Saturday, January 30, 2010
Escape Plot Derailed At Southwestern Jail
WEST VIRGINIA...
A Southwestern Regional Jail corrections officer recently foiled an escape attempt by three inmates. The guard learned inmates were allegedly plotting an escape attempt by utilizing the water chase, which is an area where corrections officers are able to turn off the water pressure to keep inmates from flooding parts of the jail. Howard Childers 28, of Barboursville is now being charged for attempting to escape; Kenneth Lee Nickson, 42, of Charleston is being charged with being an accessory before the fact; and Larry Jackson, 27, of North Springs, is being charged with being an accessory before the fact. Cpl. Martin questioned the inmates abut the incident and asked just how Childers got into the water chase." A further investigation foiled the escape plot.
A Southwestern Regional Jail corrections officer recently foiled an escape attempt by three inmates. The guard learned inmates were allegedly plotting an escape attempt by utilizing the water chase, which is an area where corrections officers are able to turn off the water pressure to keep inmates from flooding parts of the jail. Howard Childers 28, of Barboursville is now being charged for attempting to escape; Kenneth Lee Nickson, 42, of Charleston is being charged with being an accessory before the fact; and Larry Jackson, 27, of North Springs, is being charged with being an accessory before the fact. Cpl. Martin questioned the inmates abut the incident and asked just how Childers got into the water chase." A further investigation foiled the escape plot.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:36 AM
Lawsuit Against Toyota
WEST VIRGINIA...
Toyota's massive recall this month of millions of vehicles doesn't include every car that might have a faulty electronic throttle system. according to a class-action lawsuit filed in federal court in Charleston a couple of months ago. On Tuesday, Toyota Motor Corp. announced that it would stop new sales of certain models, including such top sellers such as the Camry, Avalon, RAV4 and Tundra. Worldwide, the recall and sales freeze is expected to include as many as 9 million vehicles. In the United States, the recall includes eight models, and goes back as far as 2005, and does not include any cars made by the automaker's Lexus division. The Charleston lawsuit, filed in November, names 13 models that have an electronic throttle-control system, or ETCS, which allegedly has "a dangerous propensity to suddenly accelerate without driver input and against the intentions of the driver." And the time frame extends as far back as 2002 for Camrys, and 1998 for Lexuses. In addition to those, the lawsuit alleges, several other models and years are at risk. Toyota did not respond to multiple requests for comment on Friday.
Toyota's massive recall this month of millions of vehicles doesn't include every car that might have a faulty electronic throttle system. according to a class-action lawsuit filed in federal court in Charleston a couple of months ago. On Tuesday, Toyota Motor Corp. announced that it would stop new sales of certain models, including such top sellers such as the Camry, Avalon, RAV4 and Tundra. Worldwide, the recall and sales freeze is expected to include as many as 9 million vehicles. In the United States, the recall includes eight models, and goes back as far as 2005, and does not include any cars made by the automaker's Lexus division. The Charleston lawsuit, filed in November, names 13 models that have an electronic throttle-control system, or ETCS, which allegedly has "a dangerous propensity to suddenly accelerate without driver input and against the intentions of the driver." And the time frame extends as far back as 2002 for Camrys, and 1998 for Lexuses. In addition to those, the lawsuit alleges, several other models and years are at risk. Toyota did not respond to multiple requests for comment on Friday.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:45 AM
Coal Caucus Renewal
WEST VIRGINIA...
U.S. Rep. Nick Rahall, D-W.Va., has joined with other coal state representatives in the renewed Coal Caucus. When Rahall was elected to Congress in 1977, he said that environmentalists were very vocal in their opposition to surface mining. “In my first year, I stood behind President Jimmy Carter in the Rose Garden as he signed the Surface Mining Control and Regulation Act into law,” Rahall said. Rahall contacted U.S. Rep. Jason Altmier, D-Pa., to offer his help in “whatever they need,” he said. Rahall said the effort can help by sharing information on issues critical to coal and coal mining jobs.
U.S. Rep. Nick Rahall, D-W.Va., has joined with other coal state representatives in the renewed Coal Caucus. When Rahall was elected to Congress in 1977, he said that environmentalists were very vocal in their opposition to surface mining. “In my first year, I stood behind President Jimmy Carter in the Rose Garden as he signed the Surface Mining Control and Regulation Act into law,” Rahall said. Rahall contacted U.S. Rep. Jason Altmier, D-Pa., to offer his help in “whatever they need,” he said. Rahall said the effort can help by sharing information on issues critical to coal and coal mining jobs.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:24 AM
Snow Hits Kentucky And West Virginia
KENTUCKY & WEST VIRGINIA....
As "Old Man Winter" reappeared, a major winter storm dropped significantly high amounts of snow in Pike County and southern West Virginia. With the snow still falling, the two areas picked up several inches of snow from the storm that swept through early Saturday. Williamson in Mingo County had received the most snow, with 8 inches, according to the National Weather Service in Charleston. Six and a half inches had fallen in McDowell County; 6 inches in Pineville; 5 in Beckley and Oceana. In Kanawha County, 4 inches had fallen in Alum Creek by 9 a.m. Charleston had 2.4 inches as of 7 a.m. An emergency dispatcher in Mingo County said several inches of snow had fallen throughout the county. Road crews in Pike County were kept busy throughout the night. People were encouraged to stay off the roads, and seemed to be following that advice. The roads in McDowell County, West Virginia were "awful", an emergency dispatcher said, but no major accidents were reported.
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As "Old Man Winter" reappeared, a major winter storm dropped significantly high amounts of snow in Pike County and southern West Virginia. With the snow still falling, the two areas picked up several inches of snow from the storm that swept through early Saturday. Williamson in Mingo County had received the most snow, with 8 inches, according to the National Weather Service in Charleston. Six and a half inches had fallen in McDowell County; 6 inches in Pineville; 5 in Beckley and Oceana. In Kanawha County, 4 inches had fallen in Alum Creek by 9 a.m. Charleston had 2.4 inches as of 7 a.m. An emergency dispatcher in Mingo County said several inches of snow had fallen throughout the county. Road crews in Pike County were kept busy throughout the night. People were encouraged to stay off the roads, and seemed to be following that advice. The roads in McDowell County, West Virginia were "awful", an emergency dispatcher said, but no major accidents were reported.
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# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:06 AM
Shelter For The Homeless
WEST VIRGINIA....
To provide shelter for the homeless, the Salvation Army, located along 3rd Avenue in Huntington, opened a temporary homeless winter storm shelter Friday night which will remain open at least through the weekend. Expecting a large crowd, the Huntington City Mission teamed-up to let some folks spill over into the Salvation Army.
To provide shelter for the homeless, the Salvation Army, located along 3rd Avenue in Huntington, opened a temporary homeless winter storm shelter Friday night which will remain open at least through the weekend. Expecting a large crowd, the Huntington City Mission teamed-up to let some folks spill over into the Salvation Army.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:39 AM
Pagan Pleads Guilty
WEST VIRGINIA....
Pagans Motorcycle Club member, 64 year old Darrell Bumgarner of Huntington, has pleaded guilty to a single charge of carrying a firearm while committing a violent crime. Bumgarner has agreed to cooperate with the government's 44-count racketeering case against the biker gang. In exchange for the guilty plea, six other charges, including conspiracy to commit murder and racketeering, were dropped. Bumgarner was ordered to be held, pending a May sentencing, while his plea deal calls for a sentence of five years to life in prison.
Pagans Motorcycle Club member, 64 year old Darrell Bumgarner of Huntington, has pleaded guilty to a single charge of carrying a firearm while committing a violent crime. Bumgarner has agreed to cooperate with the government's 44-count racketeering case against the biker gang. In exchange for the guilty plea, six other charges, including conspiracy to commit murder and racketeering, were dropped. Bumgarner was ordered to be held, pending a May sentencing, while his plea deal calls for a sentence of five years to life in prison.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:17 AM
Mingo County Men Arrested
WEST VIRGINIA....
Two Mingo County residents, Billy Horn of Williamson and Jonathan Hatfield of Delbarton were arrested Friday night and are each charged with two counts of delivery of a controlled substance, two counts of conspiracy, and two counts of possession with the intent to deliver and two counts of trafficking. Authorities say they have been investigating the pair for three months and believe they had obtained drugs, including OxyContin and Xanax, from Florida. Each man was placed on a $170,000 cash only bond.
