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Post by Press Release on Aug 19, 2008 21:04:19 GMT -5
Kentucky’s jobless rate increases to 6.7 percent in JulyKentucky’s seasonally adjusted preliminary unemployment rate for July 2008 rose to 6.7 percent from June 2008’s revised 6.3 percent, according to the Office of Employment and Training (OET), an agency of the Kentucky Education and Workforce Development Cabinet. July 2007’s jobless rate was 5.5 percent. The U.S. seasonally adjusted jobless rate rose to 5.7 percent from 5.5 percent in June 2008, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Unemployment statistics are based on estimates and are compiled to measure trends rather than actually to count people working. The preceding press release was from Arrest in Rockcastle CountyOn Thursday August 14, 2008 at approximately 2:30 PM. Steve Edward Tompkins 36 years of age of 197 White Rock Road in Mt. Vernon was arrested by Kentucky State Police Detective Millard Root for Retaliating Against a Participant in a Legal Process, a Class D Felony. Mr. Tompkins was arrested in reference to a forum entitled, "Lets Assassinate Jeffrey T. Burdette", on the Mt. Vernon forum of Topics.com. Jeffrey T. Burdette is the Circuit Judge for Rockcastle and Pulaski Counties. Mr. Tompkins is lodged in the Rockcastle County Jail under a $100,000.00 Bond. A search warrant was served on his residence and a computer was confiscated for evidence. Detective Root was assisted in the arrest by Rockcastle County Sheriff Mike Peters and Ernie Boggs of the Administrative Office of the Courts. The investigation is continuing. The preceding press release was from Kentucky State Police Post 11 in London which serves the following Kentucky Counties: Rockcastle, Wayne, and Whitley. Beshear Recognizes Sacrifice of Kentucky Casualties in AfghanistanGov. Steve Beshear today recognized the death of two Fort Campbell soldiers who died supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. According to the Department of Defense, Pfc. Paul E. Conlon Jr., of Somerville, Mass., and 1st Lt. Donald C. Carwile, of Oxford, Va., died when their vehicle struck an improvised explosive device and then received small arms and rocket-propelled grenade fire in Wardak Province, Afghanistan, on Aug. 15. They were assigned to the 1st 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 Pfc. Conlon and 1st Lt. Carwile’s interments, for which arrangements are pending. The preceding press release was from
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Post by Press Release on Aug 20, 2008 20:21:09 GMT -5
Illegal alien given six months for coming back to USLondon, Ky. — Avisai Hernandez-Perez, 23, of Guatemala, was sentenced today to six months in prison with credit for time served for re-entering the United States as an alien who had previously been removed. In July of 2008, Hernandez pleaded guilty to the charges and admitted that he was an alien ordered to be removed from the United States by an Immigration Judge in 2007, but that he illegally re-entered the United States and was found in Whitley County on April 23, 2008. Under federal law, Hernandez must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence, and, upon release, will be under the supervision of the United States Probation Office for one year. James A. Zerhusen, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, and Paul Chambers, Resident Agent in Charge, United States Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, jointly made the announcement today after the sentencing. The investigation was conducted by the United States Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The United States was represented in the case by Assistant United States Attorney Jason A. Denney. The preceding was a press release from United States Attorney's Office for Eastern District of Kentucky New parole credit program debated in Judiciary meetingA program that is expected to save the state around $12.5 million over the next two years by allowing inmates on parole supervision to receive credit toward their sentence--and final discharge from parole--drew comments from supporters and detractors before state lawmakers today. A total of 1,016 inmates had been released as of Aug. 18 under the program, created by lawmakers during the 2008 Regular Session as part of Executive Branch budget bill House Bill 406, according to state Department of Corrections Commissioner LaDonna Thompson. Any parolee who does well during parole supervision is eligible for the credits, not just nonviolent and/or nonsexual offenders, she said. “It is for anyone who has been out a period of time on parole who did well during that period of time,” she told the Interim Joint Committee on Judiciary. “If they did not receive an additional (felony) sentence, and if they had not absconded, they receive the credit. Nothing (in the bill) was tied to the type of sentence they had.” But the program concerns Kentucky Commonwealth’s Attorney Association President and Warren County Commonwealth’s Attorney Chris Cohron, who said his office has been flooded with calls from crime victims who worry how the provisions will affect them. “We are tracking those who have come out,” he said. “Unfortunately, according to the statistical analysis, there is going to be reoffending. My main concern is to equip the public and court system going forward on what does a sentence mean? What does a 20- or 10-year sentence mean?” Kentucky Justice and Public Safety Cabinet Secretary J. Michael Brown tried to allay concerns about the program by explaining that parole credit does not equal early release. In all situations, he said, the inmates are under the supervision of the department until that time that they would be eligible for discharge from prison through “minimum expiration”, or the minimum completion date, of their sentence without parole. “The sentence is not being shortened,” said Brown. “No one has had a day cut off that they have not received some official credit for.” Parolees also face stiff penalties—like denial of bond--for committing another felony or fleeing parole supervision, said Judiciary Committee Co-Chair Sen. Robert Stivers, R-Manchester, who said he is not sure the system could be any tougher beyond adding time to a person’s sentence. “If someone commits another felony offense while on supervision there are ramifications,” said Stivers. “The deterrent there for a person who goes back a second time for violating these are pretty substantial.” Still, Rep. Greg Stumbo, D-Prestonsburg, said he felt more deterrents could be added to strengthen the program—and public perception of it. “I think there’s a perception problem, to some extent,” he said. “I think it’s a good program, but I do think there needs to be some deterrents…that if an individual violates parole, that maybe makes him ineligible for a second parole. There are some ways to tweak it.” The program and other money-saving corrections provisions in HB 406 drew some heat from county judge-executives at the meeting for its impact on county budgets. Larue County Judge-Executive Tommy Turner said that the provisions could result in a “devastating” loss in revenue to counties, which rely on state inmate dollars to meet their jail costs. Currently, counties collectively spend $130 million a year to balance their jail budgets, Turner said. “The system we’ve created makes counties rely on inmate counts as feed lots rely on heads of cattle. It’s sad,” he added. Also speaking before the committee against the provisions was Jo Ann Phillips with Kentuckians Voice for Crime Victims, who called the new system an “unfunded mandate” on victims. “The emotional devastation and tragedy incurred by these victims—I don’t hear that cost being discussed,” she said. She was reassured by the committee’s Co-Chair Rep. Kathy Stein, D-Lexington, who made it clear that public safety is a legislative priority. “We are taking clearly into account, number 1, the safety of the public,” said Stein. According to Commissioner Thompson, the state will save approximately $12.5 million over the next two years from the release of the 1,016 former inmates under discharged already under the parole supervision credit program. The preceding was a press release from Kentucky Legislature Home Page. For more information on items before the Kentucky Legislature contact your local senator Robert Stivers and/or representative Tim Couch. Assault Investigation in Laurel CountyOn Saturday August 16, 2008 at approximately 5:15 AM the Kentucky State Police Post 11 and the Laurel County Sheriff's Office responded to an Assault Complaint on Douglas Boulevard, in southern Laurel County. The Laurel County 911 Center received the complaint from the victim, Marietta Smith, 38, and her friend, Myrtle Smith, 24, both of London but the exact location of the assault was unknown due to their lack of co-operation. Officers from the Kentucky State Police and the London City Police, with assistance from family members, located the victim and her friend a short time later. The victim was transported to Saint Joseph of London and transferred to the University of Kentucky Medical Center in Lexington, for treatment, with non-life threatening injuries. No arrests have been made at this time in reference to the Assault. KSP Detective Millard Root is continuing the investigation, as lead investigator, and was assisted by officers of the Kentucky State Police, the Laurel County Sheriff's Office and the London City Police. 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 Aug 21, 2008 21:58:39 GMT -5
Seventeen Die On Kentucky Roadways Last WeekAugust 11 through August 17Preliminary statistics* indicate that 17 people died in 13 separate crashes on Kentucky's roadways from Monday, Aug. 11 through Sunday, Aug. 17, 2008. Twelve of the fatalities were traveling in motor vehicles. Seven of the victims were not wearing seat belts. Three victims were riding motorcycles and one was not wearing a helmet. One fatality was a pedestrian and one was a bicyclist. One of the fatalities was the result of a crash involving alcohol. Carter, Hart, Henderson and Warren counties each recorded one double-fatality crash. Single-fatality crashes occurred in Clay, Estill, Jefferson, Owsley, Trimble, Union and Wolfe counties. The pedestrian fatality was in Grayson County and the bicyclist fatality was in Edmonson County. Through Aug. 17, preliminary statistics* indicate that 478 people have lost their lives on Kentucky roadways during 2008. This is 68 fewer than reported for this time period in 2007. Of the 366 motor vehicle fatalities, 225 victims were not wearing seat belts. Of the 57 motorcycle fatalities, 34 were not wearing helmets. Of the 14 ATV fatalities, 13 were not wearing helmets. Thirty-eight pedestrians and three bicyclists have been killed. A total of 90 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: Rockcastle, Wayne, and Whitley. Injury Traffic Crash in Pulaski CountySaturday August 16, 2008 at approximately 12:43 PM the Kentucky State Police Post 11 responded to an Injury Traffic Crash on Wilson Road, in Pulaski County. Unit one, a 1997, Red, Harley Davidson motorcycle was westbound on Wilson Road when it failed to negotiate a curve, leaving the roadway and ejecting the operator. Operator unit one, Michael S. Hall, 37, of Somerset was flown from the scene to the University of Kentucky Medical Center in Lexington for treatment of his injuries. Hall was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash. Trooper First Class Chris Ison is continuing the investigation and was assisted by the Somerset/Pulaski County EMS and Somerset Fire Department. The preceding press release was from Kentucky State Police Post 11 in London which serves the following Kentucky Counties: Rockcastle, Wayne, and Whitley. COULTER, GIBSON EARN TOP DAIRY AWARDSThe Kevin Coulter family of Washington County has won the 2008 Kentucky Dairy Quality Award and Eddie Gibson of Boone County is the Kentucky Dairy Production Award winner. The Coulter and Gibson farms were among those honored during the annual Dairy Recognition Dinner Aug. 15 at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville. The Kentucky Dairy Quality Award is judged on industry quality standards and farm inspections. The Coulter farm received a monetary award and a farm-gate sign. Other finalists were James Roell of Fleming County and Milton and Jason Jones of Taylor County. Eddie Gibson took top prize in the Kentucky Dairy Production Award – All Herds competition with a rolling herd average (the average weight of milk a herd produces in one year) of more than 26,000 pounds. He also won the Proficient Dairy Producer Award, which considers many factors as recorded by the Dairy Herd Improvement Association. Top Herd Production – Mixed Herd was won by the University of Kentucky Coldstream Dairy managed by Joey Clark. District winners for the production award were Pennyrile Dairy, Christian County; Robey Dairy, Logan County: Crist Dairy, Barren County; Rocky Run Farm, Green County; Roger Corbin, Taylor County; Guffey Farms, Clinton County; Nathan Horst, Lincoln County, University of Kentucky Coldstream Farm, Fayette County; Rouse Farms, Mason County; Eddie Klingenfus, Shelby County; Jeff O’Daniel and sons, Marion County, and Longview Farms, Grayson County. The production awards were sponsored by the Kentucky Dairy Development Council and Kentucky Farm Bureau. A first-time award, the Kentucky Quality Milk Hauler Award, was given to Jimmy Myers of Lebanon Junction. He was nominated by Brother Bartholomew Pollard of Gethsemani Farms. Nominees were evaluated on activities that have contributed to the quality of their work and a positive image that they portray for the dairy industry. The outstanding Kentucky exhibitor at the Kentucky State Fair was Louis Trauth Dairy of Newport. The outstanding overall exhibitor was Purity Dairy of Nashville. The award for high percentage of gold entries went to Bluegrass Dairy and Foods of Glasgow and Springfield. The Dairy Promotion Award went to Bill Vaughn, a retired dairy industry representative from Louisville. The Culinary Sweepstakes Award winner was Chris Diener and family with Rodem Inc. More than 180 dairy producers and industry representatives from throughout the Commonwealth attended the dinner, which honors the individuals and groups that produce, process, and promote Kentucky’s high-quality dairy products. The dinner was sponsored by the Dairy Products Association of Kentucky, the Kentucky Dairy Development Council and the Kentucky Department of Agriculture. 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 Aug 22, 2008 20:17:04 GMT -5
Hot Pockets Recalledfsis.usda.govNestlé Prepared Foods Company, a Mt. Sterling, Ky., establishment, is recalling approximately 215,660 pounds of frozen stuffed pepperoni pizza sandwich products that may contain foreign materials, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service announced today. 54-ounce, 12-pack cartons of "HOT POCKETS PEPPERONI PIZZA" brand stuffed sandwiches. Printed on the side of each carton is "8157544614D," "EST 7721A," and "BEST BEFORE JAN2010." Each carton bears the USDA mark of inspection. The products were produced on June 5 and distributed to retail establishments nationwide. The problem was discovered after the company received consumer complaints. FSIS has not received any consumer complaints or reports of injury at this time. Anyone concerned about an injury from consumption of the products should contact a physician. Media with questions about the recall should contact Company Marketing Communications Manager Roz O'Hearn at (440) 264-5170. Consumers with questions about the recall should contact Nestlé Consumer Services Center at (800) 350-5016. Consumers with food safety questions can "Ask Karen," the FSIS virtual representative available 24 hours a day at AskKaren.gov. The toll-free USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline 1-888-MPHotline (1-888-674-6854) is available in English and Spanish and can be reached from l0 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Eastern Time) Monday through Friday. Recorded food safety messages are available 24 hours a day. Protecting the 'Most Vulnerable Among Us'The exploitation of children has unfortunately become a “growth industry,” according to FBI Director Robert S. Mueller, III, but the Bureau is “working every day to find and stop those who prey on our children.” Speaking recently at the Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center Crimes Against Children Conference, Mueller noted how pervasive these crimes have become. “In just the past decade, we have moved from lone predators with limited reach to global communities of pedophiles on the Internet,” he said. “We have moved from back-alley bookstores to criminal enterprises that treat children as merely another commodity for sale in the global marketplace. We have moved from videos in plain brown packages to encrypted websites, flash drives, and cell phones capable of storing thousands of images.” How big is the problem? A recent five-day sweep of 16 cities conducted through our Innocence Lost program, which identifies and disrupts child prostitution rings, resulted in the arrests of 389 people and the recovery of 21 children. Earlier this week, the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Central District of California capped an eight-month, first-of-its-kind investigation by the Bureau and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement by charging 52 defendants with possession of child pornography. The defendants were allegedly using peer-to-peer Internet networks to exchange graphic images and videos. And these are just two examples—there are many more. But while the scope of the problem is vast, Mueller said, “we are using new tools, new technology, and new partnerships” to help put a stop to crimes against children. The Bureau battles crimes against children on several fronts, with partnerships that range from local police departments to private Internet service providers to global law enforcement organizations. For instance: • Innocence Lost program features 24 task forces and working groups around the country involving federal, state, and local law enforcement and U.S. Atttorney’s Offices. Our Innocence Lost Child Prostitution Database puts more than 17,000 records of children and predators at the fingertips of investigators. According to Mueller, since the program began in 2003, we have—together with our partners—recovered 433 children, convicted 308 criminals, and dismantled 32 criminal organizations. • Child Abduction Rapid Deployment Teams move quickly in critical cases when a child is missing. “In the past two years,” Mueller said, “these teams have been deployed 33 times to assist state and local law enforcement, with 15 children safely recovered.” • Innocent Images National Initiative targets predators who use the Internet to exploit children. Investigators may pose as children or collectors to lure predators into the open. Or coordinate with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children to identify children and adults featured in child pornography. Or train police officers to investigate cases in their own jurisdictions. In the end, though, the battle against those who prey on children is often a frustrating one. Said Mueller, “There are days…when it seems there are more predators than police officers, prosecutors, and child advocates combined. But these predators cannot match our dedication.” He added, “We reaffirm our commitment to protecting the most vulnerable among us. We reaffirm our commitment to sweeping sexual predators off the street, off the Internet, and out of our children’s lives.” The preceding was a press release from Kentucky office of the FBI. CHFS to Kick Off Suicide Prevention CampaignTo help end the stigma and silence associated with suicide, the Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS), the Kentucky Suicide Prevention Group (KSPG) and the Department for Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Addiction Services are launching a public awareness campaign about one of the most preventable, yet common, forms of death. The “Let’s Talk: Kentuckians Affected by Suicide End the Silence” awareness campaign will launch at an event at 2:30 p.m. on Sept. 4 at the Capital Plaza Hotel in Frankfort. The event, which will feature a new educational video, is designed to educate Kentuckians about the warning signs of suicide; make people more aware of the prevalence of suicide in society; and help people discuss suicide. “The ‘Let’s Talk’ campaign is truly a courageous effort in our continued work to prevent suicide in Kentucky,” said CHFS Secretary Janie Miller. “Far too many Kentuckians are suffering in silence, and warning signs are being overlooked. By training our communities to be proactive and teaching our loved ones, friends and neighbors how to communicate about suicide, we can reduce the number of suicide deaths in Kentucky.” According to a 2007 study, 64 percent of Kentucky adults knew at least one person who had attempted or died by suicide. The “Let’s Talk” campaign takes a closer look at what it’s like to be personally affected by suicide, and features several Kentuckians who will share their personal stories, as well as what they’ve learned from the experience. “Keeping suicide a secret perpetuates suicide,” said Jenny Jones, chair of the KSPG steering committee who lost her mother, grandmother and other family members to suicide and is featured in the “Let’s Talk” video. “For many struggling with mental health issues or experiencing thoughts of suicide, there is no outlet. We have to change that.” In addition to Jones, other stories in the video include the friend of a young Marine who died by suicide after returning to Kentucky from war and a parent discussing youth suicide contagion (one suicide becoming the trigger for other suicides). The video also includes information on suicide on college campuses, suicide among select ages or populations, and suicide among Kentuckians affected by HIV/AIDS. The “Let’s Talk” event will be emceed by WHAS radio talk show host Francene Cucinello and will be broadcast to locations across the state via satellite through the assistance of WLEX-TV in Lexington. Participants will receive community action materials to use in their hometowns. Seating for the general public at the “Let’s Talk” kick-off is limited, and reservations are required by contacting Cheryl Ligon at (502) 564-4456 or Cheryl.ligon@ky.gov. For more information about how to save a life, visit www.kentuckysuicideprevention.orgor call (502) 564-4456. The preceding press release was from MAN SENTENCED TO TEN YEARS AND TEN MONTHS FOR PASSING COUNTERFEIT CHECKSOver $630,000 deposited, resulting in over $290,000 in lossesWilliam Lance Robinson, age 36, of Louisville, Kentucky, in Jefferson County, was sentenced to 10 years and 10 months imprisonment in United States District Court, Louisville, Kentucky, for conspiracy and bank fraud, U.S. Attorney David L. Huber of the Western District of Kentucky announced today. Jennifer B. Coffman, Judge, United States District Court, also sentenced Robinson to 5 years supervised release following incarceration. There is no parole in the federal judicial system. In addition, restitution in the amount of $295,272.13 was imposed. Robinson had previously plead guilty to conspiring to commit bank fraud and committing bank fraud between 2001 and 2005. Robinson, the mastermind of the scheme, recruited dozens of individuals who gave Robinson their bank account information and allowed Robinson to deposit counterfeit checks into their bank accounts. Robinson told his recruits that he did not have his own bank account, and assured their recruits that the checks he was depositing were legitimate. Once Robinson obtained a recruit's bank information, counterfeit checks were sent directly to the recruit's bank by other co-conspirators in Atlanta. After the checks were deposited, Robinson drove the recruits to various bank branches around Louisville, withdrawing as much of the funds as he could before the bank discovered that the checks were counterfeit. All told, Robinson deposited over $630,000 in counterfeit checks in Louisville banks, resulting in over $290,000 in losses. Robinson has an extensive criminal history, including prior convictions for aggravated robbery, burglary, receiving stolen property, forgery, and possession of marijuana, and has additional pending charges in Columbus, Ohio, and Floyd County, Indiana. