Sky’s the Limit
Louisville Audubon Society Helps
People Enjoy and Protect the Natural World
For the Fighters
TKO Parkinson’s Program Provides Physical Therapy in a Fun Environment
Harmonies of Change
MUSIC FOR A PURPOSE PAIRS CLASSICAL MUSIC WITH ACTIVISM
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BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
ON TOP ROOFING
Writer / Gavin LaPaille
With unpredictable weather patterns in Louisville, On Top Roofing can be a one-stop solution for all roofing needs. Offering a comprehensive range of custom and professional services, On Top Roofing specializes in insurance claims and helping customers get the payments they deserve.
“We specialize in storm-related losses due to hail or wind damage,” Owner Derick Hihn said. “We meet with homeowners free of charge to do a roofing inspection. Louisville
is hit with multiple storms every year and we offer a free assessment. We coach if they have a storm-related loss and if they have an insurance claim or not. We help them work with their insurance company to get them the coverage that’s owed to them. After that, we roof the house.”
Hihn started On Top Roofing two years ago after nearly 20 years in the industry with other companies. Hihn always wanted to own his own company and saw the opportunity to do so, and he said the results have been better than expected.
“I’m an entrepreneur and I have an amazing team,” Hihn said. “People knew I was good with the insurance companies, and that business has followed me here.”
On Top Roofing offers complimentary roofing inspections to assess quality and structural integrity, identifying areas needed for repair or replacement. After the
assessment, On Top Roofing provides a detailed report and any necessary actions to keep the roof in optimal condition.
Hihn and his team strive to provide prompt response times, as On Top Roofing is always ready to act for its customers and ensure roofing problems are addressed quickly and effectively. While navigating the insurance claim process can be daunting, On Top Roofing has extensive experience guiding homeowners through the complexities, providing tailored advice for every job. Their service area includes all of Louisville and Southern Indiana communities, and they can venture out further depending on the project.
“Our customer experience sets us apart,” Hihn said. “Other companies will meet with your insurance companies but we will pursue it for you. I’m trying to get you paid so you can pay me. I’m willing to fight them for months to get people what they deserve. If we believe we can help you, we don’t give up until we do. That’s what makes us so successful.”
On Top Roofing’s experts are highly skilled in identifying and fixing problems such as leaking roofs and missing shingles, while assessing interior damage from wind, storm and hail, among other issues. Their commitment to high standards and excellence is evident in every job they do. Hihn takes a lot of pride in making sure his customers get what they need.
“I love being on my own,” Hihn said. “It’s amazing helping people. Making money and helping people is awesome; they’re happy to write you a check. If it wasn’t for us, they wouldn’t be able to get it done.”
CONNECT
SUMMER ADVENTURES AHEAD
CAMP KGA OPENING FOR INAUGURAL SEASON
A familiar Louisville institution is starting a new traditional outdoor summer camp to serve Louisville kids.
Camp Kids’ Great Adventure is the latest iteration of Camp KGA offered by Kentucky Gymnastics Academy. Instead of
a gymnastics focus inside of a gym, this new Camp KGA offers more than 15 activities on a 30-acre property that includes a lake, nature trails, sports fields and more.
“KGA has had a summer camp for as long as I can remember,” said KGA Owner Shannon Wickel. “We’ve always had a great time and had a waiting list, but we’ve never been able to offer much outdoors. Then I bought this new property.”
The new property is located at 2800 South English Station Road in Middletown. The size allows KGA to create more opportunities and increase the number of kids able to take part. With so much land at
their disposal, Camp KGA will have a more well-rounded camp experience that goes far beyond gymnastics.
Aimed toward children aged 5 to 12, the camp offers more than 15 activities including swimming, canoeing, archery, arts and crafts, sports like soccer and basketball, animal care, gymnastics, and even a water trampoline. Kids will have the option to switch up their itinerary to create the best experience possible, with special offerings like Tie Dye Tuesdays and Water Wars Wednesdays also available each day of the week. Campers can bring prepackaged lunches or choose from a variety of prepurchased meals. A Kids’ Café will have ice
Writer / Gavin LaPaille
Left to Right
Ingrid Bojanowski - KGA Founder, Shannon Wickel - KGA Owner, Niki McGhee - KGA GM
and snacks available for purchase throughout the day. Parents can drop off their campers at 8:45 a.m. each day, then pick them up at 3 p.m.
Wickel wants Camp KGA to be a worry-free experience for parents. A 10:1 camper-tocounselor ratio ensures each child receives personalized attention in a supportive environment. Each counselor is trained in
first aid and CPR, and many staff members are long-time KGA athletes, coaches and staff with ample experience. A nurse is onsite full time, and specially trained lifeguards help make sure the lake remains fun and safe for every camper. The camp is device-free, and campers are organized into groups of similar age.
Wickel said expanding the camp, from being gymnastics oriented at the gym to the larger operation on the property, has been a main priority. “Kids need to move and be active, and the resources are limited,” Wickel said. “Many camps in our city have waiting lists,
so you have kids that have nowhere to go.”
