November, 2018 | FIRST EDITION
THE WOODFORD CHARM A LOCAL MAGAZINE BY LOCAL PEOPLE
The Woodford Charm
THE WOODFORD CHARM TEAM FOUNDER & PRESIDENT Jeri Hartley FOUNDER & CREATIVE DIRECTOR Cory Cooley DESIGN DIRECTOR, WRITER, EDITOR Sara Cooley PHOTOGRAPHER Casey & Sara Picures EDITOR & WRITER Katie Cooley (as Decorkate)
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Meet the team Jeri Hartley Jeri Hartley is a wife, mother of five and a grandmother of two with one on the way. Starting her career in new construction, she now has over 15 years of real estate experience. To further her love and commitment to Woodford County she serves on the PVA Board of Adjustments and Planning & Zoning Commission for Versailles. Jeri is driven by faith, love for her family and helping friends in need. Always on the move, she still finds time to enjoy spoiling her grandchildren.
Cory Cooley Cory is a Realtor for Rector Hayden Versailles and a United States Marine Corps Veteran. His long time, self-taught craft of marketing and business management is what drives The Woodford Charm and his newly founded media business Cooltucky Creative. Husband to Katie and father to Avery, he always makes time for them and believes family is important. To unwind he enjoys The Science Channel, comics and card games. Not to mention, Incredibles or Octonauts with Avery from time to time‌or all the time.
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Casey & Sara Pictures Casey & Sara Pictures, is a husband and wife Photography & Videography team based in Kentucky. Born and raised in Versailles, Casey met his wife at Asbury University while both studying Communications. They soon moved back to Versailles and built their now thriving business from the ground up. They specialize in weddings, lifestyle, families, and serving local business. Casey & Sara, love being members of Woodford County and raising their son in the sweetest place to call home.
Katie Cooley Katie Cooley is a wife, mom and graduate of University of Kentucky. She works as a Finance Manager in Lexington and has an interior design blog, DecorKate. She also contributes to The Woodford Charm about design and interiors. Katie loves iced coffee, baking cookies with her daughter and has traveled to 14 countries. She met her husband at a costume party and they are celebrating their fifth anniversary this January.
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Casey&Sara PICTURES
WEDDI NG & LI F E S TY LE , P HO TO G RA P HY & V IDE O
CASEYA NDSA RA P ICTU RE S.C OM
DO YOU COFFEE? We’d love to meet you! Give us a shout!
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Table of Contents 38
It’s Bourbon Night
Historic Southern Home Remodel in Midway
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A Place to Call Home
Fall-Inspired Collaboration
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Red Tie Gala
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Hello & Welcome
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A Brew to Remember
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Holiday Inn Express
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Legend of Legends
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Horse Country
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Touring Our Own Backyard
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Thank You Letter from Versailles & Midway Mayor
Hello & Welcome We're so glad you're here! The Woodford Charm is a free quarterly local magazine created by local people to showcase everything Woodford County has to offer. The Woodford Charm was created to unify the community in a fresh new way. Our goal is to inform, encourage, and entertain by giving you a quality publication. The Woodford Charm is meant to celebrate our growing community and small town charm by supporting our neighbors in local business and covering local events which keep us a close, positive family. We hope you enjoy The Woodford Charm! The Woodford Charm Team
Vissor Stables | Versailles, KY Neil Vissor, Trainer Photo by Casey & Sara Pictures
MAGAZINE
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HI S T ORIC SOU TH ERN HOME R EMODEL I N MI DWAY Finished in 1870, this Southern home was built shortly after the Civil war by W. F. Harper for his daughter, Mary Harper Burdette. The property originated from a wealth of land that was gifted to the Harper family in the form of a Land Grant in the late 1700’s. Writer and photographer, Sara Cooley shares the story of how current owners, Alice Stewart and husband, Jack Kain came to own and repurpose this piece of rich history in Midway, KY.
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ne morning after picking up The Woodford Sun, Alice read, “Midway Road Farm for Sale.”
With no pictures and only an address, she drove down Midway Road and saw the Farm listed on the side of the road was one she had seen before and wanted.
Contractors of the renovation project, that vision became a reality. The home that you see in these pictures today was made possible because of this unified team that worked on this renovation project. The wait and process to beautifully restore this home has given back tenfold to this family, this community and a new generation. This could not be more understood than revisiting the history of the home.
Seven years prior, she had called the then property owner and asked to buy it. Finished in 1870, this Southern home was built shortly after the Civil war by W.F. Harper for his “No, way,” exclaimed the owner. daughter, Mary Harper Burdette. The property Little did she know that just a few years later the originated from a wealth of land that was gifted to owner would then decide to put his vacant property the original owners of the Harper family in the form of a Land Grant in the late 1700’s. up for sale and it would soon be hers to call home. Alice Stewart currently resides in Midway with her husband Jack Kain, owner of Jack Kain Ford of Versailles. She has been selling real estate for over 30 years with ERA Show Place Realty and has come to love the local community and Kentucky History.
