TOPS in Lexington Magazine, April 2015

20 APRIL 2015 | TOPSINLEX.COM

30 Out & About

32 Out & About

34 TOPS March Preview Party

36 Central Kentucky Heart Ball #1



42 Blue Tie Bash

44 Woodford Forward

46 Cardinal Hill Roundball BASH #1

48 Cardinal Hill Roundball BASH #2

194 2015 American Advertising Awards: Heart & Soul Lexington

196 Art in Bloom Gala #1



202 KY School of Art at Bullhorn Creative

204 Real Estate United

206 2015 Fund for the Arts Campaign Kick-Off

208 UK Basketball

210 UK Basketball

234 TOP Shots

TOPS AROUND TOWN

Captions for event photos are typically provided to TOPS by the event organizers. We do our best to check names and spellingbut we are all human and make mistakes. Please contact [email protected] with any corrections and we will make note of it in the next issue.

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54 Sports: Win or LoseNo Couch is Safe

61 Family: Shopping with Young Men

63 Parties: Ten Tips for Hosting a Family Easter Party

117 Posh Paws: Taming Your Wild Cat

118 Relationships: Love Cake

154 Etiquette & Entertaining: Is Less Best?

157 Fashion: Put Some Pep in Your Step

158 Gardening: What to Plant & When

189 Business News

216 Weddings: The Grooms Cake Take 1, This Time for Fun!

219 Taste of Thyme: April Showers Bring May Flowers

220 TOP 5 Dining: Dining with a View

222 Lesleys List

225 Lex & the City

231 Save the Date 219216

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Sports

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No Couch is Safeand post season accolades for Willie Cauley-Stein, Karl Towns, and Coach Cal? I say no. I refuse to allow one loss to taint an otherwise season for the ages. I am aware that it is so much easier said than done. I am not stupid. I know myself well enough to recognize how difficult not seeing Kentucky win it all would be. The pill we would be forced to swallow would taste worse than those lima beans you still refuse to eat on Thanksgiving and larger than the biggest vitamin on the shelf. For all the misery Big Blue Nation may have to go through, I am not going to let that define this magical season.

This team is as special as it gets, folks. Special is a term thrown around a little too loosely nowadays. Whether it applies to a sale at the furniture store, a limited engagement as an event, or a term of endearment for a loved one, special has evolved to go hand in hand with just about everything in our everyday lives. But I challenge that this Kentucky team is as special as anything Big Blue Nation will see in our lifetimes. An undefeated regu-lar season in a Power Five conference is in itself a special accomplishment, one that hasnt happened since Jerry Tarkanian and the Runnin Rebels of UNLV left mushroom clouds hanging over college basketball way back in 1991. The biggest difference between that UNLV team and our Kentucky team, besides being undefeated rolling into March Madness? First of all, the NCAA and their Infractions Department arent camped outside Memorial Coliseum. For those too young to remember that UNLV team, they were Public Enemy #1 in the eyes of the country. UNLV were bad, bad boys that would crush their opponents soul on the court, then get photographed in a hot tub with a known Las Vegas fixer after the final horn sounded. From community works and academic success, to role models and getting what it means to play basketball for Kentucky, this squad has the character and lack of ego rare among the college basketball elite. Forget the undefeated talk for a second and cherish those kids playing their hearts out for our be-loved Blue.

And how could we forget the thirty-point thrashing of Kansas? The all-out annihilation of UCLA in Chicago? Beating Rick Pitino and his Dirty Birds in their house? The throttling of Texas? Witnessing the beautiful freak of nature that is Willie Cauley-Stein? The enormous talent of Karl Anthony-Towns? The cold faced assassins known as The Harrison Twins? We could all go on and on about how spectacular this team has been. There is no doubt Coach Cal will win more national titles at Kentucky before he leaves. But will those teams be more enjoyable than this one? I dont see it.

Of course, all of this could be much ado about nothing. Maybe Kentucky will steamroll all over March Madness, finishing the season undefeated with their ninth national championship in tow. Everybody is predicting it. Profes-sional sportscasters have proclaimed it would take an act of God for Ken-tucky not to cut down the nets in Indianapolis on April 6. One opposing coach went so far to jokingly say hed need to call Jesus before battling UK. The odds are in our favor, BBN.

But no matter what happens. Keep enjoying the ride. It may not come around again. Ever. This season has been more special than any in Kentucky history. Refuse to let a loss define it.

Sports


by Jonathan MillerPreviously published on KentuckySportsRadio.com

Shake Off the Haters: The Purr-fects are Ideal Role Models for Americas Youth

As the Kentucky Wildcats proceed on their march toward an historic season, the national medias parlor game of persistent UK-bashing turned up its volume to 11. What began the moment John Calipari strode on campus with his first class of one-and-done recruits, has now obsessively transfixed the main street media zeit-geist, so much so that a new round of backlash-against-the-back-lash stories have popped up, defending Cal and his Cats from some of the more outrageous and hypocritical charges.

But as the cable TV screaming heads continue to assert that the Cats represent everything that is wrong with college athletics, the young men in blue and white were quietly doing the opposite: pro-viding positive societal meaning by exhibiting the kind of values that any good parent desperately desires to instill in their children. And while we complainjustlythat sports has a disproportion-ate influence on our community, this particular group of ballers have emerged as ideal role models for Americas youth.

Indeed, four essential, universal moral values are being modeled every game day for a national audience by The Purr-fects:

UNSELFISHNESS

Every single one of the worlds religious and spiritual traditions holds at its very core the same notion: That when we act on behalf

of others, when we abandon our own selfish instincts and serve so-ciety, thats when we are acting as our highest selvesthats when we are truly doing Gods (or humanitys) work. A principal ideal of universal morality is scrubbing away egomania and me-centered thinking, and focusing ones attention on the interests of the great-er community. The instruction to love your neighbor as yourself can be found in some form in every world culture since we started drawing on cave walls.

Now turn on Sportscenter at any point of the day, and your senses will likely be barraged by individual achievementa gravity-defy-ing dunk, a sweet three, an ber-confrontational block, or maybe an ankle-breaking dribble-drive. Discussions of the games great-ests often focus on personal statisticspoints, rebounds, triple-doubles.

Certainly, this Kentucky team has put on its share of breathtaking artistic exhibitions. But the magic of Cals Platoon system is how each one of these McDonalds All-Americans and future NBA stars has been willing to sacrifice his minutes, stats and personal glory for the teams greater achievement.

Athletic success at an early age can easily inflate the ego, or worse, lead to a false sense of entitlement. But The Purr-fects learned to

surrender their own self-interest (high scoring averages) for the common good (winning a championship), focusing on the uncelebrated lunch-pail, blue-collar fundamentals of the game: lifting up team-mates through picks, screens and sharp ball movement, and beating down opponents through suffocating, tenacious D. In so do-ing, theyve provided a noteworthy lesson in unselfishness and the Golden Rule for the boys, girls, and grownups who consider these hardwood heroes role models.

FAIR PLAY

The imposition of strict penalties against Syracuse for its decade-long series of in-fractionsranging from forged classwork to cash handouts to inadequate anti-drug enforcementshined yet another spot-light on the seedy underbelly of elite col-lege athletics. Any day now, the NCAA fi-nally will get around to severely punishing (hopefully assessing the death penalty on)

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the University of North Carolina for its abhorrent, twenty-years-plus academic fraud conspiracy.

Now admittedly, neither Kentucky basketball, nor Coach Cal in his previous positions, has been immune from charges of corner-cut-ting, as the programs coped to compete under the wilting pressure of big-time, big-money college sport. Indeed, the infractions of the Eddie Sutton Era still leave a black eye on the Big Blue Nation, an instructive reminder of how cheating undermines the very integ-rity of student athletics.

But this is a nation that sanctifies second chances; and during Cali-paris entire tenure in bluewith the possible exception of the very ambiguous Enes Kanter casethe Wildcats havent even emitted a whiff of scandal. Credit Athletic Director Mitch Barnharts dedica-tion to probity and compliance guru Sandy Bells laser-like focus on the true interests of the student-athlete. But even Cals most vociferous criticsthose that will never forgive him for episodes at UMass and Memphis have to admit that theres been no evi-dence that hes run anything but a clean program in Lexington.

Id argue that above the championship(s), more than the NBA draftees, this is Coach Caliparis most important accomplishment, particularly as it relates to the youngest Kentucky fans. As I argued in more detail in my rant against flopping, when players and teams cheat and then triumph, sport sends a sinister and destructive message: that dishonesty is permissible on occasion, that decep-tion is acceptable societal behavior. In a culture where winning is everything, the lesson that can be learned is that spin, artifice and clever chicanery are the necessary arsenal to achieve the American Dream.

