TOPS Magazine December 2011

LEXINGTON’S MOST READ MAGAZINE

Priceless | December 2011

IN LEX.COM

Happy Holidays!

Formal Fashion | Holiday Tour of Homes | Gift Guide

LEXINGTON’S MOST READ MAGAZINE TOPSINLEX L e x i n g t o n ’s M o s t R e a d M a g a z i n e

Priceless | December 2011

IN LEX.COM

December 2011 vol. 5 no. 8

Happy Holidays!

Formal Fashion | Holiday Tour of Homes | Gift Guide

Volume 5, No. 8

LEXINGTON’S MOST READ MAGAZINE

TOP EVENTS 18 Top Marketing Group

465 East High Street, Suite 201 Lexington, KY 40507-1938 859.543.TOPS (8677) 859.514.1621 (fax) TopsInLex.com | LexScene.com

Keith Yarber

President / Publisher kyarber@topsmarketing.com

Kristen Oakley Associate Publisher, TOPS Magazine Sr. Account Manager kristen@topsmarketing.com Melissa Meatyard

Editor, TOPS Magazine Magazine Design & Layout melissa@topsmarketing.com

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Teri Turner

Account Manager teri@topsmarketing.com

Buffy Lawson

Account Manager buffy@topsmarketing.com

Katherine Tierney

Account Manager katherine@topsmarketing.com Account Manager whitney@topsmarketing.com

Amanda Harper

Editor, LexScene Magazine Head Writer, TOPS Magazine amandah@topsmarketing.com

Judson Ridgway

Advertising Creative Director Event Photography Manager Intern Coordinator judson@topsmarketing.com

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Have an event you would like covered? Photo questions?

Contact photographer@topsinlex.com

To Advertise Your Business,

call 543-8677

34 Formal Fashion at Castle Post 57 Fashion Watch from Bella Rose 114 Business News

WHAT TO DO 13 60 114 135

Community Calendar Dining at Malone’s Business News Weddings: Choosing your First Dance

HOLIDAYS 66 81 82 85 86

Cover Photo by Alicia Fiero of Aesthetiica Photography Interns Ashley Beckham Margot Schenning

Out & About Meet the Media: Jack Pattie TOP People to Know WOW Wedding: Melanie & Chip Gray Wedding Announcements TOP Shots

WHAT’S NEW

Contributing Writers Hallie Bandy, Bob Banker, Kristin Espeland-Gourlay, Blake Hannon, Amanda Harper, Michele Landers, Buffy Lawson, Michelle Rauch, Kathie Stamps, Sue Ann Truitt

Contributing Photographers Paul Atkinson Jaron Johns David Desjardins Alex Orlov

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WHO’S WHO

Danielle Pope

Associate Publisher, LexScene Account Manager danielle@topsmarketing.com

Whitney Glass

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Sanders Brown Center on Aging Foundation Annual Dinner Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure Kentucky Travel Industry Association Gala Annual Empowerment Banquet Blessing of the Hounds Griffin Gate Mariott 30th Anniversary Celebration Town Branch Bourbon Launch Women Leading Ky. Roundtable Event Fayette County Women’s Bar Association Sleep Outfitter’s Media Day at Keeneland Ky. Equine Humane Center Black Tie Gala TOPS November Sneak Preview Party Salvation Christmas Breakfast Roast of Luther Deaton AFP Bluegrass National Philanthropy Day

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Great Gifts Sue Ann Truitt: Making Gift-Giving Meaningful In the ‘Buf’: The Toaster Posh Pets: Holiday Hazards Community Spotlight: Ky. Horse Park Foundation and Southern Lights Parenting: Santa Claus Gardening: Poinsettia Primer TOP Design: Wall Coverings TOPS Tour of Homes: Homes Decked Out for the Holidays

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What To Do

TOP HAPPENINGS Our Topparazzi photographers are everywhere! Please check our website for updated event information and please be aware of the changing nature of events.

Thursday, December 1 UK Men’s Basketball v St. John’s University 7:30PM Rupp Arena ukathletics.com Caroline 7:30PM Transylvania University transy.edu 12 Days of Christmas Berea, KY berea.com

Friday, December 2 Art Sale 6PM-9PM Loudon House lexingtonartleague.org Judy Collins and Arlo Guthrie 8PM Norton Center for the Arts nortoncenter.com

Saturday, December 3 UK Men’s Basketball v UNC 12PM Rupp Arena ukathletics.com Casino Night 7PM Lexington Catholic High School lexingtoncatholic.com Coffee with Former UK Greats Ron & Walt 9:30AM-11AM Dunkin Donuts on Main Barbershop Chrous Christmas Haggin Auditorium thekentuckians.org Holiday Homes Tour 1PM-8PM Harrodsburg harrodsburghistorical.org

Lexington Children’s Theatre Presents: Madelines’ Christmas 2PM & 7PM Lexington Opera House lctonstage.org

The Nutcracker in One Act 7PM Lyric Theatre

Candy Cane Takes a Global Sleigh Ride Sunday, December 4 7:30PM Singletary Plymale Gallery Holiday Art Show Center uky.edu/scfa 3PM-7PM Victorian Square KHAKY’s Sugarplum Showcase 2PM-6PM The Shops at Lexington Center khaky.org Cocoa with the Claus’ 1PM-3PM Festival Market Atrium hospicebg.org Lexington Children’s Theatre Presents: Madelines’ Christmas 2PM Lexington Opera House lctonstage.org

Tuesday, December 6 LMSA Holiday Bazaar 10AM-3PM The Clarion Hotel Christmas Stories Retold 7PM Lexington Ice Center tfcskating.com

Thursday, December 8 Wait Wait... Don’t Tell Me! 8PM EKU Center for the Arts ekucenter.com UK Women’s Basketball v Duke 6PM Rupp Arena ukathletics.com

Friday, December 9

Saturday, December 10 Pink Martini with UK Symphony Orchestra 7:30PM Singletary Center uky.edu/scfa Lexington Ballet: The Nutcracker 7:30PM EKU Center for the Arts The Nutcracker in One Act 3PM Lyric Theatre bluegrassyouthballet.com Budweiser Clydesdales Keeneland Keeneland Handicapping Contest 3PM-9PM Keeneland 2011 Lexington Christmas Parade 10AM Downtown Lexington downtownlex.com YMCA Reindeer Ramble 5K Run/ Walk 9AM Keeneland ymcaofcentralky.org Holiday Evening at Waveland Waveland Snowball Series Mounted Games Kentucky Horse Park

Holiday Concert 7:30PM Transylvania University transy.edu

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What To Do

Sunday, December 11 The Nutcracker in One Act 3PM Lyric Theatre bluegrassyouthballet. com Christmas Stories Retold 1PM Lexington Ice Center Celebration of Song: An OldFashioned Christmas Sing-Along 6PM-7PM Victorian Square Shoppes celebrationofsong.org Holiday Evening at Waveland Waveland Snowball Series Mounted Games Kentucky Horse Park mountedgames.org Lexington Children’s Theatre Presents: Old Jake’s Shirts 2PM Lexington Children’s Theatre lctonstage.org Bleid Sports Rumble at Rupp 8AM Rupp Arena rupparena.com

Tuesday, December 13 Christmas Chorus 7:30PM Singletary Center downtownlex.com WROCK Starz Party 6PM-8PM Forcht Bank wrock.ws The Kentuckians Chorus 7:30PM The Grand Theatre grandtheatrefrankfort.org

www.LexScene.com

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Wednesday, December 14 Jerry Seinfeld 7PM EKU Center for the Arts ekucenter.com

Thursday, December 15 Project See Theatre Presents: 12 Dates of Christmas 7:30PM Downtown Arts Center projectseetheatre.com/pst

The Nutcracker, Kentucky Ballet Theatre 2PM Lexington Opera House lexingtonoperahouse.com An Evening Among Friends: A Very Special Christmas with Harry Connick, Jr. St Mark Catholic Church stmarkcatholicchurch.net

Tuesday, December 20 Friday, December 16 Reindeer Express at The Nest The Nest thenestlexington.org Project See Theatre Presents: 12 Dates of Christmas 7:30PM Downtown Arts Center projectseetheatre.com/pst The Nutcracker, Kentucky Ballet Theatre 2PM & 8PM Lexington Opera House lexingtonoperahouse.com

Saturday, December 17 Project See Theatre Presents: 12 Dates of Christmas 7:30PM Downtown Arts Center projectseetheatre.com/pst The Nutcracker, Kentucky Ballet Theatre 2PM & 8PM Lexington Opera House lexingtonoperahouse.com UK Men’s Basketball v University of Tennessee at Chattanooga 8PM Rupp Arena ukathletics.com

Sunday, December 18 Project See Theatre Presents: 12 Dates of Christmas 2PM Downtown Arts Center projectseetheatre.com/pst

UK Men’s Basketball v Samford University 7PM Rupp Arena ukathletics.com

Thursday, December 22 UK Men’s Basketball v Loyola University of Maryland 1PM Rupp Arena rupparena.com

Monday, December 26 Jim Brickman - A Christmas Celebration 7:30PM Lexington Opera House lexingtonoperahouse.com

Wednesday, December 28 UK Men’s Basketball v Lamar University 8:30PM Rupp Arena rupparena.com

Saturday, December 31 UK Men’s Basketball v University of Louisville 12PM Rupp Arena rupparena.com New Year’s Eve! See TOPSinLex.com for NYE hot spots!

Out & About Urika Little & Mark Salmon of the Brown Hotel

Santa Visits the Mall at Lexington Green

Bill and Whitney Sisson

Mark & Becky McDonald, Brandice & Dr. Scott Harrison

JP Miller Cuts the Grand Opening Ribbon at Ashley Slusher, Teri Turner, Danielle Thomasson, Debbie Green, Quick Lane and Fortune Collision in Winchester Kathy Scorsone-Stovall & Tara Finn at Holly Day Market www.topsinlex.com

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Top Events

Mary Janet Cotter, Barbara Markesbery

Miss Kentucky Ann Blair Thornton

Jim & Carolyn Kurz

Center on Aging Staff - Danielle Crawford, Sally Malley and Stephanie Freeman

Kate Chenery Tweedy with Caroline Conner

Senior Star Recipient Mrs. Betty Stewart and Family

Joanne Hillard and Louis Prichard

Sanders Brown Center on Aging Foundation Dinner On October 13, 2011 the UK Sanders-Brown Center on Aging Foundation hosted their Annual Dinner at the Kentucky Horsepark Alltech Arena. The dinner raises funds to support programs and initiatives at the Sanders-Brown Center on Aging. Special guest Kate Chenery Tweedy joined over 500 guests to celebrate the 25th Anniversary of this event. Thank you to all who attended for your continued dedication and support. mc.uky.edu/coa Photos by Alex Orlov

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Top Events

Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure Our 2011 Race for the Cure was a great success with over 5,500 participants to come out and support Komen Lexington. Seventy-five percent of net funds raised stay in Kentucky to help people with screening, treatment, education and patient navigation assistance dealing with breast health. The additional 25 percent of funds goes toward research to help find a cure. One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer, know the risks and get screened. komenlexington.org Photos by Alex Orlov

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Top Events

Eric Gregory with Kentucky Distillers Assoc. and Marnie Walters with Woodford Reserve Distillery

First Lady Jane Beshear

Eric Rose, Michael Gray

Traverse Awards Best of Show Karen Miller, Eric Rose

Brittany Dowell, Melanie Edwards and Lisa Wood

The Bluegrass Region

Mr. & Mrs. Jim Wood

KTIA Traverse Awards Gala The Kentucky Travel Industry Association (KTIA) 2011 annual Traverse Awards Gala was held in Lexington on Tuesday, October 18th. This annual salute began with a reception and continued with a live auction, celebratory dinner and awards presentations for the best in Tourism Marketing and P.R. among travel professionals. ktia.com Photos by Paul Atkinson

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Top Events

Lafe Taylor, Rev. Anthony Everett, Lamar Wilson

Deborah Hahn, Yajaira Aich

Don Hellmann of ChaseBank receives the Community Service Award from P.G. Peeples, Sr.

