Chevy Chaser Magazine, February 2026

ESSENTIAL DAY SPAS

EIGHT LOCAL SPOTS TO RELAX AND REJUVENATE

WINTER READS

MUST-READ TITLES PICKED BY THE CARNEGIE CENTER FOR LITERACY AND LEARNING

CREATIVE TYPES

Babita Shrestha

The Nepalese-born Lexington chef and food photographer recently released her second cookbook, full of nourishing recipes from around the globe

Essential 8: Lexington-Area Day Spas

We’ve put together a list of the best day spas in the area to help you kickstart your journey to feeling refreshed and rejuvenated this year

Winter Reading List

Our friends at the Carnegie Center for Literacy & Learning provide a list of books to cozy up with this winter

Winter Blues?

Creative Types

MORROW & GAYHEART

ORALAND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY

Nepalese-born Lexington chef Babita Shrestha has released her second cookbook of nourishing plant-based recipes

Licensed therapist and coach

Missy Ammerman has some tips for getting through it

A state-of-the-art facility focusing on compassionate patient care.

Specializing in:

37

February tadoo List

The best art exhibits, performances & other cultural haps taking place this month

Lessons come in many forms at Sayre School.

Lessons come in many forms at Sayre School.

Opportunities for growth at Sayre School include a range of innovative learning experiences that take place in many environments. The common link is an accomplished, dedicated faculty focused on enhancing understanding and fostering a lifelong love of learning. At Sayre School, the journey is just beginning!

Opportunities for growth at Sayre School include a range of innovative learning experiences that take place in many environments. The common link is an accomplished, dedicated faculty focused on enhancing understanding and fostering a lifelong love of learning. At Sayre School, the journey is just beginning!

See how we cultivate students’ growth, confidence, and success at sayreschool.org.

See how we cultivate students’ growth, confidence, and success at sayreschool.org.

Contributors

Michelle Aiello is a Chicago-born writer, editor and indie publisher. Her interests include living room karaoke, snail mail and all things vintage. She contributes to our monthly “tadoo list” (our calendar of cultural happenings, page 37).

Missy Ammerman (“Managing Winter Blues and Stress,” page 35) is a licensed clinical social worker with 20 years of experience helping clients struggling with anxiety, depression and relationship problems and o ers both therapy and coaching services. She has a private practice located in Dudley Square.

Sylvia Cassidy (“Civic Connections,” page 9) is the Legislative Aide to 5th District Councilmember Liz Sheehan and a member of Lexington’s STREEET Safety Task Force.

Smiley Pete contributor Shannon Clinton (“Craveworthy,” page 8) is an Elizabethtown native who now lives in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky. A proud graduate of Western Kentucky University’s journalism program, she has been a full-time freelance writer for 21 years for publications across the Southeast. When she’s not writing, you can find her tending to her collections of vintage Pyrex and hot sauce.

Tanzi Merritt (“8 Essential Day Spas,” page 10), a graduate of Transylvania University and the University of Kentucky, is a writer and marketing and communications professional born and raised in Lexington. Passionate about her cats and plants, she can often be found stirring up dust in her 120-year-old downtown home, deeply absorbed in a documentary, or with her nose stuck in a murder mystery.

Matt Wickstrom (“Creative Types: Babita Shrestha,” page 25) is a professional writer and founder of the music blog Wick’s Picks. Born in Lexington and raised in Columbus, Ohio, he moved back to Kentucky in 2011 and graduated from the University of Kentucky’s journalism program in 2017. n

chevy chaser Southsider

PUBLISHER: CHRIS EDDIE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: SARAYA BREWER

COPY EDITOR: NIKOLE CHRISTENSEN ART DIRECTOR: DREW PURCELL

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES: AMY EDDIE, DONNA HODSDON, ANN STATON

SALES MANAGER: EMILY MARKS EVENTS DIRECTOR: AMY EDDIE

SMILEYPETE.COM

BY SYLVIA CASSIDY, LEGISLATIVE AIDE TO 5TH DISTRICT COUNCILMEMBER LIZ SHEEHAN

While it can be easy to assume that cycling and walking are leisure activities, for many in Lexington it is a primary form of transportation to work, school, doctors appointments, and more. Roughly 30 % of our county needs transportation options that don’t exclusively rely on owning a car. The Urban County Council has been working to bridge these gaps in our transportation.

Lexington’s Complete Streets policy envisions a street system for everyone, and the City outlined how we want to get there in the Complete Streets Action Plan. Many of the benchmarks and goals that we’ve set are ongoing and will be the result of years (even decades) of work. In Lexington, we are experiencing a street safety emergency: Between 20202025, Kentucky State Police have reported over 200 deaths and 10,000 injuries on our Lexington road ways. With that in mind, Council created a team that would concentrate on immediate solutions to make our transportation network safer.

A year ago, Council formed the STREEET Safety Task Force. Those three E’s are not a typo; they represent engineering, enforcement and education/engagement, which all influence our street safety. This partnership between city departments, public safety agencies and community members focused on reducing crashes and increasing safety for everyone in our transportation network. Over the past year, we met regularly to identify issues within our community and came up with 12 recommendations on how we can implement interventions to make our roads safer in the short term.

In October, two of my colleagues and I presented to the entire Council these recommendations, ranging from introducing new ordinances to infrastructure investment and continued community outreach. During funding discussions later that month, Council allocated $700,000 to implement five of the recommendations, and focused on several more that don’t require a budgetary investment.

We invited the public to work with us every step of the way. Our task force meetings were open to community members and that feedback was a centerpiece in our decision making. We launched two interactive platforms to help us collect data and understand where tra c calming is most needed. The first is a mapping feature available on the public input platform Engage Lexington, in which you can drop a pin and describe what areas of the city you feel comfortable traveling on. The other is a form where you can report tra c concerns directly to the Lexington Police Department.

In February, we will present the task force’s action plan, which outlines how its recommendations will be implemented. A number of recommendations involve community engagement and feedback as well as how to advocate for tra c safety improvement. Whether you are an avid biker or just want your commute to be safer, there is a place for you to help make streets safer in your neighborhood. n

You can learn more about the STREEET Safety Task Force by visiting www.engage.lexingtonky.gov and searching for STREEET Safety Task Force.

The

Welcome to dinner at Athenian Grill.

Combining traditional cooking techniques with modern innovation, we provide an elevated Greek dining experience. Now with table service at our new beloved brick-and-mortar establishment in Lexington. Welcome to dinner at Athenian Grill.

Beer, wine & liquor menu available.

CRAVE WORTHY LOCAL CULINARY NEWS

SHANNON CLINTON

As consumers continue to nosh and nibble along on the charcuterie trend, a mother and son duo have launched a business to serve up their own artfully arranged meats, cheeses and accompaniments with a new business, Graze Craze

Located at 3090 Old Todds Road, Unit 140, Lexington in the Todds Center and operated by Kentucky native and University of Kentucky grad Stacy Starnes and son Alex Starnes, the business o ers customizable grazing boards and boxes and catering.

“I’m excited to be part of this unique concept, which uses only the highest-quality ingredients to spark joy in the lives we touch,” Stacy Starnes said in a written statement. “Sharing a board, enjoying the beauty of it and the delicious bites together, those are the moments we enjoy most, and I’m honored to be part of them.”

