Martha Elson Neighborhood advocacy award

Martha Elson was a reporter for the Courier-Journal newspaper for almost 40 years. Martha covered mainly neighborhood-related activites. She wrote thousands of articles featuring neighborhood residents, developments, and other civic happenings. Martha was also an advocate for historic preservation and always wrote an article on any pending demolition of a distinctive building. She was a great friend of the League. 

Mike Zanone lives in the St. Joseph neighborhood (near Preston & Eastern Parkway). He gives tours of his neighborhood and he also gives re-enactments of legendary Louisvillians such as baseball slugger Louis Rogers 'Pete' Browning, for whom Louisville Slugger was named. Mike is passionate about local history and also gives tours of area cemeteries. 

Charles 'Chip' Rogalinski is a passionate advocate for the history of his Shelby Park neighborhood.  He has led the effort to install over five (5) historical markers as well as a large banner for Hollywood legend Victor Mature, who grew up in this neighborhood. Chip encourages building renovations and preservation projects. 

Michael O'Leary has been involved with the Clifton neighborhood since he moved there in 1997. He has served on the Clifton Community Council for 23 years and as President for past 5 years.  Michael helped the neighborhood gain Preservation district status in 2004, and has been a strong advocate for preservation and quaility of life in Clifton. 

 No recipient named due to Covid Pandemic

Cynthia Johnson served on  Louisville's Landmark Commission for about 15 years and oversaw numerous revitalization of historic properties in inner-city neighborhoods.  Cynthia conducted many research reports on noteworthy houses and buildings throughout the city.  She was a champion for preserving our community's distinctive built environment and making Louisville a better place in which to live.