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David R. Weiser and was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The preceding was a press release from Kentucky office of the FBI. Lyons indicted for unregistered firearmsClarence Lyons, Sr., 61, of Olive Hill, Kentucky was indicted for possessing 2 machine guns and an unregistered firearm in violation of federal law. 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 a federal grand jury in Ashland, Ky., returned the Indictment. The investigation preceding the Indictment was conducted jointly by the Kentucky State Police (KSP) and ATF. The Indictment was presented to the grand jury by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony J. Bracke. Lyons’s appearance before the United States District Court has not yet been set by the Court in Ashland, Ky. If convicted, Lyons 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 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 Aug 23, 2008 15:13:38 GMT -5
ATTORNEY GENERAL ISSUES CIVIL SUBPOENAS IN GAS PRICE INVESTIGATION EPA regulations that raise prices in larger cities not mentionedJack ConwayAttorney General Jack Conway announced that because of information received during a preliminary investigation into Louisville gas prices, his office has today issued civil subpoenas to refiners and suppliers of the Kentucky petroleum market and has asked the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the anti-trust division of the U.S. Department of Justice, and the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) to review the merger of Marathon and Ashland Oil. General Conway made the announcement at a news conference Friday afternoon in Louisville, where he joined Gov. Steve Beshear, Rep. John Yarmuth (D-Ky.) and Mayor Jerry Abramson to discuss initial findings from a joint investigation into Louisville gas prices. “Our investigation has raised significant questions about the wholesale price of gasoline being charged in Louisville compared to other communities that utilize similar blends of gasoline,” said Gov. Beshear. “We intend to get answers.” The preliminary data from the past two years shows that Louisville retailers have been paying about 10 cents more per gallon for gas when compared to prices reported in other parts of the state and region. Higher wholesale prices result in higher prices paid by consumers. General Conway, Gov. Beshear, Rep. Yarmuth and Mayor Abramson have urged federal anti-trust authorities to review the 1997 merger of Marathon and Ashland Oil and its impact on the entire Kentucky petroleum market. The FTC reviewed the merger in 2004 and determined it had not adversely affected consumers because retail prices were not out of line with other cities in the region. “With the data we’ve received, I don’t think that’s the case anymore,” General Conway said. “Louisville consumers are clearly paying a higher pre-tax price for gas today than they were ten years ago relative to other comparable cities in the region. We’re also concerned about the prices in Northern Kentucky and the rest of the state.” “A significant portion of the Louisville market is being supplied by a single refiner, and we need to know if it is squeezing out competition and creating an unfair or illegal business environment,” Rep. Yarmuth said. “We are calling on the FTC and the Department of Justice to conduct a swift investigation that we hope will provide some long overdue answers and relief for Louisville drivers.” The civil subpoenas sent by the Office of the Attorney General to retailers and suppliers seek explanations and data to determine why Louisville retailers are paying more for gasoline than their counterparts in other cities. “They have 45 days to supply the information we’re seeking, and after analyzing that information we will determine whether or not to move forward with a lawsuit in this case,” General Conway said. Gov. Beshear and General Conway launched the joint investigation during the first week of July after receiving complaints from Louisville consumers who were paying about $4.30 per gallon for gas. That price was almost 30 cents more per gallon than other parts of the state. “Louisville motorists are paying more at the pump than they should, and I am glad that our elected leaders are getting to the bottom of it,” Mayor Abramson said. “I applaud the team approach taken by General Conway, Gov. Beshear and Congressman Yarmuth to protect our citizens.” Economists from the Governor’s Budget Office obtained two years of data from the Oil Price Information Service (OPIS). That data includes daily average retail and wholesale prices from July 2006 to July 2008. The budget office economists analyzed the two-week period from June 12 to July 2, when prices peaked in Louisville and dissected data for the two-year period to track trends in the market. The preceding press release was from CONTRACTOR CHARGED WITH DEFRAUDING YUM! BRANDS OVER $566,000Fifty-Eight Fraudulent Claims SubmittedTommy Hester, age 42, of Franklin, Tennessee, was arrested U.S. Attorney David L. Huber of the Western District of Kentucky announced today. A federal grand jury in Louisville, Kentucky had returned an indictment on August 5, 2008 charging Hester with one count of wire fraud. The Indictment alleges that Hester owned and operated Clancey General Contractors with his wife, R.H. Clancey General Contractors was a construction business located in Franklin, Tennessee, that routinely contracted with YUM! BRANDS, INC. ("YUM!") to perform repairs on company owned stores. YUM! is a business headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky, that owned and operated various fast food restaurants, including Pizza Hut and Taco Bell. YUM! both owned individual restaurants and sold the franchise rights to restaurants. YUM! owned and operated Taco Bell and Pizza Hut restaurants in Tennessee, Louisiana, and Florida. The management of these restaurants was operated out of YUM!'s Louisville, Kentucky, headquarters. Hester was required to submit invoices to YUM!'s Louisville, Kentucky, headquarters for any work he completed on individual YUM! owned stores. From November 2005 through August 2006 Tommy Hester, through Clancey General Contractors, submitted invoices to YUM!'s Louisville, Kentucky, headquarters in which he claimed he completed work on YUM! stores located in Tennessee, Louisiana, and Florida. Tommy Hester caused the fraudulent invoices to be submitted via facsimile from Clancey General Contractors's office in Franklin, Tennessee, to YUM!'s Louisville, Kentucky, headquarters. The work claimed on the invoices was not performed by Hester or his company, Clancey General Contractors, and because of the fraudulent invoices YUM! issued approximately $566,000 in payments. The indictment identifies 58 separate instances in which Hester fraudulently billed YUM! for repair work completed. In nearly every instance no work was completed by Hester. For example, on or about August 31, 2006, Hester submitted via facsimile a Clancey General Contractors invoice no. 60285, dated May 29, 2006, in the amount of $14,828.61 for work purportedly completed on a Louisiana Taco Bell, store number 2454. The May 29, 2006, facsimile was sent in interstate commerce from Clancey General Contractors's office in Franklin, Tennessee, to YUM's Louisville headquarters. Hester submitted the invoice knowing that the claimed work was not completed. YUM subsequently issued a check in the amount of $14,828.61 for the work claimed on the invoice no. 60285. The indictment identifies 57 other instances in which Hester submitted similar invoices. In all, Hester submitted fraudulent invoices totaling $566,000 and caused YUM! to pay Hester approximately $475,000. In the event of a conviction, the maximum potential penalties are 20 years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and supervised release for a period of three years. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Bryan R. Calhoun, and it was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Hester appear today for arraignment before the United States Magistrate Judge in Louisville, Kentucky. The preceding was a press release from Kentucky office of the FBI. Kirklin indicted for manufacturing marijuanaBilly C. Kirklin, 53, of Ingram, KY was indicted today for manufacturing 100 or more marijuana plants and being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. The Indictment alleges that Kirklin did knowingly and intentionally manufacture 100 or more marijuana plants, a Schedule I controlled substance and he did knowingly possess a firearm and ammunition while being a convicted felon. 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 Ashland, KY., returned the Indictment. The investigation preceding the Indictment was conducted by the DEA. The Indictment was presented to the grand jury by Assistant United States Attorney Jason D. Parman. Kirklin’s appearance before the United States District Court has not yet been set by the Court in London, KY. If convicted, Kirklin faces a maximum prison sentence of 40 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 Aug 24, 2008 18:18:31 GMT -5
DETENTION CENTER OFFICERS FOUND GUILTY OF CIVIL RIGHTS VIOLATIONSA Kentucky jury convicted Wesley Lanham and Shawn Freeman, both former deputy jailers, on federal civil rights, conspiracy and obstruction charges, the Justice Department announced today. The defendants, former deputies at the Grant County Detention Center, were found guilty of conspiring to violate the civil rights of a teenage traffic offender when they arranged 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 defendants face up to life in prison when they are sentenced on Dec. 8, 2008. The case stemmed from an incident that occurred on Valentine’s Day in 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 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. Sydnor, previously pleaded guilty to civil rights and conspiracy charges and faces up to 15 years 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 Kentucky office of the FBI. Arjay many indicted for manufacturing marijuanaDoyle Caldwell, 49, and Kenneth R. Smith, 51 of Arjay, KY were indicted today for manufacturing more than 50 marijuana plants. The Indictment alleges that Caldwell and Smith did knowingly or intentionally manufacture 50 or more marijuana plants, a Schedule I controlled substance. James A. Zerhusen, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, Robert L. Corso, Special Agent in Charge, Drug Enforcement Administration and Rodney Brewer, Commissioner, Kentucky State Police, jointly made the announcement today after a federal grand jury in Ashland, Ky., returned the Indictment. The investigation preceding the Indictment was conducted by the DEA and KSP. The Indictment was presented to the grand jury by Assistant United States Attorney Jason D. Parman. Caldwell and Smith appearance before the United States District Court has not yet been set by the Court in London, Ky. If convicted, Caldwell and Smith face a maximum prison sentence of 30 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 DUMSTORF PLEADS GUILTY TO DEFRAUDING BANK OUT OF $850,000George W. Dumstorf, Jr., age 69, of Spring Hill, Florida, plead guilty to bank fraud, David L. Huber, United States Attorney for the Western District of Kentucky, announced today. The Indictment to which he pleaded guilty charged that between September 2001 and January 2006, Dumstorf defrauded Stockyards Bank and Trust by providing counterfeit certificates of deposit as collateral for nearly $850,000 in loans. In December of 2005, Dumstorf applied for and received an $850,000 loan that consolidated a number of previous loans. He provided as collateral for the December loan two counterfeit certificates of deposit purportedly issued by the United States Treasury, Department of Defense. The first was in the amount of $688,980 and the second in the amount of $299,985. This loan consolidated a number of previous loans that were also secured by counterfeit certificates of deposit. These counterfeit certificates of deposit were purportedly issued by the Kennedy Space Center Federal Credit Union. The loans secured by the Kennedy Space Center Federal Credit Union certificates of deposit dated back to September 2001. The maximum potential penalties are 30 years imprisonment, a $1,000,000 fine, an supervised release for a period of up to 5 years. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Bryan Calhoun, and it was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Dumstorf is scheduled for sentencing on November 10, 2008, at 11:00 a.m., in Louisville, Kentucky. The preceding was a press release from Kentucky office of the FBI.
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Post by Press Release on Aug 26, 2008 20:51:31 GMT -5
Governor Orders Flags to Half-Staff on August 27Kentucky Gov. Steve Beshear has directed that flags at all state office buildings be lowered to half-staff beginning at sunrise on Wednesday, Aug. 27, 2008, in observance of the second anniversary of the crash of Comair Flight 5191. Flags will remain lowered until sunset on Wednesday, Aug. 27, 2008 in memory of the 49 passengers and crew members who lost their lives in the early morning crash on Aug. 27, 2006 upon takeoff at Lexington’s Bluegrass Airport. Flags are at half-staff today in honor of two Fort Campbell soldiers who died supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. Gov. Beshear encourages individuals, businesses, organizations and government agencies to join in this tribute. The preceding press release was from Nine Charged in Fake Auto Insurance Card Round-UpA sharp eye for detail in the Clay County clerk’s office resulted in nine Manchester area residents being charged with insurance fraud for creating or possessing fake auto insurance identification cards. When Clay County Clerk Freddy Thompson and his staff began seeing suspicious or altered proof of insurance cards, he brought it to the attention of the Kentucky Department of Insurance (DOI) Fraud Investigation Division. DOI fraud investigators contacted Manchester Police Chief Jeff Culver and Clay County Sheriff Kevin Johnson, along with County Attorney Clay Bishop, and began a joint investigation. “Auto insurance is mandatory in Kentucky, and proof of insurance is required to license a vehicle. Unfortunately, the creation and possession of fake insurance cards is one of the most prevalent fraudulent activities we investigate,” said DOI Commissioner Sharon P. Clark. “Those who drive without insurance create a financial hazard for everyone.” Culver and Thompson believe the investigation has been positive for the community, and Thompson said his staff is seeing fewer questionable cards. “We believe news of this investigation will deter others from doing the same thing,” said Culver. “This is an example of teamwork at its best,” said Commissioner Clark. “I commend the Clay County law enforcement officials and Mr. Thompson and his staff for the outstanding assistance and cooperation we received in completing our investigation.” Those charged with felony counts of insurance fraud for possessing fake cards are: Marshall D. Bodkins, 22; Lois Ann Hunter, 46; Daniel C. Mayfield, 27; Alta Mae Nolan, 29, and Bobby J. Wombles, 34, all of Manchester; David G. Caudill, 46, of Fall Rock; Rebecca Roberts, 29, of Big Creek; and Evelyn J. Simpson, 63, of Garrard. Teresa Bowling, 43, of Manchester was charged with a felony count of second degree forgery for creating a fake card. The nine are scheduled to appear in Clay District Court on Sept. 16. DOI is an agency of the Public Protection Cabinet. The preceding press release was from KENTUCKY ABC EARNS NATIONAL LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCY OF THE YEAR AWARDThe Kentucky Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) has been honored with the Law Enforcement Agency of the Year Award by a national program dedicated to curbing underage drinking. The Underage Drinking Enforcement Training Center presented the award recently at its national conference in Nashville. The training center is affiliated with the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention in the U.S. Department of Justice. ABC was recognized for the success of several programs to combat youth access to alcohol. One such program, Operation Zero Tolerance (OZT), has produced an all-time high compliance rate, 91 percent. OZT sends investigators to licensed retail stores to accompany aides a year or two younger than the minimum legal drinking age of 21. The aide attempts to buy alcohol and if he or she does not make the purchase, the seller is in compliance. The aide is not allowed to misrepresent his or her age during the attempt to purchase. In addition to the high OZT compliance rates, the efforts of the education branch were recognized as an effective tool in combating underage sales. Server Training in Alcohol Regulations (S.T.A.R.) trains an average of four thousand servers/sellers of alcohol across Kentucky annually. S.T.A.R. teaches specific Kentucky law, as well as offers tips on how to spot a fraudulent or borrowed identification. Commissioner Norman Arflack and Enforcement Director Mike Razor accepted the award. Investigator Manager Josh Crain also attended. “This award, in recognition of superior performance by The Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control, epitomizes the professionalism of all members of the agency. Specifically, the Enforcement Division and Education Branch continually strive to combat underage drinking in the Commonwealth. I congratulate all who have worked so diligently to earn this distinguished award,” remarked Commissioner Arflack. This award comes only a few weeks after the Enforcement Division received its second five-year re-accreditation from the Kentucky Association of Chiefs of Police. The accreditation is based on a rigorous assessment ensuring the proper protocol and procedure for a law enforcement division. The preceding press release was from Ohio residents arrested for drug traffickingA traffic stop resulting from a drug complaint led to the arrest of three southern Ohio residents on Saturday, August 9. Law enforcement officers received a tip that the individuals had brought prescription pills to a source in Beattyville. A Lee County Sheriff’s deputy spotted the trio’s Dodge Neon in the city limits. Officers from UNITE, the Beattyville Police Department and Kentucky State Police were called to assist. After receiving consent to search the car police discovered a quantity of marijuana, Methadone, Percocet and Lortab along with $7,753 in cash. “We believe these individuals had already made their delivery and were in the process of leaving town,” said Dan Smoot, law enforcement director for UNITE. “Most of the prescription narcotics that we’re seeing in this region are coming to Kentucky from Ohio or Detroit.” “We have had 188 calls to our Drug Tip Hotline (1-866-424-4382) from Lee County residents,” Smoot said. “These tips have been very helpful in building cases. I encourage more citizens to report suspected drug activity so we can further reduce the amount of drugs being sold illegally on our streets.” Charged were: • Jessica Bowling, age 27, of Carlisle, Ohio, first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance. • Steven Sizemore, age 31, of Troy, Ohio, first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance. • Amber White, age 28, of Troy, Ohio, first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance. All three were lodged in the Three Forks Regional Jail, but have since been released on bond. The preceding was a press release from Operation Unite.
