The Valley Report

State and local lawmakers to attend coal ash meeting

2012-02-18T11:30:00.000-05:00

Metro Council members Attica Scott (D-1) and Rick Blackwell (D-12) along with the Sierra Club are sponsoring an informational community meeting concerning the problem with coal ash in Southwest Jefferson County.

The meeting will be held on Monday, February 20th at the Southwest Government Center, 7219 Dixie Highway from 7:00pm until 9:00pm

“This is an opportunity for the community to receive an update on what is going on with coal ash and LG&E,” says Scott.

State Representative Joni Jenkins and Reginald Meeks will also be in attendance.

District 13 “Coffee with Your Councilwoman” set for February 18th

2012-02-08T09:11:00.000-05:00

Councilwoman Vicki Aubrey Welch is beginning a brand new year by once again extending an invitation to residents of District 13 to come out for “Coffee with Your Councilwoman” on Saturday, February 18th at 9:30am at First String Family Sports Grill .

“This is an event designed to offer an opportunity to talk with your Metro Council representative one on one if you have an issue in your neighborhood,” says Welch. “My staff and I will be on hand to listen to your concerns. We will also update you on projects and initiatives currently happening in District 13 as well as all over our community.”

The Councilwoman says “Coffee with Your Councilwoman” is designed to answer the following:

Do you have a question about Louisville Metro Government?

How about a concern for your neighborhood?

Is there an important issue facing our community you’d like to share?

The February “Coffee with Your Councilwoman” gets under way at 9:30 am at the First String Family Sports Grill, 5921 New Cut Road. Coffee is complimentary from First String Family Grill for those who come out to talk. Breakfast may be purchased at a reasonable cost.

“This is a very casual and comfortable setting to have a conversation,” says Welch. “So come have a cup of coffee and just say “Hi” if you want. I would love to meet you!”

To learn more about the February District 13 “Coffee with Your Councilwoman” contact Councilwoman Welch’s office at 574-1113.

Rumor patrol: Ashby Lane apartments "upscale", not "Section 8"

2012-02-05T01:10:00.000-05:00

Not a housing project.

There are rumors flying around the southwest about the housing development beginning to take shape near the Greenbelt Highway on Ashby Lane, and I think it is appropriate to address the issue to eliminate any confusion as to what is happening.

Ashby Green Apartment Homes are now under construction at 7401 Ashby Lane. The complex is owned by W.M. Bullitt, LLC.

Ashby Green is not "Section 8" or "low-income" housing nor is it a replacement for Iroquois Homes. It is not owned or being built by the government as a "housing project".

Floor plans and examples of units that will be available are online at the company's website, ashbygreenapartmenthomes.com

The developers of Ashby Green welcome your questions and comments and have made their contact information available on the website.

So now you know.

He's back: Hawkins to battle Thieneman in 37th district primary

2012-02-01T02:41:00.004-05:00

Like a bad rash that won't go away, former Metro Councilman Doug Hawkins is back on the ballot.

Hawkins joins fellow Republicans Chris Thieneman and John Yuen in filing for the State Senate's recently-redrawn 37th district - a political hot potato that is being thrown around in Franklin County Circuit Court.

Incumbent Senator Perry Clark was drawn out of the district, and therefore is unable to retain his seat.

On the Democratic side, challengers include 21st District Metro Councilman Dan Johnson, attorney Robert Walker II and Democratic Party insider Steve Bittenbender.

Analysis: This should be an interesting race should all the candidates remain on the ballot. One item of particular interest is Chris Thieneman's current address. On the filing paperwork he submitted to the Secretary of State, Thieneman listed his address as 7650 Dixie Highway, Louisville, KY 40258.

7650 Dixie Highway is the address for Fort Locks, a self-storage business of which Thieneman is listed as "manager".

Either Thieneman lives in a storage locker or something is wrong here.

Tan, rested and ready, Doug Hawkins tries to revive a dead political career by running in a race he's already lost. Hawkins was beaten by Perry Clark in a special election in 2006. The special election was ordered after it had been revealed the Republican winner had lied about her address.

