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| Thirteen Die On Kentucky Roadways Last Week (Jan. 31 through Feb. 6)
(FRANKFORT, Ky.) - Preliminary statistics* indicate that 13 people died in 13 separate crashes on Kentucky's roadways from Monday, Jan. 31 through Sunday, Feb. 6. Of the 13 fatal crashes, preliminary data* indicates alcohol was a suspected factor in six of the crashes and 11 of the victims were not wearing seat belts. One of the fatalities was a pedestrian and one was a bicycle rider. Two fatal crashes occurred in Letcher County. Single fatality crashes also occurred in Bell, Cumberland, Greenup, Kenton, Leslie, Logan, Madison, Pulaski, Shelby, Spencer, and Todd counties. Since the beginning of the 2005, a total of 76* people have lost their lives on Kentucky roadways. This is an increase of 10 over the same time period in 2004. Forty-six of these 76 fatalities were not wearing seat belts. 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. DATE: Tuesday, February 1, 2005 LOCATION: Highway 52 North (Beattyville Road) FATALITIES: None INCIDENT: Injury Accident UNITS RESPONDING: All Personal Vehicles NUMBER RESPONDING: 3 At 11:33 p.m. on Tuesday, February 1, the Jackson Volunteer Fire Department received a report of a single vehicle injury accident on Highway 52 North approximately six miles from Jackson on the Beattyville Road. No entrapment was reported by law enforcement officials. Officials reported one male and one female patient were transported to the Kentucky River Medical Center. Three members of the Jackson Fire Department responded to the scene and assisted Breathitt County Ambulance carry one of the two injured patients up the hill to the ambulance. All fire crews left the scene at 11:48 p.m. PHOTO HERE Roger Friley, Chief Stephen D. Bowling, Information Officer Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Awards Contract for Reconstruction of Kentucky 15 New highway replaces dangerous stretch of road near Jackson Frankfort, KY (January 18, 2005) - As part of Governor Ernie Fletcher's vision of providing a safe and reliable transportation system to all Kentuckians, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, under the leadership of Secretary Maxwell Clay Bailey, has awarded a contract for new construction on Kentucky 15, Jackson-Campton Road, in Breathitt County. "This highway is one of the major routes from the mountains of southeastern Kentucky to the Bluegrass area of the state," said Kentucky Governor Ernie Fletcher. "This new section of Kentucky 15 will bypass an especially curvy section with dangerous blind spots. We are pleased to make this improvement for the benefit of drivers in Breathitt County as well as motorists in the entire southeastern corner of the state." Representative Ted Edmonds, D-Jackson, applauded the Governor and Transportation Cabinet saying, "this is a tremendous improvement project not only for Breathitt County, but the entire upper Kentucky River Valley. Every governor for the last 20 years has promised to improve Kentucky 15, and Governor Fletcher delivered on that promise. I am most appreciative of his efforts on this project." A total of 3.4 miles of new highway will be built from 0.310 miles south of Still House Hollow to 0.370 miles north of Kentucky 205 at Vancleve. The new highway will replace a dangerous stretch of road, where five people have died and 35 people have been injured in 55 crashes between 2002 and 2004. "This project is part of the ongoing commitment by the Fletcher administration to provide a safe and reliable transportation system for all Kentuckians," said Transportation Cabinet Secretary Bailey. "This new highway is a prime example of efforts by Governor Fletcher and the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet to improving roads while saving lives." The contract was awarded to Bizzack, Inc., at a cost of $36,460,418.27. This project should be completed within 1,314 calendar days of the start of construction. A groundbreaking for the project is planned for this spring. KYTC reports Powell County road closed due to high water 1-10-05 Frankfort, KY (January 10, 2005)-The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet's Operations Center reports that KY 2026 in Powell County between milepoint 0 and 1 is CLOSED DUE TO HIGH WATER. Breathitt County Jail Employees Train at EKU 12-29-04 The Breathitt Co. Jail Staff over the past summer attend a week long training program by the Kentucky Department of Corrections at Eastern Kentucky University. The staff received in training in First Aid, CPR, procedures, transporting, and updated safety and law revisions. “It’s necessary for the Breathitt Co. Jail Staff to attend these types of trainings to meet all county and state guidelines”, stated Breathitt Co. Jailer James Elliott Turner. “We want to keep our jail updated on all new procedures and continue to be an effective part of Breathitt Co.,” stated Jailer Turner. God Watch Over My Soldier by Shelly Coomer 12-17-04 God watch over my soldier and take his hand Lead him through his journey on unfamiliar land Guide him through this battle that he must face And each day and night please keep him safe He’s serving his country so that we all can be free When he has completed his mission send him back home to me What a brave and courageous man to put his life on the line I will love and honor my soldier until the end of time Proud and honored to have such a man in my life I consider myself blessed to be known as his wife. Send down your angels from heaven above To watch over this soldier that I deeply love Dear Lord as I say my prayers tonight Reach out your arms and hold my soldier tight Give him the strength to do the things he has to do He will always be my hero who represents red, white and blue Written By Shelly Y. Coomer 17-DEC-04 The Silent Ranks Submitted by Shelly Coomer 12-15-04 I wear no uniforms, no blues or army greens. But I am in the army in the ranks rarely seen. I have no rank upon my shoulders. Salutes I do not give. But the military world is the place where I live. I'm not in the chain of command, orders I do not get. But my husband is the one who does, this I can not forget. I'm not the one who fires the weapon, who puts my life on the line. But my job is just as tough. I'm the one