TOPS In Lexington Magazine, April 2014

TOPS AROUND TOWN 27

Out & About

28

TOPS March Preview Party

30 Heart Ball I 32 Heart Ball 2 34 Restaurant Kick-off Week I

190

36 Restaurant Kick-off Week II 38 1st Annual Nurses Ball for Carin’ for Nurses 40 Art in Bloom Cocktail Reception 42 Art in Bloom Black Tie Gala 44 Cardinal Hill Roundball Bash 190

The Toy Chest Dreams & Fairytales

192

Jessamine County Lincoln Dinner

194 2014 AAF Addy Awards 196 Sayre Spectacular I 198 Sayre Spectacular II 200 Real Estate United 202 2014 Fund for the Arts Kick-off Breakfast I 204 2014 Fund for the Arts Kick-off Breakfast II 206 St. Peter & Paul Mardi Gras 226 TOP Shots

30

18

APRIL 2014 | TOPSINLEX.COM

200

IN EVERY ISSUE 216

48 Dining: Furlongs 51 TOP 5 Dining: Kentucky Proud Restaurants 55 Taste of Thyme: A Scant of Spring 81 Fashion: Spring Gets Silky 82 In the ‘Buf’: Girls Night Out 85 Parties: Spring Party Ideas 87 Family: Warm Memories 138 Health & Fitness: What’s all the fuss about Vitamin D? 179 Posh Paws: “I don’t like my pet lately” 181 Gardening: Spring at Last!

182 Etiquette & Entertaining: A Class on Class 185 Business News 214 Weddings: How To—Flower Girl Tutus

48

216 Arts & Entertainment 221 Up & Coming

214

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.

24

APRIL 2014 | TOPSINLEX.COM

TOP Spring Fashion

Linen and cotton soft coat in indigo, Melange check shirt in geranium, Mogador Peconic stripe tie in Tarheel blue and braided cotton belt in pacific, all by Peter Millar (Keeneland Gift Shop).

APRIL 2014 | TOPS MAGAZINE

61

TOP Spring Fashion

Tropical weight wool Hopsack weave jacket in blue and Super 110 tropical weight worsted wool trousers in khaki, both by Samuelsohn; Silk tie in spring plaid by Bird Dog Bay (Howard and Miller). Tavener square polarized lenses by Oliver Peoples (John G. Roche).

66

APRIL 2014 | TOPSINLEX.COM

TOP Spring Fashion

Striped blouse in blue and white

by Ralph Lauren; Knit sweater in navy and cream by J. Crew; Skinny leather belt in orange (Sassy Fox). Chandelier earrings in orange (House). Betsy pearl skin sunglasses by ISSON (John G. Roche). Chanteboot Pop in goyave by Aigle (Omar + Elsie).

Sleeveless tiered ruffle dress in Kentucky blue with white belt

by Meesh & Mia, blue and white polka dot scarf (Cat Couture).

Monogrammed sun hat (Monkee’s). Murray bag by SuSu (L.V. Harkness).

68

APRIL 2014 | TOPSINLEX.COM

TOP Spring Fashion

Vegan leather top by Waverly Grey; Jeans in cream by Mother; Leather clutch by Borderstate Made (Morton James). 14K yellow gold Flirt earrings by Lana Jewelry (Shelia Bayes Fine Jewelers). Turquoise gold chain necklace (House). Scalloped cuff by Alexis Bittar (L.V. Harkness).

70

APRIL 2014 | TOPSINLEX.COM

TOP Spring Fashion

Floral jacquard dress in valvo coral by Carmen Marc (Embry’s). Exclusive fascinator in brown (Monkee’s). Rose gold and diamond earrings

by Cassis Jewels (Shelia Bayes Fine Jewelers). Hammered chain bracelets by Julie Vos (L.V. Harkness).

72

APRIL 2014 | TOPSINLEX.COM

TOP Spring Fashion

Classic oxford sport shirt in pink by Ralph Lauren, Zac relaxed fit jeans by Silver Jeans Co. (Dillard’s).

Front button blouse by M S.S.P., Seersucker straight pants by Lauren Ralph Lauren (Dillard’s). 14K yellow gold Flirt earrings by Lana Jewelry (Shelia Bayes Fine Jewelers). Tom Ford 5272 cat eye frames by Tom Ford (John G. Roche). Long gold necklace (House).

Leather tote in navy by Rowallan; Scarf in pink and white by Mud Pie (L.V. Harkness). Strappy leather sandals in nude by Isola (Monkee’s).

76

APRIL 2014 | TOPSINLEX.COM

Fashion

Spring Gets Silky Long gone are the days when silky fabrics were intended specifically for

dressier occasions. Sure there’s a place for them under a tailored suit, or as a long lovely dress. However, true to my style, I like to find ways to make my fabrics multifunctional.

That is, possibly sport them in ways otherwise not intended.

Case in point silky (pleated) shorts. At first glance, these screamed 80s to me. But I’ve learned my lesson time and time again to never judge an item of clothing by its appearance on a hanger. Go ahead—try it on! Thank goodness I did, because as you can see, I love the silky little numbers so much I snagged two pairs of them. Opting to go head to toe silk shown in the polka dotted pic felt very lady like and classic. A perfect look for daytime, luncheons, or even topped with a blazer, work appropriate. Switch gears and mix in an additional texture such as a chunky knit and you have a more casual take on the silk. I would even try to pair this head to toe navy look with a pair of sneaks, perhaps some white Chuck Taylors. It bears mentioning this fabric is so lovely because while it’s got an element of sophistication, it is also terribly comfy and lightweight—perfect as we transition into the warmer months.

Another fun way to sport the silk is with a quirky print. No better way to modernize a traditional look than by tossing in a fun (cat) graphic. Adding to the modern femininity is a silky pencil skirt in classic navy. I just love the idea of tone on tone dressing (i.e., lilac with regal purple or mint with kelly green). The baby blue blouse complements the navy skirt just perfectly and gives a perfect bit of depth. Accessories such as chunky pearls, a kelly green bag, and metallic heels (not pictured) add just the right amount of details as well.

So let’s embrace the spring with a lovely dose of silk and rest assured—you’ll be able to sport the silkiness all throughout the warmer months and even layered up into the fall!

photos by Tiffany Mitchell

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

APRIL 2014 | TOPS MAGAZINE

81

Family

I

Warm Memories

love creating great memories for my kids, though I’ve realized over the years my intentional efforts at priceless moments are often overlooked, while the true memories are events I never would have planned.

We bought our farmette in the spring. The kids were little, and we spent the majority of the long, hot Kentucky summer renovating the house.

My husband kept reminding me, there was land to clear. Seemed he couldn’t wait. He had a new chainsaw. The possibilities were endless.

We wrapped up the big projects by the time the kids started school mid-August. Then, it was time to clear some wooded area. We hired one of his college students to help.

In the cool of the early morning, with the manly hum of the chainsaw, they were undaunted. They began sawing down the dead trees and started a fire to burn the wood. By late morning, the heat and humidity began to get the best of them. Still determined, my husband came up with what he thought was a brilliant idea—eliminate the hauling and dragging. Cut the trees so they fall directly into the fire.

That afternoon, when I went outside to wait for my kids to get off the bus, there was a lovely area of cleared land… and plumes of flame and smoke billowing from a two-story pile of brush at the edge of the woods. As I stood there, someone pulled into the drive and introduced himself as the local Volunteer Fire Marshall. “I’ve got a truck on the way,” he informed me.

I did not have a chance to ask who had called for a fire truck before the school bus arrived, delivering my children from their first day of school in the new town.

As the school bus drove away, a fire truck arrived.

“We just got training last week on how to put out brush fires,” the firemen told my husband. “We got it taken care of, sir. No charge, this time.”

After dinner, still wondering why the fire department was called to our home, we looked out to see three-foot flames erupting from the pile of ashes those firemen made when they were “taking care of ” the brush fire.

A few weeks later, apparently impressed by his father’s fire-making skills, one son made what he initially thought was an unsuccessful attempt to start a fire, using only a magnifying glass on a pile of twigs. He grew tired of what turned out to be a very slow process and abandoned the effort, leaving the magnifying glass behind. Awhile later, we were eating lunch when my daughter looked outside and announced, “The woods are on fire!”

And that is why, when he produced his “All About Me” poster for a school assignment, the caption under the “memories” photo – a shot of him sitting, head-in-blackenedhands – read, “It’s kinda discouraging when everyone gets all mad at you for starting a forest fire. It’s not like I committed a crime or anything.”

by Hallie Bandy

over

Motherboard

v

Trouble is, when there is a no-burn order in effect, it is a crime. But let’s keep that between us.

