MANY LOCAL VENDORS, COCKTAIL CLASSES, & LIGHT BITES!
PART OF PROCEEDS GO TO CENTER FOR WOMEN AND FAMILIES
SAWYER HAYES COMMUNITY CENTER
Dear Louisville Voices & Readers,
February often asks us to define love in neat little boxes: romantic, familial, celebratory. But this month, I find myself talking with the office about love in its most honest form: the kind that shows up without saying anything, when you least expect it. The kind that doesn’t need words, because the selfless act says everything.
That moment when someone offers up their jacket to lend a hand. Or the person who read your Facebook post and shows up to the visitation just to make sure everyone got a hug. It’s a modest kind of love, but a beautiful and powerful kind. It’s loving your community.
This issue is about community love, supporting a neighbor because we never fully know what someone else is carrying. It’s about meeting people with kindness while still honoring our own path, and learning how not to lose ourselves to people-pleasing along the way. Love, at the end of the day, is the most generous gift we can give, and one that costs us nothing but awareness and time.
Last month, my uncle passed away. Grief has a way of rearranging your world. It reminds you how fragile time is, how easily routines shift, and how much you miss the simple act of being together. In the middle of that, I kept returning to a line from Antonio’s “A Beautiful Nightmare” Article from this month’s volume:
“Love does not like unfinished things.”
That idea echoes throughout this issue, in the stories of people who stayed, who showed up, who carried on when it would have been easier to turn away. Or my favorite, the people who showed up completely speechless because they knew that sometimes all you need is a really good hug.
In our tribute to Nancy Romanus, from Baptist Health/Milestone Wellness Center, we are reminded that love often lives in consistency. Nancy unlocked doors before sunrise and greeted the “earliest risers of our community”, and made early mornings feel lighter for everyone. Her story reminds us that sometimes love looks like being a steady presence, a morning star, even when you think no one is keeping tabs.
In A Broken Heart Without the Breakup, Tonya Ramsey Abeln writes with stunning honesty about grief that has no villain, no clean resolution. She reminds us that healing doesn’t always mean returning to who we were before, but learning to live with a new shape of love.
“That unbearable pain is evidence of love that mattered.”
That sentiment feels like the heartbeat of this issue.
So many of the stories this month speak to care that is gentle, patient, and human. From Valaterra, a place where grief was transformed into grace, we’re reminded:
“You do not have to be healed to arrive. You just have to show up.”
From Woman-Owned Wallet, we’re asked not just to admire the idea of community, but to practice it, to learn how to be villagers, not just beneficiaries. From Transcendent Wellness, we’re reminded that caring for the body without tending to the spirit leaves something unfinished.
Even our lighter guides, on beauty, fitness, camps, and self-care, return to the same truth: taking care of yourself is not indulgent. It’s foundational. Strength training, balance, rest, routine, and slowing down, these are not about perfection, but sustainability. As one contributor shared, “If I’m not good to myself, I’m not being good to you.”
And then there are the moments of joy and creative expression; the music, the art, the athletes, the builders, the storytellers. Each of them reminds us that love also looks like dedication to craft, to place, to purpose. That loving your city, your work, and your people is a form of devotion. One to do better and be better.
This month, I invite you to slow down. Do something healing for yourself, something small but intentional (Or BIG, we’re not judging here). Then take a bit of that restored energy and give it away. To a friend. A partner. Your family. Your community. Or to the quiet companions who love us unconditionally, your playful pup or your snuggle-bug cat, like my sweet Renfield.
As one story in this issue gently urges:
“Be swift to love and make haste to be kind.”
That feels like the right place to land.
With gratitude and heart, Cheers to the many VOICES of Louisville,
Amelia Frazier Theobald Publisher & CEO, The VOICE-TRIBUNE
Editor’s Note
February puts a lot of attention on love, but we all know most of the real kind does not make a show of itself. It shows up in how you take care of yourself, your loved ones, your neighbors. The choices you make when you don’t have an audience.
This volume is about that kind of love. Buying local, loving our neighbor, honoring history, and supporting each other are simple actions, but they add up. We believe in that work. We believe it matters now.
We’re sending our love to you, our readers and neighbors, this month and all the months to come.
Take care,
Alisha Proffitt Chief Director of Editorial & Editor
PRESIDENT/CEO, AMELIA FRAZIER THEOBALD
OPERATIONS MANAGER, MARY ZOELLER
CHIEF DIRECTOR OF EDITORIAL & EDITOR, ALISHA PROFFITT
CHIEF REVENUE OFFICER & DIRECTOR OF SALES, JULIE KOENIG
CHIEF GRAPHIC DESIGNER, JOSH ISON
COPY EDITOR, RENAE ISON
SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER & EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT, BRYLEA PEACH
DISTRIBUTION, KELLI & RAGAN VAN HECKE, JILL & JOHN MINNIX, TANNER BATEMAN
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: ALISON CARDOZA, ALISHA PROFFITT, ASH GWENDALE, CHRIS MORRIS, FRENCH LICK RESORT, JACKIE ZYKAN, KATHRYN HARRINGTON, KELSEY KNOTT, KEVIN MURPHY WILSON, MCKENNA GRAHAM, RUSS BROWN, SPEED ART MUSEUM, TONYA ABELN
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: BAPTIST MILESTONE, CHANEL NICOLE CO., EMERSON KERR, FRENCH LICK RESORT, GIOIA PATTON, JACKIE ZYKAN, JESSICA FOLEY, KEVIN ALEXANDER, KEVIN SIVAKUMAR, KYLE GORDON, SAM SAMSON, TONYA ABELN, TRIBECA FILM FESTIVAL, UOFL ATHLETICS, ZACH JETT
500 victories and counting: UofL’s Walz has the firepower for another deep NCAA run
Redman: A homecoming fit for KingsEx-Card wants to lead new UFL team to
BITTNERS
personalized residential design l modern interiors studio custom handcrafted furniture
By Ash Gwendale • Photos By Matt Johnson
Under the dead of night in 1948, an apprentice named Andrew “Pete” McClasky entered the back entrance of a competing funeral home to help embalm a body. Embalmers knew the backlash that would come from having a competing apprentice working on clients, so they hid him. McClasky was summoned for many difficult cases after developing a significant reputation in the art of body restoration within his family business, George R. Mason Sr. Funeral Home. The funeral home and Smoketown institution carries a legacy spanning from hidden talent to community leadership as it celebrates 120 years in business.
After McClasky tragically died in a car accident, his nephew, George R. Mason Jr. acquired the business with one goal: Provide excellent and affordable service to families in the Smoketown area. George had a strategic eye for branding: partnering with local churches, sponsoring community initiatives, and feeding profits back into the same community who supported him. This approach to relationship building resulted in a more personal way of handling the grief of clients. Families felt at ease because George grew the funeral home into a trusted space where clients were treated like family. “That is one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned from Daddy. He had a business mindset that transformed the funeral home from a small family operation to a staple in Smoketown.” Says Gwendolyn Mason, who succeeded her father George as the company’s first female Owner and Funeral Director in 2022.
Gwendolyn went to mortuary school while balancing a young family and corporate management. Stories like Uncle Pete’s were inspiring and served as a direct example of what is possible when you focus on being great in your field. “We have generations of family members who express that their loved one would ‘roll over in their grave’ if their services were not with Mason’s. It may add levity, but this speaks volumes to the service we provide. I enjoy caring for the family, although my deepest passion is in the preparation of the deceased. Being able to bring a person to the point where the family is pleased and in awe is so gratifying.”
As the team at Mason’s Funeral Home looks forward to the next 120 years of service, Gwendolyn is eyeing ways to prepare local families for the inevitable. “We always encourage loved ones to sit down and release the discomfort of talking about death with their family. Know their wishes, let yours be known as well. Preparation will always give some relief to those left behind. As for preparing for our future, I see the legacy of George R. Mason Sr. Funeral Home as continuing to service the Smoketown community for years to come. We are proud to continue to honor my great grandfather who started the business in 1906.” Gwendolyn seeks to continue the lineage of providing families with remarkable comfort and care, bringing a renewed spark of life to the industry of death.
YMCA CAMP
At Camp Piomingo, kids get to try new things and discover the wonders of the outdoors while making friends and forming memories that will last a lifetime. Camp also provides children the opportunity to:
• Try archery, zip lines, horseback riding, swimming, and more
• Unplug and grow through hands-on experiences
• Form lifetime friendships
June 7-July 31 Summer Camp Programs:
• Traditional Camp (ages 6-16) Traditional Mini-Camp (ages 5-12)
with special thanks to the Louisville Free Public Library for reference materials
Black History Month invites Louisville to look closely at the institutions that helped create places of opportunity when opportunity was far from guaranteed for all Louisvillians. Among them is the Western Branch Library. Its story is about access.
At the start of the 20th century, Black residents of Louisville were excluded from the city’s public libraries. Segregation dictated access to civic resources, including education and information. In 1905, Western Branch opened in rented rooms on West Chestnut Street to serve Louisville’s Black community. A sign displayed inside captured its intent in plain terms: “Knowledge is power.”
Western Branch was the first public library in the United States established for Black patrons and staffed entirely by Black librarians. Its first librarian, Reverend Thomas Fountain Blue, a theologian and educator who became the first Black librarian to lead a public library in the nation. Blue approached librarianship as a public service that extended beyond circulation. Under his leadership, Western Branch functioned as a center for learning, civic engagement, and cultural life.
From its earliest days, the branch emphasized dignity and ownership. Patrons were not treated as guests in a borrowed space. They were welcomed as full participants in a public institution that belonged to them. The library offered reading rooms, lecture spaces, and educational programs that encouraged intellectual growth and public discussion at a time when such opportunities were scarce.
Children were a central focus. The Children’s Department, supervised by Rachel D. Harris, introduced young readers to books through story hours, clubs, and contests. Louisville poet and educator Joseph S. Cotter sponsored a statewide storytelling competition through the branch, drawing attention to young voices and rewarding imagination.
For older students and young adults, the Douglass Debating Club provided a forum for serious inquiry. Members engaged complex social and political questions, developing skills in argument, research, and public speaking. Many participants went on to attend leading colleges and universities, carrying those early lessons with them.
In 1908, the Western Branch moved into its permanent Carnegie-funded building at Tenth and Chestnut Streets. The structure signaled the library’s permanence and intention. It confirmed that this library was not a temporary concession, but a lasting civic institution. Over time, Western Branch continued to evolve, preserving Black American history while serving generations of Louisville residents.
Today, Western Branch is a reminder to us all that progress, even when things feel hopeless, is often built over time. That progress continues today through rooms where books are read, ideas are tested, and young minds are taken seriously. Its story encourages Louisville to remember how much can change when access to knowledge is treated not as a privilege, but as a public responsibility and right.
Sharing the full and truthful history of places like Western Branch matters, particularly for the generations growing up now. History that is simplified, softened, or selectively told does not prepare children to understand the world they inherit. Honest history provides context. It explains how systems were built, who benefited from them, and who was excluded. Without that understanding, it becomes difficult to recognize inequity when it appears in new forms.
Teaching children genuine history is not about assigning guilt or reopening wounds. It is about facts and clarity. When young people understand the realities of segregation, exclusion, and limited access, they are better equipped to recognize the value of inclusion and shared responsibility. Stories like Western Branch show that progress did not arrive by accident. It came through people who identified barriers and worked within their circumstances to create something lasting.
Truthful history also invites reflection. It allows communities to acknowledge mistakes, learn from them, and make different choices moving forward. Avoiding difficult chapters does not protect us; it leaves us without the tools to interpret present challenges. When history is presented fully, it encourages empathy, critical thinking, and accountability.
Libraries, schools, and cultural institutions play an essential role in this process. They preserve records, amplify voices, and provide access to information that might otherwise be lost or ignored. Western Branch itself represents that responsibility. It existed because access to knowledge was denied elsewhere, and it thrived because the community understood education as a shared investment.
Passing these stories on ensures that history remains active rather than archival. It allows children to see themselves as part of a longer continuum, connected to those who came before them and responsible to those who will come after. When history is shared honestly, it creates space not only for learning, but for lifting others up. Through understanding, awareness, and informed action.
By The Speed Art Museum • Photos By Matt Johnson • Sponsored
The Speed Art Museum is committed to many forms of care: for the art entrusted to them, for the artists who help to see the world differently, and for the people who look to the Museum as a place of meaning, reflection, and connection.
As the Speed moves forward, they are grounded in their mission of inviting everyone to celebrate art, forever. This mission is the driving force behind the Museum’s most significant fundraiser, the Speed Ball, which will be held on March 7, 2026. This fundraiser helps the Speed to bring world-class exhibitions, expand statewide arts in education initiatives, grow and conserve the permanent collection, and invite the entire community to experience the Speed.
This year, under the steady leadership of the six 2026 Speed Ball Chairs, the focus of the Speed Ball has been to put these core values into practice.
The Chairs are Mary Helen and John David (J.D.) Myles, Mandy and Tanner Watkins and Late Night Chairs, Brigitte Owens and Breana Owens Harris. Together this team has put their cumulative decades of Ball experience into action, ensuring that the legacy of the Speed that will live on.
Ball Chairs Mary Helen and John David Myles have been involved with the Speed Ball for over 30 years. As dedicated stewards and ambassadors of the museum for decades, this couple brings a wealth of invaluable information and experience to the Speed Ball. Their exquisite taste and unparalleled wisdom are evident in every facet of the Ball, from decor, to food and invitations.
Ball Chairs Mandy and Tanner Watkins hope to continue a legacy pattern that the Myles have modeled for them. With over 15 years of Ball attendance under their belts, the Watkins are eager to help move the Museum forward, with an emphasis on community support and partnerships.
Late Night Chairs are a dynamic mother daughter team of Brigitte Owens and her daughter Breana Owens Harris. Late Night has been reignited under this ambitious and creative team, with the goal of exposing a wider audience to the Speed and creating a new cadre of art supporters.
The theme of this year’s Ball is “An Evening in the Garden”, based on a renowned painting in the Speed’s permanent collection that is the centerpiece of the Ball, Hubert Robert’s “A Hermit in a Garden.” This piece was generously donated by the Harriet Cox Collis family over 30 years ago; members of the Collis family will gather at the Ball from near and far to celebrate their legacy on this very special evening. The painting is a lush depiction of a garden scene evoking moments of spring renewal and growth.
The Speed is honored to host this annual event to gather with its supporters, celebrate successes, and reflect together on the work ahead. The Speed is guided by a simple principle that a museum’s strength lies not only in what it holds, but how it serves. As a vital cultural hub of this community for the last 99 years, the Speed is ever focused on its legacy, or its “forever”.
The Speed Ball will take place on Saturday, March 7, 2026 at the Speed Art Museum. Cocktails start at 6 p.m. with a seated dinner in the galleries at 7:30 p.m. Late Night at the Speed with dancing and dessert begins at 9 p.m.
DETAILS
SPEED ART MUSEUM
2035 South Third St.
Louisville, KY 40208
502-634-2700
Speedmuseum.org
SPEED BALL
Saturday, March 7, 2026
Cocktails 6:00 p.m.
Seated Dinner 7:30 p.m.
Late Night at the Speed 9:00 p.m.
White or Black Tie
Valet Parking
Simple Twist of Fate:
Rebecca Norton talks art, education, and community
Rebecca Norton is a well-traveled, highly regarded visual artist. In addition to maintaining her Louisville-based studio practice, Norton currently serves as Visiting Assistant Professor of Studio Art at Kentucky College of Art + Design. She is also co-founder of the Maybe It’s Fate Cooperative.
The latter is a community-focused project space housed in a three-story 600 square foot building located in the heart of the Butchertown neighborhood. Its innovative model allows for members to join at several tiers, from Believer to Sustainer to Pay What You Can. We recently caught up with Norton to hear all about her own creative journey as well as her ambitions for Maybe It’s Fate as a cultural hub for the city and beyond.
VOICE-TRIBUNE: Can you tell us about your background and education?
