Many of us are used to the required weekly and monthly test alerts that periodically interrupt broadcast radio and television programming with those jarring tones. Do not be alarmed when a similar system test is conducted one week from today, although on a much larger scale, coordinated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in conjunction with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
On September 20, 2018, FEMA and FCC will conduct a nationwide test of the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System, known as IPAWS.
Although this test will interrupt radio and television programming like the regular Emergency Alert System (EAS) tests, the messages will be delivered to broadcasters through next-generation alerting infrastructure rather than over the airwaves. Because this exercise make use of that new alerting technology, the alert will also trigger notifications on Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA) compatible cell phones.
The widespread national test is intended to help both alert providers as well as recipients ensure that the system functions normally from end to end so that important information can be received in a timely fashion in the event of an actual emergency.
The WEA portion of the test commences at 2:18 p.m. EDT, and the EAS portion follows at 2:20 p.m. EDT.
The WEA test message will be sent to cell phones that are connected to wireless providers participating in WEA. This is the fourth EAS nationwide test and the first national WEA test. Previous EAS national tests were conducted in September 2011, 2016 and 2017 in collaboration with the FCC, broadcasters, and emergency management officials in recognition of FEMA’s National Preparedness Month.
“The tests that you usually hear are typically a part of the over-the-air broadcast EAS and NOAA Weather Radio systems,” a representative of alerting equipment manufacturer, Gorman-Redlich, told Louisville Dispatch. “Those tests tend to be for a relatively small geographic area and affect only broadcast outlets. This time, the test targets a nationwide audience, with alerts being sent to all broadcasters at once by internet and satellite signals and to individual cell phones by their carriers.”
The message heard on radios and televisions during this nationwide test will be similar to regular monthly EAS test messages with which the public is familiar and will include a reference to the WEA test: Continue reading

Photo: Neighborhood Place
Neighborhood Place partners offer a variety of health-focused events and services in September including a healthy cooking class, a Diabetes management class, an educational baby shower and an opportunity to learn Mindfulness techniques. For more details about these offerings and several others please refer to the list below.
Sept 4, FedEx Ground Employment Opportunities at First Neighborhood Place, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Located at 1503 Rangeland Rd. Call (502) 313-4700 for more information. A FedEx human resources recruiter will talk one-on-one with individuals interested in a career as a Package Handler with FedEx Ground.
Sept. 4, Car Seat Safety Check at Ujima Neighborhood Place, 9 – 11 a.m.
Located at 3610 Bohne Ave. Call Norton Children’s Hospital at 629-7358 to make an appointment. Learn how to install your child’s car seat or booster seat. It’s estimated that eight out of ten seats are not used correctly. Car seat-fitting by appointment only.
Tuesdays, Now through Oct. 2, Healthier Meals, Healthier Me Class at South Jefferson Neighborhood Place, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Located at 1000 Neighborhood Place. Registrations is required by calling 772-8588. Come and learn more about healthy eating, meal planning on a budget and more. Persons can still attend without a reservation, but will not be able to earn a slow-cooker.
Sept. 6, Basic Diabetes Self-Management Class at Ujima Neighborhood Place, 1 – 2:30 p.m.
Located at 3610 Bohne Ave. Registration are required by calling 574-6663. Whether you are recently diagnosed or have had diabetes for years and need a refresher, this session is for you. Topics include what diabetes is and is not, glucose monitoring, problem solving, healthy eating, medication management, sick day management, healthy exercise, goal setting, and more. Sponsored by Louisville Metro Public Health and Wellness.
Sept. 6 and 10, Sodexo Hiring Opportunities at two locations
Sodexo, a food-service agency, will provide on-the-spot interviews for positions with Jewish Hospital, Our Lady of Peace and University of Louisville Hospital. Bring your resume and be prepared for an interview. This is one of Sodexo’s busiest hiring seasons. Stop by if you are looking for employment that can lead to a full-time or part-time position.