that's left behind. My husband is a patriot, a brave and prideful man. and the call to serve his country not all can understand. Behind the lines I see the things needed to keep this country free. My husband makes the sacrifice, but so do our kids and me. I love the man I married. Soldiering is his life. But I stand among the silent ranks known as the Army Wife. ~~unknown~ NATURAL GAS PRICES REMAINING HIGH, PSC SAYS Consumers urged to conserve energy FRANKFORT, Ky. (Dec. 7, 2004) - Forecasts of double-digit increases in the price of natural gas this winter are proving accurate, the Kentucky Public Service Commission said today. "Many consumers are seeing increases of 10 to 15 percent above last year," PSC Chairman Mark David Goss said. "Unfortunately, we have no assurance that the situation will improve as we move into the peak heating season." The latest gas cost adjustments filed by Kentucky's five major natural gas distribution companies are 13 percent higher on average than at this time last year. The adjustments reflect the wholesale price of natural gas purchased by the companies - a cost passed on to consumers on a dollar-for-dollar basis. A typical residential customer using 10,000 cubic feet of gas per month will be paying an average of $9.75 (10 percent) more per month when compared with last December. Goss noted that prices through the rest of the heating season will de determined largely by the weather and its effect on the demand for natural gas. But there are steps consumers can take to cope with higher natural gas costs, he said. "Contact your utility about budget billing plans that give you a predictable heating bill every month," Goss said. "Do everything you can to weatherize your home, and, if you haven't already done so, turn the thermostat down to 68 degrees." Natural gas prices have risen sharply in recent years. Prices last winter were 20 percent to 40 percent higher than during the 2002-2003 heating season. By federal law, natural gas prices are not regulated at the wholesale level and fluctuate with supply and demand. Under Kentucky statute, gas companies are entitled to recover the wholesale cost of gas they deliver to customers. Adjustments are reviewed by the PSC to make sure they accurately reflect wholesale costs. Several factors are contributing to higher gas prices: Natural gas production in North America has not kept pace with increasing demand. Imported gas, other than from Canada, fulfills a small portion of domestic demand. More natural gas is being used to generate electricity, particularly in the summer, when air conditioner usage creates peaks in the need for electric power. About half the natural gas used for winter heating is put into storage in the summer. In the past, this gas was less expensive and helped offset higher gas prices in the winter. With increased summer demand, that is no longer the case. Storage is one of several tools that companies use to reduce volatility in the natural gas prices passed on to consumers. Others include long-term purchase agreements that provide gas at predictable prices. The five major natural gas distribution companies in Kentucky are Atmos Energy, Columbia Gas of Kentucky, Inc., Delta Natural Gas Company, Inc., Louisville Gas and Electric Co., and The Union Light, Heat, and Power Co. Together, the five companies serve over 750,000 customers in Kentucky and deliver 176 billion cubic feet of gas annually. Goss noted that there are ample quantities of gas stored for winter use, and that has helped keep prices in check. But consumers should not become complacent, he said. "We don't know what the weather will be like this winter, so we can't predict its effect on the demand for natural gas and what effect that might have on prices, " Goss said. "But we do know that it is wise for consumers to do all they can to manage their home heating costs." The PSC is an agency within the Environmental and Public Protection Cabinet. It regulates more than 1,500 gas, water, sewer, electric and telecommunication utilities operating in the Commonwealth of Kentucky and has approximately 110 employees. PRESS RELEASE Jackson, KY A coroners Inquest was held on Wednesday February 9th, 2005 into the death of Joshua Combs,26, of Ned, KY, that occurred in Breathitt County on December 25th, 2004. A jury of 12 people heard evidence in the case for over 3 hours. Eight witnesses were called and gave testimony in the case. The jury deliberated for about 15 minutes and came back with the following verdict: Cause of Death: Drug Overdose. Manner of Death: Accidental. Time of Death: Approx. 3:30 a.m. Press release courtesy of Bobby Thorpe Jr. Breathitt County Coroner. Dear Friends of the Kentucky Horse Park: 1-18-05 This is going to be one of the best years the Kentucky Horse Park has ever seen. We have a number of plans in the works that will improve our park and make it an even more desirable location for national and international equestrian events. We’ll keep you apprised as our plans unfold for a new all-climate indoor arena, hotel and other additions. We also have a fantastic exhibit coming up in the International Museum of the Horse this spring: Kentucky Bloodlines: The Legacy of Henry Clay. Although famous for the past century as one of this country’s greatest orators and colorful statesmen, until now, little has been said of Henry Clay’s accomplishments and prominence in the agricultural arena. He had quite a forward-thinking approach to farming and his beautiful Ashland Stud was a graceful model of modernization and innovation. Everyone who has a love of the land and horses will appreciate this exhibit. Kentucky Bloodlines will draw attention to Senator Clay’s significant contributions to farming, and more specifically his role in establishing Kentucky as the horse capital of the world. Through the regally bred Thoroughbreds he imported, his keen eye for fine animals and his own infectious enthusiasm, Henry Clay created a wake of horses and horse breeders that would influence the equine industry for decades, even through today.. In spite of the fact that the bar has been set very high in our museum, with the presentation and success of Imperial China and All the Queen’s Horses exhibits, the Kentucky Bloodlines exhibit will not disappoint. I am so pleased with our