Two Mingo County residents, Billy Horn of Williamson and Jonathan Hatfield of Delbarton were arrested Friday night and are each charged with two counts of delivery of a controlled substance, two counts of conspiracy, and two counts of possession with the intent to deliver and two counts of trafficking. Authorities say they have been investigating the pair for three months and believe they had obtained drugs, including OxyContin and Xanax, from Florida. Each man was placed on a $170,000 cash only bond.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:05 AM
WV House Opposes Cap And Trade
WEST VIRGINIA...
On Thursday, the West Virginia House of Delegates endorsed a measure 82-7 from Governor Joe Manchin opposing federal cap and trade legislation. Manchin says, if the U. S. Congress approves cap and trade, the state's coal industry would be crippled and thousands of jobs lost. Manchin says his belief that cap and trade legislation is bad for West Virginia is in no way meant as slap in the face of environmentalists.
On Thursday, the West Virginia House of Delegates endorsed a measure 82-7 from Governor Joe Manchin opposing federal cap and trade legislation. Manchin says, if the U. S. Congress approves cap and trade, the state's coal industry would be crippled and thousands of jobs lost. Manchin says his belief that cap and trade legislation is bad for West Virginia is in no way meant as slap in the face of environmentalists.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 7:38 AM
Increase In WV State Troopers Needed
WEST VIRGINIA...
The West Virginia Troopers Association (WVTA) is asking the West Virginia Legislature to help find 800 new troopers for the West Virginia State Police. Such an increase could help address criminal problems and inadequate law enforcement coverage in the state. The West Virginia State Police has been working with far fewer resources and manpower than needed to provide adequate law enforcement service,” said John W. Smith Jr., president of the WVTA. "The sex offenders alone that the state police is responsible for has grown to nearly 3,000,” Smith said. This increase has led to the creation of our Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) to properly investigate and prosecute these serious crimes,” Smith said. The state police district including Mercer and McDowell counties seems to have a good supply of troopers, but “it’s usually inadequate,” said First Sgt. Gary Tincher of the WVSP detachment in Princeton.
The West Virginia Troopers Association (WVTA) is asking the West Virginia Legislature to help find 800 new troopers for the West Virginia State Police. Such an increase could help address criminal problems and inadequate law enforcement coverage in the state. The West Virginia State Police has been working with far fewer resources and manpower than needed to provide adequate law enforcement service,” said John W. Smith Jr., president of the WVTA. "The sex offenders alone that the state police is responsible for has grown to nearly 3,000,” Smith said. This increase has led to the creation of our Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) to properly investigate and prosecute these serious crimes,” Smith said. The state police district including Mercer and McDowell counties seems to have a good supply of troopers, but “it’s usually inadequate,” said First Sgt. Gary Tincher of the WVSP detachment in Princeton.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 7:29 AM
WV Appears Financially Stable
WEST VIRGINIA...
Senate President Earl Ray Tomblin, D-Logan, told a group of newspaper men and women who converged on Charleston for the annual West Virginia Press Association Legislative Breakfast at the Town Centre Marriott. Pointing to a recent analysis of each state’s financial stability, Tomblin said West Virginia ranked No. 2 in the nation. That doesn’t mean budget cuts aren’t on the way. During the 2009 Legislative session, the Senate president said lawmakers trimmed 2 percent from the budget, and Gov. Manchin has asked them to slice another 5 percent during the 2010 term. The Mountain State only used a small percentage of its stimulus money to make last year’s budget add up. Other issues they expect to deal with this session included public financing of judicial elections, the possible elimination of the inventory tax, overcrowding of prisons, management of the state’s fleet and a plan that would allow municipalities to impose fees on owners of abandoned buildings.
Senate President Earl Ray Tomblin, D-Logan, told a group of newspaper men and women who converged on Charleston for the annual West Virginia Press Association Legislative Breakfast at the Town Centre Marriott. Pointing to a recent analysis of each state’s financial stability, Tomblin said West Virginia ranked No. 2 in the nation. That doesn’t mean budget cuts aren’t on the way. During the 2009 Legislative session, the Senate president said lawmakers trimmed 2 percent from the budget, and Gov. Manchin has asked them to slice another 5 percent during the 2010 term. The Mountain State only used a small percentage of its stimulus money to make last year’s budget add up. Other issues they expect to deal with this session included public financing of judicial elections, the possible elimination of the inventory tax, overcrowding of prisons, management of the state’s fleet and a plan that would allow municipalities to impose fees on owners of abandoned buildings.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 7:13 AM
Letcher County Therapist Sentenced
KENTUCKY...
Attorney General Jack Conway and the Office of Medicaid Fraud and Abuse Control announced a plea agreement had been reached in the case of a Kentucky physical therapist arrested earlier in 2008 on charges she defrauded the Kentucky Medicaid Program. Tiffany Bentley, 29, from Corona, in Letcher County, pled guilty in Jefferson Circuit Court to Medicaid fraud, a class D felony, which carries a one year sentence. Under the terms of the plea agreement, the court ordered Bentley to a sentence of one year in the Kentucky Department of Corrections. The sentence will be diverted for a period of five years. As a condition of her diversion, the defendant was ordered to pay restitution to the Kentucky Medicaid Program for a total amount of $1,562.00 and to reimburse the Attorney General's Office for investigative costs.
Attorney General Jack Conway and the Office of Medicaid Fraud and Abuse Control announced a plea agreement had been reached in the case of a Kentucky physical therapist arrested earlier in 2008 on charges she defrauded the Kentucky Medicaid Program. Tiffany Bentley, 29, from Corona, in Letcher County, pled guilty in Jefferson Circuit Court to Medicaid fraud, a class D felony, which carries a one year sentence. Under the terms of the plea agreement, the court ordered Bentley to a sentence of one year in the Kentucky Department of Corrections. The sentence will be diverted for a period of five years. As a condition of her diversion, the defendant was ordered to pay restitution to the Kentucky Medicaid Program for a total amount of $1,562.00 and to reimburse the Attorney General's Office for investigative costs.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 5:26 AM
Death Penalty May Be Reinstated
KENTUCKY...
Following a ruling by the Kentucky Supreme Court, the public now has a look at the procedures surrounding implementing the death penalty. Now open for public review is the entire process of executing criminals in the state, including the period leading up to the actual execution. For years those procedures have been considered confidential. Now, the Department of Corrections will review the public input, then, publish the protocol for adminstering the death penalty.
If the general assembly approves it and the governor signs it, then Kentucky's death penalty will be reinstated.
Following a ruling by the Kentucky Supreme Court, the public now has a look at the procedures surrounding implementing the death penalty. Now open for public review is the entire process of executing criminals in the state, including the period leading up to the actual execution. For years those procedures have been considered confidential. Now, the Department of Corrections will review the public input, then, publish the protocol for adminstering the death penalty.
If the general assembly approves it and the governor signs it, then Kentucky's death penalty will be reinstated.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 5:12 AM
Teacher Faces Sex Abuse Charges
KENTUCKY...
From "Teacher Of The Year" at Bullitt Central High School to accused sex abuser. That's the unlikely journey of a Bullitt County teacher. Timothy Lands is facing a criminal sex abuse charge after police say he had inappropriate sexual contact with a student. He's had a stand out record while teaching at Bullitt Central High School, but, now he's charged with sex abuse.
The history and psychology teacher is charged with sex abuse involving an alleged incident with a 16-year-old female student. The 43-year turned himself in to Bullitt County authorities. He has been suspended without pay in the ongoing investigation.
From "Teacher Of The Year" at Bullitt Central High School to accused sex abuser. That's the unlikely journey of a Bullitt County teacher. Timothy Lands is facing a criminal sex abuse charge after police say he had inappropriate sexual contact with a student. He's had a stand out record while teaching at Bullitt Central High School, but, now he's charged with sex abuse.
The history and psychology teacher is charged with sex abuse involving an alleged incident with a 16-year-old female student. The 43-year turned himself in to Bullitt County authorities. He has been suspended without pay in the ongoing investigation.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 4:58 AM
School Safety Report
KENTUCKY...
A just-released study shows Kentucky schools are safer than they were ten years ago.
The 10th annual Safe Schools Data Project Report was released by the Kentucky Center for School Safety. Some of the trends it shows are a decrease in menacing, or bullying, and a decrease in drug possession. However, drug sales in schools are on the rise, as are fights.