APRIL 2014 | TOPS MAGAZINE

87

TOPS IN EQUINE and highlight the future stars of the horse industry. The winner is then invited to participate in the main event just moments from commencing. Jim Anderson wowed the crowd with his bareback and bridle less performance on Six Flo Buck in the Wild Card and proceeded to work his magic on his new horse partner Speedy Cream to win the championship.

Next year’s Road to the Horse could see the most competition in the history of the event as it was announced that the 2015 show will have a $100,000 purse for the winner, the largest prize in Road to the Horse history.

Rainy (or Sunny too) Attractions As the old adage goes, April showers bring May flowers and

108

APRIL 2014 | TOPSINLEX.COM

what better way to spend a rainy April day than perusing the new exhibits at the Horse Park’s many museums on the grounds.

Beginning Friday, April 4, the International Museum of the Horse unveils its special exhibition, “Equine Treasures of the Bluegrass.”

By combining the museum’s permanent exhibits and collections along with art and other items of interest from area museums, libraries and private collections, this new exhibition promises to be one of the most captivating and comprehensive equine displays in the history of the Commonwealth.

The American Saddlebred Museum also opens a new exhibit on Tuesday, April 1. “Oak Hill Farm – A Jewel of the Bluegrass” will feature six decades of this legendary farm in Harrodsburg, Kentucky. Of course, the farm’s owner Jean McLean Davis is

The Event of a Lifetime The world-renowned event, The Rolex 3-Day Event, is gracing the Kentucky Horse Park once again with its spectacular array of superbly trained horses and highly skilled riders. This competition (presented by Land Rover) is the only 4 star three-day event in North America and challenges riders in the disciplines of dressage, cross country, and show jumping. The competition is a proving ground for many participants who are vying for coveted positions on teams competing in future World Championships and Olympics.

The adrenaline and excitement will begin on Wednesday, April 23 with the Horse Inspection (where each horse in the competition is inspected by veterinarians to ensure soundness and fitness for the event). It will also mark the opening of the prestigious cross-country course to the public. April 24-25 will showcase the dressage portion of the event in the Rolex Stadium with the crowning jewel, the cross-country competition, occurring on April 26. The final test of skill will be the show jumping which will wrap up the event on April 27.

With over 60,000 spectators each year, the Rolex is a must-see event and

offers something for everyone. A Rolex admission tickets also will get you into all other offerings of the Horse Park!

TOPS IN EQUINE

featured prominently in the exhibit where memorabilia from Davis’ personal collection will be displayed, including trophies, ribbons, photographs and paintings. Rare photo footage in video format will also be available for audiences to witness. A display of a lifetime, take an afternoon to learn more about a Bluegrass woman and her winning horses.

Shopping Delights Vendor row features shopping galore (there are over 175 merchants, corporate sponsors and food vendors) during the Rolex from furniture to art and, of course, every possible accessory imaginable for the horse and horse lover. Stroll through the array from shops coming from across the country and beyond to find the perfect gift for someone or yourself! New this year is a special section of booths called “Kentucky Uncovered” which will feature businesses and attractions distinct to the Commonwealth.

Tailgate!

Spectators can watch the excitement of cross-country day live from your tailgate spot on course. Rolex Kentucky ThreeDay Event Land Rover Tailgating passes include 6 General Admission Tickets and one reserved parking space near the Cross-Country Course on Saturday only.

This is a unique opportunity to watch horse and riders gallop over terrain and navigate obstacles at high speed.

“Tailgating on cross-country day has been one of my favorite additions to Rolex.

The ability to have a ‘home base’ of sorts, where you can leave chairs, snacks, bags and such while you walk the course is so nice—and each space has a great view of at least a few fences, said Sarah Coleman, Education and Development Director for New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program. “Even more fun is the tailgate competition! We start scheming for next

“The atmosphere at Rolex is the only event in this country of its kind. The environment is incredibly special.

From the big course, to the crowds, shopping and all the finite details in between, Rolex is world class.”

-Sharon White and her her Horse Wundermaske

APRIL 2014 | TOPS MAGAZINE

109

TOPS IN EQUINE

year’s theme around August, so by the time the tickets come in the mail, we’re ridiculously excited. So far we’ve done ‘mini Rolex’ and a Derby themes-- but I can’t tell you what we’re doing this year yet! Each year the tailgating has gotten bigger and better— we can’t wait to see it this year.”

Horsepower of Another Kind Have a non-horsey friend or significant other? Swing by the Land Rover demo where you can get behind the wheel and go for an off-road course!

Cowboy Up The action at the Horse Park during the Rolex is non-stop.

Returning to the Park on April 25-27 is the Kentucky Reining Cup. Debuting at the Park in 2011, this exciting event is a family favorite (not to mention the chance to see and meet professional cowboys and cowgirls), this year’s reining competition will be stiff as it will serve as the selection trial for the 2014 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games U.S. Reining Team held in Normandy.

Reining competition captures the essence and spirit of the working ranch horse. Showcasing the horse’s athletic prowess with circles spins and sliding stops – the reining horse must be

110

APRIL 2014 | TOPSINLEX.COM

agile, quick and responsive to its rider. For freestyle events, the horse’s movements are synchronized with music, producing a thrilling spectacle to watch.

• Friday, April 25 – CRI3* and Opening Round of the Adequan/ USEF Open Reining National Championship and the Kentucky Reining Cup Team Challenge • Saturday, April 26 – FEI Junior and Young Rider classes, ParaReining classes, and The Freestyle Reining World Championship • Sunday, April 27 – Kentucky Reining Cup CRI3* / Second Go and Final of the Adequan/USEF National Open Championship & Official US Reining Team Selection Trial During Saturday’s Freestyle Championship, riders from the eventing world will test their mettle in a western saddle. Be sure to see how these eventing celebrities stack up. Included in the line-up is David O’Connor (gold medalist in the 2000 Olympic Games and returning champion of the celebrity reining competition) will be up against some of the best – including Bruce Davidson, another eventing gold medalist.

For more information or to order tickets for the 2014 Kentucky Reining Cup, go to: www.KentuckyReining.com

TOPS IN EQUINE APRIL 2014 | TOPS MAGAZINE

111

TOPS IN EQUINE

Horsin’ Around May Events May 4: Thoroughbred Horse Show May 7-11: Kentucky Spring I Hunter/Jumper Show Featuring Special Classes: •$15,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby • $5,000 Hallway Feeds USHJA National Hunter Derby • $25,000 Hagyard Lexington Classic • $75,000 Commonwealth Grand Prix May 14-18: Kentucky Spring II Hunter/Jumper Show Featuring Special Classes: • A World Championship Hunter Rider Event • $5,000 Hallway Feeds USHJA National Hunter Derby • $25,000 Hagyard Lexington Classic • $75,000 Mary Rena Murphy Grand Prix May 18: High Hope Steeplechase May 22-25: KDA Spring Warm Up and Annual Dressage Show May 30-June 1: Carriage Driving Event

112

APRIL 2014 | TOPSINLEX.COM

Owner, Everything But the House

TOPS IN EQUINE

Fillies in the Workplace: Beth Ann Haydon

By Kathie Stamps

Beth Ann Haydon

She has ridden horses and raised them, and loves them to

pieces. Beth Ann Haydon finds a way to incorporate something equine into her life every day. She is the general manager of Everything But the House, an online auction company that does have a horsey element to it. She came to this job in a most circuitous manner.

Born in Cincinnati, Haydon’s family moved to Lexington in the

mid-1960s when she was a kid. Her father, Ralph Glassford, was president of McAlpin’s, a popular department store (acquired

by Dillard’s in 1998). “Ralph and Alice Glassford are very wellknown in these parts,” Haydon said of her parents. “That’s helped me get jobs. It’s a small world.”

The young Beth Ann Glassford took riding lessons at Robert Murphy Stables out Parkers Mill Road, and rode horses in Mid-

APRIL 2014 | TOPSINLEX.COM

115

TOPS IN EQUINE

way. Then, during her senior year at Lexington Catholic, her dad was transferred to Tennessee with Castner-Knotts Department Stores.

So she went to the University of Tennessee, and graduated with a business degree and a minor in paralegal.

She worked in real estate law, got a real estate license, a contractor’s license and spent some time as a designer. In Nashville, she and her first husband raised American Quarter Horses on a horse farm. They were in the construction business for 20 years.

In 2004 she started her own construction company, making her one of only five women contractors in the Volunteer State. She sold the Bright Company in 2008 and moved back to Lexington.

