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| UK Extension Agent Speaks on Nutrition in Jackson 3-17-08
Martha Yount, local UK Extension Agent presented a program to faculty, staff and students at the Jackson Campus Library of Hazard Community and Technical College , February 5 on Weight – The Reality Series. This program, created by nutrition specialists at the University of Kentucky , is designed to get an individual’s weight under control. It is sponsored locally by the Breathitt County Cooperative Extension Service and the Breathitt County Health Department. This program offers options for an individual who participates to customize a food and exercise plan that will work for them. Yount shared the following facts with the audience: only 5% of those who lose 20 pounds keep it off for at least two years; reducing your weight by as little as 10% can greatly benefit your health. She informed the audience today’s environment encourages overeating and inactivity. An important part of the presentation centered on the topic of portion control of foods in helping realistically evaluate food intake. Yount stated that controlling weight is a skill anyone can learn; it just takes thought, time, effort, patience and perseverance. Participants in the program conduct a weigh-in each week and record their results. This data will become part of a UK study on weight management. The Breathitt County Health Department is providing different weight management tools each week to the participants. This program represents a part of the HCTC wellness campaign including this spring’s “Biggest Loser” competition. Solid Waste Shining Star 11-26-07 Calvin Saum II, Breathitt County Solid Waste Coordinator Calvin Saum is dedicated to improving every aspect of solid waste management in Breathitt County . When Calvin accepted the SWC position in 2004, he personally contacted each resident and informed them about the county’s requirement for mandatory garbage collection. He followed through this effort by issuing courtesy notices and uniform citations. In addition to improving collection and enforcement, Calvin is a very effective educator. Calvin writes an article for the local newspaper entitled “Cleaning with Calvin”. Calvin is also meticulous about overseeing grant projects including litter abatement and dump cleanups. His skills are an invaluable resource to Breathitt County . We are pleased to present Calvin Saum of Breathitt County the award for Solid Waste Shining Star. Kentucky gains jobs in some areas Overall jobless rate same as last year FRANKFORT, Ky. (Aug. 24, 2007) — Kentucky’s July 2007’s jobless rate was the same as July 2006’s rate of 5.7 percent, according to the Office of Employment and Training (OET), an agency of the Kentucky Education Cabinet. Kentucky’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate rose to 5.7 percent in July 2007 from 5.4 percent in June 2007, according to OET. The U.S. seasonally adjusted jobless rate increased from 4.5 percent in June 2007 to 4.6 percent in July 2007, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Since July 2006, Kentucky ’s nonfarm employment has increased by 14,600. Three of the 11 major nonfarm job North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) sectors reported employment increases in July, while seven decreased, and one was unchanged, according to OET. A decrease of 1,100 jobs in July 2007 brought Kentucky ’s nonfarm employment to a seasonally adjusted total of 1,853,500. According to the seasonally adjusted employment data, the government sector, which includes public education, rose by 2,300 jobs in July 2007. Since July 2006, this sector has added 100 jobs. The construction sector gained 600 jobs in July 2007. Since July 2006, employment in this job area has gone up by 3,100. The natural resources and mining sector had 100 more jobs in July 2007 compared to June 2007. Since July 2006, the segment has risen by 400 jobs. The number of jobs in the manufacturing sector remained the same from June 2007 to July 2007. Compared to July 2006, jobs in the sector were down by 200 in July 2007. Kentucky’s educational and health services sector has gained 3,000 jobs since July 2006. This sector dropped by 1,200 jobs in July 2007. This sector includes private and nonprofit establishments that provide either education and training, or health care and social assistance to their clients. Jobs in the professional and business services sector had 4,000 more employees in July 2007 than in July 2006. The sector fell by 1,000 in July 2007. The professional and business services sector includes professional, scientific and technical services, and management of companies and administrative and support management, including temporary help agencies. Since July 2006, employment in the leisure and hospitality sector has increased by 1,500 positions. This sector lost 900 jobs in July 2007. The leisure and hospitality sector includes arts, entertainment, recreation, accommodations and food services and drinking places industries. Since July 2006, the number of jobs in Kentucky ’s trade, transportation and utilities sector has increased by 800. This sector recorded 500 