Ben's Pen: A Note from CM Reno-Weber

District 8,

April is always a month of transition—when we shake off the last cold days of winter and lean into the energy of spring. 

As many of you know, our community faced historic flooding earlier this season. Though the "Highlands" were spared the brunt of the damage, the strength and compassion I saw from neighbors, city workers, and local organizations reminded me why I’m so proud to serve District 8. From checking on one another to lending a hand with clean-up efforts, the response embodied what it means to be a resilient and connected community. We still have work ahead, but shoutout to those who continue to look out for one another - particularly during the Beargrass Creek Cleanup. 

Now, as we dry out and warm up, it’s time for one of Louisville’s most cherished traditions—Derby season. Whether you’re a fan of the races, the fashion, or the food (or all three), this time of year brings people together like nothing else. It’s also a great time to support our local businesses, who are preparing for one of their busiest seasons.

It's also farmer's market season!  We are lucky to host several farmer's markets - I was able to attend the the Douglass Loop Farmer's market opening (and pick up some amazing cheese, organic chicken, and hilariously titled hot sauce) AND the Bardstown Road Farmer's Market this past weekend. Though less yummy, I was also able to attend the monthly meeting of the D8 Advisory Board and the Safe & Stable Housing Meet and Greet .

This month’s newsletter highlights several events and initiatives that reflect the spirit of spring and our continued momentum. From the Ken-Ducky Derby raising funds for adults with disabilities to our upcoming Mutual Aid Pop-Up, it’s clear that community is at the heart of everything we do.

As we head into Derby, let’s keep looking out for each other, showing up for local events, and investing in the people and places that make District 8 special. 

P.S: Be sure to read to the end of the newsletter for punchline to this month's dad joke. What award did the scarecrow win? 

Highland's Hero

Ray Brundige is a consistent set of eyes on our parks and streets, and a consistent voice pushing for what is best in our community.  He thoughtfully highlights issues that should be addressed for our quality of life as a neighborhood, big and small - and is not afraid to get his hands dirty picking up trash with his faithful companion Nellie. Several concrete improvements in the neighborhood can be credited to Ray's eagle eyes (including accessibility signage protecting the ADA entrance to Tyler Park among many others).  Ray is a consistent presence in our neighborhood meetings where he asks great questions and pushes for better outcomes. Ray has more great ideas than we can execute on, but always invites us to think critically about issues we face together.  That's why we are honored to name Ray Brundige this month's Highlands Hero.

What's Bubbling Up: Events & Opportunities to Engage

Mutual Aid Pop-Up

Date: Saturday, May 24th

Time: 1–4 PM

Location: St. Matthews Library

We’ll have free items to share, reproductive health resources, a seed exchange, voter registration help, and a blood drive. Let’s come together to support each other, share what we have, and build stronger community ties.

Forest Fest Returns to Jefferson Memorial Forest

Jefferson Memorial Forest is excited to host its annual Forest Fest. Mark your calendars for a full day of music, nature, and community fun.

Date: Saturday, May 17
Time: 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Jefferson Memorial Forest
Parking: $15 per vehicle
All Ages Welcome | Family Friendly | Open to the Public

This year's Forest Fest features a dynamic lineup of Bluegrass and Americana music, including performances by Tray Wellington Band, Tommy Prine, Kentucky Gentlemen, Relaay Miles Nielsen & the Rusted Hearts

In addition to live music, attendees can enjoy arts and crafts, hands-on family activities, and a variety of local food vendors—all in the scenic setting of Jefferson Memorial Forest.

Stay informed by following the Forest Fest Facebook page at @ForestFest for updates and event details.

For additional information or questions, contact the team at forest@louisvilleky.gov.

Macbeth in Tyler Park

Join Kentucky Shakespeare for a free outdoor performance of Macbeth in Tyler Park on May 17 from 6:30 to 8:00 PM. This event is part of the Shakespeare in the Parks Tour, bringing live theater to neighborhoods across the city.

Location: Tyler Park, 1501 Castlewood Ave., Louisville, KY 40204 Rain Space: Under Tyler Park Bridge Cost: Free

This classic tragedy of ambition and power will be performed by professional actors from Kentucky Shakespeare. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs for seating.

For more information, visit this link.

Ben in the Wild

This month, one of the events Councilman Ben Reno-Weber attended the April Community Event with the Lakeside Book Club event at The Monarch, featuring local author and musician Brigid Kaelin.

Community members gathered for a laid-back and engaging discussion about Lakeside, Brigid’s memoir that explores themes of identity, home, and resilience. Attendees had the chance to hear directly from the author, ask questions, and connect over shared experiences.

Brigid also sold and signed copies of Lakeside at the event. For those who missed it, the book is still available at Carmichael’s Bookstore or through her website at brigidkaelin.com/author.

Where Will We See Ben Next Month? If you’d like Councilman Reno-Weber to attend a community event, email his legislative assistant, Betsy Foster, at betsy.foster@louisvilleky.gov. She ensures all constituents are heard and gets your message directly to Councilman Ben Reno-Weber.

Beargrass Creek Cleanup

This past weekend, we rolled up our sleeves alongside neighbors from across the city for Brightside’s Community-Wide Cleanup. Our community showed once again that when we come together — across neighborhoods, backgrounds, and generations — we can make a real difference. Thank you to all the volunteers who invested their time and energy into making District 8 and all of Louisville a more beautiful, welcoming place for everyone. A special thank you to Brightside for leading the way in creating cleaner, greener, and more connected communities. Their work — from environmental stewardship to education and beautification efforts — strengthens our city and ensures every neighborhood can thrive. We are proud to support their mission and grateful for their partnership in making Louisville a better place for all. Let’s keep the momentum going!

Find Your New Best Friend at Lou Adopts!

Looking to add a furry friend to your family? Don’t miss Hammer’s Lou Adopts!, a community pet adoption event presented by the Kentucky Humane Society in partnership with Metro Animal Services. Date: Saturday, May 10 Time: 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Location: Kentucky Fair & Exposition Center All are welcome to attend. Adoption counselors will be on-site to help you find the perfect match and guide you through the process. For more information, visit the Kentucky Humane Society website or follow their social media channels for event updates.

Save Birds by Going Lights Out This Spring!

Each spring, millions of birds migrate over Louisville, but artificial lights at night can disorient them, leading to injuries and deaths. You can help protect these birds!

Here’s how:

• From April to May, between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m., turn off non-essential lights and close your blinds.
• This simple action reduces the dangers of artificial light, giving birds a safer journey.

Going Lights Out also saves you money on your electricity bill! Learn more and sign up at www.lightsoutlouisville.org.

Thank you for helping protect Louisville’s migrating birds!

Dad Joke of the Month

Councilmember Ben Reno-Weber  |   Louisville Metro Council   |   District 8

601 West Jefferson Street, Third Floor

Louisville, Kentucky 40202

You are receiving this email because you have had communication with our office in the past. If you would like to be removed from our email list, please follow the Unsubscribe instructions below.