30 Kentuckians win Education at Work Scholarships
7/12/2006 Commonwealth News Center, Frankfort

Kentucky First Lady Glenna Fletcher and Education Cabinet Secretary Virginia G. Fox presented the cabinet's Education at Work scholarship to 30 Kentuckians July 11 in the Capitol Rotunda in Frankfort. The cabinet gave the $1,000 scholarships to students who are pursuing postsecondary education in Kentucky.

Secretary Fox said, "It's an honor to recognize the 2006 Education at Work Scholarship winners today. Each year I am encouraged about the future of Kentucky when I present the scholarship because of the caliber of people who are awarded the scholarship and because of their enthusiasm and hope for the future. Their spirit of determination comes through when you read their winning 'Unbridled Spirit' essays and realize the challenges that they overcome to go to school and make their career goals a reality."

About 200 Kentuckians applied for the eighth annual scholarship competition. Including this year, the cabinet has awarded 210 scholarships totaling $120,000 for postsecondary education. The scholarship began under the former Cabinet for Workforce Development and has grown from 20 scholarships in 1999 to this year's 30 scholarships. The scholarship amount has increased this year from $500 to $1,000.

Secretary Fox said she was impressed with the level of commitment the winners have shown toward achieving their goals.

"While each of them has individual goals and plans for their futures, all of the winners have in common a desire to better themselves and their lives through postsecondary education. I believe that getting a postsecondary education is one of the smartest decisions anyone can make to improve their lives, the lives of their families and the future of Kentucky. It is exciting for our cabinet to help our scholarship winners pursue their education and careers and participate in their success," Secretary Fox said.

Kentuckians qualified for the scholarship by using one of the services of the Education Cabinet's Department for Workforce Investment or Kentucky Adult Education in the Council on Postsecondary Education, such as vocational rehabilitation, adult learning centers, GED preparation, secondary Kentucky Tech school, unemployment insurance, job placement, dislocated worker or Workforce Investment Act assistance. Scholarship applicants were required to write an essay on Kentucky's new 'Unbridled Spirit' brand and how it relates to their educational and career goals. The $1,000 scholarships may be used for tuition, books and lab and technology fees.

"Our Education at Work scholarship winners come from a variety of backgrounds and are at different points in their pursuit of an education and career but all have shown that they have the will and work ethic to meet challenges and attain their goals. Some of our winners are making the transition from high school to postsecondary education while others are returning to school after years in the workforce. I hope that winning this scholarship will give them extra support they need to continue their education," said Laura E. Owens, deputy secretary of the Education Cabinet and acting commissioner of the cabinet's Department for Workforce Investment.

"I also want to say thank you to our employees and service providers who have helped these students and many other Kentuckians succeed in school and the workplace. Many of the scholarship applicants wrote in their essays that the help and guidance from their service providers has given them the encouragement they need to overcome physical, financial and learning difficulties and earn their degrees," Deputy Secretary Owens said.
The following list of the scholarship winners includes information about them.

James Armstrong II, 22, of Bloomfield is studying business management at the University of Louisville and is a customer of the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation.

Brenda Ann Ball, 53, of Louisa is studying social work at Morehead State University and is a customer of the Office of Employment and Training.

Shannon Christman, 27, of Hazard is studying counseling at Lindsey Wilson College. Christman is a customer of the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation.

Patrick Conlon, 21, of Lexington is studying linguistics and political science at the University of Kentucky. Conlon is a customer of the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation.

Joey Couch, 22, of Busy is studying business at Hazard Community and Technical College and is a customer of the Office for the Blind.

Lorri Damron, 19, of Mt. Sterling is majoring in elementary education at Eastern Kentucky University. Damron is a customer of the Office for the Blind.

Glenda H. Daugherty, 48, of Battletown is planning to study human services at Elizabethtown Community and Technical College. Daugherty is a customer of the Office of Employment and Training.

Natosha Davis, 23, of Owensboro is majoring in psychology at Western Kentucky University. Davis is a customer of the Office for the Blind.

Nicholas Dunn, 21, of Hustonville is majoring in civil engineering at the University of Kentucky. Dunn is a customer of the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation.

Florence R. Fields, 20, of Hallie is majoring in social work at Eastern Kentucky University and is a customer of the Office of Employment and Training.

Judith K. Fishburn, 36, of Bowling Green is studying medical administration at Bowling Green Technical College. Fishburn is a customer of the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation.

Amylee K. Francis, 21, of Harrodsburg is majoring in education at Eastern Kentucky University and is a customer of the Office for the Blind.

Erin Hahn, 35, of West Point is majoring in human services at Jefferson Community and Technical College. Hahn is a customer of the Office of Employment and Training.

