The Kentucky Shakespeare Festival Returns for its 65th Year
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MELISSA GIBSON
MICHAEL HAYMAN
GAVIN LAPAILLE
RENÉE LARR
JOSEPH MAYS
GRACE SCHAEFER
MELISSA STALB
CARRIE VITTITOE
STEVE WISER
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A BRECKENRIDGE LANE BACKSTORY
WHY THE “E” AND NOT AN “I”?
Writer / Steve Wiser
This story is part of our ongoing series to celebrate the 75th anniversary of St. Matthews’ incorporation throughout 2025 by highlighting some of the more interesting parts of the town’s history.
Long a source of debate, the spelling of Breckenridge Lane has baffled motorists and historians. Combined with Breckinridge Street downtown, the similar street names can be confusing, especially for newcomers.
An article by Courier-Journal columnist Jim Adams 30 years ago tried to set the record straight. Adams researched the Breckinridge name in Louisville and Kentucky, but could not find any with the spelling of “Breckenridge”. This is the only account that references this street name conundrum.
For those still uncertain of how this name came to be, let’s time-travel back 240 years to 1783.
Pioneer and surveyor John Floyd, who was wearing a bright scarlet overcoat, was
traveling in the vicinity of today’s Preston Highway and Snyder Freeway area. His red clothing made him an easy target for an Indian attack that mortally wounded him. He was only 32 years old (or 33, since we don’t know his actual birth month and day). One of Floyd’s companions on this tragic day was Alexander Breckinridge, hence the beginning of this name-spelling saga.
Via the land grant process, John Floyd had acquired 2,000 acres of land along the middle fork of Beargrass Creek between present-day Taylorsville Road and Breckenridge Lane. His widow, Jane Buchanan Floyd, married her husband’s companion who survived the Indian attack, Alexander Breckinridge, and they lived on Floyd’s property, known as Floyd’s Station.
As you drive along Breckenridge Lane near Jamestown Apartments, you will see several historic markers that mention details of John Floyd’s life. Most do not stop to read this fascinating history.
Alexander and Jane had three sons, one of whom was named James Douglas Breckinridge. James was a lawyer and served as a U.S. Representative from 1821 to 1823. James's nephew was James Breckinridge Speed, who became a very successful businessman. UofL’s Speed School and Speed Art Museum are named in his honor.
Are you noticing a trend here, with locations bearing the name Breckinridge? James D. Breckinridge eventually
acquired the former Floyd property and built a house on presentday Pee Wee Reese Road, on the opposite side of the intersection with Denham Road. This house was later demolished when Bowman Field was constructed.
Eventually the property was owned by William Shakespeare Caldwell and his wife, Mary Eliza Breckinridge, who was a niece of James D. Breckinridge. Caldwell invested in real estate and purchased most of the land in the present-day Shelby Park neighborhood. Being the primary landowner, he named the streets for his family: Caldwell Street, Mary Street, Gwendoline Street and, you guessed it, Breckinridge Street!
Now we have a Breckinridge Street and Breckenridge Lane, both derived from the same family name. An official in city government felt this was too confusing for Louisvillians, and in the early 1960s decided to change the spelling of the St. Matthews street to Breckenridge.
In 1993 newspaper columnist Jim Adams noted that someone suggested there might have been a phantom resident by the name of Robert Breckenridge who may have lived in this vicinity. However, long-time acclaimed Louisville historian George Yater disputed
that possibility. He cited the John Floyd - Jane Floyd - Alexander Breckinridge connection.
One unsolved mystery in all of this is that one of the daughters of William and Mary Eliza Caldwell has the spelling of her name on her Cave Hill Cemetery gravesite as Mary Elizabeth Breckenridge Caldwell! Hmmm.
A way to keep the names straight is that Breckenridge is on the “east” side of town, and Breckinridge Street is “in” town.
John Floyd, whose death triggered this naming muddle, is also remembered by location names like Floyd Street, Floyd’s Fork and Floyd County. Breckenridge, though, probably should have been called Floyd’s Lane since John originally owned the land. And maybe St. Matthews could have been called Floydstown or Floydsville.
Floyd led a colorful but brief life. He traveled to Williamsburg, Boston, the West Indies, England and Paris, and interacted with legendary figures like George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, Patrick Henry, Daniel Boone and George Rogers Clark. One may wonder how Floyd would view the way his short life has kept
us guessing for more than two centuries. His legacy has left an indelible footprint on our community.
Now that we have sorted out the confusion of Breckinridge Street and Breckenridge Lane, what should be done about Blankenbaker Lane and Blankenbaker Parkway? Should one of these maybe be spelled Blankinbaker? This can be left to future historians and cartographers to reconcile these similar names.
I hope you were able to follow this maze of the genealogy of the Floyd and Breckinridge families. You can now drive safely around town knowing who’s who - as well as which street is “in” downtown, and which one is in the “east” in St. Matthews!
