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Councilman Ken Herndon will announce the launch of a new Life Skills for Youth Initiative that will benefit more than 250 young people who live in District 4.
Wednesday, December 17th
9:00 AM
Blueprint 502
800 S. Preston St.
We hope to see you there!
 Over the weekend, CM Herndon was honored to greet the community at the 13th Annual West Louisville Holiday Festival.
The festival was filled with joy, laughter, and a true sense of togetherness.
 CM Herndon was warmly welcomed with hugs, smiles, delicious food, and wonderful conversation at the Smoketown Originals Christmas Party.
CM Herndon even won a game at the event!
Thank you again for your hospitality and for the invaluable role you play in our community.
 We’d like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Change Today, Change Tomorrow for sharing such valuable information with our community through their Farm-to-Table Brunch & Learn, a celebration of their ongoing work and the powerful impact made possible through community support.
Thank you, CTCT, for all you do to uplift and nourish our community!
 Thank you Blueprint 502 for the invitation and inspiring breakfast this morning.
We are gracious of your dedication and leadership in equipping our youth with skills, hope, and knowledge to take ownership and impact within their lives and the community!
 Gateway on Broadway
After years of thoughtful restoration, this historic landmark has been beautifully brought back to life.
Gateway on Broadway (1405 W. Broadway) now features:
🏡116 units of affordable senior housing
🏢New corporate headquarters for HPI
🤝Dedicated space for our community partners
This $52 million investment represents a transformative moment for our residents and the surrounding neighborhood.
We’re excited to celebrate its impact and the bright future it creates for our community.
 CM Herndon was honored to attend the Baxter Community Center's open house this past Saturday.
Thank you to the staff and community partners for highlighting the programs and activities available in our community.
 District 4's first 'Ken & Pins' event at Vernon Lanes was a success!
We thank everyone who was able to attend and hope everyone enjoyed striking a pin or 10!
 In October, our office partnered with Louisville Parks and Recreation to host a joint meeting, Voices & Visions. Community members came together to share inspiring ideas for enhancing California Park—including suggestions such as adding outdoor restrooms and a gazebo to improve both usability and charm.
Councilman Herndon encourages neighborhood youth and residents to continue sharing their voices and visions for how California Park can better serve future generations.
Your ideas matter—let’s shape the future together!
Take part by completing our survey here: Louisville Parks Survey
  
The Democratic Caucus of the Louisville Metro Council will meet on Today, Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. The meeting will be held in the Third Floor Conference Room, Historic City Hall, 601 West Jefferson Street.
The meeting is open to the public. The public may enter City Hall using the Sixth Street entrance.
Anyone needing assistance may enter City Hall from the Jefferson Street entrance.
Under KRS 61.826, some members will be video conferencing using WebEx.
As temperatures drop, it’s time to prepare and protect our most vulnerable community members. Extreme Weather Shelters provide life-saving refuge during dangerous cold snaps, helping reduce strain on hospitals and emergency services.
Community spaces like gyms, churches, and event halls can play a vital role by opening their doors when severe weather hits.
If you’re considering using your facility as a shelter, don’t wait—apply now to ensure your space meets all safety requirements. A Life Safety Plan must be submitted and approved by the Construction Review division of the Department of Codes and Regulations, so early action is essential.
These shelters not only keep people safe during extreme conditions—they also demonstrate compassion and strengthen our community in times of need.
Ready to help? Learn more and start your application at:
Extreme Weather Shelters
 Notice of Board Meeting
The Louisville Metro Air Pollution Control Board will hold its regular monthly meeting via Video Teleconference on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. The Board invites the public to attend. Instructions for attending the meeting via video teleconference follow the agenda. Members of the public may also attend the video teleconference in the Edison Room of the Edison Center at 701 West Ormsby Avenue, Louisville, Kentucky 40203.
The next Board meeting is Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.
This is a regularly scheduled agenda item to give individuals and organizations an opportunity to address the Board on air pollution issues. Presentations shall be limited to two minutes, except that the Board Chair may, for cause, allow three minutes. Persons wishing to address the Board shall notify the Secretary-Treasurer (502-574-6000) and submit a completed speaker registration form to the Secretary-Treasurer before 10:00 a.m. the day of the board meeting. Persons unable to speak during the Board meeting may submit a written statement in accordance with the instructions on page 3.
Documents for this meeting that are available electronically may be found on the District’s Board Meeting and Public Hearings web page.
 Louisville Metro Emergency Services is proud to launch LouReady, a vital new tool to help families stay safe and informed during emergencies. LouReady empowers residents with real-time alerts, safety tips, and community contacts—so you can act fast and make smart decisions when it matters most.
Preparedness starts at home. With LouReady, you can:
- Receive location-based alerts for severe weather, public safety threats, and community-wide emergencies in connection with our already active alert method LENSAlert, Louisville Emergency Notification System.
