FUNDAMENTALS AT HOME Tour of Homes: Bright, Serene & Inviting
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Gardening: Castlewood Park Tree Festival
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FACES + PLACES 138
Tops Cares: The Joy Project
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Inspiring Hope
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Pucker Up for a Cure
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New & Noteworthy: Lin’s Soft Touch
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Meet the Media: Amber Philpott
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CUISINE
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Dining: Athenian Grill
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Southern Lady Cooks: Easy Apple Pandowdy
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Beer of the Month: Ethereal Brewing KY Cream Ale
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Wine of the Month: Lovers Leap Photo Finish
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Taste of Thyme: October Indulgence
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Skinny Mom: Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes
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Top 5 Dining: Classic Cocktails
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LIFE + STYLE
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Wow Wedding: Kelly & CJ
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Wedding Trends: Super Boutonniere for Geek Chic
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Outfit of the Month: Hocus Pocus
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FUNDAMENTALS FAMILY Family Cares Spotlight: Down Syndrome Association
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Super Mom: Becky Harris
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In The Buf: Clean Out Your Closet
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Parties: Hosting a Halloween Girls Night In
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Spooktacular Surroundings
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Pets: Chocolate, Candy, Raisins and Xylitol...Oh My!
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EQUINE Horse Park Happenings
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Filly of the Month: Chelsey Reid
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Colt of the Month: Mike Delzotti
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COMMUNITY Sports: Honoring Those that Bridged the Gap
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Sports: Familiar Faces
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Business News
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Calendar: Lex in the City
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CONTRIBUTORS Photographers Paul Atkinson Ben Burchett Tracie Dillon Michael Huang
Ron Morrow Ken Parks Keni Parks Woody Phillips
Interns and other contributors: Madison Rexroat, Megan Rose and Rosie Ecker
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Writers Michelle Aiello Sarah Boerkircher Jesse L. Brooks Susie Bullock Allison Davis Cynthia Ellingsen
Dick Gabriel Brooke Griffin Amanda Harper Marsha Koller Meredith Lane Ryan Lemond
Buff y Lawson Michelle Rauch Kirsten Rowland Jen Roytz Deanna Talwalkar
Judy Yeager
Have a great idea for a story? Tell us all about it at info@topsinlex.com
OUT + ABOUT | SOCIE T Y
Kentucky Branded Anniversary Party
J. Renders Ribbon Cutting
Fest of Ales
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Bluegrass Hospitality Games
ALS Ice Bucket Challenge
Nu Revolution Dance Studio at Keeneland
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he aesthetic voice of Moriah and Brandon Kinzer’s Ashford Oaks home speaks a language of homogenous neutrals. But don’t grab a pillow quite yet. Spilling from one room to the next, the white, ivory, and gray palette is anything but boring. Instead, the straightforward shades join forces for a look that delivers a chic background for entertaining and family living for Moriah, Brandon, their children Kylie (15), Laiken (12), Will (11), and their two French Mastiffs, Matti and Cooper. Previously, the family lived in Brandon’s very small hometown of Allen, Kentucky (located between Prestonsburg and Pikeville). Moriah became acquainted with interior designer Barrett Campbell Hudkins when she hired her to design their Lexington condominium. The two collaborated on paint colors, furniture, lighting, and just about every other detail, and soon discovered they had a great working relationship. When Will, who has autism, was accepted into a new school in Lexington, it became necessary for the family to relocate (Brandon’s business is located in Allen, and he commutes there about three times a week). From their first discussions about building a new house, the Kinzers knew that it needed to be welcoming, comforting, and most of all, a soothing and stress-free environment, both for Will and the rest of the family. Along with an appreciation for a pale palette with longevity, practicality was a factor in a house with three children and two large dogs. Sensible fabrics and surfaces that can be easily wiped clean made the subdued color scheme possible. When Moriah Kinzer contacted Hudkins in the spring of 2015, she explained that the deadline for completion was a tight one—in order for Will to begin at his new school full-time, they had to move in before the end of the summer. Since Kinzer was currently driving Will to and from his current school three days a week—a two and a half hour commute each way—she didn’t have time to be very involved in the design process. At the time, the home was partially built, but working with Jason Justice of Justice Builders was, according to both Kinzer and Hudkins, a wonderful experience. “He was very cooperative in creating a custom-built home that fit the family’s needs—and in the time frame in which they needed it,” said Hudkins. “And since I knew Moriah’s taste from working with her in the past, she pretty much handed me the reins and gave me complete creative freedom,” she added. Justice and his team accommodated their choices for color, hardware, tile, doors, trim, and just about every other detail. While the Kinzer home is certainly gorgeous and well designed, many of the home’s interior details come from a place of practicality and function. For example, the reclaimed oak floors were specifically chosen to stand up to daily wear and tear from their two 200-pound dogs. It was a solution as well as an aesthetic choice,” explained Hudkins. “Texture is what it’s all about, because if you’re not using color, (the design) can end up looking stark or sterile.” Laura Whitaker of Many Moons Design provided the reclaimed hardwood flooring from a variety of barns near Harrodsburg. Whitaker used the same species of oak to ensure cohesiveness and extra durability. She also used a sealer so the floors will keep their beautiful texture and not develop a yellow tint over time. OCTOBER 2016 | TOPS MAGAZINE