Steve Wiser, FAIA, is a local architect, historian and author of numerous books on Louisville architecture and history. He regularly gives talks on local history at the St. Matthews Library.
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CHAMPIONING URBAN TREE CANOPY FOR A RESILIENT CITY
Writer / Melissa Stalb Photographer / Michael Hayman
In 2012, researcher Brian Stone of the Georgia Institute of Technology conducted a study of 50 large cities across the country to analyze the gradual increase in U.S. temperatures.
He discovered that Louisville’s temperature increased by 1.67 degrees over a period of time, with Phoenix showing the second most notable difference at 0.8 degrees.
The primary reason for this increase was the city’s tree canopy, which stood at a dismal 38 percent and was predicted to decrease to as low as 21 percent in the coming decades if no action was taken.
A robust tree canopy includes the number of trees, shade and greenery in an area. The presence of more trees in a community leads to a decrease in pollution, prevention of flooding, provision of food and shelter for wildlife, reduction of energy bills and enhancement of physical and mental health.
“A healthy tree canopy is around 45 percent,” said Mayor Greg Fischer in response to the issue. He established the Louisville Metro Tree Advisory Commission to research and propose solutions. Cindi Sullivan, executive director of TreesLouisville, said, “By 2015, TreesLouisville had been established.”
Sullivan explained that TreesLouisville operates on several pillars. The first is public education and awareness. “People need to understand the importance of trees for the community,” she said. “Even though Louisville appears green, there is a significant disparity in neighborhoods. Some areas in south and south-central Louisville have a mere 28 percent tree canopy.”
3D
By simply planting a tree, communities can amplify the benefits for neighborhoods and residents. TreesLouisville has developed programs to support specific areas, including free tree plantings and other initiatives.
Advocacy is another core mission for TreesLouisville. Volunteers collaborate with government leaders to enhance the
protection and preservation of trees in the city.
Canopy gains and losses can be substantial. Sullivan noted that when developers clear 100 acres of trees, it is considered a significant event. Volunteers then plant a 2-inch tree that grows for 10 years to replace a single lost tree.
Recently, the city passed an ordinance amending building code language to preserve 20 percent of trees under certain development circumstances—a result of the advocacy and educational efforts of TreesLouisville.
Apart from development, trees face threats from invasive pests, severe storms and limited life expectancy, underscoring the importance of planting more trees than are lost.
Sullivan highlighted a collaboration with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet to plant
trees alongside roads, dispelling concerns related to buses. She emphasized that trees along roads reduce accidents and lower traffic speeds.
Encouraging citizens to contribute to the mission is a key focus for TreesLouisville. Sullivan said, “We can only work on 30 percent of public land, with the remaining 70 percent privately owned.” Partnerships with businesses and entities like Jefferson County Public Schools have been vital in planting trees and nurturing their growth.
To support these efforts, the Canopy Core, a group of trained volunteers dedicated to planting and caring for trees, has been established. These volunteers engage in regular maintenance activities to ensure the well-being of trees in the area.
Sullivan stressed the importance of selecting the right tree species for specific areas, considering factors such as growing conditions and property characteristics.
TreesLouisville offers resources and advice to aid residents in choosing and caring for trees effectively.
For TreesLouisville, the focus is not solely on trees but on people’s well-being. Planting roadside trees to intercept gases improves air quality and leads to utility savings during the summer months.
The organization’s efforts have shown positive results, with an updated study in
2022 by the University of Vermont revealing an improvement in the city’s tree canopy.
Since 2015, TreesLouisville has successfully planted and distributed nearly 20,000 trees, with additional trees planted by residents and community partners. The public can engage in programs such as a rebate program for approved trees, attending tree adoption events or signing up for the NeighborWoods program.
Residents in areas with a low tree canopy percentage—ZIP codes 40210, 40211, 40212 and 40216—can partner with TreesLouisville for a free tree planting. Sullivan noted that Smoketown, an area with a 14 percent tree canopy, is a prime location for tree restoration efforts.
For more information on TreesLouisville, visit treeslouisville.org.
BUZZING WITH BEEKEEPERS
PROMOTING BEE EDUCATION AND COMMUNITY OUTREACH
Writer / Julie Yates
June is National Pollinators Month, but Eric Burns, president of the Kentuckiana Beekeepers Association (KBA), knows that anytime flowers are blooming, honey bees are pollinating. For almost 50 years, KBA has focused on educating the community and providing resources to its members. Currently, it has 250 dues-paying individuals and is not only the largest
local bee club in the state of Kentucky, but was one of the first organizations to raise awareness about bees and their importance.
“KBA began in 1976, and it wasn’t until the 2000s that many bee clubs got started. We serve the greater Louisville area; 70% of our members live in Jefferson County, 20% come from surrounding counties, and 10%
are from Indiana. Our monthly meetings are geared to helping beginning beekeepers as well as sharing information of interest to more advanced members. We also do community outreach, such as speaking at schools and public libraries,” says Burns.