Rebecca Norton: “As a child, my time was largely spent outdoors, chasing toads, playing in the woods, and idly imagining life elsewhere. I grew up and attended schools in Southern Indiana. Undergraduate studies were taken up at U of L in fall 1999. I was accepted to the Hite Institute of Art with scholarship soon after, and graduated with a degree in painting in 2004. While in undergrad, I immersed myself in the Louisville arts scene, participating in group shows at the Lava House, Water Tower, and elsewhere. In January 2005, on my birthday, I set off for the West Coast with all I owned packed tightly in the back of my pick-up truck. I unintentionally ended up moving to Los Angeles, and for several years waitressed in West Hollywood and enjoyed the pleasures of the city and its creative scenes. From 20072010 I continued my academic studies at Art Center College of Design, Pasadena, CA. My teaching career began in spring 2011, teaching first at Indiana University Southeast, then back to California at my Alma Mater, Art Center, and in Berlin for a semester. I moved to Brooklyn in 2012, and quickly found myself engaged with a vibrant community of artists in Bushwick. For nearly three years I taught painting in the upper West Side of Manhattan, participated in shows, and worked as an assistant for the late Lynn Umlauf in her studio on the Lower East Side. Through a generation of older artists, I was introduced to established practicing visual and literary professionals, whose stories and lessons I absorbed with great curiosity and wonder. During this time, I was also focused on my individual studio practice and collaborating with the late artist and critic Jeremy Gilbert-Rolfe. As a duo we traveled to various institutions, nationally and internationally, to exhibit our collaborative artworks, give lectures, and do studio visits with students. Jeremy was an incredible teacher - I learned a great deal from him. In 2015, my husband and I moved back to Louisville, pregnant with our first child. I’ve been raising a family and creating here ever since.”
VT: What put you on the creative path in the first place?
RN: “Early desires for travel and adventure, a contrarian personality, and hours spent imagining other worlds may have been early clues to how my life might unfold. Lately, I’ve thought a lot about two individuals who exposed me to art and music in my youth…my piano teacher, Leah Porter, and her mother, Rosamond Sample. Leah taught me to appreciate rhythm, melody, and my own artistic sense. Leah always teased me about the ‘passionate’ ways I played the piano. I played with great physical intensity rather than with a modest, graceful touch. Rosamond Sample was a visual artist living in my neighborhood. I can still recall visiting and eyeing the beautiful arrangement of brushes and collage materials in her studio space. Her house, too, was something else. Its multi-leveled open floor plan, designed with input from Mrs. Sample, allowed natural light and views of the surrounding woods to cascade and integrate themselves into the interior. Like Leah and Rosamond, I wanted to live an artistic life, enriched by music, literature, natural surroundings, poetry and visual art.”
VT: Are there any specific artists that inspired you or that you wanted to emulate?
RN: “The botanical illustrations and paintings of the German Romantic artist Phillip Otto Runge were incredibly important during my studies in graduate school. Runge’s mathematical structuring of botanical illustrations led me to question our descriptions of the mathematical models that govern the natural world, and this has become a topic of interest that still guides my practice today. As a graduate student, I was lucky to have been mentored by contemporary artist Lita Albuquerque. Experiential explorations with her encouraged me to consider my body as an embodiment of cosmological space. And of course, working with Jeremy Gilbert-Rolfe was special. My aesthetic education has been enriched by the years working with him. He has influenced my approach to painting and color, and educated me in world history, philosophy, semiotics, poetry and other general areas of study. I am continuing to be inspired by generations of artists who also studied under him. It’s lovely to be part of a large community of creative individuals who share a language and way of thinking that was in part nourished by this great contemporary enthusiast of art and education.”
VT: How would you describe your visual art in general? Is there a medium or area of research that excites you?
RN: “My work may be generalized as colorful and mathematical. Theories of embodied cognition and attraction are very interesting to me. The work of French psychologist Jean Piaget and contemporary Italian mathematician Giuseppe Longo are important to my studies in embodied mathematics and mathematics in living systems. In philosophy, the writings of the German philosopher Immanuel Kant, French phenomenologist philosopher Maurice Merleau-Ponty, and French philosopher Gilles Deleuze have shaped my understanding of the correlative and contrastive structures of human mind, body and consciousness.
Periodic mentorship with writers and poets strengthens my practice in the literary arts. Currently, I’m working towards a certificate in Neuroaesthetics to further understand the neural basis of aesthetic experiences. My studio is where I go to explore ideas, moving them through materials in order to come to a formal understanding of the questions that I’m pondering or exploring. As with any artist, my techniques and interests have evolved over the years. Sometimes I play with developing technologies, or study new areas of thought or emerging fields in philosophy. But I have always been, and will always be, excited by painting.”
VT: Do you see any overlap between professional practice and your work as an art educator?
RN: “When asked why he continued to teach, the late conceptual artist John Baldessari would answer that it gave him the freedom to make the work he wanted to make. Finding ways to make a living outside of the studio allows me to create beyond market demands. Add to this the benefits of the community of people I get to work with. My colleagues and students challenge me, and in this environment my practice can grow.”
VT: How did Maybe It’s Fate Cooperative come to be and what makes the community-owned model so special?
RN: “Soon after moving back to Louisville, my husband, Charley Miller, and I noticed the lack of collaboration between visual arts and technology, and other fields of knowledge. Unlike major metropolitan cities, Louisville is not a primary destination for individuals from all over the world to travel and share ideas. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t people of great intellect and talent, doing amazing work, here right now. We wanted to create a place where diverse talents and knowledge could be seen, and shared. We are also seeking a new model of support for creatives. The arts build culture, and we want culture makers to have more of a stake in the city through ownership of spaces like Maybe It’s Fate.”
VT: What is happening there at the moment in terms of programming and exhibitions?
RN: “Maybe It’s Fate is a place where co-op members can host events that are meaningful to them and their groups. For example, as a member, I’ve brought Leonardo LASER Talks to Louisville, with Maybe It’s Fate being a place to host what is an incredible international program. Other events that you’ll come across at Maybe It’s Fate include yoga, dancing, music, poetry readings, writers groups, and art exhibitions. We currently have two exhibitions installed, including the group show on our main floor curated by local member-steward Eddie Frank Hickerson.” For more information visit
“Zoey was an Earth Angel sent to me to save my life. I feel like I spent my whole life looking for purpose and meaning, and it’s so awesome to me that from the beginning, she has nothing else to prove because she already saved my life.”
In her debut children’s book, The Keeper of the Moon, Chrissy Hanna writes a lyrical, celestial tale of resilience and peace found in being carried through the darkness. As a writer who holds an English degree focused on professional writing and editing, she always thought she would publish a coffee table book someday. However, the circumstances surrounding the inspiration for her first book are extraordinary. Writing and journaling through the most fearful of times, Hanna composed this calming, anchored children’s story that became something physical her daughter, Zoey, could always cherish. “I didn’t think that getting cancer would be the thing that led to today. I finally understood that the year full of uncertainty was putting me on the right path. I was able to decenter work from my life and become happier–a better friend, better sister, better daughter, and great mom because of it. I cannot stress enough that I wouldn’t be the same person I am now if I wouldn’t have quit my job and gotten sick.” The Keeper of the Moon grew out of an instinct to make something calm and steady, as that’s what she needed the world to be for Zoey and herself while she navigated motherhood and cancer all at once.
While she encountered fatigue that can be expected from both those who are experiencing pregnancy or sickness, her blood work was all reading normal. Three months into pregnancy, Chrissy Hanna woke up with a stiff neck. At her normal OBGYN appointment that week, her doctor coincidentally took what seemed like a coiled-up muscle seriously, as his close classmate in medical school was pregnant and got diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma. “I never would have found out I was sick if I hadn’t gotten pregnant and had that specific doctor. He helped me fast track everything, and it took me a while to process.”
After her own diagnosis, she began chemotherapy just weeks after giving birth. “While I was adjusting to becoming a mom, I started navigating the illness, and it shifted how I understood my body and my future. Motherhood came unexpectedly and clarified life for me in a way that I didn’t see coming. I feel like my eyes are brighter because of it.”
Louisville gives Hanna space to live slowly, which she values as a mother and writer. A West Virginian who also lived in Charlotte, North Carolina for six years, she made the move right before everything changed in March of 2020. “What always attracted me to Louisville is that it’s lived-in and human-sized. Charlotte was very polished, and there was a lot of pressure to be perfect. My sister had lived here for a long time, and I traveled for my job, so I took flights to come visit her here. I ended up making this really great group of friends and finally moved here.”
Leaving her fast-paced travel job behind and gaining perspective on life after getting sick, Hanna recognizes the immense gift that Louisville provides in embodying a slower world that sparks creativity.
The Keeper of the Moon explores rest and resilience through dark times, but most importantly, “it shows what real care and support looks like.” The main character makes the moon shine quietly, night after night, not asking for help until she’s the one who’s wearing down. In that moment, the story shifts and the wind rises and carries what she can’t hold. “The support from my family and my fiance Michael, who would get up and stay up during the nights with Zoey because I was so sick, felt like that–love as a steady presence and help that’s gentle, non-judgmental, and no questions asked.” Hanna stresses the importance of finding and being that kind of love for others in our lives.
When it comes to Hodgkin’s lymphoma, Hanna wishes more people understood its effects beyond the physical and medical level. “It’s psychological. The anticipation, anxiety, waiting, and worrying causes just as much illness in mental health. I lost all my hair, which I know is superficial, but it strips you of your identity. You already don’t feel like yourself inside, and to look in the mirror and not recognize yourself is hard.” While her support system lifted her up and obstacles during that time still made her a better mom, friend, sister, and daughter, she emphasizes that survivorship is not the finish line. “It’s something I carry with me forever. The mark of survivorship is the mark of a new chapter, and the ending of my book ties all that together: ‘not too bright, not too full, but something new.’ It makes space for the idea that things won’t go back to the way that they were before, but that doesn’t mean you’re not going to be whole again.” The Keeper of the Moon honors her journey by donating a portion of sales to Blood Cancer United.
Hanna hopes people gain a feeling of relief from reading The Keeper of the Moon. While many children’s books focus on achievement and learning lessons, this story is meant to calm and take the pressure off. “It’s wonderful if the kid feels calmer and more settled afterwards, but I think it’s just as important if the parent or the reader can unclench their jaw a little, too, as they’re reading.”
Get your copy of The Keeper of the Moon at storiesbychrissy.com or Carmichael’s Bookstore, and stay tuned for Keeper of the Almost and other Appalachian stories that Chrissy has in store!
WITH WOMAN-OWNED WALLET
By Alisha Proffitt • Photos By Matt Johnson, Chanel Nicole Co., & MadKind Design
You could say that Woman-Owned Wallet began with a bit of a personal reckoning. Its founder, Amanda Dare, did not arrive at community work with a ‘how to’ guide, but rather through lived experience and a gradual understanding of what had been missing.
“At the heart of this idea is my personal story and how it led me to become a community guide. Not as an expert with answers, but as someone who learned, very slowly and imperfectly, how to build connection when it didn’t come naturally,” Dare says.
Amanda was raised by strong women. Her mother and grandmother taught her independence and how to persist when the going gets tough. While those lessons were both practical and necessary, what went unspoken was how to form closeness with other women, or how to rely on them without fear.
“What I didn’t realize until much later was that I was deeply craving emotional connection with women and a sense of sisterhood,” she reflects.
The women who raised her had learned, through experience, to be cautious. Competition felt safer than closeness. Emotional distance was protection. As a result, Amanda learned how to stand on her own, but not how to lean toward others.
Instead of connection, she learned to build walls.
For years, self-sufficiency became her personal measure of strength. She pulled away from friends and peers, including the people who cared for her the most. This distance wasn’t because she was indifferent; it came from not knowing how to let others show up for her. That pattern followed her into adulthood and into entrepreneurship, where independence is most often celebrated and rarely questioned.
Over the last 16 years, Amanda has started and run six businesses. Those years placed her in constant collaboration with others, often women. Business required trust, communication, and vulnerability. The results were mixed. At times, generosity was misunderstood. At others, openness came at a cost.
Over time, Amanda reached a turning point. Carefully participating no longer felt sufficient. She recognized that building meaningful connections with others required her full engagement, without guarantees or control. That led to the creation of Woman-Owned Wallet.
In 2019, shortly after moving into Louisville’s NuLu neighborhood, the idea began with Woman-Owned Wallet: The Tour of NuLu. The self-guided walking tour connected NuLu visitors to woman-owned businesses throughout the neighborhood. Her goal was pretty straightforward. Support all of them. Build relationships across storefronts. Encourage shared visibility.
Woman-Owned Wallet is a response to a structural gap. Traditional investment systems were rarely built for women, so many women-owned businesses lack capital and visibility. WOW relies on community investors, people who choose where to spend with intention and reinvest in everyday life.
At launch, the tour included fewer than 30 woman-owned businesses. This coming month, that number will exceed 50, all within the same walkable area. The growth is what happens when a community is built with intention and when success is collective rather than designed only for the individual.
That growth also led Amanda to reconsider a common phrase: it takes a village.
No one had ever taught her how to be a villager.
She had to learn how to ask for help. She had to learn how to show up without having everything figured out. She had to learn that trust develops over time, not through singular moments.
As Amanda practiced these skills, she noticed how common the struggle was. Many people around her wanted connection too, but did not know how to enter it. Going alone felt intimidating. Asking for support felt uncomfortable. The desire for community coexisted with uncertainty about how to start.
That realization led to her next phase of the work: Woman-Owned Wallet: The Show.
The series follows Amanda throughout Louisville, and eventually beyond, as she practices community building in real time. She attends small gatherings. She asks questions. She offers support. She documents the process of participation. She does not present herself as an authority, but instead acts as a guide.
While Amanda provides the through-line, the focus remains on the people and places she encounters. The stories center on everyday interactions and shared effort, highlighting what makes a neighborhood feel connected.
Alongside this project is the WOW Hotline. These short minisodes allow Amanda to respond to community questions and share what she is learning in real time with emphasis on openness and continuity.
Amanda has developed a practical approach to community building and making conversations about money more accessible. She began looking at community the way she approached design, paying attention to where people hesitate and adjusting the environment. Woman-Owned Wallet focuses on easing people into participation. This approach evolved into what Amanda calls the WOW World, a set of resources designed to meet people where they are. Penny the Piggy Bank appears throughout this work, including in the children’s book Penny Saves the Day, where money is explored through story and shared problem-solving instead of instruction.
WOW’s adult-facing work keeps its focus on participation. The WOW Hotline offers a simple way to ask for help without needing to know exactly what to ask for. The podcast explains women’s real experiences with money, not advice. Live events, including Pinkmas Bash and Galentine’s Bash, connect woman-owned businesses with people already invested in their communities.
Amanda now follows a consistent philosophy: community is built through presence, reliability, and a willingness to show up even when it feels uncomfortable. Woman-Owned Wallet: The Show focuses on rebuilding the skills of community. Many people were never taught how to practice them, even though they need them.
We often say “it takes a village.” The harder question is whether we know how to participate in one.
Amanda Dare is learning that answer in public. In doing so, she is inviting others to learn alongside her.
Map Design By MadKind Design
Photo By Chanel Nicole Co.
Photo By Matt Johnson
www.whitepicketky.com
WITH THE FOUNDERS OF TOGETHR
By Alisha Proffitt • Photos By Matt Johnson
When Meghan Sanjay and Hailey Pereyra graduated from Indiana University Southeast with BFAs in graphic design, they entered a job market that was anything but welcoming. Applications piled up. Rejections followed. Instead of waiting for an opening, they decided to make one.
“We were both BFAs in graphic design and we became besties, and then after graduating the market was pretty harsh for fresh graduates,” Pereyra said. “Meghan had a whole spreadsheet for everywhere she had applied.”
Sanjay tracked more than 150 applications. “I had 150 job applications in my spreadsheet that I was keeping track of, and I’d either put accepted or rejected,” she said. “It was just a terrible market and I was like, we need to do something about this. I don’t want to just sit around.”
That decision became Togethr, a newly launched creative agency serving the Louisville and Southern Indiana region. Rooted in collaboration, transparency, and community investment, Togethr specializes in branding, visual identity, and digital design for businesses, especially emerging brands building their foundation.
Both Sanjay and Pereyra were intentional about building their work close to home and working with established businesses as well as businesses that are still finding their footing. Their goal is to help those businesses build a clear visual presence that reflects who they are and allows them to grow sustainably. “We’re passionate about working with underrepresented and emerging businesses and helping them build something that feels elevated, visible, and impactful, not just seen, but taken seriously.”
Togethr offers services that include logo design, branding systems, social media strategy and management, and photo and video content.
But the founders say their approach doesn’t end with deliverables.
“We’re not just going to be like, ‘here’s all the stuff. Good luck,’” Sanjay said. “Our vision is to build long-term partnerships with the brands we serve, walking alongside our clients as they evolve, and also become a trusted creative presence throughout every stage of their journey.” They recognize that business owners already work incredibly hard and that’s where they come in, matching that effort with design and work ethic.
This is communicated in their slogan, “design that works as hard as you do.”
Consistency is central to their approach. “The name of the game is consistency,” Pereyra said. “Too many businesses attempt to reset their identity every few months — one logo one month, something completely different the next. Our goal is to help businesses build identities that grow with them.”
Both founders bring multidisciplinary creative backgrounds to the agency. Pereyra holds a BFA in ceramics, while Sanjay’s background is in drawing. They see digital design as an extension of art, not a departure from it.
