Plus, North Limestone Neighborhood Yard Sale.
 
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95º | 6% chance of precipitation
Sunrise 6:45 a.m. | Sunset 8:41 p.m.
 

Culture

Finding your third place in Lexington
An outdoor cafe with a wooden + stone walk way that parts luscious greenery and tables with people sitting at them.
Our follower @ashleynantz listed Kentucky Native Cafe as one of her third places. | Photo by LEXtoday
Do you have a third place around Lexington? Besides your home (first space) and workplace (second space), where do you go throughout the week to find solace? Take a moment to reflect. Whose faces do you see + who do you talk to when you go there? Do you look forward to going and feel welcome?

If you could easily picture this space + answered “yes” to the ease of the gathering, congratulations — you’ve found a third place. If you couldn’t, that’s okay. We’ll give you some ideas for finding one around Lexington.

What is a third place?

Ray Oldenburg, sociologist and author of “The Great Good Place,” shares that third places are public, informal gathering spaces that you frequent in your community (think: coffee shops, parks, libraries, bookstores, salons... etc.). Oldenburg says that these places are important for many reasons, but particularly because they promote social vitality + a sense of community.
“It’s hard for me to pick just one so I’m going with two. The first one is for sure my yoga home at Creative Yoga. Whether you’ve been going there for years or it’s your first time, everyone is so welcoming and happy to see each other. I’m also so grateful for Sorella’s. In addition to their delicious gelato, Alma + Selma know their customers by name and are always thrilled you are there.” — Molly, City Editor

“I’m a mindfulness gal, so any place that allows me to fully present in my surroundings is a go-to. My most frequented spot has to be Liberty Park, where the greenery gives me that heavy dose of biophilia needed for a healthy mental break, and the path to Brighton Rail Bridge let’s me appreciate this beautiful city from a different perspective. — Aayat, City Editor
A paved pathway surrounded by yellow flowers and trees

Take a break from the busyness of your day + surround yourself with 60+ species of trees, shrubs, and flowers at UK’s Arboretum. | Photo by LEXtoday

Readers’ picks

“The Arboretum, great place to walk and enjoy nature. Always feels safe and yet private. Everyone you see there is always super friendly!” — Amanda H.

“Cross Keys Park. Geese, adult park bench swing, pond. I can walk to 3 parks from my house.” — Lee D.

“Shamrocks Brannon Crossing. It’s close, food is great, beer is ice cold and the staff is awesome!” — Gwen H.

“McConnell Springs, an absolute oasis in the middle of an industrial park in the city.” — Jill D.

“Lexington Salt Cave! A calm, yet rejuvenating space to relax and breathe!” — Sandy M.

“My third place has to be Joseph-Beth Booksellers. I can get lost in the aisles of books, peruse one by taking a seat between the aisles, or just meander around till something catches my eye. I’ve only lived in Lexington four years and Joseph-Beth was a place I was familiar with before I moved here. Its familiarity helped me settle into a new city until it felt like home. Now Joseph-Beth feels like a little piece of home.” — Kelli W.

“The UK arboretum! I have been on the walking trail probably 100 times, but it still brings me joy and peace. And I love seeing other Lexingtonians enjoying the outdoors in an accessible, fun way!” — Rachel W.

“The labyrinth at Wellington Park. Peaceful, quiet, contemplative solace in the center of the business.” — Susan C.

“Cycle You Fitness — they focus on all things mind and body and make it a welcoming, supportive space.” — Kaitlin H.

“The Arboretum! I meet a friend 4-5 times a week early in the morning to walk, talk, enjoy the weather and all that nature has to offer! The path one time around is 2 miles and the scenery, smells and sounds make me happy and ready to start the day!!” — Lesley A.

“I love love love @highonartandcoffee, vibes are immaculate, super chill, tasty coffee and delicious food! The owners are also the absolute sweetest humans!!” — @makshausofglam

"@burlbrew hanging with the regulars that are much more like friends that I get to see all week, playing pool and serving beers to these wonderful people when I do work.” — @johnmiller.jr

“Meditative walks, birdwatching, historic — The Lexington Cemetery” — @annesworld1

"@martinespastries! Wonderful coffee, baked goods, lunch menu and space!” — @lighter.than.air.ky

"@lexpublib @lexkyparks some of our favorites are Free Friday Flicks at Jacobson Park, library main branch events (fun adult centric stuff!), Thriller dance lessons and parade, Lexington senior center for 65+, moondance theater shows, Jazz in the Park. Shilito disc golf. Bike ride the Legacy Trail. All free (bring your own equipment) and really fun. Many you can bring your own food and drinks to and enjoy the space.” — @morganchojnacki

Now, we want you to join the conversation. Take this survey to tell us about your third place, and why you love it.
Asked

What local spots do you consider your third place?
Sharing is caring
Baptist Health
 
