Limestone Mines in Kentucky Using Biodiesel as Primary Fuel 4-21-08
Louisville, KY - Petroleum prices continue to rise across the United States, but here in Kentucky, two underground mining operations have not missed a beat. They are using a blend of Biodiesel in all of their underground equipment. The Maysville mine continues to use a 99 percent Biodiesel blend.  The Black River mine has used a blend that is comprised of between 50 and 99 percent Biodiesel.
Carmeuse mines limestone for the production of lime, which is used as aggregate and sold to power plants as a sulfur removal agent. Carmeuse began using a 99 percent blend of Biodiesel one year ago at both their Black River (Pendleton County) and Maysville (Mason County) sites. Combined, the mines use approximately 1 million gallons of fuel annually and store it on site.
Carmeuse has over 400 employees in their surface and mine operations in Kentucky.  Over half of these employees work in the mines operating approxiamtely150 pieces of equipment with diesel engines.  In terms of tons of lime produced, the Maysville site is the second largest in the nation with the Black River site following right behind as third largest.
By utilizing Biodiesel as their primary fuel, Carmeuse supports the health of their workers and the health of the Kentucky and U.S. farm economy,” said Jeff Lykins, President of the Kentucky Clean Fuels Coalition.
Biodiesel was not an unfamiliar fuel when Carmeuse began using it at the higher blend in 2007.
A joint air quality-testing program took place at both sites in 2003 when blends of 20 percent and 50 percent were tested.  The results, published by the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA), showed a significant reduction in Diesel Particulate Matter (DPM).
MSHA is the governing body that sets limits for the concentrations of DPM in the air in a mine as well as limits for personnel exposure. The testing was done in conjunction with the Governor’s Office of Energy Policy and the Kentucky Clean Fuels Coaltion.
Biodiesel is typically used as a fuel additive to petroleum diesel.  It can be produced from vegetable oils or animal tallow. It is renewable and biodegradable
Carmeuse is a leading global producer of lime, with more than 140 years of experience in the extraction and processing of high calcium limestone and dolomitic stone into lime and lime-related products for many different industrial customers.  Lime is used in multiple products and industries of everyday life, such as steel, construction, agriculture, paper, chemicals, plastics, carpets, paints, water treatment, and pollution and gas control.

Are You At Risk for Diabetes? 12-03-07
November is American Diabetes Month
Frankfort, KY (Nov. 26, 2007) – The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) encourages everyone to find out if you’re are at risk for developing type 2 diabetes – and do what it takes to prevent it.
Risk factors associated with the development of type 2 diabetes include family history, pre-diabetes, overweight/obesity, lack of physical activity, being 45 and older, history of gestational diabetes or having a baby that weighs more than 9 pounds at birth, high blood pressure, cholesterol levels, polycystic ovarian syndrome and history of vascular disease.
African-Americans, American Indians, Alaska natives, Asian-Americans, Pacific Islanders and Hispanics are at higher risk for type 2 diabetes and are disproportionately affected by the disease, according to DPH.
“If we do not turn back this epidemic, many people will suffer with widespread disability and premature death. The nation will need to spend billions more for diabetes care,” said William D. Hacker, M.D., commissioner of the Kentucky Department for Public Health. “Kentuckians need to recognize the dangers of the disease and practice preventive measures. This is the most effective means we have to curb rates of diabetes.” 
According to the Kentucky Diabetes Prevention and Control Program and the National Diabetes Education Program (NDEP), this negative trend can be reversed by making better choices about the kinds of food we eat, the amount of exercise we get and the way we live our lives.
“Diabetes prevention is proven, possible and powerful,” said Linda Leber, education coordinator for the Kentucky Diabetes Prevention and Control Program. “Big rewards can be achieved by losing 5 to 7 percent of body weight through healthy eating and getting 30 minutes of physical activity five days a week.”
According to DPH, losing even a small amount of weight can help those who are at risk prevent or delay the onset of this devastating disease. Preventing or controlling diabetes can slow or halt the loss of sight, limbs and life.
The National Diabetes Education Program (NDEP) provides free materials that can help get you started in preventing or controlling diabetes. NDEP’s “Small Steps. Big Rewards Prevent type 2 Diabetes” public education campaign can help increase diabetes prevention awareness. The NDEP materials offer ideas for adhering to a healthy eating plan and staying active with regular physical activity. 
For those already diagnosed with diabetes, the NDEP’s “Control Your Diabetes for Life” materials teach individuals with diabetes to know their ABC’s. A is for the A1C test for blood glucose (blood sugar), B for blood pressure and C for cholesterol.
People should know what these numbers are, what they should be, and how to work with a health care team to reach their personal goals.
To order the free NDEP materials, go to www.ndep.nih.gov or call (800) 438-5383. For more information about diabetes, visit the Kentucky Diabetes Prevention and Control Program Web site at www.chfs.ky.gov/dph/ach/cd/diabetes.

Financial Aid Tip of the Month, September 2007
High school junior will win scholarship, photo shoot
One junior attending Kentucky ’s high schools will win a $500 scholarship to use at a Kentucky college of his or her choice — and a photo shoot for his or her school. Just tell why your school is the best in the state in 200 words or less. There is an important rule change this year: Students should not mention the name of their school or any other identifying factors in their essays.
The Promote Your School Scholarship contest is sponsored by the Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority (KHEAA) and The Student Loan People. Photos from the winning school will be used in KHEAA and The Student Loan People books and other publications.
Students from high schools that have already been featured — Danville , duPont Manual, George Rogers Clark, Murray and Trimble County — aren’t eligible this year. But students from other high schools around the state may enter for a chance to have their school featured in KHEAA publications.
To enter, send your essay to KHEAA, Publications Section, P.O. Box 798 , Frankfort , KY 40602-0798 . You may also e-mail it to publications@kheaa.com or fax it to (502) 696-7230. The winner will be chosen by a committee of employees from KHEAA and The Student Loan People. To ensure objectivity, the committee will not know the names or schools of the entries. The deadline for submissions is November 1.
KHEAA and The Student Loan People provide millions of dollars each year to help Kentucky students pay for college. KHEAA administers the Kentucky Educational Excellence Scholarship (KEES), which is funded by the Kentucky Lottery, and other state grants and scholarships. The Student Loan People provide the lowest cost student loans in the state.
To learn how to plan and prepare for higher education, visit www.GoHigherKY.org. For more information about Kentucky scholarships and grants, visit www.kheaa.com; write KHEAA, P.O. Box 798 , Frankfort , KY 40602-0798 ; or call (800) 928-8926, extension 7381. For information about low-cost student loans, visit www.studentloanpeople.com; write The Student Loan People, P.O. Box 24328 , Louisville , KY 40224-0328 ; or call (888) 678-4625.