Lisa Howe, 48, of Cold Spring is studying Web development and design at Gateway Community and Technical College. Howe is a customer of Office of Employment and Training.

Keri Howitz, 19, of Lexington is majoring in education at Eastern Kentucky University. Howitz is a customer of the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation.

Jodelle Johnson, 24, of Morehead is studying respiratory therapy at Maysville Community and Technical College. Johnson is a customer of Kentucky Adult Education.

Donovan Lauderback, 31, of Louisville is planning to study humanities at Jefferson Community and Technical College. Lauderback is a customer of the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation.

Erika Maynard, 18, of Inez is planning to major in premedicine at Eastern Kentucky University and is a customer of the Office of Career and Technical Education.

Stacey McVay, 18, of Woodbine is planning to study nursing at Somerset Community College and is a customer of the Office of Career and Technical Education.

Eugenia M. Miranda, 37, of Mt. Washington is majoring in accounting at Bellarmine University. Miranda is a customer of the Office of Employment and Training.

Sara Mudd, 24, of Louisville is majoring in history and prelaw at the University of Louisville and is a customer of the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation. This is the fifth year that she has won the scholarship.

Neal A. Murphy, 18, of Hanson is planning to study information technology at Madisonville Community College. Murphy is a customer of Kentucky Adult Education.

Ashley Payne, 22, of Owensboro is majoring in social work at Brescia University. Payne is a customer of the Office of Employment and Training.

James A. Peterson, 35, of Franklin is planning to study information technology at Murray State University. Peterson is a customer of the Office of Employment and Training.

Ashley Taylor, 19, of Hindman is studying physical therapy at Hazard Community and Technical College. Taylor is a customer of the Office of Employment and Training.

Suzanne M. Wallace, 20, of Dawson Springs is planning to study early childhood education at Eastern Kentucky University. Wallace is a customer of the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation.

Maranda G. Watson, 29, of Stanton is studying nursing at Eastern Kentucky University. Watson is a customer of Kentucky Adult Education. This is the second year that she has won the scholarship.

James "Mike" Webster, 20, of Catlettsburg is planning to study physical therapy at the University of Kentucky. Webster is a customer of the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation.

Kevin Alexander Williams, 18, of Jeremiah is planning to study accounting at Eastern Kentucky University. Williams is a customer of the Office of Career and Technical Education.

Ginger Yeary, 42, of Hindman is majoring in accounting at Morehead State University and is a customer of the Office of Employment and Training.

The Education Cabinet coordinates learning programs from P-16, and manages and supports training and employment functions in the Department for Workforce Investment. For more information about our programs, visit www.educationcabinet.ky.gov or www.workforce.ky.gov or call 502-564-6606, or visit Kentucky Adult Education at www.kyae.ky.gov or call 502-573-5114.

BCTC's local campus to offer nursing program
Writer: Ben Carlson
7/12/2006 Anderson County News

Nursing classes will begin next fall at the Lawrenceburg campus of Bluegrass Community and Technical College, the school announced Tuesday morning.

"This is a great day for the Lawrenceburg campus," said Rhonda Wheeler, the college's campus and community liaison. "These new programs will launch the future of our campus."

Degree programs offered will be for licensed practical nurses and registered nurses. Cost for the two-year degree program is expected to be around $8,000, plus the cost of books, Wheeler said.

Financial aid, she said, is available through federal student loans and grants. Call the school's financial aid counselor at 839-8488, ext. 56804 for details.

Classes will be held evenings and weekends, allowing those who work during the day the chance to earn degrees.

Seats in nursing programs are coveted statewide. Wheeler said she expects several hundred students to apply for about 25 open seats in each of the fall and spring enrollment periods.

"The program at the college's main campus in Lexington turns away about 500 participants a year," she said. "Almost every nursing program you can find has about twice as many applicants than they can take."

Despite the interest, a nursing shortage is expected in the next few years.

"A Kentucky nursing shortage is expected by 2010, so we need to be proactive in starting to train nurses now," said Carolyn Lewis, assistant dean of nursing for Bluegrass Community Technical College.

Wheeler said getting into one of the programs will be a competitive process, adding that the school will concentrate its efforts on admitting students from Anderson and surrounding counties.

Applications will be available in January, and will be accepted beginning next spring.

Wheeler said interested students should begin taking prerequisites such as English, anatomy and physiology this fall.

"Registration is going on now, and classes fill up quick," she said.

Wheeler said the announcement is big news for Anderson residents who have always had to travel to Lexington and surrounding areas to earn nursing degrees.

"Anderson County people have had to take courses at surrounding schools in the past, because there was no availability in their own town," she said. "Now, with the price of gas, that's even harder for people to do."