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nce all the major furnishing pieces were in place, interior stylist James Snowden came on board to create all the finishing details. Many of the accessories were selected, styled, and installed by Snowden and his local interior design company, FABLE + FLAME. “He was the icing to Barrett’s cake,” Kinzer said with a laugh. Working closely with Hudkins, Snowden carefully selected accent pieces that brought the design scheme together and complimented the clean aesthetic of the Kinzer home. “Their home is a study in neutrals,” he said. “When styling the home, much attention was given to texture, which provides a great deal of the visual interest.” In each of his projects, Snowden’s goal is to represent and define the homeowner’s aesthetic. When asked to describe his process, he said, “I try to tell a story about those that dwell in the home. The Kinzers already shared so much of my taste that the project became a wonderful friendship between homeowner and designer. Clean, uncluttered, casual refinement – that is how I would describe the home, especially in the open concept kitchen/living room area, which is my favorite space.” The home opens onto a bright foyer featuring a striking Fredrick Ramond for Hinkley pendant light fixture that was purchased from Brecher’s Lighting. “The foyer is a completely round room, so the spherical chandelier really plays with that and accentuates it,” said Hudkins.
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o the left of the foyer is Will’s bedroom, which was originally intended as an office or multipurpose room. It has a bold, masculine quality that still remains in line with the home’s neutral and relaxing aesthetic. Décor elements include a tufted leather headboard and cowhide rug, and twin mounted deer skulls with antlers. The first floor powder room was converted to his adjoining bath, with marble vanity, subway-tiled walkin shower, modern fixtures, and plenty of natural light. Down the hall is a mudroom area that leads to the garage – complete with ample shelving, cubbyholes and hooks. To the left is a conveniently located laundry room. Sliding barn doors are another of Hudkins’ problem-solving design elements. They prevent the laundry room door from opening into the hallway. They also create more space in the bedrooms and pantry. “(The doors) eliminate any traffic situations, and because we had used them in the condo, I knew Moriah really liked the aesthetic and functionality,” she said.
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he great room is a lofty space featuring natural wood beamed ceilings, and a pleasing configuration of cozy furniture, arranged for interaction and conversation. Hudkins explained that the twin chandeliers have a very interesting mesh screen instead of glass, which casts a beautiful pattern on the ceiling when illuminated at night. “It gives a kind of crosshatched texture, similar to wallpaper,” said Hudkins. The sofas feature machine washable slipcovers – a must for any family with multiple children and pets. The dining room, which shares the same space, has an equally serene attitude, with more natural woods and sophisticated rustic elements. The dining table and chairs, along with the vast majority of the furniture in the Kinzer home, is from Arhaus Furniture.
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hrough a set of glass doors is an elevated screened-in porch with a stone mantle and mounted television – perfect for relaxing with family after a long day. When the weather is nice, the doors are left open, and the space serves a second living room. The porch overlooks a horse paddock and a pool for a very private feeling.
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verlooking the paddock and pool area, the master bedroom further supports the tranquil scheme. Under a soaring, vaulted ceiling, a gray tufted headboard, and distressed end tables add warmth and dress the room for comfortable lounging that suits the rest of the house. A stunning, hand-painted wood chandelier from Arhaus Furniture acts as an accent piece. Ann Little of Ann Little Custom Interior Painting created the faux finish on the ceiling, which is meant to look like wood that has been sanded and painted several times. The armless sofa at the foot of the bed features another washable slipcover, and the sliding barn door leading to the master bath allows a king size bed to fit comfortably in the room. The window treatments in the master bedroom, as well as those used in the rest of the home, were designed by Danna Harrington of BH Designs.
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he master features the remaining piece of the Vermont Danby marble used in the kitchen, a stand-alone tub, dual sinks, and a walk-in shower.
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urniture from the Kinzer’s former residence found a new home on the second level, which was designed to be an “apartment” for daughters Kylie and Laiken. A beautiful distressed double desk from Arhaus Furniture works well with a pair of vintage inspired chairs.
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udkins tied the furnishings to the overall scheme using the slightest hint of color in the girls’ rooms. Kylie’s room is painted the faintest shade of gray-toned lavender. Hudkins, who tries to use original art whenever she can, explained that since fashion is one of Kylie’s major interests, she hired an artist in New Orleans (Ann Cicero) to draw a pair of vintage inspired fashion sketches. The drawings were framed by Frames by James.
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aiken’s aqua-hued room has more of a beachy feeling. Her chandelier is made of smoky crystals that resemble shells. She also has original art on her walls that Hudkins picked up while in New Orleans.
