TOPS in Lexington Magazine, January 2016 by TOPS Magazine

TOPS AROUND TOWN 30 Out & About 32 TOPS In Lexington Preview Party #1 34 TOPS In Lexington Preview Party #2 36 All In to End Cancer #1 38 All In to End Cancer #2

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40 Hilton Holiday Sampler 42 LYPA Holiday Party 44 UK Dunkfest 158 Go Red for Women Luncheon #1 160 Go Red for Women Luncheon #2 162 Go Red for Women Luncheon #3 164 YMCA Reindeer Ramble 166 Winter Gratitude Gala 168 LeXenomics Best of the BG Awards 170 December Business Link 202 TOP Shots

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Captions for event photos 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.

JANUARY 2016 | TOPSINLEX.COM

IN EVERY ISSUE 46 Sports: A Look Back at 2015 53 Relationships: Getting Naked 119 Etiquette: A New YOU 120 Gardening: Tropical Paradise 123 Family: Family Movie Night 124 Parties: Emerging Party Trends for 2016 125 Fashion: The Coat Crave 127 Posh Pets: Winter Yarns 156 Business News 177 Weddings: Would You Choose Wood? 178 The Southern Lady Cooks: Winter Comforts 180 TOP 5 Dining: The Liquid Edition 184 Dining: Brazenly Flavorful 188 A Taste of Thyme: Take it with a Grain of Salt

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190 Lesleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s List 193 Lex & the City 196 Save the Date January & February 200 Save the Date 2016

128 177 The views and comments expressed by the authors are not always that of our editors or publishers. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this publication, TOP Marketing Group accepts no responsibility or liability for any errors, omissions or resultant consequences, including any loss or damage arising from the reliance on information in this publication. All images contained in TOPS in Lexington Magazine are subject to copyright of the artist or photographer as named, but not limited thereto. Reproduction of any part of this magazine without prior written permission is prohibited.

JANUARY 2016 | TOPSINLEX.COM

Fit, Fab & Over 40

Charm Wingate

Certified Professional Coder, Compliance Auditor, Physician Educator, 43

harm has dealt with chronic lower back pain and arthritis. “I believe by strengthening my body, I am overcoming both conditions,” she says. “I’m improving my health. If I don’t take care of myself, these minor conditions can turn into major issues. I’m not willing to do that to myself. I deserve to be healthy.”

Charm says she is motivated by her parents, who both have had battles with serious health issues and chose to change their lifestyles. “I respect them so much for their commitment to getting healthy and fit,” Charm explains. “They are my role models; they inspire my walk with Christ, my commitment to my family and my work ethic.” Charm believes in a “no excuses” approach. “I make sure I keep my workouts a priority; my workout sessions are just as important as my faith, my family and my paychecks,” Charm says. “If I’m not healthy, then I’m hindering what I can contribute to my family and to my job.” Charm has been married for 17 years and has four children and a standard Poodle named Miles Davis. She enjoys sharing her “clean eating” meals on social media as Chef Charmee. To keep it simple, Charm enjoys lean meats, veggies and fruits. Her favorite healthy snack is avocado. For anyone getting started on their fitness journey, Charm suggests signing up for the Aspire Fitness aspirefitnessky.com/subscribe-to-our-mailing-list free newsletter, which offers nutrition and fitness information. She also suggests keeping it simple and starting with the basics and stay positive., it’s a journey not a race.

“Surround yourself with people on the same mission as you. That alone is GREATNESS in the making! Iron sharpens IRON! #bettereveryday”

JANUARY 2016 | TOPSINLEX.COM

Fit, Fab & Over 40

Tom Greinke

SVP, Chief Lending Officer, Bank of the Bluegrass & Trust Co., 40

om is a firm believer that fitness should be a part of an everyday routine. “I try not to think of it as ‘making time’,” he suggests. “Enjoy your fitness, do whatever you can do, as little as it may be – it all counts”. For Tom, his love of cycling began in college. He especially enjoys Lexington’s beautiful landscape while cycling in and around town. Tom prioritizes fitness because he endeavors to age as well as he can. “My great-grandfather lived to be over 100 years old. He was active every day, maintained a healthy lifestyle and enjoyed a tremendous quality of life beyond age 100,” he says. In addition to improving health, Tom suggests that fitness can be harmonious with the development and support of healthy relationships. “Walking the neighborhood and UK Arboretum with my wife and creating some ‘quiet time’ to truly communicate has been extremely beneficial over the past few years, especially as the kids’ number of activities has increased!” With his three children participating in basketball, baseball, volleyball, swimming, guitar and piano, plus his own involvement with Crestwood Christian Church, Eastern Little League and Glendover Basketball League, finding time to be fit with his wife Kelly is truly cherished. Tom enjoys cycling, walking, running, swimming and playing with his kids. In addition to being an avid recreational cyclist, Tom completed the Tough Mudder in 2013 (Maysville), Horse Capital half marathon (2015) and multiple 5ks, 10ks and sprint distance triathlons.

“Fitness can mean different things to different people, but staying active is key to maintaining and improving quality of life.”

JANUARY 2016 | TOPS MAGAZINE

Fit, Fab & Over 40

Kim Montgomery Stay at Home Mom of 3, 44

hen Kim was diagnosed with hypothyroidism after the birth of her first child, she fell out of the habit of staying active. “I just didn’t have the drive or energy to work out,” she explains. “After 15 years of not exercising, I heard about a free tennis clinic, so I decided to give it a try. I was hooked!” She joined the club and started taking lessons and group clinics.

Just as Kim was finding her groove, her body began to break down. “I was in a lot of pain and spending lots of time in doctors’ offices and physical therapy. I suffered from shin splints and joint pain,” she says. “I began to imagine what my body would be like years down the road if I continued to do nothing. I knew I had to make a change.” She read about the Whole30 program, a month long clean-eating diet. Kim tried it and lost twelve pounds. She continued to eat cleanly and found exercises that she enjoyed. Kim says that her Catholic faith played a critical role in her success and she realized that her body is a gift that needs to be respected and cared for. Kim works out with a tennis pro at Lexington Tennis Club three times a week and plays on multiple tennis teams. She and her husband are doing p90x and running together. Now, Kim feels great and has lots of energy; her joints no longer hurt and she is healed completely. In total, she has lost 86 pounds!

“Through this journey, I have a new appreciation for what my body can do.”

JANUARY 2016 | TOPSINLEX.COM

Fit, Fab & Over 40

Pam & Matt Valentine

Pam: President, Automobile BDC/Service BDC, 44 Matt: CEO/Chief Investigator, Liar Catchers/LCProtection, 48

am and Matthew are a fit couple with busy lives. In addition to running their own businesses, they have a son, two daughters, three grandchildren, two dogs and a pet fish. Still, they manage to make exercise and eating right part of their routines. Pam is a breast cancer survivor and her family has a history of obesity, so she has always put fitness as a priority in her life. On top of that, she says that her business keeps her on her toes. “Owning your own business, you can never afford downtime. Employees get sick and you have to pick up the ball and run,” she says. “There are no excuses in business, and client commitments come first.” Matthew gained 40 extra pounds in his thirties. The couple built a gym in their home, allowing them to work out any time of day. By the time he went into his 40s, he had lost the weight. “With Diabetes, my body has enough to worry about without the stress of extra weight,” he explains. “I view each and every routine daily activity as an opportunity to excel.’ Matthew, an ordained minister and a black belt in Hapkido, enjoys competitive shooting and is a member of the Lexington Rotary Club. Pam is a Rotary volunteer and motivational speaker. They skip fried foods and sugar when possible, instead choosing protein-rich foods and snacks. They are both huge fans of the FitBit as a fitness tool.

“Feeling healthy is the best way to start your day.”

JANUARY 2016 | TOPS MAGAZINE

Fit, Fab & Over 40

Brian Nash

President of Brian Nash Machinery Inc., 50

“L

ike most people, work overtook my fitness and eating habits,” Brain explains. “I decided to change my priorities when the results of my health checks were not as optimal as they should be.” Now, Brian strength trains twice a week at Strong Shop Fitness and does cardio at home three times a week. He says his work schedule is tight, so he works to build his fitness routine around it. In five years of training at Strong Shop, Brian has reduced his body fat from over 25% to just 12%. For Brian, the key to staying fit is making it a family activity. Brian and his wife have two kids and a German Shepherd. They train together and make fitness a part of their daily lives. “My whole family engages in some form of physical activity weekly.” To keep his diet in check, Brian has implemented a ratio of 40% protein, 35% carbohydrates and 25% fats. He enjoys eating broccoli, chicken, sweet potatoes, rice and eggs. His favorite snack is popcorn at the movie theatre – no butter, light salt – with a Diet Coke. “This hasn’t been a linear progression: there are ups and downs in trying to achieve your fitness goals,” Brian explains, “but by selecting a good trainer or centering around physically active people, you can achieve your goal!”

“On vacation, my family enjoys activities like hiking in the Smoky Mountains and going to the gym.”

JANUARY 2016 | TOPSINLEX.COM

Fit, Fab & Over 40

Kari Kirchner

Principal, Mary Todd Elementary School, 57

s a teen, Kari was very athletic, playing sports in high school and intramural sports in college. “Then came family and career,” Kari says. “I put my fitness on the back shelf.” After her second child was born, Kari was the heaviest she had ever been and she knew things had to change. “I didn’t have the energy I needed to work fulltime, go to graduate school and chase 2 pre-school aged children around!” Kari has osteopenia (thinning of her bones), so exercise and a healthy diet are even more critical to help stave off osteoporosis. As the Principal of an elementary school, Kari’s day starts early. She wakes up at 4:30 am, which allows her to do a 30-minute workout before she walks her 8-year-old Shih Tzu and heads off to work with 530 students and 75 staff members. Starting the day with fitness, she says, ensures that nothing else can get in the way. Kari is proud to help get her school involved with living a healthier lifestyle. “We have a Fitness Friday every month so that both students and staff can learn about and practice wellness. Our teachers at Mary Todd work movement/brain breaks into instruction several times a day,” she explains.