The Next Batch of Stars to Come Down Country Music Highway
Were Welcomed on Stage at the Mountain Arts Center Saturday Night
to Thunderous Applause and at Least Three Standing Ovations!
The Junior Jamboree in a "Tribute to the Country Music Highway" is the newest group of the Kentucky Opry family. Performers were Hannah Ratliff, Elkhorn City; who performed “Love Can Build a Bridge” by the Judds; Emily Dillon, Prestonsburg who sang “Coal Miner’s Daughter” by Loretta Lynn and  performed an original song that she has written called “Beautiful Wings;”  Bronson Bush, Raceland, performed “It’s Only Make Believe” by Conway Twitty and a Ricky Skaggs song – “Highway 40 Blues;” Kristen Coots, Viper, sang a Patty Loveless hit titled “You’ll Never Leave Harlan Alive;” Tyler Childers, Louisa, sang “Blame It on the Vain” by Dwight Yoakam; and Jesse Osborne, McDowell, performed “Achy Breaky Heart” by Billy Ray Cyrus!
These performers gained three standing ‘ovations’ during the evening’s performance
The young performers are ages 7 to 16, and they`re extremely talented! We`re used to making stars at the Mountain Arts Center ! We`re very proud to present them!! Their next performance is scheduled for Saturday, August 4.
The audience had nothing but wonderful things to say about the show:
“These kids need to be in the limelight – they just absolutely sparkled!”
“I loved seeing this younger group doing such a great job!”
“There’s no doubt in my mind the MAC is turning out some really talented
young people!”
“Forget Someday – these kids are STARS today!”

SAFEGUARD YOUR HEALTH DURING STORM SEASON
Public Health issues tips, guidelines
FRANKFORT, Ky. (March 29, 2007) - The onset of warmer weather is a welcome sight after the winter, but it also marks the beginning of rain and storm season - a major public health concern.
The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) wants residents of the commonwealth to be mindful of possible health threats brought on by storm season and how to avoid illness, injury and food contamination during the warmer months.
“Storm season can mean more than overtime for the electric company. It can also be harmful to our health,” said William Hacker, M.D., Health and Family Services’ acting undersecretary for health and public health commissioner. “Following some safety guidelines will help you avoid illness and injury this year.”
From preventing foodborne illness to avoiding mosquitoes and harmful insects, there are many things to consider when it comes to protecting yourself in the wake of a storm. Here’s a list of guidelines compiled by DPH staff to serve as a rain and storm guide to public health.
Mosquitoes and Insects
Mosquitoes, in addition to being a nuisance, can carry diseases such as the West Nile Virus or arboviruses. These viruses can lead to swelling of the brain (encephalitis) or Colorado Tick Fever. Follow these guidelines to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes:
* Remove all objects in the yard that may lead to the accumulation of standing water, which provides breeding areas for mosquitoes.
* Report all swimming pools that have been neglected and are in a state of disrepair to the environmental section of your local health department.
* Remember that mosquitoes are most active during dawn and dusk. Wear long-sleeve shirts and long pants when you are outdoors. Spray clothing with repellents containing permethrin, DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus, because mosquitoes may bite through thin clothing.
* Apply insect repellent sparingly to exposed skin, but cover all exposed areas. Be sure to read and follow the manufacturer’s directions.
Food and Water Safety
Storms often leave homes 0without electricity when lightning strikes power lines or rain and heavy winds knock them down. Often, outages last only a short while, but it is not uncommon for homes to be left without electricity for several hours or even days. Similarly, heavy rains can lead to flooding. These events can present many obstacles, including ruining food and water supplies. Here’s how to avoid getting sick when the power goes out or when flood waters start to rise:
* Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible to maintain the cold temperature. Refrigerated food should stay cold for up to four hours, while the freezer will maintain the temperature for approximately 48 hours.
* Wash fruits and vegetables with water from a safe source before eating.
* For infants, if possible, use prepared, canned baby formula that requires no added water and use bottled water for concentrated or powdered formulas.
“To prepare for potential outages, make sure you have an appliance thermometer on hand to check the temperature of your refrigerator and freezer and stock up on coolers large enough for food storage,” said Christine Atkinson, manager of the Food Safety Branch. “Also, plan ahead so you’ll know where ice can be purchased in the event of a storm and power outage and make sure to have a supply of bottled water stored where it will be safe from flooding.”
Health officials also warn about the dangers that arise as a result of flooding. Flood waters can carry bacteria and other organisms that can be harmful to your health. It’s extremely important to protect your food and water supplies from flood waters, such as:
* Use bottled water that has not been exposed to flood waters if it is available. If you don’t have bottled water, you should boil water to make it safe.
* If boiling water isn’t an option, disinfect with one-eighth (or 8 drops) of regular, unscented, liquid household bleach for each gallon of water, stir it well and let it stand for 30 minutes before you use it. Store disinfected water in clean containers with covers. Bleach will kill some, but not all, types of disease-causing organisms that may be in the water.
* If a well has been flooded, water should be tested and disinfected after flood waters recede. If well contamination is suspected, contact the local or state health department or agriculture extension agent for specific advice.
* Do not eat any food that may have come into contact with flood water. Discard any food that may have been exposed to flood water.
* Inspect canned foods and discard any food in damaged cans.
* Thoroughly wash metal pans, ceramic dishes and utensils (including can openers) with soap and water, using hot water if available. Rinse, and then sanitize them by boiling in clean water or immersing them for 15 minutes in a solution of 1 tablespoon of unscented, liquid chlorine bleach per gallon of drinking water (or the cleanest, clearest water available).
* Thoroughly wash countertops with soap and water, using hot water if available. Rinse, and then sanitize.
Storm Cleanup Safety
“Sometimes, it’s not the storm itself that leads to injuries and illness, but the cleanup,” said Hacker. “It’s not at all unusual to see skin lacerations and bruising, bone breaks and sprains and other problems that occur as people try to navigate storm debris.”
Hacker recommended following other health and safety guidelines after a storm has passed, including:
* Use caution entering any structure that has been damaged.
* Wear sturdy shoes or boots, long sleeves and gloves when handling or walking on or near debris.
* Be aware of the risk of exposed nails and broken glass.
* If you have wounds, you should be evaluated for a tetanus immunization.
* Use battery-powered lanterns, if possible, rather than candles to light homes without electrical power. If you use candles, make sure they are in safe holders away from curtains, paper, wood or other flammable items. Never leave a candle burning when you are out of the room.
* Never use generators, pressure washers, grills, camp stoves or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal-burning devices inside your home, basement or garage, or even outside near an open window, door or vent. Carbon monoxide, an odorless, colorless gas, can build up from these sources in your home or garage and poison the people and animals inside, causing sudden illness and death.
If you have additional questions about storm-related health issues or are experiencing signs of illness or injury, contact your health care provider, local health department or visit DPH’s Web site at www.chfs.ky.gov/dph.

