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Post by Press Release on Dec 9, 2008 20:59:03 GMT -5
Mongiardo films episode of The Outdoor Channel’s American Gun DogLt. Governor Daniel MongiardoHunting is a favorite seasonal pastime for many Kentuckians, providing innumerable opportunities to get outdoors in diverse locations across the state: from the mountains of the east to the wetlands of the west. This week, Lieutenant Governor Daniel Mongiardo and his Yellow Labrador, Gunner, brought Kentucky into the national outdoor recreation spotlight as the focus of an episode of The Outdoor Channel’s popular television program American Gun Dog. The episode, which will conclude two days of taping this evening in Elliott County, follows the Lieutenant Governor, Gunner and the program’s host, Harley Jackson, as they embark on a bird hunting expedition for Kentucky native quail and ruffed grouse. The hunt—which has spanned three counties—began early Monday morning in Corbin, proceeded into Floyd County for the second day hunting and will end tonight outside of Sandy Hook. “Having the chance to show the nation what unmatched outdoor choices we have in Kentucky is an exciting opportunity for me,” said Lieutenant Governor Daniel Mongiardo. “There are an estimated 20.6 million hunters in the United States, and I hope—through this program—that many of them will come to the Commonwealth to see all we have to offer, for hunting and beyond.” The program will draw attention not only to Kentucky’s ample opportunities for hunting, but the Commonwealth’s great natural beauty and other avenues of outdoor recreation. The taping of American Gun Dog is another part of Kentucky’s Adventure Tourism initiative, which has been going strong since the unanimous passage of Senate Bill 196 during the 2008 legislative session. With myriad regional events across the Commonwealth—from trail rides to fishing tournaments—and now a chance to shine in the national hunting spotlight, Kentucky is well on its way to becoming the premier choice for outdoor adventure not just in the United States but across the globe. American Gun Dog—one of the most popular programs on The Outdoor Channel—seeks to showcase the nation’s top hunting dogs and dog handlers, as well as some of the best, most unique areas of the United States for hunting a variety of game, from deer to waterfowl. Previous shoots have taken the show’s host, Harley Jackson, to locations as diverse as Scotia, South Carolina hunting wild boars and Livingston, Montana hunting Hungarian pheasant. “We try to push the threshold of the hunting story,” said Harley Jackson, host of American Gun Dog. “We do different things. We chase wild game that has not necessarily been filmed before, like hunting quail in the mountains of Eastern Kentucky. It’s kind of hard-core as far as bird hunting goes.” The episode featuring Lieutenant Governor Mongiardo is scheduled to make its premier on The Outdoor Channel in Fall 2009. For more information about American Gun Dog, visit: www.americangundog.comThe preceding press release was from Former Detention Center Officers Sentenced for Civil Rights Violations in Teenager Rape CaseWesley Lanham, 31, and Shawn Freeman, 36, both former deputy jailers at Grant County Detention Center in Kentucky, were sentenced today on federal civil rights, conspiracy and obstruction charges. Lanham was sentenced to 15 years in prison and 3 years of supervised release, and Freeman was sentenced to 14 years in prison and 3 years of supervised release. Both defendants were found guilty of conspiring to violate the civil rights of a teenaged traffic offender by arranging for him to be raped by inmates. The jury convicted the defendants on all charges and specifically found that the defendants were responsible for the aggravated sexual assault carried out by the inmates. The case stemmed from an incident that occurred on Feb. 14, 2003, when the defendants, along with their supervisor, former Sergeant Shawn Sydnor, taunted an 18-year-old high school student who had been brought to the detention center on a speeding charge. The deputies teased the teenager about his physical appearance and told him that he would make a good “girlfriend” for the other inmates. The defendants then solicited a group of convicted felons housed in a general population cell to scare and “mess with” the teenager. After eliciting an agreement from the inmates, the officers left the teenager in the cell where he was sexually assaulted by the other inmates. When the teenager’s father reported the incident and demanded an investigation, the defendants falsified their official reports relating to the treatment of the teenager. A third defendant, former Sergeant at the jail, Clint Shawn Sydnor, previously pleaded guilty to civil rights and conspiracy charges and was sentenced earlier today to 90 months in prison. This case was prosecuted by Special Litigation Counsel Kristy L. Parker and Trial Attorney Forrest Christian of the Criminal Section of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, with assistance from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Kentucky. The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The preceding was a press release from United States Attorney's Office for Eastern District of Kentucky EVER BEEN TO A KENTUCKY CHRISTMAS TREE FARM?USE REVAMPED WEB SITE TO FIND ONE NEAR YOURichie FarmerIf you still haven’t put up your Christmas tree, don’t fret. The Kentucky Christmas Tree Association’s revamped Web site is ready to help. The KCTA’s upgraded site, www.kychristmastreefarms.com, lists 23 Christmas tree farms as members of the KCTA, 22 in Kentucky and one in nearby Scottsburg, Ind. “If you’ve never visited a Kentucky Christmas tree farm, put on your coat and head for one near you,” Agriculture Commissioner Richie Farmer said. “I encourage you to take your family to select and cut a fresh, homegrown Christmas tree nurtured by hard-working Kentucky farmers.” Most of the state’s Christmas tree farms are located in central Kentucky. But they can also be found as far west as Owensboro, as far south as Bowling Green, as far east as Wallingford, Ky., near Flemingsburg, and as far north as Alexandria, Ky., outside Cincinnati. To locate the nearest tree farm on the Web site, select “Find a Farm” from the menu. Each farm is designated on a map by a Christmas tree icon. Click on each Christmas tree for the name and location of the farm, along with a link to its Web site. The Web site also includes photos and descriptions of 11 common types of Christmas trees, as well as information about growing the trees and joining the KCTA. The KCTA upgraded its Web site through an advertising cost-share grant. The Kentucky Department of Agriculture works with the Kentucky Horticulture Council to administer the grant program, established by the Kentucky Agricultural Development Board with funding from Kentucky's tobacco settlement funds. The grant pays half the cost of advertising up to $2,000 per year, provided the trees are grown in Kentucky. The preceding press release was from Manchester resident and Commissioner Richie Farmer and the Kentucky Department of Agriculture. New Kentucky National Guard Joint Readiness Center DedicatedHal RogersCongressman Harold “Hal” Rogers joined State Adjutant General Edward W. Tonini to dedicate the new Kentucky National Guard Joint Readiness Center (JRC) in London. The first of three phases for the new regional base of operations is now complete, with phase two underway. Congressman Rogers has secured $11.4 million dollars during the last three years to bring the Kentucky National Guard training, recruitment and operations center to Southeastern Kentucky. “Since 9-11, more than ten thousand Kentucky National Guard troops have been deployed to support the Global War on Terror. Our troops should no longer be referred to as ‘Weekend Warriors.’ A name like ‘Relentless Warriors’ is much more appropriate for the men and women serving our country and their families,” stated Rogers. “We depend on them in times of national crisis and local disasters. Providing them with facilities, like the Joint Readiness Center, will enhance their service in times of public need.” Once complete, the Joint Readiness Center will serve more than military operations. It will be a launching point and long range communications center for military support for local authorities in times of natural and man-made disasters, as well as homeland security missions. The JRC will conduct training for emergency first responders and provide rapid-response for search and rescue missions with the Civil Air Patrol. In addition, a Drug Demand Reduction education center will be housed at the facility for public use in drug education. As a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee, Rogers works to secure funding for important initiatives in the Fifth Congressional District. The preceding press release was from United States Representative Hal Rogers.
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Post by Press Release on Dec 10, 2008 21:00:34 GMT -5
Governor Beshear urges Kentuckians to support local businessesBuy Kentucky products during the holidaysWith the holiday season quickly approaching and the commonwealth along with the nation facing tough economic times, Gov. Steve Beshear encourages Kentuckians to help support local businesses and purchase products made in Kentucky for holiday gifts. “Kentuckians don’t need to look far for great gift ideas. The commonwealth has a vast array of local businesses with wonderful Kentucky Proud products, including foods, crafts and gift cards,” said Gov. Beshear. “In addition, purchasing Kentucky-made products injects needed dollars into our state and local economies.” Throughout the state there are a variety of places to purchase Kentucky-made gifts, including: Kentucky Proud ProductsThe Kentucky Department of Agriculture’s Web site offers a Kentucky Proud search engine at www.kyproud.com. This search engine allows consumers to browse through about 1,300 Kentucky Proud members with more than 18,000 products. If you prefer to do your holiday shopping the old-fashioned way – browsing the stores – you can pick from an assortment of Kentucky Proud gift baskets from stores across Kentucky that can be found at www.kyproud.com. Artisan Center at BereaThe Kentucky Artisan Center at Berea, with its more than 650 artisan vendors, features Kentucky-made gifts including jewelry, scarves, photographs, books, paintings, wood carvings, pottery, holiday ornaments, furniture, soaps and other beauty products, musical recordings and more. The Kentucky Artisan Center is located just off Interstate 75 at exit 77 in Berea. The center’s exhibits, shopping and travel information areas are all open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. The café is open daily from 8 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Admission is free. For more information call 859-985-5448 or visit the Center’s Web site at www.kentuckyartisancenter.ky.govKentucky Unbridled Spirit Gift CardThe Kentucky Unbridled Spirit Gift Card is good at all Kentucky State Parks, the Kentucky Artisan Center at Berea, the Kentucky Horse Park and the Kentucky Historical Society museum and gift shop in Frankfort. Unbridled Spirit Gift Cards can be purchased at the Kentucky Artisan Center at Berea, the Kentucky Horse Park, the Kentucky Historical Society museum and gift shop as well as Kentucky State Parks. Cards can also be purchased by calling 1-800-255-PARK (select option 5) or online at www.parks.ky.gov/giftKentucky State ParksThe Kentucky State Parks are offering a coupon for $50 a night lodge rooms for a Sunday through Thursday stay. The coupon is good through Dec. 30, 2008. There’s a similar offer for the period beginning Jan. 4 through Feb. 26, 2009. Visit www.parks.ky.govto get details and print the coupon and find out about other state park offers. Cottages at 13 resort parks will also be open for business Dec. 21-29 when the resort parks are normally closed for the holidays. Services will be limited. Call the park you’re interested in for details. Kentucky History Center-LincolnIs there a history lover on your shopping list? Commemorate the 200th anniversary of the birth of Kentucky’s most famous native son by purchasing official Lincoln Bicentennial merchandise. Lincoln-related merchandise is being offered at 20 percent off the regular retail price throughout the month of December. Items include t-shirts, fleece jackets, hats, golf balls and other items featuring the Lincoln Bicentennial log cabin logo. Lincoln merchandise may be ordered online through the official Bicentennial Web site at www.kylincoln.org or by stopping in at the Kentucky Historical Society’s Stewart Home School 1792 Store, located at 100 West Broadway in Frankfort. A Kentucky Center for the Arts Gift CertificateGive the gift of the arts! Available in any amount and good for any performance! Call The Kentucky Center Box Office at 584-7777or visit www.kentuckycenter.org. Kentucky Horse ParkThe Kentucky Horse Park Gift Shop Open House is Dec. 12-14 during the day and at Southern Lights display. Free parking and gift wrap, refreshments and samples, door prizes, store-wide discounts, and discounts on park admission to see Alysheba and all the Hall of Champions horses, as well as discounts on admission tickets and memberships for stocking stuffers. Discounts are available to customers who show their gift shop receipts. Kentucky Arts CouncilThe Kentucky Arts Council has many great Kentucky-themed gift ideas for those interested in the literary arts or Lincoln enthusiasts. To discover poetry books and broadsides or a variety of gifts, historic replicas, music and fine art prints by Kentucky artists developed to commemorate the birth of Abraham Lincoln in Kentucky, go to www.artscouncil.ky.gov/shop/merchandise.htmHoliday travel gift ideasThe Kentucky Department of Travel has many suggestions for holiday gifts and events at their Web site at www.mykentuckybackyard.com/seasonal.phpFort Boonesborough’s 18th Century StoreThe 18th Century Transylvania Store at Fort Boonesborough State Park is now online at parks.ky.gov/Online+Stores/18thCenturyStore/. The shop’s offerings include 18th century goods and objects such as woodenware, porcelain, ironware, coins, books, dried food and many others. Fort Boonesborough is located at 4375 Boonesborough Road, just 5 miles off I-75 at Exit 95, about 10 miles south of Lexington. 2008 Limited Edition Capitol OrnamentThe Finance and Administration Cabinet’s Division of Historic Properties (DHP) has announced the release of the 2008 Kentucky State Capitol ornament, the sixth in this limited-edition series. This year’s ornament features the west lunette, depicting the Treaty of Sycamore Shoals. It is a complement to the 2006 ornament, fourth in the series, which features the Daniel Boone east lunette from the Great Hall of the New State Capitol. Ornaments may be purchased at the Berry Mansion, 700 Louisville Road, Frankfort; the Frankfort/Franklin County Tourism office, 100 Capital Avenue, Frankfort; and the 1792 Store in the Thomas D. Clark Center for Kentucky History, 100 West Broadway, Frankfort. Ornaments may also be viewed and purchased online at www.historicproperties.ky.gov/ornament.htmThe preceding press release was from Berea Man Sentenced to 15 Years for Child PornographyA Berea man was sentenced today to 15 years in prison and a lifetime of supervised release for possessing child pornography images. Ronald Powell II, 26, pleaded guilty in September of this year and admitted that he possessed thousands of images and videos of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct on CD’s and on his computers. The investigation started in February of this year when a mother notified authorities that Ronald Powell was contacting her teenage daughter. After investigating the situation, the Madison County Sheriff’s Department discovered that Powell was in violation of his probation terms from a previous conviction related to the possession of child pornography. Under those terms, Powell was prohibited from using a computer in any capacity. After searching his computer, officers found the child pornography images. Powell was serving probation from a three-year prison sentence in Virginia for producing obscene materials involving minors, and possessing child pornography. “It’s important that sexual predators who fail to change their behaviors receive stiff punishments like the one Mr. Powell got today,” said Assistant United States Attorney Erin May. In the federal system, possessing child pornography can result in a maximum 10-year prison sentence. However, because of the conviction in Virginia, Powell received a harsher sentence. “It’s possible that Mr. Powell could have sexually exploited a child if given enough time. But thanks to the collaborative effort between Madison County Sheriff’s Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Kentucky State Police, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, he will be removed from society for a very long time and children in the community will be safer for it.” James A. Zerhusen, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, Nelson O’ Donnell, Madison County Sheriff, Timothy D. Cox, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Rodney Brewer, Commissioner of Kentucky State Police, jointly made the announcement after Powell was sentenced. The investigation was conducted by the Madison County Sheriff’s Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Kentucky State Police. The United States was represented by Erin J. May. The preceding was a press release from United States Attorney's Office for Eastern District of Kentucky Attorney General Conway Settles Fraud Claims Against Purported Veterans CharityJack ConwayAttorney General Jack Conway today announced a settlement with a Gig Harbor, Washington-based charity that claimed to raise funds to help pay veterans’ expenses but ultimately gave less than 1% of the money raised to veterans. The agreement, filed today in Franklin Circuit Court, bars the charity, American Veterans Coalition, and its principal operators, Robert Friend, Jr. and Shao Mei Wang, from soliciting contributions in Kentucky for 10 years. In the settlement, Friend and Wang, who are husband and wife, also agreed that no other charity operated by them will solicit contributions in the Commonwealth of Kentucky for 10 years. The settlement requires the charity to pay the Commonwealth of Kentucky $10,000 and to refund $9,927.50, the entire amount raised in Kentucky, as restitution. “Given the tremendous sacrifice made by the thousands of Kentucky soldiers who are serving or who have served in places of great danger, I welcome any charity that seeks to assist our veterans and their families,” General Conway said. “However, organizations that defraud consumers and deny much needed assistance to our military men and women will not be tolerated in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.” The Office of the Attorney General alleges that the American Veterans Coalition violated the Consumer Protection Act by making false and misleading statements to donors about how contributions would be used. Investigators report that the Coalition misled donors into believing that a substantial amount of their donations would be spent on providing financial assistance to veterans. Of the $1,239,812.00 raised nationally in 2006, the Coalition only spent $7,400 in financial assistance to veterans. The American Veterans Coalition and its operators dispute the allegations. The Assurance of Voluntary Compliance is not an admission or finding of a violation. Since taking office, General Conway has filed five other settlements and recovered $46,827.50 for the Commonwealth and consumers from charities or solicitors that have allegedly violated Consumer Protection laws. “There are many reputable charities and responsible solicitors that do a great deal of good in our communities, but there are also fraudulent organizations that deprive those in need. Particularly during this holiday season, I encourage Kentuckians to give generously, but wisely, to the causes and organizations of their choice,” said General Conway. Questions to ask before making a charitable donation: •What is the full name, address and phone number of the charity? •Do you work for the charity or are you a paid fund-raiser? •How much of my contribution will go to the charity and how much to the solicitor? •What will the charity use my contribution for? •Is my contribution tax deductible? •Is the charity registered with the Office of Attorney General? •Is the solicitor registered with the Office of Attorney General? •What percentage of its total income does the charity spend on its charitable purpose? •Can I obtain a copy of the charity’s IRS Form 990 or other financial statement showing the percentage of donations spent on fundraising and administrative expenses? Red FlagsSome charitable solicitations send messages or "red flags" that might lead a person to question whether this is an organization worthy of support or even whether it really is a charity: •The solicitor pressures you to make a donation. Hang up on aggressive or pushy solicitors. •The person refuses to send you written material or financial information. •The charity sends you an invoice or statement that indicates a payment due for a contribution you never pledged. •The organization's name and logo closely resemble another charity with a similar charitable purpose. •If solicited by mail, the full name, address and phone number of the entity soliciting is not disclosed in the material. Tips to prevent fraud: •Never give your credit card number to someone soliciting by phone. •Never give cash. Always make the check payable to the charity and ask for a receipt. •Never respond to emails requesting personal information, including your name, address, date of birth, place of birth, social security number or your mother’s maiden name. •Never agree to meet with a solicitor in your home or accept an offer for a courier to come to your home to pick up your donation. If the solicitor claims to be raising funds on behalf of a local charity, contact the charity yourself to verify that it is conducting a fundraising event. It is not uncommon for fraudulent solicitors to falsely associate themselves with local charities just to collect money and leave town. If you have been a victim of a fraudulent charitable solicitation, contact the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Hotline at 1-888-432-9257 or visit ag.ky.gov/civil/consumerprotection/charityThe preceding press release was from
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Post by Press Release on Dec 10, 2008 21:10:32 GMT -5
KDA LAUNCHES HIGH-TECH SYSTEMS TO IMPROVE EFFICIENCYRichie FarmerTwo new Internet-based systems are enabling the Kentucky Department of Agriculture to carry out its pesticide regulation and environmental enforcement duties more efficiently, improving customer service and staff productivity. The Pesticide Product Registration System enables companies that sell pesticide products in Kentucky to register new pesticide products, renew existing pesticide products and pay fees online. The Kentucky Compliance Activity Tracking System (KYCATS) enhances the ability of the KDA’s Division of Environmental Services to track its enforcement activities. “Our Environmental Services and Information Technology staff have worked very hard to make these systems easy to use and able to provide accurate information in a timely manner,” Agriculture Commissioner Richie Farmer said. “The systems eliminate a large amount of paperwork for our staff. The Pesticide Product Registration System also reduces paperwork for pesticide companies, offers additional payment options and is available 24/7 for companies to access at their convenience.” The Pesticide Product Registration System provides a simple process for companies to review their company demographic information and send necessary corrections to the Department. During the registration process, companies can make secure electronic payments by using a credit card and/or ACH debit. A pesticide company must be registered with the Department to use the system. The system is available at secure.kentucky.gov/agr/pesticides/web/Login.aspxPesticide registrations generate $1.6 million to the Department annually. The system was created through a partnership with Kentucky.gov, the state’s official Web site. Kentucky.gov is a collaborative effort of the state and Kentucky Interactive LLC of Frankfort, a subsidiary of Kansas-based NIC, which manages more e-government services than any other provider in the world. KYCATS breaks enforcement data down by category, enforcement action and other criteria. It helps the Division of Environmental Services compile and file quarterly reports to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The Division is the leading investigating agency in Kentucky for EPA on pesticide-related issues. KYCATS is a joint effort of KDA’s Environmental Services and Information Technology divisions and Clemson University. “I commend our Environmental Services and Information Technology staff for their work on these projects,” Commissioner Farmer said. “Years of funding cuts have made it harder for us to perform our duties to the citizens of the Commonwealth. These innovations will help us squeeze more efficiency out of fewer dollars.” The preceding press release was from Manchester resident and Commissioner Richie Farmer and the Kentucky Department of Agriculture. McConnell Statement on Status of Auto LegislationMitch McConnellSenate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell made the following statement (as prepared) on the Senate floor Wednesday regarding proposed auto legislation: “Republicans were told last night that an agreement had been reached between Congressional Democrats and the White House on an auto package. As of this morning, we still haven’t seen the final version of this bill. Once we do, we’ll review it to see if it meets our standard for support — the taxpayers’ standard for support. But let me be clear: there will be no vote on this legislation today. On a bill this critical, with so much taxpayer money at stake, we cannot rush this through without adequate review. “My members will be discussing the merits of this latest version of the plan at our weekly policy lunch this afternoon. So this afternoon I expect to have some more substantive thoughts on this latest proposal’s chances for support within my conference. We will address this issue before the end of the week. “For those who need a refresher, let me remind everyone of the Republican criteria for this legislation: first and foremost, we will not let taxpayers spend their hard-earned money on ailing carmakers unless these companies are forced to reform their bad habits — either inside or outside of bankruptcy. “This means that workers won’t be paid not to work. This means a final bill would not interfere with pending environmental lawsuits in a one-sided manner. And it means that struggling car companies will have to rationalize their cost structures — because a company that does not respond to market conditions is a company that is doomed to failure anyway. And Republicans will not allow taxpayers to subsidize failure. As I’ve said repeatedly, my Republican colleagues and I want to put struggling carmakers on a path to long-term success. But we cannot support a plan that doesn’t.” The preceding press release was from United States Senator Mitch McConnell.