“As I begin looking forward to retirement in several years, I am very conscious of taking care of my health and staying fit so that I can enjoy that next chapter of my life.”

JANUARY 2016 | TOPS MAGAZINE

Fit, Fab & Over 40

Rita Crowe

Fitness Instructor/ LiveStrong Trainer, 59

hen Rita was involved in a head-on collision in 1988, everything in her life changed. “I spent 8 years in pain, going from doctor to doctor trying to get my life back,” she says. “I was told to find a doctor who would work with me on pain meds, and to learn to live with the pain.” She developed Fibromyalgia and Psoriatic Arthritis, leaving her at her wits end while trying to care for a young son. “When I went to the YWCA and started to swim, I had my first day without pain,” she says. “I was amazed! I knew there were other people that were walking around in the same shape that could have a better quality of life if they only knew.” Rita eventually was able to walk without the crutches or cane she had become dependent on. Rita was motivated to keep taking classes and eventually began teaching them. “I am now at the YMCA and have some water aerobics participants who have followed me for 26 years,” she says. A few years ago, Rita branched out to begin teaching the Silver Sneakers Group of seniors and training cancer survivors through the free LiveStrong @ the Y Program. “I am motivated by these seniors and cancer survivors, who can fight for a better quality of life with a smile on their face,” she says. “I love that I can be a little part of that, although they do all the work.”

“Who doesn’t want to work out with friends?”

JANUARY 2016 | TOPS MAGAZINE

Fit, Fab & Over 40

Maynard Crosslands President/CEO, Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill, 60

“I

have had a love/hate relationship with fitness for many years,” Maynard admits. “In my 40s, I became an avid biker. But then I was hit by a truck while on my bike, and my passion for riding disappeared.” That experience, combined with a new job, a big move and the effects of aging all took a toll on Maynard’s body. “I had to make a change, and nearly four years ago, I made the commitment to get healthy again.” Maynard knew that developing a fitness routine on his own was too heavy on aerobic activity and lacking in muscle development. “That is why I sought out a personal trainer and strength coach who could guide me in a routine that would include all phases of fitness,” he explains. Now, they work on a wide variety of activities. “With the help of my strength coach, I am focused on a full-body, energy training system that provides variety and challenges me to find muscles I didn’t even know I had.” Maynard’s job involves a lot of stamina and strategic thinking; he also wants to be healthy and strong for his family. “Fitness has to be a priority in order for me to succeed in both my professional and personal life,” he says. “I have learned that it is not about how I look, or how much I weigh,” Maynard explains.

“Fitness is about how I feel, how strong I am, and having the stamina to face life’s complications so that I can accomplish my life goals.”

JANUARY 2016 | TOPSINLEX.COM

Fit, Fab & Over 40

Terry & Gail Bryant Owners, Bryant’s Rent-All Terry, 71 | Gail, 65

wenty-one years ago, Terry had surgery to remove a non-malignant tumor on the auditory and balance nerve. “The surgeon recommended walking and physical activity as therapy. Meanwhile, Gail’s doctor suggested physical exercise to strengthen her skeletal structure and cardio system,” Terry says. Together, Terry and Gail enjoy spinning at Cycle You. “We both have a little arthritis creeping into our systems and spinning helps us stay limber and gives us energy,” Gail explains. “It’s easy on the joints!” In addition to spinning, the couple enjoys walking, biking, working at their small business and doing deep-breathing exercises.

To keep on top of their fitness, the couple has to stay flexible. “We operate a small family business, which means work always comes first over other activities. We schedule our spinning after work hours and before we go home,” Gail says. The couple has two grown children and grandchildren ranging in age from 9 to 21. “Our fitness activities help us with our blood pressure, cardiovascular system, muscle tone and skeletal structure. It keeps our lungs strong and our bodies young. We meet lots of nice, interesting people,” Terry says. When they’re not running Bryant’s Rent-All or working on staying fit, the couple enjoys the arts and are passionate about supporting the UK Opera Theatre program. “The highlight of the year is Grand Night for Singing,” Terry says. “Lexington is full of talented musicians to be enjoyed!”

“Spinning was the answer for us.”

JANUARY 2016 | TOPS MAGAZINE

Fit, Fab & Over 40

Joe Wilson Retired, 81

oe has completed 50 triathlons – all since he turned 69! Joe began running in his 40s. However, his arthritic joints have made running uncomfortable and inconvenient. Rather than give up on his fitness, Joe has simply switched gears. Now, he swims three times a week with the UK Masters swim program. In the winter, he takes spinning classes at HealthwoRx three times a week; during the summer, he bikes outdoors. He also runs when his joints allow it, which he says is infrequently. For Joe, staying active is necessary. “I just don’t feel well without frequent exercise,” he explains. After retirement and until recently, Joe worked part-time teaching at UK; now, he is a chemistry tutor for middle and high school students, as well as at the Carnegie Center. He has also done other teaching and outreach work, including serving on several non-profit boards. Joe’s wife prepares balanced, gluten-free meals for Joe, as he has celiac disease. He enjoys snacking on nuts and yogurt and says his favorite “splurge” food is flourless chocolate cake and ice cream. Joe has three adult children. For anyone looking to get fit, Joe suggests setting a regular schedule. “Develop the habit,” he advises. For him, an approach that worked well was exercising with a group on a set schedule, often early morning.

“It’s a habit now and if I don’t exercise, I feel uneasy.”

JANUARY 2016 | TOPS MAGAZINE

Brand New Man

How Local Best - Selling Author and Financial Consultant Don McNay Became

A Brand New Man by Don McNay

One year ago,

“I’m born to love again I’m a Brand New Man”

My father was a professional gambler and I have I started a journey that a secondary career helping – Brooks and Dunn allowed me to lose over 100 lottery winners with their pounds. It was more than finances. I picked up a few just fixing my body. It was about fixing my outlook on life. What weight loss success things from a lifetime of watching gamblers. One is that I did for my confidence and courage is what truly has made am always looking for an “edge” that will help my side of any calculation. I do research, study and weigh the odds. me a “brand new man.” Fighting a lifelong battle against obesity made me feel When I see an opportunity, I immediately go “all in,” like like Sisyphus; the character from Greek mythology who a poker player would. I put all of my resources on a deciwas doomed to push a rock up near the top of a hill, only sion and live or die with it. If I have done my homework, to have it go back down the hill. Through a process of it ought to work out. education, good systems, great advisors and focusing on I had weight loss surgery even though my health the positive, optimism has replaced a lifelong feeling of insurance would not pay for it. I recovered from surgery impending doom. with a detailed plan that included changing every aspect Before last year, I was a streetwise consumer, but a sucker for numerous quick and easy weight loss gimmicks. Then I would be overwhelmed with “failure syndrome” the first time that anything would go wrong. If I gained a pound, I would give myself permission to gain 10 more. It was the opposite of how I reacted to anything else in life. It was like I had been taken over by a body snatcher, that was determined to leave my health in a state of chaos. It was time to kick the body snatcher out. I had reached 377 pounds and far past the point where they consider you morbidly obese. I was 55 years old and my health issues were starting to impact my relationships, my businesses and the rest of my life. I was on my way to a miserable and reasonably quick death, but still buried inside was that part of my personality that truly believes that anyone can achieve anything if they put their minds to it. That “can-do” mindset is back on the front burner. I made a plan and implemented it.

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of my life. I share parts of the plan in the Brand New Man book, but recognize what worked for me may not work for everyone. In a world full of unique people, I am more unique than most. Each person has their own set of goals, character traits and values and needs to find a plan and experts that work for them. People can learn from my story, but I don’t offer many hard and fast rules. Rules need to have consequences when they are broken. The enthusiasm and courage that I draw from the experience of the last year has made me better at what I do and happier about who I am than any other time in my life. I call upon strengths that I never knew I had and keep pushing the envelope of what I can be. I don’t know what my upward potential is, but I’m going to keep pushing until I get there. At age 56, a point in life when many people are looking at slowing down, I’m kicking into a new and faster gear.

Brand New Man

How I Got Fat (In Exactly 400 Words) In describing how I got to this point in my life, I draw literary inspiration from the great philosopher from Margaritaville, Jimmy Buffett. Jimmy Buffett’s book A Pirate Looks at Fifty is well worth owning just to read his chapter “My Life (In Four Hundred Words or Less).” He gets most of his biographical highlights into a witty and insightful four hundred word essay. I could write an entire book tracing my early life and how I got past the point of morbid obesity, but Jimmy Buffett wrote two other lyrics that are appropriate to remember: “Yesterday’s over my shoulder, so I can’t look back for too long,” and “but I know it’s nobody’s fault.” Thus, here is the story of how I got fat in four hundred words: My dad was a bookie and my mom worked in a potato chip factory. Everyone in my family was overweight and died at a young age. I was fit in the first grade, but we moved to the suburbs and my parents got divorced. I got chunky and picked on, and someone tried to cram cottage cheese down my throat. Then I had an early growth spurt, and I became a decent athlete. I did well academically my last year of high school and became semipopular.

My skewed childhood gave me a sense of ambition, selfconfidence and determination tempered with feelings of exclusion, irony and empathy with the underdog. None of that has changed. College at Eastern Kentucky University was wonderful, and my nonstop activity balanced my diet of fast food, soda and frozen pizzas. I stayed at a good weight for five years. I started gaining 10 pounds a year in graduate school at Vanderbilt. I was at 270 in 1989 when I went to a liquid weight loss program. I lost 90 pounds and eventually gained it back. I did the program several times, never lost less than 50 pounds and gained more every time. That went on for about 25 years.

