TOPS AROUND TOWN 30 Out & About 32 Out & About 38 TOPS April Preview Party #1 40 TOPS April Preview Party #2 42 KY Music Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony 44 Dreams Take Flight Gala 46 Women’s Club of Central KY Luncheon & Fashion Show
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48 NAWIC Industry Night 50 Horseman’s Ball 52 Dinner Celebrating Great Minds #1 54 Dinner Celebrating Great Minds 2 #
192 Emerge 2015 194 Third Annual Bourbon & Browns 196 Hats for Hope 198 15th Annual Farmland Conservation Celebration #1 200 15th Annual Farmland Conservation Celebration #2 202 Equine Humane Center Stock the Barn 204 30th Annuual YMCA Black Achievers Banquet 206 Baptist Health Cancer Awards 208 Democratic Party Annual Awards Dinner 234 TOP Shots
202 198 Captions for event photos are typically provided to TOPS by the event organizers. We do our best to check names and spelling…but we are all human and make mistakes. Please contact kristen@topsmarketing.com with any corrections and we will make note of it in the next issue.
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IN EVERY ISSUE 65 Family: Moving Out 66 Parties: How to Host a Fabulous Baby Shower 69 Etiquette & Entertaining: Correspondence Etiquette 70 Gardening: Cages, Stakes and Trellises, Oh My! 176 Relationships: What’s the Rush? 179 Fashion: The Spring Step
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157 Fashion: Put Some Pep in Your Step 180 Posh Paws: Surprise Litters 187 Sports: It’s Time to Move On. It is Football Time. 189 Business News 214 Weddings: The Grooms Cake Take 2, The Elegant Groom’s Cake is Trending 216 Flavor Upgrade: Coba Cocina’s Bold New Menu 220 TOP 5 Dining: Sweets 222 Taste of Thyme: OMG, Oh May Goodness 224 Lesley’s List 226 Lex & the City 231 Save the Date
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224 The views and comments expressed by the authors are not always that of our editors or publishers. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this publication, TOP Marketing Group accepts no responsibility or liability for any errors, omissions or resultant consequences, including any loss or damage arising from the reliance on information in this publication. All images contained in TOPS in Lexington Magazine are subject to copyright of the artist or photographer as named, but not limited thereto. Reproduction of any part of this magazine without prior written permission is prohibited.
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OUT + ABOUT | SOCIE T Y
James “Tab” Quisenberry, George Fletcher, Lynn Cooper, Ryan Cooper, and Jerri Cooper at First Security Bank Ribbon Cutting
Father Hehman’s 50th Anniversary
Lafayette High School Reunion
Baptist Health Lexington Expecting Great Things
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Jarrod Polson and Fans at Richmond Place
Bunny Hinzman on Easter Weekend
London’s Calling
London sat down with us to discuss her goals as a model, how she balances being a teenager with a career, and her love of fashion. After interviewing the 5'8” athletic beauty, I found her to be very humble, grounded, and kind. During our “20 Questions With London” all of her responses are well thought-out, career savvy and completely genuine; no sign of a catwalk diva here. There's not a lot of young role models for teenage girls these days, but London is like a breath of fresh air. Here is a girl showing others that you can absolutely follow your dreams without losing your morals and values in the process. In true Southern fashion, when one of our own makes it “big”, we can't help but take personal pride in their success, as if it were our very own daughter, sister, or best friend. That's exactly the feeling you'll get after reading what a sweet, normal teenager Miss Olive is. And seeing for yourself that real beauty comes from the inside, out. So buckle you seatbelts, because London's calling.
20 Questions With London TOPS: First of all congratulations on signing with Elite! At 15 you are already accomplishing the beginnings of great success. Can you fill us in a little on how you got discovered? LO: A scout from Wilhelmina Models came to Lexington and was highly interested in me. My parents felt like we should find out if other top agencies would be as interested. We went with a Lexington group from Images Modeling to an international model and talent agency convention in Los Angeles in January. It was an incredible experience. I won teen model of the year as well as other accolades such as best in runway, TV beauty and several other honors. I was also one of the most sought after models at the convention. I signed with Storm Models of London England who discovered Kate Moss as well as Elite Model Management NYC and Worldwide. TOPS: Do you remember the exact moment you caught the modeling bug and when you knew it was a dream you wanted to pursue? LO: As soon as I started working with Você. I absolutely love how exciting the photo shoots are, the amazing clothes and the great photographers and people I work with. TOPS: We know you probably still feel like just a regular high school student but at the same time you’re already starting your career. What’s a normal day like for you? LO: When I’m not traveling, it’s the same as anyone else. I attend school, hang out with my friends and play tennis or workout. I am fortunate to still do photo shoots for Você when I’m in town. When traveling, we start early doing photo shoots and go to castings and fittings all day in whichever city we happen to be in. We’ve also had the opportunity to sightsee, hang out at the beach and make new friends. TOPS: How has the reaction been within your family and your circle of friends? LO: For the most part, my true friends are very excited for me and of course my family is supportive and thrilled for this experience. TOPS: Elite recently introduced you to the world via their Instagram, what did that moment of making it official feel like? LO: It was a real rush of excitement and validation that this is the real deal! They have a vision for my future with incredible things to come!
Danielle Soib Mol
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TOPS: Do you feel any limitations between balancing modeling and being a ‘normal’ teenager as you begin your journey with such a world-renowned agency?