Lawrenceburg Mayor Bobby Sparrow concurred, saying that rising fuel prices have made it increasingly difficult for Anderson residents to pursue higher education.

"It's just so costly to commute or stay on campus to get a degree," he said.

"We need access to higher education in Anderson County and this is a major step to make that happen. I just think it's wonderful.

"We're very excited about this. It's the first new program we've been able to add since our merger, and both programs will allow people to find employment in this area, in a great field.

"It's a real boost for the economy and the economic development for our area."

BSCTC and Kentucky Highlands Entrepreneur Center host Math/Science Career Camp
7/7/2006 Paintsville Herald

Big Sandy Community and Technical College and Kentucky Highlands Entrepreneur Center hosted a Math and Science Summer Career Camp for middle school girls interested in pursuing a profession in math and science. Thirteen girls from Johnson and Martin counties participated in the camp. The program was developed, coordinated and supervised by BSCTC, Kentucky Highlands Entrepreneur Center along with the individual sponsors, Bocook Engineering, Citizens National Bank, Elm Street Resources, McDowell & MedZone Pharmacies and Paul B. Hall Regional Medical Center. The sponsors provided hands on activities and information for the young ladies as they developed a network of friends and resources.

The Math and Science Career Camp was a pilot project for BSCTC and Kentucky Highlands Entrepreneur Center. The all expense paid camp began June 19 and ended June 23, 2006. The purpose of the camp was to empower and encourage middle school girls to pursue careers in the math and science fields and to develop leadership skills and attributes. The career camp sought to persuade the girls to consider future entrepreneurial projects and to have an increased commitment to rural Eastern Kentucky. "We wanted the girls to walk away with a clearer vision of the possibilities in their lives," said Jean Dorton, Committee Chair. The agenda for the campers' activities began with an intensive week exploring careers in Medical and Human Services, Engineering, Coal, Women Owned Businesses and Banking. The decoration theme for the Camp was coordinated in a Hawaiian beach theme. The Campers received t-shirts and beach sets that included sun visors, mats, beach balls and beach shoes. In addition to this the campers received various mementos and gifts from the individual sponsors each day.

Qualifications for participation in the camp included:
· Current 7th grade status with an interest in math and science
· GPA of 3.0
The selection and or application criteria included:
· Extracurricular Activities
· Community Service
· Essay
· Academic Performance

To encourage the campers to treat the week as a job, each camper received a $50.00 paycheck if they adhered to the following guidelines:
· Arrive on time
· Demonstrate a good attitude
· Be a team player
· Dress appropriately

BSCTC and Kentucky Highlands Entrepreneur Center were honored to provide such a valuable program and resource and look forward to providing the same opportunity to young ladies next year. "We feel the camp was successful and beneficial to all participants," said Jean Dorton. Lindsey O'Bryan, a Johnson County camper, stated, "I would like to thank you for letting me be involved in this wonderful camp. I hope you do another one for seventh graders next year so that other girls can be a part of this great experience. It gave me the chance to "think outside the box". Now I'm much more open to new career ideas. Thank you Big Sandy Community Technical College and Kentucky Highlands Entrepreneur Center"!

Butler County suffers another economic blow - American Rubber closes; leaders eye replacement jobs via development efforts
Writer: DOUG WATERS
7/11/2006 Bowling Green Daily News

Yet another company has closed its doors in Butler County, and officials are hoping economic development efforts might bring replacement jobs.

This time, American Rubber Products Corp. in Morgantown closed its doors with little notice Friday to about 60 employees, according to Butler County officials.

The closure follows those of Sofanu and a few years earlier of Sumitomo, from which the community has yet to recover.

"The last few legislative sessions, our focus has been trying to improve the education system and infrastructure in Butler County to make it attractive for industry," said state Sen. Brett Guthrie, R-Bowling Green.

"We put $1.5 million into refitting the (former) Sumitomo training center for an adult learning center and vocation training which can be used for worker training" at existing companies and for those looking to locate, he added. "And this year we funded a high school and adult vocational school."

That new school should be ready for students in the fall, Guthrie said.

Recent state funding for water projects should also help make the infrastructure more attractive for companies, he said.

Guthrie said he was disappointed to hear the news of the closure, since the community is still trying to gain some of the more than 1,000 jobs lost when Sumitomo closed.

American Rubber, an Indiana-based company that operates rubber-making facilities in several states, manufactured gaskets and seals at the Morgantown facility, according to a company profile listing.

Calls to the company weren't returned.

Butler County Judge-Executive Hugh Evans said he heard American Rubber was also closing two other facilities Friday in LaPorte, Ind., and New York.

"I think it's not being respectful to employees when they give them less than 24 hours notice," Evans said.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, a company with more than 100 employees must give at least 60 days notice for a closure, he said.

