Councilwoman
Paula McCraney
601 W. Jefferson Street
(502) 574-1107
Email Councilwoman McCraney
 

Links

Visit the District 7 Website

Phone Numbers
of Interest

Air Pollution: 574-6000

Animal Services: 363-6609
or 361-1318

Anonymous Tipline:
574-LMPD (5673)

Brightside: 574-2613

Jefferson County Clerk's Office: 574-5700

Legal Aid: 584-1254

Metro Call: 311 or 574-5000

Metro Parks: 456-8100

Metro Police: (Non Emergency) 574-7111 or 574-2111

Metro Safe: 572-3460
or 574-7111

MSD: 587-0603

PARC: 569-6222

Poison Control: 589-8222

Public Works: 574-5810

Solid Waste Management (SWMS): 574-3571

TARC: 585-1234

Veteran's Affairs: 595-4447

In this issue...

• Message from Councilwoman McCraney
• City of Plantation City-Wide Clean Up - June 1
• Graymoor-Devondale's City-Wide Yard Sale - June 8
• Louisville Greek Fest - June 7 & 8
• Buy Local Louisville Fair Part 2 - June 8
• SaverLife Workshop - June 18 & 20
• Honor Flight Bluegrass - June 6
• Waggin' Trail Festival for the Animals - June 9
• Monster Prevention with WAGS
• Sippin' for Seniors - June 19
• Kentucky Shakespeare in Central Park - May 29 - August 4
• Fans Needed for Seniors & Disabled Residents
• FREE Fans for Seniors and Disabled Residents - June 8
• Cultural Pass
• FREE Resident Junk Drop Off (3 Items Per Day)
• District 7 Public Notices
• JUST FOR FUN

Message from Councilwoman McCraney

The month of June will mark my 6th month in office. In next week's e-Newsletter, I will highlight some of the tasks I've managed to accomplish, and unveil some plans for future District 7 projects and opportunities.

Being elected and starting a new "job" as a legislator can be quite daunting. I must admit that nothing could have prepared me for this new role as your District 7 Councilwoman - Nothing. However, I've enjoyed every moment of settling into the position.

Knowing that my first 6 months would be a critical time during which enduring opinions would be formed about me, and to create the right impression and show you what you can expect from your District 7 representative, I did the following seven things: 

1. Kept the Main Thing the Main Thing 

Everyday I think about the main reason I ran for office and why I was elected. I repeat the mantra that I am here to represent and be a voice for the residents of District 7, and I put it at the front of everything I do. Before each Council meeting or decision I make on your behalf, I ask myself, “is what I am about to do going to add value to the reason why I was elected?” I avoid at all cost anything that may distract me from my main purpose.

2. Got to Know My Staff and Colleagues 

I am only as good as the team around me. So, I have invested time in getting to know the people I work with. With my staff, I discussed roles, goals and responsibilities upfront, and shared my pet peeves and idiosyncrasies. I asked questions and learned of staff's likes, dislikes and hobbies. I listened, and I observed. With my Council colleagues, I attempted to visit each of them in their office. I listened intently as they spoke up in meetings, and I marvel at their commitment. I've picked the brains of the more seasoned Councilmembers, and encouraged the new ones to stay the course while serving their constituents. I also hosted brunch at my home for the women on the Council. We had a marvelous time breaking bread, playing games, and throwing caution to the wind during several hours of bonding.

3. Learned the Metro Council Culture

Regardless of the experience I bring to the table, it was important to me to make sure I learned the ins and outs of the Metro Council. I took the time to learn the history of the building, the dynamics of merger, and the process by which we create ordinances and resolutions. I focused on understanding what it is the Council as a whole values, what behaviors Councilmembers recognize and reward, and which behaviors they frown upon, criticize or even punish. I do my best to match my DNA with the other 25 members of the Council (this, however, is quite the challenge! Lol).

4. Asked for Feedback

I like honest and helpful feedback. I've encouraged my colleagues and some constituents to offer feedback on how well (or not) I am performing. This is my way of keeping up good work or improving where needed. (I welcome your feedback with open arms. Please email or call me anytime to keep me on my toes.)

5. Stayed Alert and Responsive 

I'm a self-motivated individual. I love to live life to the fullest and see others do the same. I love projects, solving problems, and taking on worthwhile challenges. This is how I stay alert. I have taken note of the things I like most about being a Metro Councilwoman, the people I work with and represent, and the services I can provide to constituents. I have gone to lunch with Home-Rule Mayors, and have thoroughly enjoyed our conversations and getting to know them and about the city they govern. (If you are a District 7 Mayor and we've not yet gone to lunch, stay tuned, as your phone call is coming!) I have received over 1,000 emails, and make it my personal quest to respond to all. Staying responsive is very, very important to me, and to those I serve.