This historic estate has since then been willed and kept in the family for generations. Stories of rich inheritance and thoroughbred legacy has been passed down and tied to the land.
Well known and notable horses of the day grazed Finding a piece of Kentucky history to restore and these farmlands including, Longfellow; a famous reside in could not be of a better fit than for Alice. race horse of the 1800’s, Nantura of Midway, and “I had wanted an old house off the road,” she said as Ten Broeck; U.S. Racing Hall of Fame Racehorse. she replayed the story of how she and her husband These stories and more are slowly being discovered came to own Southern estate. They saw the farm and shared. and knew it was a place they could one day call As Alice began the process of restoring the home to home. its former glory, she began realizing that they had In November, 1997, Alice and Jack purchased purchased more than just an old house. their home. They had a vision and for two years “I uncovered a garden,” said Alice after they this husband and wife team oversaw renovations began digging through the overgrown weeds that from start to finish. With the help of Gary Eaves surrounded the estate. & Son’s; Brandon and Steve who were the General
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itting proudly on their fireplace mantle is an old wooden and steel musket taken from the Battle of Perryville in 1862 by Alice’s great grandmother when she was ten.
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orking in her garden has become the most meaningful journey after purchasing the farm because it was something she uncovered overtime.
wood in her kitchen and sunroom pre dates the civil war. They rescued the wood from a house in Harrison county that was being demolished and salvaged it piece by piece.
“I really enjoy tending to the garden,” said Alice.
This sweet family has recognized stories and pieces of the past need to be rescued and put on display and shared.
Outside her transformed sunroom now lies a perfectly cared for garden flowing with greenery and rich colors. Today, Alice takes care of thousands of daffodiles and she didn’t plant a single one.
She talked fondly of her grandchildren and said many times that every inch of the land is well used and tended to. Through beloved family sitting around the dinner table for Thanksgiving dinners, to weddings and birthday parties, this family leaves no inch of the property untouched.
She has kept every piece of glass while tending to her garden and one day hopes to make a mosaic, putting together all the broken pieces.
“Every Christmas the house feels so warm. I enjoy the All-American feel,” said Alice as I asked her what her favorite holiday is to host family. Her dining room was filled with elegant charm and in my heart I knew that this is a home where people gather intentionally.
“I feel a connection to the people that lived here and I want to keep cultivating it. I feel very, very special to come full circle of the heirs and caretakers of the land.” I walked through her home and listened carefully as she shared her story of the renovation process and how she was proud to call this place home for her grandchildren.
Off the side of the road, behind rows of weeds sat a home that needed to be re-discovered. This property was meant for Alice and Jack who have taken the steps necessary to preserve and give voice to the beautiful stories that originated from their land.
They have chosen to compliment the history of the home with pieces of history from their own family story. She walked me to her kitchen and there sat proudly on the fireplace mantle was an old wooden and steel musket. She shared with me that the musket was taken from the Battle of Perryville in 1862 by her great grandmother when she was ten.
It was more than fate that Alice began shopping for an old house off the side of the road. Because of one small ad in the newspaper that fateful day in 1997 that led them to Midway Road, this husband and wife now has a beautiful restored southern estate and a place for many to call home.
History flowed throughout each and every room in the home. She continued to share that the
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Original Deed to property
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Alice's favorite room in the entire home is her sunroom. Outside her sunroom leads to her uncovered secret garden.
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Owners beloved family Boston Terrier also known as, Annie.
Owners, Jack Kain and Alice Stewart of Midway share pictures of their renovation project in the early stages. 22
review of history : • Finished in 1870, this Southern home was built shortly after the Civil war by W.F. Harper for his daughter, Mary Harper Burdette.
• A Land Grant is historically known to be a gift of real estate by the Government to individuals considered to do good deeds for the country.
• The property originated from a wealth of land that was gifted to the original owners of the Harper family in the form of a Land Grant in the late 1700’s.
• 1,500 acres of the original land remains between Versailles and Midway.
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FAL L-I N S P I R E D C OL L AB OR AT ION W I T H L O C AL BU S I N E S S OW N E R S Working together with local businesses to create a complete and effortless fall-inspired look for the holiday season. Photos & Story by Casey & Sara Pictures
In collaboration with local business owners of Midway and Versailles, The Woodford Charm along with local wedding and lifestyle photographer, Casey & Sara Pictures came together to create a stylized photo shoot to be featured in the Fall 2018 Edition of The Woodford Charm. Writer Sara Cooley shares their mission and desire for our readers.
and little lovelies for the home. We ended up finding more items than we could ever begin to showcase in this spread and found it hard to choose just a few to focus on for this story. Elegant styles and vintage goods were easily discovered with minimum effort of traveling to and from Versailles and Midway.
