The Old Louisville Journal

A Monthly Summary of News and Events in Old Louisville
Published by OLIC, Inc., a 501(c)(3) Corporation     

  Volume 30, Issue 4

April 2008    


Mike and Rhonda Williams picking up their order. 
Jerry Birchbach, one of our volunteers, is in the background behind them.

Spring Into the Planting Season
By Nancy Gall-Clayton
Chair 08 SSNA Bedding Plant Sale

The ice and snow have melted, and it’s time to order plants to brighten your yard and porch! Second Street Neighborhood Association is ready to help you get ready for the growing season with its 21st annual plant sale on Friday, April 25 and Saturday, April 26.

Again, this year, we’ll be in the garage behind 1381 S. Second St. (home of Anne and Matt Lyons), which is the sixth house north of Magnolia Ave. Look for our signs in the alley between First and Second Sts. This year we’re adding a pick-up time on Friday evening, April 25, from 5:30 to 7:00 pm to accommodate those who just can’t wait to get dirt under their fingernails. You can also pick up orders as usual from 9:00 am to noon on Saturday, April 26. Special arrangements for pick-ups can be made by calling Jo Ann at 636-1751.

You should order lots of impatiens, the showiest and easiest to grow plants around, if you have a shady garden area. If you have sunny areas, consider flats of zinnias, dianthus, and alyssum. Our hearty geraniums, dracaena spikes, and sweet potato vines all look wonderful in planter urns. We’re thrilled to offer the fabulous Wave Petunias again and we have begonias for both sun and shade. Nothing is prettier on a porch or a deck than a hanging basket – whether you choose the popular Boston fern or a flowering plant like the spectacular sun-loving scaevola that produces non-stop blooms of blue fan-shaped flowers. You’ll find even more ideas on the order form in the centerfold of the newsletter. In addition, if you want a plant or color not shown, please call Jo Ann at 636-1751.

We’re thrilled that Old Louisville landscape designers, Kevin Kouba and Rick Tabb of Bearwood Gardens, will be on hand to answer your questions. They have personally selected perennials that are not on the order form, but will be available – until sold out – during pick-up times. Our friendly “worm expert,” Paul Schellenberger, will join us on Saturday to talk with you about the use of worm castings and starting a compost project.

Purchases help beautify Old Louisville, and all profits are used to improve the neighborhood. Our ordering deadline is Friday, April 18. If you need extra forms, please make copies or email Jo-Ann-Lockhart@insightbb.com and she will send you more order forms. If you are not satisfied with your purchase for any reason, we’ll cheerfully make a refund. That’s our personal guarantee!

2008 Plant Sale Order Form

Don’t forget April 5th-

Central Park Clean-Up Day!

 


Letter to the Editor:

The following letter is in response to the editorial in the March edition of the Journal.

Dear Editor,

I feel compelled to address the issue of whether new carpet was needed at the Old Louisville Information Center. The answer is an absolute yes. I feel I am in a position to know. Around 5 years ago I began working at the Information Center for about 5 months. I remember my embarrassment when individuals would come into the Center to ask for information about historic Old Louisville. The carpet was so worn and threadbare it looked as if we cared about the neighborhood, but not the Center itself. I followed this by cleaning the Information Center twice a month for almost 3 years. The carpet had been heavily and permanently stained from years of use. Sections would pull apart at the seam lines when cleaned. At one time I even borrowed a good quality carpet cleaner to see if I could remove some of the stains. I did this on my own time and at my own expense. The carpet was so far gone that nothing could have helped it. It looked no better when I finished than when I began.

I have not cleaned at the Information Center for almost 2 years. I have not seen the burn marks mentioned by a previous letter to the editor. But replacing the carpet was years overdue. A special thank you should go out to George Unseld for making funds available for this project. (Now, about the faded and discolored walls in the Information Center…)

Jerry Birschbach
7105 Venetian Way

 


printers of the Old Louisville Journal

Editorial Policy: Letters and articles submitted to The Old Louisville Journal may be edited with regard to space and/or content. Letters to the Editor must be signed with a verifiable signature and address  


Unseld Funds St James Court Art Show™

Councilman George Unseld has pledged to give $5000 to this year’s 52nd Annual St James Court Art Show™. Councilman Unseld’s contribution helps defray art show expenses, which allows consortium members to make additional contributions to worthy Old Louisville projects. "The St James Court Art Show Consortium appreciates Councilman Unseld’s contribution in 2006 and 2007 and is pleased we can count on his continued support in 2008" said Show Director, Margue Esrock.

Sponsors that have committed for the 2008 St James Court Art Showare AT&T, Anheuser Busch, CASA, DBS Interactive, Kosair Charities, Power Creative, and Louisville Magazine.

