Wednesday October 22, 2025
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Councilman Bill Hollander is putting out the call for volunteers to help clean up D9 by participating in the 9th District’s Annual Fall Community Cleanup on Saturday, October 19th.

“I hear people complain about litter all the time. Here’s an opportunity to get out and help pick up trash and debris,” says Hollander.

Volunteers should plan to meet at 8:30 am at the corner of Brownsboro Road and Lindsay Avenue. They will be provided with bags, gloves and t-shirts on a first-come, first-served basis.  Before the cleanup begins, volunteers will enjoy coffee and breakfast provided by Heine Brothers’ Coffee and the Clifton McDonald’s.

“I encourage everyone to come out and join us. Brightside has been a great partner with us over the years and this is a chance to show pride in our community,” says Hollander.

For more information or to sign up, please contact the Councilman’s office at 574-1109 or email kyle.ethridge@louisvilleky.gov.

October is usually a month associated with orange and black. However, the Louisville Metro Council is focusing its attention on pink to let everyone know it’s time to do something to fight a killer.

For the rest of the month of October, the Historic City Hall Clock Tower at Sixth and Jefferson Streets will glow pink as a reminder that October is Breast Cancer Awareness month.

“The Metro Council stands with the American Cancer Society to encourage Louisville to screen, self-examine and test for early detection of breast cancer,” says Councilwoman Keisha Dorsey (D-3) who chairs the Metro Council’s Health and Education Committee. “Too many lives and families have been devastated by this disease and we encourage everyone to follow through with a checkup. Early detection can help defeat this killer.”

Aside from the Clock tower, The Metro Council chambers are adorned in pink ribbons at each Council members desk and pink flowers of every type in bowed vases are on either side of the President’s Desk.

“We hope pink will serve as a reminder that lives from all over Metro Louisville have been touched by breast cancer,” says Council President David James (D-6). “Anything we can do to bring awareness to prevention of this disease is a priority for many of us on this Council.”

“We truly appreciate Metro Council’s support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. By encouraging women – and men – to learn more about the disease, early detection and screening, Council is taking the lead toward a healthier Metro,” says Erica Kellem Beasley, executive director for the American Cancer Society in Kentucky.

Breast cancer information and statistics:

  • 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime.
  • After skin cancers, breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed among U.S. women, and the second leading cause of cancer death among women after lung cancer.
  • In 2019, approximately 268,600 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed among U.S. women, and 41,760 women will die from the disease.
  • The overall breast cancer death rate has decreased consistently since 1989, attributed both to improvements in early detection (through screening as well as increased awareness of symptoms) and treatment, for a total decline of 40% through 2017. As a result of this decline, 375,900 breast cancer deaths have been averted in U.S. women through 2017.
  • In 2019, there are more than 3.8 million breast cancer survivors (women).
  • In 2019, about 2,670 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in men. About 500 men will die from breast cancer.

The Metro Council is also encouraging the community to get involved with the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk. It will take place on Sunday afternoon, Oct. 27, at a new location, Cardinal Stadium. Registration opens at 12:30 p.m.; walk begins at 1:30. The event is free and open to the public and raises funds for breast cancer research, patient support programs, and early detection and prevention programs.

For more information and to register, go to http://makingstrides.acsevents.org/site/TR?pg=entry&fr_id=77432

To learn more about breast cancer and services, go to http://www.cancer.org/content/cancer/en/cancer/breast-cancer.html .

Credit: Louisville Metro Police

Since the beginning of 2019, Louisville Metro Police are seeing a noticeable increase in both auto theft and theft from cars in the Central Business District of Downtown.

As a result, the “Lock, Take, and Hide” campaign is now underway to remind drivers and passengers of the simple ways in which to prevent theft involving automobiles.

“There are times when we are in a hurry and we just don’t think when we get out of a car. Every time, we forget to lock the door or leave things in plain sight, we are offering an invitation to thieves to steal,” says Councilwoman Barbara Sexton Smith (D-4). “There are simple common-sense things we can do to curb this trend. I hope “Lock, Take and Hide” will be practical reminder of how to stop theft in its tracks.”

The Councilwoman and officers of the LMPD’s First Division announced the campaign today. One hundred signs are being posted around the downtown area with the simple reminder of: Lock your car, Take your keys and Hide your belongings.

New statistics from the First Division show auto theft and theft of things taken from an auto have increased over last year in the Central Business District:

Auto Theft

  • YTD 2018 – 228
  • YTD 2019 – 264
  • 15.8 % increase

Theft from Auto

  • YTD 2018 – 361
  • YTD 2019 – 498
  • 38 % increase

“The 1st Division is very excited to partner with Councilwoman Barbara Sexton-Smith in the “Lock, Take and Hide” campaign.  Unfortunately, we have seen an increase in stolen automobiles and theft from autos.  The officers of the 1st Division are working very hard, but we need the community’s help.  Many of these crimes could have been prevented,” said Major Andrew McClinton of LMPD. “We all need to step up and “Lock, Take and Hide” our valuables.  Working together, we can significantly reduce these crimes.  We appreciate all the support and look forward to making this campaign a success”

“Together, we can bring an end to this trend,” said Sexton Smith.