We set out to showcase merchandise primarily sold in local businesses in Woodford County. First, our mission was to have each and every product you see in the next few pages be purchasable from a store in our community. By using products sold locally, we hope you will be inspired to head to your neighborhood boutique this season. Through the conjoining efforts of local business owners and townspeople, we would love to see a return of investment to our community as more people desired to support and shop in Woodford County.
Putting together a dreamy setting with local products was inspiring, even more so were the conversations made with each store owner. Getting to collaborate and meet the hard working team members and individuals behind each storefront made our hearts full. Listening to the owners share stories of how only by local efforts are they able to keep their ‘open’ sign in the doorway made our hopes to promote small shops in Woodford County paramount. Each product has been thought purposely with you, the consumer in mind. As you prepare to shop for the holidays, please keep your community and small business owners in mind. We bet you will love the product you purchase, but even more you may find intentional relationships as we all do our part to support one another in Woodford County.
Second, our desire is that through these photos you will see how effortless it is to put together a complete look with items from a variety of boutiques. We wanted this to be more than a fashion spread, but also chance to showcase desirable products that can be used in everyday life.
From the decorations to set the scene to the fashion pieces worn by our lovely models, each item originated right here from our community. We hope you enjoy.
To our surprise, taking on this project opened our eyes to see how much fun, enjoyable and truly effortless it is to find desirable outfits, antique items,
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ith the sun setting on this picturesque farm in Midway, we gathered these sweet friends to show how you can put together effortless styles by shopping local. Every element you see in this fashion spread are sold in both Versailles or Midway. From the cozy chenille cardigan and the dainty gold necklace our model is wearing, to the mums, pumpkins and antiques used as decor. Our hope is to provide you with as many fashion ideas and transitional pieces for in and out of your home for you or your loved ones this holiday season.
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he photo below is one of our favorites. The models vintage handheld basket is sold from May & Co. of Midway. The sweet owner can help you with any antiques and one-ofa-kind gifts for the home this season. For more information on how to find this complete look, please refer to our list of items to purchase on page 37.
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EACH ITEM ABOVE CAN BE PURCHASED AT BLUEGRASS TRADITIONS IN VERSAILLES 36
TH ANK YOU,
LOC AL BUS INESSES OF WO ODFOR D C O. We want to personally thank all of the local business owners who supplied products for this shoot. We have loved working with each of you. Also, we want to especially thank our Midway Farm owners, Alice Stewart and Jim Kay who hosted this photoshoot on their beautiful property. We are happy to share detailed information of each storefront below along with a list of items you can find on these next few pages in their store. BLUEGRASS TRADITIONS
KOKA BELLA BOUTIQUE
THE AMSDEN
black derby hat black and white, buffalo plaid scarf red river gorge t-shirt southern socks uk vest
forest green dress burgundy derby hat black dear john denim
red coffee mugs coffee beans spiced cider candle 859 necklace plaid multicolor wrap jeweled bracelet
MAY & CO. OF MIDWAY
SHOP TWENTY SOMETHING OTHER CONTRIBUTORS:
Downtown, Versailles 207 N Main St.
Downtown, Midway 117 E Main St
Antique handheld basket Antique basket for blankets english copper tea kettle ceramic coffee pot
Downtown, Midway 117 E Main St
Downtown, Versailles 151 S Main St
lace-up camel boots black basic top striped basic top Forest green vest mustard chenille cardigan
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Downtown, Versailles 151 S Main St
Mac Dougal's Garden Center Woodford Feed Co Inc Eckert's - Boyd Orchard Casey & Sara Pictures
IT’ S BOU RBON NIGHT AT T HE AMSDEN BOURBON BAR Review of the Amsden Bourbon Bar, by the hosts of It’s Bourbon Night. Written by Chad Perkins & Sara Ahlgrim. Photos by Casey & Sara Pictures
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t’s 7:30 on a Friday night at a quaint, little bourbon bar in downtown Versailles, KY. It’s standing room only as we walk in, getting the familiar whiff of whiskey being poured mixed with the sounds of good conversation.
extremely drinkable. Served in a hammered copper mug, this easy sipper was a great way to cool down on a summer’s night.