I’ve slept with a CPAP for 20 years, been on blood pressure medicine for 30 years and stalled the move to insulin by staying on a low carb diet. I rarely drink, don’t smoke and don’t do illegal drugs. I travel frequently and have been to zillions of nice restaurants, but kept the stockholders of McDonalds happy along the way. I was married, divorced and married again. I started my own “fat guys” group. We stayed together for several years, but no one really lost weight. A hypnotist got me to stop eating potato chips. A shrink helped me deal with my childhood traumas, sudden family deaths and anything else that was bugging me. A personal trainer helped my 377-pound body exercise, and I read over 100 books on

JANUARY 2016 | TOPS MAGAZINE

Better Living

Arthur Murray Dance Studio 859-278-7711 | Lexingtonarthurmurray.com

fun!

his year, it’s time to try something different to stay in shape! Ballroom Dancing is fast becoming one of the most popular sports to lose weight, stay fit, and have

Dancing with or without a partner during a private lesson will burn an average of anywhere from 450–600 calories at a time. Most students find that dancing is the equivalent of walking a mile and a half! With so many different dances like Tango, Waltz, Rumba, Samba, and Quick Step, there is something for everyone. Take the first step—if you can walk, you can dance! Don’t miss the chance to enjoy learning to dance! Try a free private lesson and see how easy and fun it can be with Lexington’s favorite dance studio!

Susan E. Neil, M.C., FAAFP 859-278-6345 2101 Nicholasville Rd.

r. Susan Neil is a board certified physician who specializes in non-surgical cosmetic treatments and integrative medicine. She is a Fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians, The American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery and the American Academy of Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine. In early 2012, Dr. Neil introduced Liposonix to Kentucky, offering a non-surgical permanent method for reducing targeted fat in the waist, flank and hip areas. Liposonix uses high-intensity ultrasound to destroy fat cells, which are then reabsorbed by the body. One treatment typically results in a 1-2 inch decrease, and may be repeated after 3 months if needed. The energy used also causes collagen contraction, so there is no increase in loose skin afterwards. In addition to Liposonix for the body, Dr. Neil now offers KYBELLA injections to permanently remove fat under the chin. Excellent results are being seen in just one or two treatments, but the amount of fat present dictates the number of treatments needed. Dr. Neil has been doing treatments with fillers and Botox for over 12 years, including Radiesse, Sculptra, Restylane, and Juvederm. She is also certified in hand rejuvenation with Radiesse. Dr. Neil was among the first physicians in the US to use Thermage®, a unique non-surgical procedure for firming and contouring skin

and reducing wrinkles. It can be performed on the eyelids and body as well as the face. Since its introduction in 2002, over 1 million treatments have been performed worldwide. Dr. Neil offers patients the benefits of a specialized Thermage device for treating the body, for faster treatment of loose skin on the arms, abdomen or thighs, as well as improving the appearance of cellulite, usually in one treatment, although with more skin laxity a six-month followup treatment may be advised. In addition to treating cosmetic concerns, Dr. Neil continues to enjoy practicing medicine, with interests in cardiovascular risk reduction, healthy aging, hormone replacement, skin cancer risk reduction, and migraine. Call for a consultation to look and feel your best in 2016!

JANUARY 2016 | TOPS MAGAZINE

Better Living

justice dental 859-303-9539 | doyoursmilejustice.com

t’s easy to assume that outside of Manhattan or Beverly Hills there isn’t access to the best dental care - Enter Dr. Laura Justice. As an official dentist to the Miss Kentucky Pageant, Dr. Justice works closely with local and national television celebrities right from her Lexington based practice. “I guess what has gotten me where I am today is an unswerving passion for mastery in my profession and the willingness to put in the hours to get there.” she said. As one of 65 Accredited Fellow of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry members in the world and a recipient of the distin-

JANUARY 2016 | TOPSINLEX.COM

guished Dental Products Report’s “Top 25 Women in Dentistry” title, Dr. Justice has quickly become one of the nation’s leading dentists. “My desire has always been to try to duplicate the natural form of teeth in an attempt to recreate what God designed,” she said. “I love the fact that it involves both art and engineering.” Dr. Justice’s mastery in cosmetic dentistry as well as patient comfort has allowed her to not only change lives in Lexington, but all over the United States. To schedule a personal consultation with Dr. Justice, visit DoYourSmileJustice.com.

Better Living

Hair by Kimberly 859-363-5467

air By Kimberly, is a hair loss salon established in 2009, located in Lexington, Kentucky. Since opening the doors, Kimberly has been dedicated to helping those who have gone through the devastating effects of hair loss. Each month, she gives away a free wig to a child with hair loss. With more than 30 years of experience, Kimberly is confident that with natural looking solutions, it is possible to regain your selfesteem without the pain of surgery. It is her promise to make you feel comfortable and relaxed when you walk in the door. Kimberly provides an array of custom hairpieces made from high quality human hair, ready to cut and style to fit your look! Call today to schedule your appointment!

creative yoga 859-281-0005 | creative-yoga.com

reative Yoga, Lexington’s newest yoga studio, invites everyone to experience yoga in a welcoming, non-judgmental environment. Each instructor is committed to excellent teaching in a positive atmosphere. Creative Yoga offers Bikram, Power Hour, Vinyasa Flow, Yoga Blend and Yoga 101. Each class is open to all levels.

Clients can download the Creative Yoga app for class times or schedule private lessons by calling 859-281-0005. Explore creative-yoga.com to learn more about special offers. Creative Yoga is located at the corner of Clay and Main Streets.

Creative Yoga’s clean, beautiful studio is heated for maximum health benefits, including enhanced flexibility and increased circulation. The studio features premium flooring with a non-slip surface designed for extra joint support. Cara Meade, owner of Creative Yoga and a 15-year yoga practitioner, noted, “Creative Yoga is a friendly place to focus on your yoga practice at your own pace, without distractions. Clients really enjoy the heated studio and the class choices.” Creative Yoga sells Spiritual Gangster apparel, a popular brand made in Southern California. Make sure to check out the yoga apparel when you try your first class!

JANUARY 2016 | TOPS MAGAZINE

Better Living

C&C Pharmacy 859.263.1220 | www.candcrx.com

t’s important to trust a pharmacy that cares. C&C Pharmacy offers a wide variety of services along with a warm, friendly atmosphere that puts each customer first. C&C offers hassle-free prescription transfers. They are happy to contact doctors and insurance companies directly to make the process easy. For customer convenience, they accept requests for over-the-counter items, and they can have them ready with prescription pickups. They also offer daily home delivery services! What sets C&C apart is their custom compounding services, many with same-day service. This makes many medications easier to use, including pain creams and pediatric formulations. They also compound bio-identical hormone replacements into creams, capsules, troches and suppositories. Let C&C Pharmacy be your locally owned pharmacy choice this year.

Dr. John W. Collins at Lexington Clinic 859.258.5310 | LexingtonClinic.com/eye

It’s a new year! It’s a great time for a refreshed look.

Cosmetic eye surgery is on many people’s lists of things to do in 2016. Make sure you see one of the best! John W. Collins, MD, has unique training and credentials, which allow him to offer the most desired cosmetic procedures. He also possesses the expertise and precision of a trained eye surgeon. Dr. Collins offers a wide range of cosmetic procedures. They include: facial plastic surgery; cosmetic eyelid surgery; brow lift; eyelid tucks; cosmetic and facial injections (including Botox®, Xeomin® and Juvéderm®); and cosmetic laser surgery. All procedures and injections are performed by Dr. Collins himself, and he always provides the highest level of expert care each patient deserves. For a refreshed look in 2016, trust Dr. John W. Collins at Lexington Clinic for professional results.

A board-certified ophthalmologist at Lexington Clinic, Dr. Collins has also served as an instructor of ophthalmology at Vanderbilt University Medical School while completing his fellowship training in ophthalmic plastic surgery.

JANUARY 2016 | TOPSINLEX.COM

Better Living

PrivÉ Medspa 859-523-5893 | Privemedicalspa.com

rivé Medspa offers the comfort of a spa; the care of board certified medical professionals and licensed estheticians; the latest in anti-aging procedures. They offer the most advanced, results oriented aesthetic medical spa procedures and physician grade products available. Brandice Harrison, Physician Assistant and Carrie Clifford-Bennett, Nurse Practitioner, work with their medical director, Dr. Scott Harrison, to provide an outstanding level of personalized care to each patient. Their licensed estheticians, Tiffin Plaisted, Danielle Thomson and Lauren Huber, offer world class facial services. With over 50 years of combined medical aesthetic experience, their staff provides the latest skilled procedures and techniques. They believe patient trust is priceless. Privé is proud to offer clients the benefits of KYBELLA®, the first and only FDA-approved nonsurgical treatment used in adults to improve the appearance and profile of moderate to severe fat below

JANUARY 2016 | TOPSINLEX.COM

the chin, also called “double chin.” This may be caused by aging, genetics or weight gain. Sometimes, no matter how much you diet or exercise, the condition may not go away. The active ingredient in KYBELLA® is deoxycholic acid, a naturally-occurring molecule in the body that aids in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fat. When injected into the fat beneath the chin, KYBELLA® causes the destruction of fat cells. Once destroyed, those cells cannot store or accumulate fat. KYBELLA™ is a nonsurgical, 15-20 minute in-office treatment session, customized to help the patient achieve his/her goals. Once the aesthetic goal is achieved, re-treatment is not expected. Many patients treated with KYBELLA™ experience visible contouring of their chin profile in 2-4 treatments; however, up to 6 treatments by be administered.

Better Living

Hamburg Vision 859.327.3701 | Hamburgvisioncenter.com

r. Karen Santosâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top goal is helping her patients feel good about their experience. â&#x20AC;&#x153;My primary focus is to make every patient comfortable, and to give them the best care I can to ensure overall eye health,â&#x20AC;? she explained. They aim to combine fashion, comfort and eye health care with a personal touch in a boutique-like setting. The Hamburg Vision Center staff is knowledgeable about the latest advancements in lens technology to give every patient the best vision possible. All members of their staff attend continuing education classes throughout the year in areas of spectacle lenses, contact lenses and eyewear design. Their contact lens fittings include multifocals and daily disposables.

core health centers gotcore.net

ccording to a report from the Institute of Medicine, over 100 million adult Americans suffer from chronic pain. It has become one of the leading causes for doctor visits in the US. Managing chronic pain could include dangerous pills or invasive surgery. The doctors are Core Health Centers are working to change the face of pain management by utilizing the latest chiropractic treatments and technology to provide non-narcotic, non-surgical solutions to chronic pain relief and rehabilitation. CORE Health Centers believes that everyone should experience a pain free life. It is their mission to provide the highest level of chiropractic and rehabilitative care available. Their chiropractors are some of the most talented in the industry. Their unique approach focuses on finding the root cause of the pain and tailoring individualized treatment plans that provide fast relief. Patients are able to receive full evaluations, diagnostic testing, x-rays, treatments, therapies and more at any CORE Health Centers location. It is CORE Health Centers goal to provide convenient, cost effective care that will help each and every patient reduce levels of pain, restore proper function andget back to living a full and active life. If your daily life is being affected by chronic pain, the team at CORE Health Centers is ready to help you relieve symptoms and get you back on the road to a pain free life. Call CORE Health Centers to schedule your complementary consultation today and make 2016 your year to be pain free!