By winning without cheating, The Purr-fects have demonstrated to the newest generation of the Big Blue Nation that the greatest glory actually comes triumphing when playing by the rules.

RESILIENCE

The Purr-fects have by no measure played perfectly. Falling behind early to Columbia at Rupp, and nearly losing to Texas A&M, Ole Miss, Georgia, Florida, and LSU, Cals Cats have shown that even the most talented of teams can, at times, demonstrate weakness, frailty and immaturity. Which again is a good thingits critical that our children under-stand that its OK to fail, to make mistakes; that we learn some of our best lessons from adversity.

But whats remarkable about this band of brothers is how they refuse to losethat no matter the circumstances, they never gave up. They got up from the mat, dusted themselves off, avoided the natural human temptation to panic, and found a way to win.

Like many of my fellow fans, there was never an occasion during the regular season that I

thought the Cats would succumb to defeat. Last week, I sat on an airport tarmac watching the Georgia game from my iPhone, and just as the Cats fell behind by nine points, the flight attendant re-minded me curtly of FAA regulations. Between airplane mode and the pilots announcement an hour later that wed won, I felt the calm serenity that victory was at hand. The Purr-fects enduring resiliency is both instinctive and intuitive and a powerful lesson for fans of all ageswho will often be tempted in the real world to lose hope and give up when the going gets tough.

LOYALTY

In a magical 31-game regular season, the most enchanting mo-ment came with 46.6 seconds left in the final game. Cal lurched to the end of the bench, and instructed his three walk-on seniors to remove their warmup jackets and finish off their careers basking in the glow of the iconic Rupp hard court. As the game expired, Andrew Harrison hung onto the ball at the top of the key, but the 24,000 plus on hand were transfixed on the transcendentally joy-ful faces of the three young men who had played so few minutes, but had participated in every practice, running drill, and academic exercise. It was the only time I teared up the entire season, and like most everyone around me, I didnt want that moment to end.

A decade from now, we probably wont remember their names (ex-cept for Sam Malone, of course, because he shares his with an icon-ic TV character.) But Cals Senior Day decision to start the three walk-ons, risking the games opening momentum against our most storied conference rival, and then allowing them to share the final moments of an unprecedented season with the home crowd, was a special tribute to the virtue of loyalty.

The Purr-fects will be forced to endure even more scrutiny from an ever-increasing toxically judgmental media and Twitter-verse. But as the teams critics desperately search for warts and Achilles heels among our young and all-too-human squad, a new generation of the Big Blue Nation will be drawing powerfully positive lessons from their extraordinary example. And that, sports fans, is yet an-other reason why Kentucky basketball truly matters.

Family


by Hallie Bandy

Motherboardoverv

If I ever complain about taking my girls shopping , stop me.

And remind me about my boys.Do you remember the1990s television show, The Wonder Years? In one episode Kevin is trying on pants with his mother. As she goes into the dressing room to check the fit, suddenly her voice is blar-ing over the stores loudspeaker: The crotch is too big, she announces, to Kevins horror.

Honestly, if there is a non-awkward way to shop with boys, I certainly dont know about it. It wasnt really a problem when they were little. Despite my preference for a more parochial look, they wanted to fit in with the norm in our schoolsjeans and a t-shirt. Easily accommodated. Thanks to a fortu-nate fluke of genetic ordering, my older son wore husky sizes, which were easily cinched when they were handed down to my lanky younger son.

Im here to tell you, online shopping is one of the greatest modern inventions for young mothers. Point, click and its delivered in 48 hours. All items can be tried on in the privacy of ones own bedroom, and returned to the store with ease.

This was my method for years.

But then they really started growing. Not only did sharing clothes become nearly impossible, but also the basic jeans-and-t-shirt uniform became more complicated. Theyve each taken different paths of preference, neither of which makes it easy on me.

One son has become a minimalist. He now simply wants a pair of jeans and a t-shirt. Okay, maybe two of each, so he has something to wear on laundry day. When we ask what he wants for his birth-day, he says nothing, so we buy him a new wardrobe. Unfortunately his preferred clothing source Goodwilldoesnt have an online store. But the upside is, I often have a load to drop off now that we no longer do hand-me-downs.

My other son is very aware of every item he puts on. He doesnt want just jeans and a t-shirt. He wants the right jeans with the right t-shirt. He also wants the right underwear (not white, but also not bright colors). This fits right in with his preference for the right smell, (theres a reason Old Spice has expanded its line of body washes) and the right hairstyle, and the right hair products.

This requires way more hands-on shopping than Im used to; and is also how I ended up spending two hours at Mens Wearhouse, completely stumped by the male fashion world. I mean, after weve differenti-ated charcoal and black, and debated wool vs. polyester, what is there to choose? With the girls, there are unlimited design choices. But with guysits a suit. At least, from where I sit.

And where I sit is the uncomfortable bench, watching my son try on numerous iterations of what appears to me to be the same suit, until he finally finds the one.

And then we get to the part Ive tried to avoidalterations. Cuffed, pinned, cinched, my son turns to me and I notice the crotch is a little baggy.

At least I didnt say it out loud.

Shopping with Young Men

Talk Derby to Me


by Barbara Meyer

Do you have your Derby Day picks yet? e Makenna Foundation can help put you in the winners cir-cle with their annual Come Talk Derby To Us event. It takes place Monday, April 27th at Fasig-Tipton in the Outdoor Walk-ing Arena, 2400 Newtown Pike. e evening begins with a Ken-tucky Spirit Tasting from 6:00 -7:30 p.m., and a dinner bu et at 7:00. e Derby program begins at 7:45.

Sheila and Greg David, who founded and lead the Makenna Foun-dation, promise participants a fun- lled party, one that also serves as Lexingtons premier prelude to the Kentucky Derby. Guests will enjoy eating, drinking, and mingling while being treated to a panel of equine industry experts sharing their racing expertise. e panel will dazzle the crowd with their knowledge about the 2015 Derby horses, jockeys and owners, passing on the stories behind the story of the upcoming race. Last year the panel successfully predicted Win, Place and Show picks for the Derby and almost unanimously chose the eventual Derby winner California Chrome. is years panel in-cludes Ed DeRosa of Brisnet.com and Claire Novak of the Blood-horse, John Greathouse Jr., of Glencrest Farm, and other notables to be announced.

Kentucky Spirit Tasting sponsors include 1792 Ridgemont Reserve, Bu alo Trace Bourbon, Limestone Branch, MB Rolland Distillery, Old 502 Winery, Rooster Brewing, West 6th Brewing, Wildcat Wa-ter, and Wilderness Trail Distillery.

Event proceeds bene t the Makenna Foundation and UK HealthCare/Kentucky Childrens Hospital. Individual tickets are $80 and sponsorship opportunities are available. Contact [email protected] to purchase tickets and learn more about how you or your business can become a sponsor.

Makenna Foundation events are driven by volunteers who have been touched by Kentucky Childrens Hospital or Makennas story, the Davids remark. We try to deliver an enjoyable and rewarding event that raises money for much-needed projects at the hospital. We hope you will join us!

THE STORY OF THE MAKENNA FOUNDATION

Sheila and Greg David started the Makenna Foundation as a way to honor the memory of their daughter Makenna Lee David. Since the foundation began, funds it has raised have positively impacted count-less other children at the Kentucky Childrens Hospital in Lexington.

Makenna was born in 1997. When she was only 8 months old, she su ered a series of strokes and spent several weeks in the hospital. e Davids were told that she was not likely to survive, and if she did, she would never be able to care for herself. Makenna proved the experts wrong and made a recovery, returning home to spend Christ-mas with her parents and two siblings. Eight months later, Makenna began experiencing breathing di culties. Searching for a cure, Sheila and Greg took Makenna to the Texas Childrens Hospital in Dallas.

Increase Your Derby OddsWith Help From The Makenna Foundation

Last years experts included Ed DeRosa, Erin Finley, Tom Leach, Kenny McPeek, Graham Motion and Claire Novak Sheiia & Greg David with David Fraley

Talk Derby to Me


Makenna was captivated by the hospitals beautiful three-dimension-al wall that served as a welcoming distraction to young patients. She especially loved the walls brightly colored tiles.

When Makenna returned home in late November, the Davids re-ceived the diagnosis of pulmonary veno-occlusive disease, a rare lung disorder. At the time of her diagnosis there had only been 125 similar cases, and all had proved fatal. On December 4th, 1998 Makenna died, just four months short of her second birthday.