Representation also matters to them. “We’re both brown, and we’re both women, and we wanted to see that kind of representation and build something for us too,” Sanjay said.
While they are early in their careers, they see that as a strength. “We just graduated literally in May,” Sanjay said. “We’re pretty fresh on all the things that are going around in the industry.”
As Togethr continues to grow, their message to local businesses is simple. “We just want more people to reach out to us,” Sanjay said. “We want them to come talk to us too, and to not be shy.”
For Sanjay and Pereyra, their creative partnership in Togethr is a way to give their creative skills back to the place they continue to call home.
HEALING THE SPIRIT WITH ELIZABETH NICHOLSON, MD
By Mckenna Graham • Photos By Matt Johnson
You take your vitamins and supplements, get 10,000 steps a day, rest the recommended hours of sleep per night, and slather your skin with moisturizer and sunscreen. You’re taking care of yourself, right? If you’re following all the wellness and self-care advice currently touted by modern trends, then why does it still feel like something is missing? Elizabeth Nicholson, MD, owner and intuitive guide at The Connection Conduit might say you’re forgetting to care for the most important part of your being: the inner self.
After spending over 15 years as a clinical psychiatrist, Nicholson has taken a career pivot, both inspired by her work in the mental health field and also by personal upheaval in her own life. Her calling to connect with and help others led her to found The Connection Conduit, which taps into Nicholson’s natural gifts as an empath. Though Nicholson does not use the word ‘psychic’ to describe herself, her sessions with clients do call on the metaphysical, even mystical energy that exists in and around us. She cites Rick Rubin’s idea from his book The Creative Act: A Way of Being that information from the universe is being transmitted on higher frequencies and though it “can’t be physically grasped” through our five senses it can be perceived if we “create an open space that allows for it”.
Nicholson assists others with the existential and intangible ailments that trouble the human spirit. During sessions, she guides her clients through a healing experience by reconnecting them with their inner wisdom and offering spiritual support. Her sessions can be particularly useful for those at a crossroads in life. Like many of us, Nicolson’s life has been dappled with tragedies, such as a fatal car accident she experienced when she was only eighteen.
“One of my friends was killed,” she says, “We were on the interstate. I’m very lucky to be alive. So, I think from a young age I had an appreciation for this life that we’re given and it really changed the way I view things.” This experience ignited a fire inside her to be of service and led her to attend medical school, ultimately earning her MD from the University of Louisville and residency at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Her career in a psychiatric emergency room meant a daily encounter with the psychological and spiritual suffering of others, and though Nicholson still believes in traditional therapies, she contends that something is lacking.
“I’m not opposed to the traditional medical system,” she says, “I have used psychiatric medications. I have been in therapy. I think all those things can be incredibly helpful. But from my own personal experiences of grief, of loss, of transitions, of big life changes, I have found this style of work to be incredibly helpful.” Nicholson’s sessions fill in the gap left by Western medicine that only seeks to treat the body without considering the spirit.
“[Elizabeth] is a very powerful and gifted space holder and seer,” says Clara V., one of Nicholson’s clients. “In one session with her, I was able to identify and look at things I have been avoiding for years. She helped me gently approach and gain understanding. She provided so much insight and valuable tools as well. A very transformative experience!”
Over the years, she has studied under a number of teachers and traditional healers, beginning with her Fellowship in Integrative Medicine under Dr. Andrew Weil at the University of Arizona, Tucson. She also earned certifications in mindfulness and meditation through UC Berkley, which she says was an absolute “life changer”. Other apprenticeships in energy healing, Shamanic studies and intuitive mediumships continued to help her hone her natural gifts.
Nicholson shared from a past journal entry that describes her philosophy and approach to the service she provides saying, “I believe if I’m not good to myself, I’m not being good to you. I believe that if I can love myself for every part of who I am, then I can love you for every part of who you are. I believe it all starts with how we feel about ourselves. If I love me, then I love you. It sounds simple. However, I have found that the path of self-love and self-acceptance is a long and arduous one. Despite that, it’s worth every moment traveled. At least it was for me, because in it, I found my love for you.”
Sessions with Nicholson can be booked through her website at www.theconnectionconduit.com. She welcomes both individuals as well as groups. She can also be found during office hours at The Healing Collective in Middletown located at 11603 Shelbyville Rd # 7.
Taking care of yourself does not have to mean a full reset or a big lifestyle overhaul. Sometimes it starts with choosing places that help you feel a little stronger, a little calmer, or simply more at ease in your own skin. This self-love guide highlights local businesses that support everyday care, from gyms and fitness studios that help you move with intention to salons and spas that offer space to slow down.
You will also find aesthetic practices centered on simple, intentional care, along with florists and bakeries that bring simple joy into the day. Whether you are booking a workout, scheduling a treatment, or picking up flowers or a favorite dessert, these local spots make it easier to invest in yourself in practical ways. Think of this guide as a starting point for small choices that add up to feeling better, inside and out.
Photo By Roman
When it comes to skincare and aesthetic treatments, timing matters just as much as the treatment itself. One of the most common misconceptions is that results are instant or that maintenance is optional. In reality, healthy, radiant skin is built with intention, proper planning, and consistency.
For injectable treatments such as neuromodulators, we recommend scheduling appointments at least two to four weeks before any major event. This allows time for results to fully settle and for subtle refinements if needed. Dermal fillers and collagen stimulating treatments benefit from even more lead time, ideally four to eight weeks prior, so any swelling resolves and results appear soft and natural.
Spring is also an ideal time to focus on overall skin quality. Treatments like microneedling, PRF based therapies, and regenerative services work gradually by encouraging your body’s natural collagen production. Starting early allows the skin to improve in strength, brightness, and texture over time rather than rushing results just days before a celebration.
With Derby season and spring events approaching, now is the time to plan ahead. At Lumi Skin Bar + Aesthetics, we believe aesthetics should follow a thoughtful timeline rather than a last minute approach. Booking early ensures availability during our busiest season and allows us to customize a plan that aligns with your goals and upcoming events.
If you are preparing for Derby, spring weddings, or simply want to invest in long term skin health, we encourage you to schedule a consultation now. Thoughtful planning leads to confident, effortless results and your skin will always thank you for it.
A Smarter Standard for Personal Wellness
At the Y, wellness is no longer measured by guesswork or trends—it’s guided by precision, insight, and intention. Introducing EGYM, a fully integrated smart fitness system designed for individuals who value efficiency, personalization, and measurable results.
EGYM uses advanced digital strength equipment to create a customized training experience based on your body, goals, and performance. With intelligent resistance that adapts in real time, every workout is optimized— delivering maximum benefit in minimal time. No intimidation. No wasted effort. Just data-driven training that fits into a busy lifestyle.
To elevate the experience further, the Y pairs EGYM with the SECA Body Scan, a gold standard in medical-grade body composition analysis. In less than a minute, the SECA scan provides a detailed snapshot of what truly matters: muscle balance, body fat distribution, hydration, and metabolic health. This level of insight allows our wellness professionals to tailor programs with the same care and sophistication found in elite performance environments. Discover a smarter, more refined approach to health—one built on technology, expertise, and a commitment to your best life.
At J Michael’s Spa & Salon, self-care is meant to feel effortless, personal, and genuinely enjoyable. We strive to blend polished expertise with a relaxed, welcoming vibe—where you can unwind, feel heard, and leave looking like the very best version of yourself.
We tailor our full range of hair, skin, and spa services specifically to you. Whether it’s a fresh cut, custom color, glowing skin, or a much-needed moment to recharge, every service starts with listening. The team takes the time to understand your lifestyle, goals, and preferences, creating results that feel natural, modern, and easy to maintain.
Our stylists and spa professionals at J Michael’s are highly trained and continually evolving with the industry, but trends never outweigh what works best for the individual. Our premium products, advanced techniques, and thoughtful consultations ensure our guests get results they love—without feeling rushed or overdone.
We have proudly hand-selected some of the best products in the industry, including Eufora, Jane Iredale, BABOR, and Obagi. These products are made with natural ingredients by companies who value the planet and your health.
Beyond our services and products, what truly defines J Michael’s is the experience. It’s refined but comfortable, elevated yet approachable. Our guests return not just for great hair or glowing skin, but for that personal touch.
If you’re looking for a place where beauty, wellness, and genuine care come together, J Michael’s Spa & Salon delivers self-care that fits seamlessly into real life—because feeling good should always feel this easy.
If you want a simple way to treat yourself, stopping by Heitzman Traditional Bakery And Cafe can be a good choice. This longtime Louisville bakery and cafe have been making baked goods, sandwiches, and sweets for more than a century. You can pick up fresh donuts, muffins, danish, bagels, artisan breads, pies, and cakes by the slice or whole to enjoy at home. The cafe also serves lunch options, so you can make it part of a break in your day rather than just a quick stop.
Choosing something from Heitzman feels like a low-key but pleasant way to give yourself a moment of comfort. Whether you want a pastry with your coffee, a slice of cake after an errand, or a pie to share later, the variety makes it easy to find something that fits your mood. Ordering ahead online is available, so you can plan a little treat without waiting. It’s a choice that mixes everyday comfort with a taste you might not make at home on your own.
Baptist Health/Milestone Wellness Center is a 70,000-square-foot, full-service luxury fitness facility conveniently located in St. Matthews. A walk through the doors at Milestone immediately highlights what a high-quality, well-rounded gym experience can look like—welcoming, inclusive, and thoughtfully designed to support total well-being.
Milestone offers far more than traditional fitness. Members have access to state-of-the-art strength and cardio equipment, over 100 group exercise classes each week, personal training, Pilates Reformer, yoga, aquatics and specialized programs for active aging, osteoporosis, and medical fitness. Through its partnership with Baptist Health, Milestone uniquely bridges the gap between healthcare and fitness, offering provider-referred medical fitness programs that help individuals safely return to movement after injury, illness, or chronic conditions.
Wellness at Milestone also extends beyond the gym floor. The Oasis Spa provides massage therapy, skincare, and body treatments designed to support relaxation, recovery, and self-care. Members can also refuel at the Center Café, which offers smoothies, protein shakes, and nutritious meals to support an active lifestyle. For those focused on nutrition and weight management, Milestone offers the HMR medically supervised weight loss program, combining evidence-based nutrition, coaching, and support for sustainable results.
What truly sets Milestone apart is its sense of community. From young professionals and busy parents to retirees and first-time gym-goers, members find an environment that is encouraging, knowledgeable, and free of intimidation. At Baptist Health/Milestone Wellness Center, fitness, health, beauty, and self-care come together—helping members not only feel better, but live better.
Susan’s Florist is an easy stop when you want to do something small but intentional for yourself. The shop offers a wide range of fresh arrangements, from classic roses to mixed seasonal bouquets, along with plants and simple add-ons that make a space feel more lived-in. Ordering online is straightforward, and the Preston Highway location makes it convenient to pick something up in person when you want to choose based on color or mood.
Buying flowers for yourself doesn’t have to mark a big occasion, and Susan’s Florist leans into that idea well. Their arrangements feel accessible, making them a practical way to bring a little brightness into your home or routine. Whether it’s a small bouquet for your kitchen table or something larger to reset a room, it’s an uncomplicated way to practice everyday self-care while supporting a long-standing local business.
By VOICE-TRIBUNE • Photo By Ray Piedra (Pexels.com)
Beauty movements come and go, but the ones that last usually have science on their side. This year, we are focusing on understanding ingredients that actually work. The good news for Louisville readers is that enjoying the fun of new skincare discoveries does not require online shopping or waiting for delivery. You can explore what’s new, experiment, and stay current while supporting your local community.
The biggest shift in skincare isn’t a new miracle serum; its transparency. Consumers are more informed than ever and increasingly interested in ingredients that are effective, responsibly sourced, and suited to individual skin needs. Rather than following hype, people are learning how formulas work, how ingredients interact, and what makes sense for their own skin.
TRENDING INGREDIENTS TO KNOW
NIACINAMIDE
A reliable multitasker, niacinamide helps reduce redness, regulate oil production, and improve overall texture. Its versatility makes it a favorite across many skin types and routines.
POLYHYDROXY ACIDS (PHAS)
PHAs provide gentle exfoliation with minimal irritation. They are ideal for anyone looking to boost radiance without the sensitivity often associated with stronger acids.
BAKUCHIOL
This plant based alternative to retinol offers many of the same benefits, including improved firmness and smoother texture, without the dryness or irritation retinol can cause for some users.
CERAMIDES
Ceramides are essential to a healthy skin barrier. With barrier repair now a major focus, these ingredients have become especially important after years of aggressive exfoliation trends.
PROBIOTICS AND PREBIOTICS
As skincare continues to embrace the microbiome, probiotics and prebiotics are gaining attention for their ability to support balance and overall skin health.
HOW TO SHOP TRENDING
INGREDIENTS LOCALLY
Louisville has plenty of local options, and supporting them doesn’t mean sacrificing the fun of trying new things:
SKIN BARS AND AESTHETIC PRACTICES
These spaces are ideal for ingredient-driven routines and professional guidance. Many offer customized treatments that align with trending ingredients, like barrier repair and microbiome-friendly routines.
LOCAL DERMATOLOGISTS AND MEDICAL SKINCARE PROVIDERS
Dermatologists can help you choose the right products and treatments. They’re also great for medical-grade options that aren’t always available in mainstream retail.
BEAUTY MARKETS, POP-UPS, AND BOUTIQUES
These events and shops often feature small-batch skincare brands that prioritize clean ingredients and thoughtful formulas. It’s a great way to discover products without relying on online shopping.
FARMERS MARKETS
Some farmers markets include skincare vendors selling natural, locally-made products, as well as fresh ingredients for those who like to dabble in diy.
LOCAL WORKSHOPS AND EVENTS
Look for community events where skincare professionals share tips and samples. These are perfect opportunities to learn about new ingredients and try products before committing.
A MORE THOUGHTFUL WAY TO PLAY
Shopping local keeps money circulating within the community, supporting local jobs, businesses, and neighborhood growth rather than sending profits elsewhere. Local business owners are more likely to reinvest in the area, sponsor community efforts, and build real relationships with customers.
Shopping local also preserves a community’s character, offers more personalized service, and often reduces environmental impact through shorter supply chains.
Louisville’s beauty and skin care ecosystem makes it possible to care for you and your skin while also investing in your local community. Treating yourself and supporting your neighbors do not have to be separate choices. Community support, after all, is its own kind of beauty.
A Place Where Grief Turned Into Grace
By Antonio Pantoja
Some places don’t feel discovered. They feel chosen. Valaterra rests quietly in LaGrange, Kentucky, surrounded by trees and the hush of a landscape that seems to understand the difference between noise and meaning. You do not arrive at Valaterra like you arrive at a venue. You arrive the way you arrive at a memory. The air shifts. Your shoulders drop. Even your voice lowers, not out of fear, but out of reverence.
Before you ever learn the story, you can feel it. Something sacred happened here. Something unfinished. Something that refused to disappear.
The land belonged to a woman named Valerie. The home, the mission, the dream of what Valaterra would become, it began with her. She purchased the land and imagined it not as a private escape, but as a refuge. A retreat space where people could step away from the weight of the world and remember what it feels like to breathe without bracing.
But Valerie did not get to stay long enough to see the vision completed. “Unfortunately, she passed away prior to the completion of the sanctuary you’re standing in now,” Kendall Perkins, Executive Director, tells me. “She left this beautiful legacy in the hands of her friends to kind of push it through the finish line, create the documents, create the foundation.”
It would be easy to leave the story there. Another dream interrupted. Another good person taken too soon. But what came after is what makes Valaterra more than land, more than property, more than a location someone can rent. Valaterra became a promise kept.
Valerie’s friends and loved ones stepped in and carried out what she started. They did the unglamorous work. The paperwork. The structure. The stewardship. Not because anyone asked them to, but because love does not like unfinished things. Because when someone builds a dream with their whole heart, the people who loved them cannot bear to let it collapse into silence.
Kendall describes what they preserved in one simple line. “An intentional, magical space for people to retreat.”
It can be difficult to explain what that “magic” is without reducing it to slogans. But Valaterra’s magic is not decorative. It is not staged wellness. It is not spirituality as a performance. It feels older than that. Like the land knows what pain sounds like and doesn’t flinch when you bring yours.
When I ask Kendall where the original vision came from, her answer lands like a line from a film. “I think Valerie was called to this land, and I think this land called her.” That one sentence changes everything.
Suddenly, this is not just a woman who bought property. This is a woman who answered something. A pull. A whisper she trusted. And now, years later, the whisper is still there, but it belongs to everyone.
Valaterra is community-run, but not in the trendy buzzword sense. Not as a marketing angle. It is real.