JANUARY 2016 | TOPSINLEX.COM

Better Living

2016 Is Your Year To get your finances in order by Barbara Meyer

re you one of the millions of Americans who lives paycheck-to-paycheck with little to no savings and maxed-out credit cards? 2016 can be the year that you change that through your own smart money moves. Get ready to improve your spending and savings strategies with these financial tips.

Maintain an emergency fund

Assume that the future will take care of itself

Most cases of bankruptcy aren’t due to reckless purchases, but to unforeseen financial events like job loss or serious illness. Be prepared for emergencies with an easily accessible source of income, enough to cover six months of expenses, more if you have dependents.

It’s never too soon – or too late – to start preparing for retirement through prudent savings and investments. There is a wealth of information available online and at your local bookstore. Many employers offer free resources for managing company 401(k) plans. Consider hiring an independent financial advisor.

Create a budget – and stick with it

Use credit cards unwisely

Having a monthly budget gives you control over how you allocate your money and helps you identify spending patterns that you can improve upon.

Credit cards are convenient, but they can also lead to overspending. Exceeding your credit limit or missing a payment can result in a hefty penalty fee and can damage your credit score.

Pay yourself first

Never charge more on your card than you have saved in your bank account unless it’s an emergency. Pay off more than the minimum payment every month – if not the entire balance – to avoid paying interest. Avoid putting large expenses, like student loans and medical bills on cards, where high interest rates rapidly inflate your balance. You are better off working out a payment plan or financing through your credit union or bank.

Put away a small amount of money in a savings account each week, an amount that you won’t miss, like $20. Due to the magic of compound interest, those dollars – and your savings – will begin to multiply quickly. Keep things organized Establish an online bank account and paperless billing to help cut down on clutter and give you fast access to your records. To get the big picture, track everything through an Excel spreadsheet, software such as Quicken, or a web-based service like mint.com. Another plus: your organizational efforts will make things much easier at tax time.

Confuse needs and wants True needs are simple: shelter in the form of mortgage payments or rent, food, basic clothing, and transportation to get to and from work. Wants are things like a bigger home, newer car, or designer clothing that are nice to have but not essential. We get in financial trouble when we justify overspending on discretionary items for the wrong reasons.

Ready – set – save! Ready to learn more about financial fundamentals? There are many personal finance classes offered online and at community colleges. Many charities provide financial literacy services to those in need. Get useful tips and information through the books, websites and Twitter feeds of experts like Suze Orman and Dave Ramsey. The Huffington Post reports that the number one reason couples fight is financial issues. According to the Business Insider, 17 states in the U.S. now require that students in public high schools take a personal finance class before they graduate. Less than 20 years ago, only one did (Illinois).

JANUARY 2016 | TOPS MAGAZINE

Better Living

Hairport 859-259-0497 | Hairportlexington.com

hick, stunning lashes are the anchor to any woman’s face. They offer a feminine flourish to any makeup look. For women with thin, short or stick-straight lashes, it can be frustrating to try to find products that help. False lashes are fussy and difficult to apply for most women and many don’t offer a natural look. Mascaras often fail to provide enough result and serums can often have unpleasant side effects. Fortunately, the stylists at Hairport have an easy solution that has women around the world talking! Xtreme Lashes® is the ultimate answer for longer, thicker, more noticeable lashes. They are natural-looking, synthetic eyelashes that are applied individually to the natural lash. These are not traditional false eyelashes or flares or implants. Safe and comfortable to wear, Xtreme Lashes® are never applied directly to the skin or eyelid. During application, a professionally trained Hairport stylist will determine the perfect Xtreme Lashes® to suit a customer’s need. There are over 1,000 different lengths, thicknesses, colors and curvatures to ensure the perfect look. The stylist will design a customized lash look that will wow! At Hairport, a full set of custom Xtreme Lashes® Eyelash Extensions are just $275. They recommend full-ins every 2-4 weeks, and they’re pleased to offer those to their clients starting at $65. For a pain-free, easy solution that is safe and natural-looking, Xtreme Lashes® Eyelash Extensions at Hairport can be any woman’s stunning little secret.

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Better Living

georgetown bariatric & metabolic center 502-570-3727 | GeorgetownBariatrics.com

eady to Lose? Losing weight is not as simple as it sounds. At Georgetown Bariatric and Metabolic Center, their comprehensive weight-loss surgery program is focused on addressing obesity with the safest and most effective weight-loss procedures, personalized attention and education. Their team is committed to providing superior care and a partnership approach to ensure long-term success. As an Accredited Center recognized through the MBSAQIP, they have been performing weightloss surgery since 1999. They have the expertise and experience to provide their patients the best outcomes. They are advancing care with robotic-assisted surgery as tiny incisions are made with smaller surgical movements. Patient benefits are incomparable to traditional surgical methods including shortened hospital stays and quicker recovery times. Weight loss surgery is now a treatment option for Type 2 diabetes. With weight loss comes improvement in diabetes, blood pressure and sleep apnea along with a positive impact on your health. NO PROGRAM FEE! NO COST FOR 6-MONTH DIET PLAN!

Pictured left to right: Cindy Caywood (Registered Dietitian), Carrie Jo Strong (Pre-Op Coordinator), Jenni Southworth (Clerk), Heather Pile (PA), Dr. Eric Smith, Joanna Smith (OR Scheduler), Melanie Faircloth (CCMA), Jennifer Morris (Insurance Coordinator), Mary Morgan (Registered Dietitian)

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Dr. Eric Smith General/Bariatric Surgeon

TOPS in Equine

appreciation of equestrian games to the general public as a spectator sport, while increasing accessibility to a growing number of riders involved in mounted games. For more information, visit www.usmga.us.

ORGANIZATION OF THE MONTH

IMPULSION COMPULSION

A great example of those organizations is Brooke USA, the American arm of the Brooke, an international animal welfare organization committed to improving the lives of working horses, donkeys and mules in some of the world’s poorest communities. Brooke USA opened its office at the Horse Park three years ago but was officially launched in early 2015 by their president, Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cornwall, when she and her husband, Prince Charles, came stateside to visit Kentucky.

Maya Angelou famously said, “Everything in the universe has rhythm. Everything dances.” The aesthetic beauty of dressage is readily apparent to even the casual spectator, making it one of the most accessible disciplines, despite its infinite subtlety and nuance. Whether riding or spectating, dressage also makes for a great way to spend a winter’s day! The Kentucky Dressage Association-sanctioned Snowbird Winter Dressage Series continues on Saturday, January 16th in the Horse Park’s Covered Arena. This event is also sanctioned by the MidSouth Eventing and Dressage Association (MSEDA). For more information, please contact Julie Congleton at 859-846-4889 or visit www.kentuckydressageassociation.com. (Fun fact: In December, the KDA’s website won a national award from the US Dressage Federation for Best User Experience.)

WATCH ME WHIP Also on the calendar for the New Year is the Kentucky Hunter Jumper Association (KHJA) Winter Schooling Show, which takes place on January 16th and 17th in the Alltech Arena. Hunters are scheduled to compete on the first day and jumpers the second.

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The Kentucky Horse Park is home to so much more than its many great events throughout the year. Did you know that there are over 100 equine organizations housed on the Kentucky Horse Park premises?

Working equines play an essential role in the lives of people living in poverty in developing countries, performing a myriad of tasks from carrying heavy loads, pulling carts or agricultural work. Poverty manifests hardship on both people and animals alike. Working equines are often underfed, overburdened and suffer from untreated injury and disease, and have low social status. Brooke USA exists to support the overseas work of the Brooke: treatment, training and programs focused on animal health and wellbeing. According to Cindy Rullman, Brooke USA’s Special Events and Outreach Manager, the Brooke reached a record number of equines last year alone: 1.8 million horses, donkeys and mules, benefitting 10 million people who directly depend on them.