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Post by Press Release on Dec 11, 2008 17:51:16 GMT -5
Statement from Gov. Steve Beshear on Automotive Industry SupportGovernor Steve Beshear“I am pleased that the House of Representatives passed last night emergency loans to the automotive industry, and I urge the United States Senate to quickly take the same action. At this time of economic uncertainty, I believe Congress should do everything in its power to assure that the auto industry maintains a strong economic foundation. As I expressed to President-Elect Barack Obama in our recent meeting and in letters to congressional leaders, assistance to this industry is critical to the nation, and specifically to the economic vitality of Kentucky. The auto industry employs nearly 82,000 people in Kentucky and is one of the cornerstones of our state’s economy, adding $5.6 billion to our state’s gross domestic product in 2006. In 2007, Kentucky produced more than one million cars and light trucks, accounting for nearly 10 percent of the U.S. market share. Kentucky-produced vehicles include the #1-selling car in America (Toyota Camry), the top-selling truck in the world (Ford F-Series) and the top-selling premium sports car (Chevrolet Corvette). The average weekly wage for motor vehicle manufacturing in 2007 was $1,770, compared to $702 for all industries in Kentucky. As our nation struggles to regain its economic footing, a bankruptcy in the auto industry is the last thing we can afford. An abrupt financial downturn could have a drastic affect on families in Kentucky and across the nation.” The preceding press release was from Auto BailoutBy: Senator Jim BunningJim BunningBefore talking about any legislation, I want to say that I am very concerned about the state of the auto industry. As I said at the first Banking Committee hearing on this issue, I am not concerned out of a sense of American pride or because of the great history of the American auto industry. What concerns me are the workers – the men and women who assemble our cars and trucks, who sell and service vehicles, and those who work for the suppliers that keep the industry running. Auto manufacturing is the largest manufacturing sector in my state. I know Detroit’s pain is felt in the towns and cities all across Kentucky. In many counties, jobs supplying parts to GM or Toyota are some of the best jobs around. Those jobs are in danger and I am concerned for those workers and their families. The question facing Congress is what, if anything, we can and should do about the industry’s current problems. As I understand it, one of two bills is going to come before the Senate as soon as this afternoon. One is the bill passed by the House, and the other is a similar Senate proposal. Unfortunately, much like the other bailouts we have passed, those bills rely on hope and promises of future action and do not require serious concessions. And those bills do not address the immediate problem facing the industry, which is a lack of funding for car loans and dealer floor plans. While the Detroit manufacturers were forced to come to Congress for aid at this time by the economic crisis, their problems are not just a result of problems in the financial markets. The companies are simply uncompetitive in today’s marketplace because of decades of bad business decisions by management and labor. What is needed is a serious restructuring of the companies that brings their costs in line with the costs of cars made in the U.S. by manufacturers like Toyota, and their capacity in line with the true demand for new cars, not the artificially inflated demand of the last few years. Neither the House bill nor the Senate bill forces the companies and their stakeholders to make the changes necessary to successfully restructure. The so-called "car czar" has no real powers to make the companies and stakeholders reach an agreement that accomplishes the cost and capacity changes that must be made. Because the companies would not survive in the long term without those changes, they would be back before Congress next year asking for more money to get them through the next few months, and back again after that. That is an irresponsible use of tax dollars and would ultimately lead to the death of the companies and many thousands of jobs permanently being lost. Because I care too much about the workers, I can not support either of the bills as they are currently written. I have previously said that I would support federal assistance for the companies if they undertake a Chapter 11 bankruptcy restructuring. Federal financing and warranty guarantees would enable the companies to emerge from that restructuring successfully and more quickly than they otherwise could. Senators Shelby and Ensign have an amendment to do just that, and I will support their amendment if they are allowed to have a vote. However, Chapter 11 bankruptcy is not the ideal solution, and I know just the word bankruptcy causes concern for people whose jobs, retirement, and health care depend on the companies. A similar restructuring that accomplishes significant changes outside of bankruptcy would work as well. Senator Corker has an amendment that would require those significant changes as a condition of the federal assistance provided in the Majority’s bill. If the Majority allows a vote on Senator Corker’s amendment, I will support it. If the amendment is adopted to the Senate version of the bill, I will support passage of the bill. If the Majority blocks any Minority amendments, as they have done for nearly the entire Congress, I will oppose the bill and any cloture motions. I will go ahead and state for the record that if the Corker amendment passes and the bill becomes law, I will oppose any and all attempts to weaken its requirements. I am very concerned that come January 20, the majority will try to rewrite the requirements so that the companies are not forced to make the painful changes that are necessary for them to survive in the long term. I hope that will not be the case. For these companies to survive and thrive, there must be painful changes, and some jobs will be lost no matter what happens. However, with a successful restructuring, more jobs will be preserved for the long term than if we just prop up the companies with taxpayer dollars and hope for the best. The preceding press release was from United States Senator Jim Bunning. McConnell: We Simply Cannot Ask the American Taxpayer to Subsidize FailureMitch McConnellSenate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell made the following remarks on the Senate floor Thursday regarding proposed auto legislation: “These are turbulent times for the U.S. economy. Over the past several months, Americans have seen giant companies fail, significant job losses, and, after unprecedented problems in the credit markets, the frightening prospect of total disarray within our nation’s Main Street economy. The crisis in the credit markets came at us quickly. We were told that urgent government action was needed in order to shore up the broader economy — and that failure to act would lead to a complete collapse of consumer credit, the very lifeblood of our nation’s economy. “Under ordinary circumstances, I would have opposed such a measure. Government intervention in the marketplace cuts against all my ordinary impulses. But this was not an ordinary event. I, and many others, believed that extraordinary action was needed to protect millions of ordinary Americans from the colossal and far-reaching mistakes of a few. And action was taken. The systemic breakdown that some envisioned has not occurred, so there is reason to believe that the medicine has had some effect. But, on the whole, the overall economy continues to struggle. Some industries have been hit harder than others. And one of them is the auto industry. “The problems in the auto industry have been long in the making. But last month the situation grew so dire that American automakers came to Washington with an urgent appeal for federal help. Over the past few weeks, lawmakers have taken the time to examine the problems at these companies and the solutions that they have proposed. And now the American taxpayers are being asked to put their money behind a plan that is aimed at helping these companies survive. “Republicans received that plan late yesterday morning. We reviewed it closely to see if it meets the criteria that I have laid out repeatedly for taxpayer-protections and an effective strategy for securing the long-term viability of these companies. In the end, I concluded that it does not. In some ways, the proposal that was worked out by the White House and Congressional Democrats appears tough. It calls on struggling auto companies and autoworkers to make the sort of sacrifices they have not been accustomed to making in the past. It also includes time limits as a way of hastening necessary reforms. But in reality, this proposal isn’t nearly tough enough. “A primary weakness relates to the so-called ‘Car Czar,’ who has nearly unlimited power to allocate taxpayer dollars but limited ability to force the kinds of tough concessions that long-term viability would require. “Another problem lies outside the proposal itself. And here I’m referring to the type of government action that’s being contemplated. Somewhat lost in the recent debate over the auto industry is the fundamental difference between it and the financial rescue plan that Congress approved in October. While that plan was intended to rescue the entire economy, this one is intended to save a single industry. That plan was intended to help everyone — from small business owners to college students; and every lawmaker who voted for it acted on the belief that that is what it would do. “A failure to appreciate this distinction has caused a number of other industries and even a number of municipalities across the country to prepare their own proposals for a government rescue as all Americans weather the tough economy. It has also created the impression in some minds that the federal government is picking favorites, and that favored businesses get help while others don’t. “A lot of struggling Americans are asking where their bailout is. They wonder why one business would get support over another. When it comes to the auto industry, many Republicans in Congress have asked these same questions. There are many principled reasons to oppose this bill. But the simplest one is also the best: ‘a government big enough to give us everything we want is a government big enough to take everything we have.’ This is as true for individuals as it is for business. It’s the primary principle on which American industry, including the auto industry, was built. And even in turbulent moments like this — perhaps especially at moments like this — it’s a principle well worth defending. “Some argue that the effects of an auto industry collapse would be too acute and far-reaching for an already-struggling economy to bear. This is impossible to know. And even if we grant that these companies would fail without taxpayer help, we would still have to ask ourselves whether the proposal before us achieves the goal that everyone claims to embrace — namely, the long-term viability of ailing car companies — and, in my view, it does not. “I have already enumerated some of the weaknesses in the plan. But in the end, its greatest single flaw is that it promises taxpayer money today for reforms that may or may not come tomorrow. And we would not be serving the American taxpayer well if we spent their hard-earned money without knowing with certainty that their investment would result in stronger, leaner auto companies that would not need additional taxpayer help just a few months or weeks down the road. We simply cannot ask the American taxpayer to subsidize failure. “All Americans, including myself, are worried about the future of our nation’s automakers. These companies have a venerable place in the story of modern America. They continue to provide hundreds of thousands of jobs across the country, including nearly 50,000 auto-related jobs in my own home state of Kentucky. But many Americans are also worried about the prospect of the government intervening on behalf of some industries and not intervening on behalf of others — especially when there is no guarantee that the interventions will work. They wonder when the spending stops. If I were to vote in favor of this bill, I would not have a good answer for them. “The best route for the long-term viability of ailing car companies may be a rocky one. Government help is not the only option. It’s not even the best option. Long-term viability is still possible. But it’s only possible if these companies are forced to make the tough choices necessary for their survival. Senator Corker has proposed an amendment that would go a long way toward improving this bill. In keeping with the principles I’ve outlined, the Corker Amendment does not just encourage reform, it requires it. And it does so with crucial specificity. First, participating companies would be required to reduce their outstanding debt by at least two-thirds through an equity swap with bondholders. “The Corker Amendment also requires that labor costs at participating companies be brought on par with companies like Nissan, Toyota, and Honda — not tomorrow but immediately — because it is delusional to think that a company which spends $71 per labor hour could compete with a company in the same industry that spends $49. The Corker Amendment would improve the liquidity and cash-flow of automakers by requiring that a portion of the payments made to union accounts consist of company stock. “And finally, the Corker Amendment would require participating companies to file for Chapter 11 reorganization if any of these conditions aren’t met by a fixed date. The Corker Amendment forces necessary reforms, holds companies accountable, and assures taxpayers that these companies won’t be back for more. If legislative action were necessary, the Corker proposal would make many much needed and dramatic improvements to the underlying bill. “I, like all of my colleagues, want the U.S. auto industry not only to survive but to thrive. And by cutting costs, streamlining production, increasing fuel efficiency, and investing in new technologies and attractive, more competitive designs, American auto companies will once again make cars that people all over the world will want to buy. Then Americans will be able to say again with pride that our cars are the best. “In addition protecting the taxpayer, this is a goal that Republicans have been fighting hard for in this debate. And in my view, it’s a goal that is well worth our efforts.” The preceding press release was from United States Senator Mitch McConnell.
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Post by Press Release on Dec 11, 2008 18:34:35 GMT -5
Mongiardo participates in Weather Radio Announcement and GiveawayLt. Governor Daniel MongiardoToday, Lieutenant Governor Daniel Mongiardo announced that a $40,000 Kentucky Office of Homeland Security (KOHS) grant awarded to the Franklin County Fiscal Court and the City of Frankfort in May has been used to purchase a transmitter and antenna that will enable weather alert radios to pick up a signal in Franklin County. Additionally, a contribution of $5,000 from the City of Frankfort and $5,000 from the Franklin County Fiscal Court has facilitated the purchase of 400 weather alert radios to be used in conjunction with the new transmitter system. This morning at Ashwood Place, a local retirement community, Lieutenant Governor Mongiardo was joined by Frankfort Mayor Bill May, Franklin County Judge Executive Ted Collins and Louisville-based National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) Chief Meteorologist John Gordon to make this announcement and giveaway a weather radio to the Ashwood Place community. “I am proud to have the opportunity to help provide the Franklin County community with such a valuable, important resource,” said Lieutenant Governor Daniel Mongiardo. “This new system will enable those who previously would not have had advance notice of weather threats to now have a life-saving warning. At a time of year when the weather begins to turn colder and the risk of heavy winds, snow and ice are always on the horizon, weather alerts radios become more important than ever.” Prior to the purchase of the new transmitter and antenna, weather radios were useless in Franklin County due to the lack of equipment necessary to receive a signal from the National Weather Service. Emergency alert weather radios provide immediate information about life threatening events, allowing for extra time to prepare and evacuate if necessary. They are especially beneficial to individuals with vision or hearing impairments due to their capabilities for both audible and visual signals. “We are committed to making sure that the weather alert radios get to those who are most in need, especially our high-risk schools, sick and elderly here in Frankfort and Franklin County,” said Deron Rambo, Coordinator for the Weather Radio Giveaway. “We will be working with community agencies including the Franklin County Department of Public Health in order to ensure those who might otherwise be unable to afford a weather radio will now have much-needed severe weather access and information. The rest will be available on a first come, first serve basis.” The preceding press release was from Kentucky State Police conducting periodic traffic safety checkpointsThe Kentucky State Police, Post 11, London, which provides coverage for Clay, Laurel, McCreary, Pulaski, Rockcastle, Wayne and Whitley counties, will be conducting periodic traffic safety checkpoints at locations approved by the Kentucky State Police Policy and Procedures Manual. These checkpoints will be conducted in an effort to enforce the traffic laws of the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Special attention will be paid to occupant protection (seatbelt adherence), sobriety, insurance and registration violations. The preceding press release was from Kentucky State Police Post 11 in London which serves the following Kentucky Counties: Rockcastle, Wayne, and Whitley. Beshear plan would protect education; Medicaid and public safety also top prioritiesGovernor Steve BeshearGov. Steve Beshear today proposed a plan to address the state’s budget crisis that would utilize a 70-cent increase in cigarette taxes and double the tax rate on other tobacco products to protect funding for education as well as the state’s most vulnerable populations through Medicaid and mental health services. Specifically, Gov. Beshear’s plan would protect SEEK, Support Education Excellence in Kentucky, the $3 billion in basic funding for elementary and secondary education; and student financial aid for higher education, while limiting cuts to the rest of elementary and secondary education and higher education institutions to 2 percent. Medicaid and mental health services would be protected; along with corrections beds in the state’s prison system and state run juvenile justice facilities and school-based programs that are considered vital in many communities. In addition, the governor’s plan would limit cuts to the Kentucky State Police to 2 percent, which saves a new class of 60 troopers. The plan, released this morning at a Capitol news conference, was developed in response to a $456.1 million deficit in this fiscal year that ends June 30, 2009. Gov. Beshear said his plan represents an important starting point for discussion with legislators, who will be asked to consider the plan early next year. But the governor cautioned that even as he works with legislators and people across the state to solve the budget crisis this fiscal year, storm clouds are looming just over the horizon as most economists predict an even more troubled economy next fiscal year. That prospect, he said, makes it essential that both the administration and legislators work together in a thoughtful and careful way to solve both the short-term crisis while positioning the state to deal with even more troubling economic challenges in the months ahead. “I am determined that when we emerge from this fiscal crisis we emerge not shattered, shell-shocked and lethargic, but prepared and eager to take advantage of the opportunities ahead,” Gov. Beshear said. “I cannot let our education, our health-care and our public safety systems suffer significantly more than they already have. Our future depends on our ability to build a competitive, innovative workforce, and our K-12 classrooms are the lifeblood of that mission,” said Gov. Beshear. “To gut education is to doom Kentucky to mediocrity for as long as we can imagine. Education is my top priority and I believe it must be our state’s top priority,” said Beshear. “We cannot sacrifice our future.” All other areas of state government – state agencies and cabinets from Energy and Environment to Tourism, Arts & Heritage, and Public Protection – would make 4 percent cuts. In addition, Gov. Beshear, with legislative approval, would implement for the first time, a statewide furlough plan. In order to prevent massive layoffs throughout state government, the furlough plan would require all state employees take three days of unpaid leave between now and the end of the fiscal year, June 30, 2009. Gov. Beshear’s plan consists of the following items: • $147.1 million in spending cuts in addition to $432 million in reductions made in the last year. Under Gov. Beshear, the executive branch is the smallest it has been in 20 years, with 2,000 fewer employees than last year and nearly 600 fewer non-merit employees than under the previous administration. • $81.5 million this budget year by increasing the cigarette tax 70 cents, as well as increasing the tax on other tobacco products. • $8 million by furloughing state workers three days. • $40.6 million in other funds, such as transfers from restricted funds. • $178.9 million from the Budget Reserve Trust Fund or Rainy Day Fund, during this fiscal year. Currently, the legislature has appropriated $191 million of the $226 million fund for the 2010 fiscal year. Under Gov. Beshear’s proposal, increased cigarette tax revenues in the 2010 fiscal year – about $144 million – would be used to replenish the revenues expended from the Rainy Day Fund. Gov. Beshear said there will be pain, even under this proposal, but the consequences of balancing the budget without new revenue would be devastating. Cuts to state government, including education and Medicaid, would be severe and would eliminate many basic services. Without new revenue, some of these anticipated impacts would include: • Significant layoffs of state employees. • Universities would initiate hiring freezes, cap enrollment and cut scholarships. • Prison beds would be reduced and juvenile justice centers closed. • Health care for low-income and disabled Kentuckians would be cut and mental health facilities would be closed. “Such cuts, on top of previous cuts that reached as high as 20 percent over the last year, would devastate, if not ruin basic, fundamental services,” Gov. Beshear said. “The only solution, if we want to preserve the priorities of classroom instruction, health care and public safety, is to raise new revenue.” In addition, Gov. Beshear said a hike in the cigarette tax, while popular among a large majority of Kentuckians, would create a “healthier population and substantially decrease long-term health-care costs. This is not only a revenue measure but a permanent antidote to what ails much of our state.” Most independent studies indicate that a significant hike in cigarette taxes lowers smoking rates, particularly among teenagers. Kentucky’s existing 30-cent tax is one-fourth the national average and lower than all but three states, Gov. Beshear said. Moreover, only one neighboring state currently has a lower rate. Three other states, Indiana, Ohio and Tennessee, recently raised their rates and the Hoosier state has begun to report declines in smoking levels. Several other states, among them Florida and Mississippi, also are currently considering a cigarette tax hike. Gov. Beshear has already begun working with legislators in both houses and on both sides of the aisle on next steps. He also plans to take details of the proposal across the state to gather input from Kentuckians in a series of town hall forums. “I realize legislators may have other priorities and I look forward to working with them to discuss those priorities and find common ground,” he said. “Is my plan the perfect and final solution? No, it is not,” said Gov. Beshear. “I see it more as a starting point for discussion about our shared values and how we protect them as best we can in very challenging and difficult times. I am open to new ideas and proposals. In fact, flexibility is a requirement.” “We must put aside the labels of Democrat and Republican, the rivalry between the executive branch and the legislative branch and the notion that public and private can’t work together,” Gov. Beshear said. “We must be Kentuckians first. I believe we will be.” The preceding press release was from
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Post by Press Release on Dec 12, 2008 13:30:23 GMT -5
Plenty of Kentucky Sites to Visit Around Liberty Bowl TravelYou’ve toasted in the New Year and are heading off to Memphis to watch UK play in the Liberty Bowl on January 2. Before you embark on the trip to or from the game, consider this tempting sampling of restaurants, lodging and attractions located along or near the Kentucky highways north of the Kentucky/Tennessee line. Food and Lodging:Kentucky State Parks will offer special rates at all lodges and cottages at resort parks from Jan 1-3. Barren River, Lake Barkley, Kenlake, Kentucky Dam Village and Pennyrile Forest are near Liberty Bowl routes. Lodge rooms are $50 on any of those nights and the cottages are $74.95 for a one bedroom, $84.95 for two bedrooms or $94.95 for three bedrooms. Taxes apply and there are a limited number of lodge rooms and cottages available at this discounted rate. (To learn more about each park, scheduled events or to make reservations, visit www.parks.ky.gov. Use the promo code “bowl” if making reservations on line). State resort park lodges offer full-service restaurants where chefs prepare Kentucky fare every day and views from the dining rooms are a feast for the eyes. For more information, go to www.parks.ky.gov and click on the location of your choice within the map of Kentucky. Charming restaurants, lodging and shopping are worth a stop in historic Glendale just to the southwest of Elizabethtown. For more information, go to historicglendale.comCheck out the menu at Patti’s 1880 Settlement in Grand Rivers (www.pattis-settlement.com) and see culinary delights that beckon your taste buds. For more dining options around the Kentucky Lake area, go to the Web site www.kentuckylake.org/dining.htmRelax prior to or after the game at a Bloomfield B&B. Springhill Winery and B&B offer southern charm and beauty any time of the year. For information or to make a reservation, go to www.springhillwinery.comAttractions:Stop in Bardstown just off of the Bluegrass Parkway and experience part of the Bourbon Trail. Heaven Hill, Jim Beam, Tom Moore and Makers Mark offer tours of their establishments and tastings of their beverages. Go to www.kybourbontrail.com for more information. The longest cave system in the world at Mammoth Cave National Park is a Kentucky treasure where people have been visiting since 1816. Winter cave tour hours (the caves keep a constant temperature) are in effect now and listed at www.nps.gov/macaAbraham Lincoln was born in 1809 near Hodgenville, Kentucky. This is one of many sites to see in the commonwealth that have associations with this great native Kentuckian during the Lincoln Bicentennial Celebration. To learn more about where Lincoln was born go to www.kylincoln.org/sites/birthplace.htm and find links to other locations worth a visit. Corvettes are made only in Kentucky and The National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green tells the sports car’s story. Their Web site is www.corvettemuseum.comEveryone in the family can stretch their legs and get a taste of prehistoric times at Dinosaur World near Cave City. More information is located on the Web at www.dinoworld.netIf your thoughts lean toward gold, why not stop and visit Fort Knox and the Patton Museum? Get information at www.knox.army.mil/visiting.asp and www.generalpattonmuseum.comMunfordville, in Hart County, was the site of important battles during the Civil War. Driving and walking tours are mapped that take you back to this important time in Kentucky’s history. Go to www.trailsrus.com/civilwar/region3/munfordv.htm or www.battleforthebridge.org/ for local contacts and more information. Interstate 65 cuts right through the heart of the Caves, Lakes and Corvettes tourism region of Kentucky and Interstate 24 stretches through the Western Waterlands region. Go to kentuckytourism.com/sitestosee/caves.htm or kentuckytourism.com/sitestosee/westernwaterlands.htm for additional listings of places to see, stay and visit around game day. The preceding press release was from Beshear on FFA convention returning to Louisville“Kentucky and agriculture enjoy an extensive, storied history, so I am thrilled that the Future Farmers of America, an organization that uses agricultural education to produce leaders of tomorrow, will once again hold its National Convention in Louisville. With the strenuous financial conditions facing Kentucky, the likely economic impact resulting from the convention is welcomed news for Louisville and the commonwealth. The FFA students will no doubt find Louisville exciting and entertaining. But the FFA is more than that, especially in Kentucky. The organization offers the nation’s youth numerous opportunities to grow and learn. And the National Convention allows them the chance meet new people, potentially leading to lifelong friendships. I want to thank the Harold Workman and the Fair Board for their recruiting efforts and Mayor Abramson and the city of Louisville for reminding the FFA how wonderful our state’s largest city is. The sea of blue and gold corduroy jackets that will soon invade our state are always welcome in the commonwealth of Kentucky.” The preceding press release was from McConnell Statement on Failure of Auto LegislationMitch McConnellSenate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell made the following statement on the Senate floor on Thursday evening regarding the state of auto legislation: “This has been a challenging exercise for everyone involved on both sides. We all remember, just a couple of months ago, we were called upon to rescue the American financial system. At the end of the day, after a few fits and starts, 74 out of 99 senators present thought it was a good idea to do that. It was a vote that we all proudly cast from our individual seats, and most of us supported it. It was a broad bipartisan vote supported by the two Presidential candidates as well. “Now we've moved into a very tricky and challenging area and that is a sort of industry by industry rescue. And we've had before us the whole question of the viability of the American automobile manufacturers. None of us want to see them go down but very few of us had anything to do with the dilemma that they've created for themselves. And so the question was: is there a way out? “The Administration negotiated in good faith with the Democratic Majority a proposal that was simply unacceptable to the vast majority of our side because we thought it, frankly, wouldn't work. Into this breach stepped the Junior Senator from Tennessee who, I must say, has made an extraordinary impact in a very small amount of time. I’m hard-pressed to think of another member who's been here such a short period of time who's made such an impression on colleagues on both sides of the aisle by mastering an extraordinarily complicated subject and being able to explain it in a way that is understandable. “And he has diligently pursued an agreement that could pass, that could enjoy broad support on both sides. And he has made great progress in that direction. The sticking point that we are left with is the question of whether the UAW is willing to agree to a parity pay structure with other manufacturers in this country by a date certain. And I understand their reluctance to do that. “So far in the discussions that Sen. Corker and Sen. Dodd and others have had, they have not been willing to give a date specific by which parity could be achieved. It is upon that issue that we’ve reached an impasse for the moment.” The preceding press release was from United States Senator Mitch McConnell. Bunning Votes Against Proceeding To Democrat Auto BailoutDemocrats And UAW Walk Away From Bipartisan NegotiationsJim BunningSenator Jim Bunning tonight opposed proceeding to the Democrat Auto Bailout Bill after Democrats and the UAW walked away from bipartisan negotiations. Bunning issued the following statement after the motion to proceed to the auto bailout failed on the Senate floor. "I am disappointed tonight that the United States Senate was not able to reach agreement on a suitable solution to help get our nation’s auto industry back on track. I had hoped an agreement could be reached on a proposal offered by Senator Bob Corker that would have required significant reduction of costs and debt as a condition of the federal assistance these manufacturers are asking for. As I have said many times, simply throwing money at the problem is not the answer. Serious changes need to be made in the way the industry does business. Unfortunately, the United Auto Workers were unwilling to make any significant concessions. Republicans were serious about finding a real solution, but the union and the Democrats walked away unwilling to give any ground." The preceding press release was from United States Senator Jim Bunning. Wal-Mart Donates to Trooper Island Camp The Kentucky State Police Post 11, London recently received a generous donation of $1,000.00 from the Williamsburg Wal-Mart for Trooper Island Camp. The donation will help campers from the Williamsburg / Whitley County areas attend the summer camp, which is absolutely free to boys and girls ages 10 to 12. Trooper Island Camp was created on Dale Hollow Lake in 1965 by the Kentucky State Police, to provide a free summer camp to kids who's financial situation makes it to where they cannot attend another summer camp. Trooper Island campers spend a week of fishing, swimming, boating, canoeing and many more activities, while being in a safe environment and interacting with Troopers from their area. The Kentucky State Police is the only State Police agency in the nation to provide a summer camp for kids and realize that it would not be possible if not for supporters like Wal-Mart. The preceding press release was from Kentucky State Police Post 11 in London which serves the following Kentucky Counties: Rockcastle, Wayne, and Whitley. Four Teens Included in Highway Fatalities Last WeekPreliminary statistics* indicate that thirteen people died in nine separate crashes on Kentucky roadways from Monday, December 1 through Sunday, December 7, 2008. All of the fatalities involved motor vehicles and five of those victims were not wearing seat belts. Four of the crashes involved the suspected use of alcohol. Single vehicle crashes occurred in Gallatin, Jefferson, Jessamine, Lewis, Logan, Madison and Woodford counties. A quadruple-fatality crash involving four teenagers occurred in Bell county. Kentucky State Police Post 10 Harlan and Commercial Vehicle Enforcement received a call about a two vehicle crash on US 25E in Pineville, KY. Unit 1, a 2007 Toyota Yaris was traveling south on US 25E. Unit 2, a 2008 Peterbilt coal truck was traveling northbound on US 25E. Due to inclement weather, the operator of Unit 1 lost control of the vehicle and crossed into the northbound lane of US 25E and was struck by Unit 2. The operator of Unit 2 was Dwight Robinson Jr., age 34 of Tyner, KY. The operator of Unit 1 was Jonathan Miracle, age 18 of Miracle, KY. The three passengers of Unit 1 were; Jessica Ingram, age 16 of Pineville, KY, Wesley Ingram, age 16 of Pineville, KY and Daniel Campbell, age 15 of Blackmont, KY. All four occupants of Unit 1 sustained fatal injuries. All subjects involved in this vehicle crash were wearing seatbelts and no drugs or alcohol is suspected at this time. Daniel Campbell, Jessica Ingram and Wesley Ingram were all part of the Bell County High School Air Force Jr. ROTC and were on their way to march in the Christmas parade in Harlan. A double-fatality crash occurred in Woodford county. The victims were not wearing seat belts and the suspected use of alcohol is a factor in this crash. Through December 7, 2008 preliminary statistics* indicate that 755 people have lost their lives on Kentucky roadways during 2008. This is 61 fewer than reported for this time period in 2007. Of the 578 motor vehicle fatalities, 361 victims were not wearing seat belts. Of the 88 motorcycle fatalities, 52 were not wearing helmets. Twenty-three people have been killed in ATV crashes and 21 of those were not wearing helmets. Sixty pedestrians have been killed. A total of 161 fatalities have resulted from crashes involving the suspected use of alcohol. *These statistics are still preliminary as KSP waits for all local law enforcement agencies throughout the state to report any crashes and fatalities that may have occurred in their areas.Citizens can contribute to highway safety by reporting erratic drivers to the Kentucky State Police toll-free at 1-800-222-5555. Callers will remain anonymous and should give a description of the vehicle, location, direction of travel and license number if possible. A total of 71 teenage drivers (ages 16-19) have been killed on Kentucky roadways from January 1, 2008 through December 7, 2008. The preceding press release was from Kentucky State Police Post 11 in London which serves the following Kentucky Counties: Rockcastle, Wayne, and Whitley.
