(FRANKFORT, KY) – Preliminary statistics* indicate that thirteen people died in thirteen separate crashes on Kentucky roadways from Monday, August 23, through Sunday, August 29, 2010. 

Seven of the crashes involved motor vehicles and five of the victims were not wearing seat belts.  Single-fatality crashes occurred in Bath, Boone, Harlan, Jefferson, Livingston, Pulaski, and Shelby counties.    

Five pedestrian involved fatal crashes occurred in Carroll, Floyd, Hardin, Jefferson and Wolfe counties.  The suspected use of alcohol was a factor in the Carroll county crash.

One motorcycle fatal crash occurred in Boone County and the victim was wearing a helmet.

Through August 29 preliminary statistics* indicate that 487 people have lost their lives on Kentucky roadways during 2010.  This is 27 less fatalities than reported for the same time period in 2009.   There were 383 motor vehicle fatalities and 200 of those victims were not wearing seat belts.  Fifty-nine of those crashes involved a commercial motor vehicle.  Forty-one fatal crashes involved a pedestrian and one involved a scooter.  Fifty-one crashes involved a motorcycle and twenty-nine of those victims were not wearing helmets.  Nine crashes involved an ATV and seven victims were not wearing helmets.  Two crashes involved a bicycle.  A total of 104 fatalities have resulted from crashes involving the suspected use of alcohol. 

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.

*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.  Crash data for this report is generated from the Kentucky Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS).

 “The latest scam crossing our radar in our service area uses the name Superstore Used Cars, or the website www.superautosalesus.com, and gives an address in Hazard, Kentucky,” said Neil Kingery, President & CEO of the BBB of Central & Eastern Kentucky.  “We have received many calls and e-mails from hopeful consumers outside of Kentucky checking out this non-existent dealer in Hazard because of the low, low prices offered for these repossessed vehicles.  They tell us they were being asked to wire money via Money Gram to pay deposits.”

 Consumers tell the BBB they saw the advertisement for Superstore Used Cars and its website either by searching the Internet or in small advertising publications in their areas, far away from the location the scammer fraudulently gives as its Kentucky address.  The same website was also recently associated with a dealer name and address out of Louisville, but since changed to the 800 Morton Blvd., Hazard.  Some customers say phone numbers they were given for the company do not work.

At last check, the website www.superautosalesus.com was gone from the Internet.  However, other BBB’s across the nation also report the same scam has popped up across the Internet with different domain names, so consumers should be aware of the red flags of this scam:

 RED FLAGS 

·         The prices are too good to be true.  Repossessed or no, it’s not likely you will find a late model vehicle at a price well below market value on a legitimate company’s website.

·         The dealer only accepts payment by money wire transfer.  Never wire money to anyone that you do not know well and trust completely.

You are told to wire the money to an individual rather than the company.  The scam artist explains this is in order to “avoid taxes.”  No legitimate auto dealer will advise you to do business in this manner.

 The dealer communicates only through on line chat or e-mail…never by phone.

“Many legitimate automobile dealers also offer their inventory on their company’s websites,” said Kingery.  “If you prefer to shop around online for cars, we suggest shopping with BBB Accredited Businesses who have met strict ethical standards, which includes a commitment to resolving customer disputes. Why not shop closer to home with a business you can trust?  Log on to www.bluegrass.bbb.org and click on the ‘Find a BBB Accredited Business’ tab to search for a list of BBB Accredited automobile dealers in our 64-county service area.”

 Contact the Better Business Bureau of Central & Eastern Kentucky to check out companies, charities, or to report problems and scams by calling (859) 259-1008 or toll-free 1-800-866-6668 or by logging on to www.bluegrass.bbb.org.

Press conferences were held today at the Woodford County and Shelby County rest areas to kick-off the campaign. In addition, the KOHS will be running radio commercials by NASCAR drivers Kenny Wallace and Brad Coleman throughout the summer months.   

“People are hitting the road for summer vacations and upcoming Independence Day celebrations,” said KOHS Executive Director Chuck Geveden.  “We want to make sure that all drivers are aware of their responsibilities behind the wheel.”  

So far this year, there have been a total of 340 highway fatalities, 49 fewer than at the same time last year.

“While we’re pleased in the reduction of our fatality numbers, I believe everyone would agree that one death is too many,” said Geveden.  “We hope our combined efforts with law enforcement will encourage everyone to wear a seat belt or helmet, drive the speed limit, and never drive impaired.”

 KSP Commissioner Rodney Brewer said his agency will be out in full force supporting this enforcement effort with safety check points and saturation patrols.

 “Unfortunately, too many people don’t understand that alcohol, drugs and driving just don’t mix,” Brewer said. “Impaired driving is no accident, nor is it a victimless crime.”

 ”Even first-time violators face immediate arrest, which can result in court costs, legal fees, higher auto insurance rates, fines, loss of license and even imprisonment,” Brewer added. “The consequences are serious and real.”

 Wearing a seat belt is your best defense against injury and death.  Statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration indicate that seat belts, when worn correctly, reduce the risk of fatalities by 45 percent for front-seat vehicle occupants, and by 60 percent for pickup truck, SUV and minivan occupants.

 “No matter what you drive – a car, truck or motorcycle – you must obey the law or you will be cited,” said Geveden. “No exceptions, no excuses.”

 Of the 791 total fatalities in 2009, 649 were in motor vehicles. Of those killed, 61 percent were not buckled up and 20 percent of fatalities involved alcohol. Motorcyclists accounted for 80 fatalities. More than 60 percent of those killed were not wearing helmets and 19 percent of fatal motorcycle crashes involved alcohol.