The Davids were heartbroken, but re-membered Makennas love for the bright-ly hued wall in Dallas and how it took her mind off of her treatments. They were determined to impact the lives of other sick children by building a similar wall of color and happiness in Kentucky in her memory. With the assistance of car-ing friends like Janice Mueller, the owner broker of RE/MAX Creative Realty, they established the Makenna Foundation in September 2001.

Makennas Wall at the Kentucky Childrens Hospital was unveiled on August 1, 2003. As you can imagine, the day was incredibly emotion-al but very uplifting for our family, the Davids recall. To think that our beautiful little Makennas life could be the inspiration for some-thing so great for years to come was overwhelming. The mural uses cheerful tiles painted by local schoolchildren. Created for children by children, this vibrant piece of artwork is a source of beauty and inspiration to everyone who sees it. The fact that so many friends, family and community leaders were touched by her life brought a sense of comfort to our family, the Davids say. It gives us even more joy when we visit and see the wonder and amazement on other chil-drens faces as they interact with her legacy, Makennas Wall.

However, Makennas Wall was only the beginning of what the Makenna Foundation has gone on to do for the Kentucky Childrens Hospital. Since 2001, they have raised over $1.3 million for hospi-tal equipment and assistance needed for hospital expansion. All proceeds from the organizations events go to the hospital. We are project-oriented, the Davids say. You can see the tangible benefits

of your donation. The Foundation pur-chased a pediatric bronchoscope in 2003, and in 2004, the Foundation helped to renovate the Childrens Sedation Suite. In 2006, the Junior League of Lexington renovated the Toddler Room in honor of the Makenna Foundation. In 2010, the Makenna David Pediatric Emergency Center and Welcome Center was opened. It offers a separate pediatric waiting room and seven pediatric-designed rooms, all with flat-panel televisions for childrens favorite videos and cartoons.

Through the Makenna Foundation, the David family has been able to channel the devastating loss of their daughter into a way to help children receive outstanding medical care. The children of Kentucky deserve our support, they observe. The Makenna Foundation does not have mega sponsors, although we welcome them. Janice Mueller, our co-founder, is a great friend and we couldnt exist without her. We are built on lots of caring people who give what they can whether it is time, money, or heart-felt support. If you would like to learn how you, too, can be part of the organizations efforts to help pediatric patients in our commu-nity, contact the foundation at 859-422-2010 or via their website, makennafoundation.com. You can also visit their Facebook page, facebook.com/makennafoundation.

The doctors, nurses and staff of the Kentucky Childrens Hospital are incredible, and while Makenna was chosen to leave this earth, so many children are saved by their efforts every day. We just want to help them help our children.

-Sheila and Greg David, founders of the Makenna Foundation

Kelli David, Janice Mueller and Lastenia David get photobombed Part of Makennas Wall

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Fashion

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LEFT:Oxford summer soft sport coat in navy, Ca-pri multi colored but-ton down, Raleigh washed twill pant in navy, Solid signature silk tie in navy, all by Peter Millar (Keeneland Gift Shop).

RIGHT:Scottland dress in green tulip print by Elizabeth McKay, Hilary Panama Derby hat in navy and green, Gold clover ear-rings (Keeneland Gift Shop).


Dancing


Andy Shea with Rae Mickelwait

Dancing

President/CEO/Owner, Lexington LegendsPartner, TrusT Lounge

Andy played baseball at Boston College and has lived in Lexington for a little over 10 years. He originally moved here to work for the Lexington Legends as their Season Ticket Sales Representative. Since then, he has climbed the ranks to be-come the teams CEO and co-owner (with his mom). He says, I have loved every min-ute of working for the Legends and living in Lexington! He then opened TrusT Lounge and is now partners in the business with one of his best friends.

Andy is bringing that same self-determi-nation to the DWLS competition. I plan on bringing the Mirror Ball trophy back to Whitaker Bank Ballpark this year, he de-clared. As a previous winner of the title, Andy has a lot to prove when he takes the floor, but hes happy to do it. Its for a great cause with great people and I had an absolute blast 2 years ago.

In his spare time, Andy loves hanging out and socializing with friends. He enjoys going to the dog park with his dog Royal, who he calls his best friend. Hes also a big fan of Criminal Minds and sports, especially Philly teams!

Fashion


Beach dress by All for Col-or, Multi color gem stone necklace, Straw clutch with green trim, Gold ear-rings and bangles (Queen Bee).

Fashion


ON HER: SS Chemical lace sweatshirt in blue, Tech fabric pleated full skirt in blue, Bracelets in gold and teal, Crystal statement necklace, Floral clutch (LOFT).

ON HIM:Classic button down in yellow and green, Classic fit Chinos in spring melon, both by Ralph Lau-ren, Hamilton drivers in eye tan by Sperry (Dillards).

Fashion


LEFT:Slim fit Breaker pant in navy, Classic fit Whale shirt, Kentucky Derby bowtie, all by Vineyard Vines (Howard and Miller).

RIGHT: Resort fit capri by Lilly Pulitzer, Blouse in light blue by Con-verse One Star, Green cuff, Pearl necklace and bracelet (Sassy Fox). Becca pumps in white by Gianni Bini (Dillards).

Relationships


by Buffy LawsonRelationship Veteran

Love Cake

One of my dearest, most fabulous lifelong girlfriends will dis-agree with what I am about to submit. However, it will no doubt lead to an interesting, healthy debate over a margarita at girls night out, so I am just fine with our difference in opinion. You see, she is an avid believer that once a person has found himself or her-self in the friendship box, there is no chance for a future romantic relationship. Nope. Nadda. No way Jose will a kiss be had. Not to mention one iota of frisky, naughty, heart racing romance. NOT MISTER OR MS. FRIEND. NOT going to happen.

There was a time when I agreed with this sentiment and compart-mentalized the issue as black and white. Mostly because in my youth I had a black and white version of love, which, ironically, was as vivid and colorful as one could imagine. It was a big delicious love cake made of soulful flour, tasty ingredients baked just per-fectly, sprinkled with the sweetest sugar available.

As the years traveled by, it turned out I was a pretty terrible bak-er. Either choosing someone with... entirely too much sugar, not enough time spent baking... or over-cooked beyond belief; my love

cakes were less than desirable every single time.

Many of us can come together with culinary love battles and although each story might be slightly different, the end result is often the same. One ugly, pitiful cake after another.

And who was there to gently scrape us out of the burnt pans of which we were left in a thousand crumbled pieces?

Who wiped away our tears and reminded us that we had perfectly imperfect tools for the most unique fondue available to mankind?

MISTER OR MS. FRIEND. The one who might not have had the sexy icing sliding down the love cake. And perhaps whose steam has never frosted your set of glasses after the crazy amount of time basking in the heat.

But what if this little friend muffin turns out... evenly and consis-tently yummy... every single time?

I often refer to old folks madly in love as the sweetest lil raisins ever. Because, at some point...a person who truly understands you means everything. So much more than the youthful physical pas-sions that fall... short with time. Just like a great cake, we humans find that our parts eventually droop and sag. However, what re-mains can be something quite beautiful.

Consistency might not be as exciting as spontaneity. But it equals SAFE. Goofy is certainly not as sinful as seduction. But it equals HONESTY. Sweetness may not feel as intoxicating as naughty. But it equals LOVE.

Thus the perfect ingredients just might be, two old friends who are now madly in love. People who take care of each other. Who protect, admire and adore each other. Perhaps the perfect love can come from a best friend. Those best friends who arent afraid to look at a naysayer and say, Honey, be extra sweet to him today, because this afternoon his cheese isnt fitting fairly and squarely on the cracker. So you better be nice or Ill bite your head right off. Yes, my friends, I suggest...every now and then, you get to have your cake and eat it too. Just sayin.


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Filly of the Month:Holly Whiteman

It wouldnt be very polite to envy a person too much, so go ahead and take a deep breath to get yourself ready for this one: Holly Whiteman lives on a horse farm in Midway, in a studio apartment over an actual barn. She wakes up every morning with the most beautiful scenery in the world, and has her own horse in the back yarda Ha inger named Princeand a kayak tied to a tree that she takes out on South Elkhorn Creek as her schedule permits.

Even when she goes to work, Whitemans views are equally tran-quil and fabulous, because she is the development assistant at Equestrian Events, Inc., whose o ce is at the Kentucky Horse Park in the same building with Equine Land Conservation Re-source, Friesian Horse Association of North America, Kentucky Horse Council and Rocky Mountain Horse Association.

