Volume 14 Number 2
FEBRUARY
the money issue
COMMUNITY 26 28 31 49 50 52 54 57 63 67
Who’s Who:
Honoring Governor Brown Lexington’s Economy at a Glance Feature:
Money Masters Finance Through the Decades Breaking the Bronze Ceiling:
Meet the Artist: Barbara Grygutis
63
Non Profit Spotlight:
Community Ventures Five Ways to Give
76
New & Noteworthy Feature:
Lee & Hayley Branching Out:
Comedy at Pivot
STAY CONNECTED Keep up with the Who’s Who, What’s New and What to Do by following us on social media, subscribing to our email newsletter and visiting our website! 8
TOPS in Lexington | February 2020
LIFESTYLE 70 73
TOP Dressed Outfit of the Month:
Love is in the Air
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Savin’ Face:
76
Wow Wedding:
80
Weddings Unveiled:
CoolSculpting John & Cassie Romantic Reds
FEBRUARY
the money issue
AT HOME 85
Tour of Homes:
103
Color Catalog:
104
Rustic Redefined Stirling Green and Bloomsbury Wallpaper Pets:
That Vet Trip Doesn’t Have to be Hard
85 EATS & ENTERTAINMENT 108 110
Cabin Fever Cures
115
TOP 5:
Dining:
116
Recipes:
Sav’s
Confectionaries Roasted Veggie Buddha Bowl
118 121 122
Dining Guide Equine Update BBN:
Up the Mountain
122 116 STAY CONNECTED Keep up with the Who’s Who, What’s New and What to Do by following us on social media, subscribing to our email newsletter and visiting our website! 12
TOPS in Lexington | February 2020
FEBRUARY
the money issue
PHOTOS 22 124 128 130
Out & About UK Football:
Belk Bowl New Years Eve The Epilepsy Foundation:
Bourbon Barrel Selection
132
Coretta Scott King:
134
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
136
American Heart Association
138
2020 Barbasol Championship
140 146
130
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Spirit of Ivy Awards Dinner Program & Freedom March Heart Walk Kick-Off Tee-Off Event Party with a Purpose TOP Shots
NEXT MONTH
MARCH Event photo captions are typically provided to TOPS by the event organizers. We do our best to check names and spelling… but we are all human and make mistakes. Please contact kristen@topsmarketing.com with any corrections and we will make note of it in the next issue.
Meet the Leaders of Lexington Inside UK Sports
STAY CONNECTED Keep up with the Who’s Who, What’s New and What to Do by following us on social media, subscribing to our email newsletter and visiting our website! 16
TOPS in Lexington | February 2020
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TOPS in Lexington | February 2020
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LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER Greetings TOPS Readers, You may have heard the old Chinese proverb: “The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now.” Welcome to our annual Money issue! We all talk about it, think about it, worry about it and make life plans based on how much money we make. Is your money working as hard for you as you do for it? Our goal is to help you better manage your money by featuring expert advice from some of Lexington’s “Money Masters.” Do you have a financial coach? Many of us attend career development seminars or hire personal trainers, tennis instructors, golf instructors, yoga instructors, life coaches and more. I am always surprised how many people don’t utilize the services of a financial professional. These days, there are so many decisions one needs to make with their money: Savings, investments, retirement, tax planning, college savings, wills and trusts just for starters. A good financial planner and/or investment advisor can help you live a happier life by guiding you through the sometimes complex world of money management. Call one of our featured local experts today to get started. We are also pleased to spotlight Gov. John Y. Brown. He is truly a Kentucky rockstar. His advice on running a successful business: Hire people smarter than you. I take that advice every day. Mary Quinn Ramer of Visit Lex weighed in on her cabin fever cures. It may be the dead of winter, but there is so much to explore in our exciting city. We also spent some time with Lee and Hayley this month. They are making their return to local TV on February 17th and we have all the back story you want to know.
er b r a Y h t i e K
All of us at TOPS hope you enjoy this special issue. Plant your financial tree today!
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February 2020 | TOPSinLex.com
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PHOTOS Out & About
OA Greg Turcotte, Aaron Ammerman and Marc Cobane at the Alpha Financial Group Open House
Kentucky Bank ribbon-cutting at their new branch in Hamburg Taunya Phillips, Jay Blanton and Tom Harris attend the UK Alumni event at the NASCAR Hall of Fame at the 2019 Belk Bowl
High Impact Leadership Project Alumni Retreat at the Living Arts and Science Center
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February 2020 | TOPSinLex.com
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COMMUNITY 26 28 31
Who’s Who:
Honoring Governor Brown Lexington’s Economy at a Glance Feature:
Money Masters
49 50 52
Finance Through the Decades Breaking the Bronze Ceiling:
Meet the Artist: Barbara Grygutis Non Profit Spotlight:
Community Ventures
54 57 63 67
Five Ways to Give New & Noteworthy Feature:
Lee & Hayley Branching Out:
Comedy at Pivot
Former Governor and 2020 Heart Ball Honoree
JOHN Y. BROWN
Attorney, governor, entrepreneur, philanthropist, father, heart attack survivor. The latter two identifiers are the most important to John Y. Brown, Jr. and he gives much credit to his son Lincoln–and to his heart doctors. story by Kathie Stamps photo by Conrhod Zonio
Gov. Brown with members of his cabinet, 1979-1983
Brown with Colonel Harland Sanders in 1964
Who’s Who
“I am being honored by the American Heart Association for being bad,” he said. “I grew up in a generation that questioned jogging because you might hurt yourself. Not understanding foods, I ate what tastes good. I ate a lot of fried chicken and gravy, mayonnaise and butter, salt and sugar–all the things we learned would hurt you.” While in office, in 1983, Gov. Brown had a quadruple bypass and was in the UK hospital for 30 days. He also developed ARDS, acute respiratory distress syndrome, a condition he was told only 37% of patients survived. “I had to fight to get off the respirator in time,” he said. “It was a touch-and-go situation throughout.” He had a triple bypass in 1989 and after that he stopped both drinking and smoking, cold turkey, and turned his health life in the right direction. It was his young son Lincoln who inspired him. “He told me at an early age that his dad was a lot older than his friends’ dads and I had to be around a long time for him,” Gov. Brown said. Now an entrepreneur himself, Lincoln Brown has spent most of the past decade building a successful business in California’s Silicon Valley. “There hasn’t been a week that Lincoln didn’t check in on me to encourage me to walk and eat healthy,” Gov. Brown said. “At my late age to have a son that cares that much, I’ve had to measure up to keep his respect. It is a reversal of family leadership.” Gov. Brown is honored to be part of the American Heart Association’s annual celebration in March. His message is that it’s never too late to change. “I plan to ask a number of Lexington past leaders to stand up with me,” he said. “They all will be in their 80s and 90s. Great role models.” Born and raised in Lexington, Gov. Brown studied arts and science at the UK and got his law degree there. He practiced a short time but had already discovered his acumen for business, starting with door-to-door sales. In the early 1950s while at UK he was hired by Encyclopedia Britannica and became a top salesman and area manager and was recognized for a national monthly area sales record. Brown said he was so anxious to prove himself that he sold five sets his first week, making $500. “That gave me confidence and I learned how to judge people, to read people, how to communicate,” he said. “That training was the foundation that opened my future doors of opportunity.” One day in the early ‘60s he got a call from Col. Harland Sanders, a commissioned Kentucky Colonel and restaurant owner in Corbin, Kentucky, who wanted to hire Brown as his company’s real estate lawyer. Brown wasn’t interested. Fast-forward a couple of months and they ran into each other at a Derby event.
COMMUNITY
Feeling guilty for not following up, Brown soon stopped by to visit the Colonel and history was made. In 1964, Brown, with no money at the time, found a business partner, Jack Massey from Nashville, to finance purchasing the Colonel’s company, Kentucky Fried Chicken. Brown turned it into a global empire building 3,500 stores from scratch. “I didn’t know enough to know it couldn’t be done,” he said, citing the Colonel as being “the real deal. I ran the company but he WAS the company.” In the 1970s he sold his interest in KFC and owned several pro basketball teams, including the Boston Celtics, and personally funded the UK Sanders-Brown Center on Aging. Nationally noted for Alzheimer’s research, the center was founded to honor John Y. Brown, Sr. John Y. Brown Jr. was elected Governor of Kentucky in 1979, coming off his honeymoon with Phyllis George in a late run. “I really enjoyed being governor,” he said. “I wasn’t a politician and we took politics out of Kentucky government. The Courier-Journal’s final editorial called our administration wholly honorable and effective in an unfavorable economy and said that we had the greatest cabinet in Kentucky history.” He added, “I simply hired people smarter than me.” The Brown administration brought UPS to Louisville, and opened an economic development office in Japan that laid the foundation for Toyota coming to Georgetown in 1986 under Gov. Martha Layne Collins. Now it’s 2020 and Gov. Brown is enjoying this time of his life. “I’m just a lucky guy,” he said. He is proud of all five of his children—John Y. Brown III, Eleanor, Sandra, Lincoln and Pamela—and 9 grandchildren. And yes, he keeps up with politics. His favorite reporter, hands down, is CNN’s senior White House correspondent. She also happens to be his daughter, Pamela Brown. “I watch her every day and cheer her on,” he said. “I’m a proud daddy.” He remains good friends and is in close contact with their mothers, his ex-wives Ellie and Phyllis. Gov. Brown is quick to say that being grateful and staying positive, plus some exercising and eating right, all help him keep going at 86. “I count my blessings every night,” he said. “I mean, gee whiz, what a life.” • The Lexington community is invited to listen to Gov. John Y. Brown, Jr., as he is honored at the 32nd Central Kentucky Heart Ball, presented by White, Greer & Maggard Orthodontics, Saturday evening, March 7th at Lexington Center’s Bluegrass Ballroom. The 2020 event chairs are Dr. Hal and Sarah Skinner. Tickets are available at LexingtonHeartBall.heart.org.
“I didn’t know enough to know it couldn’t be done.”
February 2020 | TOPSinLex.com
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COMMUNITY
Local
LEXINGTON’S ECONOMY e! at a glanc
LEXINGTON-FAYET TE MSA GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT:
6 43 % #
$28,833,071,000
Cities with the Lowest Startup Costs
Economic Growth Potential of Mid-Sized Cities
- SmartAsset
7
#
5
#
- Business Facilities
of the population 25+ that have at least a bachelor’s degree... that’s HIGHER than the national average of 35%! **
Best Cities for New College Grads - SmartAsset
15
#
Best Cities for Young Professionals - SmartAsset
POPULATION GROWTH 2010 TO 2018: 10.65% MEDIAN HOME VALUE: $180,700
3 2.9% #
**
Cities with the Best Work-Life Balance - SmartAsset
8
#
Best City to Live in America - Money
unemployment rate... that’s LOWER than the national average of 3.7%! ***
FAYET TE COUNTY TOTAL PERSONAL INCOME:
*
$16,247,217,000 Average married-couple family income for Fayette County: $121,191 28
*
TOPS in Lexington | February 2020
Bureau of Economic Analysis US Census Bureau *** Bureau of Labor Statistics Special thanks to LFUCG for providing these statistics *
**
February 2020 | TOPSinLex.com
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COMMUNITY
February 2020 | Sponsored Content
Jeff Sheppard Financial Advisor
FAMILY WEALTH GROUP 2704 OLD ROSEBUD RD. SUITE 180 // THEFAMILYWEALTHGROUP.COM According to Jeff Sheppard, “At Family Wealth Group, we believe everyone should be able to live the retirement they’ve always wanted.” To facilitate this, their advisors specialize in helping Kentuckians understand the power of holistic planning, including estate planning, tax planning, retirement income planning, and investment planning. Sheppard explains, “We bring a team of professionals to the same table to build a comprehensive retirement plan for Kentuckians. Most firms specialize in investments only. However, retirement planning is much more than just investment planning. Although investment planning is a huge part of the overall plan, without 32
proper estate planning, tax planning and income planning, the retiree is left with an incomplete strategy.” To keep pre-retirees and retirees up to speed on their options, Family Wealth Group offers monthly education seminars and “Lunch and Learns” for both clients and members of the community at large. On becoming a financial advisor, Sheppard says, “Everything I have done up until that point led me and prepared me for this role. I personally believe that God has been shaping me for this career through all of my previous life experiences.” Sheppard will be sharing his wealth of knowledge in a soon to be released book titled, Retirement is a Team Sport.
TOPS in Lexington | Sponsored Content
Money Masters
COMMUNITY
Coby Adkins City Executive
SOUTH CENTRAL BANK 386 WALLER AVE., SUITE 110 SOUTHCENTRALBANK.COM Coby Adkins espouses, “Do what you enjoy and you’ll be successful at it.” That philosophy led to becoming the City Executive at South Central Bank. Of this role, Adkins says, “As the City Executive my main focus is commercial lending. I do loans for the purchase of both owner occupied and investment real estate, commercial lines of credit, and construction loans.” South Central Bank believes in “offering a small town banking experience with big bank “know how” and a “can do attitude!” Adkins elaborates, “A bank of our size can handle most size transactions, but we still offer local decision making and use common sense.”
Rebekah Welch Assistant Vice President- Lending
SOUTH CENTRAL BANK 386 WALLER AVE., SUITE 110 SOUTHCENTRALBANK.COM Rebekah Welch has been instrumental in building the deposit and loan portfolio in the Lexington market for South Central Bank. Rebekah serves in all lending capacities offering expertise in construction, commercial, residential loans and Home Equity lines of credit, as well as, personalized guidance. Welch says, “We do not expect you to understand financing. We are here to help determine the best way to structure a loan for you and your situation.” Welch offers these words of wisdom, “When making financial decisions, keep in mind, it’s important to sleep at night.”
