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Attention’ Commissioners Tim Spencer, Arch Johnson, Jeff Noble 1-31-08
Dear Commissioners;
My   name is Martha Maggard Hurd and I’m originally  from Breathitt County  and now I live in Hazard KY,   My dad is buried in a graveyard up in Johns Little Creek and due to a broken down swinging bridge we can not visit the grave site to put flowers upon my dads grave   or even to clean it off.  I have been trying to get the swinging bridge fixed for the past four years and I have   always been told we will take care of it but it has not been taken care of yet.  There are two graveyards across this swinging bridge so I’m sure there are a lot more people than me that need that swinging bridge fixed,
I was down their about a year ago to see if it had gotten fixed and met a couple from Georgia that had come to visit a love one at one of the graveyards and.  I had to tell them there is no way to get to the graveyard so they made that big trip for nothing I told them I’m trying to get it fixed but with no luck.  If you all could please check this swinging bridge out and try to get it fixed so people can get to the graveyards and put flowers upon their love ones graves I sure would appreciate it.
Sincerely Yours.
Martha Maggard Hurd
Formally of Johns Little Creek KY
Presently at 31 Hurd Ln Vicco KY, 41773


Road Closure Notice

Drainage pipe installation to result in closure of KY 844 in Morgan County on Thursday, Nov. 8
JACKSON, KY – (Oct. 18, 2007) – Personnel from the Kentucky Department of Highways, Morgan County Maintenance, will close KY 844 in order to install a drainage pipe near mile marker 3 on Thursday, Nov. 8. The project will begin around 9 a.m. and will continue until approximately 2 p.m. During this time, the road will be closed to through traffic and motorists should plan their trips accordingly.
No marked detour will be posted, but drivers can use KY 205 and KY 191 as an alternate route around the project location. In case of inclement weather, the project will be rescheduled for a later date.


Take Precautions to Keep Your Cool in Hot Weather

Extreme Heat Can Pose Serious Threat to Health
FRANKFORT, KY (Aug. 8, 2007) – Governor Ernie Fletcher and the Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) are advising Kentuckians to follow some common-sense safety tips to keep your cool during this period of extreme heat.
“It’s wise to follow some general precautions, given the extremity of this heat wave,” said Governor Fletcher, a physician. “Generally speaking, when temperatures rise to the upper 90s or low 100s, there are some real risks of heat-related illness or ailments.”
According to William Hacker, M.D., acting undersecretary for health and public health commissioner, following these precautions can make the difference between just being hot or being seriously ill:
·Drink plenty of fluid. Increase your normal fluid intake regardless of your activity level. You will need to drink more fluids than your thirst level indicates. This is especially true for people age 65 or older who often have a decreased ability to respond to external temperature changes. In addition, avoid drinking beverages containing alcohol, because they will actually cause you to lose more fluid.
·Wear appropriate clothing and sunscreen. Choose lightweight, light colored, loose fitting clothing. In the hot sun, wear a wide-brimmed hat that will provide shade and keep the head cool. Sunscreen should be SPF 15 or greater and applied 30 minutes before going out into the sun.
·Stay cool indoors. The most efficient way to beat the heat is to stay in an air-conditioned area. If you do not have an air conditioner, consider visiting a mall or public library.
·Schedule outdoor activities carefully. If you must be out in the heat, try to plan your activities so that you are outdoors either before noon or in the evening. Rest periodically so your body’s thermostat will have a chance to recover.
·Use a buddy system. When working in the heat, monitor the condition of your co-workers and have someone do the same for you. Heat-induced illness can cause a person to become confused or lose consciousness.
·Monitor those at high risk. Those at greatest risk of heat-related illness include:
-Infants and children up to 4 years of age
-People 65 years of age or older
-People who are overweight
-People who overexert during work or exercise
-People who are ill or on certain medications for blood pressure or diuretics
-“We also want to remind citizens of the dangers of extremely hot cars and not to leave children or pets in vehicles during these heat waves – even if it’s only for a few minutes,” Hacker said. “Also, don’t forget to give your pet plenty of water, shade and a place to stay cool.”


