December 2020 // Priceless
LO U I SV I L L E
welcome to the
HOLIDAYS T H E G I V I N G I S S U E • H O L I DAY FA S H I O N plus L E A D I N G L A W Y E R S
GIFT YOURSELF
the Lifestyle You Deserve Luxury low-maintenance garden homes
EAST END LOUISVILLE
courtyardsatcurryfarms.com
Home H om Ho mee for fofor the tthhhee Holidays Hoolilida H dayyss Home for the Holidays
1900 Dressage Cir
Featuring Exclusive community amenities Award-winning floor plans
two showcase homes available now
Zero steps Private outdoor living space
1900 Dressage Cir
Bonus suite, walk-out basement & 3-car garage options
Featuring
Exclusive community amenities
courtyardsatcurryfarms.com Award-winning floor plans
two showcase homes available now
Zero steps
Private outdoor living space
Bonus suite, walk-out basement & 3-car garage options
courtyardsatcurryfarms.com
Michelle heareth Community Specialist
Michelle heareth
Co 502-509-50 6m7m u n i t y
Specialist
michelle@perfectionbuilders.com
502-509-5067
michelle@perfectionbuilders.com
COME SEE OUR NEW COME SEE OUR NEW C L U B H O U SCEL!U B H O U S E !
*All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed and subject to
*All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed and subject to change without notice. See Onsite Agent for more information. change without notice. See Onsite Agent for more information.
STREAM STREAM US US AT AT WDJX.COM WDJX.COM
A BOURBON-INSPIRED LIFESTYLE BRAND
HOLIDAY GIFTS FOR THE BOURBON ENTHUSIAST VISIT US ONLINE AT PAPPYCO.COM CURBSIDE PICKUP NOW AVAILABLE IN NULU 843 EAST MARKET STREET, LOUISVILLE
Features DECEMBER 2020
ON THE COVER PHOTOGRAPHED BY:
Dick Arnspiger MODEL:
Lori Byrne, Fleur de Lis Contracting HOME:
See full home feature on page 110.
132 Top 5 Dining:
Holiday Catering
44
holiday gift guide
67
6 TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020
Whether tasked with planning a business or work-related holiday function or simplifying a seasonal party or family gathering in your home, we have scouted your options! Here you will find the cream of the crop in local catering. Leave the food shopping, preparation, and service to one of these talented teams, and enjoy your role as consummate host!
That’s the power of flowers
CONTENTS top notes
17
SOS International
19
Women Who Wine For A Cause
life+style
38
26
Fashion: Santa Claus Is Coming To Town
34
Boutique Spotlight: Playthings Toy Shoppe
36
Trimming With The Experts
38
DIY Holiday Door Swag
The Giving issue
44
Ways To Volunteer This Holiday
52
Special advertising section
gift guide
67
Special advertising section
leading lawyers
86
The Kentucky Bar Association
88
Lawyer Directory
85
Special advertising section
at home
24 8 TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020
104
The Pro to Know: Jeremy Curran of Cornerstone Kitchen And Bath
106
design guru: Waller Design
110
Tour of Homes: Dilapidated Crestwood Dwelling Transforms Into A Fab Modern Farmhouse
cuisine
128
Christmas Morning CafĂŠ
132
top 5 dining: Holiday Catering
health+beauty
142
beauty buzz: Holiday Glam
146
HMR Weight Management at Baptist Health/Milestone Wellness Center
148
The Gift Of Fitness
150
Journaling Can Help Reduce Holiday Stress
community
154
Glamping At Camp Bespoke
156
tops cares: Young Hearts Theatre
158
keeping the conversation going: GEDDI
photos
20 160
Out & About 2020 Chenoweth Square Holiday Walk
110
mkjewelers.com
TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020 9
NOW TIME
BRACES $
11,000 000 0 00OFF +FREE CONSULTATION
CALL TEXT OR
www.wgmortho.com
859-697-0637
Vol 4 • No. 12 Keith Yarber Publisher kyarber@topsmarketing.com
Kathy Thuerbach Editor-in-Chief and Senior Advertising Account Executive kathy@topslouisville.com
Passion for Future
SARAH MITCHELL
Rocko Jerome
Senior Advertising Account Executive and Fashion Coordinator sarah@topslouisville.com
Brand Ambassador and Staff Writer rocko@topslouisville.com
Emily Douglas Senior Advertising Account Executive emily@topslouisville.com
Morgan Hancock Senior Advertising Account Executive morgan@topslouisville.com
Haley Bottorff Account Executive haleyb@topslouisville.com
Jennifer Adams Account Executive jennifer@topslouisville.com
Chad Howard VP, Digital Marketing chad@topsmarketing.com
Lindsey Ball
Digital Strategist lindsey@topsmarketing.com
Malissa Aebersold Lead Graphic Designer malissa@topslouisville.com
Amanda Harper Graphic Designer amandah@topsmarketing.com
Haley Norris Graphic Designer haley@topsmarketing.com
CONTRIBUTORS Photography: Danny Alexander, Dick Arnspiger, Tim Furlong Jr., Steve Squall Writers: Dawn Anderson, Alison Cardoza, Taylor Riley, Kathie Stamps TOP Marketing Group
100 EXECUTIVE PARK, SUITE 101 • LOUISVILLE, KY 40207 (502) 780-7825 • TOPSLOUISVILLE.COM
The views and comments expressed by the authors are not always that of our editors or publishers. While every effort has been made to ensure th accuracy of the information in this publication, TOP Marketing Group accepts no responsibility or liability for any errors, omissions or resultant consequences, including any loss or damage arising from the reliance on information in this publication. All images contained in TOPS Louisville magazine are subject to the copyright of the artist or photographer as named, but not limited thereto. Reproduction of any part of this magazine without prior written permission is prohibited.
12 TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020
Krystal Jarrell Premiere Cleaning (502) 454-6243
LOUISVILLEPREMIERECLEANERS.COM In these days especially, the importance of cleanliness can’t be emphasized enough. Luckily, Krystal Jarrell and her team at Premiere Cleaning are expertly qualified to properly clean your home, office, restaurant, school, store or manufacturing company. With 34 years in business, Premiere is a non-franchise, locally owned company. They are trusted in this region by companies like the YMCA, JCPS, Merkley Kendrick Jewelers, Starbucks, and Walgreens. Premiere has received special ISSA certification for the Coronavirus. “Not only can we respond to the virus, but we can also help prevent it,” says Krystal. Krystal brings a personal touch to her work. Her motto is, Your time is valuable, Our time is available. “I listen to my clients and truly get to know what they are seeking, whether I meet with them in their home or over the phone,” says Krystal. “I provide a sophisticated yet affordable approach, creating the perfect cleaning plan based on their wants and needs.” In addition to residential and commercial cleaning, Premiere offers carpet cleaning, window washing, and air duct cleaning. Krystal enjoys spending time with her husband Nathan and three sons Connor, Griffin, and Graham. Her driving passion is to raise money and awareness for the Joshua Frase Foundation. Graham suffers from X-Linked Centronuclear Myotubular Myopathy. Although a cure has been developed, it’s yet to be released by the FDA. Enjoy the benefits of calling one company to schedule numerous services, call 502-454-MAID(6243) or visit LouisvillePremiereCleaners.com
Letter from the editor
Welcome to the Holidays, TOPS readers!
I
n December, we focus on ways to give, improve our lives and the lives of others in our community by donating not just our money but also our time and talents. COVID-19 has taken a toll on all of us, changing everything about our lives, including how we celebrate the holidays. Along with the dark times, there have been many bright spots. We have witnessed Editor-in-Chief the generosity of our commuand Senior Advertising nity - neighbor to neighbor Account Executive and stranger to stranger. We have all been giving for most of 2020, patronizing local small businesses and restaurants, wearing masks to protect our most vulnerable, and thanking front-line workers. All are very deserving beneficiaries.
We are here to help you find that special look for all occasions! Your source for fresh seafood in St. Matthews.
KATHY THUERBACH
Your place for interior design, furniture, accessories and great gifts. Fine quality furniture, accessories and gifts for outside – and inside – your home!
Many of our local nonprofits are now lacking in volunteers and funds, which have kept these organizations going over the years. Along with Louisville businesses, TOPS is highlighting many of these deserving nonprofit organizations in this issue. Please consider giving of your talent, time, and resources this holiday season!
A Louisville institution for 154 years. Our gifts celebrate all occasions and seasons.
This month, TOPS Louisville also highlights holiday fashion, holiday décor, a beautiful Crestwood home tour, and Louisville’s Leading Lawyers. Though this holiday season is unlike any we have experienced, we here at TOPS wish you and your loved ones the very best.
Kathy Thuerbach
Offering the most unique wedding & party invitations and gifts for every occasion. Your one-stop-shop for quality residential and commercial design, staging and renovating.
Your source for stylish, fun, and affordable women’s accessories including jewelry, handbags, scarves, tops, wraps, and much more. Dogs, and their people, are drooling over the healthiest, most decadent treats in town.
14 TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020
We at Lemon Tree appreciate your support. This holiday season we are making your gift buying easy and convenient! Shop our brand new online store:
lemontreeboutique.com
and enjoy free shipping or curbside pickup! Extended store hours: Open Sunday 12-4 until Christmas Follow us on Instagram and Facebook at Lemontreelouisville for new arrivals and great gift ideas! 3915 Chenoweth Square Louisville, KY 40207 (502) 690-3315
SEASON’S GrrrEATINGS FROM
For 20 years, we’ve been fresh-baking healthy, wholesome dog treats in our locally-owned Louisville kitchen. From hand-decorated canine cookies and cakes to all-natural USA-made chews, durable toys, premium bedding, bowls, collars, apparel and home decor, discover something for every dog and dog lover on your gifting list.
Louisville’s most PUPular place, since 1999. (502) 897-3364 3929 Chenoweth Square, Louisville, KY 40207 Monday - Saturday: 10am to 5pm • Sunday: 11am to 5pm
FULL COVERAGE
OF COVID-19 PANDEMIC NEWS UPDATES AT TOP OF THE HOUR & 30 MINUTES PAST THE HOUR
WHAS.COM/LISTEN
notes TOP
SOS International BY KATHIE STAMPS • COURTESY PHOTOS
F
rom right here in Louisville, SOS is a global health organization changing and saving lives by delivering surplus medical supplies and equipment to those in need, around the world and in Jefferson County. From bandages to anesthesia machines, medical surplus would otherwise go to waste and it did until 1993 when SOS was founded. Formerly known as Supplies Over Seas, SOS works with hospitals and clinics across four states, collecting and processing medical items at its warehouse, and then redeploying those materials to hospitals and clinics in over 100 countries. SOS also provides supplies to low-income clinics, social services organizations and schools in Jefferson County.
Denise Sears joined the organization in 2016 as president and CEO. “I have a real heart for people in need, around the world and in our very own community,” she said. Some of the supplies are shipped to clinics overseas and some are used in local clinics, shelters and educational settings. For example, SOS helped a Certified Nursing Assistant program open in West Louisville. Denise reached out to corporate partners for some scholarship money, and the first scholarship-funded CNA graduate, Tuhranna, is now working at a medical clinic in West Louisville. “We are impacting environment and health. It's a win-win for everyone,” Denise said. “Our job is to get supplies into the hands of the people who can responsibly use them to help others.” In March 2020 at the onset of COVID, SOS pivoted to focus 100% on the local community by providing over $1 million of PPE, personal protective equipment, to area hospitals, clinics, nursing homes and the University of Louisville to protect and save lives. “Our capacity to keep these programs thriving comes from the generosity of our community,” Denise said. “Our supporters are really the ones who are changing and saving lives.” Denise’s own life changed in 2012 when her daughter, Lauren, passed away. “To find my grounding again, I latched on to a personal mission, to help prevent other parents from losing a child,” she said. “I knew children were dying unnecessarily—in developing countries and in our own back yard. That transitioned me to the nonprofit field.” Denise helped secure funding so that SOS could provide a shipping container of medical supplies to Uganda to open a community health clinic. “Women were delivering babies on the dirt floor at home,” Denise said. The Mama Sabina Health Clinic opened in October 2020 and two weeks later, on Oct. 26, the first baby was born there. In honor of her safe delivery, her parents named her Lauren.
MORE INFORMATION:
To learn more about SOS and contribute to the organization, visit soshealthandhope.org.
“I was equally moved watching Tuhranna graduate the CNA program in West Louisville. I’ve known her since she was a little girl. She wanted to be a nurse her whole life, and SOS helped make it happen,” Denise said. “How cool is that? Lauren in Uganda and Tuhranna in West Louisville, both lives changed by SOS.”
TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020 17
KILLER ROSE COLD BLOODED KILLERS FROM LOUISVILLE LOCAL PRODUCERS
STREAMING NOW AT SELECT THEATERS TRACY LEAR, VINCENT WARD (THE WALKING DEAD)
WHO BROUGHT YOU
CAMP TWILIGHT
& BODY SWAP
STREAMING NOW AT SELECT THEATERS BEN MILLER, SKYLAR LEAR, DAVE SHERIDAN (SCARY
WE WANT TO WORK WITH YOU!
OM O N S .BRAC NDI E D I A PMUSRICO DVIDUEOSC T IDRO B T S MMOV NG NE IES EVE NTS
MOVIE)
Women Who Wine for a cause BY KATHIE STAMPS • COURTESY PHOTOS
W
omen Who Wine for a Cause is a phrase, a bit of a lifestyle, a philosophy and an actual organization. It’s abbreviated WWW4C, which is also their website address (www4c.org). In January 2021, WWW4C will be six years old. “Women Who Wine for a Cause is a group of ladies set up to establish connections among themselves in celebration, all for a cause,” says Jesika Young, owner of Cimtech manufacturing company. She serves as the community outreach liaison on the board of directors for Women Who Wine for a Cause. Each year, the organization interviews several nonprofits and the board chooses one to support that year, “not so much for raising funds as raising awareness,” Jesika said. The 2020-21 partner is Uniting Partners for Women and Children, a nonprofit that supports homeless women and children. Through connectivity and giving of their time and talent, Women Who Wine provides grassroots support for that charity’s cause. Connecting, communicating and celebrating are at the core of WWW4C’s mission and everything they do. Women Who Wine for a Cause has four events each year, one per quarter, open for women who want to network with one another, learn about wine from a sommelier or other wine expert, and get updates on the partner charity and what it needs at the time. There’s also a raffle for a wine-themed basket with a retail value of over $300, which includes a bottle of wine, a pair of wine glasses, a Porcini Restaurant gift card and other goodies, with 100% of the raffle
donations going to the partner charity. Each charity can have an “ask” for any given event to request things like grocery store gift cards, clothes, Christmas decorations, books and games, toiletries. “Our following has grown tremendously,” Jesika said. “We have grown as an organization. We enjoy what we do, and we enjoy being in the community supporting women and children.” In 2015, Women Who Wine for a Cause partnered with Dress for Success and Madeline’s Cottage at Maryhurst. In 2016, the partner charity was Lifehouse Maternity Home, followed by Mom's Closet Resource Center in 2017, ChooseWell Communities in 2018 and last year’s Braille Tales, a book program through the American Printing House for the Blind. The 2020 partner charity, UP for Women and Children, will be supported again in 2021 since their year got cut short due to the pandemic.
In addition to the quarterly events, there’s a separate group called Women Who Wine Cru Members. For a $50 annual fee, the Cru Members have three additional events each year for personal and professional development and a holiday dinner in December, and they get discounts at Westport Wine & Spirits, Work the Metal and Beaded Treasures.
IF YOU GO:
The first quarterly event of 2021 is scheduled for Jan. 20 at the brandnew Louisville Thoroughbred Society downtown, where attendees will get an exclusive sneak peek at this new membership club and venue (thelouisvillethoroughbredsociety. com) and hear from UP for Women and Children (uplouisville.org). Tickets for the annual kick-off meeting can be purchased through the Women Who Wine for a Cause site at www4c.org.
TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020 19
photos
Submitted by Amber Curtis
Submitted by Kirsten Conn
Shauna Prentice, Megan Gifford, and Allison Morris celebrating Megan’s 33rd birthday in an igloo at Le Moo!
Submitted by Danielle McKenzie
20 TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020
OUT + ABOUT
Models from All is Fair in Love and Fashion Fall Fasion Show
LaShondra Lias-Lockhart and RaeShanda Lias-Lockhart (Founder of All is Fair in Love and Fashion) at the All is Fair in Love and Fashion Fall Fasion Show
Submitted by Oliva Hyer
Submitted by Jasmine Gerald
Submitted by Andy Perez
Submitted by Nate DeSpain
Submitted by Katie Sutter
TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020 21
SHOP LOCAL
NORTONCOMMONS.COM 502.412.5085
10712 MEETING ST. PROSPECT, KY 40059
NORTON COMMONS PRESENTS NORTON COMMONS PRESENTS
Oldham OldhamCounty CountyLiving Living T THHE EHHAAMML LE ET T
N ON RT NOCNOC MOMMOM NO S NWA L KLAK BA I LBIITLYI TMYEM EE TE S TOSLO DH A MACMOU N TN Y TCYHCAH RA MR M OO RT S WA L DH C OU ACCACC E PT E I NPT G I LOT D E PD OS OW N G LOT E PI TS OS INTS N OW
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ty Disclaimer Despite the best efforts of Norton Commons to provide accurate information (including but not limited to prices and availability of homes or lots), it is not possible to completely ensure that information on this illustrative drawing is constantly correct. Additionally, the illustrative drawing is subject to change without notice to visitors. Interested parties should be advised to confirm any information before relying on it in a purchase decision.
