• We offer beds that are Medicare and Medicaid certified.
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• All rooms have electric high/ low beds and cable TV.
• The full in-house rehab unit provides PT, OT, ST.
• Admissions can be processed 24/7.
• Nurses are on duty and onsite 24 hours a day.
• Private rooms are available for short-term rehab.
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As the premier 162-bed skilled nursing facility in Louisville, Kentucky, Valhalla Post Acute provides compassionate and personal skilled care 24 hours a day. We specialize in providing rehabilitation services in our state-of-the-art facility to help our residents regain their independence and return to the highest level of function possible. We have been proudly serving the community for 13 years.
ARE WELCOME EVERY DAY OF THE WEEK.
Come to see our residents and friendly staff in action. Feel free to contact us to learn more about the unique, sophisticated healthcare environment at Valhalla Post Acute.
BRITT tom@townepost.com (463) 842-1488
JEANNE BRITT jeanne@townepost.com (317) 810-0011 CHIEF
TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. 8800 North Street, Suite 117 Fishers, IN 46038 Phone/Text: (317) 810-0011
Middletown's best kept secret is Christian Care Communities Middletown. Nestled right off Watterson Trail on eight beautiful acres it is a wonderful place for seniors to call home. Whether you prefer a beautiful maintenance free garden home an apartment or need a little extra assistance we are here for you. This is truly a community within the Middletown community where you build long lasting friendships and have peace of mind.
“I’ve made some incredible friendships here and that’s what counts. A close-knit place where you can build relationships is something special,” said three year Garden Home resident, Bunny Leep.
In addition to our Garden Homes, Christian Care Middletown offers Assisted Living, with a personalized approach to care. Each private suite includes 24/7 support. Our trained caregivers provide assistance with activities of daily living, linen and housekeeping services, meals, as well as medication support.
What truly makes the Christian Care Middletown community special is the supportive lifestyle and peace of mind it offers. Seniors can enjoy engaging activities, spiritual care, and caring staff is available as needed. Our community is designed to help residents thrive socially, physically, and emotionally at various levels of care.
“Indian attack!” was an alarming scream in the late 1700s in what is now the Middletown community. While pioneers and Native Americans had brutal conflicts to protect their territory here in Jefferson County, the Revolutionary War was underway as the colonists fought the British. With America celebrating her 250th birthday this year, these life-anddeath battles are relegated to the pages of history. However, if you want to time travel and really touch what it was like to live in this 1776 era, there is no better place to experience the past today than at the Middletown Museum.
Located at 11700 Main St. in Middletown, the museum is best accessed from the rear off Madison Avenue, where there is a convenient parking lot near the entrance vestibule. The museum is actually part of the former United Methodist Church. This quaint repository of local artifacts and memorabilia has a dedicated staff of volunteers who are extremely
Writer / Steve Wiser, FAIA
knowledgeable of the facts and events that have occurred here over the last 250-plus years.
Arrowheads crafted by the Native Americans who inhabited this once-rural landscape are in an exhibit and are a tangible reminder of their presence here. A recent acquisition to this collection is a “smoothing stone” that was donated by the Letita Knoeller estate. It was possibly used for cleaning animal skins.
Nearby, in another arrowhead display case, is a graphic map that illustrates the infamous “Chenoweth Massacre.” This terrifying incident took place on July 17, 1789, at the Chenoweth family homestead. As the map pinpoints, a sturdy stone springhouse still exists at this conflict location, which is now part of a stone quarry complex on Avoca Road, off Old Henry Road.
Shawnee warriors killed two adults as well as two of the three Chenoweth
children. Their mother, Margaret “Peggy” Chenoweth, was wounded by an arrow in the shoulder and “played dead” while she was scalped. Her husband, Richard, was able to repel the attackers from inside this fortified springhouse. Peggy did survive and wore a skullcap to conceal her bald head.
After viewing these arrowheads and map, look up! Sitting on top of this display case is a large-scale model of Thomas Jefferson. This figurine is from the legendary “Louisville Clock” sculpture by acclaimed local sculptor Barney Bright. This model was a preliminary mock-up that Barney used in creating his famous artwork in 1976, which was the 200th-year celebration of America. The “Clock” was originally located downtown on Fourth Street but was relocated several times and is now in storage.
Smaller “Clock” figurines are also at the museum. Donated by a Middletown resident, they are in the previously noted arrowhead display case with the smoothing stone. Besides Jefferson, other models include Daniel Boone, King Louis XVI and several others.
Thomas Jefferson was not only an integral part of the American Revolution 250 years ago, but he is also the namesake of our county. He was governor of Virginia when Revolutionary Gen. George Rogers Clark founded the town of Louisville in 1780. As most know, our city’s French namesake funded the Revolution.