TOPS in Equine

Among its ambitious new initiatives and continuing projects in 2015, the Brooke saved the lives of hundreds of equines in Senegal by providing emergency food and water in an area of Senegal, which was stricken by drought. They also began programs to improve the welfare of donkeys and ponies that work in hundreds of coalmines in Pakistan. Cindy Rullman’s poignant description of her organization’s ministry of compassion: “We discovered that there were donkeys and ponies working in the dark and depths of hundreds of coal mines in Pakistan. They carry crippling loads of rock and coal out of the mines, which are not automated. I saw a short video that that exposed their weary, hopeless existence, which is more like a living hell. These animals and the men who work alongside them have toiled in complete and utter obscurity in remote areas of that country for decades–maybe even centuries. But within days of discovering these animals, our veterinary teams in Pakistan were already working on a long-term solution to alleviate their suffering. When I saw the subsequent photos of our veterinarians at the mouths of the coal mines, examining and treating these poor creatures who are malnourished, dehydrated, covered in open sores, suffering from exhaustion and lameness, and very depressed, I was deeply grateful for the Brooke. Those animals and their co-laborers are no longer unnoticed, no longer without help, no longer working and suffering in obscurity. That is just one small example of what the Brooke has Carl Goodmonson been doing 365 days a year for more than 80 years.” • Horse Enthusiast

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TOPS in Equine

Filly of the Month:

Erin Crady

TOBA and TCA are two of Erin Crady’s favorite sets of initials. She started working with TOBA, the Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association, in 2006 as the director of marketing and communications for the nonprofit trade organization. With 2,000 members, TOBA represents owners and breeders in the Thoroughbred industry. In 2009 Crady added TCA, Thoroughbred Charities of America, to her résumé. For five years, she split her time between the two organizations, although they are physically in the same office. “It was a juggling act, but it was good,” she said. In January 2014 TOBA hired a full-time marketing person, so Crady now works exclusively for Thoroughbred Charities of America. She is the executive director of TCA, which is the charitable arm of TOBA. “I’m really lucky to be able to blend my hobby with my profession,” she said. TCA raises and distributes money to charities in the United States that fall into one of four categories: equine research, backstretch/ farm employee programs, equine-assisted therapy programs that use Thoroughbreds, and organizations that help Thoroughbreds transition from the racetrack to a new career. TCA granted over $515,000 to 67 charities in 2015. “Over the past 25 years, we have granted over $21 million to more than 200 charities across the country,” Crady said. “TCA is like the United Way for the Thoroughbred industry. We’re really all-encompassing. Our tagline is ‘One Helping Many’.” TCA’s largest annual fundraiser is a stallion season auction that runs online the first full week of January, with a live event at the Keeneland Entertainment Center on Saturday, January 9th. “After the auction, I move right into grant season,” Crady said, referring to the grant applications that TCA receives from approximately 100 charities each year. The grant application is available on TCA’s website (TCA.org) from January through March 15th. Then, Crady spends the next two months studying those applications. “We feel like it is 110 percent our duty to be good stewards of the money donated to us,” she said. “The application process is very thorough. I plug all data into a huge spreadsheet and share that with our grants committee. We go through and look at each applicant and determine if they meet our criteria. It’s a process we take very seriously.”

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TOPS in Equine

Crady’s respect for horses and the people who work with them started early on. Born in Rhode Island, she also lived in upstate New York. “Horses were always part of the family,” she said. “I competed at horse shows a couple of times a month, but it was probably not your average mom, dad and sister going to a horse show. We would pack up the horses, canopy tents, grills and food for breakfast or lunch, like tailgating.” This type of family affair was a great way to grow up, Crady said. She owned an off-the-track Thoroughbred in high school, and rode on the equestrian team all four years of college at St. Lawrence University in Canton, New York where she was an environmental psychology major. “When you’re competing at horse shows in high school or earlier, you’re competing for yourself,” Crady said. “This was my first team experience. It was unique and it was a great experience.”

After graduation, she knew she wanted to move to Manhattan. “I could see myself working in the city,” she said. She lived in the Big Apple from 1998 until the spring of 2001, working in marketing. “I think everyone should live in New York once in their lives. It’s my favorite city.” In college, she lived abroad for a semester in Vienna, Austria. She traveled to Poland, the Czech Republic, Germany, Italy, Brussels, France, Hungary and other countries. “Budapest is probably one of my favorite cities in Europe,” Crady said, but still there’s nothing quite like New York.” As exciting as it was, Crady says it was a hard lifestyle. “It’s very expensive and constantly fast-paced.” So she packed up and moved west. “I took a job as a wrangler on a dude ranch in Durango, Colorado,” she said. “It was fantastic. It was a great summer job, riding a horse in the mountains all day long.” Crady got hooked on the scenery and lifestyle of the Centennial State and found a job in Breckenridge, a ski town not too far outside of Denver. She worked for a lodging company for a winter and then decided “it was time to have a real grownup job again.” Her mother had since moved to Florida, so Crady took off for Gainesville and worked in an advertising agency there. “I found that was my niche,” she said. “I really enjoyed interacting with different clients.” A family friend from New York was also in Gainesville and had horses, so Crady got to ride from time to time. Before long, Crady applied for the TOBA job in Kentucky, got it, moved to the Bluegrass and that was that. “Being in the horse industry, there’s really no place better to be,” she said of Lexington. “I’m not planning on going anywhere.” Except to travel, of course. “I subscribe to the belief that travel is the only thing you can buy that makes you richer,” she said. “I try to take one major trip each year.” In 2015, it was a pack trip in Montana, glamping (with the convenience of camp showers and a chef) and riding in the mountains all day. She may just plan another pack trip this year, this time to Alaska. In 2014, Crady spent time in Europe. “One of my bucket list items was to ride a horse in Ireland,” she said. “Horses are such a way of life in Ireland, even more so than here. We went trotting through town, right down the center of Main Street, clip-clop, clip-clop.” Crady knows she is lucky to be able to travel and has a lot to be grateful for, so she gives back as often as possible. She volunteers with Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Bluegrass. “My ‘little’ is a great 12-year-old girl who loves horses; we are totally a 100 percent match,” Crady said. “We’ve been to Keeneland and the Horse Park. She was thrilled when she got her picture taken with Calvin Borel at Keeneland.” Crady has also fostered animals with the Lexington Humane Society. “I’m a huge animal lover,” she said. Gracious friends allow her to ride their horses when she can, and she is entertaining the thought of owning a horse again, which she hasn’t done in several years. “I have a feeling that my horse ownership drought may be coming to an end,” she said. •

Profile by Kathie Stamps | Photos by Keni Parks | Clothing provided by Bella Rose

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TOPS in Equine

Colt of the Month:

Derek Braun

As a teenager in Long Island, New York, Derek Braun knew he would make show jumping his profession. He had been competing for years and had won several national championships, but his competitive spirit started even earlier. He watched his older sister ride when they were growing up on Long Island. “She was pretty good at it,” he said. “My mom dragged me along to all her horse shows.” By age seven, he took up the reins himself. “Over the years my sister dropped the sport and I ran with it,” Braun said. “I realized I was good enough to make it my entire life and be serious about it.” Combining his love of equestrian sport with his degree in economics, he made horses his business in 2009 as the owner of Split Rock Farm, a training facility for hunters and jumpers. This past year, he launched a new concept for the farm called the Split Rock Jumping Tour. “I brought it to Lexington because I saw a real need for another sporting event,” he said. “Horses are in the community’s blood in Lexington.” The sport of show jumping can be as exciting as a basketball game or NASCAR race. The Split Rock Jumping Tour is a five-day event held in spring and fall. “People can come out, experience sporting action from the best horses in the world, and have a full family day,” Braun said. Bands play live music all day; there’s also a vendor area and plenty of fun things for kids to do. “Even if you weren’t interested in watching show jumping, there are activities for everybody,” he said. The dates for 2016 are May 25-29 and October 5th - 9th at Split Rock Farm in Bourbon County. For event details, check SplitRockJumpingTour.com.

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TOPS in Equine

“I anticipate expanding the tour to several shows throughout the country,” Braun said, “for the best horses and riders in the world, not just America, to compete at the highest level and to bring the sport of show jumping to a new light.” As a rider, Braun has represented the United States in Canada, Brazil and all over Europe. His first visit to Kentucky was in the early 2000s for a show jumping competition. “I loved coming and competing during the summer,” he said. Today, he still competes at the Kentucky Horse Park six to eight weeks every year. He is also on the board of directors of the Kentucky Horse Park Foundation. “If you take away Thoroughbreds and racing, show jumping is the most popular horse sport in America,” he said. Prize money is increasing dramatically around the world. “It’s a good time to be a competitor and definitely some good business to be made from it.” Braun earned his degree from Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida. “I knew as soon as I graduated I wanted to start my business in Lexington,” he said. He made the Bluegrass his home base in 2007. In addition to being the Horse Capital of the World, Lexington made sense from a location standpoint. Because Braun travels every week to compete, he can access any area of the country within a day’s drive. In 2009 Braun bought a horse farm on 40 acres of land in Bourbon County and named it Split Rock Farm. His grandparents had lived on Split Rock Road on Long Island and Braun has used the name in various ways over the years in his equestrian career. He has a three full-time employees at the farm who coordinate his horse shows, handle billing and bookkeeping, and manage the property. Everyone lives on the farm. “We’re like a big family,” Braun said. “That’s one of the things about the horse industry—once it’s in your blood, you can’t let it go. I enjoy every part of it, all the variables the horse world throws at me every day.” • Profile by Kathie Stamps | Photos by SEL Photography

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Etiquette & Entertaining

A New YOU D

uring the first part of January, much thought and conversation is centered around New Year’s Resolutions. These are often lists containing lofty ideas of how to better one’s health and appearance. Examples are: how many zillion trips to the gym one can make each week or how long one can live on lettuce. It goes without saying that the more unrealistic the resolution, the more unlikely the outcome. In a recent study on New Year’s Resolutions it was determined that the average resolution does not extend past January 17th. That must be a big day for ice cream sales!

All of us periodically need to schedule a time to assess and improve ourselves. The new year is the perfect time to become aware of our own manners. Have good manners given way to the hurried life we lead? Perhaps, yes! It is easy to become relaxed about even the most basic of the do’s and don’ts. We must be ever mindful of the right way to do something. Dining is the first area where manners seem to become tarnished. Another which might need a review is street manners. Don’t let football and basketball be the only score that is important; give yourself manners points: 3 points for always, 2 points for most of the time and 0 points for oops – needs improvement. Test Yourself: ______Looking the person in the eye when introduced. ______Speaking clearly when introducing someone. ______Making proper introductions; introducing the man to the lady, the younger to the older. ______Waiting until everyone at the table is served before taking the first bite. ______Waiting to begin eating until the hostess takes the first bite. ______Putting the napkin in your lap as soon as you sit down at a table. ______Always saying “Please” and “Thank You!” ______Passing to the right anything that is placed in front of you at the table: salt, pepper, butter, etc. ______Keeping arms and elbows off the table. ______When something is passed to you, pass it on. ______Always ask to have something passed, never reach. ______Take small bites and chew with your mouth closed. ______Do not talk while chewing.

