Saturday, May 01, 2010
Coal Mountain Workers Join Labor Union
WEST VIRGINIA....
Eighteen contract workers at the Coal Mountain No. 1 surface mine in Wyoming County have voted to join the United Mine Workers labor union that already represents about 100 production workers at the operation. The newcomers operate mobile equipment and work as mechanics for contractor Justice Highwall Mining. The mine itself is owned by Russian metal and mining conglomerate Mechel Oao.
Eighteen contract workers at the Coal Mountain No. 1 surface mine in Wyoming County have voted to join the United Mine Workers labor union that already represents about 100 production workers at the operation. The newcomers operate mobile equipment and work as mechanics for contractor Justice Highwall Mining. The mine itself is owned by Russian metal and mining conglomerate Mechel Oao.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:03 AM
FBI Investigating Possible Massey Bribes
WEST VIRGINIA....
According to a report from National Public Radio, an FBI Investigation is underway into allegations that federal mine inspectors may have taken bribes prior to the Upper Big Branch Mine explosion on April 5th. Recently, more than 20 current and former Massey workers have been interviewed by the FBI. Massey has issued a statement saying the company has no knowledge of criminal wrongdoing, and it's not uncommon that an accident the size and scope of the explosion at the Upper Big Branch Mine would lead to a comprehensive investigation by relevant law enforcement agencies. Massey Energy has offered $3 million to each of the families of 29 miners killed in the explosion.
According to a report from National Public Radio, an FBI Investigation is underway into allegations that federal mine inspectors may have taken bribes prior to the Upper Big Branch Mine explosion on April 5th. Recently, more than 20 current and former Massey workers have been interviewed by the FBI. Massey has issued a statement saying the company has no knowledge of criminal wrongdoing, and it's not uncommon that an accident the size and scope of the explosion at the Upper Big Branch Mine would lead to a comprehensive investigation by relevant law enforcement agencies. Massey Energy has offered $3 million to each of the families of 29 miners killed in the explosion.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:01 AM
Consol Energy Acquires Dominion Resources
WEST VIRGINIA....
In a deal that closed Friday, Canonsburg, Pa.-based Consol Energy announced it's completed a $3.475 billion acquisition of Virginia-based Dominion Resources Inc.'s Appalachian natural gas and oil exploration and production business. The deal gives Consol a larger stake in the Marcellus shale, which stretches from New York across Pennsylvania to West Virginia and is believed to contain trillions of cubic feet of natural gas. Consol, which is known as a major coal producer, says it's expanding its gas business through the deal and the buyout of minority shareholders in CNX Gas Corp. To fund the purchase, Consol raised $4.58 billion through stock and debt offerings.
In a deal that closed Friday, Canonsburg, Pa.-based Consol Energy announced it's completed a $3.475 billion acquisition of Virginia-based Dominion Resources Inc.'s Appalachian natural gas and oil exploration and production business. The deal gives Consol a larger stake in the Marcellus shale, which stretches from New York across Pennsylvania to West Virginia and is believed to contain trillions of cubic feet of natural gas. Consol, which is known as a major coal producer, says it's expanding its gas business through the deal and the buyout of minority shareholders in CNX Gas Corp. To fund the purchase, Consol raised $4.58 billion through stock and debt offerings.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:00 AM
Teen Shot While Inside A Huntington Inn
WEST VIRGINIA....
West Virginia State Police confirm a 13 year old boy was transported to Cabell Huntington Hospital after being shot in the head around 11:00 P.M. Friday night while inside room 107 at the Red Roof Inn on Route 60 in Huntington. Authorities say the teenager was in the room with his 14 year old brother and a 13 year old friend, all from Independence, Missouri, when the shooting occurred.
West Virginia State Police confirm a 13 year old boy was transported to Cabell Huntington Hospital after being shot in the head around 11:00 P.M. Friday night while inside room 107 at the Red Roof Inn on Route 60 in Huntington. Authorities say the teenager was in the room with his 14 year old brother and a 13 year old friend, all from Independence, Missouri, when the shooting occurred.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:59 AM
A Federal Jury To Resume Deliberations
WEST VIRGINIA....
A federal jury will resume deliberations Monday in the sentencing phase of the case against George Lecco. The jury, which began deliberations Friday, will decide whether the Mingo County man should receive the death penalty for the 2005 murder of drug informant 33 year old Carla Collins. Lecco was convicted this past week of planning the murder of Collins and hiring two women, Valerie Friend and Patricia Burton, to commit the act in exchange for drugs and money. Prosecutors say he did it to protect a cocaine operation he was running out of his Pizza Plus in Red Jacket.
A federal jury will resume deliberations Monday in the sentencing phase of the case against George Lecco. The jury, which began deliberations Friday, will decide whether the Mingo County man should receive the death penalty for the 2005 murder of drug informant 33 year old Carla Collins. Lecco was convicted this past week of planning the murder of Collins and hiring two women, Valerie Friend and Patricia Burton, to commit the act in exchange for drugs and money. Prosecutors say he did it to protect a cocaine operation he was running out of his Pizza Plus in Red Jacket.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:58 AM
Woman Convicted Of Felony Accessory
WEST VIRGINIA....
Twenty-two year old Nicole Gutierrez Hughes testified Friday that she carried the gun into Club Babylon that led to the November 8, 2009 exchange of gunfire that killed one man and wounded three others. Hughes was convicted of felony accessory before the fact to attempted murder. Cabell Circuit Judge Dan O’Hanlon suspended a three- to 15-year prison sentence, instead opting to send Hughes to the state’s Anthony Correctional Center in White Sulphur Springs, W.Va. An investigator testified in December that Hughes provided the gun to Michigan native Reginald Marbury, who allegedly used the weapon to shoot Sontezz Lomax of Huntington. Marbury and Lomax were shot in the exchange, along with Christopher Lewis of Thurmond, Ohio. They were found lying outside the nightclub. Lomax and Lewis were treated and released at local hospitals. Joe Jeremaine Porter of Huntington died in a police-involved shooting that followed inside the club.
Twenty-two year old Nicole Gutierrez Hughes testified Friday that she carried the gun into Club Babylon that led to the November 8, 2009 exchange of gunfire that killed one man and wounded three others. Hughes was convicted of felony accessory before the fact to attempted murder. Cabell Circuit Judge Dan O’Hanlon suspended a three- to 15-year prison sentence, instead opting to send Hughes to the state’s Anthony Correctional Center in White Sulphur Springs, W.Va. An investigator testified in December that Hughes provided the gun to Michigan native Reginald Marbury, who allegedly used the weapon to shoot Sontezz Lomax of Huntington. Marbury and Lomax were shot in the exchange, along with Christopher Lewis of Thurmond, Ohio. They were found lying outside the nightclub. Lomax and Lewis were treated and released at local hospitals. Joe Jeremaine Porter of Huntington died in a police-involved shooting that followed inside the club.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:57 AM
Knott Co. Sewer Projects Get Funding
KENTUCKY...
U.S. Congressman Hal Harold “Hal” Rogers announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development program has awarded a $100,000 grant to the Knott County Water and Sewer District to replace aging sewer lines in the county. This funding is in addition to the $250,000 PRIDE awarded Knott County last year for this ongoing project. The funding will be used to either replace or rehabilitate existing aging sewer lines in Knott Count that are subject to contamination due to leaks and deficiencies with the system. Potential health problems will be eliminated and efficient waste disposal will be provided for 122 customers in rural Knott County by fixing these sewer lines.
U.S. Congressman Hal Harold “Hal” Rogers announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development program has awarded a $100,000 grant to the Knott County Water and Sewer District to replace aging sewer lines in the county. This funding is in addition to the $250,000 PRIDE awarded Knott County last year for this ongoing project. The funding will be used to either replace or rehabilitate existing aging sewer lines in Knott Count that are subject to contamination due to leaks and deficiencies with the system. Potential health problems will be eliminated and efficient waste disposal will be provided for 122 customers in rural Knott County by fixing these sewer lines.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:41 AM
Beating Victim Dies
KENTUCKY...
The death of a man who had been beaten with a cane has resulted in a murder charge against the woman accused of assaulting him. Elizabethtown police found 65-year-old James Carson lying in front of a room at a motel where he lived. Commonwealth's Attorney Chris Shaw said Carson died a week later and the woman charged with beating him has now been charged with murder. Ethel L. Riley _ also 65 _ was previously charged with first-degree assault and tampering with evidence. Riley was arrested the night of the beating and a police spokesman said alcohol was probably involved in the incident. Riley has requested a public defender.
The death of a man who had been beaten with a cane has resulted in a murder charge against the woman accused of assaulting him. Elizabethtown police found 65-year-old James Carson lying in front of a room at a motel where he lived. Commonwealth's Attorney Chris Shaw said Carson died a week later and the woman charged with beating him has now been charged with murder. Ethel L. Riley _ also 65 _ was previously charged with first-degree assault and tampering with evidence. Riley was arrested the night of the beating and a police spokesman said alcohol was probably involved in the incident. Riley has requested a public defender.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 7:55 AM
Political Candidates Generally Favorable To Mountain-Top Mining
KENTUCKY...
Leading candidates for U.S. Senate in Kentucky, a top coal-producing state, are tolerant of a controversial mining practice known as mountaintop removal. Republicans Rand Paul and Trey Grayson have repeatedly voiced their support for the mining industry in stump speeches across Kentucky, home to some 17,000 coal miners. Democrat Daniel Mongiardo is an ardent cheerleader for mountaintop mining while is primary rival Jack Conway supports it with some reservations. The coal industry has traditionally played a key role in Kentucky politics with company executives and miners supporting friendly candidates with financial contributions and votes. That's why mountaintop removal has played prominently in the Senate race.
Leading candidates for U.S. Senate in Kentucky, a top coal-producing state, are tolerant of a controversial mining practice known as mountaintop removal. Republicans Rand Paul and Trey Grayson have repeatedly voiced their support for the mining industry in stump speeches across Kentucky, home to some 17,000 coal miners. Democrat Daniel Mongiardo is an ardent cheerleader for mountaintop mining while is primary rival Jack Conway supports it with some reservations. The coal industry has traditionally played a key role in Kentucky politics with company executives and miners supporting friendly candidates with financial contributions and votes. That's why mountaintop removal has played prominently in the Senate race.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 4:57 AM
Shooting Death In Johnson County
KENTUCKY...
The Johnson County Sheriff's Department arrested a woman in connection with a shooting incedent. It happened at a house on Barber Branch off Route 1107. A man was shot and killed, but his name is not being released at this time. Donna Marie Wheeler is charged with murder and is being held in the Big Sandy Regional Detention Center on a one million dollar bond. The victim was taken to Frankfort for an autopsy.
The Johnson County Sheriff's Department arrested a woman in connection with a shooting incedent. It happened at a house on Barber Branch off Route 1107. A man was shot and killed, but his name is not being released at this time. Donna Marie Wheeler is charged with murder and is being held in the Big Sandy Regional Detention Center on a one million dollar bond. The victim was taken to Frankfort for an autopsy.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 4:51 AM
Drug Arrest In Knott County
KENTUCKY...
A Knott County man is arrested on drug charges. The sheriff's department says methadone pills were bought by an undercover officer at the Holly Hills Shopping Center in Mallie. 62-year old Robert Stamper of Hindman is charged with trafficking a controlled substance. Deputies seized nearly 70 methadone pills, 54 muscle relaxers and nearly 500 dollars in cash.
A Knott County man is arrested on drug charges. The sheriff's department says methadone pills were bought by an undercover officer at the Holly Hills Shopping Center in Mallie. 62-year old Robert Stamper of Hindman is charged with trafficking a controlled substance. Deputies seized nearly 70 methadone pills, 54 muscle relaxers and nearly 500 dollars in cash.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 4:47 AM
"Coal Country" Raises Funds For WV Families
KENTUCKY/WEST VIRGINIA...
WXCC Radio spent most of Thursday taking up money for families affected by the Montcoal mining disaster and their day in the sun proved worthwhile. By 4 p.m, the group had raised approximately $8,000 to be donated to the worthy cause. Our region relies on coal and the coal business and we’re so proud of the work miners do,” said general manager Keith Casebolt. “We’re named ‘Coal Country’ and we try to honor that name as best we can.” Casebolt said he felt touched when employees asked for vacation days to raise money for the cause and thought they’d make a day out of it.
