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In conjunction with National Preparedness Month, Gov. Matt Bevin has proclaimed September as Preparedness Month in Kentucky.
Kentucky Emergency Management urges Kentuckians to “BE AWARE – BE PREPARED – HAVE A PLAN – MAKE A KIT.”
Kentuckians face threats to their safety and property throughout the year; from tornadoes, flooding, straight line winds, lightning, winter storms, man-made hazards, to daily emergencies. Every household and every business should be prepared to face these challenges at any given time. Disasters can occur at anytime, anywhere in Kentucky.
As we have all seen recently with Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, Jose and now impending Maria, preparedness can make the difference of saving your life or your family. Supplies such as water, non-perishable food, flashlights and batteries, radios and first aid kits are easy to store, and can be lifesavers when a crisis hits. A communication plan with family, friends and neighbors is also very important.
Michael Dossett, director of Kentucky Emergency Management (KYEM) stated, “During National Preparedness Month, the theme, ‘Disasters don’t plan ahead – You Can!’ is a great opportunity to remind our family, friends and neighbors of the importance of planning ahead, highlighted by the recent losses of Hurricanes Harvey and Irma.” Dossett went on, “ask yourself, what would you do in the next two hours, next two days and next two weeks following a disaster event to ensure the survival of your loved-ones?”
PLANNING FOR DISASTER: “BE AWARE – BE PREPARED – HAVE A PLAN”
Be Aware:
- Stay informed about risks in your communities and monitor weather forecasts.
- Own and monitor a battery backed-up or crank-type NOAA Weather Alert Radio. During threatening weather, stay tuned to your local broadcast stations.
- Discuss conditions with family members, and know their locations during dangerous weather.
Be Prepared:
- Discuss known risks with family members and neighbors.
- Develop and review your emergency plan periodically and update of necessary.
- Assemble an emergency kit(s) and refresh periodically. A kit should have enough food, water and medications for each family member for five days.
- Drill: practice your plan with household members.
Have a plan:
- Share your plan with others, including friends or relatives in another region or even another state
- Medications – prepare a list of all prescription drugs.
- Utilities – Written instructions for how to turn off electricity, gas and water; if authorities advise you to do so. (Remember, you’ll need a professional to turn them back on.)
- Shelter – Identify safe locations within and outside your residence.
- Contacts – Written contact information for relatives, neighbors, utility companies, employers/employees and local emergency contact telephone numbers.
- Evacuate – Predetermine evacuation routes. Identify where you could go if told to evacuate. Choose several places, such as a friend or relative’s home in another town, a motel or shelter.
- Children – Make backup plans for children in case you (or they) can’t get home in an emergency.
- Vehicles – Keep jumper cables in all vehicles at all times.
- Maintain at least a half tank of fuel in vehicles.
- Move vehicles away from under trees during possible wind events.
- Keep an emergency kit in all vehicles.
- During winter months, keep a blanket and bag of kitty litter in the trunk.
- Medications – prepare a list of all prescription drugs.
- Pets – have at least a 3 day supply of food and water for each pet. Have carriers, a collar or harness with ID tag, rabies tag and a leash; familiar items such as treats, toys and bedding can help reduce stress for your pet.
- Share your plan with others, including friends or relatives in another region or state.
Make an emergency kit:
- First aid kit and essential medications (to include prescription medicines).
- Canned food and can opener
- At least three gallons of water per person
- Protective clothing, rainwear and bedding or sleeping bags
- Battery or crank powered radio, flashlight and extra batteries or crank recharging stations that are capable of recharging cell phones, tablets, laptops, etc.
- Waterproof matches and candles
- Local phone book
- Special items for infants, elderly or disabled family members
- Extra set of car keys
- Cash – as much as you can afford!
For additional preparedness information, visit www.ready.gov and Kentucky Emergency Management at www.kyem.ky.gov. Follow @KYEMPIO on Twitter, like us on Facebook, and sign up for text alerts.
See Governor’s proclamation at https://kyem.ky.gov/Documents/septemberpreparednessmonth.pdf.