“There are many different reasons why people get involved with beekeeping. It’s
different for everyone. Some people just want bees around as pollinators. They might start with a couple of hives, and it grows into 50 to 100. Some people get a hive because they consume so much honey and related products such as pollen. Others want to do it because it’s fun and interesting. I joined in 2013 because I saw an episode on urban beekeeping on Kentucky Educational
Television,” says Burns.
Monthly meetings are held at the Louisville Nature Center. Topics are listed on the KBA website, and potential members can attend one meeting before deciding if they would like to join. Subjects covered include hive management, honey collection, candle making, and wax rendering.
“The primal fear of bees goes away with more experience. When beekeepers first start, they wear a full protective suit with gloves and a veil. But that personal protective equipment can get hot, and people tend to take it off as they get more comfortable working with honey bees and learn more about bee behavior during different seasons. After some years, stings have less of an effect,” says Burns.
MEMBER RESOURCES
Other resources are available to members. There is a monthly newsletter with tips and points on what to look for during different seasons. In April, May, June, and July, members take a field trip of sorts and meet at specific locations, such as Historic Whitehall or another member’s apiary or beehives. More experienced members mentor newer ones, and the club’s beekeeping equipment is available for borrowing. The KBE website maintains a Buy Local page for members to post their honey bee products for sale. Each month, there is a virtual question-and-answer session on Google Meet. This online discussion usually centers on a specific
topic, such as hive removal, selling and marketing honey, or bee swarming.
Honey bee swarm removal is a free service KBA performs for the community. Bee swarms usually occur between March and June when a queen bee and a group of bees leave their old hive, and scout bees are looking for a place to build a new one. The group huddles around each other and hangs in the open air on tree branches or posts. Since they don’t have a hive to defend, it’s easy for a trained individual to capture the swarm, but it must be done before the group finds its way into a tree or building structure.
KBA participates in other community outreach programs as well. On August 16, “Intro to Beekeeping” will be offered at the Louisville Southwest Regional Library. KBA Day at the Kentucky State Fair Honey Booth is August 22. Additionally, the organization has a goal to educate the public on how important honey bees are to our ecosystem.
HONEY BEE HISTORY
“Honey bees were brought to the United States from Europe. In the 1400s, they came from Spain and Portugal. Tons of bees were brought in the 1700s by colonists. Bees imported from Italy were popular in the 1800s,” says Burns.
Immigrants from other countries also brought plants that require bee pollination to produce their fruit. Plums, apples, peaches, blueberries, citrus, watermelon, and pumpkins all depend on crosspollination. They can still produce without honey bees by relying on other bee species, but the yield would be much less. Some crops, such as the almond trees of California, can only be pollinated by the honey bee because of their European origin.
“Bees are connected to the environment. When they are out in it, they collect chemicals and bring them back to the hive. Most years, there is a 20% to 40% loss due to pesticides and chemicals. This
was a bad year for bees; in commercial production, 70% to 80% of hives were lost. The Varroa Mite, which jumped from Asian honey bees to European honey bees in the ’90s, is another thing that is hurting the population,” says Burns.
Burns shares that although Asian honey bees coexist with the Varroa Mite, European honey bees haven’t had time to develop protective genetic traits. It is thought that the mite was passed when the two species commingled at the Russian, North Korean and China borders. The United States Department of Agriculture is researching the development of bees with mite-resistant genes.
“The best thing people can do is get rid of their pure grass lawns. People are obsessed with perfection, but it’s a monocrop with very little diversity. The chemicals dumped on it run off and get into our water supply. Once people stop treating their lawns, they are surprised at how many flowering plants arrive. Converting lawns to flower beds of any kind would help,” says Burns.
Dues to become a member of KBA are $15 a year. All members over 65 years of age benefit from a lifetime membership after 10 years of paid membership. Those interested can sign up on the KBA website, kyanabees. com, as well as make donations and ask for swarm removal aid.
SOMETHING FOR EVERYBODY
THE LYNDON SUMMER FESTIVAL RETURNS
Writer / Grace Schaefer
JUNE 13-14
Every summer, the city of Lyndon gathers to celebrate with live music, games and great food at the Lyndon Summer Festival. The annual event returns June 1314 to Robison Park.
“The festival started in the early 1990s as a way to showcase local businesses, artists and vendors, giving them a platform to share their work with the community,” says Brent Hagan, who has served as Lyndon’s mayor for about eight years. “It’s organized with the support of the City of Lyndon and strengthens our sense of togetherness while attracting visitors who boost our local economy.”
The festival features music, vendors and a wide array of foods to try, alongside a beer garden from local favorite Holsopple Brewing.
The festival is also known for its games and children’s activities. “There’s a kids’ zone with carnival rides,” Hagan says. “We usually
have a petting zoo and face painting.”
There are not just children’s activities— there is something for festivalgoers of any age. The annual fireworks show is on Friday, June 13.