6. Remained Stimulated and Energized

With any new challenge, I've always thrown myself into tasks full throttle. To keep my head clear and my mind stimulated, I often immerse myself in Sudoku puzzles or a word find puzzle, and I relish in reading Bible verses and relating biblical stories to modern day life. To keep fit and energized, I now watch what I eat and exercise 4 days a week. I'm expecting a transformation to lean and mean by the end of the year. (Well, let's hope for lean, because I don't think you want that mean side of me to emerge. I know she's lurking around in me somewhere.) 

7. Enjoyed Myself

I love representing you on the Council! If done correctly, being a Councilperson is a lot of work and requires a lot of one's time. But, because I enjoy it so much, I don't view this as a job. Contrary to popular belief, the budget crisis being thrown in my lap as a freshman legislator, was just what the proverbial doctor ordered. Finance, budgeting and numbers in general are my jam (written in the vernacular of a hipster)! Remember, I love a challenge, and I enjoy solving puzzles. What better way to learn a new task and get your feet wet? Baptism by fire is sometimes the best on-the-job training one can get. Lucky me!

Have a great week, District 7!

Councilwoman Paula McCraney 

City of Plantation City-Wide Clean Up - June 1

Volunteers Needed

City of Plantation City-Wide Cleanup
June 1 at 10:00 a.m.
Meet at 2502 Hermitage Way, Suite C

Graymoor-Devondale's City-Wide Yard Sale - June 8

Graymoor-Devondale's City-Wide Yard Sale
June 8 from 8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Graymoor-Devondale

Come out to Graymoor-Devondale and participate in the annual city-wide yard sale. There are always lots of goodies at bargain prices!

Louisville Greek Fest - June 7 & 8

Buy Local Louisville Fair Part 2 - June 8

June 8 from 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Louisville Slugger Field Hall of Fame (401 E. Main St.)
FREE ADMISSION

Louisville City FC game to follow at 7:00 p.m., $15 tickets will be available from LIBA.
Plenty of street parking available, or Slugger's lot ($10 after 5:00 p.m.).

Many of you know that our original Buy Local Fair (May 19), was cut short by high winds and sporadic rain. (Sincere thanks and appreciation for all of our members, volunteers and patrons who made it out that day!) After numerous conversations with the National Weather Service, we were hopeful the weather would pass us by, but alas! Mother Nature had other plans and we closed halfway through. Now we have unfinished business, and we want to make good!

Join us for a 3 hour event featuring what everyone comes for at the Fair: LOCAL BUSINESSES! We’ll be indoors this time in the Hall of Fame at Slugger Field.

• SHOP with a variety of local businesses – from handmade jewelry to furniture to clothing and much more.
• Visit our SILENT AUCTION to check out over 130 amazing products from our local businesses. (New – see items and start bidding NOW! Need not be present to win.)
• We also have TICKETS available for the Louisville City FC vs. Loudoun United FC soccer game that follows at 7:00 p.m. Just $15 per ticket, purchase here! (Usual walk up rate is $21.)

SaverLife Workshop - June 18 & 20

June 18 from 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
June 20 from 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
John Knox Presbyterian Church (9104 Westport Rd.)

Saving money is hard, but you can take control of your financial future. SaverLife is a free program that helps you build an emergency fund over the course of six months. This is a great opportunity for college students and recent grads, too!

For every month that you save at least $20, SaverLife will match your savings with $10 - up to $60 over six months! You’ll also receive weekly savings tips from a financial coach to support your hard work and answer your financial questions.

Led by EACM program director Rebekah Davis, this workshop will show you how to get started with your savings plan. There is no charge and no income limit. Participants must be 18 or older. For more information, contact Rebekah Davis at 502-426-2824 ext. 301. Also, visit Earn.org to learn about the SaverLife program.

Locations:  Both workshops will take place at John Knox Presbyterian Church located at 9104 Westport Rd.

Tuesday, June 18: EACM computer lab (downstairs)

Thursday, June 20: Upstairs in the Fellowship Hall

Honor Flight Bluegrass - June 6

"Operation Bravo Zulu"
June 6 at 6:00 p.m.
Memorial Auditorium (970 South Fourth St.)