Traditionally KGA has had a waiting list for its camp; the new camp is able to accommodate up to 200 kids per week. Most campers register for a full week, but Camp KGA has a special offering for those who can’t commit to a full five days. The “a la carte” option allows parents to choose single days for their child, which gives more kids access to everything the camp offers. “Not many summer camps offer that,” Wickel said. “That has worked well for us and is important to me to keep as part of the program. There are a lot of families who
KGA will also offer a TumbleBugs Camp at its main gym, located at 1160 Avoca Station Court. Open to kids aged 2 to 5, TumbleBugs Camp is a half-day camp with activities like open gym play, learning, arts and crafts, and outdoor fun. It’s designed to introduce young campers to summer fun,
while also engaging their minds and bodies. By moving the bigger camp to the new property, KGA will be able to open up more spots for its popular TumbleBugs.
Both camps begin June 2 and run through the last week of July. Prices start at $350 for the full week of Camp KGA and $200 for TumbleBugs, with daily options available at $85 and $57.75, respectively.
“I’m in love with this property,” Wickel said. “I’m very excited to finally show it to people and invite others to enjoy the property as much as I have.”
Eventually KGA will also move to the property on South English Station Road, and originally, Wickel’s plan was to start the camp after the gym was relocated. However,
For more information about Camp Kids’ Great Adventure or TumbleBugs Camp, or to register, please visit kgagym.com.
SKY’S THE L IM IT
LOUISVILLE AUDUBON SOCIETY HELPS PEOPLE ENJOY AND PROTECT THE NATURAL WORLD
Writer / Renée Larr
Backyard birdwatching enthusiasts understand the challenges of attracting specific birds, meeting their dietary needs and recognizing their unique habits. Louisville Audubon Society (LAS) offers comprehensive education on birds and local wildlife, while working towards conserving and restoring natural ecosystems. They focus on birds, wildlife and habitats, to promote biodiversity and benefit humanity and Earth.
The Louisville chapter is a part of the larger National Audubon Society, a nonprofit organization founded in 1905 and named after the renowned French-American naturalist, artist and ornithologist John James Audubon. Audubon was known for his extensive studies and detailed illustrations of American birds in their natural environments. After Audubon died in 1851, George Bird Grinnell, a co-founder of the early Audubon Society in the late 1800s, chose the name to honor Audubon’s
significant contributions to wildlife art and natural history.
Three years ago, current LAS President Cathy Dennis approached Lee Payne to take over as the organization’s leader. Payne is deeply involved in the community, participating in various organizations such as Beckham Bird Club, Raptor Rehabilitation of Kentucky, E.P. Tom Sawyer State Park, Kentucky Ornithological Society, Wild Commonwealth Podcast,
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Muhammad Ali Center and the NAACP. Payne is a graduate of Eastern Kentucky University, majoring in environmental science.
Payne could easily be described as a modern-day Dr. Dolittle, with a unique ability to attract animalsalthough without the comedic antics portrayed in the movie popularized by Eddie Murphy. He cherishes the interactions he has with animals and finds joy in the natural connections he experiences.
“When I was a child, I would miss the school bus on purpose to walk home through the woods to see the animals,” Payne says. “One day I was walking in those woods with my mom and someone was cutting down the trees. I started crying, telling my mom if they only knew what was in the woods, they wouldn’t be cutting down the trees. My mom told me people might not listen to me now because I was just a kid, but someday people would.”
As an adult, Payne has utilized his voice to cultivate an ecosystem where everyone can appreciate birds and advocate for their environment. Part of this advocacy involves urging local lawmakers to consider animals and their habitats when
Lee Payne
proposing legislation that impacts nature. One specific bill he has focused on is Senate Bill 59, which aims to prevent the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife from enforcing fines and penalties for capturing Cooper’s hawks or red-tailed hawks. Payne’s efforts highlight his commitment to protecting wildlife and preserving natural habitats for future generations.
“If passed, this bill would make it legal to shoot and kill Cooper’s hawks or red-tail hawks,” Payne says. “These raptors play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of our local ecosystem by controlling the rodent and small-mammal population. This helps prevent outbreaks of diseases and reduces crop damage by these animals. This is LAS’s biggest fight right now.”
Payne expresses concern that Senate Bill 59 undermines Kentucky’s commitment to wildlife conservation by eliminating penalties for taking Cooper’s and red-tailed hawks, potentially leading to an increase
in poaching, trapping, and illegal trade of these birds. LAS believes in supporting local organizations dedicated to environmental conservation to safeguard birds and their ecosystems for the future.
To join LAS, individuals must first become members of the National Audubon Society. Membership options include a monthly recurring donation of $5 or more, an annual recurring donation of $20 or more, or a onetime gift of $20 or more.
Once membership is confirmed, members are connected with their nearest local chapter. Payne notes that many major cities lack a local bird club and an Audubon Society chapter, emphasizing the importance of supporting organizations like LAS to promote bird conservation and environmental stewardship.
