TOPS July 2025 by TOPS Magazine

The Perfect Night Out Starts at...

HAMBURG & DOWNTOWN

In an emergency, every second counts.

If you’ve experienced sudden chest pain or injury, there’s no time to waste.

Bluegrass Community Hospital, Bourbon Community Hospital, Clark Regional Medical Center, and Georgetown Community Hospital are designated Chest Pain Centers from the American College of Cardiology. This recognition highlights our commitment to delivering exceptional, timely care during heart attacks and other cardiac emergencies. With emergency departments open 24/7, we’re here for you when every minute matters.

Whenever you need us, choose emergency care, close to home. Choose Well.

If you’re experiencing an emergency, call 9-1-1.

Join us for the 13th annual Education Builds Hope luncheon, beneﬁtting the families of One Parent Scholar House!

This year’s luncheon will be led by Dr. Tracy Strawberry as keynote speaker. Dr. Strawberry’s personal experience with perseverance and transformation perfectly reﬂect the mission of One Parent Scholar House. She will be joined by current and former residents whose lives have been changed by the opportunity to to pursue education in a safe, supportive environment.

One Parent Scholar House supports single parents pursuing higher education by providing affordable housing, on-site highquality child care, and the wraparound support they need to build brighter futures — not just for themselves, but for their children. Currently, 80 parents and over 160 children call One Parent Scholar House home, and every dollar raised from Education Builds Hope directly supports these resilient families.

Keynote Speaker

When: Thursday, July 31st

Where: The Carrick House, 312 N. Limestone, Lexington, KY

11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.: Sponsor Hospitality/Photos with Keynote Speaker 12:15 - 1:30 p.m.: Lunch Program

Learn More:

Dr. Tracy Strawberry

465 East High St., Ste. 201 Lexington, KY 40507 BILLING QUESTIONS: billing@topsmarketing.com TO ADVERTISE: advertising@topsmarketing.com TO SUBSCRIBE: topsinlex.com/subscribe

(859) 543-8677

As the vice president of community relations for TOPS Marketing, Vicki Evans ensures that the rich and diverse enterprises of Lexington, particularly its non-proﬁts, have the chance to pursue dynamic growth strategies and continue their missions into the future.

“Seeing individuals and businesses that I work with thrive and knowing that the partnerships and marketing tools that we have put into place are playing an integral part of their success is the most rewarding part of my job,” Evans said.

“I love being out in the community and thoroughly enjoy working with and contributing to the growth and livelihood of various businesses and non-proﬁt organizations. Seeing the end results of hard work and commitment is so rewarding! The more I can be involved and contribute to this success, the better.”

Evans leads with a dedication to four key principles: honesty, integrity, commitment and hard work. And she’s driven by a heartfelt passion for the larger Lexington region.

“TOPS Marketing has a huge presence in the community,” she concluded. “By partnering with local businesses and organizations, TOPS is able to assist in making Lexington and its surrounding areas the very best that they can be.”

Keni Parks Stephanie Gilmore

Woody Phillips Tracie Dillon Ron Morrow

July 2025

Biz Buzz

Biz Buzz is a monthly feature highlighting who’s who, what’s new, and what to do in the Lexington business scene. We will feature the newest grand openings, awards, promotions, restaurants to try, stores to visit and more! Stay tuned for more “Biz Bytes” in our next issue!

The Landing at Lakewood Harbour

Lakeside living in Lexington? Yes, please. Andover Management Group opened the doors last month to The Landing at Lakewood Harbour, a new $30-million apartment complex in the 40502, overlooking Lake Fontaine. The property features 101 units – one- and two-bedroom apartments –across ﬁve ﬂoors with amenities such as a lap pool with resort-style lounge space, communal outdoor entertaining area and underground parking.

Athenian Grill

Popular local Greek restaurant, Athenian Grill, will debut its third location this month. Located at 3801 Mall Rd. #120, in the former Saul Good near Fayette Mall, this iteration will feature more seating options and an expanded menu with dishes like baked feta, grilled octopus and slouvaki. It’s expected to open on July 17.

Farmacy

Local nonproﬁt Black Soil has opened a fresh foods store called Farmacy Neighborhood Market in the Georgetown Street area. The shop will carry seasonal produce, eggs, meat and dairy from area farmers. The Florence Avenue building previously housed a neighborhood market and is helping to make fresh local fruits and vegetables more accessible to the surrounding residents.

Beach Boys @ Gatton Park

The ﬁrst show at the brand-new Gatton Park will be performed by the Beach Boys on September 17 at the recently announced CommonSpirit Health Stage! The outdoor concert at the new park will be a part of the band’s “Sounds of Summer” tour. Tickets for the event are available starting on June 27 at 10 a.m.

TripAdvisor

Molly Thompson Writer

Athenian Grill

The Landing at Lakewood Harbour

Gatton Park

The HILL – FCPS

The transformation of the former Lexington Herald-Leader building on Midland Avenue is complete. Fayette County Public Schools cut the ribbon on its new 170,000-square-foot Career and Technical Education center known as The Hub for Innovative Learning and Leadership, AKA The HILL. The top-of-the-line space will welcome 1,000 students in August, providing access to dual credit courses and high-demand industry certiﬁcations. Students will split their time between their high school campus and The HILL, where they will receive training in specialized pathways.

Honey J’s Southern Eatery

This Southern-focused local restaurant recently held a grand opening for its second location at 3449 Buckhorn Dr. Ste. 100. Dig into Southernfried favorites like cornbread, fried catﬁsh and hot honey chicken with sides including baked beans, mixed greens and mashed potatoes. Looking for some late-night eats? Its 1474 Anniston Drive location is open until 11 p.m. Monday-Thursday and midnight on Friday and Saturday.

Lexington Community Land Trust Community Center

Residents of the Davis Park neighborhood now have a new multi-purpose gathering space, the Lexington Community Land Trust Community Center. Located at 615 DeRoode St., the 3,800-square-foot facility features a conference room, a technology room, ofﬁce spaces and a gym that doubles as a rentable community room. The center joins the recently opened playground, green space and Workforce Development Center.

Floating Lotus Kitchen

South Elkhorn Village has a new eatery to look forward to this month. According to their social media, you can kick back and cozy up with a bowl of soup or chili, or grab a to-go bite of “feel-good food” like a grilled eggplant sandwich, chicken satay wrap or chicken salad sandwich. They plan to host a soft opening at their restaurant at 4371 Old Harrodsburg Rd. Ste. 105 on July 19.

Biscuit Daddies

Whether you like them smothered, covered, or holding ham, Biscuit Daddies can satisfy all your ﬂaky and doughy cravings. Now open at 373 Virginia Ave., this biscuit-centered restaurant offers breakfast and lunch varieties including country ham, biscuits and gravy, chicken and dumplings and a Kentucky hot brown biscuit. Or if you’ve got a sweet tooth, check out its rotating sweet biscuit menu, like lemon blueberry and cinnamon roll.

Honey J’s Southern Eatery

The HILL

Community Center

Floating Lotus Kitchen

Facebook / SoulFeast Week

City of Lexington

Editor’s Picks

Hello Friends!

July marks the kickoff of celebrating Old Glory all summer long. There’s just something about red, white, and blue ANYTHING that brings with it a sense of nostalgia and a signal to slow down and smell the roses. Whether we’re enjoying that beach vacation or backyard barbecue, here’s some patriotic goodies on my list this year. Enjoy! -Fr

Celebrate a July Birthday in Style:

Caspari Cocktail Napkins and Birthday Candles (available at Syers Browning)

Elsen

Editor-in-Chief

For Your Little Firecracker:

Embroidered Apron Bubble (available at Little English)

Mixers to Cool Down That Bourbon Drink:

Craft Cocktail Syrups (available at Kentucky-owned Make & Muddle)

Look Sweet in the Heat:

Lilly Pulitzer Arley Dress in Resort White Sun Sea Sand (available at Peppermint Palm)

For That Cool Summer Night Under the Stars:

Graphic “American Summer” Sweatshirt (available at Target)

WDate! It's A

e’ve reached the heat of the summer, when the days are long and the sun is high (and HOT). Make the most of the sunshiny days while they last after such a rainy spring season in Kentucky, and bring along your special someone to make the time more memorable.

There are plenty of events in Central Kentucky to take advantage of the beautiful outdoors, including Lexington Restaurant Week from July 17-27! With local specials to try, the event is a must-try. And if you’re looking for a little weekend jaunt away from town, we have just the plan for you!

Candy for Breakfast!

Rebecca Ruth Chocolate Tour & Museum 116 East 2nd Street | Frankfort, KY 40601

Take a brief 45-minute drive into Frankfort for a half-hour tour of the historic Rebecca Ruth Chocolate Shop, which opens at 10 a.m. on Saturdays (closed on Sundays). Sample some chocolates, including the original Bourbon Ball, while you walk around the museum and production facility. Tickets are only $10 for adults and $7 for students. Book your tour online if you’re able to plan ahead, or join a walk-in tour if you choose to take a spontaneous day trip.

Wilson Plant Co. & Sage Garden Café

3690 East-West Connector | Frankfort, KY 40601

Next, drive around ﬁve minutes to Wilson Plant Co. in Frankfort. This women- and family-owned plant shop (and so much more) has a little something for everyone. Start off at the Sage Garden Café on the property for a garden-to-table brunch (served until noon) or lunch. With fresh salads, sandwiches, burgers and more, it’s a light, refreshing way to start your afternoon.

From there, make your way down to the main nursery, where you’ll ﬁnd a plethora of beautiful greens and ﬂorals to peek through. As you meander through the rows of lush greenery, choose a plant to take home for your date – they’ll last longer than a basic grocery store bouquet and remind them of your day on the town!

Dinner & Drinks at Versailles Brewing Company

513 Marsailles Road | Versailles, KY 40383

Take US-60 back into town from Frankfort and ﬁnd your way to Versailles Brewing Company for some casual food and drinks on your return trip. It’s a surprising piece of local charm featuring locally sourced meat and veggies, plus small-batch beers and seasonal options served at the brewery.

Wilson Plant Co.

The GARDENING GENT

with Jon Carloftis

Is it possible for plants and ﬂowers to have TOO much rain?

RAINIEST SPRING IN DECADES! But I’m not complaining, because gardens have never looked better. One of the most disheartening thing for me is to design and install a garden, then someone doesn’t take care of it. (FYI, I’m not there to water your plants, I’m at home watering mine every evening!)

However, there are a few issues that come with nonstop rainy springs/summers, and they are:

1. Pale green plants that should be dark, lustrous green, and that is from the excess water washing the fertilizer away with each rainstorm. The answer is easy … apply slow release granules such as Osmocote which gives consistent food throughout the season.

2. Big, long branches on trees that have grown so much, so quickly that they ﬂop over and look untidy (I have the same problem with eyebrows and ears, ugh). But the answer is to cut them back, don’t try to tie them up “until they get stronger,” because they will respond better with some judicious pruning, along with the rest of the garden this year.

Why

hydrangeas

bloom profusely one

year

and then the next

Is there anything I can do to encourage blooming every year?

year ... nothing?

More than likely, they were pruned at the wrong time, and a good rule of (GREEN) thumb is: Pink or Blue Hydrangeas bloom on old wood, so if you cut therm down in the fall or early spring, you’ve cut the future blooms o . Prune lightly right after they bloom so they have time to grow next year’s ﬂower buds. If they are White, such as Incredi-ball or Limelight, they bloom on new wood, so it doesn’t matter what time you prune, fall or spring, as long as it’s not when they’ve leafed out and producing ﬂower buds. This is “in general” advice on Hydrangeas, with some exceptions, but this covers most of it.

Will the cicadas harm my plants and ﬂowers?

Cicadas have been SO LOUD on some of the farms we work on, especially in Nicholasville, that you can’t hear yourself think. However, there isn’t a thing we can do about it, so live with it and next year will be better! They provide lots of extra food for other insects and animals, so there is something positive about the swarm.

Check out Jon Carloftis’ Fine Gardens book at www.joncarloftis.com!

Cultivate Your Financial Garden from Seed to Harvest

Wealth Management Advisor

Successfully saving for your future requires ongoing attention, strategy, and flexibility, just like tending a garden to yield a fruitful harvest. We sat down with Beth Prewitt and Caroline French of Bank of the Bluegrass & Trust Co., to help you identify your current growth stage and cultivate your wealth.

Q: What is the best way to get started?

Beth (B): Just like planting seeds or seedlings, the best way to begin is to envision your goals, create your plan, and dive right in. To begin your wealthgrowing journey, review your income and expenses, create an emergency fund, and evaluate debt. Watch out for “weeds” like overspending or impulsive purchases that pop up. Having a financial advisor2 can help to guide you.

Caroline (C): A new plant is delicate and requires attention. Gardeners monitor and observe their plants to maintain the health and vitality of their garden and address potential problems. In this first stage, your focus should be on the stability of your finances: check in often and make necessary adjustments that align with your overall plan.

Q: What’s next after establishing roots?

A.V.P. Private Banking Specialist

B: Now that your financial roots are firmly established, it’s time to focus on growth. Just as a well-rooted plant can begin to branch out and thrive, this stage is about building on your foundation— maximizing retirement contributions, adding long-term investments, and managing debt. Remember, the biggest threat to what you want most is often what you want right now, so stay disciplined, stay focused, and let your financial future flourish.

C: At this point in your financial journey, consider what you want your retirement to look like and what should be done today to get there. You should review your wealth strategy annually and make adjustments as your life evolves, especially before or after major life changes.

Q: How do I nurture and protect what I’ve grown?

C: When you reach this stage, your plants are flowering. This stage is about enjoying the fruits of your labor. From a financial perspective, this can mean using your resources to ensure they are passed along to your family and/or to make a positive impact on your favorite causes.

B: This is also an important point to continue to seek opportunities

for growth and lifetime income. Complacency or failure to adapt to new financial realities can threaten your financial harvest. Consider how a gardener cares for the soil ahead of the next season, ensuring it’s ready for planting in the spring. A financial advisor2 and private banking specialist1 can be your greatest assets in this stage.

C: And just like plant health can change with the seasons or weather, your financial garden may ebb and flow based on your life – if a large change or unexpected medical expense causes your garden to wilt just a little, don’t worry – with water and attention you’ll be back on track in no time.

NEXT STEPS:

Want to ensure your financial garden grows to its maximum potential?

Trust “the Best Bank in Town.® ” Come see Beth, Caroline, and the rest of the experts at Bank of the Bluegrass & Trust Co. We’ll help you build the strong roots of a financial strategy that blooms and grows. Call (859) 280-3853 today!

1 Bank of the Bluegrass. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender. Bank NMLS ID# 421548. Offer of credit is subject to credit approval.

2 Bank of the Bluegrass & Trust Co. | Wealth Management. Insurance products, investment products and securities are: NOT FDIC Insured | NOT Guaranteed by the Bank | MAY Lose Value | NOT Insured by any Federal Government Agency

The ultimate Lexington summer bucket list for kids of ALL ages! by Amanda Harper

Horsing Around! and Saddles! Sun, Smiles

Kentucky Horse Park KYHORSEPARK.COM

Celebrating our unique relationship with the horse, this local treasure is a delight for visitors of all ages. There are many exhibits and experiences specifically tailored to kiddos, from the interactive Kids’ Barn to fun pony rides in the park (ages 2-10). There are so many opportunities for visitors to get up close and personal with Kentucky’s equestrian legacy. For instance, families can enjoy horseback trail rides together (ages 7+) or take a trolley tour pulled by draft horses. Visit the Hall of Champions to meet equine superstars or stroll through the International Museum of the Horse – the largest museum of its kind in the world – to learn more about humanity’s bond with horses. There is something new to discover on every trip to the park! Be sure to check their calendar for special shows and events.

Keeneland KEENELAND.COM

While adults love the fall and spring meets, kids will love Keeneland any time of year. The Morning Works Tour is a

thrilling experience for visitors of all ages, and the perfect start to a summer day. Follow it up with a self-guided tour of the grounds and lunch at the Track Kitchen. Look for upcoming dates for Starting Gate Storytime in the Keeneland Library. Be sure to sign your little ones up for the Keeneland Kids Club for fun surprises!

Old Friends Retirement Farm OLDFRIENDSEQUINE.ORG

Meet Thoroughbred athletes on a working retirement farm. All tours are available by advance registration only; children under 10 are only allowed for private tours.

Book a Tour

Several local organizations coordinate tours of local horse farms and facilities, and most can cater your experience to the ages of your group. You can also book tours directly with many local horse farms. VisitLEX has a great guide to the options available, from tours to trail rides. The Lexington Visitors Center can also connect you to the Bluegrass Country Driving Tour, which will take you through some of the area’s most beautiful farms and landscapes.

Richie Wireman via VisitLEX

Planes, Trains and Automobiles!

Aviation Museum of Kentucky AVIATIONKY.ORG

Learn more about aviation history while seeing over 50 attractions that span modern military, vintage aircraft, historic engines, aviation artifacts and much more. This fascinating local gem is a fascinating learning opportunity for guests of all ages.

Bluegrass Scenic Railroad and Museum BLUEGRASSRAILROAD.COM

Take a train ride through beautiful Kentucky scenery. There are usually two rides each Saturday, but we recommend buying your tickets in advance. The cab ride is a special VIP experience for visitors of all ages who truly love trains. While you’re there, learn about railway history in the museum.

Richmond Raceway RICHMOND-RACEWAY.NET

If your littles are looking for high-octane thrills, then the Richmond Raceway may just be the destination for racing.

Valley View Ferry LEXINGTONKY.GOV

This FREE ferry across the Kentucky River is a unique experience that every local should enjoy at least once. Stop by the small park to watch cars being ferried back and forth, then hop in your own vehicle and take a ride.

Fishing!

Going fishing? It’s a wonderful way to connect to nature and one another! But there are some things you should know before you pick up your tackle box and hit the water.

In Kentucky, children ages 15 and under do not need a fishing license. However, anyone over the age of 16 who is accompanying them needs to have a valid fishing license with only a few exceptions. You can purchase a license online or in-person at 900 locations across the state. A 1-year fishing license is $23 for Kentucky residents, but you can get a 1-day license for just $7 (for nonresidents, fees are higher).

To learn more about fishing licenses, exemptions and requirements, visit fw.ky.gov.

Museum ofKentucky

KentuckyDepartmentofFish and Wildlife Resources

Learning is Fun!