Another recent acquisition is a bell, but not just any bell. While this bell is not as
large or as famous as the patriotic symbol Liberty Bell in Philadelphia, it has a very historic relationship to Middletown. This bell originally hung in the tower of the former United Methodist Church, which houses the museum. Over time, it was removed and, through various transactions, transported to Tennessee, near Knoxville, where volunteers from the museum were able to retrieve it and bring it back home. The bell is now on display at the front entranceway.
On the bell is listed its manufacturer: “Kaye & Bro; Louisville, Ky.” The William Kaye Bell Company was a very prominent brass foundry and bell maker. Products included bells for churches, such as the Cathedral of the Assumption where they still toll today,
schools, courthouses, steamboats and even fire alarms. The city firehouses also had Kaye bells that rang out during fires.
William Kaye, who started this company in 1841, has a very fascinating history himself. Born in Yorkshire, England, in 1813, his family immigrated to America, finally residing in Pittsburgh, where he was trained as a machinist.
Kaye most likely traveled by steamboat down the Ohio River to find his permanent home here in Louisville. Besides operating a successful business, Kaye found time to serve as mayor of Louisville from 1863 to 1865 during the Civil War period. He issued an official proclamation for a day of observance after Confederate Gen. Lee’s surrender. Kaye The new Signia BCT IX keeps you confidently connected to the conversation. With universal connectivity, everyone can now enjoy hands-free calls and streaming. Featuring an unparalleled 36 hours of runtime, it delivers the longest battery life and the smallest size* of any Bluetooth Classic- compatible hearing aid on the market today.
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(pronounced “Coy”) was also elected to City Council several times, with one term being president of the council. To further add to his busy schedule, he was appointed chief of police for one year.
Kaye passed away in 1890 and is buried in Cave Hill Cemetery. His company lasted until 1895 when it closed. His obituary noted that Kaye bells are found in many cities throughout the United States. Thus, when you visit the Middletown Museum, be sure to rub your hand across this artifact of American history.
In the back of the museum, a beautiful
handmade quilt is laid out that contains symbols memorializing the heroes of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. It was crafted by Ms. Dora Waggoner of Campbellsville, Kentucky, in 2021 on the 20th anniversary of that solemn national tragedy.
Besides exhibits, on March 19, 2025, the museum became an officially designated affiliate of the “FamilySearch” library system. With this digital connection, anyone can use the computer at the museum to conduct genealogy research, including Ancestry.com (World version). This is an invaluable resource, along with the museum’s extensive collection of archival
material. If you are seeking ancestral records, this would be a great place to start your search. Another important resource is free access to Newspapers.com (U.S. version).
The museum is managed by the Historic Middletown Inc. organization and is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Volunteers are always welcome, and admission is free. Hours of operation are Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Saturday from 1-4 p.m.; and closed Sunday and Monday.
Steve Wiser, FAIA, is a Louisville historian, author and architect.
Writer / Helen E. McKinney
It’s not in any of the places you would think it would be — Philadelphia, Boston or Washington, D.C. One of the most “truly American” museums centering on the Revolutionary War era is in Louisville, Kentucky.
The National Society Sons of the American Revolution Education Center & Museum is located at 809 W. Main St. and has been undergoing a major renovation. It is a place where you can learn about our nation’s past, see artifacts used in daily life 250 years ago, and research your Patriot ancestor.
The National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution (NSSAR or SAR) was founded in 1889 and has since been headquartered in Louisville. A $30 million project, the expanded 10,000-squarefoot SAR Education Center & Museum will highlight the ideals of our patriot ancestors and tell the story of the American Revolution on the world stage.
Planned in preparation for America’s 250th birthday, visitors will be able to tour two
floors consisting of three galleries, 17 hightech interactive exhibits and a theater that will bring the past to life. The SAR’s national Genealogical Research Library, located next to the museum, houses one of the nation’s premier genealogical libraries, containing more than 50,000 books featuring historical lineage from floor to ceiling.
“The project is being completed in phases,” says Rae Ann Sauer, director for education and outreach at NSSAR. “By late fall, the museum will be open to select groups and the grand opening will be in early 2027.”
She says the museum is set to be “an immersive experience, where visitors are taken back in time to the sights, sounds and smells of the American Revolution.” She pointed out that there will be many digital interactive elements, which will also be available online for members and the public around the country to use.
Sauer says that to date, more than $28 million has been raised for this project over several years, including funding for the
SAR Genealogical Research Library. “$5 million of that money was a grant from the Commonwealth of Kentucky, while most of the rest was from private donors, most from out of state.”
Phil Bloyd, executive director for SAR, says the new museum and education center “represents a defining moment for the Sons of the American Revolution. We are incredibly fortunate to call Louisville home to this landmark institution, where the story of our nation’s founding will come to life for generations. This facility will significantly expand our capacity to deliver high-quality educational programming, engage broader audiences, and elevate the visibility of our mission across the country — ensuring that the ideals of the American Revolution continue to inform and inspire for years to come.”