Sept 6, A Healthy Journey for Two Educational Baby Shower at First Neighborhood Place, 1 – 3 p.m.
Located at 1503 Rangeland Rd. A Healthy Journey for Two is an educational baby shower open to any expectant mothers. Contact Mendy Mason at 341-5400 to register and for more information. The class will include a range of information and resources, as well as free baby items, gift cards, prizes, and snacks. Hosted by Seven Counties and KIDSNow. Fathers are welcome but must be registered.
Mondays and Thursdays, YMCA’s “Caring and Learning with Me” program at Thomas Jefferson Middle School, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Located at 1503 Rangeland Rd., side of Thomas Jefferson Middle School. Call Keyonna Humphrey at 974-8457 for more information and to register. This free program provides a wonderful learning environment for children ages 3-5 years old and their caregivers focusing on play and exploration. The adult caregiver is required to attend with the child/ren and you may also bring other children ages (0-2). Sponsored by the YMCA with support from First Neighborhood Place.
Sept 10, 12, 17, 20 and 28, Passport Health Care Community Engagement at multiple locations
Passport Members are invited to join with representatives from Passport Health Care for one-on-one consultations to discuss plan benefits and options. This is a great opportunity as Passport aims to raise awareness and educate the community about the Passport Health Plan mission. Passport members will receive a $10 retail gift card for attending.
Tuesdays, Sept. 11 – Oct., 2, Learn Mindfulness Workshop at South Jefferson Neighborhood Place, 1 – 2 p.m.
Located at 1000 Neighborhood Place. For more information or registration call Polly Mayer at 363-1483.
Four, one-hour classes that will help you gain insights and techniques to build your own meditation practice, discover your interior stillness, and learn positive coping skills rooted in kindness and compassion. Classes are offered by the Passionist Earth and Spirit Center and the Mindfulness Mentors.
Sept. 11, Free Blood Pressure Screenings at Ujima Neighborhood Place, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Located at 3610 Bohne Ave. Call 485-6145 for more information. Louisville Metro Health and Wellness health educators will provide free blood pressure screenings and health information.
Sept. 11, Foster Parent Recruitment Meeting at First Neighborhood Place, 6 – 8 p.m.
Located at 1503 Rangeland Rd., side of Thomas Jefferson Middle School. Call 595-5437 (KIDS) for more information. Detailed information will be provided on the requirements and process of how to become a foster or adoptive parent. Information such as an explanation of foster care, special needs adoption, and information on foster parent training classes will be provided. Sponsored by Kentucky Foster Care and the training classes will be provided. Sponsored by Kentucky Foster Care and the Special Needs Adoption Program.
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.” Visit https://www.ready.gov/september for a host of ideas throughout National Preparedness Month.
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 the devastating hurricanes and wildfires of 2017, 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. Continue reading
Thousands of hikers, bikers and paddlers will hit the streets and the Ohio River on Labor Day, Sept. 3, for the 28th Subway Fresh Fit Hike, Bike & Paddle at Waterfront Park.
“One of Louisville’s core values is to create a healthier city, and there’s no better time than the annual Hike, Bike & Paddle to come together with residents from all parts of our city for fun and exercise,” Mayor Greg Fischer said.
Subway Restaurants is the title sponsor of Hike, Bike & Paddle, with presenting sponsors Coca-Cola Bottling Company Consolidated, Norton Healthcare and Neil Huffman Subaru, and contributing sponsor Academy Sports + Outdoors.
“SUBWAY Restaurants is proud to be the title sponsor of the SUBWAY Fresh Fit Hike, Bike & Paddle events for the 14th year! The events give people an opportunity to be outside in the fresh air and lead healthy, active lifestyles,” said Umang Patel, Louisville SUBWAY Board Chair.
“As Louisville’s local bottler, Coca-Cola Consolidated is pleased to support the Hike, Bike & Paddle again this year,” said Brian Outland, Vice President for Retail Sales at Coke Consolidated. “This event truly exemplifies Louisville’s community spirit by bringing people together to enjoy the Labor Day Holiday and some outdoor fun.”