Lexington Children’s Museum

LEXINGTONCHILDRENSMUSEUM.ORG

If it’s been a while since your kids have been to the LCM, it’s time to change that! Chock full of interactive exhibits, discovery zones, and educational play, this is one space that proves that learning can be a blast. Look into their summer camps, special events, and weekly programming.

Carnegie Center for Literacy & Learning

CARNEGIECENTERLEX.ORG

From book clubs to fun Math Meet-Ups, there are lots of opportunities for kids and families to enjoy free learning at the Carnegie Center.

Living Arts & Science Center

LASCLEX.ORG

Enjoy planetarium shows, beautiful art galleries, learning opportunities, fun educational events, and more at the LASC.

Kentucky Children’s Garden ARBORETUM.CA.UKY.EDU

For children ages 2-6 and their families, this wonderful two-acre space located alongside The Arboretum makes learning about Kentucky’s landscapes interactive, fun, and memorable. From the wading stream and “fishing” pond to the butterfly garden, littles will love this spot. Educational programming makes each experience a new and exciting one. Don’t miss the garden-scale model train! Admission is $4/person (children under 2 are free).

Lexington Public Library LEXPUBLIB.ORG

From storytimes to scavenger hunts, there’s something for kids of all ages at the library; check out their events calendar for upcoming fun. Each branch has unique offerings that make it worth venturing beyond your neighborhood location. The Eastside and Marksbury Family branches have free Makerspaces for creating and exploring. The Central Kloiber Foundation STEAM Lab invites children to learn through hands-on experiences. From cozy reading nooks to fascinating exhibits, the library is a great summer destination for learning!

Sports!

Lexington is a city for sports fans. From UK Athletics to local rec leagues, Lexington Sporting Club to equestrian eventing, there’s so much heart-pounding action for the whole family to enjoy in town. Lexington’s many parks offer opportunities for you to join in the fun.

’s Garden

Events! Get Outside!

Lexington Parks

LEXINGTONKY.GOV/PARKS

Obviously, our city parks have playground equipment, pools, natural areas, athletic spaces, and more for active kids to enjoy. But what you may not know is that the city offers special programming to engage kiddos in new ways. Summer Playground Days offer fun activities that range from arts and crafts to recreational sports. The Nature in Your Neighborhood series invites school-age learners to discover the flora and fauna of our region. Raven Run Nature Sanctuary has many guided hikes and programs that are perfect for younger explorers, as well as adults! Don’t forget about the Jacobson Park pedal boats!

Canoe Kentucky

CANOEKY.COM

Paddle along Kentucky waterways. You’ll enjoy stunning views and a fun day out on the water via kayak or canoe rental.

Boone Creek Outdoors

BOONECREEKOUTDOORS.COM

From zipline canopy tours to a challenging obstacle course, this outdoor attraction is perfect for ages 4+. See the beauty of central Kentucky in a thrilling new way!

Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill

SHAKERVILLAGEKY.ORG

Get down on the farm while walking through history at Shaker Village. Their Daily Adventures programs are geared toward learners of all ages and most take you through the idyllic grounds. Meet farm animals, check out the vegetable garden, take a hike or soak in your surroundings with a horse drawn wagon ride.

Lexington Farmers Market

LEXINGTONFARMERSMARKET.COM

Browse fresh produce and local goods in a fun, family-friendly market atmosphere. Along with the farmers market, you can peruse the Lexington Makers Market Saturdays in Tandy Centennial Park, which will have even more treasures and artisan goods for little ones to discover.

Lexington Legends

LEXINGTONLEGENDS.COM

Take ‘em out to the ballgame! Sign your kiddos up for the Lil Legends Kids Club for FREE admission to all Sunday games plus discounted ticket options for you. There are plenty of perks that make this free option well worthwhile.

Lexington Junior League Charity Horse Show

JULY 7 - 12

LEXINGTON.JL.ORG

Since 1937, this horse show has grown to be the world’s largest outdoor American Saddlebred show and the first leg of the Saddlebred “Triple Crown.” Special events and kids’ activities will make the experience even more special at the Kentucky Horse Park.

Breyerfest

JULY 11 - 13

BREYERFEST.COM

Celebrating 75 years, this event highlights Breyer models and the real horses that inspired them. From workshops to model horse shows and live equine demos to fun kids’ activities, this annual event is a can’tmiss at the Kentucky Horse Park.

Ballet Under the Stars

JULY 30 - AUGUST 3

LEXINGTONKY.GOV

This outdoor show in Woodland Park offers families the opportunity to enjoy professional ballet – under the stars! The children’s preshow event features dances inspired by Broadway classics beginning at 8pm; the main show starts at 9pm. There will be food trucks on site; be sure to bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating, as well as your own picnic, if you like.

Woodland Art Fair

AUGUST 16 - 17

WOODLANDARTFAIR.ORG

For over 40 years, this fabulous event has been a must-do in Woodland Park. Browse and shop artisan handcrafted items of all kinds. Your crew can enjoy live entertainment, food trucks, and more.

... and More!

TOPSINLEX.COM

We can’t begin to cover all of the fun out there this summer. Visit our Calendar of Events online for the latest! •

In Short

Finding a pair of shorts that fits in all the right places can be a little like finding a unicorn –perfectly awe-inspiring … and a little unbelievable. Sometimes, the comfiest shorts may look too drab for a casual outing, but you’re not ready to put on a dress or pair of stuffy pants in the heat of summer. And jean shorts can be divisive, as chafing and discomfort are all too common. by Emma Reilly

photo / Böhme

Problem #1: Saggy Shorts

Sure, they fit great in the morning, but by the end of the day, these shorts are super loose and saggy. No one likes pulling up their pants, people. Normally, washing and drying the shorts after each wear will shrink them back up to shape, but for jean shorts, this can be impractical.

Our Solution:

Get Shorts That Stretch

Stretchy materials will hold their shape better than super rigid shorts. It isn’t a guaranteed solution, as these shorts will still gape at the back if they don’t fit correctly, but the stretch will usually help a bit.

Problem #2: Behind the Curve

Occasionally, shorts that fit your waist perfectly end up showing a bit more of your *ass-ets* than you’d like. Continually tugging them down throughout the day is no fun, either, and no one wants to feel uncomfortable.

Our Solution:

Longer Styles or Go Up a Size

To combat this one, you have two options: you can either opt for shorts with a longer inseam or go up a size and invest in tailoring. Mid-length or knee-grazing styles just happen to be trending, FYI. If you go for the tailoring option, find shorts that fit around the back just right and have a tailor take in the waist.

AE Stretch Denim Mom Short in Dark Indigo (American Eagle, $25)

4” Stretch Chino Short in Olive Sand (J.Crew, $60)

High Waisted Relaxed Shorts in Mint Willow (Express, $35)

Tybee Pleat Chino Shorts in Sepia Tone (Free People, $98)

Problem #3: Riding Up

If your shorts keep scrunching up on one side or both, or (alas) they’re giving you the dreaded camel toe, it may be time for an intervention. You don’t have to live with that drama!

Our Solution:

Belted Shorts or More Relaxed Fits

Almost all shorts will ride up occasionally, but those repeat offenders can be a problem. Consider a looser style like boyfriend shorts or ones that are more flowy with a wider leg. Shorts with a belt or tie will stay in place a little better around the waist, preventing them from riding up.

The Off-Duty Short in Pale Heather Gray (Everlane, $68)

Belted Tailored Short in Black (White House Black Market, $49)

Problem #4: Uncomfy Chaf g

When your thighs consistently rub together while you’re walking, some serious soreness and discomfort can occur. When it’s hot outside, it may seem like you have no choice but to endure the chafe, but there are some ways to combat it and still keep your warm weather attire.

Our Soluti :

Wear Longer Shorts or Try AntiChaﬁng Products

You can cut down on friction by wearing softer cotton or silkier shorts. A ﬁx that allows you to continue wearing what you want and reduce redness is an antichaﬁng stick.

Problem #5: T y Waistb

No one likes shorts that cut into their waistband around the middle, and when it’s hot outside, that tends to happen with some trendy mid-rise and low-rise shorts.

Our Soluti :

High-Rise Shorts

It’s hard to ﬁnd a pair of shorts that aren’t high-rise these days, even though low-rise pants have been on the rise again this year. High-waisted shorts offer a smoother silhouette, giving your middle more room to relax. Some styles include a stretch for a comfortable (but still formﬁtting) feel.

The Pull-On Short in Triple Cloth in Sands Edge (Ann Taylor, $29)

Megababe Thigh Rescue (Ulta Beauty, $14)

Body Glide Original Anti Chafe Balm (Amazon, $10)

High-Rise Cinch Mid-Thigh Women’s Shorts (Levi’s, $60)

Skyline High Rise Tailored 4” Short in Eden (Athleta, $69)

Stepp g Out

Step into summer in style! The shoe trends this summer feature fun patterns, bright colors, and unique materials like mesh and jelly. If you really want to take it up a notch, try some shoe accessories, like a clip-on pearl bow! You can transform any outfit with the right shoe. From the perfect work flat to the comfiest beach sandal, we’ve found the best shoes so you don’t have to!

/ ANTHROPOLOGIE

PHOTO

Beach Shoes Sneakers

New Balance Gender Inclusive

Groove Tropical Havaianas (Farm Rio, $38)

Fisherman Sandals in Beige (Anthropologie, $125)

Jeffrey Campbell Jellz Flats in Khaki (Revolve, $50)

T500 Tennis Sneaker (Nordstrom, $77)

Nike Women’s Paciﬁc Retro Sneaker (Famous Footwear, $77)

Fredy Sneakers Floral Multi Canvas (Dolce Vita, $140)

S als

Champagne Glitter Riley Jelly Sandals in Gold Glitter (Tuckernuck, $75)

Deltan Flora Linen Pearl Disc Flat Sandals (Dillard’s, $100)

Camel Scarf Flatform Espadrille (Farm Rio, $270)

Women’s Midform Inﬁnity Sandal (Teva, $70)

Kinetic Impact Y-Strap High Sandals (Free People, $135)

Dune London Lanie Floral Jacquard Banded Slip-On Platform Sandals (Nordstrom, $115)

For e Kids For e Guys

Tennis Match Knotted Bow Baby Shoe (Freshly Picked, $40)

Superstar Sandals Kids in Beige (adidas, $24)

Scuba Sandals in Light Blue (H&M, $24)

Laceless Canvas Pull-Ons (Boden, $45)

Ally Girls’ Casual Sneaker (USS, $45)

Samba OG Sneaker (Men) in Cream White/Crystal Sand (Nordstrom, $100)

La Jolla Woven Loafer in Brown by Johnnie-O (Logan’s of Lexington, $198)

Mulligan Slide in The Caddie (REEF, $55)

THE NEXT GENERATION OF LEXINGTON’S BUSINESS LEADERS ARE MAKING WAVES. MEET THE INFLUENTIAL PEOPLE UNDER THE AGE OF FIFTY WHO ARE CREATING A BIG SPLASH IN CENTRAL KENTUCKY!

PROFILES BY: ALLYSON MATTINGLY

PHOTOS BY: MARY PACE, STEPHANIE GILMORE, TRACIE DILLON AND WOODY PHILLIPS

Richard E. Rogers, Esq.

Richard E. Rogers, Esq. is an attorney and real estate professional based in Central Kentucky, where he has built a distinguished career centered on serving families, individuals, and the community through some of life’s most pivotal decisions. With a law practice focused on real estate, estate planning, probate administration, wills and trusts, Mr. Rogers brings both legal expertise and heartfelt commitment to every client relationship.

A licensed real estate broker at In House Real Estate in addition to being an attorney, Mr. Rogers offers a rare and valuable dual perspective that bridges the legal and transactional aspects of law. His legal practice seamlessly complements his role as head of BesTitle Agency Inc. in Central Kentucky, a full-service title agency that serves clients throughout Kentucky. Under his leadership, BesTitle has become known not only for its efficiency and accuracy in title and escrow services, but also for the personal care and integrity with which every transaction is handled.

At the core of Mr. Rogers professional mission is a passion for helping people navigate the most important transitions of their lives—whether planning their legacy, closing on a home, settling a loved one’s estate, or preparing for the future. His work is rooted in the belief that law and real estate should serve as a tool for security, empowerment and peace of mind, particularly in the realms of family and home.

Beyond his professional practice, Mr. Rogers is an active and dedicated philanthropist, giving generously of his time, energy, and expertise. He volunteers as much as he works professionally, driven by a deep belief in service to others and a commitment to community growth and well-being. His service spans multiple organizations and causes, reflecting a wide-ranging commitment to housing access, equitable real estate development, and compassionate care.

Mr. Rogers currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Realtor Community Housing Foundation, Bluegrass Realtors® Young Professionals Network (YPN) Committee, Bluegrass Realtors® Government Affairs Committee, Mortgage Bankers Association of the Bluegrass, and Moveable Feast Lexington.

Whether in the courtroom, the closing room, or a community board meeting, Richard E. Rogers, Esq. is known for his unwavering integrity, legal excellence, and genuine compassion. Clients, colleagues, and community partners alike trust him not only for his extensive knowledge and experience but also for the deep care he brings to every matter he handles.

As he continues to build his practice and deepen his community impact, Mr. Rogers remains guided by the same principles that launched his career: service, trust, and the belief that law and real estate are not just professions, but powerful vehicles for helping people build better lives.

Corey Proffitt-Boyd

COREY PROFFITT STUDIOS MASSAGE & NEW IMAGE MULTI-MEDIA

For over 20 years, Corey Proffitt-Boyd has helped his clients thrive both in health and in business through the arts of clinical massage therapy and marketing.

Corey Proffitt Studios Massage opened in 2009, with a spa-like atmosphere designed with ultimate relaxation in mind. As a Kentucky Licensed Massage Therapist, Proffitt-Boyd, LMT, BCTMB, who is also nationally board certified, had a vision to help as many people as possible live without stress and pain. Now, 16 years later, Proffitt-Boyd and his team of highly skilled massage therapists have given over 17,000 massages!

“We want our clients to always feel comfortable, satisfied, and to always have their expectations met and exceeded,” says Proffitt-Boyd. Specializing in treating acute and chronic pain, stress and tension management, and overall wellness maintenance, you can visit the Corey Proffitt Studios Massage website to view all services offered.

While Proffitt-Boyd excels at providing wellness services, he also delivers tailored marketing solutions to clients at New Image Multi-Media. New Image Multi-Media offers services in marketing, consulting, search engine optimization (SEO), voiceovers, photography and videography, and commercial productions. Beginning with an initial consultation, ProffittBoyd and his team work with clients throughout the entire process, ensuring clients have all the tools and support needed for ongoing success.

RELAXYOUDESERVEIT.COM 859-421-3085

NEWIMAGEMULTIMEDIA.NET 859-399-7145

Jennifer Jewett

L.V. HARKNESS

L.V. Harkness has curated a collection of distinctive pieces from around the world that transform houses into homes and moments into memories, making life beautiful, one moment at a time. Opened 25 years ago by founder Meg Jewett, the shop has become a destination for fine gifts and luxury home décor.

With dreams of opening a small retail store, Jewett started the business in the basement of her home, surrounded by fine porcelain and crystal she had collected. Now, as the next generation takes the helm, Jennifer Jewett is embracing a fresh approach that makes elegance part of everyday life.

“We truly want all our customers to find something that brings them happiness,” says Jewett. “It’s not just about picking out place settings; it’s about discovering what makes them feel special, but also what feels just right for them and their new home.”

Both Meg and Jennifer know that everyone’s home is distinctive and unique, which is why they are dedicated to bringing the feeling of beautiful living to even more Lexington homes, special occasions, and everyday experiences. Because they believe beautiful living isn’t about waiting for the perfect moment - it’s the art of making every moment perfect!

531 W. SHORT ST. LEXINGTON, KY

859-225-7474

LVHARKNESS.COM

Josh McCurn

HAYMAKER COMPANY

Haymaker Company is a Lexingtonbased, full-service commercial real estate firm dedicated to helping businesses thrive through tailored solutions for buying, selling, leasing, and other real estate needs. As the Director of Business Development and Communications at Haymaker Company, Josh McCurn helps drive strategic growth across core services, such as commercial real estate, property management, construction, and development.

Beginning his career in public policy, McCurn developed a strong foundation in community development and the importance of shaping environments that support long-term success. Over time, this passion for building better communities evolved into the opportunity to shape Kentucky’s future at Haymaker Company.

“I’m proud to be part of an industry that connects people, places, and possibilities,” says McCurn. “My journey from policy to real estate has been driven by one core mission: to help create a brighter, stronger Kentucky, one property, one partnership, and one project at a time.”

Deals can be complex in the real estate industry, which is why you need a professional who keeps you informed, anticipates challenges, and guides you through the process with clarity and confidence, McCurn explains. “At Haymaker Company, we believe in lasting relationships. Whether you’re a first-time business owner or expanding your tenth location, we’re here to help you grow.”

3120 WALL ST. STE. 200 LEXINGTON, KY 859-447-4887

HAYMAKERCOMPANY.COM

Nanci House

WHITE, McCANN & STEWART, PLLC

White, McCann & Stewart, PLLC has been serving Eastern and Central Kentucky for more than 75 years, providing quality legal representation to resolve any legal issue effectively and efficiently. Nancy M. House, a partner at White, McCann & Stewart, has practiced law there for 22 years, focusing on the area of family law and contract formation and dispute.

Graduating magna cum laude from Transylvania University in 2000, House went on to graduate cum laude from the University of Kentucky College of Law in 2003, where she was in the top 11% of her class. Later that year, House was sworn in as a member of the Kentucky Bar Association and began her tenure at White, McCann & Stewart.

House appears regularly in Clark, Madison, Fayette, Powell, and Montgomery Circuit and Family courts, helping members of her community through some of the most personal, vulnerable, and critical stages of their lives. Handling every aspect of family law, House provides her services for divorces, custody arrangements and disputes, adoptions, post- and pre-nuptial agreements, child support matters, grandparents’ visitation, paternity, and termination of parental rights.

“Every case and every person is different,” Nanci explains. “Not only do I provide legal counsel, but I also help clients navigate the process and act as a support.”

125 S. MAIN ST. #201

WINCHESTER, KY

859-744-2551

WINCHESTER-LAW.COM

Albert Lukonga

ALBERT COUTURE

Breaking barriers and reshaping the fashion landscape in the Bluegrass, Albert Lukonga is the designer and founder of Albert Couture. His couture house located right here in Lexington has quietly risen to global prominence, from private fittings at the Grammys to bespoke wardrobe builds for Wall Street executives.