Museum Director, Bill Cooke, and his staff for putting together another exhibit which should make Kentuckians proud to call the Kentucky Horse Park their own. I also want to thank the organizing committee, which includes the staff at Ashland, the Kentucky Historical Society, Keeneland Library, UK Special Collections, Dr Lindsey Apple at Georgetown College, the Simpson and LaBach families, Jeff Meyer and Sue Andrew. I would encourage all of our friends and supporters to visit the park from April 1 – October 31 to enjoy this special exhibit. Although we’ll still be trudging through winter for a while yet, hope springs eternal in our hearts as green pastures, foals and many shows are just around the corner. Thankfully, horses are beautiful in even the grayest season, so let me suggest a few fun events here at the park to keep you and your family occupied while we eagerly await the return of sunshine and the warmth of Spring: Jan 29, Feb 5: Horses and Hot Chocolate mounted games Feb 12-13: Snowball Series mounted games Feb 26, Mar 26: Snowbird Dressage Mar 12-13: Keeneland Pony Club Dressage Clinic Mar 19-20: Champagne Run Hunter/Jumper Show Mar 19-20: Bluegrass Open Mounted Games international competition All of the shows are free for spectators with Kentucky Horse Park admission, so might I also suggest that your family consider purchasing a season pass to the park this year so you can attend as many of these outstanding events as you’d like. Thanks again for your support of the Kentucky Horse Park! Campbell County roads affected by high water Date: Mon, 10 Jan 2005 11:15:09 -0500 Frankfort, KY (January 10, 2005)-The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet's Operations Center advises that the following roads in Campbell County are down to one lane because of high water: KY 10, KY 1936, and KY 2924. Motorists are advised to use caution in those areas, and to NOT DRIVE into water covered highways. Christmas Holiday Traffic Deaths Down From Last Year 12-29-04 (FRANKFORT, Ky.) - Preliminary statistics* show that two people died in two separate crashes on Kentucky's roadways during the two-day 2004 Christmas holiday. This figure is down substantially from the six fatalities recorded during the four-day Christmas holiday period last year. Of the two fatal Christmas holiday crashes, which occurred in Pulaski and Harlan counties, preliminary data indicates alcohol was a suspected factor in both of the crashes. Only one of the two victims was wearing a seat belt. The official Christmas holiday period ran from 6 p.m. Friday, December 24 through 11:59 p.m. Sunday, December 26, 2004. All statistics* are from that time period. As of December 27, the 2004 Kentucky highway fatality count currently stands at 951. This is 28 more than at this same time in 2003 and 20 more than the total number of highway fatalities in 2003. The 2004 New Year's holiday period begins at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, December 31 and runs through 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, January 2, 2005. The Kentucky State Police will again be coordinating their traffic enforcement efforts with local police and sheriff's offices during this time period. Saturation road patrols and traffic safety checkpoints will be employed to combat the three key causes of traffic fatalities: speeding, impaired driving and failure to use seat belts. 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. 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 to report any crashes and fatalities that may have occurred in their areas. Chief Justice Lambert, Lt. Gov. Pence announce that Drug Court is coming to McCracken County FRANKFORT, Ky., Dec. 14, 2004 ¾ Individuals facing drug-related charges in McCracken County will soon have access to a court designed specifically to address this issue. Chief Justice Joseph E. Lambert and Lt. Gov. Steve Pence announced today at a joint news conference that Drug Court would be implemented in McCracken County. The news conference took place in the Circuit Courtroom of the McCracken County Courthouse in Paducah before a crowd of judges, law enforcement officers, attorneys and community leaders. McCracken County Drug Court is expected to be operational in April 2005. "Drug Court is a shining example of Kentucky's success in specialty courts," said Chief Justice Lambert, who is a strong proponent of the concept. "Instead of spending time in jail, Drug Court participants complete a rigorous substance abuse program supervised by a judge who sanctions noncompliance. The program lets individuals return to productive lives where they can maintain employment, pay child support and meet other family obligations. Kentucky's war on drug abuse gains new momentum every time we secure new funding for Drug Court. We appreciate Gov. Fletcher and Lt. Gov. Pence for supporting state funding that is helping to maintain and expand Drug Court statewide." "Substance abuse in Kentucky has reached epidemic proportions, and we will not be able to incarcerate our way out of this problem," said Lieutenant Governor Pence. "Drug Court is a positive, common-sense approach for sentencing nonviolent drug offenders who need treatment rather than incarceration. Chief Justice Lambert has provided the leadership and dedication needed to tackle this problem. The Office of Drug Control Policy looks forward to working with Chief Justice Lambert and the Administrative Office of the Courts on this important initiative." "Drug Court is making such a difference for our citizens who are abusing drugs and for Kentucky communities, so it is exciting that we are adding this valuable resource to McCracken County," said Sylvia Lovely, interim executive director of the state's Office of Drug Control Policy. "This is another block in building more substance abuse treatment opportunities in this state, and that is vital to better addressing and reducing the drug problem." How Drug Court Works Drug Court provides a sentencing alternative that addresses the high relapse rates in nonviolent, drug-related cases. The mission is to create a criminal justice environment that stops illicit drug use and related criminal activity. The concept promotes recovery through substance abuse education and treatment, with participants taking one to two