“I had grown up here, I loved the people and had so many connections with Keeneland and the Thoroughbred industry,” she said. Her brother is in equine pharmaceuticals.

Now she and her husband, Joe Haydon, have Thoroughbreds on their Midway horse farm, so she has come full circle. When she moved back to horse country almost six years ago, she was the special events coordinator at the Hilary J. Boone Center at UK. That’s where she met her husband. Joe Haydon has had experience in the military and as an equine writer and researcher, and is an award-winning equine photographer and artist.

“He’s my renaissance man,” Beth Ann Haydon said. She is quite the multifaceted person herself, claiming a background in sales, among her various ventures. One day she heard about a business called Everything But the House.

“When I heard about this company I knew immediately I wanted this job,” she said. The Cincinnati-based company, EBTH for short, is an online auction, similar to eBay but with customer service in the form of individual attention for each auction. “We are a revolutionary online personal property and estate sales and service provider,” Haydon said. “If you have a question about an item you’re selling or bidding on, we answer the phone.”

With headquarters in Cincinnati and an office in Lexington, EBTH is also in Louisville, Indianapolis and Columbus. There will be an Everything But the House in Nashville soon. Haydon started with the company in July 2013. In March of this year, her Lexington EBTH office moved from 1,000 square feet on Kentucky Avenue

116 APRIL 2014 | TOPSINLEX.COM

to a space six times bigger on National Avenue. “We feel blessed to be here,” she said.

Her job as general manager has her going to horse farms, private homes and estate sales throughout the Bluegrass and beyond. She had a client in Cincinnati who also had a home in Jackson Hole, so Haydon flew to Wyoming and shipped things back. Sometimes people are downsizing, so they don’t need as many possessions when they move to a smaller house. Haydon and her EBTH team help them sell items. “We’re not a glorified garage sale,” she said.

“These are unique items, high-end items.”

Through Everything But the House, Haydon has helped people sell automobiles and boats, furniture, artwork and collectibles, and equine memorabilia like framed prints, horse sculptures and jewelry.

“My job is great because there’s so much stuff that’s equine related,” Haydon said. “I’m looking forward to doing numerous equine sales. I’d love to get somebody a lot of tack—saddles, bridles, blankets—from special farms. People would jump at that in a heartbeat.”

Her team consists of a project manager, 10 sales coordinators, eight cataloguers and four photographers. Although the EBTH auctions take place online, the National Avenue warehouse has two showrooms so people can preview items in person. These showroom “sales” take place a couple of days before an auction goes online; items cannot be purchased at the previews. Once online, each auction lasts seven days.

Antiques dealers, art gallery owners and restaurateurs often search the EBTH website. There are almost 48,000 bidders now, from all 50 states and 17 countries. If you’re looking for a particular type of saddle or a drop-leaf table, for example, Haydon will let you know when one becomes available.

Whether downsizing in town or moving out of state, going through a divorce or losing a family member, these types of events are often an overwhelming process. “Our motto is to help you, hold your hand, and help you sell everything but the house,” Haydon said. “We are sensitive to emotional and personal needs.”

Haydon has never met a stranger, and she considers every one of her clients a friend. Being a people-person is a genetic trait she

TOPS IN EQUINE

has passed along to her three children.

She has a son and one daughter (and infant grandchild) who live in Nashville, and another daughter who teaches English in Seoul, Korea. “I feel very proud of all my kids,” Haydon said. “They love people and people love them.” All three are excellent riders too.

Haydon still loves to ride horses but doesn’t have too terribly much time to do so. “There aren’t enough hours in the day,” she said. She is a member of the Thoroughbred Club and Commerce Lexington, and in her spare time she enjoys reading and doing needlepoint.

She also loves to entertain, particularly if it involves inviting clients, out-oftown friends and the EBTH corporate folks from Cincinnati to a day at Keeneland, so she can show off one of the most beautiful places on earth.

At the Kentucky Horse Park, look for the EBTH booth at the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event, April 24-27. Haydon and her team will be in the Kentucky Uncovered pavilion, a new section being added to this year’s event. “We’re really excited about it,” she said. “We are going to hit a lot of people that have no clue what we do.”

Between her background in the construction industry and her managerial role for EBTH, Haydon still feels like she is going to job sites every day, which is a positive thing in her mind because she enjoys solving problems and making clients feel as comfortable as possible.

“I fully intend to get more involved with the community,” she said. “I am blessed to be back in the Bluegrass, around horses and in this new job. I’m very happy here.”

Learn more about Everything But the House at www.ebth.com.

APRIL 2014 | TOPSINLEX.COM

117

Road to the Derby: TOPS IN EQUINE

Countdown

by John C. Engelhardt

The view of this year’s Kentucky Derby leaders is as clear as your windshield with a bad wiper heading up I-75 in a driving rainstorm while passing an 18-wheeler. The 3-year-olds with the top resumes and connections have found serious bumps in the road. There is only one first Friday and Saturday in May and a horse’s racing and training regimen has to have them ready to peak that afternoon, rain or shine on a dirt surface. The Racing Gods have not shined brightly on some of this generation’s top males and females, while some of the point-laden prep races have produced thrilling stretch duels that underline the parity of this crop of competitors.

Stakes (is there a longer stakes name in racing?)- ended up in a thrilling three-horse photo finish and left us with more questions than answers. The reason being, that the top three all excel on a synthetic Polytrack surface and the Derby is run on dirt. In a race that looked devoid of speed other than Solitary Ranger who won the John Battaglia Memorial, the traditional prep race at Turfway, saw him joined by several others pressing the pace.

Of those three, only Harry’s Holiday stayed along to be in the photo and with Rosie Napravnik aboard appeared to get the nod at the wire.

strided past him in the final furlong, finishing out strongly. In his defense, Midnight Hawk had raced since their last meeting where Chitu finished second 1 ¼ lengths ahead of him in second against the highly regarded Candy Boy in the Grade 3 Robert Lewis. The quick turnback may have hurt Midnight Hawk, but I do not believe 1 ¼ miles will suit his style or pedigree.

It was a rebellious final furlong in Oaklawn Park’s Rebel Stakes.

The $600,000 Grade 2 event brought back the top three finishers of their Grade 3 Southwest Stakes in which Tapiture was a dominant winner. New to the cast was Bob Baffert-trained Hoppertunity with Mike Smith in the irons and they won the Donnybrook down the lane. With a wet track no one wanted to be near the rail and Ride On Curlin was closest in the four path. He seemed to start a chain reaction coming out a tad as

Coastline and jockey Stewart Elliot had tracked the top three and was right there in the final yards, Usually when someone tells you, but widest of all in the lane was We “I’ve got some good news and bad Miss Artie, whose last win came news what do you want to hear in the Grade 1 Breeders Futurity first?” The average Joe goes with at Keeneland as a 2-year-old– and the bad news first to finish on a the last time he raced on polytrack high note. Being a “Glass half full and had John Velazquez in the sadguy,” I’m going with the opposite dle. That combination got the job here. With few exceptions so far, done again by a nose over Harry’s we’ve had head-bobbing thrillers Holiday who was a head in front of that leave the door wide open on Coastline. “I was concerned about Derby Day. being wide on the first turn and the kick back was coming hard and he The most recent at press time for was jumping up and down wastthe boys was the Grade 3 $800,000 ing a lot of energy, but once I got Sunland Park Derby and it turned to the backstretch I put him in the out to be a Bob Baffert-trained exclear and got him in a nice cruising acta finish. Before a track-record speed,” said Velazquez. “He kind of crowd 18,642, stablemates Middrifted out and the top two looked night Hawk and Chitu sat just off like they were getting away, at the leader Garen in the 1 1/8 mile test. wire I could not tell.” One thing we We Miss Artie Jockey Mike Smith asked Midnight can tell is that owner Ken Ramsey Hawk for speed into the turn and says the Todd Pletcher trainee will be in the starting gate for the took the lead on the outside. Martin Garcia went right with the Kentucky Derby. new leader and with his massive hindquarters Chitu smoothly

Kentucky’s Grade 3 Horseshoe Casino Cincinnati Racing Spiral

APRIL 14 | TOPSINLEX.COM

119

TOPS IN EQUINE

Strong Mandate was making his move in the final furlong with Tapiture gaining at every stride at the same time as Hoppertunity on the outside of the four.