The St James Court Art Show will be held October 3, 4 & 5, 2008. For more information about the poster contest, sponsorship opportunities, or volunteering, visit the web site at www.stjamescourtartshow.com.



Beginning Yoga Classes
will be held at the Old Louisville Information Center on
Thursdays at 5:30-6:30 p.m.
beginning Thursday, March 13th, 2008
Class fee: $5
All levels welcome
Please bring a mat or towel for your comfort.
Classes will be led by Nancy Clinton


15th ANNUAL OLD LOUISVILLE

"HIDDEN TREASURES" GARDEN TOUR

The Second Street Neighborhood Association, in cooperation with the Old Louisville Information Center, will present the 15th Annual "Hidden Treasures" Garden Tour on Saturday, July 12, and Sunday, July 13, 2008, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Located in the Old Louisville Historic Preservation District, the tour will feature 8 to 10 private gardens. Proceeds help to enhance and preserve this treasured neighborhood.

LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY
In Old Louisville Historic Preservation District Neighborhood.
JULY 12 & 13, 2008
Tour of gardens: Sat. & Sun. 10 AM – 5 PM (Rain or shine – No Rain Dates)

INFORMATION:
Contact or visit the Old Louisville Information Center (in Central Park)
1340 South Fourth St.
Louisville, KY 40208
(502) 635-5244
E-mail olnc@bellsouth.net
www.oldlouisville.org
TICKETS: $10 ADVANCE / $12 DAYS OF TOUR
TICKETS GOOD FOR BOTH DAYS OF TOUR – No refunds. VISA/MC accepted.

Advance Tickets available as of June 1:

Online at www.oldlouisville.org
Or by contacting or visiting the Old Louisville Information Center (in Central Park)

1340 S. Fourth St.
Louisville, KY 40208
(502) 635-5244

Advance tickets purchased by mail, phone, fax or on line should be picked up at the sales table at the grassy median in front of the Conrad-Caldwell House Museum (adjacent to Central Park), 1402 St. James Court.

On-site Tickets and Maps available at the sales table.


Going Green In The Garden
By Claudette Rego

The last place we need to look at going green is in the garden, right? Wrong…Many of our current gardening practices are actually great sources of pollution. In our efforts to create perfect lawns and plants, we are creating air and noise pollution, not to mention the over use of chemicals.

Our garden area is one place that change can be effected at our own hand. It doesn’t require an act of Congress or a new law, it only requires some change on the part of each homeowner. Whether you maintain your own landscape or hire out the work, these practices can make a huge impact on our environment.

Conventional lawn mowers are the source of 5% of the air pollution in the US. Replace your gas powered lawn mower with a plug-in electric model or a push (reel) mower. Both are available in mulching models. Mow at the highest level and mulch. Don’t mow with gas mowers during ozone alerts. Better yet, replace your small urban lawn with perennial evergreen groundcovers. Louisville being a Zone 6, provides many choices. Liriope (monkey grass), pachysandra, and ivy are just a few. If replacing the entire lawn at one time is too daunting, start at the borders and work you way inward every year. Most plants multiply naturally, providing ample stock to develop your space. These groundcover help choke out weeds, don’t need mowing weekly and once established, require far less water to maintain their lush appearance. Most require a single haircut once a year for healthy growth.

Fertilizing & weed killing are two large sources of chemicals and heavy metals in our soil. The run-off from these chemicals in rain water and watering enters our water supply in drains. Consider organic alternatives to fertilizing and weed killing. Once hard to find, both are readily available in stores and on-line. Spot killing weeds rather than broadcasting an entire area is another good choice.

Choosing plants that are native to our area or enjoy similar conditions will reduce the need for chemical use. Examine organic alternatives to remedy problems that do arise. Blasting bag worms on crab trees with a hard water spray can effectively rid your tree of the problem. It may take more than once, but there are no chemicals involved. Start by choosing plants that are pest and disease resistant. Choose plants that fit the light and moisture conditions you have. Look for information on-line. University extension service sites and local nurseries are always a great source of information.

Choosing maintenance methods that both reduce emissions and noise is important. Mowers, edgers, leaf blowers and outdoor vacuums are incredibly loud. Many states and municipalities are instituting noise abatement plans that prohibit the use of many of these tools. Make wise choices. Remember that we once maintained our lawn and properties quietly with brooms and rakes. Going back to this type of equipment will afford you the opportunity to burn off extra calories, talk with family & friends and listen to the birds!

Take some time to reflect on how you maintain your landscape and take this time to start the new gardening season with greener habits. Discuss your concerns with hired yard care companies and choose services that include efforts to go green. We’ll be back with more helpful ideas to make your garden ‘greener’ in the months to come.