fewer jobs in July 2007. This area includes retail and wholesale trade, transportation and utilities businesses, and warehousing, and is the largest sector in Kentucky with 380,100 employees. The information sector had 100 more jobs in July 2007 than in July last year. This sector went down by 300 positions in July 2007. This segment includes firms involved in publishing, Internet activities and broadcasting and news syndication. The financial activities sector has added 1,800 jobs over the past 12 months. This sector reported 100 fewer jobs in July 2007. This segment includes businesses involved in finance, insurance, real estate and property leasing or rental. The state’s other services sector, which includes such establishments as repair and maintenance places, personal and laundry services, religious organizations, and civic and professional organizations, had the same number of jobs in July 2007 and July 2006. This area lost 100 jobs in July 2007. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ monthly estimate of the number of employed Kentuckians for July 2007 was 1,934,283 on a seasonally adjusted basis. This figure is down 8,313 from the 1,942,596 employed in June 2007, but up 10,109 from the 1,924,174 employed in July 2006. The monthly estimate of the number of unemployed Kentuckians for July 2007 was 117,088, up 5,740 from the 111,348 Kentuckians unemployed in June 2007, and up 933 from the 116,155 unemployed in July 2006. The monthly estimate of the number of Kentuckians in the civilian labor force for July 2007 was 2,051,371. This figure is down 2,573 from the 2,053,944 recorded in June 2007, but up 11,042 from the 2,040,329 recorded for July 2006. Unemployment statistics are based on estimates and are compiled to measure trends rather than actually to count people working. Civilian labor force statistics include non-military workers and unemployed Kentuckians who are actively seeking work. They do not include unemployed Kentuckians who have not looked for employment within the past four weeks. Kentucky’s statewide unemployment rate and employment levels are seasonally adjusted. Employment statistics undergo sharp fluctuations due to seasonal events, such as weather changes, harvests, holidays and school openings and closings. Seasonal adjustments eliminate these influences and make it easier to observe statistical trends. However, because of the small sample size, county unemployment rates are not seasonally adjusted. 13 Die on Ky Roadways (FRANKFORT, Ky.) - Preliminary statistics* indicate that 13 people died in 12 separate crashes on Kentucky’s roadways from Monday, June 11 through Sunday, June 17, 2007. Ten of the fatalities involved motor vehicles and six 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 two were not wearing helmets. One of the fatalities was the result of a crash that involved the suspected use of alcohol. Floyd County reported one double-fatality crash. Jefferson County reported three single-fatality crashes. Single-fatality crashes also occurred in Carroll, Crittenden, Kenton,, Mason, Perry, Todd, Warren and Washington counties. Through June 17, preliminary statistics* indicate that 377 people have lost their lives on Kentucky roadways during 2007. This is 10 fewer than reported for this time period in 2006. Of the 309 motor vehicle fatalities, 185 victims were not wearing seat belts. Of the 35 motorcycle fatalities, 19 were not wearing helmets. Of the 18 ATV fatalities, 14 were not wearing helmets. Fifteen pedestrians have been killed and a total of 91 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. The East Kentucky Singers Under the direction of Eddie Campbell Presents A World of Rhythm Together with The East Kentucky Youth Chorus Under the direction of Bobbie Bevins Sunday, April 22, 2007 Bowman Memorial United Methodist Church (Hazard) At 3:00 p.m. Admission is Free REP. HOFFMAN PASSES BILL TO PRESERVE HISTORIC ROCK FENCES Protecting Kentucky's historic rock fences would be easier under a bill that passed the House unanimously this week, filed by House Majority Caucus Chairman Charlie Hoffman. House Bill 108 creates a Rock Fence Preservation Fund, which can receive gifts, grants and private donations to be awarded to fence owners to help defray the costs of preservation. Rep. Hoffman filed the legislation after he saw a newspaper photo of a historic rock fence being loaded onto a truck and carted away for disposal. Many owners want to repair and preserve their stone fences, which contribute significantly to the beauty of the Kentucky landscape, but the cost of repairs can be prohibitive. "Sometimes, unfortunately, it's just easier to tear the old fence down and replace it with a modern fence with far less intrinsic aesthetic value," Rep. Hoffman said. "Under House Bill 108, we can help our citizens tend to this important part of Kentucky's heritage." Kentucky is lucky enough to currently have resident stone masons trained by Irish artisans who are masters at stone fence building. These masons are, in turn, training other Kentuckians in this skilled trade. In addition to supporting a skills training program, House Bill 108 would prompt tourists to come from all