In this Issue
Hello Neighbors and Friends,
What a beautiful weekend we have! With sunny skies and mild August temperatures in the forecast, it’s the perfect time to get out and enjoy all that our wonderful city has to offer.
If you’re looking for something fun and flavorful to do, I encourage you to stop by EggFest, hosted by Brownsboro Hardware & Paint, happening today. It’s a delicious celebration of all things grilled and smoked on the Big Green Egg – and a great way to support local vendors and chefs, and help feed the hungry through two nonprofits - A Recipe to End Hunger and Kentucky Harvest.
In addition to EggFest, there are numerous exciting events taking place throughout Louisville this weekend – from arts and music festivals to farmers markets and more. Let’s make the most of this beautiful weather and vibrant community!
As we celebrate this great weather, let’s also prepare to welcome a new beginning: Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) will open its doors to students on Thursday, August 7, and Louisville Catholic Schools begin August 12. That means more school buses on the roads, children walking and biking to school, and a noticeable uptick in traffic – especially around District 7 schools, where we’re already experiencing construction-related congestion.
I urge everyone to be extra cautious as you navigate the roadways in the days and weeks ahead:
- Watch closely for children crossing the street, especially in neighborhoods and near school entrances.
- Slow down in school zones and obey posted speed limits.
- Be patient and kind to our school crossing guards – they are essential to keeping our students safe. Some schools may not have guards at every crossing, so use extra caution when traveling through unmonitored areas.
To all of the students returning to the classroom – whether you’re entering kindergarten, middle school, or high school – I want you to know how proud we are of you. Make each day count. Show up, do your best, ask questions, and enjoy the experience of learning. Knowledge is power, and you are the future leaders of our city, state, and nation. This is your time – shine brightly and strive for greatness!
And to the parents and guardians – thank you. We see you. Parenting is a noble, sacred task, and one that should be worn as a badge of honor. I know the school year can bring a whirlwind of emotions, responsibilities, and demands, but pace yourself. Take it one day at a time. Show up for your children with intention, and know that your community stands beside you. We are here to support you and help ensure your children thrive.
Let’s work together to keep our children safe, motivated, and encouraged as they embark on another year of growth, discovery, and achievement.
Enjoy the weekend, and thank you for allowing me to serve as your Metro Councilwoman.
Note About Picture: The game is played with one hand... so, right as Councilwoman McCraney was about to try her luck at hitting the object, the referee made sure she removed one hand...lol
Even the sweltering heat couldn’t stop the fun in Schnitzelburg! Councilwoman McCraney braved the blazing summer sun to take part in the 55th Annual World Championship Dainty Contest, one of Louisville’s most unique and cherished traditions.
With broom handle in hand and sleeves rolled up, Councilwoman McCraney joined a spirited group of competitors (all 45 and older, per tradition) to take her best swing at the wooden “dainty.” The rules are simple but the skill is real: flip a small wooden stick off the ground with a broom handle and launch it as far as you can.
This time-honored street game was revived in 1971 by George Hauck and friends at the corner of Goss and Hoertz Avenues and over five decades later, it’s still drawing crowds and spreading joy throughout the Schnitzelburg neighborhood.
Councilwoman McCraney was in great company this year, sharing the street with fellow elected officials and community leaders including Mayor Craig Greenberg, Senator Morgan McGarvey, and several of her Metro Council colleagues who came out to play, cheer, and celebrate.
A big thank you to District 15 Councilwoman Jennifer Chappell, who served as this year’s Dainty Contest Chair and graciously extended the invitation.
Congratulations to Jeff Bent, who claimed this year’s championship title with a 138-foot swing (yes, half a football field.)
We’re proud of Councilwoman McCraney for stepping up to the plate and joining in on a tradition that brings generations together.
Councilwoman McCraney is pictured with Congressman McGarvey, Mayor Greenberg, state representatives, Deputy Mayor Nicole George, and Council colleagues.
Note About Picture: The Councilwoman managed to hit the dainty up in the air --- quite an impressive feat; however, she didn't connect the stick to the dainty to hit it forward for a score. Better luck next year, Dr. McCraney!
Let’s Talk Construction,
Congestion, and Solutions
The date is set. The location is booked. The lineup is stacked. The muffins are warm, and the coffee is hot. Now all we need is YOU.