February 2020 | Sponsored Content
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COMMUNITY
Money Masters
Logan Foster Accredited Investment Fiduciary
FOSTER INVESTMENT SERVICES 151 PROSPEROUS PLACE FOSTERINVESTMENT.NET After over 20 years in the investment management business, Logan Foster has a straightforward method for helping his clients. He states, “One of the most obvious ways to improve clients’ investment performance is to keep the cost of investing as low as possible. Our firm has a relentless focus on lowering the cost of investing for our clients. Our fees are substantially lower than our competitors in this market.” Founded in 2017, Foster Investment Services provides investment management services for individual, custodian, trust, IRA, and 401K rollover accounts with one mission in mind: “Our main goal is to make our clients money.”
Brandon Green Relationship Strategist
PNC WEALTH MANAGEMENT | ASSET MANAGEMENT GROUP 301 E. MAIN ST. SUITE 300 PNC.COM “We have a very credentialed and knowledgeable team here in Lexington that provide customized solutions to guide our clients on the path to financial success. Whether you’re selling a business, have a complex estate, getting ready for retirement, or need a finance strategy; we can provide expertise and service for our clients as they make these decisions,” says Brandon Green of the team at PNC Wealth Management. As a Relationship Strategist, Green who describes himself as “an entrepreneur with a love and knack for business” provides customized investment management, estate planning, trust and estate administration, wealth planning, and private banking solutions to help clients meet their goals.
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TOPS in Lexington | Sponsored Content
Mark J. Dill Financial Advisor
BRENNAN & ASSOCIATES AT MERRILL LYNCH 300 W VINE ST. FLOOR 10 BIT.LY/BRENNANASSOCIATES Brennan & Associates specializes in business succession and exit planning, and prides themselves in knowing that “families can sleep better at night knowing that there is a plan in place for every outcome.” As a partner, Mark Dill says his one mission is “to find solutions for families in our community. We leverage the power of Merrill Lynch and the comfort of familiar faces to provide customized advice and guidance to business owners and affluent families.” Dill adds, “We help families navigate the options for exiting their business, retirement, or passing on their legacy. After walking through each step of our process, we can see and feel the tension fall out of our client’s lives.” From their warm and comfortable “boutique, family office,” they serve multiple generations. Dill explains, “We understand that families in our community desire guidance for themselves, but also their children and grandchildren.” It was Dill’s own father who introduced him to finance and investing. He says, “My father brought the USA Today to our family dinners to teach me about the markets and business news. These memories motivate me to serve other multi-generational families in the highest capacity.” Investment products, disclosures apply.
February 2020 | Sponsored Content
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David Smyth Senior Partner
FAMILY FINANCIAL PARTNERS 1792 ALYSHEBA WAY, SUITE 201 FAMILYFINANCIALPARTNERS.COM As a senior partner at Family Financial Partners, David Smyth says, “We like to say we’re financial therapists. And, that’s the most rewarding thing we do— helping people organize their financial lives and work toward a secure financial future.” The firm offers comprehensive financial planning for every life stage using a team approach that sets them apart. “With our advisory team, an operations team, and a marketing and communications team, everyone in our office is free to focus on what they do best.” This allows Smyth to focus on integrating each client’s overall financial plan with insurance protection, customized asset management, and coordinated legal, tax, and accounting advice.
Alex Roig Senior Partner
FAMILY FINANCIAL PARTNERS 1792 ALYSHEBA WAY, SUITE 201 FAMILYFINANCIALPARTNERS.COM Alex Roig, Transylvania graduate and senior partner at Family Financial Partners, offers comprehensive financial planning for every life stage. “Our financial advisors operate on the belief that professional management of your finances is the driving force behind long-term financial stability,” says Roig. Watching the families he works with set, tackle and achieve their goals is what keeps Roig coming to work each and every day. “No matter what stage of life you’re in, or what age you’re at, it’s never too early or too late to start working toward a better and brighter financial future,” says Roig.
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TOPS in Lexington | Sponsored Content
Danielle Luigart Branch Manager (Meijer Way and Versailles)
COMMONWEALTH CREDIT UNION 280 MEIJER WAY CCUKY.ORG Right out of college, with a degree in Business Management, Danielle Luigart started working for a finance company. She says, “I loved finance, but I didn’t feel like I was fulfilling my passion of helping people.” At Commonwealth Credit Union, she found a way to use her financial expertise to serve individuals by helping them meet their financial goals. “The most rewarding part for me is getting to know our members (customers). In the 24 years I’ve been with Commonwealth Credit Union, I’ve been able to see the life cycle of our members. The parents who came in with their babies are now coming back for car loans and planning for college.” For two consecutive years, Commonwealth Credit Union (CCU) has been ranked as a Best-In-State Credit Union by Forbes Magazine. CCU is a notfor-profit financial institution that is 100% owned and operated by its more than 100,000 members. Luigart explains, “Our not-for-profit structure allows us to give back to the members in the form of higher savings rates and lower loan rates. When you’re a member of Commonwealth Credit Union, you’re also an owner. ” Luigart’s advice is to “Plan. Revise. Repeat. That applies across all ages. Invest in yourself, first.”
February 2020 | Sponsored Content
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Cathy Taylor Vice President/Market Senior Loan Officer
COMMUNITY TRUST BANK, INC. 100 EAST VINE ST. CTBI.COM Founded in 1903, in Pikeville, Community Trust Bank serves its customers with 79 locations providing full service banking with innovative products and services to Kentucky, West Virginia, and Tennessee. A major reason for its growth and success is its client-focused structure and committed leaders like Cathy Taylor. She says, “I believe what sets Community Trust Bank apart from others is our relationship banking model. We strive to provide excellent customer service each and every day focusing on the needs of our customers. My motivation is taking great care of my customers and being a vital part of the community.” Cathy started her banking career in college and it quickly became her “focus and passion.” She explains, “I enjoy the ever-changing banking environment and all of the opportunities that has brought during my career. I have worked in all areas of banking, but primarily focused on retail, operations and security functions.” Throughout, relationships have proven the most rewarding—“I have had the pleasure of working for and with so many great people in my career over the years.” When not working, Cathy enjoys UK basketball, shopping, golf, and spending time with her husband of 23 years, Gregg, and their teenaged son, Mason.
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TOPS in Lexington | Sponsored Content
Money Masters
COMMUNITY
Diane Verhalen CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® Professional
ALLIANCE FINANCIAL PLANNING 525 DARBY CREEK #29 ALLIANCEFP.NET Diane Verhalen measures her success by the prosperity of her clients. With a practice specialized in retirement planning, risk management, insurance planning, wealth accumulation strategies, and financial planning, she works with her clients to produce investment strategies unique to each person’s financial goals, while setting the foundation for mutually beneficial relationships that will last for many years to come. After 15 years in the industry, the most rewarding part of her work is “seeing the client’s plans actually come full circle is the best reward. When a couple retires with no worry of where their income is coming from, because we have planned for it, it is a joy.” Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a Registered Investment Advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC.
Caroline French AVP, Financial Center Manager
BANK OF THE BLUEGRASS 361 ROMANY RD. BANKOFTHEBLUEGRASS.COM Caroline French is dedicated to helping clients “save time, money, and create wealth.” She and her husband both work at Bank of the Bluegrass, and have three children. Initially, French planned to be a voice professor; she taught voice at Valdosta State University before her move to Lexington. But after joining Bank of the Bluegrass while working on her doctorate, she realized “the end-goals of university teaching and personal banking were identical, in my view—to give people hope and freedom by expanding the choices they have available, with the individual attention each deserves.” Bank of the Bluegrass provides full service commercial and consumer products while creating customer relationships for life.
February 2020 | Sponsored Content
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COMMUNITY
Money Masters
Kate Nelson Business Development Manager
REPUBLIC BANK & TRUST CO. 3608 WALDEN DR. REPUBLICBANK.COM Of her role as Business Development Manager, Kate Nelson says, “I thrive on being able to help my clients reach their financial goals. I enjoy building the relationships that I have with my clients and watching their dreams become a reality.” She does this by using her 13 years of banking experience to help business owners manage their cash flow with a large array of business lending options structured to help clients grow and be profitable. Nelson has specific advice for readers in their twenties—”Start developing good financial habits as soon as possible. It is important to seek financial advice at an early age.”
Louis Prichard President and Chief Executive Officer
KENTUCKY BANK 339 MAIN ST. PARIS KYBANK.COM Though Kentucky Bank will soon have 19 locations in 10 counties offering a full array of services for individuals and businesses, they still pride themselves on personal relationships. According to Louis Prichard, “What sets us apart is our ability to stay close to our clients and customers, thus allowing us to be better listeners and better providers of Premier Customer Service.” Prichard offers a prudent piece of advice: “Your credit score will align your financial opportunities as you go through life. Take great care in protecting and building your credit score.”
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TOPS in Lexington | Sponsored Content
Jennifer L. Drennan President - Lexington
FIELD & MAIN BANK 369 E. MAIN ST. SUITE 100 // FIELDANDMAIN.COM Of her career in finance, Jennifer Drennan says, “In short, banking found me by chance, and I’ve stayed by choice.” One day while standing in line at her local bank, the manager noticed her “smile, demeanor, and positive attitude” and offered her a job. Over the years, she has gained experience in retail, lending, operations and regulatory examining within the banking industry. Jennifer currently serves as the President of the Lexington market with Field & Main Bank, the creator of Modern Craft Banking®. Jennifer explains, “We are driven by the needs of our customers, motivated by their success, and committed to
working alongside the members of our community to craft the experiences, the lives, and the futures we all desire and deserve.” She adds, “What sets us apart is our abiding objective of always recognizing the urgency of the needs of our valued clients and reacting accordingly. Think of me as your concierge banker and on call 24/7.” Field & Main Bank has had a presence in Lexington since 2013, as a loan production office and recently opened a full service banking center downtown in May of 2019. Field & Main Bank may be relatively new to the Lexington area, but its roots go back to its original charter of 1887 in Henderson, Kentucky.
February 2020 | Sponsored Content
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COMMUNITY
Money Masters
Lisa T. Smith Mortgage Loan Specialist
CUMBERLAND VALLEY NATIONAL BANK 900 BEASLEY ST. STE 150 CVNB.COM After 22 years in banking and 9 in the mortgage industry, Lisa Smith is still passionate about helping clients make the right decisions and “working with people until I can get them in the home they desire.” To this end, CVNB offers a wide variety of loan options including FHA, USDA, Kentucky housing and CVNB adjustable rate mortgages with no mortgage insurance. She says, “Your home is likely the most expensive purchase you will make and I feel humbled to facilitate such an important step. There are many first-time home buyers in our area and I want to help guide them to home ownership.” NMLS #1028219
Eric Robertson Vice President, Financial Advisor
CVINVESTMENTS 1721 NICHOLASVILLE RD. CVINVESTMENTS.NET Most CVinvestments clients need assistance with one of three areas in their lives: retirement planning, educational planning, or legacy planning. Robertson says, “For me, the most rewarding part of working in finance is helping my clients through life’s up and downs. Saving for a child, planning for a first home purchase, when to retire, preparing a plan for your own long-term care insurance needs, or the emotional time of losing a parent and managing their estate.” **Securities and insurance products are offered through Cetera Investment Services LLC (doing insurance business in CA as CFG STC Insurance Agency LLC), member FINRA/ SIPC. Advisory services are offered through Cetera Investment Advisers LLC. Neither firm is affiliated with the financial institution where investment services are offered. Advisory services are only offered by Investment Adviser Representatives. Investments are: *Not FDIC/ NCUSIF insured *May lose value *Not financial institution guaranteed *Not a deposit *Not insured by any federal government agency.
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TOPS in Lexington | Sponsored Content
Rockie Mason Senior Vice President, Lexington Market President
CUMBERLAND VALLEY NATIONAL BANK 1721 NICHOLASVILLE RD. CVNB.COM “Trusted for Banking. Known for Caring” is a motto that Rockie Mason and the rest of the staff at CVNB strive to embody each day. Mason says, “CVNB is a community bank, first and foremost. We believe in serving our customers and our communities.” Mason originally wanted to “travel the world playing professional tennis,” but has found a career in finance and 30-year marriage to the love of his life have proved just as rewarding. He especially enjoys “getting to know people, what their interests are and finding out where they want to go in life. I firmly believe that relationships are the key to long-term success and creating wonderful friendships with clients is what I like to do best.” Mason stresses what a great time it is to be a Lexingtonian. “Central Kentucky is a growing economy, and it feels like a small & welcoming town with all the benefits of a bigger city. It’s also a great place to raise a family. I have traveled a lot and I am always happy to come back to central Kentucky. We’re surrounded by so much beauty: it really adds value to the people who live, work, and visit here.” NMLS# 539169
February 2020 | Sponsored Content
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COMMUNITY
Money Masters
Kristina Ping CEO
POWERFUL LEGACY INSURANCE AND FINANCIAL SERVICES 3260 BLAZER PKWY. SUITE 100 YOURPOWERFULLEGACY.COM As CEO of a boutique insurance and financial firm specializing in retirement strategies and distribution solutions, Kristina Ping is dedicated to helping people achieve financial health. For her clients, Ping says she loves “turning dreams and goals into a solid plan and watching them come to fruition.” To do this, her company offers income protection, retirement strategies, safe money solutions, wealth management, and legacy planning. Ping has 15 years of experience in creating generations of wealth for her clients. To further empower people, Ping has authored a book, Your Ticket to the Retirement Train, taking readers on a journey through each decade of life in financial planning.
