The walk was at George Rogers Clark Park. At right, Councilman Mulvihill with Mary Ann Disalvo and Major Bogan. 

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. 

Recent studies and reports continue to indicate women who experience sexual harassment, domestic violence and/or sexual assault have a corresponding increase in risk for hypertension, depression, anxiety, poor sleep, and even diabetes. Physical battering puts women at risk of traumatic brain injury which can result in cognitive impairment. 

Additional risks are known to impact children exposed to domestic violence. Growing up in a home with violence puts children at increased risk of poor health outcomes and of being either abused or engaging in abusive behavior as an adult.

We must interrupt the cycle of violence to end it.

As the cost of living keeps on going up, paychecks stay the same or go down. Hard working families find it difficult to make ends meet. Share the joy and blessing of Thanksgiving with 400 families in your neighborhood today by:

• Collecting the food items below
• Donating money to go towards food 
• Sharing with others that want to end the suffering of hunger in our community

Fruit, cranberry sauce, dressing, mac and cheese, sugar, sweet potatoes, green beans, corn, Jello, rolls, margarine, pie (non-frozen), fresh white potatoes, and onions.

Food donations may be delivered to SEAM weekdays between 9 a.m. and noon. Deliveries of large donations may schedule with seamexdir@gmail.com or by calling 500-6697.

Volunteer opportunities are available in the food room, front office, special events, fundraisers and more. Contact the executive director at the above email or phone number to volunteer.

Louisville Metro is looking for someone to donate the large Christmas tree that will stand in Jefferson Square Park through the holidays. 

“Just like most families preparing for the holidays, we’re looking for the perfect Christmas tree,” Mayor Greg Fischer said. “This is the main attraction at Light Up Louisville and it will stay up throughout the holiday season.”

The tree should be a spruce or fir, about 40 feet tall and well-shaped. The city will cut and transport the tree to its prominent spot across from Metro Hall at Sixth and Jefferson streets. Anyone interested in donating a tree should call Metro 311. The tree donor will attend the Light Up Louisville sponsor reception as a featured guest of Mayor Fischer for the Light Up celebration.

Light Up Louisville is held annually on the day after Thanksgiving. This year, the event, in its 38th year, will be held on Friday, November 23.

The tree will be moved with the support of LG&E, Bob Ray Company and Louisville Parks and Recreation.

Saturday morning, from 9 to 11 a.m., South East Associated Ministries will help get your clean paper shredded. Just pull up in your vehicle and bring your food, personal care items, or money donation and get that pile of papers taking up space in your house shredded. Check Facebook for any emergency cancellations or updates. The event is at St. John Paul II at 3042 Hikes Lane.  

The MUSCL Senior Wellness Center's fall fundraising yard sale will take place Saturday, October 27 at the center at 1016 E. Burnett Avenue. 

The sale starts at 8 a.m., and vendors may arrive at 7 a.m. to set up. Booth rentals are available for $10 for an eight-foot table.

The sale will be held outdoors, weather permitting, in addition to an indoor yard sale room. Due to a warehouse clearance, we have an abundance of sewing supplies including: elastic, buttons, thread, needles, binding tape/seam tape-all sizes and colors, crocheting forks, knitting needles, including circular and big boye, latch hooks, tie backs, zippers. We also have clothing, purses, household goods, toys and books.

If you are interested in volunteering or renting a booth, please call 634-3221. 

A proposed ordinance regulating Itinerant Vendors, Peddlers, and Solicitors is now before the Louisville Metro Council’s Public Works, Facilities, Transportation and Accessibility Committee.

The proposed changes include:

• Clarifying the definitions of different types of itinerant vendors
• Clarifying licensing and permitting requirements
• Treating all stationary vendors equal, regardless of kinds of goods or products they sell eliminating the practice of bagging meters and establishing dedicated stationary vending zones in popular metered parking areas and other locations for permitted stationary vendors to transact business 
• Stationary vendors remain able to locate in non-metered, non-residential, on street public parking space and on private property as well as articulating new safety standards for noise, generators and other fuel sources and the public right of ways. 

This is the beginning of the process. Two public hearings are scheduled to be held in the Metro Council Public Works Committee:

• October 30 at 3 p.m is for all businesses that are currently regulated as vendors.
• November 13 at 3 p.m. is for anyone else who would like to comment on the proposed changes. Each speaker will be given three minutes to make a statement and be available for questions by any committee member.

The Metro Council launched an online comment period to collect policy ideas and suggestions to apply to the final proposal.

