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Radon Awareness Should Last Year-Round 1-31-08
FRANKFORT, Ky. (Jan 24, 2008) – The Cabinet for Health and Family Services’ radon program and other agencies are urging Kentuckians to learn more about the dangers of radon, particularly in the home, during Radon Action Month in January.
Western Kentucky University, the Kentucky Clean Indoor Air Partnership and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) are joining the awareness effort, an annual event to educate the public about the health risks of exposure to radon.
Radon is an invisible, odorless, radioactive gas that occurs naturally in our rocks and soils. It enters homes through cracks and other openings in foundations. Any home can have elevated levels of radon. The only way to know about your home is to test.
“Radon can be a terrible threat to public health and is a risk factor for lung cancer,” said Dr. William Hacker, commissioner of the Department for Public Health (DPH). “It’s extremely important to have radon levels tested in your homes and schools. In some instances, radon exposure can be deadly.”
According to the National Academy of Sciences, exposure to indoor radon gas is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States after smoking. Scientists estimate that approximately 400 Kentuckians develop lung cancer each year from exposure to indoor radon gas. The Surgeon General issued a health advisory in 1988 emphasizing the need to test for indoor radon and correct the problem when elevated levels are found.
“Fortunately, most homes with elevated levels of radon gas can be easily fixed for about the same cost as other common home repairs,” said Hardwick. “If you’re having a new home built, you should discuss with the builder about incorporating radon resistant construction methods recommended by the EPA.”
To get children involved in radon awareness, the Kentucky radon program created the Kentucky Radon Calendar Contest. DPH is now accepting entries for the 2009 contest. To participate or to learn more, visit www.chfs.ky.gov/dph/info/phps/radongas.htm or call (502) 564-4856.
The 2008 calendar contest winner was Megan Foltz from Grant County. Megan won a home computer system, and her poster entry was sent to the National Radon Poster Contest sponsored by the National Safety Council. The poster was also incorporated into a calendar that will be distributed statewide.
“The calendar contest helps us teach young people about the dangers of radon,” said Clay Hardwick, state radon coordinator in DPH. “It’s really a great opportunity for children to lend their skills and talents to aid Kentucky public health.”
For more information on testing your home for indoor radon gas, contact the radon program at (502) 564-4856.

Money Tips for College Students: How to Make It, Use It and Save It. 11-7-07
Don’t forget to pay yourself
One of the most important things you can do with your money is save it. Why? Well, if you sock away a small portion of your income, some people recommend between 10 and 17 percent of your income should be in savings, you begin investing your money earlier and making it grow faster.
When you get your paycheck, allowance or other income, the first thing you should do is deposit a portion of that money into a savings account.
By taking that money out of your spending pool of cash, you will still have money left over in case you need it after paying other bills.
After you’ve accumulated a chunk of savings, you may invest that money in some safe, short-term investments that help you meet the cost of inflation, generally earning around 5 percent. By keeping access to your savings, you can tap into it for emergencies while still earning interest.
If you don’t think you make enough to save anything, look closely at how you’re spending your money. Do you really need to drink sodas from the vending machine or make that 251st text message that will send you into overage charges on your phone bill? Watch your spending and see your savings grow!
This money management tip is brought to you by the Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority (KHEAA) and The Student Loan People. For more tips, see “It’s Money, Baby!” at http://itsmoney.kheaa.com/.
KHEAA is the state agency that administers the Kentucky Educational Excellence Scholarship (KEES), need-based grants and other student aid programs and guarantees Federal Family Education Loans to help Kentuckians pay higher education expenses. The Student Loan People is KHEAA’s sister agency and Kentucky ’s only public, nonprofit student loan provider.
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.

ST. JUDE DREAM HOMEâ OPENS TO THE PUBLIC
Doug Martens Construction and Stewart-Richey Construction officially open the St. Jude Dream Home to the public on Saturday, August 4th, at 9 a.m. Just for visiting the home, visitors can enter a free drawing for a chance to win a $5,000 shopping spree at Thornton Furniture! The home will be open for free tours from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays and noon to 5 p.m. on Sundays, August 4th –September 15th.
Doug Martens Construction and Stewart-Richey Construction coordinated the construction of the St. Jude Dream Home this year. The home is valued at approximately $425,000. The home will be given away on WBKO 13 on September 16th from noon – 2 p.m. In addition to the house, local sponsors have donated additional prizes for the give-away. A Honda mower, generator & tiller from Gary Force Honda, a $1000 gift certificate to Hartland Equipment, a $1000 gift certificate to Hancock Fabrics, a $1000 savings bond (at maturity) from South Central Bank, an electronics package from Breen & Morgan Attys., a $1000 gift certificate to Nat’s Outdoor Sports, a six person spa with stereo, courtesy of Pool & Spa Depot, a big screen TV, courtesy of Ryan Nolin of Century 21, a refrigerator from Bowling Green Appliance, and a gas grill, courtesy of All Seasons Gas Grill & Fireside Shop. One in 500 wins a prize!
The Dream Home is located on a donated lot in the Olde Stone subdivision in Alvaton, KY. For more information about the St. Jude Dream Home house, or to reserve a ticket call 1-800-834-5461 or visit www.stjudedreamhome.org.
Sponsors of the campaign include Doug Martens Homes Construction, Stewart-Richey Construction, WBKO 13, The Beaver, Houchens Markets & IGA Stores, Hancock Furniture, Gary Force Honda, Olde Stone and Thornton Furniture.
Proceeds benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Founded by Danny Thomas in 1962, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital has treated more than 20,000 young cancer patients at no cost to their families.