For those who demand the very best, Albert Couture stitches together style, exclusive luxury, and the very best in high-end fashion. Each piece is designed with timeless style, with top-tier material and workmanship to last a lifetime. “If you want an experience where quality in both people and products speaks for itself, welcome to the one-stop fashion house of your dreams,” Lukonga said.

A Henry Clay graduate from the Congo, Albert has a worldwide perspective on style, backed by unmatched expertise. “My mother was a fashion professor growing up,” Albert explained. “When we came to Kentucky, I noticed a huge need for something more than a store. What we needed was an experience. At Albert Couture, this is what we do best. We sell an experience while building confidence.”

Albert’s wife, Dr. Karina Angel Lukonga, is the co-founder and COO of Albert Couture. The couple just welcomed their first baby.

576 EAST THIRD ST. LEXINGTON, KY

859-300-3570

ALBERTCOUTURE.COM

Jenny Lea Thacker

THE GREENHOUSE AT APPALACHIAN ROSE FARM

The Greenhouse at Appalachian Rose Farm is a one-of-a-kind wedding venue nestled in the breathtaking Red River Gorge region of Kentucky. Situated on the Appalachian Rose Farm property, the elegant glasswalled venue offers couples a truly unforgettable backdrop for their special day. Designed for convenience and comfort, The Greenhouse features an all-inclusive experience complete with on-site lodging, making for a seamless and memorable celebration.

Jenny Lea Thacker is the brain behind the business, with her deep love for weddings, from the emotion, the beauty, and the joy that surrounds such a meaningful day. This love is what inspired her to become a certified wedding planner, opening The Barn at the Gorge in 2016. Since then, she has planned over 200 events at The Barn, with each celebration deepening her love and passion for her job. She then further expanded, opening The Greenhouse in 2024, which quickly became a favorite for couples.

“Planning a wedding should be exciting, not overwhelming,” says Thacker. “When choosing a wedding planner or venue, look for someone who not only has experience but who truly listens to your vision and is dedicated to making it happen. Look for someone who’s detail-oriented, calm under pressure, and genuinely passionate about creating a day that feels like you.”

400 GLENCAIRN RD. ROGERS, KY 606-721-0546

EVENTSBYJENNYLEA.COM

Rachel Evans

CARL MEYERS

Tucked away on Clay Avenue in the heart of Lexington, Carl Meyers is a women’s boutique all about helping you look amazing. Whether you’re headed to brunch, a black tie wedding, or your daughter’s big day, Carl Meyers has got you covered with its collection of everyday staples, show-stopping gowns, and custom hats. “Just think of us as your stylish best friend who always knows what to wear and makes shopping fun!” says Rachel Evans, Marketing Director at Carl Meyers.

Rachel got her start at Carl Meyers when her parents first purchased the shop. While studying at the University of Kentucky, she worked on the sales floor and “quickly fell in love with helping women find pieces that made them feel confident and beautiful.” After graduation, Rachel moved to Texas for a time, but ultimately, felt called back to the boutique, where she now leads its marketing and operations.

The boutique has rightfully earned its iconic status in Lexington through its timeless fashion and helpful staff, who guide customers with intention. “Fashion isn’t just about clothing,” says Rachel. “It’s about confidence, comfort, and finding something that feels like you. At Carl Meyers, we’d rather you leave happy and with nothing than walk out with something that doesn’t make you feel your best.”

111 CLAY AVE. LEXINGTON, KY

859-252-2004

CARLMEYERS.COM

Marc Cobane

αLPHA FINANCIAL PARTNERS

When Marc Cobane, CEPA, AWMA, CRPS, was a junior in college, a professor introduced him to trading and the stock market. From that moment on, Cobane knew he wanted to help others build wealth.

Today, Cobane is co-founder of αlpha Financial Partners, LLC, an SEC-registered, fiduciary-based independent financial advisory firm with offices in Lexington and Louisville. Cobane and his partners offer over 60 years of combined experience in the financial industry, providing fee-only fiduciary services in wealth management, employee benefits, institutional services, and business succession planning.

Cobane suggested checking for complaints on FINRA’s BrokerCheck and reviewing your portfolio statements from March & April to see what trades your “active manager” did to take advantage of the 10-20% pullback in stocks. “From what we’ve seen, many investors are paying for active management, but just aren’t getting it.”

Cobane is also the proud co-owner of the 4-story building at 319 Cedar Street in downtown Lexington where αlpha Financial Partners is headquartered. It also houses two other businesses Cobane co-owns; Alpha Reserve & Events, Lexington’s hottest new event space for groups up to 60 people, and Alpha Penthouse, a luxury 3 BR 2 BA shortterm rental on the top floor with scenic views of downtown.

Kelli Cremeans

BLUEGRASS TELEHEALTH SERVICES

What began as a side hustle in 2023 is now a bustling full-time business for Kelli Cremeans, APRN. At Bluegrass Telehealth Services, LLC, Cremeans offers quality, convenient healthcare concerning weight loss, men’s testosterone replacement, sick visits, medication refills, and managing chronic conditions – with more services coming soon!

Cremeans has over 20 years of experience in the healthcare industry. After the birth of her daughter twelve years ago, she was inspired to work from home but struggled to find the right fit. In 2023, she found her niche in telehealth care. “Never give up on your dreams, no matter how long it takes to accomplish it,” she advised.

Cremeans has learned the importance of adaptability and flexibility in healthcare. “Patients appreciate the quality of care I provide and the personalized access to me,” she explained. “When looking for a provider, you should look for someone who looks at your overall health, habits, goals, and lifestyle to build a personalized plan.”

With the field of telehealth always evolving, Cremeans ensures a seamless virtual care environment for her patients through innovation, patient feedback, and continuous learning. “In short, embracing adaptability has not only helped my telehealth business thrive but has also ensured my patients receive the personalized, high-quality care they deserve, no matter where they are.”

859-242-7836

Erin Lewis

TWIN PEAKS ROOFING

She roofed her own homes. Now, she’s ready to tackle yours!

Erin Lewis didn’t set out to start a roofing company. But when she began managing her own investment properties, she saw a gap in the market: reliable roofing with a personal touch. That’s how Twin Peaks Roofing, Inc. was born.

Today, Erin leads her woman-owned company with hands-on service and rock-solid results.

“I’m local. I love working with people one-on-one,” she says. “From the first call to the final nail, I’m involved every step of the way.”

With a focus on integrity, toptier craftsmanship, and strong warranties, Erin’s approach is as durable as the roofs she builds. She adds, “When you treat people right and stand by your work, success takes care of itself.”

And her passion doesn’t stop at shingles and gutters—Erin is invested in the community, believing that supporting local businesses, people, and organizations helps everyone rise. “Better service, more jobs, stronger connections. That’s what happens when you keep it local,” she explains.

Roofing built on trust. Backed by grit. Powered by community.

859-749-2856

Whitney Wharton

UNITED REAL ESTATE LEXINGTON IN TOUCH

As a Realtor at United Real Estate and Head of Operations at Lexington in Touch, Whitney Wharton knows what it’s like to stay busy! Nicknamed “The Coordinator” by her friends, Wharton has always had a knack for planning events, from tropical girls’ trips to high school reunions. Real estate and event planning fit hand in hand for Wharton. She also offers private tours, transportation, and custom arrangements—perfect for out-oftown visitors, corporate groups, or anyone looking to explore the Lexington area with a personal touch.

Whether you’re buying or selling a home, or planning an event, finding a professional you truly connect with is key. Wharton says the most important lesson she has learned is that relationships are everything, and when you love your job as she does, it makes all the difference for clients.

“In both Lexington In Touch and real estate, I’ve seen firsthand that people come back—and refer others—because they feel valued and cared for, not just like a transaction.” says Wharton. “I prioritize clear communication, honesty, and going the extra mile to anticipate needs before they’re voiced. I treat every client like family, and that mindset drives me to deliver not only excellent service but also memorable experiences that keep clients coming back year after year.”

859-361-7618

Chris O’Callaghan

STUTTGART MOTORS BROADWAY

Locally owned Stuttgart Motors, a Lexington Foreign Car Repair Facility, is dedicated to providing expert service for BMW, MercedesBenz, Range Rover, Jaguar, Audi, Volkswagen, and Porsche vehicles. With factory-trained technicians, cutting-edge diagnostics, and a passion for precision engineering, the Stuttgart team delivers dealership-quality work with personalized customer care.

When Stuttgart owner Chris O’Callaghan was young, he had a strong interest in vehicles, infatuated with how they looked, how they sounded, how they smelled, everything about them. With his high school offering a vocational program, O’Callaghan got involved and later went on to vocational college to finish his initial training apprenticeship followed by factory training. O’Callaghan reminisces on those years, saying he was always working on his own vehicle with friends and family, spending any free time he could around vehicles. Now, fast forward, and he gets to live out his passion while helping people in his community, daily.

O’Callaghan prides himself on his team’s ability to provide top-notch service to all customers. “Here at Stuttgart Motors, we work hard to earn your trust and loyalty. We know how important it is to find a Lexington care service you can rely on, so your satisfaction is our top priority each and every day.”

701 N BROADWAY LEXINGTON, KY

859-255-7424

STUTTGARTMOTORSLEXKY.COM

Thomas Kinder LONGSHIP

As a third-party logistics provider, Longship partners with businesses to streamline transportation operations by connecting them with reliable, cost-effective solutions, ensuring products move efficiently from point A to point B. Whether it be a single shipment or managing an entire freight network, Longship’s team offers the expertise and relationships necessary to keep supply chains running smoothly.

Longship’s Director of Sales, Thomas Kinder, entered the industry shortly after graduating from Bridgewater College in 2014, thanks to a mutual connection, Kenny Schomp, President of Longship. “I was immediately drawn to his vision for the company and knew I wanted to be part of bringing that vision to life,” says Kinder. Starting as a logistics Account Executive, Kinder advanced to General Sales Manager and was promoted to Director of Sales in 2022.

Kinder recommends that when seeking a third-party logistics provider, look for a team that “operates with integrity, puts in the hard work, and truly acts as an extension of your business.”

“At Longship, we’re driven by a clear mission-to set the standard in the transportation industry through exceptional client service, innovation, and opportunity. We respect one another, we do what’s right, and we deliver for our clients. That level of care, collaboration, and consistency is what makes a logistics partnership truly valuable.”

2376 SIR BARTON WAY LEXINGTON, KY 855-440-2828 LONGSHIP.US

Geoff Smarte

SMARTE VALOREN CAPITAL GROUP

Whether you can see retirement on the horizon or are just beginning your wealth planning journey, you need an advisor you can trust to help you reach your goals. At Smarte Valoren Capital Group, Geoff Smarte provides a continuum of management and counsel to help his clients grow, preserve, and transfer wealth.

“We define wealth to include the traditional view of economic utility, but also in terms of time and ability to pursue one’s passions and purpose,” explains Smarte. “The tools we employ are generally linked to investment management, financial planning, business and tax configuration, family office administration, and charitable structuring.”

Taking the guesswork out of wealth management by educating clients on financial concepts and products, Smarte focuses on all issues that are critical to financial well-being, providing help with investment design, crypto currencies, tax strategies, institutional portfolios, estate planning and more.

Smarte explains that, like most businesses, his field is all about integrity and a keen mastery of the business, and while there are generalities that apply to nearly everyone, good wealth management is not a one-size-fits-all solution.

“It necessitates time and a full understanding of clients’ unique circumstances and life dynamics to engineer a tailored roadmap and accommodate a lot of flexibility when life forces a pivot.”

Carla Kersey

KENTUCKY EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

As Kentucky’s oldest and largest educational cooperative, the Kentucky Educational Development Cooperation (KEDC) adds value to Kentucky’s member districts through cooperation and innovation. With over 70 member districts statewide and over 50 years of service, KEDC provides services including special education support, professional development opportunities for school employees, leadership development, and more.

“My journey started in a classroom but I quickly realized I was drawn to the bigger picture,” says Kersey, who was named a 2025 50 Under 50 alumni from Union Commonwealth University. “That led me to school communications and ultimately into my role in educational marketing. I love being able to amplify the great work happening in public education and now, as the Director of Marketing at KEDC, I get to help districts shine every day.”

In education-just like in businesstrust is the foundation, Kersey explains. “At KEDC, we don’t just offer services, we build partnerships. I’ve learned that the best ideas come from collaboration, and the strongest outcomes happen when people feel seen and valued. That’s what drives me: creating meaningful relationships that lead to real impact in our schools and communities.”

Fun fact: this Kentucky Colonel was inducted into the 13th Region Basketball Hall of Fame in 2020!

118 JAMES COURT STE. 60 LEXINGTON, KY 859-255-6411

KEDC.ORG

Ruthie Osterman

LA BONNE VIE PERSONAL CHEF + CATERING

Ruth Oesterman started her career at the Le Cordon Bleu culinary arts program in 2004, followed by 10 years of working in small fine-dining restaurants. Now, she owns La Bonne Vie Personal Chef + Catering, serving up fresh, chef-made, locally sourced cuisine.

At La Bonne Vie, Oesterman makes healthy meals for busy people, offering personal chef services, small-batch catering, cooking classes, plated dinner parties, and private events. Meal prep is fully customized for each order-including allergy-friendly meals-and orders are hand-delivered to clients, ready to warm and enjoy. While clients are required to complete an intake form to start their service, it only takes a quick 15-minute phone call to unlock your meal freedom.

With Oesterman’s 15+ years of experience, she knows the importance of listening to her clients’ needs, while anticipating their needs and coming up with easy solutions.

“Our favorite thing is when a client walks through our doors and says ‘this is what I need help with’ and then gives us the opportunity to fully support them with our experienced chefs and personalized services,” Oesterman explains. “Every family, event, and service is unique. That means your chef should be able to fully customize each offering to help make your dream and goals a reality.”

1060 CHINOE RD. STE 108 LEXINGTON, KY

FIREBROOK PHASE II

150 Lots Available: $62,000 & UP

Co-Owners Jack Vanwinkle and Danny Settles

Searching for your dream home? Look no further than Richmond, Kentucky’s newest subdivision, Firebrook! Already established as a desirable neighborhood, these Phase II lots are the perfect place to make your dream come true.

Situated on Moberly Road, Firebrook is located just 10 minutes from I-75 and downtown Richmond. Homes will be offered by different builders starting at $300K with 3 and 4 bedroom options. Your home will be just 5 minutes from the newlyproposed Waco Elementary! With two park areas, a dog park and pet-friendly fenced in backyards, this community is ideal for families and commuters alike.

If you haven’t had the pleasure of visiting Richmond lately, the growing city has more to offer than you may realize. From fabulous dining options to world-class entertainment, there’s a reason more and more Lexington families and commuters are making the move to the Richmond area.

Good news: this development is located in an area that qualifies for no downpayment loans to qualified buyers!

Contact Jack Vanwinkle for restrictions, utility details, and available lots. Development financing provided by Whitaker Bank of Madison County.

To learn more about why Firebrook is the perfect community for you, reach out to Jack today!

Come join us for our Real Estate Agent Open House Saturday July 19th and Sunday July 20th from 1-4pm!

Jack Vanwinkle

Primary Colors:

GETTING BACK TO BASICS

In grade school,

you no doubt learned that the “primary” colors are red, blue and yellow. You can’t mix other colors and get these hues, but when you mix them together, you can create a wide gamut of color. You probably remember a day in art class, mixing up orange, purple, green and more.

Color theory experts were onto something: we just love the combination of these three colors together, even when we don’t realize it. We gravitate towards nautical red and blue in the summer months, but we naturally mix in gold elements without even thinking about it. Blue and yellow are classics of the French country kitchen, but a pop of red becomes a delightful contrast in that space.

This month, we’re featuring some fun spaces that utilize these basics in a way that’s anything but basic.

Katie Kime

Southern Living

Inner Child

Fabrics

Utilizing fabrics that pick up on one or more of the primary colors will help reinforce the color scheme. Many homeowners wonder how to get their spaces to look more “designer.” In our book, using fabrics with bold prints is always the shortcut to a more elevated interior!

Thibaut - Fern Stripe Brunschwig & Fils - BR-71110

Lee Jofa - Ikat Stripe

Scalamandré - Kintsugi Pot

Scalamandré - Murat Seme

Covington - Wedgewood

Tularosa - Echo

Williamsburg - Palace Bloom

How Much is Too Much?

While it’s worth at least temporarily pausing your belief in the existence of “too much” when it comes to décor...

it’s certainly possible that your end result could be a bit overwhelming when dealing with bold colors like true red, blue, and yellow!

A conventional design trick with a three-color palette is to enforce a 60-30-10 rule: let 60% of the design feature the color you select to be the dominant hue, then 30% should be in the secondary, and 10% is what you choose to serve as the accent color.

Of course, when you’re dealing with prints and patterns, it can be difficult to strictly abide by those proportions. You’re likely adding in additional colors. Teal, green, robin’s egg blue, orange, and pink often work their way in with the primary colors. It’s also helpful to remember that white, black, metals, and natural wood don’t necessarily need to “count” as extra colors in your palette.

And it’s important to remember that you can always buck convention! If you want to use these hues in equal proportion, we support your experimental spirit!

Schumacher

Norwalk Furniture & Design

Wallpapers

TOPS Tip:

The genius of primary colors is that each color lends a little something to its neighbor. Red, a warm color, is a fantastic example: red and yellow together are undeniably warm, but red and blue together can appear quite cool.

As you work with this palette, think about how the interplay of these colors affects the whole. And remember that each of these hues doesn’t necessarily need to be present in every element of your décor for you to pull off the color scheme successfully! Instead, sprinkle red, blue and yellow throughout the space. •

York - Fleur de Lis

Farrow & Ball - Brockhampton Star

Red Barrel Studio

Mindthegap - Ikat

Schumacher - Sinhala Sisal

Schumacher - Pottery

Mindthegap

Kerri Pilchik Design

Adam Lesshafft

Camden Skidmore

#1158299

Nautical themes are a perennial summer favorite. But this year, sailor-approved home décor has teamed up with the Italian Summer trend of recent years to give us a whimsical, playful – and delicious – style obsession: tinned fish

Folks are bringing sardines, anchovies and caviar into their home décor in inventive ways for a look that’s both coastal and cool. These silly culinary goods will make your spaces feel like a beachside vacay all year long!

Go Fish!