While schools are getting safer, officials with the Center for School Safety said they are worried about future funding. The study on school safety also showed that corporal punishment is down across the Commonwealth.
A just-released study shows Kentucky schools are safer than they were ten years ago.
The 10th annual Safe Schools Data Project Report was released by the Kentucky Center for School Safety. Some of the trends it shows are a decrease in menacing, or bullying, and a decrease in drug possession. However, drug sales in schools are on the rise, as are fights.
While schools are getting safer, officials with the Center for School Safety said they are worried about future funding. The study on school safety also showed that corporal punishment is down across the Commonwealth.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 4:52 AM
Lawson/Nighbert Trial Ends
KENTUCKY...
After months of allegations, investigation and legal wranglings, a jury in Federal District Court has cleared two men of corruption and bribery charges. Acquitted are former Kentucky cabinet secretary and a prominent road contractor. The jury in Lexington reached the verdict Friday afternoon in its second day deliberating the fate of former Transportation Secretary Bill Nighbert and contractor Leonard Lawson. The verdict culminated a lengthy federal probe into charges of corruption, that investigators said illegally skewed the state's process of awarding highway contracts in the Commonwealth.
After months of allegations, investigation and legal wranglings, a jury in Federal District Court has cleared two men of corruption and bribery charges. Acquitted are former Kentucky cabinet secretary and a prominent road contractor. The jury in Lexington reached the verdict Friday afternoon in its second day deliberating the fate of former Transportation Secretary Bill Nighbert and contractor Leonard Lawson. The verdict culminated a lengthy federal probe into charges of corruption, that investigators said illegally skewed the state's process of awarding highway contracts in the Commonwealth.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 4:37 AM
Friday, January 29, 2010
Lawson/Nighbert Acquitted
KENTUCKY...
The bid-rigging trial of road contractor Leonard Lawson and former Transportation Secretary Bill Nighbert came to a stunning end Friday in Lexington Federal District Court. The verdict was rendered about 3:20 P.M. The two were found "not guilty" on all counts. The jury got the case at 2:00 P.M. Thursday and took only 25-hours to arrive at their verdict. The prosecution's case rested mainly on the testimony of Jim Rummage, former Transportation Cabinet Engineer, the supposed middle-man in funneling bid information to Lawson prior to the awarding of road contracts in Kentucky. Neither Lawson nor Nighbert took the stand to testify, relying on vigorous cross examination by defense attorneys led by Larry Mackey. The two defendants wept openly in court on hearing the verdict.
The bid-rigging trial of road contractor Leonard Lawson and former Transportation Secretary Bill Nighbert came to a stunning end Friday in Lexington Federal District Court. The verdict was rendered about 3:20 P.M. The two were found "not guilty" on all counts. The jury got the case at 2:00 P.M. Thursday and took only 25-hours to arrive at their verdict. The prosecution's case rested mainly on the testimony of Jim Rummage, former Transportation Cabinet Engineer, the supposed middle-man in funneling bid information to Lawson prior to the awarding of road contracts in Kentucky. Neither Lawson nor Nighbert took the stand to testify, relying on vigorous cross examination by defense attorneys led by Larry Mackey. The two defendants wept openly in court on hearing the verdict.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 4:52 PM
Not Guilty Plea In Doctor's Shooting
KENTUCKY...
A Knott County man charged with murder in the fatal shooting of Dr. Dennis Sandlin in December entered a not guilty plea this week. John C. Combs, 46, of Red Fox, entered the plea before special Judge John David Caudill in Perry Circuit Court. Combs was indicted in January on charges of murder, burglary, tampering with physical evidence, and terroristic threatening. Police say Combs entered the Leatherwood-Blackey Clinic on December 8 and gunned down Dr. Sandlin after he was denied prescription medication. Police said Combs had been to the clinic earlier in the day and had become irate when he was asked to submit to a urine test as a requirement to obtain the medication. Judge Caudill also granted a defense request to have Combs evaluated for mental competency. Combs is currently being lodged in the Kentucky River Regional Jail in Hazard under a $10,050,000 cash bond.
A Knott County man charged with murder in the fatal shooting of Dr. Dennis Sandlin in December entered a not guilty plea this week. John C. Combs, 46, of Red Fox, entered the plea before special Judge John David Caudill in Perry Circuit Court. Combs was indicted in January on charges of murder, burglary, tampering with physical evidence, and terroristic threatening. Police say Combs entered the Leatherwood-Blackey Clinic on December 8 and gunned down Dr. Sandlin after he was denied prescription medication. Police said Combs had been to the clinic earlier in the day and had become irate when he was asked to submit to a urine test as a requirement to obtain the medication. Judge Caudill also granted a defense request to have Combs evaluated for mental competency. Combs is currently being lodged in the Kentucky River Regional Jail in Hazard under a $10,050,000 cash bond.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:49 AM
Floyd County Robbery Could Bring Other Charges
KENTUCKY....
Kentucky State Police are attempting to determine if robberies in Garrett and one in Regina (Ree-gi-nah) are related to one committed this week in Floyd County. A robbery early Wednesday morning at the Cardinal Country Store on U.S. 23 in Stanville resulted in the arrests of 34 year old Randy G. Wallen and 34 year old Shane Mulkey. Authorities say the store was robbed at knifepoint. The men are presently charged with robbery. Police say the robberies have similar suspect descriptions, and Warren and Mulkey could end up facing additional charges.
Kentucky State Police are attempting to determine if robberies in Garrett and one in Regina (Ree-gi-nah) are related to one committed this week in Floyd County. A robbery early Wednesday morning at the Cardinal Country Store on U.S. 23 in Stanville resulted in the arrests of 34 year old Randy G. Wallen and 34 year old Shane Mulkey. Authorities say the store was robbed at knifepoint. The men are presently charged with robbery. Police say the robberies have similar suspect descriptions, and Warren and Mulkey could end up facing additional charges.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:29 AM
Judge Releases Funds To Nunn's Attorneys
KENTUCKY....
Fayette County Circuit Judge James Ishmael ruled in an order filed Wednesday that $137,000 from the sale of former state Representative Steve Nunn's home in Glasgow can be used to pay for his criminal defense. The funds were being held in a law firm's escrow account after Diana Ross, the mother of slain 29 year old Amanda Ross, filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Nunn. Diana Ross had alleged Nunn fraudulently transferred personal property and real estate to his attorneys, The Scoville Firm PLLC, and to his daughter, Mary Nunn. Ishmael ordered Nunn and his representatives not to convey any other assets Nunn might have. The home sold at auction November 14th for $170,000.
Fayette County Circuit Judge James Ishmael ruled in an order filed Wednesday that $137,000 from the sale of former state Representative Steve Nunn's home in Glasgow can be used to pay for his criminal defense. The funds were being held in a law firm's escrow account after Diana Ross, the mother of slain 29 year old Amanda Ross, filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Nunn. Diana Ross had alleged Nunn fraudulently transferred personal property and real estate to his attorneys, The Scoville Firm PLLC, and to his daughter, Mary Nunn. Ishmael ordered Nunn and his representatives not to convey any other assets Nunn might have. The home sold at auction November 14th for $170,000.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:27 AM
Bar/Gambling Parlor Smoking Ban
WEST VIRGINIA...
If you frequent bars or gambling parlors in West Virginia you can forget about smoking. The ban kicks in at the end of February. The prohibition will be monitored by the Cabell-Huntington Board of Health. Their authority will stem from a "clean indoor air ordinance". Several community members and anti-smoking groups supported the health board in its decision.Several community members and anti-smoking groups supported the health board in its decision. The ordinance requires smokers to stand 20 feet from the entrance of any public building. It also prohibits establishments from setting up an outdoor serving area for smokers.The measure takes effect thirty days from its date of passage, meaning it will begin on February 27th.
If you frequent bars or gambling parlors in West Virginia you can forget about smoking. The ban kicks in at the end of February. The prohibition will be monitored by the Cabell-Huntington Board of Health. Their authority will stem from a "clean indoor air ordinance". Several community members and anti-smoking groups supported the health board in its decision.Several community members and anti-smoking groups supported the health board in its decision. The ordinance requires smokers to stand 20 feet from the entrance of any public building. It also prohibits establishments from setting up an outdoor serving area for smokers.The measure takes effect thirty days from its date of passage, meaning it will begin on February 27th.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:24 AM
Prison Food Service Under Focus
KENTUCKY...