451  Breathitt  County Students benefit from KHEAA student aid programs

FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 25, 2007)—Breathitt County students received $833,179 in student financial aid administered by the Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority (KHEAA) during the 2005-2006 academic year. Of that amount, Breathitt County students received:
·263 Kentucky Educational Excellence Scholarships (KEES) totaling $351,991.
·312 College Access Program (CAP) Grants totaling $420,701.
*15 Kentucky Tuition Grants (KTG) totaling $38,931.
·3 Early Childhood Development Scholarships totaling $3,094.
·7 Teacher Scholarships totaling $18,461.
In addition to state student-aid programs, KHEAA and its sister agency, The Student Loan People, administer the Federal Family Education Loan Program (FFELP) to help Kentucky students pay higher education expenses. Over 54,000 borrowers saved more than $40 million in 2006 with zero-fee loans, principal and interest rate reductions and generous interest and loan forgiveness for teachers, nurses and public service attorneys through the Best in Class, Best in Care and Best in Law programs.
As state-created, nonprofit entities, KHEAA and The Student Loan People annually provide millions for state student-aid awards, administration of FFELP and financial aid programs and services, outreach programs and borrower benefits to address Kentucky ’s critical shortage professions, all at no cost to the commonwealth or Kentucky taxpayers.
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 more information about student loans, visit www.studentloanpeople.com; write The Student Loan People, P.O. Box 24328 , Louisville , KY 40224-0328 ; or call (888) 678-4625.



Natural Bridge Offering Two Nature Weekends

Wildflower Weekend and Herpetology Weekend
SLADE, Ky. – If you’re a nature enthusiast, Natural Bridge State Resort Park is offering two nature-filled weekends for all plant and animal lovers.
Wildflower Weekend, April 19-22, is a chance for botanists, gardeners and nature lovers to enjoy the hundreds of species of native plants at Natural Bridge.  Field trips and walks will be offered for the beginner and advanced wildflower enthusiast at different times during the four-day event, starting Thursday at 4 p.m.
Speakers will offer their expertise on wildflowers and related topics on Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. The speakers include John Tierney, a retired state park naturalist; Patricia D. Haragan of the Louisville Olmstead Parks Conservancy; Tom G. Barnes of the University of Kentucky Department of Forestry; Maggie Whitson of Northern Kentucky University, Noelle Theres, a naturalist at Natural Bridge and Zeb Weese of the Kentucky State Nature Preserves Commission.
On-site registration fee is $5 per adult and $2 per child (ages 12-17, under 12 is free).
Herpetology Weekend, May 4-5, is a way to learn about nature’s most misunderstood critters!  On Saturday, May 5, experienced herpetologists will lead field trips into the Red River Gorge to observe reptiles and amphibians in their native habitat.  Collection is prohibited. Children’s activities will be offered at 9 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. on Saturday.
There will also be evening speakers on Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m., as well as various demonstrations that will include live venomous snakes.
Registration fee is $5 per adult and $2 per child (ages 12-17, under 12 is free).
For more information about these events, visit www.parks.ky.gov or contact Brian Gasdorf at 1-800-325-1710 or email him at brian.gasdorf@ky.gov.
Natural Bridge State Resort Park is home to one of the largest natural arches in the state and is surrounded by Daniel Boone National Forest.  Natural Bridge offers lodging, cottages, and campground accommodations.  Miniature golf, hiking trails and other recreational opportunities are available.  For more information call 1-800-325-1710.
Natural Bridge State Resort Park is 52 miles southeast of Lexington and 2 miles off the Mountain Parkway at Slade, exit 33.