Pottery Barn

Giant Sardine Shaped Throw Pillow ($49, Urban Outfitters)

Fish Pattern II ($579, birchlane.com)

Ceramic Sardine Dish ($14.99, portugaliamarketplace.com)

Scalloped Caviar Taste Plate ($98, scoutdesignstudio.com)

1: Chesapeake Nunkie Sardine Wallpaper in Aqua ($110+, brewsterwallcovering.com)

2: Wedgwood Majolica Sardinia Box ($1,282, 1stdibs.com) 3: Caviar Cocktail Napkins ($50, chefanie.com) 4: Sardines Doormat ($48, anthropologie.com) 5: Still Life Bundle ($95+, KristaKimStudio on etsy) 6: Tinned Fish Throw Pillow ($34.99, World Market)

7: Mounted Caviar Tin on Leather ($250, chairish.com) 8: Fish Salt & Pepper Shakers ($14, thatcherellery.com) 9: Eleanor’s Elegance Wallpaper ($129.99+, lemonpark.com)

3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Wanna

The obsession isn’t just limited to décor! Folks are genuinely embracing the magic of high-quality tinned seafood. If you’re looking to expand your palate and dine on-trend, check out Fishwife Tinned Seafood Co. eatfishwife.com Try It?

“In the nal chapter of my mother’s life, we turned to Fullers Family Home Care for support — and it was one of the best decisions we could have made. The caregiver who worked with my mom didn’t just assist her; she formed a genuine, heartfelt bond that blossomed into a beautiful and respectful friendship. She truly embodied the meaning of care, compassion, and dignity. Over time, she became part of our family. When my mother needed additional care, Michelle Fuller herself stepped in and provided that care with grace, warmth, and professionalism. Her presence brought us comfort during an incredibly di cult time. Thank you, Fullers Family Home Care, for being more than a service — for being a source of love, support, and peace when we needed it most.” -The Atwoods

“Michelle, you came to our rescue during one of the most di cult times in our lives — when we were bringing Dad home on hospice and urgently needed 24/7 care. You worked tirelessly to assemble an incredible team of caregivers, each one more compassionate and capable than we could have ever hoped for. You listened to me cry on the phone, uncertain of what to do next. You calmed our fears, brought clarity to the chaos, and made everything fall into place. You are an amazing and truly wonderful person. We are so deeply grateful for all the hard work, dedication, and loving compassion you gave to our family during such a painful time. With heartfelt thanks and much love.” -Ann R.

Southern Tradition at its finest

Fran Elsen | photos by Stephanie Gilmore

TOUR OF HOMES

Pulling through the gates of this glorious historic property brings an immense feeling of calm, surrounded by acres of rolling green fields. Like a setting from a movie filmed in old Charleston, this renovated home boasts all the pleasures of a Southern estate. The large porches invite sitting a while and sipping sweet tea.

The Five Arrows Farm property originally served as a cattle and tobacco farm. The 1840s farmhouse consisted of just three rooms with an add-on, built in 1990. When Bobbi and Troy Turner purchased the house in 2016, the fields were still being used to grow tobacco. Their goal was to create a classic style that was in keeping with Southern tradition. There are so many timeless touches, from the haint blue ceilings of the expansive slate and brick porches to the front rooms’ wide-plank original flooring, which has been restored to perfection with the original exposed timber floor joists.

The Turners want people to feel welcome in their home and take time to slow down. They enjoy hosting Bible studies and having over their family, including the couple’s five daughters. The name of Five Arrows Farm was taken from Psalm 127:3-5, which is painted on a sign in the kitchen.

Not to be missed is the custom handpainted mural in the dining room, which was done by local artist Natalie Brockman. It features the couple’s favorite scenes from the farm, including the property’s original barn, which has been restored and serves as an event space for parties and gatherings.

Bobbi handled all of the interior design herself, as she wanted it to reflect their simple, comfortable style. In particular, she loves the piano room located just off the foyer; she enjoys sitting in the chaise lounge with a book while listening to their youngest daughter, Tessa, play the piano.

Much of the family’s work on the property involved expanding and reviving the charm already present. They added on to the sleeping quarters of the primary bedroom, completely remodeling the entire primary suite. It now includes his and her walk-in closets, a sitting area, and an expansive primary bath, complete with a free-standing tub.

The Turners also reconfigured and refinished the kitchen cabinetry and reconstructed the front porch. They chose to close in the two-story living room and added a coffered ceiling created by the late Bob Ulrich. Bob was an incredibly talented trim carpenter who also designed the primary suite’s vaulted ceiling and all of the wood trim throughout the house.

The next project was creating a backyard oasis for the family. The team designed and constructed a new courtyard area in the back, followed by a new pool and guest house. A recently completed greenhouse sits to one side while an outdoor lounge area anchors the other.

Devin Hisle, a skilled electrician and family friend, rewired the entire home inside and out, and participated heavily in the restoration of the pool and courtyard area. The pool decking and large planters are from Hartstone out of Louisville. While Troy had a vision for the landscaping of the home, Jon Carloftis was invaluable in the landscape design process and brought that vision to life, utilizing plants from Redmond’s Garden Center.

Details:

Home Exterior Paint: Porter Paint in Gypsum, Silver Mist, and Mountain Air

Home Exterior Brick Paint: Porter Paint in Colonnade

Landscape Plants: Redmond’s Garden Center

Grand Tour of Homes: Listings by County & Price

2025 BIA OFFICERS

Kevin Kerwin – President

David Atchison – President Elect

STAFF

Todd Johnson, Executive O cer

Tom Miller, VP of Workforce and Development

Alli Brummer, Event Coordinator

Dan O’Neill, Director of The Building Institute

Lisa Cheal, O ce Manager

Welcome to the 2025 Grand Tour of Homes!

A Special “Thank you” to the Presenting Sponsor, Pieratt’s. Since 1946, Pieratt’s has been Central Kentucky’s trusted name for quality appliances and exceptional customer service. As a locally owned self-service dealer, Pieratt’s bring decades of expertise and a commitment to helping their neighbors ﬁnd the perfect appliance solutions. Their knowledgeable sta is there to guide you every step of the way. Discover the Pieratt’s di erence—where experience meets hometown service. Thanks also to the Silver Sponsors: Wiseway Supply, 46Solutions, Elliot Services, Andersen Windows, 84 Lumber, and ComfortMaster Heating and Air for your continued dedication and support to the industry and The Grand Tour of Homes!

3146 Custer Dr. Lexington, KY 40517

phone: (859) 273-5117

email: alli@BIAcentralky.com www.BIAcentralky.com

Virtual Tours are available again this year! Please see information below on how to access the tour on the website.

For the fourth year now, we are continuing a wonderful partnership with TOPS Magazine and have presented each Grand Tour of Homes project within these next several pages of this July issue. We hope you enjoy!

We are very excited to present 23 beautiful projects on this year’s tour by 10 Professional BIA Builder Members. This incredible event would not be possible without our supports and the hard work of the Members of this Association… The Builders, their Contractors, their Sales and Marketing representatives, and the Associates who provide all the exceptional products and services showcased in each home.

For additional information: www.BIACentralKY.com

– Kevin Kerwin, 2025 BIA President

Kevin Kerwin 2025 BIA President

The Sutton Bay

BY BALL HOMES

DETAILS

THE

• Versatile layout with ﬂex room and formal dining area

• Optional covered patio shown

• Island kitchen o ers a breakfast area and countertop dining.

• Mudroom area with drop zone option, coat closet, pantry, and powder room.

• Upstairs primary suite with bedroom with vaulted ceiling, large closet, and spacious bath

• Primary bath shown with optional garden tub, separate shower, and picture window

• Three bedrooms, a loft, utility room, and hall bath

• All bedrooms have walk-in closets

• Electric vehicle charging in garage

• Floor plan available in several locations

Ball Homes’ vision is to build homes that ﬁt real lifestyles, with creative, beautiful designs and upscale amenities that make our customers feel great about coming home. Location, of course, is still key - we want to build in the places that people love to live. As a family owned and operated business, we’ve been passionate about home ownership and building quality communities since 1959. We are creative, resourceful, and persistent in pursuing those goals.

859.268.1191 | BALLHOMES.COM

BY MULBERRY BUILDERS

• Single ﬂoor

• Custom tiled shower

• LVP ﬂooring

• Rear patio

• Oversized island

• Open ﬂoor plan

• Mudroom

• Three bedroom

Mulberry Builders is one of Lexington and Central Kentucky’s premier general contractors and home builders for over 2-decades. We offer a wide range of services from remodels, new home construction, rooﬁ ng, restoration, and commercial construction. Your home is one of your greatest investments - so you can rest assured that when hiring Mulberry Builders as your contractor, you are getting a team of hardworking professionals with years of experience who are true experts in their ﬁelds. From designing to building - our team will be with you every step of the way. 859-396-2523

Brandon Hedinger

$522,825 | 3,364 SQ.FT. | 4 BR | 3 BA

BY BALL HOMES

THE DETAILS

• Versatile two-story plan with first floor flex room and full bath, upstairs primary bedroom, plus three bedrooms and large loft

• Jack-and-Jill bath option on second ﬂoor makes four full baths possible

• Open ﬁrst ﬂoor layout with nine-foot ceilings throughout, island kitchen adjoins large central family room

• Shown with built-in drop zone option in hall to garage

• Gourmet kitchen with designer cabinets, granite, gas range, chimney hood, butler’s pantry and walk-in storage pantry

• Primary suite with trey ceiling, luxury bath shown with 4x4 custom-tiled shower, dropin tub with tile, 7’ double bowl vanity, accent window

• All bedrooms have spacious closets, dual closets in loft

• Covered patio shown

• Floor plan available in several locations

BY BALL HOMES

THE DETAILS

• The Barnett is an open, family-friendly layout.

• Large family room features a ﬁreplace with stacked stone and barnwood.

• Kitchen with a gourmet appliance package, quartz countertops and designer cabinetry.

• A flex area o the entry can be confi gured as first floor guest suite.

• Plan details include a drop zone, two accent walls, and covered patio.

• Upstairs primary suite with vaulted ceiling, bath with tiled separate shower and garden tub, mission style window, and large walk-in closet.

• Three more bedrooms and a bath complete the second ﬂoor, or optional loft.

The St Jude Dream Home

4108 Meadowlark Lane • The Homeplace • Lexington 40509

$540,000 | 2,200 SQ.FT. | 3 BR | 2.5 BA

BY MULBERRY BUILDERS

MULBERRY BUILDERS

THE DETAILS

• ADA Accessible - ﬁrst ﬂoor

• Bosch Appliances with WIFI co ee bar

• Large, custom, roll-in tiled shower

• Rear cedar exterior accents

• Delta Brizo plumbing ﬁxtures

• Custom wood trim details

• Home stereo

• Kichler lighting ﬁxtures

• Pot ﬁller faucet

• Quartz Countertops

Brandon Hedinger

BY MULBERRY BUILDERS

• Single ﬂoor

• Cafe Appliances

• Hidden, walk in pantry

• Custom tiled shower

• Wide plank ﬂooring

• Covered rear patio

• Oversized island

• Natural stone hearth and ﬁreplace surround

• Open ﬂoor plan

• Black windows

Brandon Hedinger

BY BALL HOMES

THE DETAILS

• The Tristan is a spacious, ﬂexible plan with up to ﬁ ve bedrooms.

• Shown here with two bedrooms and a study on the ﬁrst ﬂoor and a bedroom, bath and large loft upstairs.

• The main living areas include a ﬂex area o the entry and an expansive family room with ﬁreplace, opening to a large, covered patio.

• The kitchen showcases pro series appliances, upgraded cabinetry, quartz countertops, and a contrasting island with shiplap.

• Plan details include unﬁnished attic storage, a drop zone, accent walls, and extensive vaulted ceilings.

• The primary bedroom suite features a roomy walk-in closet, and luxurious bath with double bowl vanity, freestanding tub, and separate tiled shower.

The Fairhaven

BY BALL HOMES

THE DETAILS

• The Fairhaven is spacious and open with 10’ ceilings on the ﬁrst ﬂoor and 9’ on the second.

• The family room features a stone ﬁreplace, barnwood mantel and bookcases, and access to an oversized covered patio.

• The gourmet kitchen has a double wall oven layout with chimney hood, microwave drawer, pro series appliances, quartz countertops, and a farmhouse sink.

• A central u-shaped stairway is complete with feature window, accent wall, oak treads and landings, and iron railings.

• Plan features include a drop zone and a large garage storage area.

• A ﬁrst ﬂoor study can also be a guest bedroom with full bath.

• The upstairs primary bedroom suite accesses a large, covered deck, and features two walk-in closets and a spacious bath with separate vanities, a fully tiled shower with dual shower heads, and a standalone tub framed by windows.

• Three additional bedrooms, a large loft, and two full baths complete the upstairs.

As a family owned and operated business, we’ve been passionate about home ownership and building quality communities since 1959. We are creative, resourceful, and persistent in pursuing those goals.

859.268.1191 | BALLHOMES.COM

MEET THE BUILDER

BALL HOMES

Hands-OnLearning

Ifyouwanttostartyourcareerwithout goingintoalotofdebt,consideratrade school.TheBuildingInstituteissetapartin whatwedo.Ourprogramsaredesignedso thestudentcanworkfull-timeintheirtrade duringthedayandgotoschoolinthe evening.

ATCHISON CONSTRUCTION

Harper Woods Lane • Harper Woods • Lexington 40515 $815,000 | 3,000 SQ.FT. | 4 BR | 2.5 BA

• Open Kitchen Living Room Concept

CONSTRUCTION

• Custom two-tone cabinetry

• Floor to ceiling kitchen cabinetry

• Walk in pantry

• Expansive back deck

• Tree lined, creek in back yard

• 9-foot sliding door to back deck

• Large primary bath with custom tile shower

• Private, gated and maintained community

• Full, unﬁnished basement

Atchison Construction Company was started in 1978 by John Atchison. David Atchison joined the company at an early age and became a partner in 2018. Atchison Construction specializes in high-end new construction and remodeling in Central Kentucky. We have built a reputation as a dependable, well-qualiﬁed and quality construction company. We take great pride in the careful planning and managing of our client’s projects from start to ﬁ nish. Our goal is to provide the highest quality and value in construction services available. We strive to be a model organization for our customers, our trade partners and others in our industry, in all that we do.

BY JIMMY NASH HOMES

*As built, could be altered from plan shown.

JIMMY NASH HOMES

• 1st Floor primary

• Sub-Zero/Wolf/Cove Kitchen Appliances

• 10' 1st ﬂoor ceilings with 20' family room ceiling

• Floor to ceiling Porcelain Fireplace surround with Bio Fuel Firebox

• Modern kitchen cabinets and bath vanities

• Roof top Entertainment Patio

• Geo Thermal HVAC and Tankless Water Heater

• Unﬁnished Walkout Basement that can be priced to ﬁnish

• Backs to greenspace and peaceful running brook

• Real Backyards that can be fenced

For over 30 years, Jimmy Nash Homes has delivered a transparent, unmatched home building experience, crafting one-of-a-kind designer homes for discerning clients. Recognized with multiple design-build awards and named Central Kentucky’s Favorite Home Builder numerous times, Jimmy Nash Homes builds throughout Central KY in one of our communities, on your lot, or farm starting at $1,000,000. Experience craftsmanship, innovation, and excellence with a name you can trust. 859.621.8880 | JIMMYNASHHOMES.COM

Jim Moore

BY BALL HOMES

THE DETAILS

• Open layout ranch plan

• Versatile ﬂex room o the entry

• Island kitchen with breakfast area, countertop dining, and pantry

• Pass-through utility room shown with drop zone option

• Covered patio

• Primary bedroom suite includes a large walk-in closet, spacious bath

• Primary bath shown with optional garden tub, separate shower, and picture window

• Bedrooms two and three share a hall bath

• Electric vehicle charging in garage

• Floor plan o ered in several locations

859.268.1191 | BALLHOMES.COM

BY JAMES MONROE HOMES

Please note: Address shown is not currently for sale and price is just an estimate of what a similar home would cost to build.

THE DETAILS

The Abigail French Country is a two-story plan with a morning room and large covered deck. It is located in Eastgate in Nicholasville. With home prices starting in the $300,000s, James Monroe Homes in Eastgate o ers unbeatable value.

• 10+ Available Home Sites in Eastgate.

• 8 Move-In Ready Homes In 90 Days or Less.

• Incentives O ered During Grand Tour!

• 9 Adaptable Floor Plans to Choose From (Ranch & Two Story).

• Basement Home Sites Available.

• Choose your own ﬁnishes in our state-of-the-art design center.

• Homes are built for high performance and energy e ciency to save homeowners’ money on utilities.

• Connected living features such as a Ring doorbell and wi-ﬁ thermostat included in every new home.

• Visit our Online Design Center on our new website.

• James Monroe Homes o ers our exclusive Build With Conﬁ dence Promise.

THE BUILDER

JAMES MONROE HOMES

James Monroe Homes is a recognized industry leader for building quality, energy efﬁcient high-performance homes since 2006. Nationally recognized, James Monroe Homes has received several awards, including Top 40 Under 40 Professional Builder Award and the most prestigious award in the home building industry - National Housing Quality Awards (NHQA), Honorable Mention. 859.629.2962 | JAMESMONROEHOMES.COM

BY BALL HOMES

THE DETAILS

• Two-story home with first floor guest suite and spacious flex area connecting to the family room

• Open concept kitchen and spacious breakfast area adjoin the family room with stone-to-ceiling ﬁreplace, all overlooking the rear yard

• Beautiful kitchen with quartz countertops, designer tile backsplash, farmhouse style sink and upgraded appliances with gas range and chimney hood

• Upstairs primary suite features a vaulted ceiling in the bedroom, sitting area, and luxury bath with garden tub, tiled shower, and roomy walk-in closet.

• Three additional upstairs bedrooms all with walk-in closets, two full baths, and a large loft complete the second ﬂoor

• Wheeler II ﬂoor plan available in several locations

BY MIKE KERWIN HOMES

THE DETAILS

• Grand Living Spaces

• Breathtaking Ceilings

• Designed for Entertaining

• Ultimate Kitchen and Pantry

• Sophisticated Scullery

• Luxury Primary Suite

• Smart Basement Design

• Elegant Pool

• Stunning Architectural Elements

• Future-Ready Spaces

• Crafted by Mike Kerwin Homes and MBM Design

• Built to Last

• Quality from the Ground Up

Since the 1980s, Mike Kerwin Homes has been a cornerstone of quality homebuilding in Lexington and its surrounding areas. With a commitment to craftsmanship and lasting relationships, we’ve had the privilege of working with over 20 repeat customers—families and individuals who trust us to bring their vision to life again and again. A home is more than just walls and a roof—it’s where memories are made, traditions are built, and legacies begin. Whether you’re looking to create your ﬁ rst dream home or planning your next chapter, let Mike Kerwin Homes be a part of your history. 859.263.0423 | WWW.KERWINHOMES.COM

MIKE KERWIN HOMES

Are you considering remodeling your home? Take the self-guided Tour to learn what others have done and see the beautiful transformations for yourself. Kitchens. Baths. Outdoor Living Spaces. Whole house remodeling projects and more. Come see why you should use a certiﬁed professional Remodeler member of the BIA and share your own dreams with the Remodelers! Both Traditional and Virtual Tours!