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he basement features a guest suite with an adjoining sitting room and kitchenette, plus a theater room and home gym with rubber flooring and framed inspirational quotes on the walls. The basement area leads directly to the pool, so it serves as the family’s entertaining space. The distressed, washed charcoal cabinets in the kitchenette work perfectly with the modern stainless steel tile backsplash. The countertops are granite, but according to Hudkins, resemble very old slate that has been oiled over a period of years.
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he sitting room is accented with a charcoal gray tufted sofa, four oversized cowhide ottomans, a pair of chairs, and a collage of block prints by local artist John Lackey. The Abraham Lincoln accent pillow came from FABLE + FLAME, and Hudkins commented that the design resembled woodcut and reminded her of Lackey’s work.
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to support local organizations that encourage young girls. She spoke about how to bring joy into one’s life. The afternoon started with the participants meeting up with their assigned groups and painting their faces, arms and legs according to the color of their group. The participants were encouraged to play in field day activities, water sports and visit the craft station. One project was writing down things that bring joy to each of the girl's life and decorating a takeout box to store those mementos. The girls were encouraged to pull out the box whenever they felt low, to help remind them what brings them joy. A highlight of the afternoon was the opportunity for the young girls to play with the University of Kentucky women’s volleyball team. Hester learned after the event that one of the participants decided to try out for volleyball at her school after spending time with the UK Women’s volleyball team, despite having little interest in the sport prior to the event. Following the activities, participants met in small groups to discuss what they learned and experienced throughout the day. “The Joy Project, and its corresponding events, is a safe place for girls to explore topics,” said Katherine Stone, licensed psychologist and board member of The Joy Project. “What makes our organization different is that it is very mentor based. We find women in the community, who are successful in life or have overcome an obstacle, to mentor and facilitate conversations.” Stone, who was a founding board member of Girls on the Run Central Kentucky, has a passion for helping develop the emotional health of youth as well as the knowledge base to get a non-profit up and running. From her experience of serving on numerous boards, Stone has found that when a good idea comes around, the right people fall into place. She feels that way about The Joy Project and its board. While The Joy Project, a 501c3, has been meeting for over a year, the organization is still new, and continuing to develop, which means the organization is always on the lookout for volunteers and inspirational, female mentors to get involved. The board members are all committed to helping the next group of young women. As Hester explained, the board is a passionate group with amazing hearts committed to helping young girls through the most formative – and perhaps most formidable – period of their lives. “Ultimately, I see women and girls creating relationships that will make the struggle and challenges of adolescence easier through a powerful mentoring program of women who have been through the same uncertain and critical days,” said Hester. “My hope is that mothers and fathers become more honest and engaged with their children to help them cope and overcome the struggles of adolescence in times when the pressures to be perfect are outrageous,” said Hester. “I am committed to giving my daughters, and all these young girls, my best guidance and protection.” The Joy Project’s kickoff event “What is Joy?” was held at Transylvania University's Athletics Complex in June 2016.
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Meet the Media
Amber Philpott
WKYT promotes a brand that stands for Kentucky and anchor Amber Philpott embodies that spirit. Born and raised in the rural outskirts of Cynthiana, Philpott jokes she grew up so far out there wasn’t a soul around. “It was a good childhood,” she said. Philpott grew up surrounded by her parents and grandparents. “My grandfather drove a school bus for 47 years. He never met a stranger,” she said. Something Philpott may have inherited. Philpott’s parents remember their only child lining up her stuffed animals across her bed creating a captive audience for her creative mind. “I would do my version of a newscast,” Philpott reflected. Speaking in front of a crowd has never intimidated her. When she was just a little girl, Philpott stood up in church to speak with what she describes as a huge booming country accent. “I said I wanted to read from the book of Hebrews with the biggest accent ever.” Accent aside, public speaking came naturally. “I’ve always been that child who talked too much, who had a wildly creative and over zealous imagination,” she said. She took that imgination to Morehead State University where Philpott earned a degree in communications and electronic media in 2003. Armed
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by Michelle Rauch photos courtesy of Amber Philpott
with that, she was ready to follow in the footsteps of her idol, the long-time Lexington anchor she grew up watching. “I loved Sky Yancy when I was little. I wanted to be Sky Yancy,” she said. She wouldn’t have to wait long. Two months after graduating, Philpott was hired at WYMT in Hazard as a backup producer. While it was not the onair position she had her sights on, it was a valuable foot in the door that gave her experience. “I begged them. I will sweep the floors if you will give me a chance,” she remembered. It wasn’t long before Philpott became a reporter. She was a one man band which means she did everything. “I tell everyone I loved working in the mountains because everyone asks, ‘where’s your crew’ and I say ‘you are looking at her’.” Four months later, in October, she was already poised to sit at the anchor desk for the morning show. “It was on from then. I was hooked for sure,” she said. After a short 15 months at WYMT, Philpott was asked to come to Lexington to fill in at WKYT for three days while a co-worker was on maternity leave. She co-anchored the 11pm news with Sam Dick during the impor-