Tapiture and Hoppertunity seemed to have a fair fight exchanging bumps while Strong Mandate backed off a bit. The slugfest went to the wire with Hoppertunity getting the count over Tapiture and Ride On Curlin.

new track announcer, they may bring in basketball guru Dick Vitale to call the Kentucky Oaks as good as his famed “AWESOME BABY!” shout is running these days. Awesome Baby was one of the most impressive debut winners last summer at Del Mar, then finished out of the money two Grade 1 stakes before beginning her sophomore season with a half-length We Miss Artie Edges Coastline and Harry’s Holiday in the Spiral Stakes win in the Grade 2 Santa There was an Inquiry and Ynez at 6 1/2 furlongs. Awean Objection and in the end I believe the stewards got it right. some Baby then cruised to a 2 3/4-length win in the Grade 3 While roughly run, the exchanges were equal and the finish reSanta Ysabel at 1 1/16 miles March 1. mained as lit on the board. Let’s look forward to an “Arkansas Derby Cage Match” on April 12.

State-bred programs are on the rise and don’t drop your mint julep with your jaw wide open if a New York or California-bred horse takes down Kentucky’s greatest race this year. Two New York-bred horses have proven themselves worthy in back-toback performances against open company with 1-2 finishes in the Grade 3 Withers and most recently the $500,000 Grade 3 Gotham Stakes. Undefeated Samraat finds himself currently tied in Derby points with We Miss Artie after game efforts over arch-rival and NY-bred Uncle Sigh in both races. In the Gotham those two had to run down In Trouble on the rail making his distance debut and you could barely put a piece of paper between the three in the final sixteenth of a mile. Samraat may have had an intimidating edge on the outside, but he survived the Inquiry over a game Uncle Sigh and a very improving In Trouble.

On the other coast we have the well seasoned California-bred California Chrome who has won from 4 ½ furlongs to 1 1/16 miles through his 9 race career. In the Grade 2 $300,000 San Felipe he stepped out of his state-bred safety net and turned it into a two-horse race vs. graded stakes winner Midnight Hawk, romping away by 7 ¼ lengths with graded stakes-placed Kristo in third. The Santa Anita Derby on April 5 should give us a better read on the best in the west.

The Grade 2 $350,000 Tampa Bay Derby through a new hat in the ring as 14 to 1 shot Ring Weekend drew the rail and drew off by 8 lengths down the backstretch and was never seriously threatened to the wire. The Graham Motion trainee was making 6th start at five different racetracks on slop, synthetic and turf. Perhaps he has found a home at a distance on dirt and as a son of the red-hot sire Tapit cannot be dismissed as a Derby contender during this topsy-turvy season.

Though Churchill Downs has chosen Larry Collmus to be their

120 APRIL 2014 | TOPSINLEX.COM

Trainer Bob Baffert had won five runnings of the now $200,000 Sunland Park Oaks since it was inaugurated in 2003 and Awesome Baby had no problem adding to that total. Setting very solid fractions with Mike Smith at the controls she went wire to wire. “She kind of scrambled a bit leaving there, and then she got into her high cruising speed, which is her game,” Smith said.

“I’ve got my whole family here,” said the New Mexico native.

“I hear there’s a record attendance. Half the grandstand is my family.” The daughter of Awesome Again has now won 4 of 6 starts for earnings of $309,250 and shot her way to the top of the Kentucky Oaks leader board with 110 points.

In the second spot behind her with 64 points now is Aurelia’s Belle who scored an authoritative victory over 11 rivals in the Grade 3 $125,000 Pure Romance Bourbonette Oaks at Turfway Park. The team of trainer Todd Pletcher and jockey John Velazquez drew favoritism at the windows with Sloane Square who chased the pace set by Stormy Novel. Turning for home, Channing Hill riding for his father-in-law trainer Wayne Catalano, split horses and cleared the field by 2 ¼ lengths.

Aurelia’s Belle came into the 1 mile race off of two game efforts in Grade 2 races behind undefeated Onlyforyou for owner James F. Miller. Catalano said his filly’s winning performance leaves her on target to start in the May 2 Kentucky Oaks. “That’s his dream to win the Oaks,” Catalano said. “That’s why we were here.”

Now for those we will not see in the Derby and Oaks, Hall of Fame trainer Jerry Hollendorfer confirmed March 13 that 2-year-old champion male Shared Belief will not contest the Grade 1 Toyota Blue Grass Stakes at Keeneland and is officially off the road to the Kentucky Derby.

As we pointed out in our last column, Shared Belief is a gelding and the length of his racing career is much more important than pushing to try for glory and a wreath of roses. The good news is Hollendorfer reports the problematic foot is “almost to that

perfect point,” and he could finally begin working soon.

a slight tear in his right hind upper suspensory.

“We’ll give him 60 days off and then re-evaluate.

The positive side is that he should be able to come back and have a productive career later on,” quoted McGaughey. “It goes to show you what this game can be like, when you see so many of these top 3-year-olds suddenly out of the Derby picture.”

Fountain of Youth Stakes at Gulfstream Park. Hopefully we’ll be watching the promising Shug McGaughey trainee again later in the season.

Top Billing is off the Kentucky Derby trail after suffering a cracked cannon bone in his right front leg during a routine halfmile workout at Payson Park. According to trainer Shug McGaughey, Top Billing had completed his work and was walking back to the barn when he detected the 3-year-old was not travelling well. “The long term prognosis is a good one.” Trainer Shug McGaughey’s positive assessment was stated and he said surgery to repair Top Billing’s cracked cannon bone went off without a hitch in Kentucky.

McGaughey’s other top Kentucky Derby prospect, Honor Code, launched his 3-year-old campaign in a 1 1/16-mile allowance at Gulfstream Park. Honor Code had a minor setback of his own earlier this winter that cost him 10 days of training and had been working forwardly for his return since being transferred from Payson to Gulfstream Park in late January. He ran into a buzz saw in his return finishing a distant second to a track-record setting rising star named Social Inclusion.

Since his return effort, Honor Code is off the Kentucky Derby trail and will be sidelined indefinitely after being diagnosed with

TOPS IN EQUINE

Also off the Derby Trail is the promising Bond Holder from the barn of Doug O’Neil who won the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes with I’ll Have Another. Originally it was reported that an injury caused by a bumpy flight from California gave him body soreness that kept him out of the Risen Star Stakes at the Fair Grounds. After further exAnd suddenly and tragiamination, Bond Holder, the cally out of the Kentucky winner of the Grade 1 FrontOaks picture was a poRunner Stakes at Santa Anita tential favorite Onlyfolast September with current ryou. The multiple Grade Catalano Talks to Hill Prior to Aurelia’s Belle’s Win in Bourbonette earnings of $366,000, had 2 winner was euthanized been treated at a veterinary March 15 after breezing at clinic in Florida for laminitis, trainer Doug O’Neill said recently. Palm Meadows, owner John Greathouse of Glencrest Farm conBond Holder was at the Ocala clinic for two weeks while passing firmed. The brilliant 3-year-old Malibu Moon filly sustained a a hopeful start in the Tampa Bay Derby on March 8. displaced condylar fracture while galloping out. Undefeated in It has been a tough three weeks for trainer Shug McGaughey four starts for trainer Todd Pletcher, Onlyforyou won the Grade who won last year’s Derby with Orb, as he has seen his two top 2 Davona Dale Stakes Feb. 22 at Gulfstream Park after taking the contenders sent to the sidelines. In our last column, we some- Grade 2 Forward Gal a month earlier in her stakes debut. She what touted Top Billing as “A Horse to Watch” despite finish- was favored each time she ran and always won in an impressive ing third against a speed biased track in the Grade 2 $400,00 style.

Another top filly we won’t see for a while is Streaming, the winner the Grade 1 Hollywood Starlet in December, finished last in the Grade 3 Rachel Alexandra at Fair Grounds. She has been found to have a bone chip in a knee following that race. Trainer Bob Baffert said Streaming is expected to be out of training for two months. Streaming has won 2 of 4 starts and earned $349,000. Aside from her win in the $500,000 Hollywood Starlet, Streaming was second in the Grade 1 Las Virgenes Stakes at Santa Anita on Feb. 1.

Mark your calendars for two very well-timed and important races that should bring the best of both divisions together at the upcoming Keeneland meet. For the ladies it will be the 1 1/16 mile Ashland Stakes on April 5, while males will compete in the Blue Grass Stakes on April 12.

John C. Engelhardt has been an equine photographer and turf writer for 30 years and served as the President of the Turf Publicists of America. He hosts a weekly radio show on winningponies.com. For reprints of his images or future assignments you may contact him at longshot51@earthlink.net

APRIL 14 | TOPSINLEX.COM

121

Derby Glam!

Tick Tock, the clock is ticking down to the biggest and best party of the Spring season–the legendary and fabulous Kentucky Derby! Cabin-fevered folks have now recovered from March Madness TV marathons and are ready for two weeks of excessive social drinking, outdoor events, extravagant parties, beautiful horses and did I mention drinking?