Search Warrant
The Menifee County Sheriff's Department executed a search warrant at the home of Phillip Becraft and Wendy Prater on Elmer Henry Road in Means on the evening of June 7th. The US Forest Service and officers with UNITE assisted with the search. The MCSD confiscated $10,000 in marijuana and paraphernalia used to cultivate and grow marijuana. The warrant was executed by Chief Deputy Richard Franklin and Sheriff Rodney Coffey.
Photo Here

MySpace Speaks About Kentucky ’s New Law Requiring Email Registration of Sex Offenders
Press Conference with Attorney General, Kentucky State Police, Justice Cabinet & Sponsor of Senate Bill 65
FRANKFORT, KY (April 3, 2007) – Attorney General Greg Stumbo today hosted a press conference in the Capitol Rotunda to highlight Kentucky’s new law requiring the state’s 6,245 registered sex offenders to register their “electronic mail addresses and any instant messaging, chat, or other Internet communication name identities” with the Kentucky State Police Sex Offender Registry (Senate Bill 65 sponsored by Senator Ray Jones II, of Pikeville.) The new law allows online companies, including social networking sites, to cross-check its members against the KSP Sex Offender Registry.
“Keeping our children safe online has been a priority of my office,” said Attorney General Greg Stumbo whose office has been hosting Internet safety events across the state. “As we learned during the child sexual predator sting coordinated by the KBI last October, too many predators are ready and waiting to victimize Kentucky ’s innocent children. Now that Kentucky ’s registered sex offenders must submit their email addresses to the State Police, MySpace and other social networking sites can begin working to purge their networks of these potential threats to our youth.”
"Sex offenders often pose as minors on the Internet or in chat rooms in hopes of luring children into dangerous situations. This bill will make sex offenders think twice before logging on to the web with the intent to prey on children," said Senator Ray S. Jones II, D-Pikeville. "With the passage of Senate Bill 65, law enforcement officers will have better tools to track sex offenders who are using the Internet, and it will allow parents a way to make sure that their children are not communicating on the Internet with a known sex offender."
Chief Security Officer for MySpace, Hemanshu Nigam of California , spoke of the importance of partnering with states in enforcing restrictions for sex offenders. “To protect all of our communities, we must require convicted sex offenders to register their online addresses in the same way that they are currently required to register their physical addresses,” said Hemanshu Nigam, Chief Security Officer for MySpace. “ Kentucky is taking an important proactive step in making the Internet safer for all.”
MySpace is a popular online social networking service, allowing users to share messages, interests and photos with a growing body of friends. Users can send emails, post videos, listen to music, and write blogs. Currently, it has more than 162 million registered users. There are approximately 100 other social networking sites on the Internet.
Two recent youth surveys found:
* 58% admit to using the Internet unsafely, inappropriately, or illegally.
* 19% have met face to face with someone they first met online.
* 10% have met an online acquaintance of a different age face to face.
* 1 in 7 children admit to receiving an unwanted sexual solicitation online.
* Only 5% report unwanted sexual solicitation to a parent or law enforcement.

State offers several student aid programs
Kentucky students who choose to attend college or technical school in the commonwealth may be eligible for several state-sponsored financial aid programs. Unlike most states, Kentucky offers student aid based on financial need as well as academic merit.
Perhaps the best known is the merit-based Kentucky Educational Excellence Scholarship (KEES), funded by Kentucky Lottery revenue. Kentucky students earn college scholarships based on their yearly high school grade point average and their best ACT score. GED recipients earn awards based on their ACT score.
Students don’t have to apply for a KEES award. If they attend an eligible Kentucky school, their scholarship money is automatically sent to that school after it notifies the Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority (KHEAA) that the student is attending classes there. KEES awards may also be used at some out-of-state colleges, but only at schools that are members of the Academic Common Market and only if the student is taking a major that is not available in Kentucky.
The Robert C. Byrd Honors Scholarship is up to $1,500 per year for four years. It’s available to both high school graduates and GED recipients. Students must be nominated by their guidance counselor or adult education provider. To apply, students must set up a Zip Access account on www.kheaa.com, and the counselor or adult education provider must complete the application online.
Kentucky’s need-based programs include the College Access Program (CAP) Grant and Kentucky Tuition Grant (KTG). CAP grants may be used at all public colleges, most private colleges and many private technical schools in Kentucky. KTG awards may be used at most private Kentucky colleges.
KEES, Byrd, CAP and KTG are all administered by KHEAA.
KHEAA also administers the Teacher Scholarship, Osteopathic Medicine Scholarship and Early Childhood Development Scholarship. Students apply online for these scholarships through Zip Access.
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.