Garden Buddies!
Need some help in the garden?
We’ll do the work for you!
Weeding, planting, mulching, deadheading, light pruning, etc.
Call Joan or Linda634-3813 • 635-1251

 

I Love Old Louisville!

There has been a very big interest in the "I (Love) Old Louisville" sign & bumper stickers that I have created and given away so far. Now there is an expanded product line available from CafePress.com.

http://www.cafepress.com/old_louisville

All products are produced right here in Louisville at their Riverport plant - and you can have them delivered to your door in just a few days.

john paul


STOP BY THE VISITORS CENTER AND DO A LITTLE SHOPPING!

In a continuing effort to expand their services and attract tourism, the staff at the Visitors Center in Historic Old Louisville is developing a line of merchandise to promote our historic neighborhood. Items for sale include postcards, bumper stickers, t-shirts, David Domine’s books, videos and DVDs.

Also on sale is Michael Breeding’s DVD "Victorian Mansions of Old Louisville," which continues to get the word out about the wonderful architecture in Old Louisville. Copies are on sale at the gift shop for $20.

THANK YOU TO THE SPONSORS OF THIS PROJECT:

1300 Block Third Street Association
Third Street Association
Second Street Association
Mary Martin
Gary Kleier

 

 

A contractor’s advertisement in this publication does not mean an automatic approval of their product or your project by Landmarks. Be Smart! Check with Landmarks before you proceed!


 

DISCOUNTED TICKETS ON SALE FOR THE THIRD ANNUAL SPIRIT BALL.

Tickets are on sale for the 2008 Spirit Ball, which will take place on Saturday, October 25 from 7:00-midnight at the Conrad-Caldwell House on St. James Court. Standard tickets cost $99.00 and VIP passes cost $149.00, but tickets purchased now will receive a $10.00 discount. Stop by the Visitors Center in Historic Old Louisville (637-2922) to purchase tickets or go online at www.thespiritball.com.  The fun-filled Halloween gala includes live music and dancing, gourmet fare, cocktails, silent auction and much, much more. All proceeds will benefit the Conrad-Caldwell House, Old Louisville’s favorite Victorian mansion.

BJB
Restoration & Remediation
Masonry Historic Painting
Mold remediation
Tuck pointing Cornice repair
Detecting, cleaning
Waterproofing & caulking wood repair Removal & Stucco Plaster treatment


Dennis Bolton
502-582-2833 office
502-648-7682 cell
bjbbolton@aol.com
785 S. Shelby St.
Louisville, Kentucky 40203
 


Central Park
Improvement Day
April 5, 2008
8:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon


(LtoR) Herb Fink with David Fothergill, Restoration Manager,
and Major Waldman, Project Director of the Olmsted Parks Conservancy
discussing plans for Central Park Improvement Day.

Work has already started in Central Park.


Louisville Metro Parks staff removing tree stumps in Central Park. (at 6th St)


Third Annual Festival of the Arts to be held

In Central Park

In celebration of the Arts Council of Louisville’s 10th Anniversary of community arts, the "Third Annual Festival of the Arts"will be held at Central Park in downtown Louisville located at Fourth and Magnolia Streets. The event is scheduled April 18-19, 2008 from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. It will feature the outstanding  artistry of local visual and performing artists. To be a participating artist or vendor contact the Arts Council of Louisville at (502) 585-9525. The event is a non-alcoholic event with arts activities and "back-in-the-day" games for children and family fun. The Festival of the Arts is free and open to the public and accessible to all disabilities. For additional information call (502) 585-9525.


Property

Improvment

Committee

By Herb Fink

Louisville Metro Parks Assistant Director, Marty Storch discussed Old Louisville issues during the recent PIC meting on Thursday, March 13, 2008 held at Treyton Oak Towers, which included the following:

Parks plans for the repair and occupancy of the existing vacant building at 532 W. Kentucky Street within Ben Washer Park.

Marty stated that someone has proposed using the building for a youth program. The building needs major repairs. There are financial difficulties, but they are working on making it happen.

Central Park

* Driving on Turf - Marty Storch stated that discussions have been held with the Parks staff so as to keep vehicles on the walkways except for emergency situations.

* Lighting - work started recently to make all lights operational.

* Tennis Backstop - Parks will replace the backstop and reconstruct as to eliminate the loud echo.

* Bathrooms - Hand driers are in place. Parks has no problem with Old Louisville painting the bathrooms.

* Turf Mowing - Parks is on a two-week mowing cycle which is disrupted by rain. Parks will maintain a 3" height.

* Marty agreed to relook at the Central Park Ambassador program so as to get it up and running.

* Toonerville Trolley Park - Parks has no problem with creating a fenced dog run/dog walk area replacing the unused ball field. Details have to be worked out.

