Consuming Louisville

From Porch Tuesdays in Tom Owen's District

Mon, 12 May 2008 14:06:13 -0500

If you're lucky enough to live in Tom Owen's district then you get to participate in Front Porch Tuesdays. The first one is tomorrow night. Sorry for the late notice, I meant to write about it earlier.

"This is the third year, we have encouraged Front Porch Tuesdays. Each year, it continues to grow," says Owen. "With the beautiful spring we have had so far, we've structured a time for neighbors to talk and visit with one another."

The idea is a simple one. On two Tuesday evenings in the month of May, neighbors will either host or go visit their neighbors on the opposite side of the street. On May 13^th, people who live on the odd numbered side of the street will host. Then on May 20^th, the even number side of the street will welcome an evening of conversation.

"To often, we have let time go by and we just do not get know the people who live right next door to us or the people we may throw a glance at when we hop in the car in the morning to go to work," says Owen. "Many of us remember the days growing up when you knew just about every one in the neighborhood. That is the goal here."

Owen says hosting does not have to be elaborate. The idea is just to talk and find out if there is anything in the neighborhood that may be of common interest as you get to know other home owners. "After all," he says "for some, community is built one 'howdy do' at a time."

To let your neighbors know you're participating you can pick up a sign at Highlands/Shelby Park Branch of the Louisville Free Public Library to put in your yard.

A Few Food Notes (pancakes, coffee, tofu & Ethiopian food, oh my)

Mon, 12 May 2008 08:12:47 -0500

1. I really like the food at Toast on Market. I adore pancakes and I've got to say I think they make the best ones in town. The ones at Wild Eggs are fantastic, the ones are the North End Cafe are awesome but the ones at Toast are consistently wonderful and the variety (buttermilk, lemon soufflé, gingerbread) is a real treat. I'm also a serious fan of their banana nut oatmeal. However I hate the coffee they serve at Toast. Really hate it. This is a serious barrier to my breakfast enjoyment. I'd go to Toast a lot more frequently if they'd serve different coffee (I'm suggesting they start serving some very nice Jackson's Organic Coffee). Seriously, I can only go to Toast when I'm going to be ok with having diet Coke for breakfast instead of coffee.

Like the folks at Toast care if I really want them to serve better coffee so I can give them more of my business. This is my Monday morning rant though and I'm using it to rant about wanting better coffee at Toast.

2.Red Pepper on Brownsboro road is currently a very trendy place to love. I've heard raves about it from my neighbors and friends and read glowing reviews of it in both the Courier and Louisville Magazine. I've heard just one "meh, it was ok." We've been a couple times and have really enjoyed it both times. The restaurant's claim to fame is the offering of a green "Americanized Chinese" menu and a red "Authentic Chinese" menu. The green menu offers all the American Chinese restaurant staples like sweet and sour chicken, crab rangoons, hot and sour soup and egg rolls. The red menu has a great many dishes that have the little red pepper symbol beside them indicating extreme spiciness. I've yet to order from either menu because I've ordered the same special every time: General Tso's Tofu. I mention this for my other vegetarian and flexitarian friends. You know I've always got our collective non-meat eating back. When I ate more meat (and when I ate a way less healthy diet than I do now) I loved General Tso's chicken. I've never encountered General Tso's tofu anywhere before so the first night I saw it on Red Pepper's special board I had to order it. My only beef with it (Get it? Beef? I'm talking about tofu! Whew good heavens I'm funny with the puns. Or not.) is that they use soft tofu instead of the extra firm tofu I much prefer. I'm still not in love with the texture of soft tofu but I enjoy the dish as a whole very much. Normally I wouldn't mention a special dish like this because I don't want to crush your little vegetarian hearts by describing something that's not on the regular menu. However since it's been on the special board both times I've been there I'm going out on a limb since it seems like they serve it frequently.

3. Queen of Sheba is moving from that very scary Buechel motel location to the former Mazzoni's building on Taylorsville Road, directly across the street from Bowman Field. The sign on the door says they open May 12. Um, that would be today. I'm excited. I've heard from more than a couple people that Queen of Sheba has great, great Ethiopian food but I could never summon up the urge to go purely because of the old location. Now I can't wait to go try it. In fact I've already got plans to go there this week. Two out of two vegans polled say Queen of Sheba offers some of the best vegan food in town and now it's actually closer in town. Winners all around.

Mayor's Healthy Hometown Hike: Memorial Day

Mon, 12 May 2008 07:57:16 -0500

After being named one of the best cities for biking it's only appropriate that the Mayor's Healthy Hometown Hike & Bike event be right around the corner. Mayor Jerry wants you to be more active people and I'm with him on that plan.