The focus of the nonprofit SAR is to honor Revolutionary War patriot ancestors by promoting patriotism, serving communities, educating and inspiring future generations about the founding principles of our
country, and constantly seeking ways to preserve this American history. SAR members are very active, volunteering countless hours a year in their local communities to carry out this mission.
NSSAR is a congressionally chartered organization and one of the largest male societies in the country. Any male 18 years or older — regardless of race, religion or ethnic background — who can prove blood lineal descent from a patriot of the American Revolution is eligible for membership in the SAR.
The SAR Genealogical Research Library is free for SAR members and $5 for the public. It is filled with resources for tracing family history, early American records and Revolutionary War connections. You’ll find family histories, state records and archives, along with online databases.
A plus to having the library and museum in Louisville is that “many Revolutionary War
museums are on the East Coast in cities such as Philadelphia or Boston. Many families in the U.S. may not be able to make it to those locations. However, Louisville is within a day’s driving distance of over half the country’s population, making it much more accessible to the average family,” Sauer says.
The crowning glory is that select premier 18th-century artifacts from the SAR collection will be on display to help tell the broader story of what life was like in 18th-century colonial America, she says. The basement has a climate-controlled room filled with artifacts from the American Revolution, including a signed document from 1776 by George Washington.
Zac Distel, SAR curator and director of collections, says approximately “10-20% of the collection will be on display at any given time. This is typical for museums, as a top priority is to preserve the collection for current and future generations. Artifacts will routinely be rotated to allow them to ‘rest,’
and so visitors will see something new each time they visit.”
Thanks to the generosity of SAR members from across the country, the vast majority of artifacts in the SAR’s collection have been donated, he says. “Such artifacts are evidence of the American Revolution and inform our understanding of those historical events.”
Close examination of each artifact leads us to “learn more about the people and events of the Revolution. What is this made of? How was it made? Who made it? When was it made? Where was it made?
Answering these questions about each artifact helps it tell the story of the American Revolution.”
Even though it seems a daunting task to select a portion of the museum’s collection to be displayed, Distel says a curator’s most difficult task is perhaps to “decide what will not appear in an exhibit. Each artifact that
will appear in the new museum will have been meticulously selected and considered for its condition, the story it tells, and its ability to engage visitors and spark their interest in the American Revolution. So, yes, this is a difficult task but one that the SAR is very glad to grapple with.”
Kentucky played an important role in the Revolutionary War. While the SAR collection is not specific to Kentucky, Distel
says the society has a deep appreciation for the location of its museum and has worked hard to ensure it will tell the story of the Revolution in the West. For example, he says the SAR recently acquired a 1782 document signed by Daniel Boone that highlights the tumultuous months following the Battle of Blue Licks.
The location of the museum is equally important. The SAR National Headquarters
is on the outskirts of Fort Nelson. This was a fort built in 1781 by troops under Gen. George Rogers Clark. It was the second onshore fort erected on the Ohio River in the area that is now downtown Louisville.
“Artifacts related to Fort Nelson are very scarce, but the SAR was able to acquire a voucher written and signed by George Rogers Clark at Fort Nelson. It is remarkable to look at a document that is
nearly 250 years old and written less than 500 feet from headquarters!”
To add to the spirit of the era, a replica Liberty Bell will be featured in the museum, Sauer says. It is an exact replica of the original, made by Whitechapel Bell Foundry in England, the same company that made the original in Philadelphia. “The SAR wanted to take on this project to share its extensive collection of 18th-century documents and artifacts with the public.”
Through Labor Day weekend, visitors will be able to see a rare 1823 William Stone copy of the Declaration of Independence on display in the Craik Room of the SAR Genealogical Research Library. It is free to view in celebration of America’s 250th birthday.
For more information, call 502-589-1776 or visit sar.org/headquarters.
Writer / Melissa Gibson
The 13 colonies had declared rebellion against Great Britain in 1775, and the American Revolutionary War was already underway when the Second Continental Congress appointed George Washington its commander in chief. One year later, the Declaration of Independence was adopted unanimously in 1776.
This year, we celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the Revolutionary War.
It’s the Semiquincentennial, dubbed America 250, and celebratory events promise to be bigger and better than ever — even happening long before and after our nation’s Independence Day, including county and state fair themes, holiday celebrations and special events, all with America 250 at the center.
Mayor Craig Greenberg and Metro Council created the America250KY Committee in Louisville to plan, encourage, develop and implement events all year long, and they hope to highlight Louisville’s unique story and its contribution to the country in the process.