Seventy-five years ago, on June 6, 1944, United States (US) forces led the Allied Nations in the largest amphibious invasion in history—Operation Overlord, known as D-Day. 

On June 6, 2019, Honor Flight Bluegrass will honor these American heroes who served in WWII with a celebration at Louisville Memorial Auditorium.

“Operation Bravo Zulu”, will feature honored guest, 95-year-old WWII Medal of Honor recipient, Hershel “Woody” Williams, who will join his fellow WWII Veterans on this historic day. He will lead the ceremony with 75 or more WWII Veterans and their families as we recognize and pay tribute to these members of the “Greatest Generation.”

Dale Faughn, a Marine WWII Veteran and Kentucky’s Poet Laureate, will address attendees with a special 75th Anniversary D-Day poem. French Consul-General, Guillaume Lacroix, will offer remarks for this occasion, as well as other state and local dignitaries. Included in the program are exhibits, the Ladies for Liberty singing troupe and the Don Krekel Orchestra.

Each WWII Veteran will also be presented with commemorative gifts. The public is invited to join these Veterans and their families for the ceremony followed by a meet and greet. Veterans will be on hand for media interviews, beginning at 4:00 p.m. at the Louisville (KY) Memorial Auditorium, 970 South Fourth Street. Doors open to the public at 6 p.m. The program begins at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 per person and can be purchased through the Louisville Memorial Auditorium website at www.louisvillememorialauditorium.com.

Visit honorflightbluegrass.org for more information.

Waggin' Trail Festival for the Animals - June 9

Monster Prevention with WAGS

Sippin' for Seniors - June 19

Kentucky Shakespeare in Central Park - May 29 - August 4

Join us in Old Louisville’s Central Park May 29 - August 4 for the 59th season of your free Kentucky Shakespeare Festival.

The season features 7 different productions – a comedy, history, and tragedy in our main stage series plus productions from guest companies and our Globe Players high school student troupe. Food trucks open at 6:30 p.m., Kids’ Globe with free activities for youth is open from 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., the bar opens at 7:00 p.m., the pre-show is at 7:15 p.m., and the show starts at 8:00 p.m. This is a perfect event for the whole family – adults, children, and pets. As always, performances are free and no tickets are required for entry.

2019 SEASON DATES

AS YOU LIKE IT
May 29, 30, 31
June 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
July 9, 11, 13, 17, 20

As You Like It Summary
Rosalind and her cousin escape into the forest and find Orlando, Rosalind's love. Disguised as a boy shepherd, Rosalind has Orlando woo her under the guise of "curing" him of his love for Rosalind. Rosalind reveals she is a girl and marries Orlando during a group wedding at the end of the play.

HENRY IV, PART TWO
June 13, 14, 15, 16, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23
July 14, 16, 19

King Henry IV, Part Two Summary
King Henry IV suffers from illness, so his youngest son Prince John fights the rebels, while Prince Hal prepares to be king. Meanwhile, Hal's friend Falstaff causes trouble, recruits, and speaks ill of Hal. Henry dies, and Hal becomes King Henry V. He banishes Falstaff from court, ready to wage war on France.

THE TRAGEDY OF KING LEAR
June 27, 28, 29, 30; July 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
July 10, 12, 18, 21

The Tragedy of King Lear Summary
King Lear is a tragedy written by William Shakespeare. It depicts the gradual descent into madness of the title character, after he disposes of his kingdom by bequeathing his power and land to two of his three daughters in exchange for insincere declarations of love, bringing tragic consequences for all.

Globe Players High School Theatre Training Program presents TWELFTH NIGHT
July 24-27

Cincinnati Shakespeare presents ROMEO AND JULIET
July 28 and 30

Louisville Ballet presents CLEOPATRA: QUEEN OF KINGS
July 31 - August 4

LATE NIGHT SHAKES with the Louisville Improvisors
June 8, 22
July 6, 20

Fans Needed for Seniors & Disabled Residents

KIPDA Area Agency on Aging and Independent Living is once again teaming up with the Louisville Metro Office for Aging & Disabled Citizens (OADC) to collect electric fans for seniors and persons with physical disabilities. The fans will be distributed to qualified individuals within the KIPDA region including Jefferson, Bullitt, Henry, Shelby, Oldham, Spencer, and Trimble Counties.   Donations of new box fans will be collected through June 3rd at:                KIPDA located at 11520 Commonwealth Drive (Louisville, KY 40299) WLKY Studio located at 1918 Mellwood Avenue (Louisville, KY 40206) Drop off hours are Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Monetary donations will also be accepted to purchase fans. Make checks payable to KIPDA, Attn: Fan Fair Program, and mail to the address on Commonwealth Drive listed above postmarked by June 3rd. If you would like to make special arrangements for a donation or need further information, please contact Sarah Teeters at the OADC by calling (502) 574-5092 or call Jennifer Craig at KIPDA at (502) 266-5571.