Graze Craze is a part of the United Franchise Group franchise, known for its premium meats and cheeses, produce, house-made dips, sweets and other goodies. In addition to di erent sizes of boards from which to choose, there are options for vegetarians, sweets-only themes and custom orders.

The end of the year often brings big changes in the restaurant scene as decisions are made and new projects launched, and late 2025 was no di erent, with several announcements of closures and openings. Some of these include:

A beloved institution for more than 50 years, albeit in several di erent locations, Tolly Ho closed for good on Dec. 31. With its all-day breakfast and burgers like the Tolly Ho, Super Ho and Mega Ho, the eatery will be missed. Fans lined up to get one last taste at its final Foreman Ave. location.

Bad Wolf Burgers also chose Dec. 31 as its last day and year in operation after 15 and a half years, announcing the change the day before on social media.

Woodford Inn in Versailles has also closed. A Facebook post announced the impending closure in mid-December, citing its landlord’s desire for change. The post also hinted at the possibility of reopening the restaurant/bed and breakfast if a suitable new location is found.

After seven years, Zim’s Cafe/The Thirsty Fox at the Fayette County Courthouse has permanently closed.

In the category of “will they or won’t they?”, Bluegrass Baking Company and Nate’s Co ee both announced their respective closures, then multiple media outlets reported their respective owners were working to reopen.

A hearty handful of openings and nearly-opens to report include Black Squirrel, which was still listed as “coming soon” in Versailles as of mid-January.

White Tiger has opened at 3695 Nicholasville Road, serving authentic Indian food. n

AT HORTUS , W E AR E

DESIGN BUILD MAINTAIN

DREAMIN G O F SPRING

Despite these chilly days, we know that spring is fast approaching. Soon, fresh green shoots will replace bare branches. Colorful blooms will brighten winter's muted hues. At Hortus, we spend the cold months planning, prepping, and planting for the season to come, knowing that spring always fulfills her verdant promise.

ESSENTIAL DAY SPAS

Looking to kick your 2026 wellness

journey into high gear?

Look no further than these eight Lexington-area day spas, which o er unparalleled opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation.

The Kentucky Castle Spa

230 Pisgah Pike, Versailles, KY thekentuckycastle.com/spa

Nestled in a charming stone cottage amidst farmland and gardens, The Kentucky Castle Spa o ers a carefully curated treatment menu of massages, facials and body treatments, as well as waxing and other aesthetic services. Located on the grounds of the iconic Kentucky Castle hotel, the spa captures local flavor with luxurious treatments like the Warm Bourbon and Honey Body Drench: a 90-minute signature massage with a warmed bourbon-and-honey scented oil that soothes sore muscles and relaxes the senses.

With four treatment rooms, services can be booked for individuals and couples, and they can also accommodate small groups for special celebrations and events. Guests are welcome to come early or stay after a treatment to enjoy the complimentary co ee, tea and snacks in the relaxation lounge, and guests of the spa are treated as guests of the hotel and are invited to explore the property. A visit with the farm animals and an exploration of the teaching garden are a unique part of the experience, while guests can wrap up the day with a cocktail or a meal made with ingredients grown right on the grounds.

Though the idyllic setting feels removed from the world, The Kentucky Castle is just minutes outside the hustle and bustle of the city, making it a convenient place for a quick and impactful getaway. The peaceful backdrop allows for relaxation and restoration in quiet natural surroundings.

“Our team cares about our guests as individuals and will not only provide body or skin care, but also help you understand what’s going on in your body so you know how to adjust your routines or talk to your next treatment provider,” said spa director Whitney Mullins.

“Relaxing the body. Quieting the mind. Opening the heart.”

Mindful, empowered self-care is the heart of healing. Dr. Patterson o ers experiential consultations and classes for persons with stress-related chronic conditions –emphasizing a mindfulness-based approach to promoting resilience, managing stress, preventing burnout and cultivating compassion. Mindfulness is heartfulness. Visit mindbodystudio.org for more information.

Yoga unites body, mind and soul. Join instructor Kim Blitch, for Iyengar Yoga classes:

• Monday 6 - 7:15 pm – Beginner

• Tuesday 5:30 - 6:45 pm – Level 1

• Thursday 9:30 - 10:45 pm – Gentle

• Saturday 9 - 10:15 pm – Beginner

• Sunday 9 - 10:15 pm – Restorative iyengarlex.com

Argentine Tango, the world’s most mindful, meditative, intimate dance. (The social tango, not ballroom.)

If you can walk and hug, you can dance Argentine tango.

Tai Chi and Therapeutic Massage

• Every Wednesday practice from 8 - 10 pm, with beginner lesson 8 - 9 pm

Singles and beginners welcome. No partner or experience required.

Matt Branstetter is a licensed massage therapist and a graduate of Jung Tao School of Classical Chinese Medicine. He has over 25 years experience in meditation and the martial and healing arts and can be reached for appointment at: embodyingtheway@gmail.com

• Immediate Care b y YOUR doctor WHEN

•Wellness that’s personalized for

•A Medical Home for the Entire Family (newbor ns to retirees)

Alliance Benefits

The Concierge Model offers a personalized approach to meet your unique needs and busy schedule.

From crafting a personalized healthcare plan with you, to accommodating last-minute appointments, your well-being is our priority.

Upfront fee allowing more access to your physician.

Much smaller patient panel means much more availability

We believe that availability will allow the busy parent to get care FOR their children WHEN they need it BY experienced physicians.

Wellness Centered Care

Rewriting how healthcare is delivered, literally.

We believe that keeping you healthy is as important as getting you healthy.

Every patient is unique and deserves personal attention, in whatever amount of time needed.

The Hive at High Rock

1392 High Rock Road, Stanton, KY thehiveathighrock.com

Nestled in the woods of Red River Gorge, The Hive at High Rock blends indoor and outdoor environments to create a truly unique spa experience. Natural materials, soft lighting and locally crafted details create an atmosphere that feels peaceful, warm and grounded throughout the massage studios, wellness lounges, yoga decks and outdoor spa areas.

The Hive at High Rock o ers massage therapy, acupuncture, yoga, breathwork and an outdoor thermal spa experience. A feature that sets the business apart from other spas is The Temple, an immersive thermal spa with outdoor clawfoot tubs, an infrared sauna and a cold plunge pool, located in a unique indoor/outdoor setting. The Temple is open from April through November and accommodates up to three guests at a time, making it a special private experience for an individual, couple or small group. The Atrium, the arm of the business o ering massage, breath work, acupuncture and other wellness services, is open year-round.

Another thing that sets The Hive apart is its intentional pace and setting. Unlike high-tra c day spas, the business has cultivated a space where guests aren’t rushed and time feels generous. Thoughtful design and attentive care while being immersed in nature allows guests to experience a deeper sense of rest and connection. By pairing spa treatments with a stay in one of the on-site cabins (also open seasonally), guests can experience a true getaway. Exciting additions planned for the spa include a salt room massage studio, wellness and barefoot trails, a float spa and a new cabin.

