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Muncy Creek Baptist Church Structure Fire 2-29-08
On 02/13/08 at approximately 10:44 p.m. a 911 call was received reporting a structure fire at Muncy’s Creek Baptist Church located in the War Branch Community of Leslie County.
Emergency personnel arrived at the scene to find the building completely engulfed in flames.
On 02/19/08 Kentucky State Police Arson Investigator James Burnett and Deputy State Fire Marshall Kenny Browning responded to the scene.
Preliminary investigation indicates that the fire was arson. No evidence was found at the scene to indicate that this was a religiously or racially motivated crime. We have no suspects and no arrest has been made at this time. Anyone with information is encouraged to call the Kentucky State Police at 606-435-6069 or 1-800-222-5555. The investigation is continuing by the State Fire Marshall’s Office and the Kentucky State Police.

DEER IN THE HEADLIGHTS!” 11-7-07
Transportation Cabinet Urges Motorists to Use Extra Caution
During Peak Deer Mating Season
FRANKFORT, KY (November 2, 2007) - The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) is once again joining the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources and law enforcement agencies across the Commonwealth in a campaign urging motorists to focus on defensive driving during the upcoming deer mating season.
Close encounters of the wrong kind with deer pose several problems which are a matter of concern to Transportation Cabinet Secretary Bill Nighbert. “Obviously we are concerned for the safety of motorists. Deer-related crashes can result in serious injuries and, in some cases, death,” said Nighbert.  “We are also very much aware of the financial burdens these collisions cause. For those reasons we can not overstate the importance of drivers being more cautious and on the look out for deer this time of year.”
Nationally, an estimated 500,000 vehicle collisions with deer occur on U.S. roadways each year, causing an average of $2,000 in damage per vehicle.
Despite the popular misconception that hunters are flushing the deer out into the roadways in greater numbers this time of year due to hunting season (Kentucky’s Modern Gun Season for deer begins November 10), the most influential stimulus is the decrease in daylight which triggers the mating urge in deer.
“Simply stated, this is the time of year that deer breed,” said David Yancy, Senior Wildlife Biologist for the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife. “All of the activity associated with the whitetail mating season, which we refer to as the ‘rut’, causes deer to cross our roads more frequently. In general, the entire deer population is very unsettled this time of year and they are on the move everywhere.” Yancy also pointed out that without the effects of hunting, there would be even more deer crossing the roads.
The typical whitetail deer mating season ranges from late October to late January, with the peak mating season from mid to late November. “That time frame matches up exactly with the increase in the number of deer/auto collisions in Kentucky,” noted Tim Hazlette, Commissioner of the Transportation Cabinet’s Department of Transportation Safety. “November is by far the most dangerous month in Kentucky for deer/auto accidents.  Too many of us have learned the hard way that it only takes a deer a second or two to dart out of the woods and into your path, leaving you almost no time to react. My advice is to Be Alert and Be Buckled Up. Most serious injuries resulting from collisions with deer have been suffered by those who were not wearing their safety belts.”
A quick glance at data compiled by Kentucky State Police reveals that one region of the state stands out with an unusually high number of reported auto/deer collisions. That is the northern tier of Kentucky counties in the rapidly growing Greater Cincinnati area, which includes Boone, Kenton and Campbell Counties. All three counties rank among the top five counties in the state for average annual deer/auto collisions. Boone County leads the state with an annual average total of 134 deer vs. auto collisions. 
“This area has seen an explosion of industrial, retail and residential growth in recent years,” Yancy noted. “This is becoming more of an urbanized area, where whitetails have become accustomed to a lot of human activity and traffic, and all the sounds that go with such activity. Deer in these areas are not as afraid as they might otherwise be.”
While even the most cautious drivers do not have any guarantees that they will be able to avoid a collision with a deer, the Department of Transportation Safety offers the following suggestions for avoiding a collision, or minimizing the damage if the collision is unavoidable:
·1 Always wear your seatbelt.
-2 Be especially attentive from sunset to midnight and during the hours just before and after sunrise. These are the highest risk times for deer-vehicle collisions.
·3 Drive defensively, constantly scanning the roadside.
·4 If you spot a deer on the edge of the road, blow your horn. Use a long steady blast to get the deer’s attention.
·5 Always use high beam headlights when there is no oncoming traffic. The high beams will better illuminate the deer from a greater distance.
·6 If a deer freezes in your headlights, flick the beams on and off to break the deer’s concentration. That may cause the deer to move.
·7 Slow down immediately. Proceed slowly until you are past the point where the deer have crossed.
·8 Don’t swerve. Stay in your lane. Most fatalities stemming from deer-related accidents involve drivers swerving, in an effort to miss the deer, and hitting a stationary object.
·9 If the worst happens, keep both hands on the wheel and brake down steadily.
·10 Report any deer collision, even if the damage is minor.
For more highway safety tips visit http://highwaysafety.ky.gov/
For more information about Kentucky’s Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources visit http://fw.ky.gov
Biologist David Yancy summarized the situation this way: “It’s mating season for deer. You have an increase in the numbers of fairly large mammals crossing a high volume of roadways. Our best chance to avoid damage and serious injury is to alter our behavior. We must all be consistently more alert.”