The office of State Senate, like other state offices, has a residency requirement. For the Senate: "At the time of election, [the candidate] must be at least 30 years of age, a citizen of Kentucky, resided in the State 6 years next preceding his election, and the last year thereof in the district for which he may be chosen."

There will be more on this contest next week as the new, extended filing deadline approaches and as more information on the candidates becomes available.

Coffee with your Councilman set for January

2012-01-31T22:18:00.002-05:00

Councilman Rick Blackwell is starting off the new year with an invitation to residents of District 12 to enjoy a free cup of coffee and some conversation on Saturday, February 4th.

The first District 12 “Coffee with your Councilman” of the year will get underway at Sister Bean’s Coffeehouse beginning at 10:00am.

“I invite the District 12 residents to come out for an informal chat,” says Blackwell. “There is no formal agenda so residents are welcome to voice their opinions or ask questions about issues that concern them.”

Sister Beans is located at 5225 New Cut Road.

For more information about the February “Coffee with your Councilman”, contact Councilman Blackwell’s office at 574-1112.

Revised dumping ordinance allows confiscation of vehicles

2012-01-31T07:20:00.000-05:00

Louisville Metro Council is sending a strong message to anyone illegally dumping in Metro Louisville. If caught, you not only face a fine, but impoundment of your vehicle for up to twelve months.

The Council on Thursday unanimously approved the new section to the illegal dumping ordinance.

“I want to thank the Council for their strong show of support,” said Councilwoman Marianne Butler (D-15), the primary sponsor of the ordinance. “We now have another tool at our disposal to make it very costly for anyone who decides to use an alley, side street, vacant property or empty field as their own personal dumping ground.”

The legislation allows for LMPD Officers, Code Enforcement Officers and any other city officials authorized to enforce any provision of the Louisville Metro Code the ability to enforce the additional section of the Code. Prior to releasing any vehicle that has been impounded, all outstanding citations, towing, handling and storage charges shall be paid in full.

During the review of the new law, Council members saw how easily hidden cameras used by Metro Public Works in certain areas clearly show illegal dumping and the vehicles involved.

“We feel strongly that this new law will put a dent in the illegal dumping problem. At a minimum, it might make someone think twice before dumping debris,” says Butler.

The measure will take effect once it is signed by the Mayor.

Dixie Highway "business census" to begin soon

2012-01-20T08:50:00.001-05:00

In the coming weeks, I and a handful of faithful volunteers will be conducting an informal census of businesses located along Dixie Highway, starting in the Valley Village area and extending to points north yet to be determined.

The point of all this is to properly illustrate and inventory the types of businesses we already have and compare them to the ones most commonly mentioned as ones residents say they would like to have in Southwest Louisville.

The census will be an informal affair and will not include any conversations with the owners or customers. We are after raw data, here. Not opinions.

If you are interested in helping out, drop me a line by clicking here. Don't forget to include the amount of time you would be willing to dedicate as well as what part of the highway you'd like to inventory.

I'm certain that, while we know what we have, we may be shocked by what we see. To actually see it written down in cold hard numbers may be a wake-up call to all citizens.

Thanks for your consideration, and thanks for reading the Valley Report.

Brian
The Valley Report

SW news updates 1/17/12

2012-01-17T19:51:00.000-05:00

- The VITA Tax Service begins today. VITA has been a huge success, helping low income individuals prepare and send their tax returns. Click HERE for locations and times.

- Councilman David Yates (D-25) has been named chair of the Metro Council’s Contracts Committee by President Jim King (D-10)

“I am honored for the opportunity to serve as Chair and I want tax payers to know, especially in these tight financial times, we will be very thorough in our review of how contracts are bid,” said Yates.

In his first year on the Council, Yates served as Co-chair of the Contracts and Appointments Committee.

“In that first year, I have seen numerous contracts come before us that I feel could have been bid out for a better return of the tax payers money,” said Yates.

The Contracts Committee reviews all contracts for goods and services used by the Metro Government. The Committee interacts with departments and agencies of government to learn what is being purchased and why it is needed.