Damian O’Brien, Danne Johnson, Coach Calipari, Serita Baskin

P.G. Peeples, Sr. Wilma Peeples, Coach Calipari, Dr. Mary Lynne Capilouto, Dr. Eli Capilouto, Pat Host, Jim Host, Mayor JimGray

Urban League of Lexington’s Empowerment Banquet Education Empowers was the theme of the Urban League of Lexington’s 43rd Annual Empowerment Banquet held October 17, 2011. More than 500 guests heard the inspiring words of Dr. Eli Capilouto (UK President) and celebrated PNC and Chase for winning the League’s Community Service Awards. Musical selections were provided by BMW Academy students Langston Love and Michael Cruse. ullexfay.org Photos by David Desjardins

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Top Events

Jake Graves and Dr. Chas Martin

Lisle Dalton

Juanita Stolling, Michael Ebley and Margaret Jones

Butch Ellingsen and Derek Vaughn

Libby Sautter and Diane Lott

Willy de Seroux, Lynn de Seroux and Andy Graves

Chet Lott and Gusto

Betsy Bulliett and Holly Wiedemann van Dissell

Iroquois Hunt Club Blessing of the Hounds Iroquois Hunt Club members and guests celebrated the opening of foxhunting season with the Blessing of the Hounds Ceremony officiated by the Venerable Bryant Kibler of the Episcopal Diocese of Lexington. A formal Blessing was given for all the hounds and horses. Each rider knelt before Venerable Kibler to receive an individual blessing and a St. Hubert’s medal around their neck. iroquoishunt.com Photos by David Desjardins

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Top Events

Ilka Balk & Geaunita Caylor

Pat & Bobbi Terry

Judie Blake & Gwen Hart

Shigekazu Kato

Gary Gillispie, Matt Montgomery & Caitlin King

Mark Ravenscraft, Tim Terry & Susan Terry

Ron & Carolyn Borkowski

Ilse Dehner & Shari Florence

Marriott Griffin Gate Celebrates 30 Years Enveloped by the rolling meadows of Bluegrass Country, one Lexington resort stands above typical hotels in Lexington, Kentucky with its unmatched Southern hospitality and genteel ambiance. Opening its doors 3 decades ago, the Marriott Resort and Spa quickly became a Lexington Landmark. griffingatemarriott.com Photos by Alex Orlov

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Top Events

Becky Timmons & Laci Poulter

Deirdre Lyons, Jonathan Lundy & Ann McBrayer

Dr. Pearse Lyons educates the crowd about Town Branch

Bill Embry, TamTam & Justin Thompson

Town Branch Bourbon Distributed by KY Eagle

Jonathan Lang, Judy Miller, Susan English, J. Paul Miller, Kathleen Turner & Robin Johnson

John, Anne & Diane Atchison

Steve, Linda & Lauren Angelucci

Town Branch Bourbon Launch Alltech Brewing and Distilling Company executives and guests toasted the launch of Alltech’s newest drink, Town Branch Bourbon, which joins a growing and distinguished list of its locally-produced beverages. Alltech, an international enterprise headquartered in Lexington, first entered into the beverage industry with the introduction of its Irish red/ English pale ale hybrid, Kentucky Ale, in 2000. lyonsspirits.com/townbranch Photos by Paul Atkinson

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What’s New

Castle Couture Photography: Alicia Fierro of Aesthetiica Photography Hair: Shawnee Mills and Megan Kirby, Você on Clay Make-up: Angela Douglas and Shawnee Mills, Você on Clay Stylists: Kristen Oakley, Whitney Glass and Teri Turner Location: The Castle Post Masquerade Masks: Inspired Apparel, Victorian Square

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Jade: Grey and sequins Aidan Aidan Mattox blouson dress (Dillards). Guiliana open link sterling silver and diamond necklace, Dahlia sterling and 0.41 ct diamond drop earrings and Monarch sterling silver and 0.11 ct diamond oval ring, all by Leslie Greene (Shelia Bayes Fine Jewelers). Silver flower shaped handbag with silver handle by Alexis Fashion (Keeneland Gift Shop).

Tana: Gold sequins dress by Sherri Hill (Miss Priss). Chandelier earrings by Sorrelli (Bella Rose). Round wristlet in gold by Eric Javits (Keeneland Gift Shop).

Patrick: Stripe suit by Samuelsohn, Tie by Robert Talbott and Pocket Square (Howard and Miller).

Erin: Sequin draped front dress in merlot by Aqua (Sensibly Chic). 4.65 ct inside outside diamond hoop earrings set in 14K white gold and .81 ct sapphire and diamond Princess Di pendant on 14K white gold chain (David Hungerford Fine Jewelers).

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What’s New Jade: Odelle one shoulder cocktail dress in plum by Trina Turk and Licorice Too multi glitter pump

by Kate Spade (Monkee’s). 18K rose gold, amethyst and diamond pendant with 30.15 ct oval amethyst and .79 ct of pave diamonds with coordinating ring featuring 11.75 ct oval amethyst and .90 ct of pave diamonds (Shelia Bayes Fine Jewelers).

Erin: Emerald one shoulder dress by Rebecca Taylor (AJ’s); Strappy sandal (Heels).

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What’s New

Tana: Brocade Bow dress in light copper by Jill Stuart; chandelier earrings and ring by Sorrelli (Bella Rose).

Patrick: Teal wool blazer by Polo, tie by Peter Blair, and tan gabardine pant by Berle (Graves Cox).

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What’s New

Tana: One shoulder pleated silk gown by Halston Heritage (Bella Rose). Diamondshaped sterling silver drop earrings with 0.24 ct of diamonds from the Del Amina Collection by Leslie Greene (Shelia Bayes Fine Jewelers).

Patrick: Charcoal executive suit by Polo and tie by Peter Blair (Graves Cox) Jade: Sequin mermaid skirt and tank by Chan Luu Viscose with jewelry from the Lucite Collection by Alexis Bittar (Você on Clay).

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What’s New

Erin: Platinum taffeta gown by Monique Lhuillier (Twirl Lexington).

Crochet necklace with 9.5-12mm Tahitian cultured pearls and 19.9 ct of black diamond beads on a springy stainless steel chain paired with coordinating Tahitian cultured pearl drop earrings, bracelet and ring, all by Gellner (Shelia Bayes Fine Jewelers).

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Patrick: Black tuxedo, plaid vest, white formal shirt, bow tie and pocket square, all from the Crittenden Collection (Crittenden Upstairs).

Jade: Natural Chinchilla shrug and black St. John deep V evening gown (Embry’s). .81 ct sapphire and diamond Princess Di pendant on 14K white gold chain and 3.12 ct apple green tourmaline and diamond ring set in 18K white gold (David Hungerford Fine Jewelers).

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What’s New

Jade: Black sequins tank with rosette skirt by Cousin Earl (Cotton Patch). 3.30 ct inside outside diamond hoops set in 14K white gold and Druzy quartz bracelet set in sterling silver (David Hungerford Fine Jewelers). Flower handbag with brooch in black by Alexis Fashion and Feather fascinator headband in black by Pin and Tube (Keeneland Gift Shop).

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Erin: Silver disguise dress by French Connection (MOD). Stretch bracelet with fourteen 14mm multicolored Tahitian cultured pearls and Sterling silver open ring with a 15mm Tahitian cultured pearl, both

by Gellner (Shelia Bayes Fine Jewelers). Bling crystal accented satin clutch (Midway Boutique).

Tana: Nylon ruching one shoulder black cocktail dress, 5 strand black jet beaded necklace with pearl and crystal accents and black silver detail clutch (Midway Boutique).

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What’s New

Erin: White Fox fur shrug w/ crystal clasp & red St. John off the shoulder crinkle knit evening gown (Embry’s); 4.65 carat inside outside diamond hoops set in 14 karat white gold (David Hungerford Fine Jewelers).

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What’s New

Tana: Holiday party dress by Savannah Rae (Worlds Apart). 10-12mm South Sea baroque pearl necklace and mabe’ pearl earrings set in 14K yellow gold (David Hungerford Fine Jewelers). Mini quilt handbag in gold by Eric Javits, feather fascinator clip in ivory by Pin and Tube and rabbit fur trimmed gloves in black by Fashion Expressions (Keeneland Gift Shop).

Erin: Silk and lace dress and faux fur jacket by Cynthia Vincent with jewelry by Beth Ordunia (Você on Clay). Black and silver polka dot suede shoes by Kate Spade (Sensibly Chic).

Jade: Jeanette dress in black tropi lace, Murfee wrap jacquard in metallic gold Catching Zzz’s, bow tie clutch in gold metallic Elephant and Resort Chic wedge in gold metallic Glam Snake, all by Lilly Pulitzer (Peppermint Palm). 1.25 ct diamond in a 14K yellow gold necklace (David Hungerford Fine Jewelers).

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What’s New

Patrick: Black velvet jacket, red thin wale vest, black cotton thin wale cords with gold pin dots, white formal shirt, bow tie and pocket square, all from the Crittenden Collection (Crittenden Upstairs).

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Jade: Multi-colored plaid cape and clutch (Caught Ya Lookin). Devon Bit gloves in red by Leather Goods of Spain (Keeneland Gift Shop).

Tana: Long sleeve lace overlay dress in black and earrings, hair pins, and ring (Runway Couture). Bow clutch and pumps in red (Heels).

Erin: Black party dress with lace overlay and layers of black chiffon, suede pumps by Bamboo, necklace and earrings (Paisley Polka Dot). Tahitian cultured pearl bracelet with sixteen 10-12mm pearls and a 14K white gold ball clasp, sterling silver and 14.5mm Tahitian cultured pearl ring with .05 ct black diamond and black rhodium finish by Gellner (Shelia Bayes Fine Jewelers).

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What’s New

Tana:Â One shoulder pleated silk gown by Halston Heritage (Bella Rose).

Diamond-shaped sterling silver pendant necklace with .24 ct of diamonds on a triple chain, coordinating diamond-shaped ring with .06 ct of diamonds, all from the Del Amina Collection by Leslie Greene (Shelia Bayes Fine Jewelers).

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Tana: Green gown by Sherri Hill (Miss Priss).

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What’s New

Erin: Silk and lace dress and faux fur jacket by Cynthia Vincent with jewelry

by Beth Ordunia (Você on Clay).

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BEHIND THE SCENES

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What’s New

FASHION WATCH

BELLA ROSE ON THE LATEST TRENDS

by Katherine Van Hook Fashionista

Christmas 2011 is approaching with parties, galas and family dinners. We all want shopping made easy, choices simple and direct.

For Lexington’s wisest divas, finding those unique boutiques makes holiday shopping an experience over an endeavor. Style, fit and flattery in a relaxed atmosphere is a must. The diva of this millennium has requirements on her time.

On the corner of Maxwell and Upper streets, I discovered Bella Rose. Her exterior design, a collage of stone and wood, whispers of femininity, class and decorum; a Jackie O of boutiques.

Owner Betty Spain has successfully helped bring big city fashion to Lexington for over thirty years.

With top designers like Nicole Miller, Shoshanna, Milly and French Connection, I found Bella Rose right on target with the trends that blend our city’s character and culture. I had the great fortune of sitting down with Betty and got some great insight into the trends she is seeing this season.

Jewelry is light and delicate, antiquated to simplicity.

Business casual wear includes heavy wool, fur vests, and jackets paired with suede and wool skirts. Think natural and you have the concept.

Women’s over-sized trousers are back, belted at the waist, giving the ease of a skirt with the warmth of a slack.

Casual wear will range from fur trimmed sweaters and leggings to jeans with a ruffled blouse and heels.

In any closet, accessories are a must. Scarves and belts add texture, color, and design; allowing playful interchange from mod to old Hollywood classic.

No matter the trends of the season, Betty believes that fashion and style stem from the individuality and confidence that a woman possesses.

Have a wonderful holiday season and whatever you do, do it with style, class and above all — fun!

For winter 2011, thin is in for the party scene. This eighties retro inspiration is a kaleidoscope of techno metallics, one shoulder dresses, shimmering sequins and lace.