Festival's Honey Run/Walk has something for everyone
The soon-to-be here Honey Festival has something for everyone.  That even includes one of the weekend's final events, the Honey Run/Walk.
This popular event will once again take place Monday morning, September 3.  Both the 10K Run and the 2 Mile Walk will start at 8:00 a.m. in front of the Highway Department.
The six mile Run will include a short leg up Lakeside Estates and then a circuit around Panbowl Lake, finishing at the Highway Department.  The event is open to all runners and trophies will be awarded in nine age divisions.
The 2 Mile Walk also goes up Lakeside Estates a short way and then the walkers return to the Highway Department.  The Walk is open to all ages.  Trophies will be awarded in nine age divisions.
The top three finishers, male and female, will be recognized in both events.  Also each participant will receive a t-shirt and be eligible for a door prize.
The entrance fee is $10 for pre-registration and $12 on race day.  Registration forms can be picked up at the Breathitt County Voice or the Jackson Times.  Checks can be made to the Honey Run or the Breathitt County Honey Festival.  For more information call Nancy Hostetler at 606-666-7627 or 606-666-2359.

Seventeen Die On Kentucky Roadways Last Week  (June 4 through June 10)
(FRANKFORT, Ky.) - Preliminary statistics* indicate that 17 people died in 17 separate crashes on Kentucky's roadways from Monday, June 4 through Sunday, June 10, 2007.
Twelve of the fatalities involved motor vehicles and eight of the victims were not wearing seat belts. The seat belt status of one of the victims is unknown at this time. Three victims were operating motorcycles and all three were not wearing a helmet.  Two of the fatalities involved ATV's and both victims were wearing helmets.   Four of the crashes involved the suspected use of alcohol.
Fayette County reported two single-fatality crashes. Single-fatality crashes also occurred in Caldwell, Carter, Clay, Harlan, Hickman, Jackson, Jefferson Kenton, Knott, Marshall, Martin, McCreary, Pike, Taylor and Wolfe counties.
Through June 10, preliminary statistics* indicate that 358 people have lost their lives on Kentucky roadways during 2007. This is 15 fewer than reported for this time period in 2006. Of the 297 motor vehicle fatalities, 178 victims were not wearing seat belts. Of the 30 motorcycle fatalities, 16 were not wearing helmets. Of the 16 ATV fatalities, 13 were not wearing helmets. Fifteen pedestrians have been killed and a total of 88 fatalities have resulted from crashes involving the suspected use of alcohol.
Citizens can contribute to highway safety by reporting erratic drivers to the Kentucky State Police toll-free at 1-800-222-5555. Callers will remain anonymous and should give a description of the vehicle, location, direction of travel and license number if possible.
*These statistics are still preliminary as KSP waits for all local law enforcement agencies throughout the state to report any crashes and fatalities that may have occurred in their areas.

WILL YOUR INSURANCE ADEQUATELY PROTECT YOU AGAINST LOSS?
Consumers should review insurance policies, evaluate need for flood protection
FRANKFORT , Ky. (March 29, 2007) – As the commonwealth enters severe weather season, Kentucky families are reminded to review emergency plans and safety procedures. This is also a good time to review and evaluate insurance policies.
Floods are among the most frequent and costly disasters, but many consumers do not realize that flooding is not covered under a homeowner’s policy.
“Unfortunately, many people do not realize that flooding is not covered until it is too late,” said Julie Mix McPeak, executive director of the Kentucky Office of Insurance. “Flood insurance is affordable and if your community participates in the National Flood Insurance Program, we encourage consumers to consider buying it.”
The National Flood Insurance Program is under federal jurisdiction but many insurance agents in Kentucky can assist consumers. Information is available at www.floodsmart.gov or by calling 888-379-9531.
This is also a good time to review homeowner and auto insurance policies to see if coverage is adequate.
“It’s never a bad idea to sit down with your agent and review your policies,” said McPeak. “This gives consumers the opportunity to ask questions and be certain the coverage levels are appropriate. Sometimes people make new purchases or remodel their homes and forget to let their insurance agents know.”
This is also a good time to photograph and record your household possessions. The Office of Insurance
provides a publication, Household Inventory, to get you started. Keep the completed document in a safe place, away from your home, such as in a bank safe-deposit box.
If a natural disaster does occur, members of the Office of Insurance Emergency Response Team will be on site to assist consumers.
“Our trained investigators provide valuable assistance to consumers during a natural disaster,” said McPeak. “They can quickly assess the situation and determine if additional insurance adjusters are needed. In addition, they can answer questions and assist with the complaint process, if necessary.”
Consumers interested in tips on preparing for a disaster, reviewing insurance coverage and other storm-related information may go to the Office of Insurance Web site at http://doi.ppr.ky.gov/kentucky/ and click on Free Publications, located on the Consumer Protection and Education bar on the left.
The Office of Insurance is an agency of the Department of Public Protection in the Environmental and Public Protection Cabinet.

