Saturday, April 24, 2010
Man Charged With Entering Dead Man's Home
WEST VIRGINIA....
According to a criminal complaint, DeShawne Taylor was arrested Friday after illegally entering into the Charleston home of Gregory Poole. Poole was found dead Wednesday morning with a single gunshot wound on Second Avenue in North Charleston. The criminal complaint says Taylor used Poole's house keys to gain entrance. Taylor has been charged with burglary, assault and kidnapping after he and another man allegedly kidnapped Poole's wife, who managed to escape.
According to a criminal complaint, DeShawne Taylor was arrested Friday after illegally entering into the Charleston home of Gregory Poole. Poole was found dead Wednesday morning with a single gunshot wound on Second Avenue in North Charleston. The criminal complaint says Taylor used Poole's house keys to gain entrance. Taylor has been charged with burglary, assault and kidnapping after he and another man allegedly kidnapped Poole's wife, who managed to escape.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:09 AM
Alleged Credit Card Thieves Arrested
WEST VIRGINIA....
Following almost two months of investigation, Fayette County deputies have arrested five people in connection with a stolen credit card. On February 25th, the owner of the Cold Spot convenience store in Glen Jean told the Fayette County Sheriff's Office that the card had been used several times over 15 days, running up charges of more than $13,000 in merchandise. Deputies found that three people, 39 year old Alfred Clinton Toney of Oak Hill, 43 year old James Cosby of Scarbro and 22 year old Crystal Pack of Scarbro, had used the card, and two employees, 37 year old Connie Bell of Hilltop and 25 year old Crystal Clark of Bradley, were involved in the conspiracy. Charges include computer fraud, identify theft, forgery and uttering and conspiracy.
Following almost two months of investigation, Fayette County deputies have arrested five people in connection with a stolen credit card. On February 25th, the owner of the Cold Spot convenience store in Glen Jean told the Fayette County Sheriff's Office that the card had been used several times over 15 days, running up charges of more than $13,000 in merchandise. Deputies found that three people, 39 year old Alfred Clinton Toney of Oak Hill, 43 year old James Cosby of Scarbro and 22 year old Crystal Pack of Scarbro, had used the card, and two employees, 37 year old Connie Bell of Hilltop and 25 year old Crystal Clark of Bradley, were involved in the conspiracy. Charges include computer fraud, identify theft, forgery and uttering and conspiracy.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:58 AM
Home-Care Owners Face Federal Complaint
WEST VIRGINIA....
A federal complaint has been filed against Shida and Jimmy Jamie, the owners of Golden Heart In Home Care, LLC, a company that hires caregivers for in-home services. The complaint alleges federal investigators found company leaders have been defrauding Medicare and 127 out of Golden Heart's 420 employees have criminal histories, including convictions for drug possession, child abuse, domestic battery and threatening a federal witness. The complaint calls for Golden Heart's assets to be ordered frozen.
A federal complaint has been filed against Shida and Jimmy Jamie, the owners of Golden Heart In Home Care, LLC, a company that hires caregivers for in-home services. The complaint alleges federal investigators found company leaders have been defrauding Medicare and 127 out of Golden Heart's 420 employees have criminal histories, including convictions for drug possession, child abuse, domestic battery and threatening a federal witness. The complaint calls for Golden Heart's assets to be ordered frozen.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:57 AM
Shooting Suspectt Arrested
WEST VIRGINIA....
West Virginia State Police arrested 61-year-old Kermit Maynard on charges of attempted murder and malicious wounding in connection with a shooting that happened around 12:00 p.m. Thursday at a home off of Route 49 in the Delorme area of Mingo County. Troopers say 39 year old Roger New received several gunshot wounds to his head and body. He is in fair condition at St. Mary's Medical Center in Huntington. Maynard was transported to the South Western Regional Jail.
West Virginia State Police arrested 61-year-old Kermit Maynard on charges of attempted murder and malicious wounding in connection with a shooting that happened around 12:00 p.m. Thursday at a home off of Route 49 in the Delorme area of Mingo County. Troopers say 39 year old Roger New received several gunshot wounds to his head and body. He is in fair condition at St. Mary's Medical Center in Huntington. Maynard was transported to the South Western Regional Jail.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:55 AM
Pagans Plead No Contest
WEST VIRGINIA....
Fifty-four year old Michael "Tyrone" Trone of Newport, Pa., and Michael James "White Bear" Grayson, of Barren Spring, Va., former members of the Pagans Motorcycle Club's mother club pleaded no contest to felony charges in Kanawha Circuit Court this week. They were charged with conspiracy to commit kidnapping stemming from an incident in June 2003. In exchange, prosecutors dropped five counts of kidnapping against both men, any of which could have carried a sentence of life in prison. The charges arose from a disagreement between members of the local chapter of the Pagans and Floyd "Jesse" Moore, the national vice president and mother club member who lived in St. Albans. Both face one to five years in prison for single counts of conspiracy to kidnap.
Fifty-four year old Michael "Tyrone" Trone of Newport, Pa., and Michael James "White Bear" Grayson, of Barren Spring, Va., former members of the Pagans Motorcycle Club's mother club pleaded no contest to felony charges in Kanawha Circuit Court this week. They were charged with conspiracy to commit kidnapping stemming from an incident in June 2003. In exchange, prosecutors dropped five counts of kidnapping against both men, any of which could have carried a sentence of life in prison. The charges arose from a disagreement between members of the local chapter of the Pagans and Floyd "Jesse" Moore, the national vice president and mother club member who lived in St. Albans. Both face one to five years in prison for single counts of conspiracy to kidnap.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:53 AM
Sentences Cut For Former Officials
KENTUCKY....
Judge Danny C. Reeves has reduced the sentences of two former Manchester officials, Richard Todd Roberts, a former assistant police chief, and Vernon Hacker, a former council member and director of the local 911 system. In August 2007, Roberts pleaded guilty to getting a drug dealer to burn down a vacant building in Manchester so the city could buy the property for construction of a new police station and 911 center, and to lying to the FBI. He was sentenced to 87 months in prison, a $15,000 fine and $25,000 in restitution. Friday, Reeves reduced the sentence to 47 months to which Roberts has already spent 40 months. Hacker pleaded guilty in February 2007 to being involved in drug trafficking while tipping off a drug dealer about police activity and was sentenced to 120 months in prison. Reeves reduced the sentence to 76 months.
Judge Danny C. Reeves has reduced the sentences of two former Manchester officials, Richard Todd Roberts, a former assistant police chief, and Vernon Hacker, a former council member and director of the local 911 system. In August 2007, Roberts pleaded guilty to getting a drug dealer to burn down a vacant building in Manchester so the city could buy the property for construction of a new police station and 911 center, and to lying to the FBI. He was sentenced to 87 months in prison, a $15,000 fine and $25,000 in restitution. Friday, Reeves reduced the sentence to 47 months to which Roberts has already spent 40 months. Hacker pleaded guilty in February 2007 to being involved in drug trafficking while tipping off a drug dealer about police activity and was sentenced to 120 months in prison. Reeves reduced the sentence to 76 months.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:49 AM
Marriage Scam Revealed
KENTUCKY...
A federal grand jury has indicted 23 people in what prosecutors called a conspiracy to set up sham marriages in exchange for cash, free vacations to Cambodia and sex, according to documents unsealed Tuesday. The 10-count indictment, unsealed in U.S. District Court in Louisville, alleges a series of efforts to marry U.S. citizens to Cambodians, with the goal of obtaining citizenship for the foreign nationals.
The indictment spells out a scheme starting in January 2000 and lasting through April 2010 in which 12 U.S. citizens were recruited to marry Cambodians, allowing the foreign nationals to obtain visas to enter the United States and gain citizenship or permanent legal status. In exchange for marrying the Cambodians, the U.S. citizens were paid $500 to $1,000, according to the indictment. At least one person received sex with two young Cambodian girls, while others were given discounted service at nail salons in Kentucky and southern Indiana, the indictment states. All 23 people are charged with conspiracy, while others face charges of marriage fraud and misuse of visas.
A federal grand jury has indicted 23 people in what prosecutors called a conspiracy to set up sham marriages in exchange for cash, free vacations to Cambodia and sex, according to documents unsealed Tuesday. The 10-count indictment, unsealed in U.S. District Court in Louisville, alleges a series of efforts to marry U.S. citizens to Cambodians, with the goal of obtaining citizenship for the foreign nationals.
The indictment spells out a scheme starting in January 2000 and lasting through April 2010 in which 12 U.S. citizens were recruited to marry Cambodians, allowing the foreign nationals to obtain visas to enter the United States and gain citizenship or permanent legal status. In exchange for marrying the Cambodians, the U.S. citizens were paid $500 to $1,000, according to the indictment. At least one person received sex with two young Cambodian girls, while others were given discounted service at nail salons in Kentucky and southern Indiana, the indictment states. All 23 people are charged with conspiracy, while others face charges of marriage fraud and misuse of visas.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 5:58 AM
Two Charged With Stealing Copper
KENTUCKY...
Two men were arrested for allegedly stealing thousands of dollars worth of copper from a Kentucky Utilities site. Around 11:30 p.m. on Thursday, Lexington police pulled over Patrick Cassady and Timothy Russell for driving without headlights. After finding $2,000 worth of copper in the bed of their truck, police arrested both men in connection with the copper theft at the Kentucky Utilities facility on Stone Road in Lexington. Cassady and Russell are charged with theft by unlawful taking.