Mayor's Healthy Hometown Hike & Bike
Memorial Day, May 26 10 a.m. at Waterfront Park
Starting point is near the "Dancing Waters" feature on Witherspoon St.
Booths with cycling information, bicycle assistance and healthy snacks available.
Four bands from Mom's Rockschool will perform from Noon - 2 p.m.
On-street parking is available near Waterfront Park. All TARC buses are equipped with bicycle racks for cyclists who want to leave the car at home.
The Hike & Bike cycling route will highlight various Louisville attractions and historic locations, beginning at Waterfront Park and progressing west to the Portland neighborhood, along tree-lined Northwestern and Southwestern Parkways, though Shawnee Park and back to Waterfront Park.
The complete bicycle route is approximately 15 miles, with several turnoffs available providing alternate routes as short as two miles. For walkers, a "Mayor's Mile" loop will be marked in Waterfront Park.
The cycling route will be marked with signage and include several break stations staffed by volunteers to assist with directions and water. In addition, the Louisville Bicycle Club is providing "bike captains" to help cyclists obey the rules of the road, and "bike doctors" will be along the route to assist cyclists who might encounter equipment problems. Louisville Metro Police will provide traffic assistance at key intersections and the Louisville Metro EMS bicycle team will patrol the route.
Abramson said live music is being added to this year's event, compliments of Mom's Rockschool. Four bands with youth ages 8 to 18 will perform after the Hike & Bike from 12 - 2 p.m.
A healthy marketplace with nutritional snacks, music, free children's activities and several informational booths will begin at 9 a.m. at Waterfront Park. A limited number of free T-shirts will be available and the Brain Injury Association will distribute 350 bike helmets to riders who don't have one. Instructors from Jazzercise will help get participants going by leading warm-up and stretching exercises prior to the biking and hiking.
Subway Restaurants will distribute 2,500 gift cards at both the Memorial and Labor Day events. Each gift card, valued at $2.20, upgrades a regular sub purchase to a "Fresh Value Meal" by covering the cost of a drink and chips.

Climate Change: From Bali to Louisville

Mon, 12 May 2008 07:08:31 -0500

One of these days I'm actually going to make it to one of these Sustainable City events.

The next forum of the Urban Design Studio's Sustainable City Series will examine climate change and explore the framework for addressing the issue from the local level to that of the United Nations.
Art Williams, director of the Louisville Metro Air Pollution Control District, and Keith Mountain, associate professor of geography and geosciences at the University of Louisville, will speak.
Both Williams and Mountain have extensive backgrounds in the subject. Williams attended the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Bali and heads efforts on climate change locally through the Climate Change Committee of the Partnership for a Green City.
Mountain, who recently was appointed state geographer by Kentucky Gov. Steve Beshear, is a glaciologist and global warming expert with more than 20 years of experience.
The Sustainable City Series is designed to raise the community's awareness of sustainable practices. Its ultimate goal is to provide a catalyst to move Louisville and the region towards a sustainable model for the nation.
Climate Change: From Bali to Louisville
May 13, 6 p.m.
Glassworks, 815 W. Market St.
Admission to the lecture is free and open to the public. Space is limited. Reserve a spot

Flamenco Night at Blu

Fri, 09 May 2008 07:40:56 -0500

Super late notice but so not my fault. Tonight at Blu downtown they'll be rocking a Spanish theme

Flamenco Louisville and BLU invite you to enjoy a night of Spanish culture, Friday, May 9, 2008, from 7:00-10:00 pm. Create a new Mother's Day weekend tradition by joining the professional musicians and dancers of Flamenco Louisville as they create an authentic "tablao" experience for the evening.

BLU Mediterranean Grille is located in the Louisville Marriott Downtown, 280 W. Jefferson St., Louisville, Kentucky. Reservations around the dance floor are available and encouraged - call early for the best seats in the house: (502) 627-5045 or BLUGrille.com.

The tradition of good food and flamenco performance is widespread in Spain and goes all the way back to the "golden age" of the Cafes Cantantes in the early 19th century. Come experience an authentic Spanish night out right here in Louisville, KY!

Louisville Gets the Most Improved Trophy

Thu, 08 May 2008 16:46:27 -0500

Bicycling Magazine has named Louisville, Washington D.C. and New York city as the three most improved cities for biking in the country. That's so very cool. I haven't completely drank the Kool-Aid (as I've mentioned I'm scared to death most of the time when I ride my bike on Bardstown Road) but I know the city has made a lot of improvements for cyclists and that it continues to do so.

Well done Louisville. Keep up the good work.

Gay & Lesbian Film Series Coming to Village 8

Thu, 08 May 2008 11:39:12 -0500

I have very little detail about this series but I'm excited about it so I wanted to share what I've got.