Credit: KY State Parks
Kentucky State Parks across the Commonwealth will host Halloween events throughout October.
Many of the park system’s campgrounds will have special activities for campers, including decorations, costumes, hayrides and games for the kids. Resort parks, recreation parks and historic sites will also have special Halloween events during October.
A list of events is available at: http://parks.ky.gov/halloween/
Parents of young children should check in advance as some parks have age recommendations for events.
Many state resort parks have inexpensive rates for lodge rooms and cottages during the fall. In addition to excellent restaurants, Kentucky State Parks have trails, playgrounds and plenty of wildlife viewing areas and fall colors that make for excellent family outings.
For more information about state park events, or to make lodging or camping reservations, visit www.parks.ky.gov
With shovels in hand, Mayor Greg Fischer, Library Director Jim Blanton, Councilwoman Marilyn Parker, the Library Foundation, and members of the community officially broke ground today on the new 40,000-square-foot Northeast Regional Library located on Bellevoir Circle off Ormsby Station Road near the Northeast YMCA.
The Northeast Regional Library is similar in size and scope to the recently built Southwest and South Central Regional libraries and is the final of three regional libraries included in the Louisville Free Public Library’s Master Facilities Plan. Replacing the much-smaller Westport branch (located in Westport Middle School), the Northeast Regional Library will enhance service for more than 170,000 people in eastern Jefferson County.
“The Northeast Regional Library will bring resources for education and lifelong learning to a part of Jefferson County in which the demand for the Library’s services has outstripped its resources,” said Mayor Fischer. “And I’m really pleased that when this Library opens, my administration will have fulfilled our commitment under the Library Master Plan to provide a full-service library within five miles of 90 percent of Louisville residents.”
(Learn more about the Northeast Regional Library)
Library patrons in the Northeast service area checked out more than 1 million books and other materials in the last fiscal year —representing nearly 25 percent of the library system’s total annual circulation. And of the 170,000 residents within this service area, 40 percent are active library cardholders. Despite this tremendous use, the northeast region of Jefferson County falls well below state library standards. The new Northeast Regional Library will more than double the area’s square footage per person.
“I am very excited to see the Northeast Regional Library break ground, fulfilling the ambitious library master plan developed by the partnership of Metro Government and the Library Foundation and propelled forward by the state’s $4 million contribution to the project,” said District 18 Councilwoman Marilyn Parker. “This new library will replace one of the most utilized libraries in the system, adding much needed capacity for this area and a host of new amenities with more community meeting space, expanded materials collections, and the latest technology. This project will be complemented by the major improvements being made to the adjacent A.B. Sawyer Park, so families can easily walk between the new library, the YMCA, and the park.”
The state-of-the-art building will feature an expanded collection, including more bestsellers, DVDs, large type, and books for children and teens, and will provide the latest technologies. The design will include comfortable, quiet spaces for reading and studying, several meeting rooms, an auditorium, a large children’s area, and a separate teen space. New to LFPL, the Northeast Regional also will feature an innovative, hands-on “makerspace” with audio/visual lab and demonstration kitchen, plus outdoor teaching and programming space.
“The Northeast Regional Library will be a hub for educational and community engagement and a cultural centerpiece,” said Library Director Blanton. “Its location near the Northeast YMCA, U of L Shelby Campus, 70 independent cities and municipalities, and more than 50 schools will provide convenient access to a vibrant community, eager for improved library services, collaborative events, and robust programming.”
The design team includes JRA Architects of Louisville, Meyer Scherer & Rockcastle Ltd. of Minneapolis, MKSK of Ohio, and staff from the library.
All aspects of the building’s design have been planned to incorporate advanced, eco-friendly technologies and architectural design to save energy, reduce waste, and improve quality of life. In addition, LFPL is committed to preserving the scenic beauty of the site and to minimize environmental impact. The landscape plan will include adding more trees, walking paths, and usable outdoor spaces to take advantage of the site’s park-like setting.