Whats interesting about the culture in our o ce is were horsey and non-horsey, Whiteman said. EEI has a sta of six full-time people, two part-timers and a handful of seasonal workers. e o ce is dog-friendly, so Whitemans two-year-old shadow, Marla, follows her to work every day. Marla is part border collie and part Chesapeake Bay retriever.

As the development assistant at Equestrian Events, Whiteman is responsible for the sale and service of the International Trade Fair at the Rolex Kentucky ree-Day Event, which runs April 23-26 this year at the Horse Park. She works with EEIs director of development and the director of venue management to bring in new entertainment a ractions for spectators. New for 2015 is a 5K twilight run. Its called the RK-5K, and it will take place Friday evening, April 24, starting and ending at the Bourbon and Bridle Lounge tent at the Horse Park.

Returning for the second year in a row is Kentucky Uncovered, presented by TOPS in Lexington. e Kentucky Uncovered venue is just outside the International Trade Fair and features Kentucky-based companies, including wine and cra s. e Inter-national Trade Fair itself has expanded this year. I have to say, we have new vendors in trade fair Im excited about, Whiteman said.

Equestrian Events has named Horses and Hope as the o cial charity for this years Rolex, so the organizations mission will be incorporated throughout the weekend to promote awareness and education about breast cancer prevention and early detection.

e Rolex Kentucky ree-Day Event is a massive undertaking for Equestrian Events, Inc., so volunteers are particularly appreci-ated. Whiteman works closely with local colleges to coordinate semester-long internships with EEI. I work with interns to help facilitate career experiences and networking to further them in their professional lives, she said.

Whiteman was an EEI intern herself as a student at Georgetown College. She had the opportunity to intern for Rolex Kentucky from January to May for three years in a row. She graduated from Georgetown in 2013 with a bachelors degree in communication and media studies, and was hired full-time by EEI that summer.

In college, I was involved in the Equine Scholars Program, she said, a scholarship program that educates students on the di er-ent careers within the equine industry through speakers, tours and internships.

roughout her college career, Whiteman trained fox hunters and exercised horses, worked in barns and taught riding lessons. She also interned with Phelps Media Group, an equestrian marketing

By Kathie Stamps

Growing up around horses taught me a lot about responsibility... You have to be determined and

always open to learning new things.

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Holly Whiteman (photo by Keni Parks)


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company based in Wellington, Florida. I had an opportunity to write and publish press releases, and see the top level com-petitors from the media side, which was an incredible opportunity to have as a stu-dent, she said.

Horses have always been in the center of her life. Whiteman grew up in Winchester, Kentucky, where she started riding horses as an 8-year-old. Growing up around hors-es taught me a lot about responsibility, she said. In order to be competitive, you have to be diligent yet patient in training. You have to be determined and always open to learning new things.

As a teenager, she began showing horses. I never had the heart to do it professionally, she said. It was more of a hobby. She did compete with Prince, sometimes at events at the Kentucky Horse Park.

Showing is very time-consuming, White-man said. Sometimes you dont realize what people outside of this area do to com-pete. She has friends on the west coast who drive eight hours to an event. Because she competed at the Horse Park, Whiteman would drive 20 minutes and then be able to sleep in her own bed instead of a hotel.

Its amazing for me to see a lot of the competitors I idolized as a young athlete, Whiteman said, now that she is working behind the scenes of Rolex Kentucky. Its

de nitely special.

In her spare time, she enjoys hiking and kayaking in Woodford County, taking her dog, Marla, to ursday Night Live and lo-cal music events in downtown Lexington, and traveling abroad. She has ridden Ice-landic ponies in Iceland, kayaked in Alaska and visited the ancient monuments and ru-ins of Skara Brae in Scotland. She and her family are thinking about a horseback pack trip in Wyoming this summer.

Whiteman is a member of LYPA, the Lex-ington Young Professionals Association. ough I only recently joined, they have a great impact on the community, and I am very excited to get involved, she said. She also volunteers with a Kentucky Childrens Hospital event each summer, the Pediatric Cancer Survivor Picnic.

I feel Ive been given an edge to know what I want and how to go a er it, she said of growing up around horses. Everybodys got to learn to get back up when you fall. Keep with it.

Whiteman considers herself fortunate to be part of the horse industry because the peo-ple care so much about horses and other horse people, and they know how to have fun at events. e most amazing thing about horse people is they are very passion-ate, she said. ey love what they do and care very much about what they do.

I feel Ive been given an edge to know what I want and how to go a er it. Everybodys got to learn to

get back up when you fall. Keep with it.

e most amazing thing about horse people is they are very passionate. ey love what they do and care

very much about what they do.


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e campground has 260 sites with re rings and picnic tables along with a full service facility that includes a grocery store, two bathhouses, tennis, basketball and volleyball courts. Planned activities are a great way to socialize, and the campground also boasts a junior Olympic-size swimming pool. Of course, the Leg-acy Trail that takes you from the Park to downtown Lexington of-fers the ideal way to get some biking, walking or running in. Find out more about the 12-mile-long trail at www.mylegacytrail.com. e campground is pet friendly too!

Kentucky Spring Premier Classic Saddlebred Show

e Kentucky Spring Premier, a charitable event highlighting the quintessential American Saddlebred horse as well as Hackney ponies, Roadsters and Saddle Seat Equitation, is being held at the Kentucky Horse Park, April 9-11.

In 1990, the Kentucky Spring Premier was founded from a group of American Saddlebred enthusiasts who wanted to bring about a spring show to showcase the breeds. When it rst came to frui-tion, the only time the show could be held was during the Ken-tucky Derby weekend. Although it was uncertain at the time the impact this might have on the edgling event, the show experi-enced a great turnout and it became something of a tradition to a end the show even if it did fall on Derby day.

e loveliness of the spring season has been considered the per-fect backdrop for this annual event which now is held in the lead-ing-edge indoor facility at the Park. With a focus on bene cence, the Kentucky Spring Premier raises funds for charities such as ursdays Child and the American Saddlebred Museum with such happenings as silent auctions, pitch a pig contests, and other activities.

ese days, the event no longer has a Derby day con ict and it remains a much-anticipated time to get together with friends, old and new as well as dusting o all the show clothes and spend a fun day or two with the horses.

The German Shepherd Bluegrass Classic

On April 11th, the Bluegrass Classic will take place at the Park in the Campground Pavilion. Endorsed by the German Shepherd Club of America and the German Shepherd Club of Germany, there will be dogs from all over the U.S., Canada and Germany. With a European style, the dog show is held outside in a large ring with classes divided by age. ose only familiar with an AKC style show will be very surprised at the size of ring and physical exercise of dog, handler, and owner, said Rebecca Underwood of Drache Feld Kennels, Bluegrass Dog Training in Winchester. ere is no admission fee to come out and everyone is welcome!

e show is set to take place on Saturday at 9:30am until mid a ernoon. On Sunday, the breed survey will take place at Drache


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Feld German Shepherd Kennels beginning at 9am. As part of the survey, a 12-mile endurance run is required.Drache Feld has been located in Winchester for over 15 years and is one of the top three SV style German Shepherd breeders in the country.

Farmhouse Rodeo

Cowboy Up For A Cure, Inc. (CUFAC) is a non-pro t organization dedicated to fundraising for the bene t of children with various forms of pediatric cancer. In teaming up with the University of Kentucky Pediatric Hematology/Oncology clinic, children and their fami-lies are supported through the variety of services of-fered. e Farmhouse Rodeo is a fundraiser to help in the e orts of CUFAC and will take place in the Alltech Arena April 18.

CUFACs e orts also involve raising public awareness to the reality of childhood cancer. e organization has partnered with resourceful and energetic profes-sionals across the health care spectrum to assist chil-dren and their families in a myriad of ways throughout their course of treatment and beyond. With a steadfast objective to eradicate the disease, all e orts, whether large or small, move us that much closer to nding a cure.

Good Eatin

e Farmhouse Caf has once again opened in an-ticipation for the 2015 tourist and show season. e Farmhouse Caf is open Monday-Friday, 8am3pm, for breakfast and lunch featuring favorite standbys in a quaint farmhouse se ing. Take-out is also available.

e Bit & Bridle Restaurant is also open daily with their extended seasonal hours, 10am-3pm. Serving a selection of salads, homemade soups, hot and cold sandwiches and snacks nd them in the heart of the Park.

For menus and other information about the restau-rants on the Kentucky Horse Park grounds, visit the Kentucky Horse Park website.