FREE Fans for Seniors and Disabled Residents - June 8

Thanks to the generosity of local businesses, community organizations, and residents, hundreds of electric fans are being collected to provide heat relief for seniors and people with disabilities.  A "Fan Fair" giveaway and resource event is scheduled for Saturday, June 8 from 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. at the Edison Center located at 701 W. Ormsby Avenue.

Fans will be available for seniors 60 and older, as well as for individuals with documented disabilities, on a first-come, first-served basis. 

Fan Fair qualifications and guidelines are as follows:

• Person 60 years or older
• Or documentation verified by a physician of a disability
• Resident of Jefferson, Oldham, Henry, Shelby, Spencer, Trimble or Bullitt Counties
• Proof of address and age
• ​One fan per household

A Prescription Drug Toss & Resource Fair will coincide with the fan giveaway event to provide basic information from local resources. Participating vendors include AARP, JenCare, Humana, Kentuckiana Regional Planning & Development Agency (KIPDA), Louisville Metro Office of Resilience and Community Services, Passport Health, Senior Medicare Patrol and several other Metro Government divisions.

The Louisville Metro Police Department will also be educating and collecting prescription drugs to properly and safely dispose of unwanted or expired prescription drugs in the home.

Fan Fair is sponsored by KIPDA Area Agency on Aging and Independent Living and Louisville Metro Office for Aging & Disabled Citizens (OADC). These organizations joined forces in 2016 to implement a fan drive and for the first annual Fan Fair in response to the numerous calls they received requesting heat relief.

For more information about the Fan Fair event, visit https://louisvilleky.gov/government/resilience-and-community-services  or  www.KIPDA.org.

Cultural Pass

The 2019 Cultural Pass is available starting June 1, 2019 and may be picked up at any Louisville Free Public Library branch. Pass holders can register and track the progress of your Cultural Pass online at www.lfpl.org/culturalpass. The official Cultural Pass Launch Day will be on June 1 at the Main Branch of the Louisville Free Public Library and all participating venues will be invited to participate.  Pass holders are encouraged to visit as many venues as possible. Pass holders that visit the most venues will be entered into a drawing for tickets, season passes and other prizes provided by members of the Arts and Culture Alliance.

FREE Resident Junk Drop Off (3 Items Per Day)

Louisville Metro Waste Reduction Center Hours of Operation:
Tuesday - Friday: 8:00 a.m. - 5 :00 p.m.
Saturday: 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. 

The Louisville Metro Waste Reduction Center at 636 Meriwether Avenue provides a means for all Louisville/Jefferson County residents to properly dispose of tires and household bulk waste including metals, appliances, electronics, tree limbs and stumps (up to three feet in diameter), unbagged yard waste, construction debris and furniture. 

*Up to three household junk items may be dropped off at no charge per day. If there are more than three items a fee will be charged according to the chart at this link.

District 7 Public Notices

Development Proposal

JUST FOR FUN

Taradiddle

Definition: Someone or something that is filled with pretentious nonsense or something that is a lie.

Used in a sentence: The fisherman's story about catching a fish as big as his boat was perhaps a taradiddle, especially since he admitted throwing the fish back into the
water and failing to take a picture with it.

“Don't count the days. Make the days count."
--- Muhammad Ali

Join Louisville in celebrating the Greatest Of All Time! Ali Week is a community-wide celebration of the life and legacy of Muhammad Ali. Every year during the first week in June, Ali’s hometown of Louisville, Kentucky marks the anniversary of his passing with special events, activities, discounts, film screenings, art, music, and other family activities that encourage people to keep alive The Champ’s worldwide impact as a heavyweight champion, cultural icon, and global humanitarian. Visit this link for more information about activities taking place during Ali Week.

Organize Your Cords

Sick of having a box full of tangled cords? Use old toilet paper rolls to organize them!

NOTICE: All Metro Council meetings are carried live on Metro TV, Spectrum Cable Channel 184 and U-verse Channel 99. The meetings are also available online at the Metro Council home page at http://louisvilleky.gov/government/metro-council/metro-council-clerk by clicking on the “Watch Meetings Online” button.