Unbridled is excited to announce an important step forward in how we serve our guests, donors, and sponsors. We are transitioning from our current auction and ticketing system, OneCause/BidPal, to GiveSmart, a more modern and intuitive platform that will make every part of the Unbridled experience easier, faster, and more personal. 

This change is about people, not just technology. With GiveSmart, guests will enjoy seamless mobile bidding, quick and easy check-in and check-out, and real-time updates on auction items and donations. Donors and sponsors will have clearer visibility into their impact and a more personalized experience from registration to thank-you messages. 

Key improvements include: 
• Streamlined Event Access – Faster check-in, barcode scanning, and digital tickets. 
• Mobile Bidding and Giving – Easy-to-use tools for guests at the event or joining from afar. 
• Unified Guest Profiles – One record that connects ticketing, bidding, and donations. 
• Custom Branding and Messaging – Every touchpoint reflects the Unbridled experience. 

Our team is working closely with GiveSmart to ensure a smooth transition ahead of the 2026 event season. Training, tutorials, and support will be shared before the rollout, so every guest and partner can enjoy the benefits from day one. 

This investment reflects our ongoing commitment to innovation and exceptional hospitality. As Unbridled grows, our goal remains the same—to make every experience effortless, meaningful, and truly unforgettable. 

As Kentuckians, we pride ourselves on tradition: derby parties, bourbon and a business community that lives by its word. When someone steps up to do more than their share, you take notice. Kelley Bright, who runs Mercer’s Kentucky & Tennessee Practice and keeps Unbridled’s celebrity, hospitality, and security operation humming, is one of those people. 

A Career built on People and Results 

Kelley isn’t just a local executive; she is the person Mercer trusts to steer their Kentucky and Tennessee operations. In 2019 she was appointed the Kentucky office leader for K Mercer, a global HR consulting firm, after a 17-year career at EY. She works closely with a team of five hundred professionals locally to develop consulting talent, manage key client relationships and drive the firm’s presence across Kentuckiana. With nearly 30 years of experience in professional consulting and a stint leading business development at EY, she understands both the numbers and the people. 

Kelley’s approach to leadership is simple: profit and compassion can coexist. In a  Business First interview she talked about wanting Mercer to be “known for making a difference in people’s lives”. She believes you can run a profitable business and still build a culture that attracts and retains people. She applies that philosophy to the work of empowering women: as executive sponsor for Mercer’s Empowering Women Together group, she pushes for concrete resources, not just slogans. 

From Consulting to the Gala 

Kelley has co-chaired the charity committee and has been woven into the fabric of Unbridled from the days of the Mint Jubilee and Julep Ball. From meeting VIPs and celebrities at the airport to arranging their transportation, handing them their Derby tickets, and troubleshooting when they can’t figure out how to download their electronic passes! She arranges their complete itineraries, answers odd questions, and always finds a way to make each guest feel welcome. Behind the scenes she sources items for the silent auction and makes sure every detail reflects the generous Unbridled spirit. 
 
She joined the charity committee at the start and worked alongside Tonya York and Tammy York Day as the celebration grew into the Unbridled Eve Derby Gala. For Kelley, the Derby is not just a party. It is a chance to share Louisville’s story while raising money for causes that matter to our community. During Derby week you can find her camped out at Tonya’s house to keep an eye on last minute details. The Derby, she says, celebrates Louisville and builds connections that last beyond race day.  

Some Behind the Scenes Stories… 

Kelley doesn’t shy away from sharing the messy side of volunteerism. She recounted the time actor Quinton Aaron, the actor who played football player Michael Oher in The Blind Side, accepted an invitation to visit the paddock at Churchill Downs. A horse owner whisked him away, and he forgot to tell anyone. “Derby’s over and there’s still no Quinton!” Nobody knows where he is and apparently, he’s not a small guy to lose! Panic spread among the event staff. Hours later he casually returned to the hotel; his phone had died, so he just hitched a ride back with the trainer. It’s a core memory for Kelley since she quotes “he’s the one guy you never should lose because he’s bigger than everybody else!”  
 
There are lighter moments, too. Celebrity riders specify candies, drinks, and even towel colors for their green rooms. She is certainly busy making sure the real work gets done! Definitely a reminder that improvisation is part of the backstage routine. 