years to complete the program's three phases before they begin aftercare. Drug Court targets adult and juvenile participants who have criminal charges pending, meet program criteria and are willing to enter the program by choice. A board consisting of the judge, public defender, local prosecutor, law enforcement, treatment provider and Drug Court Staff reviews each case prior to the offender being inducted into the program. Drug Court staff and participants work together to develop individual program plans that include specific responsibilities and goals with timetables. Plans include group, family and individual counseling; urine testing; educational and vocational training; and health and community activities. Participants report directly to the Drug Court judge, who rewards progress and sanctions noncompliance. When participants successfully complete the program, charges may be dismissed through diversion or conditional discharge may be granted through probation. Kentucky Drug Court is administered through the Administrative Office of the Courts in Frankfort. The AOC is the operational arm of the Kentucky Court of Justice and supports the activities of more than 3,400 court system employees, including the elected offices of justices, judges and circuit court clerks. The AOC also executes the Judicial Branch budget. At a Frontier of School Reform, Getting Millions, Seeking More December 6, 2004 By GREG WINTER ( From the New York Times, with permission) JACKSON, Ky., Dec. 3 - As New York City schools celebrate the findings by a court-appointed panel that could bring them $5.6 billion more every year, the schools under the sawed-off mountains here in the heart of coal country tell a hopeful but cautionary tale of what may lie ahead. Once the Kentucky Supreme Court said the state's school system needed revamping, in a ruling that inspired court cases and decisions around the nation, lawmakers here enacted one of the country's most thorough education overhauls within a year. The response was virtually the opposite of the inaction in Albany after New York State lost its own case last year. And yet, despite all the changes and the extra money that came with them in 1990, the transformation of Kentucky's schools is far from complete - and the state is back in court as a result. Here on Bobcat Lane, Breathitt County High School is precisely the kind of school that was supposed to catch up to its peers outside Appalachia. But for all its new computers, college-like schedules and, yes, academic improvement, its students still lag far behind those in the rest of the state. "We've made great strides, but there's still a long way to go," said Lisa Gross, a Kentucky Department of Education spokeswoman. "The problem is revenue. There's not enough of it. This may be something we're dealing with for quite a few more years." Since the overhaul more than a decade ago, the state has increased its yearly spending considerably - to $7,021 per student in 2003, compared with $2,898 in 1990, state figures show. That is more than three times the percentage increase that the court appointed panel has proposed for New York City students over the next four years. There seems to be almost universal agreement here that Kentucky has leapt forward. Test scores on state exams have gone up steadily in almost every subject. Even the "tidal wave" of disappointment that made it "crystal clear" to the state's Supreme Court that Kentucky's schools were failing - the high dropout rates and low national standings - appears to have abated somewhat. But while Kentucky schools have gained considerable ground, they still have much more to cover. Not much more than a third of the students are considered to be proficient or better in the basic subjects that all are supposed to master within a decade, state records show. State officials say it is probably unrealistic to think everyone will be. Poor rural schools like Breathitt were at the forefront of what is now called the adequacy movement, a national fight for more education spending that has enveloped dozens of states and may soon send billions more dollars to New York City schools. But 15 years later, the litigation is not over. Kentucky schools are taking the state to court once more, only too aware that even a major victory does not mean an end to the battle. Last year, the vast majority of Kentucky districts, more than twice as many as the first time, sued the state, accusing it of failing to put in enough money over the years, basically leaving the job undone. "Years ahead of almost every other state in the nation and the federal government, we began a journey that would ensure that every child in Kentucky receives an adequate education," Blake Haselton, president of the Council for Better Education, a coalition of about 150 schools that brought the suit, said when it was filed last year. He added, "But the sad fact of the matter is that the general assembly has not lived up to its constitutional mandate." The lesson is a particularly important one for New York, because Kentucky's Legislature was much more responsive than lawmakers in Albany were after New York's highest court ordered them to stop shortchanging the city's students and fix what it called the "systemic failure" of its schools nearly 18 months ago. "The important thing to remember is that adequacy doesn't ask the question, 'Are you spending money and doing a good job with it?' " said Jacob E. Adams, director of the School Finance Redesign Project at the University of Washington. "It asks the question, 'Did you put enough money into the system to achieve the results that states have never achieved before?' " To come up with at least some of the money, Kentucky raised its sales tax early on, Mr. Adams said, and the strategy may also come up in the dispute over raising more money in New York. Even so, the districts in Kentucky argue that the state's financing formulas have barely kept pace with inflation. Beyond that, they say, most - and in some districts, all - of the increases have been eaten up by mandatory salary increases. So if the state intends to meet the court's standard, the districts contend, it has to spend about 22 percent more than it does now, regardless of whatever increases it may have made in years past. In a move that