Whether you celebrate the Fourth of July with the traditional cookout and fireworks or look
for something new and exciting to do each year, there’s no doubt that July 4, 2026, will be a special one.
Over July 3-5, parks, businesses and towns in the Louisville area are hosting a variety of events you won’t want to miss.
• Celebrate Independence Day weekend with the first-ever J-Town Stars & Stripes Fest at 7 p.m. July 3 and 4 at Jeffersontown Amphitheater. Catch JD Shelburne with Brock Shoemaker on July 3 and The Crashers with Josh Logan on July 4. Tickets are $10 per person each evening.
• Kentucky Kingdom: Bluegrass & Booms — All weekend long, July 3-5, Kentucky Kingdom will commemorate Independence Day weekend with daily fireworks, unique food offerings, live music, extended operating hours and more.
• The Little Patriot Fun Run is at 4 p.m. July 3, starting at Independence Bank, 3901 Shelbyville Road, St. Matthews. As part of the River City Races Run 502 Series, participants younger than 9 are invited to run 49 yards or 84 yards depending on age. Tickets are $10 per person.
• Directly following is the St. Matthews Freedom
Fest from 4-9 p.m. July 3 on Westport Road. Kicking off the holiday weekend, visitors can enjoy live music, a kids area with games, military displays and local St. Matthews restaurants serving the public. More than 50 market vendors will be on hand, and proceeds benefit the St. Matthews Fire Department Benevolence Fund.
• The following morning, the annual Independence Day 5K will start at 8 a.m. July 4 at St. Matthews Baptist Church, 3515 Grandview Ave. Kick off the nation’s celebration and grab the entire family to participate in a decades-old walk/run race through the neighborhoods of St. Matthews.
• Trellis Brewing hosts Everyone Rides Together at 10 a.m. July 4, beginning and ending at 827 Logan St. The fifth annual cycling event offers a 24- or 34-mile route.
• Crescent Hill’s Fourth of July Festival, from 10 a.m.-10 p.m. July 4 at Peterson-Dumesnil House, 301 S. Peterson Ave., includes a full day of activities and entertainment, including an
art fair, food trucks, live music, a pet contest, cake-baking contest and, of course, fireworks at 10 p.m.
• The Waterfront’s Fourth of July Festival is from 5-10 p.m. July 4 at 129 E. River Road. Gather on the Big Four Lawn to enjoy family activities, the Waterfront’s Most Talented variety show produced in partnership with Jou Jou Presents, followed by fireworks at 10 p.m. from a barge on the Ohio River.
• An America 250 Celebration from 6-10 p.m. July 5 at Wetherby Park, 11803 Old Shelbyville Road, will serve as a stop on the City of Middletown’s 2026 concert series. Enjoy live music by The Checkmates, bringing a patriotic flair to the evening, along with time spent with friends and family as the holiday weekend winds down.
HOW DID LOUISVILLE OBTAIN ITS OWN COPY?
Nearly 50 years after Thomas Jefferson and others signed the Declaration of Independence in 1776, John Quincy Adams, son of signer John Adams and then secretary of state, hired William Stone to create an exact copy as the original ink had begun to fade.
It took him three years, but Stone perfectly copied the Declaration and its 56 signatures onto a copper plate for reprinting. In 1823, 200 copies on parchment paper were delivered to each of the original signers still living, the president, Congress, the Supreme Court, several Cabinet secretaries, each state and territory, and several universities.
Today, only 31 of those 200 copies are known to survive, and only one remains in Kentucky.
The family of William P. Mulloy donated it to Louisville in 1986.
CAMOUFLAGE CROAK EGGS FLOAT HABITAT HIBERNATE INSECTS LARVAE LEAP LILY PAD LUNGS MATING MUD PREDATOR RIVER SPECIES STICKY STREAM TONGUE TROPICAL WART WEBBED P F M S T I
Creek and the Ohio River. Rose built a hotel, swimming pool, golf course, zoo (with wolves, monkeys and a bear), restaurant and dance hall. He also had 22 summer cottages constructed. Rose Island did have a carousel, pony rides and canoeing, but it was more of a resort than an amusement park. It was an extremely popular getaway with 132,000 visitors in 1932.
Traveling to Rose Island was an adventure in itself. A steamboat trip from the downtown wharf up past Six Mile Island and Twelve Mile Island on the Ohio River provided heightened anticipation for the soon-to-beenjoyed amenities.
And, in the early 1900s, when automobiles were not as prevalent, public transportation in the form of streetcars provided another
fascinating ride as part of the amusement park experience. The streetcar lines ran westward along Market Street to arrive at Fontaine Ferry and along Broadway to access White City. For Glenwood Park, an even more enthralling trip was had on the interurban rail line that went over the Ohio River via the Big Four Bridge and then around to New Albany. The Louisville and Southern Indiana Traction Company
owned Glenwood Park and thus benefitted in several ways from this unique logistical arrangement.