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Post by Press Release on Dec 14, 2008 13:01:20 GMT -5
Bunning On Oversight Authority For TARP InspectorJim BunningSenator Jim Bunning today issued the following statement applauding the passage of legislation he co-sponsored with Senator Claire McCaskill (D-MO) that would give full oversight authority to Neil Barofsky who was confirmed on to be Special Inspector General for the Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP) at the Department of Treasury. "I am glad the Senate has acted to ensure that Neil Barofsky has the full authority he needs as Inspector General for TARP to look into any mishandling of the bailout funds by Treasury," said Bunning. "I have said all along that the bailout would not work the way Secretary Paulson and Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke originally sold the plan to Congress. And since it became law they have completely changed course in the way they are using the program to bail out their buddies on Wall Street. I don’t believe for one minute that Secretary Paulson has been straight with the American people in his handling of TARP. With the confirmation of Neil Barofsky and the passage of this legislation we now have someone in place with the necessary tools to hold Secretary Paulson’s feet to the fire as well as anyone who succeeds him." The preceding press release was from United States Senator Jim Bunning. Governors across U.S. shed light on obesity epidemic by increasing daily physical activityGovernor Steve BeshearKentucky Gov. Steve Beshear today announced he and members of his staff and senior leadership will participate in the Capitol Steps Challenge, the first phase of Virgin HealthMiles’ yearlong initiative created to draw attention to the growing issue of obesity in America. In October, Gov. Beshear and the Personnel Cabinet announced a partnership with Virgin HealthMiles, becoming the first state in the nation to offer the wellness program to employees. Kentucky state government employees will be eligible to start signing up for their own HealthMiles challenges in 2009. “This challenge underlines the commitment we have made to improving wellness efforts in Kentucky,” said Governor Beshear. “Our team looks forward to this challenge, which we hope will encourage state employees to participate in our own Virgin HealthMiles and Journey to Wellness programs.” As the first stage in this commitment, Virgin HealthMiles, a leading provider of employee health programs, has partnered with Texas Gov. Rick Perry, who has invited governors across the U.S. to participate in the Capitol Steps Challenge to raise awareness for the nation’s obesity epidemic. Research shows increased physical activity helps reduce the risk of many lifestyle-driven diseases such as heart disease and type-2 diabetes, which have significant impact on healthcare costs. By having state governors lead by example and increase their daily physical activity, they are sending an important message to Americans about the impact simple healthy and active choices can have on our nation’s health. Kentucky has joined other state including Alaska, Florida, Idaho, Indiana, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia and Wisconsin and will participate in the Capitol Steps Challenge to raise national awareness of this important issue. About the Capitol Steps ChallengeFor two weeks beginning Jan. 1, 2009, Gov. Beshear and members of his team will compete head-to-head with other governors and their teams by tracking daily activity. At the end of the challenge, Virgin HealthMiles will declare the state team with the highest average steps per person as the “Most Active Governor’s Team” in the nation and Sir Richard Branson will make a $50,000 donation to that state’s childhood obesity program. If the winning state chooses to participate in the second phase of Virgin HealthMiles’ obesity initiative, they will have the opportunity to have Virgin HealthMiles double all donations earned by their state in the second phase of the initiative, increasing the potential donation to $250,000. Virgin HealthMiles is pledging up to $6.5 million in donations to U.S. state programs as part of this yearlong initiative. Additional details will be announced in early 2009. Virgin HealthMiles (www.virginhealthmiles.com) is a first-of-its kind health incentives program that rewards people for getting active and healthy. Physical activity is critical for maintaining a healthy weight and decreasing the risk of many chronic lifestyle-driven diseases, such as heart disease and type-2 diabetes. Virgin HealthMiles takes a unique approach, encouraging people to do the activities they enjoy most, and rewards them for their efforts. “It’s an honor for Virgin HealthMiles to work with Gov. Beshear and his cabinet to bring awareness to the important issue of improving the health and wellness of citizens across the country,” said Chris Boyce, CEO of Virgin HealthMiles. “We’re excited to be part of the Capitol Steps Challenge and look forward to providing a fun and engaging experience for governors and their teams across the nation.” For more information about the Capitol Steps Challenge, visit www.virginhealthmiles.com/capitolstepschallengeTo learn more about the commonwealth’s wellness initiatives, visit personnel.ky.gov/default.htmThe preceding press release was from COMMISSIONER FARMER HAILS RETURN OF NATIONAL FFA CONVENTION TO KENTUCKYRichie FarmerAgriculture Commissioner Richie Farmer welcomed news that the National FFA Convention is returning to the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville for a three-year run starting in 2013. “We are thrilled to have the National FFA Convention back in Kentucky,” Commissioner Farmer said. “The decision to bring it back is a tribute to the Expo Center, greater Louisville, and Kentucky’s dynamic FFA organization. This convention will give a tremendous economic boost to Louisville and all of Kentucky.” The national convention attracts more than 55,000 FFA members and guests from throughout the United States and generates an estimated $40 million in economic activity. The 2009 convention is scheduled for Oct. 21-24 in Indianapolis. Louisville hosted the convention from 1999-2005. Indianapolis has hosted the convention the last three years. After 2015, the convention will return to Indianapolis for three years. The announcement comes on the heels of the 81st annual National FFA Convention in October, in which several Kentucky chapters and individuals stood out. The Spencer County FFA chapter won the Dairy Cattle Evaluation Career Development event for the second year in a row. The Wolfe County FFA chapter was named one of 10 Model of Innovation chapters in community development. Eight Kentucky students were named National Proficiency Finalists, and 173 Kentucky students received American FFA degrees. Amanda Jewell, 17, of Spencer County was one of 10 students to receive a National Agri-Entrepreneurship Award. In 2007, Nicholas Hardesty of Meade County became the first Kentucky FFA member to be named the American Star Farmer, and Spencer County FFA became the first Kentucky chapter to be selected as the National Model of Innovation in Chapter Development. Kentucky FFA has some 15,000 members, a 50 percent increase over the past 20 years. FFA is open to any student in grades 7-12 who is enrolled in an agriculture course in a public school. The Kentucky Department of Agriculture has donated a total of nearly $500,000 to Kentucky FFA and Kentucky 4-H since Commissioner Farmer took office in 2004 in spite of massive budget cuts. “FFA and 4-H do an outstanding job of preparing young people to be the citizens and leaders of tomorrow,” Commissioner Farmer said. “The Department’s contributions to these organizations are worthwhile investments in Kentucky’s future.” The preceding press release was from Manchester resident and Commissioner Richie Farmer and the Kentucky Department of Agriculture.
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Post by Press Release on Dec 15, 2008 20:02:05 GMT -5
Electrician Dies at Mine SiteAn electrician working at a mine site in western Kentucky was killed Thursday, a state official announced today. The victim was Timothy Ross Albright, 31, of Madisonville. The accident occurred at about 3:30 p.m. CST. Albright was a contract electrician working at a coal preparation plant under construction at the Cardinal mine operated by Warrior Coal Co. in the Manitou community in Hopkins County. According to initial reports, Albright was working in a bucket lift installing wiring when the bucket became stuck, then sprang upward. The victim struck his head on a beam overhead. He was transported to Madisonville Regional Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Officials with the Kentucky Office of Mine Safety and Licensing (OMSL) responded to scene yesterday and returned today to investigate the accident, said Johnny Greene, OMSL executive director. It is the eighth fatality at a Kentucky coal mine in 2008. Yesterday’s incident and two others are currently under investigation. The preceding press release was from Conway Reaches $12 Million Settlement With Mattel Over Lead Paint-Tainted ToysKentucky Attorney General Jack Conway, along with the attorneys general of 38 other states, reached a settlement agreement today with Mattel, Inc. and its subsidiary, Fisher-Price, Inc., resolving a 16-month long investigation into the events that resulted in a voluntary recall in 2007 of the company’s toys for excessive lead paint. The agreement, filed today in Franklin Circuit Court, requires Mattel to make a payment of $12 million by January 30, 2009, to be divided among the participating states. As one of the lead states on the multi-state executive committee, Kentucky will receive $475,000. “No child should be at risk because of toxic chemicals in their toys. I will continue to press the federal government and toy manufacturers on this issue to prevent tainted toys from falling into the hands of Kentucky kids,” said General Conway. From August 2, 2007 through October 25, 2007, the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced recalls of approximately 2 million Mattel and Fisher-Price toys for excessive lead in surface coatings. The recalls included nearly 100 different products manufactured in China. At the time of the recalls, the CPSC standard permitted for lead in accessible surface coatings was 600 parts per million (ppm). Lead levels taken of the recalled toys during the course of the states’ investigation found that levels not only exceeded the federal standard, but in some instances tested over 10,000 ppm and 50,000 ppm. Links to the CPSC recall announcements with the lists of recalled toys are included with this press release. The agreement reached by the attorneys general includes more stringent standards for accessible lead both in surface coatings and other materials effective for toys manufactured after November 30, 2008. Since the attorneys general first contacted Mattel in August 2007, Congress has enacted the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA), which requires an initial reduction in lead in toys in February, 2009, with further reductions in August 2009 and in August 2011. Mattel has agreed with the attorneys general to phase in more stringent standards ahead of the timelines provided by the CPSIA. Mattel has also agreed with the attorneys general to notify them if it confirms excessive lead in any of its products in violation of state or federal law, or the consent judgment, and to work with the attorneys general to remedy such violations. The Mattel recalls were but a few of dozens of recalls involving dangerous lead levels during the past two years. General Conway strongly encourages parents to consult the CPSC recall notices to determine if their children’s toys have been recalled due to lead content or any other safety concern. A link to that website may be found at www.ag.ky.gov. Consumers may also call the CPSC recall hotline at 1-800-638-2772. The preceding press release was from Kentucky Therapists Sentenced and Ordered To Pay Restitution To Medicaid Attorney General Jack Conway today announced a plea agreement in the case of two Kentucky therapists arrested earlier this year on charges they defrauded the Kentucky Medicaid Program. Vanessa Rouse, a speech pathologist from Deane in Letcher County, and Janice Fields, a developmental interventionist from Happy in Perry County, pled guilty to Medicaid fraud, a class D felony, and were sentenced Thursday, December 11 in Jefferson Circuit Court. Under the terms of the plea agreement, the court sentenced each defendant to one year in the Kentucky Department of Corrections, which will be probated for a period of five years. As a condition of their probation, each defendant was ordered to pay restitution to the Kentucky Medicaid Program for a total amount of $14,640.25 and to reimburse the Attorney General’s Office for investigative costs. Rouse and Fields fraudulently billed the Kentucky Medicaid Program for services provided to children in First Steps, a statewide early-intervention program for infants and toddlers with developmental disabilities. During 2006 and 2007, the therapists billed the state for services that were not provided to children. “Through the hard work and determination of our investigators and prosecutors, we were able to obtain both a conviction and restitution for the Kentucky Medicaid Program. Our office will continue its efforts to detect and prosecute Medicaid Fraud, which is especially important given the current budget crisis the state faces,” General Conway said. In a related case, Rouse and Fields also pled guilty to charges of bribing a witness in Perry Circuit Court last month. Following receipt of a tip, investigators from the Office of the Attorney conducted surveillance of Rouse and Fields. On April 16, the pair was arrested after investigators monitored a transaction in which Rouse and Fields gave $200 to a prosecution witness in Perry County and instructed the witness as to how to testify. Under the terms of that plea agreement, they will be required to serve 30 days of a one-year sentence, the remainder of which will be probated. Sentencing in that case is scheduled for December 18 in Perry Circuit Court. The preceding press release was from
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Post by Press Release on Dec 17, 2008 17:47:01 GMT -5
Kentucky Teachers’ Retirement System adopts investment reformsThe Board of Trustees of the Kentucky Teachers’ Retirement System (KTRS) unanimously voted yesterday to adopt investment reforms recommended by Gov. Steve Beshear’s bipartisan Public Pension Working Group, chaired by Finance and Administration Cabinet Sec. Jonathan Miller. These recommendations were made in response to the group’s findings that Kentucky’s public pension systems had significantly trailed the average investment returns of their peers, to the tune of approximately $5 billion over the last decade. “I am very pleased by the Trustees’ swift and decisive action to adopt the investment reforms recommended by my Public Pension Working Group,” said Gov. Beshear. “In these tough economic times, it’s especially important that we be vigilant to protect the pensions of our teachers and minimize the taxpayer funding necessary to keep our pension systems solvent. Every dollar of investment earnings translates into one less dollar that taxpayers need to contribute to these funds.” “The Board of KTRS looks upon these recommendations very positively,” said Gary Harbin, executive secretary of KTRS. “The Board and staff have already implemented a number of these recommendations and will continue to work toward accomplishing other appropriate changes. We wish to thank KTRS Board member, Treasurer Todd Hollenbach, for his invaluable service in chairing the Governor’s Committee that made these recommendations.” The recommendations adopted by the KTRS Trustees include: • Adding four investment experts to the investment committees of each of the two pension boards, enabling them to better formulate allocation policies to net better investment returns; • Requiring all public pension board members to receive continuing education on current investment practices; • Conducting an immediate study to determine the proper allocation of the systems’ investment portfolios; • Reviewing administrative regulations and eliminating those that impair the pension systems’ ability to implement efficient investment portfolios. “This is a tremendous step in the right direction,” said Kentucky Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Dave Adkisson. “Adding a majority of members with investment experience to the public employee pension investment committees is a step in the right direction to ensure confidence in the ongoing performance of these plans." “KEA appreciates the good will of all who came together to make these important changes in KTRS’ investment procedures,” said Sharron Oxendine, president, Kentucky Education Association. “We all want the same thing – higher returns on investment funds while maintaining the safety of those funds. This progress would not have happened without the leadership of Governor Beshear bringing us all together to forge a solution.” Board members of the other major state public pension system, the Kentucky Retirement Systems, stated that they have already implemented several of the working group’s recommendations and are studying the rest. Gov. Beshear will release additional recommendations on other issues addressed by his Public Pension Working Group within the next few weeks. The preceding press release was from MARKETING FARM TOURISM DESTINATIONS SUBJECT OF FEBRUARY CONFERENCERichie FarmerExperts on farm tourism will show Kentucky agritourism operators how to market their farms in a conference Feb. 15-17 at the University Plaza Hotel and Conference Center in Bowling Green. The second annual Kentucky Farms are Fun Conference will bring together business operators, industry leaders, policy makers, suppliers and academics to share information and exchange ideas. Conference topics will include marketing, business development and personnel management. Early registration fee is $75. After Jan. 31, registration will be $125. Vendor registration is $100 and includes lunch on Feb. 16. Vendor registration is due by Jan. 15 to guarantee being listed in the conference program. Agritourism gives Kentucky families a chance to see what life on a farm is really like. It’s an opportunity for a vacation or a weekend getaway close to home. And it helps Kentucky farmers make a living. To find out more about the conference or agritourism in Kentucky, go to: www.kentuckyfarmsarefun.comThe preceding press release was from Manchester resident and Commissioner Richie Farmer and the Kentucky Department of Agriculture. Settlement reached in Deceptive Advertising Claim Against Makers of AirborneJack ConwayAttorney General Jack Conway, together with the attorneys general of Alaska, Arkansas, California, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Florida, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Washington, and Wisconsin filed a settlement today with Airborne Health, Inc., the Florida-based maker of the Airborne Effervescent Health Formula, and its founders and current owners, Victoria Knight-McDowell and her husband Thomas John McDowell. Under the settlement, the defendants will pay $7 million to the attorneys general to settle allegations that the defendants made unsubstantiated and unlawful marketing claims concerning their products. The $7 million payment is the largest payment to date in a multi-state settlement with a dietary supplement producer. Kentucky will receive $150,000 from the settlement. “I, along with my colleagues from 32 other jurisdictions, am committed to taking action to stop deceptive advertising and unfair trade practices, particularly those that may affect the health and well-being of Kentuckians. Businesses should not profit by making unsubstantiated health claims to sell product to consumers,” said Attorney General Jack Conway. Airborne – Original is the number one selling dietary supplement in its category and is sold at most major retailers. It consists of Vitamin A, E, zinc, selenium and large doses of Vitamin C. Today’s settlement covers all Airborne products including Airborne – Original, Airborne – Pink Grapefruit, Airborne – Lemon-Lime, Airborne – Nighttime, Airborne, Jr., Airborne On-The-Go, Airborne Seasonal Relief, Airborne Sore Throat Gummi Lozenges, Airborne Soothing Throat Gummi Lozenges, Airborne Power Pixies, or any substantially similar product the defendants produce in the future. The settlement filed today by the attorneys general alleges that the defendants made health-related claims in the marketing, packaging, advertising, offering and selling of their products that were not substantiated by reliable and competent scientific evidence at the time the claims were made. The attorneys general allege that the defendants explicitly and implicitly claimed to sell a cold-prevention remedy, a sore-throat remedy, a germ fighter, and an allergy remedy without adequate substantiation to prove that the products could perform as advertised at the time the claims were made. The states also allege that the defendants failed to adequately warn consumers about potential health risks to select populations, including pregnant women, under old formulations of Airborne that contained 5,000 International Units of Vitamin A per dose. Currently, the level of Vitamin A in Airborne is 2,000 International Units. Under the settlement, the defendants have agreed not to make any express or implied claim concerning the health benefit, performance, efficacy or safety of their dietary supplement products, unless at the time the claim is made competent and reliable scientific evidence exists to substantiate each claim. Specifically, the defendants are prohibited from saying “take at the first sign of a cold symptom,” and other claims that imply that Airborne can diagnose, mitigate, prevent, treat, or cure colds, coughs, the flu, an upper-respiratory infection or allergies. By law, advertisements for dietary supplements like Airborne, cannot make such drug claims even if they can provide substantiation, unless and until they have been approved as a drug by the Federal Drug Administration. Under the settlement, the defendants are also prohibited from requiring, demanding, or otherwise influencing where a retailer places their products through direct affirmative action. In addition, the defendants are prohibited from marketing any product that contains directions for use that would, if followed, result in an individual ingesting 15,000 International Units of Vitamin A or more per day. While the scientific literature is not completely uniform, some studies place the toxicity levels of Vitamin A at 100,000 International Units. Other studies place the toxicity levels at much lower amounts, particularly for pregnant women and children. If a consumer followed the current directions for use, they would ingest 6,000 International Units of Vitamin A. The multi-state settlement follows settlements the defendants reached with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and a private class action lawsuit, Wilson v. Airborne, Inc., et al, filed in Federal District Court in the Central District of California. Under the terms of those settlements, consumers could receive restitution under a fund totaling $23.5 million, if they made their claims by September 15, 2008. Under the settlement reached with the FTC, an additional $6.5 million would be added to the fund if the number of claims exceeded $23.5 million. The defendants have not admitted to any wrongdoing and deny the factual allegations asserted in the attorney general’s complaint. The preceding press release was from Presidential Electors Meet and Cast Their VotesKentuckians from across the Commonwealth gathered at the State Capitol to witness Kentucky’s eight Presidential Electors cast their ballots for President and Vice President of the United States of America. John McCain and Sarah Palin received all eight votes for President and Vice-President, respectively. McCain and Palin won Kentucky’s popular vote by nearly 300,000 votes. “This vote today represents another step in the Presidential electoral process,” stated Secretary of State Trey Grayson. “The electors in Kentucky chose to follow the lead of Kentucky’s citizens by backing the winners of the popular vote in Kentucky.” The Electoral College was established by the founding fathers as a compromise between election of the President by Congress and election by popular vote. The people of the United States vote for the electors, as designated by a vote for a particular slate of candidates, who then vote for the President and Vice-President. On the Monday following the second Wednesday of December, as established in federal law, each state's Electors meet in their respective state capitals and cast their electoral votes, one for President and one for Vice President. The electoral votes are then sealed and transmitted from each state to the President of the U.S. Senate who, on the following January 8, opens and reads them before both houses of the Congress. The candidates with the most electoral votes will be declared the next President and Vice-President of the United States. If the Electors from every state cast their ballots in conjunction with the state’s popular vote, Barack Obama and Joseph Biden will be elected by a vote of 365 votes to McCain and Palin’s 173 votes (Nebraska is expected to cast one electoral vote to Obama and Biden because their state allocates votes to winners of congressional districts and Obama and Biden won one congressional district to McCain and Palin’s two). Electors in twenty-four states are not bound to vote for the winner of the popular election, as is the case in Kentucky. Kentucky receives eight (8) electoral votes equal to the number of its U.S. Senators plus the number of its U.S. Representatives. The electors for Kentucky as chosen by the Republican Party were: • Robert Gable (Frankfort) – At-large • Elizabeth Thomas (Flemingsburg) – At-large • James Snider (Franklin) – 1st Congressional District • Walter Baker (Glasgow) – 2nd Congressional District • Edna Fulkerson (Louisville) – 3rd Congressional District • Amy Towles (Ft. Thomas) – 4th Congressional District • Nancy Mitchell (Corbin) – 5th Congressional District • Don Ball (Lexington) – 6th Congressional District Robert Gable and Nancy Mitchell were elected Permanent Chairman of the Electors and Permanent Secretary of Electors, respectively. For more information about the electoral college, please visit the Federal Register with the National Archives and Records Administration at: www.archives.gov/federal-register/electoral-college/index.htmlThe preceding press release was from
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Post by Press Release on Dec 17, 2008 18:03:50 GMT -5