Christopher E. Anderson CPA, Accredited Investment Fiduciary®,
UNIFIED TRUST 2353 ALEXANDRIA DR., SUITE 100 UNIFIEDTRUST.COM When it comes to investing in 2020, Christopher Anderson offers an optimistic outlook. He states, “We see continued growth in corporate earnings and have a positive outlook for growth in the market. The key drivers for the stock and bond markets in 2020 will be Federal Reserve policy, US/China trade negotiations, and the presidential election. We see all three of those things having a favorable outcome for stocks in 2020.” Upon retiring as a practicing CPA, Anderson started a second career with Unified Trust, where he now provides trust services, investment management, financial planning, and retirement income strategies to his clients.
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TOPS in Lexington | Sponsored Content
Sarah Jefferson Vice President, Cash Management Director
TRADITIONAL BANK 2801 PALUMBO DR. TRADITIONALBANK.COM Sarah has worked in banking for 18 years, 14 of those with Traditional Bank. Traditional Bank is a privately held community bank with 16 banking centers in six Kentucky counties. Though she’s held a variety of roles, she says leading the cash management department is her favorite. “Over the years I’ve learned a few things about myself. One is that I love working with different types of businesses, which allows me to continue growing. Another is that I love a good challenge. Solving problems and making life easier for my clients is incredibly fulfilling.” Sarah also understands her clients’ needs for worklife balance. With two young children, non-profit service commitments and a husband with ownership in multiple businesses she understands the time management struggles faced by today’s business owners. “Having a dedicated commercial services department means fewer channels and faster resolutions for my customers,” Sarah said. “My team prides itself on the fact that we don’t have to transfer a customer to another department. And if something can’t be resolved over the phone, we hop in our vehicle and go visit our clients in person.”
February 2020 | Sponsored Content
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R. Christopher Meng Chartered Financial Analyst®, Senior Vice President, Senior Investment Manager
COMMUNITY TRUST WEALTH & TRUST MANAGEMENT 100 EAST VINE ST., SUITE 501 CTBI.COM/CTIC As one of the largest independent trust companies in Kentucky, Community Trust Wealth & Trust Management offers a vast variety of investment services for individuals, families, and businesses alike. Chris Meng points out, “We have an investment staff of nine passionate and intelligent professionals, with access to the same resources and tools as those working on Wall Street.” Meng became curious about investing in junior high school, spent his teen years watching Wall Street Week, and went on to garner an MBA from Ohio State. He’s since found he’s wellsuited to the finance field. Meng says, “I have a strong analytical mindset and I also get the ‘big picture’ and can think strategically. This helps me identify trends and be disciplined in security selections that will benefit from these trends. I try to bring these perspectives to my group. I think it makes us a stronger investment team.” His advice to investors of all ages: “Save more, spend less, understand what you are investing in, and buy when the market is pessimistic. Most of all, be a patient investor.” Hungry for adventure, as well as sound investments, Meng plans to visit the 91 restaurants featured in Gary West’s book, Eating My Way Across Kentucky, in 2020.
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February 2020 | TOPSinLex.com
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Finance
Finance 20s
COMMUNITY
THROUGH THE DECADES tailored advice for every stage of life.
“Don’t leave money on the table! As soon as you can participate in a retirement program through work, sign up!” - Jennifer L. Drennan, Field & Main Bank
“Work on reaching and maintaining a qualifying credit score before making a purchase that will require you to borrow money. A higher credit score can save you money when you qualify for a lower interest rate.” – Lisa T. Smith, Cumberland Valley National Bank
“Start developing good financial habits as soon as possible. It is important to seek financial advice at an early age.” - Kate Nelson, Republic Bank & Trust Co.
Make sure you’re passing on good financial habits to your children and those you mentor.
“We find that many individuals or families feel they are too young or don’t yet have enough saved to warrant financial planning, but that couldn’t be further from the truth.” - Christopher E. Anderson, Unified Trust
Build a safety net. If you have a mortgage, spouse or children, take the time to prepare your legal documents and make a life insurance plan.
“Everyone and every situation is different.” - Rebekah Welch, South Central Bank That’s why meeting with a financial advisor to come up with a plan that best fits YOUR needs is key. Set a “savings budget” that determines how much you put into tax-advantaged accounts versus easy access regular savings each year.
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“Whatever your income, it is essential to take control of your finances. It is one of the most important things a person can do.” - Rockie Mason, Cumberland Valley National Bank
“In addition to setting up your will, now’s the time to talk to your financial institution about setting up beneficiaries and/ or trust accounts.” - Danielle Luigart, Commonwealth Credit Union “No matter what stage of life you’re in, or what age you’re at, it’s never too early or too late to start working toward a better and brighter financial future.” - David Smyth and Alex Roig, Family Financial Partners
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Don’t take social security too early. You can start receiving benefits at 62, but for each year you wait (until age 70), your monthly benefit will increase!
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Make retirement savings a priority, and keep your retirement in mind when making major financial decisions!
“In your 50s, it is critical that you are using a professional for your retirement planning and tax strategies.” - Kristina Ping, Powerful Legacy Insurance and Financial Services “It’s very simple: ask for help, start the discussion and create a plan.” - Jeff Sheppard, Family Wealth Group Make a plan to pay off your house, and determine what improvements you will invest in going forward.
Adjust your estate planning to reflect your current priorities and values. Simplify your assets and accounts, such as gifting or selling under-used properties. Consider the purpose of your current investments: if you’re saving for future generations, taking on a little more portfolio risk may make sense. Keep working with your financial advisors and make adjustments when needed... but take this time to truly enjoy the rewards of all your hard work!
February 2020 | TOPSinLex.com
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breaking the
BRONZE CEILING:
meet the artist: Barbara Grygutis Did you know that less than 7% of the 5,193 monuments in the United States presently recognize women? In Lexington, there are none. Across the country, there is a growing movement to honor noteworthy women and their historical contributions through public monuments. Breaking the Bronze Ceiling commissioned artist Barbara Grygutis to change that statistic here in the bluegrass. Last year, Breaking the Bronze Ceiling made a nationwide appeal for artists to design their Lexington monument. Grygutis was selected from four finalists out of 127 submissions. Gygutis has been commissioned to create over 75 large-scale works of public art throughout North America. She is recognized internationally for her sculptural environments, which are integrated into urban and natural landscapes. Her work has been exhibited in The Smithsonian Institute and The Parker Collection for the Vice-President’s House and the White House.
Support Breaking the Bronze Ceiling in erecting a statue in downtown Lexington to celebrate the 100th anniversary of women’s right to vote. Visit breakingthebronzeceiling.com to donate and be a part of this important movement!
The winning design features five silhouettes of suffragettes, to honor the many Kentucky women who contributed to the suffragist cause. The silhouettes will sit on a granite pedestal to elevate it above the surrounding planter. Dudley Webb and Webb Companies made a site available for the monument on the Lexington Financial Center Plaza near the corner of Vine and Mill Streets. Breaking the Bronze Ceiling will unveil the monument late this summer, in time to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment to the Constitution, which secured the right to vote for many women. Kentucky suffragists played an important role in pushing forward legislation to give women the right to vote.
This TOPS article is sponsored by: 50
NON-PROFIT SPOTLIGHT:
COMMUNITY VENTURES by Lauren Rogers | photos courtesy of Community Ventures
Non-Profit
COMMUNITY
Community Ventures knows something about making dreams of greater economic opportunity come true. Jonah Brown, Community Ventures President of Marketing, explains, “We are committed to a comprehensive approach towards community development, by finding strategic ways to meet a variety of economic and social needs for every community we serve.” That comprehensive approach includes its lending company, which uplifts Kentucky entrepreneurs and small business owners with loans to grow their business and create jobs, a housing company whose counseling center supports first-time homebuyers and its many startup companies that target the specific economic needs of food entrepreneurs, artists and Kentucky’s most underserved urban and rural populations. Depending on what stage of business you’re in, CV has business specialists to help you get started with a $500 microloan to help start or expand your small business all the way up to its SBA 504 Loans for equipment and capital projects. “Our mission is to support those entrepreneurs with dreams of serving Kentucky communities by operating small businesses that create vital jobs and meet important social and economic needs in their communities,” says Jonah. In 2020, Community Ventures is excited to continue offering their housing and lending companies, (the longest-running at CV), while focusing on the growth of their newest companies such as Mustard Seed Hill, a newly-renovated campus that was once home to the former Millersburg Military Institute. Mustard Seed is now home to a wedding and special event venue/ They just wrapped up their annual Christmas holiday light attraction and market. CV was also involved with the Chef Space, West Louisville’s food incubator for budding food entrepreneurs, and now Art Inc. Kentucky, an art incubator program for Kentucky artists in the East End of Lexington. Jonah elucidates, “Art Inc. provides opportunities for business training, sales opportunities, gallery opportunities and communal studio space. We’ve also launched the Artists’ Village, a residential neighborhood in the East End where artists can build new homes with custom-fitted studios optimized for their respective art mediums.” What’s more impressive? Frank X. Walker, Kentucky’s first African-American poet laureate, is the first resident of the Artists’ Village, with more homes going under construction for new artists in the first quarter of 2020.
Here to give a deeper perspective on CV is Mark Johnson, an award-winning glass artist and photographer and the president of Art Inc. Kentucky. TOPS: What has been most rewarding about working with this group? MARK JOHNSON: The people. Seeing our clients realize their dreams, whether it be in business ownership or home ownership and the impact that it has on their communities. TOPS: What has it been like to watch your vision come to fruition in Lexington? MJ: I grew up in the East End of Lexington. To be able to now move back to this community and re-plant roots here, not just as a resident, but also bringing the Artists’ Village to the East End – it’s extremely rewarding for me. TOPS: Do you have a favorite moment that resonates with you and captures your mission? MJ: I will never forget the reaction on the artists’ face and the emotions he experienced in that moment when one of his paintings was purchased for the first time. To see an artist realize a dream that they thought would never happen – that feeling is indescribable. •
Get Involved: The best way to support the efforts of CV is to share your story with others about your experience working with them! For more information about Art Inc. Kentucky, the Artists’ Village, or any other Community Ventures programs, please visit cvky.org, or call their office at (859) 231-0054. You can also follow them on social media – Facebook.com/arthousekentucky and facebook.com/ TheArtistVillageinHistoricEastEndLexington.
February 2020 | TOPSinLex.com
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Non-Profit
5 Ways to GIVE
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Did you know the word philanthropy comes from Ancient Greek and means “love of humankind”? This Valentine’s Day, show your love of humankind by giving back to our community. We think volunteering is sweet, so here are five ways to spread the love this February:
Volunteer as a driver with ITNBluegrass to help deliver safe, dignified rides for seniors and individuals with visual impairments in Fayette County. You can set your volunteer schedule based on your availability, and even one ride a week makes a big difference. Contact Jennifer Gripshover: jennifer.gripshover@itnbluegrass.org.
Attend a Broke Spoke Volunteer Night, held every Wednesday from 6-9pm, to learn how you can help fulfill their mission to provide better access to better bicycles for all. Or donate bikes or bike parts during open shop hours. Contact Courtney Rogers: info@thebrokespoke.org.
Help Bluegrass Care Navigators provide comfort and care to the seriously ill by volunteering for supportive visits, respite care, and transportation for hospice patients or bereavement support to their family members. Contact Melanie Hagan: mhagan@bgcarenav.org.
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Participate in the Lexington Rescue Mission Walk for Warmth on February 22 to help end homelessness. Registration is $30, and all money raised goes to their Homeless Intervention Program, which provides counseling for homeless individuals and families and helps pay first month’s rent on a new apartment. For more info, visit walkforwarmth.org or contact Ansley McElroy: Ansley@lexingtonrescue.org.
Provide support and resources for anyone affected by sexual violence on Ampersand Sexual Violence Resource Center’s 24-hour crisis line or at hospitals and police stations across the Bluegrass. Volunteers must be 20 or older and have access to reliable transportation and a personal phone. Contact Rachel Halliday: rhalliday@ampersandky.org.
To learn more about these nonprofits and over 400 others, visit GoodGiving. net. If you want to learn more about the work of Blue Grass Community Foundation and how we can help you better organize and simplify your personal or business giving, Lauren love to hear from you! You can reach her at 859.225.3343 or lauren@bgcf.org.
