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Post by Kentucky News on Aug 10, 2011 16:30:46 GMT -5
Flags to Half-staff to Honor World War II Soldier MIA Kentucky serviceman recently identified in Germany; burial scheduled at Arlington
FRANKFORT, Ky.– Gov. Steve Beshear has directed that flags at all state office buildings be lowered to half-staff Thursday, Aug. 11, 2011 in honor of a Kentucky serviceman who has been recently identified after going missing in action in World War II. According to the Department of Defense, Army Pfc. William F. Stehlin of Dayton, Ky., went missing on Nov. 20, 1944 near Süggerath while his unit conducted a largely successful offensive to capture towns in Western Germany. In 1951, after an extensive search, his remains were determined unrecoverable by U.S. Army Graves Registration personnel. Stehlin was a member of the 333rd Infantry Regiment, 84th Infantry Division. In 2009, a German citizen digging in a wooded area near Süggerath, discovered a grave with the remains of two individuals, military-related equipment and identification tags. Among other forensic identification tools and circumstantial evidence, scientists from the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command laboratory also used dental comparisons in the identification of the remains. The other individual, Pfc. Edward L. O'Toole, was identified and buried on July 15 in San Bruno, Calif. Funeral services with full military honors for Army Pfc. Stehlin will be held on Aug. 11 at Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, D.C. 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
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Post by Kentucky News on Aug 11, 2011 16:42:45 GMT -5
Kentucky 8-1-1 Underground Facility Protection Day Commonwealth News Center press release
Kentucky Gov. Steve Beshear has issued a proclamation designating today as Kentucky 8-1-1 Underground Facility Protection Day. “Kentucky has made a concerted effort to reduce the number of incidents of excavators hitting buried utility lines,” Gov. Beshear said. “But it is clear that we still have work to do in increasing awareness of the call-before-you-dig requirements in state law and in promoting the use of the 811 statewide toll-free telephone number to request marking of buried utility lines.” Kentucky Public Service Commission Chairman David Armstrong said that digging into buried lines is more than just a problem for utility companies. “Such incidents often threaten public health and safety by interrupting vital services such as electricity, water or telephone,” he said. “The result also can be substantial damage to other property and, in the case of electric and gas lines, severe injury or death.” In recent years, Kentucky has taken several steps to reduce damage to buried lines. The 811 number was adopted in 2007 as an easy-to-remember number to call to have utilities located prior to excavation. A 2008 statute expanded enforcement of laws requiring underground utility lines to be located and marked prior to most excavation or demolition activity. Armstrong noted that dig-ins nevertheless continue to disrupt utility service. For example, a cut telephone cable left 500 Kenton County customers without service in June, some of them for nearly a week, he said. “Losing your telephone line can compromise access to enhanced 911 emergency service, which may be available only through landline telephones,” Armstrong said. “That is much more than just an inconvenience if someone needs medical, fire or police assistance.” Tim Vaughn, regulatory affairs director of Kentucky 811, the state’s call-before-you-dig center, thanked Gov. Beshear and the PSC for their efforts to help educate the public about the importance of protecting buried utility lines. “Governor Beasher’s strong support and the ongoing efforts of the Kentucky Public Service Commission help us immeasurably in reinforcing the message that we convey on a daily basis to utilities, contractors and the public,” Vaughn said. Kentucky 811 is a voluntary organization with more than 300 members, including most of Kentucky’s largest utility service providers. A call to Kentucky 811 will result in location of underground facilities owned by its members. Kentucky 811 is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. To obtain locations for underground facilities owned by utility service providers that do not belong to Kentucky 811, it is necessary to notify the company directly. A list of all owners of underground utility lines may be obtained from the county clerk. More information about Kentucky 811 is available at its website: www.kentucky811.orgTo request a copy of a handbook for excavators, go the site and click on the “Ask Tim” link: www.kentucky811.org/contact_us.php. 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.
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Post by Kentucky News on Aug 16, 2011 16:40:46 GMT -5
KENTUCKY POSTS 10% ANNUAL GAIN IN GEDs AWARDED Commonwealth News Center press release
Kentucky Adult Education, a unit of the Council on Postsecondary Education, announced today that 10,294 Kentuckians earned GEDs during FY2010-11 that ended in June, representing a 10 percent increase from the 9,357 diplomas awarded from the previous year. Not only did more students earn GEDs, the pass rate of test takers also increased from 80 percent to 83 percent. Council President Bob King said, “This is great news for Kentucky, and we applaud these graduates who are now better prepared for the workforce or to transition to college.” Officials attribute the annual increase in GEDs to free testing offered during April, May and June as well as ongoing efforts by local adult education programs in all 120 counties. “The free testing program was a huge success,” stated Reecie D. Stagnolia, vice president, Kentucky Adult Education (KYAE). “Kentucky’s GED attainment numbers were actually lagging in March, so the free testing gave hundreds of Kentuckians the extra incentive they needed to earn their GED. We couldn’t be more pleased with their aspirations and achievements as well as the hard work by adult educators across the state in preparing adults to be successful.” Kentucky Adult Education paid the $55 test fee for test-takers during the three-month period. In 11 years, 116,142 Kentuckians have earned a GED. Even with this progress, the numbers show the need is still great with 414,338 Kentuckians, or 15 percent of the working-age population age 18 to 64, lacking a high school credential or GED. According to the U.S. Bureau of Census 2007, the earnings difference between a high school graduate/GED graduate and a high school dropout is $8,721. The GED provides adults who did not finish high school with the opportunity to certify their attainment of high school-level academic knowledge and skills. Free GED classes are available through local adult education programs in all 120 Kentucky counties. Kentuckians interested in taking advantage of free classes should contact the adult education center in their county to discuss how to get started. To find the local adult education center, call (800) 928-7323 or visit www.knowhow2goky.org. We believe in the transformative power of postsecondary education. Stronger by Degrees, the new strategic agenda for Kentucky’s colleges and universities and adult basic education, is powering a stronger Kentucky economy and improving the lives of Kentuckians. To learn more about Stronger by Degrees, visit cpe.ky.gov/strongerbydegrees.
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Post by Kentucky News on Aug 18, 2011 5:11:50 GMT -5
‘Coal Miners Appreciation Week’ Proclamation to be presented to Rep. Rick Nelson Commonwealth News Center press release
PINEVILLE, KY— Governor Steve Beshear is proclaiming this week “Coal Miners’ Appreciation Week” in conjunction with Rep. Rick Nelson’s 2011 legislation designating the third week in August as a time to honor coal miners. The legislation, which Beshear signed earlier this year, asks the governor to issue a proclamation and asks coal mining businesses and all citizens of Kentucky to observe the week. “Coal mining is one the most important jobs in the Commonwealth and it is helping move Kentucky’s economy forward,” Gov. Beshear said. “Since 93 percent of Kentucky’s electricity needs are fueled by coal mined by Kentucky miners, I am proud to issue this proclamation in honor of all our miners and their families.” Lt. Governor Daniel Mongiardo will present Rep. Nelson, of Middlesboro, with the proclamation on Friday at a ceremony in Pineville at the Pineville Community Hospital at 1 p.m. “I grew up in the heart of Eastern Kentucky and watched coal trucks rumble up and down the roads,” Lt. Gov. Mongiardo said. “These coal miners patronized the family store; went to the local hospital for medical treatments and gave back to the community. This is an opportunity to say thanks to them.” Rep. Nelson said it is his hope that during the week teachers will talk about the coal industry and encourage their students to display pictures and write essays about relatives who work in the coal mines. “Coal provides more than 90 percent of the electricity across the Commonwealth,” Rep. Nelson said. “It provides another 50 percent for the rest of the country. It’s about time we show our appreciation for the hard work miners do and what it provides for communities across Kentucky.” The proclamation, signed by Gov. Beshear, recognizes the more than 18,000 underground and surface miners who work to bring needed energy resources to Kentuckians and to the millions of others across the nation. The proclamation highlights how coal touches many lives – from the miners who remove the coal, to the truckers who haul it, to the plants that clean it, to the power plants that burn it. The proclamation also celebrates the history of the mining industry in Kentucky. “Miners are a very visible and important part of Kentucky’s heritage,” Gov. Beshear said. “The tens of thousands of miners who have gone before us have helped us become who we are today – a Commonwealth proud of its past and excited about its future.”
