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Fred Minnick’s book on bourbon healing
Fred Minnick’s Bottom Shelf Tour is visiting Joseph Beth’s. | Photo courtesy of Fred Minnick
When Iraq veteran Fred Minnick learned about taste mindfulness in therapy, it marked a turning point — not just in his healing, but in making him one of the nation’s most influential spirits critics.
Minnick has been a storyteller for over a decade. Recent works include tasting guides + spirit histories, but his newest release, “Bottom Shelf: How a Forgotten Brand of Bourbon Saved One Man’s Life,” is revisiting stories of war, PTSD, and his healing journey.
“I’m ready to talk about these things,” Minnick said. “Bourbon gave me a professional purpose. It became a big part of my DNA.”
He found his healing through bourbon, and said the history, unsolved mysteries, and the people behind it gave him a reason to get up every single day.
“No one’s going to walk through this earth without adversity, pain, loss, and heartbreak. It’s OK to reach out for help,” Minnick said.
Minnick will bring “Bottom Shelf” to Lexington as part of the first leg of his national book tour on Saturday, Feb. 21 at Joseph Beth’s. Learn more and shop the book.
Joella’s Hot Chicken’s Hamburg location at 2305 Sir Barton Way is permanently closed. The Kentucky-based chain, famous for crispy chicken tenders and sandwiches with customizable heat levels, remains open at other spots — Editor Alexis plans to grab a “Big Classic” at the Cochran Road location in Chevy Chase. (Lexington Herald-Leader)
Civic
Lexington City Council approved a new process to guide changes to the Urban Service Area — the part of the county that can receive city services like water and sewer. The plan sets clear steps for reviewing growth trends, vacant land, and expansion proposals, making future development decisions more transparent. (CivicLex)
Weather
Kentucky and other parts of the Ohio Valley are at risk of severe storms tomorrow and throughout Thursday night. There is a risk of tornadoes, according to WKYT Chief Meteorologist Chris Bailey. Consider reviewing the city’s tornado safety guide. (WKYT)
Health
UK HealthCare’s Trauma Program is hosting a Stop the Bleed event 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 28, at Bluegrass Sportsman’s League in Wilmore. Participants will learn hands-on techniques to control life-threatening bleeding. Registration is free online or via email. (UKNow)
Eat
North Lime Coffee & Donuts’ Donut Championship begins early next month, with two donuts facing off daily. The public will vote to crown a winner April 4. Submit your favorites online for a chance to win prizes.
Travel
United Airlines is increasing capacity at Blue Grass Airport, swapping in a larger 126-seat Airbus A319 on its daily Denver route beginning Thursday, May 21. The change will add more than 50 seats per day and expand travel + connection options. (The Lane Report)
Play
🎲 Are you looking for our Games page? You can find it here. Thanks to all of our readers who let us know you’re enjoying this page — our team is continuing to work on even more ways to play in future.
Kids
Summer planning just got easier. The Living Arts & Science Center’s clean, green summer camps running June 1 through August 7 keep kids learning, creating, and exploring all day long. With week-long sessions and extended care options, it’s a smart, stress-free way to plan your child’s summer. View the schedule and enroll.*
Pro Tip
Attention Amazon Prime members — don’t miss the chance to earn extra cash on every purchase you make. Check out these 16 hacks to save money + earn more cash, all from the comfort of your couch.*
Finance
Americans are choosing this powerhouse card for smarter spending. It boasts 0% intro APR on all purchases and balance transfers for nearly two years, up to 6% cash back, a generous sign-up bonus, and zero annual fee. Add it to your wallet.*
Health
Crowded restaurants, bustling cafés, lively gatherings — your social life can be loud. These best-selling hearing aids cut through the noise so you hear every word with clarity + confidence. Built with cutting-edge technology and a nearly invisible design, they fit seamlessly into your life. Start a 45-day no-risk trial.*
Eat
Some nights you have the energy to cook. Other nights, you have the energy to… stare at the fridge and negotiate with it.Forkful meals arrive fully prepared, use grass-fed beef and free-range chicken, and are 100% seed oil-free. Get 50% off your first box with code CMD50.*
The Buy
A 4.6-star rated collagen mask that features a Botox-like peptide developed using Nobel Prize-winning technology. It deeply moisturizes dry skin while boosting elasticity and improving skin sebum levels.
As an apartment dweller, I’m a tad jealous. Trees Lexington is hosting its annual tree giveaway from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturday, March 28, at Greyline Station. Participants will receive one free tree per household for in-ground, private property planting in Lexington.
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