Last week, more than forty students from Cochran Elementary received free eye screenings and were fitted for eyeglasses. During a recent visit to the school, Metro Councilman David James found several children needed glasses, but couldn't afford them: "We were talking to the principal about some of the major problems at the school. That's when he told me that a large group of students needed eyeglasses, and without them it was inhibiting their ability to learn."
Forty-three students, ranging in age from 7 to 11 in second through fifth grade, were found eligible to be in this program. On January 18th, those students took a field trip to Dr. Bizer’s Vision World at 1001 Breckinridge Lane to be fitted for new glasses provided by the Louisville Downtown Lions Club. Councilman James covered the cost of transportation while Dr. Mark Lynn, owner of Bizer's, funded the prescriptions for the children.
“It is important that everyone support learning in our classrooms and sometimes that learning is hampered if children are visually impaired,” says James. “When I became aware some students at Cochran were in need of glasses but could not afford them, that’s when I began to find ways to help. I want to thank all of the people and organizations that have partnered with me in this effort,” says James. “This is an important investment in the future of our children.”
This week’s District 6 Spotlight is on Joan Stewart, a long-time resident and advocate of Old Louisville. Ever since Joan moved to Old Louisville is 1995, she has taken leadership roles in all kinds of projects and neighborhood initiatives, which range from the beautification of Ouerbacker Court to working with local law enforcement to prevent crime. In addition, she was instrumental in organizing both the Ouerbacker Court Neighborhood Association and the “litteri” trash pick-up program that aims to clean up the alleys of Old Louisville. Currently, Joan serves as the Director of the Old Louisville Information Center Board and Chair of the Old Louisville Neighborhood Council. In addition, she serves on the Oak Street Task Force and the 4th Division Police Advisory Board.
However, it is not these accomplishments alone that explain Joan’s status as a leader in Old Louisville. Just listen to Joan talk about Old Louisville and her passion for the neighborhood and its many treasures is immediately evident. Joan’s vision is one of a neighborhood that is not only clean and safe, but that has a magical quality about it which only those familiar with Old Louisville can truly understand. I believe that as long as residents like Joan continue to believe in and work towards this vision, it is only a matter of time until it is fully realized.
I think I speak for many when I say thank you Joan for devoting your time and talents to the betterment of historic Old Louisville! I look forward to working with you for many years to come.
Sincerely, David James
Walkers, joggers and neighbors who use Central Park will notice something new when passing through the park. Councilman David James (D-6) has led an effort to install five new large windows in the Old Louisville Information Center (OLIC), home to the Old Louisville Neighborhood Council and various other neighborhood groups. The effort restores the historic structure to its original look when its archways were first constructed in 1904.
“Anytime we can enhance the beauty of Central Park it helps to maintain the historical significance of Old Louisville.” says James. “I am proud that we have brought more light and life to our neighborhood building and I congratulate the neighborhoods and organizations that worked with me to make this a reality.”
For many decades the building’s five archways have been cemented over, not allowing sunlight to come through into the building. The original design allowed for the building to serve as an open pavilion to the community. The Old Louisville Neighborhood Council along with several neighborhood associations, other non-profit organizations and civic-minded private companies in Old Louisville collaborated to make the windows a reality. In total, the cost for the windows was approximately $27,500.
“This is a perfect example of groups coming together for a common cause and making a noticeable difference in our community,” said Joan Stewart, Chair of the Old Louisville Neighborhood Council. “I couldn’t be happier that this long-time dream has become a reality, and I thank Councilman James for taking the lead to get this done.” Ron Harris, Chair of the OLIC Building Restoration Committee, added, “This has been a legacy project that all of Old Louisville can cherish. This is something real and beautiful that we can leave behind for future generations.”
Thanks to the following groups for making this project possible:
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- St. James Court Neighborhood Association
- 1300 Neighborhood Association
- 3rd Street Neighborhood Association
- Larry Franklin Law Office
- Kentucky Shakespeare
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 For more information, contact the 4th Division of LMPD @ 574-7010 or our office @ 574-1106
The Old Louisville Neighborhood Council and Councilman David James are proud to present the 2012 Old Louisville Spring Festival, benefiting Kosair Charities and the Old Louisville neighborhood associations on Saturday May 19, 2012 from 10am to 11pm!
The Fest is a day-long street fair celebration of Old Louisville’s love of history, culture, diversity, food, style, family and philanthropy and will be held on the 1200 and 1300 Blocks of First Street (and one block in each direction on Ormsby) in Old Louisville, Louisville Kentucky! Some of the main highlights include:
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Kosair Charities Kids Zone – to help raise funds for children in need, we’re proud to offer an entire area for the kids to learn, play and sing!
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“Parisian Flea Market” - Several local vendors and local associations will be on hand selling their unique wares and services… art, hard to find antiques, architectural remnants, fortune-telling, etc.
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Food, Food, Food! - Traditional street fair treats, a beer / wine / bourbon tent and gourmet food trucks will be there for your culinary pleasure!
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First Street Will Be Alive with the Sounds of Music! - The main stage will also present an eclectic mix of some of the top local bands from 2-11pm. Band lineup will be announced soon!
So, please plan on joining us – as an attendee or vendor - on Saturday May 19, 2012 for a day of celebration! For more information, contact our office at 574-1106.
Senator Gerald Neal, Councilman David Tandy, and I at the MLK Day Rally @ First Gethsemane Baptist Church (below)
  As you can see from the pictures above, the renovation at Toonerville Trolley Park is underway and looking great! We'll keep you updated as the Master Plan for this park comes together.
Click on the Facebook icon at the bottom of this newsletter to follow Councilman James’ new Facebook page
Visit http://mapit.louisvilleky.gov/ and type in your address to find out when your junk pick-up date is as well as street cleanings and additional information.
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