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Post by Kentucky News on Aug 20, 2011 11:33:19 GMT -5
American taxpayers bring 20 journalists from Africa to KentuckyKentucky’s Open Door Transparency Website Attracts Global Attention Commonwealth News Center press release
FRANKFORT, Ky. – Governor Steve Beshear’s nationally recognized e-transparency website, Open Door, is serving as a model not just for other states, but also for international journalists and government leaders. Today, 19 media professionals from Africa will meet with representatives from the Finance and Administration Cabinet to learn about the searchable portal that enables taxpayers to explore how government money is being spent. The leaders are part of the International Visitor Leadership Program, and this is the second time Open Door has been selected as a stop for program participants. The website, online at www.OpenDoor.ky.gov, was nominated for the program by the World Affairs Council of Kentucky and Southern Indiana. Since its inception in 2009, leaders from 20 countries have come to Kentucky to learn about the website. “I’m very proud of the honors received by Open Door and of my administration’s efforts to make government more accountable and transparent to the people,” Gov. Beshear said. “It is an honor to share our success story with international guests so that they may use Open Door as an example to develop similar programs to keep their citizens informed on valuable government information.” The 19 professionals are from the broadcast journalism and the electronic media. They include political and economic commentators, bloggers, newscasters, editors and government information officers. The U.S. Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program brings international visitors, selected by U.S. Embassies around the world, to the United States for a three-week educational tour as a part of its premier professional exchange program. “Open Door is an excellent example of a state program that showcases transparency and effective interaction between government and citizens. Freedom of information is very significant to the international participants,” said Xiao Yin, visitor program manager for the World Affairs Council of Kentucky and Southern Indiana. “Democracy is an important topic for the program since it is lacking in the home countries of many of these visitors where they are threatened, sometimes even by their own government. They want to learn how to incorporate similar practices demonstrated by Open Door into their own reporting.” Open Door has been recognized on multiple occasions as a national leader in setting the standard for spending transparency on government expenditures. The U.S. Public Interest Research Group (PIRG), a nonprofit, nonpartisan public interest advocacy organization, has twice recognized the site as a leader in setting the standard for spending transparency on government expenditures. Its most recent report on the transparency of state spending called Kentucky a “pioneer” that has “taken strides to remain at the head of the pack.” In a report published on June 2, 2010 by The Center for Study of Responsive Law, a nonprofit organization that researches government and corporate accountability, Kentucky was recognized as a national leader for transparency in state contracts for publishing the full text of state contracts. In the spring of 2008, Gov. Beshear issued an Executive Order establishing the e-Transparency Task Force; a 14-member bipartisan panel charged with providing a more transparent, accountable state government. On Jan. 1, 2009, Kentucky’s Open Door was launched after a concerted, multi-agency effort, led by officials of the Finance and Administration Cabinet. Since the site was first launched, improvements and enhancements have steadily been made. Visitors can find comprehensive details on state contracts, and up-to-date data on state employee salaries. Users have the option to download expenditure records by fiscal year or by a search that they create. In January 2010, the judicial branch joined the e-transparency website. Open Door currently hosts information from both the executive and judicial branches, and all of Kentucky’s constitutional officers. “Open Door is a comprehensive, user-friendly way for anyone to track how the Commonwealth is spending valuable tax dollars, which promotes both accountability and efficiency,” said Lori H. Flanery, secretary of the Finance and Administration Cabinet. “The website itself is a great example of containing government spending as only existing state resources were used to create the award winning site. No new funds were specifically dedicated to develop Open Door.”
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Post by Kentucky News on Aug 20, 2011 11:43:03 GMT -5
Beshear partnership with Obama REAPs more Stimulus Funds Commonwealth News Center press release
Governor Steve Beshear, President Barack Obama
FRANKFORT, Ky.– Governor Steve Beshear today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has awarded $500,000 in grants to 43 Kentucky farm families and rural small businesses to implement renewable energy and energy efficiency measures in their operations. “These investments are important to Kentucky’s agriculture and rural economy,” said Gov. Beshear. “They will provide enormous benefit to Kentucky’s farm families and rural small businesses as they face rising energy costs.” These awards were made through USDA’s Rural Energy for America Program (REAP), a 2008 Farm Bill Initiative. REAP offers funds for farmers and rural small businesses to purchase and install renewable energy systems and make energy-efficiency improvements. Kentucky’s awards were a part of more than $11.6 million in energy grants announced today by USDA. Funding of each award is contingent upon the recipient meeting the conditions of the grant agreement. Grants can finance up to 25 percent of a project's cost, not to exceed $500,000 for renewables, and $250,000 for efficiency. Last month, Gov. Beshear announced the 2011 On-farm Energy Efficiency and Production grants. These grants were made available through a partnership between the Governor’s Office of Agricultural Policy and Kentucky’s Department for Energy Development and Independence, with funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act through the U.S. Department of Energy. Twenty-three of the 2011 On-farm Energy award recipients were able to leverage these federal REAP funds, comprising 53 percent of Kentucky’s total REAP awardees. “In this changing economy, our farm families and rural small business owners know they have to be innovative and resourceful to make sure their businesses grow,” said Gov. Beshear. “Their initiative in applying for these funds shows the dedication of Kentuckians to reduce our energy consumption and increase renewable energy usage.” The REAP awards and the 2011 ARRA On-farm Energy Efficiency & Production Incentives both help achieve the goals of Gov. 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 while tripling renewable energy generation. For more information about this and other USDA Rural Development Programs, visit www.rurdev.usda.gov.
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Post by Kentucky News on Aug 20, 2011 12:04:01 GMT -5
Clay County district gets new Assistant Supervisor in Division of Probation & Parole Commonwealth News Center press release
Kentucky Department of Corrections Director of Probation & Parole Tim Carman today announced the promotion of John Trenton VanHoose to assistant supervisor of District 11 in Prestonsburg. District 11 covers 10 counties including Clay, Floyd, Harlan, Jackson, Knott, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Perry and Pike. VanHoose will assume his new duties on Sept. 1. “Trent has demonstrated decisiveness and direction during his time in this division,” said Carman. “I am glad to have this opportunity to promote a person with solid character and a level of insight that Trent has shown both personally and professionally.” VanHoose began his career with the Department of Corrections as a probation and parole officer in 2007. Since that time he has supervised clients in numerous counties, served as the firearms instructor for District 11 and served as the District 11 liaison for the department’s new risk/needs assessment tool, the Level of Services/Case Management Inventory (LSCMI). In 2010 VanHoose received a commissioner’s coin for superior performance. VanHoose is a graduate of Alice Lloyd College where he earned a degree in secondary education in history and German. While attending college he also played four years of varsity baseball.