When I ask Kendall what that means, she laughs. “Well, day-to-day the community is me,” she says, “and my board members, and the different types of crews that we have to come out to work on the space.” Then she widens it into the larger truth. “But when I think about what it means for community here every day, it’s the practitioners that choose the space to host a retreat,” she says. “Or it’s a nonprofit to bring their staff or their volunteers or even their clientele to come for respite.”
That’s the difference between a venue and a sanctuary. Valaterra doesn’t run on traffic. It runs on intention. “The community portion is really run by everybody who’s never been here,” Kendall says, “and knows how magical the space is.” A place sustained by testimony. By one person telling another, “Go there. You’ll feel it.”
“And telling their friends and family, and sharing their experiences online,” Kendall adds. “So all of that’s part of the reason why we are such a lovely community.”
Then we get to the landmark everyone talks about: the teepee. Not the kind you buy in a store, but a structure built to belong. Kendall calls it a spiritual object, an art object, and a community object. “I consider it to be all three.”
It began with a walk Valerie took with her best friend, Rhonda, who is now president of the board. They wandered deep onto the property and eventually reached a clearing in the trees. “And she got to a clearing in the trees and thought just how magical the space was,” Kendall explains. Valerie loved that clearing. She returned to it. It became something sacred to her, a center point on the land.
So when the community later spoke about building something that could embody the spirit of the retreat, the answer had already been waiting. They built the teepee there. And they built it in a way that feels like devotion.
“We didn’t want any kind of commercial product to go into it,” Kendall says. “So the guys went and harvested all the wood from the land.” That detail matters. Because it reveals the philosophy of Valaterra. This place is not trying to overpower nature. It’s trying to honor it. The land gave its own material to create a space where the land itself could be experienced differently. They placed it close enough to the home so most people can access it and enjoy it, and that matters too. Healing should never be gated behind difficulty. Sanctuary should not require a test.
Then Kendall tells me about the labyrinth, and this is where Valaterra becomes more than beautiful. It becomes human. “Yes, the labyrinth is a big component to what we offer out here,” she says.
A women’s group came for a weekend retreat, not for luxury, but to confront real trauma. The kind that lives in the body long after the mind tries to move on. The facilitator asked them to walk to the creek and pick up a physical object, something small that could represent what they were ready to release. A stone. A gem. A stick. They carried it with them back to the labyrinth.
Once there, the facilitator invited them to set the item down, a symbolic letting go. A gesture of trust. But what Kendall remembers most is the moment that proves how complicated healing really is. “They had had such a magical experience that they didn’t want to let go of anything.” That sentence might be the most honest thing anyone can say about grief.
Even when we want peace, we still cling. We hold onto pain because it has been with us so long that it starts to feel stitched into us. We hold onto trauma because releasing it can feel like erasing the past. So the facilitator teased them gently. Made it light. Made it safe. It’s okay. You don’t have to leave the rock if you’re not ready.
And that is the spiritual heartbeat of Valaterra. It doesn’t demand transformation. It offers it. It doesn’t shame you for holding on. It gives you a place to loosen your grip. If Valaterra has a message, it is not “come here to be fixed.” It is “come here to be met.” You do not have to be healed to arrive. You just have to show up. That’s why this place feels different. Because it was born from the one thing that unites every human being on earth. Loss.
Valaterra exists because a woman loved a dream enough to begin building it. And when she could not finish, others loved her enough to keep it alive. Not as a business decision, but as a promise. In that sense, Valerie is still here. Not as a ghost. Not as a myth. As a presence.In the clearing. In the teepee. In the labyrinth. In every conversation that happens between strangers who came here carrying something heavy.
And here is the most redeeming part of all. Valaterra is not a place where people come to escape life. It’s a place where people come back to themselves. To remember what stillness feels like. To remember what peace feels like. To remember that healing does not always look like victory.
Sometimes healing looks like sitting in the trees and finally admitting you’re tired. Sometimes it looks like crying by a creek. Sometimes it looks like holding a stone and not being ready to drop it yet. Sometimes it looks like walking one slow step forward and realizing you are still alive. That is what makes Valaterra sacred.
Not because it is perfect. Because it is honest. Because it welcomes the messy parts of us. Because it proves love can outlive a life. That devotion can build shelter from grief. That community can turn loss into tenderness.
And if you listen closely enough when you walk the property, you can almost hear the land whisper the same invitation it once gave Valerie. Come here. Rest. Leave what you can. Carry what you must. But do not carry it alone.
Pictured: Kendall Perkins - Executive Director www.valaterra.org
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By Alisha Proffitt • Photos Provided By Tribeca Film Festival
When The Abnormal Beauty Company premiered on CRAVE January 19, it gave viewers a look inside DECIEM and its best-known brand, The Ordinary. As the home market for DECIEM and The Ordinary, Canada was a natural choice for the film’s debut, preceding its broader U.S. rollout. For people in Louisville, the documentary also has a local connection. Its Executive Producer and one of the central voices of the film, Dakota Kate Isaacs, grew up here, and her experience runs through the center of the story being told.
Isaacs spent her childhood in Anchorage, attended Anchorage School, Francis Parker (formerly St. Francis), and participated in the theater program at Walden School, which later merged into StageOne in 2014. She started interning while still in high school and continued throughout college, eventually completing more than a dozen internships. Many of those roles were in New York, where she worked inside fashion and beauty PR offices. The work gave her a close-up view of how brands are created, promoted, and protected. Over time, she began to see where she fit and where she did not.
That process led her to DECIEM, then a small Canadian startup with an unusually direct approach to skincare. The Ordinary was built around ingredient transparency, straightforward labeling, and prices that challenged industry norms. Isaacs became DECIEM’s first U.S. employee, tasked with convincing retailers that the brand could succeed without traditional marketing or prestige positioning. Early meetings were often skeptical.
As consumer demand increased, her role quickly expanded. Isaacs went on to lead The Ordinary’s rollout into more than 2,500 retail locations across North America. By her late twenties, she was managing a business responsible for hundreds of millions of dollars in revenue. “I was 28 years old running a nine-figure business. And, I didn’t go to business school,” Isaacs explains. The pace was intense, and much of her learning happened in real time.
During that period, DECIEM founder Brandon Truaxe experienced a severe mental health crisis that unfolded publicly. Isaacs was part of the leadership team navigating communications and internal decision-making while trying to understand the situation themselves. The lack of language and precedent made the moment especially difficult, particularly for a young team under constant public attention.
“They would say words that we would never use now because we could recognize things differently. But at the time, this person who revolutionized an entire industry was just shrunk down to having a social media meltdown,” she recalls. Public reaction narrowed Truaxe’s story to headlines and online commentary, often misunderstanding the complexity of who he was and what he built.
“I think my frustration as just an employee that lived through that - this was this brilliant genius entrepreneur that went through a very human experience, as did the team, and he was only remembered for such a small period of time,” Isaacs says of that time. When he died in 2019, the company entered a period of instability. Retail partners stepped back, and public trust declined. Inside DECIEM, employees faced the question of whether the business could continue at all.
The documentary also follows the years that came after. Rebuilding required steady leadership and time. Systems were put back in place, and relationships with partners and customers were slowly repaired. The Ordinary eventually grew into a billion-dollar brand and became the largest acquisition in Estée Lauder Companies’ history.
Isaacs remained through that rebuilding process and committed to seeing the film through. Directed by Aref Mahabadi, an early DECIEM employee, The Abnormal Beauty Company relies on firsthand accounts from people who were there. Isaacs appears in the film as both a producer and participant, reflecting on the events she experienced.
That project reached a huge milestone at the Tribeca Film Festival, where the documentary won Best Feature in the TribecaX program. Isaacs was seated in the back row, having not originally planned to attend the awards ceremony. With meetings scheduled that day, she had only stopped by to thank the festival programmers for the nomination. Realizing the film had won from that seat was very unexpected.
“And so then finally they say something about ‘and achieved the transparency the subject always promised its consumer.’ And when I heard the word transparency, my heart stopped because I knew they were talking about us. And so I have this video of me getting up on the stage just crying.”
The moment gave her a sense of closure. The film had been received on its own terms. Around the same time, she shifted her focus toward advising brands and founders on growth and communication.
She has also put significant energy into mentorship through The Big Sister Playbook and its companion podcast. The project is a perfect medium for her interest in making career paths more visible for people who did not grow up seeing themselves represented in leadership roles. She now works as an investor and advisor to early-stage consumer brands, alongside her ongoing mentorship work.
For readers in Louisville, Isaacs’ story may feel familiar in its starting point. It is a reminder that major industries are built by people who often begin without a clear map, learn by showing up, and figure things out along the way.
When The Abnormal Beauty Company reaches a wider audience, it will likely be received as a story about beauty and business. From Louisville, it’s also the story of a neighbor who carried significant responsibility early in her career, stayed through a difficult chapter, and chose to tell the story with honesty once there was space to do so.
Follow Dakota on Instagram at @dakotakisaacs On Substack at The Big Sister Playbook by DK | Substack
By Kelsey Knott • Photos By Matt Johnson
If you’ve been around Louisville’s music scene for any amount of time, Tyrone Cotton is a name you likely know. For the last 30 years, he’s been a cornerstone of the community, serving up legendary tunes that blend soul, folk, blues, jazz, and rock.
Cotton’s raw talent is apparent, yet he takes a modest attitude toward making music: “It’s like any other thing… It brings joy. It can help you focus. And, you’ve got to work at it.” Spending time with him at the Monarch felt like a gift. We bonded over our thoughts on poet Walt Whitman and shared many laughs. His warm friendliness is almost as captivating as how naturally he plays guitar and sings. Softly fingerpicking, Cotton dreamt up a new lyric or two during our time together. When I asked him if this was his norm for songwriting, he expressed that the process takes many different forms: “Sometimes I have a unifying idea and can hone it in and get it out. Sometimes I don’t necessarily have something specific to say–I work with the melody or type of music first and then color in the tune with chords or harmonies. Mostly, I think things kind of stew for me to tweak and come back to. I think about or write down a lyrical idea and look back later to start adding to it if there’s anything there. Maybe it doesn’t fit, or I come up with a bunch of other stuff and there’s just one thing there that I really like, but it works really well with something else. Songs may even get stripped for spare parts.” Flexibility with his songwriting process has allowed him to create many magical songs that translate what’s on Cotton’s heart.
While he’s played stages all over the country and internationally, including being featured at the Kyoto International Folk Festival in Japan several times, Louisville is home for Cotton, where he finds other musicians supportive and encouraging, as well as willing to collaborate on projects. “It’s always good to have a community out there.” The Monarch has given him audiences unlike any other. “The people who come here, to the listening room, are really serious about music. You know you’re going to meet people who are really invested.”
Cotton hopes that those listening to his music simply find some pleasure and get some enjoyment out of it. “There’s every kind of music out there. Maybe what I’ll do fits in somewhere for someone. We’re all part of the same tree.”
A fun evening is in store! On February 13th, get your tickets for Cotton’s show at the Monarch with Walter Parks. “Walter was the side man with the legendary Richie Havens, of Woodstock fame, for 10 years. He’s also done some archival work that they’ve used at the Library of Congress. He’s got a great voice and is a fine player and songwriter.” You’ll hear songs from Cotton’s latest album Man Like Me, and maybe even a few new tunes.
If you miss the Monarch show, you can still catch him at the Kentucky Performing Arts Center on March 29th. Check out tyronecotton.com for more.
KELSEY WALDON BRINGS NEW MATERIAL HOME TO
By Kevin Murphy Wilson • Photos Provided
Kelsey Waldon can’t remember a time in her life when she was not singing. Growing up in Monkey’s Eyebrow, Kentucky, her influences ranged from local bluegrass bands to the Beatles. After moving to Nashville and honing her performance skills for more than a decade, Waldon’s career got a big boost when she caught the ear of John Prine, who promptly signed her to his Oh Boy record label. Since that moment, Waldon has never looked back. We recently caught up with this bona fide Kentucky Colonel [Waldon was commissioned by Governor Andy Beshear in 2024] for a quick chat about her sixth and latest LP, Every Ghost, and the tour that lands her in the region for an intimate concert at the historic Zanzabar club in Germantown on February 20.
VOICE-TRIBUNE: What sort of impact did being raised on bluegrass music in Monkey’s Eyebrow, Kentucky have on your art and overall approach to life?
Kelsey Waldon: “I hear bluegrass and mountain music in everything I create, and my voice is my voice no matter what. So, it’s always there, no matter what ‘genre’ the music is. It’s all coming from the roots. It evolves sometimes as I evolve, as well.”
VT: A while ago you mentioned that [your friend and label boss] John Prine and [Grateful Dead co-founder] Bobby Weir were occasionally getting together for hot dogs and beer, or whatever. What role did those two late, great artists [Prine and Weir] play in your musical formation, both before and after you knew them personally?
KW: “I never got to know Bobby Weir, unfortunately. But I always dug the Dead. ‘Friend of the Devil’ was one of the first songs I learned to play on guitar! As far as John Prine goes, we were close the last couple years of his life and I am so thankful for his influence and somewhat mentorship. I learned so much about how to put on a show, how to treat your openers, and your band and team, from him. A lot of young artists out there try so hard to be rock stars, they act up and they try way too hard, and they aren’t grateful for any of it. John actually was a real legend and rock star, he never tried to be too cool but he just WAS that cool, and at the end of his life, he was really just living it up. He was finally selling out theaters and just in pure joy on stage. I learned a lot about just being yourself on stage from him. The crowd loved him for it, too. Before I knew him [John Prine] personally, he was my songwriting hero. I think his first album is one of the most influential records of my young life for sure.”
VT: As we speak, you are in the midst of the European leg of your tour. What is the best part about sharing your body of work with audiences far and wide?
KW: “I enjoy working, and every single year, it’s gotten better, and I am actually making a living at it now. Sure, sometimes you break even, but you gotta build it. The best part is seeing in real time how much you have connected with strangers, and seeing them sing it back. Makes me feel like it actually does mean something.”
VT: Was there anything in particular about the songwriting or recording process for the “Every Ghost” LP that made it special for you?
KW: “This one was special for sure. I will never forget the experience I was having during the making of this record. I’ll never forget how much of my limits were pushed personally, either. Extreme grief and heartbreak were happening while I felt like I was making the best thing I’ve ever done. But that’s art. There was joy and there were tears. We went there. It was inspired every step of the way. It was the most fun I’ve had while making a record while at the same time the most vulnerable. A safe space with my band and my partner making some magic. I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
VT: You once told me that it’s a songwriter’s responsibility to speak the truth at all costs and that you don’t ever intend to write “tailgating music.” Honestly that is all anyone could ask of an artist in terms of attitude or ethos. But in this day and age, and at this point in your career, how do you measure success?
KW: “Success means different things to different people. Just by waking up and having another day, we are successful. If you are doing what you love and making a living at it, you are successful. If you are truly ‘happy’…you have been successful and already beat the odds. You are validated by just being a human being, no matter who you are. I may not be the biggest star quite yet, but I have a loyal fan base and folks who buy tickets across the USA and outside of it, a band who loves me, and a team who cares. I get to do this for a living, no matter what that looks like, so I believe I have been successful. It’s not over yet, either!”
VT: What comes next for you?
KW: “Next for me? To keep it up.”
For more information visit zanzabarlouisville.com.
2026 GALA
LVA proudly honors four remarkable individuals—Tom Pfannerstill (Legacy Award), Yin Kit Chan (Educator Award), Julien Robson (Community Impact Award), and Robyn Gibson (Emerging Artist Award)—whose dedication and creativity continue to shape and strengthen our arts community.
Scan the QR code for tickets and more information or visit LVAHonors.org
FRIDAY, MARCH 20th
Mellwood Art Center
Dinner | Cocktails | Entertainment
Creative Formal Attire
Including upbeat jazz music by Kiana Del and Craig Wagner
Photos from LVA Honors 2025
A SOUTHERN HEART WITH A SEOUL SOUL
By Alisha Proffitt • Photos Provided
ÅNGEL 004 has been making music for most of her life. She started writing songs around middle school age and quickly found herself performing at small country jamborees across rural Kentucky. These were gatherings where the whole town showed up, kids and grandparents included, just to listen. At one of them, she won a local talent contest, beating out a long list of competitors. That moment caught the attention of her grandfather, who raised her and became her earliest motivator. “Ever since then my grandfather was like, ‘Okay, there’s something here.’”
By her late teens, ÅNGEL had already recorded two albums, written her own material, and performed throughout Kentucky, Tennessee, and Nashville. It was a lot of juggling. During the week she was in school, captaining her lacrosse team. On weekends she was on the road, performing under a country pop moniker that she could no longer relate to. When she turned 18, she made a choice that surprised those around her. She stopped. And what started as a break stretched into years, with music becoming something she did privately and for herself.