Events
Tuesday, Aug. 6
  • Nature in Your Neighborhood | Tuesday, Aug. 6 | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | Douglass Park | Free | Go on a treasure hunt to explore the park + improve your navigation skills using a geocaching app.
  • Big Band & Jazz | Tuesday, Aug. 6 | 7-8:30 p.m. | Ecton Park | Free | Pack a picnic setup for a night of live music with the Marlin McKay Quintet.
Wednesday, Aug. 7
  • Craft and Candle Cocktail Bar | Wednesday, Aug. 7 | Wick + Mortar Studio - Craft and Candle Cocktail Bar | $15+ | Blend your own custom scent to make a candle, reed diffuser, fabric spritz, and more — cocktails, wine + beer available for purchase.
Thursday, Aug. 8
  • Michael Cruse and Threo | Thursday, Aug. 8 | 7-8:15 p.m. | Central Library, Farish Theater | Free | The Jazz Arts Foundation + Jamey Aebersold Jazz present a lively performance featuring local musicians jamming on the trumpet, piano, contrabass, and drums.
Friday, Aug. 9
  • Introduction to Kayaking | Friday, Aug. 9 | Times vary | Jacobson Park | $14.15 | Participants 16+ are invited to learn basic water safety skills + proper paddling techniques for a smooth kayaking experience — registration required.
  • “Legally Blonde: The Musical” | Friday, Aug. 9-Sunday, Aug. 11 | Times vary | Leeds Center for the Arts, Winchester | $22.04-$26.31 | Step into the glamorous world of Elle Woods as she embarks on a journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and pink-tinted triumph.
Saturday, Aug. 10
  • Farm to Feast | Saturday, Aug. 10 | 10:15 a.m.-1:30 p.m. | Lyndon House | $55 | Register to join this culinary celebration featuring a farmers’ market tour with Marie McLamb of Backroad Bluegrass Blog, followed by a chef demo and four-course brunch with guest chef Davonte Bolden.*
Events calendar here
Click here to have your event featured.
 
Active

💪 The gym every 55+ Lexingtonian should have on their radar
LEX_StrongerLife_JULY2024
The StrongerLife program is designed by Doctors of Physical Therapy specializing in Active Aging for adults 55+. | Photos provided by StrongerLife; GIF created by LEXtoday
Meet Linda Toupin: A member of StrongerLife, a local 55+ gym with a mission to empower people of all levels to lead better lives through professional coaching.

After receiving a DEXA scan score of -2.5, indicating osteoporosis, Linda attended a free workshop on building stronger bones in 2022 and began going to the gym shortly after.

Two years later, Linda’s score raised to -1.9 — meaning her condition had improved to osteopenia, increasing her bone strength and reducing the risk of a fracture. Without taking any osteoporosis medication, she credits StrongerLife for her results.

The strategy behind success

Offering group classes and personal training, StrongerLife’s science-based program emphasizes strength and impact training sending signals to the body to create more bone, resulting in:
  • Improved bone density
  • Increased balance and coordination
  • Increased energy levels
  • And more

Getting involved

Interested in learning more? RSVP to the gym’s upcoming Build Stronger Bones workshop (aka a full circle moment here) on Thursday, Aug. 22.
A stronger life starts here
News Notes
Weather
  • Lexington enacted phase one of its heat plan yesterday, which will stay in effect until tomorrow evening. As part of the plan, LexTran will offer free transportation to cooling centers around town. See how else you can stay weather ready.
Traffic
  • Expect single lane closures through Saturday, Aug. 10 at 5 a.m. on Athens Boonesboro, Nicholasville, and Tates Creek Roads. Crews will be removing + replacing the thermoplastic markings — stop bars, crosswalks, and arrows — along these roads beginning at 9 p.m. each night.
Health
  • On Thursday, Aug. 22, Journey Health will host its grand opening from 2:30 to 6:30 p.m. The direct primary care clinic is located at 3094 Harrodsburg Rd., Ste. 201. Stop by for refreshments, raffles, and the opportunity to receive a free lab panel.
Watch
  • Anyone else glued to the screen for the 2024 Paris Olympics? For the BBN, Track & Field and basketball take center stage this week. See Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone in the semifinals of the 110M hurdles today at 2:07 p.m. + the US men’s basketball who faces Brazil at 3:30 p.m.
Community
  • The Somebody Society is hosting a White Out Summer Soiree this Friday, Aug. 9 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Old North Bar. If you’re 21+ and looking to meet new friends, then get your ticket for an evening of photo ops, vendor shopping, crafts, games, and mingling.
Shop
  • The businesses on North Limestone are teaming up to host a Neighborhood Yard Sale on Friday, Aug. 16 + Saturday, Aug. 17. Fuel up for your shopping adventure at Big Blue Deli or Lexington Tea & Brie, then pop in to spots like Mulberry & Lime, Gonzo Vintage, and The Pink Orchid.
Finance
  • Did you know you could finance your fixer-upper with home equity? You could get up to $50K with a HELOC — calculate your payment.*
Home
  • Drafty windows = higher utility bills. Get beautiful Renewal by Andersen® windows with a limited time buy one, get one 40% off deal — plus, take $200 off your order.*
 
Civic

We’re all in this together

Support fellow community members at the inaugural Lexington Black Philanthropy Week
Two men sit behind a table smiling with artwork and flyers that read Marafiki Center.
The Marafiki Center advocates for representation of the African and Swahili-speaking communities in Lexington. | Photo courtesy of The Marafiki Center
Did you know that August is Black Philanthropy Month? The global initiative began in 2011, with the goal of bolstering African-descent giving and funding equity.

At the local level, the Lexington Black Prosperity Initiative — a fund created through the Blue Grass Community Foundation — is increasing awareness + funding through the inaugural Lexington Black Philanthropy Week.

From Monday, Aug. 19 to Friday, Aug. 23, Lexingtonians are encouraged to support local Black-led nonprofits. Learn more about the 26 participating organizations, which support a variety of causes, such as farming, food accessibility, teen support, career readiness + more.

There are opportunities for a total of $40,000 in matches from local philanthropists. You even have the option to “love them all” and have your donation split evenly between all nonprofits.

Bookmark this page + get ready to show your support beginning Monday, Aug. 19. at 9 a.m.
The Buy

The Buy 8.06.24 (Affiliate)
Colorful felt tip pens, patterned file folders, and a rolling utility cart — because it’s back-to-school shopping season, aka the perfect time to stock up on office supplies and organization essentials.
More worth The Buy
 
The Wrap
 
Molly Thompson in a black shirt

Today’s edition by:
Molly
From the editor
In my opinion, the whole sweet + welcoming city of Lexington is a third place.
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