over the world to witness both the artistry-in-practice and the splendor of the finished product. The bill, which the House approved by a 100-0 vote, now goes to the Senate. New Administrator He will probably never have a fancy office with a brass nameplate on the door, but in many other ways everyone will soon come to know him as the new administrator at Riverside Christian School. His name is Ernie Roberts. The Riverside Board of Directors met Saturday, November 4, and officially asked Roberts to accept the position. He agreed and immediately began formulating a list of things he could do to help the staff and make improvements in various areas. He is definitely a hands-on person. One of his first tasks was to help clean the school furnace room, replacing old pipes and installing new lighting. “I’m here as an advisor to help Miss Burroughs,” said Roberts, “and to try to bring the school and community closer together in a Christian atmosphere.” Roberts knows this area very well in several capacities. Presently he is the pastor of the Faith Bible Church in the nearby community of Clayhole. He had assisted the former pastor, his father-in-law Roy Hudson. When Hudson passed away suddenly, Roberts carried on in his place along with his brother-in-law Raymond Hudson. Breathitt County has always been his home. He attended Caney Elementary, Breathitt High, and, for a short time, Riverside. His first job with Dodge Trophies gave him the experience and skills to start his own business. For over twenty years Ernie’s Sports Awards, located in Clayhole, continued as a thriving business. It continues today on a limited basis. For six years Roberts was employed as a Safety Coordinator for Trus Joist McMillan in Perry County. To qualify for this position he received certification in Pulmonary Function Testing at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. He was also certified in Industrial Safety through classes at the University of Cincinnati. “I thank God that I went through a lot of this,” he says, “because I learned a lot about dealing with people when I was in management positions.” Roberts has numerous ties with Riverside School. He was earlier a member of the RCS Board for 17 years. His wife Bea graduated here and, after teaching in the public school for nine years, she has returned to teach high school math and government classes. Together they prayed for this new venture. The Roberts three siblings are RCS graduates. Sonia Cattoi is employed by the Lafarge Corporation and is in charge of customer services for their North American Operations. Kathy Patrick works for Farm Bureau Insurance in Jackson. Kevin Roberts is a Maintenance Engineer with True Joist. The Roberts have six grandchildren, two of which presently attend Riverside. Rebuilding and restoring classic cars is an interest shared by family members. That and just being together as a family are two primary interests for the new administrator. Speaking of family, this fits in with one of the goals Roberts shared in his new role at Riverside. To all concerned he would like to say, “You’re not staff or parents, you’re part of a family.” He wants to make sure that present staff aren’t overburdened or pressured and to help build morale. To the students he would say, “Right now you may not understand, but if we didn’t care about you, we wouldn’t push you to excel. We love you and we’re here for you.” Roberts says he and Doran Hostetler shared this concern: we don’t want any kid to fall by the wayside. Two long term goals Roberts has are 1) to get our enrollment up, and 2) to get more alumni and some corporations involved with the school, to create a more open-door policy. In that case, the brass nameplate wouldn’t be seen anyway. Providing community news better and faster with the help of a broadband connection Jackson, KY- Local newspapers have long been an authoritative source for the "happenings" of communities across Kentucky. News discussed at local diners over coffee often ends up on the pages of the community paper. While that continues to be the case for many Kentucky newspapers, Wizard, Inc. has taken a new approach to traditional community reporting. Committed to providing information to the public better and faster than anyone else, Wizard, Inc. established Kentucky Mountain News, combining news and technology for a comprehensive approach. Situated in the heart of Breathitt County, Kentucky Mountain News brings community news to eastern Kentucky communities via the Internet as well as through newspaper print. Established in 2002 Breathitt Online News began publishing a community website for Breathitt County, www.breathittonline.com. The site was initially meant to be a message board for community news. Over time, the website evolved to cover all community news pertaining to its readership, including obituaries, court dockets and even a "Dear Santa" e-mail for the Christmas holiday. In 2004, Kentucky Mountain News began producing a paper version of the online news site. The printing process proved tedious initially, because Kentucky Mountain News had only a slow dial-up Internet connection. The newspaper had to be manually pieced together and transported