- This year, Kentuckiana Works Youth Career Center and partners are offering 16-21 year-olds the opportunity to be ready to meet employers at the Showcase with a series of Workforce Education Training Workshops. The two hour workshop prepares youth for the job hunt with tips on how to dress for success, how to complete a job application on paper and online, expressing their transferable skills as they build a resume and how to conduct themselves in an interview. Young people can get more information about these workshops at www.kentuckianaworks.org/foryoungadults

Yates seeking volunteers for veterans memorial clean-up

2012-01-13T17:51:00.001-05:00

As we told you earlier this week, Councilman David Yates (D-25) has made keeping the district clean a top priority.

Today Yates announced a new initiative and is organizing a community clean-up event at the Southwest Government Center to help remove unsightly trash and litter around the Vietnam Memorial and Government Center building. They are seeking volunteers willing to help.

"We are taking residents concerns about cleaning up our neighborhoods seriously" says Yates, "Volunteer efforts like this will help with the awareness of the problem."

WHERE:

Southwest Government Center

7219 Dixie Highway

WHEN:

Saturday, January 14, 2012 12:30 p.m.

For more information, contact the office at 574-1125.

Yates cleaning up District 25

2012-01-11T17:53:00.000-05:00

Councilman David Yates (D-25) is currently in negotiations with local businesses and community leaders to develop a more permanent solution to the problem of illegal dumping, primarily used tires.

Before the Christmas holiday, Councilman Yates and other volunteers cleaned up an illegal dumping site of discarded tires in the hopes that it would dissuade others from dumping in the area.

"Dumping is a big problem in District 25" says Yates, "We're tackling this problem head on and working to prevent this from continuing on a widespread scale."

Councilman Yates encourages residents to remain watchful and if you see someone dumping illegally, take down details- such as car color and make and description of the individual if possible, and report it to the Police.

For additional information, contact Councilman Yates office at 574-1125

Tell us what you think about newest retail/restaurant options

2012-01-07T21:50:00.000-05:00

With the new year comes a flurry of announcements regarding new stores and restaurants scheduled to open in Southwest Louisville, but the quality of the merchants is up for discussion.

Many readers have asked about the new construction on Greenwood Road near the River City Bank location. The Valley Report has just confirmed the spot will be the site of another Family Dollar store.

A proposed Family Dollar store near Pendleton Road and a franchised salvage place opening next to Target on Dixie caused many residents to question the direction of economic development policy has taken in this part of town, and has strengthened my suspicion that we are doomed to a downward spiral of cash-based businesses that only sell "yard sale" quality goods or off-brand merchandise.

Several residents are now grumbling about the size of the new Cracker Barrel restaurant slated to appear on the corner of Dixie and Bethany Lane. The location is supposed to be considerably smaller than comparable locations throughout Louisville.

You know how I feel about these things.

It is now your turn to sound off about these new announcements. Yes or no? Will you visit these businesses? Or are you so disgusted with the new and existing options that you would consider moving away from the area?

Fire away with your opinions by leaving a comment, and thanks for reading the Valley Report.

Welch 'honored' by National League of Cities appointment

2012-01-07T20:38:00.000-05:00

Southwest Louisville Councilwoman Vicki Aubrey Welch (D-13) has been appointed to Vice Chair the National League of Cities’ (NLC) 2012 Human Development Steering Committee.

The Human Development committee is responsible for developing policy positions on issues involving social services, children and learning, poverty and income support, employment and workforce development, equal opportunity, Social Security and seniors, individuals with disabilities, public health care, mental health parity and immigration reform.

The appointment was announced by NLC President Ted Ellis, Mayor, Bluffton, Ind.

“I am honored and look forward to the challenge of leadership for this committee that sends resolutions to our federal government on issues affecting our cities and towns,” said Welch. "Louisville Metro has much to offer other cities with our many innovative programs initiated to improve the quality of life for our residents. And I can learn from other elected officials across our nation about their solutions to some of our shared problems.”

As a member of the committee, Welch will play a key role in shaping NLC’s policy positions, while advocating on behalf of America’s cities and towns on Capitol Hill, with the Administration, and at home.