Why Unbridled Matters 

Kelley insists that Unbridled Eve Derby Gala isn’t just a party. The gala raises money for charities like Blessings in a Backpack and Norton Children’s Hospital, but it also shows Louisville at its most generous. When you see celebrities dancing next to local volunteers and kids affected by the programs, the abstract idea of charity becomes human. That is why she pushes readers of Unbridled Times to look past the red carpet. “We’re not there to network; we’re there to make a difference,” she says. 

Life beyond the Derby 

Outside of work and charity, Kelley still finds time to live. She sits on the board of Kentucky Red Cross and Women Influencing Louisville. She’s very proud of her two audlt children, loves  her two dogs, and will celebrate 30 years of marriage with her husband, Greg, next July. She just welcomed her granddaughter, Koko, in July and will spend early November in Hawaii for her son’s wedding celebration.  

Our gala simply would not be the same without Kelley. She is a dedicated professional, a devoted wife and mother. We are thankful for the hours she has given; the calm she brings to chaos and the humor she shares with our team.  

Awards and Recognition: 

Kelley was one of Business First Forty Under Forty and recognized for founding the Women Influencing Louisville’s Fall conference, which just celebrated its 12^th year.  She’s been honored at Mercer through their Sage Awards program which recognizes the top performers in the firm. 

You can also check out Kelley at one of her many speaking engagements.  Versed on many HR topics, Kelley is a frequent speaker for the Society for Humana Resources (SHRM) and the KY Chamber of Commerce. 

The Unbridled Charitable Foundation (UCF) is committed to supporting organizations that uplift children, especially those who face greater challenges. This month, we are proud to shine our spotlight on The Miracle League, a remarkable organization whose mission reflects our shared values of inclusion, joy, and empowerment. 

What The Miracle League Is 

The Miracle League is a national nonprofit organization that provides children and adults with physical or intellectual disabilities with the opportunity to play baseball just like other athletes. 

The league removes barriers to participation through specially designed, rubberized turf fields that accommodate wheelchairs, walkers, and other assistive devices. Each player is paired with a volunteer “buddy,” creating friendships and building confidence both on and off the field. Founded in Conyers, Georgia, in 2000, The Miracle League has grown to include hundreds of local chapters serving tens of thousands of athletes across the country, including right here in Louisville. 

Why It Matters 

For the Unbridled Charitable Foundation, supporting The Miracle League is deeply personal. One of our own, Rodney Brewer, serves on the UCF Board of Directors and is a longtime member of the Unbridled family who works closely with the Louisville Miracle League as a board member, umpire, facilitator and cheerleader. 

Rodney has a granddaughter with Down syndrome, and through his family’s experience, he has developed a deep understanding of the needs, challenges, and joys of children with special needs and their families. His personal perspective has given him a heartfelt appreciation for the mission of The Miracle League and the way it helps children experience the simple joy of being part of a team. 

“The Miracle League gives children of all abilities the chance to feel included, to be celebrated, and to experience the joy of play,” Rodney shared. “As a grandfather of a child with special needs, I know how much that sense of belonging and encouragement can mean.” 

Community Impact 

Each Miracle League field becomes a symbol of inclusion and community pride. Volunteers, families, and local supporters come together to cheer on athletes who might otherwise be left on the sidelines. The energy, laughter, and connection that fill each game day remind everyone that every child deserves the chance to play, to be cheered for, and to feel seen. 

A Shared Mission 

The Miracle League and the Unbridled Charitable Foundation share a common purpose: to create opportunities where every child feels valued and included. Both organizations believe that joy, compassion, and community can break barriers and change lives. By supporting The Miracle League, UCF helps ensure that children of all abilities have the chance to experience the thrill of teamwork, the pride of achievement, and the simple happiness of play. 

Together, we celebrate the power of inclusion and the difference that can be made when hearts and missions align in the service of children. 

The Unbridled Charitable Foundation has a world-class Board of Directors, and Rob Givens is an excellent example of the caliber of leadership that drives our mission forward. Rob was not introduced to UCF through chance or third-party introductions. His connection runs far deeper. A lifelong friend of Tammy York Day and Tonya York, Rob has witnessed the vision, growth, and establishment of Unbridled from the very beginning. His steadfast belief in purpose, integrity, and service mirrors the heart of Unbridled’s mission to make meaningful, lasting impact through compassion, excellence, and leadership. 