by car to London, Kentucky, more than an hour away. The commute not only sacrificed time for the company, but travel on the two-lane road was a safety risk. Today, the company boasts a broadband connection that continues to open doors of opportunity. With broadband, Kentucky Mountain News sends the final version of the paper to the printer electronically, saving time for other business tasks. And the company has many! Broadband continues to bring more opportunity to Kentucky Mountain News. Today, the business provides web design services for many community officials, local businesses and regional events. "Kentucky Mountain News is community-oriented," owner and founder Ron Hamblin said. But Hamblin's community is much greater than most think. His idea of community extends to all of Eastern Kentucky. Visitors from all over Eastern Kentucky get their news and post comments on the newspaper’s website. Hamblin and partner Danny Fugate, strive to give everyone the opportunity to get news as quickly and accurately as possible. Having such a wide reach is impossible without a broadband connection. The newspaper’s employees are living proof. Hamblin's son continues to update the news website, despite being away at Pikeville College. "Every day, we grow," Hamblin reflected. "Today, we are in a building with six offices and managing 84 registered domains for the community." From its humble beginnings in Hamblin's attic, Wizard, Inc. has grown into the leading web design company in the area. More importantly, the company provides opportunities to others in the area through the creation of technology-related positions. Wizard, Inc. has pioneered the community's transition to Internet-based news and a more informed way of life. About KY 120: In the fast-paced world of technology-driven business, it should be recognized that best practices can be studied and emulated. As a part of the connectkentucky initiative, CiTE (Center for Technology Enterprise) is profiling business initiatives in each of Kentucky’s 120 counties. For more information, visit our Web site at www.connectkentucky.org or call 270.781.4320. Robbery In Letcher Co. ON 08/06/06 AT APPROXIMATELY 02:30HRS. KENTUCKY STATE POLICE POST 13 RESPONDED TO A POSSIBLE ROBBERY COMPLAINT IN THE MAYKING COMMUNITY OF LETCHER COUNTY. UPON ARRIVAL OF TROOPERS 2 MALE SUBJECTS ADVISED THEY WERE ROBBED AT GUN POINT WHILE PURCHASING A BOAT. AN INVESTIGATION WAS CONDUCTED AND DUSTIN YEARY 21 YEARS OF AGE OF WHITESBURG, KY. WAS ARRESTED AND CHARGED FOR ROBBERY 1st DEGREE AND LODGED IN THE LETCHER COUNTY JAIL. INVESTIGATION IS CONTINUING BY TPR. BEN McMCRAY. Social Security Column TICKET TO WORK PROGRAM MARKS FOURTH ANNIVERSARY By John Watts Social Security Manager in Jackson, KY The Ticket to Work program, designed to help Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) disability beneficiaries go to work, marked its fourth anniversary in February 2006 with a growing number of participants. The Ticket to Work program began in 13 states in February 2002, expanded to 20 more states in November 2002, and became available nationwide in November 2003. Nearly 120,000 Social Security and SSI disability beneficiaries are using their “Tickets” to obtain free vocational rehabilitation, job training and other support services. In this way, beneficiaries who want to return to work may become financially independent. We expect this number to continue to grow as more Americans with disabilities become familiar with the opportunities that the program can offer them. Here’s a brief primer on how the program works. The Ticket program is voluntary. Social Security and SSI beneficiaries who receive a Ticket are not required to work, but may choose to use their Tickets to attempt to go to work. A disability beneficiary can use the Ticket with either a private sector employment network or a State Vocational Rehabilitation Agency. Together the beneficiary and service provider design an individual employment plan outlining the services to be provided that will help the beneficiary reach his or her job goals. The Ticket to Work program removes many barriers that had previously forced people with disabilities to choose between health care coverage and work. Social Security disability beneficiaries are eligible for Medicare, and most Social Security disability beneficiaries now are protected by Medicare for up to eight years and six months after they go to work. Medicare coverage continues even if an individual no longer receives a monetary benefit from Social Security. If you or someone you know is a Social Security or SSI disability beneficiary who would like to learn more about how the Ticket to Work program can help a return-to-work effort, just visit Social Security’s website at www.socialsecurity.gov/work . Or you can call Social Security’s toll-free number, 1-800-772-1213 (TTY1-800-325-0778) and ask for the Ticket to Work and Self-Sufficiency Program booklet. Social Security Column JUNE NEWLYWEDS MAY NEED TO CHANGE NAME WITH SOCIAL SECURITY By John Watts Social Security Manager in Jackson, KY Social Security would like to send congratulations to all June newlyweds across the nation. We also want