|
Post by Kentucky News on Jun 11, 2011 12:04:11 GMT -5
COUNCIL ADOPTS POLICY REVISIONS TO IMPROVE TRANSFER Commonwealth News Center press release
The Council on Postsecondary Education approved key policy revisions to the general education transfer policy that will significantly improve the transfer process for students at Kentucky's public colleges and universities. The revisions support the Council's strategic agenda to increase transfer opportunities and completion rates of students at all levels. The action also supports the state's transfer action plan designed to implement transfer legislation known as House Bill 160 (2010). "These transfer policy revisions will increase student success and completion rates, enhance the ease of transfer, and speed time to degree," said Council President Bob King. "We appreciate the level of cooperation of our campus leadership and staff and their shared commitment to improve the transfer process for our students." Under the policy, students can transfer individual courses and be guaranteed that they will fulfill general education requirements of comparable courses at any public institution in Kentucky. In the past, students had to complete a transfer block of general education courses to guarantee that they would transfer without loss of credit. In addition to the course-to-course transfer, the Kentucky Community and Technical College System’s common course numbering system ensures that comparable general education courses have the same name, content and learning outcomes at all KCTCS campuses. The numbering system, added as a revision to the general education transfer policy, will ensure transferability and quality of courses. Alignment of KCTCS's general education courses to comparable courses at the four-year institutions will also greatly enhance student mobility and transparency. Students will know how a particular course will be applied toward general education credit through a coding system that will appear with student transcripts and on a transfer Web portal. The policy revisions take effect in 2012. In other transfer developments, student learning outcomes are being aligned in five high-need transfer majors, including biology, business, elementary education, nursing and social work. Also in process is the development of a uniform data collection and reporting method, a Web-based system for faculty to determine course equivalencies for transfer, and a student transfer portal. The Council heard a broad update on student success, including a wide range of strategies to increase degree production and completions, close achievement gaps, and decrease financial barriers to college access and completion. The Council also heard reports from the Executive Committee regarding President Bob King's evaluation, an update on diversity planning from the Committee on Equal Opportunities, and an update on the 2011-12 Council work plan. In other action, the Council: * Approved 2011-12 tuition and mandatory fee proposals for Eastern Kentucky University, Kentucky Community and Technical College System, Kentucky State University, Morehead State University, Northern Kentucky University, University of Kentucky, University of Louisville, and Western Kentucky University. The requests complied with the ceilings set in April by the Council.
* Approved special use fee exception requests for Morehead State University, Northern Kentucky University, University of Louisville and Western Kentucky University.
* Approved a request from the University of Kentucky to renovate Shively Sports Center with $950,000 of private funds from the UK Athletic Association. The project scope is $950,000.
* Approved the University of Louisville's request to expand the Trager Indoor Practice Facility to construct a hydro therapy training room addition with $1,000,000 of private funds from the University of Louisville Athletic Association. The project scope is $1,000,000.
* Approved a doctorate of nursing practice degree program at Murray State University.
* Approved an admission regulation revision to reflect the change in high school graduation requirements for the class of 2012, revised college readiness indicators, and transfer admission.
* Approved the specialist degree program in educational leadership at Northern Kentucky University.
The next Council meeting will be held in conjunction with the 2011 Governor's Trusteeship Conference, Sept. 22-23 in Lexington.
|
|
|
Post by Kentucky News on Jun 15, 2011 13:07:10 GMT -5
“Promote Your School” scholarship contest Commonwealth News Center press release
Juniors at Kentucky’s public and private high schools may enter to win a $500 scholarship and a photo shoot at his or her school through the “Promote Your School” scholarship contest, sponsored by the Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority (KHEAA). To enter, students must submit an essay about the biggest challenge facing high school students. The essay must be no more than 200 words long and cannot mention the student’s name, school, county or community. The student’s name, address and high school should be listed on a cover sheet or at the bottom of the essay. For more information, visit www.kheaa.com/website/contest/intro. Photos from the winning school will be used in future KHEAA publications and on KHEAA websites. To enter, mail your essay to KHEAA, Publications Section, P.O. Box 798, Frankfort, KY 40602-0798. You may also e-mail your essay to publications@kheaa.com or fax it to (502) 696-7574. The winner will be chosen by a committee of KHEAA employees. The deadline for submissions is Aug. 31, 2011. Students from high schools that have been featured in the past five years — Trimble County, Boyle County, Menifee County, Williamstown and Green County — are not eligible to enter this year’s contest. Children of employees of KHEAA or the Kentucky Higher Education Student Loan Corporation (KHESLC) are also not eligible. KHEAA is the state agency that promotes college awareness, provides free college planning materials and administers state student aid programs, including the Kentucky Educational Excellence Scholarship (KEES). To learn how to plan and prepare for higher education, go to www.gotocollege.ky.gov. For more information about Kentucky scholarships and grants, visit write KHEAA, P.O. Box 798, Frankfort, KY 40602; or call (800) 928-8926, ext. 6-7372.
|
|
|
Post by Kentucky News on Jun 15, 2011 13:17:21 GMT -5
Judge Gene Clark participates in Local Rules Seminar on new rules for family law cases Commonwealth News Center press release
FRANKFORT, Ky., June 14, 2011 – Clay County Family Court Judge Gene Clark joined judges and circuit court clerks representing 105 Kentucky counties that attended a Local Rules Seminar May 17-18 in Louisville. The seminar was to help courts update their local court rules to comply with the new statewide Family Court Rules of Procedure and Practice that the Supreme Court adopted Jan. 1, 2011. Judges, attorneys and parties must follow the new statewide rules when handling such matters as divorce, termination of parental rights, domestic violence, child support, juvenile status offenses, adoption, and dependency, neglect or abuse. Family law cases are overseen by Family Court judges in 71 Kentucky counties and by circuit and district judges in the 49 other counties without a Family Court. “These new rules will change the way family law is practiced in Kentucky,” Chief Justice of Kentucky John D. Minton Jr. said. “Prior to the Family Court Rules of Practice and Procedure, there were no statewide rules specifically for family law cases, which are among the most sensitive and difficult cases to come before our courts. I appreciate the dedication and vision of Justice Noble and all who helped draft these rules.” Deputy Chief Justice Mary C. Noble headed the initiative to develop and recommend uniform rules as chair of the Supreme Court Civil Rules Committee. She discussed the importance of statewide uniformity and local rules at the seminar. Retired Arizona Judge Stephen Rubin provided a national perspective on creating, implementing and improving local court rules. Judge Rubin has worked extensively with the National Council of Family and Juvenile Court Judges. Seminar participants received resources and on-site assistance in updating local rules to comply with the new Family Court Rules of Procedure and Practice. The Administrative Office of the Courts offered the Local Rules Seminar to all Kentucky appellate judges, Family Court judges, circuit and district judges in counties that do not have a Family Court and circuit court clerks. Judges were asked to invite a court employee or local attorney to participate as a community partner. The seminar was funded by a federal grant through the Kentucky Court Improvement Project. The AOC is the operations arm for the state court system and supports the activities of nearly 3,300 court system employees and 403 elected justices, judges and circuit court clerks. As the fiscal agent for the state court system, the AOC executes the Judicial Branch budget.