NOR ON CS O.M NTOORNT C OO NM CM OM M SO.N COM
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THE GROVE POOL COMPLEX
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NORTON COMMONS - NORTH VILLAGE
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CIVIC AMENITIES CIVIC AMENITIES
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St. Mary Academy St. Bernadette Church Peppermint Park North Village Town Center North Village Market The Grove Pool Complex North Lake Park Old Farm House Park Park - TBD Park
37
109’
36
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Single family detached homes, Townhomes and Condos
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
60’
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VILLAGE CENTER VILLAGE CENTER
VILLAGE GENERAL
76’
Alley
115’
Snow
10712 Meeting Street, Prospect, Kentucky 40059
Sales CenterSales Hours: Center Hours: Monday ~ Friday 11a.m. ~ 5p.m. Saturday 1p.m. ~ 5p.m. Sunday 2p.m. ~ 5p.m. 502.412.5085 or call 502.412.5085 for an appointment. Single family homes, Townhomes, Condos, Live-over-works, Retail and Office
84’
70’
56’
89’
dragon
Alley
66’
Snap
502.412.5085
www.NortonCommons.com
Alley
143’
11
Life+Style
26
Fashion: Santa Claus Is Coming To Town
34
Boutique Spotlight: Playthings Toy Shoppe
36
Trimming With The Experts
38
DIY Holiday Door Swag
PHOTOGRAPHY
Steve Squall
Hair and Make up
J Michaels, Mikhail Schulz MODEL
Daniela Swearigen Georges Chakra sheath dress; Diana Rosh Fur // Style by Glasscock and Glasscock TOO Fascinator // Finchy Baby Hats Angel Earrings // Lulubelles Boutique
TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020 25
life+style
Plaid suit by Tommy Hilfiger; Pearl and black stone necklace; Patent black leather Mary Jane pumps by Gianni Binni // Dillards Fascinator // Finchy Baby Hats Hair - Erin Kiziminski Make-Up - Lori Karnes, Celebrity Makeup Artist, Vanity Haus Academy vanityhausacademy.com
Tennis shoes by Gucci // Gucci Outlet Chocolate Chip Cookies // Please & Thank You
Red suit model provided; Bow-tie by Peake Ties; Plaid button up shirt by Ralph Lauren // Dillards Hair - Ed Thomas, Haven Salon
26 TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020
PHOTOGRAPHY
Steve Squall STYLING
Sarah Mitchell LOCATION
Clayton and Crume SPECIAL THANK YOU TO
Jeff Hunter with Glasscock and Melissa Dietrich with Dillard’s MODELS
Jose Cuadra Ed Thomas Chad Howard Todd Kiziminski Erin Kiziminski Kristy Miles Daniela Swearigen Morgan Hancock Tommy Mitchell as Santa
TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020 27
life+style
Navy suit by Psycho Bunny; Burgundy sweater by Polo Ralph Lauren; Button up shirt by Quieti // Dillards Leather belt // Clayton & Crume
Plaid suit and tie by Murano; Black button up shirt by Visconti; Pocket square by Cremieux; Tan leather shoe by Johnston Murphy // Dillards Leather belt // Clayton & Crume
Button up shirt by Ralph Lauren; Pants by Murano; Red coat by Turnbury; Pocket square by Cremieux; Bespoke NYC 100% real feathers bow-tie ; Belt; Black dress shoe by Aldo // Dillardss
28 TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020
Gold gown by Tadashi; Fur throw by Fabulous Furs; Drop earrings by US Jewelry; Bracelet by Deepa Gurani // Rodeo Drive Make-Up - Omagi, Vanessa Birchfield Hair - Dante Lawson
TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020 29
life+style
Gold gown by Tadashi; Fur throw by Fabulous Furs; Drop earrings by US Jewelry; Bracelet by Deepa Gurani // Rodeo Drive Make-Up - Omagi, Vanessa Birchfield Hair - Dante Lawson
30 TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020
Emerald Dreams foil dress // Rip & Lloyd ripandlloyd.com White boots with stones by Karl Lagerfiled // Dillards Candy Cane fascinator // Finchy Baby Hats Christmas tree earrings // Work the Metal Hair - The Blonde Martini, Danielle Cole Make-Up - Faces by Kathy Moberly
TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020 31
life+style
Plaid suit and tie by Murano; Black button up shirt by Visconti; Pocket square by Cremieux; Tan leather shoe by Johnston Murphy // Dillards Leather belt // Clayton & Crume
Wool jacket and green velvet jumpsuit by Anotonio Melani; Red plaid shoe by Gianni Bini // Dillards Leather tote bag // Clayton & Crume Fascinator // Finchy Baby Hats Hair - Erin Kiziminski Make-Up - Lori Karnes, Celebrity Makeup Artist, Vanity Haus Academy vanityhausacademy.com
32 TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020
White silk shirt by Posh Couture; Jacket by Waldrip; Red skirt by Ron Leal; Belt by Carolina Herrera // Glassock and Glasscock Too Red plaid bootie by Gianni Binni // Dillards Candy Cane earrings // Lulubelles Hair and Make-Up - J Michaels Salon, Mikhail Schulz
TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020 33
life+style
Boutique Spotlight:
Playthings Toy Shoppe BY DAWN ANDERSON • PHOTOS BY DICK ARNSPIGER
A
s Louisville’s only family-owned and operated specialty toy store, Playthings Toy Shoppe is the place to shop for the little ones in your life this holiday season. Original owner Doug Noe opened Playthings Toy Shoppe with his wife Vickie in September 2001. Doug’s father Bob had been part owner and toy buyer for the Thornbury’s Toys chain principally owned by Bob’s brotherin-law Jim Thornbury and Jim’s wife, Mary. Doug Noe worked for retail companies such as Toys”R”Us and Service Merchandise before deciding to open his own toy store on Sears Avenue in St. Matthews, specializing in high quality and educational toys. Four years later, Playthings Toy Shoppe moved to 4209 Shelbyville Road for higher visibility. Following Doug’s passing on December 26, 2010, Vickie Noe and their daughter Kristen Dolle stepped up and expanded Playthings Toy Shoppe with a second location in Westport Village in 2011. Vickie and Kristen still handpick every item they carry in their stores, with toys for children as young as infants and up to preteens. Playthings Toy Shoppe has a range of products not found at big-box general merchandise stores whose toy departments all look alike. “Families want to go back to basics,” says Kristen, “like board games, puzzles, crafts, and outdoor play. They want to turn back to the classics and away from screens.”
34 TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020
In addition to those categories, the mother-daughter duo and their helpful team expect to sell lots of Mandalorian merchandise, especially “Baby Yoda,” aka The Child, art supplies, STEM (science/ technology/engineering/math) activities, and Tonies® audio players. Tonieboxes provide “imagination-building, screenfree digital listening” experiences with stories, songs, and more designed for children. With Creative-Tonies, beloved family members can record their voices to preserve lasting memories. Vickie and Kristen also recommend their unique fun games, blocks, BRIO® train sets, and magnetic play toys.
Families want to go back to basics like board games, puzzles, crafts, and outdoor play. They want to turn back to the classics and away from screens. – K RI S T EN D O L L E
Along with one-on-one personalized customer service, Playthings Toy Shoppe offers free gift wrapping, free assembly of items such as dollhouses and train tables, curbside pickup, and shipping services. Their 45-page full-color 2020 Holiday Catalog is available in-store or online at playthingstoyshoppe. com. Kristen expresses her gratitude to customers, past, present, and future. “We appreciate the loyalty of our customers and the extra effort they have made to shop locally. Many people assume that boutiques are more expensive. If you come give us a shot, you will find all price ranges and receive personal attention.”
IF YOU GO
For gift ideas and the latest specials, follow @PlaythingsToyShoppe on Facebook and Instagram.
TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020 35
life+Style
Trimming Experts WITH THE
DETAILS, DIGS HOME AND GARDEN, AND FLEUR DE LIS INTERIORS ARE PREPARED TO TRIM YOUR TREES! Whether you are looking for DIY inspiration or you need a professional’s touch, here are some dazzling looks. PHOTOS BY DICK ARNSPIGER
GET THE LOOK Toy Tree, Digs Home and Garden Modern White Tree, Fleur de Lis Cardinal Tree, Digs Home and Garden White Poinsettia Tree, Details Santa Tree, Details Nostalgia Tree, Fleur de Lis
DETAILS
DIGS HOME AND GARDEN
FLEUR DE LIS INTERIORS
(502) 253-0092
(502) 893-3447
(502) 893-5341
detailslouisville.com
digshomeandgarden.com
fleurdelisandmerci.com
11816 Shelbyville Rd Louisville, KY 40243
3905 Chenoweth Square Louisville, KY 40207
3913 Chenoweth Square Louisville, KY 40207
36 TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020
TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020 37
life+style
DEE’S (502) 896-6755 shopdeeslouisville.com 5045 Shelbyville Rd Louisville, KY 40207
38 TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020
Holiday DIY
DOOR SWAG
FEELING CREATIVE AND WANT TO MAKE A HOLIDAY DOOR SWAG TO ADD TO YOUR FESTIVE HOME DECOR? Here are step-by-step instructions to make this fun and whimsical Jingle Bell Swag. Add a pop of color and a little jingle to your door to greet your guests for the holidays. Follow along with our YouTube and Facebook videos for help at home and visit our online shop ShopDeesLouisville.com. PHOTOS BY DICK ARNSPIGER
SUPPLIES 1 14� Pine Mini Swag 2 Long Needle Pine Stems 2 Mixed Magnolia Berry Stems 1 Large Red Bell 1 Small Galvanized Bell 2 Styles Of Christmas Ribbon (About 4 Yards Each) Floral Wire Scissors Wire Cutters
TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020 39
life+style HOLIDAY DOOR SWAG DIRECTIONS 1. Choose your materials based on the color of your door, style of your Christmas decor, and size of swag you want.
2. Fluff your small pine swag, pulling the wired branches out and away from the center.
3. Add a tinsel tie to back of the swag by twisting it around the spine of the swag for you to hang it from you door hook.
5. Use the branches of the base pine swag to twist the long needle stems into place. Simply wrap them around the spine of the long needle pine spray and twist it like a bread tie to secure it.
40 TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020
4. Chop off 3/4 of the long needle pine stems and uff them to look more lifelike. Lay one in each direction off the ends of the pine swag.
6. Add your first mixed magnolia berry spray towards the top of the swag, directly on top of the long needle pine, and twist in using the main pine swag branches.
7. Cut the rope off of the first, larger red bell. Take a piece of floral wire through the metal ring and tie it towards the center of the swag.
8. Fluff, cut the end and twist in the other magnolia mixed berry spray under the red bell, towards the bottom of the swag.
9. Cut the rope off the smaller bell, add wire through the loop and wire it under the red bell towards the bottom of the swag.
10. Create your mixed bow using one 2.5” and one 1.5” wide ribbon. Use one hand to hold the ribbons, the other to twist and loop them into a bow. (Videos can be found at Dee’s Louisville Facebook and YouTube)
11. Wire the bow onto the top of the swag, above the red bell.
12. Repeat creating a bow, only slightly smaller in width and wire it below the bells.
TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020 41
The Giving Issue
‘Tis the season for giving! Read on to learn how several Louisville corporations and small businesses are supporting local charities. If you are wondering where to donate your time, talents, and treasures as 2020 comes to an end, check out these very deserving non-profits. BY ROCKO JEROME • COURTESY PHOTOS
Special Advertising Section
TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020 43
The Giving Issue
Volunteer WAYS TO
THIS HOLIDAY
“I heard the bells on Christmas Day Their old, familiar carols play, And wild and sweet The words repeat Of peace on earth, good-will to men!” F ROM “ C H R IST M A S BE LLS ” BY HE NRY WA D SWORT H LONG FE LLOW
BY DAWN ANDERSON COURTESY PHOTOS
44 TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020
Volunteer WAYS TO
The Giving Issue
Even as demand on nonprofit groups has risen during 2020, volunteerism has fallen.
A recent study released by Fidelity Charitable, a nonprofit arm of Fidelity Investments, “found that two-thirds of all volunteers had either decreased or stopped their volunteering because of the pandemic.” The various hardships experienced by so many this year have put the focus on home, family, and more personal, immediate concerns. With the holiday season upon us, traditional gift-giving may feel frivolous or be scaled back by necessity. Dedicating time and talent to worthy causes is an inexpensive, productive way to get in the spirit and spread holiday cheer. A study published in the American Journal of Public Health tested “the hypothesis that providing help to others predicts a reduced association between stress and mortality.” 846 Detroit-area participants “completed baseline interviews that assessed past-year stressful events and whether the participant
had provided tangible assistance to friends or family members.” When adjusted for age, health, and psychosocial variables, the study concluded, “Helping others predicted reduced mortality specifically by buffering the association between stress and mortality.” Another study conducted by Harvard Business School confirmed that, among charitable giving benefits, happiness is primary. “Happier people give more and giving makes people happier, such that happiness and giving may operate in a positive feedback loop (with happier people giving more, getting happier, and giving even more).” TOPS Louisville Magazine has done some legwork for you by gathering specific information from local charities that could use your help now. Find out what each of these charities is about, who they benefit and serve, and the many ways you can get involved.
TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020 45
Volunteer WAYS TO
The Giving Issue
C
CHANGE TODAY, CHANGE TOMORROW
hange Today, Change Tomorrow Founder and Executive Director Taylor Ryan first envisioned opening a school in the West End. Quickly realizing the first order of business would be to fill the significant gaps in the basic needs of area children and their families, Taylor launched Change Today, Change Tomorrow in September 2019. Along with Deputy Director Nannie Croney and a full slate of Black women leaders, Taylor has developed the organization to provide “access to resources, education, and community engagement.” Programs and services include #FeedTheWest food justice initiative, Black Trans Fund, Black Business Fund, community events and resources, and Wish Lists to support West Louisville women, teachers, protesters for social justice, and Umoja Project for homeless outreach. Jason Deakings joined Change Today, Change Tomorrow in May 2020 after applying as a program coordinator. Taylor immediately understood how overqualified the Public Health Ph.D. student was for the position and brought him on for Research and Development instead. Jason joins Corey Thomas and other Black men who have signed on to the organization. “Change Today, Change Tomorrow is something I wanted to be a part of,” says Corey. “To be engaged with these phenomenal Black women doing amazing things within the community.” Corey spent 15 years in retail management before becoming Creative Director of Pocket Change, a retail space near CTCT headquarters in NuLu to centralize Black businesses previously without storefronts. “Being in NuLu speaks to the growth of Black the Block to enhance the visibility of Black people after all the performative Black Lives Matter and Breonna Taylor signs posted in the neighborhood.” Pocket Change had its grand opening on November 15. December 6-12, Change Today, Change Tomorrow’s holiday giving initiative Bless the Block will provide food and gifts to families in the West
46 TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020
End. Donate or sponsor a family at change-today.org/bless-the-block. Find other ways to help at change-today.org/volunteer and follow @ ChangeTodayChangeTomorrow on Facebook and Instagram.
Volunteer WAYS TO
The Giving Issue
SOWING SEEDS WITH FAITH
A
s a teacher at Myers Middle School and Shawnee High School in Louisville struggling to help lift the schools out of underperformance, Da’Marrion Fleming came to realize that, “JCPS is not broken. It was just never designed for people of color to succeed.” In 2016, he started the out-of-school academic enrichment program Sowing Seeds with Faith with the ultimate goal of students “navigating the real world understanding their rights and responsibilities.” By 2017, Sowing Seeds with Faith attained a 501c3 nonprofit status. The organization is the largest of its kind in West Louisville, sowing seeds of academic excellence “To engage youth academically and socially in the Greater Louisville Area in mastering developmental challenges via educational expectations, structure, faith, and accountability.” Sowing Seeds with Faith serves over 500 kids and currently offers a virtual tutoring program. As Founder and Executive Director, Da’Marrion Fleming also directs academic enrichment summer programs and youth mentorships, including his involvement with the Louisville Buccaneers
12u youth-league football team. The Bucs received an invitation to the American Youth Football League Tournament this month in Kissimmee, Florida. “With all the changes 2020 has given them as a team, they have maintained a group GPA of 3.3 and continue to strive for success on and off the field.” The support and encouragement of the community are much appreciated. COVID has altered volunteer opportunities, but there are ways to move forward. Da’Marrion tells us Sowing Seeds with Faith intends to “abide by the CDC while remaining impactful and minimizing contact.” Prospective new board members are welcome to attend board meetings in December and January before the vote at February’s meeting. In the meantime, Da’Marrion encourages our readers to contribute through the Sowing Seeds with Faith version of the “angel tree” to help “overcome financial barriers during the holidays and bless these local families.” For more information, visit sowingseedswithfaith.org and follow @sowingseedslouisville on Facebook and @sowingseedswithfaith on Instagram.
TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020 47
Volunteer WAYS TO
The Giving Issue
S
KOSAIR CHARITIES
ince 1923, Kosair Charities has sought to help children overcome their obstacles and realize their full potential. They do this through their gifts and grants program, which typically supports over 200 organizations statewide, and via the Kosair Kids Financial Assistance Program. Lindsay Wehr, Senior Vice President of Strategy and Outreach for Kosair Charities , appreciates her position and the unique perspective she has of their volunteers and advocates. “While working at Kosair Charities , I have the opportunity to engage with staff and volunteers whose dedication shines bright. It is so gratifying to see the fruits of those efforts as we support as many organizations, kids, and families as possible.” “COVID-19 changed what volunteering looks like,” says Lindsay, “but the need is even greater.” Kosair Charities has found a way for volunteers to engage safely by purchasing a much-needed gift from their Amazon Holiday Wish List to be sent directly to Kosair Kids . Shop the Wish List yourself at kosair.org/celebrate and share the URL with others. Volunteers are also encouraged to spread the message about the Kosair Kids Financial Assistance Program, which provides medical bill assistance for those 17 and under, bridging the gap between insurance coverage and out-of-pocket costs. For more information, visit kosair.org/kids. Lindsay crystallizes their mission in the current climate and moving forward. “As a granting organization, Kosair Charities ensures that every child has equitable access to grow up happy, healthy, and safe.” Be sure to visit kosair.org and follow @ kosaircharities on Facebook and Instagram.
48 TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020
Volunteer WAYS TO
The Giving Issue
USA CARES
U
SA Cares began with the support of Wave3 TV, Kroger’s Mid-South Division, and the Association of the United States Army Fort Knox Chapter to provide funds to address the physical, mental, and emotional issues of soldiers and vets following the surge to Iraq in 2003. The organization eventually moved to its current headquarters at 11760 Commonwealth Drive in Louisville, Kentucky. USA Cares’ current mission is to provide post-9/11 military veterans, service members, and their families with emergency financial assistance and post-service skills training” to “create a foundation for long-term stability.” Their services “improve the quality of life for veterans and their families and reduce potential factors that contribute to veteran suicide.” President/CEO Trace Chesser is a retired Army combat veteran who had his own “difficult transition” to civilian life and the workforce. His work
with USA Cares started in the Career Transition Program, and he took over leadership when the original USA Cares CEO retired. Trace shared with us that USA Cares receives over 200 requests per week from soldiers and veterans seeking assistance with bills, housing, transportation, and career transitions. USA Cares holds events throughout the year, including blanket and coat drives and a toy drive for military kids. Corporate groups have volunteered to help with the administrative work and social media at USA Cares. The organization has become even more flexible in 2020 and welcomes individuals, families, and businesses’ ideas for helping. Trace and his team are continually amazed at the creativity of their volunteers. For more information on USA Cares programs and services, visit usacares.org and follow @usacaresorg on Facebook and @usacares on Instagram.
TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020 49
LET’S GET SOCIAL IN THE NEW YEAR! 2020 is quickly coming to an end. However, people’s online shopping habits will remain the same moving into 2021, and social media plays a big role in that movement. Therefore, you need to be sure that your business has a good plan in place for social outreach to your clients and prospects.
Social Media Advertising If you want to master the digital marketing basics, starting with social media marketing is a great idea. One of the major advantages of advertising on social channels like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, LinkedIn, etc. is that you can choose your target audience. According to Hubspot, 92% of business owners and marketers say that social media is crucial to their business. So, what social media platforms should you use for your business?
Facebook: A Facebook Page for your brand makes you more discoverable and is a great way to connect with potential customers. Facebook Ads have proven to be highly successful in gaining more exposure for a business. Instagram: Instagram is the best way to express your business visually. The platform offers several tools to help you engage with your audience. With 500 million monthly active users, Instagram is growing extremely fast.
Twitter: Twitter for businesses reaches straight out to people
who are looking for new products and special deals. According to a report from Research Now, 93% of people who follow small and medium-sized businesses on Twitter plan to purchase
from them, while 69% have already bought something from the companies they follow.
Pinterest: With 100 million monthly active users, Pinterest is the most popular platform people go to discover new ideas. The visual content you create and share on your Pinboards can be used to catch the attention of your audience and encourage them to try your products. LinkedIn: LinkedIn is an essential network for building your brand and creating strong business connections online. You can use it to share content, keep up to date with trends, and connect with key influencers in your industry. Email Marketing: Before you ask, yes, it still works. In fact, 82% of B2B and B2C businesses use email marketing today. Why? Because for every $1 spent, email marketing generates an average of $38 in revenue. The key is to make your emails stand out, which is easier said than done. Before you create an email campaign, you need to understand the psychology of your potential customers. At TOP Marketing Group, we want to ensure you have a proper social strategy in place to kick off the new year. Reach out to us at digital@topsmarketing.com for a free digital consultation. BY CHAD HOWARD
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2020 OmniIssue Hotel Louisville The Giving
400 S. 2nd Street, Louisville, Kentucky
American Red Cross
Cocktails | Dinner | Live Music
Celebrity Performance by Thompson Square Presented by Lexus of Louisville his year, make a tax-deductible contribu-
T
tion that can change a life. Every 8 minutes, the American Red Cross responds to a disaster; providing emergency shelter, hot meals and financial support to families in need. We depend on your end-of-year donations to do this critical work. Donate to the American Red Cross before midnight, December 31st, and help us bring hope to a family with nowhere else to turn.
For table information call 502-291-0962 Red Lounge dance tickets only $100
Visit redcross.org or call 1-800-Red-Cross pal.net/wrappedinred2020 for more information. to make a donation that will change someone’s life. SPONSORED BY:
264602-04 10/19
Presented by
L�iC-EE
EXPERIENCE AMAZING
Join us for Louisville's premiere virtual party and best red-tie charity gala! Our 11th Annual Gala will be held virtually Saturday, February 6, 2021 at 7 p.m. Tune in for special musical entertainment and a live auction featuring exciting trips and one-of-a-kind items. All proceeds benefit Red Cross community programs.
Register for free at redcross.org/wrappedinredgala
+
52 TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020
American Red Cross
The Giving Issue
The Lee Initiative
F
ounded in 2018 and dedicated to helping diversify the restaurant industry through very successful mentorship programs, the Lee Initiative has been making a positive impact in Louisville and around the country. This year, the all-female staff has pivoted in the face of Covid, focusing their efforts on providing aid directly to our friends and neighbors who are out of work due to the current situation. "We've been providing relief kitchen meals and pick up sites and have a store for those in need with a full grocery," says Lindsey, co-founder. The program has helped over 750 families to stay on their feet through this challenging time.
For ways that you can get involved and help, visit LeeInitiative.org.
The Louisville Branch of Wells Fargo Advisors is pleased to support The Lee Initiative At Wells Fargo Advisors we strive to make a difference in our local communities. The Louisville Branch of Wells Fargo Advisors 297 N. Hubbards Lane, Ste. 300 Louisville, KY 40507 Office: 502-561-5000 justin.schappe@wellsfargoadvisors.com wellsfargoadvisors.com
Investment and Insurance Products: NOT FDIC Insured / NO Bank Guarantee / MAY Lose Value Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. Š2020 Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. All rights reserved. CAR-1120-02575
TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020 53
The Giving Issue
Tito’s Handmade Vodka
F
rom the beginning, Tito’s Handmade Vodka has been on a mission to make a difference through the “Love, Tito’s” program. The goal of “Love, Tito’s” is to turn spirits into love and goodness by joining forces with nonprofits to host events, participate in service projects, and give back to communities in meaningful ways. Founder and master distiller, Tito Beveridge, paved the way in the early days by donating his vodka to local nonprofit events. Now, Tito’s continues to empower employees, customers, and fans to make the world a better place. Through the “Love, Tito’s” program, Tito’s teams up with thousands of nonprofits across the country each year, supporting
54 TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020
organizations dedicated to disaster relief efforts, animal rescue, wellness initiatives, and everything in between. In fact, 100% of net proceeds from the Love, Tito’s Store benefit a few annually rotating charities. Currently, proceeds from purchases go directly to The James Beard Foundation, Ocean Conservancy, Team Rubicon, or Emancipet. As you stock up on your favorite Tito’s gear, dog toys, barware, and more, you can make a difference. Just fill your cart, designate your donation at checkout, and give back. Visit the web store today at store.titosvodka.com. SPONSORED BY:
Espresso Martini 2 oz Tito’s Handmade Vodka 1 oz coffee liqueur 1 oz espresso ½ oz simple syrup ½ oz creamer, optional 3 espresso beans, garnish
Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice. Shake and strain into a glass. Garnish with espresso beans.
The Giving Issue Heather Stewart and Marc with Kentucky Harvest receive a $15,000 grant from Kosair Charities president, Keith Inman, to support a food rescue and delivery program.
Kosair Charities
I
n challenging times, Kosair Charities seeks to be a source of hope to non-profit organizations as well as kids and families they support. Founded in 1923 as the original children’s hospital, Kosair Charities transitioned to being a grant-making organization in the 1980s. “Since 1983, we’ve been a philanthropic organization that helps kids overcome obstacles and reach their full potential by supporting the agencies that help them. In any given year, we’ll support over 200 organizations whose sole focus is to help kids do better and get better,” Kosair President Keith Inman says. A recent Kosair Charities grant to Kentucky Harvest for $15,000 will support a food rescue and delivery program. Did you know Kosair Charities also supports kids and families across Kentucky and
56 TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020
Southern Indiana through the Kosair Kids Financial Assistance Program? Kids under the age of 17 may receive assistance with medical bills and needs, just like Itzel, who at age 3 had auditory processing problems. She received hearing aids and resources not covered by insurance thanks to Kosair Charities donors.
Two Kosair Kids pause for a photo while Kosair Kid waiting in line Itzelfor and the mom, carousel Alma, atpose the annual Kosair Kids Night the Zoobest. event. for a photo in theiratholiday
Hundreds of kids annually are also able to experience special Kosair Kid events and safely celebrate the holidays (as pictured). “Our staff brings excitement no matter where the workplace is. Every morning when we get out of bed, we try to figure out how we can help more kids,” Keith says. Hope is more crucial now than ever, as is donor support to help 200+ grant recipients and hundreds of Kosair Kid families. “I hope they feel some enthusiasm that there’s somebody out there who is partnering with them,” Keith says. “Kosair Charities is the safety net organization for the children of our community.” To learn more, donate, or request assistance or an organizational grant, visit: www. kosair.org or follow Kosair Charities on Facebook.
Kosair Kid Itzel and mom, Alma, pose for a photo in their holiday best.
SPONSORED BY:
This year has been filled with challenges, especially for the kids and families of our community. Because of generous donors, we have been able to continue providing support and resources so Kosair Kids like Itzel have everything they need to grow up happy, healthy, and safe. For children like Itzel, donor support is life-changing. Itzel is a bubbly, outgoing, and bright 6-year-old who loves to paint and play with her Jack Russell Terrier, Jackie. When Itzel was 3 years old, her mom, Alma noticed she was struggling with speech and language development. Despite seeing specialists and speech therapists, Alma was still worried her daughter would fall behind in kindergarten. Itzel’s doctor suggested additional testing to help find a diagnosis. Unfortunately, her doctor did not accept insurance for this testing. That is when Alma and Itzel found Kosair Charities. Itzel received the testing she needed at no cost to her mom through the Kosair Kids Financial Assistance Program. After years of searching for answers, she was diagnosed with hearing loss and an auditory processing disorder. With this diagnosis, Itzel, Alma, and her medical care team were able to create a care plan designed especially for her. Thanks to donors like you, Itzel also received hearing aids and an FM transmitter system from the Financial Assistance Program. Her test scores have improved more than 50% and her comprehension has developed significantly! She now has resources she needs to reach her full potential.
“I know Itzel is destined to do great things and now she can,” – Itzel’s mom, Alma
There are many kids in our community who still need your support. The COVID-19 pandemic has created additional challenges for many families, especially those who have children with medical needs. Kosair Charities is committed to ensuring all kids in Kentucky and Southern Indiana have what they need to thrive, but we need your help to provide these vital resources. Help kids like Itzel reach their potential by making a generous gift today:
kosair.org/donate
Itzel is ready to celebrate the holidays thanks to donors like you!
The Giving Issue
West End School
“I
am one of West End School’s first alumni. I graduated from St. Francis High School, went on to be a first-generation college student and am now the Head Deposit Trainer at a local Bank. West End School asked me if I could share my story and experience with supporters like you, and I could not be more thrilled.
I grew up with my grandmother. She always wanted the best for me and believed in me. When we made the decision to enroll me in West End School, I did not realize the sort of family I would be joining. Each of my teachers gave me nearly undivided attention when I needed it, considering my class had less than 10 students each. I lived and graduated with close friends who turned into family. Not only did they know the circumstances I lived in, they empathized. We all understood what it was like to have five outfits. We all understood the situations going on in our lives. We were there for each other, not just because of these similar circumstances, but because we all knew we had a golden opportunity to succeed and we were hungry for it. I am just one example, but my brothers in my class each have similar stories. Amongst the holiday season, I am so grateful for the family I built in my time at West End School. I owe so much to this experience. I didn’t realize it at the time, but support from donors and the community meant the world to me. I hope you continue to give this year, because I know your gift is really a gift for students like me.”
SPONSORED BY:
Planning for tomorrow doesn’t mean the distant future.
now is just as important as sixty years from now, and we
personalized financial plan to help you do what you love planning and more like living. Spend your life living.®
— Kenny Gray ‘10
58 TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020
Northwestern Mutual 502.562.2400 Louisville louisville.nm.com
Planning for tomorrow doesn’t mean the distant future. It means, well, tomorrow. Sixty seconds from now is just as important as sixty years from now, and we’ll help you make the most of all of it. With a personalized financial plan to help you do what you love, your whole life through, planning looks less like planning and more like living. Spend your life living.®
Northwestern Mutual 502.562.2400 Louisville louisville.nm.com
uture. It means, well, tomorrow. Sixty seconds from
nd we’ll help you make the most of all of it. With a
u love, your whole life through, planning looks less like
g.® 07-1003 © 2020 Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company (NM), (life and disability insurance, annuities, and life insurance with long-term care benefits) and its subsidiaries in Milwaukee, WI. Northwestern Mutual Investment Services, LLC (NMIS) (securities), a subsidiary of NM, broker-dealer, registered investment adviser and member FINRA and SIPC. John Daniel Rivers Jr is a General Agent(s) of NM. Managing Partners are not in legal partnership with each other, NM or its subsidiaries. John Daniel Rivers Jr, is a Registered Representative(s) of NMIS. John Daniel Rivers Jr, is a Representative of Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Company®, (NMWMC) (fiduciary and fee-based financial planning services), a subsidiary of NM and federal savings bank. All NMWMC products and services are offered only by properly credentialed Representatives who operate from agency offices of NMWMC.
The Giving Issue
Indiana University Southeast
IU Southeast surpasses bicentennial campaign goal, raises over $17 million
I
ndiana University Southeast reached more than $17 million in the university’s bicentennial campaign, exceeding its goal of $14 million. Funds from “For All: The Indiana University Bicentennial Campaign,” which was publicly launched in September 2015, created 44 new scholarships. More than 5,300 donors contributed to the campaign, collectively giving a final total of $17,508,847. “We are exceedingly grateful for the
SPONSORED BY:
generosity of our IU Southeast family,” stated IU Southeast Chancellor Ray Wallace. “Your support is critical to our mission to provide high-quality programs and services that promote learning and prepare our graduates for productive citizenship.” The final campaign totals for IU Southeast consists of more than $900,000 in gifts and grants from non-governmental organizations, more than $9.7 million in gifts from
alumni, and more than $4.8 million from friends of the university. “It is truly amazing how our community of friends, alumni, and current and retired faculty and staff have come together to support IU Southeast and our students,” said IU Southeast Vice Chancellor for Advancement Betty Russo. “They saw the need, and they responded. We are extremely grateful to our donors for their generosity.”
Thank You
for Helping Us Achieve a Brighter Future!
Thanks to the generosity of our alumni, the community, and current and retired faculty and staff, Indiana University Southeast exceeded our $14 million fundraising goal for the university’s bicentennial campaign and raised more than $17 million. These funds help us realize our mission of providing high-quality programs and services for our students, create scholarships, and help us meet the needs of the students and community we serve. We are exceedingly grateful for the generosity of our donors. With your support, the future is truly bright for our students, our campus, and our community.