closely parallels the New York case, Kentucky districts are asking a judge to dictate how much money should be spent on education, bringing the courts into an area that has traditionally been left to the Legislature. Perhaps not surprisingly, lawmakers in both states have had similar reactions. "We vehemently oppose the idea or the concept that a court could order us to spend a specific amount of money," said David L. Williams, president of the Kentucky State Senate, pointing out that school spending was up to lawmakers. Gov. George E. Pataki's lawyers in New York have made much the same argument, but the court-appointed panel effectively dismissed it last week. Exactly how Justice Leland DeGrasse, the State Supreme Court judge overseeing the case, will rule is still unknown, but he is widely expected to follow the suggestions of the panel, which he appointed. At Breathitt High, tucked among the flat-topped mountains here, test scores have been gaining momentum in the past few years. Still, fewer than one in five students are proficient or better in math and social studies. The figures are a little better in reading and science, but only slightly: fewer than one in four. "We're doing better, but obviously we live in a depressed area where there aren't a lot of jobs," said Joseph Beder, the Breathitt principal, who has watched the demand for coal miners dwindle. "They don't see a job waiting for them when they graduate. They don't see that there's going to be any immediate gratification out there." Breathitt's students say they are pretty content with their education, though they certainly don't think more money would hurt. As it is, Breathitt spent only about three-quarters of the state average per pupil in the 2002-03 school year, and the students say it shows in the outdated titles they have in the library and in the rough condition of the books. Some of the teachers complain about their salaries and quit, the students say, but they figure that probably happens everywhere else, too. Mr. Beder said he would welcome more money, if for nothing else than to lower the size of some of his core classes. But would more money necessarily raise test scores, reduce the number of dropouts, send more students to college? "I don't know if more money would make the difference or not, to be honest," he said. For all of Kentucky's struggles, the strides it has made would be welcome in New York, said Michael A. Rebell, executive director of the Campaign for Fiscal Equity, the group that brought the lawsuit that led the court to order more education aid for New York City. As long as measurable progress is being made, he said, the public's willingness to put money into the schools will continue. Without it, he said, support for the schools will be in short supply. "In a way, it's an incentive," Mr. Rebell said. "The city's going to have to put up or shut up." http://www.nytimes.com/2004/12/06/nyregion/06schools.html?ex=1103384175&ei=1&en=c7f80f486617f2d3 PRESS RELEASE Breathitt Heritage Fair holds first Discussions. 11-16-04 A group of concerned citizens held a meeting Monday night, November 15th, 2004, to discuss a Fair to celebrate Breathitt County and it's rich Heritage. Ron Hamblin organized the meeting which was moderated by local historian, Steve Bowling. Several ideas were discussed on how to make Breathitt attractive again during the Labor Day weekend. The Old Fashioned County Fair, once a staple of Breathitt County, received the most attention. Getting all County schools involved again was the overwhelming choice. Entertainment, or lack there of, was also a major concern for young and old alike who attended the discussion. Things like Family reunions, barn dance, cook offs, and a Bloody Breathitt re-enactment were just some of the dozens of ideas discussed. Ron Hamblin stated that, "We want this to be part of the Honey Festival if at all possible. These ideas and events discussed will only help our county and our Festival. We have the support to put on a great Fair for this county." To view all our information on the Breathitt Heritage Fair, go to www.breathittheritagefair.com The next meeting for the Heritage Fair discussion process will be Tuesday November 30th, 2004, 6:30pm at the Life Skills Center. Everyone is welcome. This is a community event, inclusive to all, exclusive to none! Ron Hamblin, Public Relations Breathitt Heritage Fair Breathitt Co. Coroner's Office Welcomes New Staff Member 10-21-04 Breathitt Co. Coroner Bobby Thorpe, Jr. would like to welcome Ron Hamblin to the staff of the Breathitt Co. Coroner's Office as Deputy Coroner. Deputy Coroner Calvin Saum has recently assumed the position of Breathitt Co. Solid Waste Officer. "Calvin will still be involved in the operations of our office from time to time and is an assett to our office" said Coroner Thorpe. "He will do a great job I am sure as Solid Waste Officer". "We welcome Ron to our staff and know he will do a professional job and go out of his way to help families in their time of need as is our philosophy here at the Breathitt Co. Coroner's Office" said the Coroner Thorpe. Twenty-three Teens Graduate From Second KSP "Drive To Stay Alive" Program 9-24-04 (FRANKFORT, KY.) - Twenty-three high school students from across the commonwealth graduated from the Kentucky State Police "Drive To Stay Alive" program in Frankfort today. After five days of intensive classroom and hands-on instruction, they are now more accomplished drivers ready to accept a noble mission: spreading the safe driving message to their fellow students and communities. "Unfortunately, the statistics for motor vehicle accidents are stacked against teenagers. The "Drive To Stay Alive" program offered by the Kentucky State Police and the generous folks at the Kentucky Speedway is a great opportunity for young motorists to understand the fundamentals of operating an automobile safely," said Lt. Gov. Steve Pence. "As parents and motorists, it is important to remind our young drivers that operating a motor vehicle is a privilege and not a right." "I commend these students for completing this program," said KSP Commissioner Mark Miller. "It was not a simple task. Much of the training was the same as that received by our cadets at the KSP Academy. The curriculum included vehicle dynamics