to remind brides (and brides-to-be) that if you intend to change your name -- including using a hyphenated name -- it is important for you to notify us about your name change and to get a replacement Social Security card. The new card will have the same number as your previous card, but will show your new name. If you are working, you will also need to tell your employer about your name change so that your wages are posted correctly to your Social Security record. If you forget to do so, it may cause errors in your earnings record history, which could lower the amount of your future Social Security benefits. Social Security makes the name change process as quick and simple as possible. You will first need to complete an Application for a Social Security Card (Form SS-5), which is available from any Social Security office or which can also be downloaded from Social Security’s website at www.socialsecurity.gov. We also will need to see proof of your identity. You must show us a recently issued marriage document as proof of your legal name change. (If you are changing your name for another reason, such as a divorce, we must see a divorce decree specifically stating you may change your name or a court order for a name change.) If the documents you provide for a legal name change do not give enough information to identify you, then you also must show two identity documents, including one document in your old name and a second document with your new legal name. In addition to your name, these documents must contain identifying information (date of birth or age) or a recent photograph. Also, all documents must be either originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. We cannot accept photocopies or notarized copies of documents. Once you have the required identity documents, just take them along with the completed Form SS-5 to your local Social Security office. If you need more information about changing your name with Social Security, whether it is due to a marriage, divorce or any other reason, you can visit Social Security online at www.socialsecurity.gov/ssnumber/ and read the fact sheet, New Rules For Getting A Social Security Number And Card. Or you can call Social Security’s toll-free number at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) and ask that a copy of the fact sheet be mailed to you. Here is first hand knowledge... As you all listen to the news about the student protests over illegal immigration there are some things that you should be aware of. My wife is in charge of the English-as-a-second-language department at large southern California high school, which is designated a Title 1 school, meaning that its students average lower socio-economic and income levels. Most of the schools you are hearing about, South Gate High, Bell Gardens, Huntington Park, etc. where these students are protesting, are also Title 1 schools. My wife tells me that 100% of the students in her school and other Title 1 schools are on the free breakfast, free lunch program. When I say free breakfast I'm not talking a glass of milk and roll... but a full breakfast and cereal bar with fruits and juices that would make a Marriott proud. The waste of this food is monumental, with trays and trays of it being dumped in the trash uneaten. She estimates that well over 50% of these students are obese or at least moderately overweight. About 75% or more DO have cell phones. The school also provides day care centers for the unwed teenage pregnant girls (some as young as 13) so they can attend class without the inconvenience of having to arrange for baby-sitters or having family watch their kids. She was ordered to spend $700,000 on her department or risk losing funding for the upcoming year even though there was little need for anything; her budget was already substantial. She ended up buying new computers for their computer learning center; half of which, one month later, have been carved with graffiti by the appreciative students who obviously feel humbled and grateful to have a free education in America She has had to intervene several times for young and substitute teachers whose classes consist of many illegal immigrant students here in the country less then 3 months who raised so much hell with the female teachers, calling them Putas? whores and throwing things that the teachers were in tears. Free medical, free education, free food, day care etc., etc., etc. Is it any wonder they feel entitled to not only be in this country but to demand rights, privileges and entitlements? To my conservative friends: I hope you're really proud of how George W. Bush has helped to sell-out this country with his pro-illegal policy. To my bleeding-heart liberal friends who want to point out how much these illegal immigrants contribute to our society because they LIKE their gardener and housekeeper and they like to pay less for tomatoes: spend some time in the real world of illegal immigration and see the TRUE costs. Higher insurance, Medical facilities closing, higher medical costs, more crime, lower standards of education in our schools, overcrowding, new diseases etc., etc., etc. For me, I'll pay more for tomatoes. We need to wake