______When you are finished with a meal, always place your knife and fork together across the plate in the four o’clock position – imagining that your plate is a clock. This signals to the waiter or hostess that you are finished with the meal. ______Keep your cell phone turned off at the dinner table. ______When excusing yourself during a meal, place your napkin on the left of your place setting. ______If something is served that is not your favorite, do not mention it. ______Always find the host or hostess at the beginning and the end of an event. ______When first meeting someone, try to keep the conversation about them. If someone asks about you, keep your answer brief but not curt. ______Smile when greeting or meeting someone. It speaks volumes. ______Open the door for someone and hold it for the person behind you.

______Do not interrupt.

______When leaving a message, speak very clearly. Begin and end by giving your name.

______When eating something served in a bowl, never leave the spoon in the bowl while eating or when finished. Always put the spoon on the saucer under the bowl.

______Write a thank you note instead of an email.

______Never put your sunglasses, keys, cellphone, etc. on the table.

______Always cover your mouth when you cough or nose when you sneeze.

______Excuse yourself from the table to blow your nose.

______TOTAL SCORE

Your score on this brief review will bring to mind how important manners really are. Everyone needs to constantly be aware of this score and remember even the most elementary social graces. Manners matter!

by Sue Ann Truitt Etiquette & Entertaining Consultant

JANUARY 2016 | TOPS MAGAZINE

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Gardening

Tropical Paradise Gardening zones are like an artist’s palette. Based on

the extreme highs and lows of each region, the USDA hardiness zones dictate what will thrive where. In terms of art we have impressionism, pop art, purism, minimalism and more. And with the garden there, too, are styles: contemporary, minimalist, English cottage, French and Japanese. Each garden style is unique. Personally, I lean towards the classic cottage, but I certainly can appreciate other styles. During my recent trip to southern Florida I was dazzled by the tropical paradise. There were pergolas everywhere draped in bright pink blossoms. Large trees with intriguing exposed twisted roots created a canopy of shade down many neighborhood streets. All the natural beauty has been carefully planned and planted at a one stop feast for the eyes, the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden. The tropical plant conservatory in Coral Cables is named after the world renowned plant explorer, Dr. David Fairchild. It boasts four hundred and fifty plants from the tropics plus seven hundred and forty species of tropical flowering trees with fragrances that fill the air. There are rare palms, orchids growing from tree trunks, ferns, fruit trees, and vines. After the tram tour through the gardens, I was content to wander away from my group to soak in so many beautiful things I had never seen before. Many of the rare plant species native to Florida and the Caribbean have unique shapes and textures. Technically, Miami has a sub-tropical climate that can actually be too cold for some tropicals, but Fairchild has that covered. The enclosed pavilions provide the optimal warm, humid environment the plants need, including some exotic fruit producers that you would typically see in the Amazon and Malaysia. Since it is highly unlikely I will ever travel to those distant corners of the world, it was a treat to see all of this natural beauty in one place. If I had to pick the most memorable site from Fairchild it would have to be the Rainbow Eucalyptus tree. It was jawdropping in its beauty. The peeling bark reveals the most stunning color you will ever see on a tree trunk, hence the name rainbow Eucalyptus. In addition to the soothing pastel colors, it has a unique texture. Underneath the coarse bark is a smoother surface. Who knew a tree could be so fascinating? With each additional year I add to my gardening hobby comes new discoveries. It’s a great feeling as an adult to be able to get so much pleasure from something so simple. It’s like seeing the world through the eyes of a child.

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by Michelle Rauch Gardening Enthusiast

Parties

Emerging Party Trends for 2016 N

ow that the ball has dropped and the confetti has been swept up, it’s time to think about the parties you might be hosting in 2016. Here are a few favorite party trends for 2016:

Movie Themes For a kid’s birthday party, movie themed parties are still the number one choice. A frozen princess party for girls, based on the Disney Frozen movie will remain hot this year. For boys, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles will continue to be a popular choice again. However, with a new crop of movies coming out, you can bet that your kids will want to incorporate their new favorite into their birthday party. Probably the most anticipated recent movie release was Star Wars: The Force Awakens. Anything Star Wars related will be a popular choice for boys. For girls, look for a resurgence of Alice in Wonderland tea parties in the middle of the year with release of Alice in Wonderland: Through the Looking Glass. The broad appeal of the movie will have even tween and pre-teen girls asking for a tea party. Bright Colors Simply White may have been named 2016’s color of the year by Benjamin Moore, but look for bright pops of color when it comes to party planning. Floral décor and oversized colorful balloons will continue to shine through 2016. Bright colors will grow more sophisticated with metallic touches. Gold continues to be the most popular metallic, but copper and rose gold are gaining traction. Calligraphy Touches

Although calligraphy used to be somewhat of an old-fashioned art, reserved only for addressing wedding invitations, it has made a big resurgence in the last couple of years. But, today’s calligraphy isn’t your mom’s (or grandmother’s) same old calligraphy; it has a decidedly modern feel. Calligraphy or hand lettered touches are popular for invitations, party signs, chalk art and now even custom wooden cake toppers. Calligraphy fonts now make it easier than ever to incorporate calligraphy touches into your party. Photo Sessions Instagram, Facebook and other forms of social media have increased our desire to capture every moment with a photo. Many people desire to record special memories with professional photos. For milestone birthdays in particular, like the first or 13th, more and more people are hiring photographers to not only photograph the party, but also a pre-party photo session of the honored boy or girl.

by Deanna Talwalkar Party Planner Extraordinaire

Another big trend that will continue into 2016 is the use of photo booths at parties. Photo booth rentals have been a party must have for a few years. However, if it’s is not in your budget, try setting up your own DIY version. Gather props that can be used for silly pictures, such as hat, large sunglasses, and scarves or boas. Consider purchasing an inexpensive photo backdrop to be hung on the wall. Online sources, such as Amazon and Etsy are a great place to purchase these. Set up a camera on a tripod and let guests take their own “photo booth” pictures during the party. Photo booths, whether a rental or DIY, will be a huge hit with guests, especially if your guest list includes pre-teens or teens!

Photo & Styling by Mirabelle Creations

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Fashion

The Coat Crave

photos by Kristin Tatem

It’s

been a long time coming but we’re finally experiencing the winter months. The days of snow boots, mittens, gloves, and my personal fave, COATS are upon us. Now, I know many of us get in a “coat rut” and choose to stick with the standard blacks and grays. Don’t get me wrong, we indeed need these staples in our arsenal; however, I challenge you this winter to think outside the ordinary box and elevate your coat game. How do we do this? It’s simple – colors, textures, and prints! BRIGHT KENTUCKY BLUE. Now if there was ever a town that would wear the heck out of a blue coat and wear it well, it’s Lexington, am I right? I purchased this one recently and I have to tell you, it goes with so much more than meets the eye! I’m a huge fan of elevating an otherwise casual look of sneaks and leggings with a gorgeous coat. Think black, gray, navy blue, stripes, baby blue – all hues that would pair perfectly with this royal blue topper! PLAID. Specifically buffalo plaid. Never was there a plaid I didn’t love. This peacoat is equal parts bold and prepster and that is, indeed, what I love about her. I’ve paired this coat with everything from stripes, to solids, to chambray, and even with more plaid! But the beauty of a printed coat is this – it is a show stopper. You needn’t fiddle much with the rest of your rig because the coat can carry the look all on its own. TWEED. Even better, navy tweed. I truly think we should all own a navy coat. It truly is my favorite neutral color. Navy can pair with anything and everything. Camel, gray, black, light blue, more navy, red, pink – the options are endless. Again, if you are more of a classic kinda gal and like to stick to your grays and blacks, may I suggest starting small and adding navy to the mix. It will definitely not disappoint! This will be my last month writing this fun fashion blurb. Therefore, I want to send a huge thank you to both TOPS and all of its fans for reading along with me each month and hopefully gaining a bit of inspiration. You’re simply the best, Lexington!

by Beth Parker Fashion Blogger/Stylist seersuckerandsaddles.blogspot.com

JANUARY 2016 | TOPS MAGAZINE

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TOPS Cares

CMA students have successfully auditioned into the School for Creative and Performing Arts (SCAPA), the Central Kentucky Youth Orchestra (CKYO), all-district/all-state choirs, bands and orchestras. CMA is significantly and intentionally diverse: 43% of current students are Caucasian, 36% are African American, 8% are biracial, 8% are Hispanic; and 5% are Asian or Pacific Islander. Recognizing that none of these aspiring musicians would be able to pay for lessons, CMA gets its funding from a widely diverse group of organizations and individuals, all of whom are committed to the premise that kids who are interested in music should have an opportunity to experience it. Students, parents and faculty members aren’t at all hesitant to voice their appreciation for the positive impact the Academy has provided, that extends far beyond the music. Recent graduate Noah Tolson exemplifies the appreciation of many, saying “If it wasn’t for CMA, I wouldn’t have made it into Youth Orchestra or SCAPA. I am currently majoring in music at the University of Kentucky. I studied at CMA for five years, and those experiences have enormously aided my self confidence in other areas of my life.” Faculty teacher Brad Meyer observes, “Many of the students who have enrolled in CMA live in neighborhoods where they are

exposed to a much harder lifestyle than any child deserves. With the help and encouragement of the private lesson teachers at CMA, these young people learn to focus their attention on achieving an objective, instead of getting caught up in things like substance abuse and violent activities.” A parent of a recently graduated CMA student noted, “CMA actually helped my son with math homework. He loves music, and continues to work hard to get it right – it’s an attitude that carries over to other areas in his life. CMA has been a joy for him, and it has instilled in him a sense of pride and achievement.” Another student reflects, “Without CMA, I never would have had the money for lessons, and wouldn’t have been able to develop my passion for and ability in music. CMA has enormously aided my self-confidence.” The Central Music Academy is funded through both grants and the generosity of private donors. This support allows CMA’s financially disadvantaged students to receive free lessons, finances the purchase of instruments and sheet music, and pays for top professional musicians to teach private and group lessons. All contributions are tax deductible, and each will help to ensure that CMA will be able to continue to enrich the lives of many children for years to come.