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Post by Kentucky News on Aug 24, 2011 17:04:12 GMT -5
Interstate task force to shut down prescription drug pipeline Kentucky teams up with Ohio, Tennessee and West Virginia to share ideas, efforts Commonwealth News Center press release
FRANKFORT, Ky.– Looking to permanently shut down the growing prescription drug problem in Kentucky and neighboring states, Governor Steve Beshear today announced the formation of an interstate task force with Ohio, Tennessee, and West Virginia. The Interstate Prescription Drug Task Force held its first meeting today in Ashland. “We have a tremendous prescription drug problem in the Commonwealth that we have battled for years. We do a good job from a law enforcement standpoint, but by working together, we can better identify prescribers, dispensers and patients who are exploiting our borders in order to abuse, misuse or divert prescription drugs,” Gov. Beshear said. “Our partnership with the governors and their law enforcement agencies in these neighboring states will give us an extremely effective tool to fight this abuse.” Kentucky’s coalition on the task force includes representatives from the Justice and Public Safety Cabinet; the Kentucky State Police; the Office of Drug Control Policy, the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, Kentucky’s Office of Homeland Security, the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas or HIDTA; Operation Unite; the Governor’s Office and the Attorney General’s Office. “I created Kentucky’s first statewide prescription drug task force to help tackle the growing problem of abuse in our Commonwealth,” Attorney General Jack Conway said. “We’ve done a tremendous job tracking down dealers, overprescribing physicians and illegal Internet pharmacies, but we must address the problem of pills flowing into Kentucky from other states. Law enforcement officers estimate that the majority of the illegal pills in Kentucky come in across state lines. I look forward to working with our law enforcement partners in Ohio, West Virginia and Tennessee to share resources that will ultimately benefit the entire region.” Gov. Beshear said all four states have excellent prescription monitoring programs that are effective within their own borders. The success of the task force will hinge on its ability to develop information sharing through those programs, such as Kentucky’s All Schedule Electronic Reporting (KASPER) system. KASPER, which has become a national model, is a statewide prescription drug monitoring program that tracks controlled substance prescriptions dispensed within the state. A KASPER report shows all scheduled prescriptions for an individual over a specified time period, as well as the prescriber and the dispenser. Earlier this month, Gov. Beshear announced Kentucky and Ohio have begun automatically exchanging prescription medication data, following the launch of the electronic Prescription Monitoring Information Exchange (PMIX). The PMIX program is a partnership between the KASPER system and the Ohio Automated Rx Reporting System (OARRS). At today’s Ashland meeting, representatives discussed strategy, shared ideas and research, and identified funding and educational opportunities. Future meetings will include discussions on multi-state goals and initiatives to curb in the influx of illegal prescription drugs, as well as ways to better share information and resources for the states’ mutual benefit. The task force will eventually provide recommendations to each state’s governor regarding best practices for cooperation among the states in fighting prescription drug abuse. The states began planning a multi-state task force after Gov. Beshear met with Ohio Governor John Kasich in May on the prescription drug problem, and how the two states could work together toward a common goal of reducing trafficking and illegal use. Gov. Beshear met with Florida Governor Rick Scott this spring to personally encourage him to adopt a prescription drug monitoring program to stop the flow of prescription drugs from Florida to Kentucky. U.S. Congressman Hal Rogers, Attorney General Jack Conway and Lt. Gov. Dan Mongiardo also reached out to Gov. Scott. “As a result of our efforts, Florida has passed and funded its own monitoring program to put some restrictions on these pill mills and it will benefit Kentucky,” Gov. Beshear said. “It won’t totally solve the problem by any means, but it’s going to cut off that pipeline and help save more of our families.” Gov. Beshear said he is hopeful that other states will develop and use prescription drug monitoring programs to work with Kentucky and fellow states. “Kentucky isn’t an island. We have to attack this problem on a nationwide basis and work with other states to share information if we hope to turn around the prescription drug problem,” Gov. Beshear said. “Prescription drug abuse tears families and communities apart. We are going to keep working every day to restore hope to our families.”
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Post by Kentucky News on Aug 26, 2011 17:16:11 GMT -5
Barack Obama using EPA to keep his campaign prommise Environmental compliance surcharge to increase electric rates almost 20%
The Kentucky Public Service Commission (PSC) will hold public meetings next month in Henderson, Louisville, Lexington and Corbin to receive public comments on environmental compliance plans and associated environmental surcharge requests submitted by Kentucky Utilities Co. (KU) and Louisville Gas & Electric Co. (LG&E). The public comment meetings will be preceded by an information session during which PSC staff will explain the environmental compliance review process and the legal basis for the surcharge, which applies only to electric rates. The presentation will include an overview of the KU and LG&E applications. KU and LG&E are seeking PSC authorization to spend a total of about $2.5 billion to comply with new federal environmental requirements affecting utilities that burn coal to generate electricity. The utilities estimate that total electric bills for LG&E customers would increase by about 19.2 percent by 2016, while KU customers would see total bills increase by about 12.2 percent over that same time. Since 1994, Kentucky laws and regulations have allowed utilities such as KU and LG&E to recover environmental compliance costs separately from their general rates. The costs are recovered through a surcharge that appears as a separate item on electric bills. “These meetings are an opportunity for the public to learn more about an issue that affects every electric utility in Kentucky,” PSC Chairman David Armstrong said. “The meetings also allow the PSC to hear directly from ratepayers in these matters.” The information sessions will begin at 5:30 p.m. local time. They will last an hour and will include a presentation by PSC staff and a question-and-answer period focusing on the PSC process. For those unable to attend, the presentation will be available on the PSC: website, psc.ky.gov
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Post by Kentucky News on Aug 28, 2011 21:10:29 GMT -5
Sacrifice of Kentucky Soldier recognized
FRANKFORT, Ky. – Gov. Steve Beshear today recognized the sacrifice of a Kentucky native soldier who died while supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. According to the Department of Defense, Pfc. Brandon S. Mullins, 21, of Owensboro, Ky., died Aug. 25 in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when insurgents attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Fort Wainwright, Alaska. The Governor will order that flags at all state office buildings be lowered to half-staff from sunrise to sunset on the day of Pfc. Mullins’ interment for which arrangements are still pending. Flag status information is available at: www.governor.ky.gov/flagstatus.htm
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Post by Kentucky News on Aug 29, 2011 21:00:33 GMT -5
Sacrifice of Fort Campbell Soldier Recognized
FRANKFORT, Ky.– Gov. Steve Beshear today recognized the sacrifice of a Fort Campbell soldier who died while supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. According to the Department of Defense, Spc. Michael C. Roberts, 23, of Watauga, Texas, died Aug. 27 in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, of injuries suffered when insurgents attacked his unit using an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 561st Military Police Company, 716th Military Police Battalion, 101st Sustainment Brigade, 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 Spc. Roberts’ interment for which arrangements are still pending. Flag status information is available at: www.governor.ky.gov/flagstatus.htm
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Post by Kentucky News on Aug 31, 2011 17:22:38 GMT -5
Environmental Surcharge Video Now on PSC Website Presentation explains legal process for passing on the cost of the Barack Obama war on coal to consumers
A presentation explaining how the Kentucky Public Service Commission (PSC) reviews coal-related environmental compliance costs incurred by electric utilities is now available on the agency website. The narrated slide show explains the legal basis for the recovery of environmental costs, the PSC’s review process and the environmental surcharge through which the costs are passed on to a utility’s ratepayers. The video, which is about 10 minutes long, is available at this web address: Information about the public meetings and about environmental compliance cases is available on the PSC website, psc.ky.gov. 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.