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Post by Press Release on Aug 27, 2008 16:17:56 GMT -5
Coffee Makers Recalled by Sears Due to Fire and Burn HazardsThe 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: Kenmore and Kenmore Elite Coffee Makers Units: About 145,000 Retailers: Sears, Roebuck and Co., the great indoors and Kmart Corp., of Hoffman Estates, Ill. Hazard: The wiring in the coffee maker can overheat, posing burn and fire hazards to consumers. Incidents/Injuries: Sears has received 20 reports of coffee makers overheating, including 12 fires, causing damage to counter tops, cabinet damage, and plastic melting on the floor. No injuries have been reported. Description: This recall involves 12-cup Kenmore coffee makers sold in black, white, and red with the following model numbers: 100.80006 (black), 100.81006 (white), and 100.82006 (red). The recall also involves 12-cup Kenmore Elite coffee makers with thermal carafe (model number 100.90007) and 14-cup Kenmore Elite coffee makers (model number 100.90006). The model number can be found on the bottom of the unit. There is a Kenmore or Kenmore Elite logo on the front bottom of the maker. Sold at: Sears, Sears Hardware, the great indoors, and Kmart stores nationwide, as well as Sears.com and Kmart.com, from August 2007 through April 2008 for between $30 and $100. Manufactured in: China Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the coffee makers and take them to their nearest Sears or Kmart store to obtain a free replacement coffee maker. Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Sears at (800) 978-7615 between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m. CT Monday through Saturday, or visit the following Web sites: www.sears.com, www.kmart.com, or www.thegreatindoors.com Accident Involving Kentucky State Police Trooper in Laurel CountyOn August 26, 2008 at 7:25 P.M. Kentucky State Police Trooper First Class Parrish Baker was Eastbound on the Hal Rogers Parkway on his way to investigate a serious injury accident on the Hal Rogers Parkway. TFC Baker was operating a marked Kentucky State Police vehicle and preliminary investigation indicates his emergency equipment was activated. When TFC Baker entered the intersection of KY 30 and the Hal Rogers Parkway he struck a 2002 Kia driven by 26 year old Curtis Angel of McKee. The vehicle driven by Mr. Angel was traveling west on KY 30 into the intersection. TFC Bakers vehicle struck the Kia in the passenger side where Ashley Angel, the 24 year old wife of Mr. Angel was located. TFC Baker and Mister and Misses Angel were transported to Saint Joseph Hospital of London. Ms. Angel was transferred to the UK Medical Center with serious injuries. TFC Baker is a 19-year veteran of the Kentucky State Police. TFC Baker was treated and released from St. Joseph Hospital with a broken hand. The Kentucky State Police Regional Reconstruction Team was activated and is currently on the scene. The investigation is continuing. The preceding press release was from Kentucky State Police Post 11 in London which serves the following Kentucky Counties: Rockcastle, Wayne, and Whitley. Stroller Activity Bars Recalled by International Playthings Due to Choking 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: Taggies™ Strollin’ Along Stroller Activity Bars Units: About 10,000 Importer/Distributor: International Playthings Inc., of Parsippany, N.J. Hazard: The shiny material on the elephant’s ear on the activity bar can detach, posing a choking hazard to young children. Incidents/Injuries: International Playthings has received three reports of the shiny material detaching and children putting it in his/her mouth. No injuries have been reported. Description: This recall involves the Taggies™ Strollin’ Along stroller activity bars. The multicolored, fabric, and plastic activity bars feature a yellow giraffe, a purple hippo and a blue elephant attached to a 12” long elliptical base with straps that attach to a stroller. The Taggies™ and Earlyears® logos are located on woven and satin labels sewn into the seam on the lower left front of the activity bar. Sold at: Specialty toy stores nationwide and on the Internet from February 2007 through July 2008 for about $23. Manufactured in: Hong Kong Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the activity bars and contact International Playthings for a free replacement toy. Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact International Playthings at (800) 445-8347 or visit the company’s Web site at www.intplay.com Clay County is #5 in jobless rateUnemployment rates rose in 112 Kentucky counties between July 2007 and July 2008, fell in six counties and stayed the same in two counties, according to the Kentucky Office of Employment and Training, an agency of the Kentucky Education and Workforce Development Cabinet. Woodford County recorded the lowest jobless rate in the commonwealth at 5.3 percent. Other counties with low unemployment rates were Fayette County, 5.4 percent; Boone County, 5.6 percent; Bourbon and Oldham counties, 5.7 percent each; Jessamine and Scott counties, 5.9 percent each; Franklin, Kenton and Livingston counties, 6 percent each. Magoffin County recorded the state’s highest unemployment rate — 11.5 percent. It was followed by Jackson County, 11.2 percent; Wolfe County, 10.8 percent; Grayson County, 10.6 percent; Clay County, 10.5 percent; Elliott, Harlan and Morgan counties, 10.1 percent each; and Bell, McCreary and Muhlenberg counties, 9.9 percent each. Unemployment statistics are based on estimates and are compiled to measure trends rather than actually to count people working. Civilian labor force statistics include non-military workers and unemployed Kentuckians who are actively seeking work. They do not include unemployed Kentuckians who have not looked for employment within the past four weeks. The statistics in this news release are not seasonally adjusted to allow for comparisons between United States, state and county figures. Learn more about the Office of Employment and Training at www.workforce.ky.gov. The preceding press release was from IMS Recalls Car Chargers Used With Halogen Spotlights Sold at Sears and K-Mart Due to Fire and Burn HazardsThe 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: Car Chargers Used with Power System Plus 3 Million Candlepower Spotlights Units: About 210,000 Importer/Distributor: International Merchandising Service Inc. (IMS), of Fullerton, Calif. Hazard: The car charger is incompatible with the spotlight’s battery, which can cause it to overcharge inside of a vehicle and pose a fire or burn hazard to consumers. Incidents/Injuries: IMS has received two reports of incidents of spotlights overheating while being charged with the car charger. No injuries have been reported. Description: The recalled 12V DC car charger was sold with the Power Systems Plus/UST 3 Million Candlepower Spotlight with model number HSLR30S. The spotlight is black and blue and has a sticker on each side that reads “3 Million Candle Power.” “HSLR30S” is printed on the instruction manual and on the packaging. Sold at: Sears and K-Mart retail stores nationwide from October 2007 to June 2008 for about $20. Manufactured in: China Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled car charger and contact IMS for information on how to receive a free replacement car charger. Consumers can continue to use the spotlights without the car charger. Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact IMS toll-free at (866) 797-2738 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, visit the company’s Web site at usttools.com/recall, or write to IMS Inc., 1927 W. Malvern Ave., Fullerton, CA 92833 ATTN: RECALL PROGRAM.
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Post by Press Release on Aug 28, 2008 22:10:56 GMT -5
Congressman Chandler, Senator McConnell and Senator Bunning Applaud Decision at Blue Grass Army DepotCongressman Ben Chandler (D-KY6), Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and Senator Jim Bunning (R-KY) commended a recent policy change at Blue Grass Army Depot (BGAD) focused on alerting the public to potential health hazards. A letter written by Chandler, McConnell and Bunning on August 13, 2008 urged the new leadership of Blue Grass Chemical Activity (BGCA) to keep safety measures in place which alerted the public and first responders to all leaks within 5 minutes. The letter expressed that timely information is not only critical to safety, but would help maintain trust between the Commander of BGCA and the public. In July, the former Commander of BGCA submitted a proposal which would have rescinded this notification policy. However, outcry from community leaders and elected officials helped retain this current safety policy. “The Senators and I look forward to the final, safe disposal of these chemical weapons, and each one of us agrees that the immediate safety of the citizens of Madison County is of the utmost importance,” Chandler said. “I will continue to work with Senator McConnell and Senator Bunning to make sure that we keep the lines of communication between the Depot and first responders open. Today is a small victory for the people of Central Kentucky, and this decision by the Depot’s leadership shows that, step-by-step, we are making meaningful progress.” “Reinstating the notification policy will maintain vital communication and help build trust between the BGCA and the community,” McConnell said. “I will continue to work with Congressman Chandler and Senator Bunning on the safe disposal of the chemical weapons stored at the facility, and until that time comes, we will work to ensure the community remains well informed and as safe as possible.” “I firmly believe we have an obligation to the citizens of Kentucky to dispose of these weapons as quickly and safely as possible,” said Bunning. “But as long as chemical weapons are going to be stored in the area, it is imperative that the community be kept in the loop on safety issues at the Blue Grass Army Depot. I am glad that Congressman Chandler, Senator McConnell and I were able to work together to help make sure the current notification policy remains intact.” The preceding press release was from United States Senator Mitch McConnell.
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Post by Press Release on Aug 29, 2008 6:43:36 GMT -5
Sentence returned in metal meatloaf caseJoreen Crawford, a food service worker in Barbourville, Ky., was sentenced today to time served and ordered to pay full restitution for costing her employer $1,200 by tampering with a consumer product. District Court Judge Gregory Van Tatenhove also sentenced Crawford to one year of home incarceration and three years of supervised release. The 27-year-old Crawford admitted during her guilty plea in May that on January 17, 2007, she purposely placed a metal clip/staple in a batch of processed meatloaf that was to be distributed to a national restaurant chain. Crawford also acknowledged that she committed the act hoping that one of her co-employees would be blamed, resulting in this individual’s termination. “Miss Crawford’s reckless actions created a significant risk to the safety of others,” said Sam Dotson, who represented the United States in this case. “Fortunately, because of the swift response by the defendant’s employer and the USDA, the staple was recovered before the meatloaf was ever circulated for consumption to the general public.” Approximately a week after the incident, one of Crawford’s co-workers notified a supervisor about the incident. However, the meatloaf had already been shipped to the broker for nationwide distribution. The supervisor immediately called the broker and recalled the entire 3,570 pound shipment of processed meatloaf. In February, Crawford’s supervisor and a USDA investigator used an X-ray machine to examine the meatloaf and discovered the clip/staple in one of the processed meatloaves. Crawford’s employer and the national restaurant chain will not be revealed for legal purposes. Crawford was indicted in February of this year. James A. Zerhusen, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, made the announcement today after Crawford entered her guilty plea. The investigation was conducted by the United States Drug Administration (USDA). The United States was represented in the case 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
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Post by Press Release on Aug 30, 2008 10:01:46 GMT -5
Governor Beshear Recognizes Sacrifice of Williamsburg Casualty in IraqGov. Steve Beshear today recognized the death of a Kentuckian who died supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. According to the Department of Defense, Sgt. David K. Cooper, 25, of Williamsburg, Ky., died Aug. 27 in Baghdad, of wounds suffered in Qadasiyah, Iraq, when his dismounted patrol came under small arms fire. He was assigned to Forward Support Company, 4th Battalion, 42nd Field Artillery, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Hood, Texas. 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. Cooper’s interment, for which arrangements are pending. The preceding press release was from Five Motorcycle Deaths Included in Traffic FatalitiesAugust 18 through August 24Preliminary statistics* indicate that 13 people died in thirteen separate crashes on Kentucky roadways from Monday, August 18 through Sunday, August 24, 2008. Six of the fatalities involved motor vehicles and two of those victims were not wearing seat belts. Motor vehicle crashes occurred in Allen, Knott, Laurel, Letcher, Pike and Scott counties. There was an ATV fatality in Pike county and the victim was not wearing a helmet. Five people died in five separate motorcycle crashes occurring in Fleming, Garrard, Laurel, McLean and Menifee counties. Two of the victims were not wearing helmets. There was one pedestrian fatality in Logan county and the suspected use of alcohol was a factor. Through August 24, preliminary statistics* indicate that 492 people have lost their lives on Kentucky roadways during 2008. This is 63 fewer than reported for this time period in 2007. Of the 373 motor vehicle fatalities, 228 victims were not wearing seat belts. Of the 62 motorcycle fatalities, 36 were not wearing helmets. Fifteen people have been killed in ATV crashes and 14 of those were not wearing helmets. Thirty-nine pedestrians have been killed. A total of 91 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 Pineville Mayor indicted for vote buyingThe U.S. District Court in London, Ky. unsealed an indictment charging Robert L. “Bob” Madon, 73, and 44-year-old Brent Madon, both of Pineville, Ky., with vote buying. The Indictment alleges that Bob Madon and his son, Brent Madon, conspired to convince voters to vote absentee for “Bob” Madon for Mayor of Pineville in exchange for cash and drugs in the mayoral election in the city of Pineville in November of 2006. Of the 305 absentee votes cast in that election, Bob Madon received 250 votes while his opponent received 55. Bob Madon won the election for Mayor of the City of Pineville by a margin of nearly two to one. 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 a federal grand jury in London, Ky. The investigation preceding the Indictment was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The Indictment was presented to the grand jury by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick H. Molloy. The Madons’ appearance before the United States District Court has not yet been set by the Court in London, Ky. If convicted, both could face a maximum prison sentence of 30 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 Aug 30, 2008 21:14:26 GMT -5
Hacker Prepares to Provide Hurricane Assistance to Gulf Coast RegionPublic health workers could provide variety of services to affected areasDr. William D. HackerKentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) officials are assembling resources and personnel in preparation to assist areas hit the hardest if Hurricane Gustav makes landfall as predicted early next week. “Kentucky public health stands willing and able to provide assistance to those areas affected by the storm,” said William D. Hacker, M.D., commissioner for public health. “We are actively assembling teams of state and local public health staff that could deploy to affected regions to help address critical health issues, such as food and water safety. In addition, we are preparing for the potential arrival of evacuees in Kentucky.” The type of “strike” teams that might be deployed consist of public health specialists that address critical health issues, such as food and water safety, disease tracking, special needs shelter operations and communication. DPH is also sending alerts about potential needs to individuals registered with the Kentucky Health Emergency Listing of Professionals for Surge (K HELPS) program, a state-based system to register medical professionals interested in volunteering to offer assistance during public health emergencies or disasters. Volunteers could be deployed to the Gulf Coast region or in support of efforts in Kentucky. Kentucky has agreed to receive possible displaced residents from the Gulf Coast region under the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC), an interstate mutual aid program that offers assistance from other member states. Some of these possibly displaced residents may require assistance at special needs shelters or care from health care facilities. Volunteers interested with assisting in efforts can register with K HELPS online at khelps.chfs.ky.gov. While all health workers willing to volunteer are invited to register, the current emphasis is on recruiting physicians, nurses, pharmacists, social workers, radiological technologists, respiratory therapists and clinical laboratory technologists and technicians. DPH began to build the K HELPS program during Hurricane Katrina relief efforts, and it now has more than 2,400 individuals registered. For information on public health preparedness, visit: chfs.ky.gov/dph/epi/preparednessThe preceding was a press release from Clay County native and current Commissioner, Kentucky Department for Public Health, William D. Hacker. Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority Scholarship contestOne Kentucky high school junior could win a $500 scholarship to use at a Kentucky college of his or her choice — and a photo shoot for his or her school. Just tell why your school is the best in the state in 200 words or less. The “Promote Your School” scholarship contest is sponsored by the Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority (KHEAA) and The Student Loan People. Photos from the winning school will be used in KHEAA and The Student Loan People books and other publications. To enter, send your essay to KHEAA, Publications Section, P.O. Box 798, Frankfort, KY 40602-0798. You may also e-mail your essay to publications@kheaa.com or fax it to (502) 696-7574. The winner will be chosen by a committee of employees from KHEAA and The Student Loan People. To ensure objectivity, students should not mention the name of their school or any other identifying factors in their essays. They should put their name and the name of their school on a cover page. The deadline for submissions is November 1, 2008. Students from high schools that have already been featured — duPont Manual, George Rogers Clark, Murray, Trimble County and Boyle County — are not eligible this year. KHEAA and The Student Loan People provide millions of dollars each year to help Kentucky students pay for college. KHEAA administers the Kentucky Educational Excellence Scholarship, which is funded by the Kentucky Lottery, and other state grants and scholarships. To learn how to plan and prepare for higher education, visit www.GoHigherKY.org. For more information about Kentucky scholarships and grants, visit write KHEAA, P.O. Box 798, Frankfort, KY 40602-0798; or call (800) 928-8926, extension 7381. For information about student loans, visit write The Student Loan People, P.O. Box 24328, Louisville, KY 40224-0328; or call (888) 678-4625. The preceding press release was from Robinson indicted for bank robberyJames L. Robinson, 29, of Pikeville, was indicted by a federal grand jury in London on one count of bank robbery and another count of armed bank robbery. The indictment alleges that on August 11, 2008 Robinson, armed with a dangerous weapon, used force, violence and intimidation to steal approximately $3,313 from Community Trust Bank in Bell County located in Middelsboro, Ky. In addition, the indictment accuses Robinson of robbing the Community Trust Bank in Pike County located in Pikeville, Ky. of $3,926 the following day. James A. Zerhusen, Acting 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 after the indictment was returned. The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the FBI and the Pikeville Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Jason D. Parmen presented the indictment to the grand jury. Robinson’s news apperance before the United States District Court in London has not yet been set. If convicted Robinson faces a maximum prison sentence of 25 years. Any sentence following a conviction would be imposed by the court after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statute governing the imposition of a sentence. 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 Aug 31, 2008 7:53:39 GMT -5
Bowman and Waddle indicted for Meth distributionA federal grand jury in London returned an indictment charging 36-year-old Anthony Elmer Bowman and 40-year-old Emmitt Lee Waddle, both of London, Ky., with possession with intent to distribute Methamphetamine and conspiracy with intent to distribute methamphetamine in Laurel County from July 2008 until August of 2008. Both face a maximum prison sentence of 40 years if convicted. James A. Zerhusen, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, and Robert L. Corso, Special Agent in Charge, Drug Enforcement Administration jointly made the announcement after the indictment was returned. The next court apperance for both defendants has not yet been set by the United States District Court in London. Any sentence following a conviction would be imposed by the court after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statute governing the imposition of a sentence. 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 20 indicted following Knott drug investigationPolice arrested 15 Knott County residents on drug trafficking charges Friday during a roundup conducted by Operation UNITE. Armed with 20 indictment warrants returned earlier this month, detectives from UNITE were joined by officers from the Knott County Sheriff’s Office and Kentucky State Police to arrest suspects identified during a 14-month undercover investigation. Among those indicted were five members of one family arrested at their Pine Top home in mid-July. During those arrests police recovered approximately 15 half-gram bags of powered cocaine. Yeart Pratt Sr., his wife Lillis, and their sons Yeart Jr., John D. and Hubert were each served the new indictment warrants at the Kentucky River Regional Detention Center, where they have remained since their arrests last month. “The Pratt family has been involved in the illegal drug trade for a long time,” said Dan Smoot, law enforcement director for Operation UNITE. “They were well-known in Knott County for providing cocaine, Methadone and Oxycodone.” During the arrests on Friday, officers recovered a total of 127 pills and cash from three of those arrested. Additional charges are pending in those cases. The preceding was a press release from Operation Unite. Vote Here Exhibition to Close in SeptemberVisitors who hope to see the Vote Here exhibition, a collection of political memorabilia on display at the Old State Capitol, need to act soon. The exhibition will close September 8. Vote Here highlights the importance of campaign materials in developing public perceptions of candidates’ images. It features bumper stickers, posters, and buttons. The collection was donated to the Kentucky Historical Society by Drexell R. Davis, former Kentucky treasurer and secretary of state. Visitors can view the collection and also tour the Old State Capitol, which is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Old State Capitol, completed in 1830, served as Kentucky’s capitol building from 1830 to 1910 and is located on the Kentucky Historical Society’s history campus. The campus also includes the Thomas D. Clark Center for Kentucky History and the Kentucky Military History Museum, which is currently closed for renovation. Admission to all sites on the Kentucky Historical Society campus is $4 for adults, $2 for youth ages 6 to 12, and complimentary for children under 5. For more information about the Kentucky Historical Society, visit www.history.ky.gov or call 502-564-1792. The preceding press release was from