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Lauren Parsons,
Director of Strategic Initiatives & Communications
February 2020 | TOPSinLex.com
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Lexington Center Corporation announces rebranding as the Central Bank Center Lexington Center Corporation announced a landmark naming rights agreement with Central Bank, rebranding LexingtonCentral Kentucky’s premier convention, meeting, sports and entertainment complex as Central Bank Center. The iconic Rupp Arena will be Rupp Arena at Central Bank Center. The agreement is between Central Bank and JMI Sports, and UK / LCC’s multimedia rights partner. This agreement bolsters Central Bank’s existing relationship with JMI Sports and UK to an annual average investment of $4.1 million with a term of 14 years, expiring in 2033. Upon completion of the renovation, the portion of this investment associated with naming rights will be $1.5 million. The opportunity to sell naming rights with other media rights is part of LCC’s and the university’s Right of Use Agreement executed in February 2018 and transferred media rights ownership to UK. A key part of the agreement is the naming rights to the Lexington Convention Center complex, which is currently undergoing a major expansion. To preserve and honor the history and tradition of the legendary basketball program led by Adolph Rupp, the arena will be known as Rupp Arena at Central Bank Center. The Central Bank Center brand will be on interior, exterior and directional signage, as well as collateral
materials related to the Convention Center and Rupp Arena. New graphics are being designed which will be fully integrated into the expansion project and other areas of the facility. Central Bank has long been known for their strong support of the businesses, consumers and communities of Kentucky. The company’s new partnership with the Lexington Center underscores both its commitment to the community, and mission to realize economic growth and community development in the heart of Lexington. In addition to economic growth and community development expected as a result of the renovations, Central Bank also views the new Central Bank Center as another opportunity to add value for their loyal customer base. Plans are underway to roll out exclusive benefits for Central Bank customers inside Central Bank Center during 2020, and beyond. For UK Athletics, this marks another instance of innovative partnership with a company that shares its commitment to the success of its 500-plus student-athletes and the people of the Commonwealth. This partnership is the third naming rights agreement that JMI Sports has delivered through its partnership with the University of Kentucky. story courtesy of Central Bank Center
February 2020 | TOPSinLex.com
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The Lexington Theatre Company announces 2020 season The Lexington Theatre Company (The Lex) will present Chicago (July 9-12) and Disney’s The Little Mermaid (July 30-August 2), at The Lexington Opera House. Chicago will be directed and choreographed by Patrick O’Neill (Associate Choreographer, Broadway’s School of Rock.) The Lex Artistic Director and Broadway Vet, Lyndy Franklin Smith, will direct Disney’s The Little Mermaid, with choreography by another Broadway veteran Mara Newbery Greer. The Lex Resident Music Director, Brock Terry, will music direct both productions, featuring a fantastic live orchestra. The Lex continues its mission of creating first-rate professional regional theatre, while training and nurturing the next generation of theatrical artists. Broadway Pros will lead the casts for both shows. And, The Lex is embarking on its five-weekend Audition Tour to select talented up-and-coming artists from programs across the country to join them. Local artists also have the opportunity to perform with The Lex, as well as Youth and High School students in the Apprentice Program.
The Kentucky Castle seeks new partner When The Kentucky Castle listed a “call for offers,” many speculated (wrongly) that the iconic landmark was for sale. Co-owner Dr. Matt Dawson clarified that the owners are, in fact, seeking a partner in the venture!
Season Tickets are now available by calling 859-233-3535. Single Tickets will go on sale later in the spring. Audition & Application Information is now available at lexingtontheatrecompany.org. Programs include onstage performing opportunities, as well as technical and administrative internships and apprenticeships. story courtesy of The Lexington Theatre Company
The castle sold for $8.7 million in 2017. In that time, over $2 million in improvements and renovations helped create a 650% increase in revenue. Luxurious guest suites, a renovated ballroom, on-site dining and more amenities helped The Kentucky Castle become a successful venue for weddings, events, concerts and much more. The 53-acre property has a storied past. Rex Martin began building the castle for his wife in 1969; by 1975, the couple had divorced and the castle sat unfinished and empty. In 2003, the castle was sold to Thomas R. Post. After months of renovations, the castle caught fire in 2004. Still, Thomas persisted with the work, turning the castle into a bed and breakfast. The owners say they are seeking a partner with a background in hospitality to help the hotel reach its full potential; they want to be sure their partner’s values align with their own. The initial offer submission date is March 11th. Interested parties can contact Silvestri Real Estate. photos courtesy of Silvestri Real Estate
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Lexington Women’s Health announces new additions Along with the opening of their new Brannon Crossing office, Lexington Women’s Health has lots of great news to share with their patients! They’re proud to welcome four new practitioners who bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the practice. J. Mike Guiler, M.D., FACOG graduated from the University of Kentucky College of Medicine and completed his residency training at the University of Kentucky as well. Dr. Guiler has extensive experience and expertise in women’s health. He is especially gifted in minimally invasive gynecologic surgery and is a highly trained surgeon who has achieved the designation of both Surgeon of Excellence and Master Surgeon of Robotics by SRC. In his free time, he and his wife, Sherry Guiler, DNP are avid “Big Blue” fans and cheer on the CATS at basketball and football games. Dr. Guiler will be working primarily at the Lexington Women’s Health Brannon Crossing location. Ashley Cannady, APRN graduated from the University of Kentucky with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She started her career working at the University of Kentucky Emergency Department for 4 years as a Registered Nurse. She went back to school for her master’s degree at Indiana Wesleyan University. After completion, she obtained a job in Family Practice where she has worked for the last 1.5 years. Ashley did her rotation for women’s health here at Lexington Women’s Health. She has expertise in women’s health care spanning from annual exams, contraceptive management, pelvic pain, abnormal menstrual periods, weight loss, PCOS and more. She also enjoys working with families who are planning to expand. Ashley will be working primarily at the Lexington Women’s Health Hamburg location.
Erica Collier, APRN received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at The University of Kentucky in 2011 followed by her Master of Science in Nursing at Eastern Kentucky University in 2016. She began her nursing career as a labor and delivery nurse at Baptist Health Lexington where she worked for 6 years and truly developed a special interest in caring for women. Since becoming certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner, she has cared for patients in both women’s health and gastroenterology. She is excited to return to women’s health with some of her interests including annual and preventative exams, contraceptive counseling, pregnancy and weight loss. Erica will be working primarily at the Lexington Women’s Health Brannon Crossing location. Sherry D. Guiler, DNP, APRN is a Nurse Practitioner, board certified in Women’s Health and has been practicing nursing since 1981. She has previous experience in NICU and Peds ICU at UK Medical Center. She received nursing degrees from the University of Evansville (1981) and University of Kentucky (1985). Later she received her APRN, Masters, and a postgraduate degree in Forensic Nursing at the University of Colorado (2002-2006). In 2011, she received her Doctorate of Nursing Practice at Robert Morris University. Sherry has practiced with her husband, Dr. Mike Guiler since 1985. She has extensive experience in all aspects of women’s healthcare promoting wellness and prevention with a focus on gynecologic disorders including endometriosis, PCOS, and infertility. Sherry also enjoys providing prenatal care throughout pregnancy in collaboration with delivery providers. Sherry will be working primarily at the Lexington Women’s Health Brannon Crossing location. story courtesy of Lexington Women’s Health
February 2020 | TOPSinLex.com
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Distilled Theatre Company takes Lexington “Into the Woods” Distilled Theatre Company’s inaugural Essentials Series gets underway February 13th16th and 20th-23rd with their production of “Into the Woods.” This immersive experience brings the audience into the action. Take in the non-traditional staging and set design inside Limestone Hall. Enjoy dinner, cocktails and music during this night of entertainment and delight. To purchase tickets or learn more, visit distilledtheatrecompany.com
Lexington begins new program to recycle paper Six recycling bins for paper have been placed throughout the City. Residents and businesses may use these bright yellow containers to recycle newspapers, office paper, paper mail, magazines and catalogs. Only paper should be recycled in these bins. Paper should not be put in blue carts with other recyclables. “This is the next step toward re-establishing our paper recycling service,” Mayor Linda Gorton said. “This solution isn’t perfect, but it’s progress. For citizens who just don’t feel right about throwing away paper … and that’s me … it’s a good answer.” The Mayor said many people want to recycle paper. “I hear from citizens about this issue on a daily basis,” Gorton said. “Having the option to recycle paper is important for our city.” The paper-only bins are an extension of the successful pilot program that was conducted in the Government Center starting last October. The pilot found that collecting paper separated from other materials results in a cleaner product that mills will reliably purchase. “As long as we can keep a clean stream of paper coming into the bins, we’ll be able to continue this program while we explore longer-term solutions,” said Nancy Albright, Commissioner of Lexington’s Department of Environmental Quality and Public Works. A map of paper bin locations, flyers showing which materials are accepted in the paper bins and mixed recycling carts, and a map of communities served by the Recycle Center can be found at lexingtonky.gov/recycle. story courtesy of Angela Poe, LFUCG
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Distillery Heights Condos listed by The Lane Team The Lane Team at Keller Williams is excited to announce their newest venture: Distillery Heights! Standing as the Gateway to Lexington’s Distillery District, Distillery Heights is luxe downtown living that offers a unique experience to Lexington’s industrial birthplace which holds the rich — but forgotten — history as a center of bourbon distillation, a uniquely Kentucky industry. Designed to reflect the Contemporary Industrial Architecture of this historic district, the Distillery Heights provide 34 three-level brick townhomes offering 2-3 bedrooms/1-2 car garages. Various upgrades are available. Residents of Distillery Heights can enjoy a beautiful green space while living just blocks from Lexington’s most iconic destinations including downtown, Rupp Area, the University of Kentucky, Alltech Brewery, The Grand Reserve Event Facilities, Manchester Music Hall and more! Distillery Heights will sit caddy-corner to the future Town Branch Park! Contact The Lane Team to learn more about Distillery Heights living.
February 2020 | TOPSinLex.com
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Giving
and a show. a b us in e s s. February 2020 | TOPSinLex.com
COMMUNITY
They’re baaaack! “The Lee and Hayley Show” returns to television this month at a new time and new station, weekdays at 4 p.m. on ABC36 (WTVQ). Hosts Lee Cruse and Hayley Harmon now have a full hour for the banter, the chemistry, the fun and frivolity viewers came to know and love on the old show that ran on WLEX. In 2020, expect to see more sketches, standup comedy, guests and interviews, road trips, meet ‘n greets at area restaurants and businesses, reports on community activities, talking back-andforth on current event topics, fun with Photoshop and overall entertainment.
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Lee + Hayley
“Lee and Hayley” is the name of the show and the name of the business owned by Cruse and Harmon, with their other business partner Sarah Fisher, who is also chief revenue officer of the Lee and Hayley company. As for their own titles, Cruse is fine with “Viceroy,” while Harmon suggested “Sultan?” They’ve hired their own staff, including photographers, editors and producers. “Our CFO was the former CFO at Channel 18,” Cruse said, “so she brings a lot of the discipline and knowledge necessary to manage the business, because we’re a couple of clowns.” “We have neither of those, discipline or knowledge,” Harmon joked. The formula of television hosts (Oprah) owning a show (Ellen) is not that uncommon (Dr. Phil) in Hollywood, but it is unique on a local level. As owners of the show, Lee Cruse and Hayley Harmon control the content and they own the rights to syndicate the show. Because WTVQ in Lexington is owned
by Savannah-based Morris Multimedia, the other Morris affiliates in Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina and Tennessee will be a good place to start with syndication offers. ABC36 has provided a green room and office suite for the new Lee and Hayley company. “The folks at ABC36 are being very generous to us. They’re excited and we’re excited,” Cruse said. He has a background in standup comedy and in radio as a morning show personality and afternoon talk-show host, and in television as a news anchor and feature reporter. Born in Memphis, Harmon grew up in Lebanon, Tennessee, about 30 miles east of Nashville. Cruse is from Winchester, Kentucky, about 30 minutes east of Lexington. Harmon majored in Electronic Media Journalism at Middle Tennessee State University, where she took courses on reporting, investigating and researching, mass media law, and played intramural soccer. After graduating in 2010, she was a reporter for the ABC television station in Bowling
Green and then anchored the morning and noon news there. Two years later she was in Knoxville as a news anchor, and then moved to Lexington in 2014. “I came to be the morning anchor and you’d been there for 48 years,” Harmon joked to Cruse. “Didn’t care for her at all. Didn’t like her one bit,” he fired back. He had been there for 17 years at that point. They kid like this incessantly. Watching the two of them on-air and offcamera, either one, is an exercise in communication ping pong, a game of satirical, lyrical one-upmanship. “We play-fight all the time,” Harmon said. “I tell people all the time we’re cursed. Our chemistry is our cross to bear.” When they are out and about and someone says “Hey, Lee!” her brain hears it as “Hayley!” so don’t be surprised if she is the one to respond before he does. “She’s amazing,” Cruse said. “There’s nobody out there like her with that rapier wit. She challenges me all the time.” In the previous decade, Harmon was in the studio as a news anchor while Cruse was on the streets of the Bluegrass as a roving reporter, of sorts, checking in on local businesses and activities. They had desks across from each other in the bullpen, aka newsroom, and were friendly enough, until one busy morning when Cruse was typing away and he heard her say, “That was lucky. We almost lost a $400 hand cart.” He spun around and his jaw dropped. “How is this girl familiar with that line from the film Blazing Saddles?” Their fate as simpatico partners was sealed in that moment. Soon, Cruse pitched an idea to the general manager for a show featuring Hayley Harmon and Lee Cruse. Management agreed, and “The Lee and Hayley Show” debuted in July of 2017.
The Lee and Hayley Show premieres Feb. 17 on ABC36, WTVQ. Watch Monday through Friday from 4 to 5 p.m., with a weekly “best of ” recap on Sundays from 11:30 a.m. to noon. Keep up with their life and times online (leeandhayley.com) and follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram (@LeeandHayley).
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speed lee
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“We were both a little nervous that it might not work,” Harmon said. “It turns out—” “—it didn’t,” Cruse finished. We will get to that. But it did work for almost two years. “We’re just hanging out, and I think that’s why viewers really connected to us,” Harmon said. “They feel like they know you. They get to see our personalities and who we really are.” So, the week after Derby 2019 there was a headline about a BBC disc jockey getting fired for making fun of the royal family. Picturing ‘obsession with the royals’ in his mind instead of actual people, Cruse’s on-air comment was “This is my new favorite DJ.” He hadn’t seen the photo or read the story. “I’m thinking this is a Monty Python sketch, I don’t know what he’s done, I’m confused, I don’t know who we’re talking about anyway,” he said. After the show, he looked it up and knew he was NOT a fan of that disc jockey, and apologized on the air. He was suspended and on May 22 was fired by E.W. Scripps, corporate owner of WLEX. “No one asked me what happened,” Cruse said. “Nobody asked Hayley what happened. Nobody asked our producer what happened.” The day he was fired, Cruse called Harmon and said, “We’re not done.” And then he got busy figuring something out. Harmon’s rule, personally and professionally, has always been to dig deeper before forming opinions. “I try not to make a decision until I know all details. That’s my journalism background. That’s called doing your research,” she said. “The issue with our culture now is jumping to a conclusion because we see a headline. I always click on it and read the full story. I watch the video. It’s a lesson to us all.” “The people of Kentucky knew what happened and that’s why we have momentum like a dry rocket booster, ready to launch this show into the stratosphere,” Cruse said. “It was the best thing that ever happened. So thank you, Scripps.” Harmon soloed the show on Channel 18 until Aug. 16. Six months later, Feb. 17, 2020, she makes her new debut with her old partner on “The Lee and Hayley Show” on ABC36. The two are eager to bring their brand of entertainment and camaraderie back to the airwaves for Central Kentuckians. “When we’re shooting segments and funny stuff happens, I’m always just trying to make you laugh,” Harmon said to Cruse. “And if you laugh, then I feel like everyone else will think it’s funny.” “I’m trying to do the same thing,” he said. “I’m trying to make you laugh. And make you mess up.”