Hagan reflects on his fondest memories of the festival. They all center around one thing—the people. “Since I became mayor about eight years ago, I’ve had three girls, all under the age of 7, and each year I take one of them up on stage to introduce our opening act.” It is a way to connect family and the wider community, to link the next generation who will inherit the festival to those who currently run it and love it. It is not only a source of summer fun, but a way to pass on that love of community to the children of Lyndon.
The most important aspect of the festival, to Hagan, is “to be able to enjoy it with my family and friends and everybody else who’s here in Lyndon, to be able to get up on stage and talk
to the community, and just go around and shake hands and just catch up with people that I haven’t talked to in a while.”
It is that atmosphere that is so important, fostering connection among the people of Lyndon, as well as those who come in from outside the city for the festival. “I think we’ve done a great job providing for our community,” Hagan says. “I think it’s a cornerstone of our community and a chance to experience Lyndon’s warm vibe.”
A lot of planning goes into this festival beyond vendor placements. “The day after the festival from that year, we start talking about what we’re going to do next year, and how we can make it different; we consider things we’ve noticed, or comments or feedback that we got from people on the ground,” he says. “We just take those comments and criticisms to heart, working toward making it bigger and better every year. So, we try to outdo ourselves every time.”
As summer approaches, the focus turns toward preparing the physical space, building off the work of festival organizers.
“Diana Polsgrove with Event Logic has been pulling some of the more intricate details together, like getting the vendors together and getting a schedule together,” Hagan explains. “As far as getting the park ready, I’m a hands-on mayor. I help mow the grass, cut trees back and paint things that need a fresh coat.”
This year’s festival will surely be special as Lyndon’s birthday is coming up. Lyndon is celebrating its 60th anniversary as a city this year. Hagan says there are a few surprises the city has up its sleeve to celebrate. While those surprises are still under wraps, the city has reached a major milestone, and a longstanding summer tradition makes for the ideal way to kick off the party.
For community members planning to attend the festival, Hagan has only one
all the better by the ease of the day. Free parking can be found behind the local post office or off Lyndon Park Lane, which is on Lyndon Lane.
From there, visitors can follow event signage to Robison Park. Hagan recommends bringing blankets or chairs to enjoy the musical performances—the picnic tables may fill up. Even tickets are free—the only costs come from food and rides.
The Lyndon Summer Festival is an
important moment not just for the Lyndon community but for visitors. “I think it’s special that thousands of locals and visitors come together to enjoy Lyndon’s unique culture,” Hagan says.
The Lyndon Summer Festival will take place at Robison Park, from 6 to 10 p.m. Friday, June 13, and from 2 to 10 p.m. Saturday, June 14. For more information, including a schedule of events and activities, visit lyndonsummerfestival.com.
When two retired brothers’ dream to open a café goes south, they decide to bake pot into the appetizers to “stimulate” business. This actionpacked comedy is a sure recipe for hilarity!
Writer / Gavin LaPaille
PROVIDENCE CHILDCARE & PRESCHOOL
all capable of being used in countless ways.
“There is not, nor will there ever be, a oneshoe-fits-all curriculum in a box to buy and implement to ensure success for all,” says Clark. “During my master’s program I was introduced to the concept of curriculum being a living document - evolving to meet the ever-changing needs of the community, teachers and children. It is something I have continued to embrace, so we use what is best for us from a variety of research-based sources and published curricula.”
“I’m so proud of our rotating, seasonal, plant-based menu that my son, Chase, and I created,” Clark shares. “Our chef, Melissa, cooks from scratch daily, often using ingredients from our gardens. We have two large natural playgrounds where we grow herbs, berries and vegetables. Sometimes the kids nibble the harvest before it even makes it to the kitchen. I’ve been known to say at Providence, children are empowered by play and powered by plants.”
When Lisa Clark became a new mother, the thought of placing her infant son in child care filled her with apprehension. So, she followed her instincts and changed the trajectory of her life.
In 1999, alongside her mother, Faye Thomas, she opened Providence Childcare & Preschool. What began as a solution to a personal need blossomed into a beloved early-childhood program that has served over 2,000 children.
A former middle school teacher, Clark serves as Providence’s hands-on director. Over the past two decades she’s guided the center’s evolution from traditional instruction to a model rooted in researchbacked, play-based learning.
“Years ago everything was about teacherled, theme-based activities,” Clark explains. “It is what parents expected and what most of us were doing back then. But research has always shown that the best outcomes for children begin with play. Add some loose parts and nature, and children will amaze you with their creativity and engagement.”
At Providence, children explore and engage with thoughtfully designed, playrich environments filled with loose parts, which are open-ended materials that spark creativity and exploration. These materials might include anything from wooden blocks to shells, fabric or recycled objects,
Currently, Providence uses elements from the Creative Curriculum, the Conscious Discipline Program and Get Set for School, all of which supports the play-based, loose-parts program. To ensure successful implementation in the classroom, there is an emphasis placed on staff development and training. Staff receive weekly coaching and training in play-based pedagogy and best practices through a partnership with Community Coordinated Child Care. Staff are also encouraged to participate in communities of practice programs, study tours and conferences both locally and out of state, also supported by Community Coordinated Child Care.