- Build a family emergency plan with checklists for various types of emergency events
- Access Safe Walk technology which allows you to share your live location with a trusted friend or family member via email or SMS
- Know where to turn for help—LouReady connects you to maps, emergency contacts, city services through Metro 311, and recovery resources after emergency incidents
- Monitor live weather updates with access to a live Downtown weather camera, the ability to monitor air pollution levels, and catch up on daily forecasts through the National Weather Services
Whether it’s a tornado warning or a hazardous materials incident, LouReady helps you stay one step ahead. Download the app today and take control of your family’s safety—because preparedness starts with awareness. The app is currently available on the Apple Store for iPhones with IOS 15.6 or later, and in the Google Play Store, just search LouReady.
 Smart911 allows individuals to create a personalized Safety Profile that instantly shares critical information with 911 Call Takers during an emergency.
This can include medical conditions, pet information, family details, and access instructions—helping first responders arrive faster and better prepared, especially if the caller is unable to speak.
It enhances emergency response, improves safety outcomes, and gives peace of mind knowing help can be tailored to your needs.
You can sign up for free on Smart911.com or by texting 'LENSAlert' to 67283.
LENSAlert stands for Louisville Emergency Notification System.
 Being safe in hazardous winter weather not only means taking the appropriate steps during the storm, but also having the right supplies beforehand. Waiting to stock up on supplies until a watch or warning is issued may result in those items being unavailable or the store being closed.
The checklist below provides some basic guidance on what to have in your home during the winter if you are forced to stay indoors or lose electricity.
- Disposable dishware: plates, bowls, utensils
- Specialty items: medications, infant formula
- Portable radio: AM/FM radio and batteries
- Warm clothing: hats, mittens, parkas, boots
- Extra blankets
- Matches: for candles and gas fireplaces
- Shovel/snow blower: check condition and maintenance
- Flashlights (extra batteries)
- First-Aid Kit
- Cellphone (fully charged)
- Firewood: Wood fireplaces
Here are a few additional action items to consider during the snowy season:
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Sign up for LENSAlert receive weather alerts, disaster resources, and preparedness tips.
- Check and ensure smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly.
- Winterize homes by checking chimneys, insulating pipes, cleaning gutters, and gathering supplies.
- Winterize vehicles by checking tires, oil, battery, and antifreeze, and keeping a preparedness kit in the car.
For more information, visit our Emergency Public Health Preparedness website to access the multilingual preparedness resources.
 There are approximately 100 boards and commissions with many areas of interest, including business and economic development, land planning, parks and recreation, public health and public safety.
If you are interested in volunteering for one of Louisville Metro Government's Boards and Commissions, now is the time to start. By being a part of a board or commission, you will offer your time and your talents to improve the quality of life in our community.
To learn more please visit Boards and Commissions.
 Next Gen helps emerging developers break into the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program. Across Illinois, for-profit and nonprofit developers gain hands-on training, technical support, and a path to pre-development loans.
By prioritizing geographic diversity and those facing barriers to capital, Next Gen is building a stronger, more inclusive pipeline of affordable housing leaders.
The 2026 cohort application deadline is January 31 and the sessions will start at the end of March.
Link to application: https://lnkd.in/echJMsMg
 2026 Cultural Pass Partner registrations have opened!
Cultural Pass provides free access to many of Greater Louisville’s arts and culture institutions for youth ages 0-21. Arts and culture 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations offering arts and/or culture programming during the summer, with a primary place of business in the service region, are encouraged to register.
More Information and application here.
     
 Educational Justice is offering free, one-on-one tutoring and mentoring for students in grades 5–8 across Jefferson County. The program is primarily virtual, making it easy to access—no transportation needed!
Last year, nearly 500 students participated and saw meaningful academic growth. This is a completely free resource designed to help students thrive, and we need your help spreading the word to families who could benefit.
Learn more, here!
 Let's Plan at California Community Center
Love planning or want to learn how? Join us for Let’s Plan, a monthly meetup designed to help you organize, set goals, and plan your best life!
The next session is Wednesday, January 7, from 6-7:30 p.m. at California Community Center. Come connect, share ideas, and start the year off right!
 Coming soon! Flag football registration begins Jan. 1
Flag Football season is around the corner! Sign up starting January 1, and join the fun at Russell Lee Park.
Players get an official NFL jersey and flag set. Register by May 3 at bestparksever.com.
 Swim Lessons at Mary T. Meagher Aquatic Center
Swim lessons for folks of all ages are continuously being offered at Mary T. Meagher Aquatic Center!
Click here for more information about lessons and programming.
 Jr. NBA Leagues
Calling all young ballers! Get ready for a season of fun and teamwork with the Jr. NBA League! Registration is open for kids ages 5–14. Sign up by December 21.
 Coming soon! Spring soccer registration begins Jan. 1
Registration for our youth spring soccer leagues opens January 1. Don’t miss your chance to join the fun at Petersburg Park!
We’re also looking for enthusiastic volunteer coaches to help make this season unforgettable.
 2025 Winter Break Camps
Looking for winter fun?