“We have both the Beckham Bird Club and LAS here in Louisville, so we work very hard to make sure we don’t overlap in terms
of events, meetings and programming,” Payne says.
Tavia Cathcart Brown, the executive director of Creasey Mahan Nature Preserve, spent seven years on the board of LAS and remains an active member of the organization. Her passion for feathered, egg-laying vertebrates is the driving force behind her involvement with LAS. Cathcart Brown appreciates the society’s dedication to education and outreach, particularly in engaging and inspiring young birdwatchers to discover the joys of the hobby.
“Creasey Mahan Nature Preserve partners with LAS for many of our birding walks,” Cathcart Brown says. “Everyone of all abilities is welcome to join, but we’ve noticed the walks have been really great for beginners. We don’t expect people to show up with an extensive knowledge of birds. Together we can provide a good level of education for attendees.”
Cathcart Brown acknowledges that LAS boasts a membership of over 900 individuals, attributing much of this success to Payne’s contagious energy, outgoing personality, and deep passion for nature and wildlife. She describes Payne as magnetic, a knowledgeable guide and an educator. His active presence on social media allows him to share his extensive knowledge about various members of the animal kingdom, further engaging and educating the community about the wonders of nature.
“Some of us call him the owl whisperer because he knows so much, but he’s always able to find them, or they find him,”
Cathcart Brown says. “He loves knowledge and he truly loves to share his knowledge with others. He’s a wonderful resource for the organization and its members.”
The local Audubon Society chapter is also dedicated to safeguarding birds by raising awareness about the threats of light pollution on migrating birds. Payne explains that many birds migrate at night but are frequently disoriented by the glare of artificial city lights, leading to fatal consequences and disruption of their migratory routes. In response to this issue, Lights Out Louisville is an initiative by LAS to ensure the safe passage of migrating birds by reducing light pollution and its
Eating
adverse impacts on avian populations.
“Lights Out Louisville asks local businesses and residents to limit their usage of artificial and outdoor lighting during peak migration season,” Payne says. “We understand lights are needed. We ask from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. in March through May, and again August through October, that people turn off any unnecessary lights, use motion-activated sensors so lights only come on when needed, and shield lights on the top, so the light points down where it’s needed and not up where it’s not.”
For more information on Louisville Audubon Society, visit louisvilleaudubon.org.
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Harmonies of Change
MUSIC FOR A PURPOSE PAIRS CLASSICAL MUSIC WITH ACTIVISM
Writer / Renée Larr
As the pandemic cast a shadow over the world, stages went dark and musicians, including accomplished violinist Julia Cash, found themselves in a state of uncertainty. The sudden halt to their performances and the loss of their livelihoods left them grappling with a profound sense of frustration. However, like many of her peers, Cash didn't let this stop her. She had dedicated her entire life to music, earning four degrees in classical violin, performing in major orchestras and collaborating with world-renowned musicians. As the world slowed down, she began to ponder a more profound question: How can I use my skills to make a real difference?
Music for a Purpose, a nonprofit organization founded by Cash, is a unique blend of classical music and social impact. What began as a single benefit concert has evolved into a growing concert series that raises funds for a variety of causes, from refugee support to environmental
conservation and addiction recovery.
The seeds for Music for a Purpose were planted long before the pandemic, in Cash’s childhood. Her best friend’s mother founded Kentucky Refugee Ministries, a nonprofit resettling more than 16,000 displaced individuals in the Louisville area. Watching this grassroots effort take shape and grow into a significant force for good left a lasting impression.
“I saw her build it up, piece by piece, from her kitchen,” Cash says. “I thought, ‘If she can do that, surely I can get a little concert series going.’”
With that inspiration, she began organizing concerts to showcase worldclass classical music and give back to the community. After moving back to Louisville in 2021, she reconnected with old friends, mentors and local musicians, forming a supportive network that
encouraged her to expand her vision.
What began with a single concert has now evolved into a thriving series, with the number of concerts increasing each year. Last season alone Music for a Purpose raised an impressive $17,000 across three concerts, directly benefiting nonprofit organizations. This growth is a testament to the power of music and community engagement.
Despite her self-professed lack of business acumen, Cash has been supported by a network of community advisors, volunteers and legal experts who have guided her through the complexities of running a nonprofit. Despite the challenges, she remains steadfast in her commitment to keeping concerts free and open to the public, ensuring everyone can enjoy classical music's transformative power while supporting important causes.
Though Cash is the driving force behind Music for a Purpose, she is far from alone in her mission. The concerts feature a rotating cast of talented musicians, many of whom have ties to Louisville.
“I’ve based the series on friends of mine that I grew up with in Louisville, as well as musicians I’ve met through my career,” Cash says. “It’s about 30% people who currently live in Louisville, 30% people who grew up here and have gone on to do other things, and 30% friends I’ve met in the classical music world who I bring in from other places.”
This blend of musicians creates a unique sense of community, with audiences filled not only with classical music enthusiasts, but also friends, family members and former teachers of the performers.
