 Yesterday, was a wonderful evening celebrating the Historic Broadway Theatre!
Our office was honored to be part of this special occasion and to present a proclamation recognizing the theatre’s lasting impact on the community. Be sure to follow the Historic Broadway Theatre and Redline Performing Arts to stay up to date on upcoming performances, productions, and community events. We look forward to seeing you there!
 The Louisville Metro budget process was especially tight this year, and many community priorities; while passionately advocated for, couldn’t be fully funded. Still, your voice matters, and continuing to advocate for your priorities keeps those needs visible for future cycles. We all hope that in the coming years, your funding request can be included as resources grow and opportunities open
SmoketownCLT is Louisville’s first Community Land Trust, and our Homeownership Program creates opportunities for low- and moderate-income families to make one of life’s biggest milestones—purchasing their first home in the Smoketown community.
Our model ensures lasting affordability by using an initial one-time investment to significantly reduce the purchase price of a home, while a ground lease limits appreciation so the home remains affordable for future income-qualified buyers in perpetuity.
Incorporated as a 501(c)(3) in March 2024, SmoketownCLT will celebrate a major milestone on August 1, 2026: the completion of our first seven permanently affordable homes.
The celebration begins at 2:00 p.m. with a press announcement, remarks from elected officials and partners, and an official ribbon cutting. Following the program, guests are invited to a free community block party.
Join us as we celebrate this important step forward for affordable homeownership in Smoketown. The event will feature live performances, food trucks, vendors, resource tables, a kids’ zone with a skating rink, home tours, on-site pre-qualification screenings for potential buyers, and more. Admission is free.
For more information about the event, including vending, resource, and sponsorship opportunities, visit the event page:
SmoketownCLT Hancock Development Ribbon Cutting Celebration
Victory Park Day is ON!
Saturday, August 1
12:00–5:00 p.m.
We’re looking for vendors, community organizations, resource tables, and other participants to help make this a fun and impactful day for the neighborhood!
Interested in being part of the celebration?
Contact Norman / Deshawn, Michael Ballard and/ or contact Taylore Bass Email Taylore.Bass@louisvilleky.gov for more information and to reserve your spot.
  
 A Note from The Descendants of the California Neighborhood
"Dear Community Partner,
The Descendants of the California Neighborhood, in partnership with our Metro Council District Representative, Ken Herndon, and neighborhood residents, invite your organization to participate in our Annual California Day community celebration.
This free family-friendly event will be held on Saturday, August 29, 2026, from noon to 8:00 p.m. at California Park. Each year, the event brings together more than 500 attendees, including children, families, and seniors, for a day of community fellowship featuring free food, music, games, prizes, and valuable community resources.
We would be honored to have your organization participate by hosting an information table to share your programs, services, and resources with attendees. Organizations are also encouraged to provide promotional items, product samples, giveaways, or other educational materials to engage with community members. There is no cost to reserve a space for your organization!
Your participation is a wonderful opportunity to connect with residents, increase awareness of your organization, and demonstrate your commitment to serving our community. To best serve our mission product selling is prohibited!
To assist with event planning and vendor mapping, please confirm your participation no later than Friday, July 24, 2026.
Thank you for considering this opportunity to be part of one of our neighborhood's signature community events. We look forward to partnering with you to make this year's California Day a memorable success.
For questions or to confirm your participation, please contact:
Shaun Spencer
shaunCSpencer@gmail.com
502.472.4641 cell"
Location: Coppershire Condominiums Clubhouse
Date:Tuesday, July 21, 2026
Time: 6:30–7:30 p.m
We did not meet in June, so your attendance at this meeting is especially important. Please let me know if you have an agenda item, if the timing is problematic, or if you are unable to attend.
Agenda
- Announcements (Alison): Plaque request for Delores Collins; Trolley Hop 2026 schedule; April Community Meeting (no attendees)
- Good Morning Restaurant alcohol exemption request (Ken): KRS 242-1244
- Street banners (Zorn Ave and Brownsboro Rd) (Ken)
- Newsletter and social media updates
- Request for funding for newsletter and other announcements
- Actions for summer and fall
- Other items
Signarama Downtown
1430 Mellwood AVE
Tuesday, July 14
4:00 pm
   
 Community Fan Distribution
Eligibility Includes:
Person 60 years or older
Or documentation verified by a physician of a physical disability
Resident of Jefferson, Oldham, Henry, Shelby, Spencer, Trimble or Bullitt Counties
Proof of address and age
Starting June 15, 2026, contact the location most convenient to you to check on fan availability and instructions to pick up.