Pair the sleekness with dense rough texture for contrast. Wool and fur trimmed coats or jackets are sure to keep the fashionistas warm on winter escapades.

As for color think gold, red, silver and kelly green, as jewel tones dominate the winter palette.

The focal point for this season is on the neckline.

Whether off one shoulder, a detailed ruffled collar, or plunging neckline, the aim is high.

Lines are feminine to fit the natural curves, allowing light to make useful reflection of these materials, accenting all the right places.

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What To Do

malone’s palomar lexington’s signature steakhouse continues expansion while maintaining standards

by Blake Hannon

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A

nyone who decides to open a restaurant has their reasons for doing so. Affection for food.

Fulfillment from providing great hospitality. Fun. Excitement. Profit. What have you.

With Kentucky-born restaurateurs Brian McCarty and Bruce Drake, co-owners of Bluegrass Hospitality Group, you can add one more to that list: To chase the perfect dining experience. With the company’s expansion at restaurants like Malone’s Palomar, the continued step towards that lofty goal carries on.

Of course, the latest Malone’s on 3735 Palomar Centre Drive on Lexington’s south side wouldn’t exist without the idea born of a single bite. A visit to a USDA Prime Beef steakhouse in Chicago in 1998 introduced McCarty to the flavor-filled ecstasy of a great piece of red meat. He knew this was something that Lexington didn’t have at the time, but after this experience, he felt it was something it needed.

McCarty and Drake opened the first Malone’s Prime Beef steakhouse on Tates Creek Road the same year, followed by a second location a few years later near the Hamburg Pavilion.

This brings us to Malone’s Palomar, which opened three-and-a-half years ago. It was a way to give almost every part of Lexington its own Malone’s location. But with this expansion, they made sure the experience didn’t get lost in the growth.

One step into the dining room of Malone’s Palomar and you’ll get an atmosphere with a familiar feel if you’ve visited a Malone’s before. Warm lighting, dark wood, cream-colored walls with stone accents and the framed, autographed Malone’s menus from local and national celebrities surround the expansive dining area, which has undergone recent remodeling to accommodate increased business.

There’s an ever-present amount of noise that reverberates from the interactions of the guests inside, which BHG Director of Operations John McNamara said is an energetic vibe he’s fond of in the restaurant business.

As far as the menu goes, it’s practically been the same since 1998, minus a few select additions and occasional tweaks.

Even though I’m a shrimp cocktail addict, I found a new chilled seafood appetizer that I fell in love with in the king crab cocktail, served with a traditional

cocktail sauce and a creamy, spicy mustard that’s a welcome changeup.

Or, you can get things started with one of Malone’s newest popular appetizers, the crab Rangoon roll, courtesy of the restaurant’s in-house sushi restaurant, Aqua Sushi. The hybrid sushi roll is based on the fried Asian appetizer that puts the cream cheese, crab and scallions inside a sushi roll and giving it the tempura-fried treatment before topping it with a sweet teriyaki glaze. Even though I am more of a raw sushi fan, I could eat this roll by the truckload.

Of course, you can’t go wrong with one of Malone’s USDA Prime steaks. Fork over the dough for a 12 oz. bone-in filet, throw in a pound-sized baked spud and its bottomless Lexingtonian salad tossed with creamy ranch, tomatoes and bacon and you’re in classic steak-and-potato heaven. If red meat isn’t your thing, dishes like the ahi tuna steak, seared and cooked to rare or medium rare with citrus aioli on a bed of mixed greens, shows there’s a refined hand in the kitchen. Regardless of how full you might feel, save room for its best-selling dessert – a Frisbeesized, fresh-baked Toll House cookie topped with a scoop of ice cream – for the sweetest type of comfort food.

But for anyone who has visited Malone’s in Palomar or elsewhere knows that they’re not JUST visiting Malone’s. BHG makes sure each location is linked to one of several satellite bars with their own distinct menus, price points and atmospheres.

These include Harry’s Bar and Grill, with its knack for constructing a sizable set of sliders and sports bar surroundings with an equestrian tilt, or Drake’s at the Landsdowne location, a youthful, loud and exuberant bar and restaurant with 24 different types of draft beer that can turn into a full-on nightclub when the sun goes down. And no matter where you choose to dine, you have access to menus of almost any of BHG’s restaurants (Malone’s, Aqua, Harry’s or Drake’s), allowing you to pick the price, meal and dining atmosphere of your choosing.

Malone’s Palomar is just another example of the expansion and realization of the BHG vision – a way to try to be everything for everybody. It’s a challenge, to be sure, but these guys sure do seem to be getting close.

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Who’s Who

MEET THE MEDIA JACK PATTIE: LEXINGTON’S “MAYOR OF THE MORNING” FOR 40 YEARS

Photo by Paul Atkinson

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Who’s Who

J

ack Pattie believes nothing is random. Everything happens for a reason. His faith in that philosophy can be traced back to high school and a move that paved the way for his future.

Jack grew up on the North side of Lexington. He attended Brian Station High School until his family moved to the South side of town before his junior year. It was a move he resisted. “I was very distraught over that because I had grown up with all these kids on the north end. I didn’t know anybody on the south end.

I told my mother I was going to walk to Bryan Station. I was not going to Tates Creek,” Jack recalls.

Needless to say when the first day of school rolled around Jack did not walk across the city.

First things first. “When I was a little kid I knew I wanted to be in radio,” he says. It was a cigarette commerical that lit his interest. The cool man in the ad was in the shadow of two big turn tables and a microphone.

“He was spinning tunes and smoking a Camel. I was a little kid and I said, ‘That’s what I want to be when I grow up, smoking and spinning tunes!” Jack remembers fondly.

and manned the controls while one religious program after the other aired. In between he handled the weather report. It wasn’t long before he was working Saturday and Sunday. By the time he was a senior Jack was working seven days a week at the radio station. “I skipped my last hour of school everyday so I could get to Georgetown and get on the radio. Flunked that class, had to go to summer school to graduate,” he says with a smile.

He estimates he was working 90 hours a week back then and he was just a high school kid.

During his time at WBLG radio Jack also did some work on air at the TV station reporting. “It gave me enough TV that I realized I was a radio guy.” After a year at WVLG Jack moved to Florida where he worked for three years before returning home to Kentucky. There weren’t any openings in radio in Lexington, so he settled into a dual radio/TV station in Paducah. He split his time between morning radio and weather and a TV talk show. By 1975 he was back in Lexington working at WBLG-Radio. An opening at WVLK came up in the Fall of that year. The program director, Jim Jordan essentially created a weekend production job for Jack with a guarantee he would be in line for the first full time shift that opened. Two months later the afternoon guy left and Jack was on the air. Shortly after that the morning host left and he moved into that time slot until 1980.

“Hopefully I just entertain people. It means a lot to me.”

Fast forward back to his reluctant arrival at Tates Creek. He met a student teacher who worked at Channel 62 (WTVQ-36’s predecesor) & WBLG radio.

Two of his classmates in speech drama had an interest in radio, too. The student-teacher started a radio station at Tates Creek.

Jack and the other aspiring radio guys put a broadcast over the intercom during lunch.

“Had we not made that move, had I not gone to Tates Creek my life might have been different.” It took off from there. He landed a job at WAXU-1580 radio in Georgetown when he was sixteen years old. It was a country station. Way before country was cool he says. “I didn’t care. I wanted to be on the radio.” It started with Sunday mornings. Jack signed on the air

Jack was 28. He got what he thought was his big break to move into management. WLAP hired him as their program director. In addition to the management responsibilities he was on the air in the afternoons. It was short lived. “I was a horrible manager. I hated to ask anyone to do anything, so I ended up doing it all myself. After a year I got fired and probably deserved it,” Jack says. He returned to WVLK in 1981 and has been there ever since.

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Who’s Who not play one bit better on the expensive one.” Regardless of his playing ability he had fun. There was the band “Catfish and the Hushpuppies.” Jack was Catfish.

A nickname given to him by a friend who said he had a big head and no brain! During their three years together the band played bluegrass festivals and Renfro Valley. They also opened for the Osborne Brothers. Also to his credit...a garage band called “The Trouble Makers” and “The Mambo Combo” which played light jazz and dinner music.

Jack interviews Charleton Heston

His workday starts at 4am with prep work. He hits the air at 6 and for the next three hours is part of a fast paced program with Scott Johnson and Brad Munson that includes news, weather, sports and entertainment. Jack is the self-described “comedy host” of the crew.

From 9-10am he switches gears to talk radio. “I’m less political than Kruser or Sue (Wylie). I’m not a sports fan so I’m ignorant about sports. So what else is there? I get to fill in some of the fun things.”

Politics does come up for discussion but Jack doesn’t interject his opinion. He takes on the role of moderator without an agenda. “I keep it friendly, don‘t let people get ugly. I don‘t like ugly,” he says.

His style was challenged several years ago when station management suggested he take on the role of an in-your-face, bold, argumentative, opinionated host. He said “That ain’t me dude. I’m still one of the few talk hosts in the country who doesn’t do that, who plays even handed.” The bottom line, he says, “You can’t be something you’re not.”

Jack with Duff Goldman

Catfish and the Hushpuppies

“I GAVE UP MUSIC FOR SANTA“

MUSIC MAN Jack has been in a handful of bands over the years. When he was younger he played keyboards. Then he picked up a banjo. “I used to think the more expensive instrument you had the better you would play. I went from a $75 banjo to an $1,800 banjo and did

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Jack is a self described Christmas and Santa fanatic and admits you may catch him listening to Christmas music in the middle of June! His passion for the holiday and jolly ol’ Saint Nick prompted him to make a commitment five years ago that keeps him booked and busy every year. He decided to become Santa. He stopped shaving the day after Christmas 2005 and spent the next year growing his signature white Santa beard with care. “I was going to do it right or I wasn’t going to do it at all,” he says. Jack went all out, starting with professional photos and creating a website, santaguy.com. He delved into all the reading he could get his hands on to study the art of being Santa. He even attended a Santa convention in Branson,

Who’s Who Missouri. A gathering of 600 real bearded men/Santas. He spent four days with what can only be described as a unique (borderline odd) group of guys taking seminars on proper care of your beard and hair to how to handle a kid getting sick in your lap.

Armed with the know-how to be Santa, Jack jumped right in. “I’ve spent a small fortune on suits and accessories. I’ve got a whole closet full of boots and belts,” he says. This is serious business. “No real santa would be caught dead wearing boot covers. Talk about no-no.

That’s taboo. You wear real honest to God boots, real leather belt.

That stuff is expensive.” Jack says you can spot the novice Santas a mile away. “Some of them are pitiful,” he says. “Kids don‘t care. You can take the rattiest looking Santa in the whole world and that kid will be in as much awe as the Santa with the $1,500 suit on. I do the suits for me.” He may very well do it just for him, but it pays dividends for the kids who hop up in the lap of one authentic-looking Santa.

While you will see Jack in Lexington at the Christmas tree lighting ceremony and Christmas parade and in Frankfort at the tree lighting at the state Capitol, most of the Santa appearences he makes are charitable. Riding for Hope is among his favorites. He is amazed at the connection the group makes between children with disabilities and horses. Each year he attends their Christmas party. The memory of one teenager with a serious case of autism sticks in his mind.

During her nineteen years she had never had her picture taken with Santa. Her autism prevented her from wanting to make any connection with the bearded man. Until she met Jack. She jumped right into his lap and would not get down. Her parents urged her to step down and make room for the other kids in line. Jack said, “No, wait.” That young lady sat in his lap for half an hour. He savored the experience.

Another charity that brings him pride is Daniel’s Care. The organization was founded by former UK coach Rick Pitino and his wife.

Daniel’s Care provides in-home hospice for kids who have terminal diseases. “They warm my heart.” Jack has learned to balance his compassion for the kids with the reason why he is there. “The only way you can be effective is to learn to not let it affect you.” He admits his visits with the kids are mostly for the parents, as many of the children are too ill to fully embrace the visit. The parents get pictures of their kids with Santa. A gift they will always have. “All I am is an actor portraying Santa. Anything that happens that’s magic... there is so much that happens that is... doesn’t have a darn thing to do with me. It’s just magic.” I observe a man being modest and point that out. Jack replies, “I’m not. I’m being honest. You just open your heart and stuff happens.”