Starting at 8 a.m., Hike, Bike & Paddle participants can warm up on the Great Lawn with various fitness activities including Yoga, Tai Chi, Zumba, Pickleball and Rock Climbing. From the main stage, 106.9 Play! radio personality Jordan Rivers will kick off the event with announcements and energetic music throughout the morning. Patrons can also walk down to Harbor Lawn and try their hand at stand-up paddle boarding until 1 p.m.
More than 50 vendors and information booths will open at 8:30 a.m. at Waterfront Park. Participants can take home one of the free 3,000 free Subway Fresh Fit Hike, Bike & Paddle T-shirts commemorating the event. These are available while supplies last.
Along with free T-shirts, participants can expect to take home other giveaways as well. The event title sponsor, Subway, will be passing out $2 cash cards at their tent. Neil Huffman Subaru will be giving away a chance to win a free bicycle and kayak, and free reusable water bottles. Coca-Cola Bottling Company Consolidated will offer free Powerade to hikers.
Participants are encouraged to be “green” and bring their own water bottles which they will be able to fill at Waterfront Park, the Iroquois Park Spray Grounds near the Amphitheater, and the base of the Big Four Bridge, as part of Louisville Water’s Pure Tap To Go.
The hiking route features three different routes to accommodate all participants, including those with four legs. Nu Image Fitness will lead the 5K hike along Waterfront Park and over the Big Four Bridge to Jeffersonville, and back to the Great Lawn. Because dogs are not allowed on the bridge, hikers with animals will be directed on a separate path leading to the Louisville Community Boathouse and back to the Great Lawn. For those needing a shortened route, the third option will travel along Waterfront Park and turn around at the Big Four Bridge. It is wheelchair and stroller-accessible. Walkers may bring dogs to participate in the hike, as long as the animal is on a leash and owners pick up waste during the walk, as required by law.
Both the cycling and walking routes will be marked, and there will be water stops at the halfway points to refill water bottles.
For cyclists, a 15.5-mile route will leave Waterfront Park and go west to Shawnee Park and back to Waterfront Park. Bicyclists choosing not to complete the entire route to Iroquois Park can simply turn around to return to Waterfront Park.
The Brain Injury Association will distribute 500 helmets to riders who don’t have one.
“Bike doctors” will be in Waterfront Park before the ride and along the route to assist cyclists with equipment problems. Louisville Metro Police will provide traffic assistance at key intersections, and the Louisville Metro EMS bicycle team will patrol the route. All cyclists are asked to remain behind the lead police vehicles. The Louisville Bicycle Club and Scheller’s Fitness and Cycling are providing “bike captains” to help cyclists obey the rules of the road.
For the paddle portion, patrons will have the opportunity to try their hand at stand-up paddle boarding provided by Kentucky Paddleboarding LLC until 1 p.m.
Paddlers will begin their adventurous five-mile course at 10 a.m., taking their canoes and kayaks through the McAlpine Locks and Dam to the Jaycees Boat Ramp in New Albany. Participants will launch their canoes or kayaks at the ramp located at the Harbor Lawn of Waterfront Park. Paddlers can drop their boats off at the “Green” parking lot near River Road and Witherspoon Street from 7:30 – 9:30 a.m.
Paddlers are encouraged to enter from the University of Louisville Rowing Center/ Louisville Community Boathouse off River Road and paddle upstream toward the start at the Harbor Lawn. Parking will be available at the Louisville Community Boat House, and volunteers will be on-site to assist paddlers at both of these locations.
Like on Memorial Day, the Louisville Kayak Company will be offering kayak rental services at the event. You can reserve your kayak at the event or before you go by visiting hikebikeandpaddle.org.