Two men were arrested for allegedly stealing thousands of dollars worth of copper from a Kentucky Utilities site. Around 11:30 p.m. on Thursday, Lexington police pulled over Patrick Cassady and Timothy Russell for driving without headlights. After finding $2,000 worth of copper in the bed of their truck, police arrested both men in connection with the copper theft at the Kentucky Utilities facility on Stone Road in Lexington. Cassady and Russell are charged with theft by unlawful taking.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 5:45 AM
Floyd County School Buses Go Green
KENTUCKY...
Over 70 school buses in Floyd County will produce less diesel emissions, thanks to a combination of diesel oxidation catalysts, multi-stage filters and crankcase shaft filters made possible by a grant of over $200,000 from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. Thirty-two districts across the state received funding from a grant, with $2 million in total awarded. Floyd County received one of the largest sums in the mount of $203,000. The funds will be used throughout the district to raise educational awareness among students, staff and the community regarding particulate matter emissions and fine particle emissions through the Floyd County Idle Reduction Policy.
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Over 70 school buses in Floyd County will produce less diesel emissions, thanks to a combination of diesel oxidation catalysts, multi-stage filters and crankcase shaft filters made possible by a grant of over $200,000 from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. Thirty-two districts across the state received funding from a grant, with $2 million in total awarded. Floyd County received one of the largest sums in the mount of $203,000. The funds will be used throughout the district to raise educational awareness among students, staff and the community regarding particulate matter emissions and fine particle emissions through the Floyd County Idle Reduction Policy.
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# posted by Homer Owens @ 5:36 AM
Widow Named To Late Husband's Position
KENTUCKY...
Hattie Owens, widow of Jackie Edford Owens, was sworn in as magistrate for District 2 on Thursday to serve the remainder of her late husband’s term. Jackie Edford Owens died on April 1 after suffering a brain aneurysm. “It is both a sad and joyous occasion,” said Judge-Executive R.D. “Doc” Marshall, who read the order from Gov. Steve Beshear appointing Owens to the position. Hattie Owens was sworn in by Circuit Judge John David Caudill. Hattie Owens will be a write-in candidate on the November ballot. Those running for District 2 magistrate in May are William Salisbury, Marie Martin Holbrook and Kenneth Prater.
Hattie Owens, widow of Jackie Edford Owens, was sworn in as magistrate for District 2 on Thursday to serve the remainder of her late husband’s term. Jackie Edford Owens died on April 1 after suffering a brain aneurysm. “It is both a sad and joyous occasion,” said Judge-Executive R.D. “Doc” Marshall, who read the order from Gov. Steve Beshear appointing Owens to the position. Hattie Owens was sworn in by Circuit Judge John David Caudill. Hattie Owens will be a write-in candidate on the November ballot. Those running for District 2 magistrate in May are William Salisbury, Marie Martin Holbrook and Kenneth Prater.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 5:31 AM
Memorial For Fallen Miners
WEST VIRGINIA...
Gov. Joe Manchin and First Lady Gayle Manchin announced they will host a public memorial service at 3:30 p.m. Sunday in honor of the 29 miners who lost their lives and the two wounded during the mine disaster at the Upper Big Branch Mine-South. The service will take place at the Beckley Raleigh Co. Convention Center, 200 Armory Drive, Beckley. The event will include various musical performances, prayers and tributes, remarks from clergy, the governor and other dignitaries. President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden are scheduled to be in attendance. The ceremony is free and open to the public. Seats are on a first-come, first serve basis.
Gov. Joe Manchin and First Lady Gayle Manchin announced they will host a public memorial service at 3:30 p.m. Sunday in honor of the 29 miners who lost their lives and the two wounded during the mine disaster at the Upper Big Branch Mine-South. The service will take place at the Beckley Raleigh Co. Convention Center, 200 Armory Drive, Beckley. The event will include various musical performances, prayers and tributes, remarks from clergy, the governor and other dignitaries. President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden are scheduled to be in attendance. The ceremony is free and open to the public. Seats are on a first-come, first serve basis.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 5:24 AM
Grant Funds Exhausted
KENTUCKY...
If you planned on going to college, you may want to listen carefully to this story.
College grants for needy Kentucky students have run out, leaving more than 16,000 without funding. The Kentucky Education Assistance Authority has been notifying 16,599 applicants the College Access Program money is used up. Applicants are being told only those whose paperwork arrived by March 7 will be funded, although the deadline for applications was March 15. The maximum award for the 2010-2011 academic year is $1,900.
If you planned on going to college, you may want to listen carefully to this story.
College grants for needy Kentucky students have run out, leaving more than 16,000 without funding. The Kentucky Education Assistance Authority has been notifying 16,599 applicants the College Access Program money is used up. Applicants are being told only those whose paperwork arrived by March 7 will be funded, although the deadline for applications was March 15. The maximum award for the 2010-2011 academic year is $1,900.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 5:09 AM
Friday, April 23, 2010
ICG Miner Dies
WEST VIRGINIA....
State mine office spokeswoman Jama Jarrett says a 28 year old miner at International Coal Group's Beckley Pocahontas Mine in Raleigh County died Friday morning in surgery after being pinned between a coal rib and continuous mining machine late Thursday night. The accident comes in the same month as 29 West Virginia miners lost their lives in the nation's worst coal mining disaster in 40 years.
State mine office spokeswoman Jama Jarrett says a 28 year old miner at International Coal Group's Beckley Pocahontas Mine in Raleigh County died Friday morning in surgery after being pinned between a coal rib and continuous mining machine late Thursday night. The accident comes in the same month as 29 West Virginia miners lost their lives in the nation's worst coal mining disaster in 40 years.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 4:14 PM
Former Announcer Dies
WEST VIRGINIA....
Former West Virginia Radio Corporation employee and well-known Charleston broadcaster 61 year old Don Cook died in Charleston following a battle with cancer. Over the years, Cook took on many broadcasting positions, including play-by-play voice of the Marshall Thundering Herd, former 58WCHS newsman in Charleston, an original co-host of MetroNews Talkline and play-by-play for the Charleston minor league baseball team for several years and spent recent years as the public address announcer for the West Virginia Power at Appalachian Power Park. In recent years Cook worked for state Treasurer John Perdue.
Former West Virginia Radio Corporation employee and well-known Charleston broadcaster 61 year old Don Cook died in Charleston following a battle with cancer. Over the years, Cook took on many broadcasting positions, including play-by-play voice of the Marshall Thundering Herd, former 58WCHS newsman in Charleston, an original co-host of MetroNews Talkline and play-by-play for the Charleston minor league baseball team for several years and spent recent years as the public address announcer for the West Virginia Power at Appalachian Power Park. In recent years Cook worked for state Treasurer John Perdue.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 4:13 PM
Police Arrest Alleged Copper Thieves
WEST VIRGINIA....
The Kanawha County Sheriff's Department has arrested 27 year old Joshua Burdette, 28 year old Micah Fizer, both from Charleston, and 21 year old Justin Hamrick of Sissonville. All three have been charged with breaking and entering, after allegedly breaking into a Verizon building to steal copper.
The Kanawha County Sheriff's Department has arrested 27 year old Joshua Burdette, 28 year old Micah Fizer, both from Charleston, and 21 year old Justin Hamrick of Sissonville. All three have been charged with breaking and entering, after allegedly breaking into a Verizon building to steal copper.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:50 AM
Judge Allows Extra Time For EPA Ruling
WEST VIRGINIA....
EPA officials are taking an extremely rare step in trying to veto the the largest mountaintop removal mining permit in West Virginia history ... U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' approval of the Spruce Mine permit in Logan County. U.S. District Judge Robert C. Chambers turned down Arch Coal Inc.'s motion that he reject the EPA request for more time to consider the matter and has given the EPA another six months to complete the formal process of deciding if it will veto a Clean Water Act authorization for the nearly 2,300-acre operation.
EPA officials are taking an extremely rare step in trying to veto the the largest mountaintop removal mining permit in West Virginia history ... U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' approval of the Spruce Mine permit in Logan County. U.S. District Judge Robert C. Chambers turned down Arch Coal Inc.'s motion that he reject the EPA request for more time to consider the matter and has given the EPA another six months to complete the formal process of deciding if it will veto a Clean Water Act authorization for the nearly 2,300-acre operation.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:11 AM
Alleged Repeat Bank Robber Arrested
WEST VIRGINIA....
Huntington police have arrested 39 year old Toby Max Duckett of Huntington, charging him with three counts of armed robbery. Officers believe, since early March, Duckett robbed the 20th Street branch of People's Bank at gunpoint on three separate occasions, March 2nd, March 26th and April 17th. Police say they searched Duckett's home and found evidence that connects him to all of the robberies.
Huntington police have arrested 39 year old Toby Max Duckett of Huntington, charging him with three counts of armed robbery. Officers believe, since early March, Duckett robbed the 20th Street branch of People's Bank at gunpoint on three separate occasions, March 2nd, March 26th and April 17th. Police say they searched Duckett's home and found evidence that connects him to all of the robberies.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:09 AM
Nippon Tungsten To Open Barboursville Plant
WEST VIRGINIA....
This week, Governor Joe Manchin announced that Japanese-owned Nippon Tungsten, which specializes in high-tech machine equipment, has decided to open its doors in Barboursville, bringing six new jobs to the area. The plant will re-sharpen blades the company manufactures and will service Nippon Tungsten's customers in North America.