It’s taken on a life of its own. Jack travels to Cincinnati, Louisville, Manchester, Somerset, and London. It’s a whirlwind season of spreading cheer that begins the day after Thanksgiving and continues until Christmas eve. “I can’t get home quick enough and shave,” he says. Jack maintains his clean shaven look until derby weekend. He has the growing season down to a science. If he starts derby weekend and gets through two months of looking rough, the beard will be perfection just in time for the next holiday season. Six

months of careful maintenance that includes washing, conditioning, using a special brush and products to care for the beard. A daily 20-minute ritual versus the three minutes it normally takes to shave.

All the work is worth it. “If you are going to uplift these kids you have to be Santa Claus. What more is there? That‘s so much more important than doing humor on the radio,” he says with pride.

Jack doesn’t plan to hang up his santa suit anytime soon. Same story for the man behind the mic. “I’ve done it forty years and I still look forward to coming to work every morning. I really do.” He was bit by the radio bug when he was a small child and it’s never left. “I am very blessed to go to work and do a job I love every day that’s worked out all these years.” It’s a passion he keeps in perspective.

“I don‘t consider it to be the most important job in the world. The only thing I am is an entertainer. I’m not a journalist, even through the talk show I don‘t change social consciousness. Hopefully I just entertain people. It just means a lot to me.”

You can listen to Jack Pattie on Newstalk 590 WVLK weekdays from 6-10am

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Holiday

Great

Gifts

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DANCE

Learn to dance for holiday parties or just for FUN! Try Arthur Murray today and enjoy 1-on-1 private instruction!

Holiday Gift Certificates include 2 private lessons, 1 group lesson and 1 private session ($29) 859.278.7711 lexingtonarthurmurray.com

FOREVER FAN

Collegiate Jewel asks you to define your spirit!

Start with this heart in sterling silver. Officially licensed only at Farmer’s Jewelry in Chevy Chase 821 Euclid Avenue Lexington, Kentucky 40502 859.266.6241 | farmersjewelry.com

MOVE

COOK

Wild Thyme gift baskets can include a variety of gourmet products, culinary gadgets and cooking supplies. Complete the gift with a gift certificate to be used toward cooking classes, parties and products. Wild Thyme cooking school in Chinoe Center is your one stop shop for discovering your inner chef. wildthymecooking.com 859.523.COOK

Fitness Fanatic? Swim Bike Run of KY has what you need from Cervelo Bikes to Newton Shoes and Garmin fitness watches. Swim Bike Run has it all and a complete Multisport Training Center! Gift Certificates available online at swimbikerunky.com | 320 N. Ashland 859.455.3384

Most Product photos by Paul Atkinson

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PILLOWS

Holiday burlap pillows are hand made locally and available in a variety of colors and styles at House by JSD Designs ($29.95/each). 1535 Delaware Ave. 859.523.3933 | housebyjsd.com

COMFORT

Surprise someone special with a perfect holiday gift! Comfortable, stylish Ale-8-One hoodie! $28.30 ale8one.com | 859.744.3484

WARMTH

RELAX

Give the gift of Serenity this Christmas! Gift Certificates and Massage Specials for the Holidays. Online booking and online specials available! Specializing in relaxation and therapeutic massage. Certificates can be delivered or mailed. serenitymoments.abmp.com 859.971.9061

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Vineyard Vines Vest. 100% Polyester. Stow Away Pocket. Signature Reflective Logos. $145.00 Also Available in Long Sleeve for $185.00. Available at Howard and Miller | 859.259.3926

Holiday

HIGH STEP

TYE IT UP

Gorgeous men’s 100% silk ties in several distinctive designs, $45 Creation Inspirations 210 Rosemont Garden | 859.278.0300

Black Bootie with Crystals. $54. Available at Heels.

123 North Broadway | Lexington, KY | 859.258.2221

BEADED

Wrap on the style with Chan Luu wrap bracelets available in an array of leathers and stones! A celebrity favorite! Prices ranging from $164 to $225. VOCE 124 Clay Avenue Lexington, KY 40502-1702 859.252.8623

HYDRATE

Unveil your youthful skin with a Hydropeptide Peel. Advanced Hair Removal & Skin Care, 1720 Nicholasville Rd., #406 859.276.4597

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READ & WRITE

Beyond the Fence: A Culinary View of Historic Lexington is a displayable hardback book featuring historical vignettes, recipes and exquisite photography of Central Kentucky ($35). Also available are boxes of eight note cards with local quotes ($16) or recipes from the cookbook ($18). Available at several local retail shops and at beyondthefencecookbook.com

SAUCE IT UP

Always a Winner! Perfect for Kentucky Proud holiday gifts and entertaining! Bluegrass Steaks & Everything Sauce, Bluegrass Bourbon Sauce, Bourbon Chocolatier Sauce and Pineapple Chutney. Available at Liquor Barn, Keeneland Gift Shop, Old Kentucky Chocolates, Kentucky Horse Park. Gift boxes available.

859.396.9568 | kyspecsauces.com

MAGNETIC

Mail a Mellen Magnet Card this year and send a bit extra. Every 5-by-5-inch greeting card includes a detachable 3-by-3-inch laminate magnet ($6.25). Mellen Designs mellendesigns.com | 859.608.8804

STROLL

Peter Millar Bit Leather Loafers, available in Black and Coffee ($175) at the Keeneland Gift Shop. keenelandshop.com | 859.288.4236

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YUM!

ADORN

Raising Cane’s gift cards are always a great gift.

FREE $10 gift card or Plush Puppy when you purchase $50 in gift cards. 3 Lexington Locations: Hamburg, Nicholasville Road & UK Campus. raisingcanes.com

This HandPicked Original collection is handcrafted using sterling silver circles, smokey quartz & zebra jasper stones. HandPicked -- your one-stop-shop for jewelry & accessories that are beautiful and affordable. Located in the Chevy Chase Plaza, across from Bourbon N’ Toulouse.

859.335.9003

KENTUCKY TRADITIONS

HOT THIS SEASON

Studded and rhinestone ‘wrap watch’ available in multiple colors ($36.00), Sensibly Chic, 171 W. Lowry Lane Lexington, Kentucky 40503 | 859.276.6144

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The Kentucky Experience! Sample some of the best of Kentucky’s rich traditions from famous Henry Bain sauce to Woodford Reserve bourbon balls in this ultimate Kentucky experience gift basket. Basket includes: Sourmash bourbon biscuit mix, Spoonbread, beer cheese, Moonlite BBQ sauce, Al8-One Salsa, Colonels Coffee and much more! As pictured: $79.99 Only In Kentucky | 859.475.1408

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GIVE & RECEIVE

The perfect gift for pizza lovers! For every $25 in gift cards purchased, get a $5 Rewards Card for yourself! Available at Old Chicago, Corner of Man O’ War & Sir Barton.

859.977.4640 | oldchicago.com

BANGLE

The John Wind collection is a perfect gift for her. Stack them or wear them as separates.

Either way, they are sure to be eye-catchers!

Find these and other fabulous accessories at Two Chicks & Co. 124 Southland Dr. Lexington | 859.276.0756

DANGLE

A-list celebrities such as Taylor Swift and Jennifer Lopez adorn their necks with these gleaming swirly and deco initial necklaces

by JENNIFER ZUENER! Available in gold, rose gold, silver and vermeil. Special order only, 2-week delivery time! $264 VOCE 124 Clay Avenue Lexington, KY 40502-1702 | 859.252.8623

COZY

Barbour Liddesdale Jacket, available in Black, Royal, Red, Navy, Hunter Green ($149) at the Keeneland Gift Shop. keenelandshop.com | 859.288.4236

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Holiday

ORNATE

GREAT FOOD

Give the gift of great food and good times.

Save 20% on any gift card purchase of $100 or more through December 31, 2011.

Sutton’s Restaurant | 110 N. Locust Hill Rd. 859.268.2068 | suttonsrestaurant.com

Sorrelli gold bracelet in Tapestry has three oval shaped champagne stones outlined in amethyst ($176). Sorrelli Raw Sugar Ring ($71) and Chandelier earrings ($93) also feature a square champagne stone. Bella Rose,126 W. Maxwell 859.255.2565 | bellarosestyle.com

WINE OPENER

SPARKLE

Sterling silver kick cuffs designed in the Bamboo collection by John Hardy. Slim and large cuffs feature black sapphires pave set into the open ends ($595 & $795). sheliabayes.com 410 W. Vine | 859.225.4043

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Wine Opener. Montana Artisan Collection. Hand inlaid in Montana. Old world quality, originality, and unique design. Comes in nice wooden gift box. $95. Great Christmas Gift! Available at Howard and Miller. | 859.259.3926

Holiday

GLITZ

RELAX

A resort experience without ever leaving town. Massages, facials, body treatments and more. It’s the perfect gift.

859.288.6175 1800 Newtown Pike, TheSpaAtGriffinGate.com

Exclusive Designs for Sophisticated Tastes - W&M earrings ($39$89) are custom designed by two fashionable young moms in Louisville using vintage pieces, available at Monkee’s of Lexington on Clay Ave. 859.253.0427 monkeesoflexington.com

DECORATE

Delightfully unique Christmas ornaments to suit every style---elegant, hand-crafted, whimsical, or rustic! $10-$30. Creation Inspirations 210 Rosemont Garden 859.278.0300

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PROTECT

Urban Expressions iPad Cases fit both iPad models ($57/each), available in a variety of colors at Monkee’s of Lexington on Clay Ave. 859.253.0427 | monkeesoflexington.com.

CASHMERE

Peter Millar 4 Ply 100% Pure Cashmere $345.00 Available in multiple colors. Available at Howard and Miller 859.259.3926

STYLE

Tory Burch sunglasses.

Shown here are black frames with Interchangeable Tory symbol, available in a variety of colors ($175) and Tortoise Shell frames, also available in black ($165). Both come in sassy cases. Monkee’s of Lexington on Clay Ave. 859.253.0427 monkeesoflexington.com

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WORK IT

Lululemon athletic apparel is the perfect gift for anyone who is active!

Featured is the ‘Run’ full tilt pullover in lilac ($99), ‘Run’ inspire crop pant in coal lilac ($86), ‘Integrity’ hot tank in lilac ($52), ‘No Show’ running socks ($14) and ‘Sigg Om’ water bottle ($25). All available at Pure Barre. 867 E. High St., Suite 150 859.335.2391 purebarre.com/Lexington

Holiday

LAGOS

Lagos ‘Signature Collection’ Sterling Silver pendant necklaces hang from a 34” chain and can be worn long or short.

Lock and key ($250); Sterling silver and eighteen-karat yellow gold ball ($275); Peace sign ($195); Puffed heart ($150).

Sheliabayes.com 410 W. Vine | 859.225.4043

CARRY

Longchamp Le Pliage Handbag, available in various colors ($125) at the Keeneland Gift Shop. keenelandshop.com | 859.288.4236

ACCESSORIZE

French Connection multi colored Elsie beaded clutch is great for any outfit ($110). Ada Collection bow belts in gold and patent black are great to add a little holiday touch to any outfit ($66/each). Bella Rose 126 W. Maxwell 859.255.2565 | bellarosestyle.com

GLOW

“Let her glow, let her glow, let her glow!” Give the gift of beautiful skin with the Clarisonic PRO Face and Body, available exclusively by skin care professionals ($250). Be MediSpa 812 E. High St. 859.266.LIVE | bemedispa.com

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MAKING GIFT-GIVINIG MEANINGFUL

by Sue Ann Truitt Entertainment Specialist

Many of us can remember writing a long wish list to Santa only to have our Mother remind us that it is better to give than to receive.

That thought remains with us as life moves on. It is never more emphasized than during the holiday season. This year as the economy crunches, perhaps it is time to give thought to the true meaning of giving. Kahlil Gibran said “You give of little when you give of your possessions. It is when you give of yourself that you truly give.” But how do you give of yourself when the commercial forces beckon from every street corner and stare at us from every page? I think the answer is to be creative and give thought to the person for whom you are giving a gift.