Tickets available at each home during the tour. For more information, visit biacentralky.com

The

THE DETAILS

The Elijah Craig by Mitch Canup Homes is yet another impressive ranch style home on a very well appointed ﬁnished basement.

A mixture of classic stone w/ board & batten siding creates a gorgeous exterior elevation for a rich modern farmhouse look. The interior ﬁnishes are equally as lovely & the craftsmanship is evident in every space.

The floor plan is e cient & functional and was custom designed for this specific lot & for the owner's exact needs & specifications.

We invite you to come tour this outstanding new build and discover the many unique features & qualities that make designing & building a custom home so enjoyable & rewarding.

We'd love to have a conversation about building your dream home too!

• Tremendous Curb Appeal

• Open Floor Plan w/ Clever use of Space.

• Large Covered Rear Patio w/ Retractable Screens

• Oversized 3 Car Garage

• Vaulted Primary Suite w/ Feature Wall

• Custom Kitchen Design w/ Luxury Appliances

• M. Bradley Milburn Designed Custom Home

MITCH CANUP HOMES

Over the last 3 decades, Mitch Canup has quietly and consistently made a name for himself as one of the

nest custom home builders in Central KY. His reputation for quality and craftsmanship are obvious in every project. Mitch's attention to detail and loyal client base have led to word of mouth referrals that have kept him busy building beautiful homes throughout the Bluegrass. This will be the third straight year a Mitch Canup custom home will be featured in the Grand Tour of Homes. You can expect more of the same eye-catching luxury ﬁ nishes and an elevated sense of style that have helped Mitch win numerous Grand Tour of Homes Awards in the past 2 years.Providing Interior Design consulting again is Fixtures and Finishes. Eric C. Bumm and The Brokerage bring world

BY GOODKNIGHT DESIGN HOME, INC.

• Eye-catching curb appeal

• Professional interior design throughout

• High end gold lighting and plumbing ﬁxtures

• Beautiful wood moulding and high ceilings throughout

• Both Cannon ball and linear gas ﬁreplaces

• Open ﬂoor plan with seamless ﬂow

• Walkable attic and tall crawlspace for storage and safe-room(steps from master closet/into encapsulated crawlspace)

• Large screened-in patio with kitchenette and ﬁreplace

• Four car garage with swisstrax ﬂooring-storage-workshop plus utility garage

• Geothermal-spray foam-radiant barrier for maximum energy e ciency

GOODKNIGHT DESIGN HOME,INC.

We are Bob and Chris Goodknight of Goodknight Design Home… building your

and

859.533.5562 | GOODKNIGHTDESIGNHOME.COM

• Transitional house plan merging classic design with contemporary comfort, highlighting the combination of stone & white painted brick.

• Stunning foyer o ers a clear view of the elegant staircase and dining room, making a dramatic statement with a rich moody wall color.

• Great room showcases a uniquely designed custom ﬁreplace, built-in cabinetry, and striking black ceiling beams.

• Kitchen boasts two large islands, premium Wolf/Sub-Zero appliances, and custom cabinetry. Dramatic vaulted ceiling and expansive windows deﬁne the stunning breakfast area.

• Elegant prim. suite includes a uniquely designed ceiling, wainscoting, dramatic ﬂoor-to-ceiling tile, expansive vanity, custom closet system.

• Charming twin & little girl’s bedrooms featuring board & batten, builtin cabinetry, designer wallcoverings, and custom window treatments.

• Cinematic luxury found in the theatre room with customized screen wall, surround sound, dramatic barn doors & cozy theater seating.

• Basement also o ers a custom bar, expansive playroom with built-in playhouse, cold plunge tub, sauna, workout room, media room and a private guest suite.

• Outdoor area includes a covered porch with ﬁreplace and views of the pool, pool house, comfy ﬁrepit area and secluded backyard.

• Additional features include Smart Home, Geothermal, tankless water heater, rift and quartered oak wood ﬂoors

COLLIER CUSTOM HOMES INC.

THE DETAILS

• Two-story home o ering an open ﬁrst ﬂoor layout with a large family room

• Beautiful kitchen with island, quartz countertops, designer tile backsplash, twotone cabinetry, and corner pantry

• A den/study is tucked away at the rear of the home o ering loads of privacy

• A spacious, covered deck is directly o the kitchen o ering another gathering space.

• Mudroom with drop zone, with connecting powder room

• The upstairs primary bedroom has a vaulted ceiling and stunning bath with separate garden tub, fully tiled shower, double bowl vanity, and vaulted, walk-in closet

• The utility room with folding counter is conveniently located on the second ﬂoor and can be accessed from the main hallway

• Three additional upstairs bedrooms, all with vaulted ceilings, and a full bath complete the second ﬂoor

• Shown with walkout basement

BALL HOMES

BY BALL HOMES

THE DETAILS

• This two-story home o ers a luxurious ﬁrst ﬂoor primary suite.

• Very open first floor with flex room.

• Two-story family room features a ﬁreplace with stacked stone and bookcases.

• Gourmet kitchen with upgraded cabinetry, a contrasting island with shiplap, quartz tops, and farmhouse sink.

• A covered patio overlooks the rear yard.

• The primary bedroom suite has an 11’ trey ceiling and bay window.

• Luxury primary bath with tiled garden tub and separate shower, and two deﬁned closet spaces.

• Three bedrooms, a loft, and two full baths upstairs.

BY JAMES MONROE HOMES

Please note: Address shown is not currently for sale and price is just an estimate of what a similar home would cost to build.

THE DETAILS

The Abigail Farmhouse is a two-story plan with a morning room, loft, and zoom room. It is located in Barkley Meadows in Georgetown. With home prices starting in the $300,000s, James Monroe Homes in Barkley Meadows o ers unbeatable value.

• 20+ Available Home Sites in Barkley Meadows.

• 10 Move-In Ready Homes Available In 90 Days or Less.

• Incentives O ered During Grand Tour!

• 9 Adaptable Floor Plans to Choose From (Ranch & Two Story).

• Basement Home Sites Available.

• Choose your own ﬁnishes in our state-of-the-art design center.

• Homes are built for high performance and energy e ciency to save homeowners’ money on utilities.

• Connected living features such as a Ring doorbell and wi-ﬁ thermostat included in every new home.

• Visit our Online Design Center on our new website.

• James Monroe Homes o ers our exclusive Build With Conﬁ dence Promise.

MEET THE BUILDER

JAMES MONROE HOMES

BY BALL HOMES

• First-ﬂoor primary bedroom suite with large closet and spacious bath

• Primary bath shown with optional garden tub, separate tiled shower, and picture window

• Three upstairs bedrooms share a loft and bathroom

• Island kitchen with countertop dining, eating area, and pantry

• Stainless steel appliance package

• Open ﬁrst ﬂoor layout with 9' ceilings

• Corridor to garage adjoins utility room, coat closet

• Optional covered patio shown

• Electric vehicle charging in garage

• Floor plan available in several locations

•The Building Institute is now enrolling for the 2025 Fall Semester that begins in September

•Three trades are offered with a fast-track to licensure – HVAC (1 year), Plumbing (1 year), Electrical (2 years)

•Students work during the day in their trade as an Apprentice, getting paid, and attend the Building Institute in the evening.

•Remodeling

•Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)

•Maintenance & Repairs

•HVAC Upgrades

•Landscaping

Call us today for a FREE ESTIMATE on the work you need done! (859) 787-4368 743 ALLENDALE DRIVE LEXINGTON, KY 40503

Contact Tom Miller: 859-788-3818 or visit www.buildinginstituteky.com for more information. Our mission is to

improvements@agingwithgraceinfo.org

BY J. TAYLOR HOMES

J. TAYLOR HOMES

Established in

• Maintenance free

• Loft

• Unﬁnished basement that can be custom ﬁnished

• Walk out basement

• 1st ﬂoor primary en-suite

• Quartz countertops

• Covered deck

BY BALL HOMES

100 Linzi Way • Trend Collection at Bourbon Oaks • Paris 40361

$343,628 | 2,233 SQ.FT. | 3 BR | 2.5 BA

• Two-story plan, part of the Trend Collection by Ball Homes, with an open ﬁrst ﬂoor layout.

• Spacious family room with direct vent ﬁreplace.

• Island kitchen with upgraded cabinetry, stainless appliances with side-by-side refrigerator, a corner pantry, and a spacious dining area.

• All bedrooms are upstairs, plus a loft that can be conﬁ gured as a fourth bedroom.

• The primary bedroom has a private bath, with a garden tub, separate tiled shower, and picture window.

• Covered front porch, and covered patio with additional uncovered patio extension at the rear of the home.

GRAND TOUR OF HOMES AD INDEX

One Kings Lane x Nikki Hilton-Rothschild

Tablescaping the Summer

There’s something about summer that makes everything feel more fun, and your dining table is no exception! Whether it’s a family barbeque, dinner and drinks with the girls, or just a casual night in, the right tablescape can set the vibe for any event. From crisp white linens to the perfect glassware, we’re sharing some easy ways to spruce up your summer table. by Grace Mitchell

Dessert/SaladPlate-DelftBlue($54,

available at L V. Harkness)

Hampton Bamboo Party Bucket ($275, available at Syers Browning)

Pomegranate Blue Bamboo Napkins ($56/4 pc.)

28” Faux Cone Hydrangea Stem ($18.95, available at House)

Happy Everything! Mini Chinoiserie Jar Attachment ($23.95, available at The Front Porch)

Vietri Hibiscus Glass Bud Vase ($78, available at My Favorite Things)

West Coast Cool

April Cornell California Tablecloth ($76)

Serena & Lily Cabo Woven Placemats ($68/4 pc.)

Magnolias Faux Protea Stem ($24.50)

Basket Weave Pedestal Candleholder ($68/2 pc., available at Syers Browning)

FortessaArezzoFlatware ($68/5pc.)

Rolf Glass Etched Champagne Flute ($43.95/2 pc.)

Crate & Barrel Wicker Palm Tree Napkin Ring ($4.95)

BouquetBasi c s

Summer is in full bloom, which means it’s a great time to fill your home with beautiful bouquets. There are plenty of local florists to shop from, but if you have a clear vision in mind, floral design is an easy project to start. If you’re looking for a new hobby or building a pretty gift in a pinch, we’re here to help you grow your flower knowledge.

Whether you’re working with grocery store blooms or a handful of wildﬂowers, knowing a few basic tips can go a long way. Grab your scissors, ﬁnd your favorite vase, and start putting together your best bouquet! by Emma Reilly

Conceptualizing Your Design

There are a few steps you need to take before you go shopping for your blooms. First, narrow down the style and shape you want to create. How big do you want your bouquet to appear? Are you going for something airy and whimsical or romantic and sophisticated? Where do you envision your bouquet landing after you’ve finished building it? These decisions will help you visualize your arrangement to avoid over or underbuying blooms.

Choosing Your Ingredients

Flowers and greenery play different roles in floral design. Put simply, you can follow the 3-5-8 sequence to get a balanced ratio of florals and greenery in your bouquet. This rule follows the Fibonacci sequence (where each number is the sum of the preceding numbers … big math). It calls for three types of focal/dominant flowers, five greenery stems, and eight stems of accent flowers. While this doesn’t make sense in every

case and generally makes for larger arrangements, it’s still a good rule of thumb.

To be more specific, there are five total types of flowers to use in a bouquet, though some designs will only use two or three types.

Focal Flowers: These are larger, usually round in shape, and are meant to be the dominant stems in your arrangement. They carry more visual weight and anchor the bouquet by creating a moment of rest for the eye. Some examples are dahlias, garden roses, peonies, and hydrangeas.

Line Flowers: Taller flowers with blooms up and down the stems. These are used as support flowers along with your greenery to create your overall shape and carry color across your arrangement. Some great choices are foxglove, delphinium, and snapdragon.

Filler Flowers: These are smaller blooms used to help “fluff” up your

bouquet that support the focal flowers to add texture, depth, and color. This can be anything from small spray roses or carnations to berries.

Detail Flowers: Usually lighter, delicate flowers that add airiness or movement to the arrangement. Since they are so fragile, these are usually added at the end to float above the denser parts of the bouquet. Baby’s breath, sweet pea, and chamomile daisies are great detail flowers.

Greenery: Greenery helps set a base for the rest of your design and provides a shape for the rest of your bouquet to follow. There are many different shades and textures of greenery, so this will depend on the overall design direction of your bouquet. Eucalyptus leaves are a nice complement to lighter flowers, while ferns can pair nicely with some wintery arrangements. Again, keep your intended direction in mind when choosing your blooms. For a lighter, more whimsical feel,

photo / Christine Covino

focus more on delicate filler flowers that mimic a field of wildflowers. For a more romantic, garden-style bouquet, get larger focal flowers, filler flowers, and greenery to create a lush, full look.

Determining Your Color Palette

At the same time that you are choosing your ingredients, you should also be thinking about your color palette to create a balanced and cohesive bouquet. You can create color balance in a few different ways.

Monochromatic Colors: These are shades and tones of the same hue. This allows you to create visual interest by using different flower shapes, sizes, and colors.

Analogous Colors: These are colors that are directly next to each other on the color wheel. They will naturally work together and create a cohesiveness that is visually appealing. When using colors that are not directly next to each other on the color wheel, you can use flowers that act like a bridge. For example, if you have yellow and pink flowers in your bouquet, also include peach or coral to bridge the gap between the two.

Complementary Colors: Colors from the opposite (or near-opposite) sides of the color wheel. When used together, these colors can create a sense of balance and add contrast to make the color palette more appealing. Add interest to a peach or light pink bouquet with touches of pale blue or lilac, or use pale greenery to balance out dark purples and reds.

Color Saturation: These are different colors in the same level of intensity – like bright jewel tones, pastels, or muddy colors. This allows for a broader range of hues to be used in your arrangement.

Preparing Your Blooms

Once you have your flowers in hand, it’s time to create your bouquet! Lay out all your blooms and foliage, along with your vase (filled halfway with water and plant food) or brown kraft paper to wrap, plus scissors and pruning shears.

Then, strip all the leaves from the bottom two-thirds of your stems to keep them looking fresh for longer. Any foliage that is left under the water line should be removed to prevent it from rotting.

Then, cut each of your stems at a 45-degree angle using a sharp knife or pruning shears. This will ensure maximum water and nutrient intake and prevent the stems from being crushed. Be sure to cut the flowers in a variety of heights to add depth to your bouquet – if all the stems are the same height, they will not sit well in your container.

For roses, remove the outermost layer of petals, called the guard petals. This step is optional, and you can choose to leave any undamaged petals on the flower without harming it; however, the guard petals are often

darker and droopier than the rest due to their use protecting the more delicate inner petals.

Creating Your Arrangement

To arrange your blooms, start with greenery to lay out your general shape. If you’re using line flowers to add some height, add those next. For the rest of the flowers, go from big to small. Start with your larger focal flowers to give them some emphasis, then layer filler flowers around them. Finally, place your delicate detail flowers around the outside. If you have any gaps remaining, fill in with extra greenery or filler flowers!

Where to Choose Your Blooms

Half the battle of creating a beautiful bouquet is picking the flowers themselves. While we would all love to have a cut flower garden in our backyards, that’s not always in the cards.

One of our favorite hidden gem spots to pick your own flowers is the Ashland Terrace Public Cutting Garden near Chevy Chase. It’s located behind Ashland Terrace, a senior living community for women ages 60 years and older. In the garden, you can find everything you need to cut and build your own bouquet, from scissors to a water bottle, and all you have to do is leave money for the stems you take in the donations mailbox to help maintain the garden – just $0.25 for smaller stems and herbs and $0.50 for larger stems.

You can also find cut flowers at the Lexington Farmer’s Market, local florists or grocery stores (we love the variety of stems offered at Trader Joe’s). And if you’re so inclined, many flower shops offer community workshops for beginners looking to up their floral design game! Poppy’s Flower Bar even allows you to sip a cocktail and arrange your own bouquet in the store with their unique flower wall.

photo / Southern Lady Magazine

Seasonally Speaking

For the freshest, brightest blooms, it’s best to pick what’s in season. Not all flowers grow locally all year, so do your research on the types of flowers that are available each season before you get your heart set on your bouquet design. Here’s a quick cheat sheet of when you can expect your favorite florals to be in season:

Spring:

While the exact timing of peak bloom may ﬂuctuate depending on the last frost of the year, spring marks the beginning of growth for a wide variety of ﬂowers. When the gorgeous weather starts, expect to see these favorites appear: daffodils, tulips, irises, violets, forget-me-nots, peonies, azaleas, and more.

Fall:

Summer:

We’re entering the heat of summer, when lush leaves and sun-loving ﬂowers come into the mix. Some spring ﬂowers stick around through the summer, but you can also see these blooms start to appear: roses, poppies, hydrangeas, dahlias, daisies, daylilies, and Queen Anne’s lace.

Fall is when most bloom cycles start to slow down. However, there are still many holdovers from summer that still look great and continue to bloom in the fall. Some great choices are: sunﬂowers, petunias, roses, geraniums, pansies, and black-eyed Susans.

Winter:

Many flowers remain dormant for the winter, but that doesn’t stop a few blooms from appearing! There are some flowers that look great as holiday gifts, like poinsettias and Christmas roses, and some that bloom later in the winter, like gardenias, calendula, winter jasmine, and camellias. This doesn’t mean you can’t find any other flowers in the winter, they just may not be as readily available or cheap at local flower shops.

Tulip

Peony

Dahlia

RURAL LIFE GOALS WITHIN REACH.

These local businesses are keeping good taste alive in Lexington. Keep reading to meet a few of our favorite providers of all things luxury!