All four of these amusement parks were exceedingly popular, with crowds enjoying the summertime festivities. But within 50 years, they were mostly memories of a bygone era. So, what happened to these funfilled retreats of yesteryear?
Rose Island succumbed to the devastation inflicted by the flood of 1937. Attendance had already been negatively impacted by the Great Depression. The property was acquired during World War II for the ammunition plant. Today, the property is a city park for Charlestown. There are a few reminders still visible such as the swimming pool, which has been infilled with gravel, display plaques illustrating its past glory and namesake Rose Island Road near Prospect.
Glenwood Park closed in 1935, prior to the flood. Its land was developed into a
residential district with streets named Glenwood Court and Glenwood Park.
White City only lasted two years, from 1907 to 1909. Due to its much smaller size compared to its neighbor Fontaine Ferry (14 acres versus 64 acres), it couldn’t compete and struggled financially. It was sold in 1910 and renamed ‘Riverview Park.’ This successor met the same fate, closing prior to the 1913 season. A residential development was built there, with one of the streets named ‘Riverview Avenue.’
Fontaine Ferry had the longest run, 64 years, from 1905 to 1969. On opening day, May 4, 1969, vandals ransacked the park and robbed some of the staff and patrons. Fearing further damage, along with guests’ safety being compromised, management decided to immediately close it permanently. The park was sold and reopened as ‘Ghost Town on the River’ in 1972, but eventually closed after the 1975 season. The City of Louisville purchased
the property in 1981. The Fontaine Estates neighborhood was built in the late 1990s along with the Shawnee Sports Complex. Only the concrete foundations for the Comet roller coaster may still be visible as remnants of this fondly remembered vibrant location.
Louisvillians today can get their excitement locally at Kentucky Kingdom, located at the Fairgrounds, or drive two hours north on I-71 to Kings Island, or travel to Holiday World, which is just over an hour west on I-64. But ‘Shoot the Chutes’ and the wooden roller coasters of 100 years ago elicited just as many shrieks and thrills.
Steve Wiser is a local historian, author and architect.
If it’s time for a change of pace and something new, there are adventures just around the corner. If you’ve been sitting at home wondering what to do or where to go, consider a nearby road trip. If you’d like to get out of the house, dust off your shoulders and come back home with new trinkets for the kids, here are some trip ideas for you. Don’t worry — each location listed below is within a half-day drive of Louisville. Get ready to pull out a nice outfit, comfy shoes and a camera!
You could start in Bardstown, a charming place steeped in engaging history. Visit the historic downtown area, try some bourbon and explore My Old Kentucky Home State Park. It’s the perfect spot to soak up some Kentucky charm. Don’t forget to catch the annual Kentucky Bourbon Festival in September, featuring bourbon tastings and live music.
If you’re willing to skip a hop, beat and a jump over into Indiana, there’s a privately owned location you can visit for free: the awardwinning Azalea Path Arboretum and Botanical Garden. Located near Petersburg in Gibson and Pike counties, this scenic site is often used to host weddings and offers nature trails. It is open annually from April 1 through June 1 and is a premier Southern Indiana destination. It has been recommended to visit when the flowers are blooming at their peak. Be sure, once you’re on the paths, to scavenger hunt for a lake and a stone arch.
Paducah is a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered. With its rich heritage and thriving arts scene, the city has a unique vibe that’s hard to find elsewhere. As a UNESCO Creative City, Paducah brings art, culture and heartwarming experiences to life.
Check out Hotel Metropolitan, a stunning historic hotel that has been restored to its former glory and now serves as a hub for creatives and travelers alike. As a key stop on the Chitlin’ Circuit, it hosted music legends like Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, B.B. King, Ella Fitzgerald and Tina Turner, and now operates as a museum.
Also be sure to stop by the Lloyd Tilghman House & Civil War Museum, located at 631 Kentucky Ave. in Paducah. This 1852 Greek Revival home served as the residence of Confederate Brig. Gen. Lloyd Tilghman from 1852 to 1861. Today, the site operates as a museum focusing on Western
Kentucky’s Civil War history.
Both spots are steeped in local legend and happen to be haunted. If you’re feeling brave, you might just catch a glimpse of a ghostly guest. Haunted Discoveries recently made a haunted discovery there that can soon be found on YouTube for free.
If you get the chance, stop in at the Paducah Quilt Show in April, featuring stunning quilts and live music.
Lexington is a vibrant city with a lot to offer. Explore the downtown area, visit the Kentucky Horse Park and take a bourbon tour with your loved ones. They’ll be sure to enjoy the charming shops and restaurants. You can catch the Kentucky Horse Show in August, featuring top-notch equestrian competitions.