“I feel a great sense of pride and honor when anyone calls and asks me to be a part of their event,” Philpott explained. Among all the worthwhile causes she supports, one hits close to home. “Diabetes has impacted my family,” she said. Her late grandmother lived with the disease and saw complications from it. Philpott is the honorary chair for their annual Step Out Walk to Stop Diabetes. But like the other causes she has been introduced to, Philpott wanted to take her involvement in the walk one step farther. She was fitted with an insulin pump, minus the insulin, to better understand what it is like to wear one all day. Philpott learned how to check her sugar regularly and reported on the experience for a story. “I feel like if I am going to put my effort into something, I want to know what people are really going through on a daily basis,” she said. “I get attached to a lot of my stories and the people they represent.” Outside of Work Philpott shares her life with her husband of ten years, Steve Hill. He, too, is from Cynthiana. The pair met through a chain link fence when he was playing golf and she was at the pool. “He puts up with me in this crazy life and roller coaster he jumped on when he said ‘will you marry me?’” The couple works opposite schedules, so they make time to see each other on her dinner break. “This job has made me appreciate time. When we do have time together we try to be really in the moment and we have learned to really invest in the time we do have together.” She and her husband have a standing date most weeks at their favorite local restaurant Bourbon & Toulouse.. “I love that Lexington has become a foodie city. I love everything about that,” she said. Even though time is precious, Philpott makes the time for the other things that are important to her. “I am a gym junkie. That is very
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important to me. I am up every morning between 7-7:30am at the gym, five days a week,” she said. Philpott also runs six days a week. “Running is my release. Running is something that allows me to totally just clear my mind and let go.” Reading is another love of hers. “I am the biggest bookworm in the whole world. I’ll read anything. I love fiction.” Southern writer Karen White is a favorite. “I’m a sucker for a good mystery; come on – I work in TV!” Philpott’s biggest fans are back home in Cynthiana. Early in her career, her late grandparents would go to bed and set the alarm to get up and watch her each night on the late news until it was suggested they simply record the news to watch later. Her parents also take great pride in their only child. “My mom laughs and says she is now Amber Philpott’s mother, she no longer has her own identity,” she said. Philpott says it feels like just a day ago she moved to Lexington and started working at WKYT. She takes great pride in the station’s motto, We Stand for Kentucky. “What better way to promote that brand than to have anchors and reporters who were born and raised right here in the Bluegrass. For many of us, we never wanted to move on. I tell everyone I like being this fish in this pond,” she said. That longevity allows Philpott to connect with people. “I hope our viewers feel like they are invested in us because we are invested in them. In this business people come and go a lot. I am so thankful to be here. I hope people know we are part of you. We are you. We connect with you on so many levels and most importantly, we hope a personal level,” she said. “I feel so grateful and thankful to be in this position. I just really love what I do. I love telling stories and giving back.”
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Wedding TRENDS
Give your “Super Man” Super Boutonnieres for Geek Chic
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ure, the wedding is usually all about the bride, but when you take tradition and throw it out the window for something that really interests the groom, it says “love.” Letting his boutonnieres speak for him is a perfect way for him to make a statement that will be subtle, but upfront for all to see. So, if your groom is a fan boy of comics, fantasy or sci-fi, using his favorite characters in his boutonnieres is an idea inspired ‘in a galaxy far, far away’. And he and his groomsmen will love it. Flying Solo The hero assigned as sidekick to each of your groomsmen look powerful and make a statement when they are worn alone on a lapel, unadorned and unencumbered. You will need to attach a pin finding on the upper back of each action figure to keep it from drooping forward. It is better to place the pin horizontally to keep it from moving from side to side, especially on a larger super hero. May the Flowers Be With You If you prefer a softer feel, or want to tie them into your floral design – no problem. Rest your action figure on a small amount of coordinating greenery, berries or flowers, and tie it up with a matching bow. Be careful not to overwhelm your figure by using too many flowers: you don’t want this creative and meaningful idea to get lost. Just a small amount of matching florals will tie the guys in.
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Pocket Power What a simple and perfect idea! Simply tucking your action figures inside the groomsmen’s lapel pocket, with arms over the outside of the pocket, is super easy and cute. This works great with a vests-only wedding ensemble, because a front left pocket is a must. For a little extra security, tape them to the inside of the pocket so they don’t disappear on you. Especially if you are having a small and relaxed wedding, this is an effortless way to go. Take a Chance On The Dark Side Any of these choices will make the guys photos so much fun, and they will have fun with it. So pick your favorite heroes, and ‘Live long and prosper’. From a budget standpoint, using action figures alone from your own collection is a money saver and it can cut down on a little floral expense. But when combining into a floral boutonniere, the dollars will be about the same. You may feel a little iff y about forgoing traditional flower boutonnieres for action figure stand-ins, but take a chance and try to have fun with it. Actually “Do…or do not. There is no try.”