Rather than focusing on a single organization, Music for a Purpose supports a variety of causes, rotating its beneficiaries with each concert. Past concerts have raised funds for:
• Kentucky Refugee Ministries, supporting displaced families
• Olmsted Parks Conservancy, dedicated to preserving Louisville’s green spaces
• The Healing Place, which provides addiction recovery services
• Earth & Spirit Center, which promotes environmental education and mindfulness
• Louisville Climate Action Network, which works on local climate initiatives
• Maryhurst, a center supporting abused children
The upcoming concerts on April 25 at St. Francis of the Fields, and April 27 at Peterson Dumesnil House, will benefit the Louisville Nature Center, an organization focused on restoring the urban forest and connecting people, especially children, to nature through education and conservation efforts. The concerts feature Dvorak’s “Dumky” trio, Beethoven’s “Spring” sonata and the music of Sebastian Chong.
“There’s no shortage of good causes that could use support,” Cash says. “Using classical music as a way to bring people
together for these causes just makes sense.”
Beyond fundraising, Music for a Purpose is deeply committed to education. For every concert, Cash and her fellow musicians visit at least one school, sometimes more, to introduce students to classical music in a personal, interactive way.
“I grew up in Louisville and I wouldn’t have had the career I’ve had if I didn’t have access to quality music education,” she says. “So I feel a responsibility to give back.”
These school visits include live performances, discussions about classical music and workshops to inspire the next generation of musicians. Cash has also organized familyfriendly concerts, including a narrated Vivaldi’s “The Four Seasons” performance at a local farmers market.
Recently she secured a grant to bring an all-black classical music ensemble to three schools in Louisville’s West End.
The ensemble performed works by black composers, and the response was overwhelmingly positive.
“It was so powerful,” Cash says. "Seeing the students light up when they saw musicians who looked like them playing this incredible music was something I’ll never forget.”
Cash envisions a more structured approach to the seasons as Music for a Purpose grows, potentially dedicating an entire year of concerts to a specific cause, such as women and children, environmental conservation or underserved communities. This longterm vision demonstrates the potential impact and growth of the organization.
She also hopes to collaborate with similar initiatives, such as Concerts for a Cause in Indianapolis, which has hosted benefit concerts since 2016. “I’d love to connect with them and see how we can help each other,” she says.
However, despite her ambitions, Cash is mindful of keeping the organization sustainable.
“I don’t want to do a concert every week,” she says. “I think there’s a saturation point. Right now I’m aiming for four to six concerts a year, and that feels like the right balance.”
For those who want to support Music for a Purpose, there are several ways to help:
• Attend a concert - All performances are free and open to the public.
• Donate - Contributions go directly to the nonprofit organizations featured in each concert.
• Volunteer - There are many ways to contribute, from helping with concert logistics to grant writing and marketing.
Ultimately, Music for a Purpose is about more than just music; it’s about using art to create real, tangible change. “Music is the
medium, but the goal is positive change,” Cash says. “Anyone who believes in that is welcome to join us.”
For more information on upcoming concerts, visit musicforapurpose.org.
Julia Cash
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APRIL CROSSWORD PUZZLE
DOWN
1. Chinese gemstone
2. Aware of
3. Least shaky
4. Pie baker’s utensil
5. Went nowhere
6. Poetic contraction
7. Took the tiller
8. Tough
9. “That’s it!”
10. “___ so fast!”
11. Anil or woad
19. Bit of sweat
21. Doze
24. It may be heightened
25. Advanced
26. Understands
27. Radar screen image
28. Liturgy
29. Seek a seat
32. Strikes out
33. Better half
35. “___ rang?”
36. Sidetrack
38. Butler at Tara
39. Cuban singer Cruz
42. Like some grins
43. Disavow
44. Flight delayer, perhaps
45. Jointly owned, maybe
46. Industrial injury
48. Babysitter’s handful
ACROSS
1. Menu word
Cavities 8. Full house, e.g.
Well-put
Rephrase
Call from the bridge
Anonymous name
“Anything ___?” 17. Be judgmental 18. Capacitate 20. Book’s last word
22. Closing document
23. Castle dwellers
27. Pipe type
29. Clearly embarrassed
30. Kind of hour
31. Wasn’t straight
32. Palindromic turkey
33. Feature of some lions
34. Part of T.G.I.F.
35. Japanese bread?
Game played standing
Gas, to a Brit
Mention
Shade
Tied up
44. Bad driver’s shout
47. Mah-jongg piece
49. Time to look ahead
50. Bump from office
51. Abu Dhabi leader
52. Fall from grace
53. Pluck
54. To-do
55. Snaky
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FOR THE FIGHTERS
TKO PARKINSON’S PROGRAM PROVIDES PHYSICAL THERAPY IN A FUN ENVIRONMENT
Writer / Grace Schaefer
Every Monday and Wednesday morning, Buechel Park Baptist Church’s gym teems with activity - an assembly of men and women in the Louisville community exercising together. And that includes boxing.