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Post by Kentucky News on Aug 31, 2011 19:15:24 GMT -5
September is ‘Commonwealth of Kentucky Preparedness Month’ Citizens are encouraged to have an emergency plan in case of a disaster
FRANKFORT, Ky.– In conjunction with National Preparedness Month, Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear has proclaimed September as “Commonwealth of Kentucky Preparedness Month.” “Kentuckians face many challenges throughout the year – tornadoes, flooding, winter storms and man-made hazards,” Gov. Beshear said. “During my term alone, Kentucky has experienced 10 presidentially declared major disasters. Every household should be prepared to face emergencies at any given time, which is why my administration is raising awareness and proclaiming September ‘Preparedness Month.’” The Kentucky Office of Homeland Security and Kentucky Emergency Management are asking all Kentuckians to develop a plan throughout the month. Key points the agencies stress are: Be aware. Familiarize yourself with the risks to you, your family and community. The more you know, the better you can identify and prepare to reduce those risks.
Be prepared. You should have a three-day supply of food and water for each member of your family, along with essentials such as: medicines, flashlights, radio, extra batteries, matches, candles and first aid supplies. Should a catastrophic event occur, officials are now encouraging citizens to have a five-day emergency supply.
Have a plan. Every home, every business and every organization should have an emergency plan for situations such as power outages, evacuations, and severe weather.
Make an emergency kit. Something as simple as having a flashlight, radio and extra batteries available during a power outage can make you and your family more comfortable during these times. “Although state and local governments are ready to assist the public during times of emergencies and disasters, preparedness starts at home. In the event of large scale disasters, it may take time to respond immediately,” said John Heltzel, director of Kentucky Emergency Management. “The January ice storm of 2009 and more recent disasters have taught us many valuable lessons. One of the most important is the value of individual and family preparedness.” “We urge Kentuckians to be prepared for manmade and natural disasters,” said Gene Kiser, KOHS acting executive director. “It is vitally important to have an emergency plan and kit to deal with unforeseen events that can disrupt daily lives.” For additional information please visit www.ready.gov, www.homelandsecurity.ky.gov and www.kyem.ky.gov.
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Post by Kentucky News on Aug 31, 2011 21:27:37 GMT -5
Prestonsburg to Host 2011 Appalachian Regional Commission Conference Commonwealth News Center press release
The annual Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) Conference will be held at Jenny Wiley State Resort Park Sept. 7-9. This year’s conference theme, “Healthy Families: Healthy Futures,” will focus on the unique health challenges of this region. Health experts and community leaders from across Appalachia will examine key health issues and highlight successful health-care programs throughout the multi-state area. “As the 2011 ARC States’ Co-Chair, I am honored to host this broad spectrum of regional community, business, health and education leaders from across Appalachia in Kentucky for this annual ARC event,” Gov. Steve Beshear said. “As members of this unique region, we understand the complex issues that plague some its areas and know the struggles our citizens face. This conference is an exceptional opportunity to come together and share ideas and practices that are improving the quality of life in Appalachia; knowledge that we can, in turn, take back and implement in our own communities.” Some of the many topics to be discussed at this year’s conference include expanding health-care access for children, preventing substance abuse among adolescents, improving children’s oral health and using information technology to improve the quality of health care. Representatives from 13 Appalachia states are scheduled to attend the conference. Established by Congress in 1965, ARC partners with federal, state and local governments to support sustainable community growth in Appalachia through projects ranging from education and job training to business and infrastructure development to health-care and housing assistance. Kentucky’s 54 most eastern and south-central counties currently qualify for ARC funding.
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Post by Kentucky News on Sept 1, 2011 20:43:06 GMT -5
Kentucky State Parks Participate in National Public Lands Day 2011 Commonwealth News Center press release
FRANKFORT, Ky. – The Kentucky State Parks will be participating in National Public Lands Day on Sept. 24, 2011, a day set aside to recognize the importance of parks and encourage volunteer work. National Public Lands Day began in 1994 with three federal agencies and 700 volunteers. Last year, some 170,000 volunteers worked in 2,000 locations in every state. The purpose of this day is to keep the promise of the Civilian Conservation Corps alive and to preserve and protect America’s natural heritage. During last year’s celebration, volunteers across the country carried out more than $15 million in improvements by removing trash, collecting invasive plants, building trails and planting trees. Here are the Kentucky State Parks’ events: Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park, Buckhorn September 24
Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park is celebrating National Public Lands Day from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Several work projects are planned including trail repair, leaf pickup, weeding, trash pickup, cleaning ditch lines and planting of trees. Trees can be planted in memory or in honor of someone you choose. A plaque will be placed in front of the tree with the appropriate designation. Each tree costs $15 and the plaque is $7.50. To order your tree and plaque, send a check for $22.50, with information for the plaque, to: Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park, 4441 Ky. Hwy 1833, Buckhorn, Ky., 41721, Attn: Sue Thomas. (In the memo section of the check, please write “tree planting.”) After 1 p.m. on Sept. 24, Project Learning Tree activities will be featured in the afternoon. Topics include: Trees of Kentucky, We All Need Trees, Forest of Many Uses and Tree Anatomy. We are looking forward to seeing you at this event. Call 1-800-325-0058. Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, Corbin September 24
The park will sponsor a cleanup of the Fire Tower Trail and landing from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Garbage bags and gloves will be provided. 1-800-325-0063. Lake Cumberland State Resort Park, Jamestown; and General Burnside State Park, Burnside September 17
The Friends of Lake Cumberland Inc. invite you to roll up your sleeves, lace up your boots, and put on your work gloves to take part in the annual Lake Cumberland Cleanup. The cleanup is held at locations around the lake to remove tires, appliances and other trash. Gloves and garbage bags will be furnished. Participants are asked to check in on the day of the cleanup at one of the following locations: General Burnside State Park, Waitsboro Recreation Area and Conley Bottom Resort; Lake Cumberland State Park (Launching Ramp), Grider Hill Dock and Cave Springs Marina (Jabez Area – Island Ramp Road) from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. There will be a volunteer picnic with food and prizes at 3 p.m. The event is supported by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. For more information, call Steve Syphax at 606-451-1402. Natural Bridge State Resort Park, Slade September 24
Do you want your children to learn the value of protecting the beauty of our natural areas? For National Public Lands Day, the naturalists at Natural Bridge will be offering Leave No Trace – Kid’s Day. Fun and engaging activities will help children ages 5-12 learn the important Leave No Trace outdoor ethics. All children must be accompanied by an adult for the activities. All morning activities will meet at the Whittleton Campground picnic shelter and all afternoon activities will meet at the Hemlock Lodge lobby. Activities will include decorating Leave No Trace hiking sticks at 9 a.m., a Leave No Trace kids’ walk and games at 10:30 a.m., a litter cleanup at 1 p.m., face painting at 3 p.m., and a special musical performance at 4 p.m. by talented artist and musician Debbie Tuggle Pendley. She specializes in children’s music and has a wonderful environmental stewardship message. A more detailed agenda can be obtained at the naturalist’s blog: www.kspappdev.com/blogs/natural-bridgeFor more information, contact Park Naturalist Brian Gasdorf at brian.gasdorf@ky.gov or 606-663-2214. Pine Mountain State Resort Park, Pineville September 24