This week, Governor Joe Manchin announced that Japanese-owned Nippon Tungsten, which specializes in high-tech machine equipment, has decided to open its doors in Barboursville, bringing six new jobs to the area. The plant will re-sharpen blades the company manufactures and will service Nippon Tungsten's customers in North America.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:38 AM
Supreme Court Adds Sex Offender Officers
WEST VIRGINIA....
As part of the Child Protection Act of 2006, West Virginia is increasing the number of officers who supervise sex offenders. Six officers, who will be sworn in April 26th by West Virginia Supreme Court Chief Justice Robin Davis, will work in an area that includes Monongalia, Marion, Preston, Taylor, Barbour, Lewis, Upshur, Harrison and Randolph counties.
As part of the Child Protection Act of 2006, West Virginia is increasing the number of officers who supervise sex offenders. Six officers, who will be sworn in April 26th by West Virginia Supreme Court Chief Justice Robin Davis, will work in an area that includes Monongalia, Marion, Preston, Taylor, Barbour, Lewis, Upshur, Harrison and Randolph counties.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:12 AM
Jackson County Teen Beating Going To Grand Jury
KENTUCKY....
Cheyenne Williams, an admitted gay senior at Jackson County High School, says she won't return to school this year after three classmates tried to kill her. Dee Johnson says she feels her daughter, who has enough credits to graduate, would not be safe if she returns. Williams told authorities that 18 year old Ashley Sams of Annville, 18 year old Corinne Schwab and a 17-year-old classmate kidnapped and assaulted her on April 16th and tried to push her off a cliff. Sams and Schwab are charged with kidnapping and attempted murder. Williams' mother is calling the attack a hate crime. Detective Joie Peters plans to present the case to a grand jury.
Cheyenne Williams, an admitted gay senior at Jackson County High School, says she won't return to school this year after three classmates tried to kill her. Dee Johnson says she feels her daughter, who has enough credits to graduate, would not be safe if she returns. Williams told authorities that 18 year old Ashley Sams of Annville, 18 year old Corinne Schwab and a 17-year-old classmate kidnapped and assaulted her on April 16th and tried to push her off a cliff. Sams and Schwab are charged with kidnapping and attempted murder. Williams' mother is calling the attack a hate crime. Detective Joie Peters plans to present the case to a grand jury.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:49 AM
UK Lands Teague
KENTUCKY...
The University of Kentucky continued to add to John Calipari's streak of recruiting the nation's most highly rated point guard Thursday when Marquis Teague committed to the Cats after making his final choice between Kentucky and Louisville, following a decisive family discussion Wednesday night. Teague says his older brother, former Wake Forest star Jeff Teague,who now plays for the Atlanta Hawks, held considerable influence in his decision by telling him from the get-go, "Coach Cal will allow me to play my game and not hold me back." Calipari's track record with top guards made a critical difference. Teague's announcement gives Kentucky commitments from the players rated by Rivals.com as the top two in the class of 2011. Teague, who is No. 2, joins New Jersey forward Michael Gilchrist, the No. 1 prospect, who committed to Calipari last week. Many now say the Wildcats have the best recruiting class in the nation.
The University of Kentucky continued to add to John Calipari's streak of recruiting the nation's most highly rated point guard Thursday when Marquis Teague committed to the Cats after making his final choice between Kentucky and Louisville, following a decisive family discussion Wednesday night. Teague says his older brother, former Wake Forest star Jeff Teague,who now plays for the Atlanta Hawks, held considerable influence in his decision by telling him from the get-go, "Coach Cal will allow me to play my game and not hold me back." Calipari's track record with top guards made a critical difference. Teague's announcement gives Kentucky commitments from the players rated by Rivals.com as the top two in the class of 2011. Teague, who is No. 2, joins New Jersey forward Michael Gilchrist, the No. 1 prospect, who committed to Calipari last week. Many now say the Wildcats have the best recruiting class in the nation.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:42 AM
Death Penalty Not Sought
KENTUCKY...
The state will not seek the death penalty as it prosecutes a murder case against three juveniles accused of killing a Daviess County man. The suspects, who were all 17 at the time of the Feb. 10 crime, are accused of fatally shooting Joshua E. Newcomb during a home invasion robbery. Daviess County Sheriff's Department investigators believe the juveniles and two 18-year-olds went to Newcomb's home to rob him of money and drugs. Newcomb died when a shotgun was fired through his door, and the shot struck him in the neck. Commonwealth's Attorney Bruce Kuegel said during a hearing Wednesday that he hasn't decided whether to ask for the death penalty if Joshua P. Orr and Dakota C. Galloway are convicted.
The state will not seek the death penalty as it prosecutes a murder case against three juveniles accused of killing a Daviess County man. The suspects, who were all 17 at the time of the Feb. 10 crime, are accused of fatally shooting Joshua E. Newcomb during a home invasion robbery. Daviess County Sheriff's Department investigators believe the juveniles and two 18-year-olds went to Newcomb's home to rob him of money and drugs. Newcomb died when a shotgun was fired through his door, and the shot struck him in the neck. Commonwealth's Attorney Bruce Kuegel said during a hearing Wednesday that he hasn't decided whether to ask for the death penalty if Joshua P. Orr and Dakota C. Galloway are convicted.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:36 AM
Morehead City Council Warns KLC
KENTUCKY....
Morehead City Council members have warned that, if the Kentucky League of Cities doesn't fire its top two executives and reconstitute its executive board, the city will cancel its membership and the $180,000 a year it pays in insurance premiums. All six members of the council voted on April 12th in favor of the resolution, saying acting executive director Neil Hackworth, insurance services chief William Hamilton and board members brought great discredit on the KLC by violating public trust and failing to be responsible shepherds of public monies.
Morehead City Council members have warned that, if the Kentucky League of Cities doesn't fire its top two executives and reconstitute its executive board, the city will cancel its membership and the $180,000 a year it pays in insurance premiums. All six members of the council voted on April 12th in favor of the resolution, saying acting executive director Neil Hackworth, insurance services chief William Hamilton and board members brought great discredit on the KLC by violating public trust and failing to be responsible shepherds of public monies.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:35 AM
Senate Candidates Criticize Actions
KENTUCKY....
Lt. Gov. Daniel Mongiardo, who is running for the Democratic nomination for U.S. Senate, says he doesn't deny attempting to develop a 54-acre Frankfort farm as a partner with Frankfort businessman Jerry Lunsford in 2003, but he has no plans to develop the land, about 20 acres he bought last year with the help of a $30,000-a-year state housing allowance. Attorney General Jack Conway has called on Mongiardo to give up the housing allowance and return to the state any money that has been used to pay for a house he doesn’t live in. Mongiardo has dismissed the comment, noting that no law requires the stipend to be spent on housing, and he eventually plans to move into the farmhouse. Mongiardo Thursday criticized his rival in the Democratic primary for taking money from utility companies as a U.S. Senate candidate while intervening in those utilities' rate hike cases as the state's Attorney General. Mongiardo asked Conway to return more than $60,000 in contributions from utilities and their employees and to recuse himself from future rate hike decisions.
Lt. Gov. Daniel Mongiardo, who is running for the Democratic nomination for U.S. Senate, says he doesn't deny attempting to develop a 54-acre Frankfort farm as a partner with Frankfort businessman Jerry Lunsford in 2003, but he has no plans to develop the land, about 20 acres he bought last year with the help of a $30,000-a-year state housing allowance. Attorney General Jack Conway has called on Mongiardo to give up the housing allowance and return to the state any money that has been used to pay for a house he doesn’t live in. Mongiardo has dismissed the comment, noting that no law requires the stipend to be spent on housing, and he eventually plans to move into the farmhouse. Mongiardo Thursday criticized his rival in the Democratic primary for taking money from utility companies as a U.S. Senate candidate while intervening in those utilities' rate hike cases as the state's Attorney General. Mongiardo asked Conway to return more than $60,000 in contributions from utilities and their employees and to recuse himself from future rate hike decisions.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:34 AM
Kentucky Residents Participate In “Cash For Appliances” Program
KENTUCKY....
Kentucky residents are steadily drawing down $4 million in federal rebates being offered for the purchase of Energy Star-rated appliances in the “Cash for Appliances” program. The “Cash for Appliance” stimulus program is doing its job of persuading homeowners to spend more despite the slow economic recovery. Kentucky residents can reserve their rebates by calling 1-877-813-3669 or visiting www.kyappliancerebates.com. After consumers reserve a rebate, they have 14 days to purchase an eligible appliance at a Kentucky retailer. The state program excludes purchases online or at Indiana retailers.
Kentucky residents are steadily drawing down $4 million in federal rebates being offered for the purchase of Energy Star-rated appliances in the “Cash for Appliances” program. The “Cash for Appliance” stimulus program is doing its job of persuading homeowners to spend more despite the slow economic recovery. Kentucky residents can reserve their rebates by calling 1-877-813-3669 or visiting www.kyappliancerebates.com. After consumers reserve a rebate, they have 14 days to purchase an eligible appliance at a Kentucky retailer. The state program excludes purchases online or at Indiana retailers.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:32 AM
Kentucky Supreme Court Issues Ruling
KENTUCKY....
In a 5-2 decision, the Kentucky Supreme Court has ruled that only the state Senate has the authority to confirm gubernatorial appointees to boards and commissions, and a state law giving both the House and Senate the authority to confirm certain appointees is invalid. The court says the state constitution gives that authority to the Senate alone. The ruling came in a 2008 lawsuit filed by former Education Secretary Virginia Fox after the House failed to confirm her nomination to the Council on Postsecondary Education by former Governor Ernie Fletcher.