Shelby County Grand Jury Indicts Six for Welfare Fraud

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Jan. 19, 2007) – An investigation by the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) in the Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) resulted in the indictment of six people on seven felony charges of public assistance fraud totaling over $33,000. 
“The Fletcher administration and the Cabinet for Health and Family Services continue to crack down on waste, fraud and abuse. The new methods for detecting fraud and abuse implemented during the past three years clearly are working,” said CHFS Secretary Mark D. Birdwhistell.
Jenny Konkle, who currently lives in Ohio but resided in Shelby County from May 2001 through June 2006, was indicted by a Shelby County Grand Jury on two counts of public assistance fraud. Konkle, 34, is accused of “devising a scheme with intent to defraud” in order to unlawfully receive $16,062 in medical assistance, $14,654 in food stamp benefits and $2,427 from the Kentucky Transitional Assistance Program from July 2001 through May 2006. Konkle provided false information to the Department for Community Based Services (DCBS) regarding household income and the number of people residing with her. Konkle failed to report Anthony Rodriguez, the father of her children, was living in the household and his income.
Rodriguez, 40, of Cincinnati, Ohio, was also indicted and charged with one count of public assistance fraud when he “devised or planned a scheme” to allow Konkle to obtain benefits from an assistance program by means of false representation or was intentionally engaged in conduct that advanced the scheme. 
In addition, four other people were indicted for complicity to public assistance fraud for providing false information to DCBS in order for Konkle to receive public assistance.
Glenna Gail Shuck, 60, Shelby County, was Konkle’s landlord and allegedly submitted false statements indicating Rodriguez was not living in the Konkle household.
Barbara Lewis, 33, Henry County, was a close friend of Konkle and allegedly submitted false statements indicating Konkle had no income and Rodriguez was not living in the Konkle household.
Barbara Ann Lewis, 66, Henry County, allegedly signed a household composition verification document that she knew to be false indicating Rodriguez was not living in the Konkle household.
Ruth Bohannon, 67, Shelby County, allegedly signed false documentation that she knew to be false verifying Konkle had no income and Rodriguez was not living in the household.
Warrants were issued for Konkle and Rodriguez from Shelby Circuit Court and served Jan. 3 when both Konkle and Rodriguez turned themselves in to the Shelby County Sheriff. Both defendants were released on bond and are scheduled to appear in Shelby Circuit Court Jan. 22.
Criminal summonses were issued for Shuck, B. Lewis, B.A. Lewis and Bohannon and they are scheduled to be arraigned in Shelby Circuit Court Jan. 22.
Randy Compton, an investigator with OIG’s Division of Special Investigations, which conducted the investigation, and the Shelby County Commonwealth Attorney’s Office worked collaboratively to present this case to the Shelby County Grand Jury in December.
"Top priorities of the Office of Inspector General include the detection, investigation and prevention of fraud and abuse," Acting Inspector General Steven D. Davis said. "Resources for health and welfare programs are precious and limited, so it is crucial that we vigorously protect taxpayer money and seek prosecution of the culpable party. Ultimately, those who choose to commit fraud in Kentucky’s health and welfare programs are victimizing the citizens of the commonwealth, which deprives benefits to those who legitimately qualify.”  
Often fraud and abuse investigations begin with a tip from the general public.
“Citizens can and do play a critical role in detecting and preventing fraud and abuse by simply reporting known or suspected fraud and abuse,” said OIG Assistant Director of Special Investigations Ed Barnes. “Some of our best cases are started by hotline calls.” 
Examples of health and welfare programs include Medicaid; the Kentucky Children's Health Insurance Program; the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) nutritional program; Kentucky Transitional Assistance Program; and the Food Stamp Program.
Welfare fraud allegations are investigated by OIG’s Division of Special of Investigations with investigators assigned throughout the commonwealth. If you suspect someone of Medicaid or welfare fraud, call the Fraud and Abuse Hotline’s toll-free number anytime at (800) 372-2970. Those reporting fraud and abuse never have to give their name.