Another group broadcast from the Logan Walmart. They were Jamie Johnson, Joe Kinser, John Roberts, and Dwayne Amburgey. "Coal Country" will continue to take up donations for those affected by the Montcoal mining disaster and can be made at www.coalcountry 965.com.
WXCC Radio spent most of Thursday taking up money for families affected by the Montcoal mining disaster and their day in the sun proved worthwhile. By 4 p.m, the group had raised approximately $8,000 to be donated to the worthy cause. Our region relies on coal and the coal business and we’re so proud of the work miners do,” said general manager Keith Casebolt. “We’re named ‘Coal Country’ and we try to honor that name as best we can.” Casebolt said he felt touched when employees asked for vacation days to raise money for the cause and thought they’d make a day out of it.
Another group broadcast from the Logan Walmart. They were Jamie Johnson, Joe Kinser, John Roberts, and Dwayne Amburgey. "Coal Country" will continue to take up donations for those affected by the Montcoal mining disaster and can be made at www.coalcountry 965.com.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 4:31 AM
Crashed Plane Reported Problem
KENTUCKY...
The National Transportation Safety Board says a twin-engine airplane that crashed Tuesday in a national forest near Hazard, killing both occupants, reported problems before it went down. NTSB Investigator Jose Obregon said Thursday that the pilot radioed air traffic controllers in Indianapolis twice shortly before the early afternoon crash saying he was having issues with air speed and requesting a lower altitude for the flight. Obregon says the plane came almost straight down into a remote hilltop in the Daniel Boone National Forest in foul weather. He says there were reports of icing and freezing temperatures along the plane's intended route from Frederick, Md., to Olive Branch, Miss.
The National Transportation Safety Board says a twin-engine airplane that crashed Tuesday in a national forest near Hazard, killing both occupants, reported problems before it went down. NTSB Investigator Jose Obregon said Thursday that the pilot radioed air traffic controllers in Indianapolis twice shortly before the early afternoon crash saying he was having issues with air speed and requesting a lower altitude for the flight. Obregon says the plane came almost straight down into a remote hilltop in the Daniel Boone National Forest in foul weather. He says there were reports of icing and freezing temperatures along the plane's intended route from Frederick, Md., to Olive Branch, Miss.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 4:23 AM
Primary Registered Voters In KY
KENTUCKY...
Kentucky will have more than 2.8 million people on its voter rolls for the May 18 primary election. The secretary of state's office says that's slightly lower than the record set during the 2008 general election, when just over 2.9 million people were on voter rolls. This year's total is slightly less than the number of people registered to vote in the 2008 primary election. Democrats now make up nearly 57 percent of registered voters in the state, while Republicans now comprise nearly 37 percent. The secretary of state's office says the latest registration totals are a net decrease of 54,843 from those who were registered to vote in the 2008 general election.
Kentucky will have more than 2.8 million people on its voter rolls for the May 18 primary election. The secretary of state's office says that's slightly lower than the record set during the 2008 general election, when just over 2.9 million people were on voter rolls. This year's total is slightly less than the number of people registered to vote in the 2008 primary election. Democrats now make up nearly 57 percent of registered voters in the state, while Republicans now comprise nearly 37 percent. The secretary of state's office says the latest registration totals are a net decrease of 54,843 from those who were registered to vote in the 2008 general election.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 4:18 AM
President Obama Saddened By Mining Deaths In KY
KENTUCKY...
President Barack Obama says mining accidents like the latest one in Kentucky that claimed two lives must be prevented. Obama issued a statement Friday saying he was deeply saddened by the incident where two miners were killed when a roof collapsed in the Dotiki Mine late Wednesday. It happened only weeks after an explosion at a mine in West Virginia killed 29, the nation's worst coal mine disaster in decades . After the West Virginia incident Obama ordered a review of mine safety procedures. He said Friday that it was the responsibility of everyone from mine operators to the federal government to prevent such tragedies from happening.
President Barack Obama says mining accidents like the latest one in Kentucky that claimed two lives must be prevented. Obama issued a statement Friday saying he was deeply saddened by the incident where two miners were killed when a roof collapsed in the Dotiki Mine late Wednesday. It happened only weeks after an explosion at a mine in West Virginia killed 29, the nation's worst coal mine disaster in decades . After the West Virginia incident Obama ordered a review of mine safety procedures. He said Friday that it was the responsibility of everyone from mine operators to the federal government to prevent such tragedies from happening.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 4:14 AM
Friday, April 30, 2010
National Law Firm Files Massey Lawsuit
WEST VIRGINIA....
Represented by the national law firm of Robbins, Geller, Rudman and Dowd, the Macomb County Employees' Retirement System filed a potential class-action lawsuit in federal court in Beckley this week against Massey Energy and its board members. The system sold 4,000 shares of Massey stock for an $8,100 loss three days after the April 5th explosion at the Upper Big Branch mine. Massey has about 95 million shares outstanding. The lawsuit alleges the disaster at Upper Big Branch Mine and Massey's history of violations are evidence the company lied to investors about the safety of its mines.
Represented by the national law firm of Robbins, Geller, Rudman and Dowd, the Macomb County Employees' Retirement System filed a potential class-action lawsuit in federal court in Beckley this week against Massey Energy and its board members. The system sold 4,000 shares of Massey stock for an $8,100 loss three days after the April 5th explosion at the Upper Big Branch mine. Massey has about 95 million shares outstanding. The lawsuit alleges the disaster at Upper Big Branch Mine and Massey's history of violations are evidence the company lied to investors about the safety of its mines.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 1:49 PM
Nitro Man Sentenced After Waiving His Rights
WEST VIRGINIA....
After waiving his right to a pre-sentencing investigation, 29 year old Timothy Ray Sutherland of Nitro was sentenced to 2 to 10 years in prison after pleading guilty this week to operating a clandestine methamphetamine lab from his home on Armour Road in Rock Branch. Sutherland was charged in Kanawha County with first-degree murder in the stabbing death of his cousin, 32 year old Stacie Ann Smith of St. Albans. Those charges are pending. Since 1998, he has been arrested 10 times in Kanawha County, for charges including domestic battery, grand larceny, assault, burglary and brandishing a deadly weapon. He was also arrested in January for failing to register as a sex offender in Putnam County.
After waiving his right to a pre-sentencing investigation, 29 year old Timothy Ray Sutherland of Nitro was sentenced to 2 to 10 years in prison after pleading guilty this week to operating a clandestine methamphetamine lab from his home on Armour Road in Rock Branch. Sutherland was charged in Kanawha County with first-degree murder in the stabbing death of his cousin, 32 year old Stacie Ann Smith of St. Albans. Those charges are pending. Since 1998, he has been arrested 10 times in Kanawha County, for charges including domestic battery, grand larceny, assault, burglary and brandishing a deadly weapon. He was also arrested in January for failing to register as a sex offender in Putnam County.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 1:48 PM
Poca Man To Spend Up To 80 Years In Prison
WEST VIRGINIA....
Forty-one year old Patrick Glen Moore of Poca was sentenced this week to up to 80 years in prison after being convicted on three counts of sexual abuse by a parent or guardian, one count of incest and one count of failure to change his sex-offender registration. Moore was originally indicted on 10 charges, including incest and attempting to run over a police officer. Moore received 10 to 20 years on each count of sexual abuse, five to 15 years for incest and one to five years for failing to provide changes to his registration as a sex offender. He pleaded guilty in February following his arrest on June 22, 2009.
Forty-one year old Patrick Glen Moore of Poca was sentenced this week to up to 80 years in prison after being convicted on three counts of sexual abuse by a parent or guardian, one count of incest and one count of failure to change his sex-offender registration. Moore was originally indicted on 10 charges, including incest and attempting to run over a police officer. Moore received 10 to 20 years on each count of sexual abuse, five to 15 years for incest and one to five years for failing to provide changes to his registration as a sex offender. He pleaded guilty in February following his arrest on June 22, 2009.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 1:47 PM
Remains Of World War II Pilot Being Brought To WV
WEST VIRGINIA....
Remains of World War II pilot U.S. Army Air Corps 2nd Lt. Jack S. Arnett which were recovered in 2005 are being returned to Friendly, West Virginia for burial. Arnett was the pilot of a B-24 Liberator that was shot down in 1944 off the coast of Palau. The Bent Prop Project found the plane and recovered the remains of Arnett and seven other crewmen. Last fall, Arnett's remains were cremated in Florida where some of his ashes were buried. The remainder will be buried May 15th at Friendly Cemetery where his parents are buried. Thursday, a ceremony was held at Arlington National Cemetery honoring the plane's crew.
Remains of World War II pilot U.S. Army Air Corps 2nd Lt. Jack S. Arnett which were recovered in 2005 are being returned to Friendly, West Virginia for burial. Arnett was the pilot of a B-24 Liberator that was shot down in 1944 off the coast of Palau. The Bent Prop Project found the plane and recovered the remains of Arnett and seven other crewmen. Last fall, Arnett's remains were cremated in Florida where some of his ashes were buried. The remainder will be buried May 15th at Friendly Cemetery where his parents are buried. Thursday, a ceremony was held at Arlington National Cemetery honoring the plane's crew.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 1:45 PM
Alleged Murder Suspect Returned To WV
WEST VIRGINIA....
Twenty-one year old Kawan Taylor of Inkster, Michigan was booked into the Western Regional Jail in Cabell County on Thursday after being arrested in Michigan for a Huntington murder. In March, 40 year old Daryl Grandberry, also from Inkster, Michigan, died after falling from the roof of a home in the 12-hundred block of 10th Avenue in Huntington. Police say Grandberry was on the roof in an effort to escape while Taylor and another man were trying to rob him. Taylor is being held without bond, while a preliminary hearing is set for May 6th.
Twenty-one year old Kawan Taylor of Inkster, Michigan was booked into the Western Regional Jail in Cabell County on Thursday after being arrested in Michigan for a Huntington murder. In March, 40 year old Daryl Grandberry, also from Inkster, Michigan, died after falling from the roof of a home in the 12-hundred block of 10th Avenue in Huntington. Police say Grandberry was on the roof in an effort to escape while Taylor and another man were trying to rob him. Taylor is being held without bond, while a preliminary hearing is set for May 6th.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 1:44 PM
Funding Secured For New Marsh Fork Elementary
WEST VIRGINIA....
West Virginia Governor Joe Manchin has announced that all funding for a new Marsh Fork Elementary School has been secured. After it was announced Thursday that the Annenberg Foundation offered $2.5 million, Massey Energy and the Raleigh County school board agreed to come up with the $1.5 million still needed to construct the new $8.6 million school.
West Virginia Governor Joe Manchin has announced that all funding for a new Marsh Fork Elementary School has been secured. After it was announced Thursday that the Annenberg Foundation offered $2.5 million, Massey Energy and the Raleigh County school board agreed to come up with the $1.5 million still needed to construct the new $8.6 million school.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 1:43 PM
Judicial Balanced Budget Assured
KENTUCKY...
Chief Justice of Kentucky John D. Minton Jr. met with the state’s justices, judges and circuit court clerks to announce a budget reduction plan that will ensure the Judicial Branch can balance its budget in the upcoming Fiscal Year. The chief justice invited the elected officials to meet at the Administrative Office of the Courts in Frankfort. Immediately following the meeting, Chief Justice Minton sent an e-mail announcing the reduction plan to all elected and non-elected court personnel statewide. “The Judicial Branch is fortunate to have an enacted budget,” Chief Justice Minton said. “We’re relieved to know what our appropriation will be after several months of speculation.
Chief Justice of Kentucky John D. Minton Jr. met with the state’s justices, judges and circuit court clerks to announce a budget reduction plan that will ensure the Judicial Branch can balance its budget in the upcoming Fiscal Year. The chief justice invited the elected officials to meet at the Administrative Office of the Courts in Frankfort. Immediately following the meeting, Chief Justice Minton sent an e-mail announcing the reduction plan to all elected and non-elected court personnel statewide. “The Judicial Branch is fortunate to have an enacted budget,” Chief Justice Minton said. “We’re relieved to know what our appropriation will be after several months of speculation.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 12:24 PM
Sex Offender Escapes
KENTUCKY...