Jenny Wiley Theatre Presents
A CHRISTMAS SURVIVAL GUIDE
Conceived and Written by
JAMES HINDMAN and RAY RODERICK
Music Arrangements by
JOHN GLAUDINI
Do you find the holidays more than a little stressful? Then this light hearted musical is just what you need! Filled with comedy, poignancy, and traditional songs of the season, this show is designed to de-stress and refresh one and all with holiday cheer! Using laughter as the perfect medicine, A CHRISTMAS SURVIVAL GUIDE will help you take on the holidays with a song in your heart and a twinkle in your eye!
Jenny Wiley Theatre is pleased to present A Christmas Survival Guide, a new Holiday production with a fantastic score, humor and a wonderful message about the true meaning of Christmas. We are taking the show on the road to Pikeville, Paintsville, and Hazard for a four-week run. JWT is also proud to announce the return of the live orchestra with this production.
Rated - PG
November 24, 25, 30, December 1 & 2 at The Weddington Theatre
Pikeville, KY
December 8-9 at the Historic SIPP Theatre
Paintsville, KY
December 16 at the Hal Rogers Forum - Hazard, KY
Doors open at 6:30 PM and shows begin at 7:30 PM
Seating is limited and reservations are recommended
Tickets: Adults $18, Seniors $16, Youth $10
Groups of 15 or more receive a $2/ticket discount
Call 606-886-9274 or toll free at 1-877-CALL-JWT

ROAD CLOSURE NOTICE
KY 1010 in Wolfe County to be closed for repairs during daylight hours Sept. 11-15
JACKSON, KY - (Aug. 28, 2006) -- In order to drive steel to repair an embankment failure, KY 1010 in Wolfe County will be closed from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, Sept. 11-15. The closure will be between KY 1812 and the Mountain Parkway. The repairs will be made in two locations, at milepoints 1.25 and 1.40. No marked detour will be posted, but motorists can use KY 1812 and KY 191 as an alternate route.

and Also
KY 2446 in Perry County to be closed for repairs Friday, Sept. 15
JACKSON, KY - (Sept. 8, 2006) -- In order to replace a drainage pipe, KY 2446 in Perry County will be closed from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. Friday, Sept. 15. The closure will be at milepoint 0.442, between KY 1067 and KY 267 near Dice. No marked detour will be posted, but motorists can use KY 1067, KY 267 and KY 15 as alternate routes.

Music in the Park Campton, KY
When Ron first asked me to cover the Music in the Park on Thursday evening in Campton, our conversation went a little like this… “Ron, I worked all day and I have a soccer meeting at 6 and our son has soccer practice at 7:00 and, I don’t like Blue Grass music”. But, I finally agreed to go after my meeting. I arrived in Campton a little after 7 and hauled out the newspaper’s Nikon monstrosity of a camera (which those of you who know me, is about the size of my arm with the lens on it). I followed the sound of the music and started taking pictures. A few minutes into the music, I noticed my foot was keeping the beat to the music. Next, a smile made its way to my face and I felt rejuvenated. I was having a good time and, I tried to remember to take pictures, but I needed one hand to clap. The kids from Impact Mission and the crowd started dancing and it was fun to watch a group of kids having fun, dancing and laughing. I listened to various singers from all around such as Bob Peck, Rolan Duff, Earl Patton, Brian Faulkner, Shefton Cash, Roger Mulligan, Randy Bryant, Holly Creech and her father, Mike Creech, and the gospel group Higher Vision. (I am sorry if I left anyone off, I got caught up in the entertainment). Glen Duff introduced the Impact Mission group which is various church groups here from Atlanta, Georgia, Albany, Georgia and Grand Rapids, Michigan that have come to help do painting, construction, home repair for people in Wolfe County. I had conversations with some very nice people that evening-Mr. Gillum, Mrs. Creech and Mrs. Bush (I am sorry if I misspelled your names). All this wonderful entertainment took place in downtown Campton, in front of the courthouse, under a beautiful rainbow and I would like to thank the sponsors of this event for providing this for everyone.
I know everyone is busy, gas is almost $3 a gallon and you might not even like Blue Grass (trust me, you will after Thursday night), but it is worth the trip to have a lot of fun, talk to good people and listen to good music. Campton will have Music in the Park Thursday evenings 7-9 p.m. through the month of August so bring a chair and I hope to see you there next Thursday (I’ll be the one trying to hold that big camera while tapping my feet and clapping).