The total price tag for construction, books, computers, and furnishings is estimated at $17.8 million, with $14 million coming from Metro government and the state, and the additional $3.8 million to be raised from private donors through the Library Foundation. To date, the Foundation has raised 60 percent of its goal, including gifts of $500,000 from the City of Lyndon and $200,000 from LG&E/KU. Library Foundation vice-chair Bill Dunbar also announced today a $400,000 challenge grant made by The James Graham Brown Foundation.
“It is because of the support of organizations like the James Graham Brown Foundation, LG&E/KU, and the City of Lyndon, and passionate community members just like you, that we can make more possible at LFPL,” said Dunbar. “I thank you and our community thanks you for helping make the Northeast Regional Library a reality.”
“Bringing a larger, more updated library to East Louisville has been a priority since joining the Metro Council,” said District 17 Councilman Glen Stuckel. “Early on I worked with the LFPL director to find viable sites for a regional library. Although those didn’t turn out to be the final location, my desire to make this idea a reality has never waned. I am excited the time has finally arrived. The educational and recreational resources available through this project will provide outstanding opportunities for residents of all ages.”
Construction of the Northeast Regional Library is to be completed in early 2019.
What other Metro Councilmembers had to say about the new Northeast Regional Library:
“Libraries are an important cornerstone of a healthy community. I am excited for this new edition to the Louisville Free Public Library system in Northeast Louisville. This amazing library will give people the opportunity to find jobs, experience new ideas, get lost in wonderful stories all while providing a sense of place for gathering as a community. I am especially thankful that funding for several different features to be included as part of the Northeast library have come through partnerships with some of the suburban cities in this area.” – Angela Leet, District 7
“Lifelong learning is so important to our community and I am happy to see the third of the three regional libraries break ground. The Northeast Regional Library will serve a huge part of Louisville Metro. I am grateful to everyone for their efforts in making it happen and especially thankful for the work of the Library Foundation, which has done so much to make each of the regional libraries come to pass.” – Bill Hollander, District 9
“As a teacher, I understand how the need for — and use of — free public libraries have evolved. These gems have been supported all across America dating back to a time before the Declaration of Independence. Benjamin Franklin and friends opened the first lending library in Philadelphia in 1731. Modern libraries serve a much more diverse population with services unforeseen just a generation ago. I am very proud of the work done by the Friends of the Library, and am really grateful to see that the Northeast regional library will be built in accordance with the library master plan.” – Kevin Kramer, District 11
“I’m very pleased that this much needed library will soon be available for public use. It will be a valuable resource to those seeking knowledge in this Information Age and I am proud to have supported its funding.” – Scott Reed, District 16
“This library will be a wonderful addition for our community. It will increase multiple opportunities for children and adults alike.” – Julie Denton, District 19
“As a Metro Councilman, it is exciting to see the hard work and dedication to expanding our library system come to fruition. This new library is furtherance of our commitment to expanding learning resources throughout our Metro.” –Brent Ackerson, District 26
Free music returns to Old Louisville when two very popular bands bring entertainment to Central Park this Friday, September 22nd and Saturday, September 23rd. The Louisville Crashers and Quiet Hollers with Fredrick the Younger highlight this weekend’s Old Louisville LIVE.
“Old Louisville is once again the place to be this coming weekend with two local musical groups that have brought attention to the music scene right here in Louisville,” says Councilman David James (D-6). “It is also another great way to get out and enjoy one of the best places in our city: Old Louisville.”
Old Louisville LIVE kicks off this Friday at 7:00pm with the Louisville Crashers and then on Saturday from 8:00 to 11:00pm with Quiet Hollers. Admission to both concerts is FREE.
“Central Park is a great place to enjoy a wide range of entertainment and events and we strive throughout the year to showcase what a great place Old Louisville is for everyone in the community,” says Howard Rosenberg, President of the Old Louisville Neighborhood Council.
All Old Louisville LIVE shows will take place at the C. Douglas Ramey Amphitheater in Central Park, are free, and open to public. Food and drink will be available for purchase.
