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Saturday December 20, 2025
Local Connection
2018’s second CycLOUvia, the popular event showcasing alternative transportation, is returning to Three Points—Germantown, Schnitzelburg, and Shelby Park—on Sunday, August 19, Mayor Fischer announced.
To support and highlight the growing business activity on Logan Street, the route will stretch on Goss Avenue and Logan Street from Texas Avenue to Kentucky Street.
“Another CycLOUvia is another reason to enjoy exercise, alternative transportation and community,” Fischer said. “I encourage neighbors along this route to bring their bicycles, skateboards and walking shoes to Goss and Logan streets, participate in this event and support local businesses.”
Goss Avenue and Logan Street from Texas Avenue to Kentucky Street will be closed to vehicular traffic from 2-6 p.m. Many businesses along the corridor will be open and engaging participants, creating an atmosphere that is uniquely Louisville.
The return to Three Points marks the fourteenth CycLOUvia event, with other events taking place on Bardstown Road, West Broadway, and Frankfort Avenue.
CycLOUvia is Louisville’s opportunity to experience transportation in a unique atmosphere, by walking, cycling, skateboarding, or dancing in the street. Streets account for a massive amount of public land in all cities. CycLOUvia repurposes these public spaces by temporarily replacing traditional vehicular traffic with pedestrian traffic.
During CycLOUvia, streets become paved parks where people of all ages, abilities, and socio-economic backgrounds can come to improve their mental, physical, and emotional health.
Since 2012, CycLOUvia events have attracted tens of thousands of people to neighborhoods across the city. CycLOUvia promotes healthy lifestyles, alternative transportation, safety and economic development.
For more information, visit https://louisvilleky.gov/government/advanced-planning/cyclouvia
Friends of Metro Animal Services (FOMAS), a non-profit organization, announced today the Board of Directors unanimously elected Susanna M. Westerfield as Executive Director, to spearhead fundraising efforts in support of Louisville Metro Animal Services and the much anticipated completion of a new, state-of-the-art shelter in 2019.“The Board of Directors and LMAS are truly excited to bring Westerfield on board. Her experience, commitment to caring for homeless animals, and progressive vision made her the ideal choice for FOMAS and our community,” Amy Wisotsky, Chairman.
In addition to an extensive background in Business Development and Organizational Learning, Westerfield brings to the board her expertise in non-profit administration, organizational leadership and program development. Westerfield’s new role will also include working with the dedicated, compassionate staff at LMAS to expand community outreach in support of programs critical to caring for the thousands of animals which enter the shelter each year.
“I will help advance LMAS’ progress as the county’s largest and only open-admission animal shelter that provides a temporary home for more than 7,500 animals last year and reached No-Kill Status for the first time ever,” said Westerfield, executive director of FOMAS. “We can make a difference in the lives of those living in our community by providing a state-of-the-art location where healthy, adoptable pets reside waiting for adoption. There is nothing more fulfilling than helping people in our community experience the steadfast love and companionship of a pet.”
Westerfield assumed her role as Executive Director of the Board in April 2018. Westerfield holds an MS degree in Instructional Systems Technology from Indiana University, has served in several leadership roles as Pastoral Council Secretary, Board of Director of the Catholic Athletic Ministry, Hand-in-Hand Ministries and various time and talent activities within her children’s school and church, bringing to FOMAS a wealth of knowledge about boards, volunteerism, and stewardship.
Photo: Louisville Metro Council
Councilman Rick Blackwell announces the next “Coffee with your Councilman” is set for Saturday, August 11th. It is an opportunity for District 12 residents to meet with their Councilman.
It will take place at Sister Bean’s Coffee House, 5225 New Cut Road, beginning at 10:00am to 12:00 pm.
There is no formal program and no need to sign up, just stop by and talk with the Councilman about any issue or concern you may have for District 12 or Southwest Louisville.
For more information about this “Coffee with your Councilman,” contact Councilman Blackwell’s office at 574-1112.
Mayor Greg Fischer announced today that the city plans to move a statue of Confederate officer and President of the Board of Park Commissioners John Breckinridge Castleman from the Cherokee Triangle neighborhood and the George Dennison Prentice statue from outside the Louisville Free Public Library.