It began years ago, when Doug Pifer was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. No cure has been identified, and medication comes with high expense and side effects. Pifer still looked for ways to maintain his abilities and fight back against the progression - an effort
he found help with from the Rock Steady Boxing program, a physical therapy program for Parkinson’s patients.
Pifer recognized the value of the program, and saw that his own community was in need of something similar. The result of his dream is TKO Parkinson’s, the Rock Steady Boxing program for Louisville. While many come with a cost, TKO Parkinson’s classes are free, even Friday classes online. But in order to keep it free, Pifer has had the help of a team of family, friends and community
members who rallied around him in the fight against Parkinson’s.
Brian Helton is one of the organization’s dedicated fundraisers working through partner organization TKO Flight Club - a name originating from the “fight club” at TKO Parkinson’s.
“I met Doug when we worked together at Mercy Transportation in Louisville, and Doug was my mentor, so to speak,” Helton says. “He had been with the company for
years when I started there. We worked together for close to 15 years, so I had gotten to know Doug prior to him having Parkinson's, and got to watch his journey into trying to find things that would help. Then [Doug’s son] Tom started working at the same place during this time period, so I got to know Tom. These guys are as close to family as I have. I just love Doug, and as soon as I heard Tom say, ‘I want to help my dad,’ I had been looking for something to donate my time to and invest in for our community, and I just instantly knew this was the thing for me.”
With the combined efforts of these men and many other members of the Louisville community, TKO Parkinson’s can continue. The two organizations host a variety of events throughout the year, including a Derby celebration and the TKO Parkinson’s Festival. Helton says he is glad “just to be able to put together an event that Doug doesn't have to help plan, and that Doug doesn't have to work. If I was just going as
an attendee, it would be so much fun for me to be at this event, but to be a part of it and to know that I'm helping make it happen, it's very rewarding.”
It is truly the fighters at TKO Parkinson’s that have the biggest impact. “I've went to some workouts, and I've been to their exhibitions where they do charity events and they'll have the fighters come out,” Helton says. “And workouts are hard. Workouts are hard for healthy 30-year-olds. I’ve literally been brought to tears watching how hard these guys work and how hard they fight. And it's to try to improve the quality of their life, and to just hang on for that extra time. It’s very moving to know that you’re a part of helping them do that; but very humbling at the same time. For these guys, everything gets harder as far as movements and balance and concentration, and they just go out there and they outwork everybody, and it's very humbling to see that.”
“The results are clear,” Helton adds. “It's
a proven effective treatment to help fight Parkinson's.” Better yet, the classes are attentive to symptoms occurring at any point in disease progression.
“The real impact was not only that we're finding something that helps improve the lives of the patients and their families - it's hard on the family - but it's not an additional cost,” Helton says. “They're already shelling out money for appointments and hospital visits and checkups and medications, and this is something that we make sure that they don't have to pay for.”
The group hopes to continue raising funds that will allow for free boxing years into the future, as well as a dedicated TKO Parkinson’s gym. “We're working really hard to put back money for future years so that hopefully this is sustainable long after Tom and Doug and I are involved in it,” Helton says. But the work is not just of planning for the future, but of improving the present. Helping fundraise eases the burden off of Pifer and others who serve through TKO Parkinson’s, in addition to the impacted families. Helton reflects on the integral role of fundraising, saying that “none of these folks have to ever worry about paying for anything, and Doug and his organization don't have to worry about trying to get out
there and raise funds. They can just focus on their community part of it.”
Helton looks eagerly to the future of TKO Parkinson’s. “We want to see it grow and grow and grow,” he says. “I'd love to see this just outlive all of us. I just appreciate the opportunity to get the message out there. I wanted to find a way to be involved in charity anyway, and having people that I love and care about involved, that I can directly help, just made it all that much better. Parkinson’s doesn't quite get the attention that a lot of other incurable or even hard-to-treat diseases do, so that feels really good too, to just help draw more awareness on the local level about it and give people a resource.”
Just as Helton got involved where he saw a need, he encourages community members to do the same. “Reach out to us if you’re interested in getting involved in events or donating, or interested in taking the classes,” he says. “TKO Parkinson’s loves to have people come out and assist at the gym. They have a fall festival that they use volunteers for. You can go on to the websites, and there’s contacts for that as well. Just let us know that you’re interested. We’ll reach out and be glad to help you find a way to help.”
“There are so many people that we haven't even reached in our community that have Parkinson’s,” he adds. “This program helps them. There's no cure for Parkinson's, so we need to find ways to help improve the quality of life for the fighters in our town, and this is a very good way to help that happen.”
Whether donating, volunteering or taking a class, there is a place for everyone in the world of boxing and workouts in the gym at Buechel Park Baptist Church. With the help of Helton, the Pifers, and a host of supporters and volunteers, Louisville is well on its way in the battle against Parkinson’s. It is a battle that is fought one workout, one class and one community member at a time, and it isn’t over yet.
To learn more about TKO Parkinson’s, or to support, take a class or volunteer, please visit tkoparkinsons.com.
