Adrian's Louisville (06/08/2022)

You know those “______’s Louisville” banners on the sides of buildings throughout the city? Ali and Jennifer Lawrence and Diane Sawyer and more “notable” names. We think the blank should be for all of us. (Who do you think Louisville Magazine should interview about our city? You can tell us here.)

Here are Adrian Silbernagel’s answers. Published Wednesday, June 8, 2022.

Since March 2020, what’s something you’ve lost?

“My cigarette habit.”

Since March 2020, what’s something you’ve gained?

“A new sense of direction in my writing and advocacy work. I’ve also been working with a trainer, so I’ve gained some muscle.”

Since March 2020, what’s something Louisville has lost?

“Breonna Taylor, David McAtee, Travis Nagdy, Tyler Gerth.”

Since March 2020, what’s something Louisville has gained?

“A critical lens to view our existing systems and leaders. A higher standard for change, transparency and accountability. A louder collective voice.”

Here’s a magic wand. Wave it and you can change one thing in your neighborhood. What do you change?

“A rent cap.”

What Louisville dish have you eaten more than any other?

“Saag paneer from Kashmir.”

Where are you a regular?

“Sunshine Grocery on Oak Street is a neighborhood staple for milk, eggs, cereal, rice, toilet paper and even ice cream sometimes.”

What closed Louisville business do you miss most?

“Highland Coffee and Morels were both diverse and inclusive staples in the Highlands. Also, I have yet to find a vegan fast-food option that can compete with Morels.”

What should be Louisville’s theme song?

“Gil Scott-Heron, ‘The Revolution Will Not Be Televised.’”

What’s one thing Louisville is missing?

“A 24-hour coffee shop.”

What does Louisville have that it should be known for but isn’t?

“Our huge trans community.”

In one word, what’s your biggest fear for Louisville?

“That people will grow tired of pushing for change and that the status quo will prevail.”

In one sentence, how do you spend your weekdays?

“Serving coffee, facilitating trans-inclusivity workshops, writing poetry and editing for Queer Kentucky.”

Earliest childhood memory?

“Almost drowning in a ditch in front of my childhood home after breaking through the ice.”

Which possession of yours do you consider priceless?

“Old writing notebooks.”

Who or what should be on a future cover of Louisville Magazine?

“Queer Kentucky. Queer Kentucky is a diverse LGBTQ+-run nonprofit based in Louisville, working to bolster and enhance Queer culture and health though storytelling, education and action. We also partner with organizations that help educate LGBTQ+ folx on safe sex and healthy lifestyles, with a large focus on creating Queer sober spaces. Queer Kentucky actively works with organizations and businesses on their inclusivity efforts, through our workshops and consultation services.”