The Mayor’s decision comes after a review of recommendations by a Public Art and Monuments Advisory Committee that he appointed late last year to develop a guiding set of principles for evaluating existing and future public art and monuments in the city. Beginning in January, the committee held seven public meetings, gathering hundreds of comments from residents throughout the city before submitting their recommendations to the Mayor on June 30.
The Mayor’s announcement comes days before the one-year anniversary of the horrific display of hatred and bigotry that occurred in Charlottesville, Va., over plans to remove a Confederate statue there. Mayor Fischer said the anniversary is a reminder of the necessity for all citizens to look at our monuments and statues through the eyes of those who have historically been discriminated against.
“Our Public Art and Monuments committee worked very hard, in cooperation with citizens, to develop thoughtful principles to help ensure that our public art and monuments respect our history but reflect the values of today,” he said. “I support those principles, and I used the criteria laid out in their report to make this decision about the Castleman and Prentice statues.
“We all agree with the report’s finding that our city must not maintain statues that serve as validating symbols for racist or bigoted ideology – that’s why we relocated the Confederate statue near the University of Louisville two years ago,” the Mayor said.
“While Castleman was honored for contributions to the community, it cannot be ignored that he also fought to continue the horrific and brutal slavery of men, women and children; heralded that part of his life in his autobiography; and had his coffin draped with both a U.S. and Confederate flag,” he said. “And while Prentice was founder and long-time editor of the Louisville Journal newspaper, he used that platform to advocate an anti-Catholic, anti-immigrant message that led to the 1855 Bloody Monday riot where 22 people were killed.”
The Mayor said he understands that some view Castleman’s life as a story of redemption, given his civic contributions after the Civil War. And others have argued the statue should remain, perhaps with a marker noting Castleman’s complex history.
“But to make no decision and leave the statue in place, or attempt to ‘balance’ it somehow, is to rationalize the suffering still caused to people whose ancestors were bought, sold and bred like animals on a farm. That is the cold reality of the Confederate cause,” the Mayor said. “My threshold question was whether this statue would be appropriate in a predominately African American neighborhood. The answer obviously is no. It would be viewed as disrespectful of a historic and painful past.
“Moving these statues does not erase history. Moving these statues allows us to examine our history in a new context that more accurately reflects the reality of the day, a time when the moral deprivation of slavery is clear.”
Mayor Fischer said appropriate relocations will be explored; the city is, for example, in conversation with Cave Hill Cemetery about moving the statues to their family burial grounds there. There are legal and financial issues to address with any relocation, including, for Castleman, a review by the Cherokee Triangle Preservation District. If no other suitable sites are found, the statues will go into storage.
The goal is to have any issues resolved and the statues moved by the end of the year.
The Mayor thanked Public Art Administrator Sarah Lindgren, the Commission on Public Art, and the Public Art and Monuments committee members, as well as the hundreds of people who participated in public meetings throughout the city over the past year.
“This was a challenging, emotionally charged subject. But as I said when this process began, we can only be a city where all citizens can reach their full human potential if we face our big challenges head-on, and this includes the challenges of race and equity,” the Mayor said. “This process shows that Louisville has developed enough social muscle to have a deep, productive, and sometimes uncomfortable community conversation about these challenges.”
The Mayor echoed the committee’s conclusion in a letter sent to him with the report: “We urge our community to continue the work of open dialogue, not only about public art and monuments, but about all symbols of racism and discrimination and how we as a community can move forward to advance equity, inclusivity and healing.”
The committee’s report can be found at Louisville Metro Public Art’s webpage: https://louisvilleky.gov/government/public-art
Photo: Louisville Metro Council
Councilwoman Mary C. Woolridge (D-3) is inviting everyone to come out to this year’s Unity in the Community Festival on Saturday, August 11th in Algonquin Park. This annual event is a fun filled afternoon and evening for the entire family.
“Summer is winding down and the start of school is just around the corner. This Festival is a chance for everyone to have a little fun at the park and our help children get ready for the beginning of a new school year,” says Woolridge. “We want everyone to come out and enjoy themselves as we have some summer fun.”
A highlight of the Festival is a Back to School Back Pack and School Supply giveaway. 500 back packs will be given away while they last. All children must be accompanied by an adult to receive a backpack and supplies.
For children there will be free face painting and a free inflatable bouncy. The Festival will also feature free blood pressure screening and a voter registration booth.