In observation of National Public Lands Day, the park’s naturalist will lead a “Pitch In” hike to Chained Rock, one of the park’s unique geologic features. In addition to collecting litter along the way, participants will enjoy beautiful mountain scenery and learn the colorful story of historic Chained Rock. The hike is strenuous, so wear sturdy boots. Time: 2 hours; ages 6 and up. Total hiking distance is 1 mile and is rated as moderately strenuous. Preregistration is required; departure time is 10 a.m. Register by emailing Dean.Henson@ky.gov or by phone at 800-325-1712. A minimum of 5 participants is required to conduct the program. 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
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Post by Kentucky News on Sept 3, 2011 9:36:36 GMT -5
DPH wants all Kentuckians to practice safe food handling techniques Commonwealth News Center press release
Picnics and large family get-togethers are a favorite means of celebration during Labor Day weekend and the Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) wants all Kentuckians to practice safe food handling techniques as they close out the summer. “We want everyone to enjoy the holiday – and that means avoiding illness and staying healthy,” said Acting DPH Commissioner Steve Davis, M.D. “Foodborne illness is a serious public health threat that can be extremely debilitating and sometimes deadly. However, with a few simple precautions, it can be easily avoided.” Foodborne illness is common throughout the United States and it is often caused by the bacteria Campylobacter, Salmonella, and E. coli O157:H7 found in foods that have either been undercooked or left in conditions where bacteria were allowed to grow. Improvements in food safety, such as pasteurization of milk, safe canning, and disinfection of water supplies, have curtailed those diseases, but people should continue to follow the tips listed below when handling, preparing and eating food. DPH recommends these tips for packing a safe picnic basket: * Plan ahead. Try to plan the right amount of food to take so you will not have to worry about the storage or safety of leftovers. Place perishable food in a cooler with ice freezer packs. Replenish the ice as it melts. * Pack safely. Keep cold foods cold. Place cold food in a cooler with ice or frozen gel packs. Don’t put the cooler in the trunk; carry it inside an air-conditioned car. At the picnic, keep the cooler in the shade. Keep the lid closed and avoid repeated openings. Use a separate cooler for drinks so the one containing perishable food will not be constantly opened and closed. In addition, remember to: * Keep hands and utensils clean when preparing food. * Rinse fresh fruits and vegetables under running tap water, including those with skins and rinds that are not eaten. * Run firm-skin fruits and vegetables under running tap water or scrub with a clean vegetable brush while rinsing with running tap water. * Food left out for more than two hours may not be safe. Do not eat anything that has been left out in the hot sun. * A clean, metal-stemmed meat thermometer is an essential component of food safety. When grilling, cook hamburgers and ribs to 155 degrees Fahrenheit or until the center is no longer pink and the juices run clear. Cook ground poultry to 165 degrees Fahrenheit and poultry parts to 180 degrees Fahrenheit. Reheat precooked meats until steaming hot. * Do not partially grill extra hamburgers to use later. Once you begin cooking hamburgers by any method, cook until completely done to ensure any bacteria are destroyed. * When taking foods off the grill, put them on a clean plate. Do not put the cooked items on the same plate that held the raw meat. * Put leftover foods in the cooler promptly after grilling or serving. Discard any leftovers after one hour of being left outside. If there is still ice in the cooler when you arrive home, the leftovers are safe to eat. DPH wishes all Kentuckians a safe holiday. For more information about safe picnic planning, call Pam Hendren in the Food Safety Branch at (502) 564-7181 or your local health department’s environmental health specialist.
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Post by Kentucky News on Sept 4, 2011 15:02:13 GMT -5
GED® ATTAINMENT IS FOCUS OF McDONALD’S® PROMOTION IN CLAY COUNTY Commonwealth News Center press release
McDonald’s® restaurants of Central and Southeastern Kentucky have partnered with Kentucky Adult Education in Clay County and 33 counties for the sixth year in a row to encourage GED attainment with an in-store promotion funded by the restaurant owner operators. Following the leadership of these McDonald’s owner operators, McDonald’s restaurants in another 36 counties have joined the campaign this year. From now through September, customers at restaurants represented by McDonald’s of Central and Southeastern Kentucky, the Paducah Co-Op, McDonald’s of East Kentucky and the Louisville Co-Op will see trayliners featuring a message encouraging the attainment of a GED diploma. The campaign is an extension of ongoing efforts to raise the educational attainment of adults by Kentucky Adult Education, a unit of the Council on Postsecondary Education. Reecie D. Stagnolia, vice president for Kentucky Adult Education, said private sector partners are key to emphasizing the value of education. “As adult educators work to help prepare more Kentuckians for college and careers, public awareness is very important. Our partnership with McDonald’s provides us with an opportunity to reach thousands of Kentuckians with a vital message about the importance of education,” he said. “We commend McDonald’s owner operators for supporting adult education in their communities.” This ongoing partnership reflects McDonald’s commitment to support the local communities they serve, according to Randy Mason, local owner operator and president of the McDonald’s of Central and Southeastern Kentucky Co-Op. “We see firsthand the importance of education in our businesses and appreciate the opportunity to work with KYAE programs to take positive steps related to this issue. These efforts will have a far-reaching impact on communities throughout our Commonwealth and we are proud to take part,” he said. The McDonald’s GED promotion was launched in 2005 with a partnership between KYAE and Joe Graviss of Frankfort, a McDonald’s local owner operator. With Graviss’ leadership, the campaign expanded to his entire co-op and now into three others. “Getting a high school credential does so much for the individual and their families in terms of self-esteem and not to mention net worth over their lifetime,” Graviss said. “We at McDonald’s are proud to support Kentucky Adult Education and all they do to help Kentuckians and their families have a better life. We need as many folks as possible to go to college so we can attain the goals the legislature has laid out for the Commonwealth. We’re happy to be a small part of reaching those goals.” Adult education centers provide free GED instruction, workforce education, English as a second language and literacy services. To find the center in your county, call Kentucky Adult Education at 1-800-928-7323 or visit www.knowhow2goky.org/. McDonald's USA, LLC, is the leading foodservice provider in the United States serving a variety of wholesome foods made from quality ingredients to more than 26 million customers every day. Nearly 90 percent of McDonald's 14,000 U.S. restaurants are independently owned and operated by local business men and women. Customers can now log online for free at any of the 11,500 participating Wi-Fi-enabled McDonald's U.S. restaurants. For more information, visit www.mcdonalds.com, or follow us on Twitter (@mcdonalds), or locally (@mcd_Lexington) and Facebook (Facebook.com/McDonalds) for updates on our business, promotions and products. We believe in the transformative power of postsecondary education. Stronger by Degrees, the new strategic agenda for Kentucky’s colleges and universities and adult basic education, is powering a stronger Kentucky economy and improving the lives of Kentuckians. To learn more about Stronger by Degrees, visit: cpe.ky.gov/strongerbydegrees
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Post by Kentucky News on Sept 5, 2011 18:45:48 GMT -5
Sacrifice of Fort Campbell Soldier Recognized
FRANKFORT, Ky.– Gov. Steve Beshear today recognized the sacrifice of a Fort Campbell soldier who died while supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. According to the Department of Defense, Spc. Christopher J. Scott, 21, of Tyrone, N.Y., died Sept. 3 at Kandahar province, Afghanistan of wounds sustained when insurgents attacked his unit with small arms fire. He was assigned to the 716th Military Police Battalion, 101st Sustainment Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), 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 Spc. Scott’s interment for which arrangements are still pending.