Chad’s first selection was their Old Fashioned, his “measuring stick” for cocktail bars, made Patrons sit comfortably on plush leather with Old Forester 100 proof, agave nectar, and couches or at barrel-made high-tops, if not at orange bitters. We appreciated that the Amsden the packed bar. The warm glow of the Edison had a more sparse approach to this cocktail, as bulbs, original tiling, and exposed brick give the other bars often try to over-complicate this drink bar a secret, speakeasy-like, old-time aesthetic. that is meant to shine from pure simplicity. The Ceiling height, built-in shelves behind the bar result was a well-balanced cocktail, bourbonmake the whiskey selections appear as a showcase forward with a bit of zest and smokiness, and a - the quintessential mark of a bourbon bar. The savory personality that made it truly enjoyable. character and charm of the atmosphere feels familiar, welcoming us to discover what unique Next up, Sara ordered a Bulleit Works - Bulleit Bourbon with torched peaches, brown sugar, flavors The Amsden has to offer. black walnut and corazon bitters, and agave Without delay, we ordered two cocktails from nectar, all served in a “smoked under glass” with their Seasonal Favorites list. First up, Sara a luxardo cherry and torched orange peel. We tried The Scat Daddy - fresh muddled mint quickly deemed the cocktail as “fall in a glass” and blackberries with bourbon, agave nectar, as warming flavors of clove, brown sugar, oak, and ginger beer. Perfect for the warm August and smokiness begged to be paired with crisp evening, this drink was light, refreshing, and fall weather and a cozy campfire.
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Chad finished out the evening by browsing their respectable menu of 100+ bourbons and whiskeys, and selecting a neat pour of one of our favorites, Wild Turkey 101, served in a Glencairn glass. Their list featured very down-to-earth pricing on some of our favorite staple pours like the 101 and Buffalo Trace, as well as rarer selections like the complete Van Winkle vertical, concluding with the 23 year. In addition, we were happy to see newer craft selections included like Boone County, Old Pogue, and Wilderness Trail, as well as a nice wine list and local craft beers on tap.
As the sun dipped down, the atmosphere became more romantic. This cozy spot is small enough for intimate conversations, but big enough to meet someone new and share an experience. The Amsden was everything you would expect to find in a hidden New York cocktail club, with all of the local charm of a Kentucky bourbon bar. As two Kentucky natives, we’re proud to welcome The Amsden into the prestigious fold of fine bourbon bars that we would gladly find ourselves frequenting.
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had Perkins & Sara Ahlgrim cohost the YouTube channel “It’s Bourbon Night”. They have created over 175 unique videos and have over 14K subscribers. Visit their channel for weekly bourbon and whiskey reviews.
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The
AMSDEN COFFEE + TEA
VINTAGE + LOCAL GOODS BOURBON BAR YOGA STUDIO
LOCAL CLOTHING BOUTIQUE
NOW OPEN IN DOWNTOWN VERSAILLES
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Midway, East Main Street & Midway College
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A PLACE TO CALL HOM E: C ONT INUING A LEGACY OF DESIG N AN D CHARM Katie Cooley (Decorkate) follows owners, Kim and husband, Ashley Davis’s remodel of their home bought from Ashley’s mother, Flora. A story featuring more than pretty walls, but a family legacy.
Photos by Casey & Sara Pictures
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n 1998 Jim and Flora Davis built a custom home so beautiful, it was featured in the Grand Tour of Homes presented by The Home Builders Association of Lexington. It’s the epitome
of southern living style, complete with; hardwood floors, thick columns, a dining room with an arched barrel ceiling, a circular driveway, and outdoor entertaining and situated off a country road backing
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up to a horse farm on five acres. That is the short list. At 5,000 square feet, this home was made with a love for family and friends.
below article) to help bring Kim’s vision to fruition. Walls were knocked down, cabinetry was replaced, and the perimeter of her countertops are a beautiful marble-like quartz. Fast forward 20 years, the home is still beautiful The real showstopper is her gorgeous soapstone but with new owners and a new modern island. She elected to not place chairs around, aesthetic. Ashley and Kim Davis bought instead using it solely as a workspace. the home from Ashley’s mother, Flora. “I’ve always loved this house but was eager to make Kim explained to me how she’s nervous it my own” Kim told me. I can appreciate about glass rings and etching, having marble that especially as a woman who loves interior countertops myself, I can relate. Kim smiles design. Creating a space that feels like “yours” proudly as she tells me she has installed a is essential to making it a home. “Sonic” style (as in the restaurant) crushed ice maker. I’m immediately jealous. Her kitchen is With Ashley (Woodford Builder Inc.) doing absolutely gorgeous with her oversized lanterns. the remodel construction, Kim hired interior I’m obsessed with their aged brass finish and designer Carol Pippen (contact information
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how well they complement her white kitchen. Equally stunning is the lighting fixture over her breakfast table – quite the statement. I’m especially impressed with her amazing linen Restoration Hardware style chairs that she cheerfully tells me were actually purchased from Wayfair. I’m totally on board with anyone who can find “the look” for less!