"I went out there (Friday) morning at 10:30," he said. "The unemployment office and the Bowling Green Technical College were out there giving (laid-off employees) advice."

Asked about the impact of the tax revenue loss to the county's economy, Evans said finding jobs for displaced workers was his main priority.

"They all go hand in hand, but the people come first before concerns about the taxes," he said. "Yes, it makes a difference, but we just have to live with what we're dealt with."

A rapid response team traveled to Morgantown on Friday to offer counseling to the workers, said Beverly Woodward, the associate director for the Workforce Investment Act at the Barren River Area Development District.

The Workforce Investment Act provides training services to adults, youth and dislocated workers, according to BRADD.

Woodward advised former American Rubber employees to call the Bowling Green Area Career Center at 746-7425 for information on training opportunities.

In a faxed statement to the Daily News, Morgantown Mayor Charles Black wrote that the city is trying to obtain another factory for Butler residents, and the American Rubber building is for sale by its owner.

Guthrie said there may be help on the horizon as an existing industry, Eleison, is planning to add new jobs. The company manufactures parts for Toyota.

"It's not a lot of jobs, but it's a start," he said.

Guthrie said the company's proximity to the parkway provides it good access to Toyota facilities in Princeton, Ind., and Georgetown - something that might be a drawing card for other Toyota suppliers.

Communities: Girls motivated in math and science
7/12/2006 Lexington Herald-Leader

Big Sandy Community and Technical College and Kentucky Highlands Entrepreneur Center hosted a Math and Science Summer Career Camp for middle school girls interested in pursuing professions in math and science. Thirteen girls from Johnson and Martin counties participated.

The purpose of the camp was to empower and encourage middle school girls to pursue careers in math and science and to develop leadership. The career camp sought to persuade the girls to consider future entrepreneurial projects and to have an increased commitment to rural Eastern Kentucky.

Editorial: Transpark company is moving on up
7/7/2006 Bowling Green Daily News

Bowling Green Metalforming has been a huge asset to Bowling Green and the region.

It has not only created parts for automobiles, but also countless numbers of jobs at the Kentucky TriModal Transpark in Warren County.

Now plans are on track for Bowling Green Metalforming, a subsidiary of Canadian-based Magna, to expand its operations here.

For the past six months, BGM has been building frames for Ford's Explorer and Sporttrac models, but the company is planning to add production for Ford's F250, F350, F450 and F550 heavy-duty pickup frames starting in January.

This is wonderful news for Bowling Green/Warren County's economy and the additional jobs the addition will bring.

BGM will hire about 100 additional employees as the plant acquires more equipment.

The announcement of additional jobs comes at a time when the latest unemployment rate for Warren County was 4.4 percent, which is among the lowest in the state.

More good news for BGM is that in the fall, two 40-metric heavy lifting cranes will be added, along with the startup of a new press line.

BG Metalforming, the transpark's first tenant, has been a huge success and the news of its expansion only underscores that fact.

Perhaps the transpark could have moved along much faster in attracting tenants had it not been for numerous lawsuits filed by transpark opponents. To date, none of these legal actions have been successful.

BGM is also a asset to the community by partnering with the Kentucky Community and Technical College System's economic development efforts through the Kentucky Workforce Investment Network System, which aims to give high-level transferable technical skills training to businesses that create high-paying jobs for Kentuckians.

The new addition to Bowling Green Metalforming is great news for the transpark and the community and we look forward to the new additions being finalized.

As plans move forward, it will demonstrate that Bowling Green Metalforming is a good addition to our industrial community.

Grant supports screen for jobs - State awards Gateway $60K for program
Writer: HOWARD MCEWEN
6/25/2006 Kentucky Enquirer (Covington)

Gateway Community and Technical College has earned a $60,000 grant from the Kentucky Adult Education program to provide work skills assessments to employers and job seekers.

Gateway along with the Kenton County Adult Education program will work with employers to see what a job entails and what skills are required. The employers can then screen candidates who have demonstrated those skills by earning a Kentucky Employability Certificate (KEC).

Assessing employer needs and the employees' skills is done through WorkKeys assessments developed by ACT, the organization that administers the college entrance and placement exam. It measures reading, applied mathematics, and locating information.

Amber Decker, Adult Education Coordinator for Gateway, said the assessment shows that job candidates are interested in improving and demonstrating skills. "It says, 'I do want to get a job and I do want to show you want I can do.'

"We've worked with some employers so that they know who is promotable and want to make sure they have basic skills," said Decker.

Gateway has partnered with several area employers to administer the program.

"Even if a person has a high school or college degree, it is always important to brush up on your skills and test taking abilities before you take an employer's skills assessment," said Citigroup vice-president Johnna Reeder Fasold.