During that time away, ÅNGEL went on to earn a master’s degree while working full time, building a career in project management, branding, and partnership development. She learned how systems work, how ideas get funded, and how creative labor is often undervalued. Those lessons would later influence how she approached her own career. When the 2020 pandemic hit, music found its way back in through a side door. She began DJing and performing under the name ÅNGEL 004, easing back into live audiences without returning completely to songwriting.
Eventually, that format felt limiting. “I kind of hit a level where I was like, there’s more that I want to be giving in my performances that I don’t feel like the format of DJing really allows me to give,” she said. And so, she began producing her own music for the first time, learning how to create songs from the ground up. That process unfolded inside a shared artist house known as ALLSHOUSE, where musicians, fashion designers, filmmakers, and visual artists lived and worked together during lockdown. Art and expression were part of their daily lives. Meals, ideas, and projects were shared freely, and the influence of that environment still inspires her work.
Around the same time, ÅNGEL began caring for her grandfather as his health declined. The experience was a lot for her to digest. “He was dying every day. I feel like this dream that he had for me was coming back into my body, for music, and it was getting stronger every day, and it was weird. I was like, “ s***, I know exactly what’s happening here.
Photographer: Kevin Alexander
Stylist: Custom top by Clara Wiest (of Re_Gussy)
This weird energy that he had was pushing me, because he really did push me. And I think that’s maybe what made me quit, because I was not ready for it. But it was like my gosh, it’s going into me. It’s no longer like a dead dream. I can feel it. And so we took care of him at home for 2 years.” When he passed, she stepped onstage the day after his funeral for one of the biggest shows she had ever played.
ÅNGEL 004’s sound reflects a wide range of influences that make sense once you know her background. She grew up singing gospel hymns and country music while secretly listening to artists like Missy Elliott. Her vocals still have traces of classic country and gospel, while her production leans pop-forward and experimental.
“I think for me, my biggest inspiration is my love for people and my love for storytelling. And also, just understanding the big experiences of life and death and loss and love, those types of themes, I feel, really push themselves through a lot of my deepest art,” ÅNGEL said of her music. “Even when it is given in a really cheeky way, everything I’ve written has been pretty deep and has a really big backstory layer to it. I don’t think I’ve ever written and been like, ‘those were just like throwaway lyrics.’”
Though she now splits her time between Kentucky and New York, ÅNGEL consistently uses her platform to support Louisville’s creative community. Many of her shows double as fundraisers for local organizations, particularly those focused on music education for young people. She frequently invites other artists onstage and creates opportunities for emerging voices to be heard.
Photographer: Zach Jett
Stylist: The Web Has No Weaver I SEE YOU music video release, March 2026
In March, ÅNGEL will release a new EP through sonaBLAST!, a Louisville-based label, her first official label deal. The release includes a visually ambitious music video made entirely by collaborators from ALLSHOUSE. Shortly after, she will tour South Korea, a major step for her as a Korean American artist. That tour will be documented and filmed, following her experience performing in Korea for the first time and later tracing her life back to Kentucky to show how the place has influenced her work.
Her live performances are evolving as well. Upcoming shows are immersive, carefully designed environments in place of standard club sets. One New York performance will transform a church into a fully mapped visual art space with dancers, projections, and invite-only attendance. ÅNGEL’s promotion style is fun and clever. She uses projection mapping with collaborator Mimic Visuals to light up buildings and public spaces in Louisville, basically turning the city into her own little billboard without any messy posters or signs. One of the coolest parts is she projects her hotline number (1-844-ANGL-004) and people can call it to get exclusive EP leaks and demos. It’s like a secret club vibe, and it makes the whole thing feel more like an experience than a marketing campaign.
Photographer: Emerson Kerr
Stylist: Vivienne Sebastian
KXD Artist Interview
ÅNGEL’s Derby season antics are a perfect example of how she turns the city into a stage. She’s known for staging surprise pop-up performances around Louisville. Last year, she got a U-haul donated and transformed it into a mobile stage, decorating the interior, setting up batterypowered speakers, and inviting fellow artists to perform while driving through the city with the back open with collaborator Velvet Gardens. They made stops at major Derby events and even crashed a well-known Derby brunch in Goshen, in hopes to bridge the gap between Louisville-local musicians and the fine art world of Louisville. This year, she’s taking the concept even further by applying to the Pegasus Parade with a pull-behind trailer stage.
Looking ahead, ÅNGEL is developing many, many, longer-term projects. One explores her Korean and Southern roots through sound and visuals with a major figure in the K-pop world, and it’s a pretty big deal. She connected with Peter Rafelson, who is known for helping influence the global pop sound and even played a key role in how K-pop became a worldwide phenomenon. He’s been mentoring her, helping her navigate the music industry and understand the business side of being an artist, like how to protect her rights, avoid predatory deals, and build a sustainable career. That kind of support can change the trajectory of a career. And knowing ÅNGEL, she’s going to take it and turn it into something uniquely her own. She has coined the term “K-Belle” to describe her unique sound, Korean Southern Belle.
Another project rethinks touring altogether, proposing a model where artists earn income while traveling by partnering with regional goods and trucking infrastructure. “So, I have a concept for a project, a company, basically an enterprise, called POPSTÅR TRUCKERS I’m trying to create a business model that allows up-and-coming touring artists to get a CDL license and get rental of semis or small cargo trucks that allow them to take Louisville or Kentucky goods across to different cities and make drops and make money along the way, doing that as a trucking business,” she described. “ It’s also a reality TV show.”
She’s also working on a really sentimental project with Grandmaster Hwang. Grandmaster Hwang is a highly respected taekwondo master who has spent years building cultural connections between North and South Korea. ÅNGEL is partnering with him to bring the North Korean taekwondo team to the United States, which is a major undertaking and a rare opportunity. She will also be performing at his Korean Cultural Festival in March.
ÅNGEL adds that there is something else to look forward to in March. “I’ve spun up a listening party for my new EP ‘I SEE YOU’ for March 5th at La La Land in collaboration with sonaBLAST!.” The EP and music video will be coming out on March 6th, so stay tuned!
ÅNGEL 004 is doing things her own way, mixing old-school with new-school, and it’s honestly going to be exciting to watch.
Photographer: Jessica Foley
Stylist: ÅNGEL with The Web Has No Weaver top NIKE “Show of the Week” Collaboration, NYC 2025
Photographer: Emerson Kerr
Stylist: Vivienne Sebastian
KXD Artist Interview
Special thanks to:
My family, friends and partner who love and support me.
SonaBlast! Records and Gill Holland for providing me with my first label deal.
KY Creative Collaborators (in no specific order): T Pharo, Kactus Kuzco, Aria Baci, Zach Jett, Slyk, DJA, The Web Has No Weaver, Saba Gray + BioGlitz, Stivan Widick, David Jester, Nanae Itoi, Timmy Singer, 301 Sanchez, Eden Jade Lyra Otis, Crestview Studios and all dancers involved, Out Loud Louisville, Wandering Tree House, KXD, Tigresse Bleu, Jaymin Kumar, AHC, Michael Vettraino, Casey Powell, Caleb Perry Photographer ++ many more).
Thank you to my mentors and guidance council; Shelly Zegert (rest in peace), Larry and Ladonna, Eleanor and Worth Bingham, Patrick Cummins, and Peter Rafelson.
Anyone who has come to my shows, touched my art, supported online, or been involved in the creative community of Kentucky in any way - keep creating and may your creativity be blessed.
By Jackie Zykan
It would be dishonest for me to claim Valentine’s Day as being anything other than my favorite holiday of the entire year. I know the event stirs up a multitude of polarizing emotions ranging from romance to loneliness, along with expectations and protocols, disingenuous acts to check boxes of formality, surge pricing on bouquets, and for some, feelings of inadequacy. It’s multifaceted, it’s complicated, and with that it is an accurate portrayal of the notion of romantic love in general with its vast emotional spectrum. But as with all things, we always have the option to choose to operate from a perspective of seeing the gifts it brings and the positivity. I hear the phrase in my mind over and over “it shouldn’t require a holiday to express love to those dear to you”. Which is of course true, however is it wrong to hold a spot on the calendar to do that? Sure we can argue about the commercialization of it, but we can wax poetic on that with any holiday or theme. If we give ourselves permission to just appreciate the messaging behind the day, expressing love, then maybe we can override the not-so-lovely elements around it.
This isn’t bypassing, this is making a conscious choice to let ourselves just enjoy it. It’s one day. So what if your partner didn’t plan a romantic evening? So what if you’re single? So what if you didn’t have a group of friends to focus on to rename it Galentine’s Day? No matter your circumstances, one thing is always guaranteed. You will always have your own beautiful self, and that relationship is worth all the flowers, chocolates, date nights, and heart shaped love notes. And rightfully so, it is appropriate to nurture yourself outside of February 14th. The simple act of giving to yourself creates a resonance with how it feels to be loved and to give love. Modern day manifestation guides will suggest this is the key to attracting more of that. “Love yourself first” is not an unfamiliar suggestion in the collective. It isn’t selfish and it doesn’t mean you’re taking away affection from others. The true meaning behind it isn’t surface level deep. It involves embracing the wholeness of love, acknowledging that everything is made from and of love. Loving yourself means coloring outside the lines and redefining your terms of love beyond a transactional lens. It asks you to consider that it is your birthright; you’re never without it, you’re never truly alone, and to really explore the notion of the interconnectedness of our entire world. The truth is, the space between you and those around you isn’t empty, even if our intellectual minds generate that illusion. We are incredible and energetic beings, and as such we are inevitably absorbing, deflecting, swimming around in, and intertwined with the collective energy every day. With this framework in place, it’s easy to recognize that even the smallest gestures, whether outbound or inward directed, most certainly contribute to the whole.
Loving yourself first is a way of loving everything and everyone else. It’s all connected. Integration of this wisdom calls for another type of intelligence though, one that is not limited to input from the analytical mind. To rewrite the system requires opening up to wisdom both from the brain in our heads as well as the brain in our heart, and letting both contribute to our experience. “Thinking” with your heart is a practice which relies on emotional signals, awareness of somatic reactions, intuition, and trust in your innate sovereignty. It requires being open in the heart space in order for these insights to arise. There is an overwhelming list of modalities available for opening your heart, none of which involve letting fear take the wheel. True connection requires vulnerability, and understandably so, being seen can be extremely scary. Thankfully, there is a gorgeous plant that can help ease the angst and support you relaxing into a place of intentional connection and, no pun intended, help you find your rose colored glasses.
Roses carry a resonance of the heart. They exemplify supportive qualities such as beauty, tenacity, and endurance. Connecting with this plant helps us to gently calibrate our innate navigation center so that we may more readily recognize what is and isn’t a survival strategy born of a fearful and imaginative mind. With practice we learn to trust giving and receiving from a place of alignment, attune to self acceptance, and begin to connect in genuine ways with the world around us.
STOP AND SMELL THE ROSES
There are so many incredible ways to connect with roses, and of course the simplest is to keep them present in your space. One way to do this would be simply planting them. You won’t need to journey far to indulge in tending them, getting to know their rhythms, blooms and their thorns, letting their fragrance uplift your spirit as the sun warms their petals. Bonus, you’ll have rose hips, which are a fantastic source of vitamin C. If you don’t identify as having green thumbs, but you are “rose curious”, I highly recommend exploring classes through any of the many botanical gardens in Kentucky. Another helpful resource, for roses and all things garden, is the series “Gardener’s World”. As a flower and herb farmer, even I find a tinge of intimidation with these beauties. However, there is help available and you will quickly learn that they’re not as high maintenance as they may seem. If a fresh bouquet is more your jam, they are available year round and in any color to suit your style. The scent of roses, the vibrancy of their hues, and the slow unfolding of delicate petals are all uplifting. When we take a moment to breathe in their sweet aroma, our nervous systems relax and settle, which brings clarity and alignment. You can access similar effects by incorporating rose scented candles, incense, and perfumes. The smell is transformative. Expert advice to take into consideration: If you are using a diffuser, rose absolute tends to shape shift in process. I would recommend using a cosmetic or culinary rose water or hydrosol for this method. And it will save you quite a few pennies.
“THAT TASTES LIKE THE INSIDE OF A PURSE”
We are so accustomed to rose in scent form that when it comes to culinary applications, our minds sometimes make the connection that we are consuming soap. This is not appetizing for anyone, regardless of whether you have ever experienced the threat of having your mouth washed out as a child. That is about as blatant as I can put it. However…there is hope. Rose Water comes in cosmetic form and also culinary form. A specialty grocer or online store will likely be required to find it. A little goes a long way, and that’s an understatement. If you are not sure what to do with it, here is a quick reference of flavors that pair well: chocolate, citrus, cardamom, ginger, berries, mint, vanilla, and baking spices. Desserts such as Gulab Jamun, Turkish Delights, Panna Cotta, and Baklava are perfect examples of sweets that lean into the floral flavor to elevate the other ingredients. Dried rose petals are available from herb and spice purveyors, and one can find fun tea blends abound which incorporate them in this way. Whatever route you take, do not consume roses which you bought at the florist. It is important with these flowers and any others for that matter that you ensure you’re sourcing from a safe supplier with culinary use in mind. If you do grow them or come across them in the wild, as long as you feel certain they have not been chemically treated - feast away!
ROSE + BLOOD ORANGE CANDY HEARTS
I highly recommend this recipe as a fun and surprisingly easy way to make homemade sweets for you and your dear ones. Blood oranges are currently in season, and their exquisite color lends the pinkish hue to the syrup. If you can’t find blood oranges, any variety of citrus will do as a substitute- because rose pairs with them all!
Wash the oranges in a bath of water, a dash of baking soda, and a splash of vinegar. Rinse thoroughly. Remove the peels using either a knife, potato peeler, or simply scoring the fruit and using a spoon to help lift the fragments away. Remove any fruit or pulp that may remain on the pith. Using a small heart shaped cookie cutter, or carefully carving with a paring knife, create heart shaped pieces of peel. If this sounds like a burden, you can always cut the peel into strips. Squeeze the remaining fruit and set the juice aside.
Place the peels in a medium saucepan, adding water until they are just covered. Bring the mixture to a boil for 5 minutes, discard the water, and repeat for a total of 3 boils. This reduces the bitterness of the peel. Set the strained segments aside, and combine equal parts granulated sugar and reserved blood orange juice to the saucepan over medium heat. You only need enough mixture to cover the peels so the volumes needed will depend on how many you are making. If you end up short on blood orange juice, simply add water to bring the total volume of liquid equal to that of the sugar. Add rose water, vanilla, and any optional spices to the mix. Bring to a boil, add the peel segments, and reduce the heat to simmer. Let the mixture simmer with occasional stirring for 45-60 minutes. Once the edges of the peels are translucent, they are done. Strain any leftover syrup (and use it on heart shaped pancakes or cocktails!), and place peels on a drying rack over parchment paper to drip dry. Once cooled, roll the pieces in granulated sugar, and store in a wax paper lined container. Feeling extra? Partially dip the hearts in chocolate for another layer of love and flavor.
By Chris Morris • Photo by Gustavo Borges (Pexels.com)
Why is America’s distinctive spirit called “Bourbon”? We have reviewed what defines the many types of Whiskies crafted around the world and how they are similar and different regarding the regulations they are crafted under. These regulations are called the standards of identity. While most of these standards are technical in nature, such as the required use of oak barrels and grain when crafting a Whiskey, some of the standards include geographic descriptors. What does this mean?
Let us use Scotch Whiskey as an example. We know there are five different types of Scotch in terms of technical standards. All of them, of course, must be produced in Scotland. That allows them to be called Scotch Whiskey. The same concept applies to Canadian, Japanese, Irish Whiskies, and more. Whiskey must come from the place, or source of origin, it is credited to. That is called a geographic descriptor. But when it comes to American Whiskies things are a bit different. Our standards of identity relate more often to the type of Whiskey rather than where it is from. For example, a Whiskey can be made according to the Rye Whiskey standards, or the Wheat Whiskey standards without having a required geographic place of origin. Geographic descriptors, of course, do exist for America’s Whiskeys. Going back to the previous example, while a Rye Whiskey might have a point of origin identified on its label, it is not required by the standards of identity.
If that Rye were produced in Kentucky, it could be called a Kentucky Rye Whiskey but if it were produced in Indiana, it could be called an Indiana Rye, etc. However, Rye Whiskey can also be produced in Canada, Germany, France, and many other countries. There are a number of types of American Whiskeys that are defined by grain recipe, barrel usage, and other factors that result in their technical name but do not require a geographic descriptor. So where does the Whiskey type “Bourbon” come from?