London’s Calling
Danielle Soib Mol
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London’s Calling
LO: My parents have given me a strong moral foundation to be true to myself and to ignore negative people that aren’t genuine or kind. They’ve taught me to always be inclusive and to lift others up, and know that no one is better than anyone else. Beauty comes in all colors, shapes and sizes. TOPS: After years of actresses and reality stars landing major fashion magazine covers, the “supermodel” is finally making a comeback thanks to It-girls like Kendall Jenner and Cara Delevingne. Is there anyone in the modeling industry who inspires you or a career that you would like to see your own take a similar path? LO: Cara Delevingne because she is uniquely beautiful and has done such amazing recognizable print work such as Burberry, John Hardy, Tag Heuer, DKNY and Chanel. Kate Moss also inspires me because of her long successful career. She is one of the top models in the world and has done campaigns for Gucci, Burberry, Versace, as well as covers for Elle, Vogue, ID, etc. TOPS: Do you have any specific goals as a model? A cover you would like to grace? A message you would like to emote? LO: I have huge goals to represent high-end fashion designers and fashion magazines. I hope to be a positive role model to young girls in showing them my true self as kind and charitable. To promote physical fitness and positive body image through exercise and healthy eating. TOPS: Being a model, we must assume you have an interest in fashion. Are there any designers or photographers you would love to work with? Or maybe even one day be the muse of?
Jamie Magnifico
LO: Yes. It will be a challenge as Elite wants me to be available to travel to Europe, Australia, NYC, etc. so I may have to look at online classes as things continue to progress. TOPS: People always assume modeling is a glamorous, stress free world, but there’s traveling, keeping up your studies and making time to just enjoy life. For you, what are the most rewarding parts of being a model? LO: Of course it is rewarding to travel to places others only dream, as well as meeting people of different cultures and backgrounds. It’s really a chance of a lifetime that very few get to experience. TOPS: Your Mom, Karen seems to be your biggest cheerleader. How has she helped and influenced you through the years? LO: She has always told me to follow my dreams and having her by my side has been an amazing part of my journey. TOPS: Nowadays we live in a very image obsessed world. Social media has taken vanity to the next level. How do you stay secure and confident with all the beauty shaming and unrealistic expectations put on young women?
LO: I love fashion! My eyes have been opened to gorgeous clothes beyond what any normal teen would wear. I’d really love to work with Tom Ford, Burberry, Calvin Klein, and many more. Also, with photographers such as Sebastian Kim, Russell James and several others. TOPS: We’ve seen you striking a pose for local boutique favorite, Você. Where else do you love to shop here in Lexington? And some of your favorite brands? LO: Você is my favorite spot! They have all the hottest clothes so I really don’t have any other favorites at the moment. When I’m dressing casual, working out and playing tennis, I love wearing lululemon. TOPS: How would you describe your personal style? Do you have a fashion motto that you live by or maybe a style icon? LO: My style is still evolving. However, I love wearing Clover Canyon, Frame Denim, Ragbone. When I’m feeling casual I wear my yoga pants and comfy shirts. TOPS: Judging by your photos, you have beautiful skin. Do you have a specific beauty regimen or any products you can’t live without? LO: I don’t wear much makeup, and I’m really careful about keeping my skin clean and moisturized.
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Etiquette & Entertaining
Correspondence Etiquette - Better Late than Never
Photo by Brandon H.Brooks
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n the tech world of today, new methods of communication are constantly becoming available. People are striving for a quick response which will accomplish their goal. This may be acceptable in certain situations but nothing will ever take the place of a sincere, well thought out correspondence on the best of fine stationery. It speaks volumes for the social skills of the sender. Your stationery is a reflection of who you are. It is the impression you make on others. Order a basic white or ecru fold over or note card for your thank you notes. Keep it simple for a good beginning. Traditionally, social stationery will feature your name, initials, monogram or family crest. The envelope can have a return address printed or left plain. Any of these choices is an appropriate method of personalizing your correspondence. Monograms first became popular during the Victorian era when they were engraved as a family mark on fine silver. Today, monograms have reached an all-time high in popularity among all age groups. The concept of monogramming has expanded to include many new and imaginative forms. Creative individuals are using them on clothing, cars, cakes, jewelry and linens. It is difficult to identify an item that cannot be monogrammed. People are even engaging the services by Sue Ann Truitt of a design professional to create a cusEtiquette & Entertaining Consultant tom monogram that is truly unique.
Claudia Engle of Lexington began her career by mastering the fine art of calligraphy. It was a natural progression into the design of custom monogramming. With personalized notes ready, how do you train or discipline yourself to write the thank you note? Preparing a pleasant note writing area can be an incentive. Reward yourself so it becomes a choice not a chore. To do this, move your desk into the prettiest, most pleasant room in your house preferably near a sunny window. Collect several of your favorite accessories to place on the desk. Include a scented candle, a place for a cup of coffee or a glass of wine, and a few books with inspirational titles. Nearby, your favorite artwork will enhance and calm your inner feelings and thoughts. Add a comfortable desk chair and the setting will turn a task into a pleasure. A thank you note should be sent as soon as possible after receiving an act of kindness. Notes are sent to express appreciation and gratitude. If you are uncertain whether to send a thank you note, the answer is to always, send one! The length of the note is not of such importance as the receipt of the note. A bridal consultant lamented on how frequently she receives an inquiry regarding the shipping info for a wedding gift. Brides and Grooms are responsible for a prompt response. What should be done if someone hasn’t written a thank you note when considerable time has passed? Ann Landers has written on this question many times. Her response has consistently been – note writing is “Better late than never!”
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Gardening
Cages, Stakes and Trellises, Oh My!