In a 5-2 decision, the Kentucky Supreme Court has ruled that only the state Senate has the authority to confirm gubernatorial appointees to boards and commissions, and a state law giving both the House and Senate the authority to confirm certain appointees is invalid. The court says the state constitution gives that authority to the Senate alone. The ruling came in a 2008 lawsuit filed by former Education Secretary Virginia Fox after the House failed to confirm her nomination to the Council on Postsecondary Education by former Governor Ernie Fletcher.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:31 AM
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Manchin Says Mine Investigation Moving Slowly
WEST VIRGINIA....
Governor Joe Manchin said Thursday the investigation into the cause of the Upper Big Branch Mine explosion on April 5th is continuing to move slowly, largely because re-entry into the mine continues to be hampered by high levels of explosive methane gas and coal dust. Mine rescue teams still find the conditions inside the mine unsafe for entry and will not hazard a trip underground until that is clear.
Governor Joe Manchin said Thursday the investigation into the cause of the Upper Big Branch Mine explosion on April 5th is continuing to move slowly, largely because re-entry into the mine continues to be hampered by high levels of explosive methane gas and coal dust. Mine rescue teams still find the conditions inside the mine unsafe for entry and will not hazard a trip underground until that is clear.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:32 PM
Assistant Principal Of The Year Named
WEST VIRGINIA....
Trecia Peterson, an assistant principal at South Charleston High School, has been named West Virginia Assistant Principal of the Year. She was selected for this award by the National Association of Secondary School Principals for her success in collaborative leadership, curriculum, instruction and assessment.
Trecia Peterson, an assistant principal at South Charleston High School, has been named West Virginia Assistant Principal of the Year. She was selected for this award by the National Association of Secondary School Principals for her success in collaborative leadership, curriculum, instruction and assessment.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:30 PM
Police Investigate Mingo County Shooting
WEST VIRGINIA....
West Virginia State Police are investigating a shooting which took place around 12:00 P.M. Thursday afternoon at a home off Route 49 in the Delmore community of Mingo County. The suspect was taken to Williamson Memorial Hospital, while the victim was then flown to St. Mary's Hospital in Huntington.
West Virginia State Police are investigating a shooting which took place around 12:00 P.M. Thursday afternoon at a home off Route 49 in the Delmore community of Mingo County. The suspect was taken to Williamson Memorial Hospital, while the victim was then flown to St. Mary's Hospital in Huntington.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:28 PM
Prosecution Wraps Up Lecco Trial
WEST VIRGINIA....
Federal prosecutors have wrapped-up their case against George Lecco, a Mingo County man accused of ordering the 2005 murder of drug informant 33 year old Carla Collins. Prosecutors did not call Patricia Burton to the stand, although she has admitted she helped kill Collins and alleges Lecco wanted Collins dead to protect his drug dealing. She is also the only witness who alleges direct knowledge that Lecco arranged the slaying.
Federal prosecutors have wrapped-up their case against George Lecco, a Mingo County man accused of ordering the 2005 murder of drug informant 33 year old Carla Collins. Prosecutors did not call Patricia Burton to the stand, although she has admitted she helped kill Collins and alleges Lecco wanted Collins dead to protect his drug dealing. She is also the only witness who alleges direct knowledge that Lecco arranged the slaying.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:27 PM
Mingo County Grand Jury Indicts Kermit Man
WEST VIRGINIA....
The Mingo County grand jury has indicted Roger David Stroud of Kermit on charges of first-degree murder and intentionally concealing the victim's body. Stroud is accused of fatally shooting his wife, 29 year old Michelle Stroud, also of Kermit, on September 21, 2009, hiding her body in a refrigerator and dumping it in a wooded area. Roger Stroud remains in custody at the Southwestern Regional Jail.
The Mingo County grand jury has indicted Roger David Stroud of Kermit on charges of first-degree murder and intentionally concealing the victim's body. Stroud is accused of fatally shooting his wife, 29 year old Michelle Stroud, also of Kermit, on September 21, 2009, hiding her body in a refrigerator and dumping it in a wooded area. Roger Stroud remains in custody at the Southwestern Regional Jail.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:26 PM
Massey Board Of Directors Supports Blankenship
WEST VIRGINIA....
Amid calls from industry regulators and shareholders for the resignation of Massey Energy's Chief Executive Don Blankenship, Lead Independent Director Admiral Bobby R. Inman announced Thursday the board has concluded that changing senior management now wouldn't be in the company's best interests, and Blankenship has the board's full support. There are currently eight members on the Massey Board Of Directors. The ninth, Lady Barbara Thomas Judge, resigned Monday, but her resignation was not linked to the Upper Big Branch Mine tragedy. The company holds its annual meeting May 18th, and three board members are up for re-election at that time.
Amid calls from industry regulators and shareholders for the resignation of Massey Energy's Chief Executive Don Blankenship, Lead Independent Director Admiral Bobby R. Inman announced Thursday the board has concluded that changing senior management now wouldn't be in the company's best interests, and Blankenship has the board's full support. There are currently eight members on the Massey Board Of Directors. The ninth, Lady Barbara Thomas Judge, resigned Monday, but her resignation was not linked to the Upper Big Branch Mine tragedy. The company holds its annual meeting May 18th, and three board members are up for re-election at that time.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:23 PM
Floyd County Man Kills Himself
KENTUCKY....
Kentucky State Police say 58 year old Phillip Anthony Horn refused numerous pleas by officers who offered him help before he set his home on Jack Arnett Branch Road in Middle Creek on fire and killed himself Thursday afternoon. Horn refused to come out, telling officers he wanted them to kill him. Police say, Wednesday night, an emergency protective order was served on Horn and around 20 guns were taken from him. He then tried to borrow a handgun from his neighbor. His body was recovered by firefighters from the Middle Creek Fire Department. An autopsy is scheduled and the death remains under investigation.
Kentucky State Police say 58 year old Phillip Anthony Horn refused numerous pleas by officers who offered him help before he set his home on Jack Arnett Branch Road in Middle Creek on fire and killed himself Thursday afternoon. Horn refused to come out, telling officers he wanted them to kill him. Police say, Wednesday night, an emergency protective order was served on Horn and around 20 guns were taken from him. He then tried to borrow a handgun from his neighbor. His body was recovered by firefighters from the Middle Creek Fire Department. An autopsy is scheduled and the death remains under investigation.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:22 PM
Johnson County Woman Surrenders
KENTUCKY....
Twenty-three year old Lora Walters of Boons Camp in Johnson County is awaiting extradition after surrendering to officers at the Paintsville Police Department who were looking for her as part of Operation Spring Cleaning. After being booked, officers discovered she was wanted in Florida on drug related charges.
Twenty-three year old Lora Walters of Boons Camp in Johnson County is awaiting extradition after surrendering to officers at the Paintsville Police Department who were looking for her as part of Operation Spring Cleaning. After being booked, officers discovered she was wanted in Florida on drug related charges.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:21 PM
Knox Co. Hospital Gets Help From Fiscal Court
KENTUCKY....
Knox County Hospital officials say previous management didn't pay for taxes, medicaid, and other bills, leaving the facility in serious debt that has required them to accept help from the fiscal court to pay for outstanding bills. The debt continued to pile up to more than two million dollars.
Knox County Hospital officials say previous management didn't pay for taxes, medicaid, and other bills, leaving the facility in serious debt that has required them to accept help from the fiscal court to pay for outstanding bills. The debt continued to pile up to more than two million dollars.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:18 PM
London Grand Jury Indicts Escapee
KENTUCKY....
A federal grand jury in London has indicted 37 year old Derek Albert Capozzi, a federal inmate who escaped from a prison van on April 15th while being transported from the Grayson County jail to the Blue Grass Airport in Lexington. Capozzi was in Kentucky to testify as a defense witness in a federal trial involving Christopher Cramer, who was accused last year of assaulting another inmate at the McCreary federal prison in Pine Knot. Capozzi had been handcuffed and placed in shackles, but he somehow was able to get the back door of the van open. The investigation into how he escaped is ongoing. If convicted, he could face a maximum prison sentence of five years.
A federal grand jury in London has indicted 37 year old Derek Albert Capozzi, a federal inmate who escaped from a prison van on April 15th while being transported from the Grayson County jail to the Blue Grass Airport in Lexington. Capozzi was in Kentucky to testify as a defense witness in a federal trial involving Christopher Cramer, who was accused last year of assaulting another inmate at the McCreary federal prison in Pine Knot. Capozzi had been handcuffed and placed in shackles, but he somehow was able to get the back door of the van open. The investigation into how he escaped is ongoing. If convicted, he could face a maximum prison sentence of five years.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:36 PM
PSC Issues Power Audit
KENTUCKY....
The state Public Service Commission has issued a management audit of East Kentucky Power Cooperative, saying the 500,000 homes and businesses powered by the utility must band together to change it from the inside for it to stay viable. The cooperative announced Thursday it would seek its third rate increase in the past four years. The management audit states a conflict of interest has existed because East Kentucky Power is governed by member co-ops who are devoted to keeping prices low and weren't willing to seek higher rates when East Kentucky needed the money to secure its finances.
The state Public Service Commission has issued a management audit of East Kentucky Power Cooperative, saying the 500,000 homes and businesses powered by the utility must band together to change it from the inside for it to stay viable. The cooperative announced Thursday it would seek its third rate increase in the past four years. The management audit states a conflict of interest has existed because East Kentucky Power is governed by member co-ops who are devoted to keeping prices low and weren't willing to seek higher rates when East Kentucky needed the money to secure its finances.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:35 PM
Supreme Court Reverses Hardin County Sentencing
KENTUCKY....
