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| Estill Co. Receives Grant to Explore Adventure Tourism Options
4-21-08 FRANKFORT, KY (April 15, 2008) – Gov. Steve Beshear has announced the approval of an Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) Flex-E Grant in the amount of $12,400 for the preparation of an Estill County Tourism Development and Marketing Plan. Estill County officials, working in conjunction with the Bluegrass Area Development District, will use the funds to conduct an assessment of the county's current tourism industry and to identify any untapped resources. The team will recommend strategies and an action plan to better develop and market the area, specifically focusing on potential in the adventure tourism industry. The funding for the grant, administered by the Governor's Office for Local Development (GOLD), is part of a mini-grant program intended to provide limited, short-term financial assistance for the designated 15 ARC distressed counties and 3 ARC at-risk counties to explore economic development opportunities for adventure tourism in Kentucky's Appalachian region. Entities eligible to apply for the grants include local units of government, postsecondary education institutions and non-profit organizations located in or serving distressed counties. "We've received great input and buy in from Estill County local officials," said Lora Littleton, a Community Development Specialist with the Bluegrass Area Development District. "They recognize the value of tourism both economically and culturally." Littleton expects the Tourism Development and Marketing Plan to focus on the large number of cyclists that already visit the county, existing historical sites and on connecting with active tourist attractions in surrounding counties. VETERANS REP IN FRENCHBURG EACH MONTH 11-26-07 A Veterans Benefits Field Representative with the Kentucky Department of Veterans Affairs will be at the Menifee County Courthouse Annex, Frenchburg, Kentucky the 4th Monday of each month. The hours are from 9:00 A.M. till 11:00 A.M. Veterans and their families will be given counseling in filing for Federal and State Veterans benefits. This service is provided free of any charge or fee by the Commonwealth of Kentucky, Department of Veterans Affairs. Feel free to call us and leave a message if we are out; 1-866-376-0308. Your call will be returned as soon as possible. Come see us and bring all documents pertaining to filing a claim. Just Ask the Question Frankfort, KY (Sept. 7, 2007) — When someone is in distress or considering taking their own life, a simple intervention – such as asking a single question - may be all it takes to prevent a suicide . "Every MOMENT is Precious; Learn to Ask the QUESTION" is the theme of this year’s Kentucky Suicide Prevention Week, Sept. 9-15. The campaign features radio ads to bring vital suicide prevention and awareness messages across Kentucky. The Kentucky Department for Mental Health and Mental Retardation Services (MH/MR) wants all Kentuckians to learn more about and get involved with suicide prevention efforts, emphasizing the importance of talking to someone to see if he or she may be considering suicide. The state’s mental health experts recommend open communication and discussion about suicide as the first step toward suicide prevention. For example, it’s important to look for personality changes such as talking about taking one’s life or feeling sad or hopeless about the future – and to ask questions about these topics. Also look for changes in eating or sleeping habits or losing the desire to take part in favorite activities. During Suicide Prevention Week, Kentucky’s 200-plus suicide prevention gatekeeper trainers will teach people in their communities how to recognize the warnings sign of someone in a suicidal crisis, and how to take action to help save a life. “Learning how to ask a single question could be the first step toward saving the life of someone in a suicidal crisis,” said Jan UIrich, MH/MR’s suicide prevention marketing specialist. “Everyone should take this training. It can be done in as little as one hour to one and a half hours and can save someone’s life.” Here are a few facts about suicide in Kentucky: ·Kentucky ranks 16th in the nation in its rate of suicidal deaths. ·In Kentucky, suicides outnumber homicides 3 to 1. ·Suicide is the second leading cause of death for Kentuckians 15 to 34 years old; and the fourth leading cause of death for Kentuckians 35 to 54 years old. Ulrich, additional trainers and suicide survivors (those who have lost someone to suicide) are available to discuss these and other facts surrounding suicide, including suicide prevention training on "how to ask the QUESTION," and the impact of suicide on friends and family. NEW CAMPAIGN ASKS “ KENTUCKY , WHAT’S HOLDING YOU BACK?” CAMPAIGN DIRECTS PUBLIC ATTENTION TO THE BENEFITS OF USING SAFETY BELTS FRANKFORT , Ky. (June 28, 2007) – A new seatbelt awareness campaign launched today by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet asks “ Kentucky , What’s Holding You Back?” During a kickoff event in Frankfort , emotional, real life testimonies drove home the safety belt message. “I know I would be dead had I not been wearing my seatbelt,” said Cornelius Gibson as he recounted his crash. Nurse Medic Bryant Shumate said, “I see people die everyday on our highways that could have been prevented had they only been wearing their seatbelts.” Transportation Cabinet Secretary Bill Nighbert said the decision to wear your seatbelt could determine whether you live or die in a serious crash. “The cabinet’s top priority is highway safety. We encourage loved ones, friends and neighbors to buckle up. The few seconds it takes to snap your seatbelt can save your life,” said Secretary Nighbert. According to the National Safety Council, your chance of dying in an automobile crash is one in 84 over your lifetime. For children and teenagers, highway fatalities are the leading cause of death in Kentucky . With escalating traffic fatalities and 2 out of every 3 people not restrained, Governor Ernie Fletcher led an effort to pass the primary seatbelt law. Only six months after the bill had been signed into law, Kentucky saw its first reduction in fatalities and a significant downward trend resulting in a 5-year low of fatalities. The campaign will run statewide; however, an emphasis will be placed on the state’s high crash corridors, as well as 25 counties that are weighted by fatalities, injuries, safety belt usage, impaired driving, and speeding issues. (Attached is a map of counties included.) Department of Transportation Safety Commissioner Tim Hazlette said the mission of the Department is to reduce fatalities and injuries on Kentucky ’s roadways. “This campaign will assist us in our education and outreach efforts, driving home the importance of buckling up - every trip, every time,” said Hazlette. The “What’s Holding You Back?” Campaign also relies on the collaboration with law enforcement. Captain Tim Lucas stated, “KSP is committed to fulfilling the enforcement aspects of the primary seat belt law. This law improves highway safety for all of us and there is no question that seat belts do save lives.” As Governor Fletcher’s Representative for Highway Safety in Kentucky , Secretary Nighbert oversees and administers federal and state highway safety funds through the Governor’s newly created Department of Transportation Safety. Over 120 highway traffic safety grants were distributed in fiscal year 2007, providing $8.1 million through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that are used to address priority programs such as occupant protection. “ Kentucky , What’s Holding You Back?” Facts 129,183 crashes occurred in Kentucky in 2005, resulting in 985 deaths and nearly 43,488 injuries. 71% of those vehicle occupants killed were not wearing a safety belt. In 2006, two out of every three people killed in a vehicle crash were not wearing a seatbelt. Research has shown that lap/shoulder belts, when properly used, reduce the risk of fatal injury to front-seat passengers by 45 percent and the risk of moderate to critical injury by 50 percent. In Kentucky , nearly two-thirds of traumatic brain injuries and one-third of spinal cord injuries are caused by motor vehicle crashes. Annually, crashes cost Kentuckians over $3 billion – approximately $771 for each resident. About 74% of that cost is paid by citizens not involved in the crashes in the form of higher insurance premiums, medical costs and property damage. On Kentucky ’s highways, a fatality occurs every nine hours, and injury occurs every eleven minutes, and a crash occurs every four minutes. Teenage drivers represent 6% of Kentucky drivers; yet, they are involved in 16% of all fatal collisions and 21% of all injury collisions. Green Circles: A Sustainable Journey from the Cradle to the Grave, will be released to the public on July 1, 2007. The book offers a unique perspective on green living and sustainability by observing environmentally friendly living throughout the human life cycle. Starting with natural childbirth, finishing with green burial, and examining all phases of life in-between, Hall offers tips and suggestions to help each of us live a greener lifestyle. Hall whose newspaper column on environmental topics, The Culture Artist , is currently carried by over fifty newspapers nationwide, had this to say about his upcoming book: “Does green living matter? I think we should consider the consequences either way. What if the environmentalists are wrong, and things like global warming and depletion of natural resources aren’t really happening? Well, if they’re wrong, and we take action anyway, the consequences will be a cleaner environment, better health, and more available resources for everyone. But