KSP Ready's Up for New Mustangs
(FRANKFORT, KY) - It set the 60s swinging and inspired fan clubs on six continents. It’s starred in more than 600 movies and it’s seen checkered flags at tracks around the world. It’s the Ford Mustang, a classic, modern American sports car that helped define a generation.
Out of your price range? Think again. To support its Trooper Island summer camp for disadvantaged children, the Kentucky State Police is now selling $10 raffle tickets for a chance to win a 2007 Ford Mustang GT convertible.
“Summer camp is an all-American experience that offers physical, mental and character-building opportunities that can benefit a child throughout a lifetime,” said KSP Tpr. Craig Sutton, director of Trooper Island, which is located on Dale Hollow Lake in southern Kentucky. “What better way to raise funds for this worthwhile effort than to offer a chance to win a classic American muscle car? Only 15,000 tickets will be sold, so the odds are better than the lottery.”
Although retro inspired, the 2007 Mustang selected for the raffle is a thoroughly modern car. It features a Torch Red exterior and a black cloth, all-weather, three-layer roof. Its 4.6 SOHC three-valve V8 engine produces 300 horsepower and a distinctive growl that signifies pure muscle. Combine that with a five-speed, rear-drive, automatic transmission; 18-inch, polished-aluminum wheels; stainless steel dual exhaust; fog lights and a rear spoiler, this package has the looks and performance that turns every commute into an open air joy ride.
In reviewing the 2007 Mustang, New Car Test Drive.com wrote: “The Ford Mustang looks and feels like an all-American car. It’s quick and fun to drive and offers a combination of style, performance and handling. Forty-three years after it created an automotive niche all its own, Mustang is both true to its roots and better than ever.”
Car and Driver.com agreed: “Ford nailed the Mustang’s redesign¾macho enough for contractors, cute enough for secretaries, undeniably American and timeless. The looks are nostalgic and in the V8 GT form, it’s got the burbly muscle-car soundtrack of a bygone era.”
“Nothing says modern American sports car better than the 2007 Mustang convertible,” said Sutton. “Its legendary heritage and high performance gives it a wide appeal that cuts across all generations and lifestyles. So saddle up and get your ticket. At $10 each, it’s a value you can’t afford to pass up.”
To obtain raffle tickets, contact any Kentucky State Police post or call the KSP Media Relations Branch in Frankfort at 502-695-6344. For locations and phone numbers of Kentucky State Police posts, visit www.kentuckystatepolice.org. Participants must be at least 18 years old to purchase a ticket.
The drawing for the winning ticket will be held at the KSP exhibit during the Kentucky State Fair at 4:00 p.m. EST on Sunday, Aug. 26, 2007. Ticket holders need not be present to win. The winner is responsible for all taxes and license fees. This raffle is being conducted via Charitable Gaming License #0000633.
The Kentucky State Police established Trooper Island in 1965 at Dale Hollow Lake near the Cumberland and Clinton county line as part of a long-range program of public service to the disadvantaged youth of Kentucky. It is a non-profit organization that operates solely on private, tax-deductible contributions. Each year, approximately 700 boys and girls ages 10 to 12 attend the free camp to participate in athletics, water safety, canoeing, fishing, swimming, fishing, archery and crafts as well as character-building activities.
Special camp sessions are scheduled for visually impaired youth, hearing impaired youth, youth at medical risk and Hispanic youth. The camp is staffed by volunteers and receives support from private industry and many civic and business groups.