Elevating Interiors

Aesthetic Injectables

• Skin Health • Wellness and IV Therapy

• Body Contouring and Weight Loss •

Say “I Do” to Effortless Elegance at Marriott

Are you looking to liven up your liner look (whew, that’s a mouthful)? With so many color and style options to choose from, it’s hard to know what will and won’t look great on your lids. And while there are no hard and fast rules on what will turn out best, there are some ways to narrow it down. Read on for some tips and tricks to help change up your cat eye. by Emma Reilly

P cil Liq d?

While there are beneﬁts to both liquid and pencil eyeliners, each has its own effect. Pencil eyeliners are more versatile and generally easier to use for beginners or those without a supersteady hand. They allow for softer lines, better smudged looks and better use on the waterline for deﬁnition without harshness.

Liquid eyeliners, on the other hand, give precise, sharp lines and typically stay on for longer, though they can be more difﬁcult to apply well. In general, for colorful eyeliner, we suggest an eyeliner pencil over liquid.

How A

P ct W :

Almost nothing can ruin your day as quickly as a crooked cat eye. Perfecting winged eyeliner is not for the weak, but if you’re someone who struggles to get the perfect clean line without spending half an hour and ending up with a wing that takes up your entire face (guilty), here are a few tricks of the trade.

Use Tape: Apply a piece of household tape directly below where you want to draw your wing. Use the tape as a tracking line to guide your hand, then remove it when you’re done for the perfect crisp wing.

Keep Your Elbows Supported: This sounds like nothing, but it makes all the difference. Stabilize

your arm on a table to simplify the experience.

Clean Up Lines: There’s no shame in ﬁxing up your lines after they’re applied. Dip a Q-tip in makeup remover and use it to remove any imperfections.

S ze It:

No two eye shapes can wear eyeliner the exact same way, and there are certain styles that can complement your eyes better than your best friend’s. Aside from testing out 50 different methods, it’s not always easy to identify what look will suit you best.

Here’s a quick guide:

Almond-Shaped Eyes: Try using eyeliners with a creamier consistency and smudge out along your lash line for a smooth ﬁnish. Your eyes are the most symmetrical, so it’s easy to follow the natural shape of your lash line.

Downturned Eyes: If the outer corners of your eyes drop below the center “line” of your eyes horizontally, you have downturned eyes. Use a pencil to draw on a very thin cat eye, making sure to upturn the “ﬂick” at the end.

Wide-Set Eyes: Concentrate your liner on the inside of your eyelid without drawing too much attention to the outer corners.

Round Eyes: Go for an elongated look with extended wings, with thicker lines at the outer edges.

Hooded Eyes: Use thicker lines toward the outer corners of your eyes, and make sure to keep the liner as close to your lashes as possible, as most of your eyelid will not show when your eyes are fully open.

Close-Set Eyes: Start your liner near the middle of your eye and extend past the outer edge on both the top and bottom lashes. Then, add a bit of shimmer to the inside corners to brighten them.

Brown Ey : Bl Ey :

Brown eyes are already neutral, so you have a lot of room to play around with different colors. Some of the boldest eyeliner shades for brown eyes are jewel tones, rich berry tones, emerald green and deep purple. For a more subtle approach to simply brighten the eyes, a gold eyeliner focused on the inner corners works wonders.

HazOn the color wheel, the contrasting color to blue is yellow. While you don’t need to take that literally, ﬂaxen colors are a good choice for blue eyes, like golden brown, bronze and copper. Warm-toned eyeliners like rusty orange give an “ocean eyes” effect.

Ey :

You already have tones of green, gold and brown in your eyes, making them inherently versatile. To bring out green tones in your eyes, purple, pink, burgundy and cranberry are all perfect choices. A rich teal or emerald green also makes hazel eyes pop.

GIt’s all about the burgundy for green eyes. No other shade brings out green eyes better than crimson eyeliner. It’s deﬁnitely a bolder option than basic black, but wearable and

‘Diorshow Stylo Waterproof Eyeliner in Pearly Gold (Nordstrom, $34)

No. 1 Pencil in Rococo (Glossier, $18)

Age Defying Eyeliner in Pine (Merle Norman, $21)

Clinique High Impact Gel Tech Eyeliner in Bronze Glow (Amazon, $28)

Estée Lauder Long-Lasting Waterproof Gel Eyeliner Pencil in Bronze (Amazon, $32)

Stila Stay All Day Smudge & Set Waterproof Gel Eye Liner in Cashmere (Ulta Beauty, $23)

ColourPop Multichrome

BFF Crème Gel Liner in Power Trip (Ulta Beauty, $9)

Urban Decay Glide-On Eye Pencil - Naked Cherry Collection (Sephora, $23)

Soft Touch Eye Pencil in Purple Gem (Merle Norman, $21)

Rare Beauty Perfect Strokes Longwear & Waterproof Gel Eyeliner in Compassion (Sephora, $20)

Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Eye Liner (REVOLVE, $29)

COVERGIRL Exhibitionist Kohl Eyeliner in Burgundy (Amazon, $6)

Stylish Sunkissed &

Even though we may be 5,000 miles away, the state of Kentucky is on a similar latitude to Greece, which means our summertime temps can feel pretty similar (minus the breathtaking views of the Mediterranean)! Even though we may not be summering in Santorini, our summer style at home should reflect the warm weather of our European counterparts. Who says we can’t copy the breathable fabrics and flowy fits found on a Grecian island in Lexington?

Vacation Vibes

Cool & Casual

Olana Flower Strappy Sandals (Free People, $70)

Mermaid Tears Bracelet (Ettika, $50)

Happy Hour Mini Dress (Peppermayo, $68)

Amari Pistachio Recycled Vegan Shoulder Bag (Ada & Lo, $72.50)

Easy Breezy Vest Crop Top in White (Fortunate One, $76) Easy Breezy Pant in White (Fortunate One, $82)

Santorini Choker (Atolea, $34)

Jessel Flat Sandal (Schutz, $79)

Out & About Get Dressy

Sun Kissed Sun Hat (Peggy’s, $55)

Luna Shorts in White (SABO, $66)

Dr. Scholl’s Time Off Win Sneaker in Powder Blue Fabric (Famous Footwear, $70)

Noelia Top in Sky Blue Stripes (La Comet, $35)

The Greece Resort Dress (Kenny Flowers, $158)

Blue Gaia Beaded Necklace 17” (Spartina 449, $58.80)

Hellen Braided Slide Sandal in Cognac Brown Leather (Sam Edelman, $90)

Santorini Beaded BagPrettyRobesShop (Etsy, $180)

Let’s Play Mmds!

Dive into summer with a splash of shimmer! From iridescent highlighters that catch the light like seashells to aquatic eyeshadows in dreamy blues and greens, we’re embracing bold, beachy glam that’s perfect for sun-soaked days and starry seaside nights. Whether you’re headed to a festival, a pool party, or just want to feel like a siren of the sea, these mermaid-approved makeup tips will have you glowing like treasure washed ashore. by Emma Reilly

Sfproof Setting Sp y:

If you truly want to look glam like a mermaid at the pool, you’ll need to protect your makeup from stray splashes. Prickly pear, agave, and glycerin provide extra hydration to protect from chlorine.

Surfproof Water Resistant No-Transfer Setting Spray With Niacinamide (Sephora, $35)

Glitt Gel:

Aloe vera gel with mixed-in glitter creates a perfect sparkly lip gloss or facial shimmer. It’s soothing with just the right amount of shimmer.

Mmd Moistiz:

Keep your skin soft and moisturized, even after a pool day. This is a great formula for summer, since it’s silky smooth and not oily or greasy.

Mermaid Milk Nutrient Glow Moisturizer (Ulta Beauty, $24)

Lavender Stardust Star Dust Glitter Pot in (Anthropologie, $14)

Gold Sglaze:

Disco Dres:

A shimmery, pigmented eyeshadow that will stick around all day! Plus, it includes Vitamin E, chamomile, and aloe vera to glide on smoothly and calm your skin.

Kulﬁ Zari Eyes Long-Lasting Crease-Proof Cream Eyeshadow in Disco Dreams (Sephora, $30)

Protect your skin and shimmer in the sun with this body mist. Scented like guava, so your beach day can be spent smelling fresh.

Golden Sunglaze Sheer Body Mist Sunscreen SPF 50 (Kopari, $39)

Shimm Cre:

Pely Lip Balm:

This honey-infused lip balm is a step between skincare and makeup. It glides on shimmer as it melts into your lips.

98% Naturally-Derived Honey Tint Balm in Pearly Lily (Guerlain, $40)

If you’d rather swipe on some glitter instead of spray, this product is for you! Available in smaller and larger sizes to bring with you on a beach day.

Oceanly Solid Tinted Shimmer Cream SPF 30 with Zinc Oxide (Attitude, $20)

Ombre Esstille:

Cooling Und Eye Gel:

Reduce facial pufﬁness with caffeine and seawater. Now you can look alert and awake even in the morning.

MILK Makeup Cooling Water Under Eye Gel Stick (Ulta Beauty, $28)

You can never go wrong with seashade eyeshadow! The signature case also includes a mirror for touch-ups.

Multi-Use Longwearing Eyeshadow in Jade Facette (Chanel, $40)

Oce Body Mist:

Now you can smell like an ocean breeze, even when you’re at home. Enjoy notes of honeysuckle, muguet, and pink sea salt.

Sel Océan Hair & Body Mist (Nordstrom, $28)

BeachReads!

Whether you’ll be lounging by the lake or sitting on the seashore, you’ll likely be passing the hours in the sun with a good book. Whether you’re a true crime junkie or a fan of romantasy, the aspects of a book that make it a beach read are always the same: 1.) It should whisk you away to another time and place. 2.) It should be compelling. 3.) It should be easy to read in parts throughout your vacay.

BeachNeeds!

Shibumi Shade ($295)

SMUK Silicone Page Keeper ($11.99/6)

Book Beau Water Resistant Sleeve ($27.99)

Ballast Beach Pillow ($36.95)

Lilly Pulitzer Cooler Bag ($35)

Peepers Readers Sunglasses ($32)

EmSeek Waterproof eReader Pouch ($14.99)

Minimalism is out; maximalism is so in! What better way to make a statement than with glamorous beading? Elevate any outﬁt with a little bling. Or really show off in an intricate, fully beaded dress! Once a kitschy style saved for the kids, sequins, beads and some added razzle-dazzle are trending for all ages. Make the trend your own with some fresh ideas!

Ciao Beaded Mini Dress (For Love and Lemons, $529)

Dream Song Beaded Dirty Olive Earrings (Urban Outﬁtters, $72)

Beaded Handbag (Carl Meyers, $215)

Starﬁsh Embroidered OnePiece Swimsuit (Saks Fifth Avenue, $265)

New York Bold Strapped Maxi Dress (Oceanus the Label, $770)

Beaded Fruit Icon Bag Charm (Anthropologie, $28)

Velma Nude Multi (Betsey Johnson, $139)

Tommy Beaded Bag Toile de Pup (Staud, $295)

De Siena Beaded Slide Sandals (Anthropologie, $260)

Pink Sol Beaded Top (Never Fully Dressed, $260)

Beaded Icon Shoe Charms (Anthropologie, $28)

Beaded Bag in Red (Hat Attack, $54)

Dream Song Beaded Fruit Earrings (Urban Outﬁtters, $45)

Leo Beaded Mini Dress in Fuschia (PepperMayo, $113)

Ocean Blue Beaded Headband with Rhinestone Details (Ada & Lo, $35)

Lolita Mini Dress (Mirchi by Kim, $640)

Semi-Precious Bubble Custom Bracelet (BaubleBar, $48)

Keep ‘Em Clean!

When washing beaded clothing, be extra gentle to avoid losing any beads. Hand wash what you can and spot-treat stained areas ﬁrst. If you have to put beaded clothes in the washer, turn them inside out, use the gentlest cycle and place items in a pillowcase or mesh bag.

Fish Hand Beaded Top Multi Color (Oceanus the Label, $310)

Lime Beaded Scallop Clutch (Ada & Lo, $59)

Beaded Skirt in Green (Mirror Palais, $995)

Insta Worthy Embellished Flat Sandals in Silver (Fashion Nova, $17)

Claim Your Monetary Sovereignty

For Your Family, For Your Business, For the Future

Only 21 million will ever exist. Bitcoin is the rarest asset on Earth. and RARE

Providing Professional Bitcoin Consulting in Kentucky Since 2018.

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JULY culinary

Lexington is a foodie destination. Our culinary scene is on par with many of the largest cities in America. Isn’t it time we celebrated that? From food-focused events to simply encouraging everyone to enjoy a good meal out on a restaurant patio, 250Lex is highlighting our city’s remarkable culinary heritage in the month of July.

Connie Jo Miller

Lexington Restaurant Week

ambassador:

by Mary Jane Speer, courtesy of

PUBLIX PLAYBOOK your

At this point, if you’ve visited almost any city in the deep South, chances are you’ve stumbled into a Publix store at least once. The grocery chain, known for its signature Pub Subs, deli and bakery sections, first opened in Florida in 1930. This year, the store has finally made its debut in Lexington with two current stores – the first at Citation Point and the second at The Fountains at Palomar – and a third slated to open in Chevy Chase. With its cult-like following, there is no shortage of tips and tricks for making the most of your Publix run. So grab your grocery list and get shopping! by Emma Reilly

p #1: Customize Your Pub Sub

Once only known as a beachside staple on vacation, Publix coming closer to home means that the famous Pub Subs are available for any occasion. With over 70 basic combinations available on the deli menu, you can customize each sub to your preference. A favorite combination is asking for the chicken tender sub tossed in sauce. You can also use any meat or cheese found at the deli or any condiment or topping found around the store.

If you’d like a different kind of bread, ﬁnd your favorite in the bread aisle and take it to the counter when ordering your sub … they will make it happen! Plus, if you order your sub on sliced sandwich bread, most stores will make you two whole sandwiches for the price of one full sandwich.) To save some time, you can also order your sandwich online and through the Publix app.

p #2: Steam Seaf d & Shop

Another unique feature that makes Publix stand out is in the seafood section. When you order your cut of shrimp, ﬁsh or crab legs, you can ask someone behind the counter to season and steam it for you. With a variety of seasonings, from lemon pepper to Old Bay, and no extra charge, you can have ready-to-eat seafood in about three minutes.

p #3: I A in How You Slice It

A big draw of Publix comes from their fresh breads made in the bakery department, most of which are sold in uncut loaves. But if you’d rather have it presliced for sandwiches, just ask! You can even choose the thickness of your slices.

p #4: Chop Up Your Fruit

If you’re not a fan of cutting whole fruits (think watermelons and pineapples), a produce associate can help you slice it how you’d like, at no extra cost.

p #5: Break Down Roti erie Chix

Not only does Publix offer great-tasting rotisserie chicken that makes dinnertime a breeze, but they’ll even break it down for you, too! You can save messy hands for another day and take your meal home warm and ready to eat. This may take a few minutes if the store is crowded, though, so it’s best to ask at the start of your shopping trip and return when you’re ﬁnished.

p #6: Reward Your A ociates

If a store associate has been extra helpful, be sure to leave a compliment at the service desk, and it will be relayed to the manager on duty, who will reward that employee with a free sub or popcorn chicken.

PHOTO / FACEBOOK: ANTHONY ZUCCI

BEST BUYS AT PUBLIX

Fried Chicken

Some believe the secret is celery salt. Maybe it’s magic. Who knows?

Pub Subs

How could we not mention Pub Subs? They’re a perfect grab-and-go lunch or dinner when a recipe falls through.

Pi a Dough

Their pizza dough is made in-house every day, and if you can ﬁnd it, there is also pre-rolled dough.

Bakery Bread & Buns

Publix’s fresh-baked brioche hamburger and hotdog buns are always a favorite.

Ice eam

We admire the commitment to seasonal ice cream ﬂavors all year long.

Watercress

Did you know? Watercress is one of the oldest known leafy vegetables to be consumed by humans.

You probably enjoy watercress all the time but probably don’t think about it too much. A member of the mustard and cabbage family, with brassica cousins like kale and broccoli, watercress is often the unsung hero of microgreen mixes. Once absolutely ubiquitous, watercress has taken a backseat to other greens in recent years, and we think that’s a real shame.

If you’re not familiar with it, watercress is a small, rapidly growing perennial native to Eurasia, but it’s cultivated in temperate climates across the globe. It’s a semi-aquatic plant that produces charming little four-petaled white flowers when let grow. The hollow stems float in water. Watercress offers a peppery flavor, similar to arugula. It’s rich in Vitamins K, A, C and B6, as well as riboflavin, calcium and manganese. Nutritionists especially prize watercress for its high Vitamin K content; this nutrient is essential for proper blood clotting and helps support healthy bones. They also contain antioxidants, which studies are showing may potentially support your wellbeing and longevity.

Watercress can be used just about anywhere you’d use another leafy green. It works well in pesto, soups, smoothies, stir fry, relish, salads, omelets and more. You can also use it as a bright, nutritious garnish.

Probably the most common use of watercress is a tea time sandwich. This green is typically paired with a creamy spread on untoasted bread, then cut into triangles for a light, refreshing snack. We recommend slipping a little watercress into your next egg salad sandwich for a subtle peppery bite.

Love watercress? It’s fairly easy to keep your own growing indoors. Choose a container with a drainage that can fit inside a larger planter with none. Fill the smaller container with moist potting soil and plant your seeds. Fill the outer container with water just to the edge of the upper container’s bottom to ensure that the soil stays moist but not soaking. Place the pots in a window that receives gentle, indirect light. (Watercress can also be grown outdoors in a water feature or wet area of your yard next year!) by Amanda Harper

KITCHEN CULTURE

WINE ALL for

Wine has been in production for over 8,000 years. So isn’t it about time that we got a few innovations in the world of vino?

The wine industry has brought us some exciting options in recent years, from zerosugar wines to wines suitable for a sober lifestyle. That means everyone can finally raise a glass together.

Wondering how to locate a wine that’s right for you? There are plenty of tools out there, but some simply aren’t beginnerfriendly. Here’s what we recommend.

Vivino is the gold standard of wine apps; even many experts won’t enter a wine store without it. It offers the most crowdsourced wine reviews at your fingertips. You can scan bottle labels or even a wine menu and get instant information.

Wine-Searcher is another great app that fans of wine find incredibly helpful. They have great recommendations based on pairings, styles and more.

Wine Enthusiast Magazine is for true wine nerds, but their website has a section of Basics geared toward anyone interested in learning more about wine.