if the anti-environmentalists are wrong, and we really are running out of resources and heating up the planet in the process, what are the consequences if we take no action at all? “That’s why I think green living matters. If the readers of my book, Green Circles , apply these tips and techniques to their own lifestyles, things can only get better. It’s a win-win situation.” Pepsi presents check for tuition assistance to blind students FRANKFORT, Ky. (February 23, 2007)—The Kentucky Office for the Blind (OFB) received a $20,000 check from Pepsi at an OFB State Rehabilitation Council (SRC) meeting on February 16, 2007. On-Premise Sales Manager of the Kentuckiana Division of PepsiAmericas and SRC member Mike Harrod presented the second installment on behalf of Pepsi for the five-year commitment of $100,000. The funds are for tuition and books for postsecondary education students who are blind or visually impaired. “Pepsi is proud to support visually-impaired Kentuckians working toward a postsecondary education, preparing them for the workforce. This is an important commitment for PepsiAmerica and an investment in Kentucky’s future that will retain dividends to all consumers in the Commonwealth,” stated Harrod. Cutline: Pictured, left to right, at the Pepsi check presentation are SRC members: (front row) Mike L. Harrod, Shelbyville, Shelby County; Scott Trimble, Frankfort, Franklin County; Freda Bailey Shipman, Frankfort, Franklin County; Juda C. Potter, Lexington, Fayette County; Adam Ruschival, Louisville, Jefferson County; Carla Ruschival, Louisville, Jefferson County; Pamela Roark Glisson, Lexington, Fayette County; (back row) Dr. Robert E. Mackey, Corbin, Whitley County; Cecil Cox, Louisville, Jefferson County; Darrell Buford, Louisville, Jefferson County; Gerry Gordon-Brown, Louisville, Jefferson County; Eugene Willis, Louisville, Jefferson County; Charles Allen, Frankfort, Franklin County; and Dr. Ronald E. Milliman, Bowling Green, Warren County. New “Welcome to Kentucky ” Signs are Going Up Crews installing new “Welcome to Kentucky ” Signs FRANKFORT, KY (December 8, 2006) – The new “Welcome to Kentucky – Birthplace of Abraham Lincoln” signs are going up. Governor Fletcher and state and local officials recently unveiled the new “Birthplace of Lincoln” signs during a special ceremony in Hodgenville. This is in part an effort to heavily promote Kentucky ’s ties to Abraham Lincoln during the Lincoln Bicentennial commemorations, which begin in 2008. The national celebration of the two hundredth anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth will begin February 12th, 2009 with festivities in Hodgenville and will continue through February 2010. Here are the following locations of the signs: oI-64 EB from Indiana , in Jefferson County - Installed oI-64 WB from West Virginia in Boyd County oI-65 SB from Indiana , in Jefferson County oI-65 NB from Tennessee , in Simpson County oI-75 NB from Tennessee , in Whitley County oI-75 SB from Ohio , in Kenton County oI-275 EB from Ohio , in Boone County oI-275 WB from Ohio , in Campbell County oI-471 SB from Ohio , in Campbell County oI-24 EB from Illinois , in McCracken County – Installed oI-24 WB from Tennessee , in Christian County oJullian Carroll Purchase Parkway, NB from Tennessee , in Fulton County – Installed Seven Die On Kentucky Roadways During Labor Day Holiday Period (FRANKFORT, Ky.) - Preliminary statistics* indicate that seven people died in seven separate crashes on Kentucky’s roadways during the Labor Day holiday period from 6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 1, 2006, through 11:59 p.m. Monday, Sept. 4, 2006. Preliminary data* indicates alcohol was a suspected factor in three of the seven crashes. Six of the fatalities involved motor vehicles and one pedestrian was killed. Three of the six motor vehicle victims were not wearing seat belts. The motor vehicle crashes occurred in Christian, Clark, Knott, Lawrence, Monroe and Pulaski counties. The pedestrian fatality occurred in Christian County. Through Sept. 4, 2006, a total of 595 people have lost their lives on Kentucky roadways. This is 42 fewer than were reported for this time period in 2005. Of the 491 motor vehicle fatalities, 319 victims were not wearing seat belts. Of the 62 motorcycle victims, 38 were not wearing helmets. There have been 35 pedestrian fatalities. Citizens can contribute to highway safety by reporting erratic drivers to the Kentucky State Police toll-free at 1-800-222-5555. Callers will remain anonymous and should give a description of the vehicle, location, direction of travel and license number if possible. Schools open for Learning by Dan Haddix On a muggy August 3, 2006 morning approx., 7:18am the first load of Breathitt County school high kids unloaded off bus #69 and kids seemed very happy to be back at school. Mr. Derek McKnight was there to greet and wish them a great NEW school