IUS.EDU 60 TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020
The Giving Issue
Home of the Innocents
H
ome of the Innocents has been a part of our community since 1880 and has stayed open during the current age of COVID-19, serving children and families during a very challenging time, providing a variety of programs that include a safe haven for at-risk children, clinical treatment services, crisis and intervention services, therapeutic loving foster care and adoption services, a pediatric convalescent center for children who are medically complex or terminally ill, and an integrated pediatric medical center called Open Arms Children’s Health. Home of the Innocents relies on the support of our community. They enrich the lives of children and families with hope, health, and happiness and are grateful for the generous supporters who continue to provide for those in our community who need them. For ways that you can help, please visit homeoftheinnocents.org. SPONSORED BY:
TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020 61
The Giving Issue
The Animal Care Society
F
ounded in 1984, The Animal Care Society is a 501(c)(3) non-profit No Kill adoption agency for dogs and cats. We’re a privately funded, volunteer driven organization whose financial support comes solely through annual subscription memberships, donations, and adoption fees. We receive no federal, state, or local government funding. We speak for the voiceless and lead by example in our ongoing work. We provide responsible and humane treatment to our dog and cat guests until we can find them appropriate homes. We have placed over 12,000 pets into devoted and responsible homes. We are proud
of our success and our sustained positive impact on our community.
ago, and 100% of proceeds go back to our shelter and our animals.
Additionally, The Animal Care Society owns The Re-Tail Thrift Shop. This thrift store has many gently used items, including a wide variety of goodies for your furry friends! We created our thrift store six years
Our shelter is located at 12207 Westport Road and our Re-Tail Thrift Shop is located at 10519 Watterson Trail. Visit www.animalcaresociety.org for more information, or to donate!
SPONSORED BY:
62 TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020
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Holiday Gift Guide
The holidays are coming! Browse this TOPS Holiday Gift Guide to help make your season Merry and Bright! PHOTOS BY DICK ARNSPIGER
Special Advertising Section
TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020 67
Mamili’s holiday gift guide
Hell Yes! Coffee Mug $15 Cardinal Lighted Water Lantern $64 Red Faux Patent Leather Clutch $41
Shop Local
this Holiday Season Shop with Mamili for all the people on your Christmas shopping list!
Elizabeth Woosley
68 TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020
502.384.4450 NuLu Marketplace 826 E. Main St. FREE PRIVATE PARKING!
@Mamili502
Merkley Kendrick Jewelers’ holiday gift guide
14k Rose Gold Diamond Cloverleaf Necklace $986
18k Yellow Gold & Diamond Lotus Cuff Bangle by Gumuchian $1,600
18k White Gold Diamond Cocktail Ring $6,875
14k Rose Gold Diamond Cloverleaf Earrings $1,982
Ladies’ pre-owned 28mm Rolex Datejust in Oystersteel & 18k White Gold with Dark Rhodium Roman Dial $6,950
MERKLEY KENDRICK JEWELERS (502) 895-6124 138 Chenoweth Lane Louisville, KY 40207 mkjewelers.com
TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020 69
is e rden’s holiday gift guide
C
M
Edible Gifts $5.95 - $25
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
Holiday Wreaths $60 - $175
Traditional Bird Seed Decorative Ornaments and Feeders $5 to $21
Illume Scented Candles Glass Trios $38, Mercury Glass Trees $30, 22oz Votive $65, Spray $5
70 TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020
Glass Votives $8 to $15
E L E V A T E Y O U R SDISTINCTLY T Y L E T H I S S P RDIGS ING
for the Holidays! Holiday Decor Gifts for Him Gifts for Her Superior Interiors & Much More!
CHENOWETH SQUARE
S T. M AT T H E W S
d i g s h o meandg arde n. com
ild s’ holiday gift guide
GIVE THE GIFT OF GREAT TASTE! A Wild Eggs gift card is the perfect gift for family, friends, teachers, and co-workers! Buy a $25 gift card now through the holidays and get a $5 bonus card. wildeggs.com
72 TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020
M i i ’s holiday gift guide 18K Gold Filled Karli Buxton Snake Hoops $82
Chinese Laundry Keep Up Genuine Suede Boot $94
Sweet Grace Candle No. 21 $38
GET COZY this Holiday Season! CHECKOUT FACEBOOK AND INSTAGRAM FOR THE LATEST PRODUCTS M @magnoliafig P @magnolia_and_fig 12623 Shelbyville Rd • Louisville, KY 40243 (502) 253-4567 • Open Monday-Saturday 11-5
TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020 73
NEARLY
100 YEARS OF QUALITY CANDY
dies’ holiday gift guide Woodford Reserve Bourbon Balls, 8oz & 1lb, $19.95-$32.65 ruthhuntcandy.com 800-927-0302
Visit ruthhuntcandy.com today for our Holiday Specials! BOURBON CONFECTIONS • CHOCOLATES PULLED CREAM CANDY • CARAMELS & TOFFEE GIFT BASKETS & CAKES
GOURME T
Olive Oils - AND -
Balsamic Vinegars E XQ UI S I T E
Hard-to-find Flavors, ALL AVAILABLE FOR
Tasting In-store.
Westport Village 1301 Herr Ln. #157 502-365-3866 ziolive.com
74 TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020
i li e’s holiday gift guide Zi Olive provides the highest quality gourmet olive oils and balsamic vinegars from around the world. Shop in store or online: ziolive.com Enjoy 10% off all 2-pack gift boxes with mention of this ad! PROMOTION EXPIRES 12/24/2020
Located In Westport Village 1301 Herr Lane #157 ziolive.com 502-365-3866
r e lend r’s holiday gift guide Holiday Towels $12.99
Polish Pottery Mugs $18.99 - $24.99
Mistral French Holiday Soaps $10
2232 Frankfort Ave • Louisville, KY 40206 • (502) 618-1633 • european-splendor.com TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020 75
is Jewelers’ holiday gift guide w i t h Lu k e & K a e ly n H a n c o c k Longines 42mm Stainless Steel Heritage Legend Diver Watch $2,400
Doves Diamond and Black Onyx earrings $1,795
Doves 18K White Gold London Blue Topaz and Black Onyx Pendant With Double Diamond Halo $5,795
David Yurman Sterling Silver Starburst Collection Ring with Pavé Diamonds $1,250 Roberto Coin Love in Verona Collection 18K White Gold Bangle with Diamond Accent $5,450
76 TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020
B E M E R RY BE JEWELED
9901 Forest Green Blvd | Louisville
davisjewelers.com
y ’s holiday gift guide Prada Purse $480
David Yurman Necklace $495 David Yurman Ring $695 David Yurman Earrings $305 Yudofsky Coat $225
Ferrini Boots $150 UGG Boots $70
78 TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020
FASHION FORWARD WITHOUT SPENDING A FORTUNE.
shopsassyfoxconsign.com New Hours Tue–Fri 11–5 pm Sat 10–4 pm
502.895.3711 150 Chenoweth Lane
ew re ’s holiday gift guide
Bachelor Button Thumb Print Pie Plate
20” Santa’s Elves Nutcracker Antipasto Tray
11” Flared Bowl in Holly Graffiti
80 TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020
11oz Julep Cup in Embossed Running Horse
Louisville Pottery Collection Nested Mixing Bowl Set
esi well’s holiday gift guide
Gifts in range of prices from vases to bath lotions
Emerald green velvet pillow $134 Green horsehair/gold bead pillow $142
Large wooden lantern, candle, greenery, and lights $325
Custom made large wreath $241
82 TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020
Large encrusted ornaments $10/ea
Nostalgic animated musical Christmas village $212
Design & Dwell Interiors is a boutique offering simple, elegant & stylish furniture, home decor & gifts in a tranquil setting. Our team of seasoned designers assist customers in creating their unique vision for the dream home they have always wanted. Furniture Home Decor | Gifts
D D design & dwell
Interiors
Holiday sale! TA K E 20% O F F N OW D E C E M B E R 24 Monday through Saturday 10AM-6PM 12003 Shelbyville Rd, Suite 106 (Next to Havana Rumba in Middletown)
( 5 0 2 ) 4 2 4 14 0 7 | D E S I G N A N D D W E L L I N T E R I O R S . C O M Monday through Saturday 10AM-6PM • 12003 Shelbyville Rd, Suite 106 (Next to Havana Rumba in Middletown)
Hate cleaning? We love it! Let us clean your home for the holidays.
Igloo dining is now available! WHAT WE CAN DO: House Cleaning & Sanitizing Moving or Remodeling Scheduled Deep Cleaning Commercial & Special Event
Make the Holidays even happier. Give a Gustavo’s Gift Card to your loved ones!
REQUEST A FREE QUOTE NOW:
(502) 919-1421
We know how to please a hungry crowd! Let us cater your event or celebrate with us at any of our 4 locations.
Gustavo Reyes, Owner
G U S TAVO S M E XG R I L L .C O M
Leading Lawyers
Need legal help? Here are some of TOPS’ Leading Lawyers in Louisville, who can help. BY ROCKO JEROME • COURTESY PHOTOS
Special Advertising Section
TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020 85
leading lawyers
the
Kentucky
Bar
Association BY DAWN ANDERSON
86 TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020
All practicing attorneys in the Commonwealth are required to be a member of the Kentucky Bar Association. We have approximately 19,115 total members as of November 1, 2020 – K BA EX ECU T I V E D I RECT O R J O H N MEYERS
I
n 1871, lawyers across Kentucky met to form a voluntary association adopting the motto, “Lex Ordo Justicia” or “Law Order Justice.” The Kentucky General Assembly passed a formal act in 1934, creating the Kentucky Bar Association (KBA). In addition to acting as a governing body for Kentucky attorneys, the KBA provides many benefits and resources for members and offers several services to the general public. KBA Executive Director John Meyers and KBA President Tom Kerrick provide an overview of these programs. Lifelong Lexington resident John Meyers studied finance at Purdue University before completing his J.D. at UK. He worked in real estate and general practice and published Kentucky Beverage Journal for more than 20 years. John was hired as KBA’s Continuing Legal Education (CLE) Director in 2005 and began serving as KBA Executive Director in 2009. Tom Kerrick also graduated from the UK College of Law and has built a civil litigation practice, Kerrick Bachert Attorneys at Law in Bowling Green, Kentucky, for over forty years. Tom has been involved with the KBA Board of Governors for eight years and will serve as President through June 2021.
“All practicing attorneys in the Commonwealth are required to be a member of the Kentucky Bar Association. We have approximately 19,115 total members as of November 1, 2020,” says John. Nearly 5000 of those practice in Jefferson County. Kentucky Supreme Court Rules require all non-exempt KBA members to complete 12 hours of CLE each year, with at least 2 credits in legal ethics. KBA provides members with an Ethics Hotline and the Casemaker legal research tool as well. “We also have an outstanding Kentucky Lawyer Assistance Program, which assists attorneys with alcohol, substance, or emotional issues.” Under Tom Kerrick’s leadership, the KBA formed Lawyers Advocating Wellness (LAW) to encourage “some type of exercise, meditation, or even an educational opportunity as to diet and nutrition, sleep and relaxation, or dealing with COVID issues.” This focus on attorney well-being was one of Tom’s objectives as KBA President. “As attorneys, we have very stressful jobs and need to burn some of that off.” KBA services available to the public include a Lawyer Locator, Client Security Fund, the non-profit Kentucky Bar Foundation, Inc., and Interest on Lawyers’ Trust Accounts. These assist with legal services, pro bono programs, and other law-related programs “to increase access to justice for individuals and families living in poverty and to improve our justice system.” The Office of Bar Counsel protects the public as the discipline arm of the KBA to investigate and handle complaints. Tom feels privileged to serve as President of the Kentucky Bar Association and thanks John and his staff for the “fantastic job they do running our KBA” daily. Likewise, John is “really excited about the direction of the KBA.” With the support of the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office, the Young Lawyers Division’s Legal Food Frenzy has raised thousands of dollars for local food banks. “The KBA is proud of our members, their commitment to the profession, their neighbors, and communities.”
TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020 87
leading lawyers
DIRECTORY
Labor, Employment and Business Law
BRIAN ABELL Attorney Brian Abell is a Louisville native practicing labor, employment, and business law. Have you been treated differently based on who you are? Call ABELL ATTORNEYS at (502) 242-7185. Abell Attorneys (502) 242-7185 @AbellAttorneysKY
Medical Negligence, Products and Premises Liability
Commercial Real Estate and Business Law
TAD ADAMS Adams Law Group represents clients in Kentucky and throughout the US in commercial real estate transactions, general corporate and transactional matters and affordable housing transactions. Adams Law Group (502) 895-8210 6004 Brownsboro Park Blvd., Suite A Louisville, KY 40207 tadamslaw.com
DUI/Criminal Defense
Family Law
Personal Injury
WYNTER RENEAUX COLLINS
TONY COLYER
Top 100 Family Law Trial Lawyers In US As Diplomate Of American College Of Family Trial Lawyers Burbank & Collins, P.S.C. 200 S. 5th Street, Suite 600N Louisville, KY 40202 Phone: (502) 785-8215 Fax: (502) 589-5257 reneaux@burbankandcollins.net burbankandcollins.com
Labor and Employment, Discrimination
An injury can be devastating and leave a family scrambling for medical treatment and finances. The Colyer Law Firm focuses on aggressive legal representation for individuals injured as a result of automobile wrecks, dangerous property, or medical neglect. Colyer Law Firm, PLLC Office: (502) 736-8141 Fax: (502) 736-8150 colyerlawfirm.com
Bankruptcy
CHIP HAYWARD
WES FAULKNER Wes is an AV rated attorney with 32 years of litigation experience, primarily focused on representing clients harmed by medical negligence, products liability and premises liability. Faulkner Law Offices 125 South Seventh Street Louisville, KY 40202 Office: (502) 584-1403 Fax: (502) 587-9931 Cell: (502) 797-0700 wes@faulknerlawoffices.com faulknerlawoffices.com
88 TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020
LARRY FORMAN Mr. Forman has been recognized by SuperLawyers for 6 consecutive years and rated #1 DUI attorney on Google in client reviews. Forman & Associates The Lion Building 717 West Market Street, Suite 2 Louisville, Kentucky 40202 Work: (502) 931-6788 Toll Free: (844) 4-DUI-GUY Fax: (419) 574-7156 Larry@LarryFormanLaw.com
With more than 30 years of experience fighting for the American worker, Hayward & Hayward represents employees who have experienced discrimination, harassment, and wrongful termination. Adams, Hayward & Welsh (502) 366-6456 adamshaywardwelsh.com
TRACY L. HIRSCH Hirsch Law makes it a priority to ensure that each of our clients feels respected, heard, and understood. We will never make you feel embarrassed for asking questions. Instead, we provide unparalleled service and support. 801 New LaGrange Rd., Suite 4 Louisville, KY 40222 (502) 435-2593 www.hirschbklaw.com
leading lawyers
Family Law
Serious Injury, Veterans Disability
ELIZABETH MCCONAHY JENKINS AND COREY SHIFFMAN
KARL TRUMAN
Jenkins and Shiffman Family Law provides legal services for divorce, adoption, custody, child support, grandparents rights, wills and estates as well as professional mediation services. Jenkins & Shiffman Family Law (502) 581-0050 @JandSFamilyLaw
The experienced Louisville lawyers at the Karl Truman Law Office provide legal services for people who have suffered serious injury, or who need legal assistance with a veterans disability claim or Social Security isability Insurance claim. We offer a free case evaluation so that you can learn more about us and so that we can learn more about your case. Karl Truman Law Office 10531- Tim erwood Cir Louisville, KY 40223 (502) 222-2222 -----------------------------------------------------------420 Wall St., effersonville, IN 47130 (812) 282-8500 karltruman.com
Personal Injury
ALEX WHITE Alex has established himself as an authority in the personal injury law field. If you find yourself in injured a car wrec visit Sue istracted river.com. Alex R. White, PLLC 908 Minoma Avenue Louisville, KY 40217 Office: (502) 882-7552 Fax: (502) 585-3559 arwhitelaw.com alex@arwhitelaw.com
TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020 89
leading lawyers
(502) 222-2222 | TRUMANLAW.COM
KARL TRUMAN LAW OFFICE featuring K A R L T R U M A N
I
f there are two things to which Karl Truman has dedicated himself, it's helping those in personal injury litigation and doing things to enrich the lives of our veterans. "It's important to help people through difficult times," he says, "and there's nothing quite like community service." The head of the Karl Truman Law Office and Leader of Personal Injury Law is also a retired Lieutenant Colonel in the Army, having served for nearly three decades. "When you're in the military, you call your compatriots your brothers and sisters for a reason," he says. "You are there to take care of each other. After I retired, I felt that the Army had been good to me, and I wanted to give back. It's more than just sending a donation. I am personally there to lend a hand and provide encouragement whether it
90 TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020
is working as a guardian flying a WWII veteran to Washington, D.C., or walking into the opening ceremony with the team at the National Wheelchair Veterans Games." Karl is also a top sponsor of USA Cares and is active with the local Veterans Club and Amvets post. Covid has brought fresh challenges, but it's only strengthened Karl's commitment to servicemen and women's needs. "I miss seeing everybody, and I'm looking forward to normalcy, but in the meantime, people still need our help," he says. Professionally, Karl is also an aggressive advocate for his clients while maintaining professional courtesy. "It's important to do what is right rather than what is easy," he says. "My competitive spirit motivates me to continue to sharpen my skills. The most satisfying Courtesy photos
thing is to see the result of a case that has had a direct and meaningful impact on someone's life. A trend that concerns me is law firms whose objective is just to get as big as possible across the country, creating legal services that are somewhat of a 'department store' commodity. Some of these firms are advocating for non-lawyer ownership of law firms by hedge funds. I believe your lawyer should be someone you know in your local community." In his free time, Karl enjoys sailing with his wife, Jeanine. Last November, they sailed 1,750 miles on a two week trip across the Atlantic Ocean from Hampton, VA, to Antigua in their sailboat.
TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020 91
leading lawyers
JENKINS & SHIFFMAN FAMILY LAW
(502) 581-0050 | JENKINSANDSHIFFMANLAW.COM
featuring C O R E Y S H I F F M A N A N D ELIZABETH MCCONAHY JENKINS
T
he lawyers of Jenkins & Shiffman Family Law are smart, compassionate, and ready to serve. They always put their clients’ needs first and foremost and tailor their cases to achieve those goals within the law. They strive to provide each client with the level of service they would expect for themselves and work diligently to help their clients through the most difficult times of their lives. Elizabeth McConahy Jenkins is ranked as one of the best family lawyers in the country. A graduate of Colgate University and the University of Virginia School of Law, Ms. Jenkins has nearly three decades of legal and mediation experience with a Martindale-Hubbell AV Preeminent rating, a SuperLawyer designation and a license to practice in Kentucky, Virginia and the District of Columbia. Prior to entering law school, Ms. Jenkins was involved in business and finance and comes to the practice with a solid finance background. Corey Shiffman focuses his practice on all aspects of family law, including divorce, child custody, and adoption. Mr. Shiffman is a litigator and mediator in family law cases as well as an adjunct professor with the University of Louisville’s Brandeis School of Law at the Ackerson Law Clinic. He grew up in Louisville and graduated from duPont Manual High School, holds his undergraduate degree from the University of Kentucky, and his JD from the University of Louisville. He is admitted to practice in all Kentucky state courts, as well as the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky.
92 TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020
Top 100 Family Law Trial Lawyers In US As Diplomate Of American College Of Family Trial Lawyers Global Connections As President Of International Academy Of Family Lawyers USA Chapter Fierce Advocate For Her Family Law Clients
Practice Limited To Divorces With Sophisticated Financial Issues Or Complex Custody Matters Working Relationships With The Most Esteemed Business Valuators Nationally And Internationally
Firm Won First Exclusive Possession Of Young Girls For A Father In Jefferson County In Early 1970'S Earns Respect Of Clients, Adversaries And Courts
Kentucky’s Delegate And Parliamentarian Of The American Academy Of Matrimonial Lawyers Top 1600 Family Lawyers In USA Crafts Creative Marital Settlements And Litigates Aggressively
Recognized As A “Superlawyer” In Kentucky Statewide Practice And Received “Raising The Bar” Award Locally
Certified Arbitrator By The American Academy Of Matrimonial Lawyers
502-585-5100 reneaux@burbankandcollins.net burbankandcollins.com
Georgetown University And UK College Of Law
Native Louisvillian
leading lawyers
FAULKNER LAW OFFICES
featuring W E S FA U L K N E R AND ALISSA AKERS-LANHAM
A
deliberately small law firm, aulkner Law Offices is a name synonymous with first rate, personali ed legal service with a focus on medical malpractice and nursing home negligence. We handle a small number of select clients. This allows us to give all of our clients our cell phone numbers, so they may te t us anytime with uestions or to provide us with information about their cases, says Wes aulkner, a third generation attorney. ot only are we more accessible to clients than other firms, but our constant line of communication allows us to get updates and information as the client s case develops, assisting us in moving things along for them uickly and effectively. We make it our mission to know our clients, says lissa kers Lanham, the Office anager for the firm. Our separation from others in our field is a lack of advertising and our word of mouth approach. We don t use form letters. ach client s case is discussed daily, and each case is touched in some capacity every single day. We do not carry a large caseload because money is not our goal. oing what is right and most helpful to the client is what we strive for. lissa and I work as a team, says Wes. This is the type of legal representation that is becoming a lost art. Legal representation was never meant to be an assembly line, high volume business, and we are determined to treat clients the way they deserve and do the best for them that we possibly can.
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(502) 584-1403 | FAULKNERLAWOFFICES.COM
(502) 736-8141 | COLYERLAWFIRM.COM
leading lawyers
COLYER LAW FIRM featuring T O N Y C O L Y E R
C
olyer Law irm has taken off since opening its doors in . Our entire focus is serving as an ally for injured people, hurt through no fault of their own, who need help navigating life s challenges after an injury, says Tony olyer of himself and the growing injury law practice of olyer Law irm. Tony believes in listening to his clients, understanding their needs, putting them first, and fighting for the best outcome for them every time. client focused, his vision centers on finding the fastest way to the best, most fair, and e uitable conclusion to every case. Tony has twelve years of e perience in civil litigation, and for si of those years, he worked for the insurance companies. e knows how they operate. e has the e perience and the resources to take a case to trial, if necessary. native Louisvillian, Tony is living out his dream. I ve always wanted to be a lawyer, Tony recalls. I didn t know anything about lawyers or law school growing up. ut in third grade I drew a picture of my future self, holding a briefcase and wrote I want to be a lawyer so I can help people and take care of my family. Tony grew up in the ern reek area and lives with his family in iddletown today. Louisville is home. y family is from here, I got my law degree here, and I m committed to helping people here. It s always been my dream.
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leading lawyers
HIRSCH LAW PLLC featuring T R A C Y H I R S C H
“I
t s very fulfilling to practice in an area of law that helps individuals feel hopeful about their financial future, says ttorney Tracy irsch of irsch Law. Tracy has focused on personal bankruptcy for the past years. One of the most prevalent issues that people stress about is money. inancial issues are found at every socio economic level, and people need to know it s okay to admit that they need help. ost individuals think that bankruptcy will ruin their lives, when it can actually give them a debt free future. It can also protect their car, their home, and their paychecks. Tracy offers a different approach than other attorneys when it comes to the bankruptcy filing process. s a solo practitioner, she prides herself on being directly available to her clients. lients are able to call and te t her on her cell phone days a week. When I graduated from law school, I started my career at a big bo bankruptcy firm, she says. In that environment, the attorneys often passed off the work to support staff, and it felt very impersonal. veryone has their own story, and clients should never feel like they re part of an assembly line. dditionally, there should be no stigma and no shame when filing for bankruptcy. I want to listen to their stories, and walk them through the entire process with dignity and respect. Tracy meets with clients at their very first appointment, and is with them every step of the way. It s a lot of work and a lot of responsibility, she says, but that s what my clients deserve an attorney who cares.
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At Home
104
The Pro to Know: Jeremy Curran of Cornerstone Kitchen And Bath
106
design guru: Waller Design
110
Tour of Homes: Dilapidated Crestwood Dwelling Transforms Into A Fab Modern Farmhouse
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the pro
to know
Jeremy Curran OF CORNERSTONE KITCHEN AND BATH BY TAYLOR RILEY PHOTOS BY DICK ARNSPIGER
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eremy Curran has enjoyed a long career in business; he has been involved in creating and managing several companies over the past few decades. But his latest venture with Cornerstone Kitchen and Bath has a different purpose. Jeremy grew his entrepreneurial spirit over the years that he worked in the security and janitorial business with his wife, Amy, and her father. They developed and managed several companies that focused on downtown cleaning and safety programs, contract security and event management projects across the country. Although the family sold the company in 2008, Jeremy stayed on as president until 2014. The business grew exponentially and Jeremy was traveling two to three days a week for two to three weeks a month. “I missed my wife, kids, friends and family,” Jeremy says. “It was an all-consuming job...I could never control the traveling.” He missed many of his daughters’ field hockey and volleyball games, and even though he didn’t know what he would do next, he left his job. It was a dramatic change for the whole family with dad home every day, week, and month. “I wouldn’t change it for the world,” Jeremy says about that time getting closer to daughters Olivia, now 20, and Taylor, now 22, both currently at Miami University in Ohio. “Before, it was like my wife was single parenting at times. I never realized how difficult that was until I was there full time. It was important for me to be there for them, as a husband and a parent.”
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He worked on his home for six months and learned some new skills. The businessman had always enjoyed remodeling; he had been the contractor for several previous personal and office projects, but his entrepreneurial spirit was not dead. “I needed a new business to start--my business,” Jeremy says. So, he looked around for a while, searching for the perfect venture, until he found a kitchen and bathroom company for sale, which started the wheels turning. Jeremy would start his own kitchen and bath company in February of 2015. Cornerstone Kitchen and Bath was named after the biblical scripture Ephesians 2:20, which states that Christ is the cornerstone of the foundation, indicating that “In him the whole building is joined together.” Jeremy and Amy chose this scripture to be a
reminder to them that God is the foundation of their life together. “When I am intentional to put my relationship with Christ above all else, everything else will fall into place,” says Jeremy. “I want to honor Him in the way I go about everyday life, whether it be in my business or at home.” The Curran family and the family at Cornerstone Kitchen and Bath hope to reflect that desire in the way they live, work and serve daily. Along with wife Amy and long-time friend and business partner, Kevin Colvin, Jeremy has created a close-knit team that focuses on offering quality design and superior customer service. The Cornerstone team is not complete without its designers, Kimberly Brown and Chiara Dixon, and its Operations Manager, Daniel Donnell. “I couldn’t be prouder of my team at Cornerstone,”
I couldn’t be prouder of my team at Cornerstone. They really go the extra mile to serve our clients well and to cultivate an excellent rapport with those they work with on a daily basis. – JERE M Y C U R R A N
Jeremy comments. “They really go the extra mile to serve our clients well and to cultivate an excellent rapport with those they work with on a daily basis.” Cornerstone provides three lines of manufactured cabinets along with a custom Amish line, four lines of hardware for drawers and doors, and all conceivable countertop options from granite, quartz, marble, laminate and custom wood. They offer design services, planning and installation of cabinetry for kitchens, bathrooms and powder rooms, laundry rooms, bars, custom built-in fireplace surrounds and home office/ home organization options. As far as trends go, Jeremy says many customers are still choosing neutrals for their cabinetry, including whites and various grays, but they are using pops of colors on kitchen islands, basement bars and coffee bars. Cabinetry manufacturers are beginning to offer a large variety of colors to use as cabinetry options. With the current pandemic, many families are focusing on home organization and work areas with lockers and cubbies. “People are looking to incorporate homeschooling and working from home into their life, but don’t necessarily want it at the kitchen table,” Jeremy says. “The kitchen remains a focus also, because in 2020, people are cooking more and spending more time there. They are realizing that it’s the center of the home, so they’re looking at the kitchen with a different eye these days.” “I would say what sets us apart at Cornerstone is the way we connect with our clients and the way we work together as a team. There is a personal touch involved,” says Jeremy. “Our desire is to do all things to the best of our ability and to give God the glory along the way. At the end of the day, our greatest desire is to walk with Him and to let Him lead. If we keep this as our priority, we can trust the end results.” The family’s business practices what they preach and gives back to
Courtesy photo
Courtesy photo
the community, as each year, they pick a local, national and international charity in which to give a portion of their proceeds. “Whether it be remodeling your kitchen or building a new home, it’s stressful.” Jeremy says, so frequent communication and planning is crucial. “We keep everything in order and finish in a timely fashion. What sets Cornerstone apart from our competition is the experience that we provide and the quality of the team.” For more information on Cornerstone Kitchen and Bath, go to cornerstonekb.com.
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DESIGN GURU
Waller DESIGN o n aller ilt i fir t o e in 1 and fro t en on e ay e wa a o e ilder BY TAYLOR RILEY PHOTOS BY DICK ARNSPIGER
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aller Design Group has, since then, helped build and design upscale homes in eastern Jefferson and Oldham counties but not without obstacles. In 2008, when the Great Recession hit, the company was wiped out, and John found himself having to start over again. “Coming out of the recession, no one had the money to build new homes,” John says. So, he turned to renovations, reinventing and refocusing the company. “It made a huge difference,” he says. “I thought I would never be in this industry again...I love what I do. It was a lot of hard work, especially rebuilding.” Now, Waller Design Group is a full-service firm, which provides turn-key construction and interior design services. The company steps in from conception to finish and can “handle everything,” according to John. In 2016, the company participated in Homearama, when they designed, built, and decorated the featured home. Four years ago, the company debuted its cabinet company with three lines of custom and semi-custom designed cabinets. “It was something I was really proud of,” says John.
Sixty to 70 percent of the work Waller Design Group does is renovation work and the rest is new construction--they can really do it all. The team is unique to Louisville in that they love to work with designers, but if the client is looking for direction, John can also assist. Some projects can cause “construction fatigue,” so pre-planning is a must before ever starting the construction process. “We like to have everything in place and decisions made
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before starting,” John says. Oftentimes, clients are excited to pull the trigger and get the project going without a concrete plan. “HGTV gives an unrealistic expectation,” John says about the timeline and budget of construction. There are certain aspects of the process clients sometimes don’t take into consideration, including appliance shopping and building times. Especially during the pandemic, there have been challenges in the construction world like material and appliance shortages. “It’s a strange time,” says John. “It’s really important to dial down and get specifics of the project in place. It’s all about timing and having realistic expectations on both sides.” Variables always come up as obstacles when working with remodeling work, so when working with subcontractors, John says it’s important that they “tell me what I need to hear, not what I want to hear.” Speaking of surprises, John emphasizes the flat-fees Waller charges to clients. “There’s always a surprise, something that comes up that’s unaccounted for behind the walls,” he says. “By not charging a cost plus basis, if we do uncover a problem, the client is just paying to fix the problem.” The company uses the same team of
subcontractors on every kitchen, master bath, room addition, basement and new construction project. “That continuity assures the client gets the same quality every time,” he says. John’s favorite part of his job might be new construction. “It’s always held a soft spot for me,” he says. “When we get out to the lot, there’s nothing there, so we design the house to fit the lot. It’s a unique approach. I just love the creative process.” If it’s an existing project, sometimes clients can’t change it to fit their vision, but a new home will have a blank slate. “You can create whatever you can imagine,” he says.
SOME
trends
John continues to see is a clean, but not overly modern, design in the “heart of the home,” also known as the kitchen. Now, fancy trim work has transitioned to a linear and clean design, as well as lighting has changed from traditional round recessed lights to square recessed. As far as room additions go, the team is incorporating both kitchen and family room for “one big, open room,” says John. Gray is also here to stay, from paint to cabinets, but soft blues are coming back in. “People want
to feel relaxed,” he says. “They want a calming sensation with everything going on in the world.” Granite is out, and quartz is in, with marble coming back in a leathered look. Traveling abroad, John has seen a lot of Bespoke designs, thinking it could be expensive, but really, he says, it doesn’t have to be. “Quality is in the details,” he says. To summarize Waller Design Group’s design philosophy is “barefoot elegance,” meaning there’s a focal point as you walk in and it travels to an adjoining room and pulls you through the next space and rest of the home. “It’s a very interesting and great way to design,” he says. “You’re as comfortable on a weekday all comfy, as you are on Friday and Saturday entertaining where it feels elegant. It’s a transition from comfy to elegance.”For more information on Waller Design Group, go to facebook.com/JPWallerDesignGroupLLC/.
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For over 50 years, New Directions has been making a big diierence in people's lives all across Louisville. "It's one of the greatest organizations in our community," says Louis Straub, President of Independence Bank. It's one of the reasons he asked its CEO, Lori Flanery, to serve on the Bank's Community Board of Directors.
"New Directions does so much for people in need, providing aiordable rental housing and connecting their residents with community resources to help them thrive," Louis continued. "Their work has a ripple eiect that will continue to improve the lives of Louisville residents for years to come."
Business First ranks New Directions the 23rd largest nonproot in Louisville, serving almost 1,000 families in their rental properties. New Directions has also been responsible for the volunteer-driven Repair Aiair where each year, it connects over 1,500 volunteers to homeowners who are elderly or have permanent disabilities to make home repairs, ensuring they can stay safe and healthy in their homes. Their newest program, I Rise, will assist families living in the rental properties to become self-suucient and more onancially stable.
"We work with numerous partners in the community. For example, during the pandemic, our collaboration with Dare to Care has helped ensure that our residents receive the nutrition they need," explained Lori. "In addition, we're happy to say that our early childhood education center in the California neighborhood, St. Benedict's, is a new Head Start facility."
Thanks to Independence Bank, New Directions was able to access federal dollars through the Paycheck Protection Program oiered through the Small Business Administration to keep the good work going. "The beginning of the pandemic was a time of great uncertainty, of course – a scary time for our community and the world," Lori recalls. "Independence Bank was a natural choice to make the big work happen – and they delivered." With community at the forefront of every initiative the Bank supports, New Directions has been a great ot from the very start.
"Our work is so much bigger than banking. We strive to facilitate meaningful change in the places we call home," Louis says. "That's why we ensure our time, energy, and dollars go towards programs that align with our values and share our passion for improving the community."
To donate to New Directions, please visit www.ndhc.org/donate.
Visit us at St. Matthews Square 3901 Shelbyville Road • Louisville, KY 40207 • 502-581-1776 • 1776bank.com
J
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DILAPIDATED CRESTWOOD DWELLING TRANSFORMS INTO A
FAB MODERN FARMHOUSE BY TAYLOR RILEY • PHOTOS BY TIM FURLONG JR.