Quick Facts

For the summer tourism season that runs March 15 through November 1, the Kentucky Horse Park is open daily 9am to 5pm For a full listing of events and dates, and information on admission and parking prices, you can visit www.KyHorsePark.com. For information on the Kentucky Horse Park Campground, please visit www.parks.ky.gov.


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Spring Meet Promotions Calendar

Friday, April 3rd

OPENING DAY College Scholarship Day

Wednesday, April 8th

WINS- Day Challenge Horses and Hope Pink Day - Wear pink and help promote breast cancer awareness

Friday, April 10th

Makers Mark Bottle Signing

Sunday, April 12th

Kids Club Family Day FREE general admission for All Kids Club members and their families. Childrens activities in the North Terrace area from 12:00 4:00 p.m.

Wednesday, April 15th

WINS-Day Challenge

Friday, April 17th

Jockey Autograph Signing - 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. - Meet retired and current jockeys for an autograph signing adja-cent to the Paddock.

Sunday, April 19th

Military Day at the Races Presented by Marathon All active and inac-tive members of the military and their families receive FREE general admission with a military ID. Military Family Zone 12:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. in the North Ter-race with free food, live music, childrens activities and more.

Wednesday, April 22nd

WINS-Day Challenge

Friday, April 24th

Concert On The Lawn - Sunday Best concert on the Clubhouse Lawn, hosted by the Markey Cancer Foundation Lega-cy Council. The concert begins immedi-ately following the races.

EVERY Friday

The Hill The Hill will include a wager-ing tent, big screen TV, music and local food trucks from 11:00 a.m. 6:00 p.m.

EVERY Saturday

Sunrise Trackside Experience the sunrise, sights and sounds of Sunrise Trackside at Keeneland. Breakfast With The Works 7:00 8:30 a.m. Breakfast in the trackside Equestrian Dining Room Childrens Activities 7:00 9:00 a.m. Adjacent to the Equestrian Dining Room. Tours 8:00 10:30 a.m. Tour groups will depart from the welcome booth in the Paddock. Paddock Demonstration 9:00 a.m. Handicapping Seminar 11:30 a.m. Jockey Q&A 12:05 p.m. Q & A with the jockeys in the Walking Ring. The Hill The Hill will include a wagering tent, big screen TV, music and local food trucks from 11:00 a.m. 6:00 p.m.

Complete calendar onlineat www.TOPSinLex.comand www.Keeneland.com

Be sure to check out www.TOPSinLex.com for all the best photos of fashion, fun and smiling faces at Keeneland!


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The 2015 Rolex Kentucky reeDay Event, presented by Land Rover returns to the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, April 23 26. As one of the most elite equestrian competitions, the Rolex draws some of the worlds best riders and horses to Kentucky from all around the world. is year, the prize money has been increased to $300,000 and the competition will be an o cial selection trial for the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF), to help deter-mine which United States event riders will be slated to compete at the 2016 Pan American Games in Toronto, Canada.

e sport of Eventing requires horse and rider to compete in the three distinct disciplines of Dressage, Cross Country, and Show Jumping. With its origins rooted in the cavalry, Eventing was rst introduced as an Olympic sport in 1912 and was considered the ul-timate test for any Army horse. Dressage, which will be held on the rst two days of the competition, will occur in the outdoor stadium

at the Horse Park. A testimony to the grace and beauty of horse and rider acting in harmony, Dressage requires suppleness and obedience of the horse. In the second phase, the Cross Country portion is the de nite fan favorite as spectators gather at intimidat-ing jumps set over four miles of terrain. Navigating a course of this magnitude with water hazards, banks and ditches requires bravery, quickness and endurance. On the nal day, the horses must suc-cessfully complete the Show Jumping phase which means that the horses must be t enough to come back out and jump with enthu-siasm a day a er the grueling cross-country. In the ultimate test of athleticism, Eventing brings great admiration for the horse and is a true testament to the partnership that develops between horse and rider. It is also adrenaline in action!

is years competition is slated to bring riders from about a doz-en countries each with their own story to tell and dream to take

By Katie Shoultz

Your Guide To...The Rolex Kentucky Three Day Event


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home the honors. It will bring riders who have never com-peted at the Rolex before as well as seasoned competitors who have had multiple Rolex wins. As one of only six Four-Star ree-Day Events in the world, the Rolex is part of the FEI Classic Series which brings together several four-star international Eventing competitions across the globe and gives riders the opportunity to chase down the $350,000 Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing which requires a win at the Rolex Kentucky, Mitsubishi Motors Badminton and Land Rover Burghley Four-Star Events.

Cowboy Up

Another highlight event returning to the Park April 24-25 is the Kentucky Reining Cup. Debuting at the Park in 2011, this exciting event is a family favorite and you can de nitely cheer on your favorite horse and rider the louder the be er since theres a Peoples Choice Award. For freestyle events, the horses movements are synchronized with music, producing a thrilling spectacle to watch. e Freestyle World Championship, a perennial crowd-pleaser, will include a demonstration freestyle program featuring celebrity Eventing athletes.

Want a special treat during the event? Dan James Insider Access tickets are the way to go. Guests of the Kentucky Reining Cups World Championship Freestyle Reining and enthusiasts of Double Dan Horsemanship can be treated to top-notch hospitality and get up-close with Dan James himself.

More Than Horses

Of course, the Rolex o ers something for everyone from the diehard equestrian to the person who doesnt care to know the di erence between Jumping and Dressage! Tail-gating with friends with the cross-country in the back-ground can be the perfect Saturday a ernoon in the Blue-grass. And with music, shopping, bourbon tastings and a 5K, its hard to nd an excuse not to check out the Rolex! As a new a raction for visitors and locals alike, the Rolex Kentucky 5K will commence on Friday evening, April 24 right on the grounds of the Kentucky Horse Park. With a course that takes runners and walkers through areas of the Rolex event (including the Rolex Stadium) this is a race that is sure to be memorable. e start time is 6:30pm. You get a t-shirt and winners in their divisions get some great prizes. Sign up now! ere will also be a 1-mile fun run/walk. Leashed dogs, strollers and kids under 12 that par-ticipate will receive a nishers medal.


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Not a runner? You can still join in on the fun Friday evening. e Bourbon and Bri-dle Lounge will be open during the race. Watch participants cross the nish line with a cocktail in hand!

The Of cial Charity

Horses and Hope is a breast cancer aware-ness initiative of the O ce of Kentuckys First Lady and the Kentucky Cancer Pro-gram (KCP). e organization has also been named the O cial Charity of the 2015 Rolex. e mission of Horses and Hope is to work with the states equine industry to provide breast cancer aware-ness, education, screenings, and treat-ment referrals. Since its founding in 2008, Horses and Hope has been able to help close to 1 million race track and horse show a endees with over 700 screenings. In January, Horses and Hope announced a partnership with KentuckyOne Health, the James Graham Brown Cancer Cen-ter at the University of Louisville and the Kentucky Cancer Program in an e ort to raise $1 million for a new mobile unit cancer screening van. All funds raised for Horses and Hope during the Rolex will go towards this endeavor.

You can nd out more information about Horses and Hope at:www.horsesandhope.org.

Ready to Take the Plunge?

Tickets for the 2015 Rolex Kentucky ree-Day Event including tailgating spots and hospitality packages are on sale now at www.RK3DE.org. For more information on the 2015 Rolex Kentucky ree-Day Event, please visit the Rolex Kentucky website at www.RK3DE.org or call (859) 233-2362. Tickets may be ordered online or by calling (859) 254-8123.

We hope to see you there!