Forty-two year old Gary Wayne Courtney escaped from the Pulaski County Courthouse. He was last seen wearing handcuffs and a belly chain. The court docket shows Courtney was in court on identity theft and other charges, but he's also a registered sex offender. Police say Courtney ran when he was taken outside the courtroom to talk with his lawyer. The Pulaski County Sheriff says Courtney has stolen a car. Officials have now changed the procedure when inmates are taken out of the courthouse.
Forty-two year old Gary Wayne Courtney escaped from the Pulaski County Courthouse. He was last seen wearing handcuffs and a belly chain. The court docket shows Courtney was in court on identity theft and other charges, but he's also a registered sex offender. Police say Courtney ran when he was taken outside the courtroom to talk with his lawyer. The Pulaski County Sheriff says Courtney has stolen a car. Officials have now changed the procedure when inmates are taken out of the courthouse.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 12:15 PM
Kentucky Derby May Be Muddy
KENTUCKY...
The National Weather Service is now predicting that this year’s Kentucky Derby could be the wettest ever, with rainfall possibly surpassing the 2.31 inches that fell on the first Saturday in May nearly a century ago, in 1918. It might be a good time to give some attention to horses who have done well on a muddy track in the past.
The National Weather Service is now predicting that this year’s Kentucky Derby could be the wettest ever, with rainfall possibly surpassing the 2.31 inches that fell on the first Saturday in May nearly a century ago, in 1918. It might be a good time to give some attention to horses who have done well on a muddy track in the past.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:58 AM
Police Officer Killed In Traffic Accident
KENTUCKY...
A Lexington Police Officer is dead after being hit by an SUV. Officer Bryan J. Durman, 27, died at the University of Kentucky Hospital around 10:45 p.m. Thursday.
Officer Durman was responding to a complaint of loud music near North Limestone and Alabama Avenue when he was hit. Investigators say the driver of the Ford Expedition that hit Durman left the scene. Police later found that SUV outside an apartment building on Northland Drive, off North Broadway, in Lexington. After a standoff, members of the Lexington Police's Emergency Response Unit went in and arrested 33-year-old Glenn Doneghy. Doneghy is charged with murder, leaving the scene of an accident, five counts of assault, and multiple counts of drug possession. He was also wanted on two bench warrants.
A Lexington Police Officer is dead after being hit by an SUV. Officer Bryan J. Durman, 27, died at the University of Kentucky Hospital around 10:45 p.m. Thursday.
Officer Durman was responding to a complaint of loud music near North Limestone and Alabama Avenue when he was hit. Investigators say the driver of the Ford Expedition that hit Durman left the scene. Police later found that SUV outside an apartment building on Northland Drive, off North Broadway, in Lexington. After a standoff, members of the Lexington Police's Emergency Response Unit went in and arrested 33-year-old Glenn Doneghy. Doneghy is charged with murder, leaving the scene of an accident, five counts of assault, and multiple counts of drug possession. He was also wanted on two bench warrants.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:51 AM
Arbor Day Event
KENTUCKY...
An Arbor Day Celebration can be as small or as large as you want to make it. But, it must include the planting of trees. A large crowd, including the students at the school witnessed or participated in the ceremony. The event was held at the Robinson Creek Elementary School. This symbolic gesture has been held nationwide for over 135 years...since the founding of the first Arbor Day, and Pike County PRIDE joined others across the country in keeping the tradition alive. The main address was delivered by Pike County Judge-Executive Wayne T. Rutherford, with comments from Senator Ray Jones, Superintendent Roger Wagner of the Pike County School System and other dignitaries. Eight Redbud trees were planted by students at various locations on the Robinson Creek campus. The trees were donated to the school by the Pike County PRIDE organization. Principal Pat Burke served as Master of Ceremony.
An Arbor Day Celebration can be as small or as large as you want to make it. But, it must include the planting of trees. A large crowd, including the students at the school witnessed or participated in the ceremony. The event was held at the Robinson Creek Elementary School. This symbolic gesture has been held nationwide for over 135 years...since the founding of the first Arbor Day, and Pike County PRIDE joined others across the country in keeping the tradition alive. The main address was delivered by Pike County Judge-Executive Wayne T. Rutherford, with comments from Senator Ray Jones, Superintendent Roger Wagner of the Pike County School System and other dignitaries. Eight Redbud trees were planted by students at various locations on the Robinson Creek campus. The trees were donated to the school by the Pike County PRIDE organization. Principal Pat Burke served as Master of Ceremony.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:31 AM
PMC Rated At Top Of "Best Places To Work"
KENTUCKY...
For many years Pikeville Medical Center (PMC) has provided an environment where people love to come to work, in addition to providing patients with quality regional healthcare in a Christian environment. Once again, PMC has been honored as one of the Best Places to Work in Kentucky. The annual Best Places to Work awards banquet was held at the Lexington Convention Center. Pikeville Medical Center placed third overall in the large company division. Significantly, no other hospital ranked in the top five.
For many years Pikeville Medical Center (PMC) has provided an environment where people love to come to work, in addition to providing patients with quality regional healthcare in a Christian environment. Once again, PMC has been honored as one of the Best Places to Work in Kentucky. The annual Best Places to Work awards banquet was held at the Lexington Convention Center. Pikeville Medical Center placed third overall in the large company division. Significantly, no other hospital ranked in the top five.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:28 AM
Officials Discuss Election Fraud Issues
KENTUCKY...
Officials from various agencies across the Commonwealth came together today in the State Capitol to emphasize that vote fraud will not be tolerated in the May 18th primary election. Secretary of State Trey Grayson, Attorney General Jack Conway, Tom Dyke, the chief election fraud prosecutor for U.S. Attorney Candace G. Hill in the Western District of Kentucky, and Ken Taylor, the chief election fraud prosecutor for Acting U.S. Attorney E.J. Walbourn in the Eastern District of Kentucky discussed the importance of this year's elections and how each office is working to protect the election from potential fraud. Officials from each agency have been meeting in recent weeks to prepare for the election, discussing any potential issues and problem areas.
Officials from various agencies across the Commonwealth came together today in the State Capitol to emphasize that vote fraud will not be tolerated in the May 18th primary election. Secretary of State Trey Grayson, Attorney General Jack Conway, Tom Dyke, the chief election fraud prosecutor for U.S. Attorney Candace G. Hill in the Western District of Kentucky, and Ken Taylor, the chief election fraud prosecutor for Acting U.S. Attorney E.J. Walbourn in the Eastern District of Kentucky discussed the importance of this year's elections and how each office is working to protect the election from potential fraud. Officials from each agency have been meeting in recent weeks to prepare for the election, discussing any potential issues and problem areas.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:24 AM
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Killed Miners Identified
KENTUCKY....
Governor Steve Beshear has identified the miners killed during a Wednesday night roof collapse at Alliance Coal Company's Dotiki Mine in Hopkins County, Kentucky about 150 miles west of Louisville as 27 year old Justin Travis and 28 year old Michael Carter. Rescue teams entered the mine beginning around 11:30 P.M. Wednesday night and traveled approximately four miles by conveyance to the area where the miners were trapped. Rescue efforts were halted around 4:50 A.M. Thursday morning due to unstable roof conditions. United Mine Workers officials say two other miners escaped. The Kentucky Office of Mine Safety and Licensing had issued 31 closure orders at the mine since January 2009, and state inspectors issued 44 citations for non-compliance with mine safety laws.
Governor Steve Beshear has identified the miners killed during a Wednesday night roof collapse at Alliance Coal Company's Dotiki Mine in Hopkins County, Kentucky about 150 miles west of Louisville as 27 year old Justin Travis and 28 year old Michael Carter. Rescue teams entered the mine beginning around 11:30 P.M. Wednesday night and traveled approximately four miles by conveyance to the area where the miners were trapped. Rescue efforts were halted around 4:50 A.M. Thursday morning due to unstable roof conditions. United Mine Workers officials say two other miners escaped. The Kentucky Office of Mine Safety and Licensing had issued 31 closure orders at the mine since January 2009, and state inspectors issued 44 citations for non-compliance with mine safety laws.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:33 PM
Charges Reduced For Jackson County Teens
KENTUCKY....
The charges against Ashley Sams and Corinne Schwab, both 18, have been reduced to fourth-degree assault and menacing after the teens were originally charged with kidnapping and attempted murder. Cheyenne Williams had told police that, on April 16th, Sams, Schwab and a 17 year old had tried to push her off a cliff at Flat Lick Falls in Jackson County. Attorneys for Sams and Schwab alleged Williams was a willing participant. At a hearing Thursday, Judge Henria Bailey-Lewis said the evidence did not justify charges of kidnapping and attempted murder.
The charges against Ashley Sams and Corinne Schwab, both 18, have been reduced to fourth-degree assault and menacing after the teens were originally charged with kidnapping and attempted murder. Cheyenne Williams had told police that, on April 16th, Sams, Schwab and a 17 year old had tried to push her off a cliff at Flat Lick Falls in Jackson County. Attorneys for Sams and Schwab alleged Williams was a willing participant. At a hearing Thursday, Judge Henria Bailey-Lewis said the evidence did not justify charges of kidnapping and attempted murder.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:31 PM
Johnson County Accident Results In Arrest
KENTUCKY....
Police in Johnson County say 35 year old April Trombley was driving under the influence on Euclid Avenue in Paintsville around 4:30 P.M. Wednesday afternoon when her vehicle crossed the center line, crashing into a school bus carrying three Paintsville Elementary students. No one was injured. Trombley was charged with DUI, driving on a suspended license, and four counts of wanton endangerment.
Police in Johnson County say 35 year old April Trombley was driving under the influence on Euclid Avenue in Paintsville around 4:30 P.M. Wednesday afternoon when her vehicle crossed the center line, crashing into a school bus carrying three Paintsville Elementary students. No one was injured. Trombley was charged with DUI, driving on a suspended license, and four counts of wanton endangerment.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 3:54 PM
Airplane Crash Victims Identified
KENTUCKY...
On Tuesday Kentucky State Police Post 13 in Hazard received a call from the Federal Aviation Administration regarding a downed plane. Wednesday, the bodies of Stephen and Beverly Reardon, who are from Maryland, were removed from the site where their Hawker Beechcraft 58 crashed in a remote area southwest of Hazard. Officials say the plane was traveling from Frederick, Md., to Olive Branch, Miss. when air traffic controllers lost radar contact just before 12:30 P.M. when it was flying at 2,500 feet. A company from the Atlanta area was brought in to remove the wreckage from the side of the mountain. Investigators are taking the remains of the plane to a facility in Atlanta to be examined.
On Tuesday Kentucky State Police Post 13 in Hazard received a call from the Federal Aviation Administration regarding a downed plane. Wednesday, the bodies of Stephen and Beverly Reardon, who are from Maryland, were removed from the site where their Hawker Beechcraft 58 crashed in a remote area southwest of Hazard. Officials say the plane was traveling from Frederick, Md., to Olive Branch, Miss. when air traffic controllers lost radar contact just before 12:30 P.M. when it was flying at 2,500 feet. A company from the Atlanta area was brought in to remove the wreckage from the side of the mountain. Investigators are taking the remains of the plane to a facility in Atlanta to be examined.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 1:28 PM
Jenkins Rest Home Director Arrested
KENTUCKY...
Former Letcher County personal care home director, 68 year old James "Chum" Tackett, has been arrested on a 74-count indictment for allegedly stealing federal and state funds totaling nearly $500,000 which was to be used for the care of disabled residents at the Golden Years Rest Home in Jenkins. A Letcher County grand jury indicted Tackett on 66 counts of theft by failure to make required disposition over $500,a Class D felony. Golden Years Rest Home, Inc., is named in each of the counts as a co-defendant. The grand jury also indicted Tackett's daughter, 42-year-old Kimberly Price of Booneville, Ky., on one count of complicity to theft by failure to make required disposition of property over $10,000, three counts of complicity to theft by failure to make required disposition over $500 and two counts of complicity to knowing exploitation of an adult over 300. Price served as chairperson of the board of directors at Golden Years Rest Home. The arrest of Tackett and Price follow a nearly seven-month investigation by Department of Criminal Investigations. The charges carry a penalty of up to 20 years in prison and fines of up to $100,000.