Please click this link for clarification and online public comment:

https://louisvilleky.gov/government/metro-council/proposed-changes-itinerant-vendors-peddlers-and-solicitors-ordinance

Mayor Greg Fischer announced Thursday that Louisville has been awarded additional federal funding to increase efforts to help break the cycle of crime and violence among young adults ages 18-24, by connecting them to training,  jobs and education.
 
The $1.3 million grant from the U.S. Department of Labor will expand the city’s existing Reimage program, targeting an additional 200 young adults who have been involved in the court system. The new grant will fund training to get youth into jobs in key fields including technology, manufacturing, construction and youth development. Participants will also get help with continuing their education, navigating the court system and addressing drug and alcohol issues.
 
“Connecting with these young people and giving them a second chance is not only the right thing to do, it’s a key part of our strategy for preventing violence and creating safer neighborhoods,” Mayor Fischer said. “Providing rapid training and connecting them to jobs and careers increases their chance for success, while also reducing the odds that they will be further involved in crime and violence.”
 
Louisville is among five communities receiving grants and joining the national reentry project known as the Compass Rose Collaborative, which is led by FHI 360, an international nonprofit working to improve the health and well-being of people in the United States and around the world. The other communities are Boston, Baltimore, Albany, N.Y., and Southeast Arkansas.
 
"I'm thrilled to see this federal investment being made here in Louisville to provide at-risk youth and young people involved in the court system with a better shot at improving their lives,” said Congressman John Yarmuth. “The Reimage program's targeted approach helps lead young people down a path for success through education, job training, and work experience, reducing incidents of crime and violence and promoting a safer Louisville."
 
The new funding allows the hiring of four additional Reimage team members, including three Career Pathway Coaches, who will focus on connecting youth to training and jobs in the key business sectors, and providing follow-up and support.
A variety of training will be available to participants. For example, youth interested in manufacturing will be able to join existing classes at the Kentucky Manufacturing Career Center. Those targeting the construction field can enroll in the Kentuckiana Builds program at the Louisville Urban League. In the technology field -- the Google IT Support Professional Certificate will prepare young adults for entry level jobs in IT support in about eight months through a combination of online learning and mentoring from a dedicated IT coach.
 
The social services track will combine internships with participation in a series of professional youth development workshops.
 
All career pathways will connect with KentuckianaWorks’ existing employer partnerships in manufacturing, construction, technology and youth development.
More than 440 young people have enrolled in Reimage since it began in in September, 2015, and the program has achieved a recidivism rate of less than five percent. Staff with the program do street-level outreach in high-need neighborhoods, including Shawnee, Russell and Park Hill, although eligible youth from all areas of Louisville can participate.
 
“We appreciate the confidence that FHI 360 has with our record of providing skills and confidence to people of all ages,” said Michael Gritton, executive director of KentuckianaWorks. “I mentor a Reimage participant, and I’ve seen with my own eyes the difference this program can make in the life of a young adult.”
 
Reimage is a collaboration between KentuckianaWorks and the city’s Office for Safe and Healthy Neighborhoods (OSHN).

In addition to recruitment efforts in the targeted neighborhoods, young people are referred to the program by partner agencies including OSHN, Department of Juvenile Justice, Louisville Metro Youth Detention Services, the Louisville Public Defender, Kentucky Youth Career Center, Restorative Justice Louisville and JCPS. Individuals 18 and over who are interested in being a Reimage mentor or any youth interested in joining the program can call (502) 574- 4115 or go to wearekycc.org/reimage

Automated system now open to schedule appointments in advance

Louisville Metro Resilience and Community Services (RCS) is offering pre-registration for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), Subsidy Component. The pre-registration will begin on Wednesday, October. 3, and end on October 31.

Pre-registration is for Jefferson County residents who are elderly (60 years or older) or disabled and receive a fixed income (Social Security, SSI, pension or Black Lung benefits).

This pre-registration phase is for the LIHEAP Subsidy Program, meaning eligible residents can apply regardless of the status of their utility bills. 

For documentation requirements and information on scheduling an appointment, click here, contact MetroCall 311 by dialing 311 or 574-5000, email metro.call@louisvilleky.gov,  visit the website’s On Line Customer Service or Live Chat at www.louisvilleky.gov/metrocall, tweet @LouMetro311, or download the free Mobile 311 app from the website.

LIHEAP is made possible by the United States Department of Health and Human Services and by the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services. For more information about Louisville Metro Office of Resilience and Community Services -- visit www.louisvilleky.gov/RCS  or call 574-1157 or Community Action Kentucky at 1-800-456-3452.

More than 60 meals are delivered to homebound seniors in South Louisville every day. But they need more volunteers.