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The Rolex Kentucky Three Day EventPublic Schedule of Events

1 p.m. Cross-Country Course Open to the Public3 p.m. First Horse Inspection High Hope Inspection Lane4:306 p.m. Competitor Arena Familiarization Rolex Stadium

7 a.m. Gates Open8 a.m.5 p.m. Hospitality Tents Open (Hospitality Ticket Required)9:30 a.m. Dressage Test Ride Rolex Stadium10 a.m.Noon Dressage Tests Begin Rolex Stadium9 a.m.5 p.m. Sponsor Village & Trade Fair Open12:452:30 p.m. Demonstrations and Exhibitions Walnut Ring12:45 p.m. Keeneland Pony Club Quadrille1 p.m. Friesian Horse Association of North America 1:30 p.m. Miniature Horse Equine Ambassador 2 p.m. Elisa Wallace - Mustang Horse1:303:40 p.m. Dressage Tests Continue Rolex Stadium 5 p.m. Kentucky Reining Cup: CRI 3* Horse Inspection Alltech Outdoor Warm Up Arena4:306 p.m. Arena Familiarization Rolex Stadium

7 a.m. Gates Open8 a.m.5 p.m. Hospitality Tents Open (Hospitality Ticket Required)9 a.m. 5 p.m. Sponsor Village & Trade Fair Open 10 a.m.Noon Dressage Tests Resume Rolex Stadium10:15 a.m.4:30 p.m. Demonstrations and Exhibitions Walnut Ring 10:15 a.m. Keeneland Pony Club Quadrille10:30 a.m. Ky Horse Park/Lexington Fayette Urban Co. Govt Mounted Police11 a.m. Paso Fino Horse Association11:30 a.m. Elisa Wallace - Mustang Horse 12:30 p.m. Prince Philip Cup Games - Celebrity Round1 p.m. Prince Philip Cup Games Round 13 p.m. Friesian Horse Association of North America 3:30 p.m. Miniature Horse Equine Ambassador 4 p.m. Retired Racehorse Project1:303:40 p.m. Dressage Tests Continue3 p.m. Kentucky Reining Cup: Trade Fair Open Alltech Arena6 p.m. Kentucky Reining Cup: CRI 3* Alltech Arena6-8:30 p.m. RK-5K Twilight Race

7 a.m. Gates Open (including Land Rover Tailgating)8 a.m.5 p.m. Hospitality Tents Open (Hospitality Ticket Required)8:30 a.m.2:45 p.m. Demonstrations and Exhibitions Walnut Ring 8:30 a.m. Prince Philip Cup Games - Round 2 - Rolex Arena10:30 a.m. Retired Racehorse Project 11:30 a.m. Friesian Horse Association of North America 12:30 p.m. Combined Driving Demonstration1:15 p.m. Paso Fino Horse Association 1:45 p.m. Unbridled Vaulting Club 2:15 p.m. Miniature Horse Equine Ambassador9 a.m.5 p.m. Sponsor Village & Trade Fair Open 10:30 a.m.4 p.m. Cross-Country Test Horses start every ve minutes. There will not be a 1 hour lunch break.11:30 a.m.3 p.m. Demonstrations and Exhibitions Walnut Ring1 p.m. Kentucky Reining Cup: FEI Junior & Young Rider Classes, followed by USA Reining/AQHA/NRHA Para-Reining Class Alltech Arena1 p.m. Kentucky Reining Cup: Trade Fair Open Alltech Arena3:30 p.m. David Cottrell & Kentucky Blues, Tom Cool & The Cooligans and Lauren Mink Band Concerts Trade Fair, Sponsor Village, Rolex Stadium 5:30 p.m. Kentucky Reining Cup: World Championship Freestyle Reining Alltech Arena

7 a.m. Gates Open7:30 a.m. Non-Denominational Worship Service Pavilion between Stonelea/Claiborne Rings 8 a.m.3 p.m. Hospitality Tents Open (Hospitality Ticket Required)8:30 a.m. Second Inspection of Horses High Hope Inspection Lane9 a.m.4 p.m. Sponsor Village & Trade Fair Open11 a.m. Jumping Course Open for Competitor Inspection Rolex Stadium11:30 a.m. Presentation of the Teams of the USPC Prince Philip Cup Rolex StadiumNoon Opening Ceremony & Presentation of O cials and Flags Rolex Stadium1:15 p.m. Jumping Test Begins Rolex Stadium3 p.m. Presentation of the Awards Rolex Stadium

Wednesday, April 22nd

Thursday, April 23rd

Friday, April 24th

Saturday, April 25th

Sunday, April 26th


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President of Split Rock Farm, Derek Braun, does his best thinking while walking the property that he built from the ground up. And once you start talking to him about his vision of Show Jumping - you can tell hes done plenty of it. At only 30, hes accomplished plenty already in his career as a professional rider. But, that hasnt stopped him from taking the equestrian world by storm. Hes quick to brush o any compliments though, instead choosing to focus on the task at hand - his new undertaking - the Split Rock Jumping Tour.

To many, the equestrian sport can seem untouchable a sport that shuns outsiders. Brauns idea behind the Split Rock Jumping Tour was simple emphasize the sport aspect of it and build up the spec-tator base. By pu ing together a model that would appeal to more than the die-hard equestrian, the inaugural season of the Tour de-

buts this year. e rst event of the season is May 22-24 and will be held at Split Rock Farm so mark your calendars now.

A critical piece of the model is outreach to the entire local commu-nity. For Braun, this has been the (largely) missing piece in many equestrian events. By combining elements that appeal to a broad audience with shopping, entertainment, family fun, food trucks and a beer garden within a world-class equestrian competition milieu, the Split Rock Jumping Tour is not just another event, but truly an experience. And by doing it on his own farm with strategic placement of every piece, he hopes that the venue space lends a very European feel - friendly and cozy versus vast and overwhelm-ing. Shopping will feature local and national vendors and Saturday, May 23 and Sunday, May 24 will host a whole bevy of family fun entertainment.

By Katie Shoultz

A New Sporting Event in Lexington:The Split Rock Jumping Tour


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Another element that Braun felt strongly about was tying in a local non-pro t, and a portion of proceeds from any hospitality package bene ts the Markey Cancer Cen-ter. Amid numerous amenities, a package also includes tickets to the guests only Gala on Saturday evening with dinner creations by none other than Apiary and will certain-ly make its mark on the social calendar in Lexington.

With Brauns intuitive sensitivity for busi-nesses (chalk it up to his entrepreneurial spirit), opportunities to market a wide ar-ray of goods and services are available as the Split Rock Jumping Tour o ers custom-ized packages for sponsors. Savvy market-ing means always being on the look out for options to promote a business and to gain access to a wider potential customer base. Since there is no substitute for brand vis-ibility and recognition in the marketplace to stimulate potential customers interest, the Split Rock Jumping Tour provides the perfect showcase.

Braun rst started riding at the age of sev-en and hasnt ever looked back. Growing up on the East Coast, he found himself in Kentucky on numerous occasions to horse show and decided to call it home in 2007 when he purchased land and built what is now Split Rock Farm. With its history rooted in the equestrian sport, Lexington made perfect sense when Braun was ready to lay down roots of his own. And not one to stand by, he is also is doing his part to en-sure that the future of Show Jumping has a place in Lexington.

Want to be a part of this unique experience? Tickets are now avail-able for advance purchase at www.splitrockjumpingtour.com and spon-sorship and vendor inquiries can be di-rected to [email protected]. Stay tuned for next month when addi-tional event details are unveiled for this exciting new sporting event in Lexington!

TOPS Cares

APR L 2015| TOPS MAGAZINE 141

by Mary Ellen Slone

Than You Know

As the areas leading nonprofit organization, the YMCA of Cen-tral Kentucky is committed to youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. From exercise to education, vol-leyball to volunteerism, preschool to preventive health, the YMCA of Central Kentucky doesnt just strengthen our bodies; the Y strengthens our community as a whole.

David Martorano, the Ys vision-driven CEO, proudly shared that This 160+ year young organization is much more than a gym--were a cause. Working with our partners, weve demonstrated that lasting personal and social change comes about when we all work together. Thats why the strengthening of our community has been the YMCAs primary focus.

Martorano continues, While the statistical impacts of our organi-zation are both impressive and share-worthy, the broad spectrum of opportunities which our YMCA offers to individuals and fami-lies through our outreach initiatives are nothing short of amazing.

Our Y serves 30,000+ active members, and offers more than twice as many opportunities to participate in programs which cumula-tively impact an estimated 70,000 lives annually. While being sig-nificantly engaged with our community, The YMCA has focused special emphasis on helping all kids throughout the central Ken-tucky footprint to reach their full potentials as an ongoing-high priority.

Learning Programs

We know that children in low-income environments often reach kindergarten unprepared, and as they go forward they continue to fall behind in school. Additionally, many of these youngsters are not eating healthy meals, and as a result, many are overweight or unhealthy. We believe that todays kids are not statistics- theyre tomorrows future, and community-wide, our YMCA is committed to providing whatever resources we can to help them achieve their fullest potential, said Martorano.

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Etiquette & Entertaining


With one of the busiest months in the Kentucky calendar upon us, we strive to calculate how to accomplish the feat of entertaining and being entertained while appearing totally un-nerved. Look inside yourself and your home to find the answer. Prioritizing becomes the obvious approach which means to rank in order of importance. Whether you are planning to entertain friends after the races or to celebrate spring, the time for a home re-do is not now. Determine which deletions and additions will make the greatest impact on your home. Make a list of the fewest number of projects that must be completed before entertaining. Constantly concentrate on keeping your list at a minimum.