SING IT LOUD
A LOOK AT LOUISVILLE’S THRIVING KARAOKE SCENE
Writer / Beth Beckwith
The city of Louisville offers a thriving karaoke scene, where you can belt out your favorite tunes like a pro or march to the beat of your own drum (perhaps off-key). The city offers a diverse range of karaoke venues, from cozy bars to upscale lounges, that cater to all preferences.
If you’re looking for a native Louisvillian experience, be sure to check out Third Street Dive. The drink list at this shotgun hole in the wall is cost efficient and close to other popular downtown spots. This makes it an excellent start to a bar-crawl night that potentially ends at Fourth Street Live.
NoraeBar, another beloved spot, has garnered rave reviews from patrons. Its extensive song list and friendly staff make it a staple in the Louisville karaoke scene. Additionally, it offers private rooms you can reserve for a party or event where your drinks are brought to you.
To add a few more to the list, Mr. G’s Lounge has been a favorite spot in Middletown since 1984. Miki’s Karaoke Bar off Frankfort Avenue offers Korean food and a stage to perform. Other noteworthy mentions include Hikes Point Bar and Lounge, Highlands Tap Room, TK's Pub, and Night Moves Karaoke.
If you’re not sure which location to pick, the next best route is to follow popular KJs (karaoke jockeys) around town! Groucho Trout is a Louisville staple who has been a fixture in the local karaoke scene for many years. He’s been bringing his energy to various venues across town for over a decade, including The Bard, LouVino, 21st Amendment, and Planet of the Tapes.
“I've been a KJ for over 19 years now I think,” Groucho Trout said. “It's been interesting seeing the crowd and musical tastes change over time. There's always such diversity. I've really enjoyed it. My favorite part about being a KJ in Louisville is the people. I've met the nicest, coolest people through karaoke. I'm very fortunate to have such a wonderful audience at every show. The atmosphere is different at every space, but the overall vibe is always laid back and fun. I always work with places that strive to make everyone feel welcome and safe. The most challenging part is also the best part, and that's the people.”
Planet of the Tapes is a unique venue that hosts live music, trivia and comedy, as well as karaoke. Their website promises a fun
and eclectic atmosphere. With a rotating selection of songs and a lively crowd, Planet of the Tapes is a must-visit for karaoke enthusiasts.
Another local venue, Big Bar, is a popular dance spot that hosts karaoke weekly and is well-known for being an all-encompassing safe space for everyone. Lisa Oechsli is their in-house KJ.
“I’ve been hosting karaoke around Louisville for about 15 years,” Oechsli said. “Most of my gigs have been in the Highlands. What started out as helping a friend turned into not just a job, and at times a career, but a big part of who I am. I’ve been a therapist, a mentor, a bouncer and an enemy! Most importantly, I have
forged lifelong friendships through hosting. Now that my daytime career as head of production for Elixir Kombucha is in full swing, I have dialed my karaoke gigs back from four nights a week to one.”
"Big Bar has always felt like home to me, and it’s the most loving and supportive environment in which I have ever worked,” Oechsli added. “I’m happy to host every Wednesday from 9 to 1 p.m., and some special occasions. Occasionally you can spot me in the wild singing with the one who taught me, the great Larry Doyle, at 21st Amendment.”
Air Devil’s Inn is another up-and-coming choice. This family-owned venue has a subtly congenial atmosphere. Its vibe is
reminiscent of a comforting nook one would find in their hometown that makes them feel grounded and cozy. They offer an abundance of opportunities for local entertainers to debut their talents.
"We have karaoke every Thursday from 2 p.m. until 2 a.m. with KJ G-Man," said Kristie Shockley, owner of Air Devil's Inn, which has been a highlight of Louisville culture since 1934. The staff at Air Devil's Inn strives to make everyone feel like part of the family.
"We have a fourth Friday of the month where we also host karaoke, and my daughter, Heather, KJs for it - and sings and dances,” Shockley said. “There was so much dancing last month. We invite all ages
from 21 and up, and are hoping to gather a more diverse crowd over time. Everyone is welcome.”
Whether you’re a well-known musician around town or just getting started, Air Devil’s Inn is here to support you regardless of your background or experience.
Local radio stations like 107.7 The Eagle host karaoke contests and events throughout the year. Their website promotes upcoming karaoke shows and encourages listeners to participate. These events offer a fun and competitive way for karaoke enthusiasts to showcase their talents and win prizes.
The city's karaoke scene is also supported
by businesses that offer karaoke services for events and parties. A/T Entertainment, for example, provides professional karaoke equipment and hosts events.
In addition to its many karaoke venues, Louisville is home to several music schools and academies that offer vocal training and classes. The Louisville Academy of Music offers private lessons and group classes for singers of all levels.
Whether you're a seasoned performer or a karaoke newbie, Louisville has something for everyone. So come on out, grab a mic, support local talent, and make some new friends!