If given the chance, check out the Cincinnati Music Festival in July to enjoy good food, good vibes and live music.
One other recommendation is to visit the nearby aquarium and the adjacent popular courtyard area. If you have kids, they’ll love the train ride that passes through while you sip on a hot mocha or grab a bite to eat as you watch it roll by.
Cincinnati is a city with a lot of character. Don’t miss a visit to the Cincinnati Zoo. Explore the historic Over-the-Rhine neighborhood and try some famous Cincinnati chili. It’s a fun little skip and a jump from Louisville for a day trip.
Mammoth Cave is a natural wonder with breathtaking underground tours and aboveground hiking trails. Take a guided tour to explore the cave’s majestic chambers, book a canoe excursion or check out Dinosaur World.
If you catch it in time before summer is far behind, you can join the park’s annual Candlelight Tour in December for a unique winter experience.
Red River Gorge is a nature lover’s paradise with scenic views, hiking trails and the iconic Sky Bridge. Explore the Daniel Boone National Forest and enjoy the stunning scenery.
Catch the Red River Gorge Festival in May, featuring live music and outdoor activities. Ask the locals about their favorite nearby pizza joint and they’ll likely all say the same thing. Plus, you’ll make some new friends.
Beyond its striking park-like setting, the cave stands out as one of the most important prehistoric sites in the Eastern Woodlands. People have visited Dunbar Cave for thousands of years, and its walls hold significant Mississippian Native American artwork from the 14th century.
Spanning 144 scenic acres, the park features hiking paths, wildlife-watching opportunities, picnic areas and guided cave tours during select seasons.
To the Mississippian communities who lived near the Red River in the 14th century, and possibly to others as well, Dunbar Cave was considered sacred ground. While it is a tangible place you can walk into, Mississippians saw it as a literal gateway to the Underworld, the realm believed to lie beneath our own. They left behind numerous images on the cave walls, some sketched in charcoal and others etched directly into the limestone.
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.
We may not know the exact meaning behind every drawing, but those symbols still carry spiritual significance for many Indigenous peoples of the Southeast.
Clarksville was founded along the Cumberland River, and the waterways remain the heart of the community today. They make Clarksville a regional destination for water sports like boating, fishing, skiing, kayaking and canoeing.
Clarksville also offers plenty of petfriendly hotels, so bring Fido along if desired.
When at these locations, asking locals what’s new or what’s going on that day could be exactly what you’re looking for to create a unique, one-of-a-kind experience.
So go ahead — take a drive, book a room and find the key to your next adventure. Be sure to come back with a story!
625 S. 4th Street
Louisville, KY
8 p.m.
Doors open at 7:00pm. All sales are final. No refunds or exchanges. Everyone, regardless of age including babes in arms, must purchase a ticket. Dates, times, prices and Artist are subject to change without notice. Be sure to check the venue website closer to your event date for the latest information. Use of personal cell phones for pictures are allowed at the discretion of the show. No Professional Cameras, Flash Photography, Audio or Video Recording of any kind are permitted.
611 S 4th Street
Louisville, KY
8 p.m.
The Mercury Ballroom is an all-ages, standing room venue, all tickets are General Admission unless otherwise stated. Doors open one hour prior to the event. Everyone, regardless of age including babes in arms, must purchase a ticket. Dates, times, prices and Artist are subject to change without notice. Personal cameras are allowed at the discretion of the artist. No Professional Cameras, Flash Photography, Audio or Video Recording of any kind are permitted. All sales are final. No refunds or exchanges.
SPOON & THE BETHS: US TOUR 2026 PRESENTED BY WFPK
1080 Amphitheater RD
Louisville, KY
7 p.m.
This is an ALL AGES event.
Louisville, KY
7 p.m.
You’ve tried karaoke… but have you tried Cruise-eoke? Grab your crew and hop onboard for a cruise that’s as entertaining as you are–because you are the entertainment. Get ready to leave your troubles behind and sing your heart out.
Louisville, KY
7-10 p.m.
May 15 – July 26, 2026 Thursdays – Sundays only
Enter from 7–10 p.m. nightly. Route closes at 11:30 p.m.
This year’s festival debuts a brand-new collection of handcrafted Chinese lantern displays across four immersive themed realms: Magical Forest, Magical Ocean, Pre-Historic Animals, and Wondrous Asia. Brought to life with vibrant colors and larger-thanlife sculptures, nearly every spectacular display you’ll encounter in 2026 is completely new, ranging from glowing wildlife to mythic scenes. Tickets vary from $16 to $35.
Waterfront Park TurfMutt Great Lawn 1101 E River Rd
Louisville, KY
5-10 p.m.
Join us at Waterfront Park on Saturday, July 4, for a festive celebration of our nation’s 250th birthday. Festivities begin at 5:00 PM with family-friendly activities and a live DJ and spectacular fireworks display over the Ohio River at 10:00 PM.