Lee County Department of Highways maintenance crew goes smoke-free
JACKSON, KY - (June 15, 2006) - The Lee County Department of Highways maintenance crew has given the term "smoke-free workplace" a whole new meaning.
Recently, the last of the smokers on the 12-person crew gave up the habit, earning the praise of Kentucky Governor Ernie Fletcher and Transportation Cabinet officials.
"Smoking is one of the leading causes of preventable disease and premature death," said Governor Fletcher, who is also a physician. "It is great news for these employees and their families that they have decided to stop smoking. Smoking cessation is one of the cornerstones of the First Lady's 'Get Healthy Kentucky' initiative, and the First Lady and I offer our congratulations to the Lee County maintenance crew."
"Research shows that smokers miss more time off work due to illness than non-smokers," said Transportation Secretary Bill Nighbert. "By quitting smoking, these Transportation Cabinet team members will become healthier and more productive in their professional and personal lives. My hat is certainly off to them and I hope they will remain smoke-free for the sake of their health."
"We are proud of the Lee County crew for their decision to stop smoking," said Linda Wagner-Justice, District 10 chief district engineer. "No doubt those who have quit smoking already feel better, are breathing easier, and are enjoying other health benefits. Nicotine addiction is tough to overcome, and we hope these employees will stay strong and not start back."
In addition to the obvious health and workplace productivity benefits, there is another bonus to the employees' decision.
"It sure makes cleaning up around the garage a whole lot easier," said Hargus Griffith, a Lee County maintenance crew employee. "With no cigarette butts to sweep up, there's a whole lot less trash."
The state offers smoking cessation classes for its employees through the Personnel Cabinet's Wellness Works Kentucky program. More information can be obtained by visiting http://personnel.ky.gov/wellness/smokecess/. In Lee County, the People Encouraging People (PEP) Coalition frequently sponsors public Cooper-Clayton smoking cessation classes in conjunction with the Lee County Kentucky Agency for Substance Abuse Policy (KY-ASAP) local board and the Kentucky River District Health Department. The next round of classes is tentatively scheduled to begin in July. For more information, call (606) 464-0494.

Members of the Lee County Maintenance crew are, from left, L.C. Moore, Jeff Phillips, Jeff Gabbard, Drexel Creech, Wendell Thacker, Hargus Griffith, Tyler Rich (seasonal employee), Kevin McIntosh, Jeff Colwell and Raymond Morris. Missing from the photo are Mike Brandenburg, Keith Horn and Aaron Gay .)

Justin Keith Conley Guilty of Murder
5-24-06 ON 05/03/06 A KNOTT COUNTY JURY FOUND 22 YEAR OLD JUSTIN KEITH CONLEY GUILTY OF MURDER, TAMPERING WITH PHYSICAL EVIDENCE, ASSAULT 1ST DEGREE ON A POLICE OFFICER AND ASSAULT 3RD DEGREE ON A POLICE OFFICER. ON DEC. 17, 2004 CONLEY WAS CHARGED WITH THE DEATH OF JESSICA NEWSOME A 21 YEAR OLD DEAF FEMALE FROM FLOYD COUNTY. THE JURY RECOMMENDED A MAXIMUM SENTENCE ON EACH CHARGE AND TO RUN CONSECUTIVELY IN A STATE FACILITY. FINAL SENTENCING IS SCHEDULED IN KNOTT CIRCUIT COURT ON JUNE 14, 2006.

Fiscal Court Closed Jail
Jailer James Turner Wanted Jail To Remain Open
In a unanimous 3-0 vote, Breathitt Co. Fiscal Court voted to close the Breathitt Co. Jail in March 2005. Jailer James Turner wanted the Breathitt Co. Jail to remain open because the jail was remodeled a few years ago and was in compliance with all the state codes. “I was very much against closing the Breathitt Co. Jail and fought hard to keep the jail open”, stated Jailer James Turner. “ I want the people of Breathitt Co. to know if I had the authority to keep the jail open I would”. Turner said that all the minutes from the March 2005 fiscal court meeting are on file at the Breathitt courthouse. “ I think some people were unclear about the jail situation and I just want to keep the public informed”.   The fiscal court later voted to make the old jail into a museum.