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ogle the gardening catalogs every year and not just for the flowers, plants, and vegetables. It’s the lure of the XL Pro Series cage, cucumber and pea trellis kit, and pea fences that have me wanting to whip out the credit card. While cages and trellises make for a tidy looking garden, they serve a greater purpose. It’s easy to just plant and go. Doing so allows vegetables to sprawl across your garden au natural and can produce plenty. In spite of being easy and plentiful, this method increases the chances of damage to your crops from slugs. The risk of disease also increases because of the direct contact with the ground. Rot is more likely as well. This is where staking or adding a cage or trellis makes a difference.
by Michelle Rauch Gardening Enthusiast
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Let’s start with stakes. They are easy and cost effective. Simply put, a stake is an upright rod. They can be made of wood, plastic, metal, or bamboo. Avoid chemically treated wood. Stakes are ideal for tall single stemmed plants, multi-stemmed plants, and those that have a tendency for leaning. Remem-
ber the ties that bind. It’s important you use something that is soft and flexible. I have used old panty hose. Twine, nursery tape, and raffia work well too. Adhere in a figure eight pattern for best results. Dahlias, delphinium, gladiolas and lilies may benefit from staking. Stakes are easy, but they are not as flexible as a trellis. A trellis is a mesh-like wood, metal, or plastic upright wall behind the plant. Others are more cage-like and may be made of nylon mesh or hog wire. The benefits include better air circulation which is good for the plants, and more light and heat which will help in the ripening process. Beans, raspberries, tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini, pole beans, and peas will benefit from trellis/cage support. You will likely have to train your trellis to help your plants along to take hold and grow. The additional benefit of staking and caging is an earlier harvest, bigger produce, and the ease of harvesting. Gone are the days of the mini scavenger hunt sorting through the foliage to find your tomatoes, cukes, and more. While it takes a little extra time, adding support to your garden is a good idea. Remember, your plants are at stake.
Tour of Homes
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lack Diamond is currently home to Mike Warner and his wife, Lea Ranier-Warner. According to Mike, the property has been a part of his life for nearly thirty years. His company, Warner Builders, is responsible for the extensive restoration Black Diamond has undergone, including the amazing hand carved millwork and diamond motifs that can be seen throughout the property. “We are a family business going back four generations, and three of those generations have worked on this home,” he said. Mike and his team of craftsmen began the original restoration in 1987, which included the construction of the pool house, conversion of the original 4-car garage to an office suite, and updates to the barn. The original owners of Black Diamond were Tommy and Linda Hall of Bittersweet Farms. In 1995, the property was sold to Harold Sargent and family, a businessman in the coal industry. While the estate originally consisted of 18 acres, several years ago, the Sargents annexed additional anchorage from Walmac Farm, bringing it to its current 63 acres. While out-of-state investors currently own the property, Mike Warner and his family are “house sitting” if you will, until they reach a final decision on the location of their future home. In the meantime, Black Diamond is exquisitely furnished with the Warners’ assortment of eclectic antiques, art, décor and furnishings. “My mother and father-in law are lifetime collectors, and the furniture you see comes from all over the world,” he said.
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he master bath features the same glittering Swarovski crystal doorknobs and drawer pulls found throughout the home, as well as heated marble floors and a marble shower with twin showerheads. The adjoining loft has been converted to a dressing room with a cedar walk-in wardrobe, complete with an elegant spiral staircase.
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arties at Black Diamond are an effortless and unique experience, thanks to the fully furnished pub located in the lower level. Fashioned from dark cherry wood and granite, the pub has a masculine feel, plenty of attention to detail, and finely crafted touches. A game room and stateof-the-art home theater and media room make the pub the ultimate in home entertaining, while a well-appointed spa with sauna, hot tub, steam and half bath offers a personal retreat to rejuvenate the body and mind.
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Tour of Homes
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he wine cellar features a series of unique hand-carved panels depicting the process of wine making. Mike explained, “Those panels were created by a group of artisans from Honduras. If you look closely, they tell the story of creating wine from the planting, harvesting, and pressing of the grapes.” Mike also explained that the last panel shows the winemaker “passed out”, presumably from drinking a little too much wine. It just goes to show that it’s possible to tastefully add a bit of humor and personality to a fine home.
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Tour of Homes
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he ultimate escape of Black Diamond can be found behind the many double French doors of its exquisite pool house. The 13,223 total square footage includes a 29 x 62’ in-ground pool with matching whirlpool jacuzzis. The ceramic interior and pool deck is heated from below. The 72 retractable skylights can be used to bring the pleasant weather indoors, and the nearly 6,000 square feet of brick patio makes it easy to enjoy sunbathing and outdoor entertaining.
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Tour of Homes
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eyond the pool is an airy entertaining area with a full kitchen, his and her dressing rooms, a granite bar, and a brass and copper fireplace. Ascending the winding staircase, guests will discover a master suite including bedroom and bath, sitting and dining areas with two wet bars, all connected to an expansive balcony that overlooks the pool area. All furnishings, dĂŠcor and millwork echo the design of the manor house.
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Meet the Realtors
THE LANE TEAM at Keller Williams Bluegrass Realty Lane eamKy.com
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TOP People to Know
Pam Murphy
Jarrod Arrasmith
Trina Yack
Realtor®
Lexington Market President
Vice President/ Branch Manager, Hamburg
As an expert real estate professional, Pam applies positive energy, diligence and determination to help others make the most of their buying, selling or investing opportunities. Her business experience coupled with Keller Williams Greater Lexington’s top rated suite of real estate tools and resources make her the perfect choice for any real estate needs. Her clients say she is professional, punctual, trustworthy and prepared! 859.248.8600 | pam@thebluegrassteam.com
Jarrod was recently promoted to Lexington Market President for South Central Bank, a community bank. He successfully launched the bank’s loan production office in Lexington in April 2013 at their Euclid Avenue location. Jarrod has over 12 years experience in commercial and business lending. A central Kentucky native, Jarrod is a graduate of Georgetown College and the Graduate School of Banking at LSU. Have lending needs or questions? Contact Jarrod today. 859.223.0170 | southcentralbank.com
Trina has been working in banking for 25 years, with the last 10 at Community Trust Bank. She works with several Realtors in the community and loves to help their clients achieve home ownership. Trina takes great pride in making sure customers understand their mortgage and are choosing the correct product. She remains their primary contact well after they’re in their home. She is always excited to help homebuyers through the loan process! 859.264.1938 | ctbi.com
Natalie Cusic
Brent Richards
Ben Allen
Realtor®
AIA Architect, Owner
Realtor®
Natalie has lived in Lexington for 13 years and has a great sense of the community that will best fit her client’s style and needs. With an extensive background in customer service and sales, Natalie knows what it takes to gain customer trust and loyalty. She is dedicated to providing the absolute finest service and expertise possible to her clients. Natalie can help buyers and sellers and specializes in first time homebuyers. 859.806.5297 | nataliecusic.com
In 2005, the opportunity arose for Brent to join his father-in-law, Gary Bello, in creating a business. Brent simply couldn’t pass up the chance and so Architectural Kitchens & Baths was created. They specialize in incredible commercial and residential transformations, which Brent says is the most satisfying aspect of his career. Brent was born and raised in Lexington where he lives today with his wife and three children. He graduated Cum Laude from the UK School of Architecture. 859.268.0800 | akandb.com
Keeping it Simple. Making it Personal. A strong mix of industry and local market knowledge along with a tremendous work ethic and moral character have enabled Ben to build the trust and respect of those around him. He has been utilizing these qualities in his six years working in the Central Kentucky real estate market. Ben and his wife are expecting their first child this summer and enjoy spending time with family, friends and farming. 859.333.1267 | ballen@bgsir.com
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he entry hall powder room features similar tiling work as seen in the kitchen. The remarkable reclaimed wood floors come from the barn where War Admiral stood, and the collection of various sized mirrors and recessed wall adds more interest.