Some thoughtful possibilities are: • A coupon book – These coupons could be redeemed throughout the year - A dinner at a favorite restaurant, a candlelight dinner at home, a massage, a night at the movies, washing the car, decorating their home for a holiday, a yummy dessert, housesitting during a vacation and the list continues. A coupon could be tailored to any age person and would be welcomed from a retirement home resident to a new mother, a boyfriend, a girlfriend, or a spouse. These coupons could be written out and placed in a stocking for a clever presentation.

• Create a book, with the help of a computer, to show special photos of a trip, grandchildren or family times.

Again, the gift would appeal to any age person.

• Cleverly trim photos from the past year to make into a collage and frame it. This could be the beginning of an annual gift.

• A live tree such as a Rosemary or a Norfolk Pine could be decorated with small pictures or favorite recipes rolled and tied on to the tree with brightly colored ribbons.

• Bake a batch of homemade sugar cookies going all out on the decorations. Stack

them on a pottery holiday plate, wrap with cellophane and tie with a big bow. The recipe could be tied into the bow for an added touch.

• Put together a cookbook with generations of family recipes for members of your family and friends. Pictures of people, houses and pets could add a fun touch to the cherished collection.

• Give a gift to enhance an interest – dog, cat, horse, cycling, gardening, bird watching, travelling, etc. Couple the item with a book about the interest. Then, concentrate on a clever way to package the gift.

• Invite someone to your home for a special dinner as your gift to them. Or take a beautifully prepared dinner to their home. This type of thoughtfulness could also be a coffee cake for Christmas breakfast or dessert for the family dinner.

• A donation can be made to a charity in the name of a person on your gift list. Also, you could buy gifts that support a charity.

“If a person gives you his time, he can give no more precious gift.” - Unknown As you think about gifts for your family and friends, plan a clever, creative presentation for their gift. Ribbons and bows do work miracles. Think outside the predictable box. Wrap the gifts in newspaper, paper grocery bags, paper finger painted by children, fabrics or wallpaper. This is a form of going green, so use your creativity.

As the holiday season gears up and the year 2011 winds down, we think seriously about where we’re going. Who has been important to us and how do we live by what we have learned.

When my father was in the last stages of Alzheimer’s disease, silence was taking him away. Then, at the end, he told me clearly, “Always remember to share.”

He lived by that and I hope to do so as well.

Give your gifts from the heart and have a very Happy Holiday!

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Holiday

IN THE ‘BUF’ THE TOASTER

by Buffy Lawson Relationship Veteran

In a new relationship, the first holiday season shared together tells us more about our partner than months of ordinary conversation can reveal. Crazy relatives, elevated stress levels, family traditions and gift choices. There is no question that if your new guy presents you with a heart-shaped necklace, wrapped in a little black box, his feelings for you become evident.

Likewise, if you find yourself unwrapping a weed eater, it is a different story altogether. It can be a tricky situation, however, because the weed eater guy might adore you as much as the heart-shaped necklace fellow, but either way Christmas will have taught you that one is romantic and the other practical. Or… flat clueless.

However you choose to see it.

My first Christmas with Mister Man showed me exactly what he was made of.

And I am pretty certain he learned a thing or two about me. If he had not already suspected it, the fact that I am a terribly impatient person was certainly revealed.

He also gathered that even as a grown woman, I still have a child-like spirit.

Especially when it comes to Christmas.

One very cold December evening, Mister Man treated me to his infamous spaghetti. Nat King Cole sang beautifully in the background and red wine was flowing. After dinner we brought our glasses into the living room and sat beside the stunning, brightly lit Christmas tree. The evening was nothing less than perfect and I couldn’t help feeling like the luckiest girl alive.

A medium-sized box sat beneath the tree with my name on it. I was impressed by how fabulous the wrapping job was with hunter green shimmering paper and an oversized red silk bow. What on earth could it be?

The size of the box drove my imagination wild and curiosity was getting the best of me. Mister Man was talking and I just nodded as if I was listening; but my concentration was distracted by the hunter green box.

“So what is it honey?” I asked him bluntly. “What is what?” he replied.

“My present? Tell me…pretty please?” His forehead scrunched together as he said, “Are you crazy lady? I can’t tell you what it is…Christmas is three weeks away!” It reminded me of myself as a four year old little girl begging mom to tell me what Santa was going to bring.

Being mostly playful, even I knew how annoying I was being as I continued trying to pry it out of him. I explained that surprises are for children and that the “date” that you open the gift doesn’t matter. We were both laughing at the situation and I knew there was no way he was going to tell me what was in the box.

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“It is a toaster.” He said to me suddenly. A toaster? A toaster? Yeah, right I thought, knowing he was just trying to shut me up. He must have noted the look on my face as he retracted, stating…”but this is not an ordinary toaster. It is a toaster with a DVD player in it!” In order to bust his bluff I dashed to the computer and googled: TOASTER WITH DVD PLAYER. To my disbelief, sure enough, somewhere on this planet for $175 was a Toaster with a DVD player.

Although still not completely convinced at this point, I had no choice but to entertain the thought that my first Christmas gift from Mister Man might actually be a toaster. An unromantic, chauvinistic, assuming, flipping toaster.

The next day I received a phone call from my best friend. “You are getting a toaster for Christmas my dear. Just wanted to give you a heads up. “ OMG. It was true.

The toaster became the source of many, many conversations over the next several weeks and I was shocked that several of the gals at my office told me similar horror stories of blenders, tool boxes and ironing boards. Seriously?

Finally, after a very long month, Christmas Eve came. The snow was falling as if on cue and several friends and family came to the house to celebrate. Gifts were exchanged and hot buttered rums were the cocktails of choice.

Mister Man brought over my pretty box and toaster jokes were abounding. Dying to capture my expression, every camera in the room was directed towards me.

I carefully opened the package and dumped the white squishy foam protectors to reveal my gift.

GULP. It was certainly no toaster. Inside of the box were seven individually framed, featured CD’s of songs that I had written over the years.

Artist’s that had recorded my music. Dolly Parton, Kenny Rogers, Randy Travis, Willie Nelson, Bo Bice, Lorrie Morgan and Bomshel.

I was so shocked that I couldn’t even form a tear. Mister Man cleared his throat saying, “These albums should be hanging on your wall as a reminder of what you do.”

I then formed many tears along with everybody in the room, including Mister Man. It was one of the most special moments of my life.

Only one box remained under the tree. It was my gift to Mister Man. I could have died as he started opening the present. I was mortified with myself. But Mister Man looked at it and started howling with laughter as he walked over; giving me a sweet, long hug.

“Buf, how did you know? I have always wanted a waffle maker.”

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Holiday

POSH PAWS

HOLIDAY HAZARDS FOR PETS

by Amanda Harper, Pet Aficionado

The holidays are a wonderful time for pet parents and pets alike. All the decorations, parties and yummysmelling food... it’s the most wonderful time of the year! But hidden in holiday celebrations are a number of accidents waiting to happen when it comes to pets. Keeping your pet healthy, safe and happy during the holidays requires a little attention to potential hazards.

Many people believe that pointsettias are highly toxic to animals. It is true that poinsettias are toxic. However, a pet would have to ingest a large quantity of the plant to be potentially deadly, unless the pet – or human! – is allergic to poinsettias or latex. (Humans who are allergic to latex will be irritated by poinsettias because they contain a compound that is chemically similar to rubber latex.) Poinsettias taste terrible, so it’s unlikely a pet would eat more than a bite. Eating a small quanitity may result in nausea or vomiting, so ensure that pets steer clear as much as possible.

Mistletoe, holly and many live evergreens, however, are a different story. These can be mildly to moderately toxic to animals, even when eating a small quantity. If you choose to incorporate these items into your holiday decor, keep them as far out of reach of pets as possible.

If you decorate a Christmas tree, make sure that the bottom third is decorated with wooden or plastic ornaments – playful pets often bat loose glass ornaments they can reach. If you have a live tree, make sure the base of the tree is covered so that pets can’t drink from the water – pine sap is dangerous to many pets if ingested. Sweep frequently around the base of the tree to remove pine needles, sap and loose ornament hooks.

Most cats will do whatever they can to climb the tree. If your cat is repelled by the scent, bitter orange oil around the base of the tree should help curb that desire. Apple cider vinegar and bitter apple can also be spritzed on the limbs, but do so before the tree is decorated.

All animals have the potential to knock over a tree. Hook or anchor the tree to a wall and choose a tree base that is wide and stable.

Do not put items on or around the tree or in your decor that are attractive to pets. Popcorn garlands, candy canes and other candy decorations are cute, but often smell tasty to animals. Similarly, don’t put gifts under the tree for your pets. If your pet spies or smells a new carrier, new toys, catnip or food around the tree will only encourage your pet to venture closer.

Tinsel and metallic garland can be disastrous to a pet’s digestive system. Pets often think the shiny substance is a perfect plaything and will inevitably try to eat it. I speak from experience here – you do NOT want to spend your holiday chasing after a cat to try and retrieve bits of tinsel. The same goes of mentallic or plastic confetti.

As a safetly measure for both you and your pets, don’t leave unattended lights on or candles burning. Aside from being a fire hazard, some pets are prone to chewing on cords.

Rodents, cavvies and rabbits have always had this problem in my experience. Discourage this by safely taping cords to baseboards, walls and the floor whenever possible. Birds love to peck at shiny objects, particularly the little bulbs of stringed lights. They look just like delicious berries!

Try not to let your pet bird around any lights unattended. Carefully watching your pet around these hazards is important.

Keep lit candles up and out of the way of pets. Cats in particular have a keen knack accidentally getting their tails in the way of open flames (not that I would know from experience or anything.) Quick action to smother the flame and tend your pet’s burn is essential to ensuring that your pet and home are safe in the event of an accidental tail fire. Keep a vet emergency line on speed dial at all times for just these sort of events!

Having a happy and safe holiday with your pets is easy with a little supervision and some thought about what pitfalls to avoid around the house. Here’s wishing you and your pet a happy, healthy holiday season!

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Holiday

THE KENTUCKY HORSE PARK FOUNDATION

by Kathie Stamps

How often do you carry peppermints in your pocket on the way in to the office? Laura Klumb does it all the time. She’s the executive director of the Kentucky Horse Park Foundation.

“I drive into the Kentucky Horse Park, park my car and walk past fields of horses every day,” she said.

“Peppermints are like chocolate to horses, so I carry a few Starlight mints in my purse or pocket and sneak them to my buddies.”

The KHPF is the nonprofit, philanthropic arm of the Kentucky Horse Park. While state support and tourism dollars have taken care of overhead expenses since the park was established in 1978, the foundation raises money for the “extras” the park needs, like tractors and lawn mowers, repainting the white fences, keeping the barns and pastures safe for the horses and general maintenance of the 1,200+ acres.

“We also raise capital support,” Klumb said.

Through the foundation’s fundraising efforts, the Photos by Mark Manning, Jennifer Munson, Jim Shambhu and Kentucky Horse Park

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Kentucky Horse Park was able to build three new climate-controlled barns and world-class footing in all of the competition rings and venues. “This allows the park to attract international and national competitions such as the Alltech National Horse Show (November 2011) and last year’s World Equestrian Games,” Klumb said.

The foundation has raised more than $25 million on behalf of the Kentucky Horse Park.

“These contributions have helped the park grow into its present form as a much beloved tourist destination and highly acclaimed equestrian competition facility,” she said.

The 60-member board of the foundation is also focused on growing the permanent endowment fund.

Named for the KHPF founder (in 1985), the Nina Bonnie Endowment Fund will be able to maintain and improve the park in perpetuity. “This endowment fund is critical to ensuring the park is here for future generations to enjoy,” Klumb said.