Police and safety boats will be nearby during the paddling activity, and all participants will have assistance if needed in launching their canoe or kayak. Safe paddling instruction and demonstrations will take place in the harbor area of the Great Lawn. Paddle participants must wear a life jacket and carry a noise-making device.
After the event, TARC will offer a shuttle service from New Albany back to Waterfront Park for paddlers to retrieve their vehicles at the launch site.
This is the 14th year for the Hike, Bike & Paddle events, which are held each Memorial Day and Labor Day. The events are part of the city’s Healthy Hometown Movement, created to encourage Louisville residents to be more active and make healthier lifestyle choices. To view interactive route maps and for more information, go to hikebikeandpaddle.org.
Already know you’re coming? RSVP on our Facebook event page. And don’t forget to follow us on Twitter and Instagram @AroundLou!
Additional support is provided by Academy Sports + Outdoors, Greater Louisville Sports Commission, Kentucky Paddleboarding LLC, Louisville Water Company, Louisville Waterfront Park, River City Paddle Sports, Scheller’s Fitness & Cycling and Yoga East. Media Sponsors include 106.9 Play!, Louisville Public Media, Outfront Media and WLKY.
Find a schedule and more information
If You Go:
Paddlers will put in canoes or kayaks at the Ohio River ramp on the Harbor Lawn of Waterfront Park or at the Louisville Community Boathouse and paddle upstream toward Harbor Lawn.
Booths at Waterfront Park open at 8:30 a.m. offering paddling instruction, safety lessons, cycling information and assistance, yoga, tai chi, Zumba, Pickleball, rock climbing and stand-up paddle board demonstrations with group participation and more.
On-street parking is available near Waterfront Park. All TARC buses are equipped with bicycle racks for cyclists who want to leave the car at home.
Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer, community leaders from the Louisville Health Advisory Board, including a young woman who lost a loved one to suicide, today urged residents to help prevent suicide by participating in a free community-wide training event.
They also established the ambitious goal of setting a Guinness world record for training the most people in a suicide prevention technique called “QPR” – Question, Persuade, Refer – during this year’s National Suicide Prevention Week, which is Sept. 9-15.
QPR is a free 90-minute training designed for anyone 18 years or older. No specialized mental health care training or expertise is required. Certified trainers will discuss myths about suicide, identify warning signs, outline how to talk with someone who may be thinking about suicide and how to persuade them to seek help.
Similar to CPR, QPR is designed to support an emergency response to someone in crisis, and to save lives.
Free trainings will be conducted at various times and locations throughout Louisville during National Suicide Prevention Week. Sign up at www.qprlou.com
“There is perhaps no greater individual tragedy than someone deliberately ending their own life,” said Mayor Fischer. “Unfortunately, Louisville has a higher rate of suicide compared to similar-sized cities. One suicide is too many. As a compassionate city, we must act. I encourage everyone to participate in this training. My team and I will. I hope you will too.”
While homicide garners much media attention both locally and nationally, suicide is more pervasive. According to the 2017 Health Equity Report there were 584 suicide deaths in Jefferson County from 2011-2015 compared to 333 homicides for the same period. According to recently published data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suicide rates are on the increase, and more than half of people who die by suicide do not have a known mental health condition.
“The rate of suicide death in Louisville is far too high,” said Dr. Val Slayton, Regional VP for Health Services, Humana. “That’s why one of the top goals of the Louisville Health Advisory Board is to make Louisville a Zero Suicide city. Each of us encounters friends and family members struggling with depression and entertaining thoughts of ending their lives. QPR training equips people to recognize warning signs of suicide, how to offer hope, and how to refer to resources to help to save a life. Early recognition of suicide warning signs can be key to saving a life”
“While suicide has received attention in the press recently because of the death of celebrities such as Anthony Bourdain and Kate Spade, we recognize that many people are uncomfortable discussing the subject, even when family or friends may be in crisis,” said Dr. David Hanna, Behavioral Health Program Manager, Passport Health Plan. “QPR training can give people the skills to make a life and death difference.”