July 3, 2010, 3:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

The Cumberland Tourist Commission along with Kingdom Come State Park will host a Independence Day Celebration for all to attend.  Some of the events will be

·         Corn hole Tournament

·         Paddle Boat Races

·         Pie Eating contest

·         Free Inflatables

·         Harlan Co. Sheriff’s Department drug dog demonstration

·         BBQ concession by the East Kentucky Social Club

·         D.J. from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m.8

·         Music in the Park ..featuring Half Cocked at 7:00 p.m.

·         Then at 10:00 The Chamber & Tourism Annual Fireworks Show

Come on up to Kingdom Come State park for a day of fun the entire family can enjoy.  For more information please call 589-2479 or 589-5812.

“Kentuckians who put on their own fireworks show not only run the risk of injury, but also may be violating state law,” said William Swope Jr., Kentucky’s state fire marshal.

        “Kentucky law doesn’t allow consumers to use the kind of fireworks that can be viewed at professional shows,” Swope said. “For home use, the law permits only ‘Class C Safe and Sane’ fireworks. If a firework explodes or shoots in the air, it’s illegal.”

        Fire protection agencies and associations across the nation are focusing this year’s education campaign on sparklers, a product that many consumers deem ‘risk-free.’

        “People consider sparklers to be harmless, but they’re not,” Swope noted. “They burn extremely hot – 1200 degrees Fahrenheit – and they can ignite clothing.”

        Fireworks also should never be used where they could ignite vegetation or structures, Swope said.

Class C fireworks include sparklers, cone fountains, ground spinners and noisemakers. Firecrackers and rockets are not legal for home use. You must be 16 years of age to purchase any fireworks in Kentucky.

     For those who choose to use fireworks at home, here are some do’s and don’ts.

DO:

·       Buy from a reliable seller.

·       Read and observe the label directions.

·       Keep water handy – either a bucket or hose.

·       Have adult supervision at all times.

·       Dispose of fireworks by soaking them in water and throwing them in a trash can.

DON’T:

·       Re-light a “dud” firework.

·       Give fireworks, including sparklers, to small children.

·       Throw or point fireworks at anyone.

·       Use fireworks close to dry vegetation, structure or any other material that could ignite.

·       Shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers.

Additional information on fireworks safety is available at the National Council on Fireworks Safety Web site, http://www.fireworksafety.com/safety.htm  and the National Fire Protection Association, http://www.nfpa.org/index.asp.

(May 3, 2010) – The Better Business Bureau of Central & Eastern Kentucky urges property owners in need of repairs and clean-up services after the weekend floods that deluged Kentucky to carefully check out companies before hiring.

“Many home and business owners in our 64-county service area are dealing with flooded basements and buildings, leaking roofs, soaked carpeting or furniture, perhaps electrical and heating and air issues,” said Heather Clary, BBB Director of Communications.  “There is also the possibility of scam artists coming in to promise repairs, take people’s money and not deliver. The BBB wants people to know they can call us or log onto our website for reports on contractors.  They can also get a list of BBB Accredited Businesses in the specific categories they need, businesses they can trust.”

BBB Accredited Businesses have been qualified for Accreditation and have committed to adhere to ethical business practices including responding to customer complaints if there are problems.  “We know property owners may be in a hurry to get things back to normal, but rushing to hire a company you haven’t checked out that may not have proper insurance or licensing could cause you a bigger headache in the long run,” said Clary.

The BBB offers these tips to property owners looking for ethical companies to repair damage:

• Before hiring, check out the company report and rating with the BBB by calling (859) 259-1008 or 1-800-866-6668, or by logging on to www.bluegrass.bbb.org.

• Get a list of BBB Accredited Businesses in the specific category you need.  These lists are available on the website or by calling the BBB to have one sent to you.

• Use BBB e-Quote to get estimates from BBB Accredited Businesses.  Log on to www.bluegrass.bbb.org and click on the e-Quote icon.  Choose the category you need, the manner in which you’d like to be contacted, and contractors in that category will automatically contact you, making it an easier process to get the service you need.

• Get multiple estimates. When you hire, get a written contract (there’s no such thing as a “verbal contract”) outlining the materials to be used, the time frame in which the work is to be done and the payment schedule.  Get any warranties in writing.

• NEVER PAY THE ENTIRE AMOUNT UPFRONT.

• Ask to see the contractor’s proof of proper workers’ comp and liability insurance, and any required licensing. 

* * * * * *

Contact the Better Business Bureau of Central & Eastern Kentucky to check out companies, charities, or to report problems and scams by calling (859) 259-1008 or toll-free 1-800-866-6668 or by logging on to www.bluegrass.bbb.org.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 3, 2010)—The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) is issuing safety guidelines to aid Kentuckians in the wake of large amounts of water run-off and flooding throughout the state. If possible, contact with flood waters should be avoided, as they may contain contaminants that could pose health hazards. Homeowners whose homes sustained water damage are urged to follow recommendations to limit mold damage and to ensure proper food handling and storage.

     Mold fungi can be found indoors and outside and can accumulate in homes affected by flood/water damage. Mold grows best in warm, damp and humid conditions and spreads by making spores. 

     “Though mold is almost always present in the air, it grows best in damp areas where humidity levels are high,” said William Hacker, M.D., DPH commissioner. “The recent heavy rains throughout the state caused significant flooding, and many homes experienced water damage. This is a concern for homeowners not only because of damage to their home, but also because problems due to mold may result if left untreated.”