Lexington Salt Cave & Wellness

309 N. Ashland Ave., Suite 180 • lexsaltcave.com

Lexington Salt Cave & Wellness is a sanctuary designed for deep restoration. Their signature pink Himalayan salt cave o ers halotherapy to gently cleanse the respiratory system and revitalize the skin, while a curated menu of services helps guests restore balance. From massage and bodywork, yoga, infrared sauna, foot baths and Reiki healing, to intuitive development, coaching and sound healing, every o ering is a chance to recharge the body, mind and soul.

The inviting space welcomes guests with natural light and large windows, earthy colors, soft greenery and a curated retail area with complimentary water and tea. In addition to the calming salt cave, the space includes a cozy foot bath corner, an expansive yoga studio, two massage treatment rooms, a private room with a two-person infrared sauna booth, and a private coaching space.

Lexington Salt Cave o ers a variety of massage therapies, such as Swedish relaxation, deep tissue, lymphatic drainage, cranial sacral, reflexology and Thai. For a special experience, guests can book individual or couples’ massages, Reiki, and reflexology sessions in the salt cave, combining treatment with the benefits of halotherapy.

When asked what sets Lexington Salt Cave & Wellness apart, owner Laura Levine said, “The salt cave is undoubtedly the most unique part of the wellness experience, but the expertise and dedication of our team is what allows us to o er so many wonderfully healing services. We collaborate on many unique events and workshops with practitioners who o er modalities such as Reiki, sound healing, natural health, meditation, music and art therapy.”

Women’s Health Concierge

• Time & access to comprehensively address your most intimate healthcare needs

• Hormonal management of menopause and low libido issues

• Weight loss and energy level concerns

• Primary Care & Urgent Care visits

Aesthetic services offered without membership.

Jennifer Neustat - Advanced Nurse Injector with extensive experience

Aesthetic services offered: Empower RF w/ Morpheus 8 • Botox/Dyport Sculptra • Kysse • Contour • Refyne Kybella • Eurothreads

New treatments available with Skin Classic

Are you bothered by tiny skin concerns like skin tags, cherry angiomas, flat brown spots, milia and more?

Skin Classic uses high-frequency technology to safely and precisely treat superficial skin imperfections with minimal downtime.

Quick treatments. Targeted results.

VISIT US AT BLUEGRASSGYN.COM OR CALL 859-475-5050 TO LEARN MORE.

RESOLVE TO GET INVOLVED WITH LEXGIVE365.

New year, new name. Meet LexGive365! Formerly BGCF365, this giving circle continues to bring people together to support Lexington all year long.

Getting involved is easy! You give $365, just a dollar a day. Your donation is pooled with others, creating a powerful fund. Members decide together how to award $30,000 to support local causes and nonprofits.

LexGive365 is more than a giving circle. It’s a community of neighbors who care about Lexington and want to make a di erence, together.

Make 2026 your year of impact. Join us today! bgcf.org/lexgive365

The Spa at Gri n Gate

1800 Newtown Pike • thespaatgri ngate.com

Located within the Marriott Lexington Gri n Gate Resort, The Spa at Gri n Gate invites guests to discover a world of relaxation, solitude and pure indulgence. With a full menu of o erings that include massage and body therapy, customized facials and HydraFacials, Japanese-inspired head spa services, yoga and sound healing experiences, every visit is designed to feel like a restorative escape.

Luxurious, tranquil treatment rooms o er a serene retreat-like experience. A co-ed relaxation lounge includes a hot tea bar, while separate changing areas for men and women provide access to spa showers and steam rooms. Guests may enhance their experience with a private red light therapy bed and an infrared sauna and can take home favorites from the curated spa boutique.

According to spa director Ellen Barton, what truly sets The Spa at Gri n Gate apart is a holistic approach to wellness. In addition to thoughtfully curated spa treatments, The Spa o ers mindful experiences such as yoga and floating sound baths. The resort setting provides a sense of privacy and ease, o ering guests a vacation-like experience with every visit. This seamless blend of wellness, relaxation and retreat allows each experience to feel immersive, restorative and uniquely memorable.

The Lex Head Spa

2000 Family Circle, Suite C thelexheadspa.com

The most specialized spa on our list, the Lex Head Spa focuses completely on treating the scalp and hair. O ering luxurious scalp massages, rejuvenating hair washes, hair restoration treatments and more, the business strives to provide a serene and revitalizing experience for your scalp and hair, promoting overall wellness and confidence.

Services begin with a microscopic scalp analysis, examining hair follicles and the hair shaft to reveal issues like oiliness, product build-up and inflammation, while helping diagnose hair loss, thinning and other scalp conditions. A typical session includes a head massage as well as cleaning and conditioning, with additional treatments available that include deep cleansing and exfoliation and nourishing scalp and hair masks.

Sessions end with a light blow dry or natural finish, while full blow outs and other styling services may be booked in addition to a scalp treatment. Add-on services also include facial masks, eye masks and lip masks. And while many clients book solo sessions, the Lex Head Spa can accommodate groups, making a visit a great activity for bridal parties and other special events.

Owner Julie Wilson said, “Our overall vibe is to provide a relaxing, scalp-focused service, ultimately giving your scalp a reset. Our guests enjoy a tranquil retreat, blending personalized treatment with a unique calming experience that leaves them refreshed and rejuvenated.”

The Vine Club Spa

106 W. Vine Street • thevinelex.com/spa

The Vine Club Spa is a refined, intimate retreat designed for those who value both wellness and connection. A new resort-style spa exclusively for members of the Vine Club, it’s designed to be a place where guests can spend an entire day. The spa provides everything from indulgent treatments to quiet moments of reflection, all within a luxurious, serene setting.

The spa menu focuses on results-driven bodywork and restorative therapies designed to meet both physical and emotional wellness needs. Services o ered include custom therapeutic massage, hot stone therapy, targeted deep tissue work and other indulgent add-on services. Soft lighting, subtle aromatherapy and curated soundscapes create a tranquil escape within The Vine Club. Members also enjoy full access to resort-style spa amenities, including a sauna, steam room, cold plunge, jacuzzi, relaxation lounge and a champagne and juice bar, and members can also pair a spa visit with a visit to the club’s restaurant, lounge or rooftop pool.

Kelly Wilson, director of memberships at The Vine Club, said that what truly sets The Vine Club Spa apart is its private-club model combined with deeply personalized care.

“We are not a volume-based spa. Every guest is known, remembered and thoughtfully cared for,” she said. “Our therapists build ongoing relationships with members, allowing us to tailor treatments over time and provide consistency, trust and exceptional attention to detail.”

Woodhouse Day Spa

161 Lexington Green Circle • woodhousespas.com

Woodhouse Day Spa strives to provide a luxury experience for all guests, with a service menu that directly reflects the business’ belief in the e ectiveness of self-care. In addition to typical spa offerings like facials, pedicures, manicures, massage and other body treatments, Woodhouse o ers a variety of signature services that have been hand selected for their uniqueness. For example, guests can experience the Calming Retreat, a combination of seven specialized head-to-toe treatments; or the Meditative Mood Soak, which combines aromatherapy, dry brushing, a sea-mineral bath and Swedish massage. In addition to dry room body treatments, Woodhouse also o ers wet treatments through the utilization of its Vichy Shower Room.