The chair of this year’s Human Development Steering Committee is Van R. Johnson II, Alderman, Savannah, GA. Serving as this year’s vice chairs are Mary Dorothy (Dot) La Marche, Vice Mayor, Farragut, TN., and Vicki Aubrey Welch, Council Member, Louisville, KY.

For more information on NLC’s other committees and councils, visit http://www.nlc.org/influence-federal-policy/policy-committees.

The National League of Cities is the nation’s oldest and largest organization devoted to strengthening and promoting cities as centers of opportunity, leadership and governance. NLC is a resource and advocate for 19,000 cities, towns and villages, representing more than 218 million Americans.

You got your Cracker Barrel. Now what?

2012-01-06T17:18:00.000-05:00

Metro Louisville government has issued a permit to Rueff Sign Company for the construction of signage for the Dixie Highway Cracker Barrel. Here is the text of the permit application:

"four signs for "Cracker Barrel". 1) 7'6 1/2"x13'3 double face illuminated 2) 7'x13' single face attached non-illuminated 3) 7'x13 attached single face non-illuminated and 4) 7'x13' attached single face non-illuminated. Shall comply with KBC 2007 and LDC Chapter 8."

The cost is estimated at $8000 for the sign work.

As of this writing, there are no details on the amount of incentives given to Cracker Barrel for the opening of this location. You will remember that tax incentives were one of the demands by company executives when considering the site at 11000 Dixie Highway.

Upcoming SW events, meetings for January 2012

2012-01-05T19:34:00.000-05:00

- Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer hosts the next “Talk to Greg” meeting on Monday, January 9th at Fern Creek High School, 9115 Fern Creek Road, from 6:00-8:00pm. Fischer will be joined by city department directors, mayor’s office staff and Metro Councilmembers.

- Don’t miss the next Southwest Women’s Roundtable event on January 11th. Registration begins at 8:30am at National College, 4205 Dixie Highway.

The program begins at 9:00am and will feature Ann Selerno, the COO of The Change Cycle and Director of Education and Training at the NCAA Women Coaches Academy.

Please RSVP to Erica@Schardein.com.

January is often a time for change –both personal and in business. “Dealing with organizational change – big or small – is about everyone getting through the emotion and commotion with minimal damage to their blood pressure, career, relationships, and confidence.” - Ann Salerno. Ann will discuss how to develop a playbook of positive plays for adjusting to and handling change. Equipped with fresh ideas and confidence, 2012 can be a successful year of embracing and making changes.

- Councilman Rick Blackwell of District 12 will be hosting the first District Dialogue of 2012, which will feature Justin Scally, Director of Metro Animal Services, as the Guest Speaker.

The District Dialogue will be held in the Southwest Government Center courtroom at 7219 Dixie
Highway on January 17, 2012 starting at 7 p.m. All Southwest Louisville residents are invited to attend.

The past few years have seen quite a public response in regards to the management of Metro Animal Services and in 2011 Mayor Fischer appointed Director Scally to take the lead in correcting those issues. The Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD), Metropolitan Sewer District (MSD), Department of Inspections, Permits, and Licensing (IPL), and a representative from Congressman John Yarmuth’s office will also be on hand at the District Dialogue to answer questions and concerns.

So long, Gatewood. You were the man for your time and place.

2012-01-04T20:21:00.001-05:00

Kentucky politics lost a giant today with the death of Gatewood Galbraith. He was 64.

Gatewood added to the colorfulness of our political landscape and held a wide variety of beliefs. He was more than the "pot candidate", as he was so often portrayed in the traditional media. More than any of that, he was a nice guy.

I first met Gatewood during one of his five gubernatorial campaigns. In 1991, I was a student at the University of Louisville and had the pleasure of meeting him between classes in front of the Ekstrom Library. He was the only candidate hanging around college campuses at that time and his issues were simple. To me, Gatewood possessed much common sense- a trait not often found in today's political figures.

During that short talk at U of L, Gatewood asked us to give him a shot at running the state. I shook his hand and promised him my vote. In fact, after reading the flyer that was handed to me, I promised him I would vote for him every time he ran for office.

I kept that promise, like so many other Kentuckians who became frustrated with the normal process of electing leaders in the Commonwealth.