One day after the House Judiciary Committee voted 6-4 to cancel a nearly $12 million annual contract with Aramark Correctional Services, which serves food to 13 Kentucky prisons, State Auditor Crit Luallen announced Thursday she will make plans to conduct an audit of the private company. An Aramark spokeswoman commented Wednesday, "Aramark stands behind the quality of service we provide, which has won the accolades of our clients and the national accreditation agencies who monitor the quality of food service." However, according to published reports, a 2007 audit for the Florida prison system showed the number of inmates eating meals declined after Aramark took over the food service, but the company was paid based on the number of inmates, not on the number of meals served. The audit recommended Florida rebid the food service or take it over.
One day after the House Judiciary Committee voted 6-4 to cancel a nearly $12 million annual contract with Aramark Correctional Services, which serves food to 13 Kentucky prisons, State Auditor Crit Luallen announced Thursday she will make plans to conduct an audit of the private company. An Aramark spokeswoman commented Wednesday, "Aramark stands behind the quality of service we provide, which has won the accolades of our clients and the national accreditation agencies who monitor the quality of food service." However, according to published reports, a 2007 audit for the Florida prison system showed the number of inmates eating meals declined after Aramark took over the food service, but the company was paid based on the number of inmates, not on the number of meals served. The audit recommended Florida rebid the food service or take it over.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:48 AM
Convicted Felons Could Challenge For Office
KENTUCKY....
Depending on the outcome of the primaries, two convicted felons could end up facing off against each other in the November election for Knott County Judge-Executive. In the last few weeks, Donnie Newsome, a Democrat who resigned the Knott County judge-executive's office in 2005 after he lost an appeal in his vote-fraud case, filed to run for the office again. His civil rights were restored August 27, 2008, by Governor Steve Beshear, and he has voted since then, making him an eligible candidate. In the May primary, Newsome is running against Herbert Dean Hall of Kite and Ronnie Watts of Garner. If successful, Newsome will face current judge-executive Randy Thompson of Hindman. Thompson, who was appointed to fill Newsome's seat, was sentenced last year to 40 months in prison for a scheme to use county and state money for paving roads and private drives to influence the 2006 election remains free while awaiting results of an appeal in his own vote-buying case. He is running unopposed in the primary.
Depending on the outcome of the primaries, two convicted felons could end up facing off against each other in the November election for Knott County Judge-Executive. In the last few weeks, Donnie Newsome, a Democrat who resigned the Knott County judge-executive's office in 2005 after he lost an appeal in his vote-fraud case, filed to run for the office again. His civil rights were restored August 27, 2008, by Governor Steve Beshear, and he has voted since then, making him an eligible candidate. In the May primary, Newsome is running against Herbert Dean Hall of Kite and Ronnie Watts of Garner. If successful, Newsome will face current judge-executive Randy Thompson of Hindman. Thompson, who was appointed to fill Newsome's seat, was sentenced last year to 40 months in prison for a scheme to use county and state money for paving roads and private drives to influence the 2006 election remains free while awaiting results of an appeal in his own vote-buying case. He is running unopposed in the primary.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:33 AM
Kentucky Readies For Mega Millions
KENTUCKY....
A new Kentucky Lottery multistate game, Mega Millions, is ready to begin. The first drawing in which tickets will be sold in Kentucky is set for February 2nd, with regular drawings on Tuesday and Friday nights. The winning numbers will be reported just like those of Powerball - five winning white balls plus the MegaBall. The game will be in addition to Pick 3, Pick 4, Cash Ball, Win for Life and Three Line Lotto.
A new Kentucky Lottery multistate game, Mega Millions, is ready to begin. The first drawing in which tickets will be sold in Kentucky is set for February 2nd, with regular drawings on Tuesday and Friday nights. The winning numbers will be reported just like those of Powerball - five winning white balls plus the MegaBall. The game will be in addition to Pick 3, Pick 4, Cash Ball, Win for Life and Three Line Lotto.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:29 AM
Chemical Board Points To Frayed Hose
WEST VIRGINIA....
Federal Chemical Safety Board investigators said late this week a chemical hose that leaked and fatally poisoned DuPont Belle plant worker, Carl "Danny" Fish, last Saturday showed signs of "fraying" and "wear." Lead CSB investigator Johnnie Banks says the "braided steel hose" will be a focus of his agency's investigation. A series of other frequent incidents in separate portions of the Belle plant, including a leak that went undetected for five days, raised concerns that helped prompt the CSB to launch its probe.
Federal Chemical Safety Board investigators said late this week a chemical hose that leaked and fatally poisoned DuPont Belle plant worker, Carl "Danny" Fish, last Saturday showed signs of "fraying" and "wear." Lead CSB investigator Johnnie Banks says the "braided steel hose" will be a focus of his agency's investigation. A series of other frequent incidents in separate portions of the Belle plant, including a leak that went undetected for five days, raised concerns that helped prompt the CSB to launch its probe.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:06 AM
West Virginia Lawmakers Join Coal Caucus
WEST VIRGINIA....
West Virginia congressman Nick Rahall has joined a new coal caucus in Congress aimed at promoting awareness of coal and technology that may make it cleaner and safer, among other things. The group already includes the state's two other U.S. House members, Democrat Alan Mollohan and Republican Shelley Moore Capito.
West Virginia congressman Nick Rahall has joined a new coal caucus in Congress aimed at promoting awareness of coal and technology that may make it cleaner and safer, among other things. The group already includes the state's two other U.S. House members, Democrat Alan Mollohan and Republican Shelley Moore Capito.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 7:55 AM
West Virginia Gets $3.4 Million Grant
WEST VIRGINIA....
West Virginia Senators Jay Rockefeller and Robert C. Byrd announced grants Thursday which will allow twenty West Virginia fire departments and ambulance services to share more than $3.4 million in federal grant money that will purchase equipment and vehicles. The grants range from $11,400 for the Nettie Fire Department in Nicholas County to more than $247,000 for the Wheeling Fire Department.
West Virginia Senators Jay Rockefeller and Robert C. Byrd announced grants Thursday which will allow twenty West Virginia fire departments and ambulance services to share more than $3.4 million in federal grant money that will purchase equipment and vehicles. The grants range from $11,400 for the Nettie Fire Department in Nicholas County to more than $247,000 for the Wheeling Fire Department.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 7:38 AM
Fruth Partners With Cabell Huntington Hospital
WEST VIRGINIA....
Fruth Pharmacy and the Cabell Huntington Hospital Foundation have announced a partnership project which is expected to generate $25,000 for the Children's Hospital in 2010. The Children's Hospital at Cabell Huntington Hospital will provide updated health care to children in regions of southern West Virginia, eastern Kentucky and southeast Ohio. Broughton Food Company, the local producer of Fruth milk, will add a new label to the Fruth milk featuring the Children's Hospital logo, and, for each gallon sold, five cents will go to the Cabell Huntington Hospital Foundation.
Fruth Pharmacy and the Cabell Huntington Hospital Foundation have announced a partnership project which is expected to generate $25,000 for the Children's Hospital in 2010. The Children's Hospital at Cabell Huntington Hospital will provide updated health care to children in regions of southern West Virginia, eastern Kentucky and southeast Ohio. Broughton Food Company, the local producer of Fruth milk, will add a new label to the Fruth milk featuring the Children's Hospital logo, and, for each gallon sold, five cents will go to the Cabell Huntington Hospital Foundation.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 7:20 AM
Vessel Sinks...Spills 500 Gallons Of Oil
WEST VIRGINIA...
Responding to a call from Gate City River Transportation, the U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Unit in Huntington went to the scene where the towing vessel Trojan sank and released 500 gallons of oil into the Big Sandy River at mile marker seven on Thursday. The spill was contained with an oil containment boom and absorbent material by the vessel owner, Weavertown Environmental Group.
Responding to a call from Gate City River Transportation, the U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Unit in Huntington went to the scene where the towing vessel Trojan sank and released 500 gallons of oil into the Big Sandy River at mile marker seven on Thursday. The spill was contained with an oil containment boom and absorbent material by the vessel owner, Weavertown Environmental Group.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 7:03 AM
PSC Expands Investigation
WEST VIRGINIA....