“It’s essential that our staff feel confident and equipped,” Clark says. “The educators not only provide invitations to play for the children, but they must also understand what the children are learning by engaging in that activity as it relates to the Kentucky Early Childhood Standards. When educators fully understand their role in this type of environment, magic happens.”
Providence currently enrolls around 140 children, aged 8 weeks to 5 years. There are at least two classrooms for each level of programming, and many educators “move up” with their students annually, fostering deeper relationships and a strong sense of continuity.
What sets the center apart is not just its philosophy, pedagogy and amazing staff, but also what’s on the menu.
Located at 11850 Commonwealth Drive, just off Blankenbaker Parkway, Providence maintains an open-door policy for families. Parents are encouraged to visit, observe and participate. Each classroom is equipped with cameras, and they utilize an app that provides real-time updates on children’s activities and routines.
“What matters most to parents is knowing that their child is safe,” Clark says. “That confidence comes from trust, and we work hard to create a culture rooted in transparency and open communication. We view feedback as an opportunity for growth and work hard to meet the needs of the families in our community.”
From a mother’s desire for safe, nurturing care to a well-established early learning center 25 years strong, Providence Childcare & Preschool stands as a testament to what’s possible when you embrace change as growth opportunities, and when one’s passion meets purpose.
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Life in Numbers
JIM AND SHIRLEY KREKO ENGINEER
AN ADMIRABLE LIFE TOGETHER
Writer / Carrie Vittitoe
At the end of our days, most of us probably want to look back and remember the times we shared laughter and love with our families and friends. And when those loved ones remember us, it is unlikely that the numbers that identify us and measure our time on Earthwhether it’s our age, years we worked for a company, or savings account balances - mean very much. We want to be known for the intangible things that make us unique such as our sense of humor, artistic talents, rigorous intellect, compassion or integrity.
Yet, to tell the story of a person’s life, numbers are important and can provide context. For example, according to a 2024 Pew Research Center article, centenarians make up 0.03% of the U.S. population, which means that people like Jim Kreko, who turned 100 in January 2025, are
quite rare. Another important figure is 73, which marks the number of years that Jim and his wife, Shirley, have been married. As a talented mechanical engineer, numbers (and their accuracy) played a key role in Jim’s profession, which impacted their life together. Numbers provide the outlines to their story, and all our stories.
So let’s start with 16, which was Jim’s age when he graduated high school. He was born in 1925 and raised in Albany, Louisiana. The Kreko family of eight lived in a small agricultural community largely made up of Hungarian immigrants, but he says his parents wouldn’t allow him or his siblings to learn their native language. His father owned a blacksmith shop, which is where Jim picked up his interest in, and talents with, fixing items. “Not only was he a blacksmith,
but he repaired tractors and wagons, and that’s where I learned about gears,” he says. “I wondered how they made those and I found out.” His interest in mechanical engineering had been sparked.
The number 1942 is also significant for Jim because it marked his enlistment in the Navy to avoid the draft into World War II. At the time he was 17 and had been working at a filling station after high school; he had already seen his two brothers drafted. He recalls traveling by train to San Diego, California, stopping at various spots along the way - a journey that took five days. Once he arrived at the base, he began training to repair ships.
Eventually he was sent to the South Pacific, where he went to New Caledonia, which served as an important Allied base, and then Los Negros Island, part of New Guinea.
“Going ashore, they gave us rifles and a
pocket full of bullets and said, ‘There are still Japanese here,’” he says. “We had no training whatsoever with a gun.” During his two years on the island, he worked six days a week in the humid, hot temperatures to repair damaged ships. The war ended when he was in the South Pacific, and he returned to the states 30 pounds lighter due to the long hours, heat and stress. After making it home to Louisiana, Jim enrolled at Louisiana State University.
This is where the number nine becomes important, since it’s the number of semesters it took Jim to attain his degree in mechanical engineering. “I studied like crazy,” he says, managing to also earn minors in both math and civil engineering. Before his commencement, he was hired by General Electric for their test engineers program, and after the ceremony he headed to Schenectady, New York. “I borrowed $100, had one suitcase and I took off,” he says.
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After spending time in New York learning about generators, Jim moved to Fort Wayne, Indiana, to learn about General Electric’s work with small motors. It was there, in 1951, that he met Shirley.
When it comes to telling some of Shirley’s story, the number 10 is significant because that was her age when her family moved from Whiting, Indiana, where she was born, to Fort Wayne after her father passed away from tuberculosis. She grew up among a large family that included eight children. Once Shirley graduated high school, she began helping her mother with the rental properties she had slowly acquired after her husband died. “I was the maintenance lady,” she says. “I took care of the furnaces; I was stronger than the other girls and I liked doing men’s work.”