PHOTO CAPTION: The Kentucky State Police are raffling off a 2007 Ford Mustang GT convertible to support their Trooper Island summer camp for disadvantaged children. Tickets are $10 each and can be obtained by contacting any Kentucky State Police post or calling the KSP Media Relations Branch in Frankfort at 502-695-6344. Participants must be at least 18 years old to purchase a ticket. The winning ticket will be drawn at 4:00 p.m. EST on Sunday, Aug. 26, 2007 at the Kentucky State Fair. Ticket holders need not be present to win.

KSP Offers Life-Saving Driving Advice for Thanksgiving Holiday
(FRANKFORT, Ky.) --The approaching Thanksgiving holiday means increased traffic on roads and highways throughout Kentucky. As a result, the Kentucky State Police will be enhancing its road patrols and operating safety checkpoints statewide beginning at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 22, and ending at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 26. During this period, state troopers will be coordinating enforcement activities with local police and sheriff’s offices. They will be using radar, laser and video equipment as well as passive alcohol sensors to assist their efforts.
As part of its increased activities, KSP will also be participating in Operation C.A.R.E. (Combined Accident Reduction Effort). This nationwide program works to reduce crashes on interstate highways and parkways by concentrating on the three key causes of traffic fatalities: speeding, impaired driving and failure to use occupant restraints.
“The Thanksgiving holiday period is one of the busiest times on our roadways,” says Kentucky State Police Commissioner Jack Adams. “Many residents will be traveling within the state and many more out-of-state visitors will be travelling to or through the Commonwealth. This increased activity has the potential to produce added risks to holiday travel plans.”
During the four-day 2005 Thanksgiving holiday period, there were 1,132 motor vehicle crashes on Kentucky roadways. Twelve people died and 367 were injured. Of the 12 fatalities, nine of the victims were not using seat belts.
“Through Nov. 16 of this year, Kentucky has recorded 795 highway fatalities,” said Adams. “Of those, 663 were motor vehicle victims -- 414 of the whom were not wearing seat belts. While these deaths are tragic,  many of them could have been avoided. I urge all motorists to protect themselves and their fellow travelers by following these safe driving tips,” added Adams.
· Don’t drink and drive. Kentucky has a zero tolerance policy regarding driving while impaired by alcohol. Operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol level of .08 will result in an immediate arrest even for first time offenders.
· Buckle up. Kentucky law makes the driver responsible for assuring that all occupants in their vehicle are properly restrained. A citation may be issued only if a motorist is stopped for reasons other than violation of the seat belt law.  However, no warnings will be issued to drivers found not wearing a safety belt as a secondary violation. They will receive a citation.
· Use approved child restraints. According to Kentucky law, all children 40 inches in height or less, must be buckled into a child safety restraint seat that meets federal standards. Children over 40 inches tall must wear a seat belt. Violation of this law will result in a $50.00 fine with an additional $10.00 fine donated to the Traumatic Brain Injury Trust Fund. Motorists should be aware that the back seat is the safest place for children to sit, especially in vehicles equipped with passenger-side air bags. Infants and toddlers should never ride in the front seat of a vehicle with a passenger-side air bag. Parents should always be sure that their child’s safety seat has been properly installed in the vehicle according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
· Slow down. While many drivers don't consider speeding to be as risky as impaired driving or not wearing seat belts, studies show that higher travel speeds are responsible for a significant increase in highway traffic deaths. Speeding reduces a driver's ability to steer safely around curves or objects in the roadway. It extends the distance required to stop a vehicle and increases the distance a vehicle travels while the driver reacts to a dangerous situation. 
· Obey speed limits. Excessive speed reduces your ability to avoid a crash, extends your vehicle’s stopping distance and increases the severity of a crash when it occurs.
· Get enough sleep. Sleep deprivation and fatigue can cause lapses in attention, slowed awareness and impaired judgement.
· Don’t tailgate. Follow other vehicles at a safe distance. If you find yourself being tailgated, don’t hit the brakes. Slow down gradually and let the other vehicle pass you.
· Avoid aggressive driving behaviors such as passing on the shoulder of the road, changing lanes without signaling, violating traffic signals and weaving in and out of traffic.
· Expect the unexpected. Watch traffic around you and be prepared to react. Scan the road ahead for potential hazards.
· Watch for road debris such as tire treads, garbage, lumber, gravel, tree limbs, mufflers and exhaust parts.
· Take extra care on rural roads with 55 mile per hour speed limits.
· Avoid or minimize in-car distractions such as cell phone use, changing tapes or CDs, eating or other activities that can remove your attention from the road.
· Take frequent breaks to keep alert during long distance trips.
· Be extra cautious around large trucks. They have large “blind spots” and much longer stopping distances than passenger cars.
· Remember that 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.
“Staying focused on driving while behind the wheel of a vehicle is a year-round message, but it needs to be re-emphasized during busy holiday travel times,” said Adams. “By keeping two hands on the wheel, two eyes on the road and following this common sense advice, we can all celebrate the season by making it a safe holiday on our roadways.”
Citizens can contribute to highway safety during the holiday period by reporting erratic, impaired or speeding drivers to the KSP toll-free hotline at 1-800-222-5555. Signs that a driver might be impaired include weaving, swerving, drifting or straddling the center line; driving on the wrong side of the road; driving at inconsistent speeds; stopping without cause or braking erratically; ignoring or responding slowly to traffic lights; driving too close to curbs and driving at night with no lights. Callers will remain anonymous and should give a description of the vehicle, location, direction of travel and license number, if possible.