|
|
|
Post by Kentucky News on Jun 16, 2011 10:58:17 GMT -5
Recycling, household hazardous waste programs funded Commonwealth News Center press release
London Regional Recycling which serves Laurel and Rockcastle Counties and the city of Manchester received $84,859 as one of the 59 recycling and 14 household hazardous waste (HHW) grants to expand recycling, reduce the amount of solid waste going into landfills, and sustain the environmental management of household hazardous waste, which includes electronic scrap and mercury from homes throughout the Commonwealth. The Kentucky Pride Fund, administered by the Energy and Environment Cabinet’s Division of Waste Management, is awarding the 73 grants totaling $3,500,781.82. The Kentucky Pride Fund is funded through the $1.75 fee for each ton of municipal solid waste disposed of in Kentucky landfills. “Recycling and managing household hazardous waste play a large part in Kentucky’s efforts to go green and conserve energy statewide,” said Gov. Beshear. “The household hazardous waste grants allow homeowners to safely dispose of chemicals and other materials that pose a threat to human health and the environment.” The grant awards reflect an increase of 21 recycling grants and 4 HHW grants awarded for the previous grant cycle. “Kentucky’s growing interest in recycling is evident from the addition of 20 first-time recycling grant applicants,” said Energy and Environment Cabinet Secretary Len Peters. “The Kentucky Pride Fund program is increasing the infrastructure that allows more Kentuckians to participate in the recycling, waste reduction, and reuse of materials we have on hand, thereby reducing our need for virgin materials and lessening our carbon footprint.” The grants require a 25-percent local match in the form of cash or “in kind” personnel, educational materials, educational activities and advertising to promote the program from the cities or counties receiving the awards.
|
|
|
Post by Kentucky News on Jun 16, 2011 21:11:30 GMT -5
Kentucky’s jobless rate drops below 10 percent Commonwealth News Center press release
FRANKFORT, Ky. — For the first time since February 2009 Kentucky’s seasonally adjusted preliminary unemployment rate fell below the 10 percent mark to 9.8 percent in May 2011, according to the Office of Employment and Training (OET), an agency of the Kentucky Education and Workforce Development Cabinet. The state’s rate was 10 percent in April 2011. The preliminary May 2011 jobless rate dropped .6 percentage point below the 10.4 percent rate recorded in May 2010 for the state. The state’s May 2011 rate matches the February 2009 rate of 9.8 percent. “Kentucky’s unemployment rate decreased to 9.8 percent in May 2011, dropping below 10 percent for the first time since February 2009. However, nonfarm employment was weighed down by supply disruptions due to the tsunami in Japan and high food and gas prices,” said Dr. Justine Detzel, OET chief labor market analyst. The U.S. seasonally adjusted jobless rate increased from 9 percent in April 2011 to 9.1 percent in May 2011, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Unemployment statistics are based on estimates and are compiled to measure trends rather than actually to count people working.
|
|
|
Post by Kentucky News on Jun 21, 2011 13:50:49 GMT -5
Bailey-Lewis, Muncy participate in HB 463 training about pretrial release, bond determinations Commonwealth News Center press release
Henria Bailey-Lewis and Renee H. Muncy District Court judges who serve Clay, Jackson and Leslie counties joined with District Court judges across Kentucky participated in a District Judges Seminar on June 3 about how to handle pretrial release and bond determinations under House Bill 463, which took effect June 8, 2011. The AOC offered the seminar in Frankfort for all district judges and trial commissioners and circuit judges who share on-call rotations with district judges. HB 463 is the most concentrated overhaul of Kentucky’s penal code in more than 30 years and was supported by all three branches of government. The legislation is designed to curb the cost of incarceration without compromising public safety. “House Bill 463 directly affects how district judges do their jobs, especially in the areas of pretrial release and bond,” said Campbell County District Court Judge Karen A. Thomas, who also serves as president of the Kentucky District Judges Association, chair of the District Judges Education Committee and chief regional district judge for the Northern Region. “The seminar was helpful in preparing the judges for the significant changes that come with the new law. These changes require judges to set lower bonds and authorize substantial credit for days served in jail in lieu of requiring defendants to pay costs and fines.” The three-hour seminar included an introduction to HB 463 and in-depth training on the tool that pretrial officers use to assess risk among pretrial defendants. Pretrial officers use the results of the risk assessment to help judges determine whether to grant pretrial release to defendants. The Administrative Office of the Courts operates the statewide pretrial services program. Under HB 463, judges are required to consider the pretrial risk assessment when setting bonds and to grant pretrial release to low- and moderate-risk defendants, which are those who pose a low risk of flight, are likely to appear for trial and are not likely to be a danger to others. The legislation limits bond amounts for misdemeanor offenses and mandates that defendants receive credit of $100 per day toward bond and $50 to $100 a day in jail credit toward any fines owed except in certain circumstances. HB 463 calls for law enforcement officers to cite individuals for most misdemeanor offenses rather than arrest them.