February 2020 | TOPSinLex.com
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an OUT
Have a Laugh...
Comedy at Pivot
Mike Fields and Jeremiah Martin host a free two-hour comedy show at Pivot Brewing on the first Wednesday of every month. The lineup is always packed with comedians ranging from rising talent like Lee Kimbrell and Kelly Collette to seasoned comedians like Kenny DeForest who appeared on Late Night with Seth Meyers and MTV Decoded. In February, look forward to Chris Weir and other regional comedians bringing their best to Lexington. These guys also host an open mic show at Pivot every month. As stand-up comedians themselves, Mike and Jeremiah recognized that Lexington needed a consistent opportunity for newcomers to give it a shot as well as a place where veteran comics can try out new material. The shows at Pivot have attracted a lot of regular supporters with new faces joining every month. If you find yourself binge-watching comedy specials on Netflix, come to a show at Pivot. There’s nothing like laughing with a room full of people—and good drinks! For more information on these shows and local comedy, follow Comedy at Pivot on Facebook and Instagram.
February 2020 | TOPSinLex.com
Wanna go? Cost: FREE Where: Pivot Brewing (1400 Delaware Ave.) Dates: First Wednesday of every month Time: Sign up at 8pm, show starts at 8:30pm Good to know: Expect some adult content
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TOP Dressed Outfit of the Month:
Love is in the Air Savin’ Face:
CoolSculpting
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Wow Wedding:
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Weddings Unveiled:
John & Cassie Romantic Reds
Life + Style
Even with the cold temperatures, Lexington locals never disappoint!
TOP The TOParrazi were out and about capturing the most stylish looks as we bring in the fall! It might be cooler outside, but that doesn’t mean the fashion stops! Here are our TOP Dressed for this month!
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Outfit of the Month LIFESTYLE
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No month radiates romance quite like February and no color duo makes our hearts flutter quite like pink and red. It will come as no surprise that this month’s look is fully cupid inspired. Starting off with a dress perfect for date night, be that with a significant other or celebrating singledom with friends. Roksanda marries our flirty color combination beautifully with their ‘Ronda’ dress. Tailored from structured crepe fabric, this piece has a sheath silhouette that is offset by ruffled bell sleeves.
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We kept our accessories fun and fabulous with Alexandre Birman’s gradient bow sandals, a lip clutch inspired by the famous ladies of the musical “Grease,” and a dainty pink heart necklace by Kendra Scott. For beauty, it is naturally all about a classic red mani, and we love this sumptuous shade by NCLA. No matter who you chose to spend the day with, in this look you’ll bring a little love into every room you enter.
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IN THE LOOK:
1 | Roksanda Ronda Two-Tone Crepe Midi Dress 2 | Kendra Scott Ari Heart Rose Gold Short Pendant Necklace In ‘Pink Drusy’ (Available at The Summit) 3 | Olympia Le-Tan Grease Appliquéd Embroidered Canvas Clutch 4 | NCLA ‘He Loves You Not’ Nail Polish 5 | Alexandre Birman gradient bow sandals
February 2020 | TOPSinLex.com
by jesse brooks
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LIFESTYLE Savin’ Face
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savin’ face
COOLSCULPTING
story by Jayme Jackson
ome of us are built for comfort and others are built for speed. I am comfort all the way. Squishy and cushy like a Cadillac from Quantrell, not fast and lean like a Porsche. In fact, the only thing you will ever see me speeding off to is a buffet or a sale at The Cotton Patch. So, in my never ending quest to look and feel just a bit better about my body, I enlisted the help of “The” CoolSculpting Guru in the state of Kentucky - Amanda Harms, COO of CoolBluLex. So, here is the skinny on everything CoolSculpting.
Amanda starts with a free consultation where she took before photos, recommended a plan of treatment and discussed pricing. I wanted CoolSculpting everywhere, but we settled on my outer thighs (yes, you can do your inner/outer thighs), lower tummy, upper abdomen and flanks. It was kind of a shock to me that I even had flanks to worry about; it’s not like I had seen myself from behind (thank the Lord). The Waldman, Schantz, Turner and Montague/CoolBluLex facility is very nice, so it did not bother me to spend an afternoon returning emails while contouring my problem areas. CS feels like vacuum heads are placed on your target area and an instant cold feelingsimilar to an ice pack. Treatment time is around 30 minutes per area, but with two machines, it cut my time in half. Following the non-invasive procedure, I was a little sore (I would assume that’s what it feels like when you exercise, but I’m sure not starting any of that stuff). Oh, and I was a little numb. Instantly, I watched for my results. I felt some bloating for a few weeks after the procedure. When I put on my panty hose I felt like 8lbs of sausage in a 5lb sack. Long last, on week four- I could start to tell things were shaping up. I went back for my 3 month results and was so happy! I actually gained 3lbs post CS through the holidays, but that will be our little secret. CS does not reduce your body weight, but rather reduces inches. Who knew contouring my flanks created a waist? Here are the real, untouched before and after photos from my CS session. I’m very happy with my results and will definitely be back for more! CS helps me stick to my personal mantra, “Life is short, take the trip, buy the shoes and best of all…eat the CAKE!”
Before (left) and After (right) from one Coolscuplting® treatment.
“While weight loss and fat reduction may sound similar, the two are fundamentally different. Losing weight shrinks fat cells evenly throughout the body, which doesn’t always lead to a more sculpted appearance. Fat reduction, however, can change the shape and contours of your body by quite literally freezing and killing the fat cells. With CoolSculpting®, you can pinpoint exact trouble spots where you’d like to reduce fat for good.” amanda, coolblulex
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February 2020 | TOPSinLex.com
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LIFESTYLE WOW Wedding
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WOW Wedding LIFESTYLE story by lauren rogers The love between John and Cassie Hamilton knows no distance. From strangers who met in San Francisco to soulmates who wed in the Bluegrass, the initial encounter between the pair occurred while Cassie was on a girls’ trip. She shares, “My friends and I were heading out after attending the San Francisco Giants baseball game when a super cute guy walked past and caught my eye. We made eye contact, had a short conversation about places to check out since he was a local and then he gave me his number.” Over the rest of her trip, John and Cassie would text occasionally and added each other on social media. “When I returned home, I told him he should come visit Kentucky sometime but never dreamed he’d fly across the US for a complete stranger. Within a week, John booked a flight!” she exclaims. Six weeks and a five-day adventure later, it quickly became clear that the chance meeting had led to the real deal. Cassie and John made their relationship official and dated long-distance before John moved to Kentucky and surprised Cassie with a picturesque proposal at Talon Winery. Shortly after, plans for a September wedding soon began. Up first? Selecting their perfect venue! “With so many of John’s family and friends traveling from all over the US (mostly the West coast), we really wanted our wedding to capture the beauty of the South, and more importantly, the rolling hills and horses of Kentucky,” Cassie explains. She continues, “We have both always loved the idea of open fields in the background and incorporating the rustic barn feel into our special day. When we stumbled upon Hawks Nest, it was still almost a full year out of them finishing their renovations, but we immediately saw our vision and knew it was going to be a place that all of our guests would love and enjoy!” To keep a light and airy feel to the day, the couple selected white, champagne and blush tones while incorporating plentiful greenery to compliment the farm’s natural beauty. “It felt like the perfect blend of a rustic barn wedding with a modern twist,” Cassie says. Though the happy couple would not have changed anything about their special day, each of them had their own favorite aspects. John shares, “I remember waiting in front of the barn to get that tap on the shoulder from my soon-to-be wife for the first look. She was absolutely stunning, and I will never forget that moment.” Cassie on the other hand loved their sunset pictures, but for a similar sentiment. She says, “There’s just something about the pure joy and happiness you can see on our faces in these pictures that makes them so special to me. It was such a sweet and sentimental moment to have shared with my husband.” Above all else, however, John shares, “Being able to have everyone close to me see me marry my best friend, my soulmate, was the greatest day of my life.”
February 2020 | TOPSinLex.com
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LIFESTYLE Gorjess: Get the Look
PHOTOGRAPHER Kendra R. Photography VIDEOGRAPHER Collin Merritt Wedding Films VENUE Hawks Nest Wedding & Events CATERING Catering by Donna SWEETS Cakes by Bebe FLOWERS Stems
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PLANNER Sharing Special Moments RENTALS/DECOR Goff Tents & Events BRIDAL GOWN Rebecca’s Wedding Boutique BRIDAL PARTY Azazie GROOM/GROOMSMEN Macy’s
TOPS in Lexington | February 2020
MAKEUP Annamaria Corea HAIR Privé Hair Studio STATIONERY/CALLIGRAPHY Simply to Impress ALTERATIONS The Needle’s Eye MUSIC Pulse Mobile Entertainment
February 2020 | TOPSinLex.com
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LIFESTYLE Weddings Unveiled
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romantic
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RED
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This time of year is all about romance and the same goes for the color red. For all of you hopeless romantics out there planning your big day, you might be drawn to a color palette and theme that revolves around lush red orals.
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When it comes to classic red roses, you can’t go wrong! Here is some inspiration to get you started!
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Outfit of the Month LIFESTYLE
J. A n n e P h o t o g r a p hy
photo credits 1 | J.Anne Photography 2 | Martha Stewart Weddings 3 | KT Merry Photography 4 | Art is for Lovers 5 | KT Merry Photography 6 | Adrian Wood Photography 7 | Modern Wedding Photography 8 | Julia Kaptelova Photography
by haley norris Recent Bride & Owner of Haley Michelle Designs
www.haleymichelledesigns.com
February 2020 | TOPSinLex.com
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AT HOME
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Tour of Homes:
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Color Catalog:
Rustic Redefined Stirling Green and Bloomsbury Wallpaper
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Pets:
That Vet Trip Doesn’t Have to be Hard
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TOPS in Lexington | February 2020
Tour of Homes
AT HOME
This Georgetown residence strikes the perfect balance between sophisticated style and comfortable charm. story by donna ison photos by shaun ring
ot so long ago, modern farmhouse was considered an oxymoron, but now it describes a style in which country comfort, class, and contemporary elements all coexist in perfect harmony. This home completely captures that style and is the epitome of refined rustic. Upon deciding to build a new house, Suzanne Lusby perused blueprints online for over a year before settling on a floorplan that met her needs—almost. So, she modified the original design to perfectly fit her needs, which meant also accommodating her three daughters. This resulted in a two-story brick farmhouse with vaulted ceilings, expanses of large windows, an open floor plan, and over 3,600 square feet of living area. When choosing a location, Suzanne narrowed it to three lots in the new Winding Oaks subdivision. But, after realizing that one lot was not only located on a cul-de-sac, but it also looked out on the fields of Old Friends farm, a retirement facility for Thoroughbreds past their racing days, she knew it was where she wanted to build. She turned to custom home builder and business associate Matt Welch of Matt Welch Homes to bring her blueprint to life. The construction was completed in 2018, and Suzanne moved in shortly thereafter. Next, she employed Nancy Elam to help fulfill her vision for the interior. Nancy is a founding partner and residential designer with Design Link, a full service commercial and residential interior design firm. Of this project, Nancy says, “We have a friendship. That makes it very comfortable. Suzanne knows exactly what she wants, but is still willing to ‘let go of the reigns.’ Her trust in us allowed my team and I the creative freedom needed to help produce a space that truly reflects her vision.” On the front porch, solid timber columns flank a brick archway with towering 10-feet arched mahogany doors just beyond.
February 2020 | TOPSinLex.com
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Tour of Homes
TOPS in Lexington | February 2020
Tour of Homes
AT HOME
Through the impressive entrance, you’ll find a spacious great room, which accommodates formal dining, living, and a large kitchen with a breakfast area. Gorgeous “Kentucky Racehorse Oak” floors from Old World Timber, run throughout. The wood is milled from reclaimed horse farm fencing. According to their website, “The character of these timbers are extremely unique as they are exposed not only to the elements but also to the rubbing and chewing of the horses who live within them.” The floors exude a warmth that is echoed in the home’s color palette of a variety of grays, warm neutrals, and crisp white. Nancy states, “I love the relaxed feeling this color palette creates. Knowing that Suzanne wanted a beautiful but comfortable home, selecting varying shades of neutrals seemed to be the right choice.”