While we interviewed the family, Flora was there and I could tell she was proud of the home that was once hers. Jim, her husband, passed away about eight years after the home was finished. Flora remained there for another 20, continuing the legacy that is “The Haley”. The Davis’ two teenage daughters were there as well, one of which the house design was named after mentioned above.
The quatrefoil gray and white marble backsplash is elegant underneath their massive vent hood. I can just imagine them cooking Thanksgiving dinner in this kitchen. It’s ideal for entertaining.
This family is nothing short of gracious for letting us into their home. The whole experience was truly a blessing.
Of course, let’s not forget the family room with a soaring ceiling, antique-style chandelier and a full wall of windows. Natural light is pouring through even with dusk approaching. The back wall features a gas fireplace and custom built-ins that Kim decorated herself. Had she not told me that, I would have believed her designer styled it. The interior is styled with a hint of French country, but modern elements like the cabinet hardware and the guest bathroom sink keep it from being too style-specific. Each design element perfectly complements the other.
I hope you enjoyed learning a little about the history of this Woodford County home and especially enjoy admiring it as much as I did. Carol Pippen Interior Design carolpippeninteriordesign.com carolpippen@gmail.com (859) 321-5034
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DECOR Kate DESIGN & LIFESTYLE
Design & Lifestyle Blog
E-Design Servies
www.decorkate.com @decorkateky
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RE D T IE GAL A 2018 ANNUAL GATHERING AND AWARDS CEREMONY HOSTED BY THE WOODFORD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE friday | november 2, 2018
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he Red Tie Gala is Woodford County Chamber of Commerce’s annual awards and fundraiser. The event was attended by nearly 170 people including members of Chamber businesses, Chamber Award and Agriculture Award winners, and members of the community. The event, hosted at the beautiful new venue, The Galerie, in downtown Versailles, was filled with food, drinks, and mingling as well as silent and live auctions.
respectively. The Annual Chamber Awards, given by the Woodford County Chamber of Commerce, include the Business Impact Award, Business of the Year Award, Tourism Achievement Award, New Business of the Year, and the Legacy Award. They were presented to the Holiday Inn Express & Suites, Midway Business Association, The Kentucky Castle, Versailles Brewing Company, and Woodford County Judge Executive John Coyle respectively.
The Agriculture Awards, given by the Woodford County Agricultural Development Board and Woodford County Extension District Board, were announced first and include Outstanding Farmer of the Year and Distinguished Farmer of the Year. They were awarded to Adam Mitchell and Debby Prewitt
The night was rounded out by a “lively” live auction where they auctioned off seven large packages. The Chamber of Commerce is very appreciative of all of the sponsors and local businesses that donated items and volunteered their time to make this event a success. Review provided byDon Vizi Executive Director, Woodford County Chamber of Commerce Photos by Casey & Sara Pictures
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Woodford Chamber of Commerce 5th District Magistrate William Downey and wife, Emily Kay with Elizabeth and Bob Gibson.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF DAISY HILL Laurie and Jed Dorough.
Woodford Chamber of Commerce 1st District Magistrate Liles Taylor and wife Robin.
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A brew to remember FROM VERSAILLES BREWING COMPANY
New and proudly local to Woodford, Versailles Brewing Company specializes in food, craft beer and an place for people to gather and enjoy an exciting atmosphere. Discovering quality tastes of Woodford's own craft beer, we take you behind the scenes of everything VBC has to offer. Written by Cory Cooley
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hat does a freezer beef company and an experienced home brewer have in common? The answer is Versailles Brewing Company. I had the opportunity to sit down with Gary Jones, part owner of the VBC and he is ready to start sharing some good brew with the people of Woodford County.