Former Letcher County personal care home director, 68 year old James "Chum" Tackett, has been arrested on a 74-count indictment for allegedly stealing federal and state funds totaling nearly $500,000 which was to be used for the care of disabled residents at the Golden Years Rest Home in Jenkins. A Letcher County grand jury indicted Tackett on 66 counts of theft by failure to make required disposition over $500,a Class D felony. Golden Years Rest Home, Inc., is named in each of the counts as a co-defendant. The grand jury also indicted Tackett's daughter, 42-year-old Kimberly Price of Booneville, Ky., on one count of complicity to theft by failure to make required disposition of property over $10,000, three counts of complicity to theft by failure to make required disposition over $500 and two counts of complicity to knowing exploitation of an adult over 300. Price served as chairperson of the board of directors at Golden Years Rest Home. The arrest of Tackett and Price follow a nearly seven-month investigation by Department of Criminal Investigations. The charges carry a penalty of up to 20 years in prison and fines of up to $100,000.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:50 AM
Kentucky Derby Could Have Muddy Track
KENTUCKY...
Derby patrons should expect lots of rain Saturday with thunderstorms that could produce hail and strong winds. Depending on timing, this could turn out to be a miserable Derby. The track could muddy. Umbrellas are not permitted into the track on Derby Day. Periods of heavy rain and strong thunderstorms are expected to move into the region tonight and stick around through the weekend, according to a special statement by the National Weather Service. The weather service is reporting “two episodes” of severe weather — Friday night into Saturday morning and late Saturday into Sunday morning — that could cause some flooding with 2 to 4 inches of rain expected to fall during that time.
Derby patrons should expect lots of rain Saturday with thunderstorms that could produce hail and strong winds. Depending on timing, this could turn out to be a miserable Derby. The track could muddy. Umbrellas are not permitted into the track on Derby Day. Periods of heavy rain and strong thunderstorms are expected to move into the region tonight and stick around through the weekend, according to a special statement by the National Weather Service. The weather service is reporting “two episodes” of severe weather — Friday night into Saturday morning and late Saturday into Sunday morning — that could cause some flooding with 2 to 4 inches of rain expected to fall during that time.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:39 AM
KACO Gives Pike County Dividend Check
KENTUCKY...
The Pike County Fiscal Court received a $91,625.72 check from the Kentucky Association of Counties prior to its regular meaning last Tuesday.The money is a dividend payment from KACo’s All Lines Fund (KALF), which provides property and casualty insurance coverage to county governments and other political subdivisions across Kentucky. McLean County Judge-Executive and chair of the KALF board Larry Whitaker said now is the right time to pay this dividend to counties. Pike County Judge-Executive Wayne T Rutherford thanked KACo, KALF and Chuck Damron, the county’s insurance consultant.
The Pike County Fiscal Court received a $91,625.72 check from the Kentucky Association of Counties prior to its regular meaning last Tuesday.The money is a dividend payment from KACo’s All Lines Fund (KALF), which provides property and casualty insurance coverage to county governments and other political subdivisions across Kentucky. McLean County Judge-Executive and chair of the KALF board Larry Whitaker said now is the right time to pay this dividend to counties. Pike County Judge-Executive Wayne T Rutherford thanked KACo, KALF and Chuck Damron, the county’s insurance consultant.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:32 AM
Perry County Man Seeks To Withdraw Guilty Plea
KENTUCKY...
A Perry County man who in March pled guilty to kidnapping and sodomizing a teen was in court again last week in an attempt to withdraw his guilty plea and fire his attorney. Brett Combs, 19, of Hazard, was one of four men indicted on charges that they held a male juvenile at knifepoint and sexually abused him in 2009. During his appearance in court last week, Combs said his appointed attorney, Linda West, had intimidated him into taking a plea deal for a 15-year sentence. In his motion heard before the court, Combs said West misrepresented him and he moved to withdraw his previous guilty plea and represent himself in further court proceedings, though he later noted orally in court that he did not want to represent himself. According to Combs, West had told him he could get more than 50 years in prison if his case goes to trial. But according to West, she was merely informing her client of the possible sentence he could receive if he had gone to trial and been found guilty.
A Perry County man who in March pled guilty to kidnapping and sodomizing a teen was in court again last week in an attempt to withdraw his guilty plea and fire his attorney. Brett Combs, 19, of Hazard, was one of four men indicted on charges that they held a male juvenile at knifepoint and sexually abused him in 2009. During his appearance in court last week, Combs said his appointed attorney, Linda West, had intimidated him into taking a plea deal for a 15-year sentence. In his motion heard before the court, Combs said West misrepresented him and he moved to withdraw his previous guilty plea and represent himself in further court proceedings, though he later noted orally in court that he did not want to represent himself. According to Combs, West had told him he could get more than 50 years in prison if his case goes to trial. But according to West, she was merely informing her client of the possible sentence he could receive if he had gone to trial and been found guilty.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:21 AM
Fayette County Man Suspected Of Stealing Marriage Licenses
KENTUCKY...
A grand jury has accused a Lexington man of taking 149 marriage licenses from the Fayette County clerk's office. Indicted on four counts of tampering with public records is 51-year-old William Bush Jr. Police said last year they recovered more than 1,000 licenses from six counties at the homes of Bush's daughter and mother.
Court records say the four counts in Fayette County against Bush stem from an incident or incidents last July. His arraignment is scheduled for May 7. Bush told police he was a contract worker for Pro Data Research of Burlington, N.C., and that he gathered information from public documents for the company, which sells mortgage insurance. One police officer speculated at the time that perhaps Bush didn't want to pay copying fees charged by the clerks' offices.
A grand jury has accused a Lexington man of taking 149 marriage licenses from the Fayette County clerk's office. Indicted on four counts of tampering with public records is 51-year-old William Bush Jr. Police said last year they recovered more than 1,000 licenses from six counties at the homes of Bush's daughter and mother.
Court records say the four counts in Fayette County against Bush stem from an incident or incidents last July. His arraignment is scheduled for May 7. Bush told police he was a contract worker for Pro Data Research of Burlington, N.C., and that he gathered information from public documents for the company, which sells mortgage insurance. One police officer speculated at the time that perhaps Bush didn't want to pay copying fees charged by the clerks' offices.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:17 AM
Kentucky Officials On Alert For Election Fraud
KENTUCKY...
Federal and state investigators will be monitoring the May 18 primary election for voter fraud. Secretary of State Trey Grayson and Attorney General Jack Conway appeared together at a news conference on Wednesday to say election fraud won't be tolerated in Kentucky. Grayson called on Kentucky citizens to report any suspicious activities they see at the polls on Election Day. Conway said he would have investigators randomly patrolling precincts and polling places to watch for improprieties. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ken Taylor said voter fraud perverts democracy. He said anyone involved in election fraud this year will be subject to federal or state prosecution.
Federal and state investigators will be monitoring the May 18 primary election for voter fraud. Secretary of State Trey Grayson and Attorney General Jack Conway appeared together at a news conference on Wednesday to say election fraud won't be tolerated in Kentucky. Grayson called on Kentucky citizens to report any suspicious activities they see at the polls on Election Day. Conway said he would have investigators randomly patrolling precincts and polling places to watch for improprieties. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ken Taylor said voter fraud perverts democracy. He said anyone involved in election fraud this year will be subject to federal or state prosecution.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:14 AM
Kentucky Mining Accident
KENTUCKY...
Kentucky is now the scene of a mining accident. Emergency crews responded to the scene of an accident at the Dotiki Mine at the Hopkins/Webster County line near Nebo, about 150 miles west of Louisville. Following on the heels of the Upper Big Branch mine disaster in West Virginia, families awaited anxiously for word on trapped miners. According to a statement released by the mine Thursday morning, the accident happened around 10 o'clock Wednesday night. Mine officials say two underground mine employees were trapped when a piece of the mine's roof fell unexpectedly. Those miners were about five miles from the entrance. Officials with the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) and the Kentucky Office of Mine Safety and Licensing were on the scene to help with the rescue effort. The mine, which is owned by Alliance Coal, covers more than 100 acres and employs more than 300 miners.
Kentucky is now the scene of a mining accident. Emergency crews responded to the scene of an accident at the Dotiki Mine at the Hopkins/Webster County line near Nebo, about 150 miles west of Louisville. Following on the heels of the Upper Big Branch mine disaster in West Virginia, families awaited anxiously for word on trapped miners. According to a statement released by the mine Thursday morning, the accident happened around 10 o'clock Wednesday night. Mine officials say two underground mine employees were trapped when a piece of the mine's roof fell unexpectedly. Those miners were about five miles from the entrance. Officials with the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) and the Kentucky Office of Mine Safety and Licensing were on the scene to help with the rescue effort. The mine, which is owned by Alliance Coal, covers more than 100 acres and employs more than 300 miners.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:07 AM
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Beshear Signs Amanda's Bill
KENTUCKY....
Wednesday, Governor Steve Beshear ceremonially signed House Bill 1, Amanda’s Bill, into law. The law allows judges to order those who violate a domestic violence order to wear a global positioning system tracking device which would alert victims and police if alleged abusers get too close. It also extends the continuance of an unserved emergency protective order for six months, rather than the current 90 days. Abusers would be required to stay up to 500 feet away from their victims, and felony charges could be pressed against violators who attempt to remove a court-ordered tracking device.
Wednesday, Governor Steve Beshear ceremonially signed House Bill 1, Amanda’s Bill, into law. The law allows judges to order those who violate a domestic violence order to wear a global positioning system tracking device which would alert victims and police if alleged abusers get too close. It also extends the continuance of an unserved emergency protective order for six months, rather than the current 90 days. Abusers would be required to stay up to 500 feet away from their victims, and felony charges could be pressed against violators who attempt to remove a court-ordered tracking device.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:34 PM
Ky. Mine Operations Sued
KENTUCKY....
The Federal Mine Safety and Health Act prohibits permitting notice of inspections to be communicated from surface operations of mines to persons working underground. The Department of Labor is asking a judge to bar the Manalapan Mining Co.'s RB No. 12 mine in Harlan County and its subsidiary, Left Fork Mining Co.'s Straight Creek No. 1 mine in Bell County from warning underground miners when federal officials arrive for inspections. Federal inspectors say workers at the mines could be heard over the radio system alerting miners of the inspectors' arrival during a visit on April 19th. The complaint was filed the same day MSHA secretary Joe Main, told lawmakers in Washington that federal officials will begin shutting down mines that habitually ignore safety.
The Federal Mine Safety and Health Act prohibits permitting notice of inspections to be communicated from surface operations of mines to persons working underground. The Department of Labor is asking a judge to bar the Manalapan Mining Co.'s RB No. 12 mine in Harlan County and its subsidiary, Left Fork Mining Co.'s Straight Creek No. 1 mine in Bell County from warning underground miners when federal officials arrive for inspections. Federal inspectors say workers at the mines could be heard over the radio system alerting miners of the inspectors' arrival during a visit on April 19th. The complaint was filed the same day MSHA secretary Joe Main, told lawmakers in Washington that federal officials will begin shutting down mines that habitually ignore safety.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:32 PM
U.K. Employee Indicted
KENTUCKY....
University of Kentucky administrator and educator, 67 year old Robert S. Tannenbaum is scheduled to be arraigned in Fayette Circuit Court on May 7th after being indicted this week on four counts of incest. According to court documents, the incidents occurred between August 1, 1998, and June 30, 1999. Tannenbaum was placed on administrative leave following his arrested last month. He pleaded not guilty and was released on bond. He has been a UK employee since 1991.
University of Kentucky administrator and educator, 67 year old Robert S. Tannenbaum is scheduled to be arraigned in Fayette Circuit Court on May 7th after being indicted this week on four counts of incest. According to court documents, the incidents occurred between August 1, 1998, and June 30, 1999. Tannenbaum was placed on administrative leave following his arrested last month. He pleaded not guilty and was released on bond. He has been a UK employee since 1991.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:29 PM
Beshear Warns Lawmakers To Make A Choice
KENTUCKY....