The ambiance and aesthetic at Woodhouse Day Spa are designed to encourage maximum relaxation. The peace of the Quiet Lounge is enhanced by the comfort of a luxury robe and heated neck wrap and further enhanced by flavored spa water and specially chosen scents. Guests can round out their visit by taking advantage of the amenities provided in the shower facilities and changing lounge.

Halo Salt Room & Wellness Spa

Kari Mullins opened Halo Salt Room & Wellness Spa in May 2022 with one mission: to help clients feel better, breathe easier and stress less. Mullins has long su ered from allergy-induced asthma, but after discovering salt therapy and doing regular sessions, she was eventually able to abandon her inhaler completely, and the therapy has helped her son avoid allergy shots. These experiences led Mullins and her husband, Donnie, to open their own salt room and wellness spa in the Hamburg location where they now share the benefits of salt therapy and other treatments with their guests.

In addition to salt therapy, Halo’s clients can book a massage or spend time in the infrared sauna. They also o er BEMER PEMF, short for Bio-Electro-Magnetic-EnergyRegulation Pulsed Electromagnetic Field. BEMER PEMF creates an electromagnetic field that is said to stimulate circulation that in turn improves muscle performance. Finally, their services are rounded out with Neora, a line of “clean” skincare.

With a style that Mullins calls “coastal vibes,” Halo is designed to relax guests from the moment they step through the door.

“Our salt rooms have leather recliners with big flu y blankets to allow you to sink in and tune out the world while cleansing your respiratory system.” n

Winter Reading Picks

Sta members at the Carnegie Center for Literacy & Learning have put together a list of some of their favorite books to help us through the cold winter months. Some (but not all) of this month’s selections are by Kentucky authors, or otherwise have Kentucky ties, but together they represent vast and varied selection of styles and genres. We hope you’ll find something worth picking up from your favorite local bookshop or library to cozy up with in the weeks ahead!

RECOMMENDATIONS BY THE STAFF OF CARNEGIE CENTER FOR LITERACY & LEARNING

“Dead Man Blues”

By S.D. House

When a series of related murders occurs in a small Kentucky town in the 1950s, Dave Hendricks, the disgraced former mayor and former sheri , is deputized by the current sheri , Dave’s former his best friend, who stole his wife, to help find the murderer before another life is taken. But when you live in a small town and everyone is connected to everyone and aware of each other’s pasts, how do you determine who’s guilty? Who holds the biggest grudge? Author S.D. House (pseudonym for Lexington author Silas House) keeps you guessing until the very end in his debut mystery novel.

– Reviewed by Jennifer Hester Mattox, Executive Director

“All These Ghosts”

By Silas House

I have read many of House’s novels and was eager to dive into this book of poetry. House is a gifted writer, no matter the genre. This collection does not disappoint. It is nostalgic, heartbreaking and encouraging, revealing his boyhood days and his love of the natural world, his family and music. I have always found poetry is more beautiful if read out loud. Treat yourself to this gift of “All These Ghosts.”

– Reviewed by Carol Jordan, Development and Finance Associate

“Shadow Ticket”

By Thomas Pynchon

In Pynchon’s ninth, and possibly final, novel, 1930’s private investigator Hicks McTaggart encounters anarchist bombings, a Wisconsin Nazi bowling league, the ugliest lamp in the world, a vampire motorcycle gang and multiple dairy industry conspiracies as he tries to find and return the daughter of “The Al Capone of Cheese” to her family and fiancé. “Shadow Ticket” continues Pynchon’s career-long fascination with transitional periods of history and using seemingly silly stories to make deeply insightful comment on current events without ever mentioning them directly.

– Reviewed by Logan Lay, Marketing Associate and Web Layout

“Sorry I Keep Crying During Sex”

By Jesse James Rose

This raw, experimental, funny-sad memoir of a nonbinary trans girl’s sexuality and experiences drew me in from the beginning. By the end of it, I was completely undone. Gorgeous prose and a sharp sense of humor both lighten and deepen Rose’s exploration of the heavy topics they cover — grief, sexual assault, the relationship between oneself and one’s trauma, queer identity and gender expression, among others — and I was especially surprised by the political commentary woven throughout, including an imagined conversation between Rose and Osama Bin Laden (which was much more heartwarming than it sounds). There’s even a surprise connection to Kentucky that I didn’t know before I started reading. Overall, this book isn’t for the faint of heart or prudish reader, but it’s one I will never forget. I especially recommend the audiobook, which is skillfully narrated by the author.

“All This Could Be Yours”

By Hank Phillippi Ryan

Tessa Calloway’s book tour for her bestselling debut novel seems to be a dream come true until she realizes her devoted fans aren’t the only attendees at her sold-out events. Someone has uncovered her childhood secrets. Penetrating personal questions about Tessa’s hometown and break-ins to her hotel rooms make her fear for her career and her safety. With people tormenting her as she travels from city to city on her publicly promoted book tour, the pressure builds as she worries for her young family back home and considers the nosy new neighbors she’s not yet met. Tessa must unravel how everything is connected and who is out to get her before her life and her family’s is completely torn apart.

– Reviewed by Jennifer Hester Mattox, Executive Director

“Trigger Warning”

By Jacinda Townsend

Ruth could have used a trigger warning before the tragedies in her life. Her little brother became sick from a childhood disease, the grief killed her mother, and her father was shot and killed by the police in front of their house. Ruth stu ed the pain inside and went on with her life. She changes her name, marries, has a child, and it looks like she’s living large, but something doesn’t feel right. She wishes she had a trigger warning before her marriage ended and house burned down. Then she learns that her sister, estranged from her for years, has MS. After this news she returns to her home state, California, to face the heartbreaking things she buried within. This book is a deeply moving, often funny lesson in doing hard things. Jacinda Townsend, an incredible Black Kentucky writer once again leaves me wanting to keep reading. I can’t recommend “Trigger Warning” highly enough.

– Reviewed by Maggie Garnett, Program & Registrar Associate

“Legends & Lattes”

By Travis Baldree

This novel made popular by “BookTok,” is best categorized as a sliceof-life book, though it could also fall into the category of fantasy or cozy adventure. In any case, it is just the right thing for a cold winter’s morning with a warm cup of co ee.

The heroine of the book is Viv, an orc barbarian, who has spent a lifetime as a warrior for hire — that is, until coffee came into her life. After becoming enamored by the beverage, she found a small town in which to open a co ee shop of her own. Not all goes smoothly, and you’ll be swept along by the adventure as she fights against the evil forces who hope to quell her dream.

– Reviewed by Claudia Love Mair, Kentucky Black Writers Collaborative Director

“My Grandmother Asked Me to Tell You She’s Sorry”

By Fredrik Backman

If you’re looking for a well-told story that has all the “good parts” in books you read as a child, this is it. In a novel described as “‘Lord of the Flies’ meets ‘The Chronicles of Narnia,’” Louisville author Meg Sha er’s enchanting story transports adult readers to the land of “what if?” I was instantly drawn in by former lost boys Rafe and Jeremy, now men, and Emilie, a woman seeking her own lost sister. The three enter the kingdom of Shenandoah, where they must remember the past and face the enemy in order to forge their futures. n

– Reviewed by Sarabeth Brownrobie, Marketing & Communications Director

– Reviewed by Sarabeth Brownrobie. Marketing & Communications Direcor

DON’T

WAIT!