and skid control, safety belts and airbags, impaired driving, off-road recovery, evasive maneuver, controlled braking, multiple turns and lane interchange." "Their graduation is not an end, but rather a beginning," he added. "They now have a unique opportunity to directly affect the lives of others in a positive manner. Their efforts can save lives. This is a special responsibility and I know they will not take it lightly." After returning to their schools, each student will be teamed with an experienced Kentucky State Police trooper in their local community. Together, they will execute a communications program, designed by the student, to influence the driving habits of teenagers in their area. Their efforts will be monitored by the KSP Governor's Highway Safety Program for effectiveness. The student and school achieving the best results will be eligible for special rewards. In last year's "Drive To Stay Alive" program, Casie Webster, a student at Trimble Co. High School, posted top honors and received a $500 scholarship from the Kentucky State Police Professional Association. Her school received a $2,500 check from the Kentucky Automobile Dealer's Association. The students who graduated from the "Drive To Stay Alive" program today include: John Paul Stamper--Breathitt Co. High "This program is the only one of its kind in Kentucky and it is setting the pace for others across the country," said Miller. "Its real value is based on the concept that a message conveyed by a student carries a more personal tone with other students and is therefore more effective. Once it spreads throughout the school system, this program has the potential to pay big dividends in reduced teen crashes and more lives saved." Kentucky State Police Electronic Crime Branch 9-11-04 (LaGrange, KY) On September 9, 2004 the Kentucky State Police Electronic Crime Branch Detectives Jackie Rogers and Bruce Olin, a part of the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, executed a search warrant in Oldham County. The search warrant was obtained as the result of an investigation conducted by Det. Rogers on information she received concerning child pornography being accessed through the Internet. The case was opened for investigation when a complaint arrived at the Kentucky State Police Electronic Crime Branch about a resident at the address who was accessing images of what appeared to be minors engaging in sexual activity from the Internet. Six computers and several pieces of storage media were located and seized at the LaGrange residence. No suspects were arrested at the scene. Assisting with the search was KSP Tpr Jim Mitchell, KSP Tpr Mick Gonterman, Oldham County Officer Jim Laytham and Oldham County Sheriff's Deputy Robert Button. 8-13-04 Boy Scout troop 357, sponsored by the Breathitt County Fish and Game Club, earned money over the last year to travel to the Quetico Provincial Park in southwest Ontario. The troop was able to have a true wilderness experience by canoeing and camping in the Canadian wilderness. The troop traveled about 50 miles through 7 different lakes within the park. The boys proved their camping skills by setting up and taking down camp five times during the eight day trip. The boys who participated in the trip included Tyler Barnes and Robert Jackson of Jackson, Jerome Hollon of Beattyville, and Chris Wiggert from Minnesota. The adults leaders included Don Barnes, Scoutmaster; Jon Barnes, Assistant Scoutmaster; Jeremiah Bryant, Assistant Scoutmaster. Brian Borkholder, Fisheries Biologist for the Fon du Lac Indian Reservation in Minnesota, served as the guide. The boys spent their time fishing, resting, playing cards, and swimming in between traveling from lake to lake. Among the boys, Robert Jackson caught the largest walleyes, five of which were 22 inches, and Tyler Barnes caught a 20 inch smallmouth bass among many other fish. Jerome Hollon caught his first smallmouth bass which was 17 inches. The boys were responsible for carrying all of their camping gear, food and canoes over trails between the lakes as well as setting up comfortable campsites. The boys all participated to make the trip a success from the planning stages to the travel from Jackson to Canada to the wilderness experience and the return trip. All acted with the leadership and maturity expected of boy scouts and were excellent representatives of the quality of young men within our community. For more information about the trip, or if you know of any boys interested in joining the troop to learn camping and leadership skills, call Don Barnes at 693-0055. Photos Click Here Don Barnes Associate Professor of Mathematics “The natural progress of things is for liberty to yield and government to gain ground.” - Thomas Jefferson. The Boy Scouts, Troop 357, held a Breathitt County School Board candidate debate on October 19, 2004 at the Life Skills Center. The candidates present for District #1 were Gene Bays, Drewey Lee Jones, Jay Shuck and Terri Sewell; District #2 was Karen Ditsh, and District #5 was Danny Fugate. The audience was asked to submit questions for the candidates and Don Barnes asked the questions. These responses to the questions below are a brief, condensed version of the responses. (**NOTE** although invited, not one of the current school board members running for a spot in this election, showed up to face the public or their opponents, for this debate. Those who made it to the debate, are to be applauded for being at this debate!) Question #1 What does a School Board member do? Gene Bays: Budget, make decisions and hire a superintendent. Karen Ditsh: Advocate for parents and students. Danny Fugate: Listen to everybody to include teachers, bus drivers, kids, etc and give them what they need to get the job done. Drewey Jones: needs to be honest and be known to kids, encourage them to talk and be a friend. Jay Shuck: Bring an influence through education, personal background Terri Sewell: Put students first, priority that students get the very best education they can. Question #2 What are three things you believe a child needs to get the best education? Ditsh: Parent support/teachers in classroom/good leadership Fugate: Community support Jones: teacher has positive mind and needed materials/ parental support Shuck: early identification for