Saturday, January 08, 2011
Chinese Delivery Driver Shot
WEST VIRGINIA....
Police responded to a shots fired call Friday evening at an apartment on Main Avenue in Nitro where they found Min Lin had been shot in the back of the head while delivering Chinese food from the Golden Wok to someone in another building of the apartment complex. Arthur Jackson Byrd III told police he went outside and shot Ms. Lin with a 12-gauge shotgun. Byrd was arrested and charged with malicious wounding. Lin was not severely hurt and refused medical transportation, despite bleeding from the head.# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:26 PM
PSC Delays PATH Decision
WEST VIRGINIA....
On Friday, the PSC granted a request for a delay on the 765 kilovolt Potomac Appalachian Transmission Highline, also called PATH. Officials with Allegheny Energy and American Electric Power say they need more time to review the latest power load forecast for the region. The PSC has postponed its decision whether to approve the plans from July to February 2012. The evidentiary hearings that had been scheduled to start in March are now set for October. The $2 billion project has been billed as a way to shore up the electrical grid. If approved, PATH could run 275 miles from Putnam County to Maryland. PSC staff members and representatives with the PSC's Consumer Advocate's Division are among those who have called on the PSC to dismiss the PATH application outright, saying other power options should be considered.
On Friday, the PSC granted a request for a delay on the 765 kilovolt Potomac Appalachian Transmission Highline, also called PATH. Officials with Allegheny Energy and American Electric Power say they need more time to review the latest power load forecast for the region. The PSC has postponed its decision whether to approve the plans from July to February 2012. The evidentiary hearings that had been scheduled to start in March are now set for October. The $2 billion project has been billed as a way to shore up the electrical grid. If approved, PATH could run 275 miles from Putnam County to Maryland. PSC staff members and representatives with the PSC's Consumer Advocate's Division are among those who have called on the PSC to dismiss the PATH application outright, saying other power options should be considered.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:25 PM
Rahall To Vote Against Repeal Of Heath Care Reform
WEST VIRGINIA....
West Virginia Third District Congressman Nick Rahall says he will vote against repeal of the heath care reform law. He says the law has produced positive results in West Virginia. Rahall says more than 30,000 seniors in West Virginia have received additional assistance in paying costly Medicare prescription drug bills, and now receive fifty percent discounts on generic drugs, while also providing numerous benefits that state residents need. "West Virginians are no longer subject to lifetime limits on their health insurance, and those who have been denied coverage due to a pre-existing condition can now apply for affordable insurance," Rahall said. "Young adults now are able to stay on their parents’ insurance through age 26." Rahall says his decision to vote against repeal of the law does not mean he doesn't want changes. Rahall, who voted in favor of the bill when it passed in the House in October 2009, has cosponsored legislation to remove overly burdensome reporting requirements for small businesses, the so-called 1099 requirement.
West Virginia Third District Congressman Nick Rahall says he will vote against repeal of the heath care reform law. He says the law has produced positive results in West Virginia. Rahall says more than 30,000 seniors in West Virginia have received additional assistance in paying costly Medicare prescription drug bills, and now receive fifty percent discounts on generic drugs, while also providing numerous benefits that state residents need. "West Virginians are no longer subject to lifetime limits on their health insurance, and those who have been denied coverage due to a pre-existing condition can now apply for affordable insurance," Rahall said. "Young adults now are able to stay on their parents’ insurance through age 26." Rahall says his decision to vote against repeal of the law does not mean he doesn't want changes. Rahall, who voted in favor of the bill when it passed in the House in October 2009, has cosponsored legislation to remove overly burdensome reporting requirements for small businesses, the so-called 1099 requirement.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 8:23 PM
Kentucky Coal Academy Offering Surface Mining Certification
KENTUCKY...
The Kentucky Coal Academy (KCA) of the Big Sandy Community & Technical College
(BSCTC) is offering a 24-Hour Surface Mine Safety Certification Class on the
Hager Hill Campus.
This class is being offered January 24th - 27th from 8:30 a.m.
to 3:00 p.m. This certification is required before working on surface mines. Do not
miss this exciting chance to start a career in mining. Enrollment is limited, so
register today! For more information, call (606) 788-2940 or (606) 788-2946.
The Kentucky Coal Academy (KCA) of the Big Sandy Community & Technical College
(BSCTC) is offering a 24-Hour Surface Mine Safety Certification Class on the
Hager Hill Campus.
This class is being offered January 24th - 27th from 8:30 a.m.
to 3:00 p.m. This certification is required before working on surface mines. Do not
miss this exciting chance to start a career in mining. Enrollment is limited, so
register today! For more information, call (606) 788-2940 or (606) 788-2946.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 7:41 AM
Massey Subsidiary Cited For Safety Violation
KENTUCKY...
Federal regulators have cited the foreman of a construction company working at a Massey Energy Co. subsidiary after a contractor was observed not wearing safety gear.
Richmond, Va.-based Massey disclosed the imminent danger citation in a Securities and Exchange Commission filing Friday.
The incident occurred Thursday at Long Fork Coal Co.'s mine. According to the citation, the construction worker was near the edge of a 75-foot wall without a safety belt and line. No one was injured.
Massey's safety practices have come under criticism since an April explosion killed 29 miners at its Upper Big Branch coal mine in Raleigh County.
Federal regulators have cited the foreman of a construction company working at a Massey Energy Co. subsidiary after a contractor was observed not wearing safety gear.
Richmond, Va.-based Massey disclosed the imminent danger citation in a Securities and Exchange Commission filing Friday.
The incident occurred Thursday at Long Fork Coal Co.'s mine. According to the citation, the construction worker was near the edge of a 75-foot wall without a safety belt and line. No one was injured.
Massey's safety practices have come under criticism since an April explosion killed 29 miners at its Upper Big Branch coal mine in Raleigh County.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 7:30 AM
Illegal Immigrant Bill Passes Kentucky Senate
KENTUCKY...
The Kentucky Senate has passed a bill aimed at cracking down on illegal immigrants by giving police broad authority to check on the immigration status of people they stop.
The proposal would allow police to arrest illegal immigrants on trespassing charges for setting foot in Kentucky.
The measure cleared the Senate on a 24-14 vote Friday and now goes to the House, where it's fate is uncertain.
Supporters say the measure sends a strong message that Kentucky won't tolerate illegal immigration.
Opponents say it will add to jail and prison overcrowding, and will strap state and local governments with sharply higher costs.
The Kentucky Senate has passed a bill aimed at cracking down on illegal immigrants by giving police broad authority to check on the immigration status of people they stop.
The proposal would allow police to arrest illegal immigrants on trespassing charges for setting foot in Kentucky.
The measure cleared the Senate on a 24-14 vote Friday and now goes to the House, where it's fate is uncertain.
Supporters say the measure sends a strong message that Kentucky won't tolerate illegal immigration.
Opponents say it will add to jail and prison overcrowding, and will strap state and local governments with sharply higher costs.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 7:28 AM
VA Surgery Patient Possibly Exposed To HIV
KENTUCKY...
A disabled veteran in Kentucky says VA hospital officials in Lexington have told him that he and five other patients were possibly exposed to equipment contaminated with HIV and hepatitis.
Fifty-eight-year-old Daryl Baldwin of Richmond he and his wife are most upset because the VA didn't inform him about the possible exposure until December, nine months after his eye surgery.
Baldwin said he has since tested negative for the infections. He told The Associated Press in a Friday telephone interview that he and his wife are "terrorized" by the continuing possibility that he might yet test positive.
Officials at the hospital said in a statement Friday night that all six veterans have been notified and any needed care will be provided. The statement included an apology to the six patients by the medical center's acting director, Donna Jacobs.
A disabled veteran in Kentucky says VA hospital officials in Lexington have told him that he and five other patients were possibly exposed to equipment contaminated with HIV and hepatitis.
Fifty-eight-year-old Daryl Baldwin of Richmond he and his wife are most upset because the VA didn't inform him about the possible exposure until December, nine months after his eye surgery.
Baldwin said he has since tested negative for the infections. He told The Associated Press in a Friday telephone interview that he and his wife are "terrorized" by the continuing possibility that he might yet test positive.
Officials at the hospital said in a statement Friday night that all six veterans have been notified and any needed care will be provided. The statement included an apology to the six patients by the medical center's acting director, Donna Jacobs.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 7:26 AM
Friday, January 07, 2011
NCAA Denies UK Appeal For Enes Kanter
KENTUCKY....
It's official. The NCAA announced Friday that it denied the University of Kentucky's appeal seeking to restore the eligibility of freshman basketball player Enes Kanter. UK Coach John Calipari voiced his disappointment but said his job now will be to prepare Kanter for his entry into the NBA Draft, and he plans to be by his side in the green room whenever he is drafted. NBAdraft.net projects Kanter as the fifth player chosen in this year's draft. Draftexpress projects him as the fourth player selected. The NCAA ruling does not prohibit UK from continuing to give him a scholarship. He just cannot compete or practice or travel with the team as a player. The university has indicated it plans to designate Kanter as an undergraduate student-assistant coach. In this capacity, Kanter could perform limited coaching duties with the team.
It's official. The NCAA announced Friday that it denied the University of Kentucky's appeal seeking to restore the eligibility of freshman basketball player Enes Kanter. UK Coach John Calipari voiced his disappointment but said his job now will be to prepare Kanter for his entry into the NBA Draft, and he plans to be by his side in the green room whenever he is drafted. NBAdraft.net projects Kanter as the fifth player chosen in this year's draft. Draftexpress projects him as the fourth player selected. The NCAA ruling does not prohibit UK from continuing to give him a scholarship. He just cannot compete or practice or travel with the team as a player. The university has indicated it plans to designate Kanter as an undergraduate student-assistant coach. In this capacity, Kanter could perform limited coaching duties with the team.# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:16 PM
Public Schools To Receive Budget Cut
KENTUCKY....
Public schools across Kentucky are receiving more financial bad news from the state. The Kentucky Department of Education says an unexpected funding shortfall means $50 million needs to be cut from the basic operating budget for the state's public schools for the months of April, May and June. Officials are blaming the shortage on unanticipated growth in student enrollment statewide as well as other surprise expenses. Kentucky Education Commissioner Terry Holliday is urging local school districts to make up the loss with federal funds they recently received under the federal "EduJobs" program.
Public schools across Kentucky are receiving more financial bad news from the state. The Kentucky Department of Education says an unexpected funding shortfall means $50 million needs to be cut from the basic operating budget for the state's public schools for the months of April, May and June. Officials are blaming the shortage on unanticipated growth in student enrollment statewide as well as other surprise expenses. Kentucky Education Commissioner Terry Holliday is urging local school districts to make up the loss with federal funds they recently received under the federal "EduJobs" program.# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:15 PM
MSHA Says Installation Errors Caused Miner's Death
WEST VIRGINIA....
The federal Mine Safety and Health Administration released a report Friday that concluded the death of 60 year old Wilbert Starcher, who was killed in White Buck Coal Company's Pocahontas Mine in Greenbrier County last July, was caused by a lack of communication and improper equipment installation on a shuttle car. MSHA investigators say Starcher was killed when the driver of a shuttle car had his vision blocked by a sideboard that was not installed correctly, and he could not see Starcher because a piece of metal obscured his vision. Starcher, an electrician in the mine, was dragged beneath the car after being hit. The report also says Starcher and the shuttle car operator did not communicate effectively.
The federal Mine Safety and Health Administration released a report Friday that concluded the death of 60 year old Wilbert Starcher, who was killed in White Buck Coal Company's Pocahontas Mine in Greenbrier County last July, was caused by a lack of communication and improper equipment installation on a shuttle car. MSHA investigators say Starcher was killed when the driver of a shuttle car had his vision blocked by a sideboard that was not installed correctly, and he could not see Starcher because a piece of metal obscured his vision. Starcher, an electrician in the mine, was dragged beneath the car after being hit. The report also says Starcher and the shuttle car operator did not communicate effectively.# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:15 PM
Senator Drafting Truancy Bill
WEST VIRGINIA....
State Senator Erik Wells, D-Kanawha, said Friday that, during the upcoming legislative session which begins Wednesday, he plans to introduce a bill targeting unexcused absences from school. Under the bill, parents would lose their drivers licenses if their child or children have 10 unexcused absences. He acknowledged the law would likely be challenged in court.
State Senator Erik Wells, D-Kanawha, said Friday that, during the upcoming legislative session which begins Wednesday, he plans to introduce a bill targeting unexcused absences from school. Under the bill, parents would lose their drivers licenses if their child or children have 10 unexcused absences. He acknowledged the law would likely be challenged in court.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:13 PM
Kimberly Osborne Appointed Press Secretary
WEST VIRGINIA....
Acting Governor Earl Ray Tomblin appointed Kimberly Osborne to the position of Press Secretary Friday. Osborne's first day on the job will be Monday January 10th. Before her appointment, Osborne served as Director of Communications for the West Virginia Department of Revenue. Osborne graduated from West Virginia University with a Master of Science degree in Integrated Marketing Communications in 2006 and earned her undergraduate degree in Communications from the State University of New York at Cortland College in 1997.
Acting Governor Earl Ray Tomblin appointed Kimberly Osborne to the position of Press Secretary Friday. Osborne's first day on the job will be Monday January 10th. Before her appointment, Osborne served as Director of Communications for the West Virginia Department of Revenue. Osborne graduated from West Virginia University with a Master of Science degree in Integrated Marketing Communications in 2006 and earned her undergraduate degree in Communications from the State University of New York at Cortland College in 1997.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:12 PM
St. Albans Woman Admits To Shooting
WEST VIRGINIA....
Police say Roger Dale Cobb, 47, of St. Albans, was taken to Charleston Area Medical Center for treatment after being shot early Friday morning. Officers say Dana Womack, also of St. Albans, admitted to the shooting her mother's boyfriend, but she told police she was acting in self-defense after being assaulted by Cobb. Womack told police her mother and Cobb were fighting when her mother called Dana to come get her, but, when she arrived, Cobb attacked her, so she grabbed the gun and shot him. An investigation will reveal whether or not it was indeed self-defense. If so, Womack will not face any charges.
Police say Roger Dale Cobb, 47, of St. Albans, was taken to Charleston Area Medical Center for treatment after being shot early Friday morning. Officers say Dana Womack, also of St. Albans, admitted to the shooting her mother's boyfriend, but she told police she was acting in self-defense after being assaulted by Cobb. Womack told police her mother and Cobb were fighting when her mother called Dana to come get her, but, when she arrived, Cobb attacked her, so she grabbed the gun and shot him. An investigation will reveal whether or not it was indeed self-defense. If so, Womack will not face any charges.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:11 PM
Foreman Cited At Massey Operation
WEST VIRGINIA....