In June, 2008, Apex Entertainment will host the First Annual Louisville Gay & Lesbian Film Series as part of the Louisville Exclusives Films project which brings art and foreign films to the Louisville community. The 2008 Gay & Lesbian Film Series will present several award-winning titles including "Shelter" and "The Witnesses".

I personally would like to see a selection of modern gay fairy tales, that is to say gay films that are romantic and have happy endings. I can only take so many sad (and frequently more realistic) gay stories.

Suggested titles for my modern gay fairy tale series? Well since you asked here are three:
Big Eden
Kissing Jessica Stein
Saving Face

Forest Fest at Jefferson Memorial Forest

Thu, 08 May 2008 08:36:58 -0500

If you like Bluegrass Music, and I can't imagine that you don't, then Forest Fest at Jefferson Memorial Forest should be on your radar. For $1 per vehicle, not even per person, you get a day of great activities and music, including Dr. Ralph Stanley. That's a deal people, a serious deal.

Come out for a great day filled with Bluegrass Music, wood crafters and fun activities for the entire family. This free family oriented festival is set to become the premier bluegrass festival for Jefferson County.

The fourth Forest Fest will be bigger and better than ever with the addition of Bluegrass music legend, Dr. Ralph Stanley and the Clinch Mountain Boys. This year's line up also includes Stone Hollow, Dozens of Dollars, Bluegrass 101, and Kentucky Sassafras.

2008 continues the tried and true formula of honoring Fairdale's rich bluegrass tradition, highlighting new up and coming bands and introducing them to new audiences and bringing in some of the best Bluegrass musicians from around the region.

Fee: $1 per vehicle

Saturday May 17, 2008
11AM-7PM

Jefferson Memorial Forest
11311 Mitchell Hill Road
Fairdale, KY 40118
502/368-5404
email: forest@louisvilleky.gov

Butchertown Art Fair

Thu, 08 May 2008 08:27:24 -0500

Fair and festival season is gearing up. We recently had the Cherokee Triangle Art Fair and here comes the Butchertown Art Fair on Sunday May 18, 2008.

The Butchertown Art Fair last year had over 40 booths featuring paintings, sculptures, antiques, crafts and jewelry created by Louisville-area artisans. This event is non-juried and will be held rain or shine. Artwork and antiques will also be on display in the courtyard of historic Bakery Square. Food will be provided by St. Joe's Church and kid's activities will also be available.

The Thomas Edison House Garden & Home Tour will be held concurrent with the Butchertown Art Fair on May 18, 2008 from 11 AM - 5 PM. This annual event offers insight on unique methods of gardening in the urban landscape and benefits the Thomas Edison House, a historic house museum in the historic Butchertown neighborhood. For more information on the Garden Tour, please call (502) 585-5247.

Celebrate Asia Family Day at the Speed May 10, 2008

Thu, 08 May 2008 07:57:12 -0500

This Saturday is something called Celebrate Asia Family Day at the Speed. The short press release I got is the first I've heard of it so I'm not sure exactly what to tell you to expect though it sounds cool enough particularly given that admission is free.

The Speed is proud to host this wonderful celebration of Asian Cultures. Celebrate Asia Family Day is the area's largest Asian cultural events for families. Come and enjoy the arts and traditions of China, India, Japan, Korea, Philippines, Samoa, Thailand, Uzbekistan, and Vietnam. Activities include: cultural performances from several different Asian cultures in the auditorium; informational displays on the Sculpture Court; hands-on experiences in the Art Sparks Workshop, and special demonstrations.

Saturday May 10, 2008
Noon-5PM

Speed Museum
2035 South 3rd
Louisville, KY

Midnights at The Baxter: Psycho (May 10, 2008)

Wed, 07 May 2008 08:46:02 -0500

The folks who run Midnights at The Baxter are really tender, soft hearted people aren't they? You'll recall that for Valentine's Day they ran Moulin Rouge. Now, for Mother's Day, they're showing Psycho. I love these people. Oh and if you bring your mother to the film? She gets in free. I really love these people.

Have I told you much my beloved adores the work of Alfred Hitchcock? How in our living room there is an poster from the 1954 release of Rear Window? No? Well she does and we have. My point being I have to be very careful to make sure she doesn't know Psycho is showing this weekend at midnight or she'll make me stay up and go. She's already hounding me to know what Hitchcock movies the Palace will be showing this summer. If anyone has any inside scoop on that it would be greatly appreciated.

Psycho
Saturday May 10, 2008
11:55PM

Baxter Avenue Theaters
1250 Bardstown Rd
Louisville, KY 40204

Walk in the Park at Shawneed Saturday May 17, 2008

Wed, 07 May 2008 08:32:20 -0500

Olmstead Parks are presenting another Saturday Walk in the Park, this time at Shawnee Park next Saturday May 17, 2008.