Wine Folly is another website with lots of resources for getting into wine. Their book, Wine Folly: The Essential Guide to Wine, is highly recommended.

Instagram isn’t exactly a specialized wine resource... but it can be! Getting the latest news and recommendations directly from wine experts is as easy as a quick Follow. So get connected! by Amanda Harper

Zero-Sugar

Aside from being lower in calories and better for blood sugar management, this style of wine allows the flavors of the grapes to really shine through.

Non-Alcoholic

Sober living doesn’t have to be boring. These wines have no or extremely low alcohol content, but all of the flavor of a traditional wine.

Low-Alcohol

With a lower alcohol content, these refreshing wines are perfect for summer sipping. As a bonus, the subtle flavor notes are often more apparent!

Thomson & Scott Noughty Dealcoholized Sparkling Chardonnay ($29)

Lietz Eins Zwei Zero Riesling ($17.99)

Studio Null Prickly Red ($34)

Giesen Dealcoholized New Zealand Rosé ($24)

6.5%: 90+ Cellars Lot 134 Moscato d’Asti ($12.49)

9%: Bread & Butter Sliced Chardonnay ($15.99) 6.5% Arlow Cabernet Sauvignon ($22)

9% Osmosis Rosé ($14.99)

Sunny With a Chance of Flowers Bubbly Rosé ($14.99)

Folly of the Beast Chardonnay ($21)

BASK Cabernet Sauvignon ($13)

Gratsi Boxed Rosé ($50/3 bottle equivalent)

Barbecue Bonanza

Barbecue is hot right now. While it may be a timeless tradition, these grilled, smoked, rubbed, mopped and sauced foods are making their mark on the culinary scene. As summer rolls around, people are enjoying barbecue in their own backyards as often as they’re grabbing it from local eateries. If you’re ready to join in this barbecue bonanza, we have the tips and tricks to make you a cookout maverick. by Amanda Harper

StockCake

What's your BBQ style?

Kansas City

If you buy a jarred barbecue sauce at the store, it will most likely be a take on Kansas City-style sauce: expect a thick, heavily seasoned molasses and tomato sauce. In KC, barbecue generally consists of pork ribs, brisket, sausages or their famed burnt ends – the cubed fatty point of brisket, sauced and caramelized over the grill.

Memphis

Memphis is another common template for bottled barbecue sauce; it’s a thinner tomato-based sauce with a nice balance of sweet and tangy but with a heavier dose of smoke. In Memphis, if you’re getting barbecue, you’re most likely getting pork, be it pulled pork shoulder or ribs; the meat is often treated to a dry rub before it hits the flame.

Texas

Texans make their thin, lightly seasoned tomato barbecue sauce with beef drippings to ensure that the emphasis stays on the meat. You’re generally looking at brisket, ribs and smoked sausages on a Texas BBQ plate; as such, the meat is sometimes treated with dry rubs.

Carolina

Saying that there’s a single Carolina style of barbecue is misleading, but there are strong commonalities. First, the meat will generally be pork; most is smoked whole hog, mopped with a vinegar-based sauce. In South Carolina, however, you’ll get a mustard-based sauce on the side.

Alabama

Alabama white sauce, made of mayonnaise, vinegar, salt and pepper, is a unique offering in the world of barbecue. Most of the meat you’ll find down there is poultry or pork, but beef is becoming more common.

Kentucky

We’d be remiss not to mention our own style of barbecue! Smoked mutton served with a peppery vinegar sauce and Worcestershire dip is our claim to fame. But over the last 130 years or so, we’ve been developing a rep as a barbecue destination. Our proximity to so many different styles of barbecue makes us a veritable melting pot of flavors. We’re where Carolina meets Kansas City and melds with Memphis; you can find Alabama white sauce as often as you an find a Texas-style brisket. And yeah, we love to add a dash of bourbon in the mix!

Bourbon BBQ Sauce

1 c. ketchup

1/2 c. bourbon

3 T apple cider vinegar

3 T brown sugar

3 T sorghum molasses

2 T Worcestershire sauce

1 T Dijon mustard

1 T soy sauce

1 1/2 tsp. liquid smoke

1 tsp. garlic powder

1 tsp. onion powder

1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes

1/2 tsp. black pepper

Add ingredients to a saucepan over mediumhigh heat. Bring to a boil, stirring until sugar is completely dissolved. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring frequently, until sauce is reduced to about 2 cups, around 12 minutes. (adapted from Epicurious)

Did You Know?

Forget apple pie: there’s actually nothing more American than “barbecue!”

Etymologists believe the Spanish word barbacoa is where we get the term barbecue. However, they also believe that word actually has its origins in an indigenous American word found in the language of the Arawak people of the Caribbean and the Timucua people of Florida.

While Europe was certainly roasting meat over an open flame well before its ships arrived in the New World, explorers were impressed with the Arawak custom of roasting meat over a framework of sticks – called a barabicu

By suspending the meat above the flame, it allowed everything to cook more slowly and evenly. TBH, it’s pretty much how we do it today, whether in a smoker or on the grill.

Choose Your Sides

There’s an unspoken art to building the perfect barbecue plate. While the mains get all the focus, the sides are just as important. By balancing your flavor profiles, you create a whole that’s more than the sum of its parts.

One mistake many cookouts make is going too heavy on one category – often, it’s creamy dishes. While planning your menu, ensure each category is well represented. Your guests will appreciate the variety, as well as the subtle flavor differences from one bite to the next.

Creamy

Sides with creamy elements, such as mac n’ cheese, offer a comforting contrast to both the flavor and texture of the main.

Ideas: mashed potatoes, deviled eggs, potato salad

Tangy

Why do so many barbecue sandwiches come with a pickle? That bright zip cuts through the heaviness of the main.

Ideas: collard greens, pasta salad, coleslaw

Sweet

There’s always dessert at a good BBQ joint. Why is that? Sweet elements can offset smoky, tomatobased sauces nicely.

Ideas: cornbread, corn pudding, nanner puddin’

Smoky

On the flip side, a side that offers a smoky profile can blend right in with the mains, amplifying that flavor throughout the plate.

Ideas: baked beans, charred peppers, smoked sausage

Fresh

A bite of something from the garden–like a slice of watermelon–gives you a break from the bold flavors found elsewhere.

Ideas: fruit salad, broccoli salad, salad

Mix It Up

The best sides for barbecue tend to encompass a couple of these flavor profiles. Coleslaw is both tangy and creamy. Baked beans are both smoky and sweet. Corn on the cob can be smoky, fresh, sweet, and creamy, depending how you dress it. Dishes with some flavor overlap can help create an interesting cookout spread in a snap!

Equip Yourself

Smoker ($699)

Best Pellet Smoker

Traeger Woodridge Pro Electric Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker ($1,150)

Best Everyday Gas Grill Weber SPIRIT 4-Burner Grill ($679)

The Unbeatable O.G. Weber 22” Original Kettle Charcoal Grill ($219)

Best Kamado-Style Kamado Joe Konnected Joe Digital Charcoal Grill & Smoker ($1,999)

Sweet Cola Ribs

2 racks pork spare ribs, about 3 lbs. each rack

Sweet Cola Sauce

1 T vegetable oil

1 onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, finely chopped

2 c. ketchup

1 can cola

1/2 c. apple cider vinegar

2 T brown sugar

1/2 T pepper

1/2 T onion powder

1/2 T ground mustard

1/2 T lemon juice

1 T Worcestershire sauce

Dry Rub

2 T salt

2 T brown sugar

2 tsp. garlic powder

2 tsp. onion powder

1 tsp. ground cumin

1 tsp. chili powder

1 tsp. pepper

For dry rub: Whisk ingredients together in a small bowl. To prepare ribs: Rinse ribs and pat dry. Trim membrane and excess fat. Apply dry rub to both sides, and rub in to coat. Wrap with plastic wrap and refrigerate 4 hours.

Prepare ribs: Preheat grill to 250°F. Place ribs meaty side down on grill away from coals. Close and cook for 1 hour 15 minutes, flipping several times for even cooking.

For the sauce: While cooking the ribs, add oil to a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once heated, add onion and garlic; sauté until tender. Add remaining sauce ingredients and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring frequently, for a little over 1 hour.

Brush about 2/3 of the sauce over the ribs, reserving the rest for serving. Cook ribs for an additional 20 minutes. (adapted from Food Network)

Notes: Do not use Diet cola in this recipe, as you need the sugar to help the sauce thicken and caramelize.

Can you use other varieties of pop? You bet! Dr. Pepper, orange soda and Ale-8-One add their own distinctive punch to the sauce. But for a more classic sauce, then stick to regular Coke or Pepsi!

There's the Rub...

Do rubs matter? (Yes.)

A dry rub is a blend of spices and herbs that is physically rubbed into the surface of food – often proteins, but you can add a rub to veggies – to add flavor before cooking. The spices not only impart flavor but also texture to the final dish.

A dry rub typically starts with salt. Salt, especially on the surface of meat, draws moisture out. While that sounds like the opposite of what you’d want to have happen, that’s only step one in the magic. The salt dissolves into that moisture, mixing with the spices that surround it. That salty brine is then reabsorbed by the meat. This causes a drier surface, which IS a good thing: a dry surface browns better.

The key is allowing a dry rub to do its work. The process of drawing moisture and reabsorption takes at least 45 minutes. However, it’s entirely permissible to leave a steak dry brining for a day or two to ensure things really get where they need to be.

BBQ Rub

3/4 c. turbinado sugar

3/4 c. dark brown sugar

1/2 c. paprika (smoked or regular)

3 T fine sea salt or Kosher salt

4 tsp. onion powder

4 tsp. garlic powder

1 T chili powder

1 1/2 tsp. celery seeds

1 1/2 tsp. cumin seeds

1 1/2 tsp. yellow mustard seeds

1 1/2 tsp. coriander seeds

1 1/2 tsp. dried oregano

1 1/2 tsp. ground black pepper

1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper

Mix together all ingredients. Store in an airtight container until ready to use. (Better Homes and Gardens)

Smoked Deviled Eggs

7 boiled eggs, peeled

Why all the rubbing? Massaging the dry rub mixture into the meat ensures that all surfaces are coated and that the mixture is adhering properly. It also is thought to help with absorption, as the process can create microtears in the surface.

A wet rub is all the ingredients of a dry rub mixed in with a liquid such as oil or vinegar to create a paste that can be applied to the surface of the meat. Generally, wet rubs are most often employed when the meat is cooked with a low-and-slow method. The additional liquid can help prevent the meat from drying out, especially if the rub is reapplied during cooking. It still needs those magical 45 minutes of time to rest first, however.

Which is right for you? Dry rubs are great for just about any meat or situation. Wet rubs tend to be messier, so they’re generally reserved for brisket and pork shoulders. Both methods produce juicer, more flavorful meat with a delicious crust.

3 T mayonnaise

3 tsp. chives, chopped

1 tsp. brown mustard

1 tsp. apple cider vinegar

Hot sauce (see notes)

2 T cooked bacon, crumbled

Preheat smoker to 180°F. Place the eggs directly on the grill grates. Close the lid and smoke for 30 minutes. Remove from grill and set aside to cool. When cool, slice in half lengthwise and remove the yolks to a medium bowl; set the whites aside.

To the yolks, add mayonnaise, chives, mustards, vinegar and a dash of hot sauce (or more to taste). Mash with a fork until filling is smooth; salt and pepper to taste.

Transfer to a gallon-sized zip-top bag. Cut a hole in the corner to create a 1/2” opening. Pipe the yolk mixture into the reserved egg whites’ cavities. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Top with sprinkled bacon. In desired, garnish with a light dusting of unused barbecue rub seasoning or smoked paprika. (adapted from Traeger Grills)

Notes: A smoky hot sauce will imbue even more smoked flavor. Sauces feature chipotle or smoky ghost pepper are great – just be sure you can handle the heat!

Vegetarian 'Cue

Our vegetarian and vegan friends shouldn’t be left out of the backyard barbecue bonanza! There are lots of plant-based protein options that are perfect for grilling, smoking and more.

Portobello Mushrooms

Everyone should be grilling their ‘shrooms! You can grill the caps of large portobello mushrooms or whole cremini, known as “baby bellos.” Just lightly brush them with a neutral, heat-safe oil and grill until tender. Many people skewer mushrooms to make turning them a whole lot easier.

Tofu

Many prefer to marinate their tofu before grilling to impart a little extra flavor. If you prefer it plain, simply coat all sides with a neutral cooking oil and any spices you’d like to add.

Tempeh

If you’d like to grill your tempeh, be sure to soak it in a marinade for at least 1 hour. Otherwise, it may turn out just a bit dry.

Cauliflower

Brush large “steaks” of cauliflower with a neutral cooking oil and seasonings. Grill for about 5 minutes per side. You can add barbecue sauce or rub for additional flavor.

Halloumi

Who doesn’t love melty cheese?! Rub both sides with olive oil and grill for 2-3 minutes per side. So easy! You can also smoke it at low heat for a delicious treat.

Meat Alternatives

Today’s meat alternatives are convincing replacements for the real thing. Follow package instructions for grilling and enjoy!

Baked Beans

You can prepare baked beans on the grill or smoker for an even more delicious flavor. Many pre-made baked beans contain at least some meat or non-vegan ingredients, so it’s best to make them from scratch. Worry not; most recipes are easy to prepare, and making them yourself allows you to tweak the flavors to your taste. Add them to a Dutch oven or a grilling tray.

Feel the Chill

The arrival of the hottest months of summer mean we’re all reaching for chilly treats to help us cool off. If you’re dreaming of some sweet relief from the heat, then you’re in the right place... by Amanda Harper

Chills & Thrills

No Churn Ice Cream Base

1 1/2 c. whole milk, chilled 3/4 c. sugar

2 c. heavy cream, chilled

1 T vanilla extract

1/4 tsp. salt

In a large bowl, beat together milk and sugar until sugar is fully dissolved. Stir in the cream, vanilla and salt until combined. Pour mixture into a quart-sized Ziploc bag, squeezing out as much air as possible and seal. Lay bag flat in the freezer; let freeze until solid, around 6 hours.

Remove from freezer and break up into chunks. Add to your food processor and pulse until smooth. Fold in any mix-ins you want to add.

Pour into an airtight container. Cover and freeze until ready to serve. (adapted from Handle the Heat)

Mix-in Ideas:

- Your favorite jam

- Dulce de leche or thick caramel sauce

- 1/2 c. coarsely chopped cookies

- Marshmallow fluff

- Sundae fudge

- Peanut butter or cookie butter

- Miniature chocolate chips

- Macerated fruit

- 2 T. instant espresso powder

- Cereal

Piña Coladas for Everybody

2 c. pineapple juice

3/4 c. cream of coconut

4 c. ice

Maraschino cherries

Pineapple wedges

Pour pineapple juice and cream of coconut into a blender; add ice. Blend until smooth, about 1 minute. Divide between 4 glasses. Garnish with maraschino cherries and pineapple wedges. Be sure to add a little paper umbrella! (adapted from House of Nash Eats)

Popsicles!

Making popsicles is a fun summer activity that everyone can enjoy. If stored in an airtight container, they can chill in your freezer for up to six months - if they don’t all get gobbled up in the summer heat! Here’s a basic popsicle recipe template that should produce delicious frozen treats every time. Remember that you can always jazz them up with fun add-ons, so don’t be afraid to get creative!

Popsicle Base

2 c. fruit (see notes)

1 c. coconut milk or yogurt

3 T honey or agave syrup

Add ingredients to a blender, and blend until smooth. Pour into molds, insert popsicle sticks and freeze for at least 5 hours, but ideally overnight.

Notes: Bear in mind that you can mix multiple fruits together – or even use sweet veggies, such as carrots and cucumbers! You can use fresh or frozen; if you’d like to use canned fruit, be sure to drain it first. With fresh fruit, if necessary, seed and peel the fruit, then chop it into chunks before blending.

Piña Colada

Pineapple, coconut milk, agave syrup, a cherry in each popsicle

Creamsicle

Mandarin oranges, vanilla Greek yogurt, honey

Green Dream

Avocado, kiwi, coconut milk, agave syrup, squeeze of lime juice in each popsicle

Berry Good

Strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, yogurt, honey

Tropical

Mango, pineapple, coconut milk, honey, sprinkle of Tajín on top

Local is Cool!

Sorella Gelateria

519 W. Short St. | sorellagelateria.com

This little shop specializes in hand-crafted, small-batch Italian gelato and sorbetto. The rich, creamy flavors rotate daily, so you’ll discover something new every time you stop.

Sav’s Gourmet Ice Cream

819 National Ave. | savslex.com

Scoop up something delicious over on National Avenue. Sav has been making incredible ice cream and sorbet since 2012 with chef-inspired flavors like Blackberry, Bourbon Ball and Spicy Banana.

Frozen in Time

189 E. Brannon Rd. | @frozenintimeky

This locally owned and operated ice cream shop in Brannon Crossing is a hidden gem with vanilla and chocolate custard, Dole Whip, hand-dipped ice cream and more sweet treats.

El Lounge Ice Cream and

Snacks

1439 Alexandria Dr. | @elloungeky

From frappes to Mangonadas, paletas to classic scoops, you’ll always find something flavorful and delightful at El Lounge. Their fresh fruit salads, yogurt parfaits and more are oh so refreshing.

Never Too Much Creamery

110 W. Sixth St. | @nevertoomuch_icecream

This shop specializes in making all of your childhood dreams come true – at least in terms of your wildest cravings! Their overthe-top milkshakes are a feature of locals’ social feeds for a reason.

BoozyTreats

Sweet Tea Bourbon Slush

6 c. hot brewed tea

1 c. sugar

12oz. frozen lemonade concentrate

6oz. frozen orange juice concentrate

2 c. bourbon

In a large heatproof bowl, stir together tea and sugar until completely dissolved. Add lemonade and orange juice concentrates and stir until fully combined. Let cool 1 hour, then stir in bourbon until fully incorporated. Pour mixture into a large freezer-safe container. Cover and freeze until almost firm, 8 hours to overnight.

To serve, thaw at room temperature for about 1 hour. Spoon into glasses and serve immediately. (adapted from Southern Living)

Notes: If there are large chunks in the mixture, break them up with a fork. If you want a fizzy touch, top your glass with Ale-8.