Rob has devoted his life to public service. A graduate of the United States Air Force Academy, he began his distinguished military career as an A-10 pilot, flying close air support missions that required skill, courage, and precision. His extraordinary ability in the cockpit soon earned him a coveted position with the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, the elite aerial demonstration team known worldwide for their precision and excellence. 

Rob’s military service spanned multiple decades and two major conflicts. He flew combat missions during both the first and second Gulf Wars, first in the A-10 and later in the F-16 Fighting Falcon. Rising through the ranks to become a Brigadier General, Rob held some of the most critical leadership roles in the Air Force. He served as Commander of the 8th Fighter Wing in South Korea, overseeing more than 3,500 airmen and 45 combat aircraft, and later as Deputy Director of Operations for U.S. Forces Korea, coordinating strategy and operations with the Republic of Korea’s Ministry of Defense. 

As Director of the Combined Air Operations Center in Qatar, Rob directed all allied air operations across Iraq, Afghanistan, and the Persian Gulf, authorizing missions and managing complex regional contingencies with global impact. Later, as Inspector General for Air Combat Command, he ensured readiness and accountability for over 130,000 personnel across the continental United States. 

Beyond his military service, Rob’s dedication to leadership and civic engagement has remained unwavering. After retiring from active duty, he became Executive Director of the Henry Clay Center for Statesmanship, leading efforts to strengthen civil discourse and develop the next generation of cooperative leaders. He also founded RPG Consulting LLC, advising corporations and organizations on strategic planning, leadership development, and operational excellence. 

In 2019, Rob brought his experience and commitment to public service to the role of State Director for U.S. Senator Rand Paul, where he continues to serve, helping to bridge the gap between national policy and the needs of Kentuckians. 

Throughout every chapter of his career, from commanding fighter wings to guiding political and nonprofit initiatives, Rob has embodied the same principles that define Unbridled: integrity, service, and a belief that leadership is most powerful when it lifts others. His continued involvement on the Unbridled Charitable Foundation Board brings not only a wealth of experience but also a grounded understanding of service that inspires our mission every day. 

As Tammy York Day shares, “Rob has always led with honor and humility. His life reflects the heart of Unbridled: service above self, a dedication to excellence, and an unwavering belief in the power of people working together for good.” 

Guided by Rob Givens’ leadership, the Unbridled Charitable Foundation continues to advance its mission with integrity, purpose, and a steadfast commitment to making a lasting impact. 

The Unbridled Charitable Foundation has been blessed to have rock and roll legends support our cause with their time and talent. One of those major supporters is John Elefante, a name synonymous with musical excellence and unshakable faith. 

A multi–Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter, and producer, Elefante first rose to international fame as the lead vocalist for the legendary rock band Kansas in the early 1980s. His soaring vocals and songwriting helped define a chapter in the band’s storied history. Over the decades, he has written and produced for countless artists in both mainstream and Christian music, including Petra, Guardian, and Sweet Comfort Band. By 2010, he had been involved in more than 100 major albums as a producer, writer, or performer, a testament to both his creative range and enduring work ethic. 

In a 2022 interview on the VineLife Podcast, Elefante reflected on how early his love for music began: 

“As cliché as it might sound, it’s just always been in my blood,” he said. “My parents weren’t musicians, but they always had records playing around the house, all day, every day. My brother and I were making fake instruments out of cardboard boxes when we were five and six years old.” 

Those playful beginnings set the stage for a lifetime of music rooted in authenticity. From the Jackson 5 to The Beatles and Chicago, Elefante drew inspiration from artists who combined technical brilliance with emotional truth. That belief that a song must be felt, not just performed, continues to guide his approach. 

“You can sing something perfectly,” Elefante said in the VineLife Podcast interview, “but if you don’t mean it, if it doesn’t come from the heart, people can tell. There’s a difference between just singing a song and singing a song with conviction.” 

That conviction shaped his most recent solo project, The Amazing Grace, released through DEKO Entertainment. “I was going through a lot of different emotions when we wrote that record,” he shared. “It’s a pretty interesting record, full of real moments.” 