Lose Weight Through Faith-Based Weight Loss Program 3-9-06
HAZARD KY Every year Americans spend billions of dollars on weight-reduction programs and products. Many are on a search for a quick fix, unwilling to consider permanent changes in their lifestyle.
For the members of First Place, they have discovered that the Bible holds the answer to this weight loss epidemic. By following the First Place program, a faith-based weight loss plan supported and endorsed by nutritionists and physicians.
Meeting in weekly support groups, the members of First Place follow a fitness and Bible study program centered around the First Place nine commitments which include regular attendance, daily prayer, regular scripture reading, scripture memory, daily Bible study, healthy eating, accountability, fellowship and exercise. These commitments help First Place members learn to be victorious over past eating patterns and to commit their minds and ultimately their bodies to God.
“For the first time in my life, I am consistently studying God’s Word and feel SO much better about my overall health and fitness! Not only is my outer self changing for the better, but my inward self as well.” A First Place member
The First Place program has delivered faith-based health and weight management instruction and support to small groups meeting in churches since 1981. First Place has been active in more than 12,000 churches with over a half million successful members!
First Place is a 13-week program that emphasizes a balanced lifestyle in all four areas of life—mental, physical, emotional and spiritual. The program points members to God’s strength and creates a compassionate support group that helps members stay accountable in a positive environment.
“First Place is more that weight loss—it’s a lifestyle change that encourages every participant to find balance
in his or her own life,” shares Carole Lewis, National Director of First Place.
At Perry County Public Library on Monday, March 20th at 6:30 p.m. an introductory meeting will be held. For more information or to join our First Place group, contact Robin Campbell 606-435-0921

Internet drug scheme broken; arrest made 2-5-06
A scheme to purchase prescription drugs through the Internet and resell them in the Big Sandy region has been broken by detectives with Operation UNITE.
On Monday, January 30, police arrested a 29-year-old Johnson County woman in connection with the illegal drug operation. Jeri DeLong, of Highway 302 in the Van Lear community, was charged with one count each of second- and third-degree trafficking in a controlled substance by Operation UNITE.
DeLong had been under investigation by UNITE for approximately two weeks, said Lee Weddington, Big Sandy Task Force manager. Police learned she was importing drugs from Internet pharmacies and having them delivered via commercial delivery carriers.
At approximately 1 p.m. on Monday, a deputy from the Floyd County Sheriff’s Office assisted UNITE detectives in stopping a 1994 Cadillac driven by DeLong on U.S. 23 near Prestonsburg. An infant child was in the vehicle at the time.
A search discovered 108 pills or capsules along with $463 in cash in DeLong’s purse, Weddington said.
Following her arrest, a search warrant was obtained for DeLong’s home. UNITE, assisted by the Kentucky State police, conducted the search.
Although no additional drugs were found, police seized a computer and other documents tying DeLong to Internet purchases, Weddington said.
The case is still under investigation by Operation UNITE and additional arrests are possible.

Price Gouging Fact or Fiction, You tell me! 8-31-05 9:00pm (This is my personal Opinion and not necessary the overall view of Wizard Inc., Ron Hamblin )
Jackson, KY     I just got back in from touring our local service stations only to find out that in a five hour period, our local stations raised prices .61 cents a gallon, to a ridiculous $3.29 a gallon. When I got up this morning gas was already $2.68 a gallon. That in itself was outrageously too high. At 3:30pm, I received a phone call that gas just went up to $2.98 a gallon. I could not believe it. I went out and got a picture of it and was stunned. It was true. The gouge was on. At 8:30pm my son arrived home and told me it was over $3.00 a gallon. Again, not believing it, I went out and sure enough, $3.29 a gallon. Only in America can a president start a war for no reason, other than for oil in my opinion, and then have big oil companies gouge us to death. What is even worse, is that, in a country that is supposed to be so caring and loving of thy neighbor, we have one of the worst weather events to ever hit this country, and how do big oil companies respond. The jack prices up even higher. How do our local gas stations help in our time of need? They jack prices to all time highs.
     Only in America. I say this kiddingly, because we do have the greatest people in the world. Unfortunately it is the high and mighty that continuously try to get rich from the working poor. When is it enough. When do the working poor get to stop paying to make big oil compaines richer.
     I called the Attorney General earlier today, around 4:00pm, for some answers. I was told Kentucky has enough in reserves for the short term, so there was no real reason to raise prices so high so quickly. I was told to call the Governors office, which I did. They informed me the Governor just signed a provision to keep gas stations from price gouging. I could tell it was working as prices went even higher.(Sarcasm) The Governors office asked for the gas prices and told me they would look into it. After I hung up with his office, I decided to call the Main office for Shell in this area, I was told that the two people responsible for deciding gas prices had went home for the day. Obviously to avoid my phone call, (sarcasm again), yet later I realized these people all must work from home as Exxon had raised their prices to well over $3.00 a gallon.
If you really want to voice your displeasure, do what I did, call our leaders. Tell them enough already.