     To recognize the signs of mold, look for discolored walls possibly showing water damage, or green or black spots apparent on walls. Mold also has a musty, earthy smell or a foul stench. Allergy sufferers tend to be most affected by mold exposure.

     To decrease exposure and reduce mold in the home, DPH recommends that homeowners keep the humidity level of the home between 40 and 60 percent. The use of an air conditioner or dehumidifier may be used to achieve a lower level of humidity. Always use exhaust fans when showering and cooking. Mold inhibitors for paint are also available from home improvement stores. 

     When cleaning up small areas affected by mold, use protective glasses or goggles. DPH also recommends wearing rubber boots and waterproof gloves, and washing clothing afterwards. If there is a heavy mold growth area, you may wish to use a basic respirator or suitable mask to prevent breathing the spores.

     Other recommendations include:

     − Ensure that the area is well ventilated before beginning. 

     − Remove all previously soaked porous items that have been wet for more than 48 hours and are not able to be cleaned and dried.

     − Disinfect hard surfaces; a solution may be mixed of 1 cup of household bleach with 1 gallon of water. 

     − Contact a mold remediation consultant for severe mold cases.
    

     In addition to mold concerns, DPH staff also cautions people to keep food safety in mind if they have been affected by power outages. This includes keeping freezers closed to maintain the proper temperature for frozen foods. A full freezer will hold the temperature for approximately 48 hours and for 24 hours if the freezer is half full.

     Health officials remind Kentuckians that a refrigerator will only hold its temperature for about four hours, meaning food items such as milk, dairy products, meats, eggs and leftovers should be placed in a cooler surrounded by ice if the outage lasts for more than four hours. Dry ice can be used to keep refrigerators cold. If the outage lasts for several days, 50 pounds of dry ice should preserve food in an 18-cubic foot full freezer for two days. (You must be careful when handling dry ice. Never touch dry ice with bare hands or breathe its vapors in an enclosed area. Dry ice is frozen carbon dioxide, a gas.)

     “Situations like this emphasize the need for emergency preparedness in the home,” said Guy Delius, director of the public health protection and safety division in DPH. “Food that is improperly stored or handled can lead to foodborne illness, which can be debilitating and in some cases life threatening.”

     If left without power, purchase one or more coolers, ice and a digital, dial or instant-read food thermometer, DPH recommends. Public health guidelines also recommend keeping appliance thermometers in the refrigerator and freezer, no matter how long the power has been out. The refrigerator temperature should be 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below; the freezer should be 0 degrees Fahrenheit or lower.

     “If you are not sure a particular food is cold enough, take its temperature with a food thermometer,” said Delius.

     DPH recommends limiting the opening of freezer and refrigerator doors, even if an appliance has been out but returns to function within a couple of hours. If the freezer is not full, DPH strongly advises that poultry and meat items be grouped away from other foods to prevent juices from contaminating other items.

     When the refrigerator and/or freezer are operating again, follow these guidelines to decide what to do with foods:

     − Refrigerated foods should be safe as long as power is out for no more than four hours.

     − Throw out any perishable food in your refrigerator, such as meat, poultry, lunchmeats, fish, dairy products, eggs and any prepared or cooked foods that have been above 40 degrees Fahrenheit for two hours. Bacteria can multiply to unsafe levels under these conditions.

     − Fresh fruits and vegetables are safe as long as they are still firm, and there is no evidence of mold or sliminess.

     − If an appliance thermometer was kept in the freezer, read the temperature when power comes back on. If the appliance thermometer stored in the freezer reads 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below, the food is safe and may be refrozen.

     − If a thermometer has not been kept in the freezer, check each package of food to determine the safety.

     − If the food still contains ice crystals or is 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below, it is safe to refreeze.

     − Raw meats, poultry, cheese, juices, breads and pastries can be refrozen without losing too much food quality.

    − Prepared food, fish, vegetables and fruits in the freezer can be refrozen safely, but food quality may suffer.

     “Remember, you can’t rely on appearance or odor of the food to determine if it’s safe,” said Hacker. “Food that has thawed or was held above 40 degrees Fahrenheit for more than two hours should be thrown out because bacteria may multiply to unsafe levels.”

      To remove spills and refresh the freezer and refrigerator, DPH recommends washing with a solution of 2 tablespoons of baking soda dissolved in 1 quart of warm water. To absorb any lingering odors, place an open box or dish of baking soda in the appliance.

      People should also be aware of potential risks from walking or working in flood waters. Contact with flood waters is not a risk for tetanus by itself. However, in special circumstances, people exposed to flood waters may be recommended to receive a tetanus vaccination. Unclean flood waters can pose a risk for tetanus to those who have open wounds that come into direct contact with such waters. While most people in this situation will have already been vaccinated against tetanus, a booster vaccination is recommended for those with open wounds who have not been vaccinated in the past five years and are working in flood waters. More frequent boosters are not indicated and have been reported to result in an increased incidence and severity of local adverse reactions. For questions about whether tetanus vaccination is recommended, contact your regular health care provider or your local health department.

      For more information about public health issues related to flooding, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Web site at: http://www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/floods/.

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Some of you have received your U.S. Census form in the mail. However, due to complications with addressing, a large number of residents in Harlan and Letcher have not received their form. It cannot be stressed to you enough the importance of getting as many people as we can to complete the census form and to return it ASAP.  The population count is used in awarding grants and other funding for all aspects of the community, education, health care, transportation, etc. If you did not receive a form or if you know of family and friends who did not receive a form, please have them visit one of the following locations and obtain a form to complete and mail.  