Jim and Shirley’s connection began with their participation in the T and Ts, a group of people in their 20s and 30s who attended
adult bible classes. “We kept seeing each other at church meetings every Sunday night,” Shirley says. “He finally asked me, ‘Can I pick you up?’” They continued to be busy with activities with the T and Ts, and married in 1952. They moved to Erie, Pennsylvania, so Jim could continue with the engineers program while Shirley got a job with the telephone company. She worked in the frame room and made under 90 cents an hour. “We were the first women that they hired; I was one of three ladies,” Shirley says.
By 1955 they were headed to Louisville where General Electric had moved their refrigeration division in the early part of the decade, and Shirley was happy to be heading south. “When he got the orders that they were moving refrigeration down to Louisville, I was so thankful,” she says. “Coming to this climate was a whole lot nicer.” They bought a house and had their two children. “That was an interesting interlude,” she says, due in part to Jim’s frequent travel for work, which only increased the longer he was with the company.
Jim describes a time during his later years at General Electric when he kept a packed suitcase by the door at all times. One day he was called because a plant had been shut down in Columbia, Maryland, so he caught a flight there and began working to get the assembly line operational again. While there, he got a call that a plant in Illinois was ready to shut down due to a problem with its hydraulic heat exchangers. After completing his work in Maryland, he flew to Illinois where he got another call about a malfunction at a plant in Decatur, Alabama. Jim recalls even having a private plane pick him up. “The pilot didn’t even turn the engine off,” he says. “I climbed in and he took off.”
Although Jim retired from General Electric at age 62, he worked another 15 years on contract, so it wasn’t until he was 77 years old when he completely retired. “I had experience that no one else had,” Jim says.
That experience is what former colleague Beth Hulse-Colananni relied on when she met Jim in 1990. “He was hired back to work on designing polyurethane foam systems for refrigerators for the Decatur, Alabama, facility,” she says. “At the same time, I was working as an advanced manufacturing engineer working on the same systems for the Bloomington, Indiana, site. I actually contracted him to work on projects with me.” They worked together on next-generation conveyance systems and polyurethane processing, and traveled to Germany, Italy and Minnesota to look at new technologies.
“I owe my 40-year career to the start I got working with Jim as a co-op in the mid-’80s,” says Paul Wentzel, principal advanced manufacturing engineer with GE Appliances. “He is still the sharpest engineer I’ve ever known. I worked with Jim in our AP5, Decatur, and Bloomington plants, and whenever the word got out that he was in the building, people would come from every corner with their unsolved equipment and
process problems. Whether the issue was mechanical, electrical, chemical, hydraulic, related to welding, metal stamping, plastic extrusion or thermoforming, or anything else you could imagine, Jim would go solve their problems and then come back to our project - simply amazing.”
Of course, Jim and Shirley managed to have fun through their years together, despite Jim’s hectic work schedule. They enjoyed camping at state parks, and by the time their children were 12 years old, the family had visited 37 states. In the 1980s they joined Jeffersontown Christian Church, where they both became integral members of that community. Jim used his engineering and woodworking skills to build the cross above the baptistry and the Communion table, while Shirley was involved in quilting and other activities. Even now at age 97, Shirley attends weekly Bible study.
Throughout their many years together much has changed, and the numbers that have given form to their lives have become less important. What matters is that they have built a life together. “You marry somebody like Shirley and you’ve got it made,” Jim says, while Shirley says of her husband: “He’s not perfect; he’s a human being, but he comes pretty close.”
JUNE CROSSWORD PUZZLE
SUMMER OF SHAKESPEARE
THE KENTUCKY SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL RETURNS FOR ITS 65TH YEAR
Writer / Renée Larr
This summer marks the 65th anniversary of the Kentucky Shakespeare Festival, the nation’s longest-running free, non-ticketed Shakespeare festival. Held annually in Louisville’s Central Park, the cherished cultural tradition has grown from humble beginnings in the 1960s into a full-scale theatrical celebration that draws thousands from the region and beyond.
At the helm is Producing Artistic Director Matt Wallace, who has been with Kentucky Shakespeare for more than two decades.
“We started over 65 years ago with scenes from ‘Much Ado About Nothing’ in Central Park,” Wallace said. “And this summer, we’re coming full circle and opening the season with that same classic comedy. It’s one of our most popular and beloved plays.”
What sets Kentucky Shakespeare apart is its commitment to accessibility. Every performance is free, with no tickets required.
“It’s professional theater, outdoors, in a beautiful public space, and it’s free,” Wallace said. “That’s pretty rare in the U.S.”
The festival presents an 11-week season filled with six unique productions and 58 performances. Shows take place in Central Park’s historic amphitheater, which accommodates up to 1,500
people with lawn seating, picnic tables and benches. On average, 550 attendees fill the park each night, with Friday and Saturday crowds often topping 1,000.