Attorney Generals Office: (502) 696 -5300 Just tell them you are fed up and want to know what they are doing about prices going up, apparently without reason.
Governors Office: (502) 564-2611
PHOTOS HERE

Breathitt Teens Lucky to be Alive 7-20-05
7-16-05 Three Breathitt County Teens are counting their blessings after a late night crash on Hwy 541 near Mount Carmel. Randy Combs was driving on Hwy 541 towards Mount Carmel, when he entered a curve, where an animal was in the road way and Mr. Combs swerved to miss it. The car skidded 60-70 feet, crossing both lanes before leaving the roadway. The vehicle was airborn 15-20 feet, before side swiping a tree and and going down a steep embankment. The vehicle then hit some very large rocks before flipping into the middle of the creek. All three of the teens
involved crawled out the passenger side door and into the water. They then climbed the embankment and went for help. Mikey Hamblin of Jackson, was transported to Kentucky River Medical Center with minor injuries. Randy Combs and Bobby Brewer suffered minor injuries. All three were wearing their seatbelts, which contributed to saving their lives. Alcohol or drugs were not a factor in the accident. The parents would like to thank Steve Kilburn & family as well as the man who assisted the teens in getting help.
The accident is under investigation by Trooper Williams. PHOTOS HERE

July 4th Is One Of Deadliest Holidays On Roads And Highways 6-28-05
(FRANKFORT, Ky.) - Motorists travelling on Kentucky's roadways during the upcoming July 4th weekend are advised to use extreme care by Kentucky State Police officials. Increased traffic is expected throughout the holiday period, which begins at 6:00 P.M. on Friday, July 1st and ends at 11:59 P.M. on Monday, July 4th.

As part of Operation C.A.R.E (Combined Accident Reduction Effort) and the100 Days of Summer Heat campaign, KSP will be enhancing its enforcement activities with an increased presence in high crash locations throughout the state. Extra patrols are planned around recreational areas, lakes and boat ramps. For maximum coverage, troopers will also partner with local police and sheriff's departments in conducting strategically located traffic safety checkpoints.

"Nationally, the Fourth of July holiday and weekend has become one of the deadliest times of the year due to impaired driving," says KSP Commissioner Mark Miller. "Last year, a total of nine people died on Kentucky roadways during the holiday period. Alcohol was a suspected factor in three of those crashes and only one of the nine victims was wearing a seat belt."

A large number of these deaths could have been prevented if motorists practiced basic defensive driving skills such as obeying speed limits, using seat belts and not driving while impaired.

"Unfortunately, impaired driving tends to increase during holiday periods," explains Miller. "It continues to be the most frequently committed violent crime in the U.S. Kentucky has a zero tolerance policy regarding driving while impaired. Even first time offenders face immediate arrest. We want to take potential killers off the roadways."

"There will be no warnings or second chances," he adds. "Arrest and conviction on impaired driving violations can result in court costs, legal fees, higher auto insurance rates, fines, loss of license and even imprisonment. The consequences of impaired driving are serious and real. Don't take the chance, it's not worth it."
According to KSP Lt. Eric Walker, commander of the Governor's Highway Safety Program, impaired driving is no accident. It is a crime that kills. "Impaired drivers are more likely to exceed the speed limit and less likely to wear seat belts, so the resulting crashes and injuries are often more severe and damaging," he says. "Driving after drinking is a choice. Make the right* and the safe* choice: find alternate transportation, use a designated driver or don't consume any amount of alcohol if you intend or need to drive."
Walker offers these additional driving tips for safe holiday travel:
?Buckle your seat belt and make sure your passengers have done so as well. It's your best defense in a traffic crash. According to Kentucky law, all children 40 inches in height or less must be buckled into a child safety restraint that meets federal standards. Children over 40 inches tall must wear a seat belt.
?Slow down. Excessive speed reduces your ability to avoid a crash, extends your vehicle's stopping distance and increases the severity if a crash when it occurs.
?Avoid aggressive driving behaviors such as tailgating, passing on the shoulder of the road, changing lanes without signaling, violating traffic signals and weaving in and out of traffic.
?Be extra attentive in construction zones. Look for the orange warning signs, follow posted speed limits, leave adequate space between vehicles, obey road crew flaggers, watch for workers and sudden stops and be prepared for changing road surfaces and traffic patterns. ?Be aware of distracted driving behaviors of yourself and others including talking on cell phones and dealing with children.

"Please do your part to be safe," says Walker. "Remember, three out of four crashes happen within 25 miles of home at speeds of 45 miles per hour or less. About 40 percent of all fatal crashes occur on roads where the speed limit is 30 miles per hour or less."

"Alcohol-related crashes are preventable," notes Miller. "We need to make a commitment during this Fourth of July, and throughout the year, to stop impaired drivers before they get into their vehicles. If everyone gets involved, it can be a fatality-free holiday on Kentucky's roadways." Citizens can contribute to highway safety during the holiday period by reporting erratic drivers to the KSP toll-free hotline 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.