You don’t want to be caught in the dark again!

BE THE ONLY HOME ON THE BLOCK WITH POWER DURING AN OUTAGE.

Ask the Home Services Expert with Jamie Clark

Q: I’m thinking of buying a portable generator to power my house in the case of a extended power outage. Can you recommend a good one and what size I might need?

Kathy, Lakewood

A: The short answer is: I do not recommend portable generators to power your house. Portable generators are designed for small outdoor use like tailgating or camping.

They are not big enough to do much, and they can be very dangerous if not used properly. We frequently see news stories about someone carbon monoxide poisoning or electrical fires due to generators not being not being installed properly.

Larger generators should only be installed by trained professionals, as trying to hook a generator to your home during a power outage can be difficult and dangerous. They are heavy and hard to move around, and typically run on gasoline so you have to keep refilling them. If it’s not hooked directly to the house, you will have to run cords to all the appliances you are trying to power — all this while your power is out, which in most cases is during inclement weather. It’s not fun, and just not worth it.

A whole-house automatic generator is a much safer option, when installed by a licensed professional who is certified to work with both natural

gas and electrical. When the grid goes down, automatic generators sense it, and can power everything you need in case of an outage. Properly installed, they are extremely safe and give you the peace of mind of never losing power again and never having to wrestle with a portable generator, just to restore minimum power. Plus, whole-house generators add value to your home. There are many neighborhoods in Lexington that I would not live in without one.

Q: I heard you on the radio saying that most of our home’s are under-insulated, by today’s code. If I go up in my attic to measure how deep my insulation is, what all should I look for?

Mo, Lexington

A: According to a recent study, 93% of all homes built before 2015 are under-insulated, and in my experience many have less than half of today’s code standard. The depth is not the only aspect we care about. If you have two feet of insulation on one side of the attic and only six inch on the other, the heat is just going to leak out of the less-insulated area, making the more insulated side worthless. To meet minimum code, we want to see about 15 inches of insulation, consistent throughout the entire attic. If you have low spots from having work done in the attic, or if you’ve created a walk path from one side to the other, that could cause you to lose a lot of heat in the winter and allow heat into the house in the summer.

While 15 inches is today’s code minimum, Energystar recommends 20 inches, assuming its fiberglass or cellulose (the most common types of insulation). I’m a much bigger fan of attic encapsulation with open cell spray foam, especially if your HVAC system is in the attic. In the summer, your attic can easily reach 140 degrees, with that heat finding its way into the home making the HVAC work harder. If the HVAC ducts are in the attic, you are basically trying to push cold air through an oven during the hot months, losing a lot in the process and making your system work harder. A spray foam encapsulated attic is only going to be in the mid 80’s in the summer, making your home much easier to cool and saving you money. During winter, the foam acts like a toboggan, trapping all the heat in the house and saving you as much as 70% on your heating bill. But one HUGE side benefit in switching from fiberglass insulation to spray foam is a dramatic decrease in the amount of dust in the house.

When we encapsulate, we vacuum out all the old nasty fiberglass (and I do mean nasty!) and often find all kinds of dead bugs, rodents, feces and other gross things that are negatively impacting your home’s air quality (and your allergies!). Once that has all been removed, the air quality will improve immediately.

Questions about your home’s efficiency, comfort, or air quality? Email info@ mysynergyhome.

Call Synergy Home for a free estimate for any of your

CREATIVE TYPES

Babita Shrestha

THE NEPALESE-BORN LEXINGTON CHEF FUSES VISUAL ART, CULINARY HISTORY AND MORE WITH THE RELEASE OF HER SECOND COOKBOOK, “GARDEN EXOTICA: INTERNATIONAL PLANT-BASED CUISINE”

BY MATT WICKSTROM

Born in Nepal and a resident of Lexington for the past decade, Babita Shrestha can recall very few special memories from her past where food was not the focal point. Growing up in a small village before moving to the nation’s capital of Kathmandu at 12, she says that cooking two or three meals a day with her mom and grandmother was a regular occurrence, a practice that was ingrained into her DNA from a young age.

“The culture was that everyone cooked at home,” explained Shrestha, who is celebrating the recent release of “Garden Exotica: International Plant-based Fusion Cuisine,” the second cookbook in her “Plant-Based Himalaya” series. “There was no going out to eat and there weren’t even many restaurants. However, there were places people would go to sell their food, similar to the Lexington Farmers’ Market, because everyone had land and the weather allowed for growing year round.”

Those childhood culinary experiences continue to feed and inspire Shrestha’s relationship with food.

“Even now I can’t eat out much,” she noted. “My body simply doesn’t function right if I’m not regularly eating home-cooked meals.”

After a brief stint in Kathmandu, Shrestha relocated to Hong Kong during the Nepalese Civil War and found work as a domestic helper, but she wasn’t satisfied. With hopes in mind of chasing a brighter future and following her friends, she eventually moved to the United States and settled in Minnesota, where she earned a graphic design degree from St. Cloud State University in 2015. But an inner restlessness persisted even after graduation, and eventually she began pivoting from designing pamphlets and other products for clients, to writing, photographing and producing her own books.

“Garden Exotica” features over 60 recipes that blend traditional Nepali roots with staples from other countries around the globe.

PHOTOS FURNISHED

An initial passion for directing films in college had led her to explore photography and design, and she used those skills to create both of her cookbooks, doing all her own photography and design work.

“For a while I thought I’d be doing that kind of stu for magazines, but instead it shifted into doing all those things — and writing — for my own books.”

Released in November, “Garden Exotica” is a follow-up to 2022’s “Plant-Based Himalaya: Vegan Recipes From Nepal.” Each of the books feature dozens of plant-based recipes from Shrestha’s Nepalese homeland as well as other international influences, from sauces and salads to curries, dal, sandwiches and desserts. The books are as beautiful as they are informative, with a special focus on wholesome and nourishing home-cooked meals that celebrate sustainability and local ingredients.

Shrestha’s vision and hard work have not gone unnoticed — her first cookbook won the “Special Award of the Jury” at the 31st Gourmand World Cookbook Awards last year, and “Garden Exotica” is nominated for this year’s award program. She was also recently awarded a grant from the Kentucky Foundation for Women which will support her first multisensory photo exhibition, “The Art of Nourishment,” which will debut later this year (details forthcoming).

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During a recent conversation with Shrestha at Martine’s Pastries, the author spoke about the inspiration behind her books, favorite recipes, creative plans for the future, and more.

What was the turning point that led to you wanting to create your own cookbook? “It took me graduating to realize that [traditional graphic design] wasn’t what I wanted to do. I was also stressed because international students only have three months to find a job after they graduate before they’re forced to leave the country, but then a big earthquake hit Nepal in late 2015 that resulted in me getting temporary protected status. That event spurred a move to Lexington to be closer to my sister [who lived there at the time] and a return to focusing on cooking, something I’d continued to think about even as I was progressing through design school.

That’s also when I first started Vegan Nepal, a pop-up that sold fresh, plantbased Nepali food around town. After a few years doing that, followed by my first visit to Nepal in over a decade in 2020, my first cookbook, “Plant-Based Himalaya,” began taking shape. It was my husband who really inspired me to put all of it — from the photography to the design and food — together into something that was much more than just a cookbook. It was a daunting task because I’d never written before, but in reality, I had all of the skills and know-how. It was just a matter of applying what I already knew in a di erent manner than I’d ever done before.