|
|
|
Post by Kentucky News on Jun 23, 2011 11:38:18 GMT -5
Kentucky to Implement More Stringent Criminal Background Checks for Caregivers Commonwealth News Center press release
FRANKFORT, Ky.– Prospective caregivers for some of Kentucky’s most vulnerable citizens may soon be subject to extensive criminal record searches, thanks to a $3 million grant to establish a comprehensive statewide system for thorough background checks. “The Commonwealth of Kentucky is very pleased to participate in this critical initiative that is designed to help long-term care facilities and providers avoid hiring individuals with certain criminal histories by conducting federal and state level background checks on prospective job applicants,” said Gov. Steve Beshear. “This falls directly in line with our ongoing work to address elder abuse and improve patient care in long-term care facilities.” Currently, state law requires long-term care facilities to conduct only name-based background checks for their prospective employees. This grant, however, will help the Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) purchase equipment to conduct digital fingerprint background checks, which will ultimately enhance patient safety. The grant enables the state to purchase live scan equipment to secure digital fingerprints that will be used for both in-state and FBI criminal background checks, according to cabinet officials. Kentucky is home to 590 long-term care facilities, 101 assisted living facilities, and roughly 600 other providers who employ direct patient access workers. Once established, this new statewide system will allow officials to perform more in-depth screening of applicants seeking employment at nursing, intermediate care and Alzheimer’s facilities; personal care and family care homes; home health agencies, hospice care providers, long-term care hospitals, personal services agencies, adult day care providers, assisted living facilities, intermediate care facilities for individuals with mental retardation and developmental disabilities, and other entities that provide long-term services. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services is charged with administering the National Background Check Program (NBCP), created under Section 6201 of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. This agency is under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Last year, Gov. Beshear ordered a multi-agency review — coordinated by the CHFS — that resulted in a comprehensive report on the protection of nursing home residents. The Cabinet has implemented many recommendations included in the report. Additionally, the cabinet has revived the state Elder Abuse Committee to continue the vital collaboration between agencies and stakeholders in an effort to enhance measures aimed at protecting Kentucky’s seniors. The state also joined the national Elder Investment Fraud and Financial Exploitation Prevention Program. In the program, states work with medical professionals to detect cases where older Americans are being scammed. On the heels of these actions, Gov. Beshear supported and later signed into law two pieces of legislation targeted at protecting adults and the elderly from abuse and exploitation. The laws, which specifically addressed guardianship of adults, bar individuals convicted of felony abuse or exploitation of an adult from serving as that victim’s guardian, executor or power of attorney. The other measure makes the guardianship process more accessible for those who are dealing with more than one state. “The Cabinet for Health and Family Services is committed to our mission to protect Kentucky’s most vulnerable citizens,” said CHFS Secretary Janie Miller. “We are pleased to take part in the National Background Check Program and commend Gov. Beshear for his continued leadership and support of issues that safeguard Kentucky’s seniors.” As the state begins to implement the grant, it seeks input from the provider community and public and private stakeholders on the development of legislation designed to expand current background check policies. For more information or to provide input on the new program, contact the Office of the Inspector General at (502) 564-2888.
|
|
|
Post by Kentucky News on Jun 23, 2011 11:43:50 GMT -5
Governor Beshear Recognizes Sacrifice of Fort Knox Soldier
FRANKFORT, Ky.– Gov. Steve Beshear hasy recognized the sacrifice of a Fort Knox soldier who died while supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. According to the Department of Defense, Sgt. James W. Harvey II, 23, of Toms River, N.J., died June 20 in Ghazni province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit with small arms fire. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 2nd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Knox, Ky. The Governor will order that flags at all state office buildings be lowered to half-staff from sunrise to sunset on the day of Sgt. Harvey’s interment for which arrangements are still pending. Flag status information is available at: www.governor.ky.gov/flagstatus.htm
|
|
|
Post by Kentucky News on Jun 25, 2011 21:08:38 GMT -5
Kentucky Human Rights Commission opposes Confederate License Plate Commonwealth News Center press release
LOUISVILLE, KY - The Kentucky Commission on Human Rights Board of Commissioners has passed a resolution against any specialty license plate bearing images of the Confederate flag or images that support the institution of slavery. Third Supreme Court District Kentucky Human Rights Commissioner Duane Bonifer of Greensburg, Ky., read the resolution to the commission for passage at its Louisville meeting on Thursday, June 23. “We offer our support to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet in denying any group that would ask for such a discriminatory license plate,” Bonifer said. It recently came to the attention of the Kentucky Commission on Human Rights through media reports that a national group based in Tennessee called the Sons of Confederate Veterans is renewing a request for the special license plate first applied for in 2007. The proposed plate would feature a Confederate battle flag and an image of Confederate President Jefferson Davis, with a slogan that says, “Honoring Our Heritage.” As many as 15,000 Confederate plates in nine Southern states are already in circulation under the group’s sponsorship, according to the Louisville Defender newspaper. The commission is sending the resolution along with a letter to Transportation Cabinet officials asking them to deny the application and offering commission assistance regarding the matter if it would be deemed beneficial, said Commission Executive Director John J. Johnson. The Transportation Cabinet's policy is to deny any plate design that would discriminate or can be construed as an attempt to victimize or intimidate any person due to the person's race. “It really is time for people to grow up and stop pretending to use historic interest as guise for perpetuating backward, unintelligent ideas and attitudes,” Johnson said. “It is always very transparent, and moral, intelligent people and, I think, society as a whole, are sick of it,” he said. The Kentucky Commission on Human Rights is the state government agency that enforces the Kentucky Civil Rights Act and the U.S. Civil Rights Act. These laws protect people from discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability, familial status, age, and tobacco-smoking status. The classes are protected with varying stipulations in the areas of housing, employment, public accommodations and financial transactions.
|
|
|
Post by Kentucky News on Jun 25, 2011 21:19:20 GMT -5
Taiwan donates $20,000 to the American Red Cross in Kentucky Commonwealth News Center press release
FRANKFORT, Ky. – Governor Steve Beshear today announced a $20,000 donation from representatives of the government of Taiwan to aid in the clean up of recent storm and flood damage in numerous Kentucky counties. The gift will be donated to the American Red Cross to assist in that organization’s disaster relief efforts in Kentucky. “I am pleased to receive this token of esteem from the Taiwanese government to help with restoration efforts in many areas of the Commonwealth,” Gov. Beshear said. “The generosity they have shown in our time of need will help our local communities repair the effects of this natural disaster.” The Governor was joined by representatives of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office located in Atlanta. “My colleagues and I at the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office have been following reports of the severe damage caused by the storms and floods in your great state,” said Anna A. Kao, director general of the office. “We also regret that your state suffered a large amount of property damage.” Severe storms hit Kentucky in late April and early May, causing widespread damage and flooding in more than half the state’s counties. Gov. Beshear declared a state of emergency on April 25, and teams from the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) remain in Kentucky to coordinate damage assessments and relief with local officials. “Taiwan and Kentucky have enjoyed long, cordial and mutually beneficial relationship; a friendship that continues to strengthen with each passing year,” Kao said. “Taiwan would like to be a responsible stakeholder and a humanitarian aid provider in the international community.” Keith Alvey, CEO of the American Red Cross Chapter in Louisville, accepted the gift, and said gifts like these help the agency respond quickly to community needs after natural disasters. The Louisville chapter’s coverage area includes the majority of Kentucky counties most affected by the spring storms. “I can’t express our gratitude enough for this generous gift from the people of Taiwan. The American Red Cross in Kentucky has worked with hundreds of families devastated by the recent floods; it is truly remarkable to see compassion from around the world put into action right here in the Commonwealth,” Alvey said.