There will be free hot dogs, sodas and water.
Summer entertainment this year will be provided by two great groups of musicians: The Unlimited Band and The Eddie Abraham Band.
“This is truly a community event with a purpose: making sure our children are ready for school while helping families prepare them for the new school year. We also want to kick back and have a little fun in Algonquin Park which is such a great asset to the community,” says Woolridge. “I hope everyone will come out and join us.
The Unity in the Community Festival will get underway from 3:00pm to 8:00pm in Algonquin Park located at Cypress and Burwell Streets.
For more information, contact Councilwoman Woolridge’s office at 574-1103.
Photo: Louisville Metro Council
President David James is partnering with the Old Louisville Tavern to help raise money for this year’s “District 6 Back to School Backpack Giveaway” on Wednesday, August 8th.
“Every year we try to make sure needy children in the district have the tools to begin the school year the right way,” says President James. “The Old Louisville Tavern is a great local business in our community and they are joining our efforts to achieve that goal.”
As part of the fundraising effort, The Old Louisville Tavern is donating 10% of all sales to the Backpack Giveaway on Wednesday. President James will be at the Old Louisville Tavern beginning at 7:00pm to collect any additional funds that patrons would like to donate for the program.
“Working with Councilman James to help kids prepare for school has been a great way to give back to the community,” Old Louisville Tavern Co-Owner Dan Borsch says.
The Tavern is Located at 4th and Gaulbert in Old Louisville.
Every year President James visits several elementary schools in District 6 to supply students in need with backpacks and school supplies. This year’s giveaway will take place on August 13th.
Photo: Neighborhood Place
Neighborhood Place partners offer a variety of health-focused events and services in August including three opportunities to attend an educational baby shower, a Healthy Living Club to help reduce stress, a Diabetes Self-Management class, and a series of classes focused on healthy meal planning and eating. To learn more about these offerings and several others please refer to the list below.
Aug 6, 8, 13, 16, 27, and 31, Passport Health Care Community Engagement at multiple locations
Passport members are invited to join with representatives from Passport Health Care for one-on-one consultations to discuss plan benefits and options. This is a great opportunity as Passport aims to raise awareness and educate the community about the Passport Health Plan mission. Passport members will receive a $10 retail gift card for attending.
- Aug, 6, 13, and 27, First Neighborhood Place, 1503 Rangeland Rd (door #16) side of Thomas Jefferson Middle School, 1-3 p.m. Call (502) 212-6677 to RSVP.
- Aug. 8, Ujima Neighborhood Place, 3610 Bohne Ave., 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Call 313-4635 for more information.
- Aug 16, South Jefferson Neighborhood Place, 1000 Neighborhood Place, 1 – 2 p.m. Call 313-4635 for more information.
- Aug. 30, South Central Neighborhood Place, 4255 Hazelwood Ave., 2 – 3 p.m. Call 1-800-578-0603 ext. 8428 to RSVP.
Aug. 7, 23 and 29, A Healthy Journey for Two Educational Baby Shower at three locations
For more information, contact Mendy Mason at 341-5400. A Healthy Journey for Two is an educational baby shower open to any expectant mothers. The class will include a range of information and resources, as well as free baby items, gift cards, prizes, and snacks. Hosted by Seven Counties and KIDSNow. Fathers are welcome but must be registered.
- Aug. 7, South Central Neighborhood Place, 4255 Hazelwood Ave., 1- 3 p.m.
- Aug 23, at First Neighborhood Place, 1503 Rangeland Rd. 1 – 3 p.m.
- Aug. 29, at Ujima Neighborhood Place, 3610 Bohne Ave., 1 – 3 p.m.
Aug. 7, Car Seat Safety Check at Ujima Neighborhood Place, 9 – 11 a.m.
Located at 3610 Bohne Ave. Call Norton Children’s Hospital at 629-7358 to make an appointment. Learn how to install your child’s car seat or booster seat. Find out if it’s time for a change. Car seat-fitting by appointment only.
Aug. 13, Sodexo Hiring Opportunities at South Central Neighborhood Place, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Located at 4255 Hazelwood Ave. Call 313-4089 for more information. Sodexo, a food-service agency, will provide on-the-spot interviews for positions with Jewish Hospital, Our Lady of Peace and University of Louisville Hospital. Bring your resume and be prepared for an interview. This is one of Sodexo’s busiest hiring seasons. Stop by if you are looking for employment that can lead to a full-time or part-time position.