At the request of its Consumer Advocate Division, the West Virginia state Public Service Commission announced this week it has agreed to expand its investigation into December power outages involving more than 200,000 utility customers. Originally, the PSC planned to investigate only Appalachian Power and Allegheny Energy, but now say they will include all electric utilities in the state. However, their investigation will not expand to telephone companies. An added third public hearing on the outages is set for March 18 in Iaeger. Two others are planned for March 11th in Clarksburg and March 16th in Mount Gay.
At the request of its Consumer Advocate Division, the West Virginia state Public Service Commission announced this week it has agreed to expand its investigation into December power outages involving more than 200,000 utility customers. Originally, the PSC planned to investigate only Appalachian Power and Allegheny Energy, but now say they will include all electric utilities in the state. However, their investigation will not expand to telephone companies. An added third public hearing on the outages is set for March 18 in Iaeger. Two others are planned for March 11th in Clarksburg and March 16th in Mount Gay.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 6:46 AM
Prison Overcrowding Considered
WEST VIRGINIA....
To hopefully avoid building a new prison that would cost about $200 million, the West Virginia state Division of Corrections Commissioner Jim Rubenstein told members of the Senate Finance Committee Thursday Governor Joe Manchin wants 53 new positions created to help ease overcrowding issues at the state's prisons. Twenty jobs would be created at a new work camp at Huttonsville State Prison in Randolph County and 16 jobs at the Jackie Withrow State Hospital in Beckley that would be renovated to house 70 minimum security inmates. Plans to expand the Charleston Work Release Center would create five new positions. The legislature is being asked to approve 10 new state parole officers.
To hopefully avoid building a new prison that would cost about $200 million, the West Virginia state Division of Corrections Commissioner Jim Rubenstein told members of the Senate Finance Committee Thursday Governor Joe Manchin wants 53 new positions created to help ease overcrowding issues at the state's prisons. Twenty jobs would be created at a new work camp at Huttonsville State Prison in Randolph County and 16 jobs at the Jackie Withrow State Hospital in Beckley that would be renovated to house 70 minimum security inmates. Plans to expand the Charleston Work Release Center would create five new positions. The legislature is being asked to approve 10 new state parole officers.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 6:44 AM
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Former Perry County Official Pleads Guilty
KENTUCKY....
Former Perry County Circuit Clerk Chester Jones pleaded guilty Thursday to taking part in a vote buying scheme in November 2008...admitting he mailed a false campaign-spending report to Frankfort. Jones and former county Judge-Executive Sherman Neace, who pleaded guilty earlier, were charged with taking $7,500 from the state Democratic Party to buy votes for themselves while Jones was running for school board and Neace was running for magistrate.
Former Perry County Circuit Clerk Chester Jones pleaded guilty Thursday to taking part in a vote buying scheme in November 2008...admitting he mailed a false campaign-spending report to Frankfort. Jones and former county Judge-Executive Sherman Neace, who pleaded guilty earlier, were charged with taking $7,500 from the state Democratic Party to buy votes for themselves while Jones was running for school board and Neace was running for magistrate.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:45 PM
Mine Operator Indicted
KENTUCKY....
Following a Mine Safety and Health Administration investigation, underground mine operator 57 year old Alger B. Jent of Kite (Knott County) was indicted in federal court Thursday. Jent, who operates a mine near Jenkins on the Pike and Letcher county line, is accused of violating MSHA safety mandates at the CSA Mining No. 2 mine by installing roof bolts that were too weak, too short and too far apart. Special investigators from Pikeville found the bolts in June 2008. If convicted, Jent could face up to a year in prison and be fined up to $250,000.
Following a Mine Safety and Health Administration investigation, underground mine operator 57 year old Alger B. Jent of Kite (Knott County) was indicted in federal court Thursday. Jent, who operates a mine near Jenkins on the Pike and Letcher county line, is accused of violating MSHA safety mandates at the CSA Mining No. 2 mine by installing roof bolts that were too weak, too short and too far apart. Special investigators from Pikeville found the bolts in June 2008. If convicted, Jent could face up to a year in prison and be fined up to $250,000.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:30 PM
Jury Deliberation Begins In Lawson/Nighbert Trial
KENTUCKY....
Prosecutors and defense attorneys in the bid-rigging trial of road contractor Leonard Lawson and former state Transportation Secretary Bill Nighbert presented their closing statements in U.S. District Court in Lexington Thursday before the jury began deliberations at 2:00 P.M. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ken Taylor urged jurors, "Don't let Leonard Lawson beat it," "Don't be Leonard Lawson's jury. Be the people's jury." Taylor says former cabinet engineer Jim Rummage had no logical reason to lie about Nighbert telling him to bring estimates to Lawson or Lawson giving him $20,000 in bribes. Defense attorneys countered that Rummage is an admitted liar who originally denied any role in leaking bid estimates and who might hope to get rich with a whistle-blower lawsuit. Lawson attorney Larry Mackey alleged "The prosecution in this case beat itself when it lashed its wagon to Jim Rummage, of all people."
Prosecutors and defense attorneys in the bid-rigging trial of road contractor Leonard Lawson and former state Transportation Secretary Bill Nighbert presented their closing statements in U.S. District Court in Lexington Thursday before the jury began deliberations at 2:00 P.M. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ken Taylor urged jurors, "Don't let Leonard Lawson beat it," "Don't be Leonard Lawson's jury. Be the people's jury." Taylor says former cabinet engineer Jim Rummage had no logical reason to lie about Nighbert telling him to bring estimates to Lawson or Lawson giving him $20,000 in bribes. Defense attorneys countered that Rummage is an admitted liar who originally denied any role in leaking bid estimates and who might hope to get rich with a whistle-blower lawsuit. Lawson attorney Larry Mackey alleged "The prosecution in this case beat itself when it lashed its wagon to Jim Rummage, of all people."
# posted by Homer Owens @ 5:07 PM
Sexual Abuse Charges
WEST VIRGINIA...
A Mingo County elementary teacher, coach and pastor, waived his right to a preliminary hearing regarding charges of sexual abuse by a parent and incest. Johnny Ray Dempsey was arrested by Mingo County Sheriff’s deputies for inappropriate contact with his 14-year-old juvenile daughter in June 2009. That's according to public records. Dempsey was a teacher at Kermit K-8 and Tug Valley High School and a pastor at Grace Truth Bible Center, located at Boy Scout Hollow. Dempsey was arraigned in Mingo County Magistrate Court and placed in the Southwestern Regional Jail on a $100,000 cash bond.
A Mingo County elementary teacher, coach and pastor, waived his right to a preliminary hearing regarding charges of sexual abuse by a parent and incest. Johnny Ray Dempsey was arrested by Mingo County Sheriff’s deputies for inappropriate contact with his 14-year-old juvenile daughter in June 2009. That's according to public records. Dempsey was a teacher at Kermit K-8 and Tug Valley High School and a pastor at Grace Truth Bible Center, located at Boy Scout Hollow. Dempsey was arraigned in Mingo County Magistrate Court and placed in the Southwestern Regional Jail on a $100,000 cash bond.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 1:28 PM
Floyd County Ballot Is Set
KENTUCKY...
There was a significant change in Floyd County as more individuals jockeyd to run in the May Primary Election. Twenty resident were added to the various races, while two individuals chose to drop out. At the present time 87 candidates will compete on the ballot.
Ernest Burchett, a candidate for District 1 Magistrate, left the race, citing health reasons. Jordan Case, who earlier sought the Constable's position in District 4, decided to withdraw after finding out he was not eligible. Eastern resident Boyd Barry Bowling joined the race for Judge-Executive. U.S. Rep. Hal Rogers has also seen another hopeful file for his seat in Congress. Kenneth Stepp, a Democrat from Manchester, also filed his paperwork.
There was a significant change in Floyd County as more individuals jockeyd to run in the May Primary Election. Twenty resident were added to the various races, while two individuals chose to drop out. At the present time 87 candidates will compete on the ballot.
Ernest Burchett, a candidate for District 1 Magistrate, left the race, citing health reasons. Jordan Case, who earlier sought the Constable's position in District 4, decided to withdraw after finding out he was not eligible. Eastern resident Boyd Barry Bowling joined the race for Judge-Executive. U.S. Rep. Hal Rogers has also seen another hopeful file for his seat in Congress. Kenneth Stepp, a Democrat from Manchester, also filed his paperwork.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 12:16 PM
ARH Labor Negoitiations Continue
KENTUCKY...WEST VIRGINIA...