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Tour of Homes

fter she purchased the home, Abby realized that several of the original five-panel doors were missing. With only two doors and no doorknobs, she had to go out and find 100-yearold doors and hardware to match. Luckily, she knew where to look. All the doors were purchased from Cowgirl’s Attic, and the old brass hardware came from Roberts Antiques. The front door is the original door to the house. “It was covered up with about 20 layers of old paint,” Abby explained. Robert Hawkins and his team were responsible for restoring and refinishing the door. They had to dip it in acid, and it took days of sanding to fully restore it. With the help of her business partner, Teddy Rodgers of Anderson & Rodgers Construction, Abby completely remodeled and updated the home from top to bottom. She gutted the entire house, added a rear master bath, a brand new gourmet kitchen, all new bathrooms, new electric and plumbing, plus additional fencing and a stone entryway. “I love the creative aspect of flipping houses,” she said. I enjoy breathing life into old homes, and I do several flip projects a year. Old houses are a lot of work but I prefer them because they have a character and quality that are hard to come by these days.”

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Tour of Homes

â&#x20AC;&#x153;I love the creative aspect of flipping houses.â&#x20AC;?

he gorgeous, minimalist kitchen is outfitted with a Subzero refrigerator and a Viking Range, as well as new soft close cabinets by Architectural Kitchens & Baths and cashmere granite countertops by Prestige Granite. The light fixture is from Ballard Lighting. Abby explained that renovation included knocking out a wall to create more space. In order to provide essential support, it was necessary to add a beam; as a creative touch, the beam is wrapped with barn wood that Abby and her team salvaged from an old shed that was on the property. The antique and modern elements blend together seamlessly to create a space that is both elegant and functional.

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Tour of Homes

eparating the kitchen from the adjoining mudroom is a sliding barn door fashioned from the same salvaged barn lumber. The trim and the windows in the mudroom are accented with antique wood as well. Abby chose to line the floor with brick pavers and gave the walls tongueand-groove paneling. The antique church pew was on the front porch when she bought the house. Abby loves to repurpose, or as she put it, â&#x20AC;&#x153;find new jobs for old thingsâ&#x20AC;?. In fact, she and her partner Teddy Rodgers have recently launched a new company called GreenBox Homes, which is focused on building ultra-modern, affordable homes made from repurposed materials.

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Tour of Homes

he living room blends effortlessly into the dining room, where the mantle is accented with a stylish, modern vignette of replica majolica plates and a taxidermy deer head mount. Abby purchased the two colorful paintings that are hanging in the dinning room from the Double Decker Art Festival in Mississippi.

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Tour of Homes

he relaxing powder room is finished in grasscloth wallpaper. The vanity is made from an antique dresser Abby bought at Roberts Antiques in Mt. Sterling. She cut off the top and added soapstone, plumbing, and dropped in a sink. The light fixtures are from Cowgirlâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Attic.

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Tour of Homes

ne of the standouts in the master bedroom is a funky and colorful Native American photo that is one of Abby’s favorites. Once again, Isabel helped to pull everything together. While the furnishings weren’t purchased specifically for the home, the pieces are beautifully in line with the space’s eclectic style. Abby said, “I have two storage units full of furniture I have collected over the years. I love antiques, and I travel a lot so I am constantly collecting furniture and art. There is beautiful wardrobe in the bedroom that was in the house when I bought it.”

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Tour of Homes

he master bath echoes the clean, understated feeling of the kitchen. The tile is a tumbled marble purchased from The Tile Shop. Abby chose a classic subway title for the shower. The counter tops are made from Carrera marble from Architectural Kitchen & Baths. The shower features body sprays and a rain head, and the floor in the bathroom is heated. The bathtub is a drop-in Koehler tub called â&#x20AC;&#x153;Tea for Twoâ&#x20AC;?, and more coordinating Carrera marble is used around the bathtub. All the plumbing fixtures are finished in a simple French style.

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Business News

Kentucky Crafted: The Market

Kentucky art, craft, literature, music and artisan food will return to the Lexington Convention Center in March 2016 for the 34th edition of Kentucky Crafted: The Market, the Kentucky Arts Council’s signature arts event for wholesale buyers and the general public. The Market will be March 5th - 6th at the Lexington Convention Center, 430 West Vine Street in Lexington. It will be open to registered wholesale buyers only on March 4th. Kentucky is one of few states in the nation to sponsor a show of this kind for its art and craft businesses. The Southeast Tourism Society has named it a Top 20 Event for more than 15 years. “The Market is such a great opportunity for the public to see a wide variety of art, and to be able to take home original, Kentucky-made work,” said Lori Meadows, arts council executive director. “This is the largest gathering of Kentucky Crafted artists under one roof, and I guarantee there is something for everyone.” Kentucky artists who exhibit at The Market are all juried participants in the arts council’s Kentucky Crafted Program and represent a broad cross-section of artistic disciplines. In addition, select artists from other states are invited to exhibit at the show. The Market, a nationally recognized show, serves as the No. 1 destination for wholesale buyers who are interested in purchasing Kentucky art and craft for resale.

March 5 h

Market visitors will see paintings, sketches, wood carvings, unique furniture, sculpture, metalwork, literature, music and many other examples of art and craft made by artists in the Kentucky Crafted program and selected out-of-state artists. A variety of Kentucky Proud food vendors will also sell their culinary creations. The Market also features performances by 16 of Kentucky’s top music groups on the Kentucky Stage. Take a break from shopping at the artists’ booths, sit down and enjoy the sounds of bluegrass, blues, jazz and other distinctive Kentucky sounds from performing groups in the arts council’s Performing Artists Directory. For bluegrass fans, the Kentucky Stage will feature a solid block of bluegrass music on Saturday afternoon from musicians and groups like Dale Pyatt, No Tools Loaned and Hog Operation. The Market will be open to the public 9am - 7pm Saturday, March 5th and 10am - 5pm Sunday, March 6th. Tickets are $10 for one day and $15 for both days, and can be purchased online (https://secure.kentucky.gov/formservices/Arts/CraftedTickets) or at the door. Children 15 years of age and under are admitted free with a paying adult. For more information about Kentucky Crafted: The Market, contact Christopher Cathers, arts council program branch manager, at 502.564.3757, ext. 488 or at christopher.cathers@ky.gov.

6 h | Lex ngton Convent on Center | artscounc .ky.gov

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Weddings

Would You Choose Wood? Rough Wood Accents Make a Strong Rustic Wedding Statement S

imple wedding centerpieces aren’t the only place to artistically and creatively communicate your wedding’s rustic vibe. A fabulous and very simple element to incorporate in your reception décor is to decorate with rough-hewn wood. It is the epitome of natural. If you have some strong, handy help, plus a little creativity, the look is simple and wonderful. Any Way You Slice it Adding wood slices to your rustic décor is the easiest way to add wooden touches and rustic charm. The uses are endless; literally elevating or lifting up your décor or food, acting as a foundation or plate for your wedding cake, or acting as place cards. Since most rustic weddings have outdoor venues, place rough wood slices on the ground so your bridesmaids’ heels don’t sink in the dirt. This is totally clever and will make darling photos. Be creative and you will come up with tons of uses for wood slices, and they will tie all your rustic elements together. Decorating with Wood from the Floor Up Décor doesn’t just have to be tabletop. A magnificent large statement piece or arrangement placed on the floor in a key location, such as by a stairway or at your reception entryway, will catch every eye. Large wood pieces, artfully arranged, can make your reception feel like you’ve walked into an authentic working barn or woodland gathering place. Mixing other media with the wood can set it off to look like an art piece. Wooden Accents for I Do’s and Dancing Large beautiful pieces made of wood and covered in flowers are the perfect anchor for settings where you say your vows or that surround the dance floor for everyone to enjoy all night. Get double duty out of the same large wooden decorations that you use during your ceremony by having them moved – as discretely as possible – to your reception area during your photo taking time. This works best, of course, if you are having the wedding and reception in the same location. Most of your guests won’t even realize they are the same pieces they saw during the ceremony. It ties your theme together and saves you money. Let the Wood Do the Talking Tie your woodsy décor together by utilizing wood pieces and slices to communicate to your guests. This could include posting special sayings, presenting your menu, listing the options at your bar, or using them as table numbers for seating. To write on a wood slice, simply paint the flat side with black chalkboard paint – two coats is a must, three is best – and use white chalk to express yourself. It’s all in the telling.

by Marsha Koller Wedding Consultant

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Dining

Brazenly Flavorful

Brasabana serves up authentic Cuban cuisine with the tropical flavors of Latin America & the Caribbean by Michelle Aiello Food photos by Keni Parks

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Dining

hen AZUR Food Group opened Brasabana in early 2014, their goal was to create a menu and atmosphere that celebrated the flavors of a culture Chefs Jeremy Ashby and Miguel Rivas both love.