Even after decades on stage, Elefante’s voice remains remarkably strong, something he attributes to both training and divine preparation. “I had to relearn how to sing,” he said. “I was really hurting myself in the early days, squeezing too much. But after years of lessons, I got my range back. I think it was God getting me ready to sing that Kansas stuff.” 

Elefante has also performed with Voices of Rock Radio, an ensemble featuring singers from legendary bands such as Journey, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and Chicago. “We all use the same incredible band,” he noted in the 2022 podcast. “It’s been widely successful, a lot of fun.” 

Still Rocking the World Stage: The 2025 Rock Meets Classic Tour 

In 2025, John Elefante continued to share his signature sound with audiences around the world as part of the acclaimed Rock Meets Classic Tour, a concert series celebrated for blending classic rock hits with full orchestral arrangements and legendary collaborations. Fans were treated to powerful renditions of “Carry On Wayward Son,” “Dust in the Wind,” and “Fight Fire With Fire,” all performed with a rich symphonic backdrop. 

A Life of Purpose and Conviction 

Through every chapter of his career, from Kansas to his solo work, from studio production to orchestral tours, John Elefante has remained grounded in faith and purpose. His message to believers striving to live out their calling is especially resonant: 

“If you’re in a place where what you’re being asked to do goes against who you are as a believer, that’s a tough place to be. But you’ve got to hold on to your values. God can use your talents wherever you are.” (VineLife Podcast, 2022) 

That sense of purpose is also what has connected Elefante so deeply with the Unbridled Charitable Foundation. His faith, humility, and genuine spirit have left a lasting impression on everyone he encounters. 

“There’s something timeless about John Elefante’s talent,” said Tammy York Day, Co-Founder of the Unbridled Charitable Foundation. “His voice and presence move people today just as they did when he was with Kansas. John and his wife, Michelle, bring not only incredible artistry but also genuine kindness to everything they do. They’ve become a beloved part of the Unbridled family, and we are deeply grateful for them.” 

John Elefante’s philosophy of creating with integrity and heart perfectly reflects the spirit of the Unbridled Charitable Foundation. His life and music remind us that talent is a gift meant to serve others, faith gives it direction, and conviction gives it lasting power. 

Vince Emmett is another one of those remarkable individuals who make up the Unbridled Family, a creative spirit whose work, faith, and story all seem to harmonize. 

Vince grew up near Champaign, Illinois, in a deeply supportive, faith-based family. Music grabbed him early, around age eight, after watching his dad strum a G chord and wearing out LPs by Johnny Cash, Hank Williams Sr., Patsy Cline, and Chet Atkins. By nine or ten he was in a kids’ country band called The Reverbs, playing weekly TV shows, live radio, and state fairs, showing up to middle school with gig money in his pocket. 

When some bandmates began playing honky-tonks, his parents pulled him out, a painful moment that turned into a blessing. It led him toward church music under the mentorship of Pastor Phil Hansen, and soon after, a visiting gospel group from Lexington, Kentucky, the Gospel Couriers, heard him play and invited him on the road as a teenager. He toured churches and festivals, sharing bills with Southern Gospel greats like the Stamps Quartet, the Oak Ridge Boys, and the Happy Goodman Family. Those years built not just musical chops but a lifelong bias toward purpose over spotlight. 

After a stint pursuing his own rock project and even fielding offers to tour with major country artists, Vince chose a different path, composing for film. Introduced to filmmaking by Kentucky director Robbie Henson, and through projects involving Kris Kristofferson, Chris Cooper, and Patricia Clarkson, Vince discovered his second home: putting music to story. 

Today, he serves as President and CEO of American Troubadours, a collective of filmmakers and composers producing feature films, documentaries, TV series, and soundtracks. With offices and studios in Los Angeles, Nashville, Arizona, and a 250-year-old log-cabin retreat in the hills near Louisville, Kentucky, American Troubadours reflects Vince’s belief that meaningful art comes from places rooted in authenticity and stillness. 

Over three decades, Vince has collaborated with Oscar, Grammy, Golden Globe, and Emmy-winning artists including John Travolta, Dennis Quaid, Dolly Parton, Bruce Dern, Jon Voight, Chris Cooper, Stephen Lang, Kris Kristofferson, Emmylou Harris, John Doe (of X), Roger McGuinn (of The Byrds), Joan Osborne, Ricky Skaggs, and Alice Cooper. Most recently, he produced the feature film Reagan (2024), starring Dennis Quaid, a sweeping biopic of the 40th U.S. President that marked another milestone in his expanding body of cinematic work. 