In the coming hours and days, you will likely read much about Gatewood's past and the many nice things people have to say about him. It will probably be the first time he has ever received a fair shake in the media. I think he would be pleased.

He will be missed.

Stay free, Gatewood. And thanks.

LIHEAP enters "Crisis Phase"

2012-01-04T18:19:00.000-05:00

The LIHEAP Crisis Phase began Wednesday, January 4, 2012.

LIHEAP, the Low income Home Energy Assistance Program, helps income eligible residents of Jefferson County with their utility bills. For the Crisis Phase, applicants must have received a brown, disconnection notice from their utility service provider, or an eviction notice if their utilities are included in the rent.

Appointments are required to apply for this program and are being issued in person only at the Central CAP Office only located at the Urban Government Center, 810 Barret Avenue. When scheduling an appointment, applicants need to bring a picture ID and a most recent heating bill (must be a "brown bill"), or an eviction notice if utilities are included in the rent. Beginning January 4th, appointments will be issued at all three CAP offices.

Please click here for more information about hours, addresses and criteria to apply.

Like gypsies in the night: LMPD 3rd Division crime trends for January, 2012

2012-01-03T17:09:00.000-05:00

Courtesy of your SW Metro Council representatives, here are the most recent Crime Trends for the LMPD 3rd Division. Specific trends to be aware of are as follows:

There were three separate burglaries reported in the 4800-4900 blocks of Dixie Hwy. Each time, a concrete block was thrown through the front window of the business and all three happened after dark. One report had a suspect listed as a white male.

There was a home burglary reported in Hunters Point. The victim was inside when a white or Hispanic male wearing a red hat and blue jacket, forced his way in the back of the home. Please call police with any information you may have regarding this case.

A green utility trailer was reported stolen from a driveway off Upper Hunters. The trailer is reported to be metal with wooden sideboards and floorboards and has B &G Framing written on the side in black marker. If you spot this trailer, please call police.

3 car break-ins were reported on the lot of Wal-Mart at 7100 Raggard Rd. Police arrested the suspect, who admitted to breaking in to all 3 cars. All property was then returned to the victims.

A theft of a vehicle was reported on Freeman Ave. The vehicle was taken while the victim still had the keys. SUV is a red Mercury Mountaineer KY 040MBN.

A separate vehicle was reported stolen from Iroquois Gardens Dr. That vehicle is described as a 1997 black Honda Civic KY 111HES.

A home burglary was reported on Palatka Rd. where 2 guns were stolen, along with other valuables. The weapons are described as a .22 Springfield rifle and a Remington 12 gauge shotgun.

A burglary of a garage was reported on Elmer Ln. An unknown suspect kicked in the door and took tools along with a red Honda motorcycle.

Vehicle parts were taken from a car lot on National Turnpike during closed business hours. Parts were later recovered after being found by the business owner. Please keep an eye out if you are out along this road, especially during the overnight hours.

A burglary was reported on Gleam where the back door was kicked in and 2 guns, along with a computer were stolen. The weapons were a 12 gauge shotgun and a Remington 860.

2 thefts from autos were reported on East Dr. One vehicle had the window broken out and the other was left unlocked with a purse and its contents taken from inside. Remember to always lock your cars while away from them.

An air conditioning unit theft from a church was reported on Deering Rd.

A business burglary was reported on Valley Station Rd. Entry was made to the building and a safe with cash inside was taken.

Another air conditioning unit theft was reported from a church on Valley Station Rd.

Sun Valley on Ashby Ln. was burglarized last week when an unknown suspect/s gained entry to the parking lot and building and took a trailer and valuables. Any information you may have regarding this, please call the police.

There were 5 home burglaries reported South of Greenwood Rd and North of Hwy 841 during the last week, all were entered with force. Keep an eye out, especially if you are home during the day, for any suspicious activity or people that may be around your neighbors or your own home. Never hesitate to call the police with any concerns.

2 home burglaries were reported on Kinross Dr. The back door was pried on one and valuables were taken from inside both homes.

A John Deere green and yellow Gator was reported stolen from a construction site on Lower River Rd. Any information you may have in regards to this theft, please pas along to police.