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Post by Press Release on Sept 1, 2008 7:34:35 GMT -5
State Teams Up With Microsoft To Fight CybercrimeJack Conway More than 100 law enforcement officers from across the Commonwealth will learn the latest techniques in fighting cybercrime thanks to a collaboration between Kentucky Attorney General Jack Conway and Microsoft Corp. The software company selected General Conway’s office as one of nine agencies in the nation to host cybercrimes training and data-collection seminars. “We are thrilled to be teamed up with Microsoft to provide state of the art training for law enforcement in Kentucky. This training will help police better track child pornography, online predators, internet scam artists and identity theft,” General Conway said. The Kentucky Attorney General’s Office/Microsoft Law Enforcement Training Day is September 3 from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the University of Louisville Shelby Campus, Founders Union Building, Room 218A/B, 9001 Shelbyville Road. Attorney General Conway, Commissioner Robert Foster, Department of Criminal Investigations and Tim Cranton, Associate General Counsel, Microsoft Worldwide Internet Safety Programs will make introductory remarks from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. In June, General Conway announced creation of a Cybercrimes Division dedicated to investigating crimes that occur online. Law enforcement officers report that 80 percent of crimes committed involve some type of digital or computer evidence. “That’s why it’s imperative that we provide quality training to law enforcement to ensure that they are discovering and preserving crucial evidence that could lead to the successful prosecution of cybercriminals,” General Conway said. “It is a privilege for Microsoft to join with Attorney General Jack Conway to help train law enforcement officers across Kentucky about the tools and technical knowledge they need to conduct Internet investigations,” said Tim Cranton, Associate General Counsel, Microsoft Worldwide Internet Safety Programs. “These types of public-private alliances are critical to building a safer and more secure Internet for everyone.” In partnership with the University of Louisville, the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office has already conducted four regional digital evidence training seminars in Frankfort, Hazard , Burlington and Paducah. These seminars taught prosecutors and law enforcement officers how to identify and process digital evidence. The Attorney General’s Office also held a workshop in Western Kentucky to discuss the possibility of building a new digital forensics lab in that part of the state. The cybercrimes training is provided to law enforcement free of charge by Microsoft. Law enforcement can also receive eight hours of credit approved by the Kentucky Law Enforcement Council. The preceding press release was from
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Post by Press Release on Sept 2, 2008 15:59:08 GMT -5
Three State Resort Parks To Offer Fall and Winter Elk ToursThe Kentucky State Parks will again be offering elk tours this fall and winter, allowing visitors to see these majestic animals up close. Tours have been added at Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park – one of three parks that host the event. Elk viewing is also offered at Jenny Wiley State Resort Park and Pine Mountain State Resort Park. The return of elk to the region is considered to be one of Kentucky’s biggest wildlife management success stories. The animals, after being gone from the state for 150 years, were returned in 1997. They now number more than 8,500. You can pick out a weekend, stay at a state park lodge or cottage, and rise early to enjoy one of these unique tours. Participants should bring their cameras – there should be great photography opportunities. The largest elk herds are located on privately-owned lands that are normally closed to the public. This is one of the few opportunities available for the public to see the greatest number of elk. Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park in Perry County is offering elk tour packages. The park’s weekend packages include a night’s lodging, two meals, and the elk tour. The package price is $150 per couple; $110 for individuals. Morning tours leave at 5:45 a.m. Stay an extra night Saturday for $45. The elk tour alone is $30. (The park reserves the right to cancel tours due to inclement weather.) Buckhorn Lake has a lodge, cottages, Bowlingtown Country Kitchen, hiking trails, mini-golf and fishing. The dates for the elk tour weekends at Buckhorn Lake are Sept. 12-14; Oct. 17-19; Nov. 14-16; Nov. 21-23; Dec. 5-7 and Dec. 12-14. In 2009 the dates are Jan. 17-19, Jan. 30-Feb. 1, Feb. 27-March 1, March 13-15 and March 27-29. For information and reservations, call Buckhorn Lake at 1-800-325-0058. Tours offered at Pine Mountain State Resort Park near Pineville are $20 a person ($10 for children 12 and under). The program includes a Friday evening seminar concerning the natural history of the elk and the restoration program, a continental breakfast, passenger van transportation and interpretive guide services. Pine Mountain has a rustic lodge, modern cottages, log cabins, Mountain View Restaurant, hiking trails, championship golf course, interpretive center, mini-golf, naturalist programming, and a gift shop. The park also conducts a popular series of special events throughout the year. The dates of the Pine Mountain elk tours this fall are Sept. 19-20; Oct. 10-11; Oct. 17-18 and Oct. 31-Nov. 1, and in 2009 Jan. 9-10, Jan. 16-17, and Jan. 23-24. Call Pine Mountain at 1-800-325-1712 for information and reservations. Jenny Wiley State Resort Park at Prestonsburg offers half-day tours that include a continental breakfast and costs $20 for adults and $10 for children under age 12. Jenny Wiley State Resort Park has a lodge, cottages, campground, Music Highway Grill, hiking trails, disc golf, fishing, a summer theater and recreational activities. The dates at Jenny Wiley for 2008 are Sept. 20, 21, 27 and 28; Oct. 11, 12, 18, 19, 25, 26; Nov. 1, 15, 22, 29 and Dec. 6. For 2009, the dates are Jan. 10, 17, 24, 25, 31; Feb. 7, 14, 21, 28 and March 7, 14. For information and reservations, call Jenny Wiley State Resort Park at 1-800-325-0142. Group tours are also available at these parks. Call the park for information. For more information about Kentucky State Parks, visit www.parks.ky.govThe preceding press release was from Dept. of Justice Releases Federal Funds for Operation UNITECongressman Harold “Hal” Rogers announced today that the U.S. Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance, has authorized disbursement of $3.4 million for Operation UNITE (Unlawful Narcotics Investigations, Treatment and Education) to continue its important anti-drug initiatives in Southern and Eastern Kentucky. This month Operation UNITE, working in conjunction with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Kentucky Attorney General’s Department of Criminal Investigation, Kentucky State Police, and local law enforcement, has sought 76 suspected drug dealers through undercover investigations in four counties. To date, Operation UNITE has conducted 113 drug round-ups seeking 2,964 suspects for possible prosecution on drug-related crimes. “Operation UNITE’s efforts this August should leave no doubt that we are committed to getting drug dealers off of our streets, and the ongoing collaboration with federal, state and local law enforcement officers has truly made Southern and Eastern Kentucky a safer place to live,” stated Rogers. “The beauty of UNITE is that there are opportunities for non-violent offenders grappling with addiction to receive rehabilitative treatment or participate in a drug court program to support their re-entry into life as productive citizens. For those high-level drug pushers, with the help of our federal partners like DEA, these criminals should see the inside of a prison for a long time. By working together, we are breaking down cross-county, multi-state, and international drug rings.” UNITE’s multi-pronged approach to combating drub abuse involves not only such investigations, but also important treatment and educational programming. To date, UNITE detectives have confiscated over $8.3 million worth of drugs off the street, including more than 79,500 prescription pills, more than 20 pounds of cocaine, nearly 450 pounds of processed marijuana and over 11 pounds of methamphetamine. Including the six roundups conducted this August, their efforts have led to the arrests of 2,732 drug dealers and a 97.4% conviction rate. Operation UNITE also provides non-violent offenders and those grappling with addiction with a second chance—over 1,670 non-violent offenders have participated in UNITE drug court programs, and more than 1,250 individuals have received vouchers for treatment. Finally, Operation UNITE continues to educate our youth about the dangers of drug abuse; to date, 64,595 counseling sessions have taken place with UNITE substance abuse counselors. For more information on UNITE, visit www.operationunite.org or call 866-678-6483. The preceding was a press release from Operation Unite.
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Post by Press Release on Sept 3, 2008 16:29:21 GMT -5
Rogers Announces FAA Funding for Whitley County Airport ImprovementsHal RogersCongressman Harold “Hal” Rogers (KY-05) announced today that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is awarding $77,588 towards the construction of a new terminal building at the Williamsburg-Whitley County Airport. This investment marks the second phase of funding for the new terminal. “Our general aviation airports are important for local industry and travelers, and these funds will help ensure that the airport remains convenient and accessible, as well as more apt to accommodate additional passenger traffic,” stated Rogers. “Reliable and secure airport infrastructure continues to make our region more desirable for aviation-dependent businesses and flying families alike, and I am pleased with the ongoing federal-local partnership fostered by the FAA and the Williamsburg-Whitley County Airport Board.” These funds will compliment a $223,000 FAA grant awarded to the airport earlier this year for the 6000 square foot terminal, a project that is estimated to cost $1 million in total. With 4 single-engine aircraft based on its field, the Williamsburg-Whitley County Airport averages 100 aircraft operations per year – 50% local general aviation and 50% transient general aviation. Rogers currently serves as a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee. Through this role, Rogers supports important initiatives in the Fifth Congressional District. The preceding press release was from United States Representative Hal Rogers. Hopkinsville to Host Trail of Tears Pow Wow September 6-7This weekend the Trail of Tears Commission is hosting the 21st Annual Pow Wow at the historic Trail of Tears Commemorative Park on US HWY 41 in Hopkinsville, Ky., site of the actual trail and encampment used during the forced removal of the Cherokee people from 1838-39. This exciting Native American gathering takes place Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 6-7, 2008. The gates open at 10 a.m. both days at the Trail of Tears Commemorative Park, US HWY 41 (Pembroke Road), to a pow wow filled with dance competitions, Native American arts and crafts, Cherokee storytelling, tipi displays, Indian foods, tomahawk throwing, and authentic Native American dance contests with contestants in full Native American regalia. Native Americans travel from all over the United States and Canada to participate in these dance competitions at the Trail of Tears Pow Wow, competing for over $20,000 in prize money. Men’s dance competitions are traditional, grass, straight, golden age and the spectacular fancy dance. Women’s competitions are in buckskin, fancy shawl, jingle, cloth and golden age. There will also be junior competitions for male and female dancers 11-16 years old and youth dance competitions for boys and girls ages 6-10, along with popular tiny-tot competitions for boys and girls 5 and under. This year's Pow Wow will also have the largest number of Native American vendors offering jewelry, art, leather and beadwork, clothing, books and a variety of Native American-made products, plus more food and beverage choices. The public is invited to come join this once-in-a-lifetime Native American Pow Wow experience. Gates open at 10 a.m. both Saturday and Sunday. The preceding press release was from Economic Development Secretary ResignsWill Continue Work for State, Resume ConsultingExpressing his desire to continue to help the state move forward while returning to private life, Economic Development Secretary John Hindman today announced his resignation. Hindman, who has been secretary since June 2007, will continue on for one year with the state as a consultant to concentrate on large projects already underway such as the expansion of Ford and Kentucky’s efforts to land a spin-off of General Electric. Gov. Steve Beshear thanked Hindman for his service to the state and his accomplishments and also announced that Larry Hayes would assume the duties of Acting Secretary for Economic Development in addition to continuing as Secretary of the Governor’s Cabinet. “I want to thank John for his commitment to Kentucky and his important, productive efforts on behalf of economic development in the Commonwealth. I am very pleased that he will continue to work with us over the next year as we bring some large projects already underway to fruition,” Gov. Beshear said. “At the same time, I’m excited that we have someone in place in Larry Hayes who can assume these critical duties at a pivotal juncture in our state’s economic development. We will not miss a step. In fact, I believe we can take this transition period to evaluate where we are and find important ways to improve and refine our efforts so that our state can grow the kinds of jobs and businesses we need to compete successfully in a global economy.” Hindman cited work to improve external communications in negotiations of projects such as the Ford expansion among the accomplishments of his tenure in Economic Development. He also said he was proud of his efforts to more publicly link economic development progress with advancement in education. “For our state to be successful and competitive in the 21st century, we must attract high-wage, high-skill jobs, while also developing a more entrepreneurial economy,” Hindman said. “Central to our efforts must be the development of a more educated and skilled workforce.” Hayes has a long and diverse background in public service, economic development and private business. In public life, he has served recently as Deputy Mayor for Louisville Mayor Jerry Abramson. He also was Secretary of the Cabinet and Budget Director for Gov. Martha Layne Collins. Hayes played a central role in landing the Toyota Manufacturing facility located in Georgetown. With that development as a catalyst, Kentucky is now home to more than 150 Japanese-related businesses, employing nearly 40,000 people. In addition, Hayes helped create and was the first president of the organization that is now Greater Louisville Inc., the highly successful public-private partnership that guides economic development efforts in the Louisville Metro area. Beshear said there is no specific timetable for a permanent replacement, pointing out that transitions “offer a good time in which to evaluate where progress has been made and where more is needed.” “The governor believes – and I agree – that we should take some time to evaluate all the good things we are doing in economic development, while also assessing areas where we can improve as we seek to build a stronger, more sustainable economy for Kentucky’s future,” Hayes said. “I look forward to hopefully building on the good efforts that already have been made under John’s leadership as we compete for jobs and developments in what are clearly challenging times. With the governor’s leadership and vision, I’m confident we will continue to make progress.” Hayes will not receive any additional compensation for his role as Acting Secretary. Hindman will operate under a one-year contract, which was approved this week by the executive committee of the Economic Development Partnership Board, and be paid his current salary. The preceding press release was from
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Post by Press Release on Sept 3, 2008 16:37:51 GMT -5
Fatal ATV Crash in Whitley CountyOn Monday, September 01, 2008, at 7:58 PM EDT the Kentucky State Police, Post 11, in London received a report of a fatal ATV crash, from the Bell County 911 Center, in Whitley, KY. Senior Trooper Duane Foley responded to the scene and discovered that the victim Herald Hurst, 55, of Frakes, KY had been operating an ATV when he lost control and overturned into a small pond trapping him under the ATV. Mr. Hurst was pronounced dead at the scene by Bell County Coroner Clyde Creech. No foul play is suspected. Senior Trooper Foley is continuing the investigation and was assisted at the scene by Senior Trooper Scott Bunch, the Frakes Fire Department, the Bell County EMS and the Bell County Coroner's Office. The preceding press release was from Kentucky State Police Post 11 in London which serves the following Kentucky Counties: Rockcastle, Wayne, and Whitley. Churchill Weavers Exhibition to Close on SaturdayThere is still time to see Magic in the Weaving: The Churchill Weavers Collection Revealed at the Thomas D. Clark Center for Kentucky History. The exhibition closes Saturday, September 6, 2008. Churchill Weavers, founded in 1922 by Eleanor and D. Carroll Churchill, operated in Berea until 2007. The company was one of the most important hand-weaving operations in the United States and supplied high-end, high-quality products coast to coast and internationally. In addition, the company provided a rare opportunity for female artisans to work outside the home and employed hundreds of men and women during its 85 years of operation. With generous support from the Cralle Foundation, Inc., the Kentucky Historical Society purchased the Churchill Weavers collection in May 2007 from Lila Bellando, who managed the company with her husband, Richard Bellando, from 1973 to 1996. Magic in the Weaving features products, patterns, and tools from the company, including artifacts such as a warp mill, creel, images and product advertisements, and product samples. The exhibition also chronicles the history of the company and the story of its founders. Limited items from the Churchill Weavers collection are available for purchase at the KHS Stewart Home School 1792 Store. This preservation exhibition is located in the Keeneland Changing Exhibits Gallery at the Thomas D. Clark Center for Kentucky History in Frankfort. To find out more about the exhibition or about the Kentucky Historical Society, visit www.history.ky.gov, or call 502-564-1792. The preceding press release was from Workshops to Address Communicating with Vulnerable Populations during EmergenciesDr. William D. HackerThe Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) will host four community workshops to address communicating with vulnerable populations during public health emergencies or other disasters. “When disasters occur, one of our top priorities is getting accurate and timely information to the public,” said William D. Hacker, M.D., commissioner of DPH..“Unfortunately, traditional methods of communicating health and emergency information often fall short in reaching all members of a community. During this time we need to make sure our most vulnerable citizens are included in our plans, and that is why the Kentucky Outreach and Information Network (KOIN) is such a valuable tool to have in place for the commonwealth.” The following KOIN workshops have been scheduled: • Elizabethtown: Tuesday, Sept. 9, 1-4 p.m., Lincoln Trail District Health Department, 108 New Glendale Road, Room B. • Bowling Green: Wednesday, Sept. 10, 1-4 p.m., Western Kentucky University, Downing University Center, Room 340, One Big Red Way. • Lexington: Thursday, Sept. 11, 1-4 p.m., Lexington Public Library, 140 E. Main St., Room A. • Louisville: Friday, Sept. 12, 1-4 p.m., University of Louisville, Shelby Campus, Delphi Center for Teaching and Learning, Founders Union Building, Room 218 A. This year’s workshops will include a new, discussion-based format in which participants will work through an emergency scenario and practice responding to a KOIN alert. The goal of the KOIN, established in 2004, is to ensure that in the event of a public health emergency, communication channels are in place through a network of people who can contact some of Kentucky’s most difficult-to-reach populations. Those populations include the deaf and hard of hearing, blind and visually-impaired, limited English proficiency speakers, individuals with low literacy levels, the elderly, disabled and residents of remote rural areas. Members of the public who would like to attend a workshop, or if sign language interpreter services will be needed, should contact Barbara Fox at (502) 564-6786, ext. 4411, or by e-mail at BarbaraJ.Fox@ky.gov. More information about the KOIN is available online at www.chfs.ky.gov/dph/epi/preparedness/KOIN.htm. The preceding was a press release from Clay County native and current Commissioner, Kentucky Department for Public Health, William D. Hacker.