Nearly two weeks after the 2010 legislative session has ended, House and Senate negotiators remain at odds over the state budget. Senate President David Williams said Wednesday he has remained at the Capitol since the legislative session ended on April 15th, and no significant headway has been made. Governor Steve Beshear called Wednesday for lawmakers to draft a budget that includes no new taxes and doesn't increase the state's debt unless they pinpoint a revenue source to pay for it. The governor called on negotiators to work diligently to avoid "a potentially cataclysmic impact" on state government and the people it serves. Beshear said, "As governor, I'm not taking sides with the House or the Senate. Right now, we only have two choices: Bad choices and worse choices. But it is time to make those choices."
Nearly two weeks after the 2010 legislative session has ended, House and Senate negotiators remain at odds over the state budget. Senate President David Williams said Wednesday he has remained at the Capitol since the legislative session ended on April 15th, and no significant headway has been made. Governor Steve Beshear called Wednesday for lawmakers to draft a budget that includes no new taxes and doesn't increase the state's debt unless they pinpoint a revenue source to pay for it. The governor called on negotiators to work diligently to avoid "a potentially cataclysmic impact" on state government and the people it serves. Beshear said, "As governor, I'm not taking sides with the House or the Senate. Right now, we only have two choices: Bad choices and worse choices. But it is time to make those choices."
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:26 PM
Governor Beshear Sounds The Alarm About The Budget
KENTUCKY...
If the General Assembly fails to pass a budget by July 1, some vital state services will be forced to close. Governor Steve Beshear instructed Cabinet secretaries to begin planning for a partial shutdown if the legislature does not meet that deadline. In addition, he sent a letter to all members of the General Assembly outlining areas that may be impacted by a partial shutdown. This is the first time in Kentucky’s history that state services could be shuttered due to a lack of an enacted budget. A 2005 Kentucky Supreme Court decision (Fletcher v. Commonwealth) holds that the only expenditures allowable are those mandated by the Kentucky Constitution, the federal government or state statute.
If the General Assembly fails to pass a budget by July 1, some vital state services will be forced to close. Governor Steve Beshear instructed Cabinet secretaries to begin planning for a partial shutdown if the legislature does not meet that deadline. In addition, he sent a letter to all members of the General Assembly outlining areas that may be impacted by a partial shutdown. This is the first time in Kentucky’s history that state services could be shuttered due to a lack of an enacted budget. A 2005 Kentucky Supreme Court decision (Fletcher v. Commonwealth) holds that the only expenditures allowable are those mandated by the Kentucky Constitution, the federal government or state statute.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 3:42 PM
Highway Fatalities Report
KENTUCKY...
Statistics indicate nine people died in eight separate crashes on Kentucky roadways last week. All of the crashes involved motor vehicles. . The suspected use of alcohol was a factor in the Morgan and Webster County crashes. One double-fatality crash occurred in Bath County and both victims were wearing seat belts. 203 people have lost their lives on Kentucky roadways during 2010. This is 43 less fatalities than reported for the same time period in 2009.Citizens can contribute to highway safety by reporting erratic drivers to the Kentucky State Police toll-free at 1-800-222-5555. Callers will remain anonymous and should give a description of the vehicle, location, direction of travel and license number if possible.
Statistics indicate nine people died in eight separate crashes on Kentucky roadways last week. All of the crashes involved motor vehicles. . The suspected use of alcohol was a factor in the Morgan and Webster County crashes. One double-fatality crash occurred in Bath County and both victims were wearing seat belts. 203 people have lost their lives on Kentucky roadways during 2010. This is 43 less fatalities than reported for the same time period in 2009.Citizens can contribute to highway safety by reporting erratic drivers to the Kentucky State Police toll-free at 1-800-222-5555. Callers will remain anonymous and should give a description of the vehicle, location, direction of travel and license number if possible.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 3:20 PM
Downed Plane Investigation Continues
KENTUCKY...
An investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board into the crash of a Hawker Beechcraft 58 which occurred in a remote area of the Daniel Boone National Forest continues. When air traffic controllers lost radar contact with the plane just before 12:30 P.M. Tuesday, it was flying at 2,500 feet about 15 miles southwest of Hazard. Wednesday, Dr. Emily Craig of the state Medical Examiner's Office was at the crash site, which is between Chandler Branch and Ulysses Creek roads near the community of Sizerock in western Leslie County. Coroners from other counties also came to help with the work of confirming the number of victims and their identities. Leslie County emergency management director James Couch says the plane, which had been traveling from Frederick, Md., to Olive Branch, Miss., does not appear to have clipped trees before crashing.
An investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board into the crash of a Hawker Beechcraft 58 which occurred in a remote area of the Daniel Boone National Forest continues. When air traffic controllers lost radar contact with the plane just before 12:30 P.M. Tuesday, it was flying at 2,500 feet about 15 miles southwest of Hazard. Wednesday, Dr. Emily Craig of the state Medical Examiner's Office was at the crash site, which is between Chandler Branch and Ulysses Creek roads near the community of Sizerock in western Leslie County. Coroners from other counties also came to help with the work of confirming the number of victims and their identities. Leslie County emergency management director James Couch says the plane, which had been traveling from Frederick, Md., to Olive Branch, Miss., does not appear to have clipped trees before crashing.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 3:05 PM
Boot Camp For Energy Ideas
KENTUCKY...
Energy-related researchers, inventors and entrepreneurs in Kentucky are being recruited for classroom-style sessions that offer training and mentoring. The Kentucky Highlands Energy Business Boot Camp accepting applications through May 28. The event focuses on assisting participants to create a fundable, sustainable and profitable business model that will help create jobs in alternative and renewable energy venture. Entrepreneurs can be located anywhere in eastern Kentucky as long as they are able to attend the four sessions in London, KY. Classes will be held in June, July, August and September at Kentucky Highlands Investment Corp. in London. Previous boot camp participants have leveraged the experience to gain additional funding.
Energy-related researchers, inventors and entrepreneurs in Kentucky are being recruited for classroom-style sessions that offer training and mentoring. The Kentucky Highlands Energy Business Boot Camp accepting applications through May 28. The event focuses on assisting participants to create a fundable, sustainable and profitable business model that will help create jobs in alternative and renewable energy venture. Entrepreneurs can be located anywhere in eastern Kentucky as long as they are able to attend the four sessions in London, KY. Classes will be held in June, July, August and September at Kentucky Highlands Investment Corp. in London. Previous boot camp participants have leveraged the experience to gain additional funding.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 2:06 PM
Dilapidated House Demolished
KENTUCKY...
In accordance with Pike County's nuisance ordinance, a dilapidated house located at 483 Shelby Yard was torn down on Tuesday. Pike County Judge-Executive Wayne T. Rutherford, District 4 Magistrate Kenneth Robinson and Deputy Solid Waste Commissioner Mike Lyons were on hand as demolition took place. The house is one of nearly 75 to be torn down since the Pike County Fiscal Court adopted the nuisance ordinance and 32 more are scheduled for demolition in the near future.
In accordance with Pike County's nuisance ordinance, a dilapidated house located at 483 Shelby Yard was torn down on Tuesday. Pike County Judge-Executive Wayne T. Rutherford, District 4 Magistrate Kenneth Robinson and Deputy Solid Waste Commissioner Mike Lyons were on hand as demolition took place. The house is one of nearly 75 to be torn down since the Pike County Fiscal Court adopted the nuisance ordinance and 32 more are scheduled for demolition in the near future.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:59 AM
Mountain Parkway Traffic
KENTUCKY...
Weather permitting, a new traffic pattern will go into effect on the Bert T. Combs Mountain Parkway on Tuesday, May 4th, in the vicinity of the construction project near Exit 43. Watch for posted instructions and abide by the directions.
Weather permitting, a new traffic pattern will go into effect on the Bert T. Combs Mountain Parkway on Tuesday, May 4th, in the vicinity of the construction project near Exit 43. Watch for posted instructions and abide by the directions.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:56 AM
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Verizon To Hire W. Va. Workers
WEST VIRGINIA....
Verizon Communications has announced it plans to hire 240 full-time employees in West Virginia for jobs paying from $10 to $31 an hour that will cover a wide range of work, from sales to customer service. Applicants should be willing to work all shifts, including holidays, and can apply online at www.verizon.com/careers.
Verizon Communications has announced it plans to hire 240 full-time employees in West Virginia for jobs paying from $10 to $31 an hour that will cover a wide range of work, from sales to customer service. Applicants should be willing to work all shifts, including holidays, and can apply online at www.verizon.com/careers.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:56 PM
Kenova Man Pleads Guilty To Ky. Murders
WEST VIRGINIA....
To avoid a six weeks triple murder trial that would have begun in Johnson County next week, Robert Drown of Kenova has pleaded guilty to murder charges and other counts of first degree rape, first degree arson and first degree burglary. The plea was made Tuesday morning during a hearing in Carter County Circuit Court. Drown was charged for the deaths of 31 year old Jennifer Ison, a former nurse at Cabell Huntington Hospital, and her two young daughters, 10-year-old Shannah and 3-year-old Marissa. Prosecutors say Drown strangled Jennifer Ison to death, while Shannah died of blunt force trauma and Marissa died in the fire Drown set. Their bodies were found in a burned-out mobile home in Carter County in May 2007. The plea bargain removes consideration for the Kentucky death penalty. He is scheduled to be sentenced to life in prison without parole at a hearing in Carter County on May 4th.
To avoid a six weeks triple murder trial that would have begun in Johnson County next week, Robert Drown of Kenova has pleaded guilty to murder charges and other counts of first degree rape, first degree arson and first degree burglary. The plea was made Tuesday morning during a hearing in Carter County Circuit Court. Drown was charged for the deaths of 31 year old Jennifer Ison, a former nurse at Cabell Huntington Hospital, and her two young daughters, 10-year-old Shannah and 3-year-old Marissa. Prosecutors say Drown strangled Jennifer Ison to death, while Shannah died of blunt force trauma and Marissa died in the fire Drown set. Their bodies were found in a burned-out mobile home in Carter County in May 2007. The plea bargain removes consideration for the Kentucky death penalty. He is scheduled to be sentenced to life in prison without parole at a hearing in Carter County on May 4th.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:45 PM
Mingo County Man Convicted In Retrial
WEST VIRGINIA....
Following nine hours of deliberation, a federal jury in Charleston has convicted 60 year old George Lecco of all 12 counts against him, with three of those charges carrying the federal death penalty. Lecco was charged with ordering and arranging the slaying of drug informant 33 year old Carla Collins who was shot to death and beaten while inside a vacant mobile home on Double Camp Hollow in April 2005. Prosecutors claimed Lecco asked Patricia Burton and Valerie Friend to kill Collins in order to protect a cocaine operation the he operated out of the Pizza Plus in Red Jacket.
Following nine hours of deliberation, a federal jury in Charleston has convicted 60 year old George Lecco of all 12 counts against him, with three of those charges carrying the federal death penalty. Lecco was charged with ordering and arranging the slaying of drug informant 33 year old Carla Collins who was shot to death and beaten while inside a vacant mobile home on Double Camp Hollow in April 2005. Prosecutors claimed Lecco asked Patricia Burton and Valerie Friend to kill Collins in order to protect a cocaine operation the he operated out of the Pizza Plus in Red Jacket.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:44 PM
Environmentalists Sue Massey
WEST VIRGINIA....
The Sierra Club, the Ohio Valley Environmental Coalition, Coal River Mountain Watch, and the West Virginia Highlands Conservancy have sued five Massey Energy Co. subsidiaries, Elk Run Coal Co., Independence Coal Co., Marfork Coal Co., Peerless Eagle Coal Co. and Power Mountain Coal Co. The suit says the five subsidiaries have dumped toxic aluminum into waterways from as many as 16 mines in West Virginia. The environmental groups claim Massey companies racked up 3,307 days of permit violations from April 2008 through December 2009 through 255 illegal discharges.