States Top Recruiter Visits Jackson, KY

Today SFC Bobby Jones, Jr visited the Jackson National Guard Armory.  He was selected to the Chiefs Top 54, States Top Recruiter.  SFC Jones is from Barborville, Ky.  He was greeted by MSG Guy Coomer, SGT Brian Curtis, SPC Joshua Howard, SSG Burnam Hudson, and SSG Leroy Noble. While in Jackson SFC Jones visited the technology class at Breathitt High School and gave a Career Direction Class which explained the benefits of the Kentucky National Guard. SGT Brian Curtis and SPC Joshua Howard, new recruiters for Breathitt and Perry County also helped with the Career Direction Class.  Congratulations to SFC Jones on his Top State Recruiter achievement  and SGT Curtis and SPC Howard on their new careers as Recruiters for the Kentucky National Guard.


Photo Here

llIrd Tyme Out

With Honi Deaton & Dream
Saturday, November 11 at 7:30pm
Tickets:  $20 all seats
To order tickets or for more information,
Call the box office toll free: 1-888-MAC-ARTS (1-888-622-2787)
Or Locally 886-2623
Christmas Gift Idea:  IIIrd Tyme Out’s newest CD “Round III at the MAC” now available in the box office.
Success for IIIrd Tyme Out was nearly an overnight occurrence for this group after its forming in 1991. Founding members Ray Deaton (bass) and Russell Moore (guitar), along with everyone else in the group, created a new tradition in modern bluegrass music. Rounding out IIIrd Tyme Out are Steve Dilling (banjo), Alan Perdue (mandolin), Justen Haynes (fiddle) and their excellent sound technician, Donnie Carver.
As the saying goes, “The proof is in the pudding”, and what more proof of the band’s niche as a top bluegrass group in the world than its seven consecutive IBMA awards as its Vocal Group of the Year - 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997,1998,1999 and most recently 2000. Acapella renditions of many songs can rarely be matched. Its superb instrumentation provides even more quality sound to the rich vocal blends.
IIIrd Tyme Out - Where did such a name have its origin? This was the third time out for founding members Deaton, and Moore and consequently the third professional bluegrass band association for each. No doubt, the third time proved to be a charm for these talented artists.


KENTUCKY’S WORKFORCE TRAINING PROGRAMS RANKED AMONG TOP 10 IN NATION

FRANKFORT, KY – Kentucky’s workforce training programs have once again received high marks in Expansion Management magazine’s annual survey of industrial site selection consultants.  For the fourth consecutive year, Kentucky has ranked in the Top Ten, placing eighth in the magazine’s most recent issue.
“Kentucky’s top ten ranking is a testament to its ability to provide companies with a well-trained, highly skilled workforce,” said Ken Krizner, managing editor of Expansion Management. “On-the-job training is no longer an option. Companies that are expanding and relocating want a workforce that is trained from the day operations begin. That type of workforce is available in Kentucky. That’s one reason why many companies considering an expansion or relocation put the commonwealth on their short list of potential sites, and why many of those companies ultimately choose Kentucky for their project.”
“The hardworking people of Kentucky possess an unbridled spirit that can literally boost a company’s bottom line, increase productivity and lower the cost of doing business,” said Governor Ernie Fletcher. “I’m delighted to see our success in providing first-rate workforce training programs to Kentucky’s new and expanding businesses continue to earn national praise from a respected and objective resource such as Expansion Management.” 
Highlighted in the July-August issue of Expansion Management is the Bluegrass State Skills Corporation (BSSC), which is the primary agency within the Cabinet for Economic Development whose mission is to stimulate economic development through programs of skills training to meet the needs of business and industry. 
"We work closely with employers, the Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS) and Kentucky Adult Education to train workers in everything from basic computer skills, math, and reading to problem solving, communications, and teamwork, as well as more industry-specific skills,” said Economic Development Cabinet Secretary Gene Strong.  “We recognize that no two projects are the same.  Our ability to provide the flexibility and customization that companies require sets us apart.”
In the annual survey, consultants were asked to identify states where they found the best workforce training programs while investigating potential sites for their clients.  Programs were judged in terms of financial value, ease of usage and applicability.
Expansion Management, a bimonthly magazine published by Penton Media Inc., helps educate its readers, most of whom run companies with fewer than 500 employees, about how best to evaluate and compare various communities and sites throughout the country and around the world in order to determine which will best satisfy and enhance their long-term business requirements. To see the full report, visit www.ExpansionManagement.com.