 


Linda Plunkett and Marty Storch,
Metro Parks Assistant Director
at the March PIC meeting.

 

 

 


Vacant and deteriorating property,
523 W. Kentucky Street,
Ben Washer Park

Other business:

* 1442 S. 1st St. - (Vacant and deteriorating) District Court Judge placed the owners in jail for 3 months.

* Salvation Army has now moved for 512 St. Catherine St. to 911 S. Brook (Old Male High School).

* Leaf Removal regarding public sidewalks, gutters and catchbasins - People should call MetroCall to test the ordinance.

* Bike Lanes - South on 3rd; East on Cardinal (shared lane); North on Brook to Broadway (shared lane to  Woodbine, waiting for 2-way to happen); Oak St. from Brook to Second (shared lane); 2nd St. north to Broadway.

* Reviewed sketch plan for Magnolia Condos off-street parking area to introduce greenspace.

* MSD - WIN Rain Barrels - Landmarks issue if placed in the front of building. Potentially serious problem if concentrated water damages sidewalks, walls, embankments, foundations.

* Omar’s Food Mart on E. Oak St. - new owner has asked for a beer license. Will try to arrange a meeting.

* Proposed Blood Donor business at S. 4th St. & Industry Rd. Lease imminent; meeting to be arranged primarily to help U. of L. and future adjacent developers. Concern regarding reducing property values and increased crime.

* Slate Roof Repair - Kurtis Hord spoke of the importance of repairing existing slate roofs. PIC will offer the community a workshop by Kurtis in the future. Ric Poe suggested putting an article on this subject in the Journal.

* All celebrated Jean Crowe’s 93rd birthday with cake and punch provided by Treyton Oak Towers.

* We thank Barb Donnelly and Treyton Oak Towers for inviting us to meet at the Towers and to Cristi Cobban, Director of Activities and Bob Brown, Security Coordination for all their help.

 


 


April 2008

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

 

 

 

 

1

Girl Scouts 6 p.m.

OLIC

No fooling!

 

2

 

3

Yoga 5:30-6:30 OLIC

 

ZALU 7:00 p.m. OLIC

4

TourLouisville

2:30pm Mansion & Milestones Tour, $25, 637.2922

7:30pm Ghost Tour, $25, 637.2922 

5

Central Park Clean-Up Day!

8:30-12:00 noon

Please help!

 

6

 

7

 

8

9

 

10

Yoga 5:30-6:30

 PIC Meeting 7:00 p.m. OLIC

 

11

TourLouisville

2:30pm Mansion & Milestones Tour, $25, 637.2922

7:30pm Ghost Tour, $25, 637.2922 

12

TourLouisville

2:30pm Mansion & Milestones Tour, $25, 637.2922

7:30pm Ghost Tour, $25, 637.2922 

13

14

Garvin Gate NA

 

15

Girl Scouts 6 p.m. OLIC

 

16

3rd St. NA 7p.m.

17

Yoga 5:30-6:30  

Toonerville NA St. Philip Chapel, 7 p.m.

 

18

Third Annual Festival of the Arts will be held in Central Park

9:00 a.m. to  7:00 p.m.

19 

Third Annual Festival of the Arts will be held in Central Park

9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

20

Passover

 

21

Crime & Safety 7 p.m., OLIC

 

22

      OLIC 6

      OLNC 7

 

23

Central Park West NA, 7 p.m. Haskins Hall

24

Yoga 5:30-6:30

 

        .

25

TourLouisville

2:30pm Mansion & Milestones Tour, $25, 637.2922

7:30pm Ghost Tour, $25, 637.2922

26

TourLouisville

2:30pm Mansion & Milestones Tour, $25, 637.2922

7:30pm Ghost Tour, $25, 637.2922 

27

SSNA 5:00 pm. Kling Center 

1300 S. 3rd St. NA 

28

 

29

Girl Scouts 6 p.m. OLIC

 

30

 

 

 

 

 

The Old Louisville Journal is published monthly by the Old Louisville Information Center, Inc. (OLIC), a 501(c)(3) corporation, incorporated in 1984, for the purpose of receiving tax deductible contributions. OLIC is affiliated with the Old Louisville Neighborhood Council (OLNC), a 501 (c) (4) non-profit association incorporated in 1976 to serve as the recognized voice of the Old Louisville Neighborhood.

Submit Journal contributions to the Editor:
Old Louisville Information Center
1340 S. Fourth St., Louisville, KY 40208.
Phone: (502) 635-5244

E-mail: olnc@bellsouth.net
Advertising rates available upon request.
Please submit “Letters to the Editor” to the above address.
The 15th of each month is deadline for submission of all ads and articles.

 

 

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