Vince and his wife Brenda adopted daughters from Ethiopia and now split their time between their farm outside Nashville and their historic log cabin near Louisville. Their family’s story of faith and adoption continues to shape Vince’s perspective on creativity and legacy. “Applause fades,” he says, “but the imprint you leave on your kids does not.” 

Like everything and everyone in the Unbridled Family, Vince’s journey is about more than success, it’s about purpose, faith, and the stories that endure long after the final note fades. 

We cannot say it enough- the Unbridled Eve Derby Gala could not happen without our incredible volunteers and committee members. This month, we are honored to spotlight Trenda Metcalf, Chairperson of the Décor Committee and one of the creative forces behind the breathtaking look and feel of Unbridled each year. 

Trenda has been part of Unbridled since the very beginning and has a deep history with the York sisters. She and Tammy met in high school and have remained close friends ever since. Their shared vision, creativity, and love for community have helped shape the elegance and heart that define every Unbridled event. 

A proud graduate of the University of Louisville, Trenda holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree. She began her career at GE as a customer service representative and worked her way up to her current position as Area Sales Manager, a testament to her hard work, professionalism, and leadership. Trenda and her husband Jay live in Louisville and are proud parents of two daughters. 

As Chair of the Décor Committee, Trenda leads the team responsible for creating the stunning atmosphere that guests enjoy each Derby Eve. Beyond décor, she is known for going above and beyond. securing exceptional silent auction items, rallying her family to volunteer, and ensuring that every detail reflects the Unbridled spirit of excellence and generosity. 

A dedicated professional, devoted wife and mother, and true Unbridled ambassador, Trenda exemplifies the heart and grace of our volunteer community. We are deeply grateful for her years of service, leadership, and friendship, and we celebrate her as one of the remarkable women who help make Unbridled unforgettable. 

The story of the Unbridled Charitable Foundation cannot be told without Blessings in a Backpack. In 2012, when the York Sisters embarked on their Unbridled journey, Blessings in a Backpack stood beside them as both the inaugural beneficiary and the fiscal agent for the very first Unbridled Eve Derby Gala. At that time, the Foundation’s nonprofit status was still pending, and Blessings’ partnership made it possible for Unbridled to take its first steps. 

For many children in America, the school cafeteria is more than a place to gather with friends—it is often the most reliable source of food they receive all week. When the final bell rings on Friday, far too many face two long days without consistent meals. 

Blessings in a Backpack was founded to meet that urgent need. The organization mobilizes communities, individuals, and resources to provide weekend food for school-aged children who might otherwise go hungry. Its vision is simple yet profound: that every child in America has the nourishment needed to learn and grow. 

Since its founding, Blessings in a Backpack has become a national leader in the fight against childhood hunger. During the 2023–2024 school year alone, the organization distributed more than 3 million bags of food to children at 1,270 schools across 46 states and the District of Columbia. Since 2009, it has provided over 30 million hunger-free weekends for more than one million children nationwide. 

The impact extends beyond nutrition. In partnership with Quaker Oats and Ipsos, surveys show that children supported by Blessings feel more cared for by their community, perform better academically, and experience greater happiness at home. These results confirm that each backpack represents far more than a meal—it is a message of hope, care, and belonging. 

On average, $175 feeds one child for an entire school year, ensuring they return to class each Monday nourished and ready to learn. Blessings in a Backpack operates through seven regional chapters and more than 1,200 community-driven programs, each committed to ending weekend hunger for the kids who need it most. 

Unbridled’s partnership with Blessings in a Backpack reflects a shared belief that no child should have to wonder where their next meal will come from. Together, we continue to fill backpacks—and hearts—with nourishment, dignity, and the promise of a brighter future. 

To learn more or support their mission, visit blessingsinabackpack.org. 

Mario Urrutia is a Louisville native and former football wide receiver for the University of Louisville Cardinals. After a standout college career, he was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals following his junior season and went on to play for both the Bengals and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the NFL. Mario continued his professional football career in the Arena Football League and the Canadian Football League before deciding, after seven years on the field, that it was time to begin a new chapter. 