Each evening begins at 6 p.m. with a rotating lineup of local food trucks and the BrownForman–sponsored Will’s Tavern bar, which offers a full-service drink menu starting at 7 p.m. At 7:15 p.m., the community preshow begins, featuring local musicians, dancers, student groups and other performers from across Louisville.
“We have everything from flamenco dancers and
chamber brass ensembles to our Shakespeare with Veterans program,” Wallace said. “We believe Shakespeare and the arts belong to everyone. This is about creating an inclusive, shared cultural experience.”
The 2025 season runs from May 28 through Aug. 10, featuring a dynamic lineup of Shakespearean favorites and rare gems:
MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING
A romantic comedy filled with misunderstandings, sharp banter and timeless themes of love and deception.
HAMLET
The iconic tragedy of the Danish prince navigating grief, betrayal and revenge.
CYMBELINE
A rarely performed fairy tale featuring romance, mistaken identity and royal intrigue; last staged by Kentucky Shakespeare in 1982.
LATE NIGHT SHAKES
Improvised Shakespeare-style comedy from local group the Louisville Improvisors.
TWELFTH NIGHT
A one-week run by the Globe Players, Kentucky Shakespeare’s professional training program for high school students.
A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM
A new dance interpretation by the Louisville Ballet, premiering in the festival’s final week.
The three MainStage productions rotate during a two-week repertory period in July, allowing attendees to see multiple productions in a short timeframe.
Kentucky Shakespeare’s impact extends beyond the stage.
“We spend a year preparing for the season,” Wallace said. “From casting and designing to rehearsing and promoting, it’s a massive
undertaking. But it’s worth it to bring something like this to the public for free.”
This year includes major technical upgrades: a new outdoor speaker system — the first since the 1990s — made possible by the Kentucky Colonels, the Etscorn Foundation and individual donors. New LED lighting and other infrastructure improvements also mark the milestone season.
The Tempest
Photo by Zachary Burrell
Wallace, who directs two of the main stage productions, first joined the company 24 summers ago as an actor.
“I moved from Chicago just to do a couple of shows and ended up falling in love with the company, the city, and even met my wife here,” he said. “Now I’m in my 12th season as producing artistic director.”
What keeps the festival thriving after more than six decades? For Wallace, it’s the sense of continuity and community.
“We hear from families coming for generations — grandparents who now bring their grandkids. It’s become a tradition,” he said. “In a world where everything is fast and digital, there’s something magical about sitting under the stars together and experiencing live theater.”
Weather is always a factor, but festival policy is to wait until 7:30 p.m. to make cancellation decisions. Updates are posted
Romeo and Juliet 2024
Photo by Joseph Mays
daily to Kentucky Shakespeare’s social media platforms.
“There was a study in 2017 that showed when people attend a performance together, their heartbeats start to sync,” Wallace said. “That’s the power of a communal experience. In our divided world, I think people are craving that connection.”
By removing socioeconomic barriers and offering world-class experiences to all, Kentucky Shakespeare continues to build bridges in the Louisville community. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer, the festival welcomes you.
“You don’t need a ticket. You don’t even need to know Shakespeare,” Wallace said. “Just show up. Bring a blanket, grab some food, watch the sun go down and let the story unfold.”
BRILLIANT EXILES: AMERICAN WOMEN IN PARIS, 1900-1939 EXHIBITION TOUR 2 – 3 PM
Speed Art Museum 2035 S 3rd St.
FAIRY DAY CELEBRATION 2025
12 – 4 PM
Yew Dell Botanical Gardens
6220 Old Lagrange Rd.
MICHELANGELO: LOVE AND DEATH AT SPEED CINEMA
12:30 – 2 PM
Speed Art Museum Exhibition on Screen Michelangelo: Love and Death
WAGGIN’ TAIL ON THE WATERFRONT 12 – 4 PM
Waterfront Park 1101 E. River Rd.
7
LOUISVILLE HORROR CON 10 AM 1780 Plantside Dr.
A spooktacular weekend with celebrity guests, panels, workshops, cosplay contests, vendors, and a film festival!
THE PARKLANDS & WLKY 5K
8:30 AM
The Parklands of Floyds Fork 1411 Beckley Creek Pkwy.
13 SUMMERFEST 2025
6 – 10 PM
Veterans Memorial Park 10707 Taylorsville Rd.
18 GIRL’S NIGHT OUT CRUISE
7 – 9 PM Belle of Louisville
19
MODEST MOUSE
8 PM
Old Forester’s Paristown Hall 724 Brent St.
General Admission Only, Standing Room Event, limited seating in Premium Sections. 20 AN EVENING WITH JOHN CUSACK AND A SCREENING OF “GROSSE POINTE BLANK”
7 PM Louisville Palace 625 S. 4th St.
|zoomgroup provides day training services and supports for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
21
SUMMER FAMILY FUN FEST & KID-OWNED BUSINESS EXPO
10 AM – 2 PM
CityPlace Expo Center 112 South 1st Ave.