We have previously reviewed in detail the standards of identity for Bourbon. One of them is the requirement that a Bourbon Whiskey must be produced in the United States. That is due to a 1964 Act of Congress that designated Bourbon as “the distinctive spirit of America”. So, consider this point, a Scotch Whiskey must be produced in Scotland. A Canadian Whiskey must be produced in Canada; a Tennessee Whiskey must be produced in Tennessee. Must a Bourbon Whiskey be produced in Bourbon? Where is Bourbon?
There are seven places in the world named “Bourbon.” Five are cities and two are counties. Five of the seven are found in the U.S. The original town of Bourbon is in France. Barbados has a Bourbon as do Indiana, Illinois, and Missouri.
“Bourbon,” as a place of origin descriptor for Whiskey refers historically to one of the only two counties in the U.S. named “Bourbon,” one in Kentucky and one in Kansas. The original, in Kentucky, was named after the French Royal House of Bourbon to recognize it for the military aid it provided to the American colonies during the Revolutionary War. Bourbon County, Kentucky was established in 1785. The county in Kansas was named in 1855 by Kentuckians from the original Bourbon County who had settled there.
Historians agree that the type of Whiskey we now call Bourbon was “born and bred” in Kentucky. They speculate that the first corn crop and distillation of corn mash occurred in Kentucky in the mid-1770’s. So, it is only appropriate that the name of America’s “Distinctive Spirit,” based on the use of America’s native grain, bear a Kentucky place name. That makes sense. But what we do not know is how or why the name “Bourbon” became its defining name.
Kentucky’s counties were formed in stages, starting with at first three big ones, Fayette, Jefferson, and Lincoln in 1780. These encompassed the entire area of Virginia’s Kentucky County. These were divided with the creation of Nelson (1784/85), Bourbon, Mercer, and Madison (1785/86), and Mason and Woodford (1788-89). The distillation of Whiskey was well established in Kentucky prior to the formation of Bourbon County. Why then was the Whiskey from Kentucky called “Bourbon”? There are several theories on the origin of the name or rather the adoption of the name “Bourbon” as the name for the unique Whiskey that originated in Kentucky. No one disputes the fact that “Bourbon” is Kentucky born. So why wasn’t it called “Kentucky” Whiskey? For many years it was but “Bourbon” eventually won out.
The reason for this will never be known for certain. Was it the fact that an early port for shipping goods, including Whiskey, was located on the Ohio River briefly in the original Bourbon County? Was it because an early market was French culture dominated New Orleans with its Bourbon Quarter? Was it because the portage site at the Falls of the Ohio in Louisville was controlled by a French expat community? All good theories but all speculative.
As distribution of Kentucky’s Bourbon Whiskey spread across the country in the early and mid-1800’s its popularity grew. But given the primitive modes of transportation of the time, and the basic locality of raw resource supply (grain, barrels) the production of Bourbon Whiskey was established in many different states including Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, and Missouri to name a few. Kentucky had lost ownership of the spirit it had created. In essence it became, as Congress recognized in 1964, America’s Whiskey.
So no, a Bourbon does not have to be crafted in Kentucky, or Bourbon County. It must be produced in the United States. No other geographic descriptor is required. But we know that the best Bourbon is crafted in Kentucky.
By French Lick Resort
Stay in, or go out?
Quiet dinner, or energetic concert?
Chilling with cocktails, or exploring new experiences?
However you and your sweetheart prefer to celebrate, French Lick Resort truly sets the scene for a romantic escape. Make the quick drive to this southern Indiana destination (named Best Historic Resort in 2025 by Historic Hotels of America) and make unforgettable memories together.
All the last-minute Valentine-ers out there will be relieved to know that French Lick Resort’s two historic hotels — French Lick Springs Hotel and West Baden Springs Hotel — both feature Valentine’s packages for easy planning. Available February 12, 13 and 14, packages include overnight accommodations, a box of luxurious truffles delivered to the room, and a dining experience.
Wherever you reserve that table for two at French Lick Resort, you won’t go wrong.
At French Lick Springs Hotel, you can order up a showstopping cocktail like the Chocolate Martini, awardwinning Manhattan, or signature Bloody Mary at 1875: The Steakhouse. Over at West Baden Springs Hotel, Sinclair’s Restaurant features chef-crafted cuisine and you’ll want to save room for their decadent Chocolate Dome for dessert.
You’ll want to make a whole weekend of it, because the resort features some special events on February 13. You can catch a show by Clay Walker in the Exhibition Hall and feel like kids all over again together at a concert. Friday night also features a Wine & Dessert Soiree in the West Baden Springs Hotel atrium. Experiencing the ambiance of the 1902-built hotel after dark — with soft jazz playing and the dome lights overhead changing colors — makes any romantic evening even more spectacular.
You can snuggle up together on a carriage ride. Get a couples massage at the spa. Go for fun and games at the newly opened Billiard and Bowling Pavilion. “Cheers” together at a Saturday afternoon tea service. Take a horseback trail ride. Even try your luck at the casino — hey, couples who play together, stay together.
Flying solo? From the hotel pools to shops, tours, and an archery and sporting clays range, a wealth of attractions makes French Lick Resort a prime spot for singles looking for a peaceful retreat. Galentine’s, anyone? Pencil in a spa day, eat and drink like queens, and finally get the chance to reconnect with the girls.
No matter your agenda or your company, discoveries await soon at French Lick Resort.
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Gym Anxiety? Beginner’s Tips to Getting You Through That
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BEGINNER’S TIPS TO GETTING YOU THROUGH THAT DOOR
By VOICE-TRIBUNE • Photo By Total Shape (Pexels.com)
Walking into a gym for the first time can feel like stepping into an alien planet. You might worry about looking silly, not knowing what to do, or being judged by people who seem like they were born lifting weights. The truth is: most people are focused on their own workouts, not judging yours. But that doesn’t make the anxiety disappear.
If you’ve ever felt nervous about starting your fitness journey, this guide is for you. Here’s how to feel confident, calm, and capable on your very first day.
1. Remember: Everyone Starts Somewhere
It’s easy to assume that everyone else at the gym is “naturally fit” or “has been doing this forever.”
But the reality is: Many people are beginners. Many are self-conscious too. Many are simply trying to improve their health, just like you.
Even the strongest people in the gym were once confused, intimidated, and unsure of what to do. Confidence doesn’t come from being perfect.
2. Plan Your Workout Before You Walk In Anxiety drops dramatically when you have a plan.
3. Pick a “Beginner-Friendly” Time
If you can, go during a quieter part of the day. Most gyms are busiest:
• Early mornings (6–9 AM) • Evenings (5–8 PM)
• Try going during mid-morning or mid-afternoon. Fewer people = less pressure.
4. Use the Buddy System
If you have a friend who’s already comfortable at the gym, ask them to go with you. Even if they’re not working out, having a familiar face can make a huge difference.
If you don’t have a gym buddy, that’s okay too. You can still build confidence by going with a plan, staying focused on your workout, and remembering that everyone started where you are.
5. Learn the “Gym Etiquette” Basics
Knowing the unspoken rules can reduce anxiety instantly. Here are the essentials:
• Wipe down equipment after use
• Return weights to the rack
• Don’t stand in front of mirrors for long periods
• Don’t hog machines
• Ask for help if you’re unsure
• And if someone offers advice, take it politely, but don’t feel obligated to follow it. You’re in control of your own fitness.
6. Use the Right Mindset
Instead of thinking, “Everyone is watching me,” try this mindset:
• “Everyone here is trying to improve themselves. I’m doing the same thing.”
• Your goal isn’t to impress anyone; it’s to improve your health.
• A powerful trick is to focus on your breathing and movement rather than your surroundings. If you stay present, the anxiety fades.
7. Start with a Trainer (Even Just Once)
A single session with a trainer can change everything. They can:
• Show you how to use machines safely
• Build a beginner program for you
• Teach you proper form
• Give you confidence to work out alone
8. Build a “Confidence Playlist”
Music can change your mood instantly. Make a playlist that makes you feel confident and motivated.
When you walk in with the right soundtrack, you’ll feel like you belong there.
9. Celebrate Small Wins
Your first gym visit doesn’t require perfection; you need only show up. Celebrate these wins:
• You walked in • You completed your workout
• You didn’t quit halfway through • Every step counts.
10. Your First Day Isn’t Your Identity
If your first gym day feels awkward, that doesn’t mean you’re “not a gym person.” It just means you’re human.
• Confidence comes with consistency. The more you go, the more natural it becomes.
• You don’t need confidence to start; you need courage.
• The gym can feel intimidating, but the most important thing to remember is this:
• You’re not there to impress anyone. You’re there to become a healthier version of yourself.
• And that’s a powerful reason to walk through the door.
By: Alison Cardoza • Photos By Matt Johnson • Sponsored
What steps can you take to ensure optimal health during retirement?
Bill Hoagland, a member at Baptist Health Milestone, practiced General Surgery for 37 years and focused on breast cancer and management of patients at high risk for the last 10 years. Bill found time during his busy work week to be with his family and mainly focused on cardio (running). Retiring a year ago, Bill’s schedule and workout plan have changed quite a bit.
“In the past, during my working years, I prided myself on the ability to wake up quickly and function with little to no sleep. Meals could be sporadic in quality and timing, and I also felt that meaningful exercise involved the cardiovascular system only and running was my go to. Now that I am approaching 70, my health focus has shifted to proactive maintenance. The main pillars for accomplishing this are strength training, balance, flexibility, nutrition, sleep, and faith. I have come to see the ease with which muscles atrophy with age and the necessity of strength training to combat this. There is great value in changing up the workout routine. In wound care medicine, we had a term called wound confusion. When a wound reached a point of homeostasis, and wouldn’t heal, it was useful to irritate it to reinvigorate the healing process. Our muscles benefit from the same idea,” explains Bill.
Bill advised and encouraged his patients to be active, eat healthy, sleep, and keep stress at bay. Following this protocol enabled his patients to heal and improve overall health and well being. Today, Bill practices this himself at Baptist Health Milestone Wellness Center, along with many other retirees that have led a busy lifestyle and want to continue to strive to be the best versions of themselves. Having more time at their disposal has allowed these retirees to take classes at Milestone such as yoga, pilates, step class, pump class, dance, and cycling. The social setting at Milestone creates a special bond amongst these members. They hold each other accountable and truly care about each other’s well being.
“Having good balance and flexibility are no-brainers as we age. Sleep is an under-appreciated aspect of good health and issues with it should be addressed,” says Bill.
Apply these tips from Bill to live a healthier lifestyle so when you retire, you are able to enjoy life with your family and friends. Stay active and independent for life.
Alison Cardoza, ACSM Certified Personal Trainer and Fitour Group Exercise Instructor at Baptist Health Milestone. BS Exercise Science and Sports Medicine with a minor in Health Promotions from University of Louisville. UofL former Ladybird and NFL Colts Cheerleader.
Now is the time of year when calendars start filling up, which makes it the perfect time to think about camps! Whether your child is curious, creative, athletic, or all of the above, these local camps will keep them busy and engaged. Many programs are already opening registration, answering questions, and filling spots, so reaching out early can make all the difference. This guide is here to help families explore options, connect with organizers, and confidently enroll before programs are full.
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Children in the Dell returns to Yew Dell Botanical Gardens for summer 2026, inviting families to explore the gardens through curiosity, creativity and play. This long-running, much-loved program offers a relaxed, drop-in experience designed to spark a sense of wonder in young visitors while encouraging meaningful connections with nature.
Held on Saturdays in June and July*Children in the Dell features hands-on, informal activities inspired by the many creatures that call Yew Dell home. From birds and pollinators to imaginative garden dwellers like fairies, each week offers a new lens through which children can explore the landscape. Activities are thoughtfully designed to blend education with discovery, giving families the freedom to participate at their own pace while wandering the gardens together.
Whether it’s observing insects up close, creating nature-inspired art, or learning how wildlife and plants depend on one another, Children in the Dell encourages kids to look more closely at the world around them — and to see the gardens in a whole new way. Families are welcome to return week after week, as activities rotate, bringing fresh experiences throughout the summer.
Best of all, Children in the Dell is included with general admission, making it an easy and accessible way to spend a summer morning immersed in nature. Join us at Yew Dell Botanical Gardens and discover why this program continues to inspire generations of garden explorers.
*There will be no program on July 4, grounds are closed.
Summer Starts at the Y
When school lets out, the adventure begins at YMCA Camp Piomingo and YMCA Summer Day Camps—where kids discover confidence, friendships, and unforgettable summer memories.
Nestled along the Ohio River in Brandenburg, YMCA Camp Piomingo offers the magic of traditional overnight camp with archery, zip lines, horseback riding, swimming, and campfires under the stars. It’s a place where children unplug and grow through hands-on experiences in nature—all in a safe, supportive environment led by caring, trained staff. Construction will begin this spring on the only Watch Tower at a YMCA camp in the U.S. This 360-degree scenic overlook will give campers a unique place to build confidence as they climb more than 40 feet to the observation deck. The Watch Tower will also have a giant swing and will be a new focal point for adventure and reflection.
For families looking for daytime fun closer to home, YMCA Summer Day Camps provide weekly adventures filled with games, crafts, physical activities, swimming, and field trips. Campers build social skills, stay active, and explore new interests—all while returning home each afternoon with stories to tell.
For kids who thrive outdoors, Camp Honor Bright is our all-outdoor summer day camp experience located in So. Indiana. From hiking and outdoor exploration to team challenges and nature-based learning, Camp Honor Bright gives campers the freedom to roam, play, and connect with the natural world every day—rain or shine. Campers swim weekly with their summer pass to the Jeffersonville Aquatic Center.
At the Y, summer is about more than fun. It’s about building character, confidence, and a lifelong love of being active. Camps are open to Y members and non-members, with financial assistance available.
The Parklands Outdoor Adventure Day Camps
At The Parklands’ Outdoor Adventure Day Camps, learning leaps off the page and into the creek! Designed for curious kids who love to explore, our camps blend hands-on science investigations with outdoor adventure—creating a place where your child can engage with nature, build confidence, and enjoy being a kid.
Campers spend their days exploring the forests and waterways of The Parklands of Floyds Fork. Each program balances learning with exploration through immersive outdoor experiences. Depending on the season and age group, activities can include hiking nature trails, creek-walking, fishing or kayaking on Floyds Fork, archery, biking, games, science experiments, and more. From building dams to seine-net fishing and discovering crawfish up close, campers connect with nature in meaningful, memorable ways.
What truly sets our camps apart is our staff. Our counselors are knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and committed to creating a fun, safe, and engaging experience for every camper, turning everyday discoveries into moments they remember.
This year, we are offering Spring Break Camp (Apr. 6–10, 2026), Summer Camp (choose from 8 weeks June–July 2026), Fall Break Camp (Sept. 28–Oct. 2, 2026), and Winter Break Camp (Dec. 21–30, 2026).
Camps are open to grades K–6, with summer sessions for grades 7–9. Rates are discounted for Members of The Parklands, and scholarships may be available for students attending Title I schools.
Learn more and register at theparklands.org.
Join us this summer at The Louisville Ballet School for camps and classes for all ages! With half-day camps for our 3-5 year olds to full-day extended care camps for ages 6-18, be sure to visit thelouisvilleballetschool.org for more information!
Learn about theatre. Play games. Make new friends. Have a blast!
StageOne Academy summer camps encourage students of all ages and abilities to explore and practice the fundamentals – and the fun – of theatre! Choose from a variety of experiences to fit your child’s interest.
• 2- and 3-Week Performance Camps: James & the Giant Peach Jr, School of Rock: The Musical - Young Actors Edition, Mean Girls Jr, and 101 Dalmatians KIDS.
• Theme Weeks: From secret agents to time travel to a Jedi Academy and Disney characters, there’s something for everyone!
• Drama Skills Camps: Playwriting labs, improv, and audition skills. Plus, music theatre featuring Wicked and a special advanced skills class that focuses on Shakespeare.
With a hands-on, encouraging approach to theatre arts, StageOne Academy serves as a dynamic space for students – ages 5 to 18 – to learn and grow. Each session ends with a sharing, and multi-week performance camps culminate in a production with sets, props, and costumes on our stage at Walden Theatre!
Led by local professional artists and educators, our camps are designed to meet students exactly where they are – whether this is their first performance opportunity or they’re a seasoned veteran of the stage.
All camps are located at Walden Theatre on StageOne’s campus, 1123 Payne Street. Visit www.stageone.org/summer-camp for a list of camps and registration details.
Give your young artist a summer they’ll never forget at Whet Your Palette, now celebrating our 14th year of enriching young minds through creativity and fun.