Joining Councilman James and the OLNC as sponsors are Louisville Metro Government, The 1300 Association, South Third Street Association, South Fourth Street Association, Garvin Gate Neighborhood Association, Belgravia Association, St. James Court Association, Treyton Oak Towers, Genscape, Paradise Tomato Kitchens, Ollie Green and Company, CPA’s szand BC Plumbing.
For the latest updates about Old Louisville LIVE, visit Old Louisville Neighborhood Council’s website http://oldlouisville.org/ and Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/oldlouisvilleneighborhood.
The Metro Council’s Budget and Government Accountability, Ethics and Intergovernmental Affairs Committees will focus learning about proposed changes to the pension system, the possibility of separating the County Employment Retirement System (CERS) from the Kentucky Employee Retirement System (KERS) and future costs associated with the pension system during back to back meetings on Thursday, September 21st.
At 4:00 PM, the Budget Committee is hosting the Kentucky League of Cities Government Affairs Manager Bryanna Carroll for a comprehensive review of the pension system and proposed changes.
“Metro Louisville is not the only city dealing with this issue,” says Councilwoman Marianne Butler (D-15), who chairs the Budget Committee. “It is important that we understand the impact the pension will have on future budgets from a monetary as well as a recruitment and retention basis.”
At 5:00 PM, or immediately following the discussion, the Council’s Government Accountability, Ethics and Intergovernmental Affairs Committee will discuss a resolution urging the General Assembly to separate CERS from KERS. Reports indicate that CERS is funded at greater than 60% while the beleaguered KERS is funded at less than 20%. The resolution is sponsored by the respective Caucus leaders Councilmen Bill Hollander (D-9) and Robin Engel (R-22).
“With a proposed Special Session planned for the coming weeks to review possible reforms, this resolution is very timely and other cities and county governments are advocating the separation to state lawmakers,” says Councilman Pat Mulvihill (D-10), the Chair of the Committee.
State Budget Director John Chilton recently estimated that Louisville Metro might possibly have to contribute nearly $50 million to cover Metro’s pension obligation.
All Metro Council Committee meetings are carried live on Metro TV, Spectrum Cable Channel 184 and on UVERSE Channel 99.
You can watch the meetings online by going to the Metro Council home page at http://louisvilleky.gov/government/metro-council/metro-council-clerk and click the “Watch Meetings Online” button
Following an extensive community engagement effort and a detailed review conducted by a committee of Metro staff and citizen volunteers, Mayor Greg Fischer today announced that the Louisville Urban League has been selected to develop a state-of-the-art multi-sports complex anchored by an indoor track and field facility on the 24-acre Heritage West property located at 3029 W. Muhammad Ali Blvd.
“The Urban League’s plan reflects the community’s desire for a project that will bring immediate life to this key piece of land, and provide healthy outlets for youth and adults to engage in a variety of sports and other activities,” said the Mayor. “This is an exciting process, and I look forward to returning to this site soon to break ground on a new development that brings the vision and values of the people of Russell to life.”
The complex will be designed to host a variety of sporting events potentially sponsored by organizations such as USA Track and Field (USATF), the National College Athletics Association (NCAA), colleges and universities, and local and regional public and private schools. The facility also will feature retail space and related amenities.
“We are thrilled to be chosen as the development partner for the Heritage West property,” said Sadiqa Reynolds, President and CEO of the Louisville Urban League. “This project will bring 20,000 visitors with disposable income into Louisville and more importantly into west Louisville. Louisville will be a U.S. track and field destination.”
(Learn more about the Louisville Urban League’s plan)
The total project cost is expected to be $30 million.
Heritage West is located on the western border of the Russell neighborhood, which is currently seeing unprecedented levels of investment, including the $29.5 million mixed-income, mixed-use redevelopment of Beecher Terrace, a project expected to leverage at least $200 million in new investment; Waterfront Park Phase Four expansion; relocation of Passport Health Plan’s headquarters; and construction of a new YMCA at 18th and Broadway.