Our Winter Break Camps are the perfect way to keep kids ages 5–12 active and creative during the holiday season!
From games and crafts to outdoor play and new friendships, it’s all happening Dec. 29–Jan. 2 at community centers across Louisville. Registration is just $60.
Sign up today by clicking here.
 Louisville Parks and Recreation is now hiring!
Employment with Louisville Parks and Recreation is a great opportunity to connect with nature and the community! We have employment opportunities throughout each division (aquatics, recreation, golf, community engagement, Jefferson Memorial Forest) for both full-time and part-time positions.
Visit bestparksever.com for more information on employment opportunities!
 New Year, New You!
January 8, 2026
Trellis Brewing | 5:30–7:30 PM
Got yoga mats, dumbbells, hiking boots, or fitness gear collecting dust? Bring your gently used items to the kNOw Waste Fitness Swap at Trellis Brewing on Jan 8!
Swap your gently used items for something new
Meet active, like-minded people
Start the year sustainably
Reduce waste. Refresh your fitness routine. Connect with your community.
 Anti-Racism Challenge (ARC) begins January 2nd.
The free 4-Week Challenge works in much the same way as a food challenge or lifestyle challenge: by regularly participating in anti-racism activities, we naturally develop better habits of noticing and challenging racism in our daily lives.
Each week, participants will receive a free email with a list of 12 antiracism activities, such as read an article, view a documentary, contact an elected official, etc; we ask that you complete 3.
It’s individual, you don’t report to anyone.
Learn more and sign up here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/kXPcuQm
 Louisville Visual Art: Children's Fine Art Opportunities
Louisville Visual Art is offering Children’s Fine Art Classes in the Portland Neighborhood for children in elementary or middle school. These Saturday sessions are a great way to explore creativity and learn from talented instructors!
Louisville Visual Art is also hosting programing at Baxter Community Center.
Learn more, here .
 Join Frazier History Museum for a powerful and moving program in honor of International Holocaust Remembrance Day.
My Holocaust Legacy: A Blessing, Not a Burden
Sunday, January 25
Program: 2:00–3:30 p.m.
Book Signing: 3:30–4:00 p.m.
Hear from Dr. Alex Kor and Graham Honaker as they share stories of survival, resilience, and remembrance. Dr. Kor’s father survived Buchenwald, while his mother and her twin sister endured Auschwitz and the horrific experiments of Dr. Josef Mengele. This event honors the legacy of Holocaust survivors and the importance of preserving their stories.
Copies of the book will be available for purchase from Carmichael’s.
 Vows with your Valentine
Saturday, February 14
All Day
Cost: $500
Frazier Kentucky History Museum
Let us sweat the small stuff with memorable mini-matrimony ceremonies on Valentine’s Day!
Package per couple plus up to ten guests includes:
· Ordained Ceremony in Order of the Writ
· Champagne toast & cake in the Speakeasy
· One complimentary portrait/videography of the ceremony
· Floral décor provided by Michaelis Events
· All gallery access, including Davis Jewelers’ Love & Marriage exhibition
Make history at the Frazier by letting us write the first chapter with you!
For additional information, contact events@fraziermuseum.org or (502) 587-0941.
Learn more at,
https://www.fraziermuseum.org/calendar/vows-with-your-valentine
Celebrate the Holidays at the Louisville Zoo!
Mayor Craig Greenberg and the Louisville Zoo are thrilled to announce a monthlong December celebration packed with festive activities for the whole family. From animal-themed holiday enrichment to visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Plus, discover unique gifts that bring a full year of fun to your loved ones!
“The Zoo is a vibrant part of our city’s winter season and offers a wonderful way for families to connect and make holiday memories,” said Mayor Craig Greenberg. “Events like these show how we can have fun while giving back to our neighbors and building a stronger, healthier Louisville together.”
December Event Highlights
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Beary Happy Holiday
Weekends: Dec. 6–7, 13–14, 20–21
Watch animal friends throughout the Zoo enjoy special holiday-themed enrichment activities.
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Santa and Mrs. Claus Visit
Dec. 20–21, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Meet the beloved couple of the season and snap a photo! Families can also enjoy sweet treats (additional fee) during this festive weekend.
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Holiday Scavenger Hunt
All Month Long
Embark on a Zoo-wide scavenger hunt for all ages! Scan the QR code at the entrance to join the adventure and complete challenges for a chance to win Zoo-themed prizes.
Additional Details
The Zoo is open year-round with cozy indoor spaces. Holiday programming is included with general admission or membership.
Take advantage of Wild Winter Days, presented by Kroger, running through Feb. 28, 2026:
Bring at least one non-perishable food item per person for Dare to Care Food Bank and purchase tickets at the Zoo for $11 per adult and $8 per child/senior.
For a full schedule of events, visit louisvillezoo.org/events.
Zoo Hours
Open daily year-round.
Now–March 20, 2026: 10 a.m.–4 p.m. (exit by 5 p.m.)
Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.
Visit louisvillezoo.org for details.
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