Be wonder-struck with nature. Grab your family and friends for a FREE fun-filled, discovery-oriented morning of walks in our historic Olmsted park!

Join us for two nature walks with flexible start times beginning at 8 a.m. at the Shawnee Park Pavilion!

Loop Walk - 1 Mile
Short, shaded walk takes you around the Great lawn - a trademark of Olmsted design.

River Walk - 2 Miles
Take and easy stroll through the beautiful park and down to the river side.

Howl at the Moon May 16

Wed, 07 May 2008 08:31:49 -0500

With the promise of good weather comes more opportunities to romp and frolic with your four legged friend. I can't believe I just wrote that sentence with a straight face. I am more of a crazy dog person than even I thought. Moving on.

Come out to the Forest for and evening romp through the woods with your dog! Forest Staff will lead owners and their pooches on a hike through the woods.

Keep in mind that your dog will be around other dogs and people. Non-retractable leashes and good behavior are required. As a courtesy to other dogs, please make sure your pet is up to date on their vaccines.

Meets at the Horine Reservation.

Reservations are required in advance.

Fee: $5 per dog

Friday May 16, 2008
7PM-8:30PM

Jefferson Memorial Forest
11311 Mitchell Hill Road
Fairdale, KY 40118
502/368-5404
email: forest@louisvilleky.gov

Vegan Chocolates & Cool T-Shirts

Tue, 06 May 2008 12:12:01 -0500

Just a couple shopping notes. I was in Dundee Candy today and saw that they have a few (new?) chocolates that are very clearly marked vegan. I knew they carried some vegan chocolates but the new signs for these dark chocolate beauties will make it even easier for our vegan friends to satisfy a sweet tooth.

The Makery, that hip little Bardstown Road boutique full of unique crafted goods, has gotten some cool t-shirts printed up.

Designed by Joseph Clagg the Kentucky Cutout shirt is just 27 kinds of awesome. I've got to get one and I encourage you to do the same. You can swing into the store to pick one up or you can order online.

The Makery is located at 1617 Bardstown Road.

Image courtesy of The Makery

Bardstown Bound May 16

Tue, 06 May 2008 08:58:11 -0500

Way back in March I gave you an early head's up about the spring Bardstown Bound. I hope you put it on your calendar but if not here I am reminding you about it again.

Bardstown Bound celebrates Summer! Bardstown Road and certain side streets open their doors for some more fun with an evening of sidewalk shopping and singing, sampling, and saving on our City's favorite strip, Bardstown Road. Bars, boutiques and shops host the FIRST event of the year, presenting tastings of local favorite restaurants in boutiques to sidewalk music, many other attractions, LG&E's Louie the Lighting Bug will be on hand to entertain the kids on safety. Walk the corridor on Friday, May 16 2008 from 5:00p-whenever and find Happiness in the Highlands!

Friday, May 16, 2008 marks the 10th BB and the 1st of the Year! This 1-night event will offer 15% discounts and showcase the areas most beloved businesses. Discounts on clothing, art, home furnishings, and appetizers provided by Avalon, Bristol Bar & Grille, Bearno's Highlands, Amazing Grace and Le Gallo Rosso Bistro will be featured at the participating boutiques. So shop, taste, drink and enjoy Bardstown Road. The hours of happiness will be from 5:00p -? Bearno's Highlands, Impellizzeri's, Avalon, Bristol Bar & Grille and Asiatique will raise a glass and toast another BBC Bardstown Bound Bubbly Hours to celebrate this evening and offer drink and food specials, including cold BBC Beers and Live Local entertainment.

Participants of this Bardstown Bound event will donate proceeds to benefit the newly opened Gilda's Club of Louisville located in the Highlands. At Gilda's Club you will find support, information, fellowship, laughter, hope and inspiration. Gilda's Club Louisville is a free community where men, women and children who are living with cancer, along with their families and friends, can join with others to build social and emotional support as an essential supplement to their medical care.

A few participants: Luna Boutique, Swanson Reed Gallery, Clay & Cotton, Dot Fox, Presents Gallery, ear X-tacy Records, Asiatique, WHY Louisville, We the People, Cherry Bomb, Hal-Lai, Longest Time, Alcott & Bentley, Impellizzeri's, Eden Side Gallery, Days Coffee, Comedy Caravan, Event Design Library & Emporium, Swabek's Highland Fitness, Tree of Life, White Linen Tea Company, Avalon, ArtClub of the Highlands, Bearno's Highlands, Amazing Grace, Le Gallo Rosso Bistro, Bristol Bar & Grille