by Marsha Koller Wedding Consultant
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n a quiet reservoir in a neighborhood known as The Island is the home of Amanda and Hunter Nighbert and their children, Tyler (10) and Molly Hunter (7). During the month of October, the Nighbert home transforms into a Halloween extravaganza that wouldn’t be out of place in The Nightmare Before Christmas – or any Tim Burton movie for that matter. Creative, spooky decorations and vignettes can be found in every corner of their home. The 4-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom home was custom built by Hunter’s parents in the late 70s-early 80s. Hunter grew up in Lexington and spent his childhood and adolescence there, and about three years ago, his parents decided to downsize and spend half of the year in a warmer climate. So they moved to Florida, and Amanda, Hunter and their family moved into their home. The Island, one of Lexington’s most sought-after areas, is located about four miles from downtown, near the intersection of Richmond Road and New Circle Road. It is comprised of two islands – a larger one with about 100 homes and a smaller one with 45 homes. Most homes are lakefront properties, on city reservoirs. Residents are welcome to paddleboard, swim, kayak, canoe, and enjoy various other lakeside activities. According to Amanda, the only limit is that everything has to be battery powered – no engines are permitted so the area remains quiet. “The kids love it – they are out there constantly,” she said. The home was originally built by Padgett Construction, and when the Nighberts moved in, they hired Crawford Builders to handle the remodeling. The builders removed two of the walls on the first floor to combine various rooms, and expanded the entryway to give the house a more cohesive feeling. Nancy Elam and Amy Clark at Design Link are responsible for much of the interior design work. They picked out the bold, colorful window treatments, along with all the fabrics, light fixtures, paint colors and wallpaper. According to Amanda, who is from Williamsburg, Virginia, the house’s original design was very traditional, with smaller rooms and separate dining and living areas. Coincidentally, her mother-in-law, Sharon, had the house modeled after the President’s House at William and Mary College in Williamsburg – long before she knew she’d have a daughter-in-law who was raised in that same small town. “Back when the home was completed, it was the style to have those formal, separate rooms,” said Amanda. “And today, those spaces just aren’t used anymore. So we tried to open it up and make the place more useable for entertaining and family gatherings.”
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he Halloween themed cookies were made by Amanda and her close friend Cassie Zumwalt. They make cookies for almost every holiday to share with friends and family.
photo of her children’s Halloween costumes for that year. “Every Halloween we pull it out and add their picture, and it’s really fun to see all of their costumes over their entire lives.”
For Amanda, it’s almost impossible to pick a favorite decoration, but she said it is probably the colorful picture banner that is displayed on one of the mantles. The banner has a section for each year, along with a space to display a
“I also love the big black tree cutout on the back door,” she said. “I think that has an amazing effect.” At night, the house is aglow with lights, and passers by can hear a soundtrack of spooky sounds.
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n the bar area there is an amazing display featuring a set of vintage apothecary bottles. Amanda said that the bottles aren’t imitations – they’re the real thing. “My father-in-law, Dr. Edwin Nighbert, is a surgeon, and he has always loved to collect antique medical equipment. When we moved into this house, there was a cabinet above the refrigerator, and they had left all of those old medicine jars in there, and I thought, ‘These are going to be amazing for my Halloween decorations!” She also said that the apothecary display looks great during a party with liquor bottles arranged among the vintage bottles and jars. Amanda admits that she decorates almost as much for Christmas as she does for Halloween. “I have all of November to take town the Halloween decorations and to put up the Christmas stuff. Molly Hunter says that I totally forget about Thanksgiving, but what can I say?” As for the other holidays, she doesn’t decorate as much. Since Halloween and Christmas take so much time and effort, understandably, she needs a break in between.