|
|
|
Post by Kentucky News on Jun 25, 2011 21:30:23 GMT -5
Clay County has fifth highest Jobless rate in Kentucky Commonwealth News Center press release
FRANKFORT, Ky. — Unemployment rates fell in 99 Kentucky counties between May 2010 and May 2011, while 16 county rates increased and five counties remained the same, according to the Kentucky Office of Employment and Training, an agency of the Kentucky Education and Workforce Development Cabinet. Fayette County recorded the lowest jobless rate in the Commonwealth at 7.3 percent. It was followed by Calloway and Oldham counties, 7.5 percent each; Hancock and Woodford counties, 7.6 percent each; Caldwell and Warren counties, 7.7 percent each; Union County, 7.8 percent; and Hardin and Ohio counties, 8 percent each. Jackson County recorded the state’s highest unemployment rate — 17.4 percent. It was followed by Metcalfe County, 16.3 percent; Magoffin County, 15.9 percent; McCreary County, 14.9 percent; Clay County, 14.5 percent; Lewis County, 13.9 percent; Fulton County, 13.6 percent; and Menifee, Nelson and Rockcastle counties, 13.3 percent each. 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. The statistics in this news release are not seasonally adjusted to allow for comparisons between United States, state and county figures. Learn more about the Office of Employment and Training at: www.workforce.ky.gov
|
|
|
Post by Kentucky News on Jun 29, 2011 19:13:50 GMT -5
GRANDPARENT SCAM ALERT: That grandchild on the phone might not be yours!
Commonwealth News Center press release [/i] Attorney General Jack Conway is alerting Kentucky consumers to a resurgence of the "grandparent's scam" targeting senior citizens. General Conway's Office of Consumer Protection has received nearly a dozen complaints this year related to the "grandparent's scam" with victims reporting losses of nearly $40,000. Four of the complaints were received within the last month. "The 'grandparent's scam' continues to target our senior citizens by preying on their generosity and desire to help a family member in need," General Conway said. "Because of the wide availability of contact information available on the Internet and through social-networking sites, such as Facebook or MySpace, many scammers are able to provide specific names of family members and other personal information as part of their scam." In one recent case, a Ft. Mitchel, Ky. woman reported being scammed out of $4,800 after agreeing to wire money to someone who claimed to be her grandson. The "grandson" said he had been in an accident in Mexico City and asked that money be sent to him through a money transfer service. The victim complied with the request and wired the money. Other Kentucky victims of the "grandparent's scam" include an Owensboro man who lost more than $8,100, a Benton woman who wired $6,000 to someone pretending to be her grandson and a Jenkins grandmother who thought she was wiring $3,000 to her grandchild in Spain following a DUI arrest. "Wiring money is one of the most common ways consumers lose money to con artists as the funds are rarely recoverable," General Conway said. "I strongly encourage seniors who receive a call like this to verify the caller's identity. Also ask a question that only the grandchild would know or contact a relative to verify the situation." New reports also reveal that scammers are portraying themselves as policemen or lawyers calling on behalf of a grandchild. The scammers are often difficult to track down as many of the calls originate overseas. All consumers should also check the security settings on social-media accounts. Privacy settings should only allow confirmed friends to access personal information. Consumers who suspect they have been a victim of a scam can call the Attorney General's Consumer Protection Hotline at 1-888-432-9257 or visit: ag.ky.gov/civil/consumerprotection
|
|
|
Post by Kentucky News on Jun 29, 2011 19:21:26 GMT -5
Celebrate July 4th Weekend With State Park Firework Shows Department of Parks press release
FRANKFORT, Ky. – There’s no better way to celebrate America’s birthday than with a fireworks display. The Kentucky State Parks have several parks offering free firework shows this year. State parks are great places for picnics, hikes, wildlife viewing, fishing, swimming, boating, golf and other family activities. Kentucky State Parks also offer campgrounds, lodges, cottages and restaurants that make for great vacations and weekend trips. Visit: www.parks.ky.govfor information and reservations. Here is a list of firework shows and holiday events at Kentucky State Parks: Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park, Buckhorn July 4
A variety of patriotic activities will take place, culminating with a fireworks display sponsored by the Perry County Tourism Commission! A cookout starts at 3 p.m. with hot dogs, potato wedges and drinks. At noon, there will be water races in the beach area, limbo and hula hoop, water balloon toss, tug-of-war and horseshoe tournament. The band “2nd Wind” will play at 7 p.m., sponsored by Pine Branch Coal Sales. Fireworks begin at dark. Call 1-800-325-0058 for more details.
Lake Cumberland State Resort Park, Jamestown July 3
State Dock and Jamestown Marina are co-sponsoring a fireworks show Sunday, July 3 at 9 p.m. CDT. The fireworks can be seen from the Park Look Out and the Lure Lodge patio. Call 1-800-325-1709 for more information.
The Kentucky State Park System is composed of 51 state parks plus an interstate park shared with Virginia. The Department of Parks, an agency of the Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet, operates 17 resort parks with lodges -- more than any other state. For more information on Kentucky parks, visit our website at www.parks.ky.gov
|
|
|
Post by Kentucky News on Jun 30, 2011 19:00:27 GMT -5
Kentucky motorists encouraged to celebrate the Fourth safely Commonwealth News Center press release
FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 30, 2011) – As Kentuckians take to the roads to celebrate the nation’s independence, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) encourages motorists to do so safely. “If you’re hosting a party this holiday weekend, remind your guests to plan a safe way home ahead of time,” said Boyd Sigler, Director of the Kentucky Highway Safety Programs. “Always offer alcohol-free beverages during the event and make sure all of your guests leave with a sober driver. Impaired driving is simply not worth the risk. The consequences are serious and real.” Of the 760 highway fatalities that occurred in Kentucky last year, 20 percent were due to alcohol. Seven deaths occurred on Kentucky roadways over the 2010 Independence Day weekend. For drivers traveling greater distances this holiday weekend, the KYTC suggests getting the latest road information in advance by calling 511 or logging onto 511.ky.gov. Travelers across the state may receive emergency roadside assistance from the Transportation Cabinet’s SAFE Patrol. Assistance is available daily from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. by calling 877-FOR-KYTC.