Four Double-Fatality Crashes ReportedDecember 8 - December 14Preliminary statistics* indicate that fifteen people died in nine separate crashes on Kentucky roadways from Monday, December 8 through Sunday, December 14, 2008. All of the fatalities involved motor vehicles and eight of those victims were not wearing seat belts. The seat belt status of three victims could not be determined. Three crashes involved the suspected use of alcohol. Single vehicle crashes occurred in Allen, Knott, Meade and Taylor counties. A triple-fatality crash occurred in Pike county and alcohol was suspected as a possible factor. A total of four double-fatality crashes occurred last week. These crashes were reported in Harlan, Hart, Jefferson and Nicholas counties. Through December 15, 2008 preliminary statistics* indicate that 772 people have lost their lives on Kentucky roadways during 2008. This is 59 fewer than reported for this time period in 2007. Of the 595 motor vehicle fatalities, 371 victims were not wearing seat belts. Of the 88 motorcycle fatalities, 52 were not wearing helmets. Twenty-three people have been killed in ATV crashes and 21 of those were not wearing helmets. Sixty pedestrians have been killed. A total of 165 fatalities have resulted from crashes involving the suspected use of alcohol. *These statistics are still preliminary as KSP waits for all local law enforcement agencies throughout the state to report any crashes and fatalities that may have occurred in their areas.Citizens can contribute to highway safety by reporting erratic drivers to the Kentucky State Police toll-free at 1-800-222-5555. Callers will remain anonymous and should give a description of the vehicle, location, direction of travel and license number if possible. The preceding press release was from Kentucky State Police Post 11 in London which serves the following Kentucky Counties: Clay, Laurel, McCreary, Pulaski, Rockcastle, Wayne, and Whitley. Kentucky one of few states to use electronic warrant management systemGovernor Steve BeshearAn electronic, interlinked system that went online this year has revolutionized the way Kentucky law enforcement and criminal justice professionals access and serve warrants, summonses and other related documents, Gov. Steve Beshear announced today. Nearly a year after it was first implemented, more than 62 percent of the new warrants entered into the E-Warrants system have been served, compared with less than 10 percent served under the old system. The system, which first went live in Jefferson County in January 2008, has since been launched in Campbell, Scott, Bourbon and Woodford counties. The program is expected to launch in Fayette County in early 2009, and be active statewide within the next 24 months. Kentucky is one of only a handful of states that utilize an electronic system to manage certain types of warrants. Prior to use of this system, as many as 300,000 warrants were outstanding on any given date in Kentucky, primarily because the warrants were paper-based and reside in each county with no statewide mechanism for access. “The E-Warrant system is modernizing policing in the commonwealth,” Gov. Beshear said. “Kentucky continues to be a leader in utilizing technology to greatly enhance efficiency and improve public safety. Not only will officers have immediate access to outstanding warrants, but pertinent data is collected and stored in a searchable format, providing an invaluable tool for law enforcement.” In Jefferson County, for example where more than 72 percent of new warrants have been served – a warrant was served on a suspect just 17 hours after a criminal complaint was issued for murder, 1st degree robbery and evidence tampering. Law enforcement officers ran a search on the E-Warrants system and found the defendant listed as a witness in a separate criminal complaint, which provided sufficient information to locate and apprehend the defendant. Eventually, all old warrants will be entered in the system, dramatically helping to erase the backlog of unserved warrants. Additionally, by mid-2009, all new emergency protective orders and domestic violence orders will be entered into the E-Warrants system. The system also helps avoid situations where a warrant is served on an individual multiple times, saving valuable time and resources. “The E-Warrants system provides all Kentucky law enforcement officers with instant access to critical local warrant information, beyond what they can obtain through the National Crime Information Center,” Kentucky State Police Commissioner Rodney Brewer said. “This greatly enhances officer safety and will result in more warrants served and more criminals off our streets.” “We’re well on our way in resolving Kentucky’s long-term need for improving access to warrant information as well as sharing such data across agency boundaries,” Thomas L. Preston, executive director, Kentucky Office of Homeland Security (KOHS), said. “This program will be a national model for improving response to crime as well as the threat from terrorism.” The E-Warrants system also enables judges to receive, review and take action on warrants via handheld electronic devices such as a personal digital assistant or cell phone. “The success of the Kentucky E-Warrants system is an example of technology at its best, playing an important role in protecting the public and delivering swift and efficient justice,” Chief Justice of Kentucky John D. Minton Jr. said. "As the E-Warrants system is implemented across the commonwealth, all judges will have the ability to electronically sign warrants and issue criminal complaints anywhere there is Internet access. This technology will allow the Court of Justice to better serve the citizens of Kentucky and save valuable time and resources." The system was originally funded with a $4.5 million General Fund appropriation, and implemented through KOHS. Extending the program statewide is expected to cost about $900,000, mostly for training, travel and system enhancements. Once fully operational, the system will be owned by KSP and maintained as part of the agency’s ongoing technology maintenance contract. The E-warrant system is the second technology-based enhancement aimed at improving public safety to take effect under Gov. Beshear. In September 2008, Gov. Beshear announcement Public Safety First, an initiative that elevates and unifies several key public safety technology programs under a single umbrella of protection to be overseen by the Justice and Public Safety Cabinet. The preceding press release was from KENTUCKY HORSE HAS CONTAGIOUS EQUINE METRITISSTALLION, EXPOSED HORSES UNDER QUARANTINERichie FarmerState and federal agriculture officials are investigating a case of contagious equine metritis (CEM) in a quarter horse in central Kentucky. The 16-year-old stallion tested positive for CEM during routine testing on Dec. 10. The test was performed by the University of Kentucky Livestock Disease Diagnostic Center as a preliminary step to shipping frozen semen to the European Union. Samples were sent to the National Veterinary Services Laboratories in Ames, Iowa, which confirmed the diagnosis on Monday. The index horse and all exposed horses are under quarantine and undergoing testing protocols. The index horse is being treated, and exposed horses have been tested to see if they are infected. The index horse was moved to Kentucky in February from Texas, where he had been located for his entire breeding career. All breeding was done artificially with no history of natural service. During the 2008 breeding season, 22 stallions from various states were bred on the farm. Thirteen of the stallions were relocated to other states, and one was relocated to another facility in Kentucky. The index stallion was bred to 44 mares both on the farm and by shipped semen. Contagious equine metritis is a transmissible, exotic venereal disease in horses. It usually results in infertility in mares and, on rare occasions, can cause mares to spontaneously abort. Infected stallions exhibit no clinical signs but can carry the CEM bacteria for years. CEM is commonly transmitted during sexual intercourse but also may be transmitted indirectly through artificial insemination or contact with contaminated hands or objects. There is no evidence that CEM affects people. CEM can be treated with disinfectants and antibiotics. CEM-positive mares and mares from CEM-positive countries in Kentucky are required by state regulations to go through a treatment protocol and remain in quarantine for no less than 21 days. Stallions in Kentucky that have CEM or come from a CEM-positive country also are required to remain quarantined until a treatment protocol is completed and they test negative for the disease. The first cases of CEM in the United States were diagnosed in central Kentucky in 1978. Another outbreak occurred in Missouri in 1979. The disease was eradicated rapidly in both outbreaks. Kentucky’s horse industry has a total estimated economic impact of $4 billion a year, according to a 2005 study by the American Horse Council. The horse industry generates an estimated 80,000-100,000 jobs, and another 14,000 jobs come from tourism businesses related to the horse industry. Kentucky farm cash receipts for equine, including stud fees, are estimated at $900 million for 2008. The preceding press release was from Manchester resident and Commissioner Richie Farmer and the Kentucky Department of Agriculture. Fewer Kentucky Vendors Selling Tobacco to MinorsKentucky vendors are doing a better job than ever in making sure tobacco products aren’t falling into the hands of minors, according to a recently released survey from the Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS). This year’s Annual Synar Buying Survey of retail tobacco outlets revealed that more than 95 percent of retailers complied with the law barring tobacco sales to anyone under the age of 18. The Office of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) conducted the survey last summer to determine illegal sales of tobacco to Kentucky youth. The survey was completed in cooperation with the Department of Agriculture and the Division of Mental Health and Substance Abuse in the Department for Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Addiction Services (MHDDAS). “This year’s survey showed a remarkable rate of compliance among Kentucky vendors,” said Steve Nunn, acting commissioner of MHDDAS. “This program plays an important role in reducing smoking rates and tobacco use, particularly among young people. This is imperative to our tobacco prevention efforts and, in turn, the future health status of our young Kentuckians.” At 4.7 percent, the 2008 Synar non-compliance rate is at the lowest rate since Kentucky began tracking sales of tobacco to youth younger than 18. The rate has remained around 5 percent for the past four years, but has been decreasing for several years. The highest rate recorded is 19.7 percent in 1999. Randy Fawns, deputy commissioner of the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC), thanked the Public Protection Cabinet, ABC investigators and support personnel for continuing to effectively combat youth access to tobacco products in Kentucky. “Our investigators conduct compliance checks at approximately 300 retail locations each month. These efforts, in addition to the Synar Survey checks, result in raising the retailer’s awareness that he or she may be selling to one of our investigative aides when selling to a minor,” said Fawns. “There is no doubt that the high rate of compliance is greatly influenced by these consistent enforcement programs.” “Kentucky’s new low non-compliance rate shows that we have made great strides in reducing youth access to tobacco products,” said Van Ingram, acting executive director of the Office of Drug Control Policy (ODCP). “Through the efforts of the Regional Prevention Centers, the Division of Mental Health and Substance Abuse, ODCP, and ABC, the health of young Kentuckians is being improved by reducing the illegal use of tobacco products.” Federal law authorizes the Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment (SAPT) Block Grant and requires states to enact and enforce laws designed to reduce the availability of tobacco products to people younger than 18. The state must conduct the Annual Buying Survey using a scientific random sample study protocol approved by the federal Center for Substance Abuse Prevention, and must demonstrate that its non-compliance rate does not exceed the target of 20 percent for illegal tobacco sales to minors. The SAPT Block Grant, administered by CHFS, is the single largest funding stream in Kentucky supporting substance abuse prevention and treatment. Statistics from the annual buying survey allow the Division of Mental Health and Substance Abuse to better target prevention efforts and resources. For more information about this program and other substance abuse prevention or treatment programs, call Johnnie Woods, CHFS’ Division of Mental Health and Substance Abuse, at (502) 564-4456. The preceding press release was from
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Post by Press Release on Dec 18, 2008 20:31:56 GMT -5
Former Madison Manor Nurse’s Aide Arrested for Neglect of Nursing Home ResidentAttorney General Jack Conway today announced the arrest of Jaclyn Dawn VanWinkle, a former nurse’s aide at Richmond Health and Rehabilitation Complex, also known as Madison Manor Nursing Home. VanWinkle, of Richmond in Madison County, is charged with one count of Wanton Neglect under KRS 209.990 in connection with the alleged neglect of a former resident of Madison Manor in August of this year. Investigators from the Attorney General’s Office of Medicaid Fraud and Abuse Control Division, with the assistance of the Richmond Police Department, arrested VanWinkle on December 17. Her bond was set at $7500 unsecured and her next court appearance is December 22 at 9:00 a.m. in Madison District Court. The investigation into allegations of abuse and neglect at Madison Manor is ongoing. A charge is merely an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. The preceding press release was from Eight People Plead Guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled SubstancesFred Lewis, 29, Victor Branford, 30, Jeffery Sullivan, 28, Robbie Ogle, 26, Dave Landrum, 27, Demario Warren, 25, Marvin Dryer, 36, and Destinee Crutchfield, 23, entered guilty pleas on Monday to Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances. Lewis, Branford, Sullivan, Landrum, and Crutchfield are Cincinnati residents. Ogle and Warren are Covington residents. Dryer is a resident of Bellevue, Kentucky. In the course of their guilty pleas, these individuals admitted to conspiring to distribute amounts of cocaine base, cocaine, heroin, and marijuana. Lewis, Ogle, and Crutchfield admitted to involvement in the distribution of over 4.5 kilograms of cocaine base. Lewis admitted to being a leader in the group and to distribution of powder cocaine, heroin and marijuana as well as cocaine base. Warren admitted to involvement in the distribution of over 1.5 kilograms of cocaine base as well as a quantity of heroin. Branford and Landrum admitted to involvement in the distribution of over 500 grams of cocaine base as well as a quantity of marijuana. Sullivan admitted to involvement in the distribution of over 400 grams of cocaine base and 1.6 kilograms of cocaine. Dryer admitted involvement in the distribution of over 10 kilograms of marijuana and small amounts of heroin and cocaine. Branford, Sullivan, Ogle, Landrum, and Warren admitted to having prior felony convictions for drug offenses. James A. Zerhusen, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, and Timothy D. Cox, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, jointly made the announcement today after the individuals entered their guilty pleas. The investigation of this matter was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Covington Police Department. The United States was represented in the case by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony J. Bracke. A.U.S.A. Bracke thanked the agencies involved in the case for their work. “These convictions are the result of a long-term investigation involving hundreds of hours of work by the Covington Police Department and the F.B.I.’s Safe Streets Task Force. We need coordinated efforts such as this one to make a substantive impact on the distribution of dangerous drugs in our community. These convictions represent some of the early rewards of the investigation. We expect more to follow.” The Defendants are currently scheduled to appear for sentencing before United States District Court Judge David Bunning in Covington, Ky., on April 24, 2008 at 1:00 p.m. Each Defendant except Dryer faces a maximum of life imprisonment. Dryer faces a maximum sentence of 5 years. However, any sentence following conviction would be imposed by the court after consideration of the United States Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statute governing the imposition of sentences. The preceding was a press release from United States Attorney's Office for Eastern District of Kentucky Grease Removers Recalled by Fantastic Distributors Due to Chemical Burn HazardThe U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed. Name of Product: “Bagi Shumanit” Super Cold Grease Removers Units: About 245,000 Importer: Fantastic Distributors, of Brooklyn, N.Y. Hazard: Direct contact with this substance can cause burns to consumers’ skin and eyes. The product lacks required special packaging and warning label. Incidents/Injuries: None reported. Description: “Bagi Shumanit” Super Cold Grease Remover is packaged in a white 26.4 fl oz. (750 ml) bottle with a trigger sprayer. This product is intended to clean grease from ovens and other cooking surfaces. Sold at: Various grocery stores in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut from April 2000 through September 2008 for about $5. Manufactured in: Israel Remedy: Consumers should immediately pour any remaining product into the toilet, using care to avoid splashing. Consumers should return the empty bottle to the store where the product was purchased for a full refund. Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Fantastic Distributors collect at (718) 485-1300 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.fantasticinc.com
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Post by Press Release on Dec 19, 2008 7:23:14 GMT -5
Beshear visits school in support of Save the ChildrenActress Julianne Moore and Advocate Mark Shriver participateEmphasizing the importance of childhood education, Gov. Steve Beshear today visited Whitley Central Primary School in support of Save the Children, whose programs for rural communities provide literacy, physical activity, nutrition and early childhood support to children in need. Gov. Beshear was joined by Julianne Moore, a four-time Academy Award-nominated actress, children’s book author and ambassador for Save the Children’s U.S. Programs and Mark K. Shriver, vice president and managing director of U.S. Programs. All three toured the Save the Children in-school literacy program at the school. “It is essential that we provide children in our state with the vital skills to become successful professionals,” said Gov. Beshear. “One of my top priorities for the commonwealth has been quality education. It is critical for our state to continue programs such as Save the Children to be competitive in the global market.” Moore, a supporter of this program, was inspired by her recent visit to Save the Children's early childhood development, literacy and fitness programs in Tennessee. She created the Save the Children Valentine's Day Campaign, which aims to give families a way to make a difference for children in need in the U.S. “We’re a country where every child should have an equal opportunity yet one in six children live in poverty,” said Moore. “The only way to give these children opportunity is through education and Save the Children is helping us reach that goal. The phenomenal 90 percent success rate at the Whitley program sets a powerful example for our leaders in Washington, D.C.” Mark Shriver leads Save the Children’s U.S. programs that, among other things, give readers in grades K-6 the opportunity to increase their reading achievement and develop the reading skills and guidance they need to succeed academically and live healthy productive lives. “We are fighting to make sure these children have every opportunity to lead America in the next generation,” said Shriver. “With partners like Governor Beshear and Julianne Moore, two committed and passionate children’s advocates, we are one step closer to ensuring that every Kentucky child has a quality education.” The Save The Children Federation, Inc. received an Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) federal grant in the amount of $500,000 to continue the literacy program in 14 southeastern Kentucky schools. This federal grant was matched by the commonwealth of Kentucky in the amount of $500,000. The program plans to serve an estimated 1,500 children in Kentucky through this grant. “ARC is proud to stand by Governor Beshear and Save the Children in supporting this innovative literacy program for elementary school students in Eastern Kentucky,” said ARC Federal Co-Chair Anne Pope. “Reading well is essential to inculcating a lifelong love of learning in our young people, which leads not only to greater academic attainment and improved job opportunities, but a better quality of life as well. No educational program could be more important than one that gives the children in our economically distressed areas the help they need to master this basic skill. This is just such a program.” The Save the Children project is consistent with ARC’s strategic goals that strive to accomplish self-sustaining economic development and improved quality of life for the communities and citizens of the Appalachian region. Kentucky is one of 13 states eligible for the funds. Grant applications are submitted to the Department for Local Government for review and require the governor’s recommendation for approval before submission to ARC. ARC is a federal-state economic development program used to assist the Appalachian region through a variety of projects in the areas of public infrastructure, human resource development and business development. The Whitley County School District serves 4,864 students in grades P-12. The district consists of five elementary schools, one primary school, one intermediate school, one middle school and one high school. Three of these schools currently host Save the Children sites. Please visit www.savethechildren.org for further information. The preceding press release was from Kentucky Human Rights Commission annual report releasedDiscrimination complaints highThe Kentucky Commission on Human Rights received 421 discrimination complaints during the 2008 reporting year, from July 1, 2007 to June 30, 2008. This is the second highest number of complaints for the agency, with 423 in 2007. Executive Director John J. Johnson said, “These statistics remind us that everyday we must remain vigilant in promoting and protecting human rights in our own state.” As has been the case since the commission began enforcing civil rights laws for Kentucky in 1966, race and color is most often the protected class listed in discrimination complaints. However, cases alleging discrimination based on race and color decreased in the last 10 years. There were 219 cases alleging discrimination based on race and color in 1998. In 2008, complainants alleged race and color discrimination 158 times. A discrimination complaint can list more than one basis. For example, a complainant can allege a person discriminated against him based on his race and his age. Therefore, the number of new complaints does not equal the number of the bases of complaints. For the 421 complaints that people made this year, there were 458 bases or protected classes listed in those complaints. The protected class of disability has experienced the highest increase in the last five years, with 46 disability cases in 2003 and 99 cases in 2008. There were nine religion complaints this year, which was slightly up from four last year. Sex discrimination cases remain high with 93 complaints this year. As to the cause of the high number of complaints this year, the commission has no definitive answer. “But, we believe that public awareness regarding the individual’s right to equality has become more widespread over time,” said Executive Director Johnson. “The Kentucky Civil Rights Act and the U.S. Americans with Disabilities Act with their protections of equal access and reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities have come to the public’s attention,” he said. According to the U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey three-year estimate of 2005-2007, Kentucky has one of the highest disability rates in the nation. Among Kentuckians age five and above, 21.2 percent claim at least one disability. The national average is 15.1 percent. “Kentuckians with disabilities are starting to challenge owners of public accommodations such as restaurants and retail stores, owners of rental property, and employers to bring their facilities and policies into compliance with these laws that guarantee equal opportunity,” Mr. Johnson said. The annual report is online at the commission website: www.kchr.ky.govThe preceding press release was from Xtreme Toy Zone Recalls Toy Dinosaurs Due to Violation of Lead Paint StandardThe U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed. Name of Product: “Dinosaur Epoch” Toy Dinosaurs Units: About 480 Importer: Xtreme Toy Zone, of Los Angeles, Calif. Hazard: Surface paint on the toy dinosaurs can contain excessive levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standard. Incidents/Injuries: None reported. Description: The recalled “Dinosaur Epoch” Toy Dinosaurs are battery-operated dinosaurs that move and make sounds. The recall includes the orange-colored “Dinosaur Brachiosaurus” (model #1033) and the green, yellow and orange-colored “Dinosaur Carnotaurus” (model #1030). The model number can be located on the toy’s battery cover. Sold at: Xtreme Toy Zone’s Web site from May 2008 through October 2008 for between $15 and $20. Manufactured in: China Remedy: Consumers should immediately take the recalled toys away from children and contact Xtreme Toy Zone for a refund or exchange. Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Xtreme Toy Zone collect at (213) 237-9983 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.xtremetoyzone.com Fire Marshal Concludes Fire Caused by Smoking in BedThe Kentucky State Fire Marshal’s Office has concluded that a house fire that killed a Munfordville woman Wednesday was caused by smoking in bed. The victim was identified as Frances Phillips, 77. She lived in the home with her brother, Charles Nunn, 74. Nunn was injured in the fire. According to witness accounts, Ms. Phillips had been smoking in bed when her brother found her bedclothes in flames and attempted to put out the fire, said Deputy Fire Marshal Todd Price. Mr. Nunn was burned in the attempt. Rescue workers were notified and responded within minutes. Mr. Nunn is hospitalized at Hardin Memorial Hospital in Elizabethtown. Fire departments from Munfordville, Bonnieville and Horse Cave battled the blaze. The fire was reported at about 5:30 CST. David West, an arson investigator with the Kentucky State Police, aided in the investigation. The State Fire Marshal’s Office is part of the Public Protection Cabinet. The preceding press release was from
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Post by Press Release on Dec 20, 2008 8:55:23 GMT -5