Federal regulators have cited the foreman of a construction company working at a Massey Energy Co. subsidiary after a contractor was observed not wearing safety gear. The incident occurred Thursday at Long Fork Coal Co.'s mine. According to the citation, the construction worker was near the edge of a 75-foot wall without a safety belt and line.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:09 PM
Five Sentenced In Lincoln County Drug Case
WEST VIRGINIA....
Five West Virginians were sentenced earlier this week for participating in a prescription-drug trafficking ring in Lincoln County. They pleaded guilty earlier to dealing Oxycodone from 2007 through April 2010. Prosecutors say Todd Anthony Gibbs, 34, of Huntington was the middleman between the other defendants and out-of-state suppliers. He was sentenced to 30 months in prison.
Five West Virginians were sentenced earlier this week for participating in a prescription-drug trafficking ring in Lincoln County. They pleaded guilty earlier to dealing Oxycodone from 2007 through April 2010. Prosecutors say Todd Anthony Gibbs, 34, of Huntington was the middleman between the other defendants and out-of-state suppliers. He was sentenced to 30 months in prison.Also sentenced were Clint Farris, 33, of Harts, who was sentenced to two years in prison; Andrewiena Lynn Corathers, 35, of St. Albans, and Allen "Stevie" Williams, 39, of Chapmanville, who each received 12 months in prison; and JoAnna Sue McCann, 24, of Harts, who was placed on three years' probation.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:07 PM
Health Department Reissues Permit For Kiddie Academy
WEST VIRGINIA....
The Kanawha-Charleston Health Department reissued a permit Friday for Kiddie Academy Childcare Learning Center. The center had been closed after health inspectors found rodent droppings and other unsanitary conditions. The state Department of Health and Human Resources revoked the center's license on Thursday, and the facility will remain closed until DHHR reviews and approves Kiddie Academy's new application.
The Kanawha-Charleston Health Department reissued a permit Friday for Kiddie Academy Childcare Learning Center. The center had been closed after health inspectors found rodent droppings and other unsanitary conditions. The state Department of Health and Human Resources revoked the center's license on Thursday, and the facility will remain closed until DHHR reviews and approves Kiddie Academy's new application.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:06 PM
Thursday, January 06, 2011
Rite Aid Offering $10,000 Reward For Pike County Robbery
KENTUCKY....
Rite Aid is offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to an arrest in three burglaries at its Robinson Creek store in Pike County. A person broke in the store's front door and stole $20,000 worth of medication and about $1,500 in cash on December 18, 22 and 28th. Surveillance video seems to implicate the same person in all three break-ins. Kentucky State Police Detective Jason Merlo and two other troopers are investigating. Rite Aid loss prevention District Manager Ryan Kinder and KSP spokesman Trooper Shaun Little are asking people with tips to call Rite Aid or the Kentucky State Police.
Rite Aid is offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to an arrest in three burglaries at its Robinson Creek store in Pike County. A person broke in the store's front door and stole $20,000 worth of medication and about $1,500 in cash on December 18, 22 and 28th. Surveillance video seems to implicate the same person in all three break-ins. Kentucky State Police Detective Jason Merlo and two other troopers are investigating. Rite Aid loss prevention District Manager Ryan Kinder and KSP spokesman Trooper Shaun Little are asking people with tips to call Rite Aid or the Kentucky State Police.# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:40 PM
Floyd County Inmate Escapes
KENTUCKY....
A manhunt got underway in the Prestonsburg area after inmate 21 year old Steven Rogers escaped police custody in Floyd County around 2:00 P.M. Thursday afternoon. Rogers was being transported back from court after being arrested Wednesday night on kidnapping charges. Witnesses say he is no longer wearing his inmate uniform and shoes.
A manhunt got underway in the Prestonsburg area after inmate 21 year old Steven Rogers escaped police custody in Floyd County around 2:00 P.M. Thursday afternoon. Rogers was being transported back from court after being arrested Wednesday night on kidnapping charges. Witnesses say he is no longer wearing his inmate uniform and shoes.# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:38 PM
Mine Safety Law Survives Court Test In Kentucky
KENTUCKY....
The U.S. Department of Labor says it used an overlooked provision in the 1977 Mine Safety and Health Act for the first time in the law's 33-year history to sue Richmond, Va.-based Massey in November, citing repeated problems of methane gas leaks, ventilation problems and roof collapses at its Freedom Energy No. 1 mine in Pike County, Kentucky. U.S. mine regulators say Wednesday's victory attests to the fact that the enforcement provision used in the case could survive a court challenge, and they are poised to use the long-ignored portion of the law to haul operators of other troubled mines into court for repeatedly violating safety laws. U.S. Labor Solicitor Patricia Smith said regulators had recorded nearly 2,000 safety violations at the Freedom mine and its workers were in "constant danger." Most enforcement actions are handled by administrative law judges in less formal proceedings, but mine safety experts say the little-used provision is the "strongest tool" in the 1977 Mine Safety and Health Act because of the involvement of a federal judge.
The U.S. Department of Labor says it used an overlooked provision in the 1977 Mine Safety and Health Act for the first time in the law's 33-year history to sue Richmond, Va.-based Massey in November, citing repeated problems of methane gas leaks, ventilation problems and roof collapses at its Freedom Energy No. 1 mine in Pike County, Kentucky. U.S. mine regulators say Wednesday's victory attests to the fact that the enforcement provision used in the case could survive a court challenge, and they are poised to use the long-ignored portion of the law to haul operators of other troubled mines into court for repeatedly violating safety laws. U.S. Labor Solicitor Patricia Smith said regulators had recorded nearly 2,000 safety violations at the Freedom mine and its workers were in "constant danger." Most enforcement actions are handled by administrative law judges in less formal proceedings, but mine safety experts say the little-used provision is the "strongest tool" in the 1977 Mine Safety and Health Act because of the involvement of a federal judge.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:35 PM
Beshear Files For Re-election
KENTUCKY....
Governor Steve Beshear, with running mate Jerry Abramson, former mayor of Louisville, filed to run for re-election to the office of Governor of Kentucky on Thursday. Beshear says he has created and saved thousands of jobs across the state and balanced the state budget eight times without raising broad-based taxes on Kentucky families and businesses. Beshear says Abramson will be a terrific lieutenant governor for all of Kentucky. Beshear also announced that Bill Hyers, who has run gubernatorial, senatorial and mayoral campaigns across the nation, has joined the campaign as campaign manager.
Governor Steve Beshear, with running mate Jerry Abramson, former mayor of Louisville, filed to run for re-election to the office of Governor of Kentucky on Thursday. Beshear says he has created and saved thousands of jobs across the state and balanced the state budget eight times without raising broad-based taxes on Kentucky families and businesses. Beshear says Abramson will be a terrific lieutenant governor for all of Kentucky. Beshear also announced that Bill Hyers, who has run gubernatorial, senatorial and mayoral campaigns across the nation, has joined the campaign as campaign manager.# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:33 PM
Pike County Board Of Education Selections
Female Inmate Sues Otter Creek Correctional
KENTUCKY...
A German woman has filed a lawsuit against a private company and some of its employees who ran a former eastern Kentucky women's prison, saying she was forced to trade sex to call her ill mother.
The suit filed Wednesday in Louisville is the latest in a series of sexual assault cases out of the Otter Creek Correctional Complex in Wheelwright. Kentucky Gov. Steve Beshear ordered all the female prisoners removed from the facility a year ago when a scandal involving corrections officers and inmates reached its height.
The lawsuit says the inmate, a 38-year-old German citizen, was serving five years for theft and other charges. Although the lawsuit names the inmate, the Associated Press does not generally identify those who say they have been sexually assaulted.
A German woman has filed a lawsuit against a private company and some of its employees who ran a former eastern Kentucky women's prison, saying she was forced to trade sex to call her ill mother.
The suit filed Wednesday in Louisville is the latest in a series of sexual assault cases out of the Otter Creek Correctional Complex in Wheelwright. Kentucky Gov. Steve Beshear ordered all the female prisoners removed from the facility a year ago when a scandal involving corrections officers and inmates reached its height.
The lawsuit says the inmate, a 38-year-old German citizen, was serving five years for theft and other charges. Although the lawsuit names the inmate, the Associated Press does not generally identify those who say they have been sexually assaulted.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:26 PM
Sypher Wants New Trial
KENTUCKY...
The woman convicted of trying to extort University of Louisville basketball coach Rick Pitino is asking a federal judge for a new trial and to allow an outside examination of evidence in her case.
Karen Cunagin Sypher's new legal team filed the request late Wednesday night, saying Pitino, prosecutors and businesses in Louisville "worked to ensure they destroy" Sypher, who accused Pitino of forcing her to have sex in a restaurant in 2003. Pitino was never charged.Sypher is also requesting that audio tapes and photographs used at her trial be examined by reviewers of her choice.
Sypher was convicted in August of three counts of extortion, two counts of lying to the FBI and a count of retaliation against a witness. Her sentencing is scheduled for Jan. 18 in U.S. District Court in Louisville.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:24 PM
WWE Sued Over Injury
KENTUCKY...
A southern Indiana man has filed suit against World Wrestling Entertainment claiming he was injured while attending an event in Kentucky.
An attorney for 18-year-old Ronald Basham III of Clarksville, Ind., filed the suit Monday in Jefferson Circuit Court, alleging his client's leg and knee were injured at a 2000 wrestling match in Louisville when he was 7.
The lawsuit says the match between Dwayne Johnson, known as "The Rock," and Paul Levesque, known as "Triple H," spilled over a retaining wall separating them from the audience. It says the wrestlers ended up pushing another spectator, who fell on Basham and caused his injuries. The suit accuses the WWE of failing to maintain adequate security and seeks compensatory and punitive damages.
Justine Sacco, a spokeswoman for the WWE, said told The Courier-Journal that the company doesn't comment on pending litigation.
A southern Indiana man has filed suit against World Wrestling Entertainment claiming he was injured while attending an event in Kentucky.
An attorney for 18-year-old Ronald Basham III of Clarksville, Ind., filed the suit Monday in Jefferson Circuit Court, alleging his client's leg and knee were injured at a 2000 wrestling match in Louisville when he was 7.
The lawsuit says the match between Dwayne Johnson, known as "The Rock," and Paul Levesque, known as "Triple H," spilled over a retaining wall separating them from the audience. It says the wrestlers ended up pushing another spectator, who fell on Basham and caused his injuries. The suit accuses the WWE of failing to maintain adequate security and seeks compensatory and punitive damages.
Justine Sacco, a spokeswoman for the WWE, said told The Courier-Journal that the company doesn't comment on pending litigation.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:24 PM
Reward For Dog Posted
KENTUCKY...
A West Tennessee man has posted a reward for the return of his late wife's dog, stolen from outside a western Kentucky bar.
Rick Volner of Parsons, Tenn., says that Dakota was the pet of his wife, Lee, who died in October. Someone took the carrier containing the black Labrador retriever from the back of Volner's pickup truck while he was inside Rockabilly's Bar in Paducah the night of Dec. 27.
Volner has run a classified newspaper ad, offering a $10,000 reward for the return of Dakota. He got responses, but none about his dog.
Volner says he and his wife didn't have children and Dakota is part of his family. He says if he gets Dakota back, he won't ask questions.
Police are still investigating the theft.
A West Tennessee man has posted a reward for the return of his late wife's dog, stolen from outside a western Kentucky bar.
Rick Volner of Parsons, Tenn., says that Dakota was the pet of his wife, Lee, who died in October. Someone took the carrier containing the black Labrador retriever from the back of Volner's pickup truck while he was inside Rockabilly's Bar in Paducah the night of Dec. 27.
Volner has run a classified newspaper ad, offering a $10,000 reward for the return of Dakota. He got responses, but none about his dog.
Volner says he and his wife didn't have children and Dakota is part of his family. He says if he gets Dakota back, he won't ask questions.
Police are still investigating the theft.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:23 PM
Boyd County Plans Layoffs
KENTUCKY...
Some Boyd County employees will be without work after Friday, when the northeastern Kentucky county plans to lay off 17 workers.
Judge-Executive William "Bud" Stevens says officials have been putting off looking at the possibility of layoffs for about a year. County commissioners approved the layoffs Tuesday. Stevens told The Independent in Ashland that the county isn't over budget yet but that finances are tight.
Commissioner Carl Tolliver says he agreed with the layoff of eight parks department workers, because the department's work decreases during winter. But he voted against the others, saying workers' seniority wasn't given proper consideration and that cuts could have been made in other areas.
Stevens says he looked at finances and which departments could spare some workers when making recommendations but that county ordinances allow him to keep more qualified employees regardless of seniority. He says he hopes the county will be able to hire back some of the laid-off employees at some point.
Some Boyd County employees will be without work after Friday, when the northeastern Kentucky county plans to lay off 17 workers.
Judge-Executive William "Bud" Stevens says officials have been putting off looking at the possibility of layoffs for about a year. County commissioners approved the layoffs Tuesday. Stevens told The Independent in Ashland that the county isn't over budget yet but that finances are tight.
Commissioner Carl Tolliver says he agreed with the layoff of eight parks department workers, because the department's work decreases during winter. But he voted against the others, saying workers' seniority wasn't given proper consideration and that cuts could have been made in other areas.
Stevens says he looked at finances and which departments could spare some workers when making recommendations but that county ordinances allow him to keep more qualified employees regardless of seniority. He says he hopes the county will be able to hire back some of the laid-off employees at some point.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:21 PM
Teen Pregnancy Prevention
KENTUCKY...
Social work faculty and researchers from three Kentucky universities will work with youth groups in hopes of reducing teen pregnancy, violence and sexually transmitted diseases, using a $4.8 million federal grant.
The University of Louisville says the grant will be used to work with more than 1,260 teens who are involved in participating community-based organizations.
The team includes researchers from U of L's Kent School of Social Work and faculty from Western Kentucky University and Spalding University.
U of L says 10 community groups are to take part at first, including six serving urban youth, three serving immigrant and refugee youth and one serving former foster youths.
The university says course leaders will be trained in the spring with young people starting to participate this summer.
Social work faculty and researchers from three Kentucky universities will work with youth groups in hopes of reducing teen pregnancy, violence and sexually transmitted diseases, using a $4.8 million federal grant.
The University of Louisville says the grant will be used to work with more than 1,260 teens who are involved in participating community-based organizations.
The team includes researchers from U of L's Kent School of Social Work and faculty from Western Kentucky University and Spalding University.
U of L says 10 community groups are to take part at first, including six serving urban youth, three serving immigrant and refugee youth and one serving former foster youths.
The university says course leaders will be trained in the spring with young people starting to participate this summer.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:21 PM
Hemlock Trees Threatened
KENTUCKY...
A Kentucky official has launched an effort to stop an insect that is threatening the state's hemlock trees.
Energy and Environment Secretary Leonard Peters says the hemlock woolly adelgid could potentially destroy some of Kentucky's 76.6 million eastern hemlock trees. Peters says that would have a great impact on forest ecosystems, as well as tourism and recreation.