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Post by Press Release on Sept 4, 2008 21:38:08 GMT -5
Circo Children’s Bobbie Socks Recalled Due to Choking HazardSold Exclusively at TargetThe 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: Circo Rosette Bobbie Socks Units: About 330,000 Importer: Target, of Minneapolis, Minn. Hazard: The ribbon on the sock can detach, posing a choking hazard to young children. Incidents/Injuries: Target has received four reports of the ribbon detaching. No injuries have been reported. Description: The recall involves girls Circo bobbie socks. The socks were sold in packs of six (pink, purple, plain white and three pairs with a box), ranging in size from 6- to 12-months, 12- to 24-months and 2T to 5T. The socks are packaged in a green and white sleeve with a Circo-brand logo on the front. Sold exclusively at: Target stores nationwide from January 2007 to July 2008 for about $6. Manufactured in: Hong Kong Remedy: Consumers should take these socks away from children and return them to the nearest Target store to receive a full refund. Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Target at (800) 440-0680 between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.target.com UNITE honored for HOFNOD programOperation UNITE was recently honored by the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources for its contributions to furthering the agencies mission and goals. UNITE was presented a Certificate of Appreciation for its “outstanding service” to the department “and for furthering the cause of wildlife conservation in Kentucky” during a dinner meeting held at the Salato Wildlife Education Center on August 14. “Operation UNITE, with its network of grassroots coalitions, provided the perfect opportunity to meet the mutual goals of the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources … through the Hooked On Fishing-Not On Drugs® (HOFNOD) program,” said Marc A. Johnson, aquatic education director and HOFNOD state director for the department. HOFNOD is the flagship education program of the national Future Fisherman Foundation, the recruitment and education arm of the American Sportfishing Association. It is widely used in more than 30 states and territories to foster angling skills, conservation ethics and social skills. UNITE partnered with the Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife Resources in April 2005 to offer HOFNOD in the Fifth Congressional District. Through 2007, more than 300 people have received facilitator training and more than 5,000 youth in all 29 counties have benefited from a coalition-sponsored program. “Liz Wilson was instrumental in making this partnership work,” Johnson continued. “She did her homework and approached the department for help executing the fishing part of the program while we relied on her knowledge in the field of substance abuse and treatment. We learned from each other in this process making the program much stronger. It’s rare to find that kind of synergy.” Through the program, HOFNOD participants: • Learn all the skills necessary to fish safely on their own in a variety of settings. • Attain the ability to teach others. • Adopt fishing as a wholesome pastime and be encouraged to enjoy it regularly with their friends and family. • Take an active role in conservation in their community. • Develop ethical attitudes about the outdoors. • Are empowered by a new, fun activity to develop positive lifestyles, such as creative decision-making, problem-solving, patience and camaraderie. • Develop better communication skills. • Gain new confidence and find a new sense of respect and responsibility for themselves, their friends and family, and community. The preceding was a press release from Operation Unite. Pendants and Candle Charms Recalled Due to Risk of Lead ExposureThe 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: Fairy Dust Pendants and Candle Charms Units: About 57,000 Importer: Benjamin International, of Middlebury, Conn. Hazard: The recalled metal pendants and charms contain high levels of lead. Lead is toxic if ingested by young children and can cause adverse health effects. Incidents/Injuries: None reported. Description: The recalled pewter pendants were sold in a collection of 12 pendants. The pendants were sold separately and on candles of various colors and scents. Sold at: Gift shops nationwide from February 2004 through February 2008 for between $6 and $8 for the pendants and between $12 and $15 for the charms with candles. Manufactured in: Hong Kong Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using these pendants/charms and contact Benjamin International to receive a free replacement pendant/charm. Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Benjamin International toll-free at (888) 249-7639 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.benjamininternational.com
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Post by Press Release on Sept 6, 2008 13:02:38 GMT -5
2 more arrested in Rowan drug investigationOperation UNITE has arrested two additional suspects wanted as part of a drug roundup held in August. On Wednesday, September 3, detectives served indictment warrants on 28-year-old Ottawl D. Conrad, of North Blair Street, and 36-year-old Thomas R. Carroll, of Bluestone Road. Conrad was charged with two counts of first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance (cocaine) and one count second-degree persistent felony offender. Carroll was charged with eight counts first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance (OxyContin and Methadone), one count trafficking in marijuana, and one count second-degree persistent felony offender. Both were lodged in the Rowan County Detention Center. These were the latest arrests resulting from a six-month undercover investigation. Six people were charged during a drug roundup conducted August 20 with assistance from the Morehead Police Department, Rowan County Sheriff’s Office and Kentucky State Police. The preceding was a press release from Operation Unite. Cordless Screwdrivers Recalled by Menards Due to Fire and Burn HazardsThe 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: MasterForce 3.6-volt Cordless Screwdrivers Units: About 42,000 Importer: Menards, of Eau Claire, Wisc. Manufacturer: Great Star Industry Co., of China Hazard: The battery can overheat and ignite during charging, posing a fire and burn hazard to consumers. There is no protective device on the lithium battery to prevent overheating. Incidents/Injuries: The firm and CPSC have received three reports of fires. One consumer suffered burns to the hand, and another experienced temporary hearing loss. Description: The recalled cordless screwdrivers are green and gray in color. “MASTERFORCE” is printed on the top of the tool. “LITHIUM-ION TECHNOLOGY” and “241-0717” are printed on the handle. Sold at: Menards stores from April 2007 through May 2008 for about $30. Manufactured in: China Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the screwdrivers and return them to any Menards store for a free replacement or refund. Consumer Contact: For additional information, call toll-free at (866) 458-2472 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.menards.com
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Post by Press Release on Sept 6, 2008 15:43:00 GMT -5
Tragic Week On Kentucky RoadwaysPreliminary statistics* indicate that 22 people died in nineteen separate crashes on Kentucky roadways from Monday, August 25 through Monday, September 1, 2008. Eleven of the fatalities occurred during the official Labor Day Holiday period (8/29 at 6:00 p.m. through 9/1 at 11:59 p.m.) Sixteen of the fatalities involved motor vehicles and eleven of those victims were not wearing seat belts. Motor vehicle crashes occurred in Barren, Bell, Boyle, Breathitt, Elliott, Harlan, Lewis, Meade, Montgomery, Muhlenberg (3), Nelson, Pike, Warren and Woodford counties. The suspected use of alcohol was a factor in three of these crashes. A triple-fatality crash occurred in Muhlenberg county killing three sixteen year-old males. None of the victims were wearing seat belts. A double-fatality motorcycle crash occurred in Jefferson county and a single motorcycle fatality occurred in Taylor county. None of the victims in these crashes were wearing helmets. The suspected use of alcohol was factor in the double-fatality. There was an ATV fatality in Marshall county and the victim was not wearing a helmet. The suspected use of alcohol is a factor in this crash. There was a bicycle fatality in Laurel county and a Pedestrian fatality in Jefferson county. Alcohol was a factor in this pedestrian fatality. Through September 1, preliminary statistics* indicate that 520 people have lost their lives on Kentucky roadways during 2008. This is 53 fewer than reported for this time period in 2007. Of the 391 motor vehicle fatalities, 240 victims were not wearing seat belts. Of the 66 motorcycle fatalities, 36 were not wearing helmets. Seventeen people have been killed in ATV crashes and 16 of those were not wearing helmets. Forty-two pedestrians and four bicyclists have been killed on Kentucky roadways. A total of 101 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: Rockcastle, Wayne, and Whitley.press Attorney General Announces Clinic Owner Pleads Guilty To Medicaid FraudJack ConwayAttorney General Jack Conway announced that Robert Carter of Corbin plead guilty today in Franklin Circuit Court to one count of Medicaid fraud. Carter owned several healthcare clinics in Manchester, Williamsburg, Corbin, Gray and Lexington. Carter made more than $40,000 in fraudulent claims to the Kentucky Medicaid Assistance Program from August 2002 to June 2004. The Office of the Attorney General began investigating Carter after receiving an anonymous tip. Investigators found that he submitted claims for Medicaid reimbursement of office visits, when in fact, the office visits never occurred because patients missed the appointments. As a result of the guilty plea, Carter is sentenced to three years in prison, which will run concurrent with jail time he is already serving in Marion County in connection with two unrelated theft cases in Whitley County. Anyone with information about Medicaid fraud or abuse may call the Attorney General’s tip line at 1-877-228-7384. The preceding press release was from Optave Recalls Action Baby Carriers 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: Action Baby Carriers Units: About 250 Manufacturer: Optave Inc., of Alpena, Mich. Hazard: The baby carrier’s chest strap can detach from the shoulder straps, posing a fall hazard to the baby. Incidents/Injuries: Optave Inc. has received two reports of the chest strap detaching from the shoulder straps on the baby carrier. No injuries have been reported. Description: The recalled carriers were sold under the “Action Baby Carrier” brand name. The carriers are sold in various colors and patterns: blue, brown, green, "so square", "the larrisa" and "spring breeze." Sold at: Specialty retail stores nationwide and Internet sites from May 2008 through June 2008 for between $80 and $90. Manufactured in: United States Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the carrier in the positions that require the use of the chest strap and contact Optave to receive free replacement straps. Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Optave Inc. at toll-free (866) 208-0269 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or visit the firm’s Web site at www.actionbabycarriers.com
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Post by Press Release on Sept 8, 2008 19:33:54 GMT -5
Nighbert indicted for conspiracyFormer Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Secretary William Nighbert, 57, road contractor Leonard Lawson, 69, both of Lexington, Ky. and one of Lawson’s employees Brian Billings, 37, of Stanton, Ky. were indicted for conspiracy theft from government agency receiving federal funds, bribery, and obstruction of justice. The Indictment alleges that Nighbert and Lawson conspired with Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KTC) employee James Rummage to divert confidential engineer estimates from the Cabinet to Leonard Lawson for his use in the bidding on road contracts. An engineer estimate is an internal document generated by cabinet personnel and used by the cabinet to determine how reasonable the bids are. The Indictment also alleges that Lawson paid James Rummage $20,000 of bribe money for his assistance in the scheme and that Lawson funneled over $67,000 to Nighbert disguised as payments on a consulting contract for a utility management company. According to the indictment, on approximately eight occasions between June 2006 and August 2007, either Nighbert or Lawson directed James Rummage to obtain and deliver to Lawson the estimates for particular contracts. It further alleges that on four separate occasions, Lawson handed Rummage $5,000 in cash. In a related matter, the indictment alleges that during the investigation of the diversion and bribery, Nighbert, Lawson and his employee, Brian Billings, obstructed justice by trying to persuade James Rummage not to cooperate with authorities, suggesting what he should say to the grand jury, and encouraging him to take the fifth amendment. James A. Zerhusen, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, Michelle McVicker, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Department of Transportation, Jack Conway, Attorney General of Kentucky, Office of the Attorney General, Timothy D. Cox, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Crit Luallen, Auditor of Public Accounts for the Commonwealth of Kentucky, jointly made the announcement today after a federal grand jury in Lexington, Ky. returned the indictment. The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Office of the Attorney General of Kentucky, with assistance from the State Auditor’s Office. The Indictment was presented to the grand jury by Assistant United States Attorney Kenneth Taylor. The next court appearance for the defendants has not yet been set by the United States District Court in Lexington, Ky. 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 Governor Signs Steroids Ban Into LawAction safeguards Kentucky horse racingGovernor Steve BeshearGovernor Steve Beshear today signed emergency regulations banning anabolic steroids from thoroughbred and standardbred racing in Kentucky. The changes in state law took effect immediately as emergency regulations. “This is a historic day in Kentucky racing,” Gov. Beshear said. “This action demonstrates our commitment to ensuring the integrity of racing and the safety of its competitors.” Under the new law, anabolic steroids may not be present in a horse that is racing. The new rules set forth acceptable levels of the naturally occurring steroids Boldenone, Nandrolone and Testosterone. A horse may be given one of those steroids only under certain therapeutic conditions, and a horse may not race for at least 60 days afterwards. The Kentucky Horse Racing Commission (KHRC) also must receive a clean test report from an approved lab. New state laws also strengthen the penalties for anabolic steroids. A violation of the anabolic steroid rule will result in a suspension up to 60 days for the first violation. There is a qualified 90-day grace period. Veterinarians are advised to discontinue administering anabolic steroids immediately unless they are being used for therapeutic purposes and the horse will not race for at least 60 days. Penalties will be imposed during the grace period if a positive test for anabolic steroid is returned from a sample taken during the last 30 days of the 90-day period and there is evidence that the anabolic steroid was administered in the preceding 60 days. More information on the new laws is available at the KHRC Web site, www.khra.ky.govThe preceding press release was from Shooting Incident and Arrest in Rockcastle CountyOn Thursday September 04, 2008 at 8:38 PM the Kentucky State Police Post 11 in London received a report of a shooting incident at 48 Bustle Street (an apartment complex) in Brodhead. Upon arrival Trooper Coby Smith determined that two male subjects were engaged in a verbal altercation when the shooting incident occurred. Larry Jonathan Bingham, 36, of Brodhead, received a gunshot wound to the abdomen and was transported from the scene to the Rockcastle County Hospital. Bingham was later flown to the University of Kentucky Medical Center for treatment. James Carlos Cromer, 67, of Brodhead was arrested and charged with one (1) count of Assault 1ST. Mr. Cromer was lodged in the Rockcastle County Detention Center. Trooper Smith is continuing the investigation and was assisted at the scene by Trooper Tommy Cromer and the Rockcastle County EMS. The preceding press release was from Kentucky State Police Post 11 in London which serves the following Kentucky Counties: Rockcastle, Wayne, and Whitley. VISIT A KENTUCKY PROUD FRESHWATER PRAWN HARVEST AT A POND NEAR YOUCalling all shrimp lovers! Over the next five weeks, you can buy fresh Kentucky Proud freshwater prawns from growers throughout the Commonwealth. “I encourage all Kentuckians to experience a freshwater prawn harvest,” Agriculture Commissioner Richie Farmer said. “Prawn harvests are good food and good family fun among friends. “Bring a cooler full of ice and head to a pond near you,” Commissioner Farmer said. “Fresh is always better, and it doesn’t get any fresher than right out of the pond.” Sheila and Joe McCord will harvest prawn every Saturday in September, starting Sept. 6, at Avalon Farm in Winchester. They will also harvest on Thursday, Sept. 18. Other prawn harvests will get under way on Friday, Sept. 12 and continue through Saturday, Oct. 4. Several farms don’t list harvest dates, asking that you call them first. “We have about 30 growers throughout the state,” said Angela Caporelli, aquaculture marketing specialist for the Kentucky Department of Agriculture. She said their preferred method of sale to the public is “mostly pondside.” Grasshoppers Distribution in Louisville has also been buying fresh prawns to supply to restaurants. Prawn is a native of Southeast Asia and the Indo-Pacific region. Freshwater prawns are larger than average shrimp and have a texture similar to lobster. Caporelli says freshwater prawn cooks much quicker than shrimp because they’re not naturally preserved by salthingyer, unlike their marine cousins. For harvest dates, addresses and phone numbers for freshwater prawn producers in Kentucky, go to the Kentucky Department of Agriculture Web site, www.kyagr.com, select “Programs” and “Aquaculture,” then click on “2008 Prawn Harvest.” 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 Sept 9, 2008 19:41:51 GMT -5