If you’ve ever white-knuckled your steering wheel in traffic, fired off a “you won’t believe this mess” text, or called our office begging for relief, this conversation is for you.
Join Councilwoman Paula McCraney for a power-packed edition of Muffins with McCraney where we’re tackling the gridlock head-on. As she always says, if you see something, say something, so this is your chance.
We’re bringing the decision-makers straight to you:
- Matt Bullock, Chief District Engineer, KYTC District 5
- Bill Bell, Director of Transportation, Louisville Metro
- Honorable Karen Berg, State Senator, Kentucky
- Honorable Tina Bojanowski, State Representative, Kentucky
- Kenan Stratman, Director, St. Matthews Public Works Dept.
Let them hear how ongoing construction is affecting your daily life, and come prepared to share solutions for what real relief could look like.
Join us on Saturday, August 16th, 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM, at The Arterburn, 310 Ten Pin Lane. Special thanks to the City of St. Matthews Mayor, Rick Tonini, for once again providing us with the beautiful space to host the meeting.
Come for the muffins, stay for the meeting of the minds. It’s coffee and conversation with a purpose.
We’ve heard your concerns loud and clear about congestion near the I‑264 and US 42 interchange. Councilwoman Paula McCraney shared your feedback with the city’s new Director of Transportation, Bill Bell, and wanted to keep you in the loop on the steps being taken to help ease the frustration.
Earlier this week, the Mayor’s Office and Department of Transportation met virtually with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) to discuss these traffic concerns. KYTC is now actively tweaking the signal timing along this stretch and will be remotely monitoring traffic patterns during peak hours to ensure a smoother flow.
In addition, KYTC will be installing painted “don’t block the box” zones on the pavement, meaning drivers cannot legally stop within those marked areas. The city is also in conversation with local law enforcement about enforcing those zones to keep intersections clear and traffic moving.
While construction projects of this size always bring some inconvenience, Councilwoman McCraney is committed to working closely with KYTC to make this process as safe and efficient as possible for District 7 residents.
Want to hear more and share your thoughts directly? Come meet Director Bill Bell in person at our next Muffins with McCraney event on Saturday, August 16 from 9:30 to 11 AM at The Arterburn (310 Ten Pin Lane). We’ll be diving into all things construction, congestion, and what’s ahead for our roads. You won’t want to miss it.
The Louisville Metro Council reconvened last night after their summer recess, diving right into key legislative work and committee business. Highlights included fresh zoning proposals, transportation updates, and discussions around public safety funding.
Want the full scoop? [Watch the recap video here] it's a helpful breakdown of what was covered and what lies ahead.
The next Metro Council meeting is Thursday, August 14, at 6:00 p.m.
To access the agenda and related attachments, click HERE.
To see all meetings on Facebook Live, go to the Metro Council Facebook page by clicking here. To watch Metro Council Meetings live on YouTube, you can visit the LouisvilleMetroTV channel by clicking here,
The public can also view all council and committee meetings on Metro TV, Spectrum Cable Channel 184, or on UVERSE at Channel 99. Proceedings are live-streamed from the Metro Council Clerk’s Archived Media page here.
For additional information or questions, you can reach the Metro Council Clerk’s Office at (502) 574-3902.
It’s been a big week in Louisville, and Mayor Craig Greenberg is recapping it all in this week’s Mayor’s Minute. From the 55th annual World Championship Dainty Contest in Schnitzelburg to celebrating the first 100 days of the EMS pre-hospital blood delivery program, the city is on the move. The Mayor also joined runners and community leaders for the Police Activities League 5K, highlighting the city’s ongoing commitment to youth engagement and public safety.
📺 Click here to watch this week’s recap and stay in the loop on all things Louisville.
The Louisville Zoo is teaming up with Meijer to host a backpack collection drive in support of the Boys and Girls Club of Kentuckiana. From July 30 through August 13, guests who donate a new backpack during their visit to the Zoo will receive $5 off general admission.
Donated backpacks can be dropped off in a clearly marked box located at the Zoo’s main entrance.
"On behalf of Meijer, we’re proud to partner with the Louisville Zoo’s backpack drive to support the Boys and Girls Club of Kentuckiana," said Alyssa Upton, Louisville and Lexington Market Director.
"It’s always exciting to come together with these two wonderful organizations for a cause that helps kids start the school year confident and prepared."
This is a great opportunity to enjoy a day at the Zoo while giving back to students in our community.