year, I watched and seen kids that were coming to the high school for the first day, they were talking and meeting new friends, it seem as if they were ready for the Learning to begin. As the morning begin they were teachers and other High School personnel there at 6:45am And parents started letting their kids off soon after 7am, and more teachers and kids came and sat on the steps, waiting for the doors of a New School year to begin, it just seems as if they had a different Gait, excitement was in the air, as everything looked really clean, painted and many more improvements were made over the summer, so they could have the best. Their new teachers and new students that will have there first day at the High School and everyone was there to make them feel welcomed. So as an ole say when I went to school, goes like this, school day, school day good ole golden rule day, so good to see so many kids enjoying their First day back to the Breathitt County Schools. Want to thank our superintendent Mr. Arch Turner and the board of education for all the improvements and making it a better, and safer place for our kids and their learning environment. Hope everyone get their kids to school and have a Great 2006-2007 school Year. Knott Co. Fatality On Wednesday, June 21, 2006, Post 13 of the Kentucky State Police was notified of an injury accident on KY 160, in the LittCarr area of Knott County. Richard N. Slone, 20, of Whitesburg, was traveling North on KY 160, when he lost control of the 2003 Honda CBR 600 Motorcycle he was driving, and went off of the right shoulder of the roadway. The motorcycle struck a guardrail, and threw Mr. Slone off of the bike, causing him to hit the guardrail as well. Mr. Slone was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash. Richard Slone was transported to the Whitesburg A.R.H. where he was pronounced dead at approximately 3:30P.M. This accident remains under investigation by Tpr. Jody Sims of the Kentucky State Police in Hazard. GOVERNOR FLETCHER UNVEILS I-69 CORRIDOR DESIGNATION May 15 2006 Signs to go up along 10 county I-69 corridor through western Kentucky FRANKFORT, Ky. - Governor Ernie Fletcher and officials from the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet announced today that I-69 Corridor designation signs will be placed on the Pennyrile Parkway, the Western Kentucky Parkway, a section of Interstate 24 and the Purchase Parkway. Governor Fletcher unveiled new I-69 Corridor designation signs at stops in Madisonville and Mayfield. The governor noted that converting parkways to full interstate highway status over the next several decades will provide a significant boost to economic development all along the 10-county corridor. “Kentuckians know that our parkways are the equivalent of interstate highways, and they have served us well,” said Governor Fletcher. “When we have investors come to Kentucky from other states and other nations, they sometimes don’t fully understand the place parkways have in our transportation system. Converting the existing parkways in this 10-county corridor to interstate status will improve our competitive position when we try to attract new industries.” The corridor designation is the next step toward an estimated $616.7 million in new construction and parkway upgrades necessary to establish I-69 from Henderson to Eddyville. While the remainder of the route is still being studied, it is estimated another $180 million would likely be needed to complete the route from Eddyville to Fulton for a total of $796.7 million. The upgrades could be completed in phases allowing the cost be spread over several decades. Kentucky Transportation Secretary Bill Nighbert said the challenging part is coming up with the $796.7 million dollars necessary to make the new interstate a reality over the next 20 years or more. “We are at a great advantage over some of the other states because the cost of upgrading our parkways will be far less than constructing a new highway from the ground up,” said Sec. Nighbert. “It will take patience and perseverance to make I-69 a reality. The placement of these new corridor designation signs is the next logical step toward that reality.” U.S. Rep. Ed Whitfield (R-Hopkinsville) said that continued cooperation between the federal and state government was needed to complete the I-69 project. “As a member of the Congressional I-69 Caucus, I've worked to secure additional federal dollars for I-69,” said Rep. Whitfield. “The recently enacted Transportation Authorization Bill provides $3.16 billion for Kentucky over the next six years – that’s a 30 percent increase over the last authorization. I’m hopeful the state will commit the necessary resources to begin upgrading the parkway system as I-69 will serve to greatly enhance economic development opportunities in western Kentucky.” Chief District Engineer Ted Merryman noted that a recent Economic Development Outlook