up. The guest worker program will be a disaster because we won't have the guts to enforce it. Does anyone in their right mind really think they will leave and return voluntarily? There are many hardworking Hispanic/American citizens that contribute to our country and many that I consider my true friends. We should encourage and accept those Hispanics who have done it the right and legal way. It does, however, have everything to do with culture: A third-world culture that does not value education, that accepts children getting pregnant and dropping out of school by 15 and that refuses to assimilate ... and an American culture that has become so weak and politically correct that we don't have the will to do anything about it. If this makes your blood boil, as it did mine, forward this. DEPORT ALL ILLEGALS! WAKE UP PRESIDENT BUSH, YOUR COUNTRY NEEDS YOU! Multi-day roundup snares 15 in Floyd County 3-9-06 Fifteen suspected drug dealers were arrested during the first two days of a Thanksgiving week roundup by Operation UNITE in Floyd County. Four of those charged had been sought in previous roundups conducted in Floyd and Martin counties, noted Lee Weddington, Big Sandy Task Force manager for UNITE. Law enforcement officers began on Monday, November 21, by trying to serve nine District Court warrants. Then, following the return of indictments by a Floyd County Grand Jury, proceeded to locate an additional 22 individuals. UNITE detectives were joined by officers from the Floyd County Sheriff’s Office, Wheelwright Police Department, Prestonsburg Police Department and Kentucky State Police Post in Pikeville in seeking these suspects, most wanted for illegal sales of prescription medication, marijuana sales or possession, and some possession of cocaine charges. Weddington said officers will continue trying to locate the other 20 suspects, noting several people are believed to be out of the county. This is the third roundup resulting from undercover investigations by Operation UNITE. Previous roundups took place in July and December 2004. “We know there are many drug dealers in Floyd County,” Weddington said. “Through the assistance of tips from concerned citizens we are able to identify these individuals and pursue criminal cases.” As of early afternoon Tuesday, the following individuals had been arrested: • Raven Leigh Adams, age 25, Beaver Junction, Dwale, first-degree possession of a controlled substance, third-degree possession of a controlled substance, and possession of drug paraphernalia. • Bobby J. Bryant, age 52, Stamper Branch, Wayland, two counts trafficking in marijuana less than 8 ounces. • Jackie D. Gibson, age 49, Martin Branch, Wayland, trafficking in marijuana less than 8 ounces. • Rhonda Hall, age 32, Grethel, second-degree trafficking in a controlled substance. • Miranda Holthouse, age 21, Front Street, Maytown, second-degree trafficking in a controlled substance and trafficking in marijuana less than 8 ounces. • Marion Kilburn, age 45, Martin, second-degree trafficking in a controlled substance. • Bryan McKinny, age 23, Prestonsburg, second-degree trafficking in a controlled substance and trafficking in a controlled substance within 1,000 yards of a school. • Arel Marlene Mills, age 31, Tomahawk (Martin County), first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance and second-degree trafficking in a controlled substance. • Curtis Newsome, age 43, Burchetts Trailer Court, Prestonsburg, second-degree trafficking in a controlled substance. • Charles Poston, age 31, Front Street, Maytown, second-degree trafficking in a controlled substance, trafficking in marijuana less than 8 ounces, and trafficking in a controlled substance within 1,000 yards of a school. • James C. Poston, age 56, Johnson Road, McDowell, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, and illegal possession of a Legend drug. • Arthur D. Redford, age 46, Hall Hollow, Wheelwright, first-degree possession of a controlled substance, second-degree possession of a controlled substance, possession of marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia. • James E. Ritchie, age 75, Stamper Branch, Wayland, third-degree trafficking in a controlled substance and trafficking in marijuana less than 8 ounces. • Randy Tackett, age 36, Main Street, Wheelwright, first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance. • Richard A. Watts Jr., age 54, Shop Fork, Wheelwright, cultivation of marijuana over 5 plants. Drug arrest made in Wayne County 2-13-06 A Wayne County man has been arrested by Operation UNITE on drug trafficking charges. Forrest Shawn Poore, age 24, was picked up on an indictment warrant at Horse Hollow Apartments in Monticello on Thursday, February 9. Poore was charged with first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance (cocaine) and trafficking in marijuana under 8 ounces. “This is the first of several arrests to come in Wayne County,” said Joel Cunagin, Cumberland Task Force manager for UNITE. Assisting with the arrest were members of the Lake Cumberland Area Drug Task Force, Monticello Police Department and Wayne County Sheriff’s Office. Poore was processed at the Monticello Police Department