Peters has issued a declaration of public nuisance against the insect, which directs the Division of Forestry to protect forest resources from infestations and to seek funding for projects aimed at saving the hemlock trees.
Infestations of the insect have been found in 15 Kentucky counties since 2006. The cabinet says the insect feeds on hemlock needles and can spread rapidly, reproducing during warm weather.
For more information, visit Save Kentucky's Hemlocks website at www.kyhemlocks.org.
A Kentucky official has launched an effort to stop an insect that is threatening the state's hemlock trees.
Energy and Environment Secretary Leonard Peters says the hemlock woolly adelgid could potentially destroy some of Kentucky's 76.6 million eastern hemlock trees. Peters says that would have a great impact on forest ecosystems, as well as tourism and recreation.
Peters has issued a declaration of public nuisance against the insect, which directs the Division of Forestry to protect forest resources from infestations and to seek funding for projects aimed at saving the hemlock trees.
Infestations of the insect have been found in 15 Kentucky counties since 2006. The cabinet says the insect feeds on hemlock needles and can spread rapidly, reproducing during warm weather.
For more information, visit Save Kentucky's Hemlocks website at www.kyhemlocks.org.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:21 PM
Oldham County Schools Sued
KENTUCKY...
Two parents have filed a federal lawsuit, claiming the Oldham County Schools discriminate against female athletes at North Oldham High School.
One of the plaintiffs, Dick Richards, said the issue is the fieldhouse at the school, which the lawsuit claims doesn't have space for use by female athletes. The suit claims the facility violates Title IX, which mandates gender equality for athletes.
Board of Education attorney Anne Coorssen say when Richards first complained, the Kentucky High School Athletic Association and the Office of Civil Rights reviewed the building and did not find it in violation.
Coorssen says even so, the board spent money to tweak the fieldhouse.
The suit was filed Dec. 23.
Two parents have filed a federal lawsuit, claiming the Oldham County Schools discriminate against female athletes at North Oldham High School.
One of the plaintiffs, Dick Richards, said the issue is the fieldhouse at the school, which the lawsuit claims doesn't have space for use by female athletes. The suit claims the facility violates Title IX, which mandates gender equality for athletes.
Board of Education attorney Anne Coorssen say when Richards first complained, the Kentucky High School Athletic Association and the Office of Civil Rights reviewed the building and did not find it in violation.
Coorssen says even so, the board spent money to tweak the fieldhouse.
The suit was filed Dec. 23.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:21 PM
Homicide Ruled Accidential
KENTUCKY...
The death of a Lexington man that appeared to be a homicide has been ruled accidental.
The coroner's office found the 44-year-old victim fell on a liquor bottle, shattering it and cutting his neck, .
The man was found dead in the yard of a home just north of the downtown area of Lexington on Tuesday.
Authorities haven't released his name because they're having trouble locating family members in eastern Kentucky.
Catholic Action Center co-director Ginny Ramsey says the victim was homeless and was a client of the charity.
The death of a Lexington man that appeared to be a homicide has been ruled accidental.
The coroner's office found the 44-year-old victim fell on a liquor bottle, shattering it and cutting his neck, .
The man was found dead in the yard of a home just north of the downtown area of Lexington on Tuesday.
Authorities haven't released his name because they're having trouble locating family members in eastern Kentucky.
Catholic Action Center co-director Ginny Ramsey says the victim was homeless and was a client of the charity.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:20 PM
Insurance Claim On Coal House Approved
Virginia Woman Sentenced For McDowell County Theft
Judy Hall, 58, of Abington, Virginia, was sentenced Thursday to two years in federal prison and ordered to pay $389,000 in restitution after pleading guilty in August to stealing money from the Tug River Health Care Association, a nonprofit health clinic in McDowell County, West Virginia. Hall admitted she stole $389,000 over 18 months beginning in April 2008, while she was the clinic's chief financial officer.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:03 PM
Charges Dropped Against Trucker
WEST VIRGINIA....
Charges have been dropped against Michael Joyce, a trucker involved in a fatal accident in Kenova in 2009. Joyce had been charged with negligent homicide and leaving the scene of an accident, but a grand jury in November failed to return an indictment in the case. Joyce was driving a truck through Kenova when he made a turn onto 14th Street, and the back wheels of his truck went up on the curb, striking Deris Scott, killing him and dragging his wheelchair for more than two city blocks.
Charges have been dropped against Michael Joyce, a trucker involved in a fatal accident in Kenova in 2009. Joyce had been charged with negligent homicide and leaving the scene of an accident, but a grand jury in November failed to return an indictment in the case. Joyce was driving a truck through Kenova when he made a turn onto 14th Street, and the back wheels of his truck went up on the curb, striking Deris Scott, killing him and dragging his wheelchair for more than two city blocks.# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:02 PM
Environmental Groups Sue WV Surface Mine
WEST VIRGINIA....
The Sierra Club, Ohio Valley Environmental Coalition and West Virginia Highlands Conservancy filed a lawsuit in federal court in Huntington earlier this week alleging Maple Coal Co. is violating pollution discharge limits at the Sycamore surface mine, located in parts of Kanawha and Fayette counties. The environmental groups say Maple Coal is illegally allowing excess selenium to pollute a couple of creeks. The lawsuit seeks a court order requiring Maple to stop discharging excess selenium, civil fines for past violations and lawyers fees. Canadian coal producer Western Coal owns Maple Coal Co.
The Sierra Club, Ohio Valley Environmental Coalition and West Virginia Highlands Conservancy filed a lawsuit in federal court in Huntington earlier this week alleging Maple Coal Co. is violating pollution discharge limits at the Sycamore surface mine, located in parts of Kanawha and Fayette counties. The environmental groups say Maple Coal is illegally allowing excess selenium to pollute a couple of creeks. The lawsuit seeks a court order requiring Maple to stop discharging excess selenium, civil fines for past violations and lawyers fees. Canadian coal producer Western Coal owns Maple Coal Co.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:00 PM
Attorney General Weighing Options Against Allcare Dental
WEST VIRGINIA....
West Virginia officials are considering options for dealing with consumer complaints about Allcare Dental and Dentures, a national dental chain that closed abruptly this week, citing financial problems. Assistant Attorney General Matthew Stonestreet says the attorney general's office hasn't decided what legal steps it will take against New York-based Allcare, but the state received about 40 complaints about Allcare before the shutdown and is bracing for more calls because of the closure. For now, Stonestreet says the agency is encouraging customers to attempt to retrieve records, and, if they paid by credit card, to dispute charges. He says the chief concern is people who've paid for work that hasn't been completed or even started.
West Virginia officials are considering options for dealing with consumer complaints about Allcare Dental and Dentures, a national dental chain that closed abruptly this week, citing financial problems. Assistant Attorney General Matthew Stonestreet says the attorney general's office hasn't decided what legal steps it will take against New York-based Allcare, but the state received about 40 complaints about Allcare before the shutdown and is bracing for more calls because of the closure. For now, Stonestreet says the agency is encouraging customers to attempt to retrieve records, and, if they paid by credit card, to dispute charges. He says the chief concern is people who've paid for work that hasn't been completed or even started.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:59 PM
West Virginia Real Estate Developer Pleads Guilty
WEST VIRGINIA....
West Virginia real estate developer Donald R. Carter II, 38, of Poca has pleaded guilty to a two-count information charging him with bank fraud and tax evasion. A joint investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation Division revealed that, in November 2005, Carter purchased 23 undeveloped lots in the Lamplighter Valley subdivision in Lewisburg. He sought financing from United Bank to build several residential homes, but could not obtain multiple construction loans in his own name. With the aid of a corrupt loan officer, he enlisted friends and family to act as “straw buyers” and sign construction loan applications in their own name. Several of the applications contained false statements, including income, assets or net worth. In exchange for allowing Carter to “borrow their credit,” Carter paid the straw buyers $15,000 per loan, which were not disclosed on loan documents. Carter admitted to evading taxes for the year 2006. Former United Bank loan officer, Roy Leon Cooper, is scheduled for a plea hearing on January 13th.
West Virginia real estate developer Donald R. Carter II, 38, of Poca has pleaded guilty to a two-count information charging him with bank fraud and tax evasion. A joint investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation Division revealed that, in November 2005, Carter purchased 23 undeveloped lots in the Lamplighter Valley subdivision in Lewisburg. He sought financing from United Bank to build several residential homes, but could not obtain multiple construction loans in his own name. With the aid of a corrupt loan officer, he enlisted friends and family to act as “straw buyers” and sign construction loan applications in their own name. Several of the applications contained false statements, including income, assets or net worth. In exchange for allowing Carter to “borrow their credit,” Carter paid the straw buyers $15,000 per loan, which were not disclosed on loan documents. Carter admitted to evading taxes for the year 2006. Former United Bank loan officer, Roy Leon Cooper, is scheduled for a plea hearing on January 13th.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:57 PM
Tea Party Groups Announce Rally
WEST VIRGINIA...
West Virginia tea party groups will host a rally beginning at 11 a.m. during the first day of the Legislative Session, Wednesday, Jan. 12, at the State Capitol Complex in Charleston.
Tea party group members from throughout the state will be wearing gold scarves with the "Don't Tread on Me" logo. The group will meet at the complex for their rally from 11 a.m. to noon before protesting at the offices of Sens. Joe Manchin and Jay Rockefeller from 3 to 4 p.m.
Speakers at the rally include Aaron Kidd, a 19-year-old economics major at Marshall University and chair of the West Virginia Federation of College Republicans; Jenny Beth Martin, co-founder and national coordinator of Tea Party Patriots; Jonathan Miller, a state delegate from Berkley County; and Eric Householder, also a state delegate from Berkley County.
West Virginia tea party groups will host a rally beginning at 11 a.m. during the first day of the Legislative Session, Wednesday, Jan. 12, at the State Capitol Complex in Charleston.
Tea party group members from throughout the state will be wearing gold scarves with the "Don't Tread on Me" logo. The group will meet at the complex for their rally from 11 a.m. to noon before protesting at the offices of Sens. Joe Manchin and Jay Rockefeller from 3 to 4 p.m.Speakers at the rally include Aaron Kidd, a 19-year-old economics major at Marshall University and chair of the West Virginia Federation of College Republicans; Jenny Beth Martin, co-founder and national coordinator of Tea Party Patriots; Jonathan Miller, a state delegate from Berkley County; and Eric Householder, also a state delegate from Berkley County.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:53 PM
Vote-By-Mail Pilot Program
WEST VIRGINIA...
The secretary of state's vote-by-mail pilot program will get its first test in the spring.
Morgantown City Council approved the city's participation in the program. Morgantown voters will cast ballots by mail in the April municipal election.
Three council members who opposed the measure said they're concerned about rushing into the program without considering the possibility of fraud and other factors.
Councilwoman Jenny Seilin says the city can drop the program if it doesn't work out.
The secretary of state's vote-by-mail pilot program will get its first test in the spring.
Morgantown City Council approved the city's participation in the program. Morgantown voters will cast ballots by mail in the April municipal election.
Three council members who opposed the measure said they're concerned about rushing into the program without considering the possibility of fraud and other factors.
Councilwoman Jenny Seilin says the city can drop the program if it doesn't work out.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:51 PM
DUI Checkpoints Report
WEST VIRGINIA...
The W.Va. State Police have released their numbers in arrests and citations from DUI checkpoints set up around the state on New Year's Eve.
On Dec. 31, the state police conducted two DUI checkpoints in Monongalia County and Kanawha County, with several roving DUI patrols in West Virginia, according to a news release from the W.Va. State Police.
In both Monongalia and Kanawha counties, one DUI arrest was made in each county.
In total, 32 DUI arrests were made on New Year's Eve. In addition, 11 felony arrests were made, along with 44 misdemeanor arrests and 11 driving revoked DUI arrests were made, the news release states. Also, 32 drivers were given citations for driving while on a suspended or revoked license
The W.Va. State Police have released their numbers in arrests and citations from DUI checkpoints set up around the state on New Year's Eve.
On Dec. 31, the state police conducted two DUI checkpoints in Monongalia County and Kanawha County, with several roving DUI patrols in West Virginia, according to a news release from the W.Va. State Police.
In both Monongalia and Kanawha counties, one DUI arrest was made in each county.
In total, 32 DUI arrests were made on New Year's Eve. In addition, 11 felony arrests were made, along with 44 misdemeanor arrests and 11 driving revoked DUI arrests were made, the news release states. Also, 32 drivers were given citations for driving while on a suspended or revoked license
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:50 PM
Wednesday, January 05, 2011
Labor Department And Massey Settle
KENTUCKY....
Federal regulators have settled a lawsuit seeking to force Massey Energy Co. to close a Kentucky mine with a long history of violating safety laws.
Lawyers for the U.S. Department of Labor and Richmond, Va.-based Massey filed a joint motion for approval of a settlement Wednesday in U.S. District Court in eastern Kentucky.
The Labor Department sued in November seeking an order closing the Freedom Energy mine until Massey fixed numerous problems at the Pike County operation.
Massey has since decided to close the mine permanently. Court documents show Massey is now preparing to seal the mine.
Labor Department solicitor Patricia Smith says the settlement is a big victory for the agency.
General Counsel Shane Harvey says Massey is pleased to resolve the matter.
Federal regulators have settled a lawsuit seeking to force Massey Energy Co. to close a Kentucky mine with a long history of violating safety laws.
Lawyers for the U.S. Department of Labor and Richmond, Va.-based Massey filed a joint motion for approval of a settlement Wednesday in U.S. District Court in eastern Kentucky.
The Labor Department sued in November seeking an order closing the Freedom Energy mine until Massey fixed numerous problems at the Pike County operation.
Massey has since decided to close the mine permanently. Court documents show Massey is now preparing to seal the mine.
Labor Department solicitor Patricia Smith says the settlement is a big victory for the agency.
General Counsel Shane Harvey says Massey is pleased to resolve the matter.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:50 PM
Rand And Ron Paul Make Congressional History
KENTUCKY....
Wednesday, U.S. Representative Ron Paul stood in the back of the Senate chamber with a smile as he watched Vice President Joe Biden administer the oath of office and make his son, Rand Paul, the new junior senator from Kentucky. Ron Paul, R-Texas, was sworn in a few hours later for a 12th two-year term in the House of Representatives. The swearing-in of each of the Pauls marks the first time in congressional history when a child will serve in the Senate while the parent simultaneously serves in the House. Rand Paul, who says the debt problem is enormous, fired a warning shot at his own party in a television interview, saying that Republicans better not renege on their promise to implement $100 billion in spending cuts within a year of taking control of the House. Paul vows to keep his promises to Kentucky.