Escapee Captured
ON 07/20/06 TPR. IRA NAPIER AND TPR. RONNIE LONG WITH THE KENTUCKY STATE POLICE POST 13 IN HAZARD LOCATED AND ARRESTED ESCAPEE RONNIE M. EVEREAGE  IN THE SCUDDY COMMUNITY OF PERRY COUNTY. EVERAGE HAD ESCAPED FROM THE CLAY COUNTY DETENTION CENTER WHERE HE WAS BEING LODGED FOR PREVIOUS CRIMINAL CHARGES. HE HAS BEEN TRANSPORTED BACK TO THE DETENTION CENTER AND THE INVESTIGATION CONTINUES.

March of Dimes Thanks

The March of Dimes would like to thank the following Jackson businesses/schools for selling and displaying WalkAmerica paper shoes or for raising money:
Campbell’s This N That
Wayne’s Beauty Salon
White Flash II
Fitness Resolution
Sebastian Middle School
LBJ Elementary School
Marie Roberts-Caney School (also top money raiser)

We would also like to thank the following area business/individuals that donated $100 or more and had a message sign displayed at the walk:
Dr. Steven R. Howard, P.L.L.C., Chiropractor
C.M. Rodriguez, DMD
Dr. Rodney B. Griffith, DMD
Jackson Electric & Plumbing
HCTC Resident Life Club
Breathitt Shrine Club
WEKG/WJSN Radio
Gary Taulbee
Mark Combs
John and Sandy Phipps


Dinking Water Week

FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 12, 2006) -- Drinking Water Week is a good time to think about drinking more water.  Nutritionists emphasize the importance of water, particularly for children.  A Cornell University Medical Center study showed that children who drink more than 12 fluid ounces of sweetened beverages are prone to obesity and reduced growth.  Additionally, 70 percent of preschool children did not drink any water at all during the day.
Children should be exposed to healthy drinks, especially water, early in their development before they acquire a taste for sweetened beverages.  Obesity rates have risen in tandem with soda consumption.
Water is an important component of our diet.  It regulates our body temperature, carries nutrients and oxygen to cells, cushions joints, protects organs and tissues and removes wastes.  The brain is 75 percent water and total body mass is 60 percent to 70 percent water.  Dehydration will cause fatigue, lightheadedness, headaches, dizziness and nausea.  
While there is debate about how much water we should consume daily, a good rule of thumb is 100 ounces per day.  Prolonged physical activity and heat exposure will increase water loss and therefore raise your daily fluid requirement.


James "Tonto" Combs Arrested

On March 27, 2006, units from the Kentucky State Police at Post 13 in Hazard, served an arrest warrant on 59 year old James “ Tonto “ Combs, at his place of business at Litt Carr, in Knott County.  The arrest warrant for trafficking in controlled substance 2nd degree, ended a six-month investigation by the Kentucky State Police Drug Enforcement Section, the H.I.D.T.A. Drug Task Force, and the Whitesburg Police Dept.  Combs is currently seeking election as a candidate for Knott County Judge Executive.  He was lodged in the KY River Regional Jail, in Perry County.