“The community has anxiously awaited an exciting development and concept for the property that will help transform the neighborhood and help put west Louisville on the map,” said Councilwoman Cheri Bryant Hamilton, District 5. “We hope that this athletic facility project will become a reality for Heritage West and will be a place to help our young people realize their dreams.”
The city began the Heritage West redevelopment process in March, when it issued a Solicitation of Interest that drew four innovative and exciting proposals, one of which was eventually withdrawn. More than 125 public comments were received on the four proposals.
The West Louisville Community Council (WLCC), a grassroots organization of residents, neighborhood associations, places of worship, educational and cultural institutions, focused on responsible, citizen-engaged redevelopment of vacant and abandoned properties in west Louisville, has been a key partner throughout the review and engagement process.
The WLCC has co-hosted community visioning meetings and public review meetings for the Heritage West Property, and sponsored an art contest that led to the renaming of the site as “Heritage West.”
“Positive outcomes can be achieved when community, organizations, and government agencies strategize collectively around issues impacting people. Heritage West is an example of how our collective resources can spur transformation within a community,” said Natasha Cummins, Chair of the Executive Committee, WLCC. “Today marks the day where the community’s voice was heard and decision makers took heed. We support this announcement and know that this initiative will create a positive vibe in our community and gain national recognition. West Louisville Community Council will continue to work closely with all involved and expect Heritage West to focus on community benefits as the project evolves.”
To read more about the project, visit https://louisvilleky.gov/sites/default/files/advanced_planning/lul_track…
Maya Williamson was struggling, even homeless briefly, and wasn’t sure she would ever realize her dream of going to college. Then, she connected with a Louisville program that helped her get financial aid and stay on track with her studies. Now, Maya is pursuing a business degree at Jefferson Community & Technical College, planning to be the first in her family to graduate college.
Maya says the support she got from the KentuckianaWorks College Access Center (KCAC) made the difference.
“I don’t think I would have made it to college without all their help,” she said.
The KCAC provides a variety of free services that help people go to college, including help in applying for financial aid, and in finding and enrolling in the school that’s right for them. This past year, the center assisted more than 3,000 people — more than two-thirds of them were lower-income, and 83 percent were the first in their family to attend college.
Mayor Greg Fischer joined the KCAC adult program’s staff, clients and partners in marking its 40th year of operation by dedicating new and improved space in the ArtSpace Building at 323 W. Broadway, next to the Brown Theater.
“Helping people realize their dream of higher education is not only critical for each student and their family, it’s critical to building a stronger workforce and economy,” the Mayor said. “It’s also key to building safer neighborhoods because greater education leads to better jobs and careers that can break the cycle of poverty, hopelessness and violence.”
A critical time for people wanting to attend college begins October 1, when the application for federal student financial aid, known as FAFSA, can be filed.
“Getting financial aid is a key component to make your dreams of college a reality,” said Lashala Goodwin, executive director of KCAC. “Our counselors can guide you through the process and maximize your chances of getting funding and other support.”
Goodwin said many schools require a completed FAFSA form to be eligible for any type of student aid, including grants, work-study, student loans and scholarships. And it’s especially important to act quickly in Kentucky, which is one of only a few states that awards financial aid on a first-come, first-serve basis. People who wait to file the FAFSA could lose out on state support for their education.
KCAC, which is funded by federal TRIO grants, operates two programs, including one that focuses on helping adults 19 and older like Williamson go to college.
A second program works directly with high school students, grades 9-12, helping them keep on track with their studies and develop a plan for college. Program counselors are based in five JCPS schools: Fairdale, Iroquois, Liberty, Valley and Western, and worked one-on-one with more than 800 students during the last school year.
Those seeking assistance through KCAC can contact the center at (502) 584-0475 or go to kentuckianaworks.org/KCAC. There is no charge for any of the services.
The program’s new space on Broadway also houses KentuckianaWorks’ Degrees Work program, which helps boost college attainment by contracting directly with employers such as Humana, Universal Woods and Louisville Metro Government to help their employees return to college.
Both the KCAC and Degrees Work are important contributors to the work being done by 55,000 Degrees, the city’s education movement.