Event Schedule:
5:00 p.m. – Family activities and live DJ
5:00–8:30 p.m. – Kosair for Kids Children’s Area featuring family-friendly games and activities focused on science, music, art, and nature
10:00 p.m. – Fireworks over the Ohio River
3033 Bardstown Road Louisville, KY
10 a.m.
Using Native Plants & Eco-Friendly Methods to Create a Sustainable Landscape/Garden that Pleases You & Critters Too!
KILLER QUEEN - A TRIBUTE TO QUEEN FT. PATRICK MYERS AS FREDDIE MERCURY
625 S. 4th Street
Louisville, KY
8 p.m.
Doors open at 7:00 p.m.. All sales are final. No refunds or exchanges. Everyone, regardless of age including babes in arms, must purchase a ticket. Dates, times, prices and Artist are subject to change without notice. Be sure to check the venue website closer to your event date for the latest information. Use of personal cell phones for pictures are allowed at the discretion of the show. No Professional Cameras, Flash Photography, Audio or Video Recording of any kind are permitted.
LOUISVILLE WATER TOWER & WATERWORKS MUSEUM OPEN DATE
3005 River Rd, Louisville, KY / Noon-5 p.m.
Explore 165 years of history at the Louisville Water Tower and WaterWorks Museum. Located inside the original 1860 pumping stations, public visits feature historic films, memorabilia, a giant steam engine, and tower tours. Visit the second Sunday of each month from noon–5 p.m. (tours start at 1 p.m.). Valid ID and credit card required.
16 RIVER TALES OVER COCKTAILS: “PIRATES, TREACHERY, BATTLES, AND ESCAPES”
5700 Captains Quarters Road Prospect, KY / 5 p.m.
History Cocktail Cruise aboard the CQ Princess
1080 Amphitheater RD Louisville, KY / 8 p.m.
This is an ALL AGES event.
Marshall Playground and Sprayground Louisville, KY / 5:30 p.m.
Join the free Parklands Walking Club twice a month for leisurely, community-focused hikes, rain or shine. No registration is required. Morning sessions meet at 8:30 a.m. (starts 8:45 a.m.); evening sessions meet at 5:30 p.m. (starts 5:45 p.m.). Always check our website for weather alerts. Upcoming Hike: On July 23rd at 5:30 p.m., meet rangers at the PNC Achievement Center in Beckley Creek Park for a 1.3-mile round-trip walk along the dirt Sycamore Trail.
701 Baxter Ave. Louisville, KY / 10 a.m.
Some of the most prolific change in society can be attributed to the leadership of women. Contributions of these wonderful leaders range widely- from education, to suffrage-related causes, writing, and much more! As a matter of fact, much of the change brought about by the women in Cave Hill Cemetery impact us tremendously today. We invite you to come learn about these leaders in society during a walking tour with docent, Gwen Rogers.
401 E Main St. / Louisville, KY
Over the Rhine (with full band) Abby Hamilton, Young Artist Showcase winner (6:00 p.m.) 1101 River Road Louisville, KY
5 p.m.
91.9 WFPK Independent Louisville and Waterfront Park are delighted to announce the 24th season of WFPK Waterfront Wednesday. Proceeds from WFPK Waterfront Wednesday benefit two beloved local nonprofits, Louisville Public Media and Waterfront Park.
Writer / Gavin LaPaille
Nestled in the heart of St. Matthews Studios is a vibrant space designed for creativity and collaboration. St. Matthews Studios & Gallery is home to eight local female artists who strive to produce quality art across diverse mediums.
“We bring a great variety of work to this area,” Julie Hohmann says, one of the gallery’s artists. “The world can be crazy, and we aim to provide some artwork that speaks to people. It’s a really positive atmosphere.”
The concept originated in 2023 with Bob McAuliffe of RLM Construction Company, who envisioned a dedicated gallery-studio space in a vacant second-floor spot at 3716 Lexington Road above Colonial Designs. Well-connected in the art scene, McAuliffe handled the renovations for the space and contacted many artists he knew personally to join, with a couple of additions now forming the main group.
“They had this vacant space and Bob wanted it to be a place where artists could come and show their work,” Hohmann says. “It has creative energy along this particular stretch of Lexington Road. He’s the one
with the original vision. Years ago, this space hosted art classes, so it had those creative vibes already. The shared vision is to bring greater art appreciation to the area. We felt it needed a place to show good art that speaks to people and tells a story.”
Currently, the group of working artists that call the gallery home, along with Hohmann, are Gayle Cerlan, Teri Dryden, Lynn Dunbar, Jeanne Freibert, Mary Dennis Kannapell, Page Penna and Gretchen Treitz. The gallery also welcomes appearances by guest artists and puts on open studios that allow others to enjoy the space. The team hosts regular shows as a platform for customers to see and purchase the work that is being produced.