Michelle Jones, co-founder and director of the Pete Foundation, said, “My brother Pete seemed to have everything going for him as he pursued a graduate degree in engineering. Yet he suffered from a depression that ultimately claimed his life. Today countless people are fighting depression and may be contemplating suicide. We need to equip ordinary people with the tools to recognize the signs that can lead to suicide and the skills to intervene. I urge everyone to take the QPR training.”
To learn more or sign up for a training, visit qprlou.com.

Photo: Louisville Metro Council
What is the latest on the Hepatitis A outbreak in Metro Louisville? Who makes sure restaurants are clean and prepare food safely? Who controls the mosquito population? Where do I go to learn about lead poisoning prevention?
The answers to those and many other questions can be heard at the next South Central Regional Forum which will focus on the work of the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health & Wellness on Wednesday, August 15th.
“This forum will take a look at many of the programs the Department handles on a daily basis to keep all of us safe,” says Councilwoman Madonna Flood (D-24). “We will also hear an update on how Louisville is dealing with the recent outbreak of Hepatitis A. It’s time for everyone to be aware of what we are doing to bring this under control.”
The forum is set for the new South Central Regional Library at 7400 Jefferson Boulevard from 6:00pm to 8:00pm. Councilwoman Flood says there will be information on how to prevent the spread of Hepatitis A, as well as, other health information.
Nick Hart, Environmental Health Manager of the Department has been invited to answer any and all questions about a wide range of topics. The Environmental Health Division monitors compliance and provides education and enforcement in many areas including:
The South Central Regional Forums are sponsored by Councilwoman Flood and Council Members James Peden (R-23), Vicki Aubrey Welch (D-13) and Barbara Shanklin (D-2).
Louisville Metro Police Department and Code Enforcement will be in attendance.
For more information about this South Central Regional Forum, contact Councilwoman Flood’s office at 574-1124.

Photo: Neighborhood Place
Neighborhood Place partners offer a variety of health-focused events and services in August including three opportunities to attend an educational baby shower, a Healthy Living Club to help reduce stress, a Diabetes Self-Management class, and a series of classes focused on healthy meal planning and eating. To learn more about these offerings and several others please refer to the list below.
Aug 6, 8, 13, 16, 27, and 31, Passport Health Care Community Engagement at multiple locations
Passport members are invited to join with representatives from Passport Health Care for one-on-one consultations to discuss plan benefits and options. This is a great opportunity as Passport aims to raise awareness and educate the community about the Passport Health Plan mission. Passport members will receive a $10 retail gift card for attending.
Aug. 7, 23 and 29, A Healthy Journey for Two Educational Baby Shower at three locations
For more information, contact Mendy Mason at 341-5400. A Healthy Journey for Two is an educational baby shower open to any expectant mothers. The class will include a range of information and resources, as well as free baby items, gift cards, prizes, and snacks. Hosted by Seven Counties and KIDSNow. Fathers are welcome but must be registered.
Aug. 7, Car Seat Safety Check at Ujima Neighborhood Place, 9 – 11 a.m.
Located at 3610 Bohne Ave. Call Norton Children’s Hospital at 629-7358 to make an appointment. Learn how to install your child’s car seat or booster seat. Find out if it’s time for a change. Car seat-fitting by appointment only.
Aug. 13, Sodexo Hiring Opportunities at South Central Neighborhood Place, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Located at 4255 Hazelwood Ave. Call 313-4089 for more information. Sodexo, a food-service agency, will provide on-the-spot interviews for positions with Jewish Hospital, Our Lady of Peace and University of Louisville Hospital. Bring your resume and be prepared for an interview. This is one of Sodexo’s busiest hiring seasons. Stop by if you are looking for employment that can lead to a full-time or part-time position.
Aug. 14, Free Blood Pressure Screenings at Ujima Neighborhood Place, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Located at 3610 Bohne Ave. Call 485-6145 for more information. Louisville Metro Health and Wellness health educators will provide free blood pressure screenings and health information
Aug. 14, Healthy Living Club atSouth Jefferson Neighborhood Place, 1 – 2 p.m.