Laurel County Juvenile Detention Center Closes 6-23-05
The Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) is temporarily closing the juvenile detention center in London, Kentucky. The Laurel Regional Juvenile Detention Center located at 225 North Laurel Road is being closed due to concerns related to building settlement. This facility which opened in April 2002 was constructed at a cost of $5.65M.
The 31 juveniles currently housed in the facility are being transferred to other DJJ detention centers in close proximity to the London facility. Facility staff will be re-assigned to other DJJ programs and facilities on an interim basis.
“Although this temporary closure is unfortunate, we believe it to be in the best interest and safety of the youth and our staff until the remediation efforts can be completed” stated DJJ Commissioner Bridget Skaggs Brown”.
During the previous 2 months, the Justice and Public Safety Cabinet’s Office of Investigation has been conducting an investigation regarding the site preparation and construction of this facility. Outside experts in construction have been consulted to determine the best course of action for remediation of the building problems.
Department officials will continue to work with the Finance Cabinet in an effort to ensure the building repairs are made timely and sufficient to allow for continued operations. The timeline for re-opening the facility is unknown at this time.

Septic systems: Breathitt County’s low-income homeowners can call PRIDE
SOMERSET, KY 6-14-05 — Some Breathitt County residents might be eligible for the PRIDE Homeowner Septic System Grant Program. Since 1997, PRIDE has invested $626,957 to install septic systems or pay for sewer connections at 218 homes in Breathitt County. “This is your chance to improve your property and do the right thing for the region’s environment,” said Richard Thomas, PRIDE executive director. “Your community becomes cleaner and healthier with every failing septic system or ‘straight pipe’ that is replaced.” “If you need a new septic system or sewer connection, but you can’t afford it, then please call the PRIDE office, toll free, at 888-577-4339,” Thomas said. “We will mail you a grant application. You fill it out and mail it in. In six to eight weeks, you will receive a letter saying if you qualified for a grant. If you did, we will take care of installing the septic system or making the sewer connection. If you don’t qualify, then you’re only out the cost of the stamp to mail in the application. It’s that easy.” “If you have an elderly neighbor or family member, please call for them, and help them with the application,” Thomas continued. “Or, take them to the local health department. Applications are available there, and the health department staff can help fill them out. ” Applications also are available at the Kentucky River Area Development District office (606-436-3158) and the Kentucky River Resource Conservation and Development District office (606-666-5069). The PRIDE grant program pays 100 percent of the cost for low-income homeowners to connect to a sewer line, if available, or to install a septic system that has been approved by the local health department. To qualify for a grant, the homeowner must hold the deed to the property, have electricity at the home, and have income below 55% of the poverty level set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. New homes are not eligible.
All work is performed by licensed septic system installers and Master Plumbers who are selected through a sealed bidding process. The local health department evaluates all installation sites and inspects all systems. The program’s goal is to give low-income homeowners the opportunity to replace their straight pipes, outhouses, or failing septic systems with sanitary wastewater treatment systems, which are required by state and federal laws. The program is based on PRIDE’s founding principle that each resident of southern and eastern Kentucky is personally responsible for the environment. PRIDE helps people who want to act responsibly but cannot afford to do so.

Traffic Fatality Memorials 5-23-05 PHOTO HERE
Linda Wagner-Justice, chief district engineer for the Department of Highways District 10, installed the plaque noting the 964 Kentucky traffic fatalities for 2004 on the memorial at the Junior Williamson Rest Area at Slade. The memorial at the rest area is one of several in Kentucky in memory of those who have lost their lives in vehicle accidents across the state. District 10 includes Breathitt, Estill, Lee, Magoffin, Menifee, Morgan, Owsley, Perry, Powell and Wolfe counties. Photo by H.B. Elkins, public information officer, District 10.