Study cited by the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development showed the importance of both four-lane highways and interstates for new job creation. “When questioned, 91.4 percent of industries indicated that highway accessibility was either ‘important’ or ‘very important’ to their site selection process. Availability of transportation ranked second behind labor availability as a location factor,” Merryman said. Sen. David Boswell (D-Sorgho) and Sen. Jerry P. Rhoads (D-Madisonville) attended the unveiling ceremony. “I have worked on the I-69 project throughout my years in the State Senate, and I am very supportive of it. It will encourage economic development in the state,” said Sen. Boswell. “In years past, when I served as Commissioner of Agriculture and ran for Lieutenant Governor, improving our interstates was a high priority. It appears that we are moving in the right direction.” “This project will greatly enhance the economic potential of Hopkins County and the surrounding area. It will help us with industrial recruitment,” said Sen. Rhoads. “Hopkins County is located in the center of Western Kentucky and this will further boost our economic potential. I pledge my support and to work with local and state officials to make this project a reality.” The I-69 Corridor runs from the I-164 Spur at Evansville, Ind., crossing the Ohio River to Henderson. That crossing, which would require a new Ohio River bridge, is expected to cost $465 million. From Henderson, I-69 will follow the Pennyrile Parkway to eight miles south of Madisonville, then turn west on the Western Kentucky Parkway to Eddyville. From Eddyville, I-69 will run on Interstate 24 to Calvert City, where it turns south on the Purchase Parkway to run through Mayfield to the Kentucky-Tennessee state line at Fulton. The corridor passes through 10 Kentucky counties, including Henderson, Webster, Hopkins, Caldwell, Lyon, Livingston, Marshall, Graves, Hickman and Fulton. Wabaco Christian Academy Spends a Week in DC By: Jessica Watts A group of 17, including high school students and chaperones, from WCA recently had the opportunity to visit Washington, DC during the National Cherry Blossom Festival. The group departed Friday, March 31 at 4:45 a.m. Once in the nation’s capitol, the group traveled to George Washington University where they took part in a taping of CNN’s “On the Story” which aired Sunday, April 2. The weekend was full of fun as the group visited the National Botanical Gardens, Ford’s Theatre (the location of President Lincoln’s shooting) and the Peterson House (the place of Lincoln’s passing). The group also visited the Smithsonian’s Air and Space Museum where they had the opportunity to see many unique exhibits. Saturday night included a 2 hour comedy show entitled the Capitol Steps which was full of political satire. Sunday the group spent an evening at the National Mall where they visited the Washington Monument, the World War II Memorial, the Reflecting Pool, the Lincoln Memorial, the Vietnam Memorial, and the Jefferson Memorial. The Mall was a wonderful place to spend the day as the Cherry Blossom trees were in full bloom. Monday got off to an early start with a tour of the Pentagon. There, the group visited the indoor 9/11 Pentagon Memorial and saw the plans for a future outdoor memorial. The group was so moved that they decided to donate a portion of the money they raised this year to the Pentagon Memorial Fund. If you are interested in making a contribution visit www.pentagonmemorial.net. The day also included a visit to the Bureau of Engraving and Printing where students had the chance to see U.S. currency printed. Monday came to an end with a visit to the National Archives where students had the opportunity to see the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and the Declaration of Independence among other important documents. Tuesday, April 4 included a tour of the White House and a day at Arlington National Cemetery. In Arlington, the group had the opportunity to see the burial site of President J.F.K. and observe the changing of the guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers. The visit to Arlington ended with a stop at the Robert E. Lee house where the group saw what is arguably the most beautiful view of D.C. Tuesday came to an end with a visit to Union Station. Wednesday included a tour of the Capitol Building where students had the opportunity to set in on Congress. The group’s final stop before returning home was the Supreme Court. All high school students were welcome but all did not choose to attend the trip. Those attending the trip included Justin “JB” Barnett, Jonathon Sumner, Josh Watts, Chris Wooton, Mikka Brown, Dennis Howard, Chase Jett, Jaime Pratt, Andrea Turner, Melanie Sexton, Kenton Cain and several chaperones. The students would like to thank everyone who donated time, money, and energy to the funding