If you see any suspicious activity around and auto, then call 574-LMPD.

Photo: Louisville Metro Council

It began as a simple idea back in 1969, and today C&S Machine and Manufacturing Corporation was honored by Councilwoman Keisha Dorsey (D-3) for its commitment to the community and its impact on the local economy in Metro Louisville.

“It may be hard for many people to believe but what began as a simple idea between two men in a small garage has grown into the thriving business that C&S has become today,” said Councilwoman Dorsey during a special ceremony to commemorate National Manufacturing Day.

Back in 1969, Robert Steele and Ronnie Cook founded C&S General Machine in a small garage on Cook’s Property. By 1980, the company expanded and located to 3828 Fitzgerald Road and was renamed C&S Machine and Manufacturing Corporation.,

It is a full CNC production plant, specializing in precision production parts, large and small. It has built a loyal customer base by offering dependable and high-quality machine shop services. The company has 50 employees, runs three shifts and serves many industries in the region.

Today, Ryan Steele, grandson of one of the founders is the fifth president of the company.

“We should take this opportunity to say thank you to local companies like these. They believed in an idea, believed in the community and decided to make their future here in District 3 and Metro Louisville.  C & S has made a considerable difference and impact in our community,” said Dorsey.

For more information, contact Councilwoman Dorsey’s office at 574-1103.

There will be music and fun on a Friday night, and it is all for a good cause when “Rock Out Cancer 2019” gets underway at the Iroquois Amphitheater for a very good cause.

Councilman David Yates (D-25) is encouraging the community to come out and support the event because it will help Shirley’s Way continue to do the good work it does for those who are dealing with cancer.

SKID ROW will headline “Rock Out Cancer 2019.” Very special guests and Louisville rockers, Fire Dept, will reunite to open the show. The event is a benefit for Shirley’s Way, Inc.

“Join us for an amazing night! Skid Row and Fire Dept. are going to help us “Rock Out Cancer 2019” and raise money so we can continue to help those fighting cancer. Shirley’s Way helps cancer patients with everyday living expenses while they are fighting for their lives,” says Mike Mulroney of Shirley’s Way.

“Mike and Shirley’s Way have found yet another way to help families through some of the hardest times as they fight for their lives. You can support them and help members of our community truly in need by joining us at “Rock Out Cancer 2019!” Get tickets now!” says Councilman Yates.

The Mission of Shirley’s Way, Inc. is to provide financial support to individuals under medical care for cancer and other diseases. Payment of expenses including, but not limited to, medical, medications, rent and/or mortgage, utilities, groceries, everyday living, and other expenses as may be determined from time to time by the Corporation.

Fans may purchase tickets online at: https://rockoutcancer.org/ or at the Iroquois Amphitheater box office.

In what has become the must-see event of the Halloween season, the Jack O’ Lantern Spectacular is returning for the seventh consecutive year to South Louisville’s Iroquois Park, where 5,000 artistically carved pumpkins will greet visitors from October 8 through November 3.

The pumpkins will illuminate a 1/3-mile trail adjacent to the Iroquois Amphitheater, and event officials estimate up to 100,000 people will visit over the course of 27 days. The trail is open from dusk until 11 p.m., Sunday through Thursday, and until midnight on Friday and Saturday nights. Tickets range from $10 to $18, with discounts for seniors and children 12 and under. Proceeds from the event benefit the Louisville Parks Foundation.

The wooded trail begins just outside of Iroquois Amphitheater (1080 Amphitheater Road, Louisville, KY 40214) and weaves its way through the trees with themed vignettes set to music. The carved, illuminated pumpkins rotate on a weekly basis, creating a different experience each weekend. This year’s theme, “The Four Seasons,” will feature the trappings and holidays that make each month unique. The themed skits will showcase Winter, Spring, Summer, and Fall like you’ve never seen them before, providing something for everyone to enjoy.

New in 2019 are special discounted Monday nights, sponsored by Metro by T-Mobile and a Sensory Night, sponsored by PNC Bank.

For customers looking for a deal, special discounts will be available on Metro by T-Mobile Mondays, where guests can visit select Metro by T-Mobile stores and receive a $2 off admission card (up to four people) good for Monday evenings during the run of the show.

On Saturday, November 2, gates will open early for a special sensory-friendly Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular. Two hours before the trail opens to the public, from 4:45– 6:45 p.m., pumpkins will light up the trail, but there will be no music or special effects. Designed for those with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and sensory processing differences, and their families, Sensory Night at the Louisville Jack O’ Lantern Spectacular, is made possible through the generous support of PNC Bank.