Pride Leaders
Lacy will lead local PRIDE Spring Cleanup, April 7-21
PHOTO CAPTION:  Carlton Lacy was honored for his service as a PRIDE Coordinator by Kentucky Environmental and Public Protection Secretary Teresa J. Hill and PRIDE Chairwoman Jean Dorton.
Somerset, Ky. — Local PRIDE Coordinators have begun planning the 2007 PRIDE Spring Cleanup, which will be held April 7 through April 21. They are aiming for a record number of volunteers this spring to help celebrate the 10th anniversary of PRIDE in southern and eastern Kentucky .
Carlton Lacy is the Wolfe County PRIDE Coordinator. He is recruiting volunteers to pick up litter across the county during the two-week campaign. Volunteers can join cleanup events scheduled by Mr. Lacy or plan their own events with his help. PRIDE will supply T-shirts, trash bags, gloves and safety vests for the volunteers.
“I invite you to lend a hand during the Spring Cleanup because we need as many in each community as possible to assist in keeping our county as clean as it can be,” Mr. Lacy said.
“I enjoy volunteering because keeping Wolfe County and Eastern Kentucky clean has always been important to me,” he said. “PRIDE is making a difference in Wolfe County by recruiting volunteers to aid in our cleanups and providing funding to assist in eliminating illegal dump sites.”
Mr. Lacy has been the PRIDE Coordinator since 2004. He works at the court house as the Wolfe County Solid Waste Coordinator. He has lived in Wolfe County for 37 years and currently resides in the Quillen Chapel community with his wife, Stephanie.

Back and Gay will lead local PRIDE Spring Cleanup, April 7-21
PHOTO CAPTION:  Sandy Gay (center) was honored for her service as a PRIDE Coordinator by Kentucky Environmental and Public Protection Secretary Teresa J. Hill and PRIDE Chairwoman Jean Dorton.
Somerset, Ky. — Local PRIDE Coordinators have begun planning the 2007 PRIDE Spring Cleanup, which will be held April 7 through April 21. They are aiming for a record number of volunteers this spring to help celebrate the 10th anniversary of PRIDE in southern and eastern Kentucky .
Neeley Back and Sandy Gay are the Lee County PRIDE Co-Coordinators. They are recruiting volunteers to pick up litter across the county during the two-week Spring Cleanup campaign. Volunteers can join cleanup events scheduled by the coordinators or plan their own events with the coordinators’ help. PRIDE will supply T-shirts, trash bags, gloves and safety vests for the volunteers.
“We invite you to lend a hand during the Spring Cleanup,” Gay said. “When we all work together for a common goal, we have a better opportunity for success in Lee County .”
Looking back on 10 years of PRIDE, Back said, “PRIDE is making a difference in Lee County in so many ways, particularly with its PRIDE Clubs in the schools, septic system programs and dump removals.”
“You can see incredibly cleaner hillsides and streams all across our region,” Gay added. “This makes a safer and healthier environment for everyone in our county. Neeley Back and I have been encouraged by the increasing number of volunteers each year. This is why our county has been so successful.”
Back and Gay have been the PRIDE Co-Coordinators since 1997. Back works at the Lee County Fiscal Court and has lived in Lee County for 30 years. Gay works for the Lee and Owsley County Conservation Districts as District Clerk/Program Coordinator. She has lived in Lee County for 23 years and currently resides in Beattyville with her husband, Aaron.

Hicks will lead local PRIDE Spring Cleanup, April 7-21
PHOTO CAPTION:  Roger Hicks was honored for his service as a PRIDE Coordinator by Kentucky Environmental and Public Protection Secretary Teresa J. Hill and PRIDE Chairwoman Jean Dorton.
Somerset, Ky. — Local PRIDE Coordinators have begun planning the 2007 PRIDE Spring Cleanup, which will be held April 7 through April 21. They are aiming for a record number of volunteers this spring to help celebrate the 10th anniversary of PRIDE in southern and eastern Kentucky .
Roger Hicks is the Knott County PRIDE Coordinator. He is recruiting volunteers to pick up litter across the county during the two-week campaign. Volunteers can join cleanup events scheduled by Hicks or plan their own events with his help. PRIDE will supply T-shirts, trash bags, gloves and safety vests for the volunteers.
“I invite you to lend a hand during the Spring Cleanup because we still have a ways to go to educate and prepare our next generation in solid waste issues,” Hicks said.
Hicks said that he enjoys volunteering because “making Knott County a cleaner and better place for our children and grandchildren is very important to me.”
Hicks has been the PRIDE Coordinator since 2000. He is the Knott County Solid Waste Coordinator. He has lived in Knott County for 56 years and currently resides in the Topmost community.