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Riding Through the Raindrops
TOPS IN EQUINE
The skies opened up during the cross-country phase making it slick at times as riders navigated the challenging course over the terrain. Tightening up the time between riders and delineating a disaster plan in case the weather really took a turn for the worse, riders and horses braved the rain and showed all the guts, grit and scrappiness the sport is known for. While many spectators braved the rain, others watched inside the Pavilion where vendors were on-site to make the best of both worlds happen – watching the live action on the Jumbotron while getting some shopping in. Kentucky Reining Cup The fifth annual Kentucky Reining Cup was held after the cross-country wrapped up with attendance that broke the record books. Laura Sumrall’s winning freestyle performance with Disney’s “Frozen” song playing went viral online. The 22-year-old student at Texas A & M University had not performed the routine before. As her horse is not with her at college, Sumrall didn’t have a lot of opportunity to practice “Let It Go”, but she did the routine on a few different horses before the big competition. Her outstanding costume that looked straight off a Broadway set was designed and put together by Sumrall’s mom. It was definitely a performance that won’t soon be forgotten. This much-anticipated event featured a whole host of competitions that thrilled and delighted fans and with a blockbuster crowd, this event is something that has a bright future ahead. But, in case you missed the action at Rolex this year, tickets go on sale in November for next year. No matter if you’re a diehard fan or just looking for something to do – the Rolex is sure to delight everyone. The food truck lineup is a favorite. Red State BBQ for breakfast? Yes, please. At Rolex, this is totally acceptable. New on the Scene: Kentucky Horse Council Welcomes Executive Director Katy Ross The Kentucky Horse Council, a non-profit that is dedicated to the protection and development of the equine industry in the state has just welcomed Katy Ross into the Executive Director position. Stay tuned for the next issue of TOPS to get the scoop on the new leadership! High Hope Steeplechase On Saturday, May 17, the High Hope Steeplechase will take place at the Horse Park. High Hope benefits two beloved non-profits, the Kentucky Horse Park Foundation and Central Kentucky Riding for Hope. A great outing for families and friends – High Hope offers lots of kid-friendly activities with face painting, stick horse racing, a bounce house and more. General Admission is $25, and tailgating spots are also available. Or choose the High Hope Picnic Basket for $200 which includes lunch for 8 people. With shopping, non-profit presence, terrier races and, of course, the feature steeplechase races themselves – it is sure to be a memorable day! Over 15,000 people enjoy the festivities every year so don’t miss out!
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TOPS IN EQUINE
Kentucky Spring and Kentucky Spring Classic Horse Show The Kentucky Horse Shows 2015 series will include two weeks of hunter/jumper competitions during the month of May. The Kentucky Horse Show Series is the host of the Hagyard Challenge Series and Hallway Feeds USHJA National Hunter Derby Series. Hagyard and Hallway Feeds are two renowned equine businesses in the area and their support propel the sport. Looking for a leisurely way to spend an afternoon? Stop by the Horse Park during these shows and check out some of the action in the ring. You can have lunch and even get a little shopping in from vendor row. When: KENTUCKY SPRING HORSE SHOW - May 6-10, 2015 $34,000 Hagyard Lexington Classic CSI2* $85,000 Mary Rena Murphy Grand Prix CSI2* $25,000 Bluegrass Classic
Parking: Horse Show Exhibitors may purchase a weekly parking pass at the main Horse Park entrance for $15.00. Dogs are permitted at the Kentucky Horse Park on a leash. Shopping: Vendors offering equestrian equipment, apparel, jewelry and home furnishings are located adjacent to the Stonelea Ring. MayDaze Horse Trials From Friday, May 22 through Sunday, May 24 the MayDaze Horse Trials will take place. This 3 day competition features more than 500 riders and their horses hailing from more than 20 states. This event also doubles as a training opportunity for green to advanced rider and horse as the focus will be on introductory to intermediate levels. As an added bonus, a trade fair affiliated with this competition will be open during this time.
$25,000 U25 Classic $15,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby
Spring Fling Carriage Drive
$5,000 Hallway Feeds USHJA National Hunter Derby
The Kentucky Horse Park provides a lovely backdrop for the Spring Fling driving event for drivers and horses alike to practice their craft for future competitions or just for the love of the sport. The Drive was originally inspired by a group of individuals who wanted to enjoy a non-competitive outing for drivers and their horses in an appropriate setting. The Park’s pastoral ambience was the ideal location.
