLUSION: START WHERE YOU STAND The brilliance of temporal landmarks is not in the dates themselves but in the meaning we assign to them. A sunrise on Jan. 1 is no different, physically, from a sunrise on July 1. What makes it special is the story we tell ourselves — that today, we begin again.

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS

JANUARY

AROUND THE COMMUNITY, 2026

LOUISVILLE AREA EVENTS

1 BEYOND ROSE ISLAND FIRST DAY HIKE

Charlestown State Park 12500 State Road 62.

10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Meet at the Trail’s 3 and 4 parking lot for this special tour of Rose Island.

4 UNIVERSITY OF LOUISVILLE WOMEN’S BASKETBALL VS VIRGINIA TECH KFC YUM! Center 1 Arena Plaza.

4 - 6 p.m.

6 UNIVERSITY OF LOUISVILLE

MEN’S BASKETBALL VS DUKE

KFC YUM! Center 1 Arena Plaza.

7 - 9 p.m.

University of Louisville Men’s Basketball vs DukeStripe Out TV: ESPN

9

9-11 LOUISVILLE HOME + Kentucky Exposition Center 937 Phillips Ln. 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Shop home products and services, explore 300 booths, and see feature displays that inspire your next project.

30 | January 2026 | TownePost.com

Joe’s Older Than Dirt, 8131 New La Grange Rd. 9 p.m.

JD Shelburne will return to perform at Joe’s Older Than Dirt at 9pm on Fri Jan 10th.

Acoustic duo!

NOT PETTY: A TOM PETTY TRIBUTE 2100 S Preston St. 8 p.m.

Not Petty A Tom Petty Tribute Saturday, January 10th 18+ Doors 7:00 PM | Show 8:00 PM Zanzabar Louisville, KY

TEN - A TRIBUTE TO PEARL JAM Mercury Ballroom, 611 S 4th Street.

8 p.m.

The Mercury Ballroom is an all-ages, standing room venue, all tickets are General Admission unless otherwise stated. Doors open one hour prior to the event.

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MOZART & HAYDN

Kentucky Center for the Arts 501 W Main St. 7:30 p.m.

Celebrate the elegance, wit, and invention of two classical masters.

GARDEN SHOW

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10 JD SHELBURNE

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16 THE HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS 100 YEAR TOUR

KFC YUM! Center 1 Arena Plaza.

7 p.m.

By purchasing this ticket, you give permission to use your likeness Sale Dates and Times: Public Onsale : Mon, 22 Sep 2025 at 10:00 AM BENCH OFFER : Tue, 9 Sep 2025 at 10:00 AM Citi® Cardmember

16 23-25 THE PRINCE EXPERIENCE AT RIVERCITYCON BOARD

24-25, 31 THE LIGHTNING THIEF : THE

Mercury Ballroom, 611 S 4th Street.

8 p.m.

The Mercury Ballroom is an all-ages, standing room venue, all tickets are General Admission unless otherwise stated.

Doors open one hour prior to the event.

Kentucky Center for the Arts 501 W Main St. Jan 24: 2–4 p.m., 7:30–9:30 p.m.; Jan 25: 2–4 p.m.; Jan 31: 2–4 p.m., 7:30–9:30 p.m.

When 16-year-old Percy Jackson discovers that he is the half-blood son of the Greek God, Poseidon, his life takes a dramatic turn as he is plunged into a world much bigger than he could possibly have

MERCURY BALLROOM

16-17 TEDDY CONDUCTS MAHLER’S NINTH

Kentucky Center for the Arts 501 W Main St. 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Teddy Abrams, conductor Mahler, Symphony No. 9 Mahler’s Symphony No.

20 NEKO CASE

Old Forester’s Paristown Hall 724 Brent St. 8 p.m.

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GAME & RPG CONVENTION 2026

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Jan 23: 12–11:59 p.m.; Jan 24: 9 a.m.–11:59 p.m.; Jan 25: 9 a.m.–6 p.m.

RiverCityCon is excited to return in 2026 for our third year - to be held once again at the Holiday Inn Hurstbourne (Hwy 64, exit 15) on January 23 to 25, with everything starting at noon.

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PERCY JACKSON MUSICAL

28-31 DISCOVER BOATING®

LOUISVILLE BOAT, RV & SPORTSHOW®

Kentucky Exposition Center 937 Phillips Ln. 5 - 9 p.m.

Louisville’s favorite winter tradition is back.

DINOSAUR WORLD LIVE The Brown Theatre 315 W Broadway.

7 p.m.

2701 Taylorsville Rd • (502) 459-7585 • kingsleymeatsandcatering.com WE ARE AN OLD-FASHIONED BUTCHER SHOP THAT PROVIDES QUALITY FOODS, GREAT SERVICE AND PRICES YOU JUST CAN'T FIND ANYWHERE ELSE.

TownePost.com | January 2026 | 31

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

30 THE DAVE MATTHEWS TRIBUTE BAND -

HEADLINERS MUSIC HALL (LOUISVILLE, KY) Headliners Music Hall 1386 Lexington Rd. 8 p.m.

The Dave Matthews Tribute Band Friday, January 30 8:00 PM (7:00 PM Doors) All Ages Headliners Music Hall Louisville, KY

31 DOLLY PARTON’S THREADS: MY SONGS IN SYMPHONY

Kentucky Center for the Arts 501 W Main St. 7:30–9 p.m.

Bob Bernhardt, conductor Dolly Parton brings her music to orchestras worldwide!