Holiday “The Horse,” by the way, is the first winter exhibition ever at the Horse Park, and it’s running through early April, 2012. Coordinated with the American Museum of Natural History, the exhibition is traveling through the United States. Lexington is the fourth city, and the only one in the southeast, to host the exhibition. There’s an interactive video display, where you can feed a horse and watch the digestion system and see how the horse’s bones and legs work. Another display is a set of full body armor for a horse from the 1600s. And a fire engine and harness from when fire trucks were pulled by horses.

“It’s a real neat overview of how horse and man interacted over the centuries,” Klumb said of the exhibition.

The largest fundraiser the foundation organizes for the Kentucky Horse Park is the annual Southern Lights display. This is the 18th year for the three-mile course of holiday lights and animated figures. Not just lights, but more than a million bright and dazzling and twinkling lights.

“It’s a marathon, a team effort every night,” according to Klumb, who doesn’t get to sleep in the next morning either, because regular business hours still have to be regular.

But she’s not complaining.

She is as excited as a six-yearold when she talks about the Southern Lights extravaganza. “We have a brand new set of dinosaur displays,” she cited as one example.

The mini train ride has some additional light displays that were created and donated by a local family. Santa Claus is there, a craft vendor area specifically for children and other family-friendly activities have been set up inside the museum lobby. This year’s Southern Lights admission also includes admittance to “The Horse” exhibition in the International Museum of the Horse.

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

There are three full-time employees at the Kentucky Horse Park Foundation, plus three part-time staff members and tons of volunteers.

“We couldn’t survive without them,” Klumb said. Volunteers help care for the horses around the park, muck out stalls and assist with office tasks. The museum, the International Museum of the Horse, has volunteer docents who interact with the public.

Members of the Kentucky Horse Park Foundation stay busy throughout the year with different types of fundraisers. Of course, the biggest event is the Southern Lights holiday show. Starting in the spring, there’s also the Cross Country Schooling Days project, an opportunity for riders and horses to get a workout on the park’s worldfamous cross country course.

The schooling course has obstacles that mimic the combinations faced in competitions by human and equestrian athletes.

Speaking of schooling and reading, what’s the best horse book ever? Black Beauty, My Friend Flicka, The Black Stallion and Seabiscuit: An American

VOLUNTEER! Want to volunteer at the Kentucky Horse Park and/or the Kentucky Horse Park Foundation? Call Gina Beare at 859.259.4267 or check out the volunteer opportunities at kyhorsepark.com/volunteer.

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COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

Holiday Legend come to mind. Reading is fun and fundamental for Kentucky kids, thanks to KHPF. The foundation has provided 10,000 books to first- and fourth-graders in Central Kentucky through the Kentucky Horse Park Literacy Program. ”In 2012, we will expand our reach to Eastern Kentucky,” Klumb said, “and provide books and a visit to the park to over 6,000 children.”

As executive director of KHPF, Klumb interacts with people in every area of the Kentucky Horse Park. “Every department needs funding,” she said.

Even the campgrounds, which get busier every year. “Local families have come to love the campgrounds,” she said. “People all over country are stopping by, and competitors come and stay in their RVs for the horse shows.”

According to campground director Christy Combs, there are 260 improved campground sites and unlimited primitive sites. “We never close,” she said. The campgrounds are open year-round with limited amenities. “We love locals,” Combs said.

“They make my job more bearable and keep me grounded, knowing that people actually enjoy camping and love our campground.” For RVers the Kentucky Horse Park campgrounds are a great getaway any time of the year, no matter where their non-mobile homes are.

And yes, you can ride a horse at the Kentucky Horse Park. The trail riding concession is a western-style ride through the fields. “It’s a leisurely, enjoyable way to explore part of our 1,200acre park and get

SHOW YOUR OUT-OF-TOWNERS A GREAT TIME! Entertaining out-of-town guests during the daytime? Take them to the Kentucky Horse Park.

Winter hours (through March 1, 2012) are Wednesday-Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Park admission is $10 for adults, $5 for ages 7-12, which gets you into the International Museum of the Horse, the American Saddlebred Museum and Gift Shop, and live equine presentations.

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COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

to know some of our resident horses,” said Kentucky Park spokesperson Cindy Rullman.

The park itself has 78 fulltime employees and 36 interns or seasonal workers. “The park really could not operate without our excellent team of volunteers, who number in the hundreds,” Rullman said.

Employees, volunteers and visitors are all important for this beautiful place called the Kentucky Horse Park. It’s one of the reasons Lexington is known as the Horse Capital of the World and why we’re all pretty proud to have it right here in our own back yard.

SOUTHERN LIGHTS! The driving route through the holiday display of lights is open 5:30-10 p.m. SundayThursday ($15/car), Friday-Saturday ($20/car), through Dec. 31. Indoor attractions, including the Bit & Bridle Restaurant, are open each night through Dec. 23.

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PARENTING HO, HO,

NO!

by Hallie Bandy

over

Motherboard

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It’s the most wonderful time of the year. And, for my older kids, that includes perpetuating the Santa myth for our youngest.

Which puzzles me, because they didn’t necessarily have a great time believing in Santa.

I believed in Santa far longer than most of my peers.

Because, in my family, it was sacrilege not to believe in Santa.

How convenient for my Mom! For an entire month, my behavior was noted daily on The Calendar. A red X for a good day; a black X for a bad day.

Oh, how I tried to have at least 13 red Xs. It was one of only two ways I could hope to impress Santa.

The other way was to visit him. Which we did, faithfully, every year.

Mom would dress us up, curl my hair (my sister has naturally curly hair, just like Peanuts’ Freida), and take us downtown to sit in the lap of “The Real Santa,” along with our cousins. Afterwards, we’d have lunch, and my older cousin would announce — with a wink to the adults — that she had checked, and this, for sure, was absolutely The Real Santa. No fake beard on this one.

One time, I spotted a tell-tale elastic band holding the beard on Santa’s face. My shock and dismay was met with the reassurance that, sometimes, The Real Santa can’t make it, and one of his elves has to sit in.

My Grandmother was the biggest proponent of the Santa story. Each year, she would read from the source of all truth, The Cleveland Plain Dealer, an editorial — written by a real grownup, who told the truth — which described the actual sightings of Santa.

Eventually, I figured out it was all a big behavior-control conspiracy.

And it seems funny now; I wanted so badly to believe that I bought all those crazy stories. Especially since my Grandmother always bought better gifts than Santa. And also because it was so stinkin’ hard to avoid those dreaded black Xs on the calendar.

But, it was good enough for me.

I wish it had been good enough for my kids. Goodness knows; I tried.

From the time they could walk, I dressed up my kids at Christmas and marched them downtown to meet The Real Santa. We have a few cute photos from the early years.

Then our second son arrived. His first trip was his last.

After positioning his two older siblings for the perfect Christmas pose, we placed the toddler gently on Santa’s lap.

Immediately, he let out a blood-curdling scream that prompted every mother in line to put her hands over her child’s ears.

Aaaannnnddd… the camera snapped.

There we had it. Daughter smiling, just as she’d been told. First son, trying to smile as he’d been told, but having a difficult time hiding his concern.

And second son: red-faced, eyes squeezed shut, mouth open so wide you could see his tonsils.

My husband and I stopped to examine the photo – and shell out $10 for the image, which was, of course, priceless. It only took a second to pay, but when we turned around, he was missing.

Everyone in line had been watching us anyway, and noticed the distressed looks on our faces. All 50 people pointed in the same direction.

There he was, face smushed against the glass in the front window of The Gap, waving at the crowd, looking just like an elf.

There was definitely a black X on his calendar that day.

Which really didn’t seem to matter to him.

Since then, I haven’t been so determined to take the kids to see Santa.

Sometimes I just tell them the real Santa can’t be there, and the elf he sent in his place is cranky.

Because really, unless there is some type of positive behavior modification involved, convincing kids to believe in Santa just isn’t worth my time and effort.

Grandma buys better presents, anyway.

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HOME GARDENING POINSETTIA PRIMER

by Michelle Rauch, Gardening Enthusiast

It’s the time of year you will be seeing red. Lots of red, plus shades of pink and a touch of white. Poinsettia is the plant of choice that will be providing the bursts of color for the holidays. The plant is native to Mexico. It’s popularity in the United States grows annually; estimated to account for as much as 85% of potted plant sales during the holiday season and millions of dollars worth of income for producers. While what you may see in the stores is limited, there are as many as a hundred varieties to choose from for the true enthusiast.

Poinsettia is the source of urban legend and rumor. Here’s a poinsettia primer to get you through the season. First, contrary to popular belief they are not poisonous. If consumed in large quantity, they can cause an upset stomach, nausea and diarrhea. The milky sap it produces can also cause a skin irritation. Fear laid to rest, now here’s what you need to know when you are shopping for the perfect poinsettia.

Choose one with dark green foliage down to the soil line. Avoid plants that have yellow or fallen leaves.

Look for plants that are two and a half times taller than the diameter of the container. The more blooms you see the more expensive the plant will likely be.

Caring for your poinsettia is pretty easy. It will thrive in a daytime temperature between 60-70 degrees. To get the most vibrant color your poinsettia has to offer provide lots of indirect sunlight. Be sure to keep your plant away from vents and heat registers. Take care when you are bringing them home, Poinsettias are highly susceptible cold and frost. Be sure to cover them to prevent damage from a cold wind. Water thoroughly and allow them to dry before you water again. If you forget to water right on time, don’t worry. Poinsettia’s are forgiving and will perk right up with the next good soaking. With proper care, your poinsettia will last well beyond the holidays into the new year.

Did you know?

• Poinsettias found growing naturally are a perennial and can reach ten feet tall.

• The Aztecs made a red-purple dye from the plant.

• Poinsettias are commercially grown in all 50 states.

• December 12th is National Poinsettia Day. • An NCAA bowl game in San Diego is named the Poinsettia Bowl. The bowl game generates an estimated $11-million dollars for the local economy in tourism.

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TOP DESIGN

IF WALLS COULD TALK

By Bob Banker Wall Hanging Artisan

There’s a resurgence of wallpaper installment in homes across the country. The wall covering industry has evolved rapidly; allowing homeowners many innovative, creative opportunities guaranteed to enhance their homes. Modern wallpaper is currently being celebrated for highlighting a room’s specific space, emphasizing desired architectural features and accenting personality to an entire room. Wall covering is now being featured on home improvement television, a change from just a few years ago when only a few would ever endorse wallpaper usage.

Because until recently, the trend has been paint, many consumers initially fear the idea of wallpaper. Many of my clients have suggested, “Oh no, you’re not going to put any tired and outdated paper on my walls!” But the vast variety of unique techniques, everything from sand and glass bead textures, traditional and non-traditional patterns, paintable papers, a new generation of foils and flocking leave no doubt that wallpaper is more interesting and exciting than ever. Non-woven substrates, vinyl, wood, cork, fabric and plastic add to the list; providing a look that paint alone cannot achieve.

After carefully assessing the direction that clients are trying to achieve with their homes, I provide them photographs as well as wall covering samples. They almost always become inspired and eager to learn more about the spectacular options available to them. Whereas high-end wallpapers are making a strong comeback, there is a notable decline in the use of paper with matching border combinations. Individualism is becoming the theme.

Because of economic concerns, more people are

choosing to renovate their homes in lieu of selling. These days, consumers are not decorating for the next home buyer, rather for their own individual taste; therefore the sky is the limit, making the decorative process more creative, with a more fabulous and personal end result.

Texture cannot be understated. Grass cloth is a fantastic option as well as commercial vinyl. Both provide distinctive style, durability and are much easier to remove when needed.

Paintable papers offer the perfect pairing between paint and wallpaper. The new paintable papers have a vast amount of texture along with design elements. It has been my experience that the paintable papers look great, add interest, texture and design to any space, in particular, ceilings.

Some homeowners are concerned to decorate using too much color. Tone on tone wallpaper offers the homeowner traditional as well as nontraditional patterns, providing interest and personality to any space without becoming overbearing with too many colors.

Homeowners should also consider that wallpaper is not just for walls. Properly utilized behind book shelves, architectural features, columns, soffits, and tray ceilings can create a brilliant, clean, unpredictable look. The complex and unique pairing of colors and textures that wallpapers brings to any space make options unlimited for homeowners.