at risk children and come up with solutions for them-no child is Uneducatable Sewell: motivation/high expectations/confidence Bays: Safety (violence prevention)/ comfortable school environment/individual motivational Practices Question #3 When students are caught taking drugs on school property, what should be done? Fugate: student needs to be in the juvenile justice system Jones: Drug policy is working, drug education and discipline Shuck: Treat these children, alternative schools discourage children from getting better as they are “dumps” Sewell: Abide by the laws and policies, family resource center has counseling services available, need to work on prevention Bays: punishment on individual basis, drug prevention education at an early age. Ditsh: Follow laws, policies and early intervention and education Question #4 What do you think issues are causing students to leave the Breatthitt school system, what can be done to solve them, and what would be your approach to solve them? Jones: Make BCS more attractive Shuck: Advocates school choice, does not know the issues why students have left, graduation rate is lower than surrounding counties Sewell: History of school systems and for varied reasons, there have been some positive and tremendous effort to improve test scores, better public relations needed Bays: Boards meeting and talking to come up with solutions, parents want school choice, give parents choice with restrictions Ditsh: Issues are lack of continuity in BCS with leadership turnover, provide strong leadership Fugate: Issues were fights, sexual assaults and for safety reasons, a lot of improvements have been made at BCS and must continue to improve Question #5, What is your position on school choice, If restrictions needed, who should set the restrictions and who makes the decision on what school? Schuck: Supports parent choice, shows parent involvement, many parents are forced to choose due to the no child left behind act. He currently pays tuition for his son to attend school outside the county schools. Sewell: For school choice, parents have the right to choose the school because each school has something to offer Bays: For school choice and both schools need to work out a system, with restrictions if needed. Ditsh: KY law will decide if it can’t be decided here, both systems need to exist, needs to be worked out Fugate: For school choice, restrictions must be decided between boards Jones: For school choice, parent’s choice, There will be restrictions and the Board needs to make the restrictions Question #6 Do you plan to spend time talking to the teachers to find out their problems? Sewell: Yes, will be visiting the schools and school events Bays: Yes Ditsh: Yes, will be talking to principals, teachers, kids and parents Fugate: Yes, talk to all of them involved Jones: Yes Shuck: Works during school hours but is in close contact with individuals at the school system. OPEN ENROLLMENT FOR 2005 HEALTH INSURANCE PROGRAM SUSPENDED 9-27-04 New dates pending due to upcoming special session FRANKFORT, Ky. - Because of the upcoming extraordinary session of the General Assembly, which will deal with Kentucky's Public Employee Health Insurance Program, Open Enrollment for 2005 has been suspended. The Governor and the Personnel Cabinet are working with carriers contracted for 2005 to determine new dates for open enrollment. Governor Fletcher said in Frankfort today: "We have met with insurance companies and apprised them of the situation. We are working with those companies to get a new date for open enrollment that ensures those covered will have no gap in coverage." Postponing open enrollment gives the legislature the opportunity to bring forth and implement their plan before employees make decisions on their health insurance coverage for 2005. Previously scheduled health fairs have also been postponed. New dates for those events will be announced at a later date. Fourteen Killed on Kentucky Roadways During Labor Day Holiday Period 9-11-04 (FRANKFORT, Ky.) - Preliminary statistics* show that 14 people died in 10 separate crashes on Kentucky's roadways during the 2004 Labor Day holiday period. The number of fatalities increased by three from the 2003 Labor Day holiday period during which 11 people died in 11 crashes. Of the 10 fatal Labor Day holiday crashes, preliminary data indicates alcohol was a suspected factor in three of the crashes. Ten of the 14 victims were not wearing seat belts. One triple fatality crash occurred in Carter County. Two double fatality crashes were reported, one in Kenton County and one in Powell County. Single fatality crashes occurred in Boone, Bracken, Laurel, Logan, Magoffin, Pike and Webster counties. The official Labor Day holiday period ran from 6 p.m. Friday Sept. 3, 2004 through 11:59 p.m. Monday, Sept. 6, 2004. All statistics are from that time period. As of Sept. 6, Kentucky has recorded 636 highway fatalities in 2004. Last year at this time, 619 people had lost their lives on Kentucky roadways. *These statistics are still preliminary as KSP waits for all local law enforcement agencies to report any crashes and fatalities that may have occurred in their areas. Real Drug Problem submitted by beaeliza bea 11-15-04 "I did have a drug problem when I wuz a kid growing up on the farm in southeast Kansas." "I had a drug problem when I was young: I was drug to church on Sunday morning. I was drug to church for wedding and funerals. I was drug to family reunions and community socials no matter the weather. I was drug by my ears when I was disrespectful to adults and teachers. I was also drug to the woodshed when I disobeyed my parents or if I didn't put forth my best effort in everything that was asked of me. I was drug out to pull weeds in mom's garden and flower beds and cockleburs out of dad's soybean fields. Those drugs are still in my veins; and they affect my behavior in everything I do, say, and think. They are stronger than cocaine, crack or heroin, and if today's children had this kind of drug problem, America might be a better place today! Eyeglass collection boxes distributed 10-19-04 The Hazard Community & Technical College Lions Club and the Alpha Beta Epsilon Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa are working with the Lions Clubs of Perry County and