INDIA FEST 2026

Kentucky Exposition Center 937 Phillips Ln. 10 a.m.–12 p.m.

30-31 KOSAIR SHRINE CIRCUS Broadbent Arena 937 Phillips LN. Times Vary

LOUISVILLE CHOCOLATE, WINE & WHISKEY FESTIVAL Mellwood Art Center 11:30 a.m.–9 p.m.

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Welcome to Gustavo’s Mexican Grill—more than a dining venue, it’s a heartwarming community. Our unique edge? Personal touch. Often, you’ll find Gustavo himself welcoming you.

At Gustavo’s, we’re a family-oriented environment where you’re not just a customer but a valued part of our extended family. Join us for an authentic, delicious and fun dining experience.

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LEADING DOWNTOWN FORWARD LOUISVILLE DOWNTOWN PARTNERSHIP DIRECTOR HONORED FOR VISION & COMMUNITY IMPACT Writer / Melissa Gibson

Rebecca Fleischaker

Rebecca Fleischaker, executive director of the Louisville Downtown Partnership (LDP), recently received the John Russell Groves Citizens Laureate Award.

submitted by several Louisville architects — and secretly, her staff at LDP also weighed in.

“It was a nomination for Rebecca based on all that she does for downtown Louisville. There’s also an aspect of historic preservation to it, which Rebecca is a champion of as well,” says Bryn Alston, marketing and communications manager.

“We worked together with a few members of our board and got the ball rolling. We’re so glad she was able to receive the award, and it was amazing.”

It’s a service award for those who advocate, support and encourage the values of quality architecture in their community through leadership, service and dedication to a better Fleischaker says she had never received living environment. anything like it.

She was nominated through an application 34 | January 2026 | TownePost.com

“I actually found out by an email with a congratulations letter, and I thought they must have the wrong person,” Fleischaker says. “It was very nice and very, very humbling. I feel honored.”

Fleischaker joined LDP as executive director in the fall of 2021.

The organization serves as an umbrella over the Downtown Development Corporation (DDC) and the Louisville Downtown Management District (LDMD).

“The two groups were separate entities until 2013, and now they have been brought together. We have the same staff of eight of us that do the work for both entities,” Fleischaker says. “They both inform each

other. We need a clean, safe, welcoming downtown, and we also need employers, developers, investors and tourists — and in order to be successful, they need a clean, safe, welcoming downtown.”

Fleischaker has a long career in economic development prior to joining LDP and has a passion for all the needs of downtown Louisville.

“Really, everything is economic development,” she says. “Patching potholes is economic development because it impacts the business environment and our experience on the streets. People are more likely to locate or invest in a city that takes care of itself. It’s the ability to package something and sell it, and it includes so many different things you need to put together. That’s the fun part.”

Within weeks of becoming executive director, Fleischaker began doing what she does best — reaching out.

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She wrote a guest editorial article for The Courier Journal, simply introducing herself and what she hoped to do for downtown Louisville while encouraging others to join her.

“Every time I get a chance to talk about it, I talk about being a champion in the city you choose to live in,” Fleischaker says. “We need to be walking around on the street, so what can we do as an organization that helps you get out of your house and out of your neighborhood with unique experiences that you want to share with friends and family?”

expected to double in 2026.

number double.

In addition, they’ve implemented a rotating temporary public art installation program, placing new public art throughout the downtown area every six weeks.

“We’re really pushing for residential development,” she adds. “Now that remote work has changed and people don’t come to the office as often, the third leg to the stool for a healthy downtown is residents who live in the downtown area. We know there is a pent-up demand here for a residential market. It takes time to put together location, plans and funding, but I’m looking for that 18- to 24-hour-per-day activity. You want people here all the time, and the other services will follow.”

“In my mind, every time you turn a corner, I want you to see something whimsical and fun,” Fleischaker says. “It’s something that tells you you’re in Louisville and you want to take a picture or share it with someone.”

LDP is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. However, they do receive some support from the city.

Within the first three months, LDP installed They regularly write grant requests and the first several hundred of what is now receive support from corporate donations 750 banners along the light poles in the and fundraising, but individuals can get downtown area, featuring colorful examples involved too. of all things downtown Louisville — from music to sports and everything in between. “We started a new program, Friends of Downtown, in 2022,” Fleischaker says. “It’s Fleischaker then hired a marketing and not a membership organization, but we do communications manager (Alston). offer perks if you donate. For example, if you’d like to take a behind-the-scenes tour “I wanted someone waking up every day at the Actors Theatre, you have to become a thinking just about our downtown area. I friend first and then you can come along on don’t want to be a client of a PR agency or the tour. I think we had 30 people at our last marketing firm,” Fleischaker says. “Then tour, and it was a lot of fun.” we hired a placemaking manager ( Jenny Cutshaw). This is someone taking care of Looking forward to 2026, Fleischaker’s our public spaces so we could see what we goal is to see some of the long-term plans need to maintain but also look at new ideas.” she’s envisioned come to fruition. Despite banners, public art and other events, there Murals have been added along buildings is still a lot of work going on behind the downtown. Large swings have been scenes. installed at Fifth and Main streets. There are four pianos sitting in public rights of way, There are approximately 10,000 residents allowing residents and visitors to sit down in the core of downtown Louisville. and play a tune at any time. That number is Fleischaker would like to see that

36 | January 2026 | TownePost.com

In 2024, the 10-year Downtown Executive Summary was unveiled through LDP, and it details the three pillars — or legs of the stool — LDP is focused on to improve downtown Louisville.

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