Statement from Gov. Steve Beshear on Jon Draud Kentucky's Education Commissioner resigningKentucky's Education Commissioner Jon Draud“I want to thank Jon Draud for his distinguished career and longstanding commitment to public service in Kentucky, particularly our children. I also wish to extend to Jon my best wishes for his continued and full recovery. As this transition of leadership occurs, I look forward to working with the Board of Education as a new leader is chosen who will move Kentucky forward in our efforts to create the best educational system in America. I am committed to doing whatever it takes to reach that goal – for our children and for our state’s future.” The preceding press release was from Regal Lager Recall to Replace Phil & Teds Strollers Due to Fall HazardThe U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed. Name of Product: Phil & Teds Dash Buggy Strollers Units: 1,600 Importer: Regal Lager Inc., of Kennesaw, Ga. Hazard: The frame handle could fail to latch properly and break, posing a fall hazard to small children. Incidents/Injuries: None reported. Description: This recall involves Phil & Teds Dash Buggy strollers with article #7-1080005 (red) and article #7-10080005 (black). The strollers have a metal frame with three wheels, a cloth seat, and a canopy. The Phil & Teds logo is located on the crotch piece of the harness. The article number can be found on the safety strap hanging from the handle. Sold through: Various independent juvenile specialty stores and online from July 2008 through September 2008 for between $500 and $600. Manufactured in: China Remedy: Consumers should stop using this stroller immediately and contact the company for a replacement stroller frame. Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Regal Lager at (800) 593-5522 or visit the Company’s Website at www.regallager.com Kentucky Human Rights Commission says number of minority educators is too lowThe Kentucky Commission on Human Rights released a report, today, called, Minority Educators in Kentucky Public Schools. The commission compiled statistical information from the Kentucky Department of Education and other sources as its basis for the report. The document illustrates the shortage of minority educators in Kentucky’s 174 school districts. Executive Director John J. Johnson said, “Although the shortage is a national trend, the state of Kentucky has fallen behind many others.” Officials are aware of the minority educator shortage and the state has placed many programs to overcome it, but the problem persists, he said. “This report is an invitation to public officials and all Kentucky citizens to evaluate the current programs in place and creatively design new ones that attract minority students to become educators,” Executive Director Johnson said. According to the report, only 4 percent of public school teachers belong to a minority, yet approximately 14 percent of the student population consists of minorities. The commission produced the report at the request of Rev. Louis Coleman of Louisville, Ky. The late civil rights activist came to the commission approximately two weeks before his death earlier this year and asked the commission to address the issue. The commission published recommendations along with the report. The recommendations include the creation of tax incentives and student loan forgiveness to minority teacher recruits. “Minority student education does not necessarily require minority teachers,” the report says, “but diversity among teachers is very important because [because]…minority teachers bring positive images and varied perspectives to their students.” Kentucky education experts like Dr. Blain Hudson of the University of Louisville have said that minority and low income students perform better when there is diversity in the classroom. “We believe this includes diversity among their teachers, also,” Executive Director Johnson said. Minority Educators in Kentucky’s Public Schools is online at the commission website: www.kchr.ky.govThe preceding press release was from
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Post by Press Release on Dec 20, 2008 9:13:10 GMT -5
Lieutenant Governor Mongiardo visits University of Kentucky Children's HospitalThe holiday season provides an opportunity each year for Kentuckians across the Commonwealth to reflect on their many blessings and reach out to help those in their communities who may be less fortunate. Especially this year, when the tough economic times have many families struggling daily, it is more important than ever that Kentuckians think about one another. Leading by example, the Beshear-Mongiardo Administration has taken the importance of community service to heart this December. For the past two weeks, the staffs of the Governor and Lieutenant Governor’s Offices have been encouraged to bring in new, unused toys to donate to the children of the University of Kentucky Children’s Hospital. The staff rose to the challenge, collecting over 60 presents for some of the young patients who are most in need this Christmas or who have had the longest stays in the hospital clinics. Today, Lieutenant Governor Dr. Daniel Mongiardo had the chance to deliver these gift-wrapped presents to the children. In the hospital’s playroom, parents and hospital staff gathered to watch as the pile of presents quickly became scattered paper, ribbons and bows as children grabbed their gifts and beamed with delight to unwrap their new toys and games. “This is what the spirit of the season is really all about—giving back,” said Lieutenant Governor Daniel Mongiardo. “As a medical doctor, it is especially poignant for me to have the opportunity to deliver these gifts today. I know how hard illness can be not only on young children but on families as well. I hope this celebration today and these toys provide a little bit of joy in what can be a difficult time of year, especially in these tough economic conditions.” While the University of Kentucky Hospital has been taking care of children since 1962, the Kentucky Children’s Hospital was opened in 1997 specifically for the care of youth. The hospital is renowned for its service, commitment to care and serves patients from all 120 counties. For more information on how to get involved or volunteer at the University of Kentucky Children’s Hospital, visit: ukhealthcare.uky.edu/KCHThe preceding press release was from Wagers sentenced to 10 years in prison for possession of firearmHarold Kenny Wagers, 37, of Manchester, KY was sentenced to 10 years in prison for possession of a firearm. In September of 2008, Wagers plead guilty to the charges and admitted he was a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. In April of 2008, Wagers removed a shotgun from his vehicle and aimed it over the hood of his vehicle at another individual. The firearm was loaded with two rounds of ammunition, one of which was chambered. Officer Jeff Couch with the Manchester Police Department was on patrol and observed the incident take place. Officer Couch placed Wagers under arrest. Wagers was indicted in June 2008. Under federal law, Wagers must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence, and, upon release, will be under the supervision of the United States Probation Office for three years. James A. Zerhusen, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, Paul J. Vido, Special Agent in Charge, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (Louisville Field Division) and Dennis Rice, Chief, Manchester Police Department, jointly made the announcement today after the sentencing. The investigation was conducted by the ATF & MPD. The United States was represented by Assistant United States Attorney W. Samuel Dotson. The preceding was a press release from United States Attorney's Office for Eastern District of Kentucky Former Kentucky Counselor Sentenced And Ordered To Pay Restitution To MedicaidAttorney General Jack Conway today announced that a former behavior health professional has been convicted on charges he concealed a prior felony conviction when he sought to treat children in Warren and Barren counties. Kenneth A. Brasel, of Centerville, Tennessee and formerly of Glasgow, Kentucky in Barren County, was sentenced in Warren Circuit Court on two counts of Falsifying or Concealing Material Facts to the Medicaid Program, a Class D felony under KRS 205, which will carry a two year sentence. Under the terms of the plea agreement, the Court ordered the defendant to a sentence of two years in the Kentucky Department of Corrections, which will be probated for a period of five years. Brasel was also ordered to pay restitution to the Kentucky Medicaid Program in the amount of $25,870 and to reimburse the Attorney General’s Office for investigative costs of $6,000. Brasel, 44, failed to disclose to the Kentucky Medicaid Program in 2006 the fact that he was a convicted felon, thus enabling him to illegally participate in the program and obtain funds through the program. Impact Plus, a program administered by the Kentucky Medicaid Program, does not allow convicted felons to participate. Brasel worked for two Impact Plus providers in Barren and Warren Counties. “As the Commonwealth’s chief law enforcement officer and prosecutor, it is my job to ensure that those who are billing the Medicaid system aren’t shortchanging taxpayers. It is because of the hard work of the investigators and prosecutors in our Medicaid Fraud and Abuse Control Division that were able to recover this money on behalf of the taxpayers,” General Conway said. Citizens are urged to report suspected fraud or elder abuse by calling the Attorney General’s tip line at 1-877-ABUSE TIP (1-877-228-7384). The preceding press release was from
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Post by Press Release on Dec 21, 2008 14:47:48 GMT -5
Bunning Rips Bush Administration For Abuse of PowerJim BunningSenator Jim Bunning issued the following statement calling the Bush administration’s decision to use money from the Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP) to bail out the auto industry a gross abuse of power. "It is a shame that the White House, Treasury Secretary Hank Paulson, and Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke have decided to violate the intent of TARP," said Bunning. "Their decision today to use TARP funds to bail out the auto industry is a slap in the face to the American taxpayers and a gross abuse of power. "These funds were never intended to be used to aid manufacturing companies. By law TARP is supposed to be used for buying up toxic securities in the market. That is how Secretary Paulson sold the plan to Congress and that is what President Bush signed into law. A month ago the White House and Secretary Paulson told us that they didn’t have the legal authority to do this. And Congress rejected the terms that President Bush is imposing under his plan to nationalize the auto industry." The preceding press release was from United States Senator Jim Bunning. TWO MORE STALLIONS TEST POSITIVE FOR CEMCOMMISSIONER FARMER CALLS FOR SWIFT FEDERAL ACTIONRichie FarmerKentucky Agriculture Commissioner Richie Farmer has asked U.S. Agriculture Secretary Ed Schafer to move quickly to declare a state of agricultural emergency and commit federal funds in connection with an outbreak of contagious equine metritis in central Kentucky. The request is a proactive measure to ensure that sufficient resources are available to manage the disease outbreak, Commissioner Farmer said. “It is important for the people of Kentucky to understand that this could be a serious situation in our signature equine industry,” Commissioner Farmer said. “The state is working with federal authorities to contain the outbreak and determine its source.” Kentucky’s horse industry has a total estimated economic impact of approximately $5 billion a year. The horse industry generates an estimated 80,000-100,000 jobs, and another 14,000 jobs come from tourism businesses related to the horse industry. Kentucky farm cash receipts for equine, including stud fees, are estimated at $1 billion annually. Two more stallions have tested positive for contagious equine metritis, making a total of three from a single central Kentucky farm. The stallions added to the list are a 13-year-old quarter horse and a 4-year-old registered with the American Paint Horse Association. A 16-year-old quarter horse tested positive on Dec. 10, and the National Veterinary Services Laboratories in Ames, Iowa, confirmed the result on Dec. 15. The affected stallions and all exposed horses on the farm have been quarantined. Testing was performed by the University of Kentucky Livestock Disease Diagnostic Center in Lexington. “The expertise available at LDDC greatly enhances our ability to respond both quickly and effectively to disease outbreaks,” State Veterinarian Robert C. Stout said. Commissioner Farmer is closely monitoring the investigation and has informed Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear of the progress of the investigation. The Governor has assured Commissioner Farmer that he understands the seriousness of the situation and has pledged to work with the Commissioner to address the matter. “The state is acting aggressively to contain and mitigate this disease,” Commissioner Farmer said. “Our interstate and international trading partners can be confident that Kentucky will employ all necessary resources to deal with this situation.” Contagious equine metritis is a transmissible, exotic venereal disease in horses. It usually results in infertility in mares and, on rare occasions, can cause mares to spontaneously abort. Infected stallions exhibit no clinical signs but can carry the CEM bacteria for years. CEM is commonly transmitted during sexual intercourse but also may be transmitted indirectly through artificial insemination or contact with contaminated hands or objects. CEM can be treated with disinfectants and antibiotics. There is no evidence that CEM affects people. The preceding press release was from Manchester resident and Commissioner Richie Farmer and the Kentucky Department of Agriculture. Doctor Indicted for Prescribing Pills in Exchange for Money and SexA doctor in Augusta, Ky., Milton Brindley, 65, was charged in a Federal Indictment today for providing pill prescriptions to individuals in exchange for cash payments and their participation in sexual acts. The grand jury charged Brindley with Use of a Premises for Drug Trafficking, Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances, eight counts of Distribution of Controlled Substances and six counts of Attempt to Distribute Controlled Substances. During a period of time that ended in June of 2007, Brindley conspired with other individuals to unlawfully prescribe controlled substances that were subsequently distributed throughout the Eastern District of Kentucky and the southern portion of Ohio. Brindley prescribed hydrocodone and oxycodone pills among other controlled substances. The individuals obtaining the illegal prescriptions filled them at a pharmacy in Kenton County, Ky. In addition to the sex acts and cash payments, the indictment alleged that Brindley also received pornographic materials from the individuals he prescribed pills to. Brindley made $591,575 in proceeds from the conspiracy. Brindley has practiced medicine for 36 years. According to the indictment, the United States is also seeking the forfeiture of more than $22,000 and the pornographic DVDs and VHS tapes seized from Brindley’s office. In addition, the United States also seeks the forfeiture of $13,000 seized from Brindley’s automobile and residence. James A. Zerhusen, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, and Robert L. Corso, Special Agent in Charge, Drug Enforcement Administration, jointly made the announcement today after a federal grand jury in London returned the Indictment. The investigation preceding the Indictment was conducted by the Kentucky State Police and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The Indictment was presented to the grand jury by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Bracke. Brindley’s appearance before the United States District Court has not yet been set by the Court in Covington, Ky. If convicted, he faces a maximum prison sentence of 20 years. However, any sentence following conviction would be imposed by the court after consideration of the United States Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statute governing the imposition of sentences. The indictment of a person by a grand jury is an accusation only, and that person is presumed innocent unless proven guilty. The preceding was a press release from United States Attorney's Office for Eastern District of Kentucky
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Post by Press Release on Dec 23, 2008 14:32:16 GMT -5
Farmers’ markets offer food you can serve with confidenceAgriculture Commissioner Richie Farmer chats with Carol Cassedy of Whitestone Farm and Bakery in Bagdad at the Heart of St. Matthews Farmers’ Market in August 2008. (Ted Sloan photo)The 2008 salmonella outbreak sent many Kentucky consumers to their local farmers’ markets for fresh Kentucky Proud produce grown by their fellow Kentuckians. “When you buy Kentucky Proud fruits and vegetables, you can be confident that they will be good for your family,” Agriculture Commissioner Richie Farmer said. Kentucky had an all-time high of 120 farmers’ markets in 2008. Statewide sales for 2007 were estimated at $8 million despite a late freeze and a severe drought. More than 710 farmers’ market vendors completed training on offering samples at farmers’ markets, according to the 2008 Annual Farmers’ Market Report. More than 1,000 Kentucky producers completed training for handling produce to minimize the risk of contamination, the report said. The Kentucky Department of Agriculture’s Farmers’ Market Program provides technical assistance for Kentucky farmers’ markets and offers Kentucky Proud promotional items at cost. The program worked with the state Department for Public Health and the Kentucky Farmers’ Market Association to publish a procedural manual that assists farmers’ markets. The program maintains a directory of markets’ locations and hours. The preceding press release was from Manchester resident and Commissioner Richie Farmer and the Kentucky Department of Agriculture. Former Army National Guard Member Sentenced on Receipt of Child Pornography Matthew Emmett Dickerson, 28, was sentenced today to 72 months in prison and lifetime supervision for Receiving Child Pornography. Dickerson admitted that in October and December of 2006, he ordered monthly internet subscriptions that included more than 500 photographs and four videos containing images of child pornography. Some of the images included children as young as six-years-old engaging in sexually explicit conduct. The images were recovered from Dickerson’s computer in June of 2008. Dickerson was a member of the Army National Guard when the images were discovered. Under federal law, Dickerson must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence. James A. Zerhusen, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, and Brett Flinn, Resident Agent in Charge, Defense Criminal Investigative Service, jointly made the announcement today after Dickerson was sentenced. The investigation was conducted by the Defense Criminal Investigative Service. The United States was represented in the case by Assistant United States Attorney Hydee R. Hawkins. The preceding was a press release from United States Attorney's Office for Eastern District of Kentucky KU Rate Increase Depends On Hurricane Ike CostsRate decision will follow restoration effort reviewThe Kentucky Public Service Commission (PSC) today allowed Louisville Gas and Electric Co. (LG&E) and Kentucky Utilities Co. (KU) to set up separate accounts to track power restoration costs and other expenses associated with recovery from the damage caused by Hurricane Ike as it swept through Kentucky on Sept. 14. But, in an order issued today, the PSC said a decision on what portion of those costs may be recovered from ratepayers won’t be made until after the PSC completes its review of the utilities’ disaster preparedness and storm restoration efforts. A report will come next year. Today’s decision allows LG&E and KU to create separate accounts to track their storm-related costs. The accounts, known as regulatory assets, are a tool that allows unusual or one-time costs to be deferred for a period of time for possible future recovery through rates. While the establishment of regulatory assets is done in expectation of future cost recovery through rates, it is not a guarantee of recovery. That determination will be made in a rate case based upon the evidence presented in that proceeding. LG&E is authorized to establish a regulatory asset of $24.1 million, which is the amount the utility requested. KU is allowed to establish a regulatory asset of $2.56 million, also the amount requested. More than 300,000 of LG&E’s 401,000 customers, most of them in Jefferson County, lost power during the storm. Damage to the KU system was less extensive, with 76,000 of its 503,000 customers losing power. Most of the KU outages were in western Kentucky. All three PSC commissioners approved LG&E’s request to establish a regulatory asset. Vice Chairman Jim Gardner dissented from the decision to allow KU a regulatory asset, saying the amount requested was too small to justify separating it from normal expenses. One other utility, Duke Energy Kentucky Inc., has asked the PSC to allow the establishment of a regulatory asset to account for costs related to Hurricane Ike. A decision in that case is pending. Utilities routinely seek establishment of regulatory assets following natural disasters that cause significant damage and outages. KU was authorized to establish such an account following the February 2003 ice storm, while LG&E was granted a regulatory asset after the 1974 tornado in Louisville. The PSC has begun a review of how LG&E, KU and other affected utilities responded to Hurricane Ike. The review is examining not only the efforts to restore electric power and telephone service, but also preparation for major outages, communication with customers and coordination with local governments. Utilities have responded to an information request from the PSC. Information has been received from local officials in affected cities and counties. The PSC review also will include comments received from customers during and following the outages. Following an initial review, the PSC will gather whatever additional evidence it deems necessary. A report will be issued in several months. Today’s order and related documents are available on the PSC Web site, psc.ky.gov. The case numbers are 2008-00456 (LG&E) and 2008-00457 (KU). 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. The preceding press release was from
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Post by Press Release on Dec 24, 2008 8:32:00 GMT -5
Health Care Benefit Owner Pleads Guilty to Fraud Scheme The owner of a health care benefit program in Florence, Ky. pleaded guilty today to defrauding his clients of $571,000. James Pullen, 43, of Alpharetta, Ga. admitted that from July of 2003 until November of 2004 he used his clients’ health care premium payments to pay company expenses. Pullen billed his clients monthly invoices for the benefits and after receving their payments he deposited their money into his company’s bank account. Pullen was supposed to deposit them into a an employers health care contributions account which was created on behalf of the employers. Pullen owned a self-funded and self-promoted program called Triple Crown Financial Group. James A. Zerhusen, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky and Frank Schneider, Senior Investigator of the U.S. Department of Labor jointly made the announcement after Pullen entered his guilty plea. The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Department of Labor. The United States was represented by Ben Dusing. Pullen will appear in U.S. District Court in Covington for sentencing on April 20 at 1:30. If he’s convicted, Pullen faces up to 20 years in prison. However, the court will consider the United States Sentencing Guidelines before imposing sentence. The preceding was a press release from United States Attorney's Office for Eastern District of Kentucky Refund Checks Issued To Kentuckians Misled By Purported Veterans CharityAttorney General Jack Conway issued refund checks totaling nearly $10,000 to 558 Kentuckians who made donations to the American Veterans Coalition. Earlier this month, General Conway announced a settlement with the Washington-based charity that claimed to raise funds to help pay veterans’ expenses but ultimately gave less than 1% of the money raised to veterans. “Kentuckians gave to the American Veterans Coalition with the belief that their contributions would help those who have sacrificed so much for our country. Unfortunately, they were misled. I am pleased that we were able to recover the money and that we can now return it to the families who gave so generously,” said General Conway. In the settlement announced December 10th, American Veterans Coalition and its principal operators, Robert Friend, Jr. and Shao Mei Wang, were barred from soliciting contributions in the Commonwealth of Kentucky for 10 years. The settlement also required the charity to refund $9,927.50, the entire amount raised in Kentucky, as restitution. The Office of the Attorney General alleged the American Veterans Coalition violated the Consumer Protection Act by making false and misleading statements to donors about how contributions would be used. Investigators report that the Coalition misled donors into believing that a substantial amount of their donations would be spent on providing financial assistance to veterans. Of the $1,239,812 raised nationally in 2006, the group only spent $7,400 in financial assistance to veterans. Since taking office, General Conway has announced five other settlements and recovered $46,827.50 for the Commonwealth and consumers from charities or solicitors that have allegedly violated Consumer Protection laws. The preceding press release was from Hallmark Recalls Jumbo Snow Globes Due to Fire HazardThe U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed. Name of Product: Jumbo Snowman Snow Globes Units: 7,000 Importer: Hallmark Cards Inc., of Kansas City, Mo. Hazard: When exposed to sunlight, the snow globes can act as a magnifying glass and ignite nearby combustible materials, posing a fire hazard. Incidents/Injuries: Hallmark has received two reports of the snow globes igniting nearby materials. No injuries have been reported. Description: This recall involves a Hallmark Jumbo Snow Globe in the shape of a snowman with model number 1XAG5093 and UPC code 795902066666. The snow globe measures 11 by 12 by 17 inches. The model number and the UPC code can be found on the back of the hangtag. Sold at: Hallmark Gold Crown stores nationwide from October 2008 through November 2008 for about $100. Manufactured in: China Remedy: Consumers should immediately remove the snow globe from exposure to sunlight and return it to any Hallmark Gold Crown store for a full refund. Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Hallmark at (800) 425-5627 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday or visit the firm’s Web site at www.hallmark.com New Nursing Home Rating System Enhances Tools for ConsumersThe Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS) recently launched a new rating system to be used as a tool for consumers to access information about the past performances of every CMS certified nursing home in the country, including facilities in Kentucky. The feature is part of CMS’ Nursing Home Compare Web site. The Cabinet for Health and Family Services Office of Inspector General (OIG) strongly encourages consumers to use the tool along with other resources such as visiting facilities, talking with staff, or contacting the cabinet’s long-term care regional ombudsman offices for more information. “We’re excited about the launch of Nursing Home Compare’s rating system and welcome the opportunity for consumers to have online access to past inspections of facilities,” said CHFS Inspector General Sadiqa Reynolds. “Still, we want to emphasize there are additional avenues for gathering information, particularly visits to facilities, when considering where to place a family member or loved one.” The new five-point rating system provides numerical ratings of nursing home facilities, ranging from one (poor) to five (excellent). The rating is composed of data gleaned from health surveys, nurse staffing data from the most recent health survey inspection and several quality measures. “The rating system was created to be a tool for consumers, but it isn’t the only resource out there,” said Reynolds. “Patients have individual needs, and a facility’s ability to respond to them can vary. That’s why it’s important to visit facilities and talk to the staff about individual situations.” Reynolds also stressed that Nursing Home Compare only includes information on nursing homes that are Medicare or Medicaid certified. Those interested in information about any facility not found in this database should contact the OIG at (502) 564-7963. For more information or to ask questions regarding nursing home facilities in Kentucky, call the CHFS long-term care ombudsman at (800) 372-2991. Contact information for ombudsman staff serving the state’s various regions can be found at: chfs.ky.gov/NR/rdonlyres/DE885EC9-5B88-447A-8530-AEF3707C69FE/0/ltcoDistricts.htmThe preceding press release was from