WCHR recognized hunter competition KENTUCKY SPRING CLASSIC - May 13-17, 2015 $34,000 Welcome Speed CSI3* $34,000 Hagyard Lexington Classic CSI3* $127,000 Hollow Creek Farm Grand Prix CSI3* $50,000 Commonwealth Grand Prix $20,000 Bluegrass Classic $5,000 Hallway Feeds USHJA National Hunter Derby
Driving is handling horse-drawn carriages, and the spectrum of driving ranges from combined driving (a driver handling a vehicle pulled by a single horse, a pair or a team) to wagon pulling. All driving disciplines are welcome, and all levels of expertise, from novice to advanced, are encouraged to participate. Private lessons and free group lessons will be offered by Joanna Wilburn to all participants of this fun-filled weekend.
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TOPS IN EQUINE
Filly of the Month: Elisabeth Jensen What do the racing industry and education have in common? Elisabeth Jensen. She is a lifelong horse lover who is the president and executive director of an organization known as Race for Education. RFE provides educational programs for kids whose families are in the equine and agricultural industry, from after-school tutoring and community outreach to financial literacy training and college scholarships.
Jensen co-founded Race for Education in 2002 with Bill Casner, one of the two original owners of WinStar Farm two years previously, with Kenny Troutt. Jensen worked at WinStar, handling the farm’s public relations and charitable endeavors. “After a couple of years of writing a check for this and buying a table for that, they were spending a lot of money,” Jensen said of the WinStar owners. “They challenged me to do something as a group, making a difference in the community. I talked with TOBA [Thoroughbred Owners Breeders and Association], the Blood-Horse and others. One thing we felt that was not really being focused on in the industry was education for young people.” About this time, there was a death of a WinStar employee’s spouse. Jensen called the employee into the office and said Mr. Casner would like to pay for the two teenagers to go to college. “I thought he was go-
By Kathie Stamps
ing to cry,” Jensen said. The man paused and then softly said that if Mr. Casner wanted to help the girls he should buy them a car. That was when Jensen and Casner founded the Race for Education. “We realized there wasn’t a value of higher education,” Jensen said. The foundation set out to change that mindset, presenting scholarships for high school students to attend college. They also offered homework help to the kids at the farm, and expanded it to the equine and agriculture industry at large. After the Race for Education foundation was up and running, Jensen wore both hats of working PR at WinStar Farm and directing RFE. Three years later she switched to the nonprofit organization on a fulltime basis. Casner is still on the board of directors. Race for Education has brought all three of Jensen’s passions together: kids, education and horses. She grew up with horses, riding Westernstyle with her first horse, a half Arabian, half Quarter Horse. By high school she was participating in rodeos. She rode hunt seat in college, and showed all over California on the hunter and jumper circuits. “I had a Warmblood show jumper. He colicked and died six months after I moved here,” she said. She has also had a couple of off-track Thoroughbreds, a stallion and mare.
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TOPS IN EQUINE Jensen was born in Fort Wayne, Indiana. “I took the long way to Fayette County,” she said. She went to college in New York, studying design and apparel manufacturing, and then worked for an international company that had her spending time in Hong Kong and Istanbul. She moved to California to work for Disney Consumer Products and would visit the Bluegrass from time to time for the Thoroughbred sales. During a trip in 2000 with a friend, she decided not to leave. “I sent a résumé to Tracy Farmer, never thinking he would hire me,” she said. But the horse owner did hire her, and 15 years ago Jensen became the racing manager for his racing stable. “I worked there a very short time,” she said, “basically doing race entries, getting licensing in different states and managing transportation.” Then she found the PR job at the new Thoroughbred horse farm in Versailles, WinStar, and Race for Education soon after that. RFE used to share space with the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission at the Horse Park. “It made it hard to stay focused on work,” Jensen said with a laugh. Now RFE’s office is on Versailles Road, which is convenient for horse farm workers who live in Cardinal Valley. “People can get help with college applications and financial aid forms,” Jensen cited as an example. Race for Education is no longer a private foundation. “In 2008 we were declared a public charity because we have such a broad donor base,” Jensen said. This is a good thing for the 501(c)(3), as there are many grants that don’t give money to private foundations but they will donate to public charities. RFE’s after-school programs are operated in a partnership with schools in Fayette and Bourbon counties, and are open to the general
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population at the recommendation of guidance counselors, with priority given to children in agriculture and equine families. “The scholarship program is very strong,” Jensen said. “We are hoping to expand the after-school program.” Homework help at Crawford Middle School, for example, focuses on literacy to give kids experience in reading and writing. “We started out doing homework, but realized kids’ reading skills were so poor,” she said. “If you can’t read you can’t do social studies or science.” The students and their parents sign a contract, because space is limited and this is not a drop-in program, so the attendance rate is really good. Fundraisers for RFE include the Horsemen of All Ages Bachelor Auction at the Red Mile each February, and the Race to Read 5K and 10K through downtown Midway in April. “We’re able to do a lot of good work for the horse industry and the community,” Jensen said. Most of her free time involves her 11-year-old son, who plays basketball on the Special Olympics team and is involved in other sports. “His hobbies have become my hobbies,” she said. Jensen is a member of the Kentucky State Advisory Panel for Exceptional Children and the Circle of Blue, which is an organization of women philanthropists for the Kentucky Children’s Hospital. She has also joined the board of directors of Groom Elite and is involved with the racing syndicate It’s All About the Girls. “I have lived all over the world,” she said. “I’m so happy to be in Lexington.” Learn more about Race for Education at www.raceforeducation.org
TOPS IN EQUINE
The Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event T
he 2015 Rolex Kentucky Three�Day Event, presented by Land Rover, was held April 23-26, 2015 at the Kentucky Horse Park. The paid attendance for the event totaled over 75,000 equestrian enthusiasts and spectators. With her only penalties being the low score she earned in the dressage ring, Fischerrocana FST and Michael Jung of Germany won the 2015 Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event. Their score of 39.3 bested Tim Price of New Zealand on Wesko (40.3) and Jung on his second mount, La Biosthetique Sam FBW (44.7). Fischerrocana, 10, show jumped first of the three top-placed horses, and she put the pressure on her rivals by completing an absolutely faultless round. British rider Zara Phillips, granddaughter of the Queen, was scheduled to make her debut appearance at the 2015 Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event. Unfortunately, her horse, High Kingdom, had
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to be withdrawn after cutting himself while kicking out in his stall earlier in the day. Equestrian Events, Inc. was honored to host the retirement of Windfall, a remarkable Dark bay Trakehner Stallion. Windfall began his career with Ingrid Klimke at 5. Over the next four years, this pairing scored 40 wins and placings, including wins at all the CIC**s and CIC***s in Germany in 1999. He treated the crowd to a Dressage movement on Sunday. The popular Sponsor Village and Trade Fair highlighted local, national and international vendors and organizations. Guests to the event were treated to samples, demonstrations and world-class shopping each day. Preparations are already underway for next year’s Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event. It will be held April 28-May 1, 2016. To learn more visit www.rk3de.org
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Relationships
What’s the Rush?