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Filly of the Month:
Chelsey Reid C
helsey Reid knew from an early age that she wanted her life to involve horses for the long term. When she discovered Georgetown College’s then-newly formed Equine Scholars Program during her senior year of high school in 2006, she knew she had found her next move. The program, which allows students to explore, network and gain experience in a wide variety of careers in and related to the horse industry while pursuing a traditional liberal arts degree, was one of the most influential aspects of her college experience. Through it, she made lasting friendships and professional contacts, while gaining a wide breadth and depth of experience through attending lectures, taking field trips, working, interning, volunteering and more. That’s why when the program that made such a significant impact on her life was searching for its next leader four years ago, she eagerly pursued the opportunity. Since then she has been at the organization’s helm, shaping the next generation of future equine professionals at Georgetown College. A CHRISTMAS GIFT TURNS INTO A LIFE-LONG PASSION From a young age it was undoubtedly clear – Chelsey Reid was an animal person through and through. Whether it be cats, dogs, bunnies or other furry four-leggeds, Reid was always the most content when she was with animals and seemed to have an uncanny knack for befriending them with ease. It was when she received the gift of riding lessons for Christmas as a six-year-old that she discovered her favorite fourlegged fur balls of all: horses. “My first riding lesson happened during a frigid January day aboard a dutiful bay Arabian named Tuff y. I was hooked. I fell hard for the whole scene, loving equally riding and taking care of the horses,” said Reid Her family eventually bought and moved to a small farm in Crestwood, Kentucky and, throughout high school Reid balanced school work, barn chores, a job at the library and, of course horseback riding. “My passion for horses was rivaled only by my love of learning. I read everything and dreamed of becoming the first in my immediate family to attend college,” she explained. While Reid’s original plan was to attend college out-ofstate, her mother encouraged her to explore options closer to home. That was how she learned about the Georgetown College Equine Scholars Program. “Georgetown had recently launched their Equine Scholars Profile by Jen Roytz | Photos by Keni Parks
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Program. It was unlike any other program in the country and I knew immediately it was the right choice for me,” said Reid. “I would never have imagined that a 4-H kid from Louisville would be able to attend lectures with top equine lawyers, tour state-of-the-art equine rehabilitation facilities, work with world-class Thoroughbreds, intern with the American Holsteiner Horse Association and more. I was even able to intern in Washington, D.C. as a Cultural Intern for the National Museum of American History.” It was during that internship that Reid was given the assignment of cataloging all of the museum’s equine-related art in preparation for the pieces to be sent out on loan to various organizations during the 2010 World Equestrian Games, held that year in Lexington, Kentucky at the Kentucky Horse Park. “Were it not for Georgetown College and the Equine Scholars Program, I would have never been creative enough to connect these two great interests. Horses and history – who knew? The Program taught me how to be a professional, which is a sentiment that can be easier said than executed,” she said. BECOMING A CANCER SURVIVOR BEFORE GRADUATING COLLEGE It was during her sophomore year of college that Reid began noticing a lump on her neck. It started small and was not painful, so she didn’t pay much attention to it. “A healthcare provider pointed out the nodule a year before I sought further testing. I was aware of this rapidly-changing symptomatic knot – this tumor – for an entire year before I did anything to address the situation,” said Reid. “If I’d found a mysterious bump on my horse’s leg, I wouldn’t have waited five minutes before seeking further medical attention. As horse people, we do such a great job of putting our horses’ needs first and our own well-being becomes an afterthought.” Chelsey explained that part of her reluctance to get the nodule on her neck evaluated further was her admittedly below average health literacy. While she knew exactly what to do if a horse was sick, she was at a loss as to how to proceed when she was the one in need of attention. “Where do you start when someone says ‘Yeah, that lump isn’t normal. Get it evaluated.’ Who do you call? Ghostbusters? I didn’t know how to ask questions,” she said.
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Eventually Reid connected with a primary care physician who helped her navigate the process. After lab work, an ultrasound and a biopsy, the lump was diagnosed as papillary thyroid carcinoma, more commonly known as thyroid cancer. “I had two surgeries to remove my thyroid, followed by treatment with radioactive iodine,” explained Reid. “After completing my treatment I took time to really learn about the value of proper diet, exercise and, most importantly for me, rest. Losing my health made having health precious, a realization I am fortunate to have had early in my life.” Battling cancer also gave Reid new purpose. She is a vocal advocate about cancer prevention and is currently pursuing a Masters in Public Health at the University of Kentucky. “Prevention is rooted in regular habits. Friends, colleagues and students know one of the things I am very vocal about is sunscreen use. Wearing sunscreen is a health-protecting measure that requires zero sacrifice and not a single minute of cardio. I suppose I feel so strongly because I know how foolish and defeated I felt when I realized I had unintentionally delayed treating my own cancer.” GEORGETOWN COLLEGE: ROUND 2 Since returning to her alma mater as a staff member, Reid has taken the Equine Scholars Program to new heights. There are currently 35 students enrolled in the Program and their professional aspirations range from equine veterinary medicine and marketing to equineassisted therapy, photography and everything in-between. In 2013 Reid also helped the students create the college’s first Equestrian Team and serves as the organization’s staff advisor. The team, which has tripled in size since its inception, hosted its first-ever intercollegiate horse show last year, welcoming riders from college teams throughout the region to Scheffelridge Farm, which serves as the team’s training facility. “The Equine Scholars Program is truly a career development program. Each year I try to develop unique initiatives designed to challenge the way students consider both the horse world and themselves as young professionals,” said Reid. “Instead of looking at the equine industry and asking ‘What opportunities do you have for me?’ I am working to help students consider ‘What do I have that I can give?’ The 21st century job market demands adaptability, and I know our recent graduates have proven to be dynamic professionals.”•