Scholarship winners overcome hurdles to pursue education
Writer: RONNIE ELLIS
7/11/2006 Ashland Daily Independent

Frankfort -- Jodelle Johnson has asthma and she has a 3-year-old son with asthma. The 24-year-old former high school dropout wants to be a respiratory therapist, and this fall, armed with a General Educational Development diploma which she earned at Morehead State University's Adult Education Center, she will enroll in Maysville Community and Technical College.

"I always wanted to go to college," Johnson said Tuesday at a ceremony to honor her and 29 other winners of $1,000 Education at Work Scholarships handed out by First Lady Glenna Fletcher, Education Secretary Virginia Fox and Deputy Education Secretary Laura Owens.

The scholarships may be used toward payment of tuition, books and lab or technology fees at any Kentucky college or university. The 30 winners were selected from 200 applicants and represent 23 Kentucky counties. Winners ranged in age from 18 to 53 years old.

"I'm proud of myself for what I've been able to accomplish," Johnson said, adding she needed the help of the MSU adult education program to earn her GED in only a month. The $1,000 will help, too.

"The only way I can do this is with help," said Johnson, who has two children, a daughter, age 5, and her asthmatic son, age 3.

She dropped out of Rowan County High School to marry her husband, Matthew, when she was only 16. She's been a homemaker since then, but is determined now to reach her career goal.

James "Mike" Webster of Catlettsburg understands. The junior at the University of Kentucky "blew out both knees" playing basketball at Boyd County High School. The injuries led to back problems which made it difficult for him to walk. Two additional surgeries have improved things for the 20-year-old who is pursuing a degree in physical therapy.

The Office of Vocational Rehabilitation helped Webster pay for a needed knee brace and assisted him in securing handicapped parking privileges when walking to class was painful and difficult.

"It's a blessing people actually care about people who go through a lot," Webster said in the Capitol Rotunda after having his photo taken with the First Lady and Secretary Fox.

Fletcher said it is exciting to see the determination of the applicants and scholarship winners and their desire to pursue a postsecondary education.

"I am distinctly encouraged by their sense of purpose and how they want to give back to their communities," Fletcher said.

Stacy McVay, 18, of Woodbine, wants to be a registered nurse and will begin study at Somerset Community College this fall after graduating from Whitley County High School.

She took classes through the Corbin Area Technology Center for college credit while still in high school.

"It's an amazing program that definitely gave me a jump start to my education and career," McVay said. "It would have been very difficult for me to go to college without this program and without this money."

All of the 30 winners received some state service from state agencies. Other winners were James Armstrong, 22, of Bloomfield; Brenda Ann Ball, 53, of Louisa; Shannon Cristman, 27, of Hazard; Patrick Conlon, 21, of Lexington; Joey Couch, 22, of Busy; Lorri Damron, 19, of Mount Sterling; Glenda Daugherty, 48, of Bardstown; Natosha Davis, 23, of Owensboro; Nicholas Dunn, 21, of Hustonville; Florence Fields, 20, of Hallie; Judith Fishburn, 36, of Bowling Green; Amylee K. Francis, 21, of Harrodsburg; Erin Hahn, 35, of West Point; Lisa Howe, 48, of Cold Spring; Keri Howitz, 19, of Lexington; Donovan Lauderback, 31, of Louisville; Erika Maynard, 18, of Inez; Eugenia Miranda, 37, of Mount Washington; Sara Mudd, 24, of Louisville; Neal Murphy, 18, of Hanson; Ashley Payne, 22, of Owensboro; James Peterson, 35, of Franklin; Ashley Taylor, of Hindman; Susanne Wallace, 20, of Dawson Springs; Maranda Watson, 29, of Stanton; Kevin Williams, 18, of Jeremiah; and Ginger Yeary, 42, of Hindman.

RONNIE ELLIS writes for CNHI News Service and is based in Frankfort. The Independent is a CNHI newspaper.

Conservatory among projects in $3 million plan
Writer: Keith Lawrence
7/12/2006 Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer

Western Kentucky Botanical Garden's 20-year-master plan is a $2.8 million to $3 million project that includes a conservatory, amphitheater, silo overlook and six or more additional flower gardens.

Morgan McIlwain, the Lexington landscape architect who created the plan, said it calls for the 150-seat amphitheater in the center of the nature area to become the focal point of the 8.3-acre facility, with various gardens radiating out from it.

The amphitheater, he said, will be used for small performances and will be anchored by a piece of sculpture.

"This is a banner year for us," Dr. Bill Tyler, board president, said during the garden's ribbon-cutting ceremonies Monday. "Now, it's time to go on to the next stage."