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lmost all extraordinary things take time to become extraordinary. Thus, “they are not referred to as…“ordinary”. I have yet to eat a delicious garden ripe yellow pepper, tomato or watermelon that did not take a substantial amount of planning, cultivating and special care to achieve the status of spectacular. A splendid statue requires hundreds of hours of sculpting, a beautiful painting requires thousands of well-executed brush strokes, a professional basketball player requires years of hard work and sweat. Even an extraordinary Dolly Parton hairdo takes a vision, many tools, tons of passion and…time. This is a well-known fact and the human brain seems quite comfortable accepting the notion. Very seldom do we observe people trying to defy such obvious aspects of reality. I have never witnessed anybody complain because a watermelon seed didn’t produce a watermelon in two days. So why do we have such a difficult time understanding that relationships take time to evolve? It appears that so often…passion trumps logic. Creams it as a matter of fact. A long, delicious kiss…butterflies flying around in a heart struck tummy and crazy endorphins are clearly serious stuff to contend with. On the one hand, who cares if a relationship jets through life like a Nascar driver on a crazy track? Time will eventually catch up, right? Perhaps it will, but at what expense? Well, let me provide an important example of why it is important to take your time… For one thing, when you become involved in a romantic, committed relationship it seriously affects everybody close to you in life. This isn’t just your situation. If Mr. or Ms. Right turns out to be Mr. or Ms. Right Now…your peeps get to deal with the repercussions…minus the long delicious kisses, butterflies and endorphins. Not to mention, you get to feel like a complete idiot if your superhero turns out to be the town villan, a drunk, or bizarre weirdo. And time is the only true indicator of those things. Human nature dictates that typically people are on their best behavior in the early stages of everything. When the new is gone and a sense of safe sets in, this is when you will actually meet your mate.
by Buffy Lawson Relationship Veteran
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Take your sweet time. This is the fun part!!! Stretch it out as long as you can! No sense in rushing…if it is real love, it’s more important than any painting, vegetable or sculpture you’ll ever have. If it isn’t the real deal, at least you will spare yourself, friends and family many drama free moments. Like a fantastic Dolly Parton hairdo takes time…love also takes time and is worth the wait.
Fashion
The Spring Step
photos by Kristin Tatem
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hoes. Doesn’t matter our size. Doesn’t matter our shape. Our shoes will never let us down. More often than not, I let them be the jumping off point for my looks each day. They’re the foundation. They make a look. They’re kind of amazing, yes? And so, let’s focus on some of the spring shoes I’m loving right now. Consider it a bit of a ‘Spring Step Guide’ if you will. While yes, these are all heels, don’t discount the flats, gang. They’re equally as important, but this month’s focus will be on various spring “heeled” sandals. The neutral heel. Gang, if I may be so bold as to insist grabbing a pair of neutral heels—just do it. You will not regret it. You will wear the heck out of them. They will complete a plethora of spring and summer looks, I promise you. Oh, and they elongate the leg so that’s always a bonus. A textured cuff heel. I like to think of this snakeskin heel as a bit of a wild card sandal. Pair it with the unexpected, like a soft pastel dress or maybe even jazz up a casual look of jeans and a tee. Either way, these lovelies elevate a look. The platform heel. You want a shoe that takes your look up a notch? Snag a pair of platforms. These navy blue platforms are simply perfect. From the T-strap to the rich suede—they’re ones we could wear all throughout the warmer months. Perfect with a sun dress or flared jeans and a button down for a fun 70s vibe. Have fun updating your spring wardrobe, gang. Make sure to pay attention to one of the more relevant accessories—the heel. It’s one of those accessories that never disappoints and can potentially take a look from ordinary to oh, very extraordinary.