Driving home to Louisville after his final game, Mario reflected on how he could help other athletes prepare for life beyond the game. His lifelong dream was to help young people set and reach their goals — a calling that began when he volunteered as a youth mentor in high school. In 2011, he turned that passion into purpose by founding a nonprofit organization focused on Physical Education, Nutrition, Leadership Development, and Economic Empowerment for children ages 8 to 14. 

Mario also made the commitment to finish his college education, believing that he could not encourage young people to value education without completing his own. In May 2016, he proudly earned his degree in Communication with a minor in Business Marketing from the University of Louisville. 

Today, Mario serves as the Founder and President of Super Student Athletes, helping the next generation of student-athletes build leadership skills, financial literacy, mental wellness, and personal brand awareness. He is also guiding the development of myNIL Playbook, a digital education platform designed to empower student-athletes in the evolving Name, Image, and Likeness landscape. 

As the leader of a family enterprise that includes Urrutia Enterprises, MBE Contracting &  Supply, and the Super Student Athletes nonprofit, Mario oversees integrated initiatives  focused on housing, workforce, and youth development. Through his affordable housing  ventures, he’s helping families gain access to quality, attainable homes while investing in sustainable neighborhood growth across Louisville. 

As a board member of the Unbridled Charitable Foundation, Mario brings his spirit of mentorship, perseverance, and service to the mission of helping others live unbridled. His journey from professional athlete to community builder demonstrates that true success is measured not by accolades, but by the lives you lift up.  

A Legacy Born in the Heart of Bourbon Country

Few brands embody Kentucky heritage quite like Chicken Cock Whiskey. First distilled in Paris, Kentucky in 1856, long before “bourbon” became a household word, Chicken Cock began as James A. Miller’s small-town dream and grew into one of America’s most celebrated pre-Prohibition whiskies. Known for its quality, craftsmanship, and unmistakable character, it quickly earned a place in bourbon history. 

After disappearing from shelves in the mid-1900s, Chicken Cock made a triumphant comeback when spirits entrepreneur Matti Anttila revived the storied brand in 2011. Today, from its new home in Bardstown, Kentucky, the brand continues to carry forward its nearly 170-year legacy of excellence, honoring tradition with slow-growing American white oak barrels and meticulous aging standards that make every bottle worth savoring. 

With award-winning releases such as Kentucky Straight Bourbon, Double Oak, and Ryeteous Blonde, Chicken Cock continues to celebrate Kentucky’s proud whiskey tradition with modern flair. Visitors can experience that legacy firsthand at the brand’s two stunning tasting rooms, one in the heart of downtown Bardstown and the other in Louisville’s vibrant NuLu District. 

At Unbridled, we’re proud to partner with a brand that shares our passion for craftsmanship, authenticity, and celebrating life’s finest moments. And this year, Chicken Cock is raising a glass to generosity once again, donating another full barrel of whiskey for our 2026 Unbridled Gala. 

The lucky winning bidder will be treated to an unforgettable exclusive tasting experience featuring three unique, hand-selected barrels from Chicken Cock Whiskey’s finest bourbon inventory, crafted at Bardstown Bourbon Company. Choose to sample and select your favorite in the comfort of your own home, or enjoy an immersive experience onsite at Circa 1856, Chicken Cock Whiskey’s brand home in Bardstown, KY. 

Each barrel, aged a minimum of four years, promises unparalleled quality. Once you’ve chosen your favorite, you’ll personalize your bottles with custom text, up to 20 special characters on the front and back of each bottle—making this truly your own signature bourbon. 

The experience doesn’t stop there. You’ll receive the very barrel that aged your whiskey, along with six 6-pack cases of your custom bottles (typically yielding 180–210 bottles). Your collection can be shipped directly to you, or you may choose to pick it up onsite at Circa 1856 for the full Kentucky experience (travel not included). Please allow up to 90 days after the Gala to sample, select, bottle, and ship your product. 

From Paris to Bardstown, from 1856 to today, Chicken Cock Whiskey remains a symbol of timeless Kentucky spirit. We are honored to celebrate this legacy together as we toast to another Unbridled year of giving, craftsmanship, and community.