McIlwain said the 1,600- to 2,000-square-foot conservatory will be the most expensive part of the plan, costing roughly $700,000.

It will have a year-round indoor butterfly garden and an educational area, he said.

Two empty silos are located near the garden's parking lot.

"We want to do something with the silos," McIlwain said.

The plan calls for putting a spiral staircase into each silo, so people can climb to an observation deck on top of each.

Tyler said the board is considering a plan that would make the garden side of the silos blend with the rest of the garden, but have a "more showy" mural on the side facing Second Street in an effort to draw more visitors.

He said the spiral staircase would be nice, but the board is concerned about liability.

McIlwain said the board is working on which phase to tackle first.

The plan includes taking the number of gardens from the current nine to 15, 16 "or possibly more" and renovating and expanding the visitor center.

"There are things that we probably won't ever be able to get to," Tyler said. "But this is a good place to start."

The 13-year-old nature center in northwestern Owensboro has already booked its first big show for the fall of 2008.

The 13-week festival will include David Rogers' Big Bugs, a nationally touring sculpture exhibit.

It also will include an indoor butterfly show, a "Bug Rally" for fans of Volkswagen Beetles, puppeteers, musicians and recordings of bugs.

----
On The Web

For more information, check the Western Kentucky Botanical Garden's Web site: http://www.wkbg.org.

How many Kentuckians have at least a bachelor's degree?
7/12/2006 Louisville Courier-Journal

A: According to the Census Bureau, 19 percent of people 25 or older in Kentucky in 2004 held a bachelor's degree.

Payments stuck in state computer - Child support system affected
Writer: Sarah Vos
7/12/2006 Lexington Herald-Leader

A glitch in the state's computer system means that up to 35,000 child support payments have been delayed statewide this month. The same issue threatens upcoming paychecks for thousands of state employees, officials said.

The Louisville county attorney's office says that some parents are running out of money. Their utilities are being turned off, house payments are due and groceries can't be bought. Some who receive electronic deposits thought the money would be there, as usual, and they are bouncing checks.

"Right now, they're frustrated, and it's getting worse and worse," said Alice Dean, who works at the office and has been taking calls from parents.

State officials say that most of the problems, which began July 1 when the state implemented a new accounting system, have been fixed.

Parents receive either a paper check or an electronic deposit. Checks for July 3, 5 and 6 went out yesterday. Checks for July 7 and 8 will go out today, said Jason Moseley, director of the division of child support.

However, problems remain with child support that is deposited directly into parents' bank accounts: The transfers have been made by the state, but banks are having trouble reading the files. The banks can't tell who should get the money, Moseley said.

An estimated 14,000 child support payments should have been deposited electronically. The state began processing those payments Monday. Some made it into the correct accounts, but others did not, Moseley said.

The problem appears to mostly be with out-of-state banks, he said. It is not clear how many of the 14,000 payment have not been made, and technicians were working on the problem last night.

At the Fayette County attorney's office, Wanda Kinnaird, who handles child support payments, predicted that parents would soon be running out money.

"A lot of people do rely on this for just everyday living expenses," Kinnaird said.

Child support payments aren't the only glitches with the new accounting system, which is called eMars. Earlier this week there were problems with unemployment and payments for subsidized child care, said Kenneth Mansfield, spokesman for the Kentucky State Treasury.

"The big concern, of course, is payroll," Mansfield said.

The system will send out its first checks to state workers Friday. A test run showed that those who are paid with a paper check would get their money, but those who get electronic deposits wouldn't. Treasury and Finance are working to resolve the problem before Friday, Mansfield said.

For child support, the state takes money from the paycheck of a non-custodial parent and sends the money to the custodial parent, usually within 48 hours. Across the state, there are 260,000 such transfers a month. Most court-ordered child support is paid this way, Moseley said.

The system is supposed to make it easier for custodial parents to get payments and is generally convenient for both parents, said Bill Patteson, a spokesman for Louisville County Attorney Irv Maze.

"It's a payroll deduction; it's automatically deducted and sent to the state and sent to the custodial parent on time," Patteson said. "Except in this case."

Some state buildings go smoke-free - FLETCHER SIGNS ORDER FOR EXECUTIVE BRANCH
Writer: Jack Brammer
7/12/2006 Lexington Herald-Leader

FRANKFORT - State workers Karen Morganti and Linda Lingle relaxed with several of their colleagues on a smoke break yesterday afternoon outside the east side of the enormous Health Services Building.

More co-workers will likely join them beginning Aug. 1, when an executive order that bans state workers from smoking in buildings controlled by the executive branch goes into effect. Gov. Ernie Fletcher signed the order yesterday morning.

The American Cancer Society and the Campaign For Tobacco-Free Kids applauded the action by the governor, whose state is the nation's top producer of burley tobacco and a leader in lung cancer deaths.