Aug. 14, Free Blood Pressure Screenings at Ujima Neighborhood Place, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Located at 3610 Bohne Ave. Call 485-6145 for more information. Louisville Metro Health and Wellness health educators will provide free blood pressure screenings and health information
Aug. 14, Healthy Living Club atSouth Jefferson Neighborhood Place, 1 – 2 p.m.
Located at 1000 Neighborhood Place. For more information call 363-1483 or 772-8588. Join this Healthy Living Club to get the support you need to eat better, be active and reduce stress. August meeting will focus on a healthy cooking demonstration. Free samples and recipes shared with all that attend.
Tuesdays, Aug. 21 – Oct. 2, Healthier Meals, Healthier Me Class at South Jefferson Neighborhood Place, 11 – 12:30 p.m.
Located at 1000 Neighborhood Place. Registrations is required by calling 772-8588. Come and learn more about healthy eating, meal planning on a budget and more. Attend classes and earn a slow cooker to keep.
Aug 21, Basic Diabetes Self-Management Class at First Neighborhood Place, 2 – 4 p.m.
Located at 1503 Rangeland Road at T.J. Middle School. Registration is required by calling 574-6663. Whether you are recently diagnosed or have had diabetes for years and need a refresher, this session is for you. Topics include what diabetes is and is not, glucose monitoring, problem solving, healthy eating, medication management, sick day management, healthy exercise, goal setting, and more. Sponsored by Louisville Metro Public Health and Wellness.
Aug. 30, Passport Health Care Member Informational at Ujima Neighborhood Place, 12 p.m.
Located at 3610 Bohne Ave. Call 1-800-578-0603 ext. 7301 to RSVP. Come join us and get to know about your plan. Lunch is provided. Member’s will receive a$10.00 retail gift card for attending. *Retail gift card available to passport Health Plan members only
Back to School Event Reminders:
Aug. 7, Back to School Fun Resource Fair at Southwick Community Center, 4 – 7 p.m.
Located at 3621 Southern Ave. Call 313-4635 for more information. The annual event is open to families with children in kindergarten through high school. JCPS Family Resource and Youth Resource Centers Coordinators will complete CAP referrals for families needing clothing and uniform assistance. School supplies will be distributed (while supplies last). Several vendors will be available to provide essential health, education, and community resources. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. JCPS Nutrition Services will provide lunch to youth 18 and under. This event is sponsored in part by Ujima Neighborhood Place, Jefferson County Public Schools/The Carter/DuValle Education Center, Kennedy Montessori/Brandies, Maupin, Johnson and Foster Family Youth Service Centers, Southwick Community Center, Councilwoman Jessica Green, Passport Health Plan, Villages of Park DuValle and Louisville Metro Office of Resilience and Community Services.
Aug 11, Back to School Event at Meyzeek Middle School, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Located at 828 S. Jackson St. Call 574-6638 for more information. Open to students in kindergarten through high school. Free backpacks with essential school supplies for the coming year will be distributed while supplies last. Your child must be present to receive school supplies. Smile Academy will provide free dental screenings. Many other local community venders and agencies will be in the gym to provide information for families. Families may complete a CAP referral during the event as well for clothing and uniform assistance. Sponsored by Charmoli Center Neighborhood Place, Louisville Metro Office of Resilience and Community Services and area JCPS schools.
Aug 11, Back to School Festival at Thomas Jefferson Middle School, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Located at 1501 Rangeland Rd. Call 313-4498 or 313-4700 for more information. This annual event is open to families with children in kindergarten through high school. Free backpacks and grade-appropriate school supplies (while supplies last) will be provided. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Free lunches will be served to kids by JCPS Nutrition Services and families may complete a CAP referral during the event as well for clothing and uniform assistance. A Community Resource Fair will include over twenty presenters including diabetes and blood pressure checks, the YMCA program, voter registration, library services and lots of fun and music. Event sponsored in part by First Neighborhood Place, area JCPS schools and Family Resource and Youth Services Centers, Dr. Barbara Shanklin – Councilwoman for District 2 – and other supporting Metro Council members, and Louisville Metro Office of Resilience and Community Services.