Watts Fire Chief Killed in Accident
9-6-05
At appox 1713 hrs post 13 Hazard received a call advising of a possible fire on Watts Rd in Breathitt Co.  Watts Fire Dept was dispatched to the scene, while ENT to the scene in his private vehicle, Henry J Combs, Chief of Watts Fire Dept, was traveling North on KY HWY 1278 when he failed to negotiate a curve.  His vehicle then left the roadway struck a ditch and overturned.  The victim was transported to KRMC in Breathitt Co. where he was pronounced dead.  The accident is being investigated by TPR Rob Wood U/719. 
PHOTO 1   PHOTO 2

Governor proclaims Trooper Island Day KSP-operated camp celebrates 40th anniversary

FRANKFORT, KY (Aug. 5, 2005) - Governor Ernie Fletcher has proclaimed Aug. 6, 2005, as Kentucky State Police Trooper Island Day. Trooper Island, a free, non-profit camp for children whose families may not be able to afford summer camp, is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year.
Governor Fletcher issued a proclamation, which stated in part, "Troopers have been counselors and friends to ... children, giving them a different perspective on the role of law enforcement officers ... and Trooper Island's purpose is to serve as a life-changing adventure, not just another summer camping experience."
"The Trooper Island camp provides a wonderful service to Kentucky's kids who might not have a chance to experience one of the traditional activities of summer," said Governor Fletcher. "I congratulate the Kentucky State Police on Trooper Island's milestone anniversary."
KSP Commissioner Mark L. Miller said he was pleased the Governor visited the island. "It was a great opportunity for the KSP and Trooper Island staff to show Governor Fletcher what Trooper Island contributes to this commonwealth. We appreciate his interest and well wishes," said Miller. "The troopers lend their time to the camp to foster leadership, teamwork and citizenship and show campers that officers can be friends and mentors. It's a unique, enduring program that we continue to build on so kids can get the most out of their experiences."
In 1965, the Kentucky State Police purchased a 34-acre island in Dale Hollow Lake in Clinton County and had it declared a charitable, non-profit organization. Troopers cleared much of the land by hand and served at first as the camp's sole counselors. The first two years of the camp's operation, only two camps were held each year.
Today, troopers and college-age counselors work 12 camps during the 10-week season, which is packed with activities. Included during those 10 weeks are three special camps: One for Hispanic children to help bridge the cultural gap, one for children awaiting heart transplants and one for children with phenylketonuria (PKU), a genetic condition that can cause mental retardation when not detected and treated early in infancy.
At season's end, 700 children have attended camp, learned about fingerprinting and other law enforcement duties, canoed and fished, and played tag football, all while Trooper Island staff reinforces fair play, teamwork and solid self-esteem.
The free camp is for disadvantaged girls and boys 10-12 years of age. To recommend a child for Trooper Island camp, contact any of the 16 Kentucky State Police posts. (See list of posts and phone numbers below.)
Aug. 6 is Trooper Island Appreciation Day and is open to the public. Festivities, which are on the island, include live music, free food and games. A barge will transport people to the island from 9-11 a.m. CDT. For directions to Trooper Island, go to the KSP Web site at www.kentuckystatepolice.org/ or call (270) 433-5422.
Fundraiser for Trooper Island
The Kentucky State Police (KSP) is holding its biggest single fundraising event for the camp, the raffling of a Harley-DavidsonÒ motorcycle to benefit Trooper Island Inc. Each $10 ticket earns the buyer a chance to win a 2005 Harley-Davidson® FLSTF/FLSTFI Fat Boy® motorcycle. This fundraiser and other donations help the camp continue to host free summer camps.
To obtain raffle tickets, contact any Kentucky State Police post or call the KSP Media Relations Branch in Frankfort at (502) 695-6344. A maximum of 15,000 tickets will be sold. The drawing will be held during the Kentucky State Fair in Louisville at 4 p.m. EDT, on Sunday, Aug. 28, 2005, at the KSP exhibit in the South Wing of the Kentucky State Fair and Exposition Center. Tickets may be purchased at the state fair. The winning ticket holder does not need to be present to win.
A picture and description of the type of motorcycle being raffled can be viewed on the Internet at http://www.kentuckystatepolice.org/press/pr02_23_05a.htm. For more information on Trooper Island, visit the Kentucky State Police Web site at http://www.kentuckystatepolice.org/ and click on the Trooper Island link.
This raffle is being conducted via Charitable Gaming License #0000633.
Tax-deductible donations may be made to: Trooper Island Camp, P. O. Box 473, Albany, KY 42602.