As a wall hanging artisan, nothing could make me happier. I have patiently waited. As have, in my opinion, all of the newfound walls being beautifully covered. If walls could talk, I am certain they would say: THANK YOU!

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TOPS Tour of Homes

Holiday Style!

Holiday decor is often a mix of past and present, blending old family traditions with fresh style and fixtures. This is especially true in Central Kentucky homes, which are often filled with history and warm memories.

Bringing forward some holiday cheer needn’t be an overwhelming transformation--often, the most successful seasonal decor displays make use of what’s already present. This allows the glow of family and friendship to shine as brightly as any decoration! Simply dressing around family heirlooms and time-honored traditions can put a stamp of modern style on any holiday decor.

This edition of TOPS Tour of Homes profiles three houses that incorporate festive style in unique and inspiring ways that make the homes stand out as much as the holiday trappings. Each profile includes tips on bringing these wonderful, festive styles into your own home this holiday season.

by Amanda Harper

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On the Hunt for the Holidays

Antique lovers Susan Bratton and James Caudill work holiday decoration in the mix with all of their favorite treasures. Glass drops and green swaths flank the mirror and side table, offering a touch of holiday flair alongside collections of matchbooks and corks.

The parlor’s paintings of hunting dogs helped inspire the preppy hunstman feel of the decorations, which were coordinated with guidance from interior designer Dwayne Anderson of house by JSD Designs. By staying true to the home’s everyday feel, the holiday decor is festive without being intrusive. To achieve this, take a look around at your spaces and choose a mood for your pieces. Play up that feeling whenever possible.

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Susan and James love to entertain family and friends. Colorful plate sets, mismatched barware and trophy cups mix and mingle in the spaces... perfect for a party. Susan collects pieces for the home from all over. As she puts it, “Yard sales to department stores – I like what I like!� Her great taste shines through in her eclectic collection of dishes and artwork that makes the home truly feel complete. These pieces lend themselves perfectly to their entertaining-focused decor.

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Pheasant feathers, tartans, hunting trophies, pipes and woodland greenery all bring to mind a sporting hunt.

Touches of red, glass and gold reflect the home’s original decor, helping the decorations seem right at home. Try matching decor to the accent colors of your home, bringing out the pops of color you already love.

Utilizing mixed barware, dinnerware and serveware can really maximize a decorating budget while ensuring a totally unique decor. Experiment with repurposing items as serveware.

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Woodland Elegance

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Marrying a ski lodge aesthetic with the minimalist beauty of her home was no challenge for Shelia Bayes. A sporting enthusiast herself, Shelia had many of the trappings to create a warm holiday style in her home that still perfectly complemented the simple elegance of its day-to-day decor. Everything in Shelia’s home feels warm and light, with a great deal of open-air space.

The decorations were spaced perfectly to preserve the negative space, letting the home’s brightness and comfort shine through.

If your home features a minimal decor, try a holiday decor that preserves that airy spirit.

The home’s exterior featured a number of lit trees which really set the tone for the interior’s decor. The sitting room in the entryway includes fresh-cut greenery and poinsettias to offer a cheerful welcome to guests.This is an essential and oftenoverlooked way to convey the holiday spirit. Entryways don’t have to be an overwhelming holiday note, but try placing a few key items that bring to mind the holidays.

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Holiday Antique skis from Tahoe created the perfect spot to hang Christmas cards while adding to the cabin feel. Finding a creative way to display holiday greetings can add a sentimental touch to your home throughout the season. Little touches like seasonal containers filled with live evergreens can add a pop of festivity to a space, as well.

The Christmas tree featured a number of large glass ornaments as well as a number of handmade pieces, which featured a rustic style.

Because Shelia focused on a woodland feel, all the wood pieces already in her home became a part of the “theme”, lending themselves perfectly to the overall style. Choosing a holiday decor that is already present in your home’s everyday aesthetic allows every aspect of decor to feel even more authentic.

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This handmade wooden tree with miniature ornaments is a piece that Shelia loves. It sits on her dining room table. While the ornaments hold a note of whimsy, the lush greenery surrounding the tree helps it stay grounded and beautiful.

Even Shelia’s kitchen got a festive makeover. Her breakfast table featured holiday dishes and more fresh greenery. Little pops of seasonal style can help guests in your home feel the holiday magic throughout your home. Try incorporating little touches wherever possible, like these towels in the kitchen.

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Modern Whimsy The Turners’ large, blended family celebrates the holidays surrounded by glowing lights and fun, festive decor. The outside of the Turner home features a beautiful light display and nativity scene, which sets a definite tone of celebration and joy for everyone in the neighboorhood. An outdoor light display is always a great way to share your holiday spirit with guests, as well as passers-by. Whether you choose a light display that sets your entire property aglow or focus on a smaller space, strung lights can totally transform a home’s exterior in the dark winter nights.

The entryway features a lighthearted display of ribbons, ornaments and lights. Giant nutcrackers stand guard, flanking the archway to the main living room. Many features in this massive space receive a holiday touch, from the doorways to the topiaries. The same decorations are used on the home’s front door, creating a fun and exciting welcome for guests to the Turner home. These oversized decorations add a note of whimsy while covering a lot of decorating ground.

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The living room in the Turner home is truly magical. The mantel is bursting with greenery and ornaments, mirroring the Christmas tree’s decorations. Whimsical stockings and a cute little elf complete the jubilant transformation. The massive pieces had to be laid out on the floor and pieced together by Bobbi, who was caring for an infant at the time!

Bobbi goes to market every year to select the items that will be featured in her family’s holiday decor. The Turner family hosts a large Christmas party every year, so the decorations have to be extra festive and conducive to having fun with family and friends. As such, many of the decorations are up on the walls or in the room’s perimeter, ensuring nothing gets in the way of the flow of traffic throughout the home.

The decor in the family room and kitchen are more minimal. This allows the family to relax and unwind with a more simple decor. The Turners use the kitchen area a great deal, so decorations in that space must be as out of the way as possible. This is a great tip for functional spaces in any home – choose decorations that will not invade your cooking space or hinder daily chores. But by the same token, just because a space is chiefly functional does not mean it can’t get a little holiday flair!

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NEW BUSINESSES

What’s New

C

osMedic Essentials offers general and cosmedic dermatology for patients of all ages in a convenient, comfortable location. CosMedic Essentials is a division of Dermatology & Skin Cancer Specialists, PSC and features a professional staff that aims to provide every client with the best possible care.

CosMedic Essentials specializes in Dysport, Botox, dermal fillers and sclerotherapy. They are also proud to offer the latest technology in skin care with the full NEOCUTIS product line as well as Glo minerals makeup.

and is certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. Johnathon Edge, MD is a boardcertified dematologist, specializing in MOHS Micrographic Surgery and Cutaneous Oncology.

CosMedic Essentials is hosting an open house on Tuesday, December 6 from 4PM-8PM. They invite Central Kentuckians interested in dermatology to stop by and learn more about the services, products and amazing care they offer.

Courtney Mitchell, PA-C offers general and cosmetic dermatology. She received her Master’s Degree in Physician Assistant Studies at the University of Kentucky and is a member of the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants

CosMedic Essentials 161 N Eagle Creek Dr Ste 150 859.264.0557 dscsderm.com | cosmedicessentials.com Follow on Facebook at CosMedic Essentials

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or fine gentlemen’s clothing in Central Kentucky, Crittenden Upstairs delivers top-notch fashion alongside quality customer service. With clothes unlike those seen anywhere else, Crittenden Upstairs is a perfect stop for any many who has or wants great style!

Crittenden is known and well-loved in Midway for its unique offerings. Their new second location above Bella Rose Women’s Boutique serves the same impeccable style in a spot that’s convenient for Lexington shoppers.

Crittenden Upstairs features the Crittenden Collection, designed by local Midway, KY designer Critt Rawlings (who owns the stores along with business partner Stuart Mercer.)

His clothing line is available in 150 stores nationwide, including Barneys New York, and is worn by celebrities including University of Kentucky coach John Calipari; football stars Tim Tebow and Brett Favre; and fashion expert Carson Kressley. The Crittenden Collection features suits, sportcoats, pants, dress shirts, ties and casual wear perfect for any man about town. They’re also proud to offer custom-made suits and shirts for a variety of needs, styles and occasions.

Offering men’s fashion in two great Central Kentucky locations, Crittenden Upstairs is a perfect shopping destination for men who like to look sharp.

Crittenden Upstairs 126 W Maxwell St #200 141 E Main St, Midway KY 859.309.0357 Follow on Facebook at Crittenden Upstairs

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What’s New

CatWineUSA is the culmination of a project created in 2006

with the intention of introducing Catalunya’s rich culture and traditions to the US through its wonderful wines. The tree partners are Edgar Saborit, a native Catalan now living in Lexington; his father Pere, who still lives in the Barcelona area; and Tom West, a business executive and long time Bluegrass resident.

Catalunya, represented by D.O’s (denominacion de origen) like Priorat, Montsant, Emporda, Penedes and Cava, is the up and coming wine region of Spain. Its winemakers represent a combination of old world elegance with new world techniques to create unique, high quality blends with exceptional value.

NEW BUSINESSES

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ho better to help select the finest wines from a world region than natives of that region? Lexington area wine lovers who’ve tasted new importer/distributor CatWineUSA’s selections at area retailers and restaurants would agree.

With partners in Barcelona and Lexington, CatWineUSA personally visits bodegas (wineries) in Catalunya in search of the best wines from the region for introduction here in Kentucky and surrounding states.

CatWineUSA CatWineUSA.com

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or twenty years, Você has been Lexington’s hottest hair salon.

When the in-salon, contemporary boutique opened in 2010, the shop truly became Lexington’s House of Style. Now, with the launch of shopvoce.com, stylish women everywhere can tap into the fashion-forward and carefully edited selection of designer driven clothing and accessories Você offers.

Shopvoce. com features the season’s best collections from Mason

by Michelle Mason, Ani Lee, Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent, Rory Beca, Parker, David Lerner, Nightcap Clothing, Free People, Funktional, Jet by John Eshaya and Aiko. They also feature denim from J Brand and Siwy; as well as accessories from Tolani, Chan Luu, Kendra Scott, Melinda Maria, House of Harlow, Lauren Merkin, Rebecca Minkoff and Tylie Malibu. Você owner Mickey Binion invites fashionistas to browse the extensive selection

featured on Você’s webstore, become inspired by their 24/7 Style Blog and check out their amazing fashion lookbooks.

Any stylish woman with a discerning eye or who appreciates a stylist’s vision of current trends will find inspiration and a happy online home at shopvoce.com. With the latest styles and great tips on looking fabulous shopvoce.com is a perfect site for fashionforward women of Central Kentucky and beyond.

ShopVoce.com 124 Clay Ave 859.252.8623 shopvoce.com

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What’s New

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ild Thyme serves up an unforgettable culinary experience. Its classes are a wonderful learning opportunity in Central Kentucky for those of any cooking skill level while its boutique features fabulous culinary products.

Wild Thyme offers a variety of services that are ideal for a wide array of people. They have hands-on cooking classes for all ages, couple’s classes and demonstration-style classes.

This makes Wild Thyme, which owners Allison & Joey Davis opened in August 2011, perfect for individuals of all skill

levels and ages--even their daughter, Jayda (pictured)!

With a 2,500 square foot kitchen area that features an open floor plan, Wild Thyme can accomodate up to 65 guests. This makes it ideal for date nights, girls’ nights out, bachelorette parties, children’s cooking parties, culinary team building events and skill building for anyone.

The Wild Thyme boutique boasts a vast array of culinary tools.

Their products include the gift of the year award winner Joseph and Joseph line as well as Dulcet Cuisine’s all natural and gluten free gourmet sauces, mustards, and spice blends. Wild Thyme is also the exclusive retailer of the Culinary Institute of America’s master collection of cutlery & cookware.

Wild Thyme offers up a fun time for anyone seeking a few new culinary techniques in their cooking arsenal.