|
|
|
Post by Kentucky News on Jul 6, 2011 13:45:01 GMT -5
No Increase in State Property Tax Rate for 2011 Commonwealth News Center press release
FRANKFORT, Ky. – The Kentucky Department of Revenue has set the 2011 State Real Property Tax Rate at 12.2 cents per $100 of assessed value – the same rate as last year. Kentucky Revised Statute 132.020 requires the Department of Revenue to set the real property rate no later than July 1 of each year. This rate is based on the revenue generated from the increase in taxable real property assessments from 2010 to 2011. If the increase in revenue is more than 4% after the exclusion of new property added to the tax roll during 2011, then the prior year rate must be reduced. Because the assessment increase for 2011 is estimated at 1.05%, the state rate will remain the same as the 2010 rate, 12.2 cents per $100 of assessed value. All of the revenue generated from the state property tax rate will go into the state’s General Fund. migration.kentucky.gov/Newsroom/finance/2011proptax.htm
|
|
|
Post by Kentucky News on Jul 11, 2011 18:45:14 GMT -5
Beshear brings ceremonial check to Owsley County Commonwealth News Center press release Governor Steve Beshear
BOONEVILLE, Ky.– Governor Steve Beshear today presented a ceremonial check to the Owsley County Conservation District from the Kentucky Agricultural Development Fund (KADF) to support Kentucky’s agriculture and rural economy. Gov. Beshear, who chairs the KADF, presented the check for $312,700 to provide cost-share for on-farm improvements through the County Agricultural Investment Program (CAIP). “As Governor, I am proud and honored to serve as chairman of the Agricultural Development Board, because I know the importance of this fund to the future of our farmers,” said Gov. Beshear. “I am committed to giving our farmers the tools and resources they need to remain competitive and continue Kentucky’s strong farming tradition. This Agricultural Development Fund program plays an integral role in achieving that goal for Owsley County farm families.” To date, more than $350 million in Kentucky Agricultural Development Funds have been invested in an array of state, regional and county projects throughout the Commonwealth. Over the last decade, Owsley County has been allotted more than $1.5 million dollars from the KADF. “CAIP investments on our family farms in Owsley County and across the Commonwealth continue to be vital to the growth and reshaping of Kentucky agriculture, as well as stimulating local economies,” said GOAP Executive Director Roger Thomas The County Agricultural Investment Program (CAIP) is designed to provide farmers with incentives to allow them to improve current production practices and assist in diversifying farming operations. CAIP provides producers 11 investment areas from which to choose. Within the 11 investment areas a wide variety of agricultural enterprises are available. Last year, most of Owsley County farmers receiving cost-share through this program invested in agricultural diversification, cattle genetics; fencing and forage improvement; and farm structure/commodity handling, as well as other areas. Owsley County is one of 106 counties that have offered this program to their producers.
|
|
|
Post by Kentucky News on Jul 11, 2011 18:51:50 GMT -5
Sacrifice of Fort Knox Soldier Recognized
FRANKFORT, Ky. – Gov. Steve Beshear today recognized the sacrifice of a Fort Knox soldier who died while supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. According to the Department of Defense, Sgt. Nicanor Amper IV, 36, of San Jose, Calif., died July 5 in Khowst, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked his unit with a rocket propelled grenade. He was assigned to the 6th Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Knox, Ky. The Governor will order that flags at all state office buildings be lowered to half-staff from sunrise to sunset on the day of Sgt. Amper’s interment for which arrangements are still pending. Flag status information is available at: www.governor.ky.gov/flagstatus.htm
|
|
|
Post by Kentucky News on Jul 11, 2011 18:58:39 GMT -5
PSC Renews Warning Against Copper Theft Recent fatality shows danger of this illegal activity Commonwealth News Center press release
The electrocution of a man who allegedly was attempting to steal copper wire from an electric substation highlights just how dangerous this illegal activity can be, the Kentucky Public Service Commission (PSC) said today. A 22-year-old man was killed early Thursday at an electric substation in McCreary County. According to news reports, the man had taken copper from a Kentucky Utilities Co. substation and was attempting to do the same at a nearby East Kentucky Power Cooperative facility when he was killed. Although the number of fatal incidents has declined in recent years, copper theft remains a problem for electric and telephone companies across Kentucky, with regular reports of thefts and resulting service disruptions. “This crime poses a threat to more than just the perpetrators,” PSC Chairman David Armstrong said. “It endangers utility employees and members of the public as well.” In a number of cases, theft or damage to telecommunication lines has created lengthy outages in phone service, including 911 emergency service, Armstrong said. Copper theft began increasing with rising prices for the metal about five years ago. In 2006 and 2007, at least six electrocutions in Kentucky were the result of copper theft. Thefts declined in 2008 when the price of copper fell dramatically, but the problem has returned as the price of copper has rebounded in the last two years. The price is now higher than it was in 2006. Plumbing and wiring in vacant buildings, coils in air conditioning units and telecommunication lines also have been targeted by copper thieves. But, as the incident last week demonstrates, thefts from electric facilities continue. “Electric facilities are very dangerous places for anyone without proper training or equipment,” Armstrong said. “It is not worth risking your life for a few dollars worth of copper.” Furthermore, finding a buyer for stolen copper is becoming increasingly difficult, Armstrong said. In recent years, Kentucky has passed laws designed to make it harder to sell stolen scrap metals, and most reputable metal recyclers will not purchase material they think might be stolen, he said. Copper theft creates a number of problems for utilities and their customers, including outages and reliability problems. Damage to facilities can pose hazards to repair workers. Repairing and replacing equipment imposes a cost on the utility company. “There is any number of good reasons not to attempt the theft of copper from electric or telecommunication facilities,” Armstrong said. “But the most important are that it is illegal and it can get you killed.” The PSC is an independent agency attached for administrative purposes to the Energy and Environment Cabinet. It regulates more than 1,500 gas, water, sewer, electric and telecommunication utilities operating in Kentucky and has approximately 100 employees.
|
|
|
Post by Kentucky News on Jul 15, 2011 8:01:14 GMT -5
Leslie County Man Sentenced to 133 Months in Child Pornography Case Commonwealth News Center press release
Michael Caldwell
Attorney General Jack Conway, the U.S. Attorney's Office and the Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) jointly announce the sentencing this week of a Leslie County man to 133 months in prison for receiving thousands of child pornographic images. The charges against 42-year-old Michael Caldwell are the result of an investigation by General Conway's Cybercrimes Unit following a referral from ICE. "I would like to thank the U.S. Attorney's Office for their successful prosecution of this case," General Conway said. "I also appreciate the dedication of my cybercrimes investigators and our other law enforcement partners who work every day to make the Internet a safer place for Kentucky kids." Caldwell has admitted to receiving more than 4,900 child pornographic images, many depicting prepubescent children engaged in sexually explicit conduct. A federal grand jury in London, Ky. indicted Caldwell on October 28, 2010 on two counts of receipt of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography. Investigators from the Attorney General's office, ICE and Kentucky State Police executed a federal arrest warrant for Caldwell on October 29, 2010. Caldwell must serve at least 85 percent of his prison sentence and will have to register as a sex offender when he's released from prison. He also faces a lifetime of supervised release, according to the U.S. Attorney's office. Since its creation in June of 2008, General Conway's Cybercrimes Unit has launched more than 230 child pornography investigations and seized more than 280,000 child pornographic images and videos from the Internet. The unit is also a member of the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force. For additional information on cybersafety in Kentucky, visit General Conway's Cybersafety Page at: ag.ky.gov/cybersafety/ . To report cyber abuse, visit the CyberTipline or call 1-800-843-5678.