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SPONSORED BY EUROPEAN SPLENDOR European Splendor specializes in hand-crafted, affordable European furniture, gift and accessories Having lived in Europe for several years, and with nearly 20 years experience, owners Susan and Matt Straub are experts in providing hand-crafted European items with superior workmanship at affordable prices. hether its fine uropean furniture, hand-crafted Polish pottery, French lotions and soaps, Bohemia crystal, French linens, candles, pillows, baskets, and art, European Splendor is the place to shop.
L
ori Byrne was dreaming of an old farmhouse, and when she walked into a ramshackle building in Crestwood in February, she thought, “Here it is.” Her husband, Brian, thought the exact opposite way about the residence, which was then inhabited by squatters of both the human and animal varieties. Lori found the home on Facebook Marketplace, where it had been posted for only three hours; she knew she had to leap at the chance for her company, Fleur De Lis Contracting & Design, to flip the home on five and a half acres off Highway 22. Soon, she says, the 6,800-square-foot, five-bedroom, five-and-a-half bathroom house would “change” her life.
2232 Frankfort Ave • Louisville, KY 40206 • (502) 618-1633 • european-splendor.com TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020 113
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I FELL IN LOVE WITH THE
HIGH CEILINGS
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o, as you would expect, Lori bought the home. There were many challenges she faced before moving into the home in July, including making the floor plan work for their family’s lifestyle. Lori took the third story out of the house, added a porch, moved what was once the front entrance to the back of the house, broke up the eight car garage, moved the kitchen, and created a sunken living room. “I fell in love with the high ceilings,” Lori says about her initial opinion of the house. “I couldn’t leave it.” Lori’s pride and joy of the home, built in the 1970s and added to in the 1990s, is the kitchen, modern and clean, with custom cabinets from Fleur De Lis, and fencewood-wrapped beams. The marble island compliments the 48-inch luxurious range with matte black hood and Imperial Danby-honed countertop. An enormous black, circular light fixture was added to provide light to an already open and airy room. The original kitchen was transformed into a beverage center in the foyer.
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R I C H I N S T Y L E . D E E P I N S P I R I T.
Love Your Kitchen Again! DEALER PHONE
DEALER LOGO
If considering a new kitchen or master bath, you owe it to yourself to give John a call and let him show you thoughtful bespoke design doesn’t have to cost more. Dealer Street . Dealer City, State, Zip “ Q U A L I T Y I S I N T H E Dealer D E T AWeb I L SAddress ”
502.639.6494
john@wallerdesigngroup.com Facebook.com/JPWallerDesignGroupLLC
at home
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the art of organization
502-489-3901
www.closetfactory.com closets | dressing rooms | wall beds | offices media centers | pantries | garage storage laundry rooms |craft rooms | wine rooms 13010 Eastgate Park Way, Suite 107, Louisville, KY 40223
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he attached dining room, one small flight of stairs up, was once an open room for entertaining complete with a hot tub. “(The home) was great as a nightclub, not as a house,” Lori laughs. Also off the kitchen is the sunken living room connected by an open fireplace with original stone with pieces of granite from old barges. “There’s a natural progression (through the home),” Lori says. Two contemporary staircases with walls lined with art by local artists and a collection of vintage Hermes scarves, lead to the second floor bedrooms. The master bedroom includes a skylight so the couple can see the stars, and the bathroom has a walk-in shower and free-standing tub. Most surfaces in the home, including those in the bathrooms, are made of marble, which Lori says creates the “wow” factor, and fixtures are gold; floors are wide-planked wood or large format tile.
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Baby, it’s cold outside..
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Call Today: (502) 641-1515 prestigebuilthomes.com
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hristmastime is Lori’s shining moment. This year, during a global pandemic, the family is not having many guests, so they focused their decorating on the inside. The home is bright with mixed metallic trinkets, large cone trees, snowflakes and garland. The family room on the bottom floor includes red and lime green decor with handmade and collected ornaments from the kids’ childhoods. “We are a family who loves Christmas,” Lori says. The home, now finished, was a labor of love for Lori, Brian and their Fleur De Lis team. Most builders would run from the fixer-upper, but Lori says she’s “not scared of any project. It shows people we can tackle the really big projects.” Since the pandemic has forced the real estate market to have low inventory of new homes, Lori suggests buying and flipping homes like she did. The family uses their home as an example that “everything is fixable,” Lori says, and that the business has the expertise to make something go from completely crumbling to a grand modern farmhouse. For more information on Fleur De Lis Contracting & Design, go to fleurdeliscontracting.com.
• Dedicated Internet Access • Web Hosting • Data Center Services
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321 East Breckinridge Street Louisville, Kentucky 40203 502-589-4638 bluegrass.net
Residential and Commercial If you can dream it, we can help you design it and make it reality! Owner, Lisa Steinbock 502-836-7318
steinbockinteriors.com
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our ourview viewofofdowntown downtownliving living
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DESIGN DETAILS: Neighborhood: Crestwood Square Footage: 6,800 sq. ft. Acres: 5.5 Bedrooms: 5
Other details: Raised-bed garden with grape vines; sunken living room with original stone ďŹ replace with pieces of granite from old barges; marble throughout; Imperial Danby countertop in kitchen; storage throughout.
Bathrooms: 5.5 Garage: 6-cars
502.716.6710 502.716.6710| 1800 | 1800Marinas MarinasEdge EdgeWay WaySuite Suite100 100 watersideatriverpark.com watersideatriverpark.com TOPS LOUISVILLE | December 2020 123
Seal It Once...
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LOUISVILLE'S TOP UNDER 40 BROKER
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Executive Executive Chef Chef andand Proprietor, Proprietor, Geoffrey Geoffrey Heyde Heyde andand wife, wife, Emily Emily Heyde Heyde
• • Curbside Curbsidepickup pickup& &carry carryout out • • Weeknight Weeknightsmall smallplates platesTuesday Tuesdaythrough throughThursday Thursday • • Heated Heatedoutdoor outdoordining dining • • Spend Spendthe theholidays holidayswith withususforforfamily familygatherings, gatherings, • • Happy Happyhour hourfrom from4 to 4 to6 PM 6 PMforforfive fivedollar dollarclassic classic private privateparties partiesand andcorporate corporateevents! events!Rentals Rentalswith with cocktails cocktailsTuesday Tuesdaythrough throughSaturday Saturday semi-private semi-privaterooms roomsavailable available • • Half-price Half-pricewine winenight nightononThursday Thursday
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Cuisine
128
Christmas Morning CafĂŠ
132
top 5 dining: Holiday Catering
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cuisine
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Morning Café BY DAWN ANDERSON PHOTOS BY DANNY ALEXANDER
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hristmas has held a particular fascination for Christmas Morning Café owner Craig Bishop since he was a small boy. He grew up in a two-story farmhouse where he would sneak downstairs and hide behind the sofa on Christmas Eve, hoping to catch Santa Claus in the act of delivering toys. Once Craig had a home of his own, he would add more and more Christmas decorations each year until eventually, he found himself having to start the process as early as August. Craig Bishop spent 20 years in the corporate restaurant industry, all the while entertaining the idea of opening a Christmas gift shop. He opened a coffee shop in western North Carolina before moving to Louisville to open The Coffee Zone in Westport Village. His wife Diana now runs The Coffee Zone as Craig devotes most of his time to Christmas Morning Café on Frankfort Avenue in the Crescent Hill neighborhood. Christmas Morning Café got its start as a Christmas gift shop and tearoom, but the tearoom soon took over and grew into today’s breakfast-brunchlunch restaurant.
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here are still plenty of decorations inside and out, along with a tableside Christmas carol or Sinatra tune courtesy of Craig himself. “I treat them like I’ve known them my whole life.” But he couldn’t do it all without his team. “We have a great staff,” says Craig, “They are warm and friendly and make people feel welcome as part of the family.” Manager Zach Taylor and Assistant Manager Zoe Willis lead the exceptional service in the front of the house. Chef Wesley Powell and his wife Pastry Chef Kendall Rhema, along with Chef’s Apprentice Kaleb Lewis, run the scratch kitchen with a “fine dining approach served in a casual way” using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. Unsurprisingly, the names of the menu items continue in the Christmas theme. Craig shared some of their most popular dishes with us. Honoring Father Christmas as he is known in France, Père Noël French Toast is made with brioche bread and served with vanilla whipped cream, a caramel espresso drizzle, and fresh fruit. Rudolph’s Fresh Berry Crêpes are loaded with fresh berries and topped with whipped cream and a mocha espresso drizzle.
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n the savory side, I’m Dreaming of a Waffle Panini Sandwich is an espresso mocha waffle stuffed with spinach, Gruyère, pork belly, and avocado, served with a side of cucumber salad. Grandma Klaus Biscuits & Gravy start with two freshly baked scratch biscuits smothered with House Made Gravy and a choice of bacon or sausage. The sausage meat is sourced from three blocks away at Red Hog Artisan Meat, Louisville’s first whole animal butcher shop. Christmas Morning Café grinds the meat in-house to make the sausage. Thick cut slices of applewood smoked bacon are candied with hints of espresso and mocha for Ebenezer Scrooge’s Billionaire Bacon.
Although the restaurant’s interior is a bit small for in-person dining at this time, spacious tents with heaters and speakers for Christmas music keep guests safe and comfortable. Christmas Morning Café will continue its robust curbside carry out business. Santa Claus makes a magical, socially-distanced appearance on Sunday, December 6. On Christmas Morning, Christmas Morning Café will once again serve food to the homeless while supplies last. For the latest in events, updates, pastries, and coffee drinks, follow Christmas Morning Café on Facebook and Instagram.
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HOLIDAY
Catering Whether tasked with planning a business or work-related holiday function or simplifying a seasonal party or family gathering in your home, we have scouted your o tion Here yo will ďŹ nd t e rea of the crop in local catering. Leave the food shopping, preparation, and service to one of these talented teams, and enjoy your role as consummate host!
5
DINING
TOP
BY DAWN ANDERSON PHOTOS BY DANNY ALEXANDER
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Ladyfingers Catering
12901 OLD HENRY RD #4733, LOUISVILLE, KY 40223 (502) 245-7734 LADYFINGERSINC.COM
D
eborah Lowery established Ladyfingers Catering in Louisville over 30 years ago. The business has grown steadily over the years to become one of the premier caterers in the city, specializing in festivals, galas, bourbon tourism events, and award-winning international cuisine for crowds numbering as large as 7000. As so many businesses have, Ladyfingers Catering has adapted to serve individuals, families, and smaller gatherings. Growing up in New York City with a large Italian family and a Russian Jewish grandmother, Deb learned her trade alongside Italian bakers and kosher cooks. Although she initially pursued a career in commercial art and advertising, Deb continued working in restaurants, became a corporate trainer in the industry, and eventually moved to Louisville, where she opened a gourmet foods shop in Holiday Manor. Deb’s reputation for good food and good service led to an expansion into the catering business. All Ladyfingers Catering food is homemade by
multicultural chefs. Deb provides the culinary team with continuing training in top culinary destinations such as New York City, New Orleans, Chicago, Cancun, and Grand Cayman. Although plated dinners and buffets are giving way to more Gourmet-to-Go curbside service this holiday season, complete parties are now available for pick up as well. Boxed family meals with no minimum are popular choices as many opt to keep celebrations simple this year. Deb highlighted some traditional holiday dishes and exciting alternatives for these interesting times. In addition to Fresh Roasted Turkey Breast with Gravy and Carved Brown Sugar Glazed Smoked Honey Ham, Deb recommends Slow Braised Short Rib Bourguignon, wood-smoked Bourbon Peppercorn Grilled Beef Tenderloin, Peppered Prime Rib with Au Jus, or Rosemary Garlic Roasted Rack of Lamb. Kentucky Hot Brown Stuffed Chicken and Peach Chutney Glazed Stuffed Pork Loin are equally comforting and delicious. And rest assured, dishes like lasagna or brisket with kugel and latkes could not be more authentic. To design or select your holiday menu, visit ladyfingersinc.com. Follow @LadyfingersCatering on Facebook and @ladyfingers_cateringlouisville on Instagram.
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cuisine
Bristol Catering
1862 MELLWOOD AVE LOUISVILLE, KY 40206 (502) 584-3663 BRISTOLCATERING.COM
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ristol Catering started near the inception of Bristol Bar & Grille® in the Highlands neighborhood of Louisville in 1977. The off-premise catering division began in 1983 with their Market Street Commissary. MAEC - Mellwood Art and Entertainment Center, the popular event and wedding venue with art studio, retail, and festival space at 1862 Mellwood Avenue, is now the home of Bristol Catering’s offices and commissary. From this convenient location, Catering Director Emilie Pfeiffer oversees the catering office, commissary, and catering planning. Emilie works closely with the Catering Team, Culinary Team, and in-house Floral Designer to execute beautiful events with custom menu planning. “We use fresh food from local growers whenever possible.” All bread and desserts are prepared in the commissary
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as well. They offer full-service catering menus, customized charcuterie platters, and vegetarian options. In addition to classic Bristol dishes such as Green Chili Wontons, Theresa’s Sweet Chili Linguine, and Hot Browns, Bristol Catering creates custom menus with foods from other cultures. They recently catered a wedding reception with Nigerian food to represent the groom’s home country. For the 2020 holiday season, and with at least 7-day advance notice, Bristol Catering offers buffet service with attendants following proper protocols and COVID-safe guidelines by wearing masks and gloves and serving buffet items directly to guests. Holiday boxed meals and bottles of wine for pick up are excellent options for couples or smaller family gatherings. Visit bristolcatering.com for more information and sample menu lists. Be sure to follow @bristolcatering on Facebook and Instagram to see what’s cooking!
The ONLY authentic, gourmet Italian fine dining restaurant in Louisville!
L A
ET US SERVE YOU THIS HOLIDAY SEASON.
dd Vincenzo’s to your agenda..
We know that times are different right now, and we want you to know At Vincenzo’s about “presentation.” Makethe your best that we are herewe to know serve all you. We invite you to enjoy true Italian impression by letting Vincenzo’s serve you. experience of Vincenzo’s in whatever way is most comfortable for you and your family.
.Book your next lunch or dinner meeting in Vincenzo’s elegant
Buone Feste! OPEN CHRISTMAS EVE AND NEW YEAR’S EVE!
•
dining room. Carry-out and Delivery Service – Bring authentic Italian to your home with our take-home menu.
•
Reservations - We would be honored to serve you and your guests accommodating groups of 6 to 250. in our elegant dining room for a special occasion or just lunch. (Currently offering outdoor seating in a heated, tented space.)
•
Small Gatherings and or Catering – Fordining your small gatherings available for pick-up full-service experience at yourof family and friends, we offer drop-off or on-site catering services
.Vincenzo’s private dining rooms are available for presentations .Bring Vincenzo’s to your office. Genuine Italian catering location.
CALLyou US in 502-580-1350 Let us assist making your next special event extraordinary. TO MAKE YOUR RESERVATIONS Call Jonathan Tarullo, OR PLACE YOUR General ORDER. Manager, at (502) 580-1350. 150 South Fifth St. . Downtown Louisville . 502.580.1350 . www.VincenzosItalianRestaurant.com
cuisine
Farm to Fork Catering
2425 PORTLAND AVE, LOUISVILLE, KY 40212 (502) 365-3276 FARMTOFORKFOOD.COM
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ince its founding in 2008, Farm to Fork Catering has helped their clients celebrate the holidays with family, friends, and employees through festive cocktail parties, elegant plated dinners, and holiday-inspired buffets for groups large and small at offices and private homes. “Of course, this year everything looks different,” says Founder and President Sherry Hurley-Magnuson. Sherry received her first cookbook when she was eight years old. Soon after, she began helping cook dinner for the family using fresh ingredients from their home garden near Kentucky Lake. Her family hosted a holiday open house every year, making this a fun and memorable time of year to share food with others.
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After 15 years in the hospitality industry, Sherry moved to Louisville for a job in 2001 and gravitated to the familiarity of farmers’ markets. Before the local food movement really took off, “I started Farm to Fork in 2008 to fill a void in catering with locally sourced, sustainable ingredients,” says Sherry. Despite her lack of formal training, she began the business as a personal chef, taught cooking classes, made prepared foods for a farm store, and sold breakfast and lunch items at a farmers’ market. “Eventually, my client list grew, the jobs became larger, and Farm to Fork took on a life of its own. I joke that I am an accidental caterer and entrepreneur!” Pivoting again to meet the needs of customers this year, Sherry has a plan for Holiday 2020. “Instead of holiday lunch buffets for offices, we’ll be shifting to individually boxed meals. Anticipating small gatherings, we are offering Holiday Dinners, including appetizers and desserts, as well as Holiday Brunch Packages that will serve 4-6.” Turn to
Farm to Fork Catering for this year’s holiday gift-giving. Holiday Gift Baskets feature locally sourced items and Farm to Fork favorites like Bourbon Maple Pecan Party Mix or a Biscuit Box with their signature buttermilk biscuits with local honey, sorghum butter, and housemade jams. Some highly requested holiday menu items include Southern Style Pickled Shrimp, Country Ham on Pimento Cheese Biscuits with Pepper Jelly, KY Beer Cheese Ball rolled in Crushed Pretzels, and Cranberry Walnut Upside Down Cake. In addition to catering, Farm to Fork offers weekly meal subscriptions and personal chef services. You can also find their products at Blue Dog Bakery’s new marketplace, St. Matthews and Middletown locations of Rainbow Blossom, Bean Coffee in Germantown, and Endless Summer Coffee Shop on River Road. To place your orders, visit farmtoforkfood.com. Follow @Farm.To.Fork.Food on Facebook and @farmtoforkky on Instagram to view the latest specials and extra treats!