Lenscrafters to collect old used eyeglasses and sunglasses during the month of October. Eyeglass collection boxes are located throughout Hazard Community and Technical College and at many area post offices. The glasses will be cleaned, repaired and classified, and then delivered to people in developing countries who need them. Please give the gift of sight by donating your old eyeglasses. Trick or treating is the perfect time to ask for used eyeglasses. Please have a frightfully fun time this month by helping with this project. PSC WARNS OF CONTINUED HIGH NATURAL GAS PRICES Urges consumers to conserve energy, switch to budget billing plans FRANKFORT, Ky. (Sept. 28, 2004) Natural gas prices will remain high this winter, the Kentucky Public Service Commission is warning consumers. "All of the indicators are that prices this winter are going to be somewhat higher than last year," PSC Chairman Mark David Goss said. "At this point, we are anticipating increases in the range of 10 to 15 percent." Goss said consumers should act now to prepare for the coming heating season. "This is the time to get ready for winter by weatherizing your home," Goss said. "Also, if you haven't already done so, contact your utility about budget billing plans that give you a predictable heating bill every month, so your budget will be ready for winter, as well." By federal law, natural gas prices are not regulated at the wholesale level, and fluctuate with supply and demand. Under Kentucky statute, gas companies are entitled to recover the wholesale cost of the gas they deliver to customers. The adjustments are reviewed by the PSC to make sure they accurately reflect the wholesale cost of gas. Natural gas prices have risen sharply in recent years. Prices last winter were 20 percent to 40 percent higher than during the 2002-2003 heating season. Several factors are contributing to the higher gas prices: * Natural gas production in North America has been unable to keep pace with increasing demand. Imported gas, other than from Canada, fulfills a small portion of domestic demand. * More natural gas is being used to generate electricity, particularly in the summer, when air conditioner usage creates peaks in the need for electric power. * About half the natural gas used for winter heating is put into storage in the summer. In the past, this gas was less expensive, and helped offset higher gas prices in the winter. With increased summer demand, that is no longer the case. Storage is one of several tools that companies use to reduce volatility in the natural gas prices passed on to consumers. Others include the use of long-term purchase agreements that provide gas at predictable prices. The five major natural gas distribution companies in Kentucky are Atmos Energy, Columbia Gas of Kentucky, Inc., Delta Natural Gas Company, Inc., Louisville Gas and Electric Company and The Union Light, Heat, and Power Company. Together, the five companies serve over 750,000 customers in Kentucky and deliver 176 billion cubic feet of gas annually. "As we enter the heating season, we will have a better sense of how weather may affect demand for natural gas and what effect that has on prices, " Goss said. "If we have an unusually cold winter, consumers need to be prepared for the possibility of sharply higher prices." The PSC is an agency within the Environmental and Public Protection Cabinet. It regulates more than 1,500 gas, water, sewer, electric and telecommunication utilities operating in the Commonwealth of Kentucky and has approximately 110 employees. COPING WITH HIGH NATURAL GAS PRICES Information for consumers Kentucky consumers can take a number of steps to reduce their natural gas usage or to soften the impact of higher gas costs. They include: Budget billing: This option allows customers to pay the same amount each month, based on their average monthly usage during the year. Customers should contact their utility for more information. Energy conservation measures: Simple steps such a turning down thermostats on furnaces (most people are comfortable at 68 degrees) and water heaters (120 degrees is hot enough for nearly all uses) can be big energy savers. Energy audits: Many local utilities offer home energy audits at little or no cost to consumers. These audits can identify energy-wasting trouble spots and provide information on how to correct the problems. Weatherization: Consumers can do a number of things to reduce inflows of cold air and leakage of warm air, particularly around windows and doors. Some basic weatherization steps include: * Use caulk or weather-stripping to seal cracks around windows, doors, pipes and other points where cold air can enter the home. This alone can reduce heating costs by 10 percent or more. * Add insulation in attics, crawl spaces and walls. * Cover windows, especially those with single-pane glass, with storm windows or plastic sheeting before the onset of cold weather. * Clean or replace furnace filters monthly to improve airflow and efficiency. Advice on conserving energy, including links to a wide range of information, also is available from the Kentucky Division of Energy, on the Web at: http://www.energy.ky.gov/ Weatherization assistance for low-income families is available in Kentucky. Many utilities offer weatherization assistance in conjunction with local social service agencies. Local social service agencies also offer assistance through a state program administered by the Kentucky Cabinet for Families and Children. For information on weatherization assistance, call 502-564-7536, Extension 4235, or go to: http://cfc.state.ky.us/help/weatherization.asp For general information about cutting heating costs, utility issues or for assistance with resolving consumer disputes with utilities, contact the PSC by calling 800-772-4636 or go to the PSC Web site at: http://psc.ky.gov Breathitt Woman Dies in Automobile Accident 11-15-04 Early Saturday Morning, Elizabeth Neace, 57, was pronounced dead at the scene, by the Breathitt County Coroners office, from injuries she sustained from a one vehicle accident. Ms. Neace, of Talbert Ky., apparently lost control of her vehicle, after dropping off the edge of the right side of the road, then crossed the roadway, hitting a tree. The accident is still under investigation. Photo Here |