Flexible options. Families can build the schedule that works best for them
• Morning, midday, afternoon sessions at 9am, 12noon & 3pm
• Combine all three for a full-day experience -
• By day or by week. ($29 per day/session, $104-115 per week/session)
• Sibling & All-Day Discounts
This year’s Summer Art Camps feature a fun lineup of themed weeks designed to spark imagination and confidence in every child. Artists can journey through Amazing Animals Art, tinker and invent in S.T.E.A.M. Makers, or build big ideas in Cardboard Creations and Game Art Quest. Kids who love stories and fantasy will be enchanted by Fairy Hollow, Harry Potter Art, and Disney’s Magic Kingdoms–inspired creations, while young creators with big feelings and energy can dive into Messy Masterpieces, Lost Things (found-objects), and faith-based Art For His Glory.
Each camp includes painting and a variety of mixed-media projects, with brand-new activities every year so returning campers are always surprised and excited. In a warm, encouraging studio environment, children are guided by experienced instructors who help them explore color, texture, storytelling, and imagination while building real art skills. Whether your child joins us for a single day of creative play or a full week of deep-dive art adventures, Whet Your Palette is the perfect place to make friends, make memories, and make art all summer long.
SOPH GUARD GIVING CARDS AN EXTRA BITE
By RUSS BROWN • Photos Provided By Louisville Athletics
Adrian Wooley arrived on the University of Louisville campus last spring fresh off an award-winning rookie season at Kennesaw State with one major goal in mind: Proving to a jury of his peers and college basketball coaches that he could not only play, but thrive, on the high major level.
Consider the case closed. The verdict: guilty. After less than one season with UofL, the 6-foot-4 guard from Tuscaloosa, Alabama has established himself as a valuable contributor for the Cardinals’ nationally-ranked team that is closing in on another 20-win campaign.
Before becoming UofL coach Pat Kelsey’s first recruit out of the transfer portal, Wooley compiled one of the best 2024-25 seasons by a Division I freshman and earned the Conference USA Freshman of the Year honors. Kelsey was able to land Wooley as the ninth-targeted prospect out of the portal. Among other suitors he turned down offers from Alabama, Auburn and Kansas, a trio of highly-successful programs that have recorded more Final Four appearances since 2018 than Louisville has NCAA Tournament wins.
At Kennesaw State in Georgia, he was Mr. Everything for the Owls. He led the team in scoring with 18.8 points per game while shooting 51.2%, including 42.2% from 3-point land, while also delivering 5.2 rebounds, 3.6 assists and a total of 47 steals.
“He is a two-way player who can guard multiple positions,” Kelsey said in a statement when Wooley signed with the Cards in April.
“He is a dynamic scorer and playmaker with a high basketball IQ. As we did our background on him it was apparent that his approach, character and professionalism matches his talent. He has endeared himself to Card Nation already by being the first player to say ‘Yes’ in the portal; and that love will only grow when he puts the jersey on.”
Wooley was especially valuable during the extended absence of star point guard Mikel Brown Jr., who missed eight games with lower back issues following the Memphis game on Dec. 13. He finally returned on Jan. 24 in an 85-71 win over Virginia Tech, getting team highs of 20 points and six assists.
Against the Tigers Wooley flashed his potential with 15 points on five 3-pointers in eight attempts, along with three assists and just two turnovers in 25 minutes off the bench, in addition to three rebounds.
“Adrian was phenomenal,” Kelsey said after that performance. “He gave us a big boost, made a bunch of shots.”
With the Cards leading by only eight points late in the first half, Wooley nailed two 3-pointers and assisted on another to ignite an explosion of seven straight treys that increased the margin to 20 points.
“It was fun to be on the court at that time,” Wooley said. “We were moving the ball around, shared it very well.”
Through the first 10 games, he was UofL’s first sub at guard, but when Brown was injured Wooley’s role abruptly changed. He became not only one of the primary ballhandlers, along with Ryan Conwell, but was also relied on for both scoring and rebounding.
His scoring average has increased from 8.4 points per game in 10 appearances as a reserve to 11.6 as a starter in eight outings. And his playing time in Brown’s absence has risen considerably to include stints of 36 minutes (Boston College); 34 (Tennessee); 32 (Duke); and 29 (Virginia), the latter three all Top 25 clubs. Overall, Wooley is averaging 9.8 points, 4.3 rebounds and shooting 44.3%, with 32 assists and 16 steals.
Kelsey has referred to Wooley as a “dog,” but in Kelsey’s world that’s the ultimate compliment, not a criticism.
“Man, I love AW,” Kelsey told CardinalAuthority.com prior to the season. “The first word I use about him. . .I say this all the time, that he’s a dog. He’s got a grit, toughness and competitiveness about him that I love. He’s also a very gifted scorer who can score at all three levels. He can finish at the rim, get to the line and hit his free throws and he can shoot from distance.”
As the season progressed, Kelsey expanded his praise.
“He’s a good playmaker,” the coach said. “A very good all-around player with an unbelievable temperament. He’s been a leader for us. He’s not that vocal guy -- he’s probably one of the least vocal guys on the team -- but just the way he goes about the process. And that same mentality is his grit on defense. He’s just a tough guy.”
Wooley attributes his growth so far this season and his overall success to that focus on the defensive end of the court.
“I feel I’ve been getting more comfortable in my role, playing defense,” he said. “I thrive on defense so I try to give my teammates that each and every game by playing my hardest. And they give me confidence to play my game at the offensive end. I came to give Louisville everything I’ve got. I’m willing to put my life on the line for this team to get wins and win a national championship.”
And now, thanks to Wooley’s unexpected rush of experience due to Brown’s absence, when Brown returns and he or UofL’s other backcourt stalwarts, Ryan Conwell or Isaac McKneely, need a rest or get into foul trouble, Wooley will provide Kelsey will an even more seasoned and reliable replacement to count on.
UOFL’S WALZ HAS THE FIREPOWER FOR ANOTHER DEEP NCAA RUN
By RUSS BROWN • Photos Provided By Louisville Athletics
Louisville women’s basketball coach Jeff Walz recently reached a milestone with his 500th career victory, and it is looking as if he is going to add to that total considerably by the time the current season ends in March or early April at the Final Four.
As the calendar flipped to February for the last month of the regular season, the Cardinals were breezing along with an 11-game winning streak, having compiled a 19-3 record. They had won 14 of their previous 15 games and were ranked seventh in the country.
In other words, exactly the type of success UofL fans have come to expect from teams coached by the 54-year-old Walz, who is in his 19th season.
With his win total of 505, four Final Fours, and two appearances in the national championship game, he is already in an elite group. Among active coaches only UConn’s Geno Auriemma, South Carolina’s Dawn Staley and LSU’s Kim Mulkey have more Final Four trips than Walz. Furthermore, among active coaches only Auriemma (18 seasons) and Mulkey (17) reached 500 wins faster than Walz.
Under his direction, UofL has posted 15 consecutive 20-win seasons while averaging over 26 victories per year. His 500th came in an 85-60 rout of Virginia Tech on Jan. 4 at the KFC Yum! Center and prompted a shower of confetti along with memories.
“One thing I’ll never forget Tom told me during my interview process,” Walz said, referring to former athletics director Tom Jurich. “He goes, ‘I don’t just want a good team every four or five years. I want a good program.’ And I think we’ve done that.”
“It’s special for sure,” he added of his 500th. “I mean, it’s been 19 years, and I’ve been very blessed to have a wonderful staff throughout the years to help. It’s all about getting players that are willing to buy in and want to be a part of something. And we’ve been very, very fortunate and blessed to get players that love the University of Louisville and give us everything they have.
“We’re not always the most talented team when we step out on the floor, but we have kids that believe in what we’re doing and believe in us as coaches, and that’s what makes it as much fun as it is. Sure, it goes down as 500 wins for me, but there are a lot of players that have scored a lot of baskets to make this possible.”
As if there was any doubt, Walz assured Card Nation that he isn’t going anywhere, although he would be a coveted hire for virtually any program in the country.
“It’s going to be where I retire from,” he said. “I’m not looking for another job, I have no aspirations or interest in that. I love every second that I’ve been here. It’s home. It’s been an unbelievable journey, an unbelievable experience.”
And his current team seems to have the ingredients to add to that experience. Consider:
The Cards have been dominant at both ends of the court through their last 14 games, averaging 85.9 points while limiting opponents to 58.6 for a winning margin of plus-29.5. During that span, they have held teams under 60 points 10 times and 50 or less on six occasions. At the same time, they have shot 46.8% overall, 35.4% from 3-point range, and have outrebounded their foes by 14 per outing.
You want depth? Louisville has that too, with a bench that averages 36 points per game, second nationally, and has outscored victims on its own three times.
In the hot stretch, seven different players have led the team in scoring, six different players have been the leading rebounder, and six have led in assists. Ten players are logging 15 minutes or more per game, none more than 28.
Sophomore guard Tajianna Roberts leads the team in scoring at 12.7 ppg, but has plenty of help, with six teammates contributing between 7.2 and 10.7 ppg. Although senior forward Laura Ziegler is the top rebounder, five others are averaging nearly five or better. Imari Berry, another soph, is the mainstay among the reserves. She has started only two games, but is averaging 10.3 ppg, 5.1 rpg and shooting a team-best 40.0% from distance. She scored a career-high 33 points with 12 rebounds and three steals in an 88-80 overtime win at NC State on Jan. 18 as UofL’s subs outscored the Wolfpack reserves 57-5.
“Nobody can stop us,” Berry said. “All players out there can shoot the ball, drive, shoot layups, knock down free throws, so it’s kind of hard to guard us.”
“I think we have a really, really, really good basketball team, no question about it,” Walz said. “We’ve seven or eight that you have to guard,” Walz said. “There’s really nobody (an opposing coach) can say, ‘we’re not going to guard her, we’ll leave her open.’ So I think that’s our strong point.”
Walz also likes his club’s versatility.
“We can play fast if needed,” he said. “We can set it up and execute in the half court, we can press at times. We have multiple ballhandlers. It’s fun for me, because I’m getting a chance to coach in terms of mixing things up at a timeout or gambling some, because this group is bought into what we’re trying to do. We’re pretty unselfish. Our kids are embracing the fact that it’s going to be somebody different every night. I like the way we’re playing and competing.”
Louisville and Duke are the only undefeated teams remaining in the ACC and could be headed for a showdown on Feb. 5 at the Yum Center. After that, the schedule favors the Cards, who will play four of their last six games at home. Then comes the ACC Tournament in Duluth, Ga. March 4-8 and the NCAA Tournament March 20 through the Final Four April 3-5. UofL is currently projected as a No. 2 seed, but a No. 1 is well within reach.
Reflecting on his time at Louisville, Walz said, “I’m glad that we’ve taken the time throughout the 19 years to enjoy the moments we’ve had. If you don’t take the time to enjoy the good times, then all you’re going to live with is the bad times.”
So far, this season has been loaded with good times, and more could be on the way.
Sophomore Tajianna Roberts has been a mainstay for UofL’s top-10 women’s basketball team all season. She leads the Cards in scoring and assists, and is also one of their best 3-point shooters.
EX-CARD WANTS TO LEAD NEW UFL TEAM TO
By RUSS BROWN • Chris Redman Photo Provided By Kings • Football Photo By Jean-Daniel Francoeur (pexels.com)
After spending most of his life on the gridiron as either a player or coach, Louisville native and former UofL star quarterback Chris Redman, 48, thought he was finished with football. He was wrong.
Instead, Redman has come out of his brief retirement from the sport to coach the Louisville Kings, Derby City’s new entry in the United Football League (UFL), which now has eight teams that will compete this spring. The Kings are one of three new franchises, along with the Columbus Aviators and the Orlando Storm.
“I am incredibly grateful and excited for the opportunity to represent the Louisville Kings,” Redman said. “Louisville is home. I’ve been fortunate to have so many people support me throughout my career, and I know they’ll be behind the Kings and me as we work to bring a championship to this city. We’re going to make Louisville proud.”
The opportunity came out of nowhere when former U of L and Buffalo Bills center Eric Wood, who is ambassador for the Kings, approached Redman about coaching the team. At the time, Redman was concentrating on various business ventures after coaching Christian Academy for six years, including three Class 3 state championships.
“It had to be a perfect situation for me to take a coaching job, and this is by far the perfect situation for me,” Redman said. “It’s really rejuvenated me. Honestly, I’m having a ball. I think we’ve got a great team and we’d really like to make history by being the first expansion team to win the championship.”
Mike Repole, UFL co-owner who leads league business operations through Impact Capital, calls the trio of new franchises an important step forward for the league, which was created following the merger of the XFL and United States Football League (USFL) and started play in March 2024. The Kings will play their home games in 15,300-seat Lynn Family Stadium, home of Louisville FC and Racing Louisville soccer teams.
Thirty-one teams made bids to get a team, including Lexington. The three new teams replace the Memphis Showboats, Michigan Panthers, and San Antonio Brahmas, which played in the UFL’s first two seasons. The other five teams in the league are the Birmingham Stallions, Dallas Renegades, DC Defenders, Houston Gamblers, and St. Louis Battlehawks. All the teams practice in Dallas and fly to games.
“Columbus, Louisville, and Orlando are true football cities with deep sports roots,” Repole said. “Energetic, fan-driven stadiums built to create an authentic game day experience and strengthen the foundation of this league for years to come. When you have 14,000 fans in an arena that fits 60,000, it looks empty. When you have 14,000 in a place that seats 15,000, it’s standing room only. Changing the optics is very important.”
Repole joined UFL ownership last July with FOX, RedBird Capital Partners, ESPN, Danny Garcia, and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson.
Much like the Brohms, Redman’s family name is synonymous with the city’s football history. His father, Bob Redman, coached for more than 40 years at Durrett, Waggener, Ballard, and Male, winning 317 games and three state championships (1993, 1998, 2000 at Male).
After playing for his dad and earning National Player of the Year, Chris turned down numerous offers from other schools to stay home and play for the Cardinals. He appeared in 43 games, compiling program records for passing yards (12,541) and passing touchdowns (84) and winning the 1999 Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award. In 2014, he was inducted into UofL’s prestigious Ring of Honor. Following graduation, he was selected by the Baltimore Ravens in the third round of the 2000 NFL Draft and played in the league for eight years with four different teams, including the Ravens’ Super Bowl 35 champions.
Although this will be Redman’s first head coaching job on the college or professional level, he obviously brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his new position.
“Chris Redman represents the greatness of Louisville football,” Russ Brandon, UFL president and CEO, said in a statement. “He will combine his knowledge and expertise with his deep roots and pride in his hometown as he builds a new winning tradition in the Bluegrass State.”
Repole describes the UFL’s style of play as “Arena Football outdoors,” meaning fast-paced with lots of scoring, and Redman says he will coach an aggressive style offense and defense. “I want to play a brand of football that people are going to enjoy,” he added.
The UFL Players Draft and Free Agent draft in January consisted of players who were not under contract to another league; 2025 NFL draft-eligible and training camp players; and 2026 NFL draft-eligible players, among others.
The Kings have two quarterbacks -- Jason Bean and Chandler Rogers, neither of whom have prior spring football experience. Rogers played for five college programs, while Bean starred at Kansas and finished second in school history with 38 passing touchdowns.
As part of the UFL’s regional allocation, Louisville was given former Tennessee wide receiver JaVonta Payton; ex-UofL offensive lineman Willie Tyler; and defensive end Daniel Grzesiak from Cincinnati. Payton spent the past 1 2/2 seasons with the Dallas Renegades.
“The draft went awesome for us,” Redman said. “I really feel good about the guys we got. We ended up getting most of the guys we wanted; only a couple of them kind of slipped through our fingers. So we’re really, really excited about that.”
The Kings will kick off their inaugural 10-game season on Friday, March 27, against the Birmingham Stallions at 8 p.m. in Lynn Family Stadium. It will be a “Green Out” for fans and will be televised by FOX. Here is the rest of the Kings’ schedule:
April 4--at Orlando Storm, 8 p.m. on ESPN; April 10--Orlando Storm, 8 p.m. on FOX; April 16--at Houston Gamblers, 8 p.m. on the ESPN app; April 24--at Birmingham Stallions, 8 p.m. on FOX; April 30--St. Louis Battlehawks, 8 p.m. on FS1; May 9--at DC Defenders, 1:30 p.m. on FOX; May 16--DC Defenders, noon on ABC; May 24--Dallas Renegades, 4 p.m. on FOX; May 31--at Columbus Aviators, 6 p.m. on FOX.
The playoffs will feature two semifinal games on June 7 and the championship game on June 13.
“This is a special place,” Redman said. “Louisville deserves professional football, and I’m fired up to represent this city the right way. I think people don’t realize what’s coming -- this is going to be something special.”
SUMMER CAMP
Theme Weeks. Drama Skills Camps. Performance Camps.
Young performers of all ages can explore theatre just for fun or take part in staged productions.