Wednesday, U.S. Representative Ron Paul stood in the back of the Senate chamber with a smile as he watched Vice President Joe Biden administer the oath of office and make his son, Rand Paul, the new junior senator from Kentucky. Ron Paul, R-Texas, was sworn in a few hours later for a 12th two-year term in the House of Representatives. The swearing-in of each of the Pauls marks the first time in congressional history when a child will serve in the Senate while the parent simultaneously serves in the House. Rand Paul, who says the debt problem is enormous, fired a warning shot at his own party in a television interview, saying that Republicans better not renege on their promise to implement $100 billion in spending cuts within a year of taking control of the House. Paul vows to keep his promises to Kentucky.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:49 PM
Felony Fugitive Arrested In Johnson County
KENTUCKY....
A man on the run since September was taken into custody Wednesday afternoon. Gary L. Gamble, Sr. was wanted on drug and persistent felony charges. He was arrested by Johnson County Sheriff Dwayne Price and Paintsville Police Chief Bill Holbrook.
A man on the run since September was taken into custody Wednesday afternoon. Gary L. Gamble, Sr. was wanted on drug and persistent felony charges. He was arrested by Johnson County Sheriff Dwayne Price and Paintsville Police Chief Bill Holbrook.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:48 PM
LIHEAP Emergency Assistance Begins
KENTUCKY....
Governor Steve Beshear announced Wednesday that Kentucky families facing a crisis and needing help paying for heat during winter's colder months can apply for assistance this month. The assistance is part of Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), funded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. This fiscal year, Health and Human Services has released more than $2.7 billion for LIHEAP. Kentucky received $34 million, and about $11.8 million is available now for families facing a home-heating emergency. Benefits are distributed through Community Action Agencies across the state. The program's crisis phase began on January 4th and ends March 31st, or when funding runs out. Families applying must bring a past due or disconnect notice from their utility provider.
Governor Steve Beshear announced Wednesday that Kentucky families facing a crisis and needing help paying for heat during winter's colder months can apply for assistance this month. The assistance is part of Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), funded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. This fiscal year, Health and Human Services has released more than $2.7 billion for LIHEAP. Kentucky received $34 million, and about $11.8 million is available now for families facing a home-heating emergency. Benefits are distributed through Community Action Agencies across the state. The program's crisis phase began on January 4th and ends March 31st, or when funding runs out. Families applying must bring a past due or disconnect notice from their utility provider.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:47 PM
Williams Campaign Fundraising Surpasses $750,000
KENTUCKY....
Democratic Governor Steve Beshear has surpassed $3.5 million in campaign fundraising and has most of it stockpiled in the bank for his re-election bid, but Republican rival David Williams made up some ground with a strong end-of-the-year showing. The Kentucky Senate President outraised Beshear during the fourth quarter of 2010, but still trails by a big margin in overall campaign funds. Williams amassed more than $750,000 in campaign funds that mostly came in the final two months of last year, his campaign said Wednesday as candidates filed campaign finance reports with the state.
Democratic Governor Steve Beshear has surpassed $3.5 million in campaign fundraising and has most of it stockpiled in the bank for his re-election bid, but Republican rival David Williams made up some ground with a strong end-of-the-year showing. The Kentucky Senate President outraised Beshear during the fourth quarter of 2010, but still trails by a big margin in overall campaign funds. Williams amassed more than $750,000 in campaign funds that mostly came in the final two months of last year, his campaign said Wednesday as candidates filed campaign finance reports with the state.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:46 PM
Bill Seeking Review Of Tax Code Clears Senate Committee
KENTUCKY....
A proposal by Kentucky Senate President David Williams to create an outside commission on revamping the state's tax code won Senate Appropriations and Revenue Committee approval Wednesday. However, it drew an ominous dissent from House Speaker Greg Stumbo who suggested the approach would abdicate the General Assembly's role in shaping tax policy. Stumbo predicted the measure would face "great difficulty" passing the House. The measure would limit lawmakers to an up-or-down vote on any tax modernization plan crafted by a group of economists and others without the ability to make substantive changes.
A proposal by Kentucky Senate President David Williams to create an outside commission on revamping the state's tax code won Senate Appropriations and Revenue Committee approval Wednesday. However, it drew an ominous dissent from House Speaker Greg Stumbo who suggested the approach would abdicate the General Assembly's role in shaping tax policy. Stumbo predicted the measure would face "great difficulty" passing the House. The measure would limit lawmakers to an up-or-down vote on any tax modernization plan crafted by a group of economists and others without the ability to make substantive changes.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:45 PM
Bill Seeking Review Of Tax Code Clears Senate Committee
KENTUCKY....
A proposal by Kentucky Senate President David Williams to create an outside commission on revamping the state's tax code won Senate Appropriations and Revenue Committee approval Wednesday. However, it drew an ominous dissent from House Speaker Greg Stumbo who suggested the approach would abdicate the General Assembly's role in shaping tax policy. Stumbo predicted the measure would face "great difficulty" passing the House. The measure would limit lawmakers to an up-or-down vote on any tax modernization plan crafted by a group of economists and others without the ability to make substantive changes.
A proposal by Kentucky Senate President David Williams to create an outside commission on revamping the state's tax code won Senate Appropriations and Revenue Committee approval Wednesday. However, it drew an ominous dissent from House Speaker Greg Stumbo who suggested the approach would abdicate the General Assembly's role in shaping tax policy. Stumbo predicted the measure would face "great difficulty" passing the House. The measure would limit lawmakers to an up-or-down vote on any tax modernization plan crafted by a group of economists and others without the ability to make substantive changes.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:45 PM
Bill To Reward Math And Science Teachers Passes Senate Committee
KENTUCKY....
A bill seeking to reward Kentucky teachers with extra money for guiding students through advanced math and science classes won approval from the Senate Education Committee on Wednesday. The state's initial yearly price tag would be $1.2 million, but the incentives would spur teachers to steer more students to take Advanced Placement exams in math and science, said Sen. Ken Winters, the bill sponsor. Families would benefit by having students earn college credits while still in high school.
A bill seeking to reward Kentucky teachers with extra money for guiding students through advanced math and science classes won approval from the Senate Education Committee on Wednesday. The state's initial yearly price tag would be $1.2 million, but the incentives would spur teachers to steer more students to take Advanced Placement exams in math and science, said Sen. Ken Winters, the bill sponsor. Families would benefit by having students earn college credits while still in high school.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:43 PM
Bill To Reward Math And Science Teachers Passes Senate Committee
KENTUCKY....
A bill seeking to reward Kentucky teachers with extra money for guiding students through advanced math and science classes won approval from the Senate Education Committee on Wednesday. The state's initial yearly price tag would be $1.2 million, but the incentives would spur teachers to steer more students to take Advanced Placement exams in math and science, said Sen. Ken Winters, the bill sponsor. Families would benefit by having students earn college credits while still in high school.
A bill seeking to reward Kentucky teachers with extra money for guiding students through advanced math and science classes won approval from the Senate Education Committee on Wednesday. The state's initial yearly price tag would be $1.2 million, but the incentives would spur teachers to steer more students to take Advanced Placement exams in math and science, said Sen. Ken Winters, the bill sponsor. Families would benefit by having students earn college credits while still in high school.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:43 PM
Kentucky Senator Proposes Tougher Ethics Law
KENTUCKY....
Kentucky Senator Kathy Stein, a Lexington Democrat, is proposing legislation that would toughen state ethics law for legislators and candidates and shed more light on spending by lawmakers. Stein said Wednesday that her proposal would restrict campaign contributions to lawmakers or legislative candidates by businesses and groups that employ lobbyists and also prohibit such contributions when the General Assembly is meeting in regular session. Her proposal would require the Kentucky Legislative Ethics Commission to dismiss an ethics complaint that was publicly disclosed by the complainant. Another proposal calls for the Legislative Research Commission to post lawmakers’ travel and expenses records online.
Kentucky Senator Kathy Stein, a Lexington Democrat, is proposing legislation that would toughen state ethics law for legislators and candidates and shed more light on spending by lawmakers. Stein said Wednesday that her proposal would restrict campaign contributions to lawmakers or legislative candidates by businesses and groups that employ lobbyists and also prohibit such contributions when the General Assembly is meeting in regular session. Her proposal would require the Kentucky Legislative Ethics Commission to dismiss an ethics complaint that was publicly disclosed by the complainant. Another proposal calls for the Legislative Research Commission to post lawmakers’ travel and expenses records online.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:42 PM
Two Arrested In Bell County
KENTUCKY....
Thirty-two year old William Kenneth Mann of Wallins and 23 year old Andrew W. York of Hulen were arrested in Bell County Wednesday afternoon following an armed robbery that caused the lockdown of a nearby school. State police say they robbed a business at the Vendors Mall near Middlesboro at gunpoint and then fled the scene. A short time later, they were located in the parking lot of the Bell County High School. Police say Mann attempted to flee in a vehicle, almost hitting a Bell County Sheriff Deputy and KSP Trooper Tyson Lawson. He then ran into a parked vehicle before being arrested.
Mann was charged with first-degree receiving stolen property under $10,000, first-degree robbery, first-degree fleeing or evading police, third-degree criminal mischief, reckless driving, three counts of first-degree wanton endangerment of a police officer and resisting arrest. Other charges are pending. York was charged with first-degree complicity to commit robbery.
Thirty-two year old William Kenneth Mann of Wallins and 23 year old Andrew W. York of Hulen were arrested in Bell County Wednesday afternoon following an armed robbery that caused the lockdown of a nearby school. State police say they robbed a business at the Vendors Mall near Middlesboro at gunpoint and then fled the scene. A short time later, they were located in the parking lot of the Bell County High School. Police say Mann attempted to flee in a vehicle, almost hitting a Bell County Sheriff Deputy and KSP Trooper Tyson Lawson. He then ran into a parked vehicle before being arrested.
Mann was charged with first-degree receiving stolen property under $10,000, first-degree robbery, first-degree fleeing or evading police, third-degree criminal mischief, reckless driving, three counts of first-degree wanton endangerment of a police officer and resisting arrest. Other charges are pending. York was charged with first-degree complicity to commit robbery.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:41 PM
Lexington Police Investigating Correctional Officer
KENTUCKY....
Kevin Lawson, a correctional officer at the Fayette County Detention Center, is the subject of a criminal investigation. Lawson, who has been with the jail since September 2008, is accused of inappropriate sexual contact with a female inmate. He turned himself in early Wednesday on charges of sexual abuse and indecent exposure. Lexington Police say they were contacted by jail officials at the end of December and were asked to look into the accusations reporter earlier that month. Just two days earlier, Lexington Mayor Jim Gray launched an investigation into the jail's policies, procedures, and management. Lawson is scheduled to appear in court Thursday.
Kevin Lawson, a correctional officer at the Fayette County Detention Center, is the subject of a criminal investigation. Lawson, who has been with the jail since September 2008, is accused of inappropriate sexual contact with a female inmate. He turned himself in early Wednesday on charges of sexual abuse and indecent exposure. Lexington Police say they were contacted by jail officials at the end of December and were asked to look into the accusations reporter earlier that month. Just two days earlier, Lexington Mayor Jim Gray launched an investigation into the jail's policies, procedures, and management. Lawson is scheduled to appear in court Thursday.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:40 PM
Breathitt County Drug Bust
KENTUCKY....
Operation UNITE and Kentucky State Police troopers conducted a drug roundup in Breathitt County Wednesday, arresting 13 individuals of the two dozen targeted. During an investigation that spanned six months, UNITE detectives along with officers from the Jackson Police Department purchased a variety of pills, primarily Percocet, OxyContin and Lortab. Dan Smoot, law enforcement director for UNITE, says one-third of those wanted in this latest roundup have previously been arrested by UNITE for drug trafficking. Through November, 816 calls were made to UNITE's drug tipline (1-866-424-4382) by Breathitt County residents.
As of early afternoon police had located and charged 13 individuals. All were being held in the Three Forks Regional Jail in Beattyville:
• Ann Barrett, age 36, Jackson, served in jail, first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance, second offense, and second-degree persistent felony offender.
• Stephanie Jean Combs, age 35, Old Quicksand Road, Jackson, first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance.
• Larry Davidson, age 51, Airport Road, Jackson, two counts first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance and one count second-degree persistent felony offender.
• Jacob Henson Jr., age 45, Stamper Drive, Jackson, first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance and second-degree persistent felony offender.
• French Howard, age 34, Highway 541, Jackson, first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance.
• Sheila Jimenez (aka Kay Hensley), age 53, Railroad Street, Jackson, second-degree trafficking in a controlled substance.
• Adam Morris, age 24, Jackson, served in jail, first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance and first-degree persistent felony offender.
• Cynthia Morris, age 45, Ivy Court Drive, Jackson, first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance.
• James D. Napier, age 43, Sycamore Street, Jackson, first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance, second offense, and first-degree persistent felony offender.
• Bert Noble, age 48, Highway 15 South, Jackson, second-degree trafficking in a controlled substance.
• Toby Noble, age 32, Highway 315, Booneville, first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance, second offense, and second-degree persistent felony offender.
• Sarah F. Robinson, age 54, Sewell Street, Jackson, first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance, second offense.
• Sam Wilson Jr., age 45, Town View Apartments, Broadway, Jackson, second-degree trafficking in a controlled substance.
Those suspects not located during Wednesday morning's roundup will continue to be sought by UNITE detectives and officers from the Jackson Police Department.
Operation UNITE and Kentucky State Police troopers conducted a drug roundup in Breathitt County Wednesday, arresting 13 individuals of the two dozen targeted. During an investigation that spanned six months, UNITE detectives along with officers from the Jackson Police Department purchased a variety of pills, primarily Percocet, OxyContin and Lortab. Dan Smoot, law enforcement director for UNITE, says one-third of those wanted in this latest roundup have previously been arrested by UNITE for drug trafficking. Through November, 816 calls were made to UNITE's drug tipline (1-866-424-4382) by Breathitt County residents.
As of early afternoon police had located and charged 13 individuals. All were being held in the Three Forks Regional Jail in Beattyville:
• Ann Barrett, age 36, Jackson, served in jail, first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance, second offense, and second-degree persistent felony offender.
• Stephanie Jean Combs, age 35, Old Quicksand Road, Jackson, first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance.
• Larry Davidson, age 51, Airport Road, Jackson, two counts first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance and one count second-degree persistent felony offender.
• Jacob Henson Jr., age 45, Stamper Drive, Jackson, first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance and second-degree persistent felony offender.
• French Howard, age 34, Highway 541, Jackson, first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance.
• Sheila Jimenez (aka Kay Hensley), age 53, Railroad Street, Jackson, second-degree trafficking in a controlled substance.
• Adam Morris, age 24, Jackson, served in jail, first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance and first-degree persistent felony offender.
• Cynthia Morris, age 45, Ivy Court Drive, Jackson, first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance.
• James D. Napier, age 43, Sycamore Street, Jackson, first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance, second offense, and first-degree persistent felony offender.