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Post by Press Release on Dec 24, 2008 21:22:04 GMT -5
State Parks Extend $50 Lodge Room Discount Into 2009The Kentucky State Parks are extending a coupon offer good for a $50 lodge room Sundays through Thursdays. The latest offer is good from Jan. 4 to Feb. 26, 2009. Coupons are available at www.parks.ky.gov. One coupon is good for each stay and can be used for up to five nights Sunday –Thursday. Choosing one night or more would make the perfect winter getaway or holiday gift package. All resort parks all have lodges, restaurants, gift shops, hiking trails, wildlife viewing and other activities. Some resort parks have historic sites and museums on park grounds or other state park historic sites located nearby. And many offer golf if the weather cooperates. This offer is good for leisure travel only and is not to be combined with other offers. A limited number of rooms for this offer are available at each park. Taxes not included. Gift cards are also available for state parks – they make great gifts for the holidays or other special occasions. State parks are also offering New Year’s Eve packages and discounts for the Jan. 1-3 period to help celebrate the University of Kentucky’s appearance in the Liberty Bowl. The Kentucky State Park System is composed of 52 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. Each year, Kentucky parks draw 7 million visitors and contribute $317 million to the economy. For more information on Kentucky parks, visit our Web site at: www.parks.ky.govThe preceding press release was from Stop N Shop Owner Sentenced for Assisting in $60 Million Retail Theft Ring A Lexington Man was sentenced today to 72 months in prison for his role in a $60 million organized retail theft ring. Abduhl Sulaiman, 47, owned the Stop N Shop Discount Food on Winburn Drive in Lexington. He used the store to launder more than $60 million primarily for a retail theft ring called Alpha Trading in Louisville, Ky. Alpha Trading shoplifted baby formula and health and beauty aids from stores for the purpose of selling the products at a discounted rate. The ring paid Sulaiman approximately $500,000 to cash checks and wire money for members of the crime ring at his grocery store. Sulaiman was convicted in June of Money Laundering, Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering and Failure to File a Currency Transaction Report. James A. Zerhusen, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, Timothy D. Cox, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Craig Walker, Supervisory Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service jointly made the announcement today after the sentencing. Sulaiman will serve at least 85 percent of his prison sentence. The investigation was conducted by the FBI and the IRS. The United States was represented in the case by Assistant United States Attorney Ken Taylor. The preceding was a press release from United States Attorney's Office for Eastern District of Kentucky Munire Recalls “Newport Rubbed Black” Cribs and Matching FurnitureDue to Violation of Lead Paint StandardThe U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed. Name of Product: Newport Rubbed Black 4-in-1 Cribs and Matching Furniture Units: About 3,000 Cribs and 6,000 Matching Furniture Pieces Manufacturer: Munire Furniture Inc, of Piscataway, N.J. Hazard: The red paint which is underneath the black finish paint on some of the cribs and matching furniture exceeds federal lead limits. If ingested by young children lead can cause adverse health effects. Incidents/Injuries: Munire has received one report of a child ingesting the paint. The child was diagnosed with lead poisoning. Description: The recalled cribs and furniture are made of wood and have a rubbed black finish. Only the “Newport Rubbed Black” cribs and matching furniture manufactured in Indonesia between April 2006 and November 2008 are included in this recall. The model number, date, and country of manufacture are printed on the label attached to the side panel of the crib and the date of manufacture is on the back panel of the furniture. Sold at: Specialty furniture stores nationwide from April 2006 through November 2008 for about $600 for the crib and the matching furniture pieces were sold between $700 and $1,000. Additional accessories were sold for about $170. Manufactured in: Indonesia Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the products and contact Munire Furniture to receive a replacement coupon which will entitle consumers to exchange the products for another product free of charge. Consumer Contact: For more information, call Munire Furniture toll-free at (866) 586-9639 between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.munirefurniture.com Conway Announces $1.1 Million Settlement With Drug ManufacturerJack ConwayAttorney General Jack Conway announced a settlement with Bristol-Myers Squibb (BMS) resolving contentions that BMS violated court orders in two earlier lawsuits blocking the company from entering into collusive agreements with generic drug competitors. In settling, BMS acknowledged its responsibility, agreed to pay $1.1 million, including $14,421.52 to the Commonwealth of Kentucky, and consented to court orders designed to avoid future misconduct. “BMS’s actions in violation of express court orders denied the Commonwealth of Kentucky critical information needed to guard against anti-competitive conduct,” General Conway said. “We are sending a strong message to all companies that we will not tolerate non-compliance with court orders or failure to abide by agreements made with the Commonwealth of Kentucky.” In the two prior cases, BMS had settled state charges that it had unlawfully deprived consumers of cheaper generic versions of its drugs Buspar and Taxol. Under those settlements, BMS paid the states $150 million. The company also agreed to two federal court orders that required BMS to avoid any future similar anti-competitive conduct, to notify the states of any patent litigation settlements with generic drug competitors and to provide the states with yearly compliance reports. In March 2006, BMS reached a settlement with generic drug manufacturer Apotex, Inc. in a patent infringement lawsuit involving BMS’ blockbuster drug, Plavix. The Plavix settlement triggered BMS’s notification obligations under the earlier court orders in the Buspar and Taxol cases and was subject to state approval. According to the states, the Plavix settlement that BMS provided was inaccurate and incomplete, as were BMS’s 2007 and 2008 compliance reports, because BMS failed to disclose non-documented, “side” arrangements that a BMS official had made with Apotex. Kentucky and 49 other states contended that BMS’s failure to inform the states of the secret arrangements violated the Buspar and Taxol court orders. As a result of this investigation, BMS acknowledged responsibility for making incomplete and false statements to the states, and agreed to pay the states $1.1 million. BMS further agreed to revised court orders extending its reporting obligations to the states and establishing harsh monetary penalties for any future violations of the Buspar or Taxol court orders. The preceding press release was from
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Post by Press Release on Dec 24, 2008 21:33:59 GMT -5
Beshear Recognizes Sacrifice of Fort Campbell CasualtyGov. Steve Beshear today recognized the sacrifice of a Fort Campbell soldier who died Dec. 20, 2008, supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Staff Sgt. Jonathan W. Dean, 25, of Henagar, Ala., died December 20 of injuries sustained in a non-combat related incident in Tikrit, Iraq. He was assigned to the 561st Military Police Company, 716th Military Police Battalion, 101st Sustainment Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell. 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. Dean’s interment for which arrangements are still pending. The preceding press release was from Murder Suspect Sentenced for Armed Drug Trafficking Darius Harris, 25, of Covington, Ky. was sentenced to 124 months in prison by Judge David L. Bunning for selling crack cocaine and possessing firearms. In September of 2008, Harris was convicted of both of these offenses. He pled guilty to the drug trafficking offense and was convicted by a jury on the weapons charge. Evidence proved that Harris was selling crack cocaine for at least five months. Prior to this case, Harris had been a suspect in a Covington homicide. Authorities searched Harris’ residence during the murder investigation and found more than 15 grams of crack cocaine and five loaded guns. That discovery led to the investigation of the armed drug trafficking case. Harris’ murder charge in Kenton County is still pending. The first trial for the murder charge ended in a hung jury. Under federal law, Harris will have to serve at least 85 percent of his prison sentence before being released. James A. Zerhusen, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, and Paul J. Vido, Special Agent in Charge, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (Louisville Field Division), jointly made the announcement today after Harris was sentenced. The investigation was conducted by the Covington Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives. “Law enforcement and prosecutors are not going to tolerate individuals using firearms to assist them in drug trafficking,” said Tony Bracke who represented the United States in this case. “It’s the collaboration between state and local law enforcement that allows us to punish drug traffickers like Mr. Harris.” The preceding was a press release from United States Attorney's Office for Eastern District of Kentucky Fire Marshal Investigating Fatal Mt. Sterling FireThe Kentucky State Fire Marshal’s Office has responded to the scene of a house fire in Mt. Sterling. According to initial reports, four people have died in the blaze, which broke out late Wednesday morning. Deputy Fire Marshal C.W. Cornett has begun an investigation into the fire’s cause and origin. He is joined by Shane Barnes, an investigator from the Morehead post of the Kentucky State Police. The State Fire Marshal’s Office is part of the Public Protection Cabinet. The preceding press release was from PSC Orders Management Audit of East Kentucky PowerOrder also helps utility avoid credit defaultThe Kentucky Public Service Commission (PSC) today directed East Kentucky Power Cooperative, Inc., (EKPC) to submit to a comprehensive management audit, saying that the utility’s worsening financial problems raise questions about its continued viability. In an order issued today, the PSC also allowed EKPC to create a separate account to track the costs of purchasing replacement power to compensate for unscheduled shutdowns at its generating facilities. EKPC said it needed the accounting adjustment to avoid defaulting on its credit agreements. EKPC’s “precarious financial condition constitutes an extraordinary circumstance that warrants” granting permission to set up the $12.3 million account, known as a regulatory asset, the PSC said in today’s order. Chairman David Armstrong and Vice Chairman Jim Gardner voted to grant the regulatory asset. Commissioner John Clay dissented, saying the decision will keep EKPC’s “creditors at bay for at least one more year, but will not resolve the underlying financial problems” and could “create a disincentive for needed reform.” “Regulatory assets should not be established to allow a utility to adjust its year-end numbers to reflect a certain financial outcome,” Clay said. All three PSC members voted to initiate the comprehensive management audit. EKPC is owned by the 16 distribution cooperatives to which it provides electricity. Those distribution cooperatives serve about 500,000 retail customers in 89 Kentucky counties. Each of the 16 cooperatives has a seat on the utility’s board of directors. The management audit will focus on the role of those directors in the utility’s strategic planning, decision-making and management. The PSC has noted in the past that there is an inherent conflict in the role of EKPC’s directors. They must balance the need to provide EKPC with sufficient revenue to maintain its financial well-being with the desire to maintain low rates for customers of the distribution cooperatives which they represent, the PSC said. “Ultimately, the responsibility for (EKPC’s) viability lies firmly within the province of its board of directors, who have a fiduciary duty to safeguard the financial and operational viability of the cooperative,” the PSC said in today’s order. The PSC cannot make management decisions for EKPC, but it also should not shirk its regulatory responsibilities and “turn a blind eye to a situation which does not appear to be getting better,” the commission said. The management audit will be conducted by an independent consultant selected by the PSC. EKPC will pay for the audit. Findings of management audits can serve as the basis for PSC recommendations or requirements. A utility may be asked to develop a plan to address issues raised by the audit. In asking for creation of the regulatory asset, EKPC said that neither the rate of generation outages nor the cost of buying replacement power from other utilities was unusually high in 2008. However, the $12.3 million spent on replacement power could have impacted the utility’s bottom line enough to trigger default provisions that could lead to higher interest rates or even a credit cutoff. In either case, the financial consequences would be borne by the distribution cooperatives and their customers, the PSC noted in approving the regulatory asset. Regulatory assets are a tool that allows costs to be deferred for a period of time for possible future recovery through rates. While the establishment of regulatory assets is done in expectation of future cost recovery through rates, it is not a guarantee of recovery. That determination will be made in a rate case based upon the evidence presented in that proceeding. EKPC has a request for a rate increase pending before the PSC. The PSC expects to hold hearings in the case in the spring. Today’s order and related documents are available on the PSC Web site, psc.ky.gov. The case number is 2008-00436. The case number for EKPC’s rate adjustment request is 2008-00409. 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. The preceding press release was from Woodstock Percussion Inc. Recalls Toy DrumsDue to Violation of Lead Paint StandardThe U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed. Name of Product: Calypso Steel Drums Units: About 2,800 Manufacturer: Woodstock Percussion Inc., of Shokan, N.Y. Hazard: Surface paint on the recalled toy drums contain excessive levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standard. Incidents/Injuries: None reported. Description: The recalled steel drum is made of steel and comes with two wooden drum sticks and a wooden stand. The sides of the drums are painted red. The drum pan is painted black with silver markings to show the location of notes. Each rim is stamped with a #5 or #6. Not all drums stamped with a #5 are affected by this recall. Sold by: Mail order catalogues, Web sites and retail stores nationwide from December 2006 through December 2007 for between $50 and $100. Manufactured in: Trinidad Remedy: Consumers should immediately take the recalled steel drum away from children and return it to Woodstock Percussion for a replacement drum and a $5 credit or payment. Consumer Contact: For more information, consumers can contact Woodstock Percussion toll-free at (866) 543-2848 anytime, e-mail safety@chimes.com, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.woodstockpercussion.com
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Post by Press Release on Dec 29, 2008 22:35:45 GMT -5
Death Investigation in Clay CountyOn Saturday December 27, 2008 at approximately 1:04 PM EDT the Kentucky State Police Post 11 in London received a report of burned vehicle, with a human body inside, in the Red Bird area of Clay County. Upon arrival KSP Detective Mike Bowling discovered a burned truck with a human body inside. Details of the incident are limited at this time. Positive identification of the person is pending the results of an autopsy. Anyone with information in reference to this investigation is urged to contact the Kentucky State Police at (606) 878-6622 or 1-800-222-5555. Detective Bowling is in charge of the investigation and was assisted at the scene by officers from the Kentucky State Police and Doctor Emily Craig from the State Medical Examiner's Office. The preceding press release was from Kentucky State Police Post 11 in London which serves the following Kentucky Counties: Clay, Laurel, McCreary, Pulaski, Rockcastle, Wayne, and Whitley. Beshear Recognizes Sacrifice of Fort Campbell CasualtyGov. Steve Beshear today recognized the sacrifice of a Fort Campbell soldier who died Dec. 24, 2008, supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. Cpl. Charles P. Gaffney Jr., 42, of Phoenix, Ariz., died Dec. 24 in Paktika, Afghanistan, when his combat outpost received enemy rocket fire. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 506th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell. The governor will order that flags at all state office buildings be lowered to half-staff from sunrise to sunset on the day of Cpl. Gaffney’s interment for which arrangements are still pending. The preceding press release was from Fatal Collision on KY 90 in Wayne CountyOn Thursday December 25, 2008 at 6:13 PM EDT the Kentucky State Police Post 11, London, received a report, from the Wayne County 911 Dispatch Center, of a traffic crash with injury on KY 90 at the 4 mile marker in Wayne County. Upon arrival Kentucky State Police Traffic Crash Reconstructionist Trooper Craig Reed determined that a 1993 green Toyota Corolla passenger car was westbound on KY 90 when it crossed the centerline and struck a 1997 maroon Chrysler Town and Country van head-on. The driver and the passenger of the Toyota were transported to the Wayne County Hospital where the driver, Juan Us Tzoy, 24, of Albany, KY, was pronounced dead by Wayne County Deputy Coroner Gordon Hicks. The passenger, Roberto Melendez, 28, of Albany, KY was then flown to the University of Kentucky Medical Center for treatment. The driver of the Chrysler, Jennifer Riddle, 24, of Monticello, KY was flown from the scene to the University of Kentucky Medical Center for treatment. Medical conditions are unknown at this time. Trooper Reed is leading the investigating into the crash and was assisted at the scene by officers of the Kentucky State Police, the Wayne County Sheriff's Office, the Wayne County EMS and the Monticello Fire Department. The preceding press release was from Kentucky State Police Post 11 in London which serves the following Kentucky Counties: Clay, Laurel, McCreary, Pulaski, Rockcastle, Wayne, and Whitley.
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Post by Press Release on Dec 30, 2008 15:36:35 GMT -5
Beshear calls upon pension systems to give relief to cities, countiesProposed changes would provide $37.5 million in immediate financial reliefGovernor Steve BeshearGov. Steve Beshear today said he is asking the state’s retirement system boards to enact policy changes that will provide more than $37 million in immediate relief to cities, counties and school districts struggling with shortfalls in the wake of the country’s financial crisis. Specifically, Beshear recommends that cities and counties be permitted to spread their required contribution obligations over a 10-year period instead of the current five-year required time frame. The move, which has been found to be actuarially sound by the Kentucky Retirement Systems (KRS), would provide about $37.5 million of immediate relief to cities and counties next fiscal year, while ensuring a fiscally sound pension system. “Just as the state is struggling to cope with the worst national financial crisis since the Great Depression, cities and counties are straining to provide the most basic services to their residents,” said Gov. Beshear, who was joined in today’s announcement by Louisville Mayor Jerry Abramson, Lexington Mayor Jim Newberry, Sylvia Lovely, executive director of the Kentucky League of Cities (KLC) and Bob Arnold, executive director of the Kentucky Association of Counties (KACo). “My proposal will provide more than $37 million of immediate relief to our local governments in a way that keeps our pension systems financially sound for years to come.” Gov. Beshear’s recommendations are in response to the report of his bipartisan Public Pension Working Group, chaired by Finance and Administration Cabinet Sec. Jonathan Miller. Gov. Beshear said he hoped the KRS board would meet prior to the start of the upcoming legislative session to address his recommendations. “Allowing additional time to achieve full funding of the actuarially required contribution is a critical component of our strategy to bring desperately needed financial relief to county government,” said Bob Arnold of KACo. “We look forward to working with the governor and legislative leaders to assure that the public pension system and the local governments that support that system remain financially strong.” “With city budgets already cut to the quick, this proposal is an important component in our efforts to make employer contribution rates immediately more affordable for cities,” said Sylvia Lovely of KLC. “Governor Beshear’s proposal is a responsible and fair approach that ensures the soundness of the retirement system and bridles the increasing costs to local governments,” said Louisville Mayor Jerry Abramson. “First, cities must do right by their citizens, who have every right to expect excellent services,” Lexington Mayor Jim Newberry said. “But responsible public officials also want to do right by public retirees by honoring the retirement agreements that were made with them when they were hired. Striking a balance is hard, particularly in this economic climate and particularly when some retirement costs have not been adequately addressed in decades. The Governor’s proposal will help us through a very difficult year.” Today’s recommendations encompass a broad range of other pension reform issues, including providing financial relief to cities and counties, pursuit of securities’ litigation claims, refining state funding procedures, and reforming the delivery of health care. Other recommendations include: • Adopting effective securities’ litigation policies to enable the pension systems to claim millions of dollars of damages from Wall Street losses where companies have engaged in illegal or unethical practices; • Exploring creative health-care reforms adopted in other states to provide affordable health benefits, while ensuring the long-term financial stability of the funds; • Promoting the state’s existing optional defined contribution, 401(k)-style plan, the Kentucky Public Employees’ Deferred Compensation Authority, to encourage individual retirement savings; • Providing more oversight and transparency of pension system funds to enable the Governor and the General Assembly to ensure that the systems are properly funded; and • Amending enabling law to authorize the Kentucky Asset Liability Commission (ALCo) to issue pension-related bonds when funds are appropriated by the General Assembly to pay off unfunded liabilities of the pension systems. Specifically, consideration should be given to authorize the issuance of bonds, if market conditions are favorable, to repay funds to the KTRS pension fund that have been used to cover health insurance costs for KTRS members. House State Government Committee Chairman Mike Cherry has pre-filed legislation to provide the $37.5 million of relief to cities and counties, if the KRS board doesn’t adopt the recommendations. “I strongly commend Rep. Cherry for his leadership on the pension issue, both in terms of his pre-filed bill but more importantly for shepherding the significant pension reform and modernization legislation passed in last summer’s special session,” said Gov. Beshear. “I think this extended timetable is fair and reasonable,” said Rep. Mike Cherry. “Given the current stark economic situation, any relief we can responsibly provide to our cities and counties should be done.” “Each of the governor’s recommendations help ensure the objectives of HB 1 from this year’s special session,” said Sec. Miller. “These objectives are to provide teachers and state employees a safe and secure retirement, in a manner that is sustainable into the long term for Kentucky taxpayers.” The preceding press release was from Bunning Blasts Bush Administration For GMAC BailoutJim BunningSenator Jim Bunning issued the following statement on the Bush administration’s decision to use money from the Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP) to bail out GMAC. "With twenty-one days left, the Bush administration has run amok yet again in spending TARP funds," said Bunning. "Last night’s action by Treasury Secretary Hank Paulson to use $6 billion to prop up GMAC proves the bailout of the auto industry will cost much more than the original plan. This bailout also gives further taxpayer money to the billionaires at Cerberus who already were bailed out of their bad investments in Chrysler. Back in March, Alvaro de Molina, CEO of GMAC said ‘We have a plan to be profitable in 2008’- I guess that plan was to saddle the American taxpayer with GMAC’s faulty lending practices. "The White House, Treasury Secretary Paulson, and Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke continue to run roughshod over the intent of TARP. The administration essentially sold a false bill of goods to Congress. It will take decades to get out of the financial mess left by this administration. I only hope that the incoming administration will see the light, but I fear that is wishful thinking." The preceding press release was from United States Senator Jim Bunning.