• • Harlan Water Works
  • Harlan Public Library
  • Evarts City Hall
  • Clover Fork clinic
  • Lynch City Hall

You are encouraged to talk to others in your community, at your church, ballgames, grocery store and the other places you frequent to help spread the word of the importance of obtaining a form, filling it out and mailing it in. In particular, if you receive your mail at a post office box, you are most likely not going to receive one in the mail for the 2010 count. 

 While it is understandably an inconvenience to visit these sites to pick up a form,  with the current condition of the state and national economy, it is imperative that all of our Harlan County people be counted in this census. If our count is inaccurate and low, then we cannot expect a return of state and federal tax dollars to our community for various programs, projects and other important activities. The information gathered now, will be utilized for the next 10 years. The census is very short this year and should only take a few minutes to complete. It does not ask for financial information, social security numbers or other personal information.  If you have questions about the census, you can visit the U.S. Census Bureau’s website at http://www.census.gov/.

 Officials are concerned that due to the addressing problem, rural areas, such as Harlan County, are going to be significantly hurt in the 2010 census count.

Local cleanup activities are now being organized by Harlan County PRIDE Coordinator Lonnie Saylor, City of Harlan PRIDE Coordinator Elizabeth Powell, Evarts PRIDE Coordinator Kristi Lamb, Loyall PRIDE Coordinator Margaret Yost, and Bobbie Gothard, who is the PRIDE Coordinator for Benham, Cumberland, and Lynch.  “The more volunteers who work with us, the better success we will have,” said Bobbie Gothard, who also serves as the Director of Tri-Cities Heritage Development and President of the Tri-City Chamber of Commerce.

Local cleanup activities are now being organized by Letcher County PRIDE Coordinator Gary Cornett, Whitesburg PRIDE Coordinator Sandy Hammock, Jenkins PRIDE Coordinator Sarah Tackett Brown, Fleming-Neon PRIDE Coordinator James Collins, and McRoberts PRIDE Coordinator Jim Scott.

“Team PRIDE starts with you,” said PRIDE’s Karen Engle. “That’s our theme for the 2010 Spring Cleanup. If you volunteer and invite others to join the team with you, then your community will be a cleaner, healthier place to live and visit. Please, call your PRIDE Coordinator now to plan a Spring Cleanup project with your friends, neighbors, coworkers, church family, or club.”

PRIDE Coordinators are volunteers who play a vital role in building PRIDE in their communities. They work with the PRIDE staff to organize cleanup activities, recruit volunteers, and track cleanup results. They assist local officials with the programs of PRIDE, a nonprofit organization that promotes environmental cleanup and education in 38 counties. 

PRIDE Coordinators now are planning each community’s Spring Cleanup activities. Throughout April, volunteers will pick up roadside litter. PRIDE will provide volunteer T-shirts and cleanup supplies. PRIDE also will help local governments pay for disposing of roadside litter, removing illegal dumps, and offering free drop-off events for the community.

Local volunteers can help PRIDE kick-off the annual Spring Cleanup at Cumberland Falls State Resort Park on Saturday, March 27. Volunteers will pick up trash along Hwy. 90 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. All volunteers will receive a free T-shirt, lunch, and chance at door prizes. Registration will begin at 9 a.m. at the gift shop beside Cumberland Falls.

To volunteer for the Spring Cleanup in Harlan County, please call Lonnie Saylor at 573-3219, extension 13. In the City of Harlan, please call Elizabeth Powell at 573-7698. Benham, Cumberland, and Lynch residents should contact Bobbie Gothard at 589-5151 or tcmainstreet@windstream.net. In Evarts, please call Kristi Lamb at 837-2477. In Loyall, call Margaret Yost at 573-6396.

To volunteer for the Spring Cleanup in Letcher County, please call Gary Cornett at 633-9461. In Whitesburg, please call Sandy Hammock at 633-3703. Jenkins residents should call Sarah Tackett Brown at 832-3158. In Fleming-Neon, call James Collins at 855-9026. McRoberts residents should contact Jim Scott at 832-4789.

After April 1, a list of local Spring Cleanup events will be available by clicking on either Harlan County or Letcher County on the map at www.kypride.org.

The Roadside PRIDE Awards were presented to the cities and counties that recruited the most volunteers and collected the most trash last October, which was Roadside PRIDE Month in 38 counties of southern and eastern Kentucky.

Benham won the 1st Place trophy in Class 2, which included cities with populations between 500 and 1,500. Benham recruited 12 volunteers during Roadside PRIDE Month. The city removed 22 bags of trash from the ditches, just as tourists arrived to see the area’s colorful fall foliage.

Lynch was the 1st Runner Up in Class 2. The city recruited four volunteers and collected 20 bags of trash.

“I congratulate you on your winning effort in October, and I encourage you to take your game to the next level during April’s Spring Cleanup,” said Karen Engle, who heads PRIDE, the sponsor of Roadside PRIDE Month and PRIDE Spring Cleanup Month.

“You can win another trophy for a successful Spring Cleanup,” Engle added. “But, more importantly, you can create a clean, healthy environment for your residents and tourists to enjoy.”

Roadside PRIDE Month is an annual anti-litter campaign that features a friendly competition among communities of similar size. PRIDE, which is the region’s environmental cleanup and education initiative, provides cleanup supplies to volunteers and reimburses local governments for their trash disposal expenses.