• Bert Noble, age 48, Highway 15 South, Jackson, second-degree trafficking in a controlled substance.
• Toby Noble, age 32, Highway 315, Booneville, first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance, second offense, and second-degree persistent felony offender.
• Sarah F. Robinson, age 54, Sewell Street, Jackson, first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance, second offense.
• Sam Wilson Jr., age 45, Town View Apartments, Broadway, Jackson, second-degree trafficking in a controlled substance.
Those suspects not located during Wednesday morning's roundup will continue to be sought by UNITE detectives and officers from the Jackson Police Department.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:39 PM
Massey Production Falls Short Of Expectations
WEST VIRGINIA....
Massey Energy Co. says production fell short of expectations in the final three months of the year. Massey says it produced and sold 8.9 million tons during the quarter. That's 1.4 million less than the company had predicted in October. Analysts surveyed by Thomson Reuters were expecting Massey to neither produce a profit nor a loss per share for the period.
Massey Energy Co. says production fell short of expectations in the final three months of the year. Massey says it produced and sold 8.9 million tons during the quarter. That's 1.4 million less than the company had predicted in October. Analysts surveyed by Thomson Reuters were expecting Massey to neither produce a profit nor a loss per share for the period.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:38 PM
Charleston Couple Sentenced
WEST VIRGINIA....
Lisa A. Knotts, 33, and her husband, 42 year old Ross A. Knotts, of Charleston were sentenced Wednesday to three months in prison, followed by a 3-year term of supervised release, along with being ordered to pay $78,530 in restitution. The couple pleaded guilty in September 2010 to the charges of conspiracy to commit mail fraud, admitting they stole merchandise from various Target stores in West Virginia, Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana and resold the items on the online auction site eBay, allowing them to be delivered via the U.S. Mail. Investigators say the couple instructed their minor to assist with hiding merchandise in shopping carts and child strollers. The Court allowed each defendant to serve their prison term separately. Lisa Knotts will serve her sentence second. Ross Knotts is set to report to the U.S. Marshal on January 17th.
Lisa A. Knotts, 33, and her husband, 42 year old Ross A. Knotts, of Charleston were sentenced Wednesday to three months in prison, followed by a 3-year term of supervised release, along with being ordered to pay $78,530 in restitution. The couple pleaded guilty in September 2010 to the charges of conspiracy to commit mail fraud, admitting they stole merchandise from various Target stores in West Virginia, Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana and resold the items on the online auction site eBay, allowing them to be delivered via the U.S. Mail. Investigators say the couple instructed their minor to assist with hiding merchandise in shopping carts and child strollers. The Court allowed each defendant to serve their prison term separately. Lisa Knotts will serve her sentence second. Ross Knotts is set to report to the U.S. Marshal on January 17th.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:37 PM
Raleigh County Doctor Indicted
WEST VIRGINIA....
Forty-one year old Angela Basham-Calloway, a Raleigh County physician who practiced in Beckley and Oak Hill, is charged with fraudulently obtaining and conspiring to distribute Oxycodone and Adderall. A grand jury indicted Basham-Calloway on Tuesday. Basham-Calloway faces up to 24 years in prison and $1.25 million in fines if convicted. A judge has ordered Basham-Calloway detained until her trial, which has not been set.
Forty-one year old Angela Basham-Calloway, a Raleigh County physician who practiced in Beckley and Oak Hill, is charged with fraudulently obtaining and conspiring to distribute Oxycodone and Adderall. A grand jury indicted Basham-Calloway on Tuesday. Basham-Calloway faces up to 24 years in prison and $1.25 million in fines if convicted. A judge has ordered Basham-Calloway detained until her trial, which has not been set.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:36 PM
Preliminary Hearing In Wayne County Murder
WEST VIRGINIA....
Clinton Douglas Skeens was in Wayne County Magistrate Court Wednesday afternoon for a preliminary hearing after being charged with the murder of former Wayne County football coach Jess "Scott" Jarrell. Police say Jarrell was the only one home on Friday, December 31st when the murder took place. Fifty-two year old Clinton Douglas Skeens of Huntington was arrested Friday by the West Virginia State Police. Trooper Chapman with the West Virginia State Police testified Jarrell suffered 43 stab wounds, and the fatal stab was to his heart. The stab wounds were confirmed by the autopsy report presented in court. Jarrell's son, Scott Jarrell, and his son-in-law, Paul Morrison, were charged with willful disruption of a government process after they attempted to attack Skeens.
Clinton Douglas Skeens was in Wayne County Magistrate Court Wednesday afternoon for a preliminary hearing after being charged with the murder of former Wayne County football coach Jess "Scott" Jarrell. Police say Jarrell was the only one home on Friday, December 31st when the murder took place. Fifty-two year old Clinton Douglas Skeens of Huntington was arrested Friday by the West Virginia State Police. Trooper Chapman with the West Virginia State Police testified Jarrell suffered 43 stab wounds, and the fatal stab was to his heart. The stab wounds were confirmed by the autopsy report presented in court. Jarrell's son, Scott Jarrell, and his son-in-law, Paul Morrison, were charged with willful disruption of a government process after they attempted to attack Skeens.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:35 PM
MSHA Director Unveils Safety Standards
WEST VIRGINIA....
During a conference call Wednesday, MSHA Director Joe Main discussed 11 items scheduled for the next year aimed at planning, preventing and protecting the safety of miners. The standards deal with a number of issues, including regulations for impoundment dams, coal mine dust and dust monitors, operations with a pattern of violations and standards for proximity detective systems. The agenda calls for six new rules to be on the books in the next six months. MSHA plans to issue regulations to limit miners' exposure to coal dust that causes black lung and toughen standards for preventing coal-dust explosions in underground mines. MSHA says it will not be deterred by the failure of reform legislation last year or by the Republican takeover of the House of Representatives.
During a conference call Wednesday, MSHA Director Joe Main discussed 11 items scheduled for the next year aimed at planning, preventing and protecting the safety of miners. The standards deal with a number of issues, including regulations for impoundment dams, coal mine dust and dust monitors, operations with a pattern of violations and standards for proximity detective systems. The agenda calls for six new rules to be on the books in the next six months. MSHA plans to issue regulations to limit miners' exposure to coal dust that causes black lung and toughen standards for preventing coal-dust explosions in underground mines. MSHA says it will not be deterred by the failure of reform legislation last year or by the Republican takeover of the House of Representatives.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:34 PM
WV Supreme Court Set To Hear Gubernatorial Succession Case
WEST VIRGINIA....
At 2:00 P.M. next Tuesday, the West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals will hear oral arguments in the Citizen Action Group and Thornton Cooper's consolidated case seeking a special election for governor. The Action Group and Cooper both filed against Acting Governor Earl Ray Tomblin, House Speaker Rick Thompson and Secretary of State Natalie Tennant asking the Supreme Court for a ruling on a time line for a gubernatorial election for West Virginia. Justice Robin Davis has disqualified herself from hearing the case and Preston County Circuit Judge Lawrance Miller, Jr. has been appointed to take her place.
At 2:00 P.M. next Tuesday, the West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals will hear oral arguments in the Citizen Action Group and Thornton Cooper's consolidated case seeking a special election for governor. The Action Group and Cooper both filed against Acting Governor Earl Ray Tomblin, House Speaker Rick Thompson and Secretary of State Natalie Tennant asking the Supreme Court for a ruling on a time line for a gubernatorial election for West Virginia. Justice Robin Davis has disqualified herself from hearing the case and Preston County Circuit Judge Lawrance Miller, Jr. has been appointed to take her place.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:33 PM
WV School Building Authority Seeking State Superintendent
WEST VIRGINIA....
Reports indicate that Chairwoman of the West Virginia University Board of Governors Carolyn Long, who is a former Braxton County Superintendent, West Virginia School Building Authority Executive Director Mark Manchin, former superintendent in Webster and McDowell counties, along with Deputy State Superintendent Jorea Marple, a former Kanawha County superintendent, have applied to be the new superintendent of West Virginia Schools. Former state Superintendent Steve Payne retired this week, and Ted Mattern took over as interim superintendent on Tuesday. The state board hopes to have the position filled by March.
Reports indicate that Chairwoman of the West Virginia University Board of Governors Carolyn Long, who is a former Braxton County Superintendent, West Virginia School Building Authority Executive Director Mark Manchin, former superintendent in Webster and McDowell counties, along with Deputy State Superintendent Jorea Marple, a former Kanawha County superintendent, have applied to be the new superintendent of West Virginia Schools. Former state Superintendent Steve Payne retired this week, and Ted Mattern took over as interim superintendent on Tuesday. The state board hopes to have the position filled by March.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:32 PM
Cabell Huntington Hospital A Finalist For National Award
WEST VIRGINIA....
Cabell Huntington Hospital has been selected as one of the 33 hospitals from across the United States as a finalist for the national 2011 Hospital Charitable Service Awards which honors medical facilities for their community impact, innovation, collaboration and best practices. The hospital was nominated for the award for its efforts to reduce obesity and improve community health in the Tri-State area. Of the 33 finalists, 10 will be selected to share a $100,000 award fund, which will be announced February 3rd at a national hospital charitable services conference in Atlanta.
Cabell Huntington Hospital has been selected as one of the 33 hospitals from across the United States as a finalist for the national 2011 Hospital Charitable Service Awards which honors medical facilities for their community impact, innovation, collaboration and best practices. The hospital was nominated for the award for its efforts to reduce obesity and improve community health in the Tri-State area. Of the 33 finalists, 10 will be selected to share a $100,000 award fund, which will be announced February 3rd at a national hospital charitable services conference in Atlanta.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:30 PM
Cabell Huntington Hospital A Finalist For National Award
WEST VIRGINIA....
Cabell Huntington Hospital has been selected as one of the 33 hospitals from across the United States as a finalist for the national 2011 Hospital Charitable Service Awards which honors medical facilities for their community impact, innovation, collaboration and best practices. The hospital was nominated for the award for its efforts to reduce obesity and improve community health in the Tri-State area. Of the 33 finalists, 10 will be selected to share a $100,000 award fund, which will be announced February 3rd at a national hospital charitable services conference in Atlanta.
Cabell Huntington Hospital has been selected as one of the 33 hospitals from across the United States as a finalist for the national 2011 Hospital Charitable Service Awards which honors medical facilities for their community impact, innovation, collaboration and best practices. The hospital was nominated for the award for its efforts to reduce obesity and improve community health in the Tri-State area. Of the 33 finalists, 10 will be selected to share a $100,000 award fund, which will be announced February 3rd at a national hospital charitable services conference in Atlanta.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:30 PM
Health Department Closes Kiddie Academy
WEST VIRGINIA....
The Kanawha-Charleston Health Department closed Kiddie Academy Child Care Leaning Center last week, citing unsanitary conditions. Health Department Director Dr. Rahul Gupta says they gave the owners, Andrew and Michelle Fizer, the weekend to clean the building and bring it up to code after inspectors found evidence of the presence of rodents in the kitchen and problems in the diaper changing area. But Gupta says when his staff returned Monday, there were still problems. Inspectors returned on Tuesday and found that the conditions still did not meet the criteria they had set forth last week. The Health Department suspended Kiddie Academy's permits until all 21 problems are corrected. While the center remains closed, the Fizer told parents they could drop their children off at the Blessed John XXIII Pastoral Center, a place the day care uses as an emergency shelter. Wednesday, Anita Ray, director of environmental health for the Kanawha-Charleston Health Department, said that action was completely illegal, and they didn't ask anyone for permission as far as moving the center there temporarily. The day care center's permit from the health department has been suspended.
The Kanawha-Charleston Health Department closed Kiddie Academy Child Care Leaning Center last week, citing unsanitary conditions. Health Department Director Dr. Rahul Gupta says they gave the owners, Andrew and Michelle Fizer, the weekend to clean the building and bring it up to code after inspectors found evidence of the presence of rodents in the kitchen and problems in the diaper changing area. But Gupta says when his staff returned Monday, there were still problems. Inspectors returned on Tuesday and found that the conditions still did not meet the criteria they had set forth last week. The Health Department suspended Kiddie Academy's permits until all 21 problems are corrected. While the center remains closed, the Fizer told parents they could drop their children off at the Blessed John XXIII Pastoral Center, a place the day care uses as an emergency shelter. Wednesday, Anita Ray, director of environmental health for the Kanawha-Charleston Health Department, said that action was completely illegal, and they didn't ask anyone for permission as far as moving the center there temporarily. The day care center's permit from the health department has been suspended.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:29 PM
Tuesday, January 04, 2011
Massey Hearing Set For Pike County Mine
Freedom Energy plans to call three miners to testify about safety policies and procedures at a hearing set to begin Wednesday in an effort to persuade a federal judge not to order a Pike County mine closed. The hearing will focus on specific violations, general policies and overall safety culture at Freedom Energy's Sidney Coal Corp. mine. In October, the U.S. Mine Safety and Health Administration targeted the mine in its first attempt to use the courts to shut down the mine which is considered to be on a "pattern of violations." Testimony is scheduled to last three days, but attorneys for Massey Energy and the Department of Labor told the judge during a status hearing Tuesday that they were trying to reach an out-of-court settlement.
Terry Mike Jude, who now works as a ventilation specialist and inspector for MSHA, participated in mine rescue and recovery operations at the Massey Energy Aracoma Alma fire and participated in the rescue of two people at the Mammouth No. 15 mine. He was a safety official at Massey from December 2004 to October 2006.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:49 PM
Rand Paul Readies To Join Father In Congress
KENTUCKY....
For much of his 21 years in Congress, Representative Ron Paul has been a party of one, but that's all about to change. Rand Paul will not only share his father's Virginia condominium after winning an election of his own, but he will bring a tea party agenda of deficit reduction and limited government that is remarkably similar to the ideas that Ron Paul has been pushing for decades. Both father and son want to reform monetary policy and slash government spending and regulation. Ron Paul says the dollar will be "ruined" unless Congress limits the "amount of power that the Fed has to monetize debt." Rand Paul agrees and says that stricter oversight of the Federal Reserve will be among his top priorities in the Senate. Rand Paul also plans to introduce term-limit legislation, something his father, now a veteran incumbent, supported during his first years in office. Rand Paul says lawmakers need to live with the rules they create. Political analysts say it would be a mistake to say that Rand Paul is a carbon copy of his father.
For much of his 21 years in Congress, Representative Ron Paul has been a party of one, but that's all about to change. Rand Paul will not only share his father's Virginia condominium after winning an election of his own, but he will bring a tea party agenda of deficit reduction and limited government that is remarkably similar to the ideas that Ron Paul has been pushing for decades. Both father and son want to reform monetary policy and slash government spending and regulation. Ron Paul says the dollar will be "ruined" unless Congress limits the "amount of power that the Fed has to monetize debt." Rand Paul agrees and says that stricter oversight of the Federal Reserve will be among his top priorities in the Senate. Rand Paul also plans to introduce term-limit legislation, something his father, now a veteran incumbent, supported during his first years in office. Rand Paul says lawmakers need to live with the rules they create. Political analysts say it would be a mistake to say that Rand Paul is a carbon copy of his father.# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:21 PM
Floyd County Domestic Violence Hires New Workers
KENTUCKY....