Wells and Haight will lead local PRIDE Spring Cleanup, April 7-21
PHOTO CAPTION:  Bob Wells and April Haight were honored for their service as PRIDE Coordinators by Kentucky Environmental and Public Protection Secretary Teresa J. Hill and PRIDE Chairwoman Jean Dorton.
Somerset, Ky. — Local PRIDE Coordinators have begun planning the 2007 PRIDE Spring Cleanup, which will be held April 7 through April 21. They are aiming for a record number of volunteers this spring to help celebrate the 10th anniversary of PRIDE in southern and eastern Kentucky .
Bob Wells is the Rowan County PRIDE Coordinator, and April Haight is the coordinator for Morehead State University (MSU). They are recruiting volunteers to pick up litter across the county during the two-week Spring Cleanup campaign. Volunteers can join cleanup events scheduled by the coordinators or plan their own events with the coordinators’ help. PRIDE will supply T-shirts, trash bags, gloves and safety vests for the volunteers.
Volunteers already can put one community-wide cleanup on their calendars. On Friday, April 20, the MSU Center for Environmental Education will hold its annual cleanup, according to Haight. The cleanup will be one of several events by the center to celebrate Earth Day.
"I invite you to lend a hand during the Spring Cleanup because our community is a beautiful area,” Wells said. “If everyone would give a little of their time, it would make a big difference.”
“Volunteering shows you care and encourages others not to pollute,” Haight added.

Helton will lead local PRIDE Spring Cleanup, April 7-21
Somerset, Ky. — Local PRIDE Coordinators have begun planning the 2007 PRIDE Spring Cleanup, which will be held April 7 through April 21. They are aiming for a record number of volunteers this spring to help celebrate the 10th anniversary of PRIDE in southern and eastern Kentucky .
Devon Allen Helton is the Magoffin County PRIDE Coordinator. She is recruiting volunteers to pick up litter across the county during the two-week campaign. Volunteers can join cleanup events scheduled by Helton or plan their own events with her help. PRIDE will supply T-shirts, trash bags, gloves and safety vests for the volunteers.

Rose will lead local PRIDE Spring Cleanup, April 7-21
PHOTO CAPTION:  Linda Rose (center) was honored for her service as a PRIDE Coordinator by Kentucky Environmental and Public Protection Secretary Teresa J. Hill and PRIDE Chairwoman Jean Dorton.
Somerset, Ky. — Local PRIDE Coordinators have begun planning the 2007 PRIDE Spring Cleanup, which will be held April 7 through April 21. They are aiming for a record number of volunteers this spring to help celebrate the 10th anniversary of PRIDE in southern and eastern Kentucky .
Linda Rose is the Morgan County PRIDE Coordinator. She is recruiting volunteers to pick up litter across the county during the two-week Spring Cleanup campaign. Volunteers can join cleanup events scheduled by Rose or plan their own events with her help. PRIDE will supply T-shirts, trash bags, gloves and safety vests for the volunteers.
“I invite you to lend a hand during the Spring Cleanup because this is your home, too,” Rose said. “I enjoy volunteering because I want to see our beautiful area cleaned up.”
Looking back on 10 years of PRIDE, Rose said, “PRIDE is making a difference in Morgan County by cleaning up our streams and roadways and educating our community.”
Rose has been the PRIDE Coordinator since 1997. She works as Morgan County ’s PRIDE Environmental Education Liaison. A life-long resident of Morgan County , she and her husband, Raymond, live in the White Oak community.

Local PRIDE Coordinators will lead Letcher County Spring Cleanup, April 7-21
Somerset, Ky. — Local PRIDE Coordinators have begun planning the 2007 PRIDE Spring Cleanup, which will be held April 7 through April 21. They are aiming for a record number of volunteers this spring to help celebrate the 10th anniversary of PRIDE in southern and eastern Kentucky .
Letcher County’s PRIDE Coordinators are recruiting volunteers to pick up litter across the county during the two-week Spring Cleanup campaign. Volunteers can join cleanup events scheduled by the coordinators or plan their own events with the coordinators’ help. PRIDE will supply T-shirts, trash bags, gloves and safety vests for the volunteers.
Josh Wampler is the Letcher County PRIDE Coordinator. David Vanover is the Fleming-Neon PRIDE Coordinator. Mike Vanover is the PRIDE Coordinator for the Committee for a Better McRoberts.
“I invite you to lend a hand during the Spring Cleanup because it takes more than one person to make a difference,” said David Vanover, who is a Fleming-Neon City Councilman. “Also, by volunteering your time, it will make you feel better about yourself, knowing that you took time out and gave a helping hand. I challenge all organizations to help.”
“The more people that come out to volunteer and help, the more we can clean and make the community we call home safe and clean for our generation and for the generations to come,” said Mike Vanover, the county’s newest PRIDE Coordinator. He added, “I look forward to volunteering because I enjoy working with others and trying to help keep the community clean and safe.”
Looking back on 10 years of PRIDE, David Vanover said, “PRIDE is making a difference in Fleming-Neon by showing people that we care about our region.” In McRoberts, “PRIDE is keeping local streams, roadways and ditches clean and safe,” Mike Vanover said.