Gary started home brewing several years ago as a hobby which ended up becoming something much more. One beautiful Woodford night, he and co-owner Curtis Congleton had an epiphany. They would use Gary’s love of brewing and Curtis’s crops to create something spectacular. Finally, in December 2017 they ordered their brewing equipment. It was actually happening. The supplier promised everything they needed to get started would be there by April. Well, that didn’t exactly happen according to plan. It wasn’t until July that they received what they needed to even think about brewing. Even after getting all the brew equipment, they still needed to get past the permits hindering their beautiful dream. Ladies and gents, it looks like all the obstacles have been conquered because the vats are turning. The large silver containers reflect all the hurdles Versailles Brewing Company has overcome and in fact, were designed extremely specific to what Gary needed. I should also state, to what the brew master needed as well. Mark Phipps is a chemical engineer with thirty years plus of brewing experience. TwentySeven of those years were spent at Alltech where he retired. You could tell Gary was excited when he mentioned to me that Mark was actually the one who called him. Mark asked if he could get back in the brewing game and help Gary with his beer at the Versailles Brewing Company. Gary’s answer was a resounding, yes. “We plan on starting with four beers,” Gary stated. “A Light Ale, a Stout, and a Lager.” When I asked for the forth, Gary gave me his signature grin, “you’ll have to wait and see.” As a craft beer man myself, I am extremely excited for VBC to finish their brew. I have the feeling this is the start of something fantastic. Depending on when you’re reading this, you may be able to get over to the Versailles Brewing Company right now and try some good ole’ Woodford County brew. 60
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HOL IDAY I NN E X P R E S S & S U I TE S
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book your next stay only minutes away from keeneland and the bluegrass airport
he Holiday Inn Express in Versailles has all the amenities a modern, upscale hotel has to offer. Perfect for Keeneland, local gatherings and holiday visits, only minutes from the bluegrass airport. More than a place to stay, small business owners; book your next professional meetings in our meeting room suit filled with all the amenities you need to serve your team and clients. Visit online to see all our hotel has to offer for the Woodford community. www.ihg.com phone: 859 873 5501
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" I gathered with Robert to hear the legend of Legends (pun 100% intended). It began with a new home construction for his current Legends business partner, who then was just a client. Needless to say with Robert, the build went smoothly. Throughout the build, Robert and his then client established a great working relationship. Little did Robert know, his client was looking for a partner in creating a new subdivision in Woodford County. "
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LEGEND OF LEGENDS Written by Cory Cooley
The Legends subdivision began turning heads as soon as the “sale pending” sign went up on the property along Troy Pike. It hasn’t stopped since. Every time I pass the new development, I can’t help but imagine all the new homes already constructed and one day in the future telling my daughter, “ I remember when it was just a field!” Robert DeArmond and his business partner, who wishes to remain nameless, are working tirelessly to make sure the subdivision lives up to its name. Legends will surely be legendary. I gathered with Robert to hear the legend of Legends (pun 100% intended). It began with a new home construction for his current Legends business partner, who then was just a client. Needless to say with Robert, the build went smoothly. Throughout the build, Robert and his then client established a great working relationship. Little did Robert know, his client was looking for a partner in creating a new subdivision in Woodford County. The business partner has been in the thoroughbred business for many years. He developed a love for the bluegrass region, especially Woodford County. Who wouldn’t? After completing his new build, they immediately got to work on finding any potential plats of land where they could invest and develop. Robert showed him the property by Troy Pike and the rest is what you see every time you pass it. They formed Legends Development, LLC, hired EA Partners engineering firm and started the process to develop the subdivision. Legends will be completed in three phases, working from Troy Pike towards Edmond Cross. The new subdivision will offer all the available services of The City of Versailles; Versailles Municipal utilities of water and sewer, Versailles Police and Fire Departments, Kentucky Utilities will provide electric power, Columbia Gas will provide natural gas, Windstream and Spectrum will be installing fiber optic cabling for the fastest available connections and garbage collection is contracted with Central Kentucky Hauling. Robert is not only a partner in developing Legends but building homes there as well. Apart from building with Robert, he has invited Scott Mattingly (Mattingly Building & Contracting, LLC), Mike Gentry (Gentry Construction & Remodeling, LLC) and Mike Hall (Andover Construction) to build in Legends. To get started on your dream home with Robert, you can contact him or Jeri Hartley at (859) 489-6252. Visit legendsatversailles.com for details. It was an honor to sit down with Robert and hear the story from the source. I believe this neighborhood will bring new life to Versailles and also Woodford County. Hopefully I have contributed in small way by getting this story out there and on how to be a part of Legends. 65
HORS E C OU NT RY Written by Stephanie Arnold Marketing and Member Services Director of Horse Country
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live in Woodford County is to live among some of the most beautiful land and famous thoroughbred horse farms in the world. Have you ever gone behind the gates? Have you gotten up close and personal with a champion racehorse – in your own backyard? With Horse Country, you can. Horse Country, a not-for-profit fan development initiative formed by local horsemen and legally incorporated in 2014, is a one-stop shop for planning your equine tour experiences in the Bluegrass. Among their members are nine Woodford County tour locations: Airdrie Stud, Blackwood Stables, Coolmore at Ashford Stud, Hurstland Farm, Lane’s End, Pin Oak Stud, Stonestreet, Three Chimneys, and WinStar Farm. The guided tours offer a behind-the-scenes look at the land, people, and horses that make the sport and region so special. This winter, Horse Country will be partnering with the new Bluegrass Traditions shop in Thoroughbred Square to bring information, inspiration, and merchandise from the local farms to Main Street in downtown Versailles. “This is our first forward-facing retail activation and we are excited it is in the heart of Woodford County,” says Stephanie Arnold, Marketing and Member Services Director for Horse Country, Inc. “While we love hosting out of town & bourbon guests to our locations, we also know that some of our biggest ambassadors are the locals. Woodford County residents have such passion and love for their area – and share a zip code with not one but two Triple Crown winners! -- and we are excited to introduce our brand and mission to them in this beautiful space.” Learn more and book your experience in Horse Country at www.visithorsecountry.com, and look for a Horse Country corner in Bluegrass Traditions this winter.