Kentucky State Police say, in 2009, around 90 victims called the state's Domestic Violence Association every day, while 7,909 emergency protection orders were issued, 119 of them in Floyd County. Recently, the Floyd County Fiscal Court voted to award a $400,000 grant to the Mountain Comprehensive Care Center's Victim Services Program to hire new advocates to help victims. With the grant, the center was able to hire Kimberley Freeman, Sabrina Rose and Dustin Newsome who are on call 24/7. Freeman, Rose and Newsome plan to implement training and other initiatives to improve community, police and judicial collaboration, as well as victim safety. The group has already taken steps to implement training sessions for law enforcement officers, prosecutors, judges, advocates and medical professionals. This training will focus on improving response to the complexities of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence and stalking. If you need to talk to someone or report a case of domestic violence, the crisis hotline is 1-800-422-1060.
Kentucky State Police say, in 2009, around 90 victims called the state's Domestic Violence Association every day, while 7,909 emergency protection orders were issued, 119 of them in Floyd County. Recently, the Floyd County Fiscal Court voted to award a $400,000 grant to the Mountain Comprehensive Care Center's Victim Services Program to hire new advocates to help victims. With the grant, the center was able to hire Kimberley Freeman, Sabrina Rose and Dustin Newsome who are on call 24/7. Freeman, Rose and Newsome plan to implement training and other initiatives to improve community, police and judicial collaboration, as well as victim safety. The group has already taken steps to implement training sessions for law enforcement officers, prosecutors, judges, advocates and medical professionals. This training will focus on improving response to the complexities of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence and stalking. If you need to talk to someone or report a case of domestic violence, the crisis hotline is 1-800-422-1060.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:20 PM
Murder Suspect Appears In Court
KENTUCKY....
Woodie Sons Jr. appeared in court Tuesday in Powell County after being charged with the murder of Charles Maggard, who was found stabbed to death in his home in Stanton in December 2010. State Police arrested Sons at a home in Clay City on December 29th. Woodie Sons owned Universal Fitness Center in Stanton, which was destroyed by a fire in October. A preliminary hearing is set for January 11th.
Woodie Sons Jr. appeared in court Tuesday in Powell County after being charged with the murder of Charles Maggard, who was found stabbed to death in his home in Stanton in December 2010. State Police arrested Sons at a home in Clay City on December 29th. Woodie Sons owned Universal Fitness Center in Stanton, which was destroyed by a fire in October. A preliminary hearing is set for January 11th.# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:17 PM
Immigration Bill Filed
KENTUCKY....
On the first day of the 2011 legislative session Tuesday, Senate Republicans followed through on a promise to file a bill aimed at cracking down on illegal immigrants in Kentucky. Republican state Senator John Schickel of Union introduced the legislation, and Senate President David Williams said the measure could be approved and sent to the House for consideration by week’s end. The measure would allow police to determine the immigration status of people they detain and to charge them with criminal trespass if found on public or private property in the state.
On the first day of the 2011 legislative session Tuesday, Senate Republicans followed through on a promise to file a bill aimed at cracking down on illegal immigrants in Kentucky. Republican state Senator John Schickel of Union introduced the legislation, and Senate President David Williams said the measure could be approved and sent to the House for consideration by week’s end. The measure would allow police to determine the immigration status of people they detain and to charge them with criminal trespass if found on public or private property in the state.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:16 PM
Bill Filed For Nursing Home Background Checks
KENTUCKY....
Tuesday, State Senator Tom Buford, R-Nicholasville, filed a bill that would require criminal background checks for all employees of nursing homes. Currently, the state requires such checks for nursing home and assisted living employees who care directly for residents, but not for staff such as custodians.
Tuesday, State Senator Tom Buford, R-Nicholasville, filed a bill that would require criminal background checks for all employees of nursing homes. Currently, the state requires such checks for nursing home and assisted living employees who care directly for residents, but not for staff such as custodians.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:15 PM
Tax Filing Deadline Extended
KENTUCKY....
Taxpayers will get an extra three days to file their federal tax returns this year, giving taxpayers until midnight Monday, April 18th, to file their 2010 returns. The filing deadline is delayed because the District of Columbia will observe Emancipation Day on Friday, April 15th. Emancipation Day marks the occasion when President Abraham Lincoln signed into law a bill on April 16, 1862, ending slavery in the District of Columbia.
Taxpayers will get an extra three days to file their federal tax returns this year, giving taxpayers until midnight Monday, April 18th, to file their 2010 returns. The filing deadline is delayed because the District of Columbia will observe Emancipation Day on Friday, April 15th. Emancipation Day marks the occasion when President Abraham Lincoln signed into law a bill on April 16, 1862, ending slavery in the District of Columbia.# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:13 PM
Former Governor Loses Bid For Senate Minority Leader
KENTUCKY....
Former Governor Julian Carroll, now a Democratic state senator, was rejected by his colleagues Tuesday in his bid to become Senate minority floor leader. Instead, Democrats chose Senator R.J. Palmer II, a Winchester banker with a reputation as a mild-mannered lawmaker. Carroll says his rocky relationship with Republican Senate President David Williams likely caused his colleagues to opt for Palmer heading into what is expected to be a tension-filled series of legislative meetings that will extend into mid-March. Palmer, who has been in the Senate since 2001, called Carroll a "very talented" leader from whom he will seek advice in his new role. He replaces retired Minority Leader Ed Worley, who didn't seek re-election to the Senate last year.
Former Governor Julian Carroll, now a Democratic state senator, was rejected by his colleagues Tuesday in his bid to become Senate minority floor leader. Instead, Democrats chose Senator R.J. Palmer II, a Winchester banker with a reputation as a mild-mannered lawmaker. Carroll says his rocky relationship with Republican Senate President David Williams likely caused his colleagues to opt for Palmer heading into what is expected to be a tension-filled series of legislative meetings that will extend into mid-March. Palmer, who has been in the Senate since 2001, called Carroll a "very talented" leader from whom he will seek advice in his new role. He replaces retired Minority Leader Ed Worley, who didn't seek re-election to the Senate last year.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:12 PM
KY Prison Recidivism Rate Down
KENTUCKY....
Kentucky currently spends $447 million on prison corrections annually. New data from the Department of Corrections shows 29.5 percent of inmates released in 2008 have been returned to prison, either for new felony offenses or parole violations. That two-year recidivism rate is the lowest since 2000, when the state posted a 28.9 percent rate. Corrections Commissioner LaDonna Thompson says a study showed that, between 2007 and 2009, the number of parolees returned to prison for technical violations went down about 25 percent. She says changes in probation and parole, alternative sentencing, including home incarceration and drug courts and mental-health courts, and state funding for substance-abuse treatment may have contributed to the reduction, saving taxpayers money.
Kentucky currently spends $447 million on prison corrections annually. New data from the Department of Corrections shows 29.5 percent of inmates released in 2008 have been returned to prison, either for new felony offenses or parole violations. That two-year recidivism rate is the lowest since 2000, when the state posted a 28.9 percent rate. Corrections Commissioner LaDonna Thompson says a study showed that, between 2007 and 2009, the number of parolees returned to prison for technical violations went down about 25 percent. She says changes in probation and parole, alternative sentencing, including home incarceration and drug courts and mental-health courts, and state funding for substance-abuse treatment may have contributed to the reduction, saving taxpayers money.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:10 PM
KY Food Prices Rose During Fourth Quarter Of 2010
KENTUCKY....
According to data prepared by the Kentucky Farm Bureau Federation, retail food prices in supermarkets across Kentucky rose 2.5 percent during the fourth quarter of 2010 compared with the third quarter. Of the six food groups included in the survey, fruits and vegetables saw the greatest increase with an average price jump of 10.9 percent. A 32-ounce bottle of vegetable oil had the largest price increase with an average jump of 10.9 percent. The largest single-item decrease was a pound of chicken breasts, which fell 49 cents on average in price.
According to data prepared by the Kentucky Farm Bureau Federation, retail food prices in supermarkets across Kentucky rose 2.5 percent during the fourth quarter of 2010 compared with the third quarter. Of the six food groups included in the survey, fruits and vegetables saw the greatest increase with an average price jump of 10.9 percent. A 32-ounce bottle of vegetable oil had the largest price increase with an average jump of 10.9 percent. The largest single-item decrease was a pound of chicken breasts, which fell 49 cents on average in price.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:09 PM
Governors Explore Savings On Bridges
KENTUCKY...
Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear, Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels and Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer announced plans on Tuesday to explore options they say could reduce the cost of the $4.1 billion Ohio River Bridges project by more than $500 million.
They say cost savings could come from rebuilding Spaghetti Junction instead of moving it, reducing the East End bridge from six lanes to four lanes and completing the Big Four Bridge pedestrian walkway and bike path instead of including walkways and bike paths on the new downtown bridge.
The Louisville and Southern Indiana Bridges Authority will look at other ways to reduce costs in design, construction and financing.
Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear, Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels and Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer announced plans on Tuesday to explore options they say could reduce the cost of the $4.1 billion Ohio River Bridges project by more than $500 million.
They say cost savings could come from rebuilding Spaghetti Junction instead of moving it, reducing the East End bridge from six lanes to four lanes and completing the Big Four Bridge pedestrian walkway and bike path instead of including walkways and bike paths on the new downtown bridge.
The Louisville and Southern Indiana Bridges Authority will look at other ways to reduce costs in design, construction and financing.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:01 PM
Attempted Escape Causes Wounding Of Deputy Jailers
KENTUCKY...
A northern Kentucky inmate has been charged with wounding two deputy jailers during an attempted escape.
The Lewis County Sheriff's Office says 26-year-old Dustin Egbert asked the deputy jailers for help, then attacked them with a homemade knife.
Sheriff Johnny Bivens said deputy jailer Joshua Lewis had the most severe injuries, including a 6-inch laceration to his throat. Another deputy jailer, Wayne Hensley, suffered lacerations.
Egbert briefly got out of his cell during the altercation Sunday night, but was restrained before police arrived.
Egbert was charged with attempted murder, assault, promoting contraband and attempted escape.
A northern Kentucky inmate has been charged with wounding two deputy jailers during an attempted escape.
The Lewis County Sheriff's Office says 26-year-old Dustin Egbert asked the deputy jailers for help, then attacked them with a homemade knife.
Sheriff Johnny Bivens said deputy jailer Joshua Lewis had the most severe injuries, including a 6-inch laceration to his throat. Another deputy jailer, Wayne Hensley, suffered lacerations.
Egbert briefly got out of his cell during the altercation Sunday night, but was restrained before police arrived.
Egbert was charged with attempted murder, assault, promoting contraband and attempted escape.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:54 PM
Education Council President Will Visit Community Colleges
KENTUCKY...
Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education President Bob King will be on the road again later this month, paying visits to community colleges around the state.
King has already visited colleges in Bowling Green, Edgewood, Hazard, Hopkinsville, Lexington, Louisville and Madisonville. Next he'll head to Ashland, Elizabethtown, Henderson, Maysville, Owensboro and Somerset, among others.
The council says King previously visited the state's public four-year universities.
King says it's rewarding to meet with the people who make the colleges run and that personal visits give meaning to the information he must use every day.
King decided to visit each school to learn about academic programs and have a look at facilities. The council says he also likes to meet with campus leaders, faculty and staff, students and community leaders.
Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education President Bob King will be on the road again later this month, paying visits to community colleges around the state.
King has already visited colleges in Bowling Green, Edgewood, Hazard, Hopkinsville, Lexington, Louisville and Madisonville. Next he'll head to Ashland, Elizabethtown, Henderson, Maysville, Owensboro and Somerset, among others.
The council says King previously visited the state's public four-year universities.
King says it's rewarding to meet with the people who make the colleges run and that personal visits give meaning to the information he must use every day.
King decided to visit each school to learn about academic programs and have a look at facilities. The council says he also likes to meet with campus leaders, faculty and staff, students and community leaders.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:51 PM
Weather Related Death In Lee County
KENTUCKY...
The death of a Lee County women appears to be related to cold weather.
Lee County Coroner Ray Shuler says 47-year-old Peggy Little was found dead Monday morning near her home in the St. Helens community east of Beattyville. National Weather Service records show the low temperature in Beattyville early Monday was 20 degrees.
Shuler says Little left the home she shared with her mother in the middle of the night, might have been confused and wasn't dressed for cold weather.
Shuler says it's possible she died from hypothermia.
.
The death of a Lee County women appears to be related to cold weather.
Lee County Coroner Ray Shuler says 47-year-old Peggy Little was found dead Monday morning near her home in the St. Helens community east of Beattyville. National Weather Service records show the low temperature in Beattyville early Monday was 20 degrees.
Shuler says Little left the home she shared with her mother in the middle of the night, might have been confused and wasn't dressed for cold weather.
Shuler says it's possible she died from hypothermia.
.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:40 PM
Federal Authorities Seek To Keep Money From Mingo County Raid
WEST VIRGINIA....
In a civil action filed in U.S. District Court last week, federal authorities are seeking to keep almost $600,000 they seized during searches of the Williamson apartment and offices of Mingo County Dr. Diane E. Shafer. Assistant U.S. Attorney Betty Pullin says the money confiscated from her apartment, safety deposit boxes and bank accounts in January 2010 could be traced to illegal prescription practices. Shafer, 58, voluntarily surrendered her medical license in December 2009, the same month State Police investigators found illegal pre-signed prescriptions at her office. Shafer has not been charged, but previous court filings indicate she was in plea negotiations with federal prosecutors. Lisa K. Baisden, of Dingess, who worked for Shafer between 2004 and 2009, was sentenced to three years probation after admitting she handed out pre-signed prescriptions for pain medication in exchange for some of the pills.
In a civil action filed in U.S. District Court last week, federal authorities are seeking to keep almost $600,000 they seized during searches of the Williamson apartment and offices of Mingo County Dr. Diane E. Shafer. Assistant U.S. Attorney Betty Pullin says the money confiscated from her apartment, safety deposit boxes and bank accounts in January 2010 could be traced to illegal prescription practices. Shafer, 58, voluntarily surrendered her medical license in December 2009, the same month State Police investigators found illegal pre-signed prescriptions at her office. Shafer has not been charged, but previous court filings indicate she was in plea negotiations with federal prosecutors. Lisa K. Baisden, of Dingess, who worked for Shafer between 2004 and 2009, was sentenced to three years probation after admitting she handed out pre-signed prescriptions for pain medication in exchange for some of the pills.# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:44 PM
Kessler Plans To Replace Mingo County Senate Majority Leader
WEST VIRGINIA....