of their trip. The trip was a great success! MINE SAFETY BILL CLEARS HOUSE COMMITTEE Third inspection, product panel review added to bill FRANKFORT, Ky. (March 21, 2006) – A bipartisan mine safety bill promoted by Governor Ernie Fletcher containing aggressive enforcement features and additional safety equipment and practices for coal miners unanimously passed a House committee today. Senate Bill 200 was amended by the House Natural Resources and Environment Committee to add a third regular inspection of underground mines each year, a Mine Equipment Review Panel and prohibit the altering of a mine accident site. Governor Fletcher commended committee members for their unanimous support of the legislation. “The continued bipartisan support for progressive and aggressive legislation reflects mine safety is not a political issue but an issue of great importance to all of us,” Governor Fletcher said. “I would urge House members to quickly pass one of the most important bills of the session.” Senator Robert Stivers (R-Manchester) lead sponsor of SB 200, testified mine safety will continue to be a work in progress, especially in the area of technology. “As technology becomes more advanced we will be able to review new innovations and determine if they should be added to our mine safety programs through the review panel,” Stivers told the committee. SB 200 proposes numerous innovations in mine safety enforcement and emergency evacuation, communications and rescue procedures. Under the bill, the commissioner of the Department for Natural Resources would, for the first time in Kentucky’s history, have authority to assess penalties – up to $5,000 – for a violation of a mine ventilation plan or roof control plan. "Ventilation and roof control are the two areas we’ve needed to address, since most accidents are related to these issues,” Representative Robin Webb (D-Grayson) testified. Rep. Webb is steering SB 200 through the House. SB 200 was also endorsed by Steve Earle of the United Mine Workers of America. “We want to go on record in support of this bill, and we hope there are no attempts to weaken or modify the bill,” Earle said. LaJuana S. Wilcher, secretary of the Environmental and Public Protection Cabinet, said SB 200 contains protections for miners who report unsafe mine conditions or cooperate with investigating agencies. “A miner cannot be disciplined for reporting or documenting unsafe mining practices or conditions under this legislation,” Wilcher said. “We are providing them ‘whistleblower’ protection in this bill.” SB 200 also would require, for the first time: ·Two-way communication between the working section of a mine and the surface. ·Emergency action plans, emergency evacuation and firefighting plans for all licensed coal facilities. ·Escape maps posted or readily accessible to all miners and at the surface. ·Escape drills for all miners every 90 days. ·Caches of self-rescuer devices in escape ways, spaced at intervals consistent with federal requirements. SB 200 now goes to the full House for consideration. Rockcastle neighbors arrested on drug charges 3-17-06 Two Mt. Vernon men have been arrested on drug charges following a search of their homes by Operation UNITE on Tuesday, March 7. Michael W. Bullock, 36, of Ramsey Trailer Park on Davis Street, was charged with first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance and possession of marijuana. Bullock is currently awaiting final sentencing for a prior arrest by UNITE detectives in Rockcastle Circuit Court, said Joel Cunigan, manager of UNITE’s Cumberland Drug Task Force. In that case he pled guilty to a felony trafficking in a controlled substance charge and agreed to a three-year sentence. Michael A. Sutton, 37, also of Ramsey Trailer Park, was charged with possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia (second offense) and tampering with physical evidence. Eight detectives from Operation UNITE, accompanied by an officer from the Mt. Vernon Police Department and a deputy from the Rockcastle County Sheriff’s Office, went to the adjacent homes of Bullock and Sutton about 7 p.m. to serve search warrants obtained after a six-month undercover investigation. Police found small amounts of marijuana and money at Bullock’s home and marijuana and drug paraphernalia at Sutton’s home. Cunigan said the tampering charge was the result of Sutton flushing marijuana down a toilet. Both men were lodged in the Rockcastle County Detention Center. Governor Ernie Fletcher announces safety improvement project on U.S. 23 in Boyd County FLEMINGSBURG, KY - (Aug. 17, 2005) -- As part of the vision of Governor Ernie Fletcher and acting Transportation Secretary Bill Nighbert to provide a safe and reliable transportation system for all Kentuckians, work has begun on a $1.4 million safety improvement project on US 23 in Boyd County. The project will strengthen shoulders and improve turning lanes