Negotiations continue between Appalachian Regional Healthcare and the United Steelworkers Union. The talks are being conduxted to end any possibility of an interruption in hospital care. With all areas of the hospitals involved in the dispute, the talks are all inclusive. There are more than two thousand union members in the ARH system represented by the union. According to the president of the local union in Pike County, both the hospital and the union are working hard to avoid a work stoppage. The last disputed contract expired in 2007. Union members were off the job for 26 days. At issue are health benefits, pensions and job security. The ARH system employs 4,700 employees and has a network of more than 600 active and courtesy medical staff members representing various specialties.
Negotiations continue between Appalachian Regional Healthcare and the United Steelworkers Union. The talks are being conduxted to end any possibility of an interruption in hospital care. With all areas of the hospitals involved in the dispute, the talks are all inclusive. There are more than two thousand union members in the ARH system represented by the union. According to the president of the local union in Pike County, both the hospital and the union are working hard to avoid a work stoppage. The last disputed contract expired in 2007. Union members were off the job for 26 days. At issue are health benefits, pensions and job security. The ARH system employs 4,700 employees and has a network of more than 600 active and courtesy medical staff members representing various specialties.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 12:05 PM
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Judge Rules Against Drugmaker
KENTUCKY....
Franklin Circuit Court Judge Roger Crittenden has ruled that drugmaker AstraZeneca must pay a $5.3 million civil penalty for violating the state's Consumer Protection Act. Crittenden found 5,391 willful violations of the consumer act and awarded $1,000 per violation. The AstraZeneca company disagrees with the ruling and is considering an appeal, while saying it believes "the commonwealth's claims against the company are unfounded."
Franklin Circuit Court Judge Roger Crittenden has ruled that drugmaker AstraZeneca must pay a $5.3 million civil penalty for violating the state's Consumer Protection Act. Crittenden found 5,391 willful violations of the consumer act and awarded $1,000 per violation. The AstraZeneca company disagrees with the ruling and is considering an appeal, while saying it believes "the commonwealth's claims against the company are unfounded."
# posted by Homer Owens @ 5:44 PM
Lawson/Nighbert Defense Rests Case
KENTUCKY....
After calling just six witnesses, defense attorneys rested their case Wednesday afternoon in the Lawson/Nighbert bid-rigging trial in Lexington. Neither Lawson nor Nighbert testified. On Wednesday morning Lawson’s wife Bonnie testified about the couple’s humble beginnings and a close friendship they have had since 2006 with Nighbert and his family. Bonnie Lawson testified she had surgery for the back problem at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., in March 2007 and her husband was with her at the time... one of the months when Lawson allegedly received the cost estimates in Kentucky. However, on cross examination, she admitted her husband was in Lexington the weekend of March 25th. Frank Scott, an economics professor at U.K., said he did not see “any pattern that … Lawson and Lawson companies were getting any inside information.” Under cross examination, Scott admitted he had been paid about $50,000 by the defense to do his research.
After calling just six witnesses, defense attorneys rested their case Wednesday afternoon in the Lawson/Nighbert bid-rigging trial in Lexington. Neither Lawson nor Nighbert testified. On Wednesday morning Lawson’s wife Bonnie testified about the couple’s humble beginnings and a close friendship they have had since 2006 with Nighbert and his family. Bonnie Lawson testified she had surgery for the back problem at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., in March 2007 and her husband was with her at the time... one of the months when Lawson allegedly received the cost estimates in Kentucky. However, on cross examination, she admitted her husband was in Lexington the weekend of March 25th. Frank Scott, an economics professor at U.K., said he did not see “any pattern that … Lawson and Lawson companies were getting any inside information.” Under cross examination, Scott admitted he had been paid about $50,000 by the defense to do his research.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 5:11 PM
Senate Clears Open Records Bill
KENTUCKY....
Under a measure that has cleared the Senate Committee on State and Local Government, organizations like the Kentucky Association of Counties and the Kentucky League of Cities would be required to post their spending, budget documents and annual audit reports on a public Web site. The Senate panel approved the open records bill, Senate Bill 87, following a spending scandal involving the two organizations in which State Auditor Crit Luallen found questionable spending within both organizations during reviews last year. The Senate Committee also approved Senate Bill 40, which requires state agencies to post their spending on line, much of which the state government already does by executive order.
Under a measure that has cleared the Senate Committee on State and Local Government, organizations like the Kentucky Association of Counties and the Kentucky League of Cities would be required to post their spending, budget documents and annual audit reports on a public Web site. The Senate panel approved the open records bill, Senate Bill 87, following a spending scandal involving the two organizations in which State Auditor Crit Luallen found questionable spending within both organizations during reviews last year. The Senate Committee also approved Senate Bill 40, which requires state agencies to post their spending on line, much of which the state government already does by executive order.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 4:44 PM
Toyota Announces Suspension Of Sales
KENTUCKY...
Toyota is taking a harder look at its sudden acceleration problem.
It's suspending sales of eight models and halting production at five plants including the one in Georgetown, Kentucky It's unclear when production will resume. Among the models affected are such popular ones as the Camry and Corolla. Toyota recalled 2.3 million vehicles last week because of reports of sticky accelerator peddles. A Toyota spokesman says engineers are trying to develop a fix as quickly as possible, but he says he knows of no firm timeline when vehicle sales could resume.
Toyota is taking a harder look at its sudden acceleration problem.
It's suspending sales of eight models and halting production at five plants including the one in Georgetown, Kentucky It's unclear when production will resume. Among the models affected are such popular ones as the Camry and Corolla. Toyota recalled 2.3 million vehicles last week because of reports of sticky accelerator peddles. A Toyota spokesman says engineers are trying to develop a fix as quickly as possible, but he says he knows of no firm timeline when vehicle sales could resume.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:33 AM
Candidates File For Major Offices
KENTUCKY...
Eleven people have filed to run for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by the retiring Jim Bunning. The notables who filed by the deadline on Tuesday included the state's lieutenant governor, secretary of state, attorney general and the son of a former Republican presidential candidate. All of the state's U.S. House members filed for re-election. None drew primary election opponents, but all will face challengers in the general election.
Lt. Gov. Daniel Mongiardo and Attorney General Jack Conway are among five Democrats running for U.S. Senate. Secretary of State Trey Grayson and Bowling Green physician Rand Paul, son of former GOP presidential candidate Ron Paul, are among six Republicans in the race.
Eleven people have filed to run for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by the retiring Jim Bunning. The notables who filed by the deadline on Tuesday included the state's lieutenant governor, secretary of state, attorney general and the son of a former Republican presidential candidate. All of the state's U.S. House members filed for re-election. None drew primary election opponents, but all will face challengers in the general election.
Lt. Gov. Daniel Mongiardo and Attorney General Jack Conway are among five Democrats running for U.S. Senate. Secretary of State Trey Grayson and Bowling Green physician Rand Paul, son of former GOP presidential candidate Ron Paul, are among six Republicans in the race.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:31 AM
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Bribery Charges Dismissed In Nighbert/Lawson Case
KENTUCKY....
As the trial continued Tuesday, U.S. District Judge Karl Forester said prosecutors failed to prove Leonard Lawson arranged for Nighbert to get a $125,000-a-year consulting job with Utility Management Group after Nighbert left the Transportation Cabinet in 2007. Forester dismissed two bribery counts and suggested other charges might fall as well. Monday, UMG chief executive Archie Marr testified the company made its own decision to hire Nighbert because of his potentially useful political connections...leaving Forester to rule that he didn't see any connection whatsoever between Lawson and the UMG job.
As the trial continued Tuesday, U.S. District Judge Karl Forester said prosecutors failed to prove Leonard Lawson arranged for Nighbert to get a $125,000-a-year consulting job with Utility Management Group after Nighbert left the Transportation Cabinet in 2007. Forester dismissed two bribery counts and suggested other charges might fall as well. Monday, UMG chief executive Archie Marr testified the company made its own decision to hire Nighbert because of his potentially useful political connections...leaving Forester to rule that he didn't see any connection whatsoever between Lawson and the UMG job.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 7:49 PM
Stumbo Seeks Budget Proposals
KENTUCKY....