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cuisine
Michaelis Events & Catering 13040 EASTGATE PARK WAY LOUISVILLE, KY 40223 (502) 243-0000 MYMESTORY.COM/LOUISVILLEEVENTS
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ichaelis Events & Catering celebrated 20 years in business on March 1, 2020, and has ranked among the top caterers in Louisville for over a decade. According to President Lauren Brown, Michaelis Catering has “always offered traditional and unique menu items with upscale taste and presentation.” Lauren worked her way up through the kitchen and warehouse to Sales and Events Manager before becoming President three years ago. The full catering, events, floral, decor, and staffing business is a family affair. Lauren’s mother is the CEO, and her sister is the Director of Marketing.
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For businesses and corporate gift-giving, Michaelis Events corporate gift boxes and floral department provides popular themed boxes such as sports, chocolate and relaxation gifts that can be sent to employees and clients. Visit corporateappreciation.com for gift box subscriptions and interactive gift boxes for virtual events. Coming soon in early 2021, Michaelis Events will launch Fork & Flowers online meal train concept with shipping available nationwide. With the 2020 holiday season, the Holiday Catering Menu can be customized or supplemented with heavy hors d’oeuvres, individually packaged meals, and hot boxed lunches.
Homestyle Green Beans, Dinner Rolls & Butter. Michaelis Holiday Feast is a bit more adventurous with Pork Loin stuffed with kale & cranberry stuffing with gingersnap gravy, Whipped Sweet Potatoes with bourbon marshmallows, Spinach Salad with pomegranate, vested parmesan, citrus jewels, goat cheese, and old fashioned vinaigrette, and Sister Schubert’s® Dinner Rolls & Whipped Butter. The Original Holiday Buffet begins with Wintertime Burgoo with pimento cheese biscuits. Slowly Braised Chicken Thigh & Pork Shoulder are cooked with root vegetables and winter spice. The December Caesar is dressed with house snow white caesar dressing.
Michaelis Events Holiday Catering Menu offers three main options: Traditional Holiday Menu, Michaelis Holiday Feast, and Original Holiday Buffet. The Traditional Holiday Menu has Turkey & Gravy, Honey Glazed Ham, Handmade Dressing, Garlic Smashed Potatoes, Homemade Macaroni & Cheese,
The Michaelis Events Corporate Holiday Catering Sale 2020 Special is $50 off for every 75 meals you order. For more further details, visit mymestory.com/caterong-louisville and follow @MichaelisEventsLLC on Facebook and My ME Story on LinkedIn.
Napa River Grill Catering 1211 HERR LANE LOUISVILLE, KY 40222 (502) 423-5822 NAPARIVERLOUISVILLE.COM
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apa River Grill’s catering services during holiday seasons past have primarily centered around offices, doctors’ offices, and pharmaceutical companies. For Holiday 2020, those holiday buffet events are not as feasible due to public health concerns. As so many catering companies are, Napa River Catering is pivoting to boxed-up buffet pans, individually boxed meals with salad, entrees, dessert, and other specific, pre-portioned items. Napa River Grill General Manager James Rion and Catering Manager Gretchen Fields are incredibly proud of their dedication to using fresh, local ingredients. James emphasizes the creativity and thoughtfulness with which the regular and seasonal menus are created. This year’s Napa River Holiday Catering Menu consists of Beef Tenderloin or Baked Ham with Spiced Apple Chutney, Broccoli and Cauliflower Casserole, Rosemary Garlic and Sage Monkey Bread Stuffing, Hasselback Gratin Potatoes with Parmesan and Gruyère, Cornbread or Baguette with Whipped Honey Butter, and Brioche Bread Pudding with Maple Caramel Glaze. Napa River Catering will also feature a take-home wine special! In addition to the Holiday Catering Menu, plan other meals throughout the month with current standard Casual Catering Menu favorites. Classic Five Layer Lasagna layers pasta with fresh bolognese, mozzarella, parmesan, and ricotta cheeses with marinara and garlic alfredo sauces. The Napa River Hot Brown smothers Creole roasted turkey breast with applewood smoked bacon, garlic alfredo sauce, Swiss cheese, Roma tomato, and toasted bread crumbs. If you need a clean, safe, spacious venue, Napa River Grill offers free room rentals through the Holidays! “Our three private dining areas, including our Barrel Room, Vineyard Room, and Private Outdoor Patio, can accommodate both small and large groups alike and can be customized to best fit your event needs. For more information or to book today, please send an email to our Catering & Events team at Brooke@CraftCultureConcepts.com.” Visit napariverlouisville. com and follow @NapaRiverGrill on Facebook and Instagram.
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Health +Beauty
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beauty buzz: Holiday Glam
146
HMR Weight Management at Baptist Health/Milestone Wellness Center
148
The Gift Of Fitness
150
Journaling Can Help Reduce Holiday Stress
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health+beauty
Glam After months of sweatpants, minimal makeup, and messy buns, the time has come to let our hair down and rediscover our sparkle. BY DAWN ANDERSON COURTESY PHOTOS
E
ven if holiday plans still keep us close to home, bidding a not-so-fond farewell to 2020 and ringing in the new year warrants a fresh new look and outlook. For the latest trends in holiday hair and makeup, we consulted with Jody Hamilton, Public Relations Director for Omagi Salon Spa, and Jill Higginbotham, Owner/ Master Stylist/Makeup Artist at J Michael’s Spa & Salon.
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Feel like New again! Omagi Salon Spa Omagi Salon Spa, an Aveda™ Lifestyle Salon located at Paddock Shops, is co-owned by 2nd generation hairstylist Marian Sang-Knepshield. Marian is also a Co-Owner and Educator at Ideal Beauty Academy. She shares ownership of the businesses with her mother, who opened Kentucky’s first day spa in the 1960s. Omagi PR Director Jody Hamilton has spent twenty-five years in the beauty industry, working in Los Angeles, New York, and Europe as a colorist, cosmetologist, and beauty journalist. When asked about the latest in makeup and hair for this month, a clear theme emerged in Jody’s responses: enhancing natural beauty. Omagi Salon Spa offers full makeup services one-on-one in a private room, complete with makeup lessons. Due to mask-wearing, eyes get almost all the attention. Brow threading and waxing techniques, along with brow and lash tinting, help achieve a more natural look. A Sugarlash Lift can “make natural lashes appear longer, lifted, and curled.” For drama, try the quick VoMor� Lash Extensions service, a winged liquid eyeliner look, or glitter eyeliner. Natural hair gets a festive twinkling from trendy gold and rose gold hair clips. “Textured hair is all the rage,” says Jody, whether achieved “with perms, a curling iron, or products to enhance natural
BEFORE
wave.” A fresh cut, color, or extensions give the hair some bounce and healthy shine, along with a Brazilian Blowout or Keratin Complex� treatment to reduce frizz. Warm tones are back in hair color with gingers, nut browns, and lowlights. Balayage is best closer to natural hair color for low maintenance between salon visits. On December 10, Omagi guests who spend $75 or more on Aveda™ products will receive a free full-size Aveda™ botanical repair™ strengthening leave-in treatment while supplies last. Visit omagisalonspa. com and follow @OmagiSalon on Facebook and Instagram for more.
AFTER
Danielle is available by appointment. To get started, you can reach her at 502.396.5184 or feel free to email at blondemartinihair@ yahoo.com WEBSITE: www.salonstudios.com/ salon-professional/ danielle-cole1
dmc502BlondeMartini
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health+beauty J Michael’s Spa & Salon J Michael’s Spa & Salon, owned by Jill Higginbotham and Kara Biery, is located in the heart of St. Matthews. Their fully-licensed and trusted team of beauty professionals ensures that you are “always protected and kept safe” through each visit. J Michael’s provides secure spaces with mask-wearing and clean, UV-sanitized ventilation to help you feel more comfortable supporting the beauty industry through these difficult times. Jill concurs that eyes are the focus for Holiday 2020, instead of the traditional red lip/ contoured and highlighted cheek look. Also gone is the ubiquitous “Instagram brow” of the last five years or so. Brows are fuller and more natural but still well-groomed with microblading, waxing, and tinting. “Lashes make eyes sparkle and pop over masks.” Approximately 50% of women have not returned to a salon since March of this year. “Come back in for a balayage and get your hair back to healthy with a professional stylist,” urges Jill. She sees a coloring trend in neutral to warm blondes and neutral brown. Two distinct hairstyles have reemerged this winter: 1970’s-inspired bigger, layered hair
and the super-sleek straight hair of the early 2000s. Hair jewelry is also in vogue. In appreciation of Louisvillians’ support of independently owned local businesses, J Michael’s Spa & Salon offers gift wrapping, free delivery, and curbside service with their
gift sets to make holiday shopping a breeze. Follow @jmichaelsspaandsalon on Facebook and Instagram. For more on products and services or to book a reservation, visit jmichaelsspaandsalon.com.
making spirits bright This Holiday Season
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JOIN US ON OUR CORNER OF THE INTERNET!
Gift giving made easy with a large selection of bourbon and wines you can purchase from the safety and comfort of your own home. 2632 Frankfort Ave 502 721 9148
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@TOPSLOUISVILLE
Sinus Health Q: What is sinusitis and how common is it? A: Sinusitis is the inflammation and/or thickening of the lining of the sinuses that can cause blockage and infection. Common symptoms include facial pressure and pain, decreased smell, and nasal congestion. Sinusitis is very common, especially in the Ohio River Valley.
Q: I find that the pressure and congestion in my sinuses has really been increasing lately. Why is that? Can it be treated? A: If the lining of the sinuses becomes inflamed enough, it can actually cause an obstruction of the sinus leading to build up of mucus and fluid that can become infected with bacteria. This can cause an acute sinus infection that can be long-lasting and turn into chronic sinusitis. This is treatable with conservative measures, medications, allergy management, and as a last resort, sinus surgery.
Q: My seasonal allergies are starting to feel like
Dr. Wes A. Allison, M.D. Dr. Allison has been with Advanced ENT and Allergy since 2010. He is board certified in adult/pediatric otolaryngology and facial plastic surgery by the American Board of Otolaryngology – he truly enjoys and is proficient in all aspects of ear, nose, and throat surgery. His love for children and pediatric care is a large reason he chose this specialty, and as a parent he knows how stressful it can be to have a sick child. He has a special interest in the medical and surgical management of sinus disease, and he fully understands the importance of addressing allergy as an underlying component of these problems. He is one of few ENT physicians in the area who has completed both written/ oral examinations to achieve fellow status in the American Academy of Otolaryngic Allergy. He is also fully certified in minimally invasive balloon sinuplasty and regularly performs these procedures in the office. Dr. Allison is a firm believer in taking the time to listen to each patient’s concerns and perspectives in deciding on a mutually agreeable and effective plan in that patient’s care.
more of a year-long thing! What can I do to find relief? A: If seasonal allergies have now become a yearround occurrence, it would be best to make an appointment with our physicians at Advanced ENT and Allergy. We can arrange for an evaluation, which will likely include comprehensive allergy testing. Once your specific allergies are identified, immunotherapy can be arranged in the form of weekly shots under the skin or even allergy drops under the tongue. This allows a slow/ safe exposure to these specific allergens creating better tolerance (immunity) to these allergens for the future. This is the only potential cure for allergies, whereas daily medications and sprays are simply bandaids on these symptoms.
get in touch Eight locations across Louisville, Southern IN and Central KY. 502.995.5525 advancedentandallergy.com
health+beauty
lestone for Free
ay guest pass**
e local guests only. Must be 18 years or older. Expires 9.30.18
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Baptist Health/Milestone
wellness
502.233.1500 milestone.com
HMR ®
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at Baptist Health/ Milestone Wellness Center SPONSORED BY BAPTIST HEALTH
Let’s see. Lose weight, get or ani ed fi re o t life tart this, stop that, etc., etc., etc. Goal for 1 anyone at a o t tartin in e e er efore i i tory BY KATHIE STAMPS • COURTESY PHOTO
“W
hy gain the “Holiday 10” only to have to work all that harder to get it off after the new year?” said Chuck Bent. “I would try and think about how you want to feel going into the new year. You have nothing to lose, but a few inches between now and then.”
Chuck is the program director of HMR Weight Management at Baptist Health/ Milestone Wellness Center. He was overweight himself for over 20 years until he heard about HMR at Milestone. He joined the program in the fall of 2007 and in early 2010, after losing 100 pounds, was offered a job as a health coach. “They asked if I would like to be a coach, and I said, I couldn’t think
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of anything I’d rather do more. HMR gave me my life back. Now I help others get their life back.”
They asked if I would like to be a coach, and I said, I couldn’t think of anything I’d rather do more. HMR gave me my life back. Now I help others get their life back.
lean proteins, get you to your goal weight and then teach you how to stay there.”
HMR was developed Which is harder, losin 1983 by a professor ing weight or keeping it at Boston University as off? “Obviously, keeping a weight-loss program it off,” Chuck said. “So for students. The inithat is what we do here. tials stand for Health We cut through the misManagement Resources. information and myths, HMR has dozens of clinwe teach you where all – C H U C K B E NT ics across the country, the hidden calories are. involving nutrition, exWe will teach you how to ercise, lifestyle education, coaching and sup- be mindful in any situation, and how to naviport. HMR Weight Management at Milestone gate the world that is out there. We teach you is the only HMR location in Kentucky. to keep your weight off for life.” There are two phases to the HMR program. In the first phase, the goal is “Let’s just get the weight off,” Chuck said. Clients in Phase 1 eat portion-controlled, nutritionally balanced HMR shakes and entrees along with fruits and vegetables. The entrees are shelf-stable, without preservatives, high in nutrition and low in calories. “Then, when you are perhaps two-thirds to your goal, we transition you to the second phase of the program,” he said. “We wean you off the entrees and introduce
The cost of the HMR shakes and the entrees is about $15 per day. “Most people actually save money on this program,” Chuck said. “Coaching is about $100 a month, and we are so convinced you will love our program that we are going to give you your first month of coaching for free. The average person usually reaches their goal in a few short months.” You can’t exercise your way to good nutrition, and you can’t eat your way to muscle
strength. Health requires both nutrition and exercise. And support. HMR has several ongoing classes that are motivational and educational, with usually 15 to 20 people sharing ideas, strategies and recipes. The classes are on Zoom now, so clients can join from anywhere. “We have had countless clients lose well over 50, 75, 100, even 200 pounds,” Chuck said. “Clients who have fought for years to lose that 10 pounds they gained after menopause, lost those 10 pounds in just 10 to 12 weeks.” When prospective clients inquire about the program, Chuck says he and the HMR staff always ask “What is your motivation, or what is your ‘why’ for wanting to lose weight?” The most common responses are things like: “I am sick and tired of feeling sick and tired. I want more energy. I don’t feel good in my clothes. I want to be able to shop in the back of my closet. I want to get off these meds. My knees are killing me and I need to get some weight off. I just want to feel better about myself and have more confidence.” To learn more about HMR Weight Management at Baptist Health/Milestone Wellness Center, visit baptistmilestone.com.
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health+beauty
S S E N FIT T OF F I G THE
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The best gift you can give your body is the gift of health: tren t ardio e i ility and stress release. Give the gift of fitne to yo r elf and yo r loved ones this holiday season. BY ALISON CARDOZA PHOTOS BY DICK ARNSPIGER
Alison Cardoza, B.S. Exercise Science and Sports Medicine. Minor in Health Promotions. ACSM Certified Personal Trainer and Fitour Group Exercise Instructor at Baptist East Milestone Wellness Center. Former University of Louisville Ladybird and NFL Indianapolis Colts Cheerleader.
DID YOU KNOW?
Jamming to your favorite holiday tune or your favorite music can enhance and improve your overall workout performance by 15%. Cardiovascular exercise helps create new brain cells. This enhances brain activity and brainpower. This increases the production of cells that are responsible for learning and memory. We all need this during the hustle and bustle of the holiday season! You use up to 200 muscles to take just a single step forward. Regular exercise helps lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, the two major risk factors for heart disease. Protect your heart. Your heart is the hardest working muscle in your body. It beats approximately 110,000 times per day, pumping almost 2,000 gallons of blood. The average person walks about 7,500 steps per day. If you continue with that average and live to be around 80 years old, you will have walked about 110,000 miles in your lifetime! Your mental health and mood will improve with exercise. It may seem contradictory, but putting physical stress on your body through exercise will relieve mental stress.