along a busy section of the route that is heavily used by coal trucks. "U.S. 23 is not just known as the Country Music Highway and one of the nation's scenic byways; it is also well-known as the nation's busiest coal-haul route," Governor Fletcher said. "Improvements to this road will mean a safer highway for coal trucks and passenger vehicles alike, resulting in safer travel for citizens and visitors through Eastern Kentucky and the Appalachian Mountains." "As a native eastern Kentuckian myself, I know the importance of the coal industry to the economic health of the region," Secretary Nighbert said. "Besides improving safety, one goal of the Transportation Cabinet is to help promote economic opportunity. If we can complete projects that assist industry while at the same time keeping motorists safe from accidents, then we will do so whenever possible." The project extends from milepoint 4.0 to milepoint 5.7, or from approximately one mile south of the Rivereagle Kenwest terminal entrance northward to the Kentucky Coal terminal entrance. This project will repair and strengthen heavily rutted shoulders that are currently used by loaded coal trucks waiting to turn into the terminals on the Big Sandy River. "Funding for this project came from the secretary's discretionary account, plus a contribution of $50,000 from each of the two coal companies," said Katrina O. Bradley, chief district engineer for the Department of Highways District 9, which includes Boyd County. "This is another example of the types of public-private partnerships that benefit everyone. We realize this is a necessary project and we are glad to be able to make this improvement to U.S. 23, which is one of our district's most important highways." Drivers will encounter lane closures and may experience minor delays as the work progresses. Motorists are urged to use caution in the work areas, and to be alert for flaggers, workers, equipment that may block a portion of the roadway, and other items of concern in work zones. They should pay attention to warning signs alerting them of the roadwork and obey work zone speed limits where applicable. Mountain Enterprises was awarded the low-bid contract for $1,443,409.05 and the work is expected to be completed by Nov. 30. Wedding Bells at KRMC 8-5-05 Frank Rowe and Etheleen Reed were married Thursday, July 28, 2005 at the Kentucky River Medical Center in Jackson, KY. Judge Executive Lewis Henry Warrix officiating. The bride and groom repeated their vows in front of family, friends, and staff at Kentucky River Medical Center. There was a reception following the ceremony. (This is the first marriage ceremony held at Kentucky River Medical Center). Kentucky Transportation Cabinet awarding $167.7 Million in Highway Contracts Repairs, upgrades and new construction projects to begin soon FRANKFORT, KY (July 11, 2005) - A number of highway construction, maintenance and upgrade projects across commonwealth will soon begin following the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet's June letting, in which highway contracts worth $167,771,889.84 have been awarded. "Kentuckians deserve to travel on safe, smooth highways," said Governor Ernie Fletcher. "These projects reflect my administration's commitment to ensuring that drivers in Kentucky are able to get to work, school or other destinations with the confidence that our state's roads are in the best condition possible. Our vision is to provide a safe and reliable transportation network that leads to new economic opportunities. These projects show how this administration is fulfilling this vision." Examples of the new projects include: Repairs and upgrades to 6.45 miles of I-64 in Rowan County ($12,453,499) Cleaning and painting the US 45 bridge over the Ohio River between Paducah and Brookport, Ill. ($7,560,000) Paving approximately 8.4 miles of I-75 in Grant County ($22,489,980) Paving approximately 12.03 miles of the Hal Rogers Parkway in Leslie County ($6,219,635) Relocation of US 62 from Airport Road to State Street in Nelson County ($4,964,007) Adding left turn lane and other improvements to KY 22 in Jefferson County ($1,608,000) Reconstruct 1.32 miles of KY 61 in Adair County ( $7,077,545.23) Resurface three sections of KY 160 and a portion of KY 588 in Letcher County ($1,023,306) "We awarded projects from the largest letting ever," said acting Transportation Cabinet Secretary Bill Nighbert. "Under the leadership of Governor Fletcher, these new projects will help to repair and upgrade our aging highway infrastructure and provide safer roads, which will further economic development and enhance safe travel for all Kentuckians." Fourteen Die On Kentucky Roadways Last Week (Feb. 7 through Feb. 13) (FRANKFORT, Ky.) - Preliminary statistics* indicate that 14 people died in 11 separate crashes on Kentucky's roadways from Monday, Feb. 7 through Sunday, Feb. 13. Of the 11 fatal crashes, preliminary