“Southern Hospitality” doesn’t just mean being polite and saying “Y’all”, it also encompasses the fine art of how to party down gracefully with style while remaining fresh and fun well into the wee hours of the morning—after all, the clubs in Louisville stay open until 4am! Making an appearance at every event, horse race and jumpin’ club scene requires much skill and knowledge. Read on for the real inside scoop.

Want to know how to party like a Louisvillian during Derby Week? Follow these simple basics and you will be well on your way.

Most important--Get off work as many days as possible Derby Week; nothing’s going to get accomplished anyway. Who cares if the rest of the USA doesn’t understand why calls go right to voice mail?

Remember to get your sleep in the weeks ahead of the Derby.

TOPS IN EQUINE

by Anastasia Austen

Naps are not allowed Derby Week.

Stay hydrated! Drink lots of water and take vitamins. I’m not kidding. Without peak health, you are not going to make it --and you will ultimately drag down your friends!! That’s just wrong.

In case you have not heard, Louisville is tragically hip. The past few years have seen the emergence of a variety of trendy neighborhoods, farm-to-table restaurants, art galleries, clubs and boutique shopping areas. Here are a few tips: Coolest Neighborhoods: NULU ---This is hot spot these days, located on East Market Street in downtown Louisville .This is where you will find art galleries, cute stores for window shopping, and lots of upscale, yummy places to dine.

My favorite places there are Decca, which features an outdoor deck with a water feature flowing by and also a fire pit.

Musicians take the stage and jam into the night. Downstairs is a limestone rock Grotto-type lounge area with leather couches and neat images projected on the walls…dinner is eclectic and served in a historic dining room with gorgeous cork floors!

My next favorite spot is Le Coop, they serve “French Vietnamese

APRIL 2014 | TOPSINLEX.COM

123

TOPS IN EQUINE

fusion” or something like that, but it doesn’t really describe the heavenly food created this little, tiny postage-stamp of a place located in the “Green Building”. No, it’s not green in color, but rather it’s a politically correct, sustainable, solar powered “healthy” building with a garden on top–a cornerstone in NULU. Also check out Garage Bar, located in an old garage, it has an art installation of two real cars crashing into each other… also, there are outdoor ping pong tables and seating covered in fake grass…you will understand once you see it!

Downtown--This is ground zero for the party scene, 4th Street Live! Is always fun with dozens of clubs, eateries and a lot of interesting people-watching. Go to Jeff Ruby’s (if you can get in) and grab a bite or go across the street to the haunted and historic Seelbach Bar. F. Scott Fitzgerald lived at this hotel while he wrote The Great Gatsby! There is also a room in the Oak Room that has a secret door that allowed Al Capone and his associates to escape during raids in Prohibition times.

Highlands--Hit the street-party scene and carry your booze traveler discreetly with you, rarely do folks get arrested doing this illegal deed Derby Week as they bar hop up and down

124 APRIL 2014 | TOPSINLEX.COM

TOPS IN EQUINE

Bardstown Road. Craft beer, Pubs Grub, and live music await. Crowds will be on the sidewalks in throngs 24 hours a day here. My favorite spots include Ramsi’s Café, as they serve food until 1am! For a stiff drink at a great dive bar, hit The Back Door. Try Jack Fry’s for a great Dry Martini made with Tito’s Vodka…Exploring is always fun!

What to See: Be sure to go to the award winning 21C Hotel on Main Street, named the #1 Hotel in the South by Conde Naste Magazine. It is thought-provoking, exciting and hard to describe. View the contemporary art installations, and the award –winning bathrooms. Do not be alarmed if you see women sneaking into the men’s room…it features a waterfall as the, well, you know, and the ladies love to peek in. Be sure to grab a drink at Proof, the hotel bar…and gaze upwards—the ceiling changes colors!

Beware: Bridge Traffic Hell. Did you know two bridges are being constructed over the Ohio River in Louisville? Yes. Prepare for gridlock, construction and delays.

My advice? Get a limo. Take a cab. If you cannot, allow lots of extra time for your commute and pretend you are in Chicago or Atlanta traffic!

The best tip of all: Follow my professional advice. Many years of misadventures and honing party skills allow me to spare the gentle reader from wasting precious time and resources! Now, go take your vitamins.

Anastasia Austen is the Brand Development Manager for DerbyDeals.com, a Louisvillearea sports travel agency specializing in Thoroughbred Horse Racing events and the Kentucky Derby. Originally from Carmelby-the Sea, California, she earned her BS in Sport Administration from the University of Louisville and a Masters in Marketing from Webster University. She has worked in various aspects of the horse racing industry including equine fashion, sports journalism and special events.

APRIL 2014 | TOPSINLEX.COM

125

TOPS IN EQUINE

Larry Shulman If you have been lucky enough to have the pleasure of getting to know Lenny Shulman, you will find many similarities to him and Dan Henry, the lead figure in his recently published first novel Long Way From Home, which is available at Amazon.com A native New Yorker, you usually hear Lenny before you see him, most often letting out a deep hearty laugh while sharing a quick witted story with someone involved in the racing game.

There is no way a personality like Lenny couldn’t naturally let his brand of humor blend its way into his book and it drips into seemingly every chapter like the grease on a New York pizza his Runyunesque characters enjoy while exchanging barbs.

Much like Dan Henry, Lenny Shulman took a circuitous route that landed the wise-cracking writer from the east coast to a pastoral home in Central Kentucky.

Lenny’s life experiences gave him a large palette from which to brightly color the individuals that move through his novel.

He grew up in Westbury, New York, only five minutes away from Roosevelt Raceway where he spent “considerable time,” he states, though his first exposure to racing was with his father and uncle who would take him to Belmont Park once or twice a year. “It was a big deal for me, just to go with them it was fun,” he recollects. “You’d see celebrities like Cab Callaway and I just loved betting two bucks on the horses

126 APRIL 2014 | TOPSINLEX.COM

A Novel Individual Who Has Found Himself A Long Way From Home

and they’d be getting tips from the FBI guy who was on track there that they knew – it was pretty fun stuff for a young kid.”

He made his way to the well respected Newhouse School of Journalism at Syracuse University and landed his first newspaper job just outside of the “Salt City” in a small town called Oneida, where the first snow comes on Thanksgiving and leaves on April Fools Day. From the white winter and lush green summers of upstate New York, Lenny went to its geographical opposite and founded a weekly entertainment newspaper in Tucson, Arizona. That lasted for three years and ended according to Lenny with his patented humorous guffaw, “That ran out of funding and eventually we ran out of printing presses we could stiff with a printing bill. So I thought the next frontier was L.A. as far as being a writer and I went out there with the dream of being a television writer, but I ended up working for Larry Flynt as a proofreader for Hustler and that was kind of my day job.” Why a magazine like Hustler would need a proofreader leaves me befuddled, but it paid the rent for the determined writer.

Like the move from Syracuse to Tucson, Lenny found himself in another amazing contrasting and career changing event.

He went from a skin magazine to writing and producing a children’s show. “I got a break, I met someone at MGM and they recommended me for an episode of this kid’s show and they ended up liking me pretty good.” Obviously, they did.

Lenny worked on Kids Incorporated for almost nine years writing and producing it.

In his self-deprecating style, Shulman gladly took the nomination in stride. “I do remember getting mentioned in the New York Times review of “Dice Rules” and it was not a complimentary review,” loudly laughed Shulman. “But at least with the New York Times rules they do call you ‘Mr. Shulman’ so at the same time they are trying to crucify you at least they are being polite to you. While the reviews were not that good the audience sure appreciated it. It was an exciting time to be with Andrew as he was at the absolute top of show business. He’d be playing arenas, playing Vegas on New Year’s Eve, he’d go to Frank Sinatra’s New Year’s Eve parties, it was about as high as you could go and that was a hell of a ride to be on.”

From arena’s hosting comedy shows Shulman amazingly changed his scenery again, this time jumping into the sports arena. He went from being nominated for a “Razzie” to actually winning an Emmy Award. Through a childhood friend that very much resembles one of the main players in Long Way From Home, Shulman landed a job with the FOX network as it was beginning its association with the NFL in the mid-‘90s. He got to write a one-hour special that featured Terry Bradshaw, Jimmy Johnson, and Howie Long that won him a sports Emmy.