By a 5-2 vote, the Kentucky Supreme Court has reversed the two death sentences of Michael Dale St. Clair, a man convicted of a kidnapping and murder stemming from a 1991 multistate crime spree. The court concluded that a Bullitt County trial court erred in the case of St. Clair by incorrectly instructing the jury they could consider all of St. Clair's prior convictions for capital murder at the time Frank Brady was killed in 1991. Two murder convictions were handed down in Oklahoma before Brady's death, and two came after. St. Clair was twice sentenced to death, once in Hardin County and once in Bullitt County, for kidnapping and killing Brady when he and another man stole Brady's truck while running after a jail escape from Oklahoma. The Kentucky Attorney General's Office is reviewing the ruling.
By a 5-2 vote, the Kentucky Supreme Court has reversed the two death sentences of Michael Dale St. Clair, a man convicted of a kidnapping and murder stemming from a 1991 multistate crime spree. The court concluded that a Bullitt County trial court erred in the case of St. Clair by incorrectly instructing the jury they could consider all of St. Clair's prior convictions for capital murder at the time Frank Brady was killed in 1991. Two murder convictions were handed down in Oklahoma before Brady's death, and two came after. St. Clair was twice sentenced to death, once in Hardin County and once in Bullitt County, for kidnapping and killing Brady when he and another man stole Brady's truck while running after a jail escape from Oklahoma. The Kentucky Attorney General's Office is reviewing the ruling.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:30 PM
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Drug Bust In Elkhorn
KENTUCKY....
An undercover investigation has led to arrests in the Elkhorn City community of Pike County and those taken into custody charged with drug trafficking...while other arrests are pending. Pike County Sheriff Deputies say Lonnie Mullins Jr. and his wife Jennifer were selling illegal prescription drugs, and, when deputies went to arrest them, the couple fled into the woods in an attempt to hide before being arrested. Others arrested and charged are Chad Dewey Mullins, Stephen Michael Woolwine, Carolyn McCoy, and Mike Justice.
An undercover investigation has led to arrests in the Elkhorn City community of Pike County and those taken into custody charged with drug trafficking...while other arrests are pending. Pike County Sheriff Deputies say Lonnie Mullins Jr. and his wife Jennifer were selling illegal prescription drugs, and, when deputies went to arrest them, the couple fled into the woods in an attempt to hide before being arrested. Others arrested and charged are Chad Dewey Mullins, Stephen Michael Woolwine, Carolyn McCoy, and Mike Justice.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:13 PM
Floyd County Announces School Closings
KENTUCKY....
Floyd County schools have announced students will be spending an extra 21 minutes in class in order to ensure the closing date. According to Supt. Henry Webb, Floyd County Schools will make up two missed days by extending the school day, making the last day for students at all schools except Betsy Layne Elementary, Stumbo Elementary and Betsy Layne High School Tuesday, June 8th. The last day for Betsy Layne Elementary and Stumbo Elementary will be Wednesday, June 9th. Betsy Layne High School’s final day will be Thursday, June 10th.
Floyd County schools have announced students will be spending an extra 21 minutes in class in order to ensure the closing date. According to Supt. Henry Webb, Floyd County Schools will make up two missed days by extending the school day, making the last day for students at all schools except Betsy Layne Elementary, Stumbo Elementary and Betsy Layne High School Tuesday, June 8th. The last day for Betsy Layne Elementary and Stumbo Elementary will be Wednesday, June 9th. Betsy Layne High School’s final day will be Thursday, June 10th.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:12 PM
Floyd County Lawsuit Settled
KENTUCKY....
A lawsuit filed against Grizzly Processing and Frasure Creek Mining on behalf of Bonnie and Richard Crisp, along with more than 100 others, was settled March 12th . The defendants were each awarded a settlement based on claims that their homes were damaged due to a nearby coal washing facility operated at various points by the two companies and damages occurred to nearby roads used in hauling coal to and from the facility. Frasure Creek Mining has already paid, but Prestonsburg attorney Ned Pillersdorf says he has needed to file a motion to push Grizzly Processing Mining to make good on the settlement.
A lawsuit filed against Grizzly Processing and Frasure Creek Mining on behalf of Bonnie and Richard Crisp, along with more than 100 others, was settled March 12th . The defendants were each awarded a settlement based on claims that their homes were damaged due to a nearby coal washing facility operated at various points by the two companies and damages occurred to nearby roads used in hauling coal to and from the facility. Frasure Creek Mining has already paid, but Prestonsburg attorney Ned Pillersdorf says he has needed to file a motion to push Grizzly Processing Mining to make good on the settlement.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:10 PM
Computer Glitch Causes Statewide Shutdown
KENTUCKY....
Computer virus protection is a good thing, if it works correctly. However, Wednesday, several computers were shut down statewide when, around 1:00 P.M., a security software glitch hit systems throughout the state. It apparently began with an update to McAfee security software, affecting computers in police departments and several Kentucky school districts. The faulty update has been removed from all McAfee download servers.
Computer virus protection is a good thing, if it works correctly. However, Wednesday, several computers were shut down statewide when, around 1:00 P.M., a security software glitch hit systems throughout the state. It apparently began with an update to McAfee security software, affecting computers in police departments and several Kentucky school districts. The faulty update has been removed from all McAfee download servers.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:07 PM
Lecco Murder Trial Continues
WEST VIRGINIA....
Wednesday, 47 year old Valerie Friend from North Matewan took the stand to testify against her former co-defendant, 61 year old George Lecco from Red Jacket who's accused of ordering the 2005 death of drug informant 33 year old Carla Collins to protect the cocaine business he ran out of his Pizza Plus. Friend testified she did not know Lecco before Collins was killed. She says, at that time, she was heavily addicted to cocaine and relied on Patricia Burton, who worked at Lecco's Pizza Plus, to supply her drugs. Friend says Burton told her Lecco would pay $25,000 for the killings of Collins and another man he feared were informants. Friend said, following a long night of cocaine use by Collins, Friend, Burton and Carmella Blankenship and driving around Mingo County, the four ended up at an abandoned trailer on Double Camp where Burton used the gun Lecco supplied to shoot Collins in the head. Friend says Carla asked, "Why?" and Burton told her because "Porgy Lecco wanted her dead." Friend says she shot Collins in the chest after Burton told her to and then Burton beat Collins several times with a piece of a cinder block. Friend testified that the following day a number of people helped bury Collins' body in a shallow grave nearby.
Wednesday, 47 year old Valerie Friend from North Matewan took the stand to testify against her former co-defendant, 61 year old George Lecco from Red Jacket who's accused of ordering the 2005 death of drug informant 33 year old Carla Collins to protect the cocaine business he ran out of his Pizza Plus. Friend testified she did not know Lecco before Collins was killed. She says, at that time, she was heavily addicted to cocaine and relied on Patricia Burton, who worked at Lecco's Pizza Plus, to supply her drugs. Friend says Burton told her Lecco would pay $25,000 for the killings of Collins and another man he feared were informants. Friend said, following a long night of cocaine use by Collins, Friend, Burton and Carmella Blankenship and driving around Mingo County, the four ended up at an abandoned trailer on Double Camp where Burton used the gun Lecco supplied to shoot Collins in the head. Friend says Carla asked, "Why?" and Burton told her because "Porgy Lecco wanted her dead." Friend says she shot Collins in the chest after Burton told her to and then Burton beat Collins several times with a piece of a cinder block. Friend testified that the following day a number of people helped bury Collins' body in a shallow grave nearby.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:05 PM
West Virginia Mine Board Seeks Comments
WEST VIRGINIA....
The West Virginia state Board of Coal Mine Health and Safety voted Wednesday to seek public comments on a proposed rule to require barometers in mine offices with corresponding equipment in all underground mines as well as requiring daily barometer readings, record keeping and training. Several other rules sent to public comment include one that would require mines to check methane monitors and detectors within every 15 days and others addressing mine rescue efforts and requiring automatic fire detection equipment on coal conveyor belts. Mine Safety Board Administrator Joel Watts says all five rules will be out for public comment during the next 30 days, and they really want community involvement.
The West Virginia state Board of Coal Mine Health and Safety voted Wednesday to seek public comments on a proposed rule to require barometers in mine offices with corresponding equipment in all underground mines as well as requiring daily barometer readings, record keeping and training. Several other rules sent to public comment include one that would require mines to check methane monitors and detectors within every 15 days and others addressing mine rescue efforts and requiring automatic fire detection equipment on coal conveyor belts. Mine Safety Board Administrator Joel Watts says all five rules will be out for public comment during the next 30 days, and they really want community involvement.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:04 PM
Former Dunbar Officer Sentenced
WEST VIRGINIA....
Former Dunbar police officer Raymond Conley was sentenced to a year in prison Wednesday after pleading guilty in December to a charge of deprivation of rights under the color of law. Conley admitted that during a routine traffic stop, he illegally searched a woman, then fondled her and told her that, if she had sex with him, he would drop charges related to marijuana found in her vehicle. The woman agreed and Conley drove her to a remote area and engaged in sexual acts before releasing her.
Former Dunbar police officer Raymond Conley was sentenced to a year in prison Wednesday after pleading guilty in December to a charge of deprivation of rights under the color of law. Conley admitted that during a routine traffic stop, he illegally searched a woman, then fondled her and told her that, if she had sex with him, he would drop charges related to marijuana found in her vehicle. The woman agreed and Conley drove her to a remote area and engaged in sexual acts before releasing her.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:02 PM
Police Charge Man With DUI Causing Injury
WEST VIRGINIA....