by Beth Parker Fashion Blogger/Stylist seersuckerandsaddles.blogspot.com
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H.D. Jasper
Hubert D. Jasper
WWII HONORS 70 YEARS IN THE MAKING Story & Photography by Amber Teeter
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crowded room full of loved ones, friends and dignitaries gathered in Nicholasville on March 30 to honor 95-year-old WWII veteran, Hubert D. Jasper of Paris, Kentucky. In 1943 Jasper was drafted into the Army. He spent two years abroad fighting in many notable battles across Europe, such as the Battle of the Bulge and Normandy. During his tour, Jasper served with a mortar platoon, First Army, Ninth Division. Jasper’s platoon landed on Utah beach only 10 days after D-Day. In total, Jasper fought in five major campaigns throughout Europe. His platoon carried and fired a 135 lb. mortar more than 600 miles. In May 1945, the war ended and Jasper returned home to his wife, Opal and son. He resumed life as usual and continued his career with J.J. Newbery’s in Decatur, Indiana. He managed stores from Tennessee all the way to Pennsylvania. After the war, Jasper rarely spoke of his experiences until recently. After many months of tireless work from 2014-15, in large part by his daughter, Mary Carolyn Jasper, in combination with Senator Mitch McConnell’s office as well as the Kentucky National Guard, Jasper fittingly received many medals honoring his service, and sacrifice, during WWII. Most notably, Jasper received a Bronze Star, and the Knight of the French Legion Award, which is the highest award a nonFrench citizen, can receive for their efforts to liberate France. Napoleon Bonaparte himself created this award. Congressman Andy Barr was on hand to present the Knight of the French Legion medal. Brig. Gen. Benjamin F. Adams III presented the Bronze Star medal as well as 3 others. In keeping with Kentucky Tradition, Jasper was inducted into the order of Kentucky Colonels and in ‘True Blue’ fashion, received a personally signed photo from Coach Calipari himself. Jasper is truly one of the “greatest generation” who represented his family, his friends, his state and his country in an honorable fashion throughout his entire life. Jasper continues to live life to the fullest with his three children, Mary Carolyn, Richard and Jon; his grandchildren, Kevin Jasper, Carrie-Ann Yearty, Jane E. Campbell, Brent Jasper, Ben Carter, Nancy Mussetter, Abby Jasper, and Amelia Jasper; his step-grandchildren, Allison Traylor, Kristen Traylor and Lauren Traylor; and his great grandchildren Cody Brown, Noah Jasper, Cannon Cohen, Neely Cohen, Hutch Campbell, Ashley Taylor, Brendon Jasper, Gunther Mussetter and June Mussetter.
Congressman Andy Barr with H.D. Jasper
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H.D. Jasper and Brig. Gen. Benjamin F. Adams III
WOW Wedding As for decorations, the mothers of the bride and groom carried silver Tussy Mussy holders engraved with the couple’s names and the date of the wedding, filled with ivory garden tea roses, tulle, and French ribbon bows. The church altar bloomed with ivory lilies, hydrangeas, ivory and purple garden roses, and purple stock in silver urns. The pews were decorated with silk, ivory rose kissing balls accessorized with French ribbons and bows in purple. Silk magnolia wreaths with purple roses and sashes greeted guests from the church doors. The reception was held at Marriott Griffin Gate, where guests enjoyed a meal of beef tenderloin, asparagus, potatoes, salad, and bread. It was followed by a six-tiered cake in strawberry, vanilla, and chocolate, with a variety of buttercream frostings. The bride, groom, and guests had a blast dancing the night away to the beat of Kentucky Pro DJ. Cara and Patrick were grateful for their “Dream Team” of wedding vendors and offer this advice for other couples: “Take time to enjoy the day, it flies by. Enjoy each other’s company, enjoy precious time with friends and family, and enjoy making memories that will last a lifetime.”
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Weddings
The Grooms Cake Take 2 The Elegant Groom’s Cake is Trending
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rends are just that, trends. They go in cycles, and what is cycling back in groom’s cakes is a move to elegant, more traditional creations. Even though the tradition is centuries old, this time they are updated, stylish, and enlarged to rival the actual wedding cake in claiming the center of attention on your wedding day buffet. These cakes, typically in chocolate, can be absolutely magnificent, and very manly. The Artful Groom’s Cake in Rich Chocolate The ‘Chi-Chi’ set and high-end wedding planners are beginning to say no to whimsical grooms cakes. Especially if your wedding is very elegant and in a beautiful venue, carting in a cake that looks like a motorcycle can be offputting to your theme. I love the more artful ‘new’ grooms cakes as they can be confectionery works of art, incorporating angles and geometric designs and interesting finishes and that are inherently masculine, and so cool. Along with the strong colors of mocha and dark chocolate, embellishments for design driven men’s cakes are divine and different, from chocolate truffles, large shavings of rich chocolate, chocolate candy bits and chocolate dipped strawberries. Fresh, richly colored fruit is magnificent when decorating a decadent chocolate creation. Look for examples of sculpted chocolate that serve as either the foundation or the finish of these beauties. You Can Choose ‘Shades of Grey’ If you wish to move away from a chocolate finished cake to add a little interest, the colors from the experts for these new groom’s cakes include icing and decorating them in black, blue, silver or shades of grey. Highlights of metallic icing make these designs sparkle. The groom’s cake is also where you can pull in bold colors easily – possibly the colors of your wedding party or theme, which may be too jarring on your main wedding cake. Remember the Booze A nod to the years-old tradition of adding liquor to the grooms cake, don’t leave it out in your current day decadent cake. Liquor adds so much taste and moisture that your guests will just have to have ‘one of each’. If he has a liquor of choice, like Kentucky Bourbon or Jamaican Rum, tell your baker to use it in his special confection.
by Marsha Koller Wedding Consultant
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What to Choose? Look to the Groom When choosing a groom’s cake style, consider the feel of your wedding, and keep your groom in mind. A very conservative guy, or one that art and style are important, may prefer an elegant, artful groom’s cake to one that is whimsical and may poke a little fun at him. You know him best. Plus, your duo of elegant cakes will make magnificent wedding photos. The decision is a piece of cake.