Last month, Senator Jeff Kessler secured enough votes in a Democratic caucus for a Senate rule change that will create the position of acting president. Anticipated state Senate Acting President Jeff Kessler has named key members of his leadership team. Kessler has chosen Senator John Unger to serve as his majority leader, replacing longtime majority leader Truman Chafin, D-Mingo. Kessler says Wyoming County Senator Richard Browning will serve as majority whip and Senator Brooks McCabe, D-Kanawha, will be Senate Pro Tem. The actual votes will take place when the legislative session begins Wednesday, January 12th.
Last month, Senator Jeff Kessler secured enough votes in a Democratic caucus for a Senate rule change that will create the position of acting president. Anticipated state Senate Acting President Jeff Kessler has named key members of his leadership team. Kessler has chosen Senator John Unger to serve as his majority leader, replacing longtime majority leader Truman Chafin, D-Mingo. Kessler says Wyoming County Senator Richard Browning will serve as majority whip and Senator Brooks McCabe, D-Kanawha, will be Senate Pro Tem. The actual votes will take place when the legislative session begins Wednesday, January 12th.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:43 PM
Pinch Man Charged With Malicious Wounding
WEST VIRGINIA....
The Kanawha County Sheriff's Department says what started as a physical fight ended in gunfire. Corey Roush, 22, from Pinch, has been charged with malicious wounding after 23 year old Lucas Scott Burdette, also from Pinch, was shot in the arm around 10:00 A.M. Tuesday morning, sending him to Charleston Area Medical Center General Hospital.
The Kanawha County Sheriff's Department says what started as a physical fight ended in gunfire. Corey Roush, 22, from Pinch, has been charged with malicious wounding after 23 year old Lucas Scott Burdette, also from Pinch, was shot in the arm around 10:00 A.M. Tuesday morning, sending him to Charleston Area Medical Center General Hospital.# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:42 PM
Man Pleads Guilty In Marijuana Conspiracy
WEST VIRGINIA....
A sweeping marijuana conspiracy investigation which has netted 15 arrests since July in states from Nevada to West Virginia landed its first conviction Monday when Mark Chappelear, also known as "Chappy," of Zanesville, Ohio, admitted to trafficking more than a ton of marijuana between 2007 and September 2009. Chappelear and Charleston defense attorney Tim C. Carrico, appeared before U.S. District Judge Robert C. Chambers where Chappelear signed a stipulation of facts agreeing that he helped Jacob Dodson, also of Zanesville, on at least 15 occasions. Investigators say a Mexican drug trafficking organization pumped massive amounts of marijuana through central Ohio and into the Tri-State between summer 2002 to May 19, 2010. The indictment outlined a nearly eight-year, $10 million marijuana conspiracy that later court documents show extended into Mexico.
A sweeping marijuana conspiracy investigation which has netted 15 arrests since July in states from Nevada to West Virginia landed its first conviction Monday when Mark Chappelear, also known as "Chappy," of Zanesville, Ohio, admitted to trafficking more than a ton of marijuana between 2007 and September 2009. Chappelear and Charleston defense attorney Tim C. Carrico, appeared before U.S. District Judge Robert C. Chambers where Chappelear signed a stipulation of facts agreeing that he helped Jacob Dodson, also of Zanesville, on at least 15 occasions. Investigators say a Mexican drug trafficking organization pumped massive amounts of marijuana through central Ohio and into the Tri-State between summer 2002 to May 19, 2010. The indictment outlined a nearly eight-year, $10 million marijuana conspiracy that later court documents show extended into Mexico.# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:42 PM
Sentencing Postponed For Former Patriot Foreman
WEST VIRGINIA....
At the request of prosecutors, U.S. District Judge Irene Keeley postponed Tuesday's sentencing hearing for former Patriot Coal Corp. underground mine foreman John Renner of Granville. Renner pleaded guilty to filing a false inspection report at Patriot's Federal No. 2 mine in Fairview. He is cooperating with an ongoing investigation. Patriot has said in regulatory filings that it has turned over methane detection equipment and test results from the mine to the U.S. Attorney's Office.
At the request of prosecutors, U.S. District Judge Irene Keeley postponed Tuesday's sentencing hearing for former Patriot Coal Corp. underground mine foreman John Renner of Granville. Renner pleaded guilty to filing a false inspection report at Patriot's Federal No. 2 mine in Fairview. He is cooperating with an ongoing investigation. Patriot has said in regulatory filings that it has turned over methane detection equipment and test results from the mine to the U.S. Attorney's Office.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:42 PM
Cross Lanes Woman Pleads Guilty
WEST VIRGINIA....
Twenty-three year old Sarah Elizabeth Browning of Cross Lanes will be sentenced March 16th after pleading guilty to stealing a South Charleston city vehicle on July 19th. Police arrested Browning and Richard Ollie Williams Jr., 32, of Ripley after the two crashed the truck in Sissonville. Police say a driver had left the Public Works pickup truck running while he stopped at a 7-Eleven convenience store in South Charleston. Browning faces 1 to 10 years in jail for grand larceny.
Twenty-three year old Sarah Elizabeth Browning of Cross Lanes will be sentenced March 16th after pleading guilty to stealing a South Charleston city vehicle on July 19th. Police arrested Browning and Richard Ollie Williams Jr., 32, of Ripley after the two crashed the truck in Sissonville. Police say a driver had left the Public Works pickup truck running while he stopped at a 7-Eleven convenience store in South Charleston. Browning faces 1 to 10 years in jail for grand larceny.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:42 PM
Environmental Director Dies
WEST VIRGINIA....
Coal River Mountain Watch Executive Director Judy Bonds died Monday night of cancer at the age of 58. Bonds is remembered for her strong stand against mountaintop removal mining. Bonds was very outspoken during the overweight coal truck debate in the West Virginia Legislature in 2002, where she was one of the featured speakers at a rally at the state Capitol. The legislature later passed a bill regulating coal truck weight and creating a coal hauling transportation system. In 2003, Bonds was awarded the Goldman Environmental Prize, a prestigious award given annually to grassroots activists around the globe.
Coal River Mountain Watch Executive Director Judy Bonds died Monday night of cancer at the age of 58. Bonds is remembered for her strong stand against mountaintop removal mining. Bonds was very outspoken during the overweight coal truck debate in the West Virginia Legislature in 2002, where she was one of the featured speakers at a rally at the state Capitol. The legislature later passed a bill regulating coal truck weight and creating a coal hauling transportation system. In 2003, Bonds was awarded the Goldman Environmental Prize, a prestigious award given annually to grassroots activists around the globe.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:41 PM
Teen Dies After Being Hit By Train
WEST VIRGINIA....
A 16 year old male from Branchland was killed Monday night when the vehicle he was driving was struck by a train at a railroad crossing on Nine Mile Road in Midkiff in Lincoln County. State Police spokesman Sgt. Michael Baylous says indications are he was trying to beat the train across the tracks.
A 16 year old male from Branchland was killed Monday night when the vehicle he was driving was struck by a train at a railroad crossing on Nine Mile Road in Midkiff in Lincoln County. State Police spokesman Sgt. Michael Baylous says indications are he was trying to beat the train across the tracks.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:41 PM
Charleston City Leaders Consider Pension Plan
WEST VIRGINIA....
City leaders in Charleston say the pension plan for police officers and firefighters is no good, but they have a plan that would allow them to pay them without putting the city in debt. A new pension system passed by the Legislature in 2009 could help by closing the existing pension plan to new hires, but Charleston doesn't qualify. The new bill calls for the city to be able to manage itself out of debt within 40 years, but, with the pension fund debt being more than $2 million, that simply can't be done. Mayor Danny Jones says, under the existing plan, the city would be fine for the next 15 to 20 years, but the long-term effects could be devastating. Jones plans to ask the Legislature for a self-funding formula that would allow the city into the new pension system, as well as calling on help from police and firefighter unions.
City leaders in Charleston say the pension plan for police officers and firefighters is no good, but they have a plan that would allow them to pay them without putting the city in debt. A new pension system passed by the Legislature in 2009 could help by closing the existing pension plan to new hires, but Charleston doesn't qualify. The new bill calls for the city to be able to manage itself out of debt within 40 years, but, with the pension fund debt being more than $2 million, that simply can't be done. Mayor Danny Jones says, under the existing plan, the city would be fine for the next 15 to 20 years, but the long-term effects could be devastating. Jones plans to ask the Legislature for a self-funding formula that would allow the city into the new pension system, as well as calling on help from police and firefighter unions.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:41 PM
Chemical Safety Board To Hold Public Meeting
WEST VIRGINIA....
The U.S. Chemical Safety Board will hold a public meeting at 6:30 P.M. January 20th in the Wilson Building at West Virginia State University. The purpose of the meeting is to share its final report on the investigation of a deadly August 2008 chemical explosion at the Bayer CropScience facility in Institute. The CSB investigative team will present their findings on the causes of the accident to CSB board members and the public. The Board can then question the investigators and then the public will be invited to comment. Investigators will also present safety recommendations. Two workers, Barry Withrow and Bill Oxley, died as a result of the explosion.
The U.S. Chemical Safety Board will hold a public meeting at 6:30 P.M. January 20th in the Wilson Building at West Virginia State University. The purpose of the meeting is to share its final report on the investigation of a deadly August 2008 chemical explosion at the Bayer CropScience facility in Institute. The CSB investigative team will present their findings on the causes of the accident to CSB board members and the public. The Board can then question the investigators and then the public will be invited to comment. Investigators will also present safety recommendations. Two workers, Barry Withrow and Bill Oxley, died as a result of the explosion.# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:40 PM
Charleston Urban Hunt Nets Record 60 Deer
WEST VIRGINIA....
Although Charleston issued 124 permits, down from 184 in 2009, hunters killed a record 60 deer during Charleston's month-long urban hunt which ended December 31st. Forty-two of the deer killed were does. Charleston has allowed deer hunting on approved tracts since 2005, and each year's kills have topped the previous year's total. The previous record was 54 deer killed in 2009.
Although Charleston issued 124 permits, down from 184 in 2009, hunters killed a record 60 deer during Charleston's month-long urban hunt which ended December 31st. Forty-two of the deer killed were does. Charleston has allowed deer hunting on approved tracts since 2005, and each year's kills have topped the previous year's total. The previous record was 54 deer killed in 2009.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 9:40 PM
Monday, January 03, 2011
HELP In Need Of Monetary Donations
KENTUCKY....
HELP Director Charles "Monk" Sanders is appealing to the public in an effort to save the HELP Charity Warehouse which has been put up for sale. The owner of the building is selling it, and Sanders says they do not have the $125,000 needed to buy it. Sanders says everything in the charity's warehouse goes towards home repairs, and is donated by Home Depot through the Appalachian Outreach program. The group is trying to get a bank loan, but they only have until the end of the month to come up with the money or lose the warehouse. Anyone who wants to make a donation can contact the HELP charity at 606-437-0389.
HELP Director Charles "Monk" Sanders is appealing to the public in an effort to save the HELP Charity Warehouse which has been put up for sale. The owner of the building is selling it, and Sanders says they do not have the $125,000 needed to buy it. Sanders says everything in the charity's warehouse goes towards home repairs, and is donated by Home Depot through the Appalachian Outreach program. The group is trying to get a bank loan, but they only have until the end of the month to come up with the money or lose the warehouse. Anyone who wants to make a donation can contact the HELP charity at 606-437-0389.# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:15 PM
New Sheriff In Whitley County
KENTUCKY....
Retired Kentucky State Police detective Colan Harrell has been sworn in as the new Whitley County Sheriff. Harrell, who beat incumbent Lawrence Hodge says his one priority to be the best law enforcement in the state is a goal which his department will achieve. Harrell has hired nearly one dozen new people, and several surrounding sheriff departments have donated vehicles, guns, and other equipment needed to run a sheriff's department. Hodge is facing a 21 count indictment with charges ranging from abuse of public trust to tampering with physical evidence.
Retired Kentucky State Police detective Colan Harrell has been sworn in as the new Whitley County Sheriff. Harrell, who beat incumbent Lawrence Hodge says his one priority to be the best law enforcement in the state is a goal which his department will achieve. Harrell has hired nearly one dozen new people, and several surrounding sheriff departments have donated vehicles, guns, and other equipment needed to run a sheriff's department. Hodge is facing a 21 count indictment with charges ranging from abuse of public trust to tampering with physical evidence.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:14 PM
Judge Orders Lawson Statement Released
KENTUCKY....
Franklin County Circuit Judge Thomas Wingate ruled Monday that the news media may see a statement that Kentucky highway contractor Leonard Lawson gave to the Kentucky attorney general's office in 1983 while his former company, Mountain Enterprises, was under civil investigation. In 2008, Lawson and others were indicted on charges of illegally obtaining estimates for road projects, but Lawson was later acquitted. Federal prosecutors planned to use the statement in the federal criminal trial, and the Lexington Herald-Leader, the Courier-Journal and the Associated Press asked for the statement under the Kentucky Open Records Act in 2009. Attorney General Jack Conway’s office initially denied the request because of the ongoing criminal case. Lawson's attorney, Guthrie True, had argued that Lawson's privacy rights justified blocking its release. In his ruling, Wingate said because Lawson had agreed as part of the anti-trust investigation to cooperate with law enforcement that he had no expectation that the1983 statement would remain private. Attorney Jon Fleischaker, who represented the news organizations, says he's pleased with the decision. If Lawson appeals, the statement may not be immediately available to reporters.
Franklin County Circuit Judge Thomas Wingate ruled Monday that the news media may see a statement that Kentucky highway contractor Leonard Lawson gave to the Kentucky attorney general's office in 1983 while his former company, Mountain Enterprises, was under civil investigation. In 2008, Lawson and others were indicted on charges of illegally obtaining estimates for road projects, but Lawson was later acquitted. Federal prosecutors planned to use the statement in the federal criminal trial, and the Lexington Herald-Leader, the Courier-Journal and the Associated Press asked for the statement under the Kentucky Open Records Act in 2009. Attorney General Jack Conway’s office initially denied the request because of the ongoing criminal case. Lawson's attorney, Guthrie True, had argued that Lawson's privacy rights justified blocking its release. In his ruling, Wingate said because Lawson had agreed as part of the anti-trust investigation to cooperate with law enforcement that he had no expectation that the1983 statement would remain private. Attorney Jon Fleischaker, who represented the news organizations, says he's pleased with the decision. If Lawson appeals, the statement may not be immediately available to reporters.# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:13 PM
Attorneys May Use Mental Defense In Nunn Murder Trial
KENTUCKY....