Other discounted nights include Republic Bank night on Wednesday, October 16 and Metro Council Night on Tuesday, October 29. On the 16th, Republic Bank customers will receive $2 off admissions with a Republic Bank debit/credit card. On the 29th, Louisville Metro Council will sponsor $2 off admissions to all event goers. Both offers require ticket purchase at the box office day of show. Concessions will be available nightly. Merchandise such as t-shirts, hats, sweatshirts, and commemorative ornaments will also be available for sale.

Jack O’ Lantern Spectacular is produced by the Louisville Parks Foundation and the Iroquois Amphitheater in conjunction with Passion for Pumpkins, a multimedia production company with more than 30 years’ experience in redefining fall by transforming any landscape into an illuminated organic gallery.

This year’s sponsors include Metro by T-Mobile, Yellowstone Select Bourbon, Republic Bank, Subway, Louisville Tourism, LG&E and KU, Papa John’s, Louisville Metro Council, UPS, PNC Bank, AT&T, Porta Kleen, UFCW227, Waste Management, LiveInLou, i9 Sports, Metro Fence, Louisville Pavement Sweep, The Oliver Group, Cardinal Moving, Qk4, EZ Construction, Louisville Adaptive Rowing, and Louisville Eye Center.

TICKET INFORMATION
Sunday – Thursday
Adults $14
Seniors (65+) $12
Children (3-12) $10
Children under 3 – Free

Friday – Saturday (Timed ticketing)
Adults $18
Seniors (65+) $16
Children (3-12) $14
Children under 3 – Free

Individual tickets may be purchased in advance for specific nights at the Iroquois Amphitheater Box Office or online at www.jackolanternlouisville.com. Visitors are also encouraged to use the hashtag #502Pumpkins on social media to share images or experiences they enjoy while touring the show.

Guests who plan to attend on a Friday or Saturday night are encouraged to purchase their tickets in advance. Sold out nights are to be expected.

Tickets for groups of 20 or more can be purchased in advance by calling 502/368-5063, or in person at the Iroquois Amphitheater Box Office at 4:30 p.m. beginning October 8. Group tickets are discounted at $12 Sunday through Thursday.

The event is held rain or shine. No refunds will be given, but advanced purchased tickets may be exchanged for another day. Coach drop-off and on-site parking is available.

Photo: Louisville Forward

During the month of October, Mayor Greg Fischer will join local leaders, business owners, and workforce development providers to celebrate National Manufacturing Month. Accounting for 12 percent of the region’s total employment, manufacturing continues to be a major driver in the Louisville economy, with companies ranging from automotive to home appliances, machining and chemicals.

The manufacturing sector employs more than 80,000 workers regionally, working at approximately 1,400 manufacturing companies. The industry accounts for 16.5 percent of the region’s annual GDP, compared to 11.2 percent of national GDP.

“Louisville has a storied history as a manufacturing hub that it continues to benefit from today. As the industry evolves, we have expanded our skilled workforce pipeline through key partnerships with local manufacturers, Jefferson County Public Schools, and KentuckianaWorks to meet the growing need for employees with technology skills,” said the Mayor. “We are excited to work with these partners and others to give our students an inside look at the broad-ranges of careers available in our strong and diverse manufacturing sector.”

In recognition of Manufacturing Month, Mayor Fischer will join employee-owned heating and cooling manufacturer and metal fabricator KCC Companies on Oct. 3 in welcoming students from local high schools and technical colleges to tour its facilities and learn about the advantages of a career in manufacturing. The Mayor also will join GE Appliances next week for an announcement that will benefit the next generation of manufacturing employees.

As manufacturing grows in the Louisville region, the demand is increasing for workers who have greater skills and training. The Academies of Louisville initiative in JCPS exposes students to career options in the manufacturing industry and early training opportunities, and Kentucky Manufacturing Career Center, run by KentuckianaWorks, helps people identify career pathways that manufacturing companies have to offer and to attain new skills to advance their careers.

Last academic year, there were more than 2,000 students in manufacturing pathways in the Academies of Louisville, and KentuckianaWorks helped clients earn 618 certificates through the Kentucky Manufacturing Career Center.

KentuckianaWorks is currently offering several free training courses designed to quickly prepare people for good jobs with local manufacturing companies. They include:

  • The Manufacturing Training and Employment Connection (M-TEC), an intensive, 3-week program where participants can earn multiple training certificates valued by manufacturing companies. The next class starts Oct. 7.
  • The MSSC Certified Production Technician (CPT) training, a four-week course that gives people an industry-recognized credential. The next class starts Oct. 28.

KentuckianaWorks will close out Manufacturing Month with a job fair from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 29, at Kentucky Manufacturing Career Center, 160 Rochester Drive. The event will include employer booths, legal aid and expungement, college admissions advisors, live music, free food, and giveaways.

Louisville-based manufacturers and those participating in events are encouraged to join in Manufacturing Month by using #MadeInLou on social media.

To learn more about Louisville’s robust manufacturing sector, visit https://louisvilleky.gov/government/louisville-forward/advanced-manufacturing.

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