Stretching can reduce problems in your vascular system and decrease risk of heart attack and stroke. Stretching increases blood flow to your arteries and decreases artery stiffness. We believe here at Baptist East Milestone Wellness Center that the best gift you can give yourself is the gift of fitness. I asked some of our certified trainers what gifts they will be giving their loved ones this holiday season. Bekki Jo Tressler, certified pilates instructor at Milestone, believes the best gifts to give and receive are: a yoga mat from lulu lemon, Shashi Barre Socks,and Snarky Tea for her tea-loving friends! She also loves to give Oasis spa gift cards to help release stress during the holiday season. Robb Beyer, certified personal trainer at Milestone, believes if he could give a gift that
is fitness related, it would be the ability to push past what someone thought possible. Jocelyn Duke, a personal trainer and fitness specialist at Milestone believes the best gift she gives her clients during a workout is physical release, which in turn releases endorphins and overall mood. Jocelyn recommends exercise bands as a great fitness gift to give or receive. Kettlebells, dumbbells, and even breathable exercise masks from Adidas or Athleta are also wonderful fitness gift ideas to help keep you safe and active! So indulge in the gift of exercise this holiday season. Improve your overall health, release stress, and make 2021 your year to make a positive change. Happy Holidays and Merry Fitness!
health+beauty
Journaling Can Help Reduce Holiday Stress BY TAYLOR RILEY
T
his year, for most, if not all of us, has been a challenge financially, emotionally and spiritually. With new regulations set by the state and a holiday season coming up when most will not be able to see their family and friends as usual, it doesn’t look like our stress levels will be leveling off any time soon. So, what should we do? One Louisville marriage and family therapist and a local spiritual and grief coach suggest journaling to work through our feelings.
Now that many options for self-care have been limited or canceled, like fitness classes and dinner reservations, communities are fracturing, connections aren’t as deep and angst is being felt by all. “We are disconnected from purpose and meaning,” Jacqueline says. “Stack all of those things on top and every human being is going to break. We aren’t supposed to carry this much load. We are collectively going through grief, and there’s fear that comes with those losses.”
During the pandemic, many people feel less connected to loved ones and isolated from the rest of the world. With the holiday season coming up-- formerly the only time people would see family-- it’s a reminder of how alone some can feel. “I always see it around the holidays,” Lauren Virant, MSSW LMFT, says about increased anxiety. “A lot of people feel pressure in a condensed amount of time for planning and executing events and incorporating into their roles with family and friends. It can cause a lot of anxiety this time of year.”
So, the experts say, find a container, or outlet, for those feelings of anxiety and grief. Studies show that the physical action of handwriting can make a connection from mind to body. “If we don’t have a container to place our longing and grief, it’s spinning like a hamster wheel in our brain,” Jacqueline says. “We are going over it again and again.” Some can have a difficult time sorting through intrusive, racing thoughts, so journaling can create a “safe” space. “Journaling is the best way to map (the thoughts) out and sort through (them),” Lauren says.
It’s fight, flight or freeze for all of us during this time of Covid and a polarized political climate, according to Jacqueline Hope Derby, spiritual and grief coach. “We can’t flee in the ways we normally have, which raises anxiety further,” she says of those who are already suffering with anxiety. “(We developed) a freeze response. We are never flowing with life and ease; there’s a heightened somatic response. Life is requiring so much more of us spiritually and emotionally, and it’s stretched us to our limit. It’s exhausting.”
Once your thoughts are on paper, you can see them in a different light, according to Jacqueline. “We begin to see that it’s not as bad as you thought,” she says. “Writing is such a precious and sacred exercise … you push yourself on the page and see yourself differently.” The goal, she says isn’t to have the good thoughts outweigh the bad. “Think of the thoughts as the east and west; they both exist,” Jacqueline says.
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Lauren Virant, MSSW LMFT can be reached at LaurenVirantLMFT.com. Jacqueline Hope Derby can be reached at JacquelineHopeDerby.com.
SOME TIPS FOR BETTER JOURNALING: 1
Jot down thoughts during the week on your phone or a posted note, so they’re not forgotten or ignored. Go back to those thoughts later to process or find clarity through journaling, says Lauren.
2
Start with a prompt: You can begin with “Today, I’m afraid about...,” “Today I miss…,” or “Today I long for…” to identify the difficult feelings in the body, says Jacqueline.
3
Write the good and the bad. “Gratitude is an important prompt,” Jacqueline says, but scribbling down the negative thoughts can be therapeutic, too. Attend to your thoughts, says Lauren, and give each thought an endpoint.
4
Bless the bad. “Thank it, and invite it to teach you something. Not everything has a meaning, but if it does, give it a meaning,” says Jacqueline.
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A PERFECTLY BALANCED TOP-SHELF STAPLE Four Roses’ award-winning Small Batch combines four of our ten distinct Bourbon recipes to achieve exceptional balance, character and a smooth flavor. Enjoy it neat, on the rocks – or as the foundation of a craft cocktail.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS
FourRosesBourbon.com • Four Roses Distillery LLC • Lawrenceburg, KY • Be mellow. Be responsible.
Community
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Glamping At Camp Bespoke
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tops cares: Young Hearts Theatre
158
keeping the conversation going: GEDDI
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community
Glamping
at Camp Bespoke BY DAWN ANDERSON COURTESY PHOTOS
W
ithout the typical holiday celebrations and large family gatherings of years past, we are all looking for alternative ways to bring light, warmth, and peace to this winter. Glamping at Camp Bespoke in Williamstown, Kentucky, is a safe, nearby getaway with all the creature comforts and social distancing needed to feel pampered and secure. The Camp Bespoke leadership team, composed of co-founders and majority owners, are all healthcare workers who have been working throughout the pandemic. They were looking to create a retreat for hardworking people like themselves, away from the stresses of working but conveniently located. Although the great outdoors and open air make for the ideal Covid-19 era staycation, rugged outdoor camping is not their style. These four successful Black women turned entrepreneurs imagined and created a place not only for themselves but also for individuals, couples, and families to appreciate the natural surroundings of Kentucky’s Bluegrass region while still in the lap of luxury. “Kentucky is beautiful and has so much more to offer besides the Kentucky Derby, says Co-Founder and CEO Nicole Brassington. “The beautiful vegetation and horses are unlike anything I have seen outside of Ireland.” With proximity to Louisville, Lexington, and Cincinnati, Camp Bespoke is at once remote and in the center of the action, depending upon what type of experience guests wish to enjoy during their stay. According to the website, “Bespoke Campgrounds is a modern ecotourism development” that offers “unique lodging accommodations and curated authentic experiences.” Phase 1 stay options open in December 2020
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Co-Founder and CEO Nicole Brassington and include authentic 450-530 square foot Sioux-style tipis and cabins and cottages made from upcycled shipping containers. Relax in the serene environment or liven things up with Movie Nights, Live Entertainment, and Bespoke Experience Packages. Phase 2, planned for Spring 2021, will add deluxe units, an amphitheater, event pavilion, conference center, and “Primitive Sites” for more adventurous nature enthusiasts who prefer to bring their own tent shelters. Nicole describes Camp Bespoke as “a true Kentucky Proud project,” showcasing local and state vendors’ craftsmanship and talent with 90-95% of its products and services sourced from across the commonwealth. Adding to the modern chic of the warm, comfortable accommodations are materials, finishes, supplies, and amenities to rival 5-star hotels. No detail is overlooked, from the thread count of the sheets to the dishes and silverware. Breakfast, lunch, and snack boxes are available for purchase on-site, as well as gourmet dinner boxes curated by
local chefs. Or prepare your own food using the in-unit 2-burner stove and microwave. All cabins, cottages, and tipis feature private bathrooms, minisplit HVAC units, and free, secure WIFI. With a team of healthcare workers in charge, rest assured all indoor areas are thoroughly deep-cleaned with ECOLAB® products between stays. Nicole, Co-Founder/CHO Misty Smith, COO Latasha Reid, and CFO Dr. Angelina Strickland are also humanitarians at heart. Philanthropy and social enterprise are “built into the fabric and foundation of the business,” explains Nicole. Camp Bespoke gives back via partnerships with minority and women-focused organizations to include Black Soil KY, Fund for the Arts, GEDDI Global Economic Diversity Development Initiative, and the Kentucky Native American Heritage Museum to lift up women and People of Color.
To book now or find out how you can give the gift of experience, visit campbespoke.com. Follow @CampBespoke on Facebook and @campbespoke_ky on Instagram for the latest updates.
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community
TOPS CARES
young hearts
Theatre BY KATHIE STAMPS COURTESY PHOTOS
Fairy tales can come true It can happen to you If you’re young at heart
F
As a community theater and a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Young Hearts Theatre doesn’t charge admission. While there are no ticket prices, donations are always gratefully accepted. The organization then earmarks a portion of donations for a scholarship fund that goes to students at Ursuline Academy and Sacred Heart.
Young Hearts Theatre has been continually active since 1979, when the late Eloise Terry formed the organization. She was a dancer who toured with the USO in the 1940s and was part of the cast of a children’s television show that aired on WHAS in the 1950s. Young Hearts Theatre is a nonprofit all-volunteer group that puts on two big productions a year, one in the spring and one in fall.
In addition to cast members and musicians, the group welcomes those who can provide show biz mentoring, expertise or general moral support. Backstage people are needed for props, lighting, design and all the other elements that go into a stage production. Rehearsals take place in the basement of Hikes Point Christian Church and performances are at Ursuline Academy. A separate group, the Rockerettes, will perform dance numbers choreographed by dance supervisor Victoria Young. In between the big productions of the year, smaller groups take mini shows on the road, performing a program of songs at assisted living facilities, nursing homes and church groups.
rank Sinatra had a hit with the song “Young at Heart” in 1953, and it has been recorded many times since then. Cast members of Louisville’s Young Hearts Theatre sing the song at the end of each production, a tradition they’ve been doing for four decades.
“We write our own productions, using mostly vintage songs,” said Janet Peak, president of Young Hearts Theatre’s board of directors. “You don’t necessarily have to have any expertise in dancing or singing. If you show up to audition, you’re in.” She added that is always a plus “if you are a little goofy.” Young Hearts Theatre is an outlet for connection and creativity for anyone in the area who is 60 or older. “This is a way for seniors to remain active, to keep our brains and creativity going. And connect with other people,” Janet said. “The golden years aren’t so golden if you’re widowed or isolated. This is a great way to feel vital again.”
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There are around 50 people loosely involved with the organization. “Several of our members are snowbirds,” Janet said. “There might be a dozen or so that go to Florida over the winter.” The spring production for 2020 had to be canceled, but Janet has already talked with Sacred Heart and reserved the auditorium for
June 2021, at which time fans and friends will get to see “Once Upon a Summer,” a production written by board member Jane Burke. Founder Eloise Terry would have been pleased with the “do what needs to be done” spirit of this year’s board of directors. To protect the safety of both members and audience, Young Hearts Theatre stepped back in the spring of 2020, yet remained in touch with one another and made plans to reconnect in 2021. Eloise passed away in the summer of 2019, two weeks shy of her 104th birthday. She had always said her goal was to make it to the last verse of the song “Young at Heart.”
And if you should survive To a hundred and five Look at all you’ll derive Out of bein’ alive.
IF YOU GO:
To become active with Young Hearts Theatre or make a monetary contribution, visit youngheartstheatre.info or follow them on Facebook @young.hearts. theatre.louisville.
community The Black Harvest event hosted by The Collective showcased the black experience through music, spoken word, dance and more.
GEDDI
Global Economic Diversity Development Initiative Keeping the Conversation Going BY DAWN ANDERSON COURTESY PHOTOS
I
n March 2020, Louisville business leader, multipreneur, marketing strategist, and social justice activist Tawana Bain was enjoying the continued success of her businesses Encore on 4th and AFM Threads and her work as Founder and CEO of the project management and consulting firm NAC - a diverse group of companies under a multifaceted brand - TBAIN & Co. Even as the specter of coronavirus began shuttering businesses all over the city, Tawana did not turn inward and circle her wagons to protect her own interests. As daunting as the pandemic’s impact was, Humana (a ten-year client of Tawana’s) afforded her company NAC an opportunity to turn her attention outward and forward. “Their trust in me to lead a multimillion-dollar project allowed me to make an investment where it was needed most: GEDDI.” “As a Black female entrepreneur, I’ve always been acutely aware of the disparities that existed for me, yet when COVID-19 hit, America showed us it was bigger than a disparity. When George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and Ahmaud Arbery’s names joined the long list of Black Americans murdered, some Americans’ responses made clear racism was still a very real cancer in our society. Many within the Black community were left perplexed about where to turn.” And so,
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Tawana created the Global Economic Diversity Development Initiative. According to Tawana, “GEDDI is not a want for the Black community. It’s a necessity. It is our responsibility as Americans to ensure we all have a source to turn to when society’s systems are not designed equally for everyone. The pandemic has exposed the harsh reality that Black Americans are at the bottom of the economic ladder. To change the trajectory, it’s a necessity that we begin to trust the black leaders tied directly to the community to be stewards over major community investments. As the saying goes, ‘The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again, but expecting different results.’ As I watch it play out in 2020, it’s clear some Americans would rather plead insanity than admit they’re resistant to contributing to black Americans’ progress unless they are in control of how the progress is made. Not being able to steer the ship does not diminish their contribution.” The mission of the GEDDI (pronounced JED-EYE) is “to establish a fund that serves as a worldwide giving choice for Racial Equity and Economic Justice initiatives to create generational wealth that meets present and future needs.” The 501(c)3 nonprofit aims to launch a public foundation to make grants available “to nonprofit and for-profit recipients focused on building economic wealth for
the Black community” in the areas of “workforce opportunities, economic empowerment, supply chain opportunities, leadership and development, and business acceleration.” In addition to fundraising, GEDDI conducts many educational programs and events to support, coalesce, and maximize efforts to level the playing field for Black-owned businesses and Black-led organizations. In educating potential donors and members about systemic racism and lack of investment into Black-led initiatives, particularly those of Black women, GEDDI “helps individuals learn through a very candid learning style that is more authentic and tangible,” Tawana explains. The experience is cross-racial and intent on “uncovering what’s in a person’s heart.” For example, how do they react when confronted with the fact that corporations often filter contributions intended to benefit Black-led organizations through larger established white-led organizations rather than allow Black people to be stewards of their own funding? Tawana shares the statistic that for every $1 million in funding given to white male-led organizations, Black female-led organizations receive $28,000.
Participants in the Just Boss Up Academy, an 8-week educational program to help take a business “from a hustle to legitimate.”
Tawana tells us there is a significant crossover of those applying for funding and seeking membership with GEDDI. For donors and potential members, the membership portal leads them through the candid learning module with up to seven months’ worth of content focused on the “Black lived experience through the purview of a Black person.” Members form community circles for continued collaboration and support. GEDDI also provides business welcome decals that let clients, customers, and prospective employees know that anyone is welcome in their establishment. GEDDI promotes Community Engagement through programs such as the Derby Diversity and Business Summit, PIVOTChamps, and Women of Color and White Women Against Racism (WOC and WWAR). The DDBS Virtual PIVOTChamp Summit recognizes and rewards select businesses that successfully created new selling strategies to maintain or exceed their sales during the COVID-19 pandemic. “WOC and WWAR seek out every white woman with the desire to combat the structural powers that continue to take the lives of black people and prevent equitable advancement for black people.
They are paired up with Women of Color to create true sisterhood by working on community projects together,” says Tawana. In Economic Empowerment and Supply Chain Development, some GEDDI programming examples include Just Boss Up Academy, an 8-week educational program to help take a business “from a hustle to legitimate,” The Collective business accelerator for Black-led event organizers and creatives, and The Black Fashion Exchange, a 16-week accelerator for aspiring black retailers. GEDDI has initiated state-specific campaigns working toward national and global expansion, starting in the “ground-zero” locations of Georgia, Minnesota, and Kentucky. My Old Kentucky Home Reimagined kicked off the Kentucky campaign with a rewrite of the original Stephen Foster lyrics. The full version will debut at the 2021 DDBS conference. TOPS readers are encouraged to become involved through donations, membership, mentoring, and making available office supplies and commercial spaces for Black upward mobility. For more information, reach out through geddi.org and follow @GEDDI. ORG on Facebook.
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photos
2020 Chenoweth Square Holiday Walk November 7 Chenoweth Square facebook.com/ChenowethSquareWCW Photos by Dick Arnspiger
The ladys at Merci were ready for the Holiday Walk!
Pat Ennis, Bea Wetzelberger, and Kathleen O’Connor in Fleur de Lis
Michelle Costel and Phylis Semple
Jeff Wallitsch from Petals located in Dig’s Home & Garden
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Sisters Connie Schleuning and Shorty Martin from Merci and Fleur de Lis
Patty Bailey and Maureen Voss
Beth and Gary Lanzone
Kimberly Sternberg with Maggie Brooks from Lemon Tree
Libby Rush and Preston Stough
Amy Miller and Meredith Metzmeier from Carthwheels
Patricia Nail shopping with her daughter Lynn WIlliamson
Lori Sternberg from J. McLaughlin
Shelby Simpson, manager at Three Dog Bakery
Holly Turney and Cynthia Johnson
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