The living room is truly extraordinary. Soaring vaulted ceiling with ornate trusses in a rich wood and a spherical wood and metal chandelier set the tone. A floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace from Lee Brick and Block Company with an oak mantle from Old World Timber adds to the sense of grandeur. Traditional furnishings with a farmhouse feel balance out the loftiness and make the room feel comfortable and cozy. Accessories and artwork from House, Pottery Barn, Market on National and Paxton Home reflect the owner’s personality throughout. Nancy, who is a proponent of integrating fresh flower and plants wherever appropriate, brought a touch of the outdoors in with live pants from Pemberton’s Greenhouses and floral arrangements from Stems. When it came to furnishing this home, which they did nearly from scratch, Suzanne had no trouble picking out pieces she knew would work. She says, “I don’t adhere to any certain style. I buy what I like.” As the former owner Suzanne’s Gift on Main in Georgetown, Suzanne had attended multiple trade market and was experienced with curating items for her shop. This translated to choosing decor for her home, which came from a variety of resources including our local Arhaus and Design Link. Tucked under the staircase, the powder room makes the most out of a small space with shiplap walls, exaggerated sconces, and a reclaimed wood vanity with a vessel sink and vintage-look, wall mount faucets.
February 2020 | TOPSinLex.com
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AT HOME
Tour of Homes
Off the living room, sliding glass doors lead to a well-appointed back porch with a second gas log fireplace, ample rattan seating, and a flat screened television. A large ceiling fan in sleek metal and pale wood lends a cool, industrial vibe. On the opposite end of the porch is an oversized daybed swing with assorted throw pillows that overlooks the fields beyond. This is Suzanne’s favorite spot during warm weather. She says, “In the spring, you can find me in the swing.” In the summer, you can find the family at their pool, which was built by 4 Seasons All Outdoors, and includes a terracotta rock waterfall feature and decorative iron fencing.
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TOPS in Lexington | February 2020
AT HOME
Tour of Homes
Stepping back inside, the cultured country kitchen, designed by Kitchen Concepts, is both sleek and inviting. The look is achieved with white custom cabinetry, Danby honed marble countertops from Artistic Granite & Marble and stainless steel Thermador appliances from Pieratt’s. Lanternstyle pendant lights with a vintage vibe, from Fergusons, and a brick backsplash complete the affect. The space boasts two generous islands providing a wonderful serving space when entertaining family and friends, which Suzanne does often. For this reason, Suzanne’s favorite part of the kitchen is the second island, which is not only functional but beautiful, with a reclaimed wood top fabricated by Lakeside Woodworks. She says, “There is always something spread across it. We use it everyday.” The kitchen also contains a farmhouse sink, coffee station and custom wood breakfast table, which seats six, from The Wood Cutters.
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TOPS in Lexington | February 2020
Tour of Homes
February 2020 | TOPSinLex.com
AT HOME
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AT HOME
Tour of Homes
In this home, even rooms that are often an afterthought, are laden with architectural interest. The capacious pantry is set off by a barn door and offers plenty of shelving and storage. The exaggeratedly high, mudroom ceiling, by Old World Timber, is constructed of reclaimed wood in a multitude of different grains, hues, and sizes. The luxurious laundry room serves as home to the family’s pet turtle, Duke, who they’ve had since he was the size of a silver dollar. Special elements include a farmhouse sink, brick floor, and a sliding barn door.
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TOPS in Lexington | February 2020
February 2020 | TOPSinLex.com
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Tour of Homes
AT HOME
Up a stunning staircase, fabricated by Crown Stair, each of Suzanne’s three daughters has their own bedroom with walk-in closet and spa bath. Each of the bedrooms has its own personalized aesthetic and unique architectural elements, while maintaining the farmhouse feel. The ďŹ rst has an artistic reclaimed wood ceiling, beaded chandelier and a breathtaking view of the horse farm out back.
February 2020 | TOPSinLex.com
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TOPS in Lexington | February 2020
Tour of Homes
AT HOME
The second has a vaulted shiplap ceiling, 3-tiered chandelier in a unique oil-rubbed bronze, and exaggerated height upholstered bed.
February 2020 | TOPSinLex.com
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AT HOME
Tour of Homes
A hanging bed with thick ropes in the place of a bed frame, made by Joe Jefferies of Healthy Structures Co., is the centerpiece of the third bedroom. A Moroccan-type metal light ďŹ xture adds whimsy to this room.
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TOPS in Lexington | February 2020
March 2020 | TOPSinLex.com
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AT HOME
Tour of Homes
The first floor also houses the light-filled master bedroom, which embodies simplicity and serenity. Massive windows let in the morning light and offer a view of the horses grazing. The furnishings, which include the few pieces Suzanne brought from her previous home, have an eclectic yet elegant feel. Through a hall, you’ll find a custom walk-in closet from Closets by Design and the capacious master bath where distressed gray cabinetry and a leathered granite vanity top from Artistic Granite and Marble, stand in perfect contrast to a dramatic black and white, iron soaking tub and glass walk-in shower with glossy gray subway tile from Louisville Tile.
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TOPS in Lexington | February 2020
Tour of Homes
AT HOME
The finished home has everything needed for the four women to happily dwell. Out of the entire building and design experience, Suzanne’s favorite part was collaborating with Nancy. On her role as a designer, Nancy says, “Suzanne has excellent taste...she made our job easy. Through space planning, meetings with many of the amazing resources in Lexington, and time spent understanding her likes and dislikes, we were able to help create a home that is a reflection of the things she loves.” Suzanne, who is currently the director of operations at Legacy Wealth Management, adds with a laugh, “I’ve enjoyed the decorating process so much, that I’ve said I would like to go to work with Nancy for free, so the fun doesn’t have to end. I truly enjoyed the process and seeing everything come together. And, my daughters and I are delighted to be living in this beautiful home.”
February 2020 | TOPSinLex.com
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TOPS in Lexington | February 2020
Color Catalog
AT HOME
Kameron Pebbled Bench WILLA ARLO INTERIORS
Organic Cotton Throw JOOLZ
Joni Pendant HUDSON VALLEY
Faux Ranunculus Spray HOUSE
Color at
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STIRLING GREEN
Graham & Brown wasn’t just content to name a Color of the Year: they also named a Wallpaper of the Year! Their Bloomsbury Neo Mint collection hearkens to a Victorian boho aesthetic, but it’s a perfect backdrop for more modern styling. Utilizing wallpaper on small areas of a room creates a focal point that feels surprising and unique without overwhelming the eye. Stirling Green proves that the color of money is a surprisingly versatile hue. Pairing it with a pink can create a feminine look. Accessories in a rich yellow keep the room from getting too sweet. Clean lines and solid fabrics anchor the space; use texture to add visual appeal rather than reaching for a second print. Looking for more drama? A bold, deep green like Adeline would provide a moody contrast to this twee wallpaper pattern.
PAIR WITH:
Duronia Mirror
Hyla Nightstand
MY FAVORITE THINGS
POTTERY BARN
Popsicle
February 2020 | TOPSinLex.com
Stone
Adeline
Giallo
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Pets
That Vet Trip Doesn’t Have to be Hard story by jean gibowski, cvpm brighton animal clinic
Taking a cat to the vet seems to rank with getting a root canal or having an IRS audit, but it doesn’t have to. There are a few things you can do to make the trip to the vet (or anywhere) much easier on both you and your feline friend. The vet appointment is today and now is the time most owners drag the crate out from the basement, garage or back of the closet. It is cold, dirty and smelly…and the cat knows that the only time it comes out is when he gets shoved in it and taken to the vet! Instead, bring the crate inside at least a week in advance. Clean it out, put a soft blanket in it, and put some treats in it. Spray the blanket with Feliway, a pheromone calming spray. After all, a crate is a box and what cat doesn’t love a box? Give your kitty some time to get used it being there, and you may even find him napping in it on his own. Make sure the carrier is big enough for your cat to be comfortable. Many people buy a small carrier when the cat is a kitten and never upgrade it, even if the cat is now 20 pounds. I don’t like the middle seat on an airplane sandwiched between two large people, your cat doesn’t like being crammed into a too small space either. Carriers that open from the top are also much easier to get a cat into. Once in the car, make sure the crate is on the seat and stabilized. Cats don’t like roller coaster rides on the way to the vet! Rolling a towel to put under the front of the crate to keep it level if it is on the seat works very well to keep the cat from sliding forward. Your vet can also offer you sedatives to give your cat the day before and the day of the appointment to help take the edge off and keep your cat more comfortable. Taking your cat to the vet doesn’t have to be an ordeal with a little preparation.
meet jasper henning
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EATS &
ENTERTAINMENT
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Cabin Fever Cures
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Dining:
Sav’s TOP 5:
Confectionaries
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Recipes:
Roasted Veggie Buddha Bowl Dining Guide Equine Update BBN:
Up the Mountain
EATS & ENTERTAINMENT Top 5 Dining
Cabin Fever Cures story by Kathie Stamps
No need to stay cooped up inside, because touristy opportunities abound in the Bluegrass. Knowing that the weather in Central Kentucky can vacillate by 30 degrees (or more!) from one day to the next makes winter an interesting time of year and this is a great place to live for people who love spontaneity. For those who prefer their calendars to be scheduled to the minute, go ahead and book those tickets and make your reservations. For both camps, Topsinlex.com has you covered. VisitLEX also maintains two robust websites, visitlex.com (scheduled events and details) and sharethelex.com (curated content and inspirational ideas from local bloggers). VisitLEX is all about tourism. As the destination sales, marketing and service organization, VisitLEX promotes Lexington and the Bluegrass region to attract visitors and grow the economy. Mary Quinn Ramer, president of VisitLEX, enjoys getting out to see shows and explore the arts. “From the Lexington Opera House to the University of Kentucky Art Museum and the Lyric Theatre to the Downtown Arts Center, there are plenty of cultural opportunities to spice up your winter,” she said. “Monday nights at WoodSongs are always fun and I love the additional programming The Lexington Theatre Company has brought to town. I also welcome any reason to find a cozy restaurant and have a fabulous meal. With an eclectic mix of independently owned restaurants, our thriving culinary scene provides a great reason to visit any time of year.” Locals eat it up too.
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Top 5 Dining EATS & ENTERTAINMENT
Tourism plays a vital role in the economy of central Kentucky. The economic impact of the tourism industry in Kentucky went from $10.9 billion in 2017 to $11.2 billion in 2018. Figures are still being gathered for 2019, but let’s just say the tourism business is thriving in Lexington and surrounding counties, thanks to the small, medium and large companies that offer things to do, places to go and people to see. Here’s just a sampling:
HORSES
SPORTS
DANCE
With or without your out-of-town guests, take a drive in any direction from downtown Lexington to see horses out in the beautiful countryside. Formal tours of dozens of horse farms are offered through Horse Country Inc., for private or group guided tours. If you prefer to stay indoors and still take in the equine scene, look into tours at Hallway Feeds, Hagyard Equine Medical Institute or Rood and Riddle. During the winter months, the Kentucky Horse Park off Iron Works Pike is open Wednesday through Sunday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission includes access to the American Saddlebred Museum, the International Museum of the Horse, afternoon “Stall Side Chats” and a selfguided walking tour of the hundreds of acres throughout the park.
It’s conference time in basketball. At Rupp Arena, the Kentucky Wildcats men’s basketball team hosts Ole Miss on Feb. 15, Florida on Feb. 22, Auburn on Feb. 29 and Tennessee on March 3. On campus, at Memorial Coliseum, the UK women’s basketball team takes on Florida on Feb. 2, Alabama on Feb. 6, Mississippi State on Feb. 16, South Carolina on Feb. 23 and Georgia on Feb. 27. UK baseball’s home opener is Feb. 18 and softball’s is March 7.
Locals can learn to dance at Arthur Murray Dance Sudio. Private and group lessons are available. The “Daddy Daughter Ball” at the Kentucky Castle on Versailles Road on Feb. 16 will be an enchanting evening for a young princess to dance with her dad, and receive a tiara at the event.
DOWNTOWN The world’s largest ceiling clock is 40 feet wide and five stories tall, and it’s in the rotunda of the Central Library on Main Street, which is down the block from the historic Kentucky Theater. All the outdoors you can handle, indoors, will be at the annual Kentucky Sport, Boat and Recreation Show, Feb. 7-9 at Lexington Center and Rupp Arena. Hungry? Stop for breakfast, lunch or dinner at one of the many Kentucky Proud restaurants located downtown.
BOURBON Bluegrass Distillers, Castle and Key, James E. Pepper Distilling Co., Town Branch Distillery and Woodford Reserve are among the distilleries offering tours and tastings. “Bourbon distilleries are lovely to visit in the winter as the warehouses are quite warm and filled with the amazing aroma of the angel’s share,” said Mary Quinn Ramer, president of VisitLEX.
LEARNING At the Carnegie Center for Literacy and Learning you can take writing classes, join a reading group, learn another language or practice yoga. In nearby Harrodsburg, Kentucky, Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill has a fascinating “Introduction to Beekeeping” course on Feb. 8.
MUSIC Grammy award-winner Sturgill Simpson brings his “A Good Look’n Tour” to Rupp Arena on Feb. 28, with special guest Tyler Childers. February has an extra day this year for leaping into more Southern music, Feb. 28-29, with the indoor bluegrass festival “Bluegrass in the Bluegrass with Sam Jam and Rudy Fest” at Clarion Hotel Conference Center North. Every Wednesday night at ArtsPlace in downtown Lexington, Red Barn Radio celebrates the music of Kentucky with live performances from solo artists and bands.
LIVE THEATER Take in a play at the Lexington Opera House with “Fiddler on the Roof” Feb. 6-9; “A Midsummer’s Night Dream” Feb. 14-15; “The Office! A Musical Parody” Feb. 18-19. At the Lyric Theatre and Cultural Arts Center, see “Selma the Musical: The Untold Stories” Feb. 7-9.