In hopes of finding a solution to the state's budget shortfall, House Speaker Greg Stumbo has asked budget experts to come up with five different proposals that would include ways to generate revenue but not raise taxes. Stumbo has suggested the possibility of using one-time money, such as cash in local school districts’ rainy day funds, to pay for portions of the state’s education budget...an idea not shared by all. Stumbo proposed this idea before, but it was met with opposition from many House members and school superintendents. House Minority Leader Jeff Hoover (R-Jamestown) says it's unlikely House Democrats would choose to raid school reserve funds.
In hopes of finding a solution to the state's budget shortfall, House Speaker Greg Stumbo has asked budget experts to come up with five different proposals that would include ways to generate revenue but not raise taxes. Stumbo has suggested the possibility of using one-time money, such as cash in local school districts’ rainy day funds, to pay for portions of the state’s education budget...an idea not shared by all. Stumbo proposed this idea before, but it was met with opposition from many House members and school superintendents. House Minority Leader Jeff Hoover (R-Jamestown) says it's unlikely House Democrats would choose to raid school reserve funds.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 7:30 PM
UNITE Receives Major Pledge
KENTUCKY....
Kentucky River Properties LLC, which owns about 250,000 acres in Eastern Kentucky that it leases to coal companies, has pledged the largest single private donation in Operation UNITE's history since it was formed in 2003. Kentucky River has pledged to donate $500,000 over five years for substance-abuse treatment. UNITE will use the money for treatment vouchers for low-income people in Perry, Knott, Leslie and Letcher counties and to support drug courts.
Kentucky River Properties LLC, which owns about 250,000 acres in Eastern Kentucky that it leases to coal companies, has pledged the largest single private donation in Operation UNITE's history since it was formed in 2003. Kentucky River has pledged to donate $500,000 over five years for substance-abuse treatment. UNITE will use the money for treatment vouchers for low-income people in Perry, Knott, Leslie and Letcher counties and to support drug courts.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 7:18 PM
Driving And Texting Banned
KENTUCKY...
A legislative panel has approved a bill that would make it illegal for Kentuckians to send text messages while driving. The House Transportation Committee passed the measure on Tuesday afternoon. It now goes to the full House for consideration. Similar legislation is pending in the Senate. Nineteen states and the District of Columbia already prohibit drivers from texting behind the wheel.
A legislative panel has approved a bill that would make it illegal for Kentuckians to send text messages while driving. The House Transportation Committee passed the measure on Tuesday afternoon. It now goes to the full House for consideration. Similar legislation is pending in the Senate. Nineteen states and the District of Columbia already prohibit drivers from texting behind the wheel.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 3:34 PM
FBI Agent Stands By Testimony
KENTUCKY...
The FBI agent who built the bribery and conspiracy case against a former Kentucky cabinet secretary and a road contractor has stood by his investigation and the credibility of his star witness. FBI agent Clay Mason's investigation of road builder Leonard Lawson and former Transportation Secretary Bill Nighbert hinges largely on the credibility of Transportation Cabinet employee Jim Rummage. Rummage testified in the case now on trial that Nighbert told him to leak confidential information to Lawson during 2006 and 2007 and that Lawson gave Rummage $20,000 in cash. Rummage recorded conversations to back up his story.
Defense attorney Guthrie True challenged Mason to provide any evidence of cash payments. Mason maintained that the recordings are strong evidence that cash changed hands.
The FBI agent also testified Monday that after hearing the evidence presented in court, the case seems stronger than ever to him.
The FBI agent who built the bribery and conspiracy case against a former Kentucky cabinet secretary and a road contractor has stood by his investigation and the credibility of his star witness. FBI agent Clay Mason's investigation of road builder Leonard Lawson and former Transportation Secretary Bill Nighbert hinges largely on the credibility of Transportation Cabinet employee Jim Rummage. Rummage testified in the case now on trial that Nighbert told him to leak confidential information to Lawson during 2006 and 2007 and that Lawson gave Rummage $20,000 in cash. Rummage recorded conversations to back up his story.
Defense attorney Guthrie True challenged Mason to provide any evidence of cash payments. Mason maintained that the recordings are strong evidence that cash changed hands.
The FBI agent also testified Monday that after hearing the evidence presented in court, the case seems stronger than ever to him.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 12:38 PM
Constitutional Amendment Defeated
KENTUCKY...
Senate Democrats have defeated a proposed constitutional amendment that dealt with a series of hot-button issues and was called "the 21st-century Bill of Rights." The measure needed 23 votes on the Senate floor to pass. It got only 21 on Monday, all from Republicans and the chamber's only independent. Sixteen Democrats voted neither yes nor no but "passed." The proposal sought to create a section of Kentucky's Constitution to say that no law could force Kentuckians to provide abortions, participate in any health care system or surrender their firearms. It also would prevent any law from interfering with posting the Ten Commandments. The legislation is Senate Bill 3.
Senate Democrats have defeated a proposed constitutional amendment that dealt with a series of hot-button issues and was called "the 21st-century Bill of Rights." The measure needed 23 votes on the Senate floor to pass. It got only 21 on Monday, all from Republicans and the chamber's only independent. Sixteen Democrats voted neither yes nor no but "passed." The proposal sought to create a section of Kentucky's Constitution to say that no law could force Kentuckians to provide abortions, participate in any health care system or surrender their firearms. It also would prevent any law from interfering with posting the Ten Commandments. The legislation is Senate Bill 3.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 12:32 PM
Abortion Bill Passes Senate
KENTUCKY....
Monday, the Kentucky Senate, by a 32-4 vote, passed the latest version of a bill that would require women seeking abortions to undergo ultrasounds before allowing the procedure. Under the bill, physicians would be required to explain what the ultrasound depicts, including the presence of organs along with arms and legs and a pregnant woman would not be prevented from averting her eyes from the required ultrasound image.
Monday, the Kentucky Senate, by a 32-4 vote, passed the latest version of a bill that would require women seeking abortions to undergo ultrasounds before allowing the procedure. Under the bill, physicians would be required to explain what the ultrasound depicts, including the presence of organs along with arms and legs and a pregnant woman would not be prevented from averting her eyes from the required ultrasound image.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:41 AM
Monday, January 25, 2010
Conway Tours Eastern Kentucky
KENTUCKY....
U. S. Senate candidate Jack Conway, Attorney General of Kentucky, visited the mountains Monday. Conway made stops in Prestonsburg and Pikeville. During his Pikeville appearance Conway visited East Kentucky Broadcasting and talked with the administrative and news staffs. He voiced his support for the coal industry and pointed out his efforts on behalf of coal employment in the mountains. Conway concluded his Pikeville visit with an appearance at the Landmark Inn. The two weeks Jobs Tour of the commonwealth will continue Tuesday.
U. S. Senate candidate Jack Conway, Attorney General of Kentucky, visited the mountains Monday. Conway made stops in Prestonsburg and Pikeville. During his Pikeville appearance Conway visited East Kentucky Broadcasting and talked with the administrative and news staffs. He voiced his support for the coal industry and pointed out his efforts on behalf of coal employment in the mountains. Conway concluded his Pikeville visit with an appearance at the Landmark Inn. The two weeks Jobs Tour of the commonwealth will continue Tuesday.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 6:29 PM
Public Hearing Set For Lethal Injections
KENTUCKY....
A public hearing is scheduled for Friday in Frankfort to discuss the state's proposed lethal injection protocol...marking the first time Kentucky has allowed public comment on the execution method. The hearing comes one month after the Kentucky Supreme Court ordered all executions halted because the state skipped public hearings on the administrative regulations that make up the protocol. Experts, made up of three attorneys and a doctor, have reviewed the lethal injection procedures and say they are vague and unnecessarily secretive in critical areas, particularly when it comes to the insertion of the intravenous lines that will deliver the deadly drugs.
A public hearing is scheduled for Friday in Frankfort to discuss the state's proposed lethal injection protocol...marking the first time Kentucky has allowed public comment on the execution method. The hearing comes one month after the Kentucky Supreme Court ordered all executions halted because the state skipped public hearings on the administrative regulations that make up the protocol. Experts, made up of three attorneys and a doctor, have reviewed the lethal injection procedures and say they are vague and unnecessarily secretive in critical areas, particularly when it comes to the insertion of the intravenous lines that will deliver the deadly drugs.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 3:48 PM
UMG CEO Testifies In Lawson/Nighbert Trial
KENTUCKY....
