Your News & Notes - April 2011

On Thursday, March 3, more than 150 students and parents attended the St. Agnes “Read It Forward” Family Night, a culmination of a month-long reading exercise focused on building peace. Students of all grades participated in age appropriate discussion groups and activities related to Greg Mortenson’s book, “Three Cups of Tea.” The event included a Pakistani-style tea celebration and cultural activities.

 

Over 400 copies of the book will now be gathered and shared with another school. The books were given by the author as a gift to Margi Johnstone, St. Agnes librarian, at a recent lecture. Through the author’s generosity, every student at St. Agnes received an age appropriate, complimentary copy of the book which tells of Mortenson’s unplanned encounter with an impoverished Pakistani village where he was nursed back to health from a failed attempt to climb K2, the world’s second highest mountain. “Three Cups of Tea” tells the story of Mortenson’s promise to the village that he would one day return and build them a school in thanks. That promise became extremely challenging and led to an incredible humanitarian campaign.

 

“Our hope is that this experience will be continued again and again to inspire students to listen to their inner calling and find their own creative ways to apply their talents to address those in need,” says Johnstone. “Not only is this a rich reading experience that encourages literacy, the book offers important lessons about peace building and the positive difference one person can make in the world.”

 

Saint Agnes, a Catholic parish school for students K-8, is a Blue Ribbon School of Excellence as designated by the U.S. Department of Education. The school is located at 1800 Newburg Road.

 

The Legal Aid Society recently published a booklet that explains the foreclosure process in Louisville and the extent of tenants’ rights to stay in their homes during and after foreclosure. “Tenants and Foreclosure: Questions and Answers About Rights For Louisville Renters” also addresses issues such as rent and repair obligations, and includes legal forms that tenants can file in court so they can be kept informed of foreclosure proceedings.

 

The booklet can be downloaded in English and in Spanish at www.laslou.org/help/resources.php in the list of publications on the right.

 

A 4-month-old stray male kitten was a little too “headstrong” in his attempt to find his supper, after discovering a can of Campbell’s soup and helping himself to the leftovers. In the process of dining, however, he ended up getting himself “canned,” with his head stuck in the can.

 

The kitten, now named “Campbell,” was brought in by Metro Animal Services (MAS) animal control officer Raymond Thomas, and immediately taken to the vet staff. An initial attempt was made by veterinary assistant Brenda Keel to remove the can, but Campbell started crying. He was sedated, and bolt cutters were used to cut the can off of his head.

 

Because he had been exposed to cold temperatures for an extended period without the ability to move, Campbell was hypothermic. He received the necessary medical attention to stabilize his condition. “Our staff did a great job rescuing this little guy from what could have been a ‘can-tastrophe’,” says Jackie Gulbe, MAS assistant director for community relations. “He is a friendly, sweet boy who is available for adoption at the Animal House Adoption Center.”

 

The adoption center, at 3516 Newburg Road, can be reached at (502) 473-7387.

 

A Warheim Park Memorial Paver Stone is a unique way to commemorate a friend, family member or occasion while helping to preserve the park at 1832 Overlook Terrace in the Belknap neighborhood.

 

The cost for a paver stone is a tax-deductible contribution of $100. Orders must be received by April 15, 2011 for installation this year. Paver stones are inscribed as directed and installed in the Warheim Park Pavilion each spring. Proceeds go toward the upkeep and improvement of the park, which is supported solely by donations, grants and the work of many volunteers.

 

For more information, or to obtain a donor card, e-mail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. , call (502) 473-4710, or download a form at www.warheimpark.com.