The Sierra Club, the Ohio Valley Environmental Coalition, Coal River Mountain Watch, and the West Virginia Highlands Conservancy have sued five Massey Energy Co. subsidiaries, Elk Run Coal Co., Independence Coal Co., Marfork Coal Co., Peerless Eagle Coal Co. and Power Mountain Coal Co. The suit says the five subsidiaries have dumped toxic aluminum into waterways from as many as 16 mines in West Virginia. The environmental groups claim Massey companies racked up 3,307 days of permit violations from April 2008 through December 2009 through 255 illegal discharges.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:43 PM
MSHA Temporarily Evacuated Massey Mines
WEST VIRGINIA....
MSHA officials say recently they temporarily evacuated three Massey Energy coal mines after receiving anonymous safety complaints and conducting surprise inspections which resulted in multiple citations for serious violations. An evacuation at Independence Coal Co.'s Cook Mine in Boone County came just four days after the April 5th explosion at the Upper Big Branch Mine. MSHA says, on March 24th, it found serious problems at Spartan Mining Co.'s Road Fork No. 51 Mine in Wyoming County and at Inman Energy's Randolph Mine in Boone County.
MSHA officials say recently they temporarily evacuated three Massey Energy coal mines after receiving anonymous safety complaints and conducting surprise inspections which resulted in multiple citations for serious violations. An evacuation at Independence Coal Co.'s Cook Mine in Boone County came just four days after the April 5th explosion at the Upper Big Branch Mine. MSHA says, on March 24th, it found serious problems at Spartan Mining Co.'s Road Fork No. 51 Mine in Wyoming County and at Inman Energy's Randolph Mine in Boone County.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:41 PM
Huntington Considers Tax Structuring
WEST VIRGINIA....
Huntington City Council members met Monday night to hear the reading of an ordinance meant to change Huntington's fee and tax structure by replacing the city's $3 user fee with a 1-percent occupation income tax and restructuring the tax collection system so that it's not all just fee based. The changes would be made through the home rule legislation passed by the State Legislature which estimated the tax could generate $8-11 million in new revenue for the city.
Huntington City Council members met Monday night to hear the reading of an ordinance meant to change Huntington's fee and tax structure by replacing the city's $3 user fee with a 1-percent occupation income tax and restructuring the tax collection system so that it's not all just fee based. The changes would be made through the home rule legislation passed by the State Legislature which estimated the tax could generate $8-11 million in new revenue for the city.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:40 PM
Former Hancock County Jailer Charged
WEST VIRGINIA....
Thirty-five year old Julie Smith of Weirton, a former Hancock County jailer charged with conspiring to deliver drugs, was arraigned Monday. Investigators say, on January 12th, she and two other women worked to deliver Percocet to a man in Weirton. Sheriff Mike White says Smith was immediately suspended without pay, investigated and fired several days later. After pleading not guilty, Smith was freed on $5,000 bond.
Thirty-five year old Julie Smith of Weirton, a former Hancock County jailer charged with conspiring to deliver drugs, was arraigned Monday. Investigators say, on January 12th, she and two other women worked to deliver Percocet to a man in Weirton. Sheriff Mike White says Smith was immediately suspended without pay, investigated and fired several days later. After pleading not guilty, Smith was freed on $5,000 bond.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:27 PM
KSP Investigating Martin County Homicide
KENTUCKY....
KSP spokesman Trooper Mike Goble has confirmed the death of 46 year old Gregory Moore of Lovely is being investigated as a homicide. An autopsy showed that Moore died of a gunshot to the head. Moore was found dead inside his home around 1:00 P.M. Monday after being seen in the community the previous evening. KSP say they have little information, and it's unclear when he was shot. Detective Jason Dials is investigating. Anyone with information may call the Pikeville state police post at (606) 433-7711 or KSP at 1-800-222-5555.
KSP spokesman Trooper Mike Goble has confirmed the death of 46 year old Gregory Moore of Lovely is being investigated as a homicide. An autopsy showed that Moore died of a gunshot to the head. Moore was found dead inside his home around 1:00 P.M. Monday after being seen in the community the previous evening. KSP say they have little information, and it's unclear when he was shot. Detective Jason Dials is investigating. Anyone with information may call the Pikeville state police post at (606) 433-7711 or KSP at 1-800-222-5555.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:26 PM
Sentencing Set For Floyd County Man
KENTUCKY....
Robie Lee Miller of Martin is set to be sentenced on May 20th after accepting a deal and pleading guilty to manslaughter. Police say, in March of 2009, Miller fatally shot 27 year old John Salisbury twice during an argument on a strip mine in the Hippo community of Floyd County. The commonwealth's attorney says Miller has agreed to a 20 year sentence.
Robie Lee Miller of Martin is set to be sentenced on May 20th after accepting a deal and pleading guilty to manslaughter. Police say, in March of 2009, Miller fatally shot 27 year old John Salisbury twice during an argument on a strip mine in the Hippo community of Floyd County. The commonwealth's attorney says Miller has agreed to a 20 year sentence.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:25 PM
Pike County Bus Driver Undergoing Rehabilitation
KENTUCKY....
Peggy Childers, a Pike County school bus driver seriously injured last month is being released from the UK Medical Center this week, but must stay in Lexington for rehabilitation. Childers was driving in front of the Millard School on U.S. 460 when the bus was hit by a gravel truck driven by Kendall Slusher of Salyersville. Slusher had been heading west when he lost control and crossed the center line, hitting the driver's side of the bus. Childers has undergone several surgeries but still cannot walk.
Peggy Childers, a Pike County school bus driver seriously injured last month is being released from the UK Medical Center this week, but must stay in Lexington for rehabilitation. Childers was driving in front of the Millard School on U.S. 460 when the bus was hit by a gravel truck driven by Kendall Slusher of Salyersville. Slusher had been heading west when he lost control and crossed the center line, hitting the driver's side of the bus. Childers has undergone several surgeries but still cannot walk.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:24 PM
Plane Crashes Near Leslie-Clay County Line
KENTUCKY....
A Beechcraft Baron plane crashed in a remote wooded area in the Jason community near Hollins Fork Road near the Leslie-Clay County line Tuesday afternoon. The plane was en route to Olive Branch, Mississippi from Fredrick, Maryland when FAA lost radar contact just after 12:30 PM. Searchers included the northwestern Leslie County Emergency Operations Center, ground teams from Civil Air Patrol and the Kentucky State Police.
A Beechcraft Baron plane crashed in a remote wooded area in the Jason community near Hollins Fork Road near the Leslie-Clay County line Tuesday afternoon. The plane was en route to Olive Branch, Mississippi from Fredrick, Maryland when FAA lost radar contact just after 12:30 PM. Searchers included the northwestern Leslie County Emergency Operations Center, ground teams from Civil Air Patrol and the Kentucky State Police.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:22 PM
Drug Charge Heats Up Harlan County Election
KENTUCKY....
It seems allegations of drug trafficking by an incumbent has the Harlan County judge-executive's race heated up. Last week, Harlan County Circuit Judge Russell Alred ordered a special grand jury be impaneled to investigate alleged illegal drug trafficking allegations against Judge-Executive Joe Grieshop who has been in office since 1999. Grieshop alleges he is innocent of any wrongdoing, and the allegation is purely political. Commonwealth's Attorney Henry Johnson said he expects to have to go outside the county to find an impartial jury, and he doesn't expect a jury would be able to decide before the May 18th primary whether to indict. Alred's second cousin, Denny Pace, is running against Grieshop in the primary. Alred says accusations that politics are behind the evidence or his decision to impanel the grand jury are "completely ridiculous."
It seems allegations of drug trafficking by an incumbent has the Harlan County judge-executive's race heated up. Last week, Harlan County Circuit Judge Russell Alred ordered a special grand jury be impaneled to investigate alleged illegal drug trafficking allegations against Judge-Executive Joe Grieshop who has been in office since 1999. Grieshop alleges he is innocent of any wrongdoing, and the allegation is purely political. Commonwealth's Attorney Henry Johnson said he expects to have to go outside the county to find an impartial jury, and he doesn't expect a jury would be able to decide before the May 18th primary whether to indict. Alred's second cousin, Denny Pace, is running against Grieshop in the primary. Alred says accusations that politics are behind the evidence or his decision to impanel the grand jury are "completely ridiculous."
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:20 PM
Prosecutors O.K. Sypher Trial Delay
KENTUCKY....
Federal prosecutors aren't objecting to a defense request to delay the extortion trial of Karen Cunagin Sypher...moving it from June 1st to no earlier than July 1st. Assistant U.S. Attorney John Kuhn Jr. says the request is reasonable. Sypher is accused of trying to extort money from University of Louisville men's basketball coach Rick Pitino and lying to the FBI. However, government prosecutors oppose a change of venue which is now before U.S. District Court Judge Charles R. Simpson III.
Federal prosecutors aren't objecting to a defense request to delay the extortion trial of Karen Cunagin Sypher...moving it from June 1st to no earlier than July 1st. Assistant U.S. Attorney John Kuhn Jr. says the request is reasonable. Sypher is accused of trying to extort money from University of Louisville men's basketball coach Rick Pitino and lying to the FBI. However, government prosecutors oppose a change of venue which is now before U.S. District Court Judge Charles R. Simpson III.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:19 PM
Monday, April 26, 2010
Massey News Conference
WEST VIRGINIA....
Reporters from across the country gathered at the Charleston Civic Center Monday to question Massey Energy officials about the April 5th explosion at the Upper Big Branch Mine. According to Massey board member Stan Suboleski, MSHA and Massey had a professional disagreement, dating back to September 2009, over the proper way to ventilate the longwall section where an explosion killed 29 coal miners. Massey says MSHA had the final say. Massey officials caution however, it's unclear if ventilation had anything to do with the fatal explosion. Suboleski said samples taken by a foreman as part of a shift change just minutes before the blast showed that airflow in the mine was normal...did not show high levels of methane or other gases.
During the news conference, retired Navy Admiral Bobby Inman, a member of the Massey Energy Board of Directors, called a claim that his company puts profits ahead of safety "The Big Lie." He says the first time the allegation was raised was by a plaintiff's attorney, and the next four times such a claim was made were twice by the president of the AFL-CIO, once by United Mine Workers President Cecil Roberts, and finally by President Barrack Obama. Inman says Massey has spent more than $45 million on safety features in its mines above what is required by the Mine Safety and Health Administration. Don Blankenship, Massey Chairman and CEO, added to those comments by saying Massey has actually been a leader in the coal mining industry with researching improved safety methods while their engineers helped develop safety technology in the last 20 years from everything from air flow to the reflective clothing worn by miners. Blankenship said, "All of those innovations came from Massey and 20 years of effort to put safety in front of everything else. Anyone that suggests anything to the contrary is totally wrong."
Reporters from across the country gathered at the Charleston Civic Center Monday to question Massey Energy officials about the April 5th explosion at the Upper Big Branch Mine. According to Massey board member Stan Suboleski, MSHA and Massey had a professional disagreement, dating back to September 2009, over the proper way to ventilate the longwall section where an explosion killed 29 coal miners. Massey says MSHA had the final say. Massey officials caution however, it's unclear if ventilation had anything to do with the fatal explosion. Suboleski said samples taken by a foreman as part of a shift change just minutes before the blast showed that airflow in the mine was normal...did not show high levels of methane or other gases.
During the news conference, retired Navy Admiral Bobby Inman, a member of the Massey Energy Board of Directors, called a claim that his company puts profits ahead of safety "The Big Lie." He says the first time the allegation was raised was by a plaintiff's attorney, and the next four times such a claim was made were twice by the president of the AFL-CIO, once by United Mine Workers President Cecil Roberts, and finally by President Barrack Obama. Inman says Massey has spent more than $45 million on safety features in its mines above what is required by the Mine Safety and Health Administration. Don Blankenship, Massey Chairman and CEO, added to those comments by saying Massey has actually been a leader in the coal mining industry with researching improved safety methods while their engineers helped develop safety technology in the last 20 years from everything from air flow to the reflective clothing worn by miners. Blankenship said, "All of those innovations came from Massey and 20 years of effort to put safety in front of everything else. Anyone that suggests anything to the contrary is totally wrong."