Local PRIDE Coordinators will lead Perry County Spring Cleanup, April 7-21
PHOTO CAPTION:  Rosa Couch (center) was honored for her service as a PRIDE Coordinator by Kentucky Environmental and Public Protection Secretary Teresa J. Hill and PRIDE Chairwoman Jean Dorton. Tony Lewis, Tammie Gorman and Charlie Hammonds were unable to attend the PRIDE Board of Directors meeting where the photo was taken.
Somerset, Ky. — Local PRIDE Coordinators have begun planning the 2007 PRIDE Spring Cleanup, which will be held April 7 through April 21. They are aiming for a record number of volunteers this spring to help celebrate the 10th anniversary of PRIDE in southern and eastern Kentucky .
Rosa Couch and Tony Lewis are the Perry County PRIDE Co-Coordinators. Tammie Gorman and Charlie Hammonds are the PRIDE Co-Coordinators for Hazard.
The PRIDE Coordinators are recruiting volunteers to pick up litter across Hazard and Perry County during the two-week Spring Cleanup campaign. Volunteers can join cleanup events scheduled by the coordinators or plan their own events with the coordinators’ help. PRIDE will supply T-shirts, trash bags, gloves and safety vests for the volunteers.
“I invite you to lend a hand during the Spring Cleanup because, by working together, we can make a difference and pass our commitment to future generations,” said Couch, who is the county’s Solid Waste Coordinator and lives in the Saul community.
“I enjoy volunteering because I love my community and Perry County ,” Couch continued. “I am amazed by the beautiful scenery when we have cleaned it.”
Looking back on 10 years of PRIDE, Couch said, “There is a difference in our community because officials are working hard to improve our environment and recruit volunteers, and there’s a commitment to a clean Perry County .”

Callahan will lead local PRIDE Spring Cleanup, April 7-21
PHOTO CAPTION:  Ronnie Callahan was honored for his service as a PRIDE Coordinator by Kentucky Environmental and Public Protection Secretary Teresa J. Hill and PRIDE Chairwoman Jean Dorton.
Somerset, Ky. — Local PRIDE Coordinators have begun planning the 2007 PRIDE Spring Cleanup, which will be held April 7 through April 21. They are aiming for a record number of volunteers this spring to help celebrate the 10th anniversary of PRIDE in southern and eastern Kentucky .
Ronnie Callahan is the Owsley County PRIDE Coordinator. He is recruiting volunteers to pick up litter across the county during the two-week campaign. Volunteers can join cleanup events scheduled by Mr. Callahan or plan their own events with his help. PRIDE will supply T-shirts, trash bags, gloves and safety vests for the volunteers.

Melton and Muncy will lead local PRIDE Spring Cleanup, April 7-21
PHOTO CAPTION:  Angela Muncy (center) was honored for her service as a PRIDE Coordinator by Kentucky Environmental and Public Protection Secretary Teresa J. Hill and PRIDE Chairwoman Jean Dorton. Ronnie Melton was unable to attend the PRIDE Board of Directors meeting where the photo was taken.
Somerset, Ky. — Local PRIDE Coordinators have begun planning the 2007 PRIDE Spring Cleanup, which will be held April 7 through April 21. They are aiming for a record number of volunteers this spring to help celebrate the 10th anniversary of PRIDE in southern and eastern Kentucky .
Ronnie Melton and Angela Muncy are the Leslie County PRIDE Co-Coordinators. They are recruiting volunteers to pick up litter across the county during the two-week Spring Cleanup campaign. Volunteers can join cleanup events scheduled by the coordinators or plan their own events with the coordinators’ help. PRIDE will supply T-shirts, trash bags, gloves and safety vests for the volunteers.
“I invite you to lend a hand during the Spring Cleanup because it is my and everyone’s responsibility to make and keep our county clean and inviting to all,” said Muncy, who is the county’s Solid Waste Coordinator and Enforcement Officer. “I enjoy volunteering because I get to watch people who never before volunteered actually enjoy it!”
Looking back on 10 years of PRIDE , Muncy said, “ PRIDE is making a difference in Leslie County by educating everyone from ages 5 to 95 about the effects of littering and polluting. We have seen the before and after effects.”

Trans. Cabinet Awards Powell Co.
Governor Fletcher, Transportation Cabinet Award $10,549.75 Road Construction Contract in Powell County
JACKSON, KY - (Dec. 21, 2006) - Governor Ernie Fletcher and the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet continue to fulfill their vision to provide a safe and reliable transportation system in Kentucky. KYTC has awarded a $10,549.75 road construction contract in Powell County.
The contract is for the installation of guardrail on KY 11, Clay City-Mt. Sterling Road, along a 0.12-mile stretch near the Montgomery County line.
“This safety improvement will benefit drivers who travel between Powell and Montgomery counties,” said Governor Fletcher. “This highway is a busy route, used by more than 3,000 motorists per day. My administration is committed to making Kentucky's highways as safe as possible, and the installation of guardrail along these sections of road will help us make progress toward that goal.”
George B. Stone Co., LLC of Sharpsburg was awarded the low-bid contract for $10.549.75. The anticipated completion date is June 30.
“Governor Fletcher is committed to providing the best possible highways for drivers in Kentucky,” Transportation Cabinet Secretary Bill Nighbert said. “This project is just part of that goal. Through making operations at the Transportation Cabinet more efficient, we have been able to award record numbers of construction contracts the past two years and invest several million dollars in the transportation infrastructure of this state.”
Construction activities are scheduled on a tentative basis and are subject to change depending on weather conditions. Motorists are asked to “Drive Smart” in work zones and be aware of workers and construction equipment when traveling in areas where projects are ongoing

DRUGS IN BREATHITT COUNTY
Each one of us is touched by the drug problem in Breathitt County, whether it is directly or indirectly.  Is there a solution?  I am beginning to think that there isn’t a solution.  Why would I say this with everyone fighting so hard to eliminate the problem?  Is this the truth?  I think not.  I hear so much about how certain officials are not performing their jobs completely.  It isn’t hear say.  It comes from very reliable sources.  Get the job done or get out of the office so someone else can do the job.
Unite is doing a wonderful job.  If the judges don’t finish the job, it is useless for unite to have them arrested. I commend them for their diligence.
I know of a case where a husband-wife team are selling oxycontin, and methadone openly on South Fork.  However, a member of the family has contacts and it is taken care of.  Get real.  Stop this insanity.  Stop selling your souls to the devil.
Another case is of a young man who openly deals despite the fact he has been referred to drug court.  He is arrested and the judge makes a mistake and doesn’t set the bond correctly.  This means the man will be back on the street selling next weekend.  How very fortunate for this young man.  The thing that erks me it that he has been arrested numerous times and gets out of it every time.  Something wrong with this picture?
Until we get fed up and do something, this problem will go on and on.  People will be murdered, homes will be robbed, children will go hungry, mothers and wives will be abused and children will be sold drugs.  The problem around here is that almost everyone knows someone that is dealing drugs.  They don’t want to get involved. Get involved.  Stop this insanity.  I am sick and tired of it.  This county is on a stand still until we get some morality and ambition.