What’s one staple recipe from your new cookbook that you think everybody will love? Samosas are always a

popular item. They’re basically a fried potato pastry, but with a savory inside. There’s a variety of di erent things you can put inside, from chickpeas and potatoes to green chiles, mango powder and a bevy of spices and dipping sauces. If you have extras, you can even break them down and top them with homemade yogurt sauce, pomegranates and toasted peanuts to make a samosa chaat. But aside from just the samosa recipe, the book contains so much knowledge about samosas, from tips to achieving optimal crispiness when cooking them to how to properly wrap one and where to get ingredients.

Sounds like it’s more of a culinary encyclopedia than a cookbook! How did you go about keeping the recipes as authentic as possible while also keeping it approachable to people not as fluent in Nepali cuisine? Yes! A lot of people have also said it’s a good co ee table book, but I see it as more than just that — it’s a historical moment for me. Not only had a book centered around vegan and plant-based Nepali food never existed before, but it also encompasses so many di erent cultures, especially in a place like Kathmandu. There people eat everything from Thai food to Japanese, Mediterranean and more. I tried really

Shrestha said that the creation of her second cookbook coincided with — and was inspired by — the arrival of her daughter, Saraswati.

PHOTO FURNISHED

hard to capture that fusion of styles in this latest cookbook while keeping things as accessible as possible to people who either aren’t familiar with the food or as comfortable in a kitchen setting as someone like me who’s been doing most of this since childhood.

You’ve had a pop-up, held cooking classes and have written your own cookbooks. What’s the next step in your culinary journey? My husband [Charles Moreland] is a musician, so we’re always talking about art. Those conversations got me thinking about presenting my work in di erent art galleries and museums. I recently won my first photography grant through LexArts and got to showcase some of my work during a book release event I held in December. I also have another show planned for this spring that I’m hoping to make into a sensory experience where you come in and can smell and taste some Nepali food while observing my photography with music and dance taking place in the background.

To me, food is just one part of the larger spiritual journey to healthy living, so getting to combine all of those elements would be a dream come true. n

SPICYSESAME NOODLE SALAD

RECIPE AND PHOTOS BY BABITA SHRESTHA, AUTHOR OF “GARDEN EXOTICA: INTERNATIONAL PLANT-BASED CUISINE”

Nepalese-born Lexington chef, photographer and cookbook author Babita Shrestha recently released her second cookbook, “Garden Exotica,” which features plantbased recipes from around the world.

PHOTO FURNISHED

place them in a mixing bowl. Crush fresh ginger using a mortar and pestle, then add to the bowl with ½ teaspoon salt, black pepper and 1 tablespoon of lime juice. Gently toss to coat the tofu evenly. Let the tofu marinate for 15-30 minutes at room temperature.

2. Make the Sesame Dressing. Grind 2 tablespoons of toasted black sesame seeds in a mortar and pestle. Reserve 1 tablespoon of the toasted sesame seeds for garnish. In a separate bowl, whisk together the ground sesame seeds, 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, 1 tablespoon of lime juice and 1 teaspoon of salt.

3. Prepare the Vegetables. In a large bowl, combine the cabbage, sliced red onion, green onion, carrot, bell pepper, green chilies and chopped cilantro. Pour the sesame dressing over the vegetables and toss to coat. Let the salad marinate for 10 minutes.

4. Cook the Pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine or pasta of choice and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until al dente. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse briefly under cold water. Drain thoroughly. Toss the pasta with 1 tablespoon of sesame oil and set aside to cool (or serve warm, if preferred.)

5. Fry the Tofu. Heat a flat skillet or castiron pan over medium heat. Add oil. Fry the marinated tofu cubes for 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning. Transfer the cooked tofu to a plate and let it cool slightly.

An essential addition to your weekly meal prep repertoire, this show-stopping noodle salad is sure to impress your guests or nourish your family. As delicious as it is beautiful, the dish can be made with any noodle variety you prefer or can find at your local market. The tofu serves as a versatile base and can be easily substituted with your protein of choice.

Spicy Sesame Noodle Salad

Ingredients:

• 14 ounces extra firm tofu, diced

• 2 tablespoons olive oil, for frying tofu

• 2 tablespoons ginger, crushed

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• 3 tablespoons lime juice

• 2 tablespoons sesame oil

• 3 tablespoons toasted black sesame seeds

• 1½ teaspoons salt

• ½ cup red cabbage, thinly sliced

• ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced

• ¼ cup green onion, chopped

• ½ cup carrot, julienne

• ¼ cup red bell peppers, thinly sliced

• 2 green chilies, chopped

• ½ cup cilantro, finely chopped

• ½ cup roasted peanuts

• 5 oz (140 g) linguine pasta

• 1 fresh lime

Method:

1. Marinate the Tofu. Remove tofu from water, pat dry with a clean kitchen towel, and gently press to remove excess moisture. Cut the tofu into cubes and

6. Assemble the Salad. Add the cooled linguine pasta to the bowl of salad. Gently fold all ingredients together with your hand or two wooden spoons. Add the tofu cubes and toasted peanuts, then fold again to combine. Transfer the salad to a serving bowl and garnish with the reserved toasted black sesame seeds, chopped green onion, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Enjoy!

TIPS:

For a delightful and creamy textural contrast, I recommend toasting your sesame seeds and peanuts at home. Simply toast them in a cast-iron pan for 5-10 minutes over medium-low heat until fragrant. I have also shared my best tips to toast different nuts in my book, “Garden Exotica.”

For a comforting variation, particularly during the winter months, may be served warm. I recommend lightly sautéing the vegetables in the same pan after frying the tofu, then tossing everything together. This method softens the vegetables, making the dish more digestible and approachable for my toddler daughter. n

MANAGING WINTER BLUES AND STRESS

BY MISSY AMMERMAN, LCSW THERAPIST AND COACH

Welcome to February in Lexington! The excitement and hustle of the holidays is over, the winter doldrums have settled in, and Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. It can be a di cult time of year here in Central Kentucky as the days remain short, the temperatures cold, and gray skies fade into gray asphalt. This month can certainly feel emotionally loaded, especially for those feeling lonely.

Here’s the good news… the days are getting longer, temperatures are trajecting upward, and the first crocus of the year should be emerging in a few weeks! The kids are back to school, routines have been re-established after the holidays, and for many people, it just tends to be a slow time of year.  It’s the perfect time to rest and focus on your mental health.

Let’s let this month be about steadiness instead of growth. Too much pressure and overbooked calendars can lead to a dysregulated nervous system. Our nervous system is our body’s central control network, keeping our bodies balanced between states of alertness and relaxation. Our nervous system was not designed for modern life, and when we are constantly being inundated with texts, emails, calls and notifications, it keeps us in a state of being overstimulated. Regulating our nervous system means balancing our body’s stress response and relaxation systems. A regulated system can move from a high alert state back to a state of calm without getting stuck in overdrive.