LIHEAP Summer Cooling is for all eligible households for home cooling costs. Subsidy benefits can be applied as a credit on your utility account. The one-time benefit amount is determined by your housing category, fuel type, and income level.
Who is Eligible?
- Jefferson County Residents who are within 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines
- Applicants must be responsible for home energy utility costs or pay energy costs if utilities are included as an undesignated portion of rent
How to Schedule an Appointment
- Call 502.991.8391 or visit online HERE
- After scheduling an appointment, please be sure to bring all required documentation on the day, time and location of your appointment
Every 2 seconds, someone becomes a victim of identity theft, but you don’t have to be one of them. Join AARP for a free shredding event designed to help you protect what matters most.
Bring your old tax returns, bank statements, medical bills, or any sensitive documents you no longer need, and watch them get securely shredded on-site. Shredding trucks will be available from 9:00 to 11:00 AM.
Event Details: Saturday, August 9 9:00–11:00 AM EST 10401
Linn Station Road
This event is free and open to the public, but space is limited. Registration is required. Call 877.926.8300 or click here to register
Shred it and forget it!
Mark your calendars because National Night Out is back on Tuesday, August 5, and District 7 is joining the celebration in full force.
This annual event brings neighbors together with local law enforcement and community leaders to build relationships, foster trust, and promote safer neighborhoods. From food and music to games and giveaways, it’s a fun and meaningful evening for the whole family.
District 7 is proudly served by LMPD’s 5th and 8th Divisions as well as the St. Matthews Police Department—and all three will be hosting their own National Night Out events. Be sure to check out their individual flyers for details on locations and activities happening near you.
Let’s show up, connect, and celebrate the power of community!
TEE OFF FOR KIDS IN NEED AT PUTTSHACK
This August, 20% of every mini golf booking made using the button below will support Back 2 School America. So gather your crew, swing for a cause, and help ensure every child starts the school year ready to learn!
BOOK NOW
The Kentucky State Fair Returns August 14–24
It’s almost that time, the Kentucky State Fair is back and bringing 11 days of fun, flavor, and unforgettable memories to the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville.
From acrobats and illusionists to balloon sculptors, bakers, and brew masters, the fair is packed with entertainment and local talent. Whether you're riding the giant slide, chatting with Freddy Farm Bureau, or eating something fried and fabulous on a stick, there’s something for everyone.
Dates: August 14–24, 2025
Location: Kentucky Exposition Center, Louisville, KY
Tickets: $9 in advance through Ticketmaster or Kroger (includes free parking)
Click here for more Info: kystatefair.org
Mark your calendar, grab your stretchy pants, and come celebrate Kentucky’s biggest tradition in the boldest way. See you at the fair!
Step right up the magic of the circus is coming to town! The Venardos Circus will be taking over Waterfront Park the first week of August, and this is one show you don’t want to miss.
Created by former Ringling Bros. ringmaster Kevin Venardos, this animal-free spectacle reimagines the classic American circus with a Broadway-style twist. Expect high-flying acrobats, hilarious clowns, dynamic comedy, and a charismatic ringmaster leading it all under the iconic red-and-white tent.
What makes Venardos Circus truly special is its blend of heart, nostalgia, and modern showmanship. It’s a throwback to circus roots with dazzling costumes, intimate storytelling, and theatrical flair—that speaks to both longtime fans and a whole new generation.
Perfect for families, date night, or a feel-good evening out, the Venardos Circus is more than a show it’s a celebration of wonder, whimsy, and the joy of live performance.
For tickets and showtimes, visit venardoscircus.com
If you’re looking for a tasty twist on your next outing, head over to The Popcorn Station in Lyndon, your one-stop shop for sweet, savory, and everything in between.
Located at 8105 La Grange Road, this local favorite offers over 30 gourmet popcorn flavors, all made with fresh ingredients and tons of creativity. Whether you’re craving Caramel Nut, feeling adventurous with Buffalo Ranch, or want to treat the kids (or yourself) to a bag of Unicorn popcorn, there’s something for every palate.
Fan favorites include:
- Wildcat Crunch
- Dill Pickle
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Chocolate-covered varieties that are seriously next level
So pop in, grab a bag (or three), and enjoy a delicious local experience right in the heart of District 7.
Learn more or check their hours on Facebook or Yelp.
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