Neighborhood Place
First Neighborhood Place (40219) - 502.313.4700
Cane Run Neighborhood Place (40216) - 502.485.6810
Northwest Neighborhood Place (40212) - 502.485.7230
South Central Neighborhood Place (40215) 502.485.7130
Ujima Neighborhood Place (40211) - 502.485.6710
South Jefferson Neighborhood Place (40118) - 502.363.1424
Bridges of Hope Neighborhood Place (40210) - 502.634.6050
Charmoli Center Neighborhood Place (40222) - 502.574.5787
Other Locations:
Centerwell Senior Primary Care West Lou (40212)-502.684.2320
Jencare Senior Medical Center West Broadway (40211) 502.775.1211
Fans distributed on a first come, first served basis while supplies last. All distribution sites are by appointment only. One fan per person.
Free Falls Prevention Class
 Monday, July 13th
1:00-2:30pm EST
UofL Trager Optimal Aging Clinic
Classroom 2
204 E. Market Street
For more information call 502.217.5236
As part of the Cultural Pass program, FREE programming is available to Seniors 65+ from Cultural Pass partners across the region from May 30 – August 9, 2026.
Please Note:
- In the past, a Senior Pass or Senior Pass app was needed for admission — NO PASS is needed for 2026 programming.
- No pre-registration or ticketing of any kind is required unless specified by the partner.
- Partners may require identifying or contact information for reporting processes as part of check-in, including but not limited to ID, email address, and zip code
- Event admission fee coverage is for Seniors 65+ ONLY, unless otherwise specified by the partner.
Click HERE for a list of participating programs
AARP Shred Event
 Shred it, Louisville!
Saturday, August 8th
9:00am-11:00am
AARP Kentucky State Office
10401 Linn Station Rd
Every 2 seconds, someone’s identity is stolen, but you can take steps to protect yourself. Join us to fight back against fraud!
AARP will have on-site shredding trucks available from 9:00 to 11:00am to shred your sensitive documents. Shredding services, provided by Shred-It, are free of charge and open to the public.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Onsite shredding of all sensitive documents
- Paper shredding only
- Business shredding is not permitted
- All Empty containers must be taken back by owner
- There is a 4-box limit!
Although this is a free event, you must register so we have enough trucks available.
Register HERE or by calling toll free 877-926-8300
Explore La Villa Lou with the Passport Challenge!
This fun, digital experience invites residents and visitors to explore the vibrant businesses, restaurants, and culture along the corridor. Simply scan the QR code at participating locations to check in, earn points, and redeem exclusive La Villa Lou swag. You can even add the passport to your phone’s home screen for quick, app-like access on the go.
La Villa Lou is the community-selected honorary name for a stretch of Preston Highway that has become the heart of Hispanic culture, entrepreneurship, and community life in Louisville. Led by the Office for Immigrant Affairs and the Office of Strategic Initiatives, this community-driven initiative celebrates the rich contributions of Louisville’s Hispanic community while promoting inclusion, cultural appreciation, and support for local businesses.
Join the challenge and experience all that La Villa Lou has to offer!
Passport her, La Villa Lou Passport Challenge
Calling Artists: A Collaborative Community Arts Initiative
The Office for Immigrant Affairs invites local artists to join a collaborative arts initiative with JCPS students that celebrates creativity, culture, and the diverse voices of Louisville’s immigrant communities.
Participants will work together to create original artwork that fosters cross-cultural understanding and strengthens community connections.
For more information, please contact Dr. Monica Lakhwani at Monica.Lakhwani@louisvilleky.gov.
Discover the Flavors and Traditions of Haiti
 Saturday, July 18 | 1:00 - 2:30 PM
Experience the rich culture of Haiti through food at the fourth annual Celebrating Our Neighborhood series.
Join local chef Mackendy Alcinvil of Caribbean Café at the Northeast Regional Library for a free cooking demonstration and cultural presentation.