Nervous system dysregulation can be caused by chronic stress, traumatic events and unhealthy habits, such as excess alcohol, poor diet or lack of quality

sleep, to name a few. This can lead to an overstimulated vagus nerve. The vagus nerve is the body’s longest cranial nerve and acts as an information superhighway, transmitting signals between the brain and organs. When you’re stressed, the vagus nerve can become overstimulated, which may cause you to feel fatigued, anxious, overwhelmed, or have di culty focusing on day-to-day tasks. This can lead to digestive issues, muscle tension, headaches or insomnia.

SO, what do we do about it?

4-7-8 Breathing

The 4-7-8 breathing technique triggers the vagus nerve and signals safety to your brain by acting as a natural tranquilizer. It activates the parasympathetic nervous system (rest and relax) and suppresses the sympathetic nervous system (fight or flight), which signals the body to relax by slowing your heart rate and lowering your blood pressure. Here’s how you do it:

1. Empty your lungs by exhaling completely

2. Inhale through your nose for 4 seconds  3. Hold your breath for 7 seconds

4. Exhale through your mouth for 8 seconds

5. Repeat

This is a free, simple and highly e ective technique that can be used anywhere to help quell anxiety, requiring no props or tools. While it may not completely eliminate your anxiety, significantly reducing it is still a huge win.

Walking

Walking reduces stress by releasing endorphins, which are the body’s natural pain killers and mood elevators. Regular walking helps reduce stress hormones, increases serotonin and dopamine, which improves mood, and boosts norepinephrine, which enhances your body’s ability to manage stress.

Sleep

Sleep is critical in managing stress. When you don’t have adequate sleep, your body stays in a heightened state of alert, you can become more impulsive, more sensitive, less patient and prone to mood swings. Sleep allows your brain to process emotions, regulate hormones and balance neurotransmitters, which help to stabilize your mood.

Grounding Techniques

Grounding is a way to help you stay in the present moment when you are feeling anxious or overwhelmed. It shifts the focus from your internal distress to your external reality, which calms the nervous system and breaks the cycle of racing thoughts and intense emotions.

A simple grounding technique:

1. Name five things you see

2. Name four things you can touch

3. Name three things you can hear

4. Name two things you can smell

5. Name one thing you can taste

Co-Regulate

And speaking of Valentine’s Day…One of the most e ective ways to manage difficult emotions is by sharing them with a supportive partner or friend. We are not wired to deal with stress and pain alone. Just holding someone’s hand during a stressful situation can have a tranquilizing e ect on your nervous system. Having a safe partner or trusted friend beside you literally changes how your brain perceives both emotional and physical pain. Don’t underestimate the power of empathy during a stressful time. It’s priceless.

Seek professional help

If you feel like you’re struggling to manage your mental health, and life stressors become overwhelming, then it may be time to seek professional help. Therapy can help provide insight and tools to help get you unstuck and back to feeling like yourself again. n

“This

Steven, Lexington

Events Calendar

CONCERTS & GIGS

Night Moves. Feb. 5. Minneapolis-based indie rock outfit Night Moves brings melodic folk-pop and textured arrangements to an intimate concert setting, blending warm harmonies and rhythms that appeal to fans of indie and Americana. 8 p.m. The Burl, 375 Thompson Road. www.theburlky.com

The Fanged Robot: A Tribute to Robby Cosenza. Feb. 7. This benefit concert honoring late Lexington musician Robby Cosenza will feature performances from a variety of musicians who collaborated with Cosenza over the course of his storied musical career or were otherwise close with him, including Otto Helmuth, Warren Byrom, Marl Charles, Brandon Judd, Andy Mason, Chris Sullivan and others. 7 p.m. The Burl, 375 Thompson Road. www.theburlky.com

Low Gap. Feb. 12. The Ohiobased band brings a rootsleaning sound shaped by country, folk and Americana, pairing straightforward songwriting with a relaxed but confident live presence. 8 p.m. The Burl, 375 Thompson Road. www.theburlky.com

The Moonshiner’s Ball

After-Glow: Hot Brown Smackdown, Them Lasses, Blind Corn Liquor Pickers. Feb. 14. Presented by organizers of the regional fall music festival Moonshiner’s Ball, this gathering features three regional acts who draw inspiration from progressive bluegrass, folk, Americana, rock and a variety of other genres, in a lively, engaging and convivial setting. 8 p.m.

The Burl, 375 Thompson Road. www.theburlky.com

Magoo. Feb. 19. The quickly rising Denver-based progressive bluegrass outfit Magoo brings its electrifying live show to Lexington, ripe with tight three-part harmonies, intricate original arrangements and extended improvisations. 8 p.m.

The Burl, 375 Thompson Rd. www.theburlky.com

Sundy Best. Feb. 21. Kentucky roots duo Sundy Best performs a set rooted in Americana and folk traditions, with harmonized vocals and eclectic acoustic textures. 8 p.m. Manchester Music Hall, 899 Manchester St. www.manchestermusichall.com

Saxsquatch. Feb. 22. The former saxophonist for The Marcus King Band, Dean Mitchell, better known by his stage name Saxsquatch, is known for wearing a bigfoot costume and playing cover versions of popular songs on the saxophone. 8 p.m. Manchester Music Hall, 899 Manchester St. www.manchestermusichall.com

Rascal Flatts: Life is a Highway Tour. Feb. 26. Country trio Rascal Flatts performs hits from their multi-platinum catalog alongside songs from their latest projects in a production featuring full band arrangements, lighting e ects and a setlist crafted for longtime fans and new listeners alike. With special guests Dan + Shay and Gabby Barrett. 7:30 p.m. Rupp Arena, 430 W Vine St. www.rupp.com

Kelsey Waldon. Feb 28. Kentucky singer-songwriter Kelsey Waldon brings her honky-tonk-rooted country sound and plainspoken songwriting to the stage, drawing on classic influences while addressing contemporary themes. 8 p.m. The Burl, 375 Thompson Road. www. theburlky.com

ART & EXHIBITS

FRKO: Waymin’. On display through March 7. Institute 193 kicks o its 2026 exhibition season with a solo show by Atlanta-based artist and illustrator FRKO, whose work spans drawing, painting and sculpture and examines Southern culture, hip-hop and social commentary. Gallery hours: Wed.-Sat., 11 a.m.-6 p.m. and by appointment. Institute 193, 215 N. Limestone St. institute193.org

The Four Seasons in Watercolor: Paintings by Mohana Raje. On display through Feb. 8. Paintings by Mohana Raje present a series of watercolor works inspired by the shifts of the four seasons, capturing moments drawn from nature and everyday observation. The exhibition invites viewers to move through an entire year of changing light, color and atmosphere, emphasizing reflection and emotional resonance over narrative. Gallery hours: Sat.-Sun., noon-3 p.m., and by appointment. Mill & Max Contemplative Arts Space, 305 W. Maxwell St. millandmaxgallery.com

Gnatland: Neon Organisms of the New Age. On display through March 13. This exhibition brings together neon-drenched work by Morgan Hardigree and biomorphic assemblages by Jason Kash to explore transformation as both a personal and material process, creating an immersive environment of color and form. Gallery hours: Tues.-Fri., 1-5 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., and by appointment. 2nd Story, 522 W. Short St. secondstory.art