then lodged in the Wayne County Detention Center under a $25,000 cash bond. Boy Scout Troop 357 News 9-11-05 Troop 357 went canoing at the Big Southfork National Recreation Area. We started at Station Camp near Oneida, Tennessee and ended at Blue Heron Recreation Area near Whitley City, Kentucky. The scouts canoed 19 miles including the section between the Kentucky/Tennessee border and the Blue Heron Recreation Area known as a “Kentucky Wild River.” This trip was quite challenging and indeed, more than we bargained for! The nearly 60 shoals were too low to easily ride through, so we pushed, pulled, and dragged loaded canoes over them. Of course, all this hard work produced hearty appetites. The boys ate gumbo and the adults prepared fajitas under lantern lights at a campsite midway through the trip. Each boy experienced exciting water rapids known as Devil’s Jump. Scout Tyler Barnes and his canoe partner, parent/leader Larry Robinson, overturned their canoe in these rapids. And, while Scoutmaster Don Barnes and Scout Ryan Draughn stayed afloat, they did absorb over 10 inches of water in their canoe. Assistant Scoutmaster Jeremiah Bryant and Scout Hunter Robinson stabilized Don and Ryan’s canoe until they reached shore, while Assistant Scoutmaster Cal Gillett and Scouts Derrik Abner, Jerome Hollon, and Angelo Zolia bravely recovered Tyler and Larry’s canoe and gear. All scouts and leaders wore life jackets, so no person was in serious danger. The resulting teamwork for the rescues demonstrated leadership, which is one of the primary goals of scouting. While the boys and adults were tested to their limits, each survived the experience with a renewed sense of teamwork, leadership, and appreciation for the elements. The final celebration of the trip included a much needed relaxing swim while awaiting transportation. RECORD PENALTIES FOR WORKERS' COMP INSURANCE Aggressive enforcement leads to $737,775 in penalty collection FRANKFORT, KY. (July 21, 2005) - Kentucky employers who failed to provide required workers' compensation insurance for employees were hit with more than 1,100 citations in fiscal year 2005, resulting in the collection of a record $737,775 in penalties, Governor Ernie Fletcher announced today. The 2005 data from the state Office of Workers' Claims (OWC), was up from 709 citations in fiscal year 2004 and nearly doubled the $388,826 in penalties collected in 2004. Governor Fletcher said collecting record penalties, while not a priority, serves to discourage violations of the workers' compensation law. "This administration has taken an aggressive approach on the enforcement of the statutory requirement for employers to have workers' compensation insurance," said Governor Fletcher. "Employees deserve to have confidence that if they are injured on the job, their income, medical bills and other liabilities for injured workers will be covered by their employer." Kentucky requires any employer with at least one employee to carry workers' compensation coverage. William Emrick, executive director of the OWC, said widespread failure of some employers to abide by the law raises costs to those who do. "Employers who disregard the workers' compensation law have an unfair advantage when competing against employers who provide proper workers' compensation coverage for their workers," said Emrick. Investigators from the OWC probe businesses based upon leads, complaints from the public, random inspections and reports of employee injuries. Citations were issued in the construction, trucking, manufacturing, retail and professional service industries. The smallest penalty assessed was $200; the largest $50,000. Several Accidents Keep Rescue Squads busy 6-28-05 Breathitt County, KY Dena Bouchard of Jackson was arrested Friday, June 24th 2005 for operating a motor vehicle under the influence and no insurance. The arrest occurred after Bouchard crossed Hwy 15 from Jett drive and hit a trailer. The accident is still under investigation by Jackson Police Department. PHOTO 1 PHOTO 2 In another Accident, Monday June 27th around 12:30pm, Jackson resident Lisa Bryant, lost control of her white Chevy car coming out of a passing lane in the Ned community. Bryant was transported by Care Flight. Her injuries did not appear to be life threatening.The accident is under investigation by KSP Trooper Sandlin. Monday, June 27 also had another accident near the Wolfe County, Breathitt County line. According to witnesses, a 1990 Chevy Beretta, blue, lost control traveling south on HWY 15. The car slid across the center line and was hit by a 2002 Dodge Caravan, silver. One occupant, Ronnie Smith, was thrown from the Chevy vehicle. Two other occupants of the Chevy sustained injuries. All three were transported to the Kentucy River Medical Center. The driver of the Blue Chevy Beretta, Billy Ray Noble, fled the scene. The driver of the Caravan, Columbus Keen, of Troy Michigan, was transported for minor injuries. Beer cans were scattered in and around the Chevy Beretta. Alcohol appears to be a factor in the accident. The accident is still under investigation by Breathitt County Sheriff's office. PHOTOS HERE Two Injured in Early Afternoon Accident 6-16-05 