Armed Robbery Incident in Laurel CountyOn Friday, September 05, 2008, at 5:24 PM EDT the Kentucky State Police, Post 11, in London received a report of an Armed Robbery at the Plaza Drug Store on US 25 in Laurel County. Upon arrival KSP Detective Mark Allen determined that a white female had entered the business and requested assistance from an employee. As the employee was offering assistance the female uncovered a firearm in her waistband and demanded drugs. The suspect fled the scene in an unknown direction of travel. The suspect is described as a white heavyset female wearing a gray tee shirt, blue jeans, blue ball cap and white tennis shoes. Anyone with information concerning this incident is urged to contact the Kentucky State Police at (606) 878-6622. Detective Mark Allen is the lead investigator into the incident and was assisted by officers from the Kentucky State Police, the Laurel County Sheriff's Office and the London City Police. The preceding press release was from Kentucky State Police Post 11 in London which serves the following Kentucky Counties: Rockcastle, Wayne, and Whitley. FARMERS’ MARKET REPORT SAYS 1,000 PRODUCERS HAVE COMPLETED PRODUCE SAFETY PROGRAMRichie FarmerMore than 1,000 Kentucky food producers have completed training for best practices for growing, transporting and handling produce to minimize the risk of food contamination, a Kentucky Department of Agriculture report says. More than 710 farmers’ market vendors also have completed training for a state protocol to offer samples at farmers’ markets, according to the 2008 Annual Farmers’ Market Report. “Kentucky producers are dedicated to providing clean, wholesome food,” Agriculture Commissioner Richie Farmer said. “This tremendous level of participation in these food safety training programs should ensure farmers’ market customers that they can serve Kentucky Proud foods to their families with confidence.” The Good Agricultural Practices program was launched last year by the agriculture department, the state Department for Public Health and the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture. The sampling protocol was developed through a partnership of the KDA and the DPH. The farmers’ market report said vendors recorded estimated sales of $8 million in 2007 in spite of a late freeze and severe drought. The number of markets in Kentucky has increased from 96 in 2004 to 120 in 2008, the report said, but the number of vendors declined from 2,015 in 2007 to 1,951 this year. The report said few Kentucky farmers’ markets are set up to accept credit/debit and EBT (food stamp) cards. The Kentucky Farmers’ Market Association has been awarded a $63,010 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to determine the economic feasibility of using EBT and credit/debit technology at rural farmers’ markets and the economic impact of the sampling protocol. The KDA’s Farmers’ Market Program provides technical assistance for Kentucky farmers’ markets and offers Kentucky Proud promotional items at cost. The program worked with DPH and KFMA to publish the 2008-2009 Kentucky Farmers’ Market Manual, a comprehensive collection of valuable information for farmers’ market managers and vendors. The program also maintains a directory of farmers’ markets. To read the report, go to www.kyagr.com, click on Programs, and click on Farmers’ Markets. To find out more about the Good Agricultural Practices program, go to www.kyagr.com, click on Programs and click on (GAP) Good Agricultural Practices. For more information about the state protocol for offering samples at farmers’ markets, go to the farmers’ market page and click on the link to New Sampling Information. The preceding press release was from Manchester resident and Commissioner Richie Farmer and the Kentucky Department of Agriculture. Hill sentenced for crack possessionAntoine Gregory Hill, 22, of Lexington, Ky. was sentenced to a 140 months in prison for possessing with the intent to distribute 300 grams of crack cocaine, possession of a firearm during a drug trafficking crime, and escape from custody. During his plea in May, Hill admitted that on February 21, 2008, he possessed approximately 300 grams of crack cocaine. The crack cocaine was discovered in Hill’s apartment during a search by members of the Lexington Police Department. Prior to the search of his apartment, Hill was arrested and found in possession of a loaded pistol, and $3,940. “It’s no secret that drugs and violent crime are problems in Lexington,” said United States Attorney Jim Zerhusen. “More and more drug dealers are using weapons to facilitate drug transactions, which promotes violent crime. However, I think that prosecutions such as this one will show that local and federal law enforcement and the U.S. Attorney’s Office are aggressively trying to eliminate this problem.” Hill also admitted that on March 23, 2008, he escaped from the custody of the Fayette County Detention Center. Hill admitted that he used another inmate’s identity to gain release from the jail. He was subsequently apprehended on March 24, 2008. On August 25, Dejuan Isaac Perdue, 27, was sentenced to 66 months imprisonment for conspiring with Hill to possess with the intent to distribute a detectable amount of crack cocaine. Perdue was ordered to pay a $5,632 fine. Perdue pleaded guilty In April of 2008. Under federal law, both Hill and Perdue must serve 85 percent of their respective prison sentence. Upon release, Hill will be under the supervision of the United States Probation Office for five years. Perdue will be under the supervision of the United States Probation Office for six years. 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 (ATF), Louisville Field Division, jointly made the announcement today after Hill’s sentencing. The investigation was conducted by the Lexington Police Department, and ATF. The United States was represented by Assistant United States Attorneys Robert M. Duncan, Jr. and Hydee Hawkins. The preceding was a press release from United States Attorney's Office for Eastern District of Kentucky GOVERNOR BESHEAR ANNOUNCES REFUNDS TO COUNTIESGovernor Steve BeshearGovernor Steve Beshear announced today that fiscal courts in 33 counties will receive refunds totaling $550,678 from mining permit and acreage fees. The Department for Natural Resources collects mining permit and acreage fees and returns a portion of the fees to coal-producing counties for general purposes to be determined by the fiscal courts. “Our administration is making every effort to assist the mining industry to extract coal in a manner that is safe, efficient and protective of our environment,” said Gov. Beshear. “Our coal-producing counties are partners in this endeavor and these funds provide a direct benefit for their efforts.” Refunds range from $125 to $114,983, with nine counties each receiving more than $24,000. The fossllowing list includes the counties and refund amounts: • Bell County Fiscal Court $40,225 • Clay County Fiscal Court $4,350
• Jackson County Fiscal Court $2,700 • Knox County Fiscal Court $28,741.67 • Laurel County Fiscal Court $1,650 • Leslie County Fiscal Court $25,991.67 • Owsley County Fiscal Court $5,891.67 The Department for Natural Resources is an agency of the Energy and Environment Cabinet. The preceding press release was from
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Post by Press Release on Sept 10, 2008 19:45:57 GMT -5
Ragland sentenced for conspiracy to distribute cocaineMichelle Ragland, 37, of Lexington was sentenced to 18 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute cocaine by United States Senior District Court Judge Joseph M. Hood. In March of 2008, Ragland pleaded guilty to the charges and admitted that she conspired to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine in Fayette County. Under federal law, Ragland must serve 85 percent of her 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, and Robert L. Corso, Special Agent in Charge, Drug Enforcement Administration, jointly made the announcement today after the sentencing. The investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Lexington Metro Police Department. The United States was represented by Assistant United States Attorney Ron Walker. The preceding was a press release from United States Attorney's Office for Eastern District of Kentucky We still have a few more weeks to do right by the American peopleSenate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell delivered the following remarks on the Senate floor regarding the need for Congress to complete its most basic duty of funding the government, in addition to passing much-needed energy legislation, before adjourning: “These past several weeks have been extremely instructive for me, as I’m sure they were for many of my colleagues. I talked directly to a lot of Kentuckians. And not a single one of them suggested that I come back to Washington and do nothing until the November election. America faces a number of daunting challenges. Very few of them were unknown to us when we all showed up here in January of 2007. And very few of them have been addressed. But there is still time to do some very significant things in these next weeks. I’m still hopeful that we will. “We can protect millions of Americans from the Alternative Minimum Tax and extend a host of expired and expiring tax incentives — including the renewable energy tax credits that drive much-needed investment in alternative energy sources like solar and wind. We should come together and agree to a long-term extension of these important tax incentives before the end of the year. “So far, Congress has been unable to come together on a comprehensive solution to our nation’s energy crisis. But the book hasn’t closed yet on the 110th Congress. There is still time to act on this issue. And we should. We must work to provide much-needed relief for Americans across the country who are struggling with the high price of gas at the pump. Congress can still show that we’re responsive to the needs of the American people by doing something about this crisis now. “Some might disagree. One senator on the other side recently said that he thinks frustration over the high price of gas, has ‘peaked.’ But I’ve seen no evidence of this at all. In fact, I’m confident, after spending the past month away from Washington, that if we did little else these next few weeks but pass a serious response to high gas prices, fund the government, and protect taxpayers, the American People would view these next few weeks as extremely productive. “Americans want us to act to increase offshore exploration. There is nothing to fear in this. We can and should increase domestic energy exploration even as we encourage the use of alternative energy sources and new conservation measures. There is no good reason we can’t all get behind a balanced approach that would allow us to find more and use less at the same time. We also need to do our most basic duty of funding the government by passing appropriations bills. “Over the last 25 years, no other Congress has failed to pass a single appropriations bill this late in the year. Even the infamous do-nothing Congress of 1948 had passed more than a dozen appropriations bills at this point on the legislative calendar. This is not a record to be proud of. But it’s not a record that has to stand. We still have time to change course. And we should. While at war, we have yet to fund the troops, homeland security, and critical domestic programs. “We have yet to fund veterans’ hospitals, education, transportation and national parks. These are the basics. We should take them on. The upcoming election is no excuse to put off our responsibilities for another day. Americans have held a regularly-scheduled election every two years for more than two centuries. The work of government must go on, regardless of how strong the partisan currents flow. It always has. And it should this year. “We still have a few more weeks to do right by the American people. Let’s not just mark the time. Let’s make a difference. Let’s do something constructive to help the American people in a difficult economic moment. Let’s put political games aside for a few weeks and do what’s expected of us. This is not too much to ask. And I, for one, remain hopeful that we will rise to the occasion.” The preceding press release was from United States Senator Mitch McConnell. Tobacco Tried and Still TrueBy Bill Holleran, Marketing Matters EditorMitchell Paschall’s dark tobacco on the left and burley tobacco on the right.When the Kentucky Department of Agriculture started this publication in 2000, tobacco quotas were dwindling, and there was a lot of concern about the future of tobacco in Kentucky. Although we don’t produce as much tobacco as we once did before the “buy-out,” tobacco is still a mainstay in the fabric of Kentucky agriculture. The Paschall family of Murray has diversified its farming operation since the end of the tobacco quota system, but tobacco has remained the yardstick by which their other crops are measured. Mitchell, Jana and son Kody are living proof that full-time careers in pro-duction agriculture are still possible with hard work and determination. Mitchell was raised on his family’s farm in Murray, where they raised row crops and tobacco. “I remember going with Granddaddy when I was as a kid to the tobacco barns. He would always feel of the leaves first thing when he went into the barn…. Fire curing tobacco is really more art than science, and it’s hard to tell someone how to do it. It’s just something you grow up knowing about. We use sawmill slabs and sawdust to set the fires, and you really have to know what you’re doing. You can cure it too slow or too fast. If we cut tobacco on Monday, we would normally fire it on Friday. The first two fires dries it out, and the last two puts the finish or shine on it,” Paschall said. Paschall also said they have found it better to cut the dark and leave it on the ground to wilt and then come back, spear it and take it out of the field before it sunburns. “Science still hasn’t come up with a magic formula for fire curing dark tobacco. There’s really an art to it,” said Paschall. Paschall said there is a big demand for dark tobacco this year with contract prices at around $2.50 per pound compared to $1.75 for burley. Paschall contracts his dark tobacco to Conwood and his burley with Philip Morris. This changing demand has the Pas-challs building new curing barns for dark-fired tobacco and putting more of their crop in dark than burley. This year the Paschalls are doubling their dark to-bacco production to nearly 200,000 pounds compared to 25,000 pounds of burley. The Paschalls are also producing to-bacco seed for Workman Tobacco Seed of Murray — a large tobacco seed sup-plier in western Kentucky. “Tobacco seed production is very labor intensive, often requiring nearly 1,000 hours of labor per acre,” said Jana. “We’re rais-ing about 3 1/2 acres of tobacco for seed this year,” she said. Migrant workers collect the pollen, and then it’s screened and dried out for later use. Once dried, the pollen is brushed on to each of the flowers on the plant. When the plant is pollinated and the seed pod forms, the pods are removed and the seed is collected. In addition to tobacco, the Pas-challs raise 20 acres of seedless mini-watermelons for Farm-Whey Produce and 350 acres of soybeans and 80 acres of field corn not to mention a commercial tree nursery, a greenhouse where bed-ding plants are sold to local gar-den centers, boxwoods, and mums for local sales. Tobacco transplants are also raised for their own use and for sale to local farmers. “We started the nursery in 2001 and also grew cantaloupes for the Green River Produce Cooperative when we were thinking about what to do after the tobacco buy-out. After the co-op dis-solved, Farm-Whey came to us and asked us to grow for them,” said Paschall. Paschall said his trees and pro-duce have been competitive with his to-bacco revenue. “Our only down-time is in January, and that’s when we attend nursery trade shows across the country to market our trees and shrubs,” said Jana. Although most of the co-ops that were operating in the late ’90s are no longer operating, they did give commit-ted growers like the Paschalls the help they needed to get started in the com-mercial vegetable and nursery busi-nesses. Commercial growers like Paschall have been able to maintain con-tacts with the buyers that previously purchased product from the co-ops. “Farming is hard work, but there’s nothing more enjoyable or rewarding,”said Jana. 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 Sept 10, 2008 20:08:51 GMT -5
Mercury warning issued for Lake CumberlandThe Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH), the Division of Water and the Department for Fish and Wildlife Resources today issued fish consumption advisories for bodies of water in Kentucky. These advisories are intended to inform the public about the possible risks of eating unrestricted amounts of some fish retrieved from Kentucky’s waterways. The advisories were issued due to elevated levels of PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) and mercury levels found in some species of fish sampled for these substances. “Women of childbearing age, children and people who consume a lot of fish in their diet are more susceptible to the ill effects of contaminants sometimes found in fish,” said William Hacker, M.D., DPH commissioner. “For this reason these individuals should follow the special population advisory.” The increasing mercury problem is not just related to Kentucky. Many states are now discovering elevated mercury levels in fish tissue and are issuing fish consumption advisories to better inform the public of the potential risks of frequently eating fish associated with an advisory. Most of the 2008 advisories either continue or modify existing fish consumption advisories issued from previous years. However, this year, three bodies of water are being added to the advisory list because of elevated mercury levels. They include: • Lake Cumberland in Pulaski, Wayne, Russell and Clinton counties • Guist Creek Lake in Shelby County • Fish Lake in Ballard County This risk-based advisory system allows our citizens to have the information needed in making good nutrition decisions,” said Guy Delius, acting director in the Division of Public Health Protection and Safety. “Fish are fun to catch, and many people now practice catch and release, which helps ensure our lakes and rivers have good populations of larger, higher quality fish. If you decide to keep and eat your catch, just keep in mind the frequency for consumption. “Fish are a nutritious, low-fat food and good for you when eaten in moderation,” said Benjy Kinman, director of fisheries for Fish and Wildlife. “Cooking may reduce some contaminants in fish, but will not reduce mercury levels.” The preceding was a press release from Clay County native and current Commissioner, Kentucky Department for Public Health, William D. Hacker. Bunning Introduces Legislation To Prevent Fannie And Freddie Executives From Being Rewarded For FailureSenator Jim Bunning has introduced S. 3458, a bill to prohibit the former executives and directors of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac from receiving severance pay after they were removed from their positions when the federal government took control of the two financial institutions this weekend. The bill introduced by Bunning today would amend the recently-enacted legislation that gave the Treasury Department the authority to extend a lifeline to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac (the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008) to prohibit any golden parachute severance packages for the recently terminated executives. Under current law the federal regulator has the power to prohibit these kinds of pay-outs, but can decide on a case by case basis whether or not to use that power. Bunning’s legislation would specifically require the regulator to use those powers and stop the former executives and directors of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac from receiving any such severance package. "In the free market system you are rewarded for success and punished for failure," said Bunning. "I don’t think we should be lining the pockets of those individuals who were responsible for driving Fannie and Freddie into the ground on the backs of the American taxpayers. Poor management does not deserve to be rewarded and my bill would make sure that it isn’t." Focused on Our PrioritiesMitch McConnellSenate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell delivered the following prepared remarks on the Senate floor regarding the Defense Authorization Bill: “We have a limited number of workdays between now and November, so we’ll have to focus our priorities, starting with the Defense Authorization Bill now before the Senate. Among other things, this vital bill authorizes a much-deserved pay raise for America’s military men and women. But, of course, an authorization bill only gets us halfway there. In order for this military pay raise to reach the families it’s intended for, the Senate will still need to pass an appropriations bill. “So my suggestion is that we begin processing amendments to the defense authorization bill today to improve it, starting with the first four amendments we’ll be voting on later today. We weren’t able to vote on any amendments yesterday. As everyone knows, the Defense Authorization bill is typically a heavily amended bill. It usually takes two to three weeks to complete. But it’s my hope that we can make some good forward progress today. Kentucky is home to two major military installations and more than 357,000 veterans. They, and the rest of America’s veterans, deserve our full attention. We have time, but not a lot. Tomorrow we’ll be taking time to remember the 9/11 attacks. Friday we have an all-day Energy Summit. So let’s use our time wisely. If we do, it’s my hope that we can work together and with cooperation finish this bill sometime next week.” The preceding press release was from United States Senator Mitch McConnell.