Again, 2 separate vehicles were reported to have been “broken in” to by the victims leaving them UNLOCKED. If you have anything inside valuable enough to report to the police, LOCK YOUR CAR.

We appreciate any help from the community to solve crime. Please talk to all of your friends, family members, social and professional organizations and make them aware of this new service the Louisville Metro Police Department is offering. The more the information gets out to the community the better our chances of keeping Louisville safe.

"eBooks" now available at Louisville Free Public Library

2011-12-31T00:23:00.000-05:00

Before spending money on downloadable ebooks for your new Kindle, check the library for your favorite titles.

"eBooks" are now available for free from Louisville Free Public Library with your library card and password. Browse the Library’s collection of nearly 5,000 books including non-fiction, mysteries, biographies, history, classics and more.

Download to your PC, Mac, Kindle, eReader or other mobile device. Titles automatically expire at the end of the lending period and there are no late fees. To learn more and get started downloading eBooks, click here.

Councilman Yates and volunteers clean up illegal dump site on Old Third

2011-12-23T16:31:00.000-05:00

In the spirit of the holiday season, Councilman David Yates and volunteers will lend a helping hand to a couple along Old Third Street Road who have fallen victim to illegal dumping in District 25.

“Illegal dumping continues to be a major concern throughout Metro Louisville,” says Yates. “In this case, the victims of it are not the ones who caused it.”

At 10:00am Friday, December 23rd, Yates and the volunteers removed hundreds of illegally dumped tires. The property at 8201 Old Third Street Road is owned by Charles and Shawn Foerster.

“Twice every year, Southwest Jefferson County has one of the largest Brightside cleanups in the entire city. We take pride in our community,” says Yates. “I want everyone to know that District 25 is paying closer attention to illegal dumping.”

For more information, contact Councilman Yates office at 574-1125.

Public meeting scheduled for drive-thru Subway at Dixie and Ashby

2011-12-22T20:33:00.000-05:00

From the office of CM Bob Henderson(D-14):

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING CASE #16747

YOU ARE INVITED TO ATTEND A REVIEW OF A PROPOSAL FOR LANDSCAPE WAIVERS FOR VEHICLE USE AREAS AT 10500 DIXIE HIGHWAY AT THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF ASHBY LANE. THE MEETING WILL BE HELD BEGINNING AT 1PM ON December 28TH AT 514 WEST LIBERTY STREET UNTIL ALL CASES ARE HEARD. THE APPLICANT IS PLANNING A SUBWAY FOR THAT PROPERTY.

If you are planning to go to this meeting, please CLICK HERE to read about how these meetings are conducted so you will be familiar with all of the weird rules. Also, you may have to devote a significant part of your day in order to participate. It is one of the reasons these meetings are so poorly attended, and is why bad projects seem to breeze right through the system in Louisville.

A reader needs your help in locating an old friend

2011-12-15T18:17:00.000-05:00

A Valley Report reader needs your help in locating some old friends and I have agreed to put out a call for information so that we may help him out.

If anyone remembers Richard or Edna Brown of Shively Records fame, please email me here. Our reader is looking to contact the Browns, who were owners of the former record store in the Shively Center back when Bacon's Department Store was in business.

Thanks for your cooperation. Hopefully we can help.

3rd Division crime trends: Things are getting out of hand here

2011-12-13T20:37:00.000-05:00

Ok, here are the most recent Crime Trends for the LMPD 3rd Division. Specific trends to be aware of are as follows:

- There were several thefts from autos and a home burglary reported along the Lower Hunters Trace corridor. ALL of these were the result of vehicles or homes being left unlocked and unattended. ALWAYS LOCK ALL DOORS AND WINDOWS WHILE AWAY.

- A silver Mazda 6 with KY license plate 672FET was reported stolen from a parking lot. Vehicle was left running, unlocked, with the keys inside. If you have any information for the police in reference to this crime, please call.

- The Smoke Shop on Terry Rd. was burglarized. Police are looking for a white male in his 20’s with a thin “chin strap” beard.

