Louisville, Kentucky Encourages Community to Become Poll Workers
Across the vibrancy of Louisville, local restaurants, breweries, and wineries are joining hands with the Secretary of State to highlight the need for poll workers ahead of significant upcoming elections. The initiative aims to not only promote voter participation but also to ensure that there are enough hands on deck to count those votes and maintain the integrity of the electoral process.
Partnerships Promote Participation
In a concerted effort to raise awareness about the importance of polling duties, breweries, including popular local names like Against the Grain, are stepping up. Jason Smith, the Director of Operations at Against the Grain, stated, “This isn’t the first time we have played a role in this initiative. We assisted in recruiting poll workers in 2020 and are excited to be doing it again.”
Smith explained that they are actively promoting this effort by advertising the need for poll workers in all their establishments. “You’ll find hangers with codes on our beer cans and in stores around the Louisville area that people can use to sign up to be a poll worker,” Smith said. “It’s crucial, especially during significant election years.”
Support from Local Breweries
The Kentucky Guild of Brewers, the Kentucky Wineries Association, and the Kentucky Restaurant Association have all partnered with the Secretary of State in this campaign. A newer addition to the Louisville brewing scene, Trellis, is thrilled to contribute as well. Founder Kyle Jahn shared, “We recently organized a voter registration event and we’re eager to assist in any way we can.”
Community Reacts Positively
Customers frequenting these establishments have also expressed their appreciation for this initiative. Regular visitors Chris Sonntag and Michael Beringer voiced supportive opinions. Sonntag emphasized the current need for poll workers, stating, “It’s a very important time. People need to get out and vote, and it’s essential that there are personnel to ensure everything goes smoothly.” Beringer echoed this sentiment, highlighting that it’s crucial for patrons to know that there is an honest and fair election process in place.
Smith reiterated the goal of this initiative: to boost both poll worker registration and overall voter turnout. “High tide raises all boats,” he said. “When we come together behind this initiative, it really helps spread the word and inform people of the growing need for assistance during the elections.”
How to Get Involved
Anyone interested in becoming a poll worker can easily find more information at the Secretary of State’s office. Currently, several breweries are part of the recruitment effort, including:
- Against the Grain, 401 E. Main Street, Louisville, KY 40202
- Butchertown Brewery, 1860 Mellwood Ave #187, Louisville, KY 40206
- Dreaming Creek Brewery, 109 E. Irvine Street, Richmond, KY 40475
- Trellis Brewery, 827 Logan Street, Louisville, KY 40204
- White Squirrel Brewery, 302 State Street, Bowling Green, KY 42101
- Wise Bird Cider Co., 1170 Manchester Street, Suite 140, Lexington, KY 40508
Additionally, wineries participating include:
- Boucherie Winery, 6523 Keyway Drive, Spottsville, KY 42458
- Carriage House Vineyards, 259 Longview Lane, Auburn, KY 42206
- Ghost Fox Winery, 2385 Chrisman Mill Rd., Nicholasville, KY 40356
Restaurants active in the campaign are:
- Ciao Restaurant, 1201 Payne Street, Louisville, KY 40204
- Ramsey’s Diners, all Lexington locations
This collaborative approach from local businesses not only strengthens community ties but also encourages civic responsibility among the residents of Louisville. Each establishment plays a part in paving the way for a better electoral climate, demonstrating that even small contributions can lead to significant changes.