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Post by Press Release on Sept 11, 2008 20:54:16 GMT -5
A Time to RememberSenate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell delivered the following remarks on the Senate floor Thursday regarding the anniversary of 9/11: “The horror of September 11, 2001, is still very fresh in our minds. This day will always be a sad one for Americans. It also has become a day of solemn pride as we remember the tremendous heroism and self-sacrifice of so many in New York, at the Pentagon, and on a plane over Shanksville, Pennsylvania. “It’s fitting that we should pause as a body — and as a nation — to remember the victims and their families, as well as the heroes, and to remind ourselves of the dangers that we still face.” The preceding press release was from United States Senator Mitch McConnell. UNITE honored for HOFNOD programOperation UNITE was recently honored by the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources for its contributions to furthering the agencies mission and goals. UNITE was presented a Certificate of Appreciation for its “outstanding service” to the department “and for furthering the cause of wildlife conservation in Kentucky” during a dinner meeting held at the Salato Wildlife Education Center on August 14. “Operation UNITE, with its network of grassroots coalitions, provided the perfect opportunity to meet the mutual goals of the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources … through the Hooked On Fishing-Not On Drugs® (HOFNOD) program,” said Marc A. Johnson, aquatic education director and HOFNOD state director for the department. HOFNOD is the flagship education program of the national Future Fisherman Foundation, the recruitment and education arm of the American Sportfishing Association. It is widely used in more than 30 states and territories to foster angling skills, conservation ethics and social skills. UNITE partnered with the Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife Resources in April 2005 to offer HOFNOD in the Fifth Congressional District. Through 2007, more than 300 people have received facilitator training and more than 5,000 youth in all 29 counties have benefited from a coalition-sponsored program. “Liz Wilson was instrumental in making this partnership work,” Johnson continued. “She did her homework and approached the department for help executing the fishing part of the program while we relied on her knowledge in the field of substance abuse and treatment. We learned from each other in this process making the program much stronger. It’s rare to find that kind of synergy.” Through the program, HOFNOD participants: • Learn all the skills necessary to fish safely on their own in a variety of settings. • Attain the ability to teach others. • Adopt fishing as a wholesome pastime and be encouraged to enjoy it regularly with their friends and family. • Take an active role in conservation in their community. • Develop ethical attitudes about the outdoors. • Are empowered by a new, fun activity to develop positive lifestyles, such as creative decision-making, problem-solving, patience and camaraderie. • Develop better communication skills. • Gain new confidence and find a new sense of respect and responsibility for themselves, their friends and family, and community. The preceding was a press release from Operation Unite. Five Die On Kentucky Roadways Last WeekSeptember 2 - September 9Preliminary statistics* indicate that 5 people died in four separate crashes on Kentucky roadways from Tuesday, September 2 through Sunday, September 9, 2008. Four of the fatalities involved motor vehicles and three of those victims were not wearing seat belts. Motor vehicle crashes occurred in Boone, Boyd (2) and Rockcastle counties. A double-fatality crash occurred in Boyd county. The motorcycle fatality occurred in Martin county and the victim was not wearing a helmet. Through September 7, preliminary statistics* indicate that 528 people have lost their lives on Kentucky roadways during 2008. This is 57 fewer than reported for this time period in 2007. Of the 395 motor vehicle fatalities, 243 victims were not wearing seat belts. Of the 69 motorcycle fatalities, 42 were not wearing helmets. Seventeen people have been killed in ATV crashes and 16 of those were not wearing helmets. Forty-three pedestrians and four bicyclists have been killed on Kentucky roadways. Sixty-two crashes involved commercial motor vehicles (CMV). A total of 103 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: Rockcastle, Wayne, and Whitley. Remote-Controlled Helicopter Toys Recalled by Protocol Due to Fire and Burn HazardsThe 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: "Protocol" Remote-Controlled Mini Helicopter Toys Units: About 78,000 Importer: Ashley Collection Inc., d.b.a. Protocol, of New York, N.Y. Hazard: The rechargeable battery inside the helicopter can overheat. This can result in the helicopter's body melting, as well as a risk of fire or burns to consumers. Incidents/Injuries: The firm has received nine reports of incidents of the helicopter overheating, including one minor burn to a consumer's fingertip. Descriptions: This recall involves the "Protocol" remote-controlled mini helicopter toys with model number starting with 1442. The helicopter is made of foam and plastic and measures about 7 inches long. "Protocol" is printed on the tail and on the side of the helicopter. "1442-X" can be found on the packaging. The remote-control component measures 5 1/2 inches by 4 3/4 inches. Sold at: Retail stores nationwide from October 2007 through December 2007 for between $30 and $50. Manufactured in: China Remedy: Consumers should immediately take the recalled toys away from children and contact the firm for information on how to receive a replacement helicopter. Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Protocol at (800) 261-1193 between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. ET, or visit the company's Web site at www.protocoldesign.comTo see this recall on CPSC's web site, including pictures of the recalled products, please go to: www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08395.html
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Post by Press Release on Sept 12, 2008 23:38:01 GMT -5
Remembrance of September 11th 2001 Terrorist AttacksMitch McConnellRemarks of U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell at the Congressional Remembrance Ceremony on the West Front Steps, U.S. Capitol, September 11, 2008: “Seven years ago today, a small band of wicked men attacked America and all that it represents. They had hoped we would remember that day and their terrible deeds with fear and confusion and doubt. And, of course, this day will always be a day of sadness for Americans. But September the Eleventh has also become a day of solemn pride for our country – solemn pride in the memory of the courage and the sacrifice we saw. “And as long as Americans remember September 11th, the heroism of the firefighters, police, emergency personnel and of ordinary citizens will not be forgotten. Nor the generosity of millions, moved by sympathy and grace, who offered their time, their money, and their heartfelt prayers for the victims and for the loved ones they left behind. We will always remember too the many brave men and women of our armed forces who have fought to prevent another attack, especially those who did not come home. “And we remember those who still fight, because this war on terror goes on. We also remember today those who have defended and still defend the homeland in cities and towns across America and the world. We may not know their names. But through lives of silent service they have kept us safe. And for that, they have our thanks. “On this solemn day, we remember all these things. And, though surely sad, we find new confidence in the strength and goodness of America.” The preceding press release was from United States Senator Mitch McConnell. Bunning Statement On The 7th Anniversary Of 9-11Jim BunningSenator Jim Bunning today issued the following statement in remembrance of the tragic events that took place seven years ago on September 11, 2001 when terrorists attacked America. "Seven years ago America’s resolve was shaken when we were brutally attacked on September 11, 2001, by terrorist thugs. I will never forget the images of the planes striking the towers in New York that morning or watching the Pentagon burn from my apartment window located only a few short minutes away. And who can forget the heroics of those brave men and women on Flight 93 who forced the plane down in a field in Pennsylvania preventing it from ever reaching its eventual target in Washington, DC. "Our resolve may have tested that day, but we did not break. I will never forget the courage and compassion shown by all Americans as we came together in response to the attacks. And today we come together again – not as Democrats or Republicans – but as Americans, to remember and honor those who lost their lives as well as those who risked their own lives to save others. I ask that all my fellow citizens join me today in taking a moment to say a prayer for the thousands of victims and their families." The preceding press release was from United States Senator Jim Bunning. Kentucky’s standard deduction; pension exclusion for 2009 tax yearKentucky’s standard deduction for individual income tax increases to $2,190 for the 2009 tax year as authorized by KRS 141.081(2). This change represents an increase from $2,100 for the 2008 tax year. Taxpayers who do not itemize deductions on their individual income tax return are entitled to claim this increased standard eduction. kentucky’s individual income tax pension exclusion will remain unchanged at $41,110 for the 2008 tax year. This exclusion applies to tax returns due April 15, 2009. The 2005 General Assembly repealed KRS 141.0105, which previously provided for the pension exclusion to be adjusted annually for inflation. The preceding press release was from Discover Your Own Backyard: Plenty of Fall Adventure and Fun In KentuckyFall is upon us and as a season it is unparalleled as a time to discover your own Kentucky backyard by planning a weekend getaway or fall break. If cooler temperatures and crisp colors aren’t enough to entice wanderlust, the Kentucky Department of Travel has a Web site that can help at www.MyKentuckyBackyard.com. Visitors to the Web site can explore the many things that Kentucky’s nine tourism regions have to offer by moving the curser over the map of the commonwealth. Selecting a particular region yields an account from a fellow traveler about their adventures as well as photos of various events and attractions. Coupons and other values from a growing number of locations are available. They include a coupon good for state park lodge rooms for $50 a night on Sundays through Thursdays. The state park system has 17 resort parks with lodges across the state and fall is a popular time thanks to plenty of hiking trails, golf, camping, colorful trees and wildlife viewing. Visit www.parks.ky.gov for more details on state parks. The coupons and discounts are available by clicking on “discounts.” At the bottom of the screen users can link to the Kentucky Department of Travel Web site where there are more backyard possibilities to consider including videos of sites and sounds of fun places to visit. The Web site also includes opportunities to guess for prizes by playing “Where’s Pat?” – a picture riddle that places Pat Stipes, the broadcast voice for the department, in various travel spots throughout the state. The first person to indentify his location in the web photo, which changes weekly, and email the correct answer, wins. Other ways that users can participate in the promotion is by submitting personal endorsements or photographs of Kentucky travel spots to be considered for the web site. Check out links titled “Tell Us About It” and “Share Your Summer Photo.” The Department of Travel’s main site, www.kentuckytourism.com, has links to “Kentucky Outdoor Adventure,” which provides information on a variety of adventure tourism activities across the state. From caving, hiking and paddle sports to rock climbing, Kentucky is an adventure waiting to happen. If you love the outdoors, come experience the Unbridled Adventure of Kentucky. There’s also information about the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, Lincoln Bicentennial Celebration, Kentucky Bourbon Festival, Lake Cumberland, and a calendar of events and more – all in your own backyard. The preceding press release was from
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Post by Press Release on Sept 13, 2008 7:59:30 GMT -5
Beshear and Conway play politics with hurricaneClaim supply and demand is price gougingIn response to the dramatic spike in gas prices overnight, Gov. Steve Beshear today signed an executive order declaring a state of emergency to prevent price gouging in the commonwealth. Under this order, the governor can apply Chapter 367 of the Kentucky Revised Statutes to implement provisions of the law aimed at protecting the citizens of Kentucky from predatory pricing by unscrupulous providers, including but not limited to gasoline and building supplies. “I am outraged by the voracious practices of price gouging we are seeing,” said Gov, Beshear. “Today, I have taken an extraordinary step to protect the consumers of the commonwealth from these predators.” The emergency declaration, issued before Hurricane Ike hits the coast, triggers several consumer protection measures. Among them, it empowers the Attorney General to investigate and prosecute, where appropriate, those who sell gasoline, building supplies and other goods for predatory pricing in a time of disaster. Gov. Beshear and Attorney General Jack Conway have partnered to make aggressive consumer protection a priority, launching an investigation earlier this summer into high gas prices in Louisville. “Today, I formally requested that Gov. Beshear implement the price gouging protections of Kentucky’s Consumer Protection Act as they apply to gasoline and other goods and services. We have received an overwhelming influx of reports from across Kentucky regarding gasoline price spikes and even rationing. I felt it was important to get the price gouging protections in place as soon as possible to protect the commonwealth’s consumers and businesses,” General Conway said. The preceding press release was from Senate Energy SummitRemarks of Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell: “Over the past several months, Congress has been engaged in an important debate. Americans are rightly frustrated over the high cost of gas at the pump and the high cost of energy in general. Four dollar a gallon gasoline was the tipping point, galvanizing consumers across the country and sparking Congress to refocus its energy on a problem that has been with us for decades. “The seriousness of this problem — and the need to do something about it soon — was brought home to me in an especially vivid way during my time at home in Kentucky over the August break. In dozens of public events, I spoke to commuters, farmers, and owners of small and large businesses whose lives have been disrupted, in some cases tragically so, by the high cost of gas. “Kentucky is home to about 80,000 farms. I heard about the soaring cost of fertilizer, which is made with natural gas; the cost of fueling farm equipment with diesel, and even the rising cost of seeds, which are often trucked into farms from a long distance. I heard about the soaring costs from UPS, one of Kentucky’s largest employers, and the owner of one of the nation’s largest air fleets in Louisville. A recent article in one of the national papers noted that UPS drivers have been told by management not to take left hand turns. It saves gas by cutting down on idling time. The article was meant to be funny, but I assure you the employees in Louisville aren’t laughing. “Nor are the residents in rural Kentucky, who are among the hardest-hit consumers in the nation as a result of high gas prices. With lower-than-average incomes and few mass transit options, most of these folks are now spending a giant chunk of their paychecks on fuel each week. The average resident of Owsley County in Eastern Kentucky, for example, is now spending more than 15% of his or her income on fuel — the fourth highest average of any county in the nation. “But perhaps the most distressing story I’ve heard about the consequences of high fuel prices came from the operators of a dialysis center in Elizabethtown, Ky., who told me that some of their patients are cutting down on life-sustaining treatments — because it’s just too expensive for them to drive back and forth from their homes four times a week. These people are desperate for help. “Republicans, I assure you, are open to any reasonable suggestion that will lead to a concrete, meaningful result. And it is with this in mind that Republicans have already coalesced around a simple and straightforward principle that we believe could and should form the basis of bipartisan legislation on this issue: we need to both find more American energy and use less. “We know that we can “find more” domestic energy by means of deep sea exploration off our coasts and by developing Western oil shale deposits which, according to conservative estimates, represent at least 800 billion barrels of recoverable oil. At the moment, the vast majority of these enormous domestic resources are off-limits to consumers as a result of federal regulation. “Republicans have repeatedly demonstrated our strong support for energy conservation measures. Most recently, we demonstrated that commitment by supporting the first increase in federal fuel economy standards for cars and trucks in decades. “But it must be said at the outset that conservation alone is clearly insufficient. While all of us may envision a future in which America does not run on fossil fuels, this is not today’s reality. Nor will it be for many years to come. We need to be realistic and recognize that — in the near term — we will still need more oil and gas. And I believe that this oil and gas should come from America’s own ample domestic reserves — not from the Middle East. We cannot, and should not, ask people like rural Kentuckians to assume the burden of this transition when we have enormous energy reserves under our own feet, reserves that the government has made increasingly difficult to tap. “Indeed, few people seem to realize that as America’s energy consumption has increased over the last three decades, we’ve actually been producing less and less of it at home. As a result of government regulation at every level, America’s domestic oil production has dropped to roughly half of the 10 million barrels per day that we produced right here at home three decades ago. “This trend toward less domestic energy production may have made sense to some people at a time of cheap oil. It makes no sense at a time of $4 a gallon gasoline. And most people realize that. “The American people are demanding that Congress do something to alleviate high gas prices, and to do something significant. Some of the proposals we have heard from the other side make an effort. But, by and large, they fall seriously short. They either ignore the need for increased domestic supply, or they’re disproportionally meager in light of the severity of the crisis. “The primary drivers of the current oil shock — economic growth in China and India — are not going away. The American people realize this, and that’s why they’re not likely to be satisfied with half-measures from Congress. In this case, I’m convinced, finding more means finding a lot more. We have the resources. Americans want us to use them. And they are exactly right. “I look forward to hearing the proposals of today’s witnesses. It’s my hope that today’s summit energizes the Senate and brings us even closer to delivering a concrete, meaningful solution to the people of Kentucky and to the rest of the American people, as quickly as possible. “Thank you.” The preceding press release was from United States Senator Mitch McConnell. FINANCE SECRETARY NAMES NEW PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICERFinance Secretary Jonathan Miller has named Valeria Cummings as the new Public Information Officer for the Finance and Administration Cabinet. “Governor Beshear and I feel very fortunate to have someone of Valeria’s experience, talent and character join the Administration,” said Finance Secretary Jonathan Miller. “I’m confident she will do an outstanding job in a challenging position.” Cummings is a former anchor/reporter for WKYT-TV where she covered stories dealing with the courts, law and education. Prior to joining the Finance Cabinet Cummings was a Communications Specialist with Kentucky American Water. “I’m very excited about moving into state government and working for Governor Beshear and his administration,” said Cummings. “Governor Beshear has a lot of things planned for the future and I’m glad I’ll be a part of what I see as some positive changes for all of Kentucky.” Cummings has won numerous awards and her work has been recognized by the Public Relations Society of America, the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, and the Kentucky Associated Press. Cummings replaces Jill Midkiff who was recently named Governor Beshear’s new Deputy Communications Director. Cummings begins her new position on August 19, 2008. The preceding press release was from