Huntington Police say, around 2:45 a.m. Wednesday morning, Adam Beaty was driving in the 2000 block of Hal Greer Boulevard when Jeremy Woodrum fell out of the car and was hit by a passing vehicle. Police administered a a Breathalyzer test to which Beaty blew .154. He was charged with DUI causing injury.
Huntington Police say, around 2:45 a.m. Wednesday morning, Adam Beaty was driving in the 2000 block of Hal Greer Boulevard when Jeremy Woodrum fell out of the car and was hit by a passing vehicle. Police administered a a Breathalyzer test to which Beaty blew .154. He was charged with DUI causing injury.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:00 PM
Pratt Elementary Students Dismissed
WEST VIRGINIA....
Pratt Elementary students were dismissed at 9:00 A.M. Wednesday morning after Principal David Anderson was notified by police officials that a gunman had been barricaded alone in his home across the street since 4:00 A.M. It turned out the man's wife called police when her husband, a Vietnam veteran, became disoriented. The man suffered from a form of dementia and was taken to the hospital for an evaluation. Police say he will not be charged and there was never an immediate danger to the kids.
Pratt Elementary students were dismissed at 9:00 A.M. Wednesday morning after Principal David Anderson was notified by police officials that a gunman had been barricaded alone in his home across the street since 4:00 A.M. It turned out the man's wife called police when her husband, a Vietnam veteran, became disoriented. The man suffered from a form of dementia and was taken to the hospital for an evaluation. Police say he will not be charged and there was never an immediate danger to the kids.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:59 PM
Contract Workers Discover Body
WEST VIRGINIA....
West Virginia State Police are investigating a deadly shooting after contractors working in the 2800 block of 2nd Avenue of North Charleston discovered the body of 31 year old Gregory Poole in a yard where he did not live Wednesday morning. An autopsy is scheduled Thursday at the state Medical Examiner's Office. Poole is originally from Beckley.
West Virginia State Police are investigating a deadly shooting after contractors working in the 2800 block of 2nd Avenue of North Charleston discovered the body of 31 year old Gregory Poole in a yard where he did not live Wednesday morning. An autopsy is scheduled Thursday at the state Medical Examiner's Office. Poole is originally from Beckley.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:57 PM
Blankenship Urged To Step Down From Board
WEST VIRGINIA....
Massey Energy's Annual Meeting is scheduled for May 18th. Those with a number of public pension funds are calling for Massey CEO Don Blankenship to step down from his dual role as Chairman of Massey's Board of Directors. There is a perception, at least, that the board failed to conduct adequate oversight of management and, in particular, its handling of safety issues, because it didn't have a separate chairman. The allegation stems from the April 5th explosion at Upper Big Branch Mine.
Massey Energy's Annual Meeting is scheduled for May 18th. Those with a number of public pension funds are calling for Massey CEO Don Blankenship to step down from his dual role as Chairman of Massey's Board of Directors. There is a perception, at least, that the board failed to conduct adequate oversight of management and, in particular, its handling of safety issues, because it didn't have a separate chairman. The allegation stems from the April 5th explosion at Upper Big Branch Mine.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:54 PM
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
PSC Holds Public Meeting In Pikeville
KENTUCKY....
Kentucky Public Service Commission members heard from about 25 people who gathered at Pikeville High School Tuesday evening. The meeting drew a crowd of about 100 concerned citizens and business leaders who were there to discuss Kentucky Power's request for a 24 percent rate increase that would raise customers' bills by nearly 35 percent. Grocery store owners warned the increase would result in higher food prices, while officials from Mountain Water District said its power bills would increase by $17,000 a month. Carol Napier, who oversees Pike County senior citizens centers and serves on the Big Sandy Area Development District council on aging, said she thought cost-cutting to keep the company profitable for stockholders contributed to outages in eastern Kentucky. Kentucky Power officials said their goal is to do routine line maintenance every four or five years, but, with not enough money, it hasn't met that goal.
Kentucky Public Service Commission members heard from about 25 people who gathered at Pikeville High School Tuesday evening. The meeting drew a crowd of about 100 concerned citizens and business leaders who were there to discuss Kentucky Power's request for a 24 percent rate increase that would raise customers' bills by nearly 35 percent. Grocery store owners warned the increase would result in higher food prices, while officials from Mountain Water District said its power bills would increase by $17,000 a month. Carol Napier, who oversees Pike County senior citizens centers and serves on the Big Sandy Area Development District council on aging, said she thought cost-cutting to keep the company profitable for stockholders contributed to outages in eastern Kentucky. Kentucky Power officials said their goal is to do routine line maintenance every four or five years, but, with not enough money, it hasn't met that goal.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:16 PM
Mingo County Murder Trial Continues
WEST VIRGINIA....
A Mingo County man from Red Jacket could end up being convicted and sentenced to death for a second time for the murder of drug informant 33 year old Carla Collins. In 2005, Collins was shot and beaten severely with a cinder block at an abandoned trailer in Double Camp before her body was buried in a nearby shallow grave. Lecco's defense attorney, Amy Austin, who refers to Lecco's former co-defendant, Valerie Friend as a "thug," is attempting to prove she and Patricia Burton killed Collins for many reasons but not because Lecco told them to or gave them cocaine. Austin says Burton and Friend were jealous of Collins. However, prosecutors say Lecco had Collins killed to protect a cocaine ring which operated out of his Pizza Plus restaurant.
A Mingo County man from Red Jacket could end up being convicted and sentenced to death for a second time for the murder of drug informant 33 year old Carla Collins. In 2005, Collins was shot and beaten severely with a cinder block at an abandoned trailer in Double Camp before her body was buried in a nearby shallow grave. Lecco's defense attorney, Amy Austin, who refers to Lecco's former co-defendant, Valerie Friend as a "thug," is attempting to prove she and Patricia Burton killed Collins for many reasons but not because Lecco told them to or gave them cocaine. Austin says Burton and Friend were jealous of Collins. However, prosecutors say Lecco had Collins killed to protect a cocaine ring which operated out of his Pizza Plus restaurant.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:14 PM
Jackson County Teens Face Attempted Murder
KENTUCKY....
Three Jackson County teenagers, 18 year old Corinne M. Schwab of Sandgap, 18 year old Ashley N. Sams of Annville and a 17 year old unidentified female, have been charged with kidnapping and attempted murder. Jackson County High School student, 18 year old Cheyenne Williams of McKee signed a sworn criminal complaint Monday, saying they kidnapped her, took her against her will to the Flat Lick Falls area, assaulted her and attempted to push her over a cliff. Sams and Schwab are scheduled to be arraigned April 22nd.
Three Jackson County teenagers, 18 year old Corinne M. Schwab of Sandgap, 18 year old Ashley N. Sams of Annville and a 17 year old unidentified female, have been charged with kidnapping and attempted murder. Jackson County High School student, 18 year old Cheyenne Williams of McKee signed a sworn criminal complaint Monday, saying they kidnapped her, took her against her will to the Flat Lick Falls area, assaulted her and attempted to push her over a cliff. Sams and Schwab are scheduled to be arraigned April 22nd.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:12 PM
KSP Warns Of Phising Scams
KENTUCKY....
The Kentucky State Police say residents in some counties in Kentucky have become victims of "Phishing" scams by receiving a phone call from an individual claiming to work for Visa. The caller offers to provide a series of gifts due to purchases made earlier on a credit card. When the caller is informed you do not have a credit card, they ask for personal information in order for you to receive several alleged coupons. KSP say callers may ask for information like names, addresses, dates of birth, Social Security numbers, credit card numbers and other account numbers. They also say reputable businesses do not ask for this information on a call unless it is a secured business like a bank. The area code for this specific phishing scam is (268), which originates from Antigua and Barbuda in the Caribbean Islands. KSP asks citizens to not give information through these types of phone calls.
The Kentucky State Police say residents in some counties in Kentucky have become victims of "Phishing" scams by receiving a phone call from an individual claiming to work for Visa. The caller offers to provide a series of gifts due to purchases made earlier on a credit card. When the caller is informed you do not have a credit card, they ask for personal information in order for you to receive several alleged coupons. KSP say callers may ask for information like names, addresses, dates of birth, Social Security numbers, credit card numbers and other account numbers. They also say reputable businesses do not ask for this information on a call unless it is a secured business like a bank. The area code for this specific phishing scam is (268), which originates from Antigua and Barbuda in the Caribbean Islands. KSP asks citizens to not give information through these types of phone calls.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 5:29 PM
Monday, April 19, 2010
Clay County Sentencing Goes Light
KENTUCKY....
D. Kennon White, Paul Bishop and Charles "Dobber" Weaver all received light sentences Monday, while U.S. District Judge Danny C. Reeves said the eight Clay County officials convicted in the vote-fraud trial won't get the same breaks. Former Clay County School employee Paul Bishop was sentenced to three years in prison after he admitted to taking part in widespread vote fraud in Clay County between 2002 and 2007. He was the only one of the nine indicted in the vote buying conspiracy to plead guilty. White was sentenced to five years probation, with six months on home detention and ordered to repay the city $30,000 for illegal paving work. Reeves sentenced Weaver, the former Manchester fire chief, three years probation, including five months of home detention.