Knott County Couple wreck in Breathitt County
  7-6-05
Breathitt County  Phillip Sturgil, 46 and Breanda Sturgill, 42 of Hindman were traveling on Hwy 30 towards Jackson, when the 1994 Chevy Camaro, he was driving left the roadway striking a drainage culvert. The vehicle traveled 225 feet before coming to rest in a ditchline. The accident is still under investigation by Trooper Sandlin.
Photos Here

WAR IF 1812 VETERAN'S HONORED  
PHOTO HERE
BY Sherry Baker Frazier, President  of the Owsley County History and Genealogy Society and photos by member Tom Barrett and Vice President Harley Bowling.
Saturday May 7, 2005 the Owsley County History and Genealogy Society honored 2 legends in the Clay and Owsley areas buried in the historic Cortland Cemetery which has been declared a Kentucky landmark, on upper Buffalo, Owsley county Kentucky.
Lt. Robert “Julius Bob” Baker and William Neal who both served in the war of 1812.
Robert Baker served with Captain  Thomas McJilton’s company of the Kentucky Mt. Volunteer Militia and William Neal served under Captain Daniel Garrard’s 2 Vol. Kentucky Militia. 
Legend tells us that William Neal came to Clay County because he wanted to be near his old friend Robert Baker and that when he died he made it be known he wanted to be buried near his old war comrade and they carried him 10 miles to Cortland and laid him to rest there.  He is buried right next to Robert Baker.
Robert Baker born March 1, 1774 and died Nov 29, 1854.  William Neal was born ca 1782 and died in 1875.  This information from the War journal of Robert Baker and the pension file of William Neal.
Pastor and WWII Veteran and  former Chaplain of the Va in Lexington, Hubert Baker gave the invocation.  Sharon McIntosh sang a beautiful song which she wrote herself, “Freedom” and the legendary historian, Jess Wilson talked about the history of Robert Baker and William Neal.
This is the third "War of 1812" Veteran  marker obtained by the Owsley County History and Genealogy Society in their Veterans Marker Placement Project.