Colt of the Month:
Mike Delzotti F
rom a young age, Michael Delzotti has found fulfillment through service and through connecting with people. Growing up in Chicago, Illinois, he was always looking for ways to get involved with missions bigger than himself. As the old saying goes, some things never change. In December of 2015, Delzotti was appointed the new President and CEO of the University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Foundation, whose main purpose is to raise funds for the cutting-edge research and treatment being carried out at the UK Markey Cancer Center, Kentucky’s only National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated cancer treatment and research facility. Located in downtown Lexington with affiliates throughout the state, the Center serves people throughout the Bluegrass from all walks of life and from all societal and economic backgrounds. FOLLOWING A PATH OF SERVANT LEADERSHIP Delzotti’s career has been built in the realm of healthcare philanthropy, but it wasn’t his original plan upon graduation from high school. “I left Chicago to attend college in Philadelphia at Villanova and spent my first two years of college in seminary studying to be a Roman Catholic priest,” said Delzotti. “After much soul searching, I decided it wasn’t for me, but my heart was in meaningful service and I wanted to follow a path that would make a difference in the lives of people who had been dealt a difficult hand. I had done volunteer work all of my life and I had contemplated a number of service-type directions for my life, including the Peace Corps and non-profit work.” Delzotti began his career in healthcare administration, but his talents for communication and his ability to make authentic connections with people from all walks of life soon saw him find his niche in non-profit fundraising. While the majority of his positions have been in the realms of healthcare and higher education, one of his most meaningful forays into the field of philanthropy was as Vice President of Development and Marketing for Special Olympics of Southern California. “The work of Special Olympics is very important and a measure of ours’ as a society. It is a movement full of people with purpose. I loved working with everyone involved with the organization, from the athletes and donors to the volunteers and families. They are all passionate and so giving, whether it is through an investment of money, time or resources,” said Delzotti. Profile by Jen Roytz | Photos by Keni Parks
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It wasn’t long after leaving Los Angeles for Houston, Texas that Delzotti landed the position of Senior Director of Philanthropic Resources at MD Anderson Cancer Center, which the largest and number one-ranked cancer center in the world. “In my role at MD Anderson I focused on major gift cultivation and management of our major gifts team,” said Delzotti. “You forge a great team spirit by successfully executing $1 billion fundraising campaigns. Every employee and volunteer at MD Anderson knew they were Making Cancer History.” It was a coup, then, that after conducting an extensive national search, the UK Markey Cancer Foundation secured Delzotti for the position of President and CEO in 2015. “My decision to accept the position came after interviewing with the [UK Markey Cancer Foundation] board and with Dr. B. Mark Evers (Director of the UK Markey Cancer Center),” explained Delzotti. “It was so clear to me that [Evers] had a vision and, with the support of the board, the ability to bring the Center to the level it needs to be to support a state with such sobering cancer statistics. It was the combination of his passion and the state’s need that drew me to take the position with Markey.” Kentucky’s need is great. The state has the unfortunate distinction of leading all states by rates of cancer incidence and mortality. “Markey is more than a set of buildings. As a cancer center, it is a promise. A promise that all patients will receive world-class care, delivered with compassion in a place that offers hope and dignity. We treat the disease but we truly care for the patient,” explained Delzotti. BUILT ON THE BACKS OF THOROUGHBREDS The namesake of former Calumet Farm matriarch Lucile Parker Markey, the UK Markey Cancer Center and its accompanying Foundation were founded in 1983 thanks in large part to funding from the Lucille P. Markey Charitable Trust. An avid horsewoman and philanthropist, Markey and her husband, Warren Wright, Sr., who left the farm to her upon his death in 1950, saw their Calumet Farm rise to prominence as one of the most prolific and historically significant farms in the Thoroughbred industry world-wide. The white fence-lined Thoroughbred nursery produced the likes of Kentucky Derby winners Pensive, Ponder, Hill Gail, Iron Liege, Tim Tam and Forward Pass (via DQ), as well as Triple Crown winners Whirlaway and Citation. Today, the board of directors of the UK Markey Cancer Foundation is still steeped in Thoroughbred tradition, with board representation by the owners of Lane’s End, Mt. Brilliant, Airdrie, Overbrook, and Dixiana farms and Hagyard Equine Medical Institute – some of the modern industry’s heaviest hitters. It is headed up by board president