D. Kennon White, Paul Bishop and Charles "Dobber" Weaver all received light sentences Monday, while U.S. District Judge Danny C. Reeves said the eight Clay County officials convicted in the vote-fraud trial won't get the same breaks. Former Clay County School employee Paul Bishop was sentenced to three years in prison after he admitted to taking part in widespread vote fraud in Clay County between 2002 and 2007. He was the only one of the nine indicted in the vote buying conspiracy to plead guilty. White was sentenced to five years probation, with six months on home detention and ordered to repay the city $30,000 for illegal paving work. Reeves sentenced Weaver, the former Manchester fire chief, three years probation, including five months of home detention.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:09 PM
London Woman Pleads Guilty
KENTUCKY....
Under a plea agreement, 41 year old Lisa Lynn Johnson of London has pleaded guilty to one count of first-degree wanton endangerment and first offense DUI. Authorities say, last September 22nd, Johnson told officers she had used meth about an hour before hitting a Laurel County school bus with 53 students on board. Under the agreement, Johnson will serve five years for wanton endangerment and five years for the DUI charge, to be served at the same time. Sentencing is scheduled for May 21st.
Under a plea agreement, 41 year old Lisa Lynn Johnson of London has pleaded guilty to one count of first-degree wanton endangerment and first offense DUI. Authorities say, last September 22nd, Johnson told officers she had used meth about an hour before hitting a Laurel County school bus with 53 students on board. Under the agreement, Johnson will serve five years for wanton endangerment and five years for the DUI charge, to be served at the same time. Sentencing is scheduled for May 21st.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:08 PM
Elkhorn City Groundbreaking
KENTUCKY....
For residents in Elkhorn City, drainage problems that cause raw sewage to flow onto Stillhouse Avenue when it rains has been a problem that's prompted local and state leaders to see it as a health threat for the entire area. Officials say often sewage will reach the waterways, creating more problems. Several agencies including the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, PRIDE, and Elkhorn City officials have signed an agreement to spend more than $230,000 on a solution to fix the problem. The U-S Army Corps of Engineers is funding nearly $175,000 through a PRIDE program, and the state and city will pay for the rest. A groundbreaking ceremony was held Monday afternoon to begin building a new pump station and collection lines near Stillhouse Avenue. The project is hoped to be completed by the end of the summer or early fall.
For residents in Elkhorn City, drainage problems that cause raw sewage to flow onto Stillhouse Avenue when it rains has been a problem that's prompted local and state leaders to see it as a health threat for the entire area. Officials say often sewage will reach the waterways, creating more problems. Several agencies including the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, PRIDE, and Elkhorn City officials have signed an agreement to spend more than $230,000 on a solution to fix the problem. The U-S Army Corps of Engineers is funding nearly $175,000 through a PRIDE program, and the state and city will pay for the rest. A groundbreaking ceremony was held Monday afternoon to begin building a new pump station and collection lines near Stillhouse Avenue. The project is hoped to be completed by the end of the summer or early fall.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:29 PM
Beshear Wants Meeting With State Leaders
KENTUCKY....
Governor Steve Beshear sent a letter Monday to the top two legislative leaders, House Speaker Greg Stumbo and Senate President David Williams, stating he wants a meeting with them “as soon as possible.” Beshear said he understood the two chambers were “very close” to reaching a budget agreement before the session ended, and a budget resolution must be reached by June 1st to restructure debt “or we will lose the opportunity to capture $113 million for the General Fund and $64 million in the Road Fund that both chambers counted on in their budget proposals. He says, if the two chambers cannot agree on a budget, he would need at least one month to prepare the government for partial shutdown when the new fiscal year begins July 1st.
Governor Steve Beshear sent a letter Monday to the top two legislative leaders, House Speaker Greg Stumbo and Senate President David Williams, stating he wants a meeting with them “as soon as possible.” Beshear said he understood the two chambers were “very close” to reaching a budget agreement before the session ended, and a budget resolution must be reached by June 1st to restructure debt “or we will lose the opportunity to capture $113 million for the General Fund and $64 million in the Road Fund that both chambers counted on in their budget proposals. He says, if the two chambers cannot agree on a budget, he would need at least one month to prepare the government for partial shutdown when the new fiscal year begins July 1st.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 7:45 PM
US460 Repairs Finished In Record Time
KENTUCKY...
How refreshing when something gets done on time...so, what is it when it's finished in record time...amazing? What engineers thought would take as long as a month has been finished in less than two weeks. The section of US 460 at Shelbiana which was damaged on Saturday, April 3, is now open to all traffic. Repairs are finished to the roadway, but there is more work to do. Replacement of the guardrail and restoration of the riverbank. The road will not be completely closed, but there may be times when one lane traffic is necessary for brief periods. This is still a work zone, so people need to be respectful of that. District 12 is gratified that the work was finished so quickly.
How refreshing when something gets done on time...so, what is it when it's finished in record time...amazing? What engineers thought would take as long as a month has been finished in less than two weeks. The section of US 460 at Shelbiana which was damaged on Saturday, April 3, is now open to all traffic. Repairs are finished to the roadway, but there is more work to do. Replacement of the guardrail and restoration of the riverbank. The road will not be completely closed, but there may be times when one lane traffic is necessary for brief periods. This is still a work zone, so people need to be respectful of that. District 12 is gratified that the work was finished so quickly.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 3:40 PM
Ashland Workers Protest AT&T Contract
KENTUCKY....
Sunday, members of the Communication Workers of America employed by AT&T lined the streets of Ashland in protest of the terms of the new contract they've been offered. Union workers say they're concerned about out sourcing and the increased costs of benefits AT&T is asking them to pay, and, as a last resort, they've authorized to strike. The contract effects 11,000 workers in the southeastern United States, about 500 in the Ashland area.
Sunday, members of the Communication Workers of America employed by AT&T lined the streets of Ashland in protest of the terms of the new contract they've been offered. Union workers say they're concerned about out sourcing and the increased costs of benefits AT&T is asking them to pay, and, as a last resort, they've authorized to strike. The contract effects 11,000 workers in the southeastern United States, about 500 in the Ashland area.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 3:02 PM
Recertification Of Pineville Floodwall
KENTUCKY...
Is the floodwall functioning properly? The answer to that question may be more than one town can stand. An eastern Kentucky town is facing a $500,000 tab as it seeks to have its floodwall recertified later this year. Pineville officials said getting the wall in condition to pass inspection in June could put a pinch on the city's budget.
Mayor Sherwin Rader said the city will get $300,000 from the Federal Emergency Management Association to help with recertification. The city still has to clean up all the stumps and trees around the wall before getting recertified, according to Rader, and address a situation with the railroad tracks. Clerk Ina Robbins said that there's a possibility of receiving money to help with that expense, but didn't say where the funds may come from.
Is the floodwall functioning properly? The answer to that question may be more than one town can stand. An eastern Kentucky town is facing a $500,000 tab as it seeks to have its floodwall recertified later this year. Pineville officials said getting the wall in condition to pass inspection in June could put a pinch on the city's budget.
Mayor Sherwin Rader said the city will get $300,000 from the Federal Emergency Management Association to help with recertification. The city still has to clean up all the stumps and trees around the wall before getting recertified, according to Rader, and address a situation with the railroad tracks. Clerk Ina Robbins said that there's a possibility of receiving money to help with that expense, but didn't say where the funds may come from.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:55 AM
Land Between The Lakes Controlled Burns
KENTUCKY...
Managers at Land Between the Lakes have proposed burning almost 24,000 acres of the federal recreation area this year and early next year. The U.S. Forest Service plan for five prescribed burns on the 170,000-acre reserve would be the most burned in any year. LBL forester Jamie Hernandez said controlled burns are good tools to reduce fuel for wildfires and help the forest grow oak and hickory trees, which are beneficial to wildlife, and take out young shade-tolerant trees like maples. Burns so far this spring have included 3,359 acres in the southern end of LBL near Dover, Tenn., and one near Wranglers Campground.
Managers at Land Between the Lakes have proposed burning almost 24,000 acres of the federal recreation area this year and early next year. The U.S. Forest Service plan for five prescribed burns on the 170,000-acre reserve would be the most burned in any year. LBL forester Jamie Hernandez said controlled burns are good tools to reduce fuel for wildfires and help the forest grow oak and hickory trees, which are beneficial to wildlife, and take out young shade-tolerant trees like maples. Burns so far this spring have included 3,359 acres in the southern end of LBL near Dover, Tenn., and one near Wranglers Campground.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:52 AM
Naming Rights To Louisville Arena Bought
KENTUCKY...
The Louisville Arena Authority has announced that Yum! Brands has bought naming rights for the downtown arena. Yum! Brands, which once said it wasn’t interested in the naming rights, has agreed to a $13.5 million, 10-year contract to be the building’s main sponsor. After eight years, Yum! Brands will have the option of renewing its sponsorship for an additional five years. Although the value of the naming rights fell short of Team Services’ projections that sponsors would be willing to pay $2 million to $2.5 million a year, officials say they're tickled to death with the way it worked out. Effective immediately, the city's downtown arena will be known as the KFC Yum! Center. The new arena will be home to the Louisville Cardinals as well as other attractions.
The Louisville Arena Authority has announced that Yum! Brands has bought naming rights for the downtown arena. Yum! Brands, which once said it wasn’t interested in the naming rights, has agreed to a $13.5 million, 10-year contract to be the building’s main sponsor. After eight years, Yum! Brands will have the option of renewing its sponsorship for an additional five years. Although the value of the naming rights fell short of Team Services’ projections that sponsors would be willing to pay $2 million to $2.5 million a year, officials say they're tickled to death with the way it worked out. Effective immediately, the city's downtown arena will be known as the KFC Yum! Center. The new arena will be home to the Louisville Cardinals as well as other attractions.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:48 AM
Couple Charged With Murder Gets Trial Date
KENTUCKY...