DANIEL BOONE TRAILBLAZERS MONTHLY REPORT
On August 10th, the Daniel Boone Trailblazers ATV Club held their monthly meeting.  With numerous activities coming up for the fall, discussion was both lively and entertaining.   During this meeting, prices for club stickers and club shirts were discussed with club stickers to be  $4.00 and club shirts #18.00.  Of course, all club members get club merchandise 1/2 price.   These can be purchased at the Kenneth R. Witt Trailhead Building in Hyden, Kentucky (672-4875).  Secretary Lisa Marcum read over the list of volunteers that are to be recognized Monday for their extended efforts and endless hours of volunteer work.  They will be recognized for volunteering to keep section  6B of the Redbird Crest Trails litter Free.  Everyone is encouraged to please Do Not Litter.  Anyone interested in helping to keep our trails free of litter, can feel free ANYTIME to do just that....pick it up.  No need to tell anyone, just pick it up.  Scheduled events for fall were finalized at the meeting with 3 rides scheduled along with Fall cookout and more.  Voting was also held and passed to sponsor little Mr. Preston Spurlock, age 4 years, in his quest for glory on the dirt drag racing circuit.  Discussion was also held about promoting the club.   Several Trailblazers will be going to various events across the state to promote our club every weekend for the next 6 weeks.   The meeting was then adjourned.  All club meetings are the 2nd Thursday of every month.  Everyone is invited to attend.

Vehicle Vs. Pedestrian
The Kentucky State Police Post 7, Richmond, is currently investigating a fatal collision involving a vehicle and pedestrian that occured  on US 127, 2.5 miles North of Harrodsburg. Alfred T. Fisher was traveling North on US 127 when his vehicle struck Marvin Eldridge, age 42 of Harrodsburg. Preliminary investigation reveals that the victim was walking in the right Northbound lane of US 127 when he was struck. Mr. Eldridge was pronounced dead at the scene by Mercer County Coroner Sonny Ransdell. The Mercer County EMS and the Harrodsburg Police Department also responded to the scene. Alcohol is not suspected to be a contributing factor on the part of Unit #1. The incident remains under investigation by Trooper Brandon Curlis.

Water Truck Accident
ON 5/23/05 AT APPROXIMATELY 09:50 HRS KENTUCKY STATE POLICE POST 13 RECEIVED A CALL OF 1 VEHICLE ACCIDENT IN THE ROUSSEAU COMMUNITY OF BREATHITT COUNTY. UPON THE ARRIVAL OF TPR. HURT IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT STEVEN T. BRYANT WAS OPERATING A WATER TRUCK ON A COAL HAUL ROAD. HE WAS TRAVELING ON A DOWN HILL GRADE WHEN HE LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE IN A CURVE. THE VEHICLE OVERTURNED AND LEFT THE ROADWAY. MR. BRYANT WAS PRONOUNCED DEAD AT THE SCENE AND THE INVESTIGATION IS CONTINUING BY TPR. KEVIN HURT ALONG WITH MSHA AND DEPT. OF MINES AND MINERALS.

Ten Commandments Passed 4-21-06
Rep. Ted Edmonds, D-Jackson, and Sen. Johnny Ray Turner, D-Drift, were on hand last week in the Capitol Rotunda when Gov. Fletcher signed into law House Bill 277, which will allow the Ten Commandments to once again be posted in public spaces throughout Kentucky.

KRCC Opens New Facility
KZentucky River Community Care, Inc. (KRCC), the area’s nonprofit Community Mental Health Center is now providing Therapeutic Rehabilitation (TR) services in its new Wolfe County facility.
KRCC bought the Shackelford Funeral Home in Campton, Ky., last July. After months of remodeling and restructuring the building, the original goal of having a new Wolfe County TR has been met.
The Wolfe TR provides a program for those with a serious mental illness who need less than 24 hours of care a day but more than outpatient counseling. Services are designed to promote social, personal adjustment and daily living skills.
Future plans include additional uses for the facility, to help make agency services more convenient to the community. According to Phillip Hardin, KRCC Housing and Facilities Director, “We plan to build an outpatient facility on some of the open property.” This will be a 4,000 square foot building. The existing building has the TR Center located on the first floor.
The new address is 129 Kentucky 15 North, Campton, Ky. The phone number remains the same 606-668-3235.