Utility Management Group chief executive Archie Marr testified Monday as the trial for Leonard Lawson and Bill Nighbert continued. The government alleges Lawson rewarded Nighbert, after he left state government in December 2007, with a fake consulting job at Utility Management Group. Nighbert was scheduled to start in January 2008 as a consultant with the company, Utility Management Group. At the same time he took a $70,000-a-year job on the staff of state Senate President David Williams. From January through March, UMG sent Nighbert three paychecks for $10,417 each, made out to a fictional company, "Two Bucks LLC." The FBI says Nighbert neither cashed nor returned those checks. CEO Archie Marr testified Nighbert apparently decided at the last minute, without telling him, he had decided to wait until later in the year to join UMG, and checks were sent by mistake.
Utility Management Group chief executive Archie Marr testified Monday as the trial for Leonard Lawson and Bill Nighbert continued. The government alleges Lawson rewarded Nighbert, after he left state government in December 2007, with a fake consulting job at Utility Management Group. Nighbert was scheduled to start in January 2008 as a consultant with the company, Utility Management Group. At the same time he took a $70,000-a-year job on the staff of state Senate President David Williams. From January through March, UMG sent Nighbert three paychecks for $10,417 each, made out to a fictional company, "Two Bucks LLC." The FBI says Nighbert neither cashed nor returned those checks. CEO Archie Marr testified Nighbert apparently decided at the last minute, without telling him, he had decided to wait until later in the year to join UMG, and checks were sent by mistake.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 3:29 PM
FEMA Reimburses Millions
KENTUCKY....
As the result of the January 2009 winter storm which killed 36 people, the Federal Emergency Management Agency says it has paid $201 million in reimbursements to public agencies around Kentucky. Reimbursements, in the form of FEMA Public Assistance grants, went to state, district, county and local government agencies, as well as some nonprofit organizations for their ice storm-related costs. The storm knocked out water and electric service to nearly a million homes and covered Kentucky with more than 19 million cubic yards of debris from broken trees and tree limbs.
As the result of the January 2009 winter storm which killed 36 people, the Federal Emergency Management Agency says it has paid $201 million in reimbursements to public agencies around Kentucky. Reimbursements, in the form of FEMA Public Assistance grants, went to state, district, county and local government agencies, as well as some nonprofit organizations for their ice storm-related costs. The storm knocked out water and electric service to nearly a million homes and covered Kentucky with more than 19 million cubic yards of debris from broken trees and tree limbs.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 12:19 PM
High Waters In Eastern Kentucky
KENTUCKY...
High waters Monday morning forced early closures for several district school systems as streams reached overflow levels and waters ran down mountainsides. Jackson, Hazard, Corbin, London and Middlesboro were listed among cities under an urban and small stream flooding advisory. Heavy rains drenched the Bluegrass State Sunday as between 1.25 and 2.5 inches of rain fell in some areas.
High waters Monday morning forced early closures for several district school systems as streams reached overflow levels and waters ran down mountainsides. Jackson, Hazard, Corbin, London and Middlesboro were listed among cities under an urban and small stream flooding advisory. Heavy rains drenched the Bluegrass State Sunday as between 1.25 and 2.5 inches of rain fell in some areas.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 12:07 PM
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Access Road In Fishtrap Area Requested
KENTUCKY...
In an effort to free the landlocked residents of the Upper Pompey area, Judge-Executive Wayne T. Rutherford of Pike County has asked the Corps of Engineers to follow through on plans to construct a road in the Fishtrap Lake area. The access road, which first appeared on the planning board six years ago, would cut the travel time from Pompey, Jonican, Hurricane and other communities to Pikeville from one hour to around fifteen minutes. Jonah Thacker, a lifelong resident of the area said he has been waiting his entire life for construction of the road...he is now 56 years old. It was pointed out the obvious safety benefits that would accrue in terms of emergency evacuation of stricken residents.
In an effort to free the landlocked residents of the Upper Pompey area, Judge-Executive Wayne T. Rutherford of Pike County has asked the Corps of Engineers to follow through on plans to construct a road in the Fishtrap Lake area. The access road, which first appeared on the planning board six years ago, would cut the travel time from Pompey, Jonican, Hurricane and other communities to Pikeville from one hour to around fifteen minutes. Jonah Thacker, a lifelong resident of the area said he has been waiting his entire life for construction of the road...he is now 56 years old. It was pointed out the obvious safety benefits that would accrue in terms of emergency evacuation of stricken residents.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 1:33 PM
Pike County Indictments
KENTUCKY....
Among the January Pike County Circuit Court indictments are Jeremy S. Akers, 26, of Belcher, Ky., and Justin B. Honaker, 28, and Tiffany Hannah, 23, both of Dorton, Ky., who were jointly indicted on a charge of first degree robbery of the Care More Pharmacy which occurred on November 2, 2009. The trio is accused of using or threatening the immedidate use of physical force on a person in accomplishing the theft while armed with a deadly weapon. The list of indictments, which involve 23 persons, was released by Commonwealth Attorney Rick L. Bartley, of the 35th Judicial Circuit.
Among the January Pike County Circuit Court indictments are Jeremy S. Akers, 26, of Belcher, Ky., and Justin B. Honaker, 28, and Tiffany Hannah, 23, both of Dorton, Ky., who were jointly indicted on a charge of first degree robbery of the Care More Pharmacy which occurred on November 2, 2009. The trio is accused of using or threatening the immedidate use of physical force on a person in accomplishing the theft while armed with a deadly weapon. The list of indictments, which involve 23 persons, was released by Commonwealth Attorney Rick L. Bartley, of the 35th Judicial Circuit.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 1:22 PM
Elk Presence A Problem
KENTUCKY...
What was once a point of pride in the mountains has now become an area of concern. In the Bell County area local residents are complaining to the Fish and Wildlife Department Resources about the presence of elk on roadways near Pineville. The relocated elk have been so successful in their growth, including their size, number and frequency on mountain roads, that residents now want some form of contol on the animals. Judge-Executive Albey Brock has asked the Department to hold public hearings to gather input from residents.
What was once a point of pride in the mountains has now become an area of concern. In the Bell County area local residents are complaining to the Fish and Wildlife Department Resources about the presence of elk on roadways near Pineville. The relocated elk have been so successful in their growth, including their size, number and frequency on mountain roads, that residents now want some form of contol on the animals. Judge-Executive Albey Brock has asked the Department to hold public hearings to gather input from residents.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 1:11 PM
McConnell Gains Importnace In Health Reform Efforts
KENTUCKY...
The victory last week by Scott Brown in Massachusetts had an important effect on the operation of the US Senate. It not only put the Democrat plans for passage of the health reform legislation in jeopardy, it gave increased influence to Senator Mitch McConell of Kentucky. The minority leader now has the opportunity to marshall support for a possible filibuster on the Senate floor, thereby creating a much more difficult challenge for Democrat efforts on health reform. The rules in the 100-member Senate require 60 votes to cut off debate on a measure. That means if Republicans stick together they can filibuster and prevent Democratic initiatives from coming to a vote.
The victory last week by Scott Brown in Massachusetts had an important effect on the operation of the US Senate. It not only put the Democrat plans for passage of the health reform legislation in jeopardy, it gave increased influence to Senator Mitch McConell of Kentucky. The minority leader now has the opportunity to marshall support for a possible filibuster on the Senate floor, thereby creating a much more difficult challenge for Democrat efforts on health reform. The rules in the 100-member Senate require 60 votes to cut off debate on a measure. That means if Republicans stick together they can filibuster and prevent Democratic initiatives from coming to a vote.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 12:59 PM
Teacher Slips Through Background Checks
KENTUCKY....
Despite performing standard background checks, it appears the Greenup County School District failed to realize that a former substitute teacher had a felony conviction related to bounced checks in Ohio. Until being brought to their attention by a concerned parent, District Superintendent Randy Hughes says the conviction failed to show up on Kentucky State Police or FBI checks. Hughes says the district may have to broaden its checks for applicants to include Ohio and West Virginia.
Despite performing standard background checks, it appears the Greenup County School District failed to realize that a former substitute teacher had a felony conviction related to bounced checks in Ohio. Until being brought to their attention by a concerned parent, District Superintendent Randy Hughes says the conviction failed to show up on Kentucky State Police or FBI checks. Hughes says the district may have to broaden its checks for applicants to include Ohio and West Virginia.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 12:36 PM