It was 20 years in Los Angeles doing show business, which can chew you up and spit you out if you are not paying attention, that was beginning to wear and tear on Lenny. As a diversion he was drawn back to the track where he had fond memories of days with his father and uncle at Belmont and his first high school buddies that had a license and enough gas to get them to and from Roosevelt Raceway. “I really had kind of lost horseracing and I began to pick it up again in Los Angeles, mostly because of A.P. Indy. I remember watching him run and all of a sudden the light bulb just went on in my head about horse racing.” Enthused again by the spectacle of the sport, Shulman went out to Hollywood Park every weekend taking in the all the ambience – the sights, sounds and action

TOPS IN EQUINE

The time had come for another curious turn in the “Life and Times of Lenny Shulman.” He ended up meeting over-theedge comedian Andrew Dice Clay which ended up being a long association. Lenny collaborated with Clay on the HBO Special “The Diceman Cometh” and the 1991 concert film “Dice Rules”. The latter got Lenny a nomination for the “Razzies” – not one you rush the stage to accept. The Golden Rasperry Awards is an awards ceremony in recognition of the worst in film. It is held in Los Angeles preceding the Academy Awards by one day.

at the window and on the track. He began to love it again and in the back of his mind he was looking for an exit out of California.

As luck would have it, Lenny attended a friend’s wedding in Cincinnati and spent a few days not far away in the Lexington area and picked up a few racing publications. He wrote to the Blood-Horse, which had just lost someone who was covering news in Los Angeles and took the job. The editorial staff liked his style and a position opened up at the home office in Lexington. “When that happened I just decided to throw it all down, pack it up and come out here,” stated Shulman.

“One of the great things about this job is that I get to go out and meet people and write about them. I kind of opened my eyes one day and realized I had done about a half dozen jockey stories and they are all really interesting and good stories that had a lot of meat on them. A lot of these jockeys had a lot of trouble, either growing up in a certain environment, or becoming involved in substance abuse – this one had this going on, this one had that going on, but basically there were all these stories on these guys who had overcome a lot of these obstacles,” continued Shulman, now away from the concrete jungle and immersing himself in his journalistic skills. “Some of the riders came from poor countries and poor families. I thought there was a real feel and bond behind all of these stories.” And from those observations and emotional insights was born Lenny’s first book Ride of Their Lives.

“What I really appreciated with these guys is that they were all so honest about talking about the dark side of their lives. Periods that they would not be proud of where they were really slamming themselves with some bad stuff, but willing to get in there and discuss the dark periods and I think to that extent it made for some interesting reading and that’s what made it go. There were obviously big names like Chris McCarron, Laffit Pincay, Corey Nakatani, Eddie Delahoussaye, Jorge Chavez, Kent Desormeaux, Pat Day, and Chris Antley, the last of whom had already passed away by the time we published the book, but I had the most amazing interview with him.” To attest to the quality of “Ride of Their Lives,” Hall of Fame jockey Chris McCarron, who heads up the North American Racing Academy, has his students read the book as part of his curriculum.

While Ride of Their Lives was a very enjoyable and engaging quilt of vignettes, Long Way From Home challenged Lenny to a writing style he had yet to tackle fully. “I had to do some different kind of writing, not non-fiction or industry and personality-related stories. I felt at some point I wanted to stretch my chops a little bit and expand my imagination and

APRIL 2014 | TOPSINLEX.COM

127

TOPS IN EQUINE

see what I could come up with. As far as putting it together it was kind of a weekend warrior project. I kind of had an idea going in, but to be honest it just took me from one spot to the next. I was playing it as it went along and I don’t think that is how you are classically supposed to do it,” he said, breaking out in laughter once again. “But I did not know exactly where it was going. It just kind of wound out as I was doing it and I’m thankful that at the end all of the loose ends tied together.”

“The advantage of fiction is that you can use your imagination and you can go wherever you want to.

You can create situations and not wait for them to happen.”

Lenny created many a colorful situation in this book and perhaps his comedic experiences with Andrew Dice Clay influenced the dialogue between the main characters. The banter back and forth will leave you reeling with laughter.

His “boots on the ground” approach to his writing experience for the BloodHorse brings the reader under the shedrow where you can smell the liniment on a horse’s legs and be drawn into the atmosphere of racing at dawn and dusk. The novel is to be enjoyed by racing purists and novices alike.

Admittedly there is a lot of personal connection to the story line, which makes it all that more believable. “There are so many colorful characters we meet in this business that just seem larger than life and it is just astounding and you can grab a piece of this from one guy and a piece of that from another guy and before you know it you have some pretty interesting individuals to add to the story.” Lenny has been there and done that.

“I really like the two settings, I love New York City and I love it here in Kentucky and the fact that I could get both of those settings in the book was good for me.”

128 APRIL 2014 | TOPSINLEX.COM

After reading the book and knowing Lenny Shulman I had to ask him how much of Dan Henry is really Lenny? “I guess I have to admit that as much as I’d like to create a character that is outside of yourself there are snippets of situations you repurpose and put in a different context and have the character go through it. There is an element in there, but as far as being biographical – it isn’t.”

Long Way From Home is a wonderful blend of intrigue, romance, comedy and racing – four things that are hard not to like. In this novel Lenny Shulman was able to balance them all in a fashion that weaves relentless humor through waves of friendship, love, betrayal, and redemption.

It is a hard read to put down as you want to continue to relish the next chapter and see where it takes you. Perhaps the saving grace of this novel is that Lenny Shulman has created a character in Dan Henry that begs for another book. With Lenny’s amazing life experiences, dedicated work in the racing world and writing talent, I’d be willing to take an odds-on bet that this won’t be the last we get to savor a book that features the colorful Dan Henry – or his alter ego.

Lenny Shulman will be signing copies of his novel Long Way From Home April 26, 2-3:30 p.m, at Morris Book Shop, 882 E. High St., Lexington. 859-276-0494

John C. Engelhardt has been an equine photographer and turf writer for 30 years and served as the President of the Turf Publicists of America. He hosts a weekly radio show on winningponies.com. For reprints of his images or future assignments you may contact him at longshot51@earthlink.net

TOPS Cares

Always Unique Totally Intelligent Sometimes Mysterious

by Mary Ellen Slone

Are you privileged to know someone who has autism?

Whether you do or not, the members of ASBG (Autism Society of the Bluegrass) would like you to know that one in eighty-eight kids born in the USA is diagnosed with autism, 1.2% of the general population. Seven percent of this population will reflect that if one sibling is diagnosed with Autism, a second sibling is likely to also be diagnosed. Are you surprised? If not, you should be!

STATISTICALLY • Boys are 4-5 times more likely to be diagnosed than girls.

• Autism is a neurological disorder which affects how people think, respond, play, and communicate.

• Autism is a spectrum disorder, which means that it can present itself in a variety of combinations from mild to severe.

• Each person with autism is different.

• Autism is not caused by bad parenting, and children with autism are NOT just kids who choose to misbehave.

• Individuals with autism want to socialize and have friends, but they need help, patience, and understanding to achieve that goal.

• Autism is a lifelong disability, but it is treatable.

Worldwide, parents of autistic children face similar challenges; how to protect their children from being taunted, bullied or isolated, while encouraging them to socialize.

Locally, members of the ASBG want you to recognize and understand some early signs of Autism in young children. If after reading these ‘signals’ you as a parent, recognize characteristics of your child’s behavior,

134

APRIL 2014 | TOPSINLEX.COM

please consider having him or her evaluated by a physician. The earlier the diagnosis, the better.

SIGNALS INCLUDE By 6 months—no big smiles or other warm, joyful expressions.

By 9 months—no back-and-forth sharing of sounds, smiles, or other facial expressions.

By 12 months—lack of response to name; no babbling or ‘baby talk,’ no back-and-forth gestures such as pointing, reaching, or waving.

By 16 months—no spoken words.

By 24 months—no meaningful two-word phrases which don’t involve imitating or repeating.

As these children get older, the red flags of autism become more diverse.

There are many warning signs and symptoms, but they typically revolve around impaired social skills, speech and language difficulties, non-verbal communication difficulties, and inflexible behavior.

Working closely with researchers at the University of Kentucky, the members of the ASBG are continuously involved with Autism faculty members. UK and Eastern Kentucky University are both creating areas of academic specialization in Autism studies.

There are also opportunities for workshops and symposia for day care teachers, parents, and medical personnel to learn and share the latest information about Autism research.

The members of the ASBG provide education and support to families, educators and healthcare professionals dealing with this complex disorder. Sara Spragens, ASBG’s President, shared “Ours is among the oldest

TOPS Cares

Kentucky chapters of the Autism Society of America. We provide a forum for sharing information with families, professionals, and individuals dealing with autism.”

Ameiia (right) on vacation with brother Noah and sister Rachel

There are 700 people in the Central Kentucky area who share the synergism of information which link families and professionals involved with autism.