Registration is required, so reserve your spot early and enjoy this unique opportunity to connect through food, history, and community.
Celebrating Our Neighborhood | Louisville Free Public Library
 The Solid Waste Enforcement Team continues to make progress in combating illegal dumping across Louisville Metro. On June 24, 2026, the team successfully impounded two vehicles connected to the illegal dumping of debris at a known dumping hotspot off Cane Run Road in District 12. Following an investigation, enforcement officers located both vehicles in the 2000 block of Nocturne Drive in District 14.
Citations issued to the vehicle owner resulted in a combined total of $2,000 in fines, in addition to vehicle impoundment. The vehicles may be released after 72 hours once all applicable fines and fees have been paid.
This enforcement action follows a separate incident at the same location on May 28, 2026, when an LMPD officer caught an individual illegally dumping construction and demolition debris. The individual was cited for illegal dumping, the vehicle was impounded, and an arrest was made due to outstanding warrants.
These cases demonstrate our continued commitment to holding offenders accountable and keeping Louisville Metro’s neighborhoods clean.
Not sure how to dispose of something?
Use the Recycle Coach app to search for any item and find out how to properly recycle, dispose, or drop it off. You can also visit our website for detailed guidance.
See something? Say something.
You can report illegal dumping online through Metro311 at Louisvilleky.gov/tell311. Your report helps us take action quickly and keep our neighborhoods clean.
 Back-to-school immunizations:
What families need to know!
 As the new school year gets closer, now is the perfect time to make sure your child is up to date on their vaccines. Vaccines protect children from serious diseases like measles, whooping cough, and meningitis. They also help keep schools and our community safe.
What parents should do:
- Check your child’s immunization record.
- Schedule an appointment if any vaccines are missing.
- Ask your healthcare provider if you have questions.
Why it matters:
- Schools require certain vaccines for attendance.
- Vaccines prevent outbreaks and missed school days.
- Staying up to date helps protect babies, older adults, and people with health conditions.
Need help?
“Widespread immunization leads to an immediate concrete benefit,” said Dr. Kris Bryant, associate medical director for the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness and pediatric infectious disease specialist with Norton Children’s. “Children who stay healthy stay focused on growing, playing and learning.”
Our health department offers immunizations for children and adults. Call 502-574-5380 to schedule an appointment or learn about upcoming back-to-school clinics.
Building confidence in
breastfeeding and infant care
 The Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness WIC Program offers a series of breastfeeding education classes designed to support families from pregnancy through the early months of their baby’s life.
Topics include:
- Intro to Breastfeeding, which covers the basics of getting started and building confidence. The class will also cover what's normal and how to tell your baby is getting enough.
- Baby Behavior: The First Few Months, which helps parents understand newborn feeding cues, sleep patterns, and developmental behaviors
- Milk Expression, which provides guidance on nursing, pumping, hand expression and milk storage.
To better serve our community, we also offer Introducción a la Lactancia Materna, a Spanish-language class that provides the same essential breastfeeding information in a culturally welcoming environment.
Please scan the QR code or click here to register for these free virtual classes.
Prepare for Extreme Heat
 Millions across the eastern US are entering a record‑setting stretch of dangerous heat just as people prepare to celebrate the nation’s 250th Independence Day. Heat risks aren’t always obvious, and fans can sometimes worsen dehydration.
Stay safe with these key steps:
- Seek air‑conditioning in libraries, malls, community centers, or stay on the lowest floor if your home isn’t cooled.
- Sign up for LENSAlert for heat warnings.
- Avoid strenuous activity during peak heat; watch for coughing or shortness of breath.
- Wear lightweight, light‑colored clothing and use a wide‑brimmed hat.
- Check on vulnerable people and move them to cooler spaces.
- Drink plenty of fluids even if you’re not thirsty.
- Never leave people or pets in cars.
If heat illness occurs, cool the body immediately and call 9‑1‑1 for signs of heat stroke. Visit our Emergency Public Health Preparedness webpage for multilingual extreme‑heat guides.
Protect Your Employees and Patrons from Cyclosporiasis
You may have seen recent news about an outbreak of a parasitic infection—cyclosporiasis—spreading across the Midwest and other states. In Michigan alone, there are currently more than 700 reported cases.