GOVERNOR FLETCHER PROCLAIMS SEPTEMBER AS CAMPUS FIRE SAFETY MONTH
State fire marshal’s educational program available to all campuses
FRANKFORT, Ky. (Aug. 31, 2006) – Governor Ernie Fletcher, citing a troubling lack of fire-safety awareness on campuses, has proclaimed September as Campus Fire Safety Month.
At least 88 people have died in student housing fires nationwide since January 2000, yet students “are not routinely receiving adequate fire-safety education,” Governor Fletcher said.
“It is vital to educate future generations of our nation about the importance of fire safety to ensure their safety during their college years and beyond,” the Governor said. “I encourage all campus administrators to provide fire-safety education to students and to evaluate the level of fire safety being provided in their student housing facilities.”
The Office of State Fire Marshal, an agency of the Environmental and Public Protection Cabinet, has developed a program on campus fire safety that will be made available to all college campuses in Kentucky.
The program explores “high risk” attitudes – “It can’t happen to me” – and behaviors, such as disabling fire detection devices and ignoring fire alarms. It also covers common dormitory hazards – extension cords, careless smoking, untended candles, lamps and small appliances – and the many ways in which students can spot problems and protect themselves.
Information about the program is available from State Fire Marshal Rodney Raby, (502) 573-0382, or by writing Office of the State Fire Marshal, 101 Sea Hero Road, Frankfort, Ky. 40601.
In Kentucky, the Michael Minger Act, named in memory of a student killed in an arson fire at Murray State University in 1998, gives the state fire marshal authority to inspect, investigate or take other necessary action to prevent fire loss or to determine the origin of a fire on college campuses.

Bulldozer Accident
On 08-03-2006, K.S.P. Post 13 received a call at approximately 9:18 am reporting a bulldozer had overturned on the Old Dixon Rd off of KY 7 at Blackey, in Letcher County.  The operator reportedly had been thrown from the bulldozer and EMS was requested.  EMS and Tpr. David Combs responded to the scene.  The accident occurred when the victim, who was operating the bulldozer for the St Pipeline Company, was clearing timber to lay a gas line, had lost control of the piece of equipment.  The victim was transported to the Whitesburg ARH hospital, where he was pronounced dead due to injuries sustained in the accident.  The incident is remains under investigation by Tpr. Combs.

New Trucks for Breathitt Co.
The Breathitt County Fiscal Court recently leased two 2007 Mack Tri-axle dump trucks to help maintain our roads.  The county will benefit from these trucks because they were obtained with a very low interest rate, they are covered with a bumper to bumper warranty, and they will be auctioned off in a year at cost and possibly even bring a profit.  Several counties are now participating in this auction program, which basically allows a county to use these trucks for a year at no expense other than fuel.  Breathitt Co. first tried this program last year when they leased a single Mack truck and recently sold it at a slight profit after a year’s use.
Photo of Trucks