data* indicates alcohol was a suspected factor in two of the crashes and seven of the victims were not wearing seat belts. One of the fatalities was a pedestrian. One triple fatality crash occurred in Whitley County and one double fatality crash occurred in Bourbon County. Three single fatality crashes occurred in Fayette County. Single fatality crashes also occurred in Calloway, Edmonson, Lincoln, Muhlenberg, Union and Whitley counties. Since the beginning of the 2005, a total of 93* people have lost their lives on Kentucky roadways. This is an increase of 15 over the same time period in 2004. Fifty-three of these 93 fatalities were not wearing seat belts. Citizens can contribute to highway safety by reporting erratic drivers to the Kentucky State Police toll-free at 1-800-222-5555. Callers will remain anonymous and should give a description of the vehicle, location, direction of travel and license number if possible. *These statistics are still preliminary as KSP waits for all local law enforcement agencies throughout the state to report any crashes and fatalities that may have occurred in their areas. MUG SHOT PHOTOS HERE UNITE Coordinates Breathitt, Lee, Owsley and Wolfe Counties Roundup 1-28-05 Somerset, KY. Operation UNITE coordinated a round-up resulting in 57 arrest warrants being issued in Breathitt, Lee, Owsley and Wolfe Counties today. The round-up was the culmination of 100 undercover investigations by Operation UNITE officers of which 80 were felony cases and 20 misdemeanors.UNITE was assisted today by Kentucky State Police Posts 13, 7, and 8, Jackson and Beattyville Police Departments and Owsley, Lee, Perry and Breathitt County Sheriff Departments. "This round up was made possible through the combined effort of local, state & federal agencies working together. The impact of these 57 dealers in the community is devastating. And we are here to send a clear message, Eastern Kentucky will longer be a friendly place to sell drugs," said Karen Engle, Executive Director of Operation UNITE. The four counties are part of the Kentucky River Narcotics Task Force, which serves a total of eight counties. Since January 15, 2004, UNITE detectives throughout the 29 county service area have opened a total of 1,652 criminal; seized 12,643 pills; 14,901 grams of marjuana; 1,544 grams of cocaine; and eight pounds of methamphetamine. The street value of these drugs is well over $2,304,126 million. Operation UNITE, which stands for Unlawful Narcotics Investigations, Treatment & Education, serves 29 counties in southern and eastern Kentucky. The region-wide program has three main tasks: creating regional drug task forces for interdiction, confiscation and undercover operations; organizing local citizens' groups and coordination drug treatment programs; and working with educators to expand drug awareness and education programs. Congressman Hal Rogers is responsible for creating the counter-drug initiative. For more information on Operation UNITE, contact Karen Engle at 866-678-6483. UNITE RAID ARREST PHOTOS UNITE PRESS CONFERENCE & MISC. PHOTOS Complete Mug Shots & Charges to come. Names of those arrested 1-28-05: NAME AGE ADDRESSS COUNTY Jennifer Brewer 33 8951 Highland Rd Breathitt Thelma Brown 88 Shucky Bean Rd. Breathitt Ann Barrett 30 734 Jess Branch Rd. Breathitt Polly Allen 60 2980 Quicksand Rd. Breathitt Troy Neace 38 63 Damond Drive Breathitt Charlie Sword 36 11 Beverly Hills Dr. Breathitt Doug Griffith 33 1554 Millers Branch Rd. Breathitt Lester S. Noble 27 791 Barwick Road Breathitt Amy Smith 21 37 Spicer Drive Breathitt Shannon Jones 28 1554 Millers Branch Rd. Breathitt James Baker 33 734 Barwick Rd. 1 Breathitt Jamie Turner 26 25 Arrow Street 3 1 Breathitt Joanie Baker 26 734 Barwick Rd. 1 Breathitt Jimmy Napier 37 2 Sewell St. 2 Breathitt Faye Robinson 48 2121 Quicksand Road 2 Breathitt Michelle Robinson 27 2121 Quicksand Road Breathitt Floyd G. Johnson 50 Breathitt Jail/Johnson Co. Jail Breathitt Foxie Ervine Feltner 40 250 Quicksand Road Breathitt Margaret Feltner 29 250 Quicksand Road Breathitt Richard Jellesvig 27 257 Quicksand Road Breathitt Priscella Prater 23 1652 Smith Branch Road Breathitt Joey Prater 35 1652 Smith Branch Road Breathitt Tim Torrey 25 1652 Smith Branch Road Breathitt Pryce G. Hollan 30 191 Highland Rd., Hwy 30 W Breathitt Kenneth Ray Noble 43 24 Beverly Hills Drive Breathitt Pamela Estep 43 Manchester Owsley Ky.River Renus Delph 38 Manchester Owsley Ky.River Estill Smith 69 Lee County Constant Care Owsley Ky.River Jimmie Gilbert 21 Last Trailer on Duff Road Owsley Ky.River Tammy Smith 22 Last Trailer on Duff Road Owsley Ky.River Jeannie Shelton 35 St. Helens Lee Ky.River Brad Hargus 49 Hill Top Motel Lee Ky.River Sandy Chatt 52 88 Rocky Hill Road Lee Ky.River Joanne Bryant 18 565 Grassy Creek Road Lee Ky.River George Roberts 28 Hwy. 708 Lee Ky.River Barbara Wilson 54 Old Rd. 15(Behind Silver Mine Saloon ) Wolfe |