LOUISVILLE AREA EVENTS
3
DERBY FASHION & HAT WORKSHOP
2 - 3 PM
Discover the evolution of Derby fashion in our “Fashion Through the Decades” workshop. gotolouisville.com
SILENT DISCO KIDS’ CRUISE
401 W. River Rd. 1 PM
Parkinson’s! Lace up your sneakers and step forward to make strides in the fight against Parkinson’s disease. runsignup.com
9 “HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWS” PART 1
Kentucky Center for the Arts, 501 W. Main St. 7:30 PM kentuckyperformingarts.org
10
OUR PLANET LIVE
AROUND
THE COMMUNITY, 2025
Calling all silent disco fans! Whether you’ve experienced the fun before or you’re new to the silent disco trend, we say just add water for the ultimate family event.
SPRING GARDEN GATHERINGS
At Garden Commons at the Baptist Center, and the Urban & Public Affairs Garden Mondays at 1 PM at the Garden Commons; Thursdays at 4 PM at the Urban & Public Affairs Garden & Greenhouse. events.louisville.edu
4 CATAPULT
Kentucky Center for the Arts, 501 W. Main St. 10 AM
Get tickets: bit.ly/KPACATAPULT
CINDERELLA
Louisville Ballet, 315 E. Main St. my.louisvilleballet.org
5 WALK TO END PARKINSON’S
Big Four Lawn, 129 W. River Rd.
10 AM - 1 PM
Join us for a meaningful journey at our Walk to End
Kentucky Center for the Arts, 501 W. Main St. 7 PM
Get tickets: bit.ly/KPAOurPlanetLive
12
THUNDER OVER LOUISVILLE
Waterfront Park, 1101 E. River Rd. 11 AM - 11 PM
To some, it’s the official kickoff to the Kentucky Derby Festival. To others, it’s the unofficial beginning of spring. ourwaterfront.org
13 PRETTY GUARDIAN SAILOR MOON: THE SUPER LIVE
Bomhard Theater, 501 W. Main St. 7 PM
Get tickets: bit.ly/KPASailorMoon
18
HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWS” PART 2
Kentucky Center for the Arts, 501 W. Main St. 7:30 PM kentuckyperformingarts.org
THE
MUSIC OF HANS ZIMMERA CELEBRATION OF FILM MUSIC
Louisville Memorial Auditorium, 970 S. 4th St. 8 - 10 PM
Enjoy iconic scores from “Top Gun”, “Dune”, “The Lion King” and more, in a stunning concert with a choir, soloists and immersive visuals. eventbrite.com
Research shows that play is essential for your child’s development. It sparks curiosity, boosts motivation, and nurtures creativity. Through play, children explore, experiment, and develop key cognitive and emotional skills for lifelong success.
Join us at Providence CCPS to see how our professionally facilitated, play-based program for infants to prekindergarten can unlock your child’s full potential.
Call 502-267-4249 to schedule a tour or visit www.providenceccps.com to learn more.
19
2025 ROARING COLOR RUN
Multi-Use Park Behind Oldham County High School (near tennis courts), 1150 N. Highway 393 9 AM - 12 PM
Come join us for a day filled with fun, laughter and lots of color! Get ready to run, walk or dance your way through a vibrant course that will leave you feeling energized and colorful. runsignup.com
LOUISVILLECON - POP CULTURE SHOW
Triple Crown Pavilion 10 AM - 5 PM eventbrite.com
23
WFPK WATERFRONT WEDNESDAY
Big Four Lawn, 129 W. River Rd. 5 - 10 PM 2025 Season Artists TBD. ourwaterfront.org
TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK. TOGETHER. WE WORK.
26
TKO FLIGHT CLUB PRESENTS THE KENTUCKY BOURBY 2025
Progress Park, 4501 Progress Blvd. 6 - 10 PM
Bourbon tasting, bottle raffles, online auctions, food, drinks and horse racing. Join us in the fight against Parkinson’s disease! eventbrite.com
30
BISCUITS & BOURBON
Kentucky Derby Museum, 704 Central Ave. 10 AM - 1 PM
Kick off Derby week in style with Biscuits & Bourbon, a signature southern brunch experience brought to you by Angel’s Envy. derbymuseum.org
Wednesday, April 23rd
Sponsored by: Metro Council Districts 16 and 18
Lyndon City Hall 515 Wood Rd. Louisville, KY 40222
Wednesday, May 21st
Screening Event hosted by: VFW Auxiliary 1170
VFW Middletown 107 North Evergreen Rd Louisville, KY 40243
75
AND THRIVING
EASTERN HIGH SCHOOL CELEBRATING 75TH ANNIVERSARY
Writer / Carrie Vittitoe
During the 2025-2026 school year, Eastern High School will celebrate its 75th anniversary, a feat that will likely go mostly unremarked among the young people who attend. They won’t think about the many pairs of shoes that have walked the halls before theirs, or the many bodies that have sat in the same classrooms in which they sit. They won’t realize how many marriages, friendships and successful careers were launched within the walls of the school. Most of us need a little experience under our belts to fully appreciate the people who have come before us, and to see our place in the long cycle of history.