The first step is to decide where you would like to host this gath-ering of friends. Your newly enhanced garden or mingling around the dining room table, which is decorated for spring, would be wel-coming. Concentrate on the chosen area by decluttering. Remove

small pieces of furniture, magazine containers and small floor plants. Keep the tops of tables simple by removing multiple items and adding a single stem in a delicate bud vase. If your party is planned for outside, arrange an alter-nate location should an April shower surprise everyone.

When considering the food table, sim-plicity reigns supreme. Spring flowers tucked into a few silver julep cups or

crystal containers will add color and reflect the beauty of the sea-son. With a few small arrangements gracing the table, the addition of porcelain butterflies provides the unexpected. Deleting clutter and enormous centerpieces will give the feeling of freshness for the season.

The well-appointed powder room will speak volumes about the experienced hostess. Sparkling clean is the most important de-tail. Freshly ironed embroidered, linen guest towels paired with luxurious small soaps and lotions tell a guest that they are special. A lightly scented candle and a beautiful rose complete the perfect appearance.

Often regardless of the chosen location for the party, many guests congregate in the kitchen. It is cozy and full of action. Preparing the party foods and visiting with the guests is tricky. Organization and preparedness are important. Assembling the food ahead of time will pay dividends when the guests fill the kitchen. Potential confusion should deter a hostess from selecting party foods that require last minute attention. Keeping the kitchen counter tops as clear as possible will help in the organized kitchen appearance. Setting the bar away from the kitchen will contribute to a well-functioning area.

The location of the gathering is decided, the decluttering is accom-plished, the powder room is polished and the kitchen is organized; now its time to consider the guests. The list is small which will reward the host and hostess with an enjoyable event. With each aspect of the party planning remember that Less Is Best.

by Sue Ann TruittEtiquette & Entertaining Consultant

Is Less Best?

Photo by Walt Roycraft

Fashion


by Beth ParkerFashion Blogger/Stylist

seersuckerandsaddles.blogspot.com

Thank goodness. A er that treacherous winter the Bluegrass has had, I know we are all beyond thankful spring is upon us. ITS ABOUT TIME.

With the owers in bloom, the warmer temps, and the horseys racing, are we all up for cha ing a li le spring fashion? Im thinking stripes, separates, and sassy lace. Spring calls for some feminine air, and I think theres no be er time than the present to break down a few of my fave looks.

A girly print mix of stripes and orals. Never underestimate the power of a good print mix. It is a wonderfully modern way to wear your threads and it is forever fresh. Stripes are more or less a neutral in my book; and orals pair just beautifully with them. Take, for instance, this striped dress from Anthropologie. One, the direction of the stripes is terribly a ering, and two, the pink banding high-lights a womans waistline. Slenderizing times two? Donesign me up.

Remember your separates. Be er yet, remember your monochrome separates. Superbly on trend and ri-diculously a ering, I consider this look an all around win. Not only is it a fun and fresh take on feminine a ire, you basically get three looks in one. Pair the pieces together or separate each item for three distinct rigs. How about the boxy red top layered over a boyfriend blouse with distressed denim and Leopard Heels? Sounds like a keeper to me!

Last but certainly not least, I am just loving the idea of a girly lace dress popped in a bubblegum pink. Pairing this girly frock with cu ed snakeskin heels helps to modernize the look and keep it from looking overly cutesy.

Cheers to an absolutely wonderful spring for us Lexingtoniansno doubt we de nitely deserve it. Treat yourself by updating your spring wardrobe with some fun and feminine piecestheyll indeed put a pep in your step and fashionably carry you into the warmer months!

photos by Kristin Tatem

Put Some Pep in Your Step

Gardening


by Michelle RauchGardening Enthusiast

What to Plant & WhenThe mounds of snow have melted, the winter blues are lifted, and Spring has sprung. Its time to dig in and direct sow. But be careful and curb your enthu-siasm. There is a time for every-thing. Knowing what should be planted and when will yield the best results.

As April warms the soil and all threats of a frost are long gone, grab those tools and your seed packets. Its time to start plant-ing the following: beets, broccoli, brussel sprouts, cabbage, carrot, cauliflower, kale, leek, lettuce, onion, parsnip, peas, potatoes, radish, spinach, swiss chard, and turnip.

Warm temperatures are a con-stant in May and the threat of frost is long gone. While April covered the bulk of the A to Z list of veggies to direct sow, there are more to plant in May. The warmth of the soil allows for quick ger-mination. So pull out more seed packets including: beans, celery, corn, cucumber, melon, okra, pepper, pumpkin, summer squash, sweet potato, tomato, and watermelon. I am guilty of planting once and walking away until its time to harvest. When it comes to beans and lettuce varieties, try planting a different variety continually over the course of a week and a half. This will give you choices and extend the time you have fresh garden goodness on your table in-stead of one large crop that may likely go to waste.

Variety is the spice of life when it comes to peppers. They come in many colors and many degrees of heat. They also dont take up much space. Use the same approach when it comes to planting and spread out the process over a week or so. Last on our edible list, the perennially popular tomato. And talk about variety. The choice is yours with every shape, color, taste and size. As spring progresses you should switch from direct sow to transplanting for best results.

Lest we not forget the flowers. Pansies love the cooler days of spring and thrive early in the season. I love kick starting my container gar-dening with pansies. Daffodil and tulips make for a cheerful border garden. Iris blooms with a variety of colors and will take you into late spring. Add crocus to the garden for splashes of pink, purple, yellow, and white. In addition to color, your spring garden can have texture with poppy blooms. The first time I saw poppy I was fasci-nated by their size and crepe paper appearance. I think they add a touch of whimsy to the garden. It should be a banner year for the primrose. The delicate flower loves a moist ground. After this win-ter, the soil is certainly soaked.

Spring is also a neat time to enjoy the fruits of other peoples labor. While you may not have the room for flowering shrubs or trees in your landscape, you can certainly benefit from the beauty and the scents around you. I am fortunate to have a lilac bush. It came with the house when I bought it, no extra charge! Lilac will delight you with a burst of fragrance in the air around it. I find it so uplifting. I also have a forsythia. The bright yellow shrub literally screams spring has arrived. While I like the flash of yellow, I will say it is short lived and the rest of the year it looks like an overgrown bush. I digress. Additionally, look for showy displays from redbud trees, dogwoods, magnolia, rhododendron and azaleas. Beauty is every-where.

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Upon entering the home, the front foyer features a clover shaped mirror set off by four watercolor ikat prints. The knobs on the console are the same clover shape as the mirror, demonstrating that even minor details are given plenty of creative thought.The dining room features a neutral-toned animal print rug, paired with custom window treatments in a diamond motif of complimentary hues. The beautiful chandelier, along with the other unique fixtures throughout the home was selected by Anita Thompson, a lighting expert with Fergusons. The crystal and chrome accents add a touch of glam and casts a calming glow off the dark furniture. Three coordi-nating abstract paintings complete the rooms simple sophistication.


Tour of Homes


Just off the kitchen is a spacious mudroom with access to the garage. This is a stylishly organized space containing another custom-made cabinet, complete with hooks and labeled baskets for the familys personal items. It keeps the items they need every day nicely contained, and keeps the morning rush to a mini-mum. A walk-in pantry with a large window, al-lowing light to pour into the space, is also acces-sible through the mud-room.

Tour of Homes


One of the more interesting de-sign elements of the room is a set of nine glass containers hold-ing white votive candles on a bed of moss. We really like to incor-porate unexpected elements in the artwork. It creates a level of interest that surpasses just the utilization of framed paintings or photographs, said Nancy.

Nancy and her team utilized a space-saving technique in the kitchen with the addition of a built-in banquette and floating table along the far wall. The use of these items cre-ated a more comfortable layout, and allowed ample room for the kitchen table and chairs. The custom made chairs feature a durable chenille fabric in a cream and gray geometric pattern.

Tour of Homes


The floor plan of the Hopper home is designed so that the entire second level is a designated space for their three daughters. Three bedrooms with their own adjoining baths are decorated in hip shades of lime, tangerine and magenta.

Tour of Homes


The teal, lime, and powder blue com-mon room is a fashionable space where the girls can relax or spend time with friends. Soft velvet sofas, chic leath-er poufs, and a bright green shag rug of-fer a fun and trendy look. In classic Todd Hopper style, the girls were sent away last Christmas, and the room was wait-ing for them when they returned. Nancy described how her team developed one of the rooms coolest features: an extra long window seat that doubles as a bed for slumber parties. The window seat is actually the width of a twin size bed and includes drawers underneath for storage. The girls have told their parents that they never want to move out because they love their house so much!