During PRIDE Spring Cleanup Month in April, local PRIDE Coordinators recruit volunteers to pick up roadside litter. PRIDE will provide free T-shirts, trash bags, and gloves for the volunteers, as well as funding for local governments to dispose of litter, remove dumps, and offer free trash drop-off events.

To volunteer for the Spring Cleanup, please contact your local PRIDE Coordinator. In Harlan County, please call Lonnie Saylor at 573-3219, extension 13. In the City of Harlan, please call Elizabeth Powell at 573-7698. Benham, Cumberland, and Lynch residents should contact Bobbie Gothard at 589-5151 or tcmainstreet@windstream.net. In Evarts, please call Kristi Lamb at 837-2477. In Loyall, call Margaret Yost at 573-6396.

To learn more about Roadside PRIDE and PRIDE Spring Cleanup Month, please visit www.kypride.org.

Acting State Highway Engineer Steve Waddle said state highway workers are required to remove and discard hundreds of signs during each election cycle. The signs can pose hazards for drivers and for maintenance crews.

“Signs on the right of way often restrict sight distance near intersections and create a hazard in the ‘clear zone,’ which is the recovery area for motorists who run off the road,” Waddle said. “They also interfere with maintenance activities such as roadside mowing, which will be starting soon.”

 Kentucky law and Transportation Cabinet policy prohibit the placement of political or other advertising signs on state right of way, including signs attached to utility poles within the state right of way.

 Illegal signs will be moved to the state highway garage in each county and kept for two weeks. Owners may claim them by showing identification and completing a claim form. Unclaimed signs will be discarded.

“Employees who are removing signs are acting in the best interest of all motorists and of maintenance crews,” Waddle said. “We appreciate the public’s cooperation and understanding.”

As of today, those vouchers are available to anyone in the Commonwealth on a first in, first out basis. More than 18,000 vouchers remain available for computer and Internet Technology training. Any citizen who meets the requirements, regardless of employment status, can now request a voucher.

Computer training ranges from basic skills, which do not require a voucher, to advanced classes that allow participants to earn Microsoft certification. Given the various levels of training available, residents can sign up for multiple courses; however, they can only sign up for one course at a time and must complete one before attempting to enroll in another.

Microsoft is working with Kentucky’s Office of Employment and Training, an agency of the Education and Workforce Development Cabinet, to distribute 9,000 vouchers for online training, 9,000 vouchers for online testing and 2,250 vouchers for more advanced training courses. More than 2,000 vouchers were claimed in the first two weeks of the program.

Each training voucher can be used on Microsoft Windows or one of the products in the Microsoft Office Suite. Each testing voucher can be used for a Microsoft business certification exam, which, when passed, signifies a student is Microsoft certified in either Windows Vista or a specific Microsoft Office product. Advanced level vouchers are redeemable for training individuals on technical professional career tracks in areas such as Web development or data management.

The Web-based program can be accessed from any Internet-connected computer. Those without computers or Internet access in their homes can visit their local One-Stop Career Center, Adult Education Center or public library to use the computer services available at those locations. Certification exams must be taken at a proctored Certiport location. KCTCS will provide these testing sites at 13 of its campuses across the state, at no charge to the participant.

Participants must be residents of Kentucky. Employees of Kentucky State Government are not eligible. Applicants under 18 years of age must provide parental consent to participate.

Kentucky’s participation in Microsoft’s Elevate America program makes it the 12^th state to take part in this groundbreaking initiative to prepare workers for the demands of a 21^st century economy.

Elevate America is part of Microsoft’s overall Unlimited Potential efforts to improve social and economic opportunities for people and will provide technology training for up to two million people during the next three years.

For more information on how to obtain a voucher and to view a list of testing sites, visit the state’s Web portal https://kyelevateamerica.ky.gov. Kentuckians must claim their vouchers by April 27, 2010.

Participants with questions about the program can e-mail elevateamerica@ky.gov.

Visit www.oet.ky.gov to learn more about Elevate America and other career assistance and training services available through Kentucky’s workforce system.

To learn more about Microsoft’s Elevate America national program, visit www.microsoft.com/elevateamerica.

The three, chosen by a statewide selection committee, were Linda D. Childress of Cub Run, Walter Dick of Cumberland and Frances Steenbergen of Glasgow.

“There are few individuals who have a greater ability to influence the lives of Kentucky’s children than our educators,” Gov. Steve Beshear said. “A good teacher can instill a love of learning that encourages students to stay in school, develop a voracious appetite for knowledge and continue on to postsecondary education. I am proud to honor three of these fine educators today from across the state: their commitment to and investment in Kentucky’s future is unrivaled.”

The Kentucky Teacher Hall of Fame was created in 2000 through a gift by former Gov. Nunn.

“Gov. Nunn selected Western Kentucky University to be the home of the Kentucky Teacher Hall of Fame because of our 100-year history in teacher education and commitment to excellence in this field,” WKU President Gary Ransdell said. “And like Gov. Nunn, our current Gov. Steve Beshear and members of the Kentucky General Assembly recognize the vital role that primary and secondary teachers in Kentucky play in the education of young people and the positive impact education has on the state’s economy.”

Gov. Beshear and Commissioner of Education Terry Holliday presented the Hall of Fame awards to each recipient.

Secretary of Education Joe Meyer, House Speaker Greg Stumbo and Senate President David Williams also participated in the ceremony, offering their congratulations and thanking the inductees for their combined 117 years of providing young people with skills for the future and making a difference in the lives of countless students.

As part of Tuesday’s induction ceremony, the honorees were introduced on the House and Senate floors and attended a luncheon held in their honor.