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:57 PM
United Mine Workers To Aid UBB Investigation
WEST VIRGINIA....
The United Mine Workers of America announced Monday it has been asked to represent some miners by taking part in the investigation into the April 5th explosion that killed 29 miners at the nonunion Upper Big Branch mine in West Virginia. United Mine Worker President Cecil Roberts says the union was officially designated a miners' representative for at least two miners who work at the Montcoal mine late Friday and given access to the property and will be a full participant in the investigation, just as it was after the 2006 Sago Mine disaster. Neither Massey nor the federal Mine Safety and Health Administration is challenging the union's role, nor did Massey stop a UMW representative from entering the property Friday.
The United Mine Workers of America announced Monday it has been asked to represent some miners by taking part in the investigation into the April 5th explosion that killed 29 miners at the nonunion Upper Big Branch mine in West Virginia. United Mine Worker President Cecil Roberts says the union was officially designated a miners' representative for at least two miners who work at the Montcoal mine late Friday and given access to the property and will be a full participant in the investigation, just as it was after the 2006 Sago Mine disaster. Neither Massey nor the federal Mine Safety and Health Administration is challenging the union's role, nor did Massey stop a UMW representative from entering the property Friday.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:56 PM
Sentencing Delayed For Former Ripley High School Secretary
WEST VIRGINIA....
Sentencing for Robin Wise, former Financial Secretary at Ripley High School, was delayed Monday after a Jackson County judge ordered a 60 day evaluation for her. Wise pleaded guilty in February to a charge of embezzlement after being accused of stealing more than $52,000 in 2008.
Sentencing for Robin Wise, former Financial Secretary at Ripley High School, was delayed Monday after a Jackson County judge ordered a 60 day evaluation for her. Wise pleaded guilty in February to a charge of embezzlement after being accused of stealing more than $52,000 in 2008.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:55 PM
Huntington Speedway Robbed
WEST VIRGINIA....
Huntington Police say a white male suspect, in his 30s, around 5’7”, 220 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes, entered the Speedway in the 2500 block of 5th Street Road around 12:15 A.M. Monday morning, put on a black mask, pulled out a handgun and demanded money before he fled the store toward Lavalette in an unknown type of vehicle.
Huntington Police say a white male suspect, in his 30s, around 5’7”, 220 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes, entered the Speedway in the 2500 block of 5th Street Road around 12:15 A.M. Monday morning, put on a black mask, pulled out a handgun and demanded money before he fled the store toward Lavalette in an unknown type of vehicle.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:54 PM
Huntington Speedway Robbed
WEST VIRGINIA....
Huntington Police say a white male suspect, in his 30s, around 5’7”, 220 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes, entered the Speedway in the 2500 block of 5th Street Road around 12:15 A.M. Monday morning, put on a black mask, pulled out a handgun and demanded money before he fled the store toward Lavalette in an unknown type of vehicle.
Huntington Police say a white male suspect, in his 30s, around 5’7”, 220 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes, entered the Speedway in the 2500 block of 5th Street Road around 12:15 A.M. Monday morning, put on a black mask, pulled out a handgun and demanded money before he fled the store toward Lavalette in an unknown type of vehicle.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:54 PM
Miner Killed In Beckley Identified
WEST VIRGINIA....
Federal authorities have identified 28 year old John King as the miner who died after being injured in the April 22nd accident at International Coal Group Inc.'s Beckley Pocahontas mine near Eccles. A preliminary investigation found King was crushed between a block of coal and the conveyor boom of the continuous mining machine he was operating. King had five years of experience, two of them at the Eccles mine, an underground operation which employs 247 people. King is the 33rd coal miner to die on the job in the nation so far this year.
Federal authorities have identified 28 year old John King as the miner who died after being injured in the April 22nd accident at International Coal Group Inc.'s Beckley Pocahontas mine near Eccles. A preliminary investigation found King was crushed between a block of coal and the conveyor boom of the continuous mining machine he was operating. King had five years of experience, two of them at the Eccles mine, an underground operation which employs 247 people. King is the 33rd coal miner to die on the job in the nation so far this year.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:53 PM
John F. Kennedy's 50th Anniversary Planned
WEST VIRGINIA....
To mark the 50th anniversary of John F. Kennedy's history-making victory in which he defeated Hubert Humphrey in the state's 1960 Democratic presidential primary, Charleston and Logan have scheduled programs for May 10th. Theodore Sorensen, who served as Kennedy's speechwriter, top aide and biographer, will be the keynote speaker for the Charleston program which includes the opening of a new state museum exhibiting items from the 1960 primary. Logan's program includes renaming the site where Kennedy spoke in 1960 to Kennedy Square.
To mark the 50th anniversary of John F. Kennedy's history-making victory in which he defeated Hubert Humphrey in the state's 1960 Democratic presidential primary, Charleston and Logan have scheduled programs for May 10th. Theodore Sorensen, who served as Kennedy's speechwriter, top aide and biographer, will be the keynote speaker for the Charleston program which includes the opening of a new state museum exhibiting items from the 1960 primary. Logan's program includes renaming the site where Kennedy spoke in 1960 to Kennedy Square.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:50 PM
State Representative Candidates Square-Off
KENTUCKY....
Democratic 93rd District State Representative candidates, Keith Hall, Donna Damron and Danny Varney squared-off in a town hall forum debate held at Belfry High School Monday afternoon. The candidates spoke on subjects such as expanded gaming, coal and other forms of energy, the state budget, roads, the needs of the elderly and many other issues important to them and those they will represent if elected. The primary is scheduled for May 18th. The debate was moderated by EKB newsman Homer Owens.
Democratic 93rd District State Representative candidates, Keith Hall, Donna Damron and Danny Varney squared-off in a town hall forum debate held at Belfry High School Monday afternoon. The candidates spoke on subjects such as expanded gaming, coal and other forms of energy, the state budget, roads, the needs of the elderly and many other issues important to them and those they will represent if elected. The primary is scheduled for May 18th. The debate was moderated by EKB newsman Homer Owens.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:49 PM
KSP Investigating Martin County Death
KENTUCKY....
Kentucky State Police are investigating after 46 year old Gregory Moore after his brother found him dead in his home off route 1714, near Lovely in Martin County. The body has been sent to Frankfort for an autopsy. Trooper Mike Goble says foul play has not been ruled out. If anyone has any information, call the state police post in Pikeville or the Martin County Sheriff's Department.
Kentucky State Police are investigating after 46 year old Gregory Moore after his brother found him dead in his home off route 1714, near Lovely in Martin County. The body has been sent to Frankfort for an autopsy. Trooper Mike Goble says foul play has not been ruled out. If anyone has any information, call the state police post in Pikeville or the Martin County Sheriff's Department.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:48 PM
Former U.K. Player Sentenced
KENTUCKY....
Derrick Millar, former University of Kentucky basketball standout, was sentenced Monday in Fleming County after pleading guilty to two counts of theft by deception stemming from a basketball ticket scam. Millar was ordered to pay restitution and to three years on each count, to be served concurrently. The time will also be served concurrently with any other sentence he receives in the other ten counties in which he is charged. Millar is scheduled to appear in Laurel Circuit Court at 9:00 A.M. and in Fayette Circuit Court at 1:00 P.M. Friday.
Derrick Millar, former University of Kentucky basketball standout, was sentenced Monday in Fleming County after pleading guilty to two counts of theft by deception stemming from a basketball ticket scam. Millar was ordered to pay restitution and to three years on each count, to be served concurrently. The time will also be served concurrently with any other sentence he receives in the other ten counties in which he is charged. Millar is scheduled to appear in Laurel Circuit Court at 9:00 A.M. and in Fayette Circuit Court at 1:00 P.M. Friday.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:46 PM
Attorneys Say Jackson County Teens Committed No Crime
KENTUCKY...
While appearing in court Monday, attorneys for Ashley Sams and Corinne Schwab, both 18, said they committed no crime. Attorneys claim the alleged attack on Jackson County teen, Cheyenne Williams, was a staged performance in which the girl was a willing participant, and there are distinct falsehoods in what Williams told authorities. Williams told authorities that Sams, Schwab and a 17-year-old classmate assaulted her on April 16th and tried to push her off a cliff. Sams and Schwab are charged with kidnapping and attempted murder to which they have pleaded not guilty. A preliminary hearing is set for Thursday. At that hearing, Judge Henria Bailey Lewis will decide whether to dismiss the charges, amend the charges or send the case to a grand jury.
While appearing in court Monday, attorneys for Ashley Sams and Corinne Schwab, both 18, said they committed no crime. Attorneys claim the alleged attack on Jackson County teen, Cheyenne Williams, was a staged performance in which the girl was a willing participant, and there are distinct falsehoods in what Williams told authorities. Williams told authorities that Sams, Schwab and a 17-year-old classmate assaulted her on April 16th and tried to push her off a cliff. Sams and Schwab are charged with kidnapping and attempted murder to which they have pleaded not guilty. A preliminary hearing is set for Thursday. At that hearing, Judge Henria Bailey Lewis will decide whether to dismiss the charges, amend the charges or send the case to a grand jury.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:45 PM
Kentucky Gets School Funding
KENTUCKY....
The U.S. Department of Education has approved another $176 million in federal stimulus money for Kentucky. Education Commissioner Terry Holliday says without it, many teachers would have laid off next year. Kentucky has now been allocated more than $1 billion in education funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.
The U.S. Department of Education has approved another $176 million in federal stimulus money for Kentucky. Education Commissioner Terry Holliday says without it, many teachers would have laid off next year. Kentucky has now been allocated more than $1 billion in education funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:43 PM
Letcher County Home Destroyed By Winds
KENTUCKY....
While weekend storms spared most of eastern Kentucky, a home inJenkins in Letcher County was destroyed Saturday night. Some believed a possible tornado touched down in Laurel County, but National Weather Service officials say they think the damage was cause by straight-line winds , not a tornado. However, officials arrived in Mercer County Monday morning to assess damage left behind by what was determined as an EF-1 tornado with winds up to 90 mph that touched down in the Cummins Ferry area, then rose and later touched down along Patterson Lane. Residents elsewhere across Kentucky continue to survey damage and clean up after a powerful line of storms rumbled across the state. Tornadoes were also confirmed in Edmonson and Todd counties.
While weekend storms spared most of eastern Kentucky, a home inJenkins in Letcher County was destroyed Saturday night. Some believed a possible tornado touched down in Laurel County, but National Weather Service officials say they think the damage was cause by straight-line winds , not a tornado. However, officials arrived in Mercer County Monday morning to assess damage left behind by what was determined as an EF-1 tornado with winds up to 90 mph that touched down in the Cummins Ferry area, then rose and later touched down along Patterson Lane. Residents elsewhere across Kentucky continue to survey damage and clean up after a powerful line of storms rumbled across the state. Tornadoes were also confirmed in Edmonson and Todd counties.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:42 PM
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Obama And Biden Attend Miner Memorial
WEST VIRGINIA....
A large crowd gathered Sunday afternoon at the Raleigh County Convention Center in Beckley to attend a memorial hosted by Governor Joe Manchin and first lady Gayle Manchin in honor of the memory of 29-miners killed on April 5th at Massey Energy's Performance Coal's Upper Big Branch Mine in Montcoal. The front was decorated with 29 crosses, each representing a fallen miner. Upon each cross, a family member placed a miner's cap with a miner's lamp...the light representing life. Governor Joe Manchin pleged to the families that everything would be done to determine what caused the explosion so the deaths of these 29 miners would not be in vain. Following remarks from those including Vice-President Joe Biden, Governor Joe Manchin and members of the state's Congressional delegation, President Barrack Obama delivered the eulogy. Since the explosion, Obama has been kept up-to-date on developments. Obama said the workers killed lived and died pursuing the American Dream, while working in dangerous conditions underground to help keep the lights on across the country. He vowed the nation would honor their memories by improving safety in the mines. Vice President Joe Biden called miners "the spine of this nation" and "roughneck angels." He said the time would come to account for the safety conditions that led to the disaster.