Wild Thyme 1060 Chinoe Rd Ste 108 859.523.COOK Wildthymecooking.com

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Who’s Who

TOP People to Know Edgar Saborit

Kristen Oakley

Bart Vaughn

Co-Owner

Assoc. Publisher, TOPS Magazine

Realtor

Edgar Saborit co-owns CatWineUSA, the leading importer of fine wines from his native Catalunya, the region of Spain surrounding Barcelona. The rich culture and traditions of the region are reflected in the unique, award-winning wines which Edgar and his partners carefully select for introduction to the US. The impressive portfolio is already a hit with Lexington retailers, restaurants and consumers who appreciate the high quality at affordable prices.

420.3893 edgar.saborit@catwineusa.com

Kristen Oakley is the Associate Publisher of TOPS Magazine. Besides assisting in the publishing of Lexington’s #1 read magazine, she also works with dozens of Lexington’s TOP businesses, helping them with marketing advice and ad campaigns that produce results. Kristen strives to provide Central Kentucky with a publication unlike any other in town and she takes great pride in the relationships she has developed with her clients over the years.

543.8677 kristen@topsmarketing.com

Bart has served the Lexington and surrounding counties for 23 years. Bart is a UK Alumni and an Associate Broker with Amercian Realty Group. Thinking about changing homes? Consider leveraging Bart’s expertise of our local market.

With a successful background in business, marketing, technology and interior design/construction, Bart provides the additional value-added expertise that surpasses traditional real estate services and continually exceeds client expectations.

621.5116 bartvaughn@insightbb.com

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Top Events

Allie Darling & Susan Snyder

Ericka Harney & Sharon Dixon Ison

Kelly Tudor, Victoria Carling & Ryan Bird

Lauren White & Liz Bennett

Evan Morris, Janet Holloway & Bryce Anderson

Lori Ann Taylor & Nancy Atkins

Women Leading Kentucky Roundtable Event Women Leading Kentucky roundtables offer tremendous networking opportunities. Featuring prominent Kentuckians as keynotes, these roundtables support Women Leading Kentucky’s goal of providing scholarships to women throughout the commonwealth. womenleadingky.com Photos by Jaron Johns

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Top Events

Sarah Hall Noble, Lauren Crosby Thompson, Jen Jabroski & Ellen Cochran Kuendig

Denise McClelland & Trish Burgess

Jana White, Gwen Pinson, MacKenzie Walter, Amelia Adams, Lauren Thompson, Kellie Rosenbaum, Sarah Noble, Tiffany Fleming, Sarah Wilso & Jen Jabroski

Liz Thompson, Ellen A. Kenneday & Joann Wiseman

Winner! Langdon Ryan

One of the First Women Attorneys Martha Rosenbaum

Twenty Years of Past Presidents

20th Anniversary Fayette County Women Lawyers Over 140 women lawyers gathered at The Barrel House to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Fayette County Women Lawyers Association. Judge Bunnell and Judge Isaac served as emcees with various historical and fun-filled trivia questions about the history of the women lawyers in this county. A great time was had by all in attendance. fcba.com/womenlawyersassociation Photos by Jaron Johns

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Top Events

Elizabeth Burrice & Brandy Clark

Does it get any more beautiful than Keeneland?

Leisje Coyle, Lisa Columbia, Noelle Dick & Jaime Sayre

Matthew Sinkhorn, Debbie Green & Zach Rogers

Debbie Green & Ronnie White

Cathy Sinkhorn, Karen Keck & Traci Markham

Clay Stewart

Rae Ann Parsons

2011 Media Day at Keeneland with Sleep Outfitters Sleep Outfitters and Mattress Warehouse hosted a Media Appreciation Day for vendors from four states at Keeneland in late October. The afternoon was Autumn picture perfect. Guests enjoyed food, fun, and betting at one of America’s premiere racing facilities. sleepoutfitters.com Photos by Paul Atkinson

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Top Events

Father Larry Hehman, Suzanne & Jim Bauer

Veronica Goff, Susan English, Kathleen Turner and Robin Johnson

John Lyons, Deidre Lyons, Caroline Lyons and Pearse Lyons

Raquel Gottsch, Patrick Gottsch and Gatsby Gottsch

Margaret & Dr. Tom Riddle

Vanilda & Roberto Bosco, Molly Dugan, Veronica Searcy, Geoff & Liz Frank, Becky Jordan

KY Equine Humane Center Black Tie Gala The Kentucky Equine Humane Center (KyEHC) has provided shelter and care to over 650 abused, neglected and at-risk horses since opening its doors in April 2007. This event was held at the Alltech Arena at the Kentucky Horse Park on November 1st as a prelude to the Alltech National Horse Show. kyehc.org Photos by Paul Atkinson

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Top Events

David Hungerford and Cindy Hutchison

Whitney Blanford

Steve Hill and Amber Philpott

Rock & Heather Daniels

Wes Pearce and Renee McDonald

Mixing and Mingling

Mike Turner

Michael Betts and Marty Shuff

TOPS November Issue Preview Party TOPS debuted its November Issue at Shorty’s: Cellar 157 on November 2nd. Guests sipped and browsed an impressive selection of wines while flipping through the pages of TOPS Magazine.

Special thanks to Shorty’s: Cellar 157 for their hospitality. topsinlex.com Photos by Alex Orlov

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Top Events

Guest of Honor Luther Deaton

Salvation Army Members

Bell Ringer of the Year Bob Bradley

Major Steven Ashcraft

Captain Karen Chamberlain and Bruce Manor

Alan Stein

Terry McBrayer

Salvation Army Roast of Luther Deaton The Salvation Army breakfast roast is an annual tradition that kicks off their Christmas Kettle Campaign. Luther Deaton, CEO, president and chairman of Central Bank, was “roasted” by local who’s whos. This fundraiser helped support the Salvation Army, which provides meals, lodging and emergency assistance for those in need in Central Kentucky. salvationarmylex.org Photos by Alex Orlov

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Top Events

Outstanding Youth Award Winner Virginia Newsome

Nancy Jo Kemper, Lori Burlingham and Rikki Starich

David Crupps and Mayor Jim Gray

Tom Leach and Kathy Houlihan

WeyNeshet Lake and Guest

Award Winner Fran Taylor

James E. “Ted” Bassett III

AFP Bluegrass National Philanthropy Day The Association of Fundraising Professionals - Bluegrass Chapter hosted the annual National Philanthropy Day awards luncheon on November 8 in Lexington. Twenty-two nonprofits honored philanthropists and volunteers who truly make a difference. The Distinguished Philanthropist Award was presented to James E. “Ted” Bassett, III and the Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy Award to Virginia Newsome – heARTS – School for Creative Arts and Performing Arts. afpbluegrass.org Photos by Paul Atkinson

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What To Do

YOUR WEDDING

LEARNING TO DANCE FOR YOUR WEDDING

by Hunter Lisle Dance Enthusiast

The big day you’ve waited for all your life has arrived. Vows have been read, rings have been exchanged and a kiss has sealed your commitment to one another. Now, it’s time for the reception! After the DJ announces the bridal party, a hush comes over the crowd. You are formally introduced to your guests and asked to dance your very first dance as husband and wife.

As you walk out onto the floor, you realize all eyes are upon you and it’s time to dance! This moment is often met with trepidation. But it’s your time to shine and one of the easiest ways to alleviate any anxiety is to select a song and dance that is sentimental to you and your spouse.

Learning to dance for your wedding creates one of the most perfect memories. It’s really easy and fun and with a little guidance, it can become a lasting moment that you will remember forever!

The first step is to find a song that means something to both of you. Listen to music that speaks to you and select a song that you get excited to

hear every time it plays. Whether slow or fast, any song can be choreographed to make it look perfect for photos and videos alike. Some couples prefer to dance a slow and romantic waltz, while others choose the dramatic and sharp moves of a Tango.

Dance lessons are a great way to prepare for your big dance floor debut. They not only make for great dates, but they give you confidence on the dance floor and a chance to learn together as a couple.

If possible, prepare 3 to 6 months in advance of your wedding. This allows your instructor time to help you with your song and choreography for the big day.

It also gives you plenty of time to practice and make the dance perfect.

Private lessons are the easiest way to prepare for the dance. The instructor will guide you step by step and break down each movement so it will be as “easy as walking!” Soon, after a few lessons, you’ll be gliding over the floor with a sparkle in your eyes while you move together on this first important step as a married couple! And remember - the pictures will look fantastic!

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June 19, 2011

Melanie & Chip Gray

WOW Wedding

Who’s Who

A

mutual friend and a love of dogs were the ice breakers that brought Melanie and Chip together.

Introduced to one another by friend Katie, the two quickly discovered that they both loved dogs and couldn’t wait to share photos. They began texting each other later that same night and within a week they had shared a first date and a very romantic first kiss.

By Labor Day of 2010, Chip had made plans to propose to Melanie. He had spoken to her father, purchased the ring and picked the day. His plan to take her to the Overlooks where he would propose was met with resistance. Melanie was hungry and did not want to stop.

But reluctantly gave in when he insisted. Chip guided Melanie to a private spot, got down on one knee and proposed. Melanie, totally surprised, said, “Yes!” Melanie had always dreamed of having an outdoor wedding and they chose Talon Winery because of its beautiful scenery. Being able to have the ceremony and reception at the same location was important. Having their rehearsal dinner at the Pavilion and getting dressed the day of the wedding in the farm house, was also an advantage.

Melanie traveled to Bridal’s by Lori in Atlanta to find her trumpet style Lazaro gown. She accented the gown with a regal black sash and a birdcage veil. Carrying on the sophisticated theme with a vintage flair, Melanie’s bridesmaids donned classy “little black dresses” and wore pearls and wedge heels. The groom

by Michele Landers

wore a classic black tuxedo with ivory vest and paisley tie. Melanie carried a handkerchief given to her by her mother. Chip’s mementos included a pocket knife that belonged to his grandfather and his grandmother’s angel pin. The bride and groom also exchanged gifts.

Melanie presented Chip with a watch she had engraved and Chip surprised Melanie with a pair of princess cut diamond earrings.

Highlights of the ceremony included eight nieces and nephews preceding the bride and her father down the aisle. A precious moment came when the flower girls were questioning why one carried whole roses while the younger girl carried only petals. The older flower girl was quick to point out that the petals were the most important part of the whole wedding. Overcome with emotion and excitement, Melanie and Chip were able to share a few private moments after the ceremony by slipping between the rows of vines before the reception.

The reception was held in the Ca’barn’et Barrel Barn which was aglow with twinkle lights. Guest tables were set with crisp white linens and black and white damask runners. Peony filled mint julep cups and calla lilies in tall slender glass vases decorated the tables. Italian cuisine paired perfectly with Talon’s wines. When the final dance of the evening was over, Chip and Melanie departed in the vintage white Bentley, knowing that their day had gone perfectly and they wouldn’t have changed a thing.

Photography by Amber & Troy Schmidt, Kentucky Studio

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Who’s Who

Details: Photographer: Amber & Troy Schmidt, Kentucky Studio Venue: Talon Winery Bridal Gown: Lazaro Violinist: Al Columbo, Knoxville, TN DJ: Josh Hale, Richmond, KY Bentley: Gold Shield Transportation

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Who’s Who

Brock Gabrielle (Tilford) & Luke Edward Malvern Maitland September 25, 2011 Photography by Jeff Calenberg and Jeff Jensen

Lauren Alexandra (Cowley) & Adam Craig Coleman October 1, 2011 Jasperfish Photography

Karina Gayle (Harness) & Benjamin J. Baker October 22, 2011 Lovitt Photography

WEDDING ANNOUNCEMENTS

Jordan Leigh (Northcut) & Seth Michael Bennett June 11, 2011 Todd Nichols Photography

Want to see your wedding photo published in TOPS? Email kristen@topsmarketing.com for more information.

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O TSHOTSP

Carol Russell, George Zach & Betty Spain

Nancy Cox and Sara Haynes GO RED FOR WOMEN!

Barry Stumbo and “Stars” at Saint Joseph Hospital Foundation’s Evening with the Stars 146

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Holiday Stuffing at Madison Square Garden