Business News

When Andover Construction began exploring the idea of creating a townhome development, they began by looking really closely at what the current Lexington market really wanted. People are trying to simplify their lives. Theyre downsizing, but they still wanted amenities, like a yard, explained Vice President Mike Hall. Though the market showed that people wanted slightly smaller accommodations, they still wanted the privacy, luxury and comfort of a traditional single family home.

Andover Constructions solution was to create townhomes that offered space alongside creature comforts. A big part of that was choosing a location in a neighborhood that was desirable and offered a sense of beauty, relaxation and convenience. The Beaumont Park Townhomes are located in the center of Beaumont Circle on 13.5 acres.

The Beaumont area was designed well with a couple miles of walking trails, said Hall. They are just a short walk away from some really incredible dining. Beaumont has got that live/work new urbanism thats wildly popular!

In the Beaumont Park Townhomes, windows are intentionally set just a bit higher. Why? The elevation in that area is high, so youve got a great view of the sky from anywhere in your home. It really lets the light in, Hall explained. Its just one of the many touches that set these homes apart in the Lexington market.

One of the chief goals was to offer each townhome an individual outdoor area. We came up with this very urban idea to separate the garage from the house. It gave everyone their own little yard with privacy fencingit separated what traditionally in other townhomes used to be a courtyard, Hall said.

Our product is a great one that is perfect for everyone, from first

time buyers to people wanting to downsize, said Justin Jeffries, Project Manager with Andover Construction. Each unit is between 1,900 and 3,250 square feet, most commonly with 3-4 bedrooms.

Were not just your ordinary, cookie-cutter townhome. They look similar on the outside, but youre really able to make it your own with all the options that we have, Jeffries said. One thing I love is working with homeowners to customize their home. Weve been able to make so many choices. I really enjoy working with the customers and making them satisfied in the end.

Customization options begin with choosing a floor plan and extend to moving walls around, completely customizing the outdoor space and selecting from a myriad of finish options. All of our Andover Construction homes, we try to set the bar a little higher with the finishes. We decided we wanted to come in and set an across-the-board standard and hoped that the market would meet us, Hall explained.

The Patchen Wilkes Townhomes are similar in size to the Beaumont Park Townhomes, with beautiful two story archways and posts to create a stunning, Southern-elegance style. We tried to have the architecture match Lexington, as well as with what looks good in the area, explained Hall. About half of the Patchen Wilkes Townhomes face the beautiful lake, making this neighborhood stunning and sought-after. Each unit offers an in-depth level of customization and promises to be a perfect home for anyone, from first-time homebuyers to established households looking to downsize. The Patchen Wilkes townhome model will open in October 2015 and a sales center to begin reserving lots will start on May 1st. Visit Andover Construction in Patchen Wilkes and a member of The House Store realty group can help customize and select a perfect future home.

Andover Constructions Stunning Townhomes

1101 Beaumont Center Ln | 859.317.9918 | andoverconstruct onky.com

Weddings


Lets face it. How much say do most grooms usually have in the wedding planning? None! And they usually like it that way. A weddings look and feel are usually a reflection of the bride, but having something that speaks clearly about the groom and his in-terests is a really clever idea. A perfect place to make his statement is in the grooms cake, this is something you can really have fun with.

The Grooms Cake IsnT a new Idea

It may feel like a newish trend, and figural, fun grooms cakes have taken off to new heights in the last few years. It is especially popu-lar in the south, thus a popular idea in the Bluegrass. The grooms cake tradition originated in Britain, with a smaller cake having stronger flavors like chocolate and additions like fruit and alco-

hol the theory being the stronger sex had a stronger stomach. (Really?) An alcohol-laced fruitcake was the tradi-tional favorite for a Victorian grooms cake.

This tradition came across the pond in the Victorian Era to the southeast-ern United States, and was originally cut by the groom before going to the church, and shared with each of the bridesmaids. This trend segued into the grooms cake being stacked within the wedding cake, but by the mid 20th

century separate cakes served side by side at the same time became the rule of the day.

ThIs Cakes Theme Can Be anyThInG

The wonderful thing about choosing your grooms cake is the sky is the limit and anything goes. Really, just about anything. Does he have a favor-ite sports team? You can show his team spirit. Is he a Star Wars fan boy? R2D2 can be made into a cake. Does he have a particu-lar snack food addiction? Oversize a snack cake. Is he a cerebral reader? Stack up book cakes. Is he a foodie of some sort? Make his favorite into a cake. Does he love to hit the casino? A roulette wheel or play table is a great bet.

The focus will be totally on him and what he loves, and it will be his time to be the center of attention. However, if you are tight on budget, you can totally skip this addition to your wedding recep-tion without hurting your theme or the feel of your event.

ThIs ChoICe Is a PIeCe of Cake!

You know your groom better than anyone, and choosing his cake and presenting it at your reception can be tons of fun. A lot of wed-ding planning can feel like work, but choosing a fun grooms cake is all play! Let HIM eat cake!

by Marsha KollerWedding Consultant

The Grooms Cake Take 1 - This Time for Fun!


Lex And The City

May 2nd will mark the 141st running of The Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs and to celebrate the annual event is Central Kentucky's largest Derby party, Derby Eve Lexington. The event will kick off Friday, May 1st at The Polo Barn at Saxony Farm with festivities starting at 7:30 pm. Guests will enjoy gourmet cuisine, tasting stations, a bourbon and cigar bar & a high energy dance band straight out of Los Angeles. In addition to dancing, entertainment will also include wandering psychics, palm readers, art displays, fortune telling and celebrity citings. Proceeds from the evening will benefit five charities: Woodford Humane Society, The Calipari Foundation, Race for Education, Horse Aid Live, and Horses and Hope. To purchase tickets please visit derbyevelex.horse.

Photo by Lou Hodges, Jr.

Keeneland will also be celebrating Derby Day with a party to suit everyones style, whether its a casual picnic in the paddock or a hip cocktail party in the clubhouse. With over a 1,000 televisions and fun activities for kids, Derby Day at Keeneland is the perfect place to view the Run for the Roses. Gates open at 9 am; general admission tickets are $5 and can be bought online at tickets.keeneland.com.

Derby Eve and Derby Day

Save the Date

232 APRIL 2015 | TOPSINLEX.COMAdd YOUR event to our online calendar for FREE!Visit TopsInLex.com /calendar_submission.php][

17 & 18 FRI & SATAinadamar - Fountain of Tears: Presented by the Lexington PhilharmonicLexington Opera House

16-26 THUR-SUN HAIRUniversity of Kentucky Guignol Theatre

24-26 FRI-SUNSister Act : Presented by Broadway Live & the Opera House FundLexington Opera House

KEENELAND3 FRIDAYSpring Meet Opening Day - College Scholarship Day11a-6p | Keeneland Race Course

4 SATURDAYBluegrass Stakes Day11a-6p | Keeneland Race Course

8 WEDNESDAYHorses and Hope Pink DayKeeneland Race Course

10 FRIDAYMakers Mark Bottle Signing8a-11:30a | Keeneland Race Course

17 FRIDAYJockey Autograph Signing11:30a-12:30p | Keeneland Race Course

SPORTS 2 THURSDAYKentucky Baseball vs Texas A&MCliff Hagan Stadium

16 THURSDAYKentucky Baseball v Tennessee7p | Cliff Hagan Stadium

16-19 THURS-SUNLexington Legends vs West VirginiaWhitaker Bank Ballpark

20-22 MON-WEDLexington Legends vs GreenvilleWhitaker Bank Ballpark

28-30 TUES-THURSLexington Legends vs RomeWhitaker Bank Ballpark

LEARNING 2 THURSDAYDiscovery Night : Fiber Art and Live Alpacas!6-8p | Living Arts and Science Center

1 WEDNESDAYKentuckys Past2-6p | The Arboretum

4 SATURDAYLexington Spring Reptile Expo10a-4p | Lexington Convention Center

7 TUESDAYClick, Clack, Moo : Fun with Sounds10:15a-11a | Carnegie Center

ARTS 1 WEDNESDAYLandscape Oil Painting Class with Bill FletcherArtists Attic

2 THURSDAYTeen Howl Poetry Series6p | Morris Book Shop

4 SATURDAYFunny Bunny Craftapalooza11a | Joseph-Beth Booksellers

24 FRIDAYArt in BloomThe Art Museum at the University of Kentucky

Documents

TOPS in Lexington Magazine, April 2015