The murder trial for 24-four-year-old Christopher Chandler of Georgetown and 23-year-old Amanda Tolson of Winchester has been set to begin October 25th. The couple faces charges in the death of their 16-day-old son Lucas which occurred on March 25, 2009. Attorneys expect the trial to last about a week. Chandler and Tolson have pleaded not guilty. Police records show the couple called for an ambulance on March 22, saying their son "wasn't breathing right." The boy died three days later at a Lexington hospital of a skull fracture at the back of his head.
The murder trial for 24-four-year-old Christopher Chandler of Georgetown and 23-year-old Amanda Tolson of Winchester has been set to begin October 25th. The couple faces charges in the death of their 16-day-old son Lucas which occurred on March 25, 2009. Attorneys expect the trial to last about a week. Chandler and Tolson have pleaded not guilty. Police records show the couple called for an ambulance on March 22, saying their son "wasn't breathing right." The boy died three days later at a Lexington hospital of a skull fracture at the back of his head.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:45 AM
Methane Plant Near Maysville Begins Construction
KENTUCKY...
As Pike County gears up for methane production, the method used has already gained the attention of the federal government officials who are praising the construction of a plant fueled by methane gas collected from a landfill in northeastern Kentucky. The new plant is the sixth methane gas facility erected by East Kentucky Power Cooperative. Victoria Ludwig, program manager for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Landfill Methane Outreach Program, traveled last Wednesday from Washington for a dedication in Maysville where she told officials their persistence in getting the plant was "impressive."
As Pike County gears up for methane production, the method used has already gained the attention of the federal government officials who are praising the construction of a plant fueled by methane gas collected from a landfill in northeastern Kentucky. The new plant is the sixth methane gas facility erected by East Kentucky Power Cooperative. Victoria Ludwig, program manager for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Landfill Methane Outreach Program, traveled last Wednesday from Washington for a dedication in Maysville where she told officials their persistence in getting the plant was "impressive."
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:40 AM
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Voter Registration Deadline Here
KENTUCKY....
Monday is the registration deadline for those who wish to vote in the upcoming May 18th primary election. County Clerks’ offices throughout Kentucky will accept voter registration cards until the close of business day, while mail-in voter registration applications must have a postmark of April 19th. Registration cards can be obtained over the internet at www.vote.ky.gov/register. Minors who are 17 years old but will be 18 years old on or before the general election (November 2, 2010) are eligible to register and entitled to vote in the primary but are not eligible to vote in special elections.
Monday is the registration deadline for those who wish to vote in the upcoming May 18th primary election. County Clerks’ offices throughout Kentucky will accept voter registration cards until the close of business day, while mail-in voter registration applications must have a postmark of April 19th. Registration cards can be obtained over the internet at www.vote.ky.gov/register. Minors who are 17 years old but will be 18 years old on or before the general election (November 2, 2010) are eligible to register and entitled to vote in the primary but are not eligible to vote in special elections.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 4:18 PM
Former Harlan County City Clerk Pleads Guilty
KENTUCKY....
Former Lynch city clerk 34 year old Kellie Maggard pleaded guilty last week to a charge of abuse of public trust. She was accused of stealing approximately $138,000, which she told Harlan Circuit Court Judge Russell Alred she spent on clothes and bills. Maggard is scheduled to be sentenced to 10 years in prison on May 13th, and she will pay $113,000 in restitution.
Former Lynch city clerk 34 year old Kellie Maggard pleaded guilty last week to a charge of abuse of public trust. She was accused of stealing approximately $138,000, which she told Harlan Circuit Court Judge Russell Alred she spent on clothes and bills. Maggard is scheduled to be sentenced to 10 years in prison on May 13th, and she will pay $113,000 in restitution.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 4:17 PM
Floyd County Man Indicted
KENTUCKY....
Thirty-seven year old Alonzo “Lonnie” Bradley, of Conley Fork (Floyd County) has been indicted after being charged in March with beating and imprisoning his wife over the course of the past year, although prosecutors say it took place over several years. Bradley faces numerous felony counts, including three counts of first-degree assault, two counts of second-degree assault, first-degree unlawful imprisonment and third-degree terroristic threatening. It is alleged he beat and abused his wife by using a coat hanger, a floor lamp and various rubber and cloth-covered cords, shocked her with an electrical cord, burned her with a hot frying pan and told her during a hunting trip that he could shoot her “and call it a hunting accident.”
Thirty-seven year old Alonzo “Lonnie” Bradley, of Conley Fork (Floyd County) has been indicted after being charged in March with beating and imprisoning his wife over the course of the past year, although prosecutors say it took place over several years. Bradley faces numerous felony counts, including three counts of first-degree assault, two counts of second-degree assault, first-degree unlawful imprisonment and third-degree terroristic threatening. It is alleged he beat and abused his wife by using a coat hanger, a floor lamp and various rubber and cloth-covered cords, shocked her with an electrical cord, burned her with a hot frying pan and told her during a hunting trip that he could shoot her “and call it a hunting accident.”
# posted by Homer Owens @ 3:38 PM
Nursing Home To Honor Memory Of CNA
KENTUCKY....
A “Celebration of Tonja” service is planned to be held this week by the staff at Parkview Nursing and Rehabilitation Center to honor the memory of 44 year old Tonja Slone, the woman fatally shot last Monday by her ex-husband, David “Crazy Dave” Slone, as she was leaving a beauty shop in Bevinsville. Last week, Parkview staff members wore purple lapels, and purple ribbons were placed throughout the center in memory of Slone, who was a CNA at the center for the past five years.
A “Celebration of Tonja” service is planned to be held this week by the staff at Parkview Nursing and Rehabilitation Center to honor the memory of 44 year old Tonja Slone, the woman fatally shot last Monday by her ex-husband, David “Crazy Dave” Slone, as she was leaving a beauty shop in Bevinsville. Last week, Parkview staff members wore purple lapels, and purple ribbons were placed throughout the center in memory of Slone, who was a CNA at the center for the past five years.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 2:55 PM
Floyd County Widow Files For Husband's Seat
KENTUCKY....
Governor Steve Beshear has not yet appointed anyone to fill an empty seat on the Floyd County Fiscal Court left by the death of Jackie Edford Owens, a former District 2 magistrate whose name will remain on the ballot for the May 18th election, though the votes cast for him cannot be counted. His widow, Hattie Owens filed paperwork last week as a write-in candidate to fill her late husband’s seat. Hattie Owens says she filed in response to a flood of requests to do so. Owens also says she worked closely with her husband from 1986 until his death on April 1st. Jackie Edford Owens served for more than 20 years as a county magistrate.
Governor Steve Beshear has not yet appointed anyone to fill an empty seat on the Floyd County Fiscal Court left by the death of Jackie Edford Owens, a former District 2 magistrate whose name will remain on the ballot for the May 18th election, though the votes cast for him cannot be counted. His widow, Hattie Owens filed paperwork last week as a write-in candidate to fill her late husband’s seat. Hattie Owens says she filed in response to a flood of requests to do so. Owens also says she worked closely with her husband from 1986 until his death on April 1st. Jackie Edford Owens served for more than 20 years as a county magistrate.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 2:17 PM
Statewide Testing Begins For Students
KENTUCKY....
For approximately 500,000 public school students, state-wide testing begins Monday and lasts through May 21st, with students taking the Kentucky Core Content Test in reading, math, science, social studies and on-demand writing. The results will be used to determine whether students are meeting federal math and reading standards under the No Child Left Behind Act in which schools are required to have specific percentages of students reach proficiency in reading and mathematics and meet other criteria, including participation and attendance goals. Although some major changes of testing have been made over the past two years, even more is riding on this spring's tests. If a school meets all academic goals for a second straight year, they will no longer be labeled as failing.
For approximately 500,000 public school students, state-wide testing begins Monday and lasts through May 21st, with students taking the Kentucky Core Content Test in reading, math, science, social studies and on-demand writing. The results will be used to determine whether students are meeting federal math and reading standards under the No Child Left Behind Act in which schools are required to have specific percentages of students reach proficiency in reading and mathematics and meet other criteria, including participation and attendance goals. Although some major changes of testing have been made over the past two years, even more is riding on this spring's tests. If a school meets all academic goals for a second straight year, they will no longer be labeled as failing.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 1:41 PM
Manhunt Ends For Prison Escapee
KENTUCKY....
After escaping from a prison van in Woodford County early Thursday morning, an extensive manhunt for federal inmate 37 year old Derek A. Capozzi ended when he was captured by Versailles police and U.S. Marshals at 5:45 P.M. Saturday afternoon. Capozzi was apprehended without incident while lying on railroad tracks behind Central Kentucky Stair Co. Inc. at 331 Kentucky Avenue in Versailles. He was taken to the Fayette County jail and is now facing a federal escape charge.
After escaping from a prison van in Woodford County early Thursday morning, an extensive manhunt for federal inmate 37 year old Derek A. Capozzi ended when he was captured by Versailles police and U.S. Marshals at 5:45 P.M. Saturday afternoon. Capozzi was apprehended without incident while lying on railroad tracks behind Central Kentucky Stair Co. Inc. at 331 Kentucky Avenue in Versailles. He was taken to the Fayette County jail and is now facing a federal escape charge.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 1:39 PM