But Morganti and Lingle shrugged off the new no-smoking policy, saying that most state workers already shun designated rooms for smoking.

"It won't make any difference for us," said Lingle, a public assistance program specialist and 17-year state employee from Shelbyville. "I think there's (a smoking room) on the fifth floor here, maybe the second. But they take too long to walk to, so it's easier to go outside."

Fletcher, a practicing physician before entering politics, said he signed the order to create healthier work environments for thousands of state employees, as well as many members of the general public.

"They no longer will be exposed to secondhand smoke at state offices," he said, noting a U.S. Surgeon General's report last month on the harmful effects of secondhand smoke, including premature disease and death in non-smoking adults and children.

The state owns 8,500 buildings and leases an additional 800.

Fletcher's order comes on the heels of a new state anti-smoking law which takes effect today. House Bill 55 gives the state's executive branch, local governments and universities the authority to prohibit smoking in government-owned buildings.

Previously, all government buildings were required to have a designated area for smokers.

Shannon Pratt, government relations director for the American Cancer Society in Kentucky, said at least 17 states and more than 400 cities -- including some in Kentucky -- have approved strong no-smoking laws.

"Adding Kentucky to the list sends a powerful message about the dangers in smoking," she said.

William V. Corr, executive director of the Washington-based Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, said Fletcher has set an example for local governments.

"Gov. Fletcher's important first step should serve as a catalyst for all Kentucky communities to pass comprehensive laws that require all workplaces and public places to be smoke-free," Corr said in a statement. "All Kentucky workers deserve the same effective protection from the dangers of secondhand smoke that state employees will now receive."

Smoking rooms in Fayette

Although Lexington began enforcing a smoking ban in 2004 that covers almost all public buildings, the city has yet to remove smoking rooms from City Hall and other government buildings.

Milton Dohoney Jr., Lexington's chief administrative officer, said city officials have held several meetings on the issue and expect to recommend a new policy in the near future.

Fletcher and administration officials initially were unclear at yesterday's news conference about what state buildings would be affected by the ban.

But the state Finance and Administration Cabinet later said the order would affect office buildings and common areas occupied by executive branch employees. It does not affect offices occupied by legislative and judicial branch employees.

The judicial branch, which has court facilities in all 120 counties, defers to local officials on smoking bans, said Leigh Anne Hiatt, a spokeswoman for the Administrative Office of the Courts. The legislative branch, with its offices in the Capitol and Capitol Annex, follows a 2004 law that prohibits smoking in public areas such as hallways and meeting rooms, but allows smoking in individual offices, said Legislative Research Commission deputy director Tom Troth.

Exceptions to Fletcher's executive branch ban include the Kentucky State Penitentiary in Eddyville, the state's only maximum-security prison, and guest rooms designated for smoking visitors at state parks.

Secondhand risk

Smoke-free policies are crucial steps in reducing the exposure to secondhand smoke and smoking rates, said Dr. Steve Wyatt, dean of the University of Kentucky's College of Public Health.

He called smoking "the leading predictable cause of death" in this country, saying that 35,000 Americans who don't smoke die annually from secondhand smoke.

State Public Health Commissioner William Hacker said tobacco use accounts for nearly 7,700 deaths a year in Kentucky and 400,000 deaths nationwide.

Kentucky has the highest smoking rate in the country and the second highest prevalence of pregnant women who smoke, he said.

Fletcher said the state will continue programs that encourage state workers to quit smoking. He said the state has a toll-free number -- 1-800-QUITNOW -- to help people kick the habit.

But state workers Morganti and Lingle intend to keep on puffing.

"I'm addicted; It keeps me calm," Morganti said.

"It's like a pacifier," Lingle added.

Through a child's eyes - Mural introduces students to other cultures
Writer: Emily Yahr
7/12/2006 Lexington Herald-Leader

Southern Elementary School in Georgetown will have about 75 new children in the hallways this fall -- some flying kites in China, others enjoying gelato in Italy, and a few playing under trees on a sunny day in Spain.

These are only a few images in a new mural that adorns the school's rotunda entrance. The project, which cost more than $40,000 and was funded by the Scott County Board of Education, is an effort to teach students about diverse cultures while adding to the "invitational" aspect of the school, said principal Bryan Blankenship.

Blankenship said the district has won awards for being a part of the International Alliance for Invitational Education, which holds the philosophy that creating a welcoming environment for students and faculty is a crucial component to education.

"We wanted something that would create a lasting impression and would be there a long, long time," said district Superintendent Dallas Blankenship, who is not related to the principal. "We think this will encourage the spirit of wanting to learn."