Clayhole, KY Two men were injured when a Red Chevy S-10 driven by Linville Smith apparently crossed the centerline and hit a Western Star tractor trailer head on. The Western Star truck is owned by Hall & Sons and was driven by Dean Napier. Both drivers were transported to Kentucky River Medical Center in Jackson. The accident is under investigated by KSP Trooper Doug Gay. PHOTOS HERE Wolf Coal Man dies in ATV Accident 5-24-05 From Kentucky State Police; A 1999 Honda Four Track ATV operated by Bill R.Chaney of Jackson, KY. was traveling across a railroad overpass at Wolfe Coal Creek, in the Wolfe Coal Community of Breathitt County. While crossing the overpass, the ATV appears to have suddenly veered to the right off the overpass falling approx 50 feet into a creek. The Breathitt County Coroner pronounced the victim dead at the scene and an autopsy will be performed by the State Medical Examiners office in Frankfort. This accident remains under investigation by Trooper Hurt. Cemetery Sign Set 4-22-05 PHOTO HERE Hazel Baker Moyers, her husband Charles, Conley Baker her brother and Buster and Hazel Vires today, set the new sign that Conley and Charles made for Cortland Cemetery. Hazel sent this picture. What a great sign!!! May the 7th at 3 o'clock in the afternoon there will be a military presentation comemerating two old war of 1812 Veterans, Lt. Robert Julius Bob Baker and his comrade William Neal, we are setting their markers. Following will be a cookout at Conley Baker's cabin on the Laurel Fork right up the road from Cortland. Governor Ernie Fletcher and the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Announce Repair Work to Breathitt County Roads Damaged by May 2004 Flooding Frankfort, KY - (April 7, 2005) - As part of Governor Ernie Fletcher's vision to provide a safe and reliable transportation system, acting Transportation Secretary Bill Nighbert announces repairs to several roads in Breathitt County that were damaged by last spring's flood. Slide repair work will be performed at three sites on KY 1278, one site on KY 3237 and two sites on KY 2436. "These flood repair projects are examples of our commitment to improving safety and mobility on our highways while enhancing the overall quality of life for Breathitt County and the Commonwealth," said Governor Ernie Fletcher. "We're pleased to be able to assist in repairing these roads in Breathitt County, making them safe and operational once more," said Secretary Nighbert. M & D General Contractors, Inc. of Barbourville, Kentucky was awarded the low bid contract for $123,289.00. Work is expected to begin in the near future and the anticipated completion date is fall of 2005. Construction activities are scheduled on a tentative basis and are subject to change depending on weather conditions. JURY CONVICTS FORMER SCHOOL TEACHER ON DRUG CHARGES RECOMMENDS FIVE-YEAR SENTENCE Jackson, KY 3-30-05 A former elementary school teacher was convicted of drug trafficking following a jury trial in Breathitt County Circuit Court Tuesday, March 29. The 12-person jury needed less than one-half hour to unanimously find 55-year-old Margaret Combs, of Highland Road, Jackson, guilty on one count of first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance and recommend she be incarcerated for 5 years. The verdict came exactly one year to the day after she was arrested in an Operation UNITE drug roundup that was the largest in Kentucky's history. On April 6, 2004, more than 100 local, state and federal law enforcement officers swept across eight Eastern Kentucky counties with warrants for 211 individuals suspected of dealing drugs. Under questioning from Assistant Commonwealth Attorney Bruce Herald, UNITE detectives said Combs, a retired teacher at LBJ Elementary, sold four Methadone tablets to undercover officers for $40 on March 29, 2004. An audio tape presented into evidence recorded the transaction, in which Combs asked the officers if they wanted to purchase 120 more tablets the following day. During the hearing, defense attorney Gary Anderson, of Winchester, unsuccessfully argued that Combs had been entrapped by the officers and had no knowledge of what was going on. I'm happy with the outcome, commented Herald. The jury did an excellent job considering the evidence. I feel justice was served in Breathitt County with the conviction. Circuit Court Judge Larry Miller scheduled sentencing for April 22. A guilty verdict in cases such as this sends a message to the community that they have had enough, said Karen Engle, executive director for UNITE. Our detectives gathered the evidence, and a jury of her peers found her guilty. Citizens across Kentucky are tired of drug dealing and, in Breathitt County, have made a strong statement by their verdict. Although there have been other convictions from the 2004 roundup, this is the first case to be heard by a jury in Breathitt County, said Dan Smoot, law enforcement director for UNITE. I want to commend the individuals who served on the jury. The verdict validates law enforcement efforts and signals that we are serious about getting drug dealers out of our communities. |
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