The meals are sorted and picked up at Beechmont Community Center, and volunteers are responsible for delivering the meals to seniors in need. These volunteers, who may be the only people the elderly clients see regularly, support good nutritional health but also promote their independence and well-being.

To volunteer, contact South Louisville Community Ministries at 361-7763.

Atlas has been in the shelter for 195 days!!! This long-stay champion can be shy at first, but is a sweet, laidback dog. The friendly three-year-old enjoys exploring when he takes walks and does great on car rides. Atlas also likes the occasional hamburger or ice cream for being a good boy. His adoption fee is waived thanks to the Pay It Forward Program. Adopt Atlas and receive our VIP package: Free wellness checks for three years, free vaccinations for three years, free canine license (three years), free harness and crate! You can meet Atlas at the LMAS Shelter, 3705 Manslick Road, Monday through Friday from noon to 6 p.m. Questions? Email LMAS at animalservicesadoption@louisvilleky.gov or call 502-473-PETS.

Mondays and Thursdays, YMCA’s “Caring and Learning with Me” at Thomas Jefferson Middle School, 10 a.m. to noon, 1503 Rangeland Road, side of Thomas Jefferson Middle School. 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. Call Keyonna Humphrey at 974-8457 for more information and to register. 

October 23 and 24, A Healthy Journey for Two Educational Baby Shower. 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. For more information, contact Mendy Mason at 341-5400.

• October 23, South Central Neighborhood Place, 4255 Hazelwood Avenue, 1 to 3 p.m.
• October 24, Ujima Neighborhood Place, 3610 Bohne Avenue, 1 to 3 p. m.

October 30, Passport Health Plan Informational Sessions at Cane Run Neighborhood Place, 3410 Lees Lane, noon to 1:30 p.m. or 2 to 3:30 p.m. These informational sessions will introduce changes to Passport Health Plan’s 2019 Medicaid coverage and provide current information on the roll-out of Kentucky HEALTH. Call Leesa Mitchell at 502-212-6677 to RSVP or for more information.

October 22, Diabetes Education Classes at South Jefferson Neighborhood Place, 1000 Neighborhood Place, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. This information session is provided monthly to assist in learning the latest information on managing diabetes including healthy eating, developing an active lifestyle, taking medications and reducing health risks. Sponsored by Family Health Centers. Call 772-8588 to sign up. 

October 25, Medicare/Medicaid Community Special Needs and Advantage Plans at Charmoli Neighborhood Place, 200 Juneau Drive, Suite 200, 9 to 10 a.m. Licensed Sales Agent for Medicare/Medicaid Community Special Needs and Advantage Plans will be available to provide resources and answer questions in our lobby. Contact information for representative present at the event is Mary Catlett, 850-624-9040 or mhih76@yahoo.com.  Call 574-6638 for more information.

October 25, Foster Parent Recruitment Meeting at NorthWest Neighborhood Place, 4018 West Market Street; on the Market Street side of the Academy at Shawnee, 6 to 8 p.m. 
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 Special Needs Adoption Program. Call 595-5437 (KIDS) for more information.

October 25, Trunk or Treat, the DuValle Education Center, 3610 Bohne Avenue, 5:30 to 7 p.m. This annual Halloween event provides a safe and fun environment for the entire family with trick or treating in a line-up of vehicles with trunks full of goodies for children up to 12 years old. Family-friendly costumes and trunk decorations are encouraged. Call 313-4635 for more information.

October 29, Medicare Hub/United HealthCare at Cane Run Neighborhood Place, 3410 Lees Lane, 2 to 3 p.m. Representatives for Medicare Hub and United HealthCare will be available to provide resources and answer questions about Medicare enrollment for 2019. Note that Medicare is for seniors 65+ and permanently disabled persons only. Call 485-6810 for more information.

October 29, Trunk or Treat Halloween Health and Safety Fair at South Jefferson Neighborhood Place, 1000 Neighborhood Place, 6 to 8 p.m. Join the Second Annual Trunk or Treat and Health Fair guaranteed to surprise and delight kids of all ages. Free health related items, candy, movies, treats and games. Dress in your favorite costume and join the fun. Call 363-1483 for more information.

October 31, “Monsters, Inc.” Movie Night at New Birth Church, 3301 Linda Lane, starts at 6 p.m. Cane Run Neighborhood Place’s Community Council is teaming up with New Birth Church for a night of food, fun, information, and Pixar’s “Monsters, Inc.” on a giant inflatable screen. All activities are free. Feel free to wear a costume. In event of rain or cold, all activities will move indoors. Call 775-5388 for more information.