From the Lexington Opera House to the University of Kentucky Art Museum and the Lyric Theatre to the Downtown Arts Center, there are plenty of cultural opportunities to spice up your winter." Share your other favorite winter activities on our Facebook page! @TopsinLex
February 2020 | TOPSinLex.com
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EATS & ENTERTAINMENT Dining
Photos by Keni Parks
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Story By Kate Horning Healthy Living Chef | katehorning.com
TOPS in Lexington | February 2020
Dining EATS & ENTERTAINMENT
Sav’s Restaurant & Gourmet Ice Cream • 630 East Main Street, Lexington • (859) 785-1635 • savslex.com
O
nce home to Subway, the building at 630 East Main Street has transformed into the colorful new address of Lexington landmark, Sav’s. Over the past decade, owner Mamadou “Sav” Savane has been a staple fixture in the Lexington food scene, best known for bringing a taste of West African cuisine to Kentucky. His new concept blends his former Sav’s Grill with his ice cream concept, Sav’s Chill, to offer a more extensive menu, including table service. “It’s been my dream for a long time to have both locations under one roof, and now my dream has finally come true,” shares Savane. Savane commissioned the spot’s striking exterior to local mural artist Dani Greene, who drew inspiration from the vivid colors of African art that Savane brought back from his recent trip to Guinea. The theme continues as you walk into the restaurant with bright and colorful African paintings, custom woodwork and natural light to accompany the vibrant yellow and red paint on the walls. In addition to the warm welcome you feel stepping into the restaurant, which was intentionally designed to feel like you’re hanging out in Sav’s living room, on most days Savane’s kind and generous smile will also greet you. “I feel like when I wake up every day I have a purpose, I love what I do, and I do the best I can to talk to every single person that comes through our door. They most likely have passed other restaurants to come to Sav’s, and I am thankful,” shares Savane.
If you’re coming in for the classics, Sav’s still offers the bowls that originally put his restaurant on the map ten years ago. “If I had to pick one, it would be the leaf and beef with fufu because you can’t find that anywhere. It’s comforting and healthy,” shares Savane. A combination of tender stewed beef and fresh spinach creamy fufu (an everyday staple in West African cuisine made from plantains), leaf and beef is a dish that Savane ate a lot growing up. “It rained a lot in West Africa, and during the rainy season, we would eat a lot of stews like this one. It would warm us and be very comforting,” shares Savane. “Between my mom, sisters and cousins, there were always a lot of girls in the kitchen. I paid attention, and when I started cooking, I naturally felt at home in the kitchen,” said Savane. “I had wanted to open a restaurant for ten years before I opened Sav’s Grill. I used to do block parties every year in September on my street, Victory Avenue, where I would have a big charcoal grill and grill meats and make stews. The neighbors would bring the sides. Everyone loved the food,” recalls Savane. “And now it feels so good to be at home in my neighborhood where my neighbors can walk to the restaurant and enjoy the food that brings us all so many fun memories”.
The menu at Sav’s will feature many of his tried-and-true specialties such as Sav’s Fabulous Bowls, Sav’s Famous Salads and Sav’s Chill ice-creams paired with a variety of creative new dishes inspired by a recent trip to Africa with his daughter. “I am really excited about the Kankan Steak Frites—a combination of marinated flat iron steak served alongside fries and salad topped with my housemade vinegar dressing,” says Savane. Another new dish not to be missed is the Boffa Tilapia Fillet: a marinated tilapia served atop Keke salad, a couscous made from cassava and plantains.
...it feels so good to be at home in my neighborhood where my neighbors can walk to the restaurant and enjoy the food that brings us all so many fun memories.”
February 2020 | TOPSinLex.com
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EATS & ENTERTAINMENT Dining
with
Mamadou “Sav” Savane
What made you fall in love with food? Growing up back home, as a man you work to take care of your family and the wife cooks. I was spending a ton of time with my mom and sisters in a female-dominated household and there was always food involved. I was observant. When I moved to Lexington in 1993, it wasn't easy, and we started making our own food. I felt at home in the kitchen. What do you love most about Lexington? I love the community here. Lexington has been home for 27 years now. I am very proud to call myself a Lexingtonian. I have been here longer than where I was born. It's so unique in so many ways: the community, small businesses run by local people. It is so welcoming and supportive of small businesses. I am so proud to be able to offer the community a piece of where I am from. I love building rapport with my customers and employees every day. I love people. How do you stay inspired? I try to talk to every customer here, so when I come to someone's table, and their food is gone, that makes me so happy. Some customers are so excited about what they just tasted; it makes you feel so good. I love that part of what I do. Sharing new food with customers keeps me excited to try to do better and better each day. Having that relationship with customers is exciting. I want people to come in and leave here with a big smile on their face. That inspires me. Favorite dish from your childhood? Back home in West Africa, we have a lot of different dishes, but I will say leaf and beef. I remember growing up during the rainy season and having this warm leaf and beef stew over rice. When it's chilly outside, the warm food makes you warm inside. I still remember that from my childhood. I would eat that food and go take a nap. Favorite veggie? Fresh cabbage and carrots like in the mafen beef. When you're not working, are you cooking or grabbing carryout? We love to cook at home in my culture. I tell my kids, I never went to a restaurant or out to eat. We had a huge family and put a big bowl of food on the table. Everyone would sit down and eat. And if you didn't like it, someone else would eat your portion. Piece of advice for someone who dreams of pursuing a career in food. Go try. You try and succeed or fail, but at least you tried. If you don't do it, you'll never know. When I opened Sav's Grill, I hadn't ever run a restaurant before. My wife helped a lot, but I had to figure it out. Nothing comes easy, but stick with it and don't give up.
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Top 5 Dining EATS & ENTERTAINMENT
TOP
ec
Bourbon Bonbons
a e
story by Amanda Harper
bourbonbonbons.com These handmade confections are made with premium chocolate and the finest bourbons. Bourbon Bonbons offers a sweet bite of Kentucky. Available at the Whole Foods Market Bakery at The Summit, Good Foods Co-op and on Etsy.
Old Kentucky Chocolates Hamburg, Lansdowne Shoppes and Southland Drive • oldkycandy.com Family-owned and operated for over 50 years, chocolate is in their name and it’s truly their specialty. Old Kentucky Chocolates offers a variety of unexpected sweets and treats. You have to try the chocolate covered grapes or potato chips!
Sharp’s Candies 2021 Regency Road, Lexington • 859.276.4625 • sharpscandies.com Sharp’s offers over 100 different varieties of candy, all from family recipes. From bourbon cherries, cremes and truffles made with Woodford Reserve to freshly dipped chocolate strawberries, Sharp’s has the treats that any Valentine would love.
Ruth Hunt Candies 213 Walton Avenue • 859.268.1559 • ruthhuntcandy.com With a history of excellence dating back to 1921, Ruth Hunt Candies offers a variety of chocolates and candies to suit any taste. While their Blue Monday Candy Bars may be their signature, their assorted chocolates can’t be missed. Ask about their hemp chocolates!
Heavenly Confectionery 859.373.1360 • heavenlyconfectionery.com Owner Donna handmakes all of the treats herself, from bourbon balls to brownie bites. Her chocolates are available through the Heavenly Confectionery website; she also accepts orders by phone or email.
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EATS & ENTERTAINMENT Recipe
ROASTED VEGGIE
BUDDHA BOWL Preparation:
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Ingredients:
Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicon baking mat.
1 small head cauliflower, cored and cut into bite-sized pieces (about 4 cups)
In a large mixing bowl, toss the cauliflower, broccoli and red onion together with the oil. Spread them on the baking sheet in a single layer (use 2 baking sheets if it is too crowded). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2 broccoli crowns, cut into bite-sized pieces (about 2 cups) ½ red onion, cut into bite-sized pieces
Roast for 20 minutes, then remove from the oven. Add the kale to the large mixing bowl that the other vegetables were mixed in to soak up the residual oil left in the bowl. You may need to add an additional drizzle to lightly coat the kale.
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil 2 cups kale, torn into bite-sized pieces salt, to taste
Spread the kale on top of the partially roasted vegetables. Season the kale with an additional pinch of salt and pepper, and roast for 5 minutes.
black pepper, to taste ½ cup shredded green cabbage, or a small handful (green, Napa, or red)
While the vegetables are roasting, prepare the chickpeas by heating a large nonstick skillet over medium heat and adding the remaining 1 teaspoon of oil.
Spiced Chickpeas: (makes 1½ cups) 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained, rinsed and patted dry
Add the chickpeas, cumin, garlic powder and chili powder to the skillet and stir the chickpeas for 6-8 minutes, or until fragrant and golden brown. Then set aside.
½ teaspoon ground cumin
Prepare the quinoa by bringing 2 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the quinoa, bring back up to a boil then reduce to a simmer and cover and cook for 13-15 minutes.
½ teaspoon garlic powder ¼ teaspoon chili powder 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil Quinoa Bowl Base with Vinaigrette: (makes 3 cups) 1 cup quinoa, dry (any color) 2 cups water 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil pinch of salt pinch of black pepper
Remove quinoa from the heat and let stand for 5 minutes. Then uncover and fluff with a fork. To make the quinoa vinaigrette: whisk together the red wine vinegar and oil in a small mixing bowl, or pour them into a container with a tight fitting lid and shake until combined. Stir the vinaigrette into the cooked quinoa and season with salt and pepper to taste. To assemble, evenly divide between 4 large bowls: ¾ cup quinoa, ¼ of the roasted vegetables, ¼ of the raw green cabbage and about 1⁄3 cup chickpeas.
Nutrition Facts: Yield: 4 servings | Serving Size: 1 Buddha Bowl Calories 448 | Fat 15g | Carbohydrates 61g | Cholesterol 0mg | Sodium 190mg | Fiber 14g | Sugar 8g | Protein 16g Recipe Courtesy of
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Popculture.com is the nation’s go-to source for all things pop culture and speaks to fans that eat, sleep and play amidst today’s prevailing trends and provides an authentic, one-of-a-kind view of the contemporary landscape.
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EATS & ENTERTAINMENT TOPS Dining Guide
TOPS DINING GUIDE Visit topsinlex.com for more local restaurants
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TOPS Dining Guide EATS & ENTERTAINMENT
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Equine EATS & ENTERTAINMENT
EQUINE UPDATE KENTUCKY WINTER MIXED SALE
EAGALA'S 20/20 CONFERENCE
February 10-11 | Fasig-Tipton
February 26-29 | Hyatt Regency
Held at Fasig-Tipton, North America's oldest Thoroughbred auction company, this is the ďŹ nal breeding stock event prior to the breeding season. In addition to offering leading racing/broodmare prospects and in-foal mares, the Kentucky Winter Mixed Sale presents a wide selection of newly turned yearlings. Find out more at fasigtipton.com.
Eagala is a global organization that focuses on equine-assisted psychotherapy and personal development. The Eagala 20/20 Conference will bring together more than 500 mental health and equine professionals from around the world to gain practical knowledge and inspiration from leaders in Eagala Model practice. Learn more at eagala.org.
SNOWBIRD DRESSAGE II
KJEANRL SIXTH ANNUAL SYMPOSIUM
February 15 | Kentucky Horse Park - Covered Arena Likened to ballet on horseback, Dressage is a style of riding in which horse and rider perform a series of movements to show the suppleness and trainability of their horses. This installment of the Snowbird Dressage Series will offer Introductory, Training, First, Second, Third and above levels as well as USEA classes. The show is free for spectators. For more information, go to kentuckydressageassociation.com.
February 28 | University of Kentucky J. David Rosenberg College of Law The Kentucky Journal of Equine, Agriculture and Natural Resources Law will host its 6th Annual Symposium at UK on February 28th. Symposim topics include: Federal Hemp Regulations and International Trade; Food Law;, Technology and Consumer Perceptions; Ethics; Safe Sport in the Equine Industry; Equine Activitiy Liability Acts; and Clean Water Act Litigation. For more information, go to kjeanrl.com.
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EATS & ENTERTAINMENT BBN
BBN football story by Larry Vaught | Photos by Rob Bolson and Vicky Graff
N
o one has to tell Kentucky coach Mark Stoops how different it will be not having Lynn Bowden on the UK football team next season. "I don't know if you can replace a guy like this," Stoops said. "You have to get a bunch of good players around him and continue to develop the program." That's what Stoops and UK have been doing and look to continue to do. After winning ten games in 2018, Kentucky finished 8-5 in 2019 despite significant personnel losses off the 2018 team and a season-ending injury to quarterback Terry Wilson in game two. Bowden shifted from receiver to quarterback the last eight games and led UK to six wins and record-setting rushing totals for him and his offense. Kentucky returns the majority of its starters and loses only eight scholarship players who were significant contributors to last season's success. The Cats got a considerable boost when offensive tackle Landon Young and nose guard Quinton Bohanna
both opted to stay at UK for their final seasons rather than put their names into the NFL draft. If that's not enough, the Cats put together their highest-ranked recruiting class that includes highly-regarded quarterback Joey Gatewood, a transfer from Auburn, and five-star Michigan lineman Justin Rogers. "Let me be clear on this … we have some excellent dudes coming into this program," recruiting coordinator Vince Marrow said. "We've done a good job recruiting some kids nobody else really did and developing them into outstanding players. But you have to have the Jimmys and Joes and we have five-star, four-star guys coming now. We have some very, very high rated guys wanting to come every year now." Stoops said recruits know "we win games and we're playing in bowl games" annually. "We want to continue to build this program and take it to another level, so it's imperative to have a quality recruiting class like this one," the UK coach said.
Photo this page by Rob Bolson | Ali Bowen and son celebrate UK's win at the 2019 Belk Bowl.