MAY 2015 | TOPSINLEX.COM
Dining
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y now, you’ve heard about the more grandiose aspects of Coba Cocina: the underwater cave ambiance. The golden dome. And of course, the jellyfish tank. But Chef Jonathan Lundy is determined to shift the focus onto the main reason people visit a restaurant—the food. Jonathan, who owned and operated Jonathan’s at Gratz Park Inn for almost 16 years, is known for creating locally inspired dishes that are both familiar and innovative. Coba President Lee Greer was a frequent diner at Jonathan’s and invited him to talk shop. Jonathan soon began working part time for Coba as a consultant and participating in tasting panels. In November 2014, he stepped in as executive chef. For Jonathan, that means working to further develop the restaurant’s concept while making adjustments to daily operations and sprinkling regional and global ingredients in key places on the menu. “I’d say we’re in our teenage stage right now,” Jonathan said. “We’re maturing and getting better, but we still have some growing and learning to do.” To that end, the idea of overhauling the entire menu was never the intention. He’s made it clear that the original concept and the work of Chef Alejandro Velasquez (who returned to his native Texas) did not need to be completely altered—just tweaked here and there. And for the most part, those tweaks involve a larger dose of local and Southern-inspired ingredients, as well as the more exotic flavors of Latin America. It is through those careful alterations that his flair for gastronomic creativity shines through. For example, the Bacon Wrapped Beef Medallions is a decadent dish comprised of beef tenderloin wrapped in Berkshire pork belly bacon. A rarity in the restaurant world, the bacon is cured and smoked in-house for at least seven days. The combination of ancho chiles, brown sugar and salt makes it a deliciously savory treat. The medallions sit atop thick slices of corn bread skillet cake, garnished with freshly shucked and charred corn relish. The real standout is the sauce—an attention-grabbing mixture of pureed fire roasted bell peppers spiked with a splash of mezcal, an agave-based liquor native to Mexico.
Jonathan explained that while many locals know that all bourbon is whiskey, it’s less common knowledge that all tequila is mezcal. While tequila is made exclusively from the blue agave plant, mezcal can be made with upwards of 30 varieties of agave, resulting in a more complex flavor profile. The fresh, smoky, and slightly boozy sauce takes the dish from ordinary to extraordinary. Those looking for a lighter or vegetarian option will love the Vegetable Salad Taco—a mix of shaved zucchini, carrot, and other seasonal veggies in a cilantro lime vinaigrette, topped with a scoop of red quinoa, crumbled cotija cheese and a side of addictive house-made yucca chips. See the next page for this recipe. The Ranchero Shrimp & Grits, an existing menu item, was given a makeover with the addition of rich jalapeno cheese grits. Jonathan first cooked the grits thoroughly until that…well, gritty mouthfeel disappeared, then spread them on a sheet pan to cool. From there, the mixture is cut into wedges, coated in cornmeal and fried until crispy. The result is sublime—crunchy on the outside, creamy on the inside, with noticeable heat that is not overpowering. The simmered shrimp are garnished with fire roasted bell peppers and another fairly unusual ingredient—grilled cactus. With a tangy flavor and a texture similar to okra, the cactus lends an unexpected and authentic element to the dish. “We wanted the food to be the same caliber as the rest of the place,” said Jonathan. This building is so unique, and I wanted to take certain elements and blend them with others, and just let it find itself.” One of the ways he’s doing that is by letting diners taste his new creations in weekly specials. Over the next month or so, Jonathan will be rolling out various new dishes, reinvented classics and bold ingredients. Among them are chicken thigh tacos with buttermilk iceberg slaw, kale & quinoa salad, green tomato pico de gallo, masa (corn flour) fried oysters with baby spinach and bacon, pork carnitas with red pepper mezcal sauce, and a Brazilian fish stew with coconut milk and lime. New permanent menu items will appear around late April or early May. “Previously we weren’t highlighting the more unusual ingredients because we thought it might turn people off. But I think it’s important to mention them. Breaking the rules is what makes Coba different.” Indeed, differentiating from the standard Mexican or Tex-Mex restaurant is another effort to establish Coba’s unique concept. As Jonathan put it, “We got a fair amount of heat for taking away the complimentary chips and salsa. But we don’t want to compete with restaurants that offer those menu items. I love those types of places, but they can offer that experience in a better, faster and cheaper way than we can.” What Jonathan seems to be saying (and what becomes apparent from the moment you walk in the door) is that Coba is more than just a restaurant—it’s an experience. Between the two bars, the inventive food, the eye-popping décor, and not to mention, Cocoh!, the confectioner and gelato shop, there is truly something for everyone. You can get chips and salsa anywhere. But if you want Southern and Latin fusion cuisine with beautiful presentation, attentive service, and premium fresh ingredients, there’s really no other place in Lexington that comes close.
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Save the Date
30-31 SAT & SUN 2015 Kitchens Tour of the Bluegrass Lexington, KY
30 SATURDAY Bike Lexington 2015 8a-12p | Robert F. Stephens Courthouse Plaza
THEATRE 1-2 FRI-SAT Rapunzel : Presented by The Bluegrass Youth Ballet Lexington Opera House
8 FRIDAY
LIVE MUSIC
Kentucky Baseball vs Georgia Cliff Hagan Stadium
3 SUNDAY
9-12 SAT-TUES Lexington Legends vs Kannapolis Whitaker Bank Ballpark
SPORTS 1 FRIDAY UK Baseball vs Vanderbilt Cliff Hagan Stadium
Lexington Legends vs Hagerstown Whitaker Bank Ballpark
Eric Church 7:30p | Rupp Arena
14 THURSDAY Black Jacket Symphony 8p | Lexington Opera House
28-31 THURS-SUN Lexington Legends vs Greenville Whitaker Bank Ballpark
ART 1 FRIDAY Juried Student Show 12-5p | Mitchell Fine Arts Center at Transylvania University
15 FRIDAY LexArts Gallery Hop Downtown Lexington
15 FRIDAY Symphonie Fantastique 7:30p | UK Singletary Center for the Arts Ben Jenkins - FREE Show 6-8p | Tasting Room at Prodigy Vineyards
18 MONDAY RAIN - A Tribute to the Beetles 7:30p | Lexington Opera House
21 THURSDAY Central Bank’s Thursday Night Live 20th Anniversary Season 4:30p |Fifth Third Bank Pavillion at Cheapside
6-8 WED-FRI Lexington Legends vs Charleston Whitaker Bank Ballpark
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7 THURSDAY
21-24 THURS-SUN
30-31 SAT-SUN Cinderella : Presented by the Kentucky Ballet Theatre Lexington Opera House
Central Kentucky Concert Band 3p | Lexington Opera House
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