Five candidates to interview for Hopkinsville Community College Presidency
New president to be named this summer
VERSAILLES, Ky. (April 26, 2006) – Kentucky Community and Technical College System President Michael B. McCall today announced the names of five candidates to be interviewed for the position of president at
The Breathitt County Fiscal Court recently leased two 2007 Mack Tri-axle dump trucks to help maintain our roads.  The county will benefit from these trucks because they were obtained with a very low interest rate, they are covered with a bumper to bumper warranty, and they will be auctioned off in a year at cost and possibly even bring a profit.  Several counties are now participating in this auction program, which basically allows a county to use these trucks for a year at no expense other than fuel.  Breathitt Co. first tried this program last year when they leased a single Mack truck and recently sold it at a slight profit after a year’s use.Hopkinsville Community College (HCC).
The five candidates – nominated by the college’s Local Search Advisory Group and approved by Dr. McCall – include two community college presidents, two vice presidents, and Dr. James Selbe, currently serving as acting president of Hopkinsville Community College.  The finalists are:
•Roland J. Chapdelaine, Ed.D., president of Eastern Campus, Cuyahoga Community College, Highland Hills, Ohio; 
•Charlotte J. Lee, Ph.D., former vice president for education and organizational development, Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT), Washington, D. C.;
•Torri Lilly, Ed.D, provost/vice president of Citrus County Campus, Central Florida Community College, Lecanto, Fla.;
•James E. Selbe, Ed.D., acting president/CEO of Hopkinsville Community College;
•Anthony S. Tricoli, Ed.D., president of West Hills College, Coalinga, Calif.
“The Local Search Advisory Group is to be commended for recommending this outstanding list of candidates,” said President McCall.  “I look forward to the interview process and the opportunity to introduce these individuals to the Hopkinsville community.”
Dr. McCall said the next step in the process will be to schedule on-campus interviews with the five candidates. At that time, opportunities to meet the candidates will be extended to the Hopkinsville community and all HCC faculty, staff, and students.  
It is anticipated that Dr. McCall will name a president by the end of May.

First turkey for Jasmine Coomer 4-13-06
First turkey for Jasmine Coomer, this 25 pound bird with 101/2 inch beard was taken at 7 am on 1 Apr 06 in breathitt county, was shot in the head and neck at 47 yards with a 12 gage shot gun.  Mom (Cherl Coomer) along with Jack Gay was calling the bird in.  Cherl Coomer, Jack Gay, Guy and Shelly  Coomer are so proud of Jasmine and her first big kill.


Car fire at same residence where 3 died   8-7-05
Less than 24 hours after three children died in a suspicious house fire, the vehicle apparently belonging to one of the family of the fire victims, was burned. At this time authorities are not releasing any information on the car fire or the deaths of the 3 children involved in the fire the night before. According to autopsies, all three children died from smoke enhalation. Breathitt County Coroner, Bobby Thorpe Jr. stated, "Although the investigation is pending, the manner of death in the case of these three children, is very suspicious, due to two fires in less than 24 hours and due to the cause of both fires yet to be determined."  The house fire is still under investigation and no charges have been filed at this time.  PHOTOS HERE

$19,500 in PRIDE education grants awarded in Breathitt County
SOMERSET, KY  8-5-05 — Eastern Kentucky PRIDE announced today that four Environmental Education Grants were awarded to Breathitt County recipients. The grants total $19,500 and will benefit 767 students this year, according to the grant applications.
Highland-Turner Elementary School received $5,000 to enhance its outdoor classroom and purchase books.
Sebastian Middle School was awarded $4,500 and also will enhance an outdoor classroom, adding a nature trail.
Mt. Carmel Elementary will use its $5,000 grant to construct an outdoor classroom shelter, which will include a weather station, and purchase education equipment, including microscopes.
Oakdale Christian Academy received a $5,000 grant to construct an outdoor classroom amphitheater and nature trail.
“These grants are an investment in our young people and our region’s environment,” said Richard Thomas, PRIDE executive director. “Students are more excited to learn about science and other subjects when they have fun with hands-on projects, like working in a greenhouse and testing water in a local stream. If they learn now to appreciate and care for the environment, this region will be cleaner in the future.”
The PRIDE Environmental Education Grant program awards up to $5,000 to schools and nonprofit organizations to pursue projects that help young people understand the importance of a clean environment. The projects promote personal responsibility and community pride. Grant recipients must match the one-year grant with a monetary or in-kind contribution worth 10 percent of the grant amount.
PRIDE awarded 98 grants this year, totaling $439,733. Since 1997, PRIDE has invested $2,840,166 in environmental education, reaching more than 428,000 students across the region. PRIDE grants have been used to start 30 school-wide recycling projects and build 311 outdoor classrooms, 82 greenhouses and 47 nature trails.  
Eastern Kentucky PRIDE — Personal Responsibility In a Desirable Environment — serves 38 counties in southern and eastern Kentucky. PRIDE is a nonprofit organization that promotes environmental education and encourages citizens to clean up the region’s waterways and hillsides. Started in 1997 by Congressman Hal Rogers (KY-5) and the late James Bickford, former Secretary of the Kentucky Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Cabinet, PRIDE is funded by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Breathitt County’s PRIDE grant recipients were recently trained to follow guidelines for administering the federal funds. In these photos, Karen Deaton, PRIDE’s education director, presented certificates to the trainees. In the first photo are (left to right) Barbara Mullins, who teaches environmental education in all Breathitt County Schools as a representative of Saving Appalachian Resources, Sebastian Middle School’s Deana Moore, and Highland-Turner Elementary School’s Debra Johnson and Bonnie Cole. In the second photo are Mt. Caramel Elementary’s Joy Ghent, Charles Riley, Lynda Rose, Doris Richmond and Steve Richmond.