 Walter Dick

A native of Cumberland, Dick is characterized as a legend by colleagues and former students.

He taught algebra and mathematics for 52 years in the Harlan County school system. His devotion to student success has been evident in before and after school tutoring sessions and his expectation that all of his students can be successful.

His students excelled in math competitions and posted high scores on standardized tests. “We’ve had some great students,” Dick said.

In retirement, Dick continues to teach math skills to GED students as well as students preparing for the ACT exam.

“I know how to teach what I know,” Dick said.

Dick, who ran track in college, was a successful track and baseball coach early in his career and maintained a connection to Cumberland High School’s basketball program by keeping the scorebook in recent years.

Dick received his bachelor’s degree in education with an emphasis in math and business from Union College in 1956 and his master’s from Union in 1979.

He taught for six years at Benham High School before moving to Cumberland High School in 1961.

Dick has been honored by several groups, but the Kentucky Teacher Hall of Fame “would have to be the highest,” he said.

This year, Kentucky voters will go to the polls to choose various local and state elected officials. Personnel with the Kentucky Department of Highways are already noticing campaign signs illegally placed on the right of way of state-maintained highways. These signs pose various hazards for drivers and for maintenance workers. During each election cycle, state highway workers remove and discard dozens of these illegally-placed signs. Political candidates and their supporters can avoid this by not placing signs on state right of way.

The last record was set in 2004, when 600 labs were discovered.   The production of meth in Kentucky dropped after a 2005 law went into effect requiring that purchases of pseudoephedrine (PSE) tablets be made at pharmacy counters.  This ‘pharmacy log’ statute (KRS 218A.1446) had an immediate effect by substantially reducing meth labs in the state by fifty percent over a three-year period.

Major Joseph Williams, Commander for the KSP Special Enforcement Troop, contributes meth’s popularity to the relatively easy cooking process, the highly addictive nature of the drug and the ease of obtaining pseudoephedrine.

“With a small investment consisting of supplies bought from neighborhood stores, dealers can easily cook up hundreds of dollars worth of a drug so addictive, that users quickly descend into an abyss of violence and crime to get to their next high,” said Williams.

“This frightening scenario is the reality of methamphetamine, a dangerous drug that is sweeping Kentucky, spawning crime and ripping apart local communities – not to mention the huge financial burden it yields,” he added.

The total cost to KSP last year to remove the 716 reported meth labs totaled $1,373,825.00.  These costs include the discovery of labs, certified lab responder salaries, removal and transportation of waste from the scene and hazardous waste disposal fees.  This does not include costs to social service organizations, remediation, incarceration or medical expenses incurred.

As the drug’s popularity grows in the state, so does its far-ranging, devastating effects: jails are packed with inmates who need health care, children are being permanently removed from their parents, addicts face the challenge of trying to kick a powerfully addictive stimulant and law enforcement agencies struggle for resources to battle the growing number of labs.

On June 1, 2008, in an effort to further reduce meth lab production, a new Kentucky statute required the pharmacy logs to be reported on a centralized database designated by state government.  This computerized system utilizes an electronic PSE monitoring system known as Meth Check.  In spite of the new Meth Check system the state’s 2008 meth lab total rose forty-one percent.

One notion that may be partially to blame for the spike in labs is the development of a quicker, more efficient method for producing meth, called the “one-pot” or “shake-and-bake” method. This method leads to a great deal of pressure inside the container and can easily cause an explosion. The mixture of toxic ingredients in this process results in a chemical reaction which changes the pseudoephedrine into methamphetamine. 

Trend analysis in Kentucky and other states show that meth labs are moving into urban areas because of the ease of the one-step method.

In 2009, 240 meth labs were found in structures that are classified as multifamily dwellings, which include apartment complexes, hotels and motels.  Seventy-four meth labs were found in vehicles and over 148 labs were found in locations within one-thousand yards of a school.

“These are a big problem because the innocent individuals also living within these structures may not know that the production of meth is taking place,” Williams said.

Williams indicated that law enforcement are finding larger yielding meth labs out in the more rural areas of the state.

“Smaller scale labs within city limits are escalating while a reduced number of rural labs are increasing their output.  It’s a lose-lose situation.”

Children are not immune from the far reaching effects of meth.  Over the past four years, authorities in Kentucky have removed more than 350 children from meth lab locations. The children found in these labs are defenseless against the deadly actions of parents who cook meth.

Methamphetamine is not just a Kentucky problem. Occurrences of meth labs have been on the rise across the country and states are scrambling to find solutions.  According to the El Paso Intelligence Center (EPIC), Kentucky ranks number three nationally for the number of meth labs discovered in 2009.  Missouri ranked number one with 1,537 labs followed by Indiana with 1,096.

The state of Oregon has made PSE available by prescription only. Since that time, meth lab incidents have gone from over 400 per year (prior to the prescription only law) to averaging fewer than 20 a year.

Oregon Senator Ron Wyden has committed to proposing legislation to take the Oregon Anti-meth Legislation nationwide, requiring all states to comply with a PSE prescription only process.

In Missouri, several towns and counties have also made PSE available through the prescription only process, with positive results.

Williams said that the goal of the agency is to remain vigilant in preventing future occurrences of meth labs and raising public awareness about their dangers.

“Meth labs are devastating our state financially, placing our officers in harms way,  contaminating our environment, destroying families and robbing us of our greatest asset – our children,” added Williams.

KSP advises that if you suspect someone is making meth or you encounter a meth lab, call 1-800 DOPETIP (1-800-367-3847).  Callers can remain anonymous.