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Post by Kentucky News on Sept 6, 2011 17:17:04 GMT -5
Beshear has more Obama Stimulus Money to give out Commonwealth News Center press release
Governor Steve Beshear, President Barack Obama
FRANKFORT, Ky. (Sept. 6, 2011) – The Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the purpose of awarding a minimum of $100,000 in competitive funding for energy efficiency projects to be implemented in for-profit industrial, commercial, manufacturing and warehousing facilities located in Kentucky. The purpose of the grant funding is to accelerate energy efficiency and renewable energy projects in Kentucky’s industrial sector while also creating and retaining jobs. The funding will help achieve the goals set by Governor Steve Beshear’s Intelligent Energy Choices for Kentucky’s Future: Kentucky’s 7-Point Energy Strategy. The RFP seeks energy efficiency projects with a minimum investment of $50,000 that can be initiated and completed between November 2011 and March 2012. Special focus areas include lighting retrofits, HVAC and steam plant upgrades and water treatment facility upgrades. The Cabinet will select applicants through a competitive process. Proposals will be evaluated on jobs created/retained; amount of energy saved per grant dollar invested; local community impact; private dollar match/leverage of grant funds; and other important factors. Selected applicants will be required to showcase their projects and develop case studies to highlight the benefits of the project. Awards are made possible by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), through the U.S. Department of Energy, as part of the Kentucky Department for Energy Development and Independence’s State Energy Program. The Cabinet for Economic Development previously awarded ARRA funding for eight energy efficiency/renewable energy projects in 2010 totaling approximately $4.3 million.
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Post by Kentucky News on Sept 8, 2011 21:45:59 GMT -5
State flags to be lowered to half-staff on 10th Anniversary of 9/11
FRANKFORT, Ky. – Governor Steve Beshear is requesting that flags at all state office buildings be lowered to half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Sunday, Sept. 11. At 2 p.m. on Sunday, the Governor and First Lady will attend a 10-year anniversary event in Louisville at Waterfront Park on River Road.
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Post by Kentucky News on Sept 10, 2011 6:41:07 GMT -5
Flags to Half-staff on September 11 in honor of Mullins Commonwealth News Center press releaseFRANKFORT, Ky. – Gov. Steve Beshear has directed that flags at all state office buildings be lowered to half-staff today, Sunday, Sept. 11, 2011 in honor of a Kentucky soldier who died while supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. According to the Department of Defense, Pfc. Brandon S. Mullins, 21, of Owensboro, Ky., died Aug. 25 in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when insurgents attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Fort Wainwright, Alaska. Funeral services for Pfc. Mullins will be held on Sept. 11 at 3 p.m. Central time at Good Shepherd Church in Owensboro. Burial services will immediately follow at Owensboro Memorial Gardens. Gov. Beshear encourages individuals, businesses, organizations and government agencies to join in this tribute.
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Post by Kentucky News on Sept 12, 2011 18:45:00 GMT -5
11-11-11 initiative honors veterans leading up to Veterans Day on Nov. 11 Commonwealth News Center press release
FRANKFORT, Ky.– A new state website will allow visitors to search for veterans’ events around the state, read personal stories from Kentucky veterans, and leave messages for veterans living in the state’s veterans nursing homes. Governor Steve Beshear launched the “11-11-11” webpage today as part of his initiative to honor Kentucky’s current and former military servicemen and women in the days leading up to Veterans Day on November 11, 2011 – or 11-11-11. “We can never repay the huge debt we owe our veterans or fully express our appreciation to them,” Gov. Beshear said. “This website will allow all Kentuckians to plan visits to Veterans Day events, sign up for volunteer opportunities, or simply send a message to one of our veterans. The 11-11-11 initiative is a way to show our continued appreciation for the work of all of our state’s veterans.” The new website allows visitors to add events planned in their communities to honor veterans. The resulting list will show dates, times and locations for a variety of events for Kentucky service members, leading up to and including Veterans Day. The site also features a rotating profile of outstanding Kentucky military service men and women, and veterans are encouraged to submit their own essays about their work in the armed forces for possible publication to the site. Finally, visitors to the website will also be able to leave a message of gratitude for Kentucky veterans. The notes will be collected and delivered to the state’s three veterans nursing homes, which are home to more than 500 veterans. “I am very pleased that Governor Beshear is emphasizing Veterans Day with so many activities and opportunities for everyone to honor our veterans,” said Ken Lucas, commissioner of the Kentucky Department of Veterans Affairs. “The 11-11-11 website provides a one-stop-shop for learning about Kentucky’s veterans and how you can volunteer to help them.” The website is accessible through the Governor’s page at: www.governor.ky.gov/11-11-11Governor Beshear’s 11-11-11 initiative, launched on Memorial Day, includes multiple events and programs and will be capped off with a celebration on Veterans Day. The 11-11-11 initiative includes the following: Establishment of an honorary committee associated with the Capitol event on Veterans Day, November 11, 2011.
Promoting volunteer opportunities to assist military families
Working with Kentucky’s business community to find opportunities honor veterans and military members
Participation by the Governor and his administration in events throughout the year to honor the military and veterans
The Governor’s Office and the Kentucky Department of Veterans Affairs have shown their support over the last three years by helping soldiers, veterans and their families deal with financial hardships, overcome logistical nightmares and gain deserving recognition. Gov. Beshear has also signed an array of legislation and has supported a number of initiatives to support servicemen and women, their families and veterans. These include: Exempting active duty military personnel from paying Kentucky income tax
Giving veterans preference in state hiring
Giving disabled veterans and Wounded Warriors free accommodations at state parks
Expanding use of the Military Family Assistance Trust Fund
Opening two new state-run veterans cemeteries
Creating the Kentucky Medal for Freedom to honor soldiers killed since 1991 on active duty.
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Post by Kentucky News on Sept 13, 2011 19:00:14 GMT -5
Flags to Half-staff on September 14 in honor of a Fort Campbell soldier Commonwealth News Center press release
FRANKFORT, Ky.– Gov. Steve Beshear has directed that flags at all state office buildings be lowered to half-staff Wednesday, Sept. 14, 2011 in honor of a Fort Campbell soldier who died while supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. According to the Department of Defense, Spc. Christopher J. Scott, 21, of Tyrone, N.Y., died Sept. 3 at Kandahar province, Afghanistan of wounds sustained when insurgents attacked his unit with small arms fire. He was assigned to the 716th Military Police Battalion, 101st Sustainment Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky. Funeral services for Spc. Scott will be held on Sept. 14 at 4 p.m. Eastern time at Dundee Elementary School in Dundee, N.Y. Burial services will follow at Hill Side Cemetery in Dundee. Gov. Beshear encourages individuals, businesses, organizations and government agencies to join in this tribute.
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Post by Kentucky News on Sept 15, 2011 16:35:30 GMT -5
Underage drinking program helps Kentucky Alcoholic Beverage Control win national award Commonwealth News Center press release
The Kentucky Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) Enforcement Division was recently awarded the 2010 National Liquor Law Enforcement Association (NLLEA) Agency of the Year at the NLLEA Annual Conference in Orlando, Fla., for its efforts in combating underage drinking and preventing illegal alcohol sales. This is the second national award in the last two years for the ABC, winning last year for the Law Enforcement Officer of the Year. “This award recognizes Kentucky’s proactive approach to underage drinking by combining efforts of the education and law enforcement divisions into a successful model,” said ABC Commissioner Tony Dehner. With 25 field investigators, Kentucky ABC Enforcement monitors more than 8,000 licensees throughout Kentucky. During 2010, Enforcement personnel conducted 3,616 alcohol compliance checks resulting in 226 violations. Based on these numbers, retailers maintained a 94-percent compliance rate. Along with compliance checks, ABC conducted 56 Targeted Enforcement Details (TED) resulting in 830 citations. During TEDs, ABC investigators work at public events, such as football games, festivals and fairs where alcohol is sold, and focus on alcohol violations. This allows other law enforcement agencies to prioritize traffic, crowd control and other essential duties. Law enforcement agencies also collaborate with the ABC Education Branch as a preventative approach to ABC compliance. The education branch trains more than 4,000 servers and sellers each year in responsible sales practices through the Server Training in Alcohol Regulations (S.T.A.R.) program. Kentucky ABC issued more than 1,900 criminal citations to suspected violators and issued more than 340 administrative case reports against alcohol licensees in 2010. The National Liquor Law Enforcement Association is a non-profit association of law enforcement personnel dedicated to the enforcement of liquor laws and regulations in the United States and Canada.