25 GROWN-UP STORYTIME502
7 - 8:30 PM West Sixth NuLu 817 East Market St., Suite 101
WFPK WATERFRONT WEDNESDAY
5 – 10 PM
Big Four Lawn 129 W River Rd.
28
THE IRON MAIDENSA TRIBUTE TO IRON MAIDEN
8 PM
Mercury Ballroom 611 S 4th St.
The Mercury Ballroom is an allages, standing room venue, all tickets are General Admission unless otherwise stated. Doors open one hour before the event.
View All Local Events or Submit Your Own
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FLOOD HEROES
MEET THE HEROES BEHIND LOUISVILLE'S FLOOD PROTECTION SYSTEM
Writer / Melissa Gibson
On March 31, 2025, the city of Louisville experienced rainfall that raised the Ohio River to its eighth-highest level on record.
The upper gauge typically reads about 12 feet, but by the first week of April, it had reached nearly 37 feet.
There’s only a 4% annual chance of a flood event this size. Fortunately, the Metropolitan Sewer District (MSD) had it under control, thanks to the levee system built by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in the 1950s.
After catastrophic floods in 1937 and 1945, a solution was developed. Since 1987, MSD has managed the intricate system.
Another major flood in 1997 prompted MSD to expand its infrastructure to include nearly a billion gallons of stormwater and combined overflow storage, strengthening the original system.
What MSD does during these events may surprise residents of Louisville and surrounding areas. What may appear to be just another storm involves detailed and strategic operations behind the scenes.
During the most recent flood, more than 12.1 billion gallons of stormwater were pumped. Sixteen flood pump stations were activated and monitored hourly, and 65 of 150 floodgates were deployed.
The floodgates prevent the river from pushing upstream. Most of the time, residents can canoe or kayak in these areas. But when water levels rise, passage depends on MSD’s operational needs.
When a flood is expected, MSD’s flood protection team leaps into action — and they don’t do it alone.
“We have a corporate staff of 26, including management. During the offseason, we do preventive maintenance, update guidelines
and things of that nature. But once we enter a flood event, we can’t take care of the entire system alone,” said Dane Anderson, operations director of flood protection.
“We have trained staff across the board. As the river starts to rise, we dispatch people to report for duty. For example, during this incident, roughly 170 people were doing the necessary work.”
Shifts run 24/7 and include electricians, maintenance crews, laborers and more.
During this April’s event, MSD staff worked 19 straight days before water levels dropped and operations returned to normal.
Flood season typically runs from late fall to late spring, but constant monitoring and evaluation are required.
“We’re watching the weather daily — not just in Louisville but all the way up through Pennsylvania to see what’s headed our way,” Anderson said. “MSD is taking action well
before the storm arrives.”
Days in advance, flood and drainage teams were clearing debris that often clogs basins. Trained flood operators were placed on standby.
Like many times before, MSD managed to keep the Ohio River contained before it could severely flood the area.
Even after the waters recede, the work continues.
“Things break and are damaged during a flood like this, and we have to repair them as quickly as possible before the next event. We’re working with engineers and contractors to make the necessary fixes,” Anderson said. “Right now, we’re looking at every piece of the puzzle to find what needs to be addressed. We’re dealing with 70-yearold equipment, and during a flood event, it’s like stepping on the gas.”
And recovery isn’t cheap.
In 2018, a similar flood cost about $14 million in repairs, including massive debris cleanup and work on old pumps and gates.
MSD is aware of the need to replace some of the original 1950s machinery and technology, but the process is slow.
Currently, the Paddy’s Run Flood Pump Station is being renovated at a cost of $235 million — an investment the city views as vital to protecting against nature’s threats.
“Think of it like firefighters needing apparatus to fight fires. We need the same kind of equipment to fight floods,”
BELMONT VILLAGE — A LEADER IN MEMORY CARE PROGRAMMING
Belmont Village’s Circle of Friends Program was developed to slow the cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer’s Disease and other forms of Dementia. This one of a kind, seven day a week program includes mental and physical activities focused on building cognitive reserve to maintain brain function.
If you think this program might benefit your loved one, don’t hesitate, contact Belmont Village St. Matthews today.
BelmontVillage.com/StMatthews | 502-721-7500
MSD Beargrass Flood Pump Station River Side
Waterfront Park
Anderson said. “We have the same maintenance and replacement needs. I tell people: Eisenhower was president and the first Corvette was coming off the line when these original stations were built.”
Despite the long hours and complex planning, MSD’s mission is to keep
Louisville’s people and property safe.
“It’s rewarding when you’ve done a job that truly served the entire community,” Anderson said. “There’s a sense of pride in that. I’m proud of every person on our roster. Everyone stepped up and did what they needed to do.”
MSD provides three core services: flood protection, wastewater collection and treatment, and stormwater and drainage management in Jefferson County.
For more information, visit louisvillemsd.org.
Dane Anderson MSD Flood Protection Director
Buechel Basins
10th Street Closure Bingham Way Floodwall Closure
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(502) 407-0185
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