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Post by Press Release on Sept 15, 2008 4:35:18 GMT -5
Kentucky announces GPS pilot program for state vehiclesThe Finance and Administration Cabinet’s Division of Fleet Management has launched a pilot global positioning system (GPS) program on several of its vehicles around the state. “Our use of GPS technology on cars within the state fleet represents a win-win for Kentucky taxpayers,” said Jonathan Miller, Secretary of the Finance and Administration Cabinet. “The technology can improve productivity and help reduce fuel usage and other hidden expenses, thus saving the state money and promoting a cleaner environment. It could also be a life saver if an accident ever occurred,” said Miller. GPS allows tracking of speeds and usage, sending an email to the Cabinet’s Division of Fleet Management alerting them of unauthorized use, excessive idling or speeding. The technology also allows for geofencing – tracking the position of the vehicle at any given time. In addition, GPS will alert Fleet Management if a vehicle experiences an engine problem, becomes disabled or is involved in a traffic accident. The GPS system can also be equipped with a key ring containing a panic button. Only a select few of the state’s vehicles will be equipped with a GPS tracking system and vehicles chosen for the pilot program will remain unknown to the drivers. All vehicles will display a sticker informing the driver of the possibility that the vehicle is equipped with the GPS system. The preceding press release was from Kentuckians Encouraged to Get Influenza VaccinationsIncreased emphasis aims to protect children with flu shotsWith influenza season just around the corner and an ample supply of vaccine expected this season, Governor Steve Beshear joined state and local health officials at the Lexington-Fayette County Health Department today to urge Kentuckians to get a flu shot or nasal vaccine spray — and to encourage parents to make sure children older than 6 months also receive protection against the flu. “The best way to protect yourself and your family against the flu is to receive the flu shot or nasal vaccine spray. This year the federal government has released new recommendations that emphasize the need for most children over 6 months of age to receive annual flu vaccinations,” said Gov. Beshear. “Ensuring that all eligible children and adults are vaccinated helps protect the health of our communities at large, by reducing the flu’s spread and severity.” The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices’ (ACIP) updated recommendations for the coming flu season include: • Annual vaccination of all children aged 5-18 years; • Children aged 6 months through 4 years (59 months) continue to be a primary focus of annual vaccination efforts because these children are at a higher risk for flu complications compared with older children; • Children aged 6 months-8 years should receive two doses of vaccine if they have not been vaccinated previously; and • Healthy, non-pregnant people aged 2-49 years can receive either the flu shot or the nasal vaccine spray. The focus on increasing vaccination among children reflects the serious health effects the flu can potentially cause among this population. Children younger than 2 years old — even healthy children — have a high risk of ending up in the hospital if they get the flu, and children 2-5 years old are more likely to be taken to a doctor, urgent treatment center or an emergency department due to the flu, according to the CDC. Each year in the U.S., as many as 20,000 children under age 5 are hospitalized because of the flu. Kentucky expects local health departments and private providers to have plenty of vaccine on hand for this year’s season, and clinics are already being scheduled at many locations around the state. For information on vaccine availability, Kentuckians should contact their health provider or local health department. “It’s important that children and others receive a flu vaccine each year to ensure maximum protection,” said Kraig Humbaugh, M.D., state epidemiologist at the Department for Public Health. The flu season can begin as early as October and last as late as May, but usually peaks between January and March. September, October and November are good months to be vaccinated for flu because it takes about two weeks for immunity to develop and offer protection against flu. However, vaccination can be given any time during the flu season. Infection with the flu virus can cause fever, headache, cough, sore throat, runny nose, sneezing and body aches. Immunization is strongly recommended to protect Kentuckians 65 and older and those with a chronic disease such as heart disease, cancer, asthma or diabetes. Healthy individuals 50 to 64 are also strongly recommended to receive flu vaccine. In addition to flu vaccine, the officials encouraged all adults 65 or older and others in high-risk groups to ask their health care provider about the pneumococcal vaccine. This vaccine can help prevent a type of pneumonia, one of the flu’s most serious and potentially deadly complications. Caused by bacteria, pneumococcal disease can result in serious pneumonia, meningitis or blood infections. According to the CDC, pneumococcal disease kills more people in the U.S. each year than all other vaccine-preventable diseases combined. Nationally, between 20,000 and 40,000 deaths are attributable to flu and pneumonia each year, with more than 90 percent of those deaths occurring in people age 65 and older. For more information on influenza disease or the availability of flu immunizations, please contact your local health department or visit DPH’s flu Web site at www.chfs.ky.gov/dph/Influenza.htm. The preceding press release was from
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Post by Press Release on Sept 15, 2008 16:09:09 GMT -5
Fatal Traffic Crash in McCreary CountyOn Friday September 12, 2008 at 8:38 PM EDT the Kentucky State Police Post 11, London, received a report of a two vehicle traffic crash, with injury, on KY 700 (Sand Hill Road) in McCreary County. Upon arrival KSP Traffic Crash Reconstructionist Trooper Craig Reed determined that a 1992, Honda, passenger car, operated by Marvin Perry, 48, of Whitley City, KY was eastbound on KY 700 attempting to pass a 1996, Saturn, passenger car, (also eastbound) operated by Juann Troxell, 35, of Marshes Siding, KY. As the Honda re-entered the eastbound lane it struck the Saturn causing both vehicles to lose control and leave the roadway. The Saturn struck a tree, overturned and came to rest causing minor injuries to Juann Troxell. The Honda struck a tree and came to rest causing multiple injuries to Marvin Perry. Marvin Perry, who was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash, was transported to the Baptist Regional Medical Center in Corbin, KY were he was pronounced dead by the Whitley County Coroner Andy Croley. Alcohol usage is not suspected. Trooper Reed is continuing the investigation and was assisted at the scene by officers of the Kentucky State Police and the McCreary County Sheriff's Office. Also assisting was the Whitley County Coroner and the McCreary County EMS. The preceding press release was from Kentucky State Police Post 11 in London which serves the following Kentucky Counties: Rockcastle, Wayne, and Whitley. Bunning Praises Decision By Federal Housing Finance Agency Regarding Golden Parachute PaymentsJim BunningSenator Jim Bunning today issued the following statement applauding the announcement from the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) yesterday that former Fannie Mae Chief Executive Officer Daniel Mudd and former Freddie Mac Chief Executive Officer Richard Syron would not receive "golden parachute" payments: "The FHFA made the right decision," said Bunning. "Rewarding executives who failed to do their job properly is not the way we do business in America. That is why I introduced legislation last week that would have explicitly prohibited the executives at Fannie and Freddie from receiving these outrageous payments. I am glad that the FHFA has acted in the best interest of the American taxpayers with regards to these executives and I hope they will do the same for the board members." The preceding press release was from United States Senator Jim Bunning. Governor Issues State of Emergency for KentuckyOrder Enacts Emergency Plan, Other Steps to Ensure SafetyGovernor Steve BeshearGov. Steve Beshear this evening declared a state of emergency for the Commonwealth of Kentucky, an order that provides the necessary authorization to take a broad range of steps to ensure safety in the wake of calamitous storms that impacted much of the state Sunday. “With this state of emergency order, we can take whatever steps necessary to support first responders in communities across the state, provide resources at the state level to ensure safety and, if necessary, request federal assistance,” Beshear said Sunday evening. “The people of Kentucky need to know that their emergency responders – from the local to the state and federal levels – are prepared to do everything within our power to provide the necessary assistance to meet this challenge.” Specifically, the state of emergency order authorizes the governor to, among other things: Mobilize the Kentucky National Guard, if necessary, to provide assistance to communities impacted by the storms; Fund operational needs and unbudgeted expenditures that may be necessary in the wake of the storms; Request any federal assistance that may be deemed necessary; Determine the need for emergency shelters and work with local agencies and school districts to utilize schools and other facilities, if necessary; Restrict or prohibit transportation in areas impacted by the storms, if needed; Activate trained counselors, if needed, to provide crisis response services in affected areas. Earlier in the day Sunday, Gov. Beshear activated both the state Emergency Operations Center and the Transportation Operations Center to coordinate the work of state agencies – from Transportation, Homeland Security, Emergency Management and Military Affairs, among others – in support of first responders across the state. Those centers can operate around the clock to provide the appropriate assistance during an emergency. State emergency management personnel, at the direction of Gov. Beshear, have been closely monitoring the situation since storms struck much of Central and Western Kentucky Sunday afternoon. “We cannot undo some of the tragic consequences of today’s storms,” Gov. Beshear said. “But we can quickly and effectively lend the proper and appropriate assistance to help our fellow Kentuckians during this incredibly challenging time. Today’s actions at both the local and state levels, along with this state of emergency order, give us the full range of tools at our disposal to provide the right level of assistance at a moment’s notice.” The preceding press release was from State has guidelines for storm debris disposalThe Kentucky Department for Environmental Protection (DEP) has specific guidelines for proper disposal of woody and vegetative debris left in the aftermath of severe storms. Kentuckians should contact their local solid waste coordinator to find out if storm debris will be picked up curbside or if debris must be taken to a designated location. A list of coordinators is online at DEP’s Division of Waste Management site: www.waste.ky.gov/branches/rla/County+Solid+Waste+Coordinators.htm Recycling is the preferred disposal method. Local governments are strongly encouraged to recycle debris by shredding or chipping for reuse as mulch. Those lacking the equipment should consider commercial shredders or seek help from other cities and counties. Kentucky restricts open burning. Burning is only permitted in limited circumstances and under specific conditions. More details are online at DEP’s Division for Air Quality site www.air.ky.gov/homepage_repository/Open+Burning.htm If recycling is not feasible, cities or counties should identify staging areas where storm debris can be temporarily stored or burned. At a minimum, staging areas must be well away from residences and businesses. They also must be out of floodplains and away from sinkholes and drainage channels. Staging-area locations must be provided to the nearest DEP regional office. Contact information for regional offices is online at www.dep.ky.gov/regionalofficeDEP staff will inspect the site to ensure it meets specific environmental criteria. Once a staging area is approved, material may be disposed of through controlled burning. Local fire departments should oversee the burning and ensure there are adequate fire breaks. To minimize environmental impact, debris should not be burned until dry, at least on exterior surfaces. Small amounts of clean diesel fuel or kerosene, not to exceed five gallons, may be used to aid ignition. Storm-damaged building materials, appliances and furniture may not be burned. People needing to dispose of storm debris on their property should contact their local emergency operations center for instructions. Most counties address the handling of disaster debris in five-year solid-waste management plans submitted to DEP’s Division of Waste Management. The guidance usually is in cooperation with the local department for emergency service. Property owners should separate storm debris for curbside pickup or hauling by the local government to a central stage area or an appropriate landfill along these lines: • Woody and vegetative waste – Recycling by shredding or chipping is encouraged. If recycling is not feasible, contact the local solid waste coordinator for disposal information. Local governments should contact a Division of Forestry district office (a list of offices is online at www.forestry.ky.gov/distoff/ ) and Department for Environmental Protection regional office for approval of burning of woody and vegetative waste. The Division of Forestry can also offer advice and/or contact information to address urban trees that have storm damage. The division reminds residents that the fall fire season, Oct. 1 to Dec. 15, is approaching. Six counties -- Anderson, Pike, Floyd, Magoffin, Martin and Johnson -- are under outdoor burning bans. Before burning tree waste, contact your county government to make sure your county has not been added to the list. • White goods – This includes refrigerators, stoves, water heaters, air conditioning units, and washer/dryers. Damaged appliances can be picked up by a hauler and taken to a recycling center or county staging area. Information on recycling centers is available on the Division of Waste Management’s recycling page: www.waste.ky.gov/recyclingFreon must be recovered prior to crushing or recycling. • Construction and demolition debris – Building materials – bricks, concrete, masonry, rock, wood or lumber, insulation – should be disposed of at a construction and demolition landfill or a contained landfill. A landfill list is online at: www.waste.ky.gov/branches/sw/Kentucky+Solid+Waste+Facilities.htm • Contained landfill/household garbage – Garbage and all residential waste and household hazardous waste (pesticides, dried latex paint) should go to a contained landfill. Special handling applies to: • Livestock carcasses – Contact the Department of Agriculture’s Division of Animal Health: www.kyagr.com/statevet/index.htm502-564-3956, for information and assistance on proper disposal. • Abandoned and orphaned drums – Don’t attempt to dispose of a drum, since it may contain hazardous materials or waste. Note the location and contact either the local disaster services office or a DEP regional office. Other sources of online storm-recovery information include: • The Kentucky Department of Insurance. After the Storm Has Passed: Settling Disaster Claims: doi.ppr.ky.gov/kentucky/Documents/pubs/AfterTheStorm060408.pdf• The American Red Cross. After a Disaster -- tips to help keep you safe and speed your recovery after a disaster. www.redcross.org/services/disaster/0,1082,0_502_,00.html The preceding press release was from
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Post by Press Release on Sept 15, 2008 16:18:39 GMT -5
Murder Investigation in Laurel CountyOn Sunday September 14, 2008 at 10:06 AM EDT the Kentucky State Police Post 11, London, received a report, from the Laurel County 911 Center, of a deceased male subject lying beside of the roadway on Happy Hollow Road in Laurel County. Upon arrival KSP Detective Millard Root began an investigation into the death of the male subject. The cause of death is undetermined at this time and is pending the results of an autopsy. The victim has been identified as Devin R. Overbey, 26, of Corbin. Anyone with information in reference to this investigation is urged to contact the Kentucky State Police at (606) 878-6622. Detective Root is continuing the investigation and was assisted at the scene by officers of the Kentucky State Police, the Laurel County Sheriff's Office, the London City Police, the Laurel County Coroner's Office, the Laurel County EMS and the London/Laurel County Rescue Squad. The preceding press release was from Kentucky State Police Post 11 in London which serves the following Kentucky Counties: Rockcastle, Wayne, and Whitley. Attorney General Conway Provides Consumer Information for Kentucky Storm VictimsJack ConwayAttorney General Jack Conway wants victims of Sunday’s devastating windstorm to know that the Emergency Declaration Governor Steve Beshear signed on Friday, September 12 to prevent price gouging in the Commonwealth also covers all emergency and building supplies which would include generators. He also cautions storm victims to be leery of fly-by-night contractors. “Those who have fallen victim to this storm should not be victimized again by criminals who are preying on the widespread devastation,” General Conway said. The hurricane force winds that swept through Kentucky left at least one person dead, several injured and hundreds of thousands without power. Conway said consumers needing work done quickly to repair storm-damaged homes and property are at risk of falling victim to unscrupulous fly-by-night contractors, also known as "storm chasers." Common natural disaster scams include outright fraud, shoddy construction, price gouging, charity scams, impersonating officials, and loan scams. Conway is urging consumers to call the Consumer Hotline at 1-888-432-9257 to report any incidents of possible fraud, price gouging or shoddy construction work and repair. Over the past few days, the Attorney General’s Office has received 400 calls to its Consumer Hotline and 1100 email reports related to price gouging on gasoline. “We’re investigating a report of gas as high as $6.99, multiple reports of $5.99 in Owensboro and Somerset and numerous reports of gas in the $4.59-$4.69 range in Paducah and Franklin communities. We also have investigators in Louisville prepared to respond and investigate allegations of price gouging related to the storm,” Conway said. Attorney General Conway provides the following tips to consumers needing storm repair or clean up services: • Never pay in advance for labor. Scam artists often take advance payments from consumers and never return to complete the work. If an advance is needed to purchase materials, offer to purchase the materials yourself; • Use local, reputable contractors for repairs, if possible. If local contractors bring in out-of-town workers, ask who will be responsible for their work if it is not satisfactory; • Ask if the contractor is licensed, bonded (if required by the city or county), and insured; • Check unknown companies out with the Better Business Bureau (Louisville/Western KY 1-800-388-2222; Lexington/Eastern KY 1-800-866-6668) or call the Consumer Protection Division 1-888-432-9257 to see if information is available about the company; Demand a written contract. If possible, get estimates from several contractors; • Be suspicious of unfamiliar, out-of-state vehicles and those who offer repair work at unreasonably low prices. Contact local law enforcement about your suspicions. The preceding press release was from Statement by Governor Beshear on reformulated gasolineGovernor Steve Beshear“As we monitor the situation in the aftermath of Hurricane Ike, we have received information that the supply of reformulated gasoline (RFG) will be severely limited for several days, which could escalate the price at the pump even further for consumers in Louisville and northern Kentucky. Therefore, I plan on Monday to formally request from the federal Environmental Protection Agency a limited or temporary waiver from the use of RFG. We are doing everything we can to minimize the burden on Kentucky consumers. This is one tool at our disposal. We cannot – and we will not – hesitate to use it. Our hope is that the EPA will positively respond to this request within 24 hours. A waiver on RFG would likely last two to three weeks, depending upon supply issues as they continue to develop. I will continue to monitor this situation, along with senior members of the Energy and Transportation Cabinets, to ensure we are doing everything we can to minimize price escalations. I also want to assure all Kentuckians that we will continue to work with Attorney General Jack Conway to ensure that predatory price gouging is not being inflicted upon Kentucky consumers during this crisis.” The preceding press release was from
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