Increase Community Involvement in Inhalant Prevention 3-17-06
National Inhalants & Poisons Awareness Week March 19-25, 2006
They're all over your house. They're in your child's school. In fact, you probably picked some up the last time you went to the grocery store. Educate yourself. Find out about inhalants before your children do.
Most parents are in the dark regarding the popularity and dangers of inhalant use. But children are quickly discovering that common household products are inexpensive to obtain, easy to hide and the easiest way to get high. According to national surveys, inhaling dangerous products is becoming one of the most widespread problems in the country. It is as popular as marijuana with young people. More than a million people used inhalants to get high just last year. By the time a student reaches the 8th grade, one in five will have used inhalants.
Surveys have indicated a disturbing and potentially fatal trend in communities across the country: inhalant use among teenagers and young children. National Inhalants & Poisons Awareness Week, taking place March 19-25, presents an opportunity to bring this issue to the radar screen and to launch a community-wide prevention campaign.
According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 2.1 million children use inhalants and the use of inhalants has grown by 44 percent from 2003-2004. Young people are using everyday household products, such as gasoline, spray paint, glue, felt-tip markers, nail polish remover and computer dust remover, and in some cases inhaling these products just once can be fatal. Inhalants are also considered a “gateway drug” to other drugs and alcohol abuse.
National Inhalants & Poisons Awareness Week (NIPAW), created by the National Inhalant Prevention Coalition (NIPC), is an annual media-based, community-level program that is designed to increase understanding about the use and risks of inhalant involvement and involve all sectors of the community in the prevention effort.
“Inhalants are usually the first substances that a young person will get involved with. If you can get a child to make the appropriate choices for themselves early on, you stand a better chance for them to not get involved in other things, said Harvey Weiss, Executive Director of NIPC. “Education and awareness are the cornerstones of inhalant prevention and local coalitions can join the more than 700 participants from across the country in this effort.”
A number of tools and resources are available to help coalitions integrate inhalant prevention in their community-wide drug prevention strategy, including a local coordinator’s kit developed by the NIPC. The local coordinator's kit includes a how-to guide to conduct a local media awareness campaign, including sample media advisories and public service announcements; inhalant statistics and background information; tips for working with the media; camera-ready art to reproduce, including brochures and flyers; tips for teachers, guidelines for schools and other resources.
For more information on this annual event or inhalants, visit www.inhalants.org.
For more information about the local coordinators kit, please visit the above listed website. We have a copy of the Parents Guide to Preventing Inherent Abuse, complete with video, brochure and news segment in the UNITE Resource Library. For more information please contact April Nease, Planning and Research Coordinator at 606.487.3700.
Information about the dangers of Inhalants
What is inhalant use? Inhalant use refers to the intentional breathing of gas or vapors with the purpose of reaching a high. Inhalants are legal, everyday products that have a useful purpose, but can be misused. You're probably familiar with many of these substances -- paint, glue and others. But you probably don't know that there are more than 1,000 products that are very dangerous when inhaled -- things like typewriter correction fluid, air-conditioning refrigerant, felt tip markers, spray paint, air freshener, butane and even cooking spray.
Volatile Solvents
Adhesives  model airplane glue, rubber cement, household glue
Aerosols  spray paint, hairspray, air freshener, deodorant, fabric protector, computer keyboard cleaner
Solvents and gases  nail polish remover, paint thinner, type correction fluid and thinner, toxic markers, pure toluene, cigar lighter fluid, gasoline, carburetor cleaner, octane booster
Cleaning agents  dry cleaning fluid, spot remover, degreaser
Food products  vegetable cooking spray, dessert topping spray (whipped cream), whippets
Gases  nitrous oxide, butane, propane, helium
Anesthetics
Anesthetic  nitrous oxide, ether, chloroform

Nitrites
( Nitrite room odorizers)
Amyl  "Poppers," "Snappers"

Butyl  "Rush," "Locker room," "Bolt," "Climax," also marketed in head shops as "video head cleaner"
Who is at risk? Inhalants are an equal opportunity method of substance abuse. Statistics show that young, white males have the highest usage rates. Hispanic and American Indian populations also show high rates of usage.
What can inhalants do to the body? Nearly all abused products produce effects similar to anesthetics, which slow down the body's function. Varying upon level of dosage, the user can experience slight stimulation, feeling of less inhibition or loss of consciousness. The user can also suffer from Sudden Sniffing Death Syndrome. This means the user can die the 1st, 10th or 100th time he or she uses an inhalant. Other effects include damage to the heart, kidney, brain, liver, bone marrow and other organs. Results similar to Fetal Alcohol Syndrome may also occur when inhalants are used during pregnancy. Inhalants are physically and psychologically addicting and users suffer withdrawal symptoms.
What can I do if someone I know is huffing and appears in a state of crisis? If someone you know is huffing, the best thing to do is remain calm and seek help. Agitation may cause the huffer to become violent, experience hallucinations or suffer heart dysfunction that can cause Sudden Sniffing Death Syndrome. Make sure the room is well ventilated and call EMS. If the person is not breathing, administer CPR. Once recovered, seek professional treatment and counseling.
There is a common link between inhalant use and problems in school -- failing grades, chronic absences and general apathy. Other signs include the following:
paint or stains on body or clothing
spots or sores around the mouth
red or runny eyes or nose
chemical breath odor
drunk, dazed or dizzy appearance
nausea, loss of appetite
anxiety, excitability, irritability
Can inhalant use be treated? Treatment facilities for inhalant users are rare and difficult to find. Users suffer a high rate of relapse, and require thirty to forty days or more of detoxification. Users suffer withdrawal symptoms that can include hallucinations, nausea, excessive sweating, hand tremors, muscle cramps, headaches, chills and delirium tremens. Follow-up treatment is very important. If you or someone you know is seeking help for inhalant abuse, you can contact the National Inhalant Prevention Coalition at 1-800-269-4237 for information on treatment centers and general information on inhalants.
What should I tell my child or students about inhalants? It is never too early to teach your children about the dangers of inhalants. Don't just say "not my kid." Inhalant use starts as early as elementary school and is considered a gateway to further substance abuse. Parents often remain ignorant of inhalant use or do not educate their children until it is too late. Inhalants are not drugs. They are poisons and toxins and should be discussed as such.