Rivas was born and raised on a family ranch in the Dominican Republic where “farm to table” was second nature. Inspired by Sunday dinners prepared with fresh meats and produce straight from the garden, he honed his skills in culinary school and began working as an apprentice in several New York City restaurants. He is fondly remembered as the “fish preparer” at the famed Jean-Georges in Central Park, and as the head cook at Patria Restaurant, which featured Latin and island cuisine. Now, as co-owner and executive chef of Brasabana, Rivas is proud to bring the tradition of fresh, bold flavors and locally sourced ingredients to Lexington. While working at AZUR restaurant with Ashby, the two would often discuss plans and ideas for a Cuban-themed restaurant. “As time went on, the idea became stronger and stronger, and we finally decided to put it in motion,” recalls Rivas. Rivas and Ashby, along with partners Bernie Lovely and Rob Mudd, own the AZUR Food Group, which includes AZUR and Brasabana restaurants, as well as Dupree Catering and Events. Ashby explained how the concept evolved. “It really was a natural progression. I had lived in Miami where there is a strong Cuban influence, and I worked at a restaurant that was considered the mecca of Nuevo Latino cuisine. When I came back to Lexington and started working at AZUR with Miguel, we cooked dishes from all over the world together. It was interesting to work with a native Latin American chef, because we knew the same language when it came to food.” Once the pair began rolling out more dishes with South American, Latin American and Caribbean influences, they developed a love affair with the cuisine and knew it was time to open a restaurant where those flavors could really shine. “It’s about sunlight and spice, garlic and citrus”, said Ashby. “Our dishes are filled with bold, unapologetic flavors. But at the same time, we really believe that Latin American food is comfort food.” And indeed, many of the dishes served at Brasabana can find their distant cousins in American cooking, particularly from the Southern region. For example, Ropa Vieja, a classic Cuban dish made from slow-cooked shredded beef with tomatoes, peppers, and onion, has many of the same qualities as a pot roast. “People are familiar with Cuban culture,” said Rivas. “We knew we wanted to serve Nuevo Latino, Caribbean and Cuban food, but we chose a Cuban theme because we know the familiarity is there. There are a lot of people in the horse industry that live in both Lexington and Florida, and we thought food would be a great way to bridge that gap.” In addition to Cuban favorites, Brasabana’s menu offers a generous sprinkling of Island and South American flavors. A Peruvian-inspired dish, Chicken Fricasse, is made from slow cooked chicken with potatoes and vegetables, served with congri (a combination of black beans and rice cooked with bacon and spices). The Plantain Crusted Whitefish is served over mashed sweet plantains with bacon, poblano salsa and tamarind black olive aioli. Served often throughout the Dominican Republic, the Pollo y Pina, El Dominicanito consists of a chicken breast topped with fresh pineapple, Spanish cheese and ham over poblano mashed potatoes and sweet plantain salsa. Popular appetizers and bar snacks include Empanadas, flaky pastry dough stuffed with beef and served alongside mushroom ceviche and chipotle aioli. Another customer favorite is Papas Rellenas, a mashed potato ball stuffed with crispy beef picadillo meat, papaya rosemary mojo and a chipotle queso dip. Desserts include Tres Leches cake and the “Smokeless Cuban Cigar”, chocolate cake roll served with warm rum caramel cream. Serving locally grown food has always been a top priority for Brasabana, and for AZUR Food Group as a whole. “We found that the foods that grow plentifully in Kentucky – tomatoes, peppers, cilantro – are the backbone of Latin American cuisine,” said Ashby. Rivas added, “People sometimes think that Latin American food is all very spicy, but that’s not the case with Cuban food. It’s more about recipes cooked at home for large families, and meals that have stood the test of time for generations. And that kind of food is what Southerners like, too. We are used to the big Sunday spread, slow cooked meats and plenty of side dishes. Some of our dishes may seem foreign at first, but once you take a bite, they’re surprisingly familiar and comforting.”

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Q&A

with miguel rivas

What is the last meal you prepared for yourself? I think it was a Sunday dinner for my family. I made meatloaf with lots of BBQ sauce and chopped vegetables. Tell us about your family. I have two kids, ages 5 and 17, and a grown stepson. What was your favorite food as a child? Chicharrón (fried pork belly). I grew up on a farm in the Dominican Republic and my father used to raise pigs and cows. But we’d also go to the local butcher shop to buy fresh meat for the family. Pork was always my favorite. If there was a feast or some kind of celebration, we would always roast a pig on our property. Do you have a least favorite food or dish? This surprises people, but I rarely eat bread, unless it’s a hamburger bun. Describe working in your kitchen. I refer to cooking as my “daily dance”. Some people sing in the shower; I’m always whistling, singing or dancing in the kitchen. We also love listening to merengue, salsa, country, and pop. Tell us about your journey to becoming a professional chef. While I was living in New York City, I was going to school for computer science and washing dishes for a Kosher catering company. The owner became a mentor to me, and eventually made me his sous-chef. He encouraged me to go to school and become a cook. How did you end up in Lexington? I was looking for a more peaceful environment. New York was fun for a while, and I enjoyed watching the East Village change

and grow over the years. But after I had a child, I wanted a more relaxed, family-oriented atmosphere. What food trends would you like to see continue? I would like to see the Nuevo Latino concept continue to develop all over the United States. I think everyone should experience the culture and the food that comes from Latin America. Any trends you’re not in favor of? I have read about certain restaurants that have eliminated tipping for servers. I think it will do more harm than good for the industry. If everyone is paid the same, where is the incentive to work harder and provide a great experience for the customer? If you weren’t a chef, what would be doing? I’d probably be in the military. That was one of my childhood dreams, and I had a few relatives that were in the military back home. But I ended up on a different path, which made my mother very happy!

Plantain Crusted Tilapia

Sweet Plantain Mash, with Poblano Salsa and Tamarind Aioli (serves 6) Poblano Salsa 2 poblano peppers diced 1 small tomato, seeded and diced 2 tablespoons red onion, diced 2 tablespoons cucumber, seeded and diced 1 tablespoon cilantro, chopped 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice 1 teaspoon olive oil Salt and pepper to taste Mix well and refrigerate Plantain Mash 3 ripe plantains 3 slices of bacon, chopped 1 tablespoon white onion, chopped Boil sweet plantains until tender, about 20 to 25 minutes. Drain and set aside, keep hot. While plantains are cooking, place bacon in a sauté pan and cook slowly until most of the fat is rendered, add diced onion and cook until translucent. Mash the sweet plantains with a potato masher or in a mixer to a smooth puree; add bacon onion mixture and season with salt to taste.

Tilapia Make the Plantain Crust 6 green plantains ½ cup canola oil Thinly slice the plantains and deep fry in the oil until golden brown and crispy. Drain well on paper towels. Chop finely in a food processor and place in a shallow dish or plate. 6 tilapia fillets 1 cup all-purpose flour 4 eggs beaten Salt and pepper to taste Season the fish with salt and pepper, lightly coat it with flour on the skinned side, dip the same side in the egg mixture and then in the plantain crumbs, heat ¼ cup of oil in an oven proof saute’ pan and place fish coated side down, cooking slowly (crust will burn if fire is too high) until crust browns, then turn fish and finish in the a 350 degree oven – 6-10 minutes. Fish should be just white and flake. Do not overcook. Tamarind Aioli 1 cup mayonnaise 2 tablespoons lime juice 1 tablespoon grated white onion, finely chopped ¼ cup black kalamata olives, finely chopped ¼ cup tamarind juice Mix all ingredients well and refrigerate To assemble, place plantain mash in the center of plate, place tilapia on the plantain, top it with poblano salsa and spoon the aioli in front of the fish. JANUARY 2016 | TOPS MAGAZINE

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Save the Date

Relay for Life of Fayette County American Cancer Society Saturday, June 4th (4pm - 12am) Masterson Station Park relayforlife.org/fayetteky Step Out American Diabetes Association Saturday, June 4th Keeneland diabetes.org Legacy Kids’ Triathlon Sunday, June 5th Spindletop Hall A Round to Remember Golf Tournament Alzheimer’s Association Saturday, June 18th Connemara Golf Course alz.org Bluegrass Education Expo Bluegrass Education, Kentucky Youth Leadership Saturday, June 25th (10am - 4pm) Lexington Christian Academy bluegrasseducation.com

july Keeneland Concours Bourbon Tour Thursday, July 14th keenelandconcours.com Keeneland Concours Bash Friday, July 15th Aviation Museum of Kentucky keenelandconcours.com

17th Annual Freedom Fest Celebration Woodford Humane Society Friday, July 22nd - Saturday, July 23rd Coolmore’s Ashford Stud, Versailles, KY woodfordhumane.org Kentucky Bank Tennis Championships USTA Pro Circuit, Kentucky Bank Sunday, July 24th - Sunday, July 31st Hilary J. Boone Tennis Center lexingtonchallenger.com

august

YMCA Fall Festival YMCA of Central Kentucky Friday, October 21st C.M. Gatton Beaumont YMCA, North Lexington Family YMCA ymcacky.org Making Strides Against Breast Cancer American Cancer Society Sunday, October 23rd Whitaker Bank Ballpark cancer.org

A Midsummer Night’s Run Saturday, August 13th (8pm) Downtown amidsummer5k.com

november

YMCA Kids Triathlon YMCA of Central Kentucky Sunday, August 21st C.M. Gatton Beaumont YMCA ymcacky.org Walk to End Alzheimer’s Alzheimer’s Association Saturday, August 27th Fayette County Courthouse Plaza alz.org

september Tri for Sight UK Eye Research Fund Sunday, September 11th Spindletop Hall

Shriners Ride for Kids Shriners Hospitals for Children Sunday, July 17th Shriners Hospitals for Children shrinershospitalsforchildren.org

Boots & Barbeque Rose Mary C. Brooks Place Friday, September 16th Winchester, KY

Visit our online calendar for the latest event information for these events and many more! topsinlex.com/calendar

2016 Fall Meet Keeneland Association Friday, October 7 - 29 with the exception of Monday/Tuesday keeneland.com

Relay for Life: Hope Lodge American Cancer Society Lexington Hope Lodge Parking Lot relayforlife.org/hopelodgelexingtonky

Keeneland Concours d’Elegance Show Saturday, July 16th Keeneland keenelandconcours.com

Tour d’Elegance Lexington Concours, Inc. Saturday, July 16th keenelandconcours.com

october

KHP Foundation Battle in the Saddle Celebrity Team Penning Kentucky Horse Park Foundation Friday, September 30th Kentucky Horse Park Covered Arena kyhorsepark.com

CP National Hose Show Tuesday, November 1st - Sunday, November 6th Kentucky Horse Park nhs.org Southern Lights Stroll Kentucky Horse Park Foundation Thursday, November 17th Kentucky Horse Park kyhorsepark.com Southern Lights Kentucky Horse Park Foundation Friday, November 18th - Saturday, December 31st Kentucky Horse Park kyhorsepark.com

december 11th Annual Reindeer Ramble 5K Run/Walk YMCA of Central Kentucky Saturday, December 10th Keeneland ymcacky.org

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TOP SHOTS | SOCIE T Y

Going Red For Women

Christ The King Sip and Shop

Jon Voight, Clark Davis, Elesha Burkhart, Hunter Lisle and Jonathan Burkhart at the Governor Inauguration Dinner

Lexus of Lexington Toys For Tots Holiday Dance

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TOPS is big!