Located at 1000 Neighborhood Place. For more information call 363-1483 or 772-8588. Join this Healthy Living Club to get the support you need to eat better, be active and reduce stress. August meeting will focus on a healthy cooking demonstration. Free samples and recipes shared with all that attend.
Tuesdays, Aug. 21 – Oct. 2, Healthier Meals, Healthier Me Class at South Jefferson Neighborhood Place, 11 – 12:30 p.m.
Located at 1000 Neighborhood Place. Registrations is required by calling 772-8588. Come and learn more about healthy eating, meal planning on a budget and more. Attend classes and earn a slow cooker to keep.
Aug 21, Basic Diabetes Self-Management Class at First Neighborhood Place, 2 – 4 p.m.
Located at 1503 Rangeland Road at T.J. Middle School. Registration is required by calling 574-6663. Whether you are recently diagnosed or have had diabetes for years and need a refresher, this session is for you. Topics include what diabetes is and is not, glucose monitoring, problem solving, healthy eating, medication management, sick day management, healthy exercise, goal setting, and more. Sponsored by Louisville Metro Public Health and Wellness.
Aug. 30, Passport Health Care Member Informational at Ujima Neighborhood Place, 12 p.m.
Located at 3610 Bohne Ave. Call 1-800-578-0603 ext. 7301 to RSVP. Come join us and get to know about your plan. Lunch is provided. Member’s will receive a$10.00 retail gift card for attending. *Retail gift card available to passport Health Plan members only
Back to School Event Reminders:
Aug. 7, Back to School Fun Resource Fair at Southwick Community Center, 4 – 7 p.m.
Located at 3621 Southern Ave. Call 313-4635 for more information. The annual event is open to families with children in kindergarten through high school. JCPS Family Resource and Youth Resource Centers Coordinators will complete CAP referrals for families needing clothing and uniform assistance. School supplies will be distributed (while supplies last). Several vendors will be available to provide essential health, education, and community resources. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. JCPS Nutrition Services will provide lunch to youth 18 and under. This event is sponsored in part by Ujima Neighborhood Place, Jefferson County Public Schools/The Carter/DuValle Education Center, Kennedy Montessori/Brandies, Maupin, Johnson and Foster Family Youth Service Centers, Southwick Community Center, Councilwoman Jessica Green, Passport Health Plan, Villages of Park DuValle and Louisville Metro Office of Resilience and Community Services.
Aug 11, Back to School Event at Meyzeek Middle School, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Located at 828 S. Jackson St. Call 574-6638 for more information. Open to students in kindergarten through high school. Free backpacks with essential school supplies for the coming year will be distributed while supplies last. Your child must be present to receive school supplies. Smile Academy will provide free dental screenings. Many other local community venders and agencies will be in the gym to provide information for families. Families may complete a CAP referral during the event as well for clothing and uniform assistance. Sponsored by Charmoli Center Neighborhood Place, Louisville Metro Office of Resilience and Community Services and area JCPS schools.
Aug 11, Back to School Festival at Thomas Jefferson Middle School, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Located at 1501 Rangeland Rd. Call 313-4498 or 313-4700 for more information. This annual event is open to families with children in kindergarten through high school. Free backpacks and grade-appropriate school supplies (while supplies last) will be provided. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Free lunches will be served to kids by JCPS Nutrition Services and families may complete a CAP referral during the event as well for clothing and uniform assistance. A Community Resource Fair will include over twenty presenters including diabetes and blood pressure checks, the YMCA program, voter registration, library services and lots of fun and music. Event sponsored in part by First Neighborhood Place, area JCPS schools and Family Resource and Youth Services Centers, Dr. Barbara Shanklin – Councilwoman for District 2 – and other supporting Metro Council members, and Louisville Metro Office of Resilience and Community Services.