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Post by Kentucky News on Sept 15, 2011 16:50:17 GMT -5
Obama, Beshear recognize Sgt. Dakota Meyer, Recipient of Congressional Medal of Honor Governor Steve Beshear press release
Governor Steve Beshear, President Barack Obama
Frankfort, Ky. – “Our Commonwealth is full of pride today as one of our own, Kentucky native Marine Sgt. Dakota Meyer, accepts the Congressional Medal of Honor from President Barack Obama for his extraordinary bravery while serving in Afghanistan in 2009. After an ambush in Kunar Province, Sgt. Meyer repeatedly entered into the heavy fire zone to evacuate the wounded, provide aid and recover the bodies of fallen unit members. He is credited with saving the lives of 13 U.S. Marines and soldiers as well as 23 Afghan soldiers. He is the first living Marine in 40 years to receive the Congressional Medal of Honor. Sgt. Meyer’s unparalleled acts of heroism in the face of near-certain death should humble us all, and we offer our gratitude and honor to him on this special day. To mark this occasion, I have ordered the flags at the state Capitol to be flown today in Sgt. Meyer’s honor. Today’s ceremony also reminds us of the sacrifice and service thousands of Kentucky military members continue to offer in Iraq, Afghanistan and other places around the world. We hold each of them in our prayers.”
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Post by Kentucky News on Sept 18, 2011 21:05:03 GMT -5
Commonwealth News Center press release
Judge David A. Tapp interviews Congressman Hal Rogers about Drug Court programs for All Rise magazine. Judge Tapp received the All Rise award from the National Association of Drug Court Professionals for his interview with the congressman. Photo credit: NADCP
Kentucky Judge David A. Tapp receives national Drug Court award Chris Deutsch, Communications Director National Association of Drug Court Professionals
WASHINGTON, DC -- Kentucky Drug Court Judge David A. Tapp, who serves Lincoln, Pulaski and Rockcastle counties, has been awarded with the prestigious National Association of Drug Court Professionals ‘All Rise’ award during a star-studded conference in Washington, DC. The National Association of Drug Court Professionals (NADCP) Annual Training Conference is considered the world’s largest on substance abuse and the criminal justice system. This year’s event took place from July 17-20 and brought nearly 4,000 state and federal justice leaders, celebrities, judges, prosecutors, defense attorneys, clinicians, police and probation officers, military veterans, business owners, Drug Court graduates and their family members to the nation’s capital. Judge Tapp was recognized along with actors Martin Sheen, Matthew Perry and Harry Lennix during the closing ceremony of the conference on July 20. Judge Tapp was honored for his role in securing and conducting an interview with Congressman Hal Rogers (R-KY), Chairman of Appropriations in the U.S. House of Representatives, last December for NADCP’s All Rise Magazine. The interview was so successful that it was featured as the cover story of the quarterly. During the interview, Judge Tapp asked Congressman Rogers if he felt it was important to further expand Drug Courts to reach more individuals. Congressman Rogers responded, “Yes, I'd like to see Drug Courts available everywhere. I've seen how effective they are. We did not have Drug Courts in my district and now that we have them and I've seen the difference that they can bring.” “Judge Tapp is an outstanding ambassador for Drug Courts both in Kentucky and around the world,” said NADCP Director of Communications Chris Deutsch. “His work in Drug Court has affected countless lives and his interview with Congressman Rogers’ will be critical to helping Drug Courts maintain funding in the coming budget cycle. It is an honor for NADCP to present Judge Tapp with this award.” “I do Drug Court for the small moments,” said Judge Tapp upon receiving the award. “When you look at an offender who has struggled…and at some point during the process that small moment comes where you look at them and you see a new confidence. You see a gleam in their eye that wasn’t there before, and you know that they get it. That’s why I do Drug Court.” Judge Tapp’s remarks brought nearly 3,700 attendees to their feet. Judge Tapp, who is a Circuit Court judge, has presided over Drug Court since 2005. Circuit Court Judge Jeffrey T. Burdette also serves as a Drug Court judge for Lincoln, Pulaski and Rockcastle counties. The judges volunteer their time to preside over Drug Court. This Drug Court, like the nearly 2,700 in existence nationwide, serve seriously drug-addicted individuals through intense treatment and supervision. Nationally, Drug Courts have been proven to significantly reduce drug abuse crime and recidivism while saving money. “Drug Courts are one example of successful efforts made by criminal justice professionals to rehabilitate high-risk offenders,” Judge Tapp said. “I take great pride in these efforts and applaud the hard work and dedication of all Drug Court staff members. These people volunteer their time and effort to do good deeds for thousands of people within the commonwealth annually and they get almost no recognition for these efforts. They deserve a great amount of credit.” About National Association of Drug Court Professionals (NADCP)
Drug Courts combine rigorous drug treatment and accountability to compel and support drug-using offenders to change their lives. After 22 years of innovation, there are now over 2,500 Drug Courts located in all 50 states. Since 1994 the National Association of Drug Court Professionals (NADCP), a non-profit organization 501 (c) (3) representing over 27,000 multi-disciplinary justice professionals and community leaders, has worked tirelessly at the national, state and local level to create and enhance Drug Courts. NADCP is now recognized as the experts in the field of addiction and the criminal justice system. For more information, visit www.AllRise.org. Kentucky Drug Court
Drug Court is proving to be a positive solution to a serious social problem. The success of Drug Court can be measured in the number of lives changed and the cost savings to Kentucky taxpayers. The program has had a significant impact on reducing rearrest, reconviction and reincarceration rates. The program has resulted in increased payment of delinquent child support and improved employment rates. For every $1 spent on Drug Court graduates, the state saves $2.72 on what it would have spent on incarcerating these individuals. The mission is to provide a court-supervised treatment alternative that stops illicit drug use and related criminal activity and promotes a positive life change through substance abuse education and treatment. How Kentucky Drug Court Works
Drug Court coordinates the efforts of the judiciary, prosecution, defense bar, probation, law enforcement, mental health, social services and treatment communities to actively intervene and break the cycle of substance abuse, addiction and crime. The program consists of three phases that last a total of at least one year and are followed by aftercare. Drug Court staff and participants work together to develop individual program plans with specific responsibilities and goals with timetables. Plans include group, family and individual counseling; frequent and random urine testing; education and vocational training; scheduled payments of restitution, child support and court fees; and health and community activities. Participants report directly to their 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. Judges who participate in Drug Court volunteer their time to the program. Most of the program’s funding comes from state funds approved through the Kentucky General Assembly.