Scan for details & registration. StageOne.org/summer-camp
Heitzman Traditional Bakery & Catering
Thursday, February 19th
Welcoming all couples, corporate, family, & friends
Meet our executive Chef Abby Discuss your upcoming event Receptions, catering, corporate Take the back shop tour
Valentine’s Day has always been an interesting time to be walking around with a broken heart. While most of the world is covered in pink foil and red hearts searching for the favor of an OpenTable reservation, the broken hearted is wearing grey unwashed sweatpants, surrounded by beige foods and trying to muster up some enthusiasm for “Galentine’s.”
The modern-day breakup can happen without the favor of formality, but the heartbreak is real and it can flatten you nonetheless. However, a romantic breakup has a recognizable story arc—a rhythm and choreography that is deeply rooted in our culture: sadness turns to anger and, ultimately, fuels the fantasy of revenge. We may go through this cycle several times in our lifetime. If you are lucky, you learn a little something each time which can serve as useful armor, but more often than not love is nothing short of a contagious symptom for amnesia. Though the experience of losing a love can color your world differently for many years, your subconscious knows you will get through it, even if your musical playlist turns heartbreak into your entire personality. There will be a next chapter and the hope of loving again will carry you through the darkest days.
This year, I’m walking through the season of love with a different, less reliable kind of broken heart—the loss of my very first Valentine—my dad. This heartbreak knows no villain, the crash out soundtrack is not as catchy and there is no satisfying narrative that allows me to convince myself that he wasn’t the right one for me anyway. He was perfect to me, in fact. There is no replacement for this particular love.
When my dad died in January, I expected the justifiable sadness. What I hadn’t accounted for was that the earth, for me, would actually lose gravity. I spent my entire adult life in a posture of isometric dread and anticipatory heartache, braced for this unimaginable reality, doing mental rehearsals in the shower and on long drives while working myself into a wail. And then the shoe drops and you realize you were right to be afraid because you will never be the same again.
I mean, if the formula goes as designed, this heartache is a predictable part of the circle of life. God forbid the cruel and unimaginable reverse order of a child going first. People who have buried a parent, however, know the specific vertigo that accompanies it: you feel suddenly less safe in the world, less protected, like one string that kept you tethered to the ground has been clipped and you’re free-floating in the abyss. It feels like more than melodrama, it feels like actual physics. Your anchor is no longer in the same sea as you.
I’m coming to understand that the “healing” people talk about with grief is not the same kind of healing as a breakup. Breakup healing is often about closure, about re-centering yourself, about reclaiming your life. With a parent, the heart doesn’t seal back up into what it was before. There is no revenge bod. Your soul just takes on a new lumpy shape. I’m told that the bad news is you will never get over this broken heart, but the good news is the memories know how to inhabit even the most shattered spaces, and you eventually learn to function in this world while missing a metaphorical limb. That unbearable pain is evidence of love that mattered.
My dad taught me a lot about the interconnectivity of loss and love in his life and in his death. Before he married my mother, he experienced an accident while working on a construction site that resulted in the loss of some of his fingers. It rendered him with what my sister referred to as “the perpetual hang ten sign.” Despite being a severe impairment, it wasn’t something my siblings and I noticed often. Mom often retells the story of the “break up” letter he sent following the accident to set her free. He said he didn’t want her to have to live forever with someone who had this level of permanent disability.
My mother was simply not having it and tracked him down where she kept him cornered, happily, for 55 years of marriage. From that point on, he never let his disadvantage become anyone else’s inconvenience. He never complained.
On the night of his funeral, I was chatting with some of his siblings about that quiet, capable grit and they shared a detail about his injury to which I had been previously unaware. The week following my dad’s injury his younger brother, having been drafted, was scheduled to leave for Vietnam. After losing his fingers, he immediately started the process of applying for hardship since his injury wouldn’t allow him to maintain the family farm on his own. Thus, my uncle was pardoned. There was suggestion and suspicion in the storytelling that perhaps he had strategically orchestrated this “accident” to save his brother. I’ll never know for sure. I should have asked more questions. I can certainly see my dad’s capacity to love and sacrifice extending to such actions.
My dad had a signature phrase that drove the young, impatient me crazy and the older, overscheduled me to want to scream. Growing up, or when I would be home visiting my parents later in life, we had a great deal of unannounced visitors. That’s what happens in small towns. People just…stop by.
As the visitors would signal that they were ready to leave, my dad would say, “Stay with us, now!” In fact, one night, my dad answered a knock at the door only to be faced with a man, gun still in hand, claiming to have just shot and killed someone. Much to the shock and dismay of me and my siblings, my dad opened the door even wider and said “Come on in and stay with us and let’s get this figured out.” He calmly talked him into calling the police and made him a cup of coffee while they waited for the authorities to arrive.
Now in my grief, I’m discovering the wisdom in his approach—to linger longer while you can and to love others without rushing through all the steps. Isn’t time our greatest gift, after all?
Some claim time is, in fact, a weapon in combatting this kind of despair. “Time heals all,” they say. I don’t think this kind of broken heart can actually be healed. You just learn to live in the overcast of grey skies, like a real-life Ziggy cartoon. But the interesting opportunity among the omnipresent haze, is that you become more aware and grateful for the sunbeams that still make their way to you. Though my initial instinct after the loss of my dad was that all that profound love was just gone from this earth now I’m now realizing that, somehow, his death has increased my capacity to love. I never imagined that in this fog, I would find so much clarity. And even though I feel like my DNA was ripped out and rearranged, I’m starting to suspect that the reassembling of it may have exposed dormant or denied parts of my past that can ultimately transform me into a better version of the girl who lived in fear of loss, but who had never actually encountered it. I feel both lost and found in equal measure.
And even though I never aspired to be an expert on this topic, I am now in on a little secret that I immeasurably overlooked as recently as two months ago, back when I toiled over finding the perfect gesture or exact words to say to the grief-stricken or the heartbroken. It turns out, just showing up even with no words to offer means everything. You extend kindness, not because it fixes death, but because it honors the life that taught you love was meant to be given generously and without condition.
In her book “Radiance of the Ordinary,” Tara Couture writes, “I want to love without limits even knowing that comes with the risk of being decimated by anguish.”
So, on this Valentine’s Day I hope you feel brave for daring to love, knowing the extreme price that comes with it. And while my heart may be permanently broken, it is one that had the courage to love deeply and be loved, which I’m starting to believe is the entire point of taking up residence at this temporary address. Don’t play coy with your love. I encourage you to express it, not just for the sake of the holiday, but every chance you get. Say it in the most ordinary moments and show it in the most ordinary ways. Do it to a degree that will eliminate any doubt of if they knew how much they meant to you when you suddenly realize you ran out of time.
I know if I had one more day with my first Valentine, I’d skip the grand gestures, simply sit on the front porch with him and say, “Stay with us, Dad.”
HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY FROM THE VOICE-TRIBUNE
Share the love. Be seen. Be celebrated
Submit your favorite Valentine’s-inspired photos for a chance to be featured on e VOICE-TRIBUNE website and our social media platforms on February 14th. Whether it’s romance, friendship, family, or self-love—we want to see what love looks like to you.
HOW TO ENTER:
• Share your photos on Facebook and Instagram
• Tag us @thevoicetribune and use #VoiceTribuneValentines
• Follow @VOICE-TRIBUNE
Selected photos will be showcased online on Valentine’s Day BECAUSE EVERY LOVE STORY DESERVES A SPOTLIGHT.
A MORNING STAR HAS FALLEN A TRIBUTE TO NANCY ROMANUS
BAPTIST HEALTH/MILESTONE WELLNESS CENTER
For eight years, Nancy Romanus was a morning star to countless members of the Baptist Health/Milestone Wellness Center. Long before sunrise, when only the stars were awake, Nancy was already at her post—unlocking doors, turning on lights, and preparing to welcome the earliest risers of our community. At precisely 5:20 a.m., Monday through Friday, she greeted members with her warm smile, quick humor, and genuine kindness, setting the tone for the day ahead.
Nancy’s sudden passing on Christmas Day has left a profound emptiness within the Milestone family. For both staff and members, she was far more than the first face seen in the morning—she was a constant, a comfort, and a friend. Her presence made the early hours feel less dark, and the hardest workouts feel a little lighter.
Through her years at Milestone, Nancy formed meaningful connections with the people she saw each day. According to her sister, Sarah McNabb, Nancy spoke often about the members and staff, sharing their good news, stories, and successes with pride and affection. She remembered names, asked thoughtful questions, and celebrated progress alongside those she greeted each morning. Many members came to rely on those brief conversations with Nancy as an essential part of their routine—a reminder that they were seen, valued, and encouraged.
Family was central to Nancy’s life. She often spoke fondly of her husband, Richard Romanus, who passed away in 2011. His memory remained close to her heart. Nancy is also survived by her son, Richard, who lives in Seattle with his wife, Trisha, and their children, Adien and Noah, and of course her sister Sarah McNabb. She took great pride in her family and cherished staying connected to their lives, even across the miles.
Nancy had one special companion who held a cherished place in her heart—her beloved cat, Oliver. Often referred to as “the boy”, Oliver was a constant source of comfort and joy for Nancy. In a touching continuation of her story, Oliver has since been adopted and is now thriving in a new, loving home with another Milestone employee, ensuring that a piece of Nancy remains close within the community she loved so deeply.
The impact Nancy made is perhaps best captured through the words of the members she greeted each morning. Barbara Durbin Ricks shared, “Nancy was a guaranteed source of joy and happiness when arriving at Milestone. Even though I live in Baton Rouge now, I constantly think of the wonderful Milestone staff.” Alison Kightlinger Cardoza added, “We will miss her so much. She was so full of life, had the best smile, and her love will never be forgotten.”
Nancy’s light shone brightest in the quietest hours of the day. Though that morning star has fallen, her warmth, laughter, and love will continue to guide the Milestone community she so dearly touched. A memorial service celebrating Nancy’s life will be held in the spring, with details to be shared once arrangements are finalized.
James Stewart Joy
September 3, 1954 – December 11, 2025
James Stewart Joy, age 71, passed away as a result of Lou Gerig’s (ALS) disease, surrounded by his wife of 42 years, Catherine Frazier Joy, and his sons, Christopher Stewart Joy, Alexander James Joy, Charles Frazier Joy and daughter, Caitlin Elizabeth Joy (Dom).
Jim was born in Washington DC and grew up in Crescent Hill after his family moved to Louisville. He graduated Atherton High School (class of 1972), received a BA in English from the University of Louisville (1976), and graduated from the United Electronics Institute (1978). He worked at Norton Healthcare in Bio-Medical engineering and later in real estate land sales for Parks & Weisberg.
From an early age, Jim enjoyed the outdoors–fishing, hunting and boating. During his college years, he managed the backpacking department at Allied Sporting Goods where he developed a love of nature and conservation. He also relished working on all sorts of home improvement projects, including meticulously outfitting his basement workshop and building A-Frame cabins at All Saints Episcopal Center at Rough River. Jim read widely and took a keen interest in learning about military history.
His life evolved when he married Catherine Frazier (1983) and they began their life together, raising four children and eventually building a home in Goshen, Kentucky. Jim enjoyed creating a sanctuary and entertaining family and friends around the pool. He also appreciated farm life in his cabin in Waddy, Kentucky, where he enjoyed getting away to fish and explore the woods.
No matter how serious the circumstances, one could count on Jim for support. He lightened the mood of many dire situations with humor and practical wisdom. Most importantly, Jim’s special gift was appreciating the intrinsic value of others.
He served on and supported a variety of national and community boards, including: The Brown- Forman Family Shareholder Committee and the Brown-Forman Dendrifund, The Frazier Museum, The Frazier-Joy Foundation, The Nature Conservancy, The Sierra Club, Trout Unlimited, the Louisville Zoo and the Kentucky Humane Society.
A lifelong Episcopalian, Jim supported St. Mark’s Episcopal Church and community outreach projects at Harrod’s Creek Baptist Church.
Jim is predeceased by his parents, the Rev. Stewart M. Joy and Ellen Beam Joy. In addition to his wife Catherine and their children, Jim found delight in his four grandchildren: Charlotte, Maxwell, Blaze and Bentley.
He is survived by his loving sister, Suellen Joy Brill (Robert), nephew Andrew Clark Brill and niece Abigail Joy Taylor (Mark). Also, nephews Cordt and Chase Huneke (Ben) and nieces Kelli Van Hecke (Ragan) and Amelia Frazier Theobald (Parker).
Jim was grateful for childhood friends who took time to reconnect through notes and phone calls and thankful for those who were especially supportive during his illness: The Reverend Kirk Bush, St. Mark’s Episcopal Prayer Group, Mac Brown, Sandra Frazier, Garvin Brown, Beth and Guy Baron, Tom Bachman, Susan Higdon, Stella Collis Georgious and Jim Jackson.
Jim admired Henri-Frédéric Amiel, a Swiss moral philosopher and poet. He wrote: “Life is short. We don’t have much time to gladden the hearts of those who walk this way with us. So, be swift to love and make haste to be kind.”
Jim asked that all his family and friends think about that blessing and simply spend some time in nature pondering how to ease suffering in this world.
Visitation took place at Arch L. Heady & Son at Westport Village, 7410 Westport Road, Thursday, December 18, 4:00 to 7:00 pm. Jim’s funeral was held Friday, December 19, 11:00 am, St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 2822 Frankfort Avenue. A private family burial was held at Cave Hill Cemetery.
If so inclined, Jim asked that memorial gifts be made directly to the Episcopal Diocese of Kentucky; specifically in support of the Room in the Inn project, which offers overnight shelter for women and children during winter months and/or to the Laundry Love voucher program which provides the unhoused with an efficient way to launder their clothes. Both are outreach programs of Christ Church Episcopal Cathedral (421 S. 2nd Street, Louisville, Ky 40202)
is February, the team at VOICE-TRIBUNE has teamed up with Find e Cash Louisville to give back to our community in a big way.
We’re partnering with Find e Cash Louisville to bring a $500 cash drop to our readers — hidden somewhere right here in Louisville.
How it works:
Find e Cash Louisville hosts cash drops throughout the city, challenging the community to follow clues and search designated areas for hidden cash prizes. As part of this special partnership, a $500 cash drop will take place at one of our o cial rack locations.
Once it drops, participants should stay alert and be ready to search when the cash is hidden. To make sure you don’t miss it, follow @ ndthecashlville on Instagram and turn on post noti cations so you’ll know exactly when it’s time to look.
HINT:
LOVE IS A BATTLEFIELD
Photographers: Kyle Gordon Kyle@bestdadmedia.com
Sam Samson sk.studios2025@hotmail.com
Owner of Area 502 Mixed Martial Arts
Designer of White Dress: Frankie Lewis frankie@thecostumecrew.com
Hair and Makeup: Scooter Ray
Phillip Perkins (Gym owner, fighter, coach and UFC cornerman) phil@kysignsandgraphics.com
By Kathryn Harrington
February in Louisville is shaping up to be a whirlwind of quirks, celebrations, and unforgettable moments! While this month is the time for gala season to really start picking up, I’m going to throw a few curve balls in the mix to keep you on your toes.
First up, the Louisville Oddities & Curiosities Expo invites all curiosity aficionados to explore an eclectic array of weird artifacts and bizarre collectibles. It’s a massive treasure hunt for the delightfully strange, and I cannot wait! It’s a not-to-miss spot for those who love to marvel at the unusual and celebrate the wonderfully odd side of life. This is definitely the place to embrace your inner weirdo and collect something nobody else will ever understand.
Up next, the Woman Owned Wallet Galantine’s Bash will be an afternoon of fun, fashion, and incredible company, all dedicated to uplifting women entrepreneurs and innovative ideas. It’s a perfect excuse to dress up, cheer on local women making waves, and perhaps even find that special gift for your favorite gal pal. What could be better?
And let’s not forget the grand finale, the Lunar New Year Dinner and Auction at the Speed Art Museum celebrating the Year of the Fire Horse. This annual gala, hosted by the Asia Institute - Crane House, will be a festive evening of community and connection, woven together with a multi-course meal of incredible flavors. This event is a wonderful way to honor Asian culture and tradition while enjoying Louisville’s vibrant arts scene.
So whether you’re into the weird, the wonderful, or the culturally rich, there’s no shortage of events to inspire, entertain, and connect you with Louisville’s lively spirit!
Cheers to a month that will be as vibrant as it is varied!
Thank you to our sponsors for your continued support:
We extend our deepest gratitude to our sponsors, whose generous support makes it possible for us to share the stories, voices, and creative spirit of Louisville. Through your commitment, the VOICE-TRIBUNE is able to highlight the arts, culture, fashion, philanthropy, and the many facets of our vibrant society. It is because of you that we can continue to celebrate and uplift the people and organizations shaping our community with vision, style, and heart. Thank you for believing in our mission and for helping us shine a light on the voices that make Louisville truly extraordinary.