Sally Humphrey who, along with her husband, Watts, owns Shawnee Farm. “The horse industry was absolutely present at the creation of the institution and drove it from day one, when Mrs. Markey and her friends gave generously to make this institution come about. Since then, the horse industry has been involved in every way and every day,” said Delzotti. While the institution is one of only 69 NCI-designated cancer centers in the country, planning is under way for the UK Markey Cancer Center to apply for Comprehensive Cancer Center status with the NCI, the cancer-specific agency under the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services. “Since we are stepping up to the comprehensive cancer center level, which means more life-saving trials for our patients, we need to make a bigger effort to welcome more supporters and even greater generosity. This is a cause of Kentucky, by Kentucky and for Kentucky that merits philanthropic support from so many in the state of Kentucky,” added Delzotti. “Markey is very well-run, but no business model and no amount of federal grants will get us to the finish line alone. The science is too expensive and the problem too complex. Philanthropy built this center of care and compassion, it helped to make us number one in Kentucky, and it will secure us as the only comprehensive cancer center in our state.” BECOMING A BLUEGRASS TRANSPLANT While it is the smallest city he has ever resided in, Delzotti has acclimated quickly to life in Lexington. He enjoys spending time downtown and has made a concerted effort to experience and appreciate all the city has to offer. “Lexington is an incredibly live-able city that lends itself to discovery by walking,” he said. “I enjoy walking through the UK Arboretum and the older neighborhoods downtown, and Le Deauville has quickly become my favorite restaurant, though there are so many delicious and unique options to choose from.” Delzotti’s eleven-year-old daughter, Caroline Fiona, spent the summer with her father in his new hometown this year and quickly became a fan as well, taking full advantage of the equestrian opportunities through riding camps and other horse-related activities. “I look forward to truly making Lexington my home for years to come and becoming an active and engaged member of the community,” said Delzotti. “With the demonstrated need for quality cancer care being so great in Kentucky, the UK Markey Cancer Center will continue to grow, from a facilities standpoint, as well as in the areas of revolutionary research and treatment. It will take significant funding for that to happen, and I look forward to being part of that.”•
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Business News
BOOk-tacular Halloween Party to benefit Homework Help Program The Lexington Public Library Foundation is hosting a fabulous evening of dancing, drinks, food and fun for a great cause! Their BOOk-tacular Halloween Party will be held at The Signature Club on Saturday, October 29th at 7pm with proceeds to benefit Lexington Public Library’s Homework Help Program. Homework Help began five years ago with the goal of helping local students with their homework. The program, now in partnership with KentuckyOne Health, is offered at the Northside and Village Branch libraries. At the Village Branch, many of the students come from Spanish-speaking homes and need extra help to start learning in English. In the 2014-2015 school year, Homework Help served 825 students. Teachers in the feeder schools say they have seen improved performance in the classroom—academically, behaviorally, and socially—in the students served by Homework Help. The BOOk-tacular Halloween Party is a fun way to support this important work! Guests to the event will enjoy catering by Willie’s Locally Known alongside beverages from Bulleit Bourbon and West Sixth Brewing. DJ Danny McFadden will spin tunes while guests dance, dine and enjoy psychic readings by Madam Kathryn. TapSnap Photography and TOPS will capture all the fun! Partygoers are encouraged to wear costumes or black attire; there will be a costume contest, as well as a silent auction. Tickets are $75 per person, and are available at www.booktacular.org
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March of Dimes Signature Chef Auction One of area’s most popular charity food events, the March of Dimes Signature Chefs Auction presented by UK HealthCare, will return on Friday, November 4, 2016. The event begins at 6:30 p.m. at the Griffin Gate Marriott Resort & Spa. Presented by UK HealthCare, the event will entertain 350 of Lexington’s corporate, medical, and community leaders coming together to support a great endeavor. Guests will indulge in tastings from over 15 local chefs, complete with fabulous drinks, and interactive entertainment. A who’s who of prominent area chefs and restaurants will prepare their signature dishes created exclusively for the evening, paired with wines, spirits, local beer, and even a bourbon tasting resulting in a memorable, mouth-watering extravaganza. Lead Chef Justin Clark of UK HealthCare will be joined by a stellar local lineup, including Athenian Grill, Jeff Mayer of Baptist Health, Amy Harris of Brasabana Cuban Cuisine, Andrew Suthers of The Gastro Gnomes, J. Render’s Southern Table & Bar, Joella’s Hot Chicken, Jonathan Searle of Lockbox at 21c Museum Hotel, Nick Ryan’s, Justin Taylor of Roll ‘n’ Smoke BBQ and Gourmet Egg Rolls, Jason Bowmar of Sonny’s Real Pit BAR-B-Q, and Mike Montes of St. Claire Regional Medical Center. More chefs and restaurants to be announced! Following the tasting, there will be a seated dessert and a spirited live auction featuring unique once-in-a-lifetime opportunities and their very special Fund the Mission. This year’s Event Chair is Dr. Joseph Iocono, Division Chief of Pediatric Surgery at Kentucky Children’s Hospital. As a physician who sees the unfortunate realities of premature birth every day, it is his goal to raise as much money as possible to fund this initiative. Funds raised by Signature Chefs Auction help support prenatal wellness programs, research grants, neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) family support programs and advocacy efforts for moms and babies. The March of Dimes is the leading nonprofit organization for pregnancy and baby health, working to “improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality.” Funds raised at the event support the mission of the March of Dimes. For the latest resources and information, visit marchofdimes.org or nacersano.org. Today, one in every ten U.S. infants is born premature, including 6,033 in Kentucky. The March of Dimes is committed to funding research to find the answers to problems that continue to threaten the lives and health of babies.
MARCH OF DIMES SIGNATURE CHEF AUCTION Friday, November 4, 2016 Griffin Gate Marriott Resort & Spa For more information on sponsorship tables and chef partcipation opportunties, visit signaturechefs.org/bluegrass or contact Whitney Elswick at the March of Dimes office at 859.402.1707.
March of Dimes Signature Chef Auction | 859.402.1707 | signaturechefs.org/bluegrass
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