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BBN EATS & ENTERTAINMENT Kentucky has won 32 games the last four years and been to four straight bowl games. The talent level is to the point that the Cats redshirted every freshman in 2019, something very few schools are ever able to do. "It's not that those guys can't play," Marrow said. "We just didn't have to throw any of them in there like we did when we first got here. We have depth now. We played those guys, just not enough to burn their redshirt years, and you are going to see that freshman class has some bigtime guys in there." The team will undoubtedly go into the 2020 season with a lot of buzz from the UK fan base because of what this team did. The Cats went from 2-3 with three quarterbacks hurt to 8-5 and perhaps the biggest storyline in college football with what Bowden did this year by rushing for 1,468 yards in eight games to lead the SEC in total yards and rushing yards per carry at 7.94. He ran for 13 touchdowns — and of course led that eight-minute, 85-yard drive that won the Belk Bowl on his touchdown pass to Josh Ali. CBSsports.com ranked the Belk Bowl as the best bowl of the college football season, and that should add to the excitement for the Cats going into next season. Even with everyone knowing UK was going to run this year, the Cats gained 3,624 yards — most rushing yards in the Stoops era at UK — and ranked fourth nationally with 278.8 rushing yards per game. The Cats had four players rush for over 500 yards and average 5.5 yards per carry or more behind the Big Blue Wall built by offensive line coach John Schlarman. "How can you not want to play for coach Schlarman?" Marrow said. "The last four years have been terrific and we are starting to get the credit now nationally that those guys deserve. That's how you build teams in the SEC with the offensive and defensive lines, and we have good guys coming back and hit a home run with the O-line and D-line in this recruiting class." The defense, decimated by graduation losses going into the season, gave up just 168 passing yards per game—third in the country behind Clemson and Ohio State—and only nine passing touchdowns—tied for the nation's best mark. Kentucky had the SEC's fifth-best defense and gave up just four plays of 50 or more yards, the nation's fourthbest mark. Calvin Taylor and Jamar Watson combined for 15 sacks, the best one-two combo in the SEC, and Watson returns. Punter Max Duffy won the Ray Guy Award as the nation's best punter by averaging 48.12 yards per kick. "We've got a lot of pieces coming back and added some guys that could be pieces of our team next year," Marrow said. "We still are not where we want to be, but we are getting there. We've climbed up the mountain but we're not at the top yet, and that's where we want to be." Photos this page by Vicky Graff | Top: Josh Ali winning touchdown catch at the Belk Bowl. | Bottom: Players celebrate with fans at the Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, NC.
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PHOTOS
UK FOOTBALL
BELK BOWL Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, NC December 31 ukathletics.com Photos by Rob Bolson
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PHOTOS
February 2020 | TOPSinLex.com
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PHOTOS
UK FOOTBALL
BELK BOWL Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, NC December 31 ukathletics.com Photos by Rob Bolson
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PHOTOS
NEW YEARS EVE Various locations in Lexington December 31 Photos by Ron Morrow, Danny Pendleton, Woody Phillips and Ruth Weinstock
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PHOTOS
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PHOTOS
THE EPILEPSY FOUNDATION
BOURBON BARREL SELECTION Bluegrass Distillers | January 10 epilepsy.com Photos by Ron Morrow
NATHAN BROWN AND SAM ROCK
MERIEM BENSALEM-OWEN AND TUKEA TALBERT
JOHN & PATTY SLEVIN
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FAUSTO SARMIENTO AND MARK EDWARD COUCH
DEB MCGRATH AND SUSAN HOLL
TOPS in Lexington | February 2020
ALEX & FRED YIANNIKOURIS
PHOTOS
PHILLIP CHANG AND ROB BEATTY
IMA EBONG AND AUDRA MILLER
JONATHAN LUTZ, JESSICA TOPE, TABITHA & LUCAS RAINEY
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PHOTOS
CORETTA SCOTT KING
SPIRIT OF IVY AWARDS DINNER Embassy Suites | January 18 pearlsofserviceky.org Photos by Woody Phillips
SONYA L. BOWEN AND BILL WILSON
SHAQUISHA RAY AND YVETTE THOMPSON
PAM & TONY DAVIS
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WHITLEY COSTNER, YOLANDA COSTNER AND JACQUELINE COLEMAN
JOYCE NICHOLSON, SHIRLEY LIVISAY AND JOYCELYN LEWIS
TOPS in Lexington | February 2020
PHOTOS
ANGEL FLUKER AND FAITH THOMPSON
KIM PARKER BROWN, DOROTHY BUCKHANAN WILSON AND DANA BRANHAM
GLENDA HUMPHREY GEORGE AND SAMANATHA ANDERSON
DARRYL THOMPSON AND DENISE HAYDEN
MAKAYLA BROWN AND JACQUELYN LEE
ALPHA LEAGUE
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PHOTOS
DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. HOLIDAY COMMEMORATIVE PROGRAM AND FREEDOM MARCH Heritage Hall and Downtown Lexington January 20 Photos courtesy of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and the Office of the Mayor
ASHLEY OLIVER
DELMAN COATES
LEE JACKSON, JOELLEN WILHOITE, SHERI ESTILL AND RANDALL VAUGHN
FREEDOM MARCH
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TYRA PETTIGREW
PHOTOS
AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION
HEART WALK KICK-OFF Malone’s Prime | January 16 heart.org Photos by Woody Phillips
KAREN HARBIN AND RICK POGROTSKY
VINCE MARROW AND KENNETH HORSEY
DICK GABRIEL
NATALIE LITTLEFIELD
ALICIA MCCARTY AND PAULA FOX
HEART WALK COACHES
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PHOTOS
2020 BARBASOL CHAMPIONSHIP
TEE-OFF EVENT Keene Run Golf Course | January 16 barbasolchampionship.com Photos by Woody Phillips
BRYAN PETTIGREW, JIM HERMAN AND CHANDLER KAPLAN
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DAN KOETT AND DAMON MAZZA
CARL NATHE, LEE WEBB AND SAM GRAY
GEORGE FUCHS AND MARIANNE DEWIER
COLM TAYLOR, ALAN STEIN AND CRAIG OLIVE
TOPS in Lexington | February 2020
PHOTOS
KED FRANK AND ZAK DUFF
TOM HEILBRON AND LAUREN VERNON
MIKHAIL JENKINS AND RACHEL DITTO
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PHOTOS
PARTY WITH A PURPOSE The Signature Club | January 23 Benefiting Refuge for Women Kentucky rfwky.org Photos by Woody Phillips
BOBBI TURNER, MELINDA DRAKE AND LOIS REYNOLDS
JAYME JACKSON AND DEANN STEPHENS COX BARBIE PICKETT, AMY MELLINGER AND MICHELE WHITE
AMY WATTS AND SHERRI MOSLEY
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PAULA AND LAUREN ELDER, JAIME KAWAJA AND KAMRYN BLACKBURN
TOPS in Lexington | February 2020
PHOTOS
TONYA WIDMER AND CHARLENE MERRIMAN
KIRSTEN TURNER
JULIE JENSEN
UK COACHES WIVES AND FRIENDS
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of Events
CALENDAR
FEBRUARY 6
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Fiddler on the Roof
7:30pm Lexington Opera House
The Lexington Gathering Kickoff 9pm The Burl
FEBRUARY 7 Fiddler on the Roof
7:30pm Lexington Opera House
Selma the Musical: The Untold Stories 7pm The Lyric Theatre & Cultural Arts Center
Wear Red Day WearRedDay.org
Kentucky Sport, Boat & Recreation Show 12pm Central Bank Center
FEBRUARY 8 Craig Morgan
7:30pm Singletary Center
TOPS in Lexington | February 2020
Fiddler on the Roof
1pm & 7:30pm Lexington Opera House
Kentucky Sport, Boat & Recreation Show 9am Central Bank Center
Selma the Musical: The Untold Stories
2pm & 7pm The Lyric Theatre & Cultural Arts Center
FEBRUARY 9 Fiddler on the Roof
1pm & 6:30pm Lexington Opera House
Selma the Musical: The Untold Stories 3pm The Lyric Theatre & Cultural Arts Center
Kentucky Sport, Boat & Recreation Show 10am Central Bank Center
FEBRUARY 13 KISS: End of the Road 7:30pm Rupp Arena
FEBRUARY 14 UK Symphony Orchestra: Valentine's Day 7:30pm Singletary Center
UK Men's Basketball vs. Ole Miss 2pm Rupp Arena
Learn to Live: Heart Health Event
Vagina Monologues
7:30pm Transylvania University
Lexington Ballet Company: A Midsummer Night's Dream 7:30pm Lexington Opera House
FEBRUARY 15 American Spiritual Ensemble & the Kentucky Jazz Repertory Orchestra perform the music of Duke Ellington 7:30pm Singletary Center
Lexington Ballet Company: A Midsummer Night's Dream
Cirque Diablo
FEBRUARY 16
Blue Beethoven
Seeing is Believing Showcase
7:30pm Transylvania University
7:30pm Lexington Opera House
7:30pm Singletary Center for the Arts
6pm Lyric Theatre & Cultural Arts Center
Black History Month Celebration
FEBRUARY 18 The Office! A Musical Parody 7:30pm Lexington Opera House
FEBRUARY 19 The Office! A Musical Parody 7:30pm Lexington Opera House
6pm William Wells Brown Community Center
FEBRUARY 22 Raul Midรณn & Lionel Loueke 7:30pm Singletary Center
UK Men's Basketball vs. Florida 6pm Rupp Arena
FEBRUARY 20 Cirque Diablo
7:30pm Lexington Opera House
7:30pm Lexington Opera House
Vagina Monologues
6:30pm RJ Corman Railroad Group Hangar
9am Fayette Mall in front of Dillard's
Luke Combs
7pm Rupp Arena
Wild Game Dinner & Sports Auction
FEBRUARY 21 DL Hughley
7:15pm & 9:45pm Comedy Off Broadway
DL Hughley
6pm & 8:30pm Comedy Off Broadway
Colour of Love Reception & Screening
5pm The Lyric Theatre & Cultural Arts Center
Due to the changing nature of events, please contact hosting organizations before attending any event. Visit TOPSinLex.com for more fun!
CALENDAR of Events FEBRUARY 23 DL Hughley
Polar Plunge
9:30am Texas Roadhouse
6pm Comedy Off Broadway
Lexington Chamber Chorale: Celebrating Black History Month 5pm Second Presbyterian Church
FEBRUARY 26 The You & Me Tour
7:30pm Lexington Opera House
FEBRUARY 27 The Beach Boys
7:30pm EKU Center for the Arts
FEBRUARY 28 Sturgill Simpson with special guest Tyler Childers 7:30pm Rupp Arena
FEBRUARY 29
MARCH 1 Master P and the No Limit Reunion 7:30pm Rupp Arena
Alltech Vocal Scholarship Competition
2pm Singletary Center for the Arts
MARCH 3 UK Men’s Basketball vs. Tennessee 9pm Rupp Arena
Walk On: the Story of Rosa Parks 9:15 & 11am EKU Center for the Arts
MARCH 5 Ain’t I a Woman? 7pm Lyric Theatre
UK Men's Basketball vs. Auburn 3:45pm Rupp Arena
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MARCH 6 Black Jacket Symphony: Journey’s “Escape” Lexington Opera House
Frankel Cocktails & Casino Night 7:30pm The Carrick House
Zac Brown Band 7pm Rupp Arena
Tails & Ales
7pm Campbell House
Blue Grass Trust Antiques & Garden Show 10am-6pm Alltech Arena
Country Unplugged
7:30pm Singletary Center for the Arts
Amplified: International Women’s Festival Kick Off Concert 8pm Lyric Theatre & Cultural Arts Center
MARCH 7
SAVE THE DATE
International Women’s Festival
Keeneland Spring Meet
12-5pm Lyric Theatre
April 2-24 at Keeneland
Central Kentucky Heart Ball
Kentucky Three-Day Event
6pm Central Bank Center
April 23-26 at the Kentucky Horse Park
Marty Stuart
Kentucky Bluegrass Wine Auction & Derby Gala
7:30pm Lexington Opera House
Blue Grass Trust Antiques & Garden Show
April 30 at Donamire Farm
Lillies in Lexington
Man & Woman of the Year June 19 at Marriott Griffin Gate
Barbasol Championship
July 13-19 at Champions at Keene Trace
Woodford Humane Society Summer Gala July 25 at Keeneland
Lexington Restaurant Week
May 1 at Keeneland
July 24-August 2
Derby Day in Lexington
Railbird
MARCH 8
May 2 at Keeneland
August 22-23 at Keeneland
Blue Grass Trust Antiques & Garden Show
Dancing with the Lexington Stars
UK Football Home Opener
Taste of the Bluegrass
Bluegrass International Cup
10am-6pm Alltech Arena
11am-4pm Alltech Arena
MARCH 13 Future of Fashion 2020 The Thoroughbred Center
Dance SCAPA
7:30pm Lexington Opera House
May 9 at Marriott Griffin Gate
May 15 at Keeneland
Lexington Heart Walk May 9 at Keeneland
KET Summer Celebration June 6 at Donamire Farm
12pm at Kroger Field
September 11 at Mt. Brilliant Farm
Keeneland Fall Meet
October 2-24 at Keeneland
Breeders’ Cup
November 6-7 at Keeneland
Due to the changing nature of events, please contact hosting organizations before attending any event. Visit TOPSinLex.com for more fun!
PHOTOS Top Shots
TS
The 'Dream Team' of organizers for the ďŹ rst Party for a Purpose Pajama Party: Kirsten Turner, Melinda Drake, Paula Elder, DeAnn Stephens, Jaime Kawaja and Bobbi Turner
Coretta Scott King Spirit Of Ivy Awards Dinner
Chinese New Year Celebration
The Rotary Club awards Diane & Rob Perez their Humanitarian award
Marriott at City Center Ribbon-Cutting
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