|
|
|
Post by Kentucky News on Jul 16, 2011 6:40:53 GMT -5
Family Resource and Youth Services Centers Celebrate 20 Years of Service Commonwealth News Center press release
FRANKFORT, Ky. – Governor Steve Beshear has proclaimed July 18-22 as Family Resource and Youth Services Centers (FRYSC) Week in the Commonwealth and congratulates all FRYSC staff on 20 years of exceptional service to Kentucky’s children and their families. “FRYSCs have made a tremendous contribution of time and resources to Kentucky’s children to ensure academic success during the past two decades, and continue to do so today,” Gov. Beshear said. “FRYSCs staff sees their hard work and determination to help Kentucky children pay off in many ways, such as the satisfaction of seeing a child graduate who may not have without the intervention and assistance available through the program.” From promoting literacy and math skills to helping with clothing and shelter, to brokering social services such as health care and family counseling, to organizing anti-bullying and drop-out prevention programs, FRYSC workers enrich the lives of students across the Commonwealth and ensure that the children who need the most assistance reach their academic potential. FRYSC is housed in and administered by the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS). There are 819 centers in 1,167 schools that encompass 98 percent of Kentucky’s eligible schools with a total student population of 619,541. These school-based centers enhance students’ abilities to succeed in school by developing and sustaining collaborative partnerships that meet basic needs and promote early learning and successful transition into school; academic achievement and well-being; and graduation and transition into adult life. "I am very proud of the FRYSC employees who work so hard every day and have touched the lives more than 3.3 million children and their families during the past 20 years.” Gov. Beshear said. “I’m pleased to proclaim FRYSC Week as a way to acknowledge this vital Kentucky program that sets the bar for others nationally.” CHFS Secretary Janie Miller said FRYSCs spotlight the home, school and community connections. “FRYSC’s staff is known to go above and beyond to meet the needs of their students to improve the functionality of their families,” she said. “Now, the second generation of some families are being helped by their center’s unique blend of services and support.” To further highlight this anniversary milestone, FRYSC and Yale University have partnered to mark Kentucky’s historic 20 years of unparalleled service throughout the U.S. to students and their families at the 2011 Victory Over Violence (VOV) Conference July 20-22, at the Galt House in Louisville. Learn more about FRYSC and the 2011 VOV Conference online at" chfs.ky.gov/dfrcvs/frysc/vov.htm
|
|
|
Post by ClayLive on Jul 18, 2011 11:35:16 GMT -5
Governor Beshear Recognizes Sacrifice of Kentucky Native
FRANKFORT, Ky.– Gov. Steve Beshear today recognized the sacrifice of a Kentucky native, Fort Campbell soldier who died while supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. According to the Department of Defense, Sgt. Jeremy R. Summers, 27, of Mount Olivet, Ky., died July 14 in Paktika province, Afghanistan, after enemy forces attacked his unit with small arms fire on July 13. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 506th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division, Fort Campbell, Ky. The Governor will order that flags at all state office buildings be lowered to half-staff from sunrise to sunset on the day of Sgt. Summers’ interment for which arrangements are still pending. Flag status information is available at: www.governor.ky.gov/flagstatus.htm
|
|
|
Post by Kentucky News on Jul 21, 2011 6:07:32 GMT -5
Flags Ordered to Half-staff on July 21
FRANKFORT, Ky.– Gov. Steve Beshear has directed that flags at all state office buildings be lowered to half-staff Thursday, July 21, 2011 in honor of a Fort Campbell soldier who died while supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. According to the Department of Defense, Spc. Rafael A. Nieves Jr., 22, of Albany, N.Y., died July 10 in Paktika province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked his vehicle with small-arms and rocket-propelled grenade fires. He was assigned to 1st Battalion, 506th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky. Funeral services for Spc. Nieves will be held on July 21 at 10 a.m. Eastern time at St. Aloysius Church in Jersey City, N.J. A cremation ceremony will follow at Rosehill Crematory in Linden, N.J. Gov. Beshear encourages individuals, businesses, organizations and government agencies to join in this tribute. Flag status information is available at: www.governor.ky.gov/flagstatus.htm
|
|
|
Post by Press Release on Jul 25, 2011 21:27:55 GMT -5
New law creates third weight class for farm vehicles Commonwealth News Center press release
FRANKFORT, Ky. (July 25, 2011) – A new state law creates a third weight class for registered farm vehicles to ensure that Kentucky farmers are not improperly ticketed and taxed when operating their farm vehicles in other states. The new law took effect on March 16, 2011, when Gov. Steve Beshear signed Senate Bill 79, sponsored by Sens. Joey Pendleton, Dennis Parrett and Mike Wilson. At issue is the International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA), which applies to vehicles of certain designs and characteristics, including a gross vehicle weight or registered weight “exceeding 26,000 pounds.” Kentucky exempts registered farm vehicles from IFTA taxes. But because Kentucky had just two farm vehicle weight classes for registration purposes – the lesser being zero to 38,000 pounds – some other states deemed any Kentucky registered farm vehicle to be at least 38,000 pounds and thus subject to IFTA taxation when being operated within their borders. “Agriculture is ingrained in the very fabric of our shared heritage as Kentuckians,” Gov. Beshear said. “The intent of this new law is to protect the interests of our hard working Kentucky farm families.” “Many Kentucky farmers have been improperly cited and even fined in other states because of an unrealistic weight classification,” said Sen. Pendleton, of Hopkinsville. “Our intention with Senate Bill 79 was to make absolutely clear which vehicles are subject to IFTA taxation and which are not.” The new law created a weight classification of zero to 26,000 pounds. Other classifications are now 26,001 to 38,000 pounds and 38,001 to 80,000 pounds. Vehicles registered in the new weight class do not meet the IFTA definition of a “qualified motor vehicle” and thus are not subject to IFTA taxation in other states. Owners of vehicles registered as zero to 38,000 pounds on or after March 16, 2011, but which actually were 26,000 pounds or less, can have their registration updated without an extra state fee. That is done at the county clerk office at which the vehicle was originally registered. Also under SB 79, planting and harvesting season is deemed to be year-round for purposes of operating farm vehicles on highways, rather than from March 1 through Nov. 23, and farm equipment can be transported from dealership to dealership on an annual overweight/over-dimension permit, as opposed to needing individual trip permits. The full text of SB 79 can be found at: www.lrc.ky.gov/record/11RS/SB79.htm
|
|
|
Post by Kentucky News on Jul 27, 2011 18:23:37 GMT -5
Kentucky Governor gives out Obama Stimulus Funds Commonwealth News Center press release
Governor Steve Beshear, President Barack Obama