  Western Kentucky University, the Kentucky Clean Indoor Air Partnership, the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) are joining the awareness effort to further educate the public about the health risks of exposure to radon.

“Radon is a colorless, odorless, naturally occurring radioactive gas found in our rocks and soils. It enters homes through cracks and other openings in foundations,” said Guy Delius, director of the Division of Public Health Protection and Safety. “Any home can have elevated levels of radon. The only way to know about your home is to test.”

 “Radon can certainly be a threat to public health and is a risk factor for lung cancer. It is extremely important to have radon levels tested in your homes,” said DPH Commissioner William Hacker, M.D.  “In some instances, radon exposure over an extended period of time can cause serious adverse health effects.”

According to the National Academy of Sciences, exposure to indoor radon gas is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States after smoking. The Surgeon General issued a health advisory in 1988 emphasizing the need to test for indoor radon and correct the problem when elevated levels are found.

“Fortunately, most homes with elevated levels of radon gas can be easily fixed for about the same cost as other common home repairs,” said Clay Hardwick, radon coordinator for DPH. “If you’re having a new home built, you should discuss with the builder about incorporating radon resistant construction methods recommended by the EPA.”

To get children involved in radon awareness, the Kentucky radon program created the Kentucky Radon Calendar Contest. DPH is now accepting entries for the 2010 contest. To participate or to learn more, visit www.chfs.ky.gov/dph/info/phps/radongas.htm or call (502) 564-4856.

The 2009 Kentucky Radon Calendar Contest winner was Katie Bruegge from Kenton County. Katie won a laptop computer system, and her poster entry was sent to the National Radon Poster Contest sponsored by the National Safety Council. The poster was also incorporated into a calendar that will be distributed statewide.

“The calendar contest helps us teach young people about the dangers of radon,” said Hardwick. “It’s really a great opportunity for children to lend their skills and talents to radon awareness.”

For more information on testing your home for indoor radon gas, contact the Kentucky Radon Program at (502) 564-4856, or call your local health department.

 “Now is the time to ensure that Kentucky families stay warm during this cold season,” Gov. Beshear said at the Louisville announcement. “A warm home for the winter isn’t a benefit – it is a necessity, and with LIHEAP, many families who need help can receive it.”

 Last fall, HHS released more than $2.6 billion for states’ LIHEAP, which helps families pay their energy bills, particularly during the very cold and hottest months.

In Kentucky, the Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) administers the LIHEAP program through a contract with Community Action Kentucky (CAK), which disburses benefits through Community Action Agencies (CAA) across the state. Every county has at least one staffed Community Action Agency office.

Kentucky’s has $66.6 million in available LIHEAP funding this year, including a $57 million award for this fiscal year and $9 million left over from last year’s funding.

 Last year, Kentucky spent approximately $61 million in LIHEAP funding and served nearly 300,000 families through both phases. Cabinet staff expects to serve about the same number or more this year.

LIHEAP’s first funding phase, for all eligible families who need heating assistance, ended last month. However, the program’s crisis phase, for families facing a home-heating emergency, began on Jan. 4, 2010.

 Metro Louisville Mayor Jerry Abramson said low-income families are especially vulnerable to higher costs when their energy use increases in the winter.

 “LIHEAP funding has helped hundreds of Louisville families through the season’s start,” he said. “With the colder weather coming to the Commonwealth, it’s reassuring to know families facing financial emergencies can access this crisis funding.”

 CHFS Secretary Janie Miller said she is grateful the federal government recognizes the importance of providing a basic resource like energy assistance.

“Crisis mode specifically helps families who can’t pay their bills during the harshest part of the season,” she said. “If you meet income requirements and your bill is past due or your services are about to be disconnected, money is readily available to you.”

 Miller said the eligible households that can benefit most – seniors, the disabled and families with young children — are encouraged to take advantage of LIHEAP assistance.

 LIHEAP is a short-term aid program available to clients at or below 130 percent of the federal poverty guidelines. For example, a family of four must have a monthly income of no more than $2,389.

 The crisis phase, for families in a home heating emergency, ends March 31, 2010 or when funds have been exhausted.

Families applying at their CAAs during the crisis component must bring a past due or disconnect notice from their utility provider.

 For more information about applying for LIHEAP, visit http://chfs.ky.gov/dcbs/dfs/LIHEAP.htm or www.communityactionky.org or call (800) 456-3452 to find a local Community Action Agency.

“In the south, we think of winter as being relatively mild. However, serious threats to health and wellbeing exist,” said Gov. Steve Beshear. “I caution everyone to be mindful of health safety tips devised to ward off winter weather-related illness and injury.” 

Hypothermia occurs when an individual’s body temperature drops below what is necessary to achieve normal metabolism and other bodily functions. In severe cases or when the body is not properly warmed, death can result.

“When the thermometer drops, people are at increased risk for hypothermia,” said DPH Commissioner William Hacker, M.D. “Steps should be taken to prevent this very serious – and sometimes fatal – condition.”

The condition occurs most often when an individual is submerged in icy waters. However, people exposed to cold weather who aren’t sufficiently prepared also are at an increased risk for the condition.

To prevent hypothermia, DPH advises that Kentuckians:

−     Wear appropriate clothing. Layer clothes made of synthetic and wool fabrics, which are best for keeping warm. Always remember to wear hats, coats, scarves and gloves.

−     Avoid consuming alcohol if outdoors. Alcohol can actually speed the loss of heat from the body.

−     Avoid overexertion from activities that cause excessive sweat. This can lead to damp clothing, which causes chills.