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Photo by Mary J Speer | Stonestreet
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THE LOCAL SPOTLIGHT
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THE GALERIE A gorgeous wedding venue created by Jessica and Jordan Kite. Originally from Lexington, they saw the light and chose Woodford County for their amazing business that is a “one stop shop” for wedding planning. Ready to start your dream wedding? Visit www.thegalerieky.com now! FB/Twitter/Instagram @thegalerieky
WOODFORD LAKES GOLF CLUB Woodford Lakes Golf Club is a breath of fresh air for golf in Woodford County… literally! It showcases Woodford’s beautiful scenery and is easily accessible, located right off of Versailles road. Cabin Brook was a staple golf course in Woodford County for years. Woodford Lakes has saved it, doing the old course tremendous justice and more!
www.woodfordlakesgolfclub.com FaceBook - @woodfordlakesgolfclub Twitter - @golfwoodford
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ROLLING OVEN Rolling Oven Mobile Pizzeria is opening the Rolling Oven Taproom in downtown Versailles. From traveling with our food truck to breweries throughout central Kentucky to opening our brick and mortar inside Mirror Twin Brewing in Lexington, craft beer has always played a big role in Rolling Oven’s story. We're excited to open our very own restaurant with our delicious wood-fired pizza, and we’re looking forward to supporting the craft beer movement that’s always been so supportive of us. Our twentytap taproom will feature local beers from Central Kentucky and the surrounding area. www.rollingoven.com FaceBook/Twitter/Instagram - @rollingoven
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The Milam House | Midway, KY Flowers, gifts and home furnishing boutique of Midway
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Ashford Stud, Coolmore America | Farms Photo by Cory Cooley
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TOURING OUR OWN BACKYARD WITH THE WOODFORD TOURISM COMMISSION Written by Cory Cooley
I was given the honor to tag along with the Woodford Tourism Commission (WTC) on an outing to Castle and Key and recently Ashford Stud. I believe these “field trips” are very much a sign of change for the WTC under the new leadership of chairperson Maria Bohanan.
I believe American Pharoah is away for the winter but Justify is definitely enjoying the crisp Woodford weather. If you enjoy beautiful horse farms, horses in general, professional horse industry or watch the derby every year and literally know nothing else about horses (me) you must absolutely come to Ashford Stud. I promise you will not regret it.
This “field trip” idea is from Maria, “All we do is sit in a room and TALK about these places. We need to get out and actually experience what we are preaching to come visit!” She then went on to explain that getting out of a small room helps conjure fresh ideas and gets the Woodford spirit flowing.
Later I asked Maria, if she could stand on top of a mountain to scream whatever she wanted and that EVERYONE would be able to hear her, what would she want to say about Woodford tourism? “I would want people to know that Woodford is the best place to come to.” “Kentucky derby winners, beautiful bourbon distilleries, world class horse farms, deep Kentucky rooted history,” were just a few highlights she passionately rattled off. You could tell she meant every word. After listening to her undeniable evidence on why Woodford is the place to see, she paused. “We’re pretty amazing,” she finally added, as if she herself was the recipient of her heartfelt speech.
The Castle and Key visit was exquisite. Will Arvin and Wesley Murry have truly restored something amazing right in the original birthplace of bourbon tourism. It was originally built in 1887 by Colonel Edmund Hayes Taylor who, like Arvin and Murry, saw something unique and had the courage to make difficult decisions despite what everyone was telling them. All of the original architectural and distilling choices were a risk, just like resurrecting over 40 years of decay. They make everything they sell with locally sourced ingredients today, just like Colonel Taylor did back in 1887.
Before we parted ways, Ken Kerkhoff called me over, “Cory, you get a shot of this?” I walked over and joined him in photographing the house shown below on the property. Ken is Maria’s predecessor as chairperson. Maria walked over and put her hand on Ken’s shoulder, “None of this would be possible if it weren’t for him.” “Maria is an excellent leader,” he returned. I took it as “a fresh new era of Woodford Tourism built on the successful foundation of the past”.
As you walk the property and through the distillery itself, you can actually smell history in the air. The original castle building that greets you at the beginning of the tour sets the mood for the entire experience. The process of restoration must have been extremely tedious because no detail is left un-finished. I can go on and on about this place but the only way to truly experience it…is to go. Go experience something truly courageous by visiting Castle and Key!