ASBG usually meets the last Monday of the month at 6:30 pm at St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, 2025 Bellefonte Drive, off Zandale. For meeting dates and topics, upcoming workshops, and information about autism in Central Kentucky and elsewhere, visit the website asbg. org, and join the continuous discussion at http://health groups.yahoo. com/group/ASBG. “Our mission is to disseminate solid, helpful, autism-related information to the communities we serve. We also provide scholarships for members to attend conferences elsewhere in Kentucky and beyond.”

Ms. Spragens said.

Amelia My 22-year-old daughter, Amelia, is like other young people; she votes, has a checking account, likes to go to movies, concerts, out to eat, and loves her iPad. In other ways, she is markedly different. She has difficulty communicating verbally, needs help with many fine motor tasks, and has difficulty focusing on simple things, such as conversations.

In 1994, at age two, she was barely talking. Her pediatrician told us not to worry. At two and a half, Amelia was diagnosed with a Developmental Delay, then re-evaluated at 3 years and diagnosed with Pervasive Developmental Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS). I asked the doctor if she had autism and was told “no.”

While autism isn’t normally diagnosed and treated before the second year of life, there are things parents can do if you child’s social and emotional development doesn’t seem to be on course. If your child is developmentally delayed or you’ve observed other flags for autism, schedule an appointment with your pediatrician right away. The diagnosis process is complex, and can sometimes take time. First Steps is a federally funded early intervention program for infants and toddlers with disabilities. Children who demonstrate several early warning signs may have developmental delays.

I told her occupational therapist about her PDD-NOS diagnosis. She said, “Do you know that is what some people call autism now?” We connected with the Autism Society of the Bluegrass and got the name of a good pediatric psychiatrist at the University of Kentucky. He quickly diagnosed Amelia with autism at three and a half.

Amelia needs a lot of help with her daily life. She uses an augmentative communication device on her iPad to improve communication. We use her strengths to help her be as independent as possible, and to have a typical life. We do not like to limit her options. We encourage her to try new things, not knowing if they will work. She tries hard every day to function in a world that she finds overwhelming. We are very proud of her.

- Wendy

September 2014 ASBG’s Annual Bluegrass Autism Walk Whitaker Bank Ballpark | Details available soon, asbg.org

APRIL 2014 | TOPS MAGAZINE

135

TOP People to Know

TOP

People to Know in Home & Garden Brook Mundy

Kyle Adamson

Home Inspector

Owner, Outdoor Lighting Designer

Buying a home is one of the most significant investments in your life. A home inspection is a relatively inexpensive proactive step that reveals the condition before you purchase your new home. In business for 11-years, Mundy’s is determined to help you find that dream home that meets your expectations and needs.

See your future home through the eyes of an expert as you walk through! All backed by a 90-day buyer’s warranty.

Lic #HI2131 859.608.0082 | MundysHomeInspection.com

154

APRIL 2014 | TOPSINLEX.COM

After earning a degree in Landscape Architecture from UK, Kyle became fascinated with lighting and how it effects and enhances a home and landscape. He started Red Oak Design in 2006 to provide architectural and landscape lighting that specialize in unique solutions for illuminating outdoor spaces. Kyle was recently honored with an Award of Merit for Best Feature Focused lighting project by the Association of Outdoor Lighting Professionals.

229.8710 | redoakdesign.net

Julie Lewis Interior Designer

Julie Lewis Interior Design offers a comprehensive approach to designing and building a home. For over 30 years Julie has focused on new home construction and partial/total remodeling from the ground up! Julie’s success is based on her approach to problem solving which takes the client from early planning to completed interiors. Julie works hard to ensure functional and beautiful spaces that reflect each client’s ideas and tastes, truly a collaborative relationship.

351.2362 | jlid@twc.com

TOPS Tour of Homes

Approaching

the home, the rustic stone exterior and the home’s dramatic curved rafters are the first of many architectural novelties incorporated by the homeowners.

Guests are welcomed in a traditional foyer, where a sophisticated navy blue Persian rug lies over the sleek hickory hardwood that spans throughout the main living rooms. A six-candle iron old-world chandelier hangs from another remarkable eyelifting detail —a ceiling rotunda polished in a faux bronze finish. Chair railing begins in the foyer and continues along the walls of the fluid living spaces in view.

To the left of the foyer, the office’s ceiling is one of the homeowner’s favorite features. A twist on a traditional coffered ceiling, Gale employs a series of maple beams to form a diamond over his desk.

158

APRIL 2014 | TOPSINLEX.COM

TOPS Tour of Homes

The formal dining room features an expandable Ethan Allen table topped with a wiry arrangement of twigs, greenery and red bursts of pomegranate. Windows looking out to the front lawn are dressed with golden floral-printed balloon drapes that extend to the floor.

Two striped upholstered chairs are tucked in the corners of the room on either side of a buffet, over which a rectangular bronze-framed mirror hangs.

Like many features in the Gales’ home, the most fascinating detail of the dining room is located overhead. Where the muted beige toned wall ends, a breathtaking three-tiered ceiling builds upon layers of artistically curved crown molding at each corner.

A transitional butler’s pantry suited with swirled granite countertops connects the dining room to a long, bended hallway containing earth-toned pieces of artwork.

APRIL 2014 | TOPS MAGAZINE

161

TOPS Tour of Homes

A

gain, the ceiling takes center stage in the master suite, with its dynamic doublebarrel architectural style that reiterates the home’s dedication to old-world sophistication. This room offers a straight view of the outdoor fireplace through a glass paned doorway—the third entryway to the patio entertainment area.

168

APRIL 2014 | TOPSINLEX.COM

TOPS Tour of Homes

The basement opens to a great room with a pool table and an old-fashioned overhead pool table light. This laid back section of the home features refurbished pieces, including red and blue welded flamingo chairs, and homemade pieces, including a unique side table constructed with sections of several types of wood, including ebony and rosewood.

APRIL 2014 | TOPS MAGAZINE

177

Posh Paws

“I Don’t Like My Pet Lately”

I’ve heard this many times, spoken in hushed tones with a look of distress, disappointment or terror on the pet owner’s face. Some will feign outrage at the mere mention of not constantly being stars, clouds and rainbows in-love with a four-legged friend.

But to get real for a minute, this can happen to a lot of pet parents.

Whether it’s a sudden turn in your pet’s behavior, a long-term problem that’s finally worn away at your patience or life problems that are getting in the way of your relationship with your pet, there are a lot of reasons to suddenly find yourself at odds with your animal companion.

Take a big, deep breath. Forgive yourself. Now take some time to think about why you’re having this detachment.

If it’s a new behavior that isn’t one of the pet clichés, consider seeing a vet. It may be a symptom of a larger problem. If it’s typical dog or cat attitude – especially if your pet is young – it’s time to consult a training expert.

by Amanda Harper, Pet Aficionado

Tried training? Seen your vet? Know that there’s no cure for this bad pet behavior? You’re at a decision point. If

the pet is a threat to you or itself, speak with your veterinarian about your options. Medication may help your pet relax. Be open to your vet’s suggestions for your pet’s comfort and your family’s safety. And keep your pet away from members of the family or neighbors who might accidentally be hurt by a difficult pet.

If your pet isn’t a threat but just more of a nuisance, this may be one of those “for better or for worse” moments. When you became a pet parent, you agreed to take care of this animal no matter what. Now, the “what” is shredding toilet paper or going potty in the middle of the floor. Try spending more bonding time together. This will not only prevent your pet from doing ‘the thing’, it may also help you to remember their good qualities and appreciate your pet as a friend.

But what if it’s you? Depression can prohibit a person from feeling as close to family members, friends and pets as they once did. Think about your life lately and how you’re feeling towards colleagues and commitments. If you can’t figure out why you’re having a hard time liking your pet and you notice a change in yourself, see your doctor or a counselor.

You’ve built a friendship with your pet and every friendship has its up and downs. If your relationship with your pet is strained, consider consulting an outside source that can best advise you on how to handle this difficult time.

APRIL 2014 | TOPS MAGAZINE

179

WOW Wedding

of heights, but willing to go because his soon-to-be wife wants to go. Lindsay gave her groom a monogrammed humidor filled with a variety of cigars.

Lindsay and Jake chose St. Peter Catholic Church for their wedding ceremony. Jake’s best friend from high school officiated the ceremony, offering a personal touch to the wedding Mass. White floral wreaths decorated the church. Lindsay carried a piece of lace from her baby bonnet in her bouquet and a sixpence in her shoe, given to her by a bridesmaid and lifelong friend.