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Post by Kentucky News on Sept 20, 2011 20:11:33 GMT -5
Youth access to alcohol a problem for Kentucky Alcoholic Beverage Control Commonwealth News Center press release
FRANKFORT, Ky. (Sept. 20, 2011) – Continuing their efforts to restrict youth access to alcohol and keep communities safe, enforcement officials from Kentucky’s Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) conducted a Targeted Enforcement Detail (TED) in areas adjacent to the campus of University of Kentucky on Saturday, Sept. 17, during the University of Kentucky vs. University of Louisville football game. “As a participant in the enforcement detail on Saturday, I can say firsthand that the effort and dedication of the men and women of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Enforcement Division is to be commended,” said Mike Razor, director of the Division of Enforcement. "Restricting youth access to alcohol is one of the most important things we can do, not only as an agency but also as a community. “ABC investigators know how important it is to make sure the youth of the Commonwealth don’t have access to alcohol. They go to great lengths to enforce these laws with fairness and professionalism,” Razor said. The TED resulted in 40 citations: · Thirty-four citations for minors in possession of alcoholic beverages
· One arrest for alcohol intoxication
· One disorderly conduct
· One resisting arrest
· One assisting minor in purchasing alcoholic beverages
· One misrepresenting one’s own age in purchasing alcoholic beverages
· One criminal possession of a forged instrument second degree.
In general, TEDs focus on point of sale, third-party transactions, fraudulent identifications, drug violations and possession of alcohol by minor violations. These details are usually conducted in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies at events where there is a high concentration of minors and alcohol sales. Investigators focus on alcohol violations while other law enforcement agencies focus on traffic, crowd control and other essential law enforcement duties. “The presence of ABC investigators also include an element of prevention, causing potential law breakers to think twice before acting,” Razor said, adding that in 2010, ABC conducted 56 TEDs resulting in 830 citations. Other events where TEDs are conducted include the Kentucky State Fair, Keeneland race meets, other sporting events, and other fairs and festivals.
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Post by Kentucky News on Sept 21, 2011 16:53:11 GMT -5
KHS to Dedicate Historical Marker to Commemorate Hurricane Creek Mine Disaster Commonwealth News Center press release
FRANKFORT, Ky. (Sept. 21, 2011) — The Kentucky Historical Society (KHS) will dedicate a historical marker to commemorate the Hurricane Creek mine disaster at 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 8, at 1370 Hurricane Creek Road in Hyden. On Dec. 30, 1970 an explosion caused by ignited coal dust occurred in mine shafts 15 and 16 at the Finley Coal Mine in Leslie County. The blast resulted in the deaths of 38 men. One miner, who was blown out of the mine, survived. The disaster occurred exactly one year after the passage of the Coal Mine Health and Safety Act of 1969. It remains the worst coal mining disaster in Kentucky history. The dedication of this marker is part of the opening ceremony for the Hurricane Creek Miner Memorial. The Kentucky Historical Marker Program, administered by KHS in cooperation with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, commemorates historical sites, events and personalities throughout the state. Through the program, the wealth of Kentucky history is made accessible to the public on markers along the state’s roadways. The markers are on-the-spot history lessons that add drama and interest to the countryside for Kentuckians as well as tourists. For more information about the program, contact Becky Riddle, Kentucky Historical Marker program coordinator, at 502-564-1792, ext. 4474 or becky.riddle@ky.gov. An agency of the Kentucky Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet, the Kentucky Historical Society, established in 1836, is committed to helping people understand, cherish and share Kentucky's history. The KHS history campus includes the Thomas D. Clark Center for Kentucky History, the Old State Capitol and the Kentucky Military History Museum at the State Arsenal. For more information about the Kentucky Historical Society and its programs, visit: www.history.ky.gov
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Post by Kentucky News on Sept 22, 2011 18:43:13 GMT -5
Beshear asks President for money, reminds him his war on coal is a success Commonwealth News Center press release
FRANKFORT, Ky.– Governor Steve Beshear told President Barack Obama today that Kentucky’s economic lifeblood depends on safe and adequate transportation infrastructure, as well as reasonable regulation of coal production. The Governor and President met at the Northern Kentucky airport shortly before the President’s speech near the Brent Spence Bridge in Cincinnati. Gov. Beshear was also scheduled to speak this afternoon with the President’s Chief of Staff, Bill Daley, to reiterate those same concerns. The Governor asked the President to work with Congress to immediately authorize federal emergency funds to repair the Sherman Minton Bridge, which carries Interstate 64 between Louisville and southern Indiana and has been closed since Sept. 9 following the discovery of a crack in a load-bearing element. “The immediate repair of the Sherman Minton Bridge is one of my top priorities, and should be a priority in Washington, too,” said Gov. Beshear. “I called on the President to expedite funding for repairs to keep our families working, and reminded him that deteriorating infrastructure is just one more example of what happens when Washington keeps playing partisan games and ignores the real needs of citizens. We cannot afford to keep delaying repairs that stymie economic growth.” On Friday afternoon, Gov. Beshear will host U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood and Federal Highway Administrator Victor Mendez on a tour of the Sherman Minton Bridge. Gov. Beshear noted that Kentucky has major transportation infrastructure needs in addition to the repair of the Sherman Minton Bridge. The Brent Spence Bridge between Ohio and northern Kentucky is rated “functionally obsolete” and carries more vehicles than it was designed to bear. In Louisville, the Ohio River Bridges Project, which includes plans for two new bridges and reconstruction of the Kennedy Interchange, is badly needed to reduce traffic congestion and improve cross-river mobility between Kentucky and Indiana. The Governor also reminded the President that the EPA’s continued and unexplained shifting of regulations regarding coal mining jeopardizes thousands of Kentucky jobs and causes detrimental ripple effects in other state job sectors – especially manufacturing. “Coal is not only a vital national resource, but coal mining also supports thousands of Kentucky families,” said Gov. Beshear. “These arbitrary changes in EPA guidelines cause unnecessary and costly delays in permitting, which compromise jobs and investments. It’s time for the EPA to end these unpredictable policy swings and work with us on a reasonable policy that protects our families.”
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Post by Kentucky News on Sept 22, 2011 20:06:02 GMT -5
Toll-free helpline for parents of kids who are drinking and using drugs Commonwealth News Center press release
FRANKFORT, Ky– The Kentucky Office of Drug Control Policy and the Kentucky Agency for Substance Abuse, in affiliation with The Partnership at Drugfree.org, today announced a new bilingual (English/Spanish) toll-free telephone helpline, dedicated to helping parents and families speak to a qualified social worker about their child’s drug use or drinking. “Many parents struggle to find a clear path to intervention and treatment information, often resulting in a frustrating search to get effective help for their child,” said Van Ingram, executive director of ODCP. “The new helpline aims to fill that void and will provide useful information, when families who are facing a child’s addiction need it most.” The Parents Toll-Free Helpline – 1-855-DRUGFREE (1-855-378-4373) – is staffed by social workers with practical experience in substance abuse intervention and treatment. These specialists offer advice to help parents plan a course of action for teens who are struggling with substance abuse and, if appropriate, supply a short list of resources or treatment facilities in their area. The Parents Toll-Free Helpline is not a 24-hour crisis hotline; the line will be staffed Monday-Friday from 10 a.m. until 6 pm EST. For parents who seek online support, The Partnership has just redesigned Time To Get Help, an online community that provides parents of teens and young adults with potentially lifesaving information when families are in crisis and facing a child’s addiction. The site also now includes customized tools such as comprehensive e-books on intervention and treatment, along with downloadable worksheets and checklists to fit the individual needs of families who are at different stages in the process of getting help for their loved ones. To learn more, visit timetogethelp.drugfree.org.
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