It really was an honor being invited by Maria to accompany the commission on these visits. If you haven’t been to Castle & Key, you are truly missing out. Seeing Triple Crown winner, Justify, at Ashford Stud was especially amazing. As we strolled through these beautiful Woodford County sites, I could really feel the hype behind the Woodford Tourism Commissions new initiative. Some very exciting things are coming down the pipeline. It will definitely be uniquely Woodford!
We couldn’t have asked for a more beautiful day to visit Ashford Stud. The crisp fall air under blue skies not only made for great pictures but a very pleasant stroll through one of the most prestigious horse farms in the world. That’s right, the world! Right here in Woodford County, this farmhouses the only 2 living Triple Crown winners, American Pharoah and Justify.
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etter from the mayor of MIDWAY Dear Readers, How exciting to have this great outlet to learn about all the happenings around Woodford County. Between Midway, Versailles, and the greater county, we have so many wonderful activities for folks of all ages, and without the traffic, crime and congestion of larger cities. I’m confident that Woodford Charm will be yet another example and reminder that we live in the greatest place on Earth! Enjoy, I know I will. Sincerely, Grayson Vandegrift, Mayor City of Midway
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etter from the mayor of VERSAILLES
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oodford County has a lot to showcase, and it is often difficult to determine a venue that will provide that opportunity. I was pleased to learn of this magazine, Woodford Charm, and it's stated intent to highlight our bright spots in an effort to unite us as a community. The price is right for consumers to digest the publication and be informed and entertained at the same time. It will be fun every quarter to look through the magazine for faces that we recognize and content that makes us a little more aware of the great place we all live. More and more people are focusing on that which divides us when there is a lot more that unites us. It might not always seem exciting or headline grabbing, but as I'm sure you will glean from this publication, these positive attributes are just as exciting and will leave you with a sense of pride. A project like this has been long overdue, and as the face of media changes and the way people get their information diversifies, this seems like the right idea at the right time. I commend Cory and the rest of the team for giving birth to this idea and I look forward to consuming and contributing for years to come. Thank you, Mayor, Brian Traugott
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TH AN K YOU LETTER As we close issue one, we want to thank each of you who has taken the time to engage in this magazine. We are proud of this issue and most importantly, proud to be part of Woodford County and invest in our community.
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am very proud to have presented Charm a possibility. I could also consider to you issue one of The Woodford my wife, Katie Cooley as an editor as well. She has read every article I wrote... a lot. Charm.
I hope you enjoyed reading it as much as I have enjoyed helping to create it.
As
to what’s to come! Stay tune for the second edition I knew back in August when we, my of The Woodford Charm mother Jeri Hartley and I, decided to to be released in the Spring of 2019. Until undertake this great feat of publishing then, you may find the Winter Woodford a magazine from scratch, it would be a festivities as well as our online services on challenge. The Woodford Charm would our website. not exist without her. For a few months it was only me, until Sara Cooley my sister- Thank you for your continuing support, in-law came on board. She brought the skills to make finishing The Woodford Cory Cooley
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CORY COOLEY, JERI HARTLEY Rector Hayden Realtors Jerihartley@rhr.com | Jerihartley.rhr.com
A SPECIAL THANKS TO THE CONTRIBUTORS OF THE FIRST EDITION OF THE WOODFORD CHARM Aaron Smither Alice Stewart & Jack Kain Amsden Bourbon Bar Amsden Coffee Club Amsden Mercantile Bluegrass Traditions Brooke Cottingham, Independent consultant with Scentsy Carol Pippen Interior Design Casey & Sara Pictures Clark Legacy Center Daisy Hill Senior Living Davis Family Duncan Gardiner with Thrivent Financial H & W Hotels Holiday Inn Express Home Services Lending Horse Country Koka Bella Boutique Kort Legends Subdivision Mayor Brian Traugott Mayor Grayson Vandegrift Rector Hayden Realtors Robert DeArmond Shop Twenty One Spotz Gelato Steeplechase Centre The Milam House Versailles Brewing Company Visser Stables Wine & Wood Woodford Chamber of Commerce Woodford Lakes Golf Club Woodford Tourism Commission
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The Woodford Charm We Have A Community Calendar! In order to carry out our mission of bringing Woodford together and being a hub of information for the community, we have created a living online calendar. What is a living online calendar? All “living” means is that the calendar is constantly evolving with new submissions. You can email us date, time, description and any specific info you wish to convey. We’ll add your event for you! If dates change or things get cancelled, just let us know and we’ll update it. If you already have a Facebook event made, send the link. Easy peasy! www.woodfordcharm.com/calendar contact@woodfordcharm.com 90
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