Warren Scoville and Bette Niemi, defense lawyers for former state Representative Steve Nunn filed documents last week showing they intend to use expert testimony and other evidence of mental and emotional defects in Nunn's murder trial. Nunn is scheduled to go on trial August 1st for the murder of his former fiancée, 29 year old Amanda Ross, who was shot to death outside her Lexington home on September 11, 2009. Prosecutors have the option of seeking a death sentence if Nunn is convicted. Defense attorney Mark Stanziano of Somerset says the notification does not necessarily mean Nunn's lawyers will introduce expert testimony and other evidence of a mental or emotional condition, but attorneys are required under Kentucky law and rules of criminal procedure to file such a notice in order to be allowed to use such proof. Fayette Circuit Judge Pamela Goodwine told defense attorneys previously they had until December 31st to give notice, and prosecutors have until January 31st to have their own expert evaluate Nunn if the defense gave such a notice.
Warren Scoville and Bette Niemi, defense lawyers for former state Representative Steve Nunn filed documents last week showing they intend to use expert testimony and other evidence of mental and emotional defects in Nunn's murder trial. Nunn is scheduled to go on trial August 1st for the murder of his former fiancée, 29 year old Amanda Ross, who was shot to death outside her Lexington home on September 11, 2009. Prosecutors have the option of seeking a death sentence if Nunn is convicted. Defense attorney Mark Stanziano of Somerset says the notification does not necessarily mean Nunn's lawyers will introduce expert testimony and other evidence of a mental or emotional condition, but attorneys are required under Kentucky law and rules of criminal procedure to file such a notice in order to be allowed to use such proof. Fayette Circuit Judge Pamela Goodwine told defense attorneys previously they had until December 31st to give notice, and prosecutors have until January 31st to have their own expert evaluate Nunn if the defense gave such a notice.# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:12 PM
State Representative To Push Proposal Involving Prison Costs
KENTUCKY....
Kentucky has one of the country's fastest-growing prison populations, up by some 45 percent in the past decade. Records from the Kentucky Department for Corrections show the cost of incarcerating a single state prisoner ranges from $13,000 to $31,000 a year, and the total cost of operating the state prison system now stands at $477 million a year. Looking for ways to reduce those annual prison costs, Kentucky is paying the Washington, D.C.-based Pew Center on the States to do an analysis and recommend solutions which are expected to be released on January 19th. Democratic state Representative Brent Yonts intends to push a proposal to give jurors information about prison costs during the sentencing phases of criminal trials. Yonts says jurors might not put prisoners in jail for so long for a lesser crime if they know what it's going to cost.
Kentucky has one of the country's fastest-growing prison populations, up by some 45 percent in the past decade. Records from the Kentucky Department for Corrections show the cost of incarcerating a single state prisoner ranges from $13,000 to $31,000 a year, and the total cost of operating the state prison system now stands at $477 million a year. Looking for ways to reduce those annual prison costs, Kentucky is paying the Washington, D.C.-based Pew Center on the States to do an analysis and recommend solutions which are expected to be released on January 19th. Democratic state Representative Brent Yonts intends to push a proposal to give jurors information about prison costs during the sentencing phases of criminal trials. Yonts says jurors might not put prisoners in jail for so long for a lesser crime if they know what it's going to cost.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:11 PM
More Than 400 Bills To Be Filed In Legislative Session
KENTUCKY....
More than 400 bills are expected to be officially filed on the opening day of the legislative session which begins Tuesday, January 4th. Governor Steve Beshear says he'll be pushing a limited agenda that includes balancing the Medicaid budget and passing legislation that would raise the high school dropout age from 16 to 18. House Democrats will press for a "right-to-hunt" constitutional amendment to head off a perceived push by animal rights groups to stop people from going afield with guns. House Speaker Greg Stumbo says Democrats also are proposing legislation aimed at fighting the state's methamphetamine problem by requiring certain over-the-counter drugs with pseudoephedrine to be sold only to people with prescriptions. Senate President David Williams says GOP lawmakers want to reform the state tax code to make Kentucky more inviting to business expansion. He wants to create a commission made up of economists, accountants and business leaders to develop a "revenue neutral" tax proposal. And he wants lawmakers to approve or reject the eventual proposal without considering amendments.
More than 400 bills are expected to be officially filed on the opening day of the legislative session which begins Tuesday, January 4th. Governor Steve Beshear says he'll be pushing a limited agenda that includes balancing the Medicaid budget and passing legislation that would raise the high school dropout age from 16 to 18. House Democrats will press for a "right-to-hunt" constitutional amendment to head off a perceived push by animal rights groups to stop people from going afield with guns. House Speaker Greg Stumbo says Democrats also are proposing legislation aimed at fighting the state's methamphetamine problem by requiring certain over-the-counter drugs with pseudoephedrine to be sold only to people with prescriptions. Senate President David Williams says GOP lawmakers want to reform the state tax code to make Kentucky more inviting to business expansion. He wants to create a commission made up of economists, accountants and business leaders to develop a "revenue neutral" tax proposal. And he wants lawmakers to approve or reject the eventual proposal without considering amendments.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:08 PM
Objection Filed In Sypher Case
KENTUCKY....
In an objection to a pre-sentence report compiled by federal probation officers in advance of Karen Sypher's January 18th sentencing, Assistant U.S. Attorney Marisa Ford filed an information on December 31st saying the probation office's estimated value of some of Sypher's demands were lower than prosecution estimations. Prosecutors say Sypher tried to extort University of Louisville basketball coach Rick Pitino of at least $2.5 million and potentially more than $7 million in exchange for keeping quiet about a sexual encounter between the two in 2003. Ford said, among the things, Sypher sought a home valued at close to $1 million and a $45,000 Lexus SUV. Sypher was convicted in August of three counts of extortion, two counts of lying to the FBI and a count of retaliation against a witness.
In an objection to a pre-sentence report compiled by federal probation officers in advance of Karen Sypher's January 18th sentencing, Assistant U.S. Attorney Marisa Ford filed an information on December 31st saying the probation office's estimated value of some of Sypher's demands were lower than prosecution estimations. Prosecutors say Sypher tried to extort University of Louisville basketball coach Rick Pitino of at least $2.5 million and potentially more than $7 million in exchange for keeping quiet about a sexual encounter between the two in 2003. Ford said, among the things, Sypher sought a home valued at close to $1 million and a $45,000 Lexus SUV. Sypher was convicted in August of three counts of extortion, two counts of lying to the FBI and a count of retaliation against a witness.# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:07 PM
Florida To KY Pill Pipeline Monitoring System Delayed
KENTUCKY....
In April 2009, Florida lawmakers passed a law to help cut the pill pipeline coming from their state to Kentucky. Dan Smoot, director for Operation UNITE, says vanloads of people continue making the trip of 14 hours or more to South Florida clinics. It took many months for Florida officials, with the help of Kentucky leaders, to draw up specifications and seek proposals to implement the system. On December 21st, the state named an Alabama company the top bidder but the losing bidder plans to challenge that, further delaying the system. The Florida Department of Health says it doesn't expect to see the system up and running until June. The state got donations and grants to start the system, including $800,000 through a federal program named for U.S. Representative Harold "Hal" Rogers, but it would take about $500,000 a year to run after that. And, with the state facing a budget shortfall of more than $3 billion, it's not clear lawmakers will provide the money.
In April 2009, Florida lawmakers passed a law to help cut the pill pipeline coming from their state to Kentucky. Dan Smoot, director for Operation UNITE, says vanloads of people continue making the trip of 14 hours or more to South Florida clinics. It took many months for Florida officials, with the help of Kentucky leaders, to draw up specifications and seek proposals to implement the system. On December 21st, the state named an Alabama company the top bidder but the losing bidder plans to challenge that, further delaying the system. The Florida Department of Health says it doesn't expect to see the system up and running until June. The state got donations and grants to start the system, including $800,000 through a federal program named for U.S. Representative Harold "Hal" Rogers, but it would take about $500,000 a year to run after that. And, with the state facing a budget shortfall of more than $3 billion, it's not clear lawmakers will provide the money.# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:05 PM
KSP Highway Fatality Report
KENTUCKY...
Preliminary statistics indicate that three peopledied in two separate crashes on Kentucky roadways during the New Year's
Eve holiday enforcement period (Thursday, December 30, 2010 throughSunday, January 2, 2011). Last year there were five highway fatalities
during the same enforcement period.
Through December 31 747 people have lost their lives on Kentucky roadways during 2010. This is 44 less
fatalities than reported for the same time period in 2009. There were
585 motor vehicle fatalities and 311 of those victims were not wearing
seat belts. Eighty-one of these crashes involved a commercial motor
vehicle. Fifty-nine pedestrians and six bicyclists have been killed.
Seventy-nine fatalities involved a motorcycle, sixteen fatalities
involved an ATV and two involved a scooter. A total of one hundred
fifty-one fatalities have resulted from crashes involving the suspected
use of alcohol.
Citizens can contribute to highway safety by reporting erratic drivers
to the Kentucky State Police toll-free at 1-800-222-5555. Callers will
remain anonymous and should give a description of the vehicle, location,
direction of travel and license number if possible.
*These statistics are still preliminary as KSP waits for all local law
enforcement agencies throughout the state to report any crashes and
fatalities that may have occurred in their areas. Crash data for this
report is generated from the Kentucky Fatality Analysis Reporting System
(FARS).
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:03 PM
Neighbor Shoots Dog In Letcher County
KENTUCKY...
Kentucky State Police have arrested a teenage boy after a man found his 15-year-old dog dead on his property in the Vicco community, east of Hazard.
Alger Williams said he let his dog loose every Sunday morning for a run. This time, a neighbor called out to him that someone had shot the dog, named Barney.
Police handcuffed the boy and took him to the Breathitt County Juvenile Detention Center. They also confiscated a rifle.
Chris Sizemore of the KSP says a neighbor's animals can be nuisances at times, but there are humane solutions to conflicts.
Kentucky State Police have arrested a teenage boy after a man found his 15-year-old dog dead on his property in the Vicco community, east of Hazard.
Alger Williams said he let his dog loose every Sunday morning for a run. This time, a neighbor called out to him that someone had shot the dog, named Barney.
Police handcuffed the boy and took him to the Breathitt County Juvenile Detention Center. They also confiscated a rifle.
Chris Sizemore of the KSP says a neighbor's animals can be nuisances at times, but there are humane solutions to conflicts.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:03 PM
Radio Network Wins Horse Racing Eclipse Award
KENTUCKY...
A Lexington-based radio network has received an Eclipse Award for its live coverage of this year's Breeders' Cup races at Churchill Downs.
The award was announced Thursday for Horse Racing Radio Network. The Courier-Journal reported the network received the media award in the audio-multimedia Internet category.
Network president Mike Penna said winning the award was "overwhelming."
A Lexington-based radio network has received an Eclipse Award for its live coverage of this year's Breeders' Cup races at Churchill Downs.
The award was announced Thursday for Horse Racing Radio Network. The Courier-Journal reported the network received the media award in the audio-multimedia Internet category.
Network president Mike Penna said winning the award was "overwhelming."
# posted by Homer Owens @ 11:01 PM
Prison Escapee Re-captured
KENTUCKY...
A minimum-security inmate who walked away from a Kentucky women's prison has been caught.
Chase was serving an 11-year sentence for Manufacturing Methamphetamine, 1st Offense. Her parole eligibility date was October, 2012.
A minimum-security inmate who walked away from a Kentucky women's prison has been caught.Jamie Strang of the Kentucky Department of Corrections says 38-year-old Laura Chase was caught at in Munfordville. Chase was reported missing from Kentucky Correctional Institution for Women in Peewee Valley Saturday.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:59 PM
Knott County Banning Pain Clinics
KENTUCKY...
The Knott County Fiscal Court has passed an ordinance banning pain clinics in the county that are not legitimate. Lola Patterson, the director of the Knott Drug Abuse Council, says, while there are legitimate pain clinics, the mass distribution of prescription medications has become an epidemic. The drug council will work with police to enforce the ordinance. If a pain clinic is caught, one of the punishments is a $5,000 fine per day of operation. This ordinance went into effect on January 1st.
The Knott County Fiscal Court has passed an ordinance banning pain clinics in the county that are not legitimate. Lola Patterson, the director of the Knott Drug Abuse Council, says, while there are legitimate pain clinics, the mass distribution of prescription medications has become an epidemic. The drug council will work with police to enforce the ordinance. If a pain clinic is caught, one of the punishments is a $5,000 fine per day of operation. This ordinance went into effect on January 1st.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:58 PM
Whooping Cough Concern
KENTUCKY...
Health officials in northern Kentucky are planning to immunize childcare workers in an effort to stop the spread of whooping cough.
The campaign begins this month and is part of a national effort to encourage adults to get vaccinated against the disease.
Epidemiologist Joyce Rice said people usually associate the disease with children, but anyone can catch and spread it.
Rice said health officials recorded 127 cases of whooping cough in northern Kentucky in 2010, compared to 38 in 2009.
Health officials in northern Kentucky are planning to immunize childcare workers in an effort to stop the spread of whooping cough.
The campaign begins this month and is part of a national effort to encourage adults to get vaccinated against the disease.
Epidemiologist Joyce Rice said people usually associate the disease with children, but anyone can catch and spread it.
Rice said health officials recorded 127 cases of whooping cough in northern Kentucky in 2010, compared to 38 in 2009.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:58 PM
Mingo County Project To Soon Begin
WEST VIRGINIA....
Last October, state officials announced TransGas Development Systems' plans to open a coal to gas plant in Mingo County. Project Manager Randall Harris says construction is scheduled to begin this spring. Harris estimates is it will take about 40 months of actual construction and about six to eight months of start up and testing, and the plant will be operational in 48 months. Harris says, at the peak of construction, around 2,400 people will be working at any given time. Permanent job estimates would be about 300 at the job site and about 200 indirect contractors, and, with about 3 million tons of coal needed, another 200 mining jobs. Once it is built, the facility will put coal through a several step process that results in the creation of gasoline. The plant will churn out about 18,000 barrels of premium grade gasoline per day, the majority of which will be sold to refineries.
Last October, state officials announced TransGas Development Systems' plans to open a coal to gas plant in Mingo County. Project Manager Randall Harris says construction is scheduled to begin this spring. Harris estimates is it will take about 40 months of actual construction and about six to eight months of start up and testing, and the plant will be operational in 48 months. Harris says, at the peak of construction, around 2,400 people will be working at any given time. Permanent job estimates would be about 300 at the job site and about 200 indirect contractors, and, with about 3 million tons of coal needed, another 200 mining jobs. Once it is built, the facility will put coal through a several step process that results in the creation of gasoline. The plant will churn out about 18,000 barrels of premium grade gasoline per day, the majority of which will be sold to refineries.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:53 PM
Accident Kills Mingo County Woman
West Virginia State Police say 69 year old Gabriella Lester died after losing control of her car Saturday afternoon on Gilbert Creek Road in Gilbert. Lester was pronounced dead at the scene.
# posted by Homer Owens @ 10:52 PM