A large crowd gathered Sunday afternoon at the Raleigh County Convention Center in Beckley to attend a memorial hosted by Governor Joe Manchin and first lady Gayle Manchin in honor of the memory of 29-miners killed on April 5th at Massey Energy's Performance Coal's Upper Big Branch Mine in Montcoal. The front was decorated with 29 crosses, each representing a fallen miner. Upon each cross, a family member placed a miner's cap with a miner's lamp...the light representing life. Governor Joe Manchin pleged to the families that everything would be done to determine what caused the explosion so the deaths of these 29 miners would not be in vain. Following remarks from those including Vice-President Joe Biden, Governor Joe Manchin and members of the state's Congressional delegation, President Barrack Obama delivered the eulogy. Since the explosion, Obama has been kept up-to-date on developments. Obama said the workers killed lived and died pursuing the American Dream, while working in dangerous conditions underground to help keep the lights on across the country. He vowed the nation would honor their memories by improving safety in the mines. Vice President Joe Biden called miners "the spine of this nation" and "roughneck angels." He said the time would come to account for the safety conditions that led to the disaster.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:33 PM
Senate To Conduct Hearing On Mine Explosion
WEST VIRGINIA....
The Senate will conduct its first hearing Tuesday on the deadly April 5th mine explosion which occurred at the Upper Big Branch Mine. The nation's head of the Mining Safety and Health Administration, Joe Main, who will be the lead witness, is expected to face tough questions as lawmakers examine weaknesses in safety laws that encourage some companies to ignore the health and safety of workers. A spokeswoman for the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee says Massey Energy CEO Don Blankenship won't attend the meeting because the hearing does not focus on the specific cause of the fatal explosion which killed 29 workers and injured two others.
The Senate will conduct its first hearing Tuesday on the deadly April 5th mine explosion which occurred at the Upper Big Branch Mine. The nation's head of the Mining Safety and Health Administration, Joe Main, who will be the lead witness, is expected to face tough questions as lawmakers examine weaknesses in safety laws that encourage some companies to ignore the health and safety of workers. A spokeswoman for the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee says Massey Energy CEO Don Blankenship won't attend the meeting because the hearing does not focus on the specific cause of the fatal explosion which killed 29 workers and injured two others.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:32 PM
Tasers Reassigned To Charleston City Police
WEST VIRGINIA....
Nineteen Tasers have been reassigned to the Charleston city police Patrol Division after two of the stun guns went missing and the rest were taken from officers in early 2009. Each of the four patrol shifts will have four officers assigned a Taser. The additional three will be assigned at the discretion of the Patrol Division commander. Fourteen other Tasers were reissued to the SWAT team, the Metro Drug Unit and the Criminal Investigations Division. Chief Brent Webster says he is still uncertain about the missing Tasers, but he does not believe they are on the streets anywhere.
Nineteen Tasers have been reassigned to the Charleston city police Patrol Division after two of the stun guns went missing and the rest were taken from officers in early 2009. Each of the four patrol shifts will have four officers assigned a Taser. The additional three will be assigned at the discretion of the Patrol Division commander. Fourteen other Tasers were reissued to the SWAT team, the Metro Drug Unit and the Criminal Investigations Division. Chief Brent Webster says he is still uncertain about the missing Tasers, but he does not believe they are on the streets anywhere.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:31 PM
West Virginia Turnpike Set For Improvements
WEST VIRGINIA....
Most of the West Virginia Turnpike, the 88-mile toll highway between Charleston and Princeton, is expected to be a smoother ride within the next decade as more than $180 million worth of improvements are completed. Sixty percent of the highway is now considered "fair to poor." Consulting Engineer Randy Epperly says 90 percent of the turnpike should improve to "good" in nine to 10 years. Epperly told a committee of the West Virginia Parkways Authority last week that the turnpike needs $167 million worth of improvements. That's down from $183 million a year ago when the overhaul effort began. Work is expected to start soon on a paving project north of the Beckley exit.
Most of the West Virginia Turnpike, the 88-mile toll highway between Charleston and Princeton, is expected to be a smoother ride within the next decade as more than $180 million worth of improvements are completed. Sixty percent of the highway is now considered "fair to poor." Consulting Engineer Randy Epperly says 90 percent of the turnpike should improve to "good" in nine to 10 years. Epperly told a committee of the West Virginia Parkways Authority last week that the turnpike needs $167 million worth of improvements. That's down from $183 million a year ago when the overhaul effort began. Work is expected to start soon on a paving project north of the Beckley exit.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:28 PM
State Police And Manchin Investigating Officer Complaint
WEST VIRGINIA....
West Virginia State Police and the office of Gov. Joe Manchin are investigating Princeton Police Officer 23-year-old Christopher Winkler's claim that he was beaten unconscious by two instructors during training at the West Virginia State Police Academy in Institute. Winkler says he nearly died of a blood clot in his brain after the April 5th incident. Winkler's mother, Pamela McPeak, says an instructor told her that he pulled two other instructors off Winkler when they continued to beat him while he was unconscious. State Police Maj. K.J. Foreman confirmed Winkler was injured during training and spent three days in the hospital, but said witnesses were interviewed and none said Winkler was abused.
West Virginia State Police and the office of Gov. Joe Manchin are investigating Princeton Police Officer 23-year-old Christopher Winkler's claim that he was beaten unconscious by two instructors during training at the West Virginia State Police Academy in Institute. Winkler says he nearly died of a blood clot in his brain after the April 5th incident. Winkler's mother, Pamela McPeak, says an instructor told her that he pulled two other instructors off Winkler when they continued to beat him while he was unconscious. State Police Maj. K.J. Foreman confirmed Winkler was injured during training and spent three days in the hospital, but said witnesses were interviewed and none said Winkler was abused.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:27 PM
West Virginia State Trooper Injured
WEST VIRGINIA....
West Virginia State Trooper Corporal A. M. Pringle was transported Camden Clark Hospital in Parkersburg and later airlifted to Charleston Area Medical Center General Hospital after being hit by an alleged drunk driver while engaged in a traffic stop around 8:45 P.M. Saturday night. State Police arrested 63 year old Jessie D. Parsons of McFarlan on charges of DUI causing bodily injury.
West Virginia State Trooper Corporal A. M. Pringle was transported Camden Clark Hospital in Parkersburg and later airlifted to Charleston Area Medical Center General Hospital after being hit by an alleged drunk driver while engaged in a traffic stop around 8:45 P.M. Saturday night. State Police arrested 63 year old Jessie D. Parsons of McFarlan on charges of DUI causing bodily injury.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:24 PM
Beshear Warns Lack Of Budget Is Ugly
KENTUCKY....
More than a week after lawmakers ended their 60-day session without a new state budget, Governor Steve Beshear met for two hours Friday with House Speaker Greg Stumbo and Senate President David Williams. He urged them to avoid raising taxes or adding big amounts of debt in laying out guidelines for a budget deal which must be approved by the General Assembly before July in order to avoid a partial government shutdown. Beshear warned, "The alternative to getting it done is ugly."
More than a week after lawmakers ended their 60-day session without a new state budget, Governor Steve Beshear met for two hours Friday with House Speaker Greg Stumbo and Senate President David Williams. He urged them to avoid raising taxes or adding big amounts of debt in laying out guidelines for a budget deal which must be approved by the General Assembly before July in order to avoid a partial government shutdown. Beshear warned, "The alternative to getting it done is ugly."
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:21 PM
KSP Investigating Death Of Bell County Girl
KENTUCKY....
Kentucky State Police are investigating the death of an 11 year old Bell County girl after she was found unresponsive in a closet at a residence in Ferndale Saturday by members of the state police post in Harlan. The child was taken to Pineville Community Hospital where she was pronounced dead. The cause of death has not yet been determined.
Kentucky State Police are investigating the death of an 11 year old Bell County girl after she was found unresponsive in a closet at a residence in Ferndale Saturday by members of the state police post in Harlan. The child was taken to Pineville Community Hospital where she was pronounced dead. The cause of death has not yet been determined.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:19 PM
Harlan County Fire Turns Deadly
KENTUCKY....
KSP are investigating after a house fire turned deadly over the weekend. According to Geneva Pace, her son, Michael Pace, died Saturday after fire broke out at a home in the Shields community, a few miles east of Evarts, in Harlan County around 2:43 A.M. A second resident at the home, Harrison Aslinger, was admitted to Harlan Appalachian Regional Hospital, where he was treated for burns.
KSP are investigating after a house fire turned deadly over the weekend. According to Geneva Pace, her son, Michael Pace, died Saturday after fire broke out at a home in the Shields community, a few miles east of Evarts, in Harlan County around 2:43 A.M. A second resident at the home, Harrison Aslinger, was admitted to Harlan Appalachian Regional Hospital, where he was treated for burns.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:15 PM
KSP Charge Juvenile With Murder
KENTUCKY....
Kentucky State Police have charged a juvenile with murder and tampering with physical evidence after a 15-year old Laurel County boy was fatally shot Saturday at a home on Byble Road in the Lily community. Investigators say the two juveniles were engaged in a fight that escalated and led to the shooting.
Kentucky State Police have charged a juvenile with murder and tampering with physical evidence after a 15-year old Laurel County boy was fatally shot Saturday at a home on Byble Road in the Lily community. Investigators say the two juveniles were engaged in a fight that escalated and led to the shooting.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:13 PM
College Tuitions To Increase
KENTUCKY....
College and university leaders are saying the newly approved tuition hikes may not be enough to prevent them from having to shut down temporarily if the state doesn't adopt a budget soon. The Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education, which met Friday at its offices in Frankfort, approved tuition increases for the state's public universities and colleges for the 2010-2011 school year. The council staff approved an increase in state resident undergraduate tuition and fees of 6 percent for the University of Kentucky and the University of Louisville, a 5 percent increase for Northern Kentucky University, Eastern, Western, Murray State and Morehead State universities and a 4 percent hike for the state's community and technical colleges.
College and university leaders are saying the newly approved tuition hikes may not be enough to prevent them from having to shut down temporarily if the state doesn't adopt a budget soon. The Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education, which met Friday at its offices in Frankfort, approved tuition increases for the state's public universities and colleges for the 2010-2011 school year. The council staff approved an increase in state resident undergraduate tuition and fees of 6 percent for the University of Kentucky and the University of Louisville, a 5 percent increase for Northern Kentucky University, Eastern, Western, Murray State and Morehead State universities and a 4 percent hike for the state's community and technical colleges.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:12 PM
College Access Funds Run Out For Needy
KENTUCKY....
The Kentucky Education Assistance Authority has been notifying 16,599 applicants the College Access Program money for needy Kentucky students has run out Applicants are being told only those whose paperwork arrived by March 7th will be funded, although the deadline for applications was March 15th. The maximum award for the 2010-2011 academic year is $1,900. Officials at the University of Louisville say as many as 1,400 students could be affected there.
The Kentucky Education Assistance Authority has been notifying 16,599 applicants the College Access Program money for needy Kentucky students has run out Applicants are being told only those whose paperwork arrived by March 7th will be funded, although the deadline for applications was March 15th. The maximum award for the 2010-2011 academic year is $1,900. Officials at the University of Louisville say as many as 1,400 students could be affected there.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:09 PM
McConnell Says Bill Not Ready For Debate
KENTUCKY....
Democrats want to begin debating the financial overhaul bill this week. However, Kentucky Senate leader Mitch McConnell says the bill isn’t ready for a full Senate debate, and Republicans have enough votes to prevent Democrats from beginning debate on the bill. Republicans oppose some provisions of the measure, especially a multibillion-dollar bailout fund while Democrats say that proposal and other initiatives are aimed at preventing another financial meltdown. McConnell says he thinks there’s a good chance Democrats and Republicans eventually will reach an agreement on the plan.
Democrats want to begin debating the financial overhaul bill this week. However, Kentucky Senate leader Mitch McConnell says the bill isn’t ready for a full Senate debate, and Republicans have enough votes to prevent Democrats from beginning debate on the bill. Republicans oppose some provisions of the measure, especially a multibillion-dollar bailout fund while Democrats say that proposal and other initiatives are aimed at preventing another financial meltdown. McConnell says he thinks there’s a good chance Democrats and Republicans eventually will reach an agreement on the plan.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:07 PM