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Post by Press Release on Dec 31, 2008 18:15:03 GMT -5
Ten Highway Deaths Over Christmas HolidayDecember 22 - December 28Preliminary statistics* indicate that ten people died in ten separate crashes on Kentucky's roadways during the Christmas holiday period from 6:00 p.m. Wednesday, December 24th through 11:59 p.m. Sunday, December 28, 2008. Nine of the fatalities involved motor vehicles and none of those victims were wearing seat belts. Single vehicle crashes occurred in Bourbon, Breathitt, Campbell, Fayette, Floyd, Madison, Pulaski, Rowan and Wayne counties. One fatality involved a pedestrian in Jefferson county. Through December 28, 2008 preliminary statistics* indicate that 811 people have lost their lives on Kentucky roadways during 2008. This is 50 fewer than reported for this time period in 2007. Of the 628 motor vehicle fatalities, 391 victims were not wearing seat belts. Of the 89 motorcycle fatalities, 53 were not wearing helmets. Twenty-three people have been killed in ATV crashes and 21 of those were not wearing helmets. Sixty-five pedestrians have been killed. A total of 174 fatalities have resulted from crashes involving the suspected use of alcohol. *These statistics are still preliminary as KSP waits for all local law enforcement agencies throughout the state to report any crashes and fatalities that may have occurred in their areas.Citizens can contribute to highway safety by reporting erratic drivers to the Kentucky State Police toll-free at 1-800-222-5555. Callers will remain anonymous and should give a description of the vehicle, location, direction of travel and license number if possible. The preceding press release was from Kentucky State Police Post 11 in London which serves the following Kentucky Counties: Clay, Laurel, McCreary, Pulaski, Rockcastle, Wayne, and Whitley. Officials from Two Kentucky Oil and Gas Companies ArraignedCharged with Defrauding Investors of $3 MillionSix officials from Target Oil and Gas and Kentucky and Indiana Oil and Gas companies in Danville, Ky. were arraigned today in U.S. District Court for a 26-count indictment, issued earlier this month, that accused the defendants of defrauding their investors of more than $3 million. The indictment charged Michael Smith, who is the president of Target Oil and Gas and controlling interest holder of Kentucky and Indiana Oil and Gas of conspiring with his brother and vice president of Target Oil Christopher Smith, Christopher’s son Shaun Smith, 27, of Cookeville Tenn., Ray Garton, 58, of Barrackville, W.Va., Mark Irwin, 26, of Cookeville, Tenn., and Joshua Scott Harris, 23, of Hustonville, Ky. with one count of conspiracy, 20 counts of mail fraud, and two counts of wire fraud. Michael Smith, 53, of Lancaster, Ky., Christopher Smith, 48, of Prestonsburg, Ky., Joshua Harris, and Mark Irwin were also charged with selling securities without a license. All six defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges. The indictment alleged that from February of 2003 until February of 2008, the officials at the two companies conspired to create a scheme to defraud investors from several states that purchased shares in both companies’ oil and gas well drilling programs. The officials are accused of collecting $3, 192, 793.50 in investors money while only distributing $37,882.00 in royalties. The indictment accused the defendants of a conspiracy to create oil and gas drilling programs in Albany, Ky., Middlesboro, Ky., Corbin, Ky., Salyersville, Ky., Prestonsburg, Ky., and areas in Texas, West Virginia, and Tennessee. According to the indictment, Michael Smith and geologist Ray Garton prepared or directed others to prepare drilling program brochures for potential investors. These brochures included misrepresentations and false statements to inspire potential investors to purchase shares in the programs. The indictment alleged that the brochures included false statements about successes of existing programs, specific wells that hit oil or gas, and geological reports prepared by Garton. The geological reports represented that Garton individually assessed the proposed drilling sites and offered geological information based on these assessments. However, the indictment alleged that Garton didn’t performed the individualized assessments and prepared geological reports that were applicable only to the general region that included the proposed site. Also, According to the indictment, Michael Smith and Christopher Smith intentionally failed to disclose to potential investors in the brochures that several states issued Cease and Desist orders against Target Oil. A Cease and Desist order is an order issued by a state entity that prohibits a company from certain business practices. Seven states, including Kentucky, issued Cease and Desist orders that prohibited Target Oil from among other things, using unregistered brokers to sell unregistered securities and making untrue statements of material facts to potential investors. In 2003, the Kentucky Department of Financial Institutions entered into an agreed Cease and Desist order with Target Oil. The institution ordered Target Oil to stop selling securities to non accredited investors and to offer all material facts during the sale of an investment. James A. Zerhusen, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, and Michael D. Galuppo, Special Agent in Charge of the United States Postal Service (USPS) jointly made the announcement today after the arraignment. The case was investigated by the USPS and the Kentucky Department of Financial Institutions. The United States was represented by Assistant United States Attorney Frances Catron-Malone. The indictment of a person by a grand jury is an accusation only, and that person is presumed innocent unless proven guilty. The preceding was a press release from United States Attorney's Office for Eastern District of Kentucky
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Post by Press Release on Jan 3, 2009 11:42:05 GMT -5
Leary Convicted on Crack Cocaine and Firearm ChargesA federal jury convicted Raymond Earl Leary, 29, originally of Edenton, N.C., of possession with the intent to distribute crack cocaine, possession of firearms in furtherance of his drug crime, and being a prohibited person in possession of firearms. Leary was prohibited from possessing firearms because of his previous felony misdemeanor domestic violence convictions, and a domestic violence order. The evidence established that on May 15, 2008, Lexington Police responded to a domestic violence call and searched the victim’s apartment where Leary lived. The officers found three firearms, one of which was used to threaten the victim. In addition, the officers located 3.48 grams of crack cocaine located in plastic bags underneath some of Leary’s baseball hats. The quantity of crack cocaine found was the equivalent to 17 “hits” according to testimony. After officers found the crack cocaine and firearms, Leary admitted he was a convicted felon. The officers arrested Leary, searched him and found $448 in his pocket. Testimony at trial established that Leary had no job at the time of his arrest. Leary stated he had been living with the victim for approximately two months. James A. Zerhusen, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, Ronnie Bastin, Chief, Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government Division of Police, and Paul J. Vido, Special Agent in Charge, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (Louisville Field Division), jointly made the announcement today after the jury returned the verdict. The investigation was conducted by the Lexington Police Department and ATF. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office in connection with the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) program. The PSN program is a Department of Justice initiative aimed at reducing gun crimes and violent crime, including crimes involving firearms and narcotics. The United States was represented in the trial by Assistant United States Attorney Robert M. Duncan, Jr., and Special Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer O. True. Leary is currently scheduled to appear for sentencing before Senior Judge Karl S. Forester in Lexington, Ky., on March 27, 2009, at 9:00 a.m. Leary faces a maximum prison sentence of 20 years on the drug charge, a 10 year maximum sentence on the prohibited possession of firearm convictions, and a minimum sentence of five years on the conviction for possession of firearms in furtherance of his drug crime. However, his sentence will be imposed by the court after consideration of the United States Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statute governing the imposition of sentences. The preceding was a press release from United States Attorney's Office for Eastern District of Kentucky Boys Reversible Vests Recalled by Bon-Ton StoresDue to Choking HazardThe U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed. Name of Product: Boy’s Reversible Vests Units: About 5,000 Retailer: The Bon-Ton Department Stores Inc., of York, Pa. Hazard: The zipper tabs on these vests fail to meet the children's torques test standards, posing a choking hazard to children. Incidents/Injuries: None reported. Description: This recall involves the “Ruff Hewn” reversible vests for boys sold in toddler (style # F821235) and 4 through 7 sizes (style # F841235). The vests are brown and reverse to a camouflage print. “Ruff Hewn” is printed on the tag found in the left pocket of the brown side and on the price tag. The style number is printed on the price tag. Sold at: Bon-Ton, Bergner’s, Boston Store, Elder-Beerman, Herberger’s, Younkers, and Carson Pirie Scott stores nationwide and Parisian in the Detroit area from July 2008 through November 2008 for about $30. Manufactured in: India Remedy: Consumers should immediately take these vests away from children and return them to the store where purchased for a full refund. Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Bon-Ton toll-free at (866)798-2875 anytime or visit the company’s Web site at www.bonton.com
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Post by Press Release on Jan 4, 2009 9:34:40 GMT -5
McCONNELL: Protect the Taxpayer Against the Rush to Spend Their MoneyMitch McConnellSenate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell made the following statement Friday regarding the as-yet-unwritten Trillion-Dollar Spending Bill and the need for the American taxpayer to have time to review the legislation: “We agree with President-elect Obama that taking action to turn the economy around is job one. We also agree, though, that every dollar needs to be spent wisely and not wasted in the rush to get it spent. And we believe that his admonition to ‘go through the federal budget—page by page, line by line—eliminating those programs we don’t need, and insisting that those we do operate in a sensible cost-effective way’ should apply to this, potentially the largest spending bill ever considered by the Congress. And we hope that Democrats in Congress don’t attempt to shut the American taxpayer out of this process by trying to pass a bill that hasn’t been the subject of bipartisan review and that hasn’t been available for public inspection.” The preceding press release was from United States Senator Mitch McConnell.
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Post by Press Release on Jan 5, 2009 18:37:16 GMT -5
STUDENTS CAN USE WORDS AND PICTURESTO SHOW WHY ‘I AM KENTUCKY PROUD’Richie FarmerAgriculture Commissioner Richie Farmer invites Kentucky school children to show why “I Am Kentucky Proud” in the Kentucky Department of Agriculture’s annual Poster and Essay Contest. “The Kentucky Proud movement is sweeping the Commonwealth,” Commissioner Farmer said. “This contest will help our children learn what Kentucky Proud is and how it helps consumers find healthy, great-tasting food while also helping Kentucky farmers make a living.” Students in kindergarten through eighth grade may enter a poster, an essay or both about Kentucky Proud. Statewide winners in each grade will be awarded a $100 savings bond and will be honored at the annual Kentucky Agriculture Day luncheon March 10 in Frankfort. Poster contest entries must be in color on white paper, must demonstrate the theme and must include the theme in the artwork. Entries should be submitted rolled in a tube or wrapped flat. Essay contest entries must be no more than 150 words for participants in kindergarten through third grade and no more than 250 words for those in fourth through eighth grade. Entries must be mailed to Kentucky Department of Agriculture, Poster and Essay Contest, 100 Fair Oaks Lane, 5th Floor, Frankfort, KY 40601. Entries must be postmarked no later than Feb. 13. The KDA will notify winners in each grade by Feb. 20. For complete contest rules and an entry form, go to the Kentucky Department of Agriculture’s Web Site, www.kyagr.com, click on Education Resources under the Programs menu, click on Agriculture Education and click on 2009 Poster & Essay Contest Rules and Entry Forms. For more information, contact Elizabeth McNulty at (502) 564-4983 or elizabeth.mcnulty@ky.gov. The preceding press release was from Manchester resident and Commissioner Richie Farmer and the Kentucky Department of Agriculture. Governor Urges Kentuckians to Apply for the Earned Income Tax CreditUnveils Web Site Listing Free Tax Preparation LocationsGovernor Steve BeshearGovernor Steve Beshear announced today a campaign to encourage more Kentuckians to apply for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), a refundable federal tax credit for low- and middle-income working individuals and families. “The EITC is one of our best anti-poverty tools, and I want to make sure every eligible Kentuckian takes advantage of it and gets the money they deserve,” Gov. Beshear said in announcing the campaign. Specifically, Gov. Beshear announced a list of nearly 200 free tax preparation sites serving 90 counties across the state where volunteer tax preparers who have been trained and are IRS-certified will assist Kentuckians with their taxes and help them apply for the EITC. Information about these sites, including addresses and phone numbers, is available on the Web site Gov. Beshear unveiled in October -- www.assistance.ky.gov. These sites will begin offering their services on various dates between mid-January and February 1, and their hours vary by site. Therefore, Gov. Beshear encouraged Kentuckians to call the sites before visiting. He also noted that the Kentucky Department of Revenue provides free online tax assistance, and their link can also be found on the Web site. Eligibility for the EITC is based on income, as is the amount of the credit. Workers who earn up to $41,000 may be eligible, and credits can be as high as $4,824. In tax year 2005, the most recent year available, Kentuckians filed more than 345,000 EITC claims for a total of $633.4 million in benefits statewide. Unfortunately, an estimated 20 percent of eligible workers still do not claim their EITC benefits, according to the Internal Revenue Service, mostly for lack of awareness. Gov. Beshear also noted the impact the EITC has on local economic growth. Nearly all of the funds from the credit, 97 percent, are infused into local communities. Kentuckians can also find out information about the sites by calling this toll-free phone number provided by the United Way of Kentucky: (877) 566-4968. As part of Gov. Beshear’s campaign, he has recorded a radio public service announcement, and the Kentucky Department for Community Based Services (DCBS) will distribute EITC and free tax preparation site information to more than 300,000 existing clients. In addition to participation by DCBS and DOR, several private groups are assisting in this effort, including the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) Tax Aide Program, the United Way of Kentucky, the Kentucky Asset Success Initiative, the Louisville Asset Building Coalition and the Northern Kentucky Asset Building Coalition. Representatives of these organizations joined the Governor for today’s event. “AARP volunteers are excited and ready to help Kentuckians with their tax returns,” said Delores Wathen, Kentucky AARP Tax Aide Program coordinator. “We are thrilled that Gov. Beshear has organized this campaign to let more Kentuckians know about free tax preparation sites, and encourage more to apply for the Earned Income Tax Credit.” Participating sites will also have available applications for other need-based government assistance, such as the Kentucky Children’s Health Insurance Program (KCHIP), Kentucky Transitional Assistance Program (KTAP) and food stamps. “The Earned Income Tax Credit is one of the most effective ways hard-working Kentuckians can increase their income,” said Harmony Little, program manager for LexLinc, a member of KASI. “In spite of the numerous benefits of the EITC, it remains a hidden treasure unknown to many who are eligible to receive the credit. For those who do take advantage of the credit, it can give a significant boost to their income.” The preceding press release was from
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Post by Press Release on Jan 6, 2009 18:03:17 GMT -5
State Fire Marshal Investigating Bullitt County FireThe State Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating a house fire that occurred Monday near Mt. Washington. The blaze severely burned its sole occupant. Deputy State Fire Marshal Harry Rucker responded to the scene Monday afternoon. The victim, an elderly man, was taken to University Hospital in Louisville. The intense fire left the frame house unstable, Rucker said. He will be joined by Deputy Fire Marshal Chris Crawford today in continuing the on-site investigation to determine the fire’s cause and origin. The State Fire Marshal’s Office is part of the Public Protection Cabinet. The preceding press release was from Conway Announces $425-million Settlement with CephalonJack ConwayAttorney General Jack Conway today announced that his Medicaid Fraud & Abuse Control Unit has recovered $2.37 million from Pennsylvania-based Cephalon, Inc., one of the world’s top ten biotechnology pharmaceutical companies. The recovery resulted from a joint investigation by the National Association of Medicaid Fraud Control Units and the federal government, which disclosed that Cephalon improperly marketed the sleep disorder drug Provigil, the seizure drug Gabitril and the painkiller Actiq for uses that had not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. “Marketing drugs for off-label use is a dangerous practice that can have tragic consequences for patients,” General Conway said. “I appreciate the work of our team to investigate this case and secure reimbursement for the Kentucky Medicaid program.” As part of its illegal “off-label” marketing scheme, Cephalon provided millions of dollars in educational grants to induce physicians to prescribe Provigil, Gabitril, and Actiq for non-approved uses. In some instances, Cephalon’s promotion of the off-label use of Gabitril as a remedy for anxiety, insomnia, and pain, resulted in reports of seizures in patients did not have epilepsy. The occurrence of seizures prompted the FDA to require Cephalon to send a warning to physicians advising them of the risks in connection with off-label Gabitril use. Cephalon paid a total of $425 million in damages and civil and criminal fines and penalties to resolve the off-label marketing claims. This settlement reimburses Kentucky, the other participating states and the federal government for excessive amounts paid by the Medicaid program as a result of Cephalon's improper off-label marketing campaign. The preceding press release was from Beshear Asks Taxpayers to Join In Ongoing Efficiency StudyLooking for Innovative Efficiency Ideas to Help Relieve Budget CrunchGovernor Steve BeshearGov. Steve Beshear is asking Kentucky taxpayers to join his ongoing Innovation, Economy & Efficiency (IEE) efforts to identify cost efficiencies across government to help address the recently announced $456 million revenue shortfall in the current fiscal year. Interested Kentuckians should go to www.finance.ky.gov and click on the efficiency light bulb to submit their ideas to make government work better for less. To date, the Beshear Administration has made $432 million in spending cuts to enable the commonwealth to cope with the enormous budget deficits it inherited. Many of these cuts were made with the assistance of Beshear’s IEE initiative, in which thousands of state employees answered the governor’s call to help identify cost efficiencies, promote public accountability and secure savings through energy reduction and more sustainable practices. The IEE initiative was launched in December 2007, when Gov. Beshear asked all state employees to submit their ideas to make government more efficient. More than 3,600 responses were received. In addition, the Personnel Cabinet’s Employee Suggestion System (ESS) received hundreds of additional efficiency ideas. An interagency effort to analyze and implement those recommendations followed, which focused on using technology, process re-engineering and best practices to reduce spending by hundreds of millions of dollars. One innovative suggestion came from state employee Walt Gaffield. Gaffield noticed that the state was purchasing unnecessary excess risk insurance for workers’ compensation claims that could never materialize. This suggestion produced an annual savings of $475,000 for the commonwealth and could save another $5 million over the next 10 years. Another commonsense recommendation came from Neal Lanham, a Personnel Cabinet employee. Lanham noted that the Kentucky Public Employees’ Deferred Compensation Authority had been purchasing letterhead from the Division of Printing for $1,250 a month. Using a computer macro instead to create stationery, the authority realized an annual savings of $20,000. Employing this suggestion statewide will save the commonwealth hundreds of thousands of dollars. A third example came from employee Tim Anderson. Anderson suggested that more agencies use free Web conferencing software to conduct meetings and provide employee training to reduce travel expenses. This suggestion was conservatively estimated to save the commonwealth $30,500 annually, but its ultimate implementation government-wide could save taxpayers hundreds of thousands of dollars. While other states have used consultant-driven and foundation-funded studies to promote government efficiencies, the trying economic circumstances required Kentucky to take a less costly approach. Gov. Beshear asked all state employees and now, is asking all interested taxpayers to contribute their ideas to make government more efficient. A key element of the governor’s efficiency efforts is identifying energy cost savings. By 2015, state facilities will reduce their energy consumption by 15 percent and the state fleet’s fuel economy will improve by 30 percent. By 2025, energy consumption will be reduced by 25 percent, while fuel economy will improve by 50 percent. This will save state government millions of dollars, while protecting our environment and promoting our independence from foreign oil. “These extraordinary economic times require a partnership among senior agency leadership, state employees and taxpayers,” stated Gov. Beshear. “We recognize that state government must be leaner, greener and even more accountable to the public. Every dollar we save through efficiency is a dollar we spare cutting from vital public services.” The preceding press release was from
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Post by Press Release on Jan 7, 2009 8:52:11 GMT -5
The 111th CongressMitch McConnellSenate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell made the following remarks (as prepared) on the Senate floor Tuesday regarding the opening of the 111th Congress: “The opening of a new Congress is always an important moment in the life of our nation. Every time the gavel falls on a new legislative term we’re reminded of the grandeur of the document we are sworn to uphold. We are grateful to the citizens of our respective states — in my case, the people of Kentucky — who give us the opportunity to serve. And we are thankful once again that the U.S. Constitution has endured to guarantee the freedom and the prosperity of so many for so long. The growth of our nation over the years is one of the most remarkable feats of man. And it was far from inevitable. When Congress first organized under the Constitution, the United States consisted of just 11 states and three million citizens. Today, more people than that live in Kentucky alone. Yet, despite a bloody civil war, the arrival of millions of immigrants, economic collapse, world wars, social unrest, and the long-delayed realization of America’s original promise of equality for all, we have hung together as a body and as a nation. We have not just endured these things. We have flourished. And that is well worth remembering and celebrating as the 111th Congress convenes. “As we meet here in January of 2009, America faces many serious challenges, and none is more urgent than our troubled economy. President-elect Obama was one of those who recognized the gravity of the current troubles early on. He reassured many by fielding a solid team of economic advisors. He agrees with Republicans that we should put more money in the pockets of middle-class American families by cutting their taxes. And he has proposed working with Republicans to create jobs and to encourage long-term economic stability with a massive domestic spending bill the details of which members of Congress and the American people are increasingly eager to see. After a long and rough campaign season, it is encouraging for many Americans to see that the two parties in Washington are in broad agreement about something so important to their daily lives. And Americans can be assured that Republicans will work with President-elect Obama to make sure that as we consider this massive spending bill, the taxpayer isn’t taken for a ride. “All of us agree that the economy needs help. We’re concerned, and taxpayers are concerned. But if we’re going to appropriate an unprecedented amount of money from the Treasury for this spending bill, it’s absolutely essential that we determine up front whether the spending is going to be wasteful or wise. Specifically, the American people should have at least a week to see what this enormous spending plan includes. President Clinton proposed a $16 billion stimulus his first year in office. Congress rejected it for being too expensive. Now Democrats in Congress are proposing a stimulus that could cost taxpayers more than 50 times what President Clinton’s would have cost. “This potentially $1 trillion bill would be one of the largest spending bills in U.S. history. It would increase the deficit by half a trillion dollars overnight and deepen an already enormous national debt. Before we agree to it, the American people need to see the details. They need to be able to see for themselves whether this is money well spent. And if lawmakers think that it is, then they need to make a convincing case to the people who are paying for it. Sixteen years ago, we rejected a stimulus the size of the Minnesota state budget. We shouldn’t be rushed into voting for a bill that by any estimate will be bigger than all 50 state budgets combined, especially when many of the jobs it promises won’t even materialize for another year. If we’re serious about protecting the taxpayer, these projects will be awarded through a fair and open process, and allowed to compete with other priorities in the budget. “We should encourage, not discourage questions about this bill in a reckless rush to meet an arbitrary deadline. And we should be open to new ideas aimed at protecting the taxpayer. Here are three of them: “Congressional Democrats have talked about sending hundreds of billions of dollars to the states. If we loan these funds, rather than give them away, states will be far less likely to spend it frivolously. And the taxpayer would have greater assurance their money is well spent. “Second, Congress has had nearly a year to review the Fiscal 2009 spending request. These remaining bills now make up a $400 billion Omnibus appropriations bill. This is a bill that meets the level of spending proposed for the stimulus, and it’s a bill that could pass Congress by Inauguration Day. If speed is one of our goals, it strikes me that passing the Omnibus achieves that goal. “Third: middle class tax relief. One way to get more money into people’s pockets quickly is to increase the size of their paychecks immediately. An immediate 10% cut in taxes for nearly 30 million Americans would provide significant jolt to the economy that all of us want. “These are ideas that both parties could agree on. Each of them is designed to protect and empower the taxpayer. Let’s consider them. But either way, the American people should be in on this spending plan because the potential for waste and abuse is enormous. Some loose-lipped local politicians have already described the grants as ‘free money’ from Washington. Others openly hope to use it on frivolous pet projects that no sensible taxpayer would sign off on if they had a choice. The American people don’t want to be pick pocketed, and they don’t want to be taken advantage of. They want a real return on their investment. And all of us should be eager to show that we understand the difference. “President-elect Obama has said that a stimulus plan will have to create jobs, have an immediate impact, and lead to a strengthening of the long-term economy. Republicans agree, and we will help to ensure it by insisting on scrutiny and oversight in the face of pressure on Congressional Democrats from interest groups and local politicians. Here is an issue on which Republicans and Democrats can work together on a positive result for the American people. And my hope is that once we achieve it, we will have a model to build on for the remainder of the 111th Congress. “The opportunities for cooperation are numerous. Throughout his campaign, President-elect Obama spoke about the importance of a strong national defense. He spoke of the need to reduce the national debt. He vowed to go through the budget line by line to cut wasteful programs. He pledged to cut taxes on virtually all Americans and on small businesses. And he promised to put America on the path to energy independence within the next 10 years. These are all goals Republicans support. At this moment, nothing should stand in the way of our achieving them together. “I have told President-elect Obama that I’m eager to work with him. I have told him he can expect cooperation on the confirmation of qualified nominees to key cabinet posts, so the American people don’t have to worry about a power vacuum at places like the Pentagon, the State Department, Treasury or the Department of Homeland Security. And I have discussed with him something he already knows, but which is worth repeating on this first day of the new Congress: When it comes to new presidents, history offers a clear path to success and a clear path to failure. “Some new presidents have chosen to work with the other party to confront the big issues of the day that neither party is willing or able to tackle on its own. Others have decided they would rather team up with members of their own party and focus on narrow, partisan issues that only appeal to a tiny sliver of the populace but which lack the support of the American mainstream. In my view, the choice at this particular moment is clear. If President-elect Obama pursues the former course, our chances of achieving a positive result for the American people will be strong. The parties will continue to disagree. This is good for a Democracy. But political conflict is not an end in itself. And at this moment we have an opportunity to show the American people that we know it. “The Majority Leader has mentioned that this year, the opening of Congress coincides with two important anniversaries. The first is Senator Byrd’s 50th anniversary. This feat of longevity has no equal in the history of this body. And this is quite fitting for a senator who has no equal in the history of this body. When Robert Carlyle Byrd took the oath of office on January 7, 1959, he could not have known that he would be the longest serving senator in U.S. history, or that he would one day write this body’s definitive history. But through the support of his beloved Erma, his legendary devotion to our Constitution, and his tireless will to improve the lives of the people of his state, the Senior Senator from West Virginia has accomplished a remarkable feat. Today we honor him for it. “The other anniversary we commemorate today is no doubt dear to Senator Byrd’s heart. One hundred fifty years ago this month, the Senate moved from its old home down the hall to the room we’re in. This transition meant far more in its day than the mere packing of books and rearranging of desks — because back then, as now, every expansion of the Capitol has come with a fresh realization of the great adaptability of the U.S. Constitution and as further proof of its greatness. According to the Congressional Record, the man who was selected to speak on the occasion of the Senate’s relocation in 1859 was John Breckenridge, a Democrat and a Kentuckian who served as Vice President under President Buchanan. In his remarks, Breckenridge offered an eloquent lesson on the history of the Senate and, after paying appropriate tribute to the heroes of the Revolution, he made an intriguing suggestion to the senators of his day. Breckenridge suggested that the senators of 1859 had even greater responsibilities than the senators of 1789 because, as he put it, ‘the population, extent, and the power of our country surpass the dawning promise of its origin.’ “If this was true in 1859, then it is truer still in 2009. Americans have seen quite vividly over the past eight years, and even over the past few months, that the challenges which confront America, and our response to those challenges, have a powerful effect on the wider world. Not a single member of this body is unaware of the profound impact of his or her decisions. And that is why not a single senator in this body wishes anything but the best to President-elect Obama. Despite party differences, all of us feel a certain institutional pride in having one of our own in the White House. And every American will feel a special national pride when, for the first time in our nation’s history, a black man raises his hand to recite the oath of office from the Capitol steps. “The President-elect has promised leadership that sees beyond the politics of division. But that responsibility does not rest with the President alone. It rests with all of us. Before Inauguration Day, there is the opening of this 111th Congress. This too is a great civic ritual. And this too should renew our optimism about the future of America and our optimism about achieving something important for the American people over these next two years. Now is our chance to deliver — not just in word, but in deed. This is a solemn charge. For some, it might cut against the grain. But if we are to have a future worthy of our past, it’s a charge that must be kept.” The preceding press release was from United States Senator Mitch McConnell.