GROUNDWATER AWARENESS WEEK BEGINS MARCH 13
1.9 million Kentuckians rely on groundwater
FRANKFORT, Ky.  (March 10, 2006) - National Groundwater Awareness Week, an occasion for considering what groundwater means to our communities, to each of us as individuals and how we go about protecting this vital resource, will be observed March 13-17.
Groundwater is the water from rain or melting snow that soaks into the ground to fill cracks and cavities in soils and rocks.  
More than 1.9 million Kentuckians rely on groundwater for drinking water.  Of those, 1.5 million are served by 185 public water systems that are supplied in whole or in part by groundwater. The rest - an estimated 415,950 rural Kentuckians not connected to public water systems - get their drinking water form private wells or springs
Potable groundwater occurs naturally throughout Kentucky, though quantities available for use vary according to regional geology. Groundwater quality in Kentucky is generally good. However, water quality is directly related to land use, geology, groundwater sensitivity and well construction.
As groundwater moves through the soils, it picks up various minerals but also pollutants.  Since everything that goes on the land eventually winds up in the water, we need to be mindful of what we put on or in the ground. Activities with the potential to contaminate groundwater include:
·Failing and improper use of septic tanks
·Leaking underground and above-ground storage tanks
·Excessive fertilizer application
·Leaching nitrates from animal feeding operations and other agriculture
·Improper disposal of hazardous substances
·Over-pumping of aquifers
·Old, improperly designed landfills
·Illegal disposal of trash and animal remains, especially in sinkholes.
Kentucky has three major programs to help protect groundwater:
·The Groundwater Protection Plan program requires development and implementation of a protection plan by anyone conducting activities that have the potential to pollute groundwater.  Each plan is to include pollution prevention measures.  This is a good time to ensure your activities have an adequate Groundwater Protection Plan and you are implementing it.
·The Wellhead Protection Program requires public water supplies that rely on groundwater to delineate the recharge area of the well or spring from which it draws its water, identify potential contaminant sources in this area and implement groundwater protection strategies for these areas.
·In addition, to help protect private water wells, the Groundwater Branch regulates the construction of water wells through the Drillers Certification Program, which requires certification of water well contractors and enforces regulatory standards for water well construction.  This is also a good time to do an annual checkup and maintenance of your well.
Find out about groundwater in Kentucky, well maintenance, groundwater protection plans, wellhead protection and more at <http://www.water.ky.gov/gw/GWB-GW_awareness.htm>.
Find more about Groundwater Awareness Week and things you can do to help protect groundwater at <http://www.gwpc.org/>.



Department of Highways Maintenance Schedule for Breathitt County
JACKSON, KY - (Aug. 16, 2005) -- Department of Highways personnel plan to conduct the following maintenance activities in Breathitt County for the weeks of Aug. 15-19 and Aug. 22-26:

Monday, Aug. 15-Wednesday, Aug. 17
* Repairing slips on KY 1278.
*
* Thursday, Aug. 18-Friday, Aug 19
* Repairing slips on KY 30.
*
* Monday, Aug. 22-Tuesday, Aug 23
* Repairing slips on KY 30.
*
* Wednesday, Aug. 24-Friday, Aug. 26
* Ditching on KY 3193.

Horse Show a Big Hit 7-11-05
On July 9th, 2005, the Grand Opening for the Breathitt County Show Grounds held it's first horse show.  The event was hosted by Mackie Miller and Kenneth Neace.  In all there were over 500 people that attended the event and over 100 horses entered.  The horse show was a huge success and the host would like to thank everyone that participated and attended the event.  And a special thanks to all those that helped build this facility from monetary to time.  A very special thanks to all the sponsors of the event as without them, it may not have been possible or as huge a success. Photos Coming Soon

Interstate 75 southbound still closed in Tennessee Road still expected to re-open late Friday
Frankfort, KY (March 10, 2005)-The southbound lanes of Interstate 75 between the Kentucky-Tennessee border at Jellico and Lafollette Tennessee remains CLOSED TO TRAFFIC between Exit 160 and Exit 134.   The closure is due to a slope slide near mile marker 141.  Crews with the Tennessee Department of Transportation continue to work on building crossover lanes to divert one lane of southbound traffic into the northbound lanes, and
hope to have the work completed by late tomorrow night.
While the closure remains in place, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet is recommending the following alternative routes for traffic heading south on Interstate 75:
*Exit 29 (Corbin) to US 25 E south to TN 63 (Harrogate) south to Exit 134 (Lafollette)
*Exit 29 (Corbin) to US 25 E south to TN 33 (Tazewell) to I-640 (Knoxville) west to I-75

The Tennessee Department of Transportation has the following detour route set up for southbound traffic on Interstate 75 at the Kentucky border:
*Exit 160 (Jellico, TN) to US 25W south to Exit 134 (Lafollette) Motorists taking this route should expect delays because of the amount of traffic utilizing this detour route, which is why the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet is recommending drivers use an alternative route. Commercial truck traffic with wide loads over 12 feet will be required to travel the following detour until ALL repair work is completed on southbound Interstate 75:
*Exit 160 (Jellico, TN) to TN 9 west to TN 297 south to TN 63 south to I-75 south
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet has placed portable several message signs up along I-75 southbound in Scott County, Laurel County, Corbin, Williamsburg and the Kentucky-Tennessee border at Exits 11 (Williamsburg) and 29 (Corbin) advise motorists of the closure and recommended alternative routes. Interstate 75 northbound from Knoxville to the Kentucky border is OPEN to traffic.
For the latest up to date information on road conditions throughout Kentucky, motorists can dial 511.

THE BREATHITT COUNTY LADYCATS WILL BE HOSTING A PANCAKE BREAKFAST AT WENDY'S MONDAY FEBRUARY 21ST BEGINNING AT 7 AM UNTIL 10 AM.  TICKETS CAN BE PURCHASED STARTING TUESDAY FEBRUARY 15TH AT THE WHITE FLASH #2 OR FROM ANY BOOSTER OR LADYCAT PLAYER.  THE BREAKFAST CONSISTS OF THREE PANCAKES, 2 PIECES OF SAUSAGE AND A DRINK FOR $5.00.  PLEASE COME OUT AND SUPPORT YOUR LADYCATS.

Man Survives Serious Accident in Kragen Community 1-28-05
Kragen, Breathitt County KY. Although details are sketchy at this time, one man is lucky to be alive. The driver of a full size Chevy truck was on Hwy 15N heading towards Jackson, KY. when he left the road way and over turned, sliding an estimate 50 + feet before coming to rest on it's roof top in the ditch, with the driver pinned. Jackson Fire & Rescue responded along with Empire Ambulance. The rescue team worked cautiously, as any movement of the truck could possibly have killed the trap man, whose head was hanging out of the truck. The driver was freed from the wreckage and taken to KRMC. Jackson Fire and Rescue are to be commended for a great job in freeing the trapped man. The accident is still under investigation by KSP Trooper Sumner.
Wreckage Photos Here
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