Senior Circle Anniversary
4-27-05 PHOTOS HERE
The Kentucky River Chapter of Senior Circle held its 6th Anniversary celebration on Tuesday, April 19th at the Douthitt Park, located in Jackson. The weather cooperated for a perfectly beautiful afternoon in the Park!
Between 150 and 200 members and guests attended the fun and festivities of the day. Entertainment for the afternoon was provided by Glenn Duff and the “High Falls Jamboree” from Wolfe County. The group shared a variety of country/gospel and bluegrass music with the crowd.
The Breathitt County Senior Citizens Center line dancers shared a few of their many steps to the delight of many of the spectators.
Many Senior Circle members and guests took their turn at winning one of the delicious cakes provided by Kentucky River Medical Center during the cakewalks held.
Special recognition of 6 year members was made. Those members are: Wanda Armstrong, Arthur Ashcraft and Karen Ashcraft, Bobbie and David Bevins, Betty Farler, Joy Fletcher, Mary Gambill, Jane Goff, Dorthy Deaton, Allena Hale, Mavis Haight, Hazel Herald, Hazel Howard, Anna Lockard, Fannie Ritchie, Mary Etta Miller, Jack & Vivian Niece, Elma and Kash Noble, Ginny Noble, Jo and Ray Osborn, Nadine Risner, Faye Shepherd, Velma Sparkman, Loredith Staton, Goldie Strong, Wilma Jean Terry, Loretta Thompson, Christine and Ray Turner, Martha Turner, Bethel Watkins, and Glennis Watts.
As always, the Kentucky River Medical Center Dietary Staff supplied the Senior Circle members and their guests an absolutely delicious meal consisting of hamburgers, hot dogs, polish sausage, sauerkraut, pasta salad, baked beans and cole slaw. Has off to the Chefs!
Senior Circle’s mission is “To encourage the healthiest, most active lifestyle possible through meaningful educational, wellness, health, volunteer opportunities and social activities, while providing a forum for fellowship, valuable member-only discounts and privileges”. Your Senior Circle membership provides access to a generous menu of valuable discounts including a prescription discount card, a variety of activities and events, exercise and wellness classes, free chapter newsletter and magazine subscription, in-hospital privileges, reciprocal privileges at all Senior Circle Chapters and sponsoring hospitals, and much more. All for only $15 a year!
The following pharmacies participating in ScriptSave discounts include: Breathitt County Prescription Center, Jackson Apothecary, Professional Pharmacy, Rite Aid Pharmacy and Clinic Pharmacy. Lee County includes Rite Aid, Shufflebean Pharmacy, Three Forks Pharmacy and Village Apothecary. Owsley County Prescription Center, along with Wolfe Prescription Center and Campton Discount Drug.
Some of the local EyeMed Providers include: Value Vision (Jackson); Eye Care Center (Beattyville); Dr. Richard Salisbury, Tinder Krauss Tinder and Dr. Dwight Avery (Hazard). Other providers located throughout eastern Kentucky and the Lexington area available upon request. Lenscrafters and Pal Optical are also participants.
For more information on Senior Circle activities and benefits, please contact your Senior Circle Advisor, Beth Allen, at 606-666-6511.


Wizard Inc. purchases Hazard Newspaper  3-21-05
Jackson, KY Wizard Inc., the owner of Breathitt Online News and KY Mountain News recently purchased the Hazard Newspaper, Kentucky River News. Wizard Inc. is Owned by Ron Hamblin & Danny Fugate. Breathitt Online has been running strong for nearly 4 years now. KY Mountain News is a regional Newspaper covering 9 counties in Eastern KY.  KY River News has been serving Hazard for nearly 18 months and had developed a good base of readers. Wizard Inc. is excited to be able to expand as they look forward to the future. According to Ron Hamblin, Wizard Inc. will always be looking for areas to expand, in the media field. It is hoped they can partner with a new radio station in the future.

2 Injured in accident Near McDonalds 3-5-05

Jackson, K
Y  2 people were transported to KRMC in Jackson after a late morning accident near McDonalds in Jackson. Bonita Griffith was traveling on HWY 15 towards Jackson in a 2002 Honda Accord, when Pearl Banks, driving a blue 1993 S-10 attempted to make a left turn into the McDonalds, Douthitt Park driveway.  Both drivers were transported to KRMC with unknown injuries. According to authorities, Mr. Banks was driving under a suspended license for a previous DUI offense. The accident is still under investigation. PHOTOS HERE

"Photography From Around The Globe
"  An Exhibit by Andrew Busroe Now through February 25, 2005
Andrew Busroe was born and raised in Morehead, Kentucky. He has a Bachelors Degree in History and Government from Morehead State University, a Masters Degree in Political Science from Eastern Kentucky University and a Master of Library Science from the University of Kentucky. He has been a librarian at Alice Lloyd College since 1996 and has served as the Library Director since January 1999.
Andrew has been interested in Photography for as long as he can remember and has seriously pursued it for about 15 years. He has traveled and photographed throughout the state, country, and Europe. Some of his favorite photographic locations are Eastern Kentucky, Yellowstone National Park, Arizona, and Italy. His future plans include photographing Alaska and Hawaii. This is his third photographic exhibit.
All photographs on display are for sale, $65 each. To inquire about additional sizes and prices please contact Andrew Busroe by mail at P.O. Box 121 Pippa Passes, KY 41844 or by phone at 606-368-2134 (home) or 606-368-6113 (office).
NEWS