Wreck on Southfork lands one in Water 7-6-05
At approximately 10:00 PM on Friday July 1st, a vehicle driven by Cheryl Boogs was accidently put over the hill into the river at the first curve going up Southfork Road.  The drop is about 100 feet from the road to the river.  If you look closely all you can are the headlights from the vehicle.  Ms. Boggs had minor injuries.  No other vehicle was involved. Photos Here

GOVERNOR ERNIE FLETCHER KICKS OFF COMMONWEALTH CLEANUP WEEK 3-21-05
Frankfort, KY:  Governor Ernie Fletcher today kicked off the seventh annual Commonwealth Cleanup Week during a press conference at the capitol.  The Environmental and Public Protection Cabinet (EPPC) is hosting the weeklong event - March 20-26 - to promote responsible solid waste practices.
"Our theme for 2005 is Waste Not, Want Not: Don't Throw Away Your Future," said Governor Fletcher.  "This week provides an opportunity for all Kentuckians to take personal responsibility in cleaning up Kentucky.  If we are to attract industry and tourists to Kentucky, we must have a clean state."
Governor Fletcher announced winners of the Commonwealth Cleanup Week environmental education contest:
·        Amber Miller, who is in Chasity Taylor's class at Gallatin County Elementary. Amber's entry was a poster in the Grades 1-2 division - Make the world shine like a diamond: Please Recycle.
·        Rhea Ann Hammer, Jennifer Turner's class at Tompkinsville Elementary, Monroe County. Rhea Ann's entry was a poster in the Grades 1-2 division - We love to clean up!
·        Janet Kistler's class, Cub Run Elementary, Hart County. The class entry was a public awareness campaign, Grades 3-5 category. The students produced a series of campaign materials using the theme Do you want to live in a junkyard? 
Amber and Rhea Ann each get $50 and a plaque and their schools will receive $1,500 grants to be used for environmental education programs. Ms. Kistler's students will receive a plaque for their classroom and a $2,500 grant to implement their campaign.
Nonprofit organizations that conduct cleanup activities in local communities are also eligible to win cash prizes. Organizations must register through their local solid waste coordinator and complete a cleanup project to be eligible for the $1,500, $1,000 and $500 prizes awarded by random drawing.
Other organizations supporting this year's event include Bluegrass PRIDE, solid waste coordinators of Kentucky and Keep America Beautiful's Great American CleanupTM as well as Governor Fletcher's office, state legislators, county and city officials, other state government entities and volunteer groups.
Commonwealth Cleanup Week also kicks off Kentucky's participation in the Great American Cleanup, a national event sponsored by Keep America Beautiful.
"Officials from Keep America Beautiful have recognized Kentucky as the top state in the nation for the collection and recycling of more than 860,000 waste tires during the 2004 campaign," said LaJuana S. Wilcher, secretary of the Environmental and Public Protection Cabinet.
The Great American Cleanup netted a total of 1.2 million scrap tires nationwide from March to May 2004.
"Stray tires are an eyesore and they can be a breeding ground for mosquitoes," said G. Raymond Empson, president of Keep America Beautiful. "The collection and recycling effort of the State of Kentucky in 2004 was a tremendous community service and a wonderful example of Keep America Beautiful's mission in action."
The 1998 Kentucky General Assembly designated the last full week in March each year as Commonwealth Cleanup Week to put a special focus on "spring cleaning" the Commonwealth. For more information, visit the Commonwealth Cleanup Week page at the Division of Waste Management Web site --http://www.waste.ky.gov/ . The page includes a link to a list of county solid waste coordinators.