The pouring rain came to a halt just as the couple arrived at the reception, held at the Lexington Center. Jake carried his bride into the venue so that her dress would stay dry – though he ended up

accidentally stepping on her dress as they were being introduced as a couple, pulling out her bustle!

The wedding décor featured navy blue and apple green with crisp, clean accents. Guests enjoyed a candy bar; the groom’s request for the evening; and late night sliders. The live band kept guests on their feet. As a special treat, they were joined by a professional violinist, a friend of the couple, for a rendition of “Wagon Wheel”.

After the reception ended, the party moved to Paulie’s Toasted Barrel. The guests filled the second floor to capacity and took over the bar for the evening. The couple’s parents ended up onstage, dancing together in celebration of Lindsay and Jake’s joyful union!

APRIL 2014 | TOPS MAGAZINE

209

WOW Wedding

APRIL 2014 | TOPS MAGAZINE

211

WOW Wedding

DETAILS Reception Venue & Catering: Lexington Center Bluegrass Ballroom | Wedding Photography: Willie Wilson Photography Wedding Planner & Flowers: Doug Smith Designs | Bridal Gown: Twirl Boutique | Cakes: Tinker’s Cake Shop Band: Diane McIntosh Band, Atlanta, GA | After Party: Paulie’s Toasted Barrel

212

APRIL 2014 | TOPSINLEX.COM

Weddings

How To—Flower Girl Tutus L

ittle girls look at weddings as a day to dress up, and you can look at this opportunity to make darling little girls look super sweet! A flower girl in a traditional dressy dress is of course always perfect for a wedding, but a trend in flower girl wear is to give in to the Tutu—your flower girls will love it even more!

There are beautiful flower girl Tutu dress options available on the market, or you can get crafty and create these looks on your own, especially if you have a number of little ones that will be walking down the aisle with you. An explosion of tulle, whether in white, cream or your wedding colors is a fabulous and fun look.

TUTU SKIRT STYLE The simplest look is for your girls to pair simple matching leotards as the tops (you choose sleeve length appropriate for your wedding season) and cover them with a tutu skirt. Skirts can be adorned with flowers, lace, and beads and can be color coordinated to complement your bridesmaid’s dresses.

TUTU DRESS FOR SUCCESS

by Marsha Koller Wedding Consultant

214

This is the big look today for little girls – a tutu dress made for all eyes to be on them. Tutu dresses are typically an empire waist style, with a stretch bodice with Tutu tulle streaming from beneath the bust line to near floor length. Seeing little feet peeping out from beneath yards of fluffy material can be very, very cute. Depending on your material and embellish-

APRIL 2014 | TOPSINLEX.COM

ments, and depending on the volume of tulle in each dress similar styles can go from casual and fun to elegant and regal.

DIY TUTU TIPS When making these dresses yourself, most Tutu styles require very little sewing as the tulle is simply cut to length and looped through the bottom of your bust line piece. Again there are great tutorials on You Tube (OK, say ‘You Tube Tutu Tutorials’ three times FAST!) that will walk you through the process and you will be a pro in no time. Wisely choose to add ribbon shoulder straps that can just be tied to the perfect length – you don’t want any Wardrobe Malfunctions on your tiniest stars during your ceremony, or for mom to constantly be pulling up their Tutus all evening!

TULLE CROWN WREATHS FOR LITTLE FAIRY PRINCESSES! It is essential to top off this look with some style of headpiece to take the ethereal fairy tale look to completion.

A braided circlet of matching tulle is simple and just perfect, or a coordinating flower that matches the embellishments of her dress. And no, a sparkly tiara is not too much, and will make any little girl’s day.

These miniature fairy tale princesses will complete your wedding look, and be right on trend. People love watching children at weddings, as weddings are such a right of passage, and children represent the brides to come. So let them wear Tutus!

Up & Coming

Color Me Rad 5K 9a Coldstream Park colormerad.com Fabby Abbey Ball 7p Spindletop Hall ket.org

APRIL

Bring it On: The Musical 2p & 8p Lexington Opera House lexingtonoperahouse.com

13 SUNDAY Breakfast with the Bunny 8a-11a Oleika Shrine Center AVOL’s Lexington AIDS Walk 1p-5p West Sixth Brewing avolky.org Bring it On: The Musical 1p & 6p Lexington Opera House lexingtonoperahouse.com

17 THURSDAY Bobby McFerrin 7:30p Norton Center for the Arts nortoncenter.com NAWBO Winners Circle Luncheon 11a-1p Griffin Gate Marriott lexnawbo.org John Calipari Book Signing 6p Joseph-Beth Booksellers josephbeth.com Central Bank Thursday Night Live 4:30p-9p Cheapside Park downtownlex.com

222

APRIL2014 | TOPSINLEX.COM

Lexington Legends v Augusta Greenjackets 7p Whitaker Bank Ballpark lexingtonlegends.com

18 FRIDAY Lexington Gallery Hop 5p-8p Downtown It’s My Derby 5:30p-9:30p Keeneland Sales Pavilion derbymuseum.org Masterson Equestrian Trust Benefit Hunter Jumper Show Masterson Station Park mastersonequestrian.org Come Talk Derby to Us 6p Fasig-Tipton makennafoundation.com

19 SATURDAY Melissa Ethridge EKU Center for the Arts ekucenter.com Great Restaurant Roundup 6:30p Signature Club of Landsowne kyehc.org Lexington Fashion Collaborative Pop-Up Shop 11a-3p Headley-Whitney Museum headley-whitney.org Lexington Legends v Augusta Greenjackets 7p Whitaker Bank Ballpark lexingtonlegends.com

Up & Coming

21 MONDAY

26 SATURDAY

Goo Goo Dolls: Acoustic Concert 7p The Lyric Theatre lexingtonlyric.com

Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event Kentucky Horse Park rk3de.org

24 THURSDAY

Bowl for Kids’ Sake 12p-12a Southland Bowling Lanes bbbs-bluegrass.org

Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event Kentucky Horse Park rk3de.org Central Bank Thursday Night Live 4:30p-9p Cheapside Park downtownlex.com

25 FRIDAY Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event Kentucky Horse Park rk3de.org Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder 7:30p EKU Center for the Arts ekucenter.com Dixiana Farm: Concert on the Lawn to Benefit the Markey Cancer Center 6p-9p Keeneland Clubhouse Lawn markeycancerfoundation.org Joe Bonamossa 8p Rupp Arena lexingtoncenter.com Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat 7:30p Lexington Opera House lexingtonoperahouse.com

2014 Kentucky Reining Cup Kentucky Horse Park kyhorsepark.com Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat 2p & 7:30p Lexington Opera House lexingtonoperahouse.com

27 SUNDAY Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event Kentucky Horse Park rk3de.org

APRIL

2014 Kentucky Reining Cup Kentucky Horse Park kyhorsepark.com Cardinall Hill Telethon 11:30a-6p cardinalhill.org Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat 2p Lexington Opera House lexingtonoperahouse.com

28 MONDAY Susan G Komen Golf Classic Andover Country Club komenlexington.org

APRIL 2014 | TOPS MAGAZINE

223

Up & Coming

MAY

1 THURSDAY

3 SATURDAY

Kentucky Bluegrass Wine Auction & Derby Gala Donamire Farm lexingtonfoundation.org

Derby Day at Keeneland 9am Keeneland keeneland.com

2 FRIDAY Kentucky Oaks 9a Keeneland keeneland.com Martinis on the Lawn 3:30p-7:30p Keeneland keeneland.com Poor Man’s Harlan County Derby Eve Party 6p B&B Morgan Tire Co. makennafoundation.com Oaks Day Festival 9a-4:30p Buffalo Trace buffalotrace.com Unbridled Eve 7p-1:30a The Galt House unbridledeve.com The Julep Ball 6:30p-1a KFC Yum! Center thejulep.org Gatsby Derby Eve to Remember 8p-10p The Grand Reserve justfundky.org Fillies & Lillies 7:30p Kentucky Derby Museum derbyexperiences.com

224

APRIL2014 | TOPSINLEX.COM

Keeneland’s Derby Bash 10:30a-8p Keeneland Entertainment Center and Keene Barn keeneland.com Governor’s Derby Celebration 9a-1p Downtown Frankfort governor.ky.gov

4 SUNDAY The Great Cake Race 3p-5p Keeneland sweetblessingscakes.org

5 MONDAY Confessions of a Serial Killer starring John Malkovich 7:30p Norton Center for the Arts nortoncenter.com

8 MONDAY Central Bank Thursday Night Live 4:30p-9p Cheapside Park downtownlex.com

10 SATURDAY Mayfest Gratz Park downtownlex.com