Cyclosporiasis is caused by a microscopic parasite and is often associated with fresh produce or recreational water sources such as pools, lakes, and rivers. Infection occurs when people consume food or water contaminated with the parasite, typically through exposure to fecal matter. In the current outbreak, contaminated produce is suspected, although no specific fruit, vegetable, grower, or supplier has been identified. Public health officials are actively investigating the source.
Steps you can take to help prevent illness in your establishment:
- Thoroughly wash and scrub all fresh fruits and vegetables before preparing or serving them.
- Consider using heads of lettuce instead of pre-cut or bagged lettuce; regardless of type, always wash before use.
- Wash hands with soap and water before and after handling fruits and vegetables.
- Ensure employees who are ill—particularly those experiencing vomiting or diarrhea—do not work until at least 24 hours after symptoms have resolved.
While antibiotics are available to treat cyclosporiasis, prevention remains the most effective way to protect your staff and customers.
If you have questions or would like guidance on food safety practices, please contact Public Health and Safety at 502-574-6650 or reach out to your assigned inspector.
   
Introducing the NEW Film Kentucky!
Kentucky now has one statewide destination for film, television, commercial, documentary, music video, and video game production.
Film Kentucky connects Kentucky-based talent, crew, vendors, and locations with producers, location scouts, and other media production staff.
Louisville has such a wide variety of venues and scenery- unique architecture, historic homes, natural greenspaces, downtown storefronts, warehouses, and more.
If you have a venue or property that would make a great backdrop for a film production, register your location here.
In addition to film industry crew, productions also seek service providers ranging from accounting, catering for craft services, and various trades.
If you are a local crew or vendor, create a free profile on the state-wide directory here.
To learn more about the new Kentucky Entertainment Incentive (KEI) or the economic impact data of this growing industry in our state, visit FilmKentucky.org.
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  The Association of Community Ministries (ACM) recently made a minor adjustment to its service areas.
Highlands Community Ministries has assumed responsibility for the portion of ZIP code 40218 previously served by Ministries United of South Central Louisville. As a result, ZIP code 40218 is now shared by only two ministries: Fern Creek Highview United Ministries and Highlands Community Ministries.
We’ve updated our online map to reflect these changes. Anyone can now quickly determine their assigned ministry by entering an address: https://tinyurl.com/ACM2026Map
In addition, with the exception of six shared ZIP codes (40203, 40208, 40211, 40218, 40219, and 40220), ministry assignments can be found by referencing the attached directory.
As a reminder, in addition to a wide range of other services, each ACM member ministry offers assistance with food, utilities, and rent. Visit their individual websites to learn more about available resources.
 Drivers should expect new traffic patterns on Main Street beginning this week as crews continue work to convert the corridor to two-way traffic.
Work was temporarily scaled back during the recent I-65 bridge repairs to help reduce downtown congestion. Now, with southbound I-65 reopened ahead of schedule and all lanes expected to reopen by Aug. 1, the project is moving into its next phase.
Here's what to expect:
- Traffic will shift to the north side of Main Street in its permanent configuration.
- Most intersections along the corridor will temporarily operate as all-way stops while crews connect new traffic signals. The intersections at Second and Main streets and Second and Market streets will remain signalized.
- Eastbound traffic on Main Street will remain closed until the new traffic signals are activated.
Drivers should be prepared for changing traffic patterns throughout the month, follow posted signs and temporary traffic controls, and allow extra travel time through the work zone.
The goal is to open Main Street to two-way traffic by the end of July, weather permitting.
The two-way conversion is a major step toward making downtown Louisville easier to navigate. The project will improve access to businesses and neighborhoods while adding safer crosswalks, protected bike lanes, dedicated turn lanes and upgraded traffic signals.
Industry Road improvements begin
 The Louisville Metro Department of Transportation is moving forward with safety improvements on Industry Road between 4th and 7th streets. The project will redesign the roadway to reduce crashes while making it safer and more comfortable for people who drive, walk and bike.
What drivers and pedestrians can expect
Industry Road will be reconfigured from four travel lanes to three, including:
- One travel lane in each direction.
- A center turn lane to improve turning movements and reduce rear-end crashes.