About Neighborhood Place 
Louisville’s Neighborhood Place -- a partnership of Louisville Metro Government (including the Office of Resilience and Community Services, and Public Health and Wellness), Jefferson County Public Schools, Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services and Centerstone (formerly Seven Counties Services) -- provides community-based centers which bring together health care, education, employment and social services at eight locations across the community. To find a Neighborhood Place in your neighborhood, please call Metro Call at 311.

Children's programs include WAGS at the Lbrary, where kids may read aloud to a certified therapy or comfort dog, or Sensory Friendly Storytime, for families with children ages 3 and up with autism spectrum disorders or other sensory integration issues.

Teen programs at Highlands-Shelby Park Library include Homeschool Social Club, Monday Cram Session,

Programs for adults include Fiction Book Club, Nonfiction Book Club, Adult Coloring as Art, and more.

For details visit www.lfpl.org/events. To sign up, call 574-1672.

With so much infrastructure work and utility construction going on throughout District 10, garbage and recycle pick-up may interrupted or delayed. Solid Waste Management Services is making every effort to get to every street during this period. 

If you're renovating or remodeling, have a plan for disposing of the resulting debris. Construction and demolition debris in Louisville garbage and junk pickup collection is prohibited by ordinance. Collection crews have recently been reminded to enforce the ordinance consistently. 

Options for disposal of construction and demolition debris include taking it to the Waste Reduction Center on Meriwether Avenue. Fees are variable depending on volume. More information and a fee schedule are available here. Or consider hiring a hauling company or rent a dumpster. 

The new RecycleCoach app features notifications about garbage, recycling, bulk waste, and yard waste collection services. 

RecycleCoach will help Solid Waste Management Services communicate better by sending special messages such as bulk waste rule reminders or suspension of services for yard waste, etc.

The app also has a “what goes where” feature to allow a person to input a certain item to get information on disposal or recycling.  Download from the App Store or Google Play.

Beginning July 14, 2018, the Kentucky Public Service Commission (PSC) will investigate and impose fines on anyone who comes into contact with an underground natural gas line while digging without having contacted 811 to have the lines located before digging.

Contact 811 (call 8-1-1 or submit an online locate request at 811.com) before you dig and make sure that anyone doing excavation on your behalf contacts 811 two working days before they start.

For more information, please visit lge-ku.com/safety/digging.

Some offices and VA hospitals offer a "Health Promotion Disease Prevention Program" that includes treatment methods including acupuncture, tai chi, and meditation instead of opioids, and they work with the Veterans Crisis Line (1-800-273-8255, Press 1) to provide support and treatment for PTSD and depression, the leading cause of suicide for veterans.

Additional references for VA material and assistance: www.vetcenter.va.gov or 1-877-WAR-VETS or (lifestyle changes for better health) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YX9fLXrF4fA 

There is also a link for sexual trauma: https://www.vetcenter.va.gov/Military_Sexual_Trauma.asp

Eligibility criteria:

•    Must be owner occupied for at least one year.
•    Not available on rental property.
•    Must meet income guidelines (See intake staff) 
•    May receive assistance once in a five year period.
•    Louisville-Jefferson County only

Types of repairs:

• Furnace repair or replacement (October-April only)
  
• A/C unit- repair or replacement (Requires medical statement, available May-Sept. only)
• Electrical repairs/upgrades
• Water line repairs/replacement
• Sewer line repairs/replacement
• Water heater repair/replacement, gas or electric.
     gas line leaks

For further information contact Jackie Wilson-Rudy at 574-5850 or Jacqueline.Wilson-rudy@louisvilleky.gov.

If you wish to make a MetroCall 311 request, please use the following contacts. You'll receive a service request number that will help the District 10 office assist you.

 You can contact MetroCall 311:

 - Email metrocall@louisvilleky.gov

- Visit www.louisvilleky.gov/metrocall where you can

• chat live with Metrocall
• fill out an online form for a 311 service request
• download the free mobile 311 application

 - Tweet @LouMetro311

 - Call 3-1-1 or 502-574-5000

The carts normally cost $50, but Councilman Mulvihill has made them available for residents of District 10 for a reduced cost of $28. Please call 574-1110 or email us for the form.

The reduced cost recycle carts will be available on a first come first served basis until the funds are depleted. This offer is available to urban service district residents.

Click here to sign up for the LENSAlert (Louisville Emergency Notification System). 

In addition to receiving notifications, individuals can create a Safety Profile for themselves and their household that can include any information they want 9-1-1 and first responders to have in the event of an emergency. When individuals make an emergency call, their Safety Profile is automatically displayed to the 9-1-1 call taker, allowing them to send the right responders to the right location with the right information.

Information about medical history, allergies to medication, number of residents in a home and even a picture of the family dog can all be added to a Safety Profile.