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet reminding motorists to not drink and drive on St. Patrick's Day weekend Motorists urged to take precautions, including using a designated driver
Frankfort, KY (March 9, 2005)-Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Secretary Maxwell Clay Bailey announced today that the Cabinet is joining with other federal, state and local highway safety officials across the nation to remind those who plan to celebrate St. Patrick's Day this year to act responsibly by not drinking and driving, and designating a sober driver before the parties begin.
"St. Patrick's Day has become a big night for many Kentuckians, particularly among young adults," said Secretary Bailey.  "But it's also a very dangerous night out due to impaired drivers.  That's why the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet is reminding all of those seeking a little luck of the Irish this year to designate their drivers in advance, before the festivities begin, and never let your friends drive if they are impaired."
According to the National Highway Safety Administration (NHTSA), 32 percent of all traffic fatalities on the nation's highways in 2003 around St. Patrick's Day were the result of impaired drivers with blood alcohol content levels of 0.08 percent and above.
"Designating a sober driver before the local celebration begins and making sure friends don't drive drunk are just two of several, simple steps to help avoid a tragic crash or an arrest for impaired driving,"
Secretary Bailey added.
If you are attending a St. Patrick's Day celebration and plan on using alcohol, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet asked you take the following steps:
*Designate your sober driver before the party begins and give that person your car keys.
*Don't starve yourself before or during the party.  Enjoy the food as well as the drink.
*Avoid drinking too much alcohol too fast.  Pace yourself-eat, take breaks, alternate with non-alcohol drinks.
*If impaired, don't get behind the wheel.  Ask a sober friend for a ride home, call a cab, friend or family member to come and get you, call your local sober rides program, use mass transit, or stay where you are and sleep it off until you are sober.
*Remember, Friends Don't Let Friends Drive Drunk.  Take the keys and never let a friend leave your sight if you think they are about to drive while impaired.

If you are hosting a St. Patrick's Day party:
*Serve lots of food, particularly high-protein dishes.  Be sure to include lots of non-alcohol beverages, desserts, and coffee.
*Be sure all of your guests designate their drivers in advance, or help arraign ride sharing with sober drivers.
*Keep the numbers for local cab companies handy, and take the keys away from anyone who is thinking of driving while impaired.
Impaired driving is one of America's deadliest problems.  Nationally, more than 17,000 people died in alcohol-related crashes during 2003.  Every 30 minutes, nearly 50 times a day, someone in the U. S. dies in an alcohol-related accident.  Hundreds more are injured each year. 
According to the NHTSA, about three in every ten Americans will be involved in an alcohol-related crash at some point in their lives.

INVITATION TO BID
The City of Jackson Tourism Board will be accepting bids for a Website which includes Website Development, Graphic Design, Maintenance, Website Hosting and Consultation. Bids must be sent to: City of Jackson Tourism Board, 333 Broadway, Jackson, KY 41339. The bid must be returned in a sealed envelope and marked "Sealed Bid" and will be received until 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 3rd, 2005 at City Hall. Please call (606) 666- 7069 if you have any questions.
Signed:
Michael D. Miller, Mayor
City of Jackson, KY

Breathitt to Get $288,783  in County Road Aid
Frankfort, KY 1-30-05 Governor Fletcher announces early release of $33 million in County Road Aid and Municipal Road Aid funds Money given out early to help local governments hit by snow storms, flooding
Governor Ernie Fletcher announced today the early release of $33 million in County Road Aid and Municipal Road Aid funds to numerous counties and cities across Kentucky.  "Many areas of the Commonwealth have been hit hard by the December snow storm and the January flooding", stated Governor Ernie Fletcher.  "The inclement weather has taken its toll on many roads and stretched city and county road department funds to the limit.  The early release of these funds will allow city and county governments to start repairing roads and bridges damaged by snow, ice and high waters."
Since November 2004, Governor Fletcher has directed an estimated $60 million to county and city governments from the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet's Department for Intergovernmental Programs. The early release represents $28 million from the County Road Aid fund to those eligible counties in the County Aid co-op, and $5 million from the Municipal Road Aid fund to those eligible communities in the Municipal Aid co-op. The funds being released by Governor Fletcher, which is 35 percent of the total allotment, were originally scheduled to become available to eligible city and county governments in March 2005.
"Through the leadership and vision of Governor Fletcher to provide a safe and reliable transportation system for all our citizens, today's announcement is further proof of our commitment to improving the highway infrastructure throughout the Commonwealth," said Maxwell Clay Bailey, Secretary, Kentucky Transportation Cabinet.  "Governor Fletcher is to be commended for his decision to release these funds early to help our local governments deal with storm related damage now instead of waiting until March."
All counties and cities in Kentucky are eligible to participate in the County Road Aid co-op and Municipal Aid co-op.  Those county and city governments that do sign an agreement with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet that stipulates the money will be used for manpower and materials to repair and improve roads and bridges maintained by county and city governments.  The participating counties and cities receive 60 percent of their allotted funds in August, 30 percent in March and 10 percent at the end of each fiscal year.  Non-participating county and city governments receive their funds monthly from the Governor's Office for Local Development, or GOLD. 
The money for the County Road Aid co-op and Municipal Road Aid co-op funds comes from the collection of the motor fuels tax in Kentucky.  Approximately half of the motor fuels tax is mandated by law to be used specifically for improvements and maintenance of Kentucky's city streets, county roads, and secondary state roads.