- Buffered bike lanes in both directions that provide greater separation between vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians.
The updated design will continue to accommodate current traffic volumes while creating a safer roadway for everyone.
Why the project is needed
Traffic studies show Industry Road has more travel lanes than necessary for the amount of traffic it carries. Roadways with extra lanes can encourage higher speeds and increase the likelihood of serious crashes.
By matching the roadway to current traffic demand, the project is expected to:
- Reduce speeding and improve traffic flow
- Lower the risk of fatal and serious injury crashes
- Make crossing the street safer for pedestrians
- Provide dedicated space for cyclists
- Support Louisville Metro's vision of zero roadway deaths by 2050
The Federal Highway Administration recognizes rightsizing, also known as a road diet, as a proven safety strategy, and Louisville Metro's own research shows these roadway changes help reduce severe crashes.
Community input shaped the final design
The project team worked with Strand Associates Inc. to evaluate design options and gather community feedback through an online survey and mailed information to nearby property owners.
More than 80 people responded, with most supporting the buffered bike lane option. After reviewing traffic, speed and turning data alongside community feedback, Louisville Metro selected the preferred design.
The result: A safer, more efficient Industry Road that improves travel for drivers, pedestrians and cyclists while supporting future connections to Louisville Metro's growing bikeway network.
Learn More
Downtown one-way to two-way street conversions moving forward
 Work is progressing on the conversion of several downtown one-way streets to two-way traffic as part of the TARC Network Downtown Transfer Center project.
Crews are currently installing new pavement markings along 8th Street between Liberty Street and Chestnut Street. Once pavement marking and signage work is complete, the following streets will reopen to two-way traffic:
- 8th Street between Liberty Street and Chestnut Street
- Muhammad Ali Boulevard between 6th Street and 9th Street
- 7th Street between Liberty Street and Magazine Street
During construction, motorists can expect periodic lane closures. One lane of traffic will remain open in the current one-way direction while work is underway.
Converting these streets to two-way traffic is expected to improve safety, accessibility, and connectivity throughout downtown. The changes are designed to help calm traffic, improve access to businesses and destinations, and make it easier for people walking, biking, driving, and using transit to navigate the area.
To learn more about the TARC Network Downtown Transfer Center project click, Learn more .
I-65 Central Corridor Project and Downtown Traffic
 As work continues on the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet's I-65 Central Corridor project, motorists should expect changing traffic conditions on nearby surface streets as construction progresses.
This week, alternating lane closures were in place on Muhammad Ali Boulevard beneath I-65 at Hospital Curve in downtown Louisville. The closures occurred from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 7 while contract crews patched the concrete bridge deck on I-65 above Muhammad Ali Boulevard.
Temporary changes to local traffic patterns are a normal part of construction. Drivers are encouraged to stay informed about upcoming traffic impacts. For the latest updates on the I-65 Central Corridor project, follow the KYTC District 5 Facebook page.
Learn More
 Park(ing) Day will return to downtown Louisville on Friday, Sept. 18, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., inviting the community to transform ordinary parking spaces into creative public places for the day.
Park(ing) Day is part of a global movement that reimagines streets as places for people, showcasing how creative placemaking can make downtown more vibrant, welcoming and connected.
Instead of parked cars, expect to see mini parks, outdoor seating, art installations and interactive pop-up spaces throughout downtown.
  Challenge yourself this Plastic Free July: Try one new waste-reducing swap in your home and see how easy sustainable living can be.
Here's one idea: Consider making your own dishwasher pods with a few simple ingredients that can often be purchased in bulk, helping you cut down on packaging waste.
Homemade dishwasher pods require just a handful of ingredients: washing soda, baking soda, citric acid, kosher salt, a few drops of lemon essential oil, and water. Simply combine the dry ingredients, then lightly mist or sprinkle in water until the mixture has the consistency of damp sand. Press the mixture firmly into silicone molds or ice cube trays and allow it to dry overnight.
Once dry, pop the pods out of the molds and store them in an airtight container until you're ready to use them. The result is a convenient, low-waste alternative to commercially packaged dishwasher pods.