- There were 3 separate reports of car break-ins at Meadows South Nursing Home. In all thefts, the windows of the vehicles were broken out and valuables taken. Remember to hide all valuables or take them with you.

- Another theft report was taken by police where a man, dressed as a Louisville Water Co. employee, was let in to a home by the homeowner and proceeded to steal from them. If you have any information about this crime please call police.

- There were 2 reports of air conditioning units stolen from Hampton Place Ct. There were also 2 reports of MSD sewer grates taken from the area of Glimmer Way. Any info you may have, please don’t hesitate to call police.

- Again, there was a report of a home burglary and a theft from auto. Both the home and vehicle were UNLOCKED.

- A white male suspect was seen fleeing from a car break-in. The suspect vehicle police are looking for is a small tan or gold vehicle.

- There was a report of a home burglary off of Valley College Dr. The home was entered by force and many specific valuables were taken. Make sure to keep a good eye on any property where the occupants may be gone during normal, daytime working hours.

- Police are looking for a dark colored Chevy 4D occupied by a black male. The vehicle and suspect are wanted in reference to a home burglary.

- A Chevy pickup truck was observed taking wooden pallets from the 10000 block of Dixie Hwy. The license plate number of the wanted vehicle is KY tag 696LLV.

- A trailer was reported stolen with a 1999 Ford Ranger topper mounted to it. The suspect vehicle is reported as being a red or maroon older model Ford truck.

-2 separate thefts from autos were reported in Autumn Lake trailer park. In both thefts, force was used to enter the vehicles and take valuables. Remember to hide or remove all valuables from your car anytime you are away.

Authorites appreciate any help from the community to solve crime. Please talk to all of your friends, family members, social and professional organizations and make them aware of this new service the Louisville Metro Police Department is offering. The more the information gets out to the commmuntiy the better our chances of keeping Louisville safe.

SW news updates: Mobile dental unit & shopping locally

2011-12-07T20:14:00.001-05:00


This is NOT what you want.

- Mobile Dental Unit: The Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness Mobile Dental Unit is now accepting new patients! The Mobile Dental Unit will be available for appointments at the Southwest Government Center (7219 Dixie Highway) on Mondays and Wednesdays between 8:00am and 4:30pm. Emergency dental services for adults are provided. Patients pay $10 at the time of service and the remaining balance is based on a sliding income scale. Call (502) 574-6688 to schedule an appointment.

- Buy Local

Fairdale Florist: 30% off Christmas Décor and great stocking stuffers! Located at 10700 West Manslick Road.

LeLe’s Boutique: Christmas Specials Galore! Located at 10624 West Manslick Road.

Koch & Company Christmas Open House: December 10th from 5-10pm! Fine art, painted furniture, floral jewelry, pottery, wood, antiques, gifts, glass, Christmas items, and much more! Located at 10978 Dixie Highway (Gene Snyder and Dixie Highway Valley Station Shopping Center). Call 502-618-4069 for information.

Independent local businesses employ an array of supporting services, circulating money in and strengthening the local economy. Dollars spent at community-based merchants create a multiplier effect. Studies have shown that for every $100 spent at a chain, $15 remains in the community while $45 remains when spent with home town businesses.

Valley Station pimped by dollar stores- residents flee

2011-12-07T17:05:00.000-05:00

The latest edition of Councilman Bob Henderson's email newsletter arrived a few days ago and attached was an interesting story about economic development in the 14th District:

There will be an informational meeting on December 14th at 1pm concerning the property at 13313 Dixie Hwy (north east corner of Dixie and Pendleton Road) for a possible Family Dollar Store at that site. The meeting will be held at 514 West Liberty Street in downtown Louisville.

Case #16208

Let's talk about it.

What do you think about this development? Is it the right thing for SW Louisville? Is it the best we can get? Do you think it is a good thing? Is any business a good business? Is our area over-served by dollar stores?

The facts are clear. The area is already saturated with dollar stores, from the Dollar Tree to Dollar General and now Family Dollar.

But what I want to know is what YOU think of this new situation.

Blast away.....