“Almost all of our work on display is for sale,” Hohmann says. “We don’t just do it for the money, but we love sales and appreciate people’s support. We are encouraging more people to think in the art-collecting mindset. We also inspire people to think of us if they need a gift for someone. They can come check out the gallery and see if anything speaks to them.”
The artists’ specialties vary across textiles, landscapes, portraits, ceramics and contemporary works. In addition, Gayle Cerlan, one of the artists in the gallery and longtime art teacher, hosts children’s art classes in her studio throughout the year. Hohmann enjoys the uniqueness of the allfemale setup and the group’s overall talent.
“I’m proud to be with artists who are amazingly talented,” Hohmann says. “Some have been creating art for more than 30 years, and they are incredible. It was all meant to be. We support each other and are proud that we’re all women who run the place ourselves. Everyone brings their unique style and voice to the gallery.”
The St. Matthews Studios & Gallery is beneficial to the artists as it also serves as their working space, making it easy to transfer work into public view. The team also has room to discuss as a group upcoming events or other projects they are working on.
“The gallery is right outside the studio, which is nice,” Hohmann says. “Right before a show, if we need to do a touchup, we can
do that easily. We can share ideas and talk to each other. It’s nice to have that support. Sometimes being an artist can be isolating if you don’t have people around a lot. We love the ability to chat and critique each other’s paintings.”
The space itself is a big advantage for visitors as well. Many restaurants and businesses are located nearby, making it easy to stop by several places in one trip, or for those in the area to swing by the gallery while out and about.
“What I love about the location is it’s close to so many amazing restaurants and shops,” Hohmann says. “We have a great wine shop two doors down. There’s a lot in this area. Lexington Road is well traveled. People can just pop into the gallery and take a break after a long day or just to see what we have. We encourage people to make a night of it, go get dinner or drinks somewhere close.”
The St. Matthews Studios & Gallery is
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showing no signs of slowing down, holding regular seasonal exhibits while welcoming fellow artists and other visitors. Currently, the group is hosting a show called “Fascination” through the end of June that captivates and fascinates with themed pieces. While Hohmann admitted it can be difficult to balance running the gallery while producing quality work, she enjoys her time with the other artists and only sees the St. Matthews Studios & Gallery growing in the future.
“It can be a bit of a juggling act because we’re working on staying in our zone of creating good work, but also thinking about advertising and marketing and event planning,” Hohmann says. “At times, it can be challenging, but our team makes it a lot easier than it could be. We’re still working things out and getting in our groove. We all bring our strengths to the table and pitch in when we can.”
The St. Matthews Studios & Gallery is typically open Wednesday through Saturday from noon to 4 p.m., or by scheduling an appointment with one of the artists. For the latest updates on shows, events and new work, follow them on Facebook at facebook. com/StMatthewsGallery or Instagram at @ stmatthewsgallery. Also, inquiries are welcome at stmatthewsgallery@gmail.com. For interest in children’s art classes, please email Gayle Cerlan directly at cerlan@aol.com.
Welcome to Gustavo’s Mexican Grill—more than a dining venue, it’s a heartwarming community. Our unique edge? Personal touch. Often, you’ll find Gustavo himself welcoming you. At Gustavo’s, we’re a family-oriented environment where you’re not just a customer but a valued part of our extended family. Join us for an authentic, delicious and fun dining experience.
“I’m a family person and we want everyone to feel like they’re part of our family.” —Gustavo
Chenoweth Appliances is locally owned and operated by Danny & Wayne Lyons Our sales team: Steve Combs, Mark Cain, Rodney Kistner, Mary Kay Head and Kristen Lyons
Right here, right now, UofL Health is investing in our community. At UofL Hospital, an expansive modern addition offers more expert care for the area and beyond. In Bullitt County, we built South Hospital. A fourth Brown Cancer Center location will offer even more breakthrough treatments. And with more primary care locations and providers, personalized care is closer than ever. See the innovation. Feel the compassion.
Right here, right now, UofL Health is investing in our community. At UofL Hospital, an expansive modern addition offers more expert care for the area and beyond. In Bullitt County, we built South Hospital. A fourth Brown Cancer Center location will offer even more breakthrough treatments. And with more primary care locations and providers, personalized care is closer than ever. See the innovation. Feel the compassion.
Right here, right now, UofL Health is investing in our community. At UofL Hospital, an expansive modern addition offers more expert care for the area and beyond. In Bullitt County, we built South Hospital. A fourth Brown Cancer Center location will offer even more breakthrough treatments. And with more primary care locations and providers, personalized care is closer than ever. See the innovation. Feel the compassion.