Cookies & Cream Milkshake

2 pints vanilla ice cream, softened 10 Oreos

2 oz. Baileys Irish Cream

2 oz. vanilla vodka

Add ingredients to a blender; blend until smooth. Pour into glasses. If desired, garnish with additional crumbles of Oreo. (adapted from The Chunky Chef)

Creamsicle Prosecco Float

1 scoop vanilla ice cream

1 scoop orange sherbet Prosecco

Add scoops to a large stemless wine glass. Slowly pour prosecco along the sides, careful not to overfill as the drink foams up. If desired, garnish with a slice of orange. (adapted from Spices in My DNA)

Sweet Facts:

July is National Ice Cream Month! • According to the International Dairy Foods Association, the average person eats about 19 pounds of ice cream per year – that’s about 4 gallons! • Last year, American ice cream makers churned out 1.3 billion gallons of ice cream! • The third Sunday of July is National Ice Cream Day... celebrate on July 20th!

Summer in Kentucky means front porch swings, festivals, lake trips and long, sunny days that stretch well into the evening. But while you’re soaking up the good vibes, the sun might be soaking up more than its share of your energy.

Between heat exhaustion and surprise sunburns, too much summer fun can take its toll if you’re not careful. But don’t sweat it – we’ve got the lowdown on staying cool, keeping your skin happy and making the most of those golden rays without feeling the burn. by Emma Reilly

Tips for Keeping Cool

1. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol, as those will dehydrate you faster.

2. Never leave kids or pets in your vehicle, even for a few minutes. The inside temperature of your car can quickly rise to 120 degrees, even when the outside is not too hot.

3. Check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning or are more likely to be affected by extreme temperatures.

4. If you don’t have air conditioning in your home, seek relief from the heat in public places like malls, libraries, theaters, etc.

5. Avoid extreme temperature changes, like from extreme heat to extreme cold.

6. Wear loose-fitting, lightweight and lightcolored clothing. This will absorb less of the sun’s rays and prevent constriction.

7. During the hottest part of the day, try to stay indoors and avoid strenuous activity.

8. Postpone any outdoor games or activities in extreme heat, and pay attention to the heat index, not just the outside temperature.

9. Wear sunscreen when outdoors, even when it’s cloudy. You are still susceptible to UV rays, even through clouds.

Heat Exhaustion vs. Heat Stroke

Excessive heat can lead to sunburn, heat cramps and heat-related illnesses, like heat exhaustion and heat stroke. If someone is experiencing heat cramps in their legs or abdomen, take them to a cooler place to rest and have them lightly stretch the area and replenish their fluids (drink half a glass of water every 15 minutes).

Beat the HEAT

Signs of heat exhaustion are: heavy sweating, cool/ moist/pale skin, headache, nausea, dizziness or weakness.

If someone is feeling these symptoms, make sure to move them to a cooler place and spray the person with water or apply a cool, wet cloth to their skin while loosening their clothing. You can fan the person with cool air and give them fluids to drink, making sure they drink slowly. If the person vomits, refuses water or begins to lose consciousness, call 9-1-1.

Heat stroke is a severe medical emergency. If someone around you is experiencing heat stroke, call 9-1-1 first, then take them to a cooler place (preferably air-conditioned) and reduce their body temperature with cool, wet towels or a bath up to their neck. Do NOT give them fluids, and only use a fan on them if the heat index is below the high 90s – a fan can actually make you hotter in hot temperatures.

Signs of heat stroke include: hot, red skin, throbbing headache, confusion, slurred speech, dizziness, nausea, rapid/strong pulse, fainting or loss of consciousness or body temperature above 103 degrees.

Protect Your Pets

Your pets are just as susceptible to extreme heat as you are (especially furry animals or ones that are primarily kept outside!). And they can’t tell you what they need, so it’s easy to forget to keep them cool and keep them safe in the summer. Here are a few tips to prevent your pets from overheating:

1. Never leave them in a hot car, even with the windows down. Temperatures will rise quicker than outside.

2. Keep all unscreened doors or windows closed to prevent animals from falling out of them.

3. Trim longer hair for the summer, but never shave your pets.

4. Brush cats more often than usual to prevent problems associated with excessive heat.

5. Do not leave pets unsupervised around a pool or body of water. And don’t let them drink water from pools, rivers, oceans or lakes.

6. Introduce pets to water gradually, and make sure they wear flotation devices when on boats.

7. Rinse dogs off after swimming to remove chlorine or salt from their fur.

8. Avoid hot surfaces, such as asphalt, that can burn your pets’ feet. When they have to go

outside, take them to a grassy area instead of pavement.

9. Avoid taking them for walks during the heat of the day or particularly warm days.

10. Make sure garden or indoor plants are petsafe (not toxic to your pets).

Preventing Heat Stroke in Pets

Just like humans, pets can also get heat stroke when it is too hot. Dogs with short noses/snouts, like boxers or bulldogs, overweight pets, those with extremely thick fur or any pet with upper respiratory problems are especially prone to heat stroke.

Some signs of heat stroke in pets are: heavy panting, even when lying down, brick-red gum color, fast pulse or inability to get up. Cool the animal down and bring them to the vet as soon as possible to prevent possible organ dysfunction and damage caused by heat stroke.

The Red Cross app is a good resource for heat-related emergencies in pets and people, with first-aid instructions, a list of toxic substances, a hospital locator and medical profile storage. •

July 1

Thursday Night Live

Through Oct. | Fifth Third Bank Pavilion

July 2

4th of July Ice Cream Social

5:30 PM | Tandy Park

Manchester Orchestra

8:00 PM | The Burl

July 3

Lexington Tattoo Expo

Through Jul. 6 | Rupp Arena & Central Bank Center

Fourth of July Eve Patriotic Concert

5:00 PM | Transylvania University

Joe Deuce

7:00 PM | Comedy O Broadway

July 4

Lexington Legends vs. Southern

Maryland

Through Jul. 6 | Legends Field

Bluegrass 10,000

7:25 AM | Downtown Lexington

JULY 2025 // WHAT’S HAPPENING IN TOWN THIS MONTH?

July 4

Downtown 4th of July Festival

10:00 AM | Downtown Lexington

Lexington’s 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular

10:00 PM | Tandy Park

July 5

Coca-Cola Collectors Convention 9:00 AM | Gri n Gate Hotel

Summer Nights: Red White & Blues

5:30 PM | Moondance Ampitheater

July 7

Lexington Junior League Charity Horse Show

Through Jul. 12 | Kentucky Horse Park

July 8

Music In the Park

Through Aug. 12 | Ecton Park

July 9

Creed - Summer of ‘99 Tour

7:00 PM | Rupp Arena

July 10

42nd Street Through Jul. 13 | Lexington Opera House

Casey Rocket Through Jul. 12 | Comedy O Broadway

July 11

Breyerfest 2025 Through Jul. 13 | Kentucky Horse Park

July 12

Ghost Walk of Lexington 8:00 PM | Carnegie Center

July 15

Lexington Legends vs. Gastonia Through Jul. 17 | Legends Field

July 17

Marcus D. Wiley Through Jul. 19 | Comedy O Broadway

Lexington Restaurant Week Through Jul. 27 | Local Restaurants

July 18

Lexington Legends vs. Southern Maryland Through Jul. 20 | Legends Field

LexArts Hop TBA | LexArts

July 18

Music at The Mansion with Five Below Band

6:00 PM | The Mansion at Gri n Gate

July 19

Blackberry Harvest Festival Through Jul. 20 | Wildside Winery

The Dinner Detective True Crime

Mystery Dinner Show

6:00 PM | Hilton Lexington Downtown

July 24

Tea & Talk at Waveland

11:00 AM | Waveland Historical Site

Silversun Pickups

8:00 PM | The Burl Outdoors

July 25

Candlelight: Tribute to Queen and The Beatles

8:45 PM | Limestone Hall

July 26

R.J. Corman Tour de Lex 10:00 AM | 4089 Iron Works Parkway

STEM Day

10:00 AM | Lexington Children’s Museum

Woodford Humane Society

Summer Gala 6:00 PM | Keeneland

July 26

Lexington Sporting Club vs. Louisville City FC (Men’s) 7:00 PM | Lexington SC Stadium

July 27

Lexington REGGAE-FEST TBA | 302 Southland Dr.

July 29

Lexington Legends vs. High Point Through Aug. 3 | Legends Field

July 31

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat Through Aug. 3 | Lexington Opera House

July 31

Education Builds Hope 11:30 AM | The Carrick House

Royal Summer Princess Ball 4:00 PM | The Kentucky Castle

August 1

Lexington Legends vs. High Point Through Aug. 3 | Legends Field

August 2

Bluegrass Corvette Cruise-In 10:00 AM | Gri n Gate Hotel

Zinnia Festival Through Aug. 10 | Wildside Winery

Kentucky Comes Together

Story by Larry Vaught / Photos courtesy of UK Athletics

Kentucky offensive lineman Jager Burton was in Florida doing some extra training for the upcoming college football season when he saw the news about the devastating tornadoes that hit London and Somerset in May.

He had relatives on his mother’s side of the family who lived in the area but, fortunately, were not harmed. Still, he realized he wanted to do something to help and reached out to UK officials, including Susan Lax, UK’s primary football communications/public relations contact, about wanting to help victims in any way possible.

Next thing Burton knew, UK officials convinced WLEXTV to get involved in a relief drive spearheaded by Burton and UK basketball player Trent Noah, an Eastern Kentucky native.

“It just kind of blossomed from there. It blew up, and people started dropping stuff off at our donation site,” Burton, a fifth-year senior from Lexington, said. “I underestimated just how much stuff we would collect. I know how Kentucky people are about helping out, but I was worried about how we could get the word out so quickly. It would not have been possible without WLEX and their people. They even helped load and unload what we collected.”

Kentucky football players had not yet reported back to campus, but Burton still had 10 teammates help load the donations, and four more go with him and others to deliver the relief items. He said many others told him they would have helped if they had been in town, and several drove back to Lexington early to help.

“Once we got there (London) to deliver the items, it was far worse than I ever imagined,” the former Frederick Douglass standout said.

Burton, Noah and UK football player Jerod Smith ended up in some of the hardest-hit areas and took time to talk to various tornado victims.

“I know I will always take tornado warnings way more

seriously now. There were houses where people did what you are supposed to in a tornado, but it didn’t matter. It was awful to see,” he said.

“You would be looking through rubble and seeing baby bottles. It was so eye-opening to see the destruction and definitely made me more grateful that I was there at least trying to help and do something.”

Burton, who graduated in December with a degree in communication and is working on a graduate certificate in sports, fitness and recreation management, didn’t really know what to say to the victims other than he was sorry and would pray for them.

“We saw people from churches dropping bags off to help others. Everybody was so high-spirited and so happy to see us and thanked us,” Burton said. “This is not going away soon. A lot of people saw the news headlines, but this cleanup and relief will take a long time, and we need to keep helping those people.”

Burton admits seeing the damage changed his perspective on life.

“Separating personal and football is not something I am really good at,” Burton said. “You see stuff, and it might impact how you view yourself or view yourself as a football player. You want to be the best player you can be, win games, go play in the NFL and work every day to do that, but seeing this makes you appreciate the little things in life that I take for granted.

“This will help me be a better football player. I won’t just wake up in the morning, but I will thank God I did wake up and that everything is still okay in my life.”

“I am just thankful I have a platform where I could help. Some people would love to help but don’t have the platform I do as a Kentucky football player, so that’s why I did what I did,” Burton, who had played in 38 games at UK with 34 starts, said. “I appreciate everyone who donated items, and hopefully we can keep helping those folks because they need it.”

GETTO KNOW “DeadAir” Dennis Dillon

If you’ve listened to Lexington radio in the last four decades, chances are you’ve heard the unmistakable voice of “DeadAir” Dennis Dillon.

With a radio career that began in August 1986 at a humble 1,000-watt station in small-town Ohio, Dennis has since made his mark in cities like Chattanooga, Cincinnati, and Louisville. But it’s Lexington that he calls home — and has for the past 33 of his 39 years on the air.

Now the Program Director at Classic Rock 92.1 since 2020, Dennis’s passion for music and storytelling shines through daily.

A five-time Lexington Music Awards winner, a 2023 Appalachian Arts & Entertainment Awards recipient, and a national 1998 A.I.R. Competition firstplace finisher, he’s respected not just for his voice, but for his mentorship. “My greatest success is the people I have worked with and watched grow throughout the industry,” he says.

“Radio today is just as exciting as it was when I began 39 years ago,” Dennis adds. “It will always be about the listeners, the interaction, and the freedom to create and connect — which is a particular point of interest for the LM Communications family, who have gone out of their way to emphasize live and local DJs and serving our amazing community.”

Known affectionately as “DeadAir,” Dennis got his nickname due to his habit of becoming more preoccupied with his in-studio guests than the actual record he was playing on the air. Off the air, he performs with The DeadAir Dennis & Bryan Himes Experience, spends time with his newly adopted German Short-Haired Pointer ‘River,’ and enjoys life with Tracie — his wife of 22 years. He’s also proud of his time as a foster parent and is currently looking forward to his ﬁrst trip to Ireland.

Dennis Dillon is not just a radio legend — he’s a Lexington institution.

Photo by Grace Schlonsky

Photo by Bill French

Out & abOut!

Jim Richardson at LexArts Songwriters and Storytellers: A Bluebird Café Experience

John Paul Miller, Jeremy Barker, Ron Turner and Troy Turner at the Murphy Doors grand opening

250Lex: It’s Showtime!

SoulTeenth Fest

Paul Miller Mazda 45th Anniversary

LCA Graduation

Sherry Holley, Tori Wood and Crinda Francke at the Emerging Entrepreneurs Pitch Contest

Julie Quick at the ArtsConnect Paint the Town

Everett McCorvey at It’s a Grand Night for Singing!

TOP EVENTS! TOPS PREVIEW PARTY

June 12 • Carson’s at Andover • photos by Woody Phillips

Meredith Turk, Keith Yarber and Katie Cupp

Emma Reilly, Olivia Wells, Amanda Harper and Gari Lynn Rossi

Emma Kay Ruark and Grace Mitchell

Gavin O’Connor, Gerald Perry, Fran Elsen, Jayme Fichtner, Connor Perry and Carla Perry

Macy Frisby and Tanya Bolton

Dana Maloney and Allison Meade

Haley Norris

Kitty Lane and Carrie Patterson

Keith Yarber and Dana Powers

Connor Perry and Amanda Jo Harms

Mark Fichtner, Jayme Fichtner, Carson Fichtner and Brandi Fichtner

Vicki Evans, Alicia Cox, Laura Mobley-Corn, Ben Pickett and Tiffany Pickett

Megan Martin, Kara Gilley, Jeremy Sivils and Visal Miniard-Heng

TOP EVENTS! 250LEX: BIG ASS BOURBON TASTING

June 11 • LexLive •

photos by Woody Phillips

Abby Franklin and Drew Franklin

Joe Kawaja, Jamie Kawaja, Lori Nichols, Chris Nichols and Dave Baker

Charlie Gorton and Linda Gorton

Josh Pruitt, Mark Stoops and Eddie Gran

Kim Parker-Brown, Chris Weathers, Priscilla Johnson and Denotra Gunther

Erica Bivens and Joe Draper

Laura Farnsworth and Maria Folio

TOP EVENTS! RAILBIRD

May 31-June 1 • Red Mile • photos by Tracie

Dillon

KET SUMMER CELEBRATION

June 7 • Donamire Farm • photos by Mary Pace

TOP EVENTS!

Everett McCorvey, Linda Gorton, Deirdre Lyons, Alicia McCorvey, Bonnie Mays and friends

David Breeze and Patty Breeze

Judy Cooper, Bob Quick, Julie Quick and Mike Cooper

Lori Halligan, Mike Halligan, Ashley Tabb and Matt Tabb

Ben Haydon, Stephanie Bell, Stephen Hillenmeyer, Elizabeth Combs, Leah Adkins, Rocky Adkins and Kevin Weaver

Angela Evans and Renee Shaw

TOP EVENTS! FEAST FOR FOODCHAIN

May 23 • Fasig-Tipton • photos by Mary Pace

Toa Green and Erin Goins

Tatum Lewis and Kiptoo Tarus

John Ryan, Frank Hicks and Laz Parker II

Kristin Hughes and Becca Self

Wylie Caudill

Steve Zahn, Robyn Peterman, Ouita Michel, Henry Zahn and Audrey Zahn

RMHC BOURBON & BITES

May 2 • Bluegrass Stockyards • photos by Woody Phillips

TOP EVENTS!

Brad Hicks and Destiny Oakley

Mimi Kaufman, Malina Gaworski, Denise Long, Juli Eskridge and Iza Gaworski

Chelsi McDonald and Jessica Prather

Greg Potts, Tricia Potts and Nate Graham

Adair Ravencraft, Tyler Nahra, Thomas Slabaugh, Clint Ravencraft and Allison Downing

Jack Stokley, Chaney Trosper, Kara Shepherd, Betsy Clemons and Chase Smith

courtesy of Kentucky.com and local eateries

Joe Bologna in 1979

Smitty of Columbia Steakhouse

Lucie Slone Meyers of A La Lucie and Red Light Kitchen & Lounge

Chefs Ouita Michel, Kristin M. Smith and Sara Bradley in the documentary You Belong Here

Bruce Drake and Brian McCarty of Bluegrass Hospitality Group

Paula Endara of Graddamn on Top Chef

Stanley Demos of the Coach House Restaurant

Hi, I’m Amanda Jo Harms, the Non-surgical Body Contouring Expert at CoolBlue Lex.

For me, body contouring isn’t just about treatments—it’s about delivering the best possible results for those who expect the best in everything they do. I’ve dedicated years to mastering this technology, and with thousands of treatments performed, I’ve built a reputation for precision, discretion, and results you can trust.

At CoolBlue Lex—Kentucky’s #1 CoolSculpting Elite provider—we’ve built an elevated experience designed for people who value results, efficiency, and privacy. With multiple fda-cleared medical aesthetic devices, we can treat several areas at once, cutting your appointment time in half without ever compromising attention to detail or the quality of your results. We save you time in the gym with 30-minute muscle toning sessions and help you contour the body YOU want with advanced skin tightening procedures.

You’ll enjoy private treatment rooms, discreet scheduling, VIP hours, and personalized care throughout the entire process—because here, your time, your privacy, and your standards come first.

CoolSculpting Elite targets and eliminates stubborn fat permanently!

Discover what’s possible when expertise meets exclusivity. Private consultations by appointment only.

Amanda Jo Harms, MS Co-Owner of CoolBlue Lex Master CoolSculpting Specialist

Follow for real client results and expert insight: @amandajoharms @coolblue_lex