Small changes in our daily routines can add up to a meaningful reduction in household waste. Making your own dishwasher pods is one simple swap that supports a more sustainable lifestyle while reducing reliance on plastic packaging.
Follow @KnowWasteLou on Facebook and Instagram for more tips and information about reducing waste!
Get Ready to Be Wowed!
Join us for an inspiring presentation by conservation photographer John Hulgren on Thursday, July 23, at 10:15 a.m. during our 60+ Program. Through his stunning photography, John shares the beauty of the natural world while raising awareness about environmental conservation. Don't miss this opportunity to experience breathtaking images, hear the stories behind them, and enjoy a fascinating morning with friends. We hope to see you there!
Back-to-School Supplies Giveaway
United Crescent Hill Ministries is helping students in the 40206-zip code start the school year prepared for success! Thanks to the generosity of our partner churches, local businesses, and community supporters, we will be providing backpacks, school supplies, and undergarments to eligible students entering Kindergarten through 12th grade.
Need School Supplies? Families must reside in the 40206-zip code and provide proof of address. To apply, visit uchmlouky.org/events.
Sponsor a Student
For just $30, you can help equip one child with the supplies they need to begin the 2026–2027 school year ready to learn.
Your gift provides:
- Backpack
- School supplies
- Undergarments
Donate online at uchmlouky.org/give, or mail a check or cash to:
United Crescent Hill Ministries 150 State Street Louisville, KY 40206
Every donation makes a difference and is deeply appreciated!
School supply distribution will take place at United Crescent Hill Ministries, 150 State Street, Louisville, KY 40206.
For questions, please contact Courtney Goff at uchmlouisville@gmail.com or 502-893-0346.
Celebrate 250 years of the American experiment with a unique blend of history, bluegrass music, and Bourbon.
Join us on Thursday, August 13 for Bourbon Through Bluegrass, featuring Bourbon icon Bernie Lubbers and bluegrass legend Steve Cooley. This live experience pairs curated Bourbon pours with performances that trace the roots of bluegrass—from Bill Monroe to Billy Strings.
Guests can sample Frazier’s exclusive barrel picks, with bottles available for purchase before and after the program.
Thursday, August 13
Frazier Kentucky History Museum
Doors: 6:30 p.m. | Program: 7:00–8:30 p.m.
Admission: $55
 
Saturday, July 18 | 1:00–5:00 p.m.
Bridge Kids International & Our Place at Ben Washer Park
533 W. Kentucky Street, Louisville, KY 40203
Free Admission
Join the Louisville Organizing Arts Group, with support from SANFAN Corporation, Imani Gifts, LLC, Chase Bank, LG&E-KU Foundation, Kentucky Foundation for Women, Community Foundation of Louisville, and the Lexington Academy of Barbering, Inc., for a special America 250 celebration of summertime fun, family, and community.
Enjoy a neighbor-friendly afternoon featuring arts workshops and open play for kids.
Highlights include:
- Butler Books panel discussion with Hometown Heroes ’25 author Ken Clay and other local writers, moderated by Emma McElvaney Talbott
- DJ Chambers Beats spinning music throughout the event
- Live jazz by Chris Stafford and the Gentlemen of Jazz (Simmons College of Kentucky)
- Free giveaways (while supplies last)
- A chance to win a 2-night luxury getaway at the Omni Louisville Hotel
Host: Alexis Mathews, WLKY-TV
For more information or to RSVP, call 502-873-6545. Space is limited indoors, but there is plenty of room on the green space.
           
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Lucille Leggett Neighborhood Institute
Russell: A Place of Promise and Center for Neighborhoods are partnering to offer the Lucille Leggett Neighborhood Institute, a community education program focused on historically Black neighborhoods and districts in Louisville.
Designed to equip resident leaders with the skills and resources to create positive change, the program includes six Thursday sessions beginning August 20.
Locations will rotate weekly and be hosted within participating neighborhoods. Graduation will take place on Saturday, September 26, at the Western Branch Library in Russell.
Dinner will be provided.
Participation is free, but space is limited and advance registration is required.
The institute is open to all neighborhoods; however, priority will be given to residents of Smoketown, Parkland, Algonquin, James Taylor, Park DuValle, Shawnee, California, Newburg, Park Hill, Berrytown, Chickasaw, and Russell.
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