155 participate in HOFNOD trainings 7-12-05 Photos by April Nease & Dale Morton PHOTOS HERE
Three Operation UNITE-sponsored workshops to train mentors on how to implement the national Hooked On Fishing-Not On Drugs® (HOFNOD) program drew a total of 155 participants April 6-8. The sessions were conducted at Feltner 4-H Camp, Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park, and Jenny Wiley State Resort Park.
Participating in the workshops were representatives from area churches, UNITE coalition members, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, school districts, the Girl Scouts of America, 4-H, civic organizations, UNITE substance abuse counselors, police agencies, Wal-Mart, and the Community Action Agency in Richmond. Approximately 45 students from anti-drug clubs at Buckhorn and Perry Central high schools also attended the Buckhorn workshop.
HOFNOD is the flagship education program of the Future Fisherman Foundation, the recruitment and education arm of the American Sportfishing Association.
It is widely used in more than 30 states and territories to foster angling skills, conservation ethics and social skills.
"The Future Fisherman Foundation is pleased to be working with Operation UNITE to further the cause of drug prevention, said Laura Jerome, assistant director of the Future Fisherman Foundation and national HOFNOD coordinator.
Operation UNITE is definitely taking the lead in utilizing Hooked On Fishing-Not On Drugs as a community-based program to help our youth make wise choices concerning their free time and their health.
The Future Fisherman Foundation looks forward to promoting Operation UNITE's effort for Kentucky's youth as a model for other communities nationwide who wish to encourage their youth to make positive life decisions," added Jerome, who flew in from Alexandria, Virginia, for the workshop in Laurel County.
So many of our children do not have positive role models, said Karen Engle, executive director for UNITE (Unlawful Narcotics Investigations, Treatment and Education). Hooked On Fishing-Not On Drugs is an on-going program that provides caring adults in a mentoring relationship, giving youth a fun alternative to using drugs.²
HOFNOD is not a one-day fishing event, but an on-going program, noted Danielle Wells, UNITE activities coordinator. In the long term, participants learn angling skills, complete a series of environmental awareness activities, demonstrate positive life skills, and become responsible stewards of aquatic resources. Youth experience a sense of belonging, develop a sense of self-worth, learn social skills through peer relationships, and strengthen their values and ethics.
In addition to a program overview, participants were given hands-on instruction in various HOFNOD activities by Wells and Marc Johnson, Kentucky HOFNOD coordinator for the Kentucky Division of Fish and Wildlife Resources.
They also learned about state regulations and were given resources to implement programs in their home counties.
Johnson said he would much rather see youth experiment with new fishing techniques or tackle than to experiment with drugs.
Why do fishing and drug prevention go together? Addiction is a family disease. When children are around drugs they are more likely to begin using drugs, Wells said. Fishing generates communication among friends and families and provides individuals a chance to discuss problems. Fishing provides a special bond between a parent and child, can offer personal challenge and prestige among peers, and is an inexpensive activity. To learn more, contact Danielle Wells toll-free at 1-866-OP-UNITE.
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In 2003, Fifth District Congressman Harold Hal Rogers (R-Somerset) worked to create Operation UNITE, a regional anti-drug initiative empowering citizens groups and community leaders in 29 southern and eastern Kentucky counties. UNITE, which stands for Unlawful Narcotics Investigations, Treatment & Education, seeks to fight the drug epidemic by expanding drug awareness and education programs to keep people from using drugs; coordinating drug treatment and outreach programs for those who are already addicted; and operating regional undercover law enforcement task forces for interdiction and prosecution of those dealing drugs. Rogers has directed $24 million in federal funds to the counter-drug initiative over the past three years. For more information contact Karen Engle toll-free at 1-866-678-6483.
Drug Tip Hotline 1-866-424-4382
Treatment Referral Hotline 1-866-90-UNITE (1-866-908-6483)

UNITE effort hits the fast track; Teen promoting message on race car 4-4-05 PHOTO HERE
Nathan Vanover won't be able to obtain a Kentucky driver's license for nearly two years, but he is already adept behind the wheel particularly when making left-hand turns.
The Harlan County teen, who turned 14 years old in January, will be a regular at the Corbin Motor Speedway this summer, not as a spectator, but as a driver in the Pure Street Stock class. He is expected to take the green flag for the first time on Saturday, April 9, driving an 80s model Camero promoting the anti-drug message of Operation UNITE (Unlawful Narcotics Investigations, Treatment and Education).
There are lots of kids in the county, in our communities, really all kinds of people, who are on drugs, explained Vanover, an eighth-grade student at Evarts Elementary School.
Vanover said many substance abuse programs have been conducted at school and saw racing as an opportunity for him to become involved in the anti-drug effort. Harlan County Magistrate Chad Brock learned of his interest, and suggested involving Operation UNITE.
This is a tremendous opportunity to promote UNITE, said Karen Engle, executive director of the anti-drug program, which covers 29 counties in southern and eastern Kentucky. We certainly appreciate Nathan's willingness to use his car as a billboard for our efforts.
Logos for the hood, rear and side panels of the car were provided at cost by Flasher Sign Co. of Somerset.
Standing nearly 6 feet tall, the quiet, soft-spoken Vanover said he has always been competitive, especially coon hunting with his dad, Paul, and enjoyed watching motor sports.
Then dad had to go to work in the mines. I didn't want to sit around not doing anything, so I decided I wanted to race, said Vanover, who will enter Cawood High School next year. I've been wanting to for a long time, I just wasn't old enough.
What about those who say he's still too young? I don¹t know how to answer that one, Vanover responded. People say racing's dangerous, but I don't see it that way.
Still, Vanover had a little convincing to do. I started talking to dad and got him interested, Vanover said. He said he wanted to try this, and I¹d rather see him right here (at Corbin Speedway) racing than some of the other stuff he could get into, Paul Vanover noted.
Then came the touch part convincing mom. I didn't laugh, Mary Vanover admitted. Mom finally gave her blessing, but with the stipulation that he must maintain good grades in order to race.
The car was purchased used last year, and Vanover participated in several races as a 13-year-old. Over the winter Vanover and his dad completely reworked the white No. 33 car, which turned respectable lap times during a recent March practice session.
I'm just an old boy who grew up in the hills, but I do know what's good for kids, said Paul Vanover. He isn't going to get into much trouble when he's under the hood working on his car.