The construction of Eastern High School in Middletown was completed in 1950, but prior to that, the land on which the school sits belonged to several families who sold plots, totaling some 56 acres, to the board of education for the creation of the school. Once construction began, there were the usual delays, but there was also a strike by the operating engineers union that factored into when the school would open. Though the opening was delayed, close to 400 students “attended” Eastern prior to the completion of the building, but their school was in the form of Quonset hut-type structures.
Students were excited to attend Eastern High School, which is evident in the first issue of the school’s newspaper, The Eagle, which came out in October 1950 and noted that Eastern was “the first school in Jefferson County to be a three-story building.” At a cost of $1,637,000, the school had its own sewage disposal plant located in a wooded area nearby. Like many high schools of its time, it housed seventh- through twelfthgraders.
Virginia Walker, age 86 and a volunteer at the Historic Middletown Museum on Main Street, was a member of the first class that attended Eastern High School in its new building as a seventh-grader, graduating in 1956. Her childhood home was at 11505 Main Street, the house that is now the site of The Prickly Pear Boutique. She, her siblings, and their friends who lived nearby would walk to Eastern each morning. After school, Walker worked as a soda jerk at an apothecary that was located in what is now the First Baptist Church parking lot. She recalls pep rallies that took place every Friday afternoon before the school’s football players would get on the bus to head to their games. It was, in many ways, a different time, when life was slower and much less complicated.
Given the explosion of stores and traffic on Shelbyville Road in Middletown, it is hard to imagine a time when U.S. Highway 60 was a two-lane road surrounded by farms and trees, but Eastern High School was, in many ways, what propelled population growth in the area during the 1950s and beyond. Eastern pulled students from St. Matthews and Jeffersontown, so it wasn’t too long before Woodland Hills, the subdivision that backs up to the high school, began development, as more families wanted to live closer. Walker remembers when Eastgate Shopping Center, the site of Kroger, was a turkey farm, and the Willow Wood neighborhood, at the intersection of Shelbyville Road and Blankenbaker Parkway, was a chicken farm.
Just as Middletown itself has changed over the years, so has Eastern High School, and sometimes one just has to chuckle at how different the world is now. An article in the archives at the Historic Middletown Museum from July 17, 1991, in The New Voice, was titled “Eastern teachers, students jump into the computer age.” At that time, Eastern was one of only five schools in the nation to be selected for the Exhibitions of Mastery program, which was a collaboration between IBM and Brown University that helped the school install a computer
network. Now, Eastern students walk around with tiny computers in their hands.
Business and technology programs continue to offer Eastern’s students a leg up in their professional lives once they leave the school. In fact, many of the people who now work in Louisville’s information technology field were once students at Eastern High School. Students have had access to all kinds of technology classes, including computer repair, network security, graphic design, cinematography, computer science, and web design.
To highlight and celebrate Eastern High School and its changes over time, the Eastern alumni association was created. As with any nonprofit organization, it took time to lay the foundation, but it went public in 2023. Mike Horan, an alum and current teacher at Eastern, has been association president for two years. “Our main goal so far has been to connect Eastern alumni to each other and back to the
school,” Horan says. “We’ve hosted several alumni open-house events, alumni games during football and basketball season, and supported reunions with school tours.” The alumni association, which has a Facebook presence, is working on the events to celebrate the school’s 75th anniversary.
The alumni association strives to commemorate some of the well-known people who have walked through the halls of Eastern. While the most famous of these may be Ned Beatty, a Hollywood actor from movies like “Deliverance”, “Superman” and “Toy Story 3”, there are others. “We have a new wall at Eastern that celebrates individual athletic achievements like earning an individual state championship, playing a sport in a major professional league, or being named the top player in a sport,” Horan says. “It is hard not to notice folks like Simidele Adeagbo and Susie [Shields] White, who were both Olympians - the latter winning a medal while still a student at Eastern. Todd Wellemeyer won
a World Series, Myron Pryor won a Super Bowl, and Felton Spencer had a long NBA career.”
Whether students go on to do big things or not, high school is a formative time and can shape them into the adults they become. Horan himself loved the Eastern vibe and has made it his permanent home. “I fell in love with the Eastern community even before I was a student,” he says. “Growing up as a teacher’s kid, we were always at games and events. When I got to Eastern,
I got to know and build relationships with so many people whose lives were different from mine. One of the reasons I decided to teach and coach was that, other than my parents, the most impactful people in my life were teachers and coaches.”
Eastern’s reach extends far beyond Middletown and into the state. The school’s new principal, Chris Collins, says “I grew up in Eastern Kentucky, and we heard over and over, whether it was sports or academics, about Eastern High School. It stood out as
a model community school and so wellconnected to the city of Middletown.”
Horan seconds Eastern’s importance as a school that brings together a unique swathe of the community, saying “Eastern is and has been a genuinely diverse community across many different criteria, but also a place that focuses on excellence from all. That makes our community so much richer and is really an important part of the educational process.”
COREY BOSTON
corey@townepost.com
(502) 407-0185
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