Ginnie Baer: Gateway to Somewhere. On display Feb. 6-April 3. This exhibition presents new work by Ginnie Baer, exploring imagined landscapes and transitional spaces

through layered imagery and subtle shifts in color and form. Gallery hours: Wed.-Sat., noon-5 p.m. Loudoun House, 209 Castlewood Dr. www. lexingtonartleague.org

Jack Girard: Canines, Collages, and Bowling Pins. On display Feb. 6-April 3. Jack Girard presents a playful body of work combining collage, painting and sculptural elements, using familiar imagery and unexpected materials to explore humor, pattern and visual storytelling. The exhibition highlights Girard’s interest in everyday subjects transformed through repetition and juxtaposition. Gallery hours: Wed.-Sat., noon-5 p.m. Loudoun House, 209 Castlewood Dr. www. lexingtonartleague.org

Ecstatic Personas. On display Feb. 3-April 7. The exhibition examines how artists construct and perform identity through exaggerated, expressive and symbolic personas. The works explore emotion, transformation and self-representation across a range of media and approaches. Gallery hours: Tues.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., noon-5 p.m. University of Kentucky Art Museum, 405 Rose St. finearts.uky.edu/artmuseum

Harry Gamboa Jr.: The Early, The Late, The Lost. On display Feb. 3-June 27. This career-spanning exhibition examines more than five decades of work by Harry Gamboa Jr., a photographer and performance artist rooted in activist communities of East Los Angeles, combining photography, documentation and writing to challenge conventions of representation and cultural narratives. Gallery hours: Tues.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat., noon-5 p.m. University of Kentucky Art Museum, 405 Rose St. finearts.uky.edu/artmuseum

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EXHIBITS

March 21. During the LexArts HOPs, thousands of locals and visitors alike converge on downtown Lexington to celebrate art throughout the evening with new gallery exhibitions and special arts events, at traditional and nontraditional gallery spaces alike.

lexarts-hop

Aquaventure 2025. On display March 3-May 2. This exhibit will display diverse works from an array of top artists from the Kentucky Watercolor Society. An opening reception will take place in con junction with the LexArts Hop on March 21 (5-8 p.m.). Gallery hours: Fri-Sat., 12-4 p.m. and by appointment. Artist’s Attic, 401 W. Main St., Suite 401. www.theartistsattic.org

LuigART Women 2025. On display March 1-31. Hosted by the

ETC.

Mary Lattimore and Yasmin Williams. Feb. 5.

Harpist Mary Lattimore and guitarist Yasmin Williams bring intricate, textural interplay to their collaborative concert, weaving resonant harmonics and exploratory techniques in a performance that blurs folk, ambient and avantgarde influences. 7:30 p.m. Singletary Center for the Arts, 405 Rose St. www. scfatickets.com

Broadway Live: “Hadestown.” Feb. 6-8. This Tony Award-winning musical reimagines Greek myth with a score that fuses folk, jazz and blues, following Orpheus and Eurydice through a journey of love and defiance. Fri., 7:30 p.m.; Sat., 1 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; Sun., 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Lexington Opera House, 401 W. Short St. www.lexingtonoperahouse.com

Fest of Ales. Feb. 7. This annual craft beer tasting event features a rotating selection of regional and national breweries alongside food o erings and music. 1-4 p.m. Manchester Music Hall, 899 Manchester St. www. manchestermusichall.com

Ira Glass and Jad Abumrad. Feb. 21. Public radio producers Ira Glass (“This American Life”) and Jad Abumrad (“Radiolab”) present a live conversation and performance blending storytelling, narrative insight and reflections on sound and culture. 7:30 p.m. Norton Center for the Arts, Weisiger Theatre, 600 W. Walnut St., Danville. www.nortoncenter.com

LexPhil presents Jubilee & Joy: Green & Beethoven. Feb. 21. Under the baton of music director Mélisse Brunet, the Lexington Philharmonic will celebrate humankind’s timeless pursuit for connection and joy. The show opens with 2025-’26 Saykaly Garbu-

linska composer-in-residence Brittany J. Green’s “TESTIFY!,” inspired by the rhythms and harmonies of her childhood memories. LexPhil will then be joined by The Lexington Singers for Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9. 7:30 p.m. Singletary Center for the Arts, 405 Rose St. www.scfatickets. com

C.S. Lewis: “The Screwtape Letters.” Feb. 25-26. This live theatrical adaptation of C.S. Lewis’s satirical novel unfolds through correspondence between a senior demon and his nephew as they plot the temptation of a human soul. 7:30 p.m. each night. Lexington Opera House, 401 W. Short St. www.lexingtonoperahouse.com

Turtle Island Quartet: Shades of Blue. Feb. 26. The Grammy Award-winning Turtle Island Quartet blends classical string quartet technique with jazz and blues influences exploring the intersections of genre and improvisation. 7:30 p.m. Singletary Center for the Arts, 405 Rose St. www.scfa-tickets.com

The Music of the “Lord of the Rings,” “The Hobbit” and “The Ring of Power”: In Concert. Feb. 27. This epic concert event features the Oscar-winning music featured in the beloved scores from “The Lord of the Rings,” “The Hobbit” and “The Ring of Power,” performed by a symphonic orchestra, choir, star soloists and a special guest from the films. 4 p.m. Singletary Center for the Arts, 405 Rose St. www.scfatickets.com

The Music of Hans Zimmer and Others: A Celebration of Film Music. Feb. 27. This program will feature iconic music by Hans Zimmer and other leading voices in cinematic scoring, presented by a full orchestra in tribute to the art of film composition. 8 p.m. Singletary Center for the Arts, 405 Rose St. www. scfatickets.com n

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PETE’S PROPERTIES

Recent Residential Property Transactions

40502

150 N. Hanover Ave. $190,000

717 Aurora Ave. $260,000

150 N. Hanover Ave. $266,770

110 Hazel Ave. $270,000

327 Hanover Ct. $280,000

327 Hanover Ct. $280,000

309 Thistleton Cir. $380,000

658 Montclair Dr. $390,000

3086 Montavesta Rd. $437,000

2913 Tabor Oaks Ln. $495,000

304 Leawood Dr. $557,000

781 Glendover Rd. $599,000

245 Henry Clay Blvd $645,000

2072 Norborne Dr. $725,000

306 Irvine Rd. $850,000

324 Albany Rd. $422,000 767 Bravington Way $795,000 40513

2545 Ashbrooke Dr. $269,900 3324 Gondola Ct. $420,000

MOVER: 624 LAKESHORE DR. $1,235,000

2228 Chamblee Ln. $880,000 1233 Raeford Ln. $900,000 40514 4205 Canterbury Green Way $279,900 1428 Copperfield Ct. $530,000 1433 Copperfield Ct. $597,000 40515

887 Jairus Dr. $253,000 709 Pinnacle Ct. $395,000 4504 Meadowbridge Ct. $410,000 4736 Ironbridge Dr. $455,000

4008 Creekwater Cir. $500,000

929 Firethorn Pl. $550,000

433 Spencer Park $595,000

4991 Tynebrae Rd. $705,000 40517

3421 Lansdowne Dr. $412,000 n

Recent arm’s length residentialsales for this magazine’s distribution area. Information compiledby Fayette County Property Valuation Administrator David O’Neill. For more information on any of these properties,or others,pleasevisitwww.fayettepva.