Despite scaring seniors with a threat to withhold their social security checks President Barack Obama was able to send Governor Steve Beshear of Kentucky over $700,000 to give away during his re-election campaign. Governor Beshear announced the awarding of $773,447 in On-Farm Energy Efficiency & Production Incentives grants. This program is the result of the partnership between the Governor’s Office of Agricultural Policy and Kentucky’s Department for Energy Development & Independence with funding from the American Recovery & Reinvestment Act through the U.S. Department of Energy. “In October 2009, I announced the availability of stimulus funds for on-farm energy efficiency improvements in Kentucky,” Gov. Beshear said. “I am pleased to announce that 100 farm families were able to take advantage of this opportunity in 2011 to improve farm energy efficiency or biomass production, bringing the total number of farms assisted through this program to 192.” Recipients of these energy stimulus incentives may receive 25 percent reimbursement of the actual cost of a federally qualified energy saving project, up to $10,000. Permissible items include, but are not limited to, energy audits, energy efficient farm building components, on-farm energy upgrades, on-farm energy efficiency training and biomass energy production activities. “These on-farm energy efficiency incentive grants represent only a small part of Kentucky’s State Energy Program award,” said Roger Thomas, executive director of the Governor’s Office of Agricultural Policy (GOAP). “But they will provide enormous benefit to Kentucky’s farm families and position Kentucky agriculture as a leader in on-farm energy efficiency.” The 2011 awards, along with funds awarded in 2009 and 2010, bring total ARRA investments in the On-farm Energy Efficiency & Production Incentives program to more than $1.4 million. “The energy grant allowed me to make several improvements, which I would not have been able to make. I can now affordably extend my growing season,” said Glendale resident Alex Meredith, who is a past recipient of the program. All applications for the incentive grants were reviewed and scored by a committee comprised of representatives from GOAP, the Kentucky Agricultural Development Board, the UK College of Agriculture and USDA Rural Development. A representative from the Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet served in an ex-officio capacity. The 2011 ARRA On-farm Energy Efficiency & Production Incentives Program is designed to help achieve the goals of Gov. Steve Beshear’s Intelligent Energy Choices for Kentucky’s Future: Kentucky’s 7-Point Energy Strategy and will be part of the effort to meet 18 percent of Kentucky’s energy needs from efficiency improvements by 2025.
|
|
|
Post by ClayLive on Jul 28, 2011 17:24:41 GMT -5
26-year program to preserve local records passes milestone Commonwealth News Center press release
Frankfort, Ky. – With the recent release of 29 grants totaling $596,571, the Kentucky Department for Libraries and Archives (KDLA) Local Records Program has now distributed more than $18 million in grants to help preserve local government records in all 120 Kentucky counties. Since 1984, the Local Records Program has assisted local government agencies in preserving and managing local records by awarding approximately 1,500 grants. It was the first program of its kind in the United States. “Preserving and managing local records for future generations is an important function of an open government,” Gov. Steve Beshear said. “This program provides local governments with an organized, systematic approach to safeguarding valuable archival records and ensures that the public has access to those records.” Public agencies are required by law to manage their records to make valuable information such as tax records, deeds, plats, mortgages, wills and articles of incorporation available and accessible to the public. Government records can be in a variety of formats and can include paper and electronic documents, photographs, maps and recordings. “There are local records that go back to the 1700s before Kentucky was a state. Piecing together those local records tells the story of Kentucky from the settlers all the way to current residents,” said State Librarian and KDLA Commissioner Wayne Onkst. The mission of the program is to preserve, protect and make available records with continuing archival value and to assist local agencies with records management through grant support, training and direct service. The program has issued grants for such work as microfilming, preservation, equipment, automated indexing, digital imaging systems and codification of ordinances. KDLA staff has often helped counties recover records that have been lost or damaged because of disasters such as floods, fires, burst water pipes and tornadoes, and because pages have been stolen from archival documents, Onkst said. For example, a flood in 1997 covered many bound volumes of archival documents in the Harrison County Clerk’s office. KDLA staff members were able to preserve records such as estate settlements, veteran discharges, deeds and mortgages by recreating them using microfilm produced through a local records grant. “We recognize that sound records management strives to provide the right information to the right person, at the right time, at the lowest possible cost,” Onkst said. “Records of permanent and archival value not only document the history of counties and cities, they give us an insight into the cultural make-up of those areas. It is vital that they are preserved for future generations.” KDLA, an agency of the Kentucky Education and Workforce Development Cabinet, provides equitable access to quality library and information resources and services, as well as helps public agencies ensure that legislatively mandated documentation of government programs is created, efficiently maintained, and made accessible. For more information on KDLA resources, programs and services visit: www.kdla.ky.govor call 502-564-8300 ext. 315.
|
|
|
Post by Kentucky News on Jul 28, 2011 17:50:33 GMT -5
'Kentucky Experience' to Be on View at State Fair August 18-28 Commonwealth News Center press release
The Kentucky Experience, an exposition of attractions throughout the Bluegrass State, will be on display when the Kentucky State Fair opens in Louisville Aug. 18, 2011. The collection of displays presenting points of interest throughout the state’s nine tourism regions will remain on view in South Wing A of the Kentucky Fair and Exposition Center for the fair’s run through Aug. 28. The Kentucky Experience has been displayed at the Thomas D. Clark Center for Kentucky History in Frankfort since May 7 – Kentucky Derby Day. “The Kentucky Experience is a great fit for the state fair, which celebrates all things Kentucky,” said Travel and Tourism Department Commissioner Mike Cooper. “Come out for a great time and learn about your home state.” The Department of Travel and Tourism originally created the displays for the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games held at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington in fall 2010. There, the Kentucky Experience provided an introduction to the Bluegrass State and encouraged travel around the Commonwealth by the 400,000-plus spectators who attended the equestrian games from 63 countries and all 50 states. The World Equestrian Games had an economic impact of $201.5 million on Kentucky, according to a study commissioned by the Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet. For more information about the state fair, visit: www.kystatefair.orgThe Kentucky Department of Travel and Tourism is an agency within the Tourism, Arts & Heritage Cabinet, which promotes the Commonwealth as a travel destination. Tourism in Kentucky has an economic impact of $11.3 billion, employs about 170,000 people and generates $1.2 billion in taxes.