Welch and Fairdale Community Club bring "Santa Land" to District 13

2011-12-06T17:37:00.000-05:00

A holiday favorite returns to the Fairdale Playtorium on Thursday, December 15th when Santa Land brings fun for children in District 13 thanks to Councilwoman Vicki Aubrey Welch (D-13) and the Fairdale Community Club.

“I am happy to support this wonderful Christmas time event once again,” says Welch. “This will be my 6th season to participate and I would like to thank the local business community for their support.”

The Fairdale Playtorium will be magically transformed into Santa Land on December 15th. The event will get underway from 6:00pm to 8:00pm. The Playtorium is located at 10616 West Manslick Road.

The Jolly Old Elf from the North Pole will be on hand to talk to kids and entertainment will be provided by the Step N Out Dance Studio.

“A special appreciation goes to the wonderful work that the Fairdale Community Club provides our children and seniors throughout the year,” says Welch. “It is hard to imagine where our community would be without dedicated people who just want to make the holidays a little brighter for those who need some help.”

Welch provides funding for the event and partners with the Fairdale Community Club. The Community Club connects with many local businesses and area merchants to provide gifts to area children.

The event is free and open to children and their parents or guardians.

For more information about Santa Land, contact Councilwoman Welch’s office at 574-1113.

Links for 2010-11-24 [Digg]

2010-11-25T00:00:00-08:00

Giving thanks: 10 gifts for Louisville » Insider Louisville
Since I will do no shopping on Black Friday I have had time to compile a list of items that I would give to various people about town. This is in no way an exhaustive list - please feel free to add your own items as you see fit. Here we go...

Links for 2010-11-09 [Digg]

2010-11-10T00:00:00-08:00

Not-so-dynamic duo: Berman, JCTA president McKim struggle after election debacles
JCTA member teachers were paid to campaign for Simpson, not realizing he was a Tea Party candidate. (Photo by Brian Tucker) This years election cycle in Kentucky was one of the weirdest in many ways. Voters entertained the idea taking a different road, which led to some interesting candidates and often embarrassing events. Eventually for the most part the people who bothered to vote ended up choosing candidates with experience. One contest I followed with particular interest was Kentuckys 46th district representative race. Larry Clark, long-time incumbent, Democrat and house

Links for 2010-11-03 [Digg]

2010-11-04T00:00:00-07:00

Louisville resists urge to follow national political trend » Insider Louisville
Hawkins' political career is most likely over. After losing a race for state representative and state senate, Doug needed a win to avoid Strike Number Three and a pox upon his house. He failed.

Links for 2010-10-31 [Digg]

2010-11-01T00:00:00-07:00

Driven to drink in Louisville: Shameless morality in the Souths Sin City
Kentucky is rapidly becoming the laughingstock of the entire nation, after having leaped over Mississippi, Alabama and Arkansas as the knuckle-dragging capitol of the United States. It is enough to drive a person to drink. Unless one resides in Southeastern Kentucky, a place ruled by the iron fist of the Southern Baptists. The people of SE Kentucky hate those rotten bureaucrats in Washington, but they sure let the Baptists tell them how to live. No drinking. No dancing. No sir. But times are getting tough here in Louisville, as well. Louisville, long despised by the remaining 119 counties in t

Links for 2010-10-26 [Digg]

2010-10-27T00:00:00-07:00

Candidates ride wave of doom – hope for best » Insider Louisville
A union pulls its endorsement of a candidate for school board, a Democrat for state representative fights to remain on the ballot and a woman gets stomped outside a debate for U.S. Senate. It is election season in Kentucky.

Links for 2010-10-20 [Digg]

2010-10-21T00:00:00-07:00

Born under a bad sign: Rand, Jack and the Zodiac » Insider Louisville
Using the stars to analyze these candidates, we can clearly see the neither is well suited for election as U.S. Senator.

Links for 2009-03-01 [Digg]

2009-03-02T00:00:00-08:00

Yeah, It Smelled Bad.
My morning inside a waste water treatment plant.
Southwest Louisville Young Professionals
Join the SW Young Professionals Today!
...And Now For The Weather, and Other Dismal News.
It was 66 degrees in Louisville today. By Saturday it will be snowing.