−     Stay as dry as possible.

Individuals working outside during at this time of year should pay extra attention to these guidelines, particularly those susceptible to overexertion. Outdoor workers should make sure they are appropriately dressed and take frequent breaks to warm up and make sure their clothes are sufficient to keep them warm and dry.

Symptoms of hypothermia include shivering, altered speech pattern, abnormally slow rate of breathing, cold pale skin and lethargy. Seek medical attention if you or a loved one experiences the signs of hypothermia.

When water freezes, it expands. When water freezes in a pipe and expands enough, the pipe bursts, water escapes and serious damage results. Pipes in attics, crawl spaces and outside walls are all vulnerable to freezing, especially if there are cracks or openings that allow cold outside air to flow across the pipes.

To keep pipes from freezing, wrap hot and cold water pipes in insulation or layers of newspaper, covering the newspapers with plastic to keep out moisture. Allow a trickle of water to run from a cold faucet that is farthest from the water meter or one that has frozen in the past. This will keep the water moving so that it cannot freeze and will help relieve pressure should ice form in the pipes. Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes.

If pipes freeze, remove the insulation, completely open all the faucets and pour hot water over the pipes or wrap them with towels soaked in hot water, starting where they are most exposed to the cold. You may also use a hand-held hair dryer or electric heating pad if there is no standing water. Apply heat until full water pressure is restored.

Do not use a blowtorch, kerosene or propane heater, charcoal stove or other open flame device to thaw a pipe. A blowtorch can make water in a frozen pipe boil and cause the pipe to explode. All open flames in homes present a serious fire danger, as well as a severe risk of exposure to lethal carbon monoxide.

If you are unable to locate or reach the frozen area, call a licensed plumber.

When away from the house for an extended period of time, consider draining the water system completely. To drain the system, shut off the main valve, turn off and drain the water heater and turn on every water fixture (both hot and cold lines) until water stops running. When returning to the house, turn on the main valve, turn on the water heater and let each fixture run until the pipes are full again.

Arthur was a native of Totz and lived in Harlan County most of his life. He attended school in Blair before moving to Lousiville to attend the kentucky School for the Blind where he graduated.  Arthur was a piano tuner, musician, local historian, and columnist. Arthur was very proud of the article he contributed weekly to the Tri City News “From Gap Ridge to Flat Gap”.  He began this tradition on February 2, 1994 and had 791 consecutive articles. He was president of the local chapter of AARP, member of Tri-City Chamber of Commerce, fifty year member and past president of the Lions Club, Master of Ceremonies for the Kingdom come Swappin’ Meetin’ in Cumberland for the past thirty years; and a member of Cumberland Missionary Baptist Church.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William Henry and Nancy McCreary Johnson and one brother, Robert McCreary Johnson.

Survivors include a brother Claude Johnson and wife Anna Sue of Lynch; a sister, Phena Ruth Fleig and husband, Joseph E., Louisville; several nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews and a host of friends.

Visitation will be held 4-9 pm Friday, April 24, 2009 at Cumberland Missionary Baptist Church. Funeral services will be conducted at 11 am Saturday, April 25, 2009 at the Church with Rev. Dennis Williams officiating. Interment will follow in Gilliam Cemetery in Cumberland.

Tracy Turner, Harold Cornett, Bruce Ayers, Roland “Pee Wee” Cornett, Michael Corriston, Joe Carruba, Al Cornett and Herbert Creech will serve as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers will be the Cumberland Lions Club and friends.

Tri City Funeral Home in Benham has been entrusted with the arrangements.

FRANKFORT, KY (Feb. 3, 2009) – Reading and understanding your insurance policy can prevent unnecessary confusion and expense, particularly during natural disasters such as last week’s ice storm.

“Consumers should not assume something is covered without first checking the policy,” said Sharon P. Clark, commissioner of the Kentucky Department of Insurance. “If there is any question about reimbursement, call your agent before incurring the expense.”

Clark reminds consumers that most policies do not cover living expenses when not necessitated by an insured loss.

“If you leave your house because there is no electricity, your insurance company is not going to reimburse you for those hotel expenses,” she said. “However, if you leave your house because a tree has fallen on the roof, making it unsafe to stay there, additional living expenses generally will be covered.”

To assist consumers with common concerns, the department has developed these frequently asked questions:

A tree on my property fell on my neighbor’s house. Whose insurance pays?
In most cases, the homeowner’s insurance policy of the person who has the damage will pay for the loss. If your tree falls on your neighbor’s property and there is no well-documented proof that the tree was diseased or that you were somehow negligent, your neighbor’s homeowner’s insurance policy covers the loss.

If my neighbor’s tree falls on my car, whose insurance pays?
Your auto insurer would pay if your neighbor’s tree falls on your car but only if you have comprehensive coverage. There is no coverage if you only have liability coverage on your auto policy.

The ice storm damaged my trees and shrubs. Will my insurance pay for replacements?
No, landscaping is not an insured loss.

If there is damage to my shed, garage or outbuildings, will my insurance cover the damage?
Yes, if coverage for the outbuilding is included under your homeowner’s policy.

If the power goes off and I rent a generator to keep my house warm, will insurance cover the cost?
In most cases, no.

Will insurance cover the cost of removing fallen trees if the tree did not damage insured property?
Some homeowner’s policies have a set amount available for removal of trees or debris but usually only if part of a covered loss. Check your policy or call your agent.

Consumers may contact the Department of Insurance at 800-595-6053 for additional information or to file a complaint.