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Post by Press Release on Jan 7, 2009 9:00:33 GMT -5
Jackson, Clay Counties remain #1 and #2 in Jobless ratesUnemployment rates rose in 116 Kentucky counties between November 2007 and November 2008, fell in three counties and stayed the same in one, according to the Kentucky Office of Employment and Training, an agency of the Kentucky Education and Workforce Development Cabinet. Jackson County recorded the state’s highest unemployment rate — 11.8 percent. It was followed by Clay County, 10.5 percent; Magoffin and McCreary counties, 10.3 percent each; Wolfe County, 10.2 percent; Grayson and Menifee counties, 9.8 percent each; Union County, 9.7 percent; Russell County, 9.6 percent; and Morgan County, 9.3 percent. Fayette County recorded the lowest jobless rate in the commonwealth at 4.8 percent. Other counties with low unemployment rates were Woodford County, 5 percent; Oldham and Warren counties, 5.4 percent each; Jessamine County, 5.6 percent; Boyd and Scott counties, 5.7 percent each; and Boone, Franklin, Hancock and Madison counties, 5.8 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. The preceding press release was from Conway Urges Congress to Amend Bankruptcy CodeProtect Distressed Homeowners from ForeclosureJack ConwayAttorney General Jack Conway, along with the attorneys general of 21 other states and the District of Columbia, today sent a letter to U.S. House and Senate leadership urging them to amend the U.S. Bankruptcy Code to permit federal bankruptcy courts to protect families from foreclosure. “It is imperative that we work with the courts, banks and consumers to provide a real solution to help families meet their financial obligations and remain in their homes,” General Conway said. “Bankruptcies that result in homes being foreclosed upon are certainly not in the best interest of financial institutions or consumers. It benefits both sides to amend terms of mortgages to allow consumers to repay the bank and keep their homes.” The attorneys general note in their letter that despite the best efforts of state and federal government regulators to engage servicers in voluntary loan modifications to avoid unnecessary foreclosures, further action to spur meaningful modifications must be taken. For instance: • The most troubled mortgages are securitized and therefore multiple stakeholders may be involved in the decision to modify mortgage loans, causing a continued paralysis. • The multi-state Foreclosure Prevention Working Group released a report compiled from data from 13 major servicers in September 2008 showing that voluntary loan modification measures have fallen short. • The recently-enacted federal “Hope for Homeowners” program has generated little interest from mortgage holders. The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) recently reported that only 111 applications had been submitted nationwide. Under the amendment urged by the attorneys general, losses and benefits would be shared between homeowners and investors. If a federal Bankruptcy Court ordered a loan modification, the homeowner would be required to pay the loan based on the current secured value and the mortgage holder may be required to absorb the unsecured portion of the debt that exceeds the value of the home. A homeowner with regular income will retain his or her home while paying a sustainable mortgage. The mortgage holder receives a steady stream of income while avoiding the losses and expenses incident to a foreclosure sale. Today’s letter highlights the reasons that the bankruptcy system is well-equipped to handle this crisis. With approximately 300 judges experienced in valuing property, no new agency, regulations or personnel are needed to implement the amendment. The proposal could take effect immediately and should not cost taxpayers anything. The Attorneys General do not anticipate an increase in bankruptcy filings by passing such an amendment; instead they believe such a measure will likely motivate mortgage servicers and secondary market investors to achieve sustainable loan modifications. Attorneys general from the following states joined Kentucky in today’s request to Congress: Arizona, California, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Mississippi, Montana, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Vermont, Washington and West Virginia. The preceding press release was from Cincinnati Man Pleads Guilty to Gun Crime Donald E. Howard, Jr., 20, of Cincinnati, Ohio pleaded guilty today to possession of a sawed-off shotgun. In the course of his guilty plea, Howard admitted that he possessed the firearm and modified it so the barrel measured less than 18 inches. Newport Police arrested Howard on March 11, 2008. James A. Zerhusen, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, and Paul J. Vido, Special Agent in Charge, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF), Louisville Field Division, jointly made the announcement today after Howard entered his guilty plea. The investigation was conducted jointly by ATF and the Newport Police Department. The United States was represented in the case by Assistant United States attorney Elaine K. Leonhard. Howard is currently scheduled to appear for sentencing before United States District Court Judge Danny C. Reeves in Covington, Ky. on April 13, 2009 at 3:30 p.m. Howard faces a maximum prison sentence of 10 years. However, any sentence following conviction would be imposed by the court after consideration of the United States Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statute governing the imposition of sentences. The preceding was a press release from United States Attorney's Office for Eastern District of Kentucky Alonso helps develop export markets in MexicoSilvia AlonsoWith agricultural exports booming, Kentucky hired international trade specialist Silvia Alonso to direct the state’s Mexico trade office in July 2008. She works under a contract between the state and trade consultant Global Business Partners Mexico. Kentucky’s Guadalajara trade office is a joint venture of the Kentucky Department of Agriculture and the state Cabinet for Economic Development. “This is an opportune time for Kentucky producers to expand markets beyond our borders. I am pleased to have someone with Ms. Alonso’s qualifications to help our producers sell more Kentucky Proud products in Mexico,” Agriculture Commissioner Richie Farmer said. Alonso previously worked in Pennsylvania’s Mexico trade office, where she helped some 200 businesses with market research, business assistance, customs and tariff assistance, cooperation agreements with federal and state governments, and market entry strategies. Mexico is Kentucky’s third-largest trade partner, trailing only Canada and France. Exports from Kentucky to Mexico in 2007 totaled $1.4 billion, including $30.5 million in agricultural products. The latest forecast predicts U.S. agricultural exports will reach a record $114 billion in fiscal 2008, a dramatic increase of nearly 40 percent ($32 billion) over 2007. Grains and animal products account for most of the export gains. In March 2008, Commissioner Farmer and Mexico officials signed an agreement by which Kentucky’s and Mexico’s equine industries will share knowledge and resources, and set up commercial and technical exchanges to improve both equine industries. Kentucky’s horse industry has had success selling horses to Mexico worth “about $17 to $18 million,” said Keeneland President Nick Nicholson. Live animal exports to Mexico totaled approximately $91 million in 2007, of which 25 percent consisted of horses, jacks and hinnies. To find how KDA can assist with international marketing, or to contact international marketing director Jonathan Van Balen, go to: www.kyagr.com/marketing/agribusiness/international/index.htmThe preceding press release was from Manchester resident and Commissioner Richie Farmer and the Kentucky Department of Agriculture.
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Post by Press Release on Jan 7, 2009 20:27:31 GMT -5
Tramadol Added to Kentucky Prescription Drug Monitoring SystemPopular Painkiller Added to List of Narcotics Monitored by KASPERThe Cabinet for Health and Family Services Office of Inspector General (OIG) is increasing efforts to monitor the types and amounts of potentially addictive prescription drugs dispensed to Kentuckians, recently becoming only the second state to add the drug Tramadol to its list of controlled substances. Tramadol, which is intended to alleviate pain, has been added by the OIG to a list of pharmaceutical products falling under the category of “schedule IV” narcotics. These types of medications are monitored through the Kentucky All Schedule Prescription Electronic Reporting (KASPER) system, which tracks controlled substance prescriptions dispensed in Kentucky. KASPER provides a tool for authorized health care providers to identify when a patient may have a prescription drug abuse or addiction problem where intervention is needed. KASPER also provides a tool for authorized law enforcement officers to assist with an investigation of the illegal sale or diversion of prescription drugs. “The illegal trade and subsequent abuse of prescription drugs remains a serious threat to the health and well-being of our fellow Kentuckians,” said CHFS Inspector General Sadiqa Reynolds. “By adding Tramadol to our list of controlled substances, we are further able to monitor and ultimately reduce the abuse, misuse, diversion and illegal sale of the drug.” Reynolds stressed that by adding Tramadol to the list of controlled substances monitored by KASPER, the OIG will not be preventing those in need of the drug from obtaining it. Rather, the OIG will be working with health care providers, pharmacists and law enforcement to monitor for any potential abuse or illegal activity in relation to the drug. “Our intent is to protect the people of Kentucky and prevent abuse,” said Reynolds. Prescription drug abuse has increased rapidly in Kentucky since the early 1990s, particularly among drugs prescribed as painkillers. In July 2002 the National Drug Intelligence Center reported that from 1998 through 2000, treatment for the abuse of prescription drugs accounted for 20 percent of all treatment admissions in the state, and the number of patients seeking treatment for Oxycodone addiction increased 163 percent. KASPER, which was created to help combat the rising prescription drug abuse problem, shows all scheduled prescriptions for an individual over a specified time period, the prescriber and the dispenser in its reports. The program is intended as a source of information for health care providers and pharmacists as well as an investigative tool for law enforcement. “KASPER is an important tool to help monitor prescription drug abuse,” said the OIG’s Dave Sallengs, manager of the Drug Enforcement and Professional Practices branch. “By adding this drug to the reporting schedule, we will be better equipped to spot potential misuse or wrong-doing. The addition of Tramadol to KASPER further enhances the system.” KASPER is administered by the Drug Enforcement and Professional Practices Branch in the OIG. To learn more, visit the OIG’s Web site at www.chfs.ky.gov/os/oig/KASPER.htm or call (502) 564-7985. The preceding press release was from Clark Convicted of Being Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm and AmmunitionAntonio Dwayne Clark, 24, of Lexington, Ky. was convicted today by a federal jury of being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. The jury returned the verdict after a two-day trial. The evidence established that on July 18, 2008, Clark was a passenger in a vehicle that was stopped by Lexington police officers. During the course of the stop, Clark got out of the vehicle when asked to do so by officers. As an officer approached Clark to search him, he ran from police. While fleeing, Clark dropped a loaded nine millimeter semiautomatic pistol. Officers recovered the pistol in the area where Clark dropped it and arrested Clark a few blocks from the traffic stop. James A. Zerhusen, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, Ronnie Bastin, Chief of Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government Division of Police, and Paul J. Vido, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (Louisville Field Division), jointly made the announcement today after the jury returned the verdict. The investigation was conducted by the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government Division of Police and ATF. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office in connection with the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) program. The PSN program is a Department of Justice initiative aimed at reducing gun crimes and violent crime. The United States was represented in the trial by Assistant United States Attorney Robert M. Duncan, Jr. Clark is currently scheduled to appear for sentencing before Senior Judge Karl S. Forester in Lexington, Ky. on March 29, 2009 at 9:45 am. If he is determined to be an Armed Career Criminal, Clark could face a minimum prison sentence of 15 years. His sentence will be imposed by the court after consideration of the United States Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statutes governing the imposition of sentences. The preceding was a press release from United States Attorney's Office for Eastern District of Kentucky Conway Settles Allegations Of Predatory Lending With Countrywide Mortgage CompanyJack ConwayAttorney General Jack Conway today announced a settlement resolving allegations of predatory lending practices against Countrywide Financial Corporation. Kentucky has joined other states requiring this sub-prime lender to provide loan modifications to assist up to 395,000 borrowers nationwide from a foreclosure relief fund of $150 million. Of this amount, $1.64 million is reserved for Kentucky borrowers. Approximately 2,500 Kentuckians will be offered loan modifications to restructure their Countrywide mortgage loans. Countrywide, which was acquired by Bank of America this past summer, has agreed to restructure more than $262 million of outstanding debt owed by Kentucky borrowers under this agreement. This settlement resolves allegations that Countrywide developed and used unfair and deceptive practices in its loan origination and servicing business. Many Kentucky borrowers were sold mortgage loans which were unaffordable, leading to increased defaults and foreclosures. Under this settlement agreement, eligible borrowers will be offered the opportunity to modify their mortgage loans to make their monthly payments affordable. The program will cover borrowers with subprime mortgage loans, including adjustable rate loans with initial “fixed” teaser rates and pay-option adjustable rate mortgages. “This mandatory loan modification program will provide immediate relief to Kentucky borrowers who are facing foreclosure. The goal is to help these borrowers remain in their homes into the future with an affordable mortgage loan,” General Conway said. Eligible Countrywide customers will receive a letter from the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office and Bank of America. These letters will be mailed as soon as this new program is implemented. Customers who meet the following four criteria will receive a letter offering to modify the terms of their mortgage loan: • Must hold a Countrywide-originated mortgage loan, secured by owner-occupied property; • First loan payment was due between December 21, 2004 and December 31, 2007; • Loan has been foreclosed or was more than 120 days delinquent on October 8, 2008; and • Six or fewer payments were made over the life of the loan (the Attorney General in consultation with Bank of America retains authority to expand coverage if warranted). As part of this agreement, Countrywide has agreed to a range of “best practices” changing its future lending practices. In the Assurance of Voluntary Compliance filed today in Franklin Circuit Court, the company denies all allegations against it and does not admit to any wrongdoing. However, the following changes shall be implemented by Countrywide and Bank of America including: • The suspension of foreclosure sales on loans likely to qualify for the loan modification program until an affirmative decision has been made on the borrowers eligibility; • Establish an early identification and contact program for borrowers who are having problems making their monthly payments; • Discontinue offering pay option adjustable rate mortgages and curtailing the offering of “low-documentation” or “no-documentation” loans; Establish a Foreclosure Relief Fund of $8.5 million nationwide to provide payments to borrowers who lost their home through foreclosure where the borrower was sold a subprime or pay option ARM loan and the borrower defaulted early during the loan term (within 6 months after closing) or at the time the interest rate reset. These loans were not properly underwritten and these homeowners could not afford the loan from the inception. • Establish a fund to assist borrowers who do not qualify for loan modification. Payments from this fund will be made to borrowers for relocation assistance; • Loan modification and late fees will be waived; and • Countrywide will waive prepayment penalties on subprime and pay option ARM loans. Bank of America’s Nationwide Homeownership Retention program for Countrywide customers is currently under development. If you have a Countrywide mortgage loan and would like additional information about these programs or whether you are eligible for relief under this settlement, please visit Countrywide’s website at www.countrywide.com . A fact sheet is also available for you to review. Countrywide customers can also call toll-free at 1-800-669-6607. Anyone facing imminent foreclosure should call immediately. The preceding press release was from
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Post by Press Release on Jan 7, 2009 20:51:00 GMT -5
PSC Allows Separate Accounting of Duke Energy Hurricane Ike CostsRate recovery decision will come in future caseThe Kentucky Public Service Commission (PSC) allowed Duke Energy Kentucky Inc. (Duke) to set up a separate account to track power restoration costs and other expenses associated with recovery from the damage caused by Hurricane Ike as it swept through Kentucky on Sept. 14, 2008. The PSC said a decision on what portion of those costs may be recovered from ratepayers will be made at the time Duke next applies to the PSC for an adjustment of its base electric rates. Today’s decision allows Duke to create a separate account to track its storm-related costs. The account, known as a regulatory asset, is a tool that allows unusual or one-time costs to be deferred for a period of time for possible future recovery through rates. While the establishment of a regulatory asset is done in expectation of future cost recovery through rates, it is not a guarantee of recovery. That determination will be made in a rate case based upon the evidence presented in that proceeding. Duke is authorized to establish a regulatory asset of $4.92 million, which is the amount the utility requested. More than two-thirds of Duke’s 134,000 customers in Northern Kentucky lost power during the storm. Restoration in the utility’s Kentucky and Ohio service areas required the efforts of about 1,200 workers in the field and an additional 450 in call centers, Duke said in its application to the PSC. The PSC last month approved requests by Louisville Gas and Electric Co. (LG&E) and Kentucky Utilities Co. (KU) to establish similar regulatory assets for costs associated with Hurricane Ike. Utilities routinely seek establishment of regulatory assets following natural disasters that cause significant damage and outages. KU was authorized to establish such an account following the February 2003 ice storm, while LG&E was granted a regulatory asset after the 1974 tornado in Louisville. The PSC is reviewing how Duke, LG&E, KU and other affected utilities responded to Hurricane Ike. The review is examining not only the efforts to restore electric power and telephone service, but also preparation for major outages, communication with customers and coordination with local governments. Utilities have responded to an information request from the PSC. Information has been received from local officials in affected cities and counties. The PSC review also will include comments received from customers during and following the outages. Following an initial review, the PSC will gather whatever additional evidence it deems necessary. A report will be issued in several months. 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. The preceding press release was from McConnell: Deficit Report a ‘Stunning and Sobering Reminder’Mitch McConnellSenate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell made the following statement Wednesday regarding the Congressional Budget Office Budget and Economic Outlook which indicates that the federal deficit is now nearly $1.2 trillion: “This morning’s announcement by the Congressional Budget Office that the deficit now stands at nearly $1.2 trillion is a stunning and sobering reminder that Congress must strengthen its efforts to be good stewards of the taxpayers’ money. Though we agree that Congress must carefully pursue ways to strengthen our economy, this report should cause us to make certain that any dollar spent to stimulate the economy will in fact achieve that outcome and produce jobs and opportunity.” The preceding press release was from United States Senator Mitch McConnell. State Fire Marshal Completes Mt. Sterling Fire Probe The Kentucky State Fire Marshal’s Office has completed its investigation into the Dec. 24 house fire in Mt. Sterling that killed three children and a teenager. “We have concluded that the fire originated in a chair in the living room,” Fire Marshall William Swope said. “We were unable to find an ignition source. We found no evidence of an accelerant, so we have concluded that the chair was ignited accidentally.” Investigators ruled out the house’s electrical system as the cause of the blaze. There was also no heating source near the chair. Deputy Fire Marshal C.W. Cornett conducted the investigation on behalf of the State Fire Marshal’s Office. He was joined by Kentucky State Police arson investigator Shane Barnes. Brothers Brandon, Wayne and Timothy Elam died in the fire, along with their cousin, Shirley Rothwell, who was babysitting them. The State Fire Marshal’s Office is part of the Public Protection Cabinet. The preceding press release was from
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