|
|
|
Post by ClayLive on Jul 28, 2011 17:59:06 GMT -5
Flags to be lowered to Half-staff on July 29
FRANKFORT, Ky. – Gov. Steve Beshear has directed that flags at all state office buildings be lowered to half-staff Friday, July 29, 2011 in honor of a Kentucky native and Fort Campbell soldier who died while supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. According to the Department of Defense, Sgt. Jeremy R. Summers, 27, of Mount Olivet, Ky., died July 14 in Paktika province, Afghanistan, after enemy forces attacked his unit with small arms fire on July 13. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 506th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division, Fort Campbell, Ky. Funeral services for Sgt. Summers will be held on July 29 at 11 a.m. Eastern time in Cynthina, Ky. Burial services will immediately follow at Battle Grove Cemetery in Cynthiana. Gov. Beshear encourages individuals, businesses, organizations and government agencies to join in this tribute. Flag status information is available at www.governor.ky.gov/flagstatus.htm.
|
|
|
Post by Kentucky News on Jul 28, 2011 18:03:25 GMT -5
‘Complete College America’ awards $1 million to assist with state’s online degree program Commonwealth News Center press release
FRANKFORT, Ky. — Governor Steve Beshear today announced Kentucky has been awarded $1 million to fuel policy innovations and reforms aimed at significantly transforming remedial education. The grant is provided by Complete College America as part of its national Completion Innovation Challenge grant competition. Kentucky will use its grant funds to enhance developmental education opportunities for adults who enroll in the Learn on Demand online program offered through the Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS). “Kentucky’s winning proposal had one of the nation’s most promising strategies to smooth and shorten pathways to college completion, which will save our students precious time and money, and give taxpayers more of what they expect from their hard-earned investments in higher education – college graduates,” Gov. Beshear said. A national non-profit organization focused solely on working with states to significantly boost college completion, Complete College America established the grant competition to inspire and enhance state efforts. The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation provided the funding support for the grant program. KCTCS’ Learn on Demand, an online learning portal, offers modularized self-paced competency-based degree programs in high-wage, high-demand areas such as nursing, business administration and information technology. Research shows adults enter college with significantly higher developmental needs than high school graduates but are less likely to enroll in and complete developmental education in a timely fashion, according to KCTCS. The grant will improve the Learn on Demand program in three essential ways: * add academic advising and tutoring technologies, and a customized orientation module for developmental education students;
* provide focused training and professional development for advisors; and
* support a communications plan that increases student awareness of Learn on Demand’s degree and credential pathways.
“This grant will enhance our efforts to provide Kentuckians with the opportunity to get a higher education anyplace, anytime and anywhere,” KCTCS President Michael B. McCall said. “The KCTCS Learn On Demand program is perfectly aligned to meet the needs of working adults who have very busy, complicated lives and are not able to fit traditional college on-site classes and programs into their schedules.” Recent efforts to increase readiness and completion in Kentucky are paying off. Degree and credential production has increased 84 percent since 2001, while the percentage of undergraduates meeting Kentucky’s college readiness standards increased 11 percentage points from 2002-03 to 2008-09, according to the Council on Postsecondary Education (CPE). “Supporting new pathways for adult learners and providing effective academic support services will significantly improve our efforts to increase college completion, which is the cornerstone of Kentucky’s new strategic agenda for postsecondary and adult education,” said Bob King, president of CPE. Governors from all 50 states were invited to submit proposals to win one of ten $1 million, 18-month implementation Complete College America grants for innovative, high-impact college completion initiatives. Thirty-three states ultimately entered the highly competitive contest. “It’s long past time for bold innovation in higher education to remove unnecessary obstacles to success, fix broken policies that hold students back, speed achievement and redesign pathways to college graduation for the new majority of students who must balance work and school,” said Stan Jones, president of Complete College America.
|
|
|
Post by Kentucky News on Aug 1, 2011 20:58:21 GMT -5
Clay County qualifies for $15,170.83 in Refunds from state to Coal Counties Amount based on mining, acreage fees paid by coal companies
FRANKFORT, Ky.– Fiscal courts in 31 counties will receive refunds totaling $612,450 from mining permit and acreage fees. The permit and acreage fees are collected by the Department for Natural Resources from the coal companies and a third of the fees are returned to coal-producing counties where permits are located for projects that the fiscal courts deem beneficial to their communities. Examples of county projects include the construction of parks, playgrounds and water systems. This year’s refunds range from $50 to $99,800, with 10 counties each receiving more than $23,000. The department returned $493,000 to 37 counties in 2010 and $616,000 to 34 counties in 2009. Clay County qualifies for $15,170.83 in Refunds.
|
|
|
Post by Kentucky News on Aug 2, 2011 18:47:27 GMT -5
Governor Beshear Visits Kentucky Troops in Iraq and Kuwait Commonwealth News Center press release
Governor Steve Beshear
KUWAIT – Governor Steve Beshear visited U.S. troops serving in Iraq and Kuwait today, including troops from Kentucky, as part of a special Department of Defense trip. The visit marks the first time in recent history that a sitting Kentucky governor has visited an active war zone.
“In Kentucky, we truly appreciate and support the thousands of troops from our home state who are serving in the far reaches of the world, who protect our nation’s security and promote peace,” said Gov. Beshear. “When the Pentagon invited me on this trip, I jumped at the chance to meet these troops face-to-face and tell them personally how much their service means to us.”
More than 2,600 Kentucky servicemen and women are currently deployed to Iraq and Kuwait. Approximately 1,000 troops are deployed from Ft. Campbell, as well as an additional 140 troops from Ft. Knox. Nearly 1,500 Kentucky National Guard troops are serving in Iraq and Kuwait, including the 149th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade. This brigade consists of 1,467 soldiers from units in Louisville and Southeastern Kentucky, and just deployed to the area this week. It is the largest mobilization of Kentucky National Guard troops since World War II.
The Department of Defense reached out to the Governor’s Office in late May with the offer to travel to Iraq to visit Kentucky troops. Other governors on this trip include Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam, Nevada Gov. Brian Sandoval, and Utah Gov. Gary Herbert.
After a briefing by Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta and other high-level Defense officials Monday morning at the Pentagon, the Governor departed for the Middle East war zones, visiting troops in Iraq and Kuwait. He will return to Kentucky later this week.
“I am deeply appreciative of the opportunity to meet our Kentucky troops as they continue to serve their country,” said Gov. Beshear. “I told each one that we hold them and their families in our hearts and prayers, and we are looking forward to their safe return home.”
|
|