The mural, an 8-by-135-foot canvas painting, is now the first thing people see when they walk through the door, said Blankenship, going into his eighth year as principal. The painting also corresponds with the school's curriculum covering worldwide historical monuments and international cultures, he said.

Lexington artist Mike Burrell of Flying Armadillo Signs took almost a year to research and complete the painting with the help of James Cox of Nicholasville. The mural's theme is "children around the world."

The colorful piece has pictures of children and animals from numerous countries. Scenes include the Eiffel Tower in France, Chinese mountains, Japanese gardens and tribes in Africa. The center of the mural is a group of smiling children from almost 10 countries standing in front of a map of the world..

The idea for the mural came after two years of remodeling at the school, which left a plain white rotunda at the entrance that "just called for a mural," Blankenship said.

"We want our students to be accepting of other ways of life, and the best way to do that is to learn about them," Blankenship said. "This mural is a nice, colorful way to learn these things, as well as greet visitors and guests."

UK: Spindletop Hall's future a matter of economics - SPOKESMAN SAYS SCHOOL CAN'T AFFORD TO SUBSIDIZE CLUB ANY LONGER
Writer: Linda B. Blackford
7/12/2006 Lexington Herald-Leader

The proposal to turn Spindletop Hall and Club into a retirement community was announced quietly, plans put into a one-page letter sent to the membership last month.

But judging from the raised voices, boos, standing ovations and passionate opposition voiced at a packed meeting at Spindletop Hall last night, the issue won't be quiet any longer.

Members quizzed and challenged UK officials over plans to build a continuous care community around Spindletop Hall, the 1935 mansion built by a Texas oil heiress. The estate was sold to UK in 1959 and turned into a recreational club for UK faculty, staff and alumni in 1962.

"This is a lose-lose endeavor," Maner Ferguson, a club member for the past 30 years, said to applause. "UK would lose its integrity and in turn its support from many alums."

UK spokesman Jay Blanton said the issue came down to economics: The club has lost 1,000 members in the past decade and UK can no longer afford to subsidize maintenance costs or upgrade the historic mansion that serves as the club's centerpiece.

The retirement community developer would spend $9 million to $12 million to renovate and restore the mansion.

"Spindletop is a treasure and we want it to remain so, but UK cannot justify or afford in the long term to subsidize a private club," he said. "We must find a way for the club to become financially viable and independent."

Ferguson pointed out that Spindletop would need only 450 more members to be able to pay its own way. Members also questioned whether a retirement community should be part of UK's mission, or whether retired UK faculty and staff would even be able to afford to buy one of the retirement houses, said to be priced in the $300,000-$400,000 range.

A Florida retirement community developer called Praxeis won the bid to create a retirement community for UK. Currently, the plan would be to build living facilities including 86 houses, a three or four-story assisted living apartment building, a wellness center and a nursing home. A preliminary drawing provided by UK shows that much of this development would be on top of the current pools and tennis courts.

The new complex would take up about 94 acres; UK officials say the developer would recreate the club's pools and tennis courts, as well as providing a $9 million to $12 million renovation of the mansion that would become the retirement community's centerpiece.

Construction could start in 2008 and be finished in 18 months to two years.

Originally, the retirement community was supposed to be built at Coldstream Research Park, but that was deemed unworkable because of noise from Interstate 75.

Member Tim Lambert said he had looked into 20 other university-affiliated retirement communities around the country, and only two were located at any distance from the university, as Spindletop is. He also questioned how involved university researchers would be in the new community: "It's obvious that the Sanders Brown Center on Aging has not been consulted about this," he said.

Blanton said UK President Lee Todd had informed the center about the plan. That's when Cheryl Feigel, a Sanders Brown board member, stood up.

"This information was presented to the board today for the very first time," she announced to loud applause.

Spindletop members have formed a Spindletop Preservation Committee, which opposes the development. On Saturday, the group will hold a 10 a.m. press conference at Spindletop with Kathryn Haider, the granddaughter of Pansy Yount, Spindletop's creator who sold it to UK in 1959. She opposes the development.

Gates Sr. Speaks to College Fund Raisers on Philanthropy, the Buffett Gift, and the Estate Tax
Writer: ERIN STROUT
7/12/2006 The Chronicle of Higher Education

William H. Gates Sr., the father of the wealthiest man in the world and a co-chairman of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, explained on Tuesday to an audience of college officials why he believes in an estate tax and why the wealthiest Americans should play a critical role in shaping philanthropy around the world.

Mr. Gates, who is a co-author of Wealth and Our Commonwealth: Why America Should Tax Accumulated Fortunes (Beacon Press, 2003), spoke at the annual conference of the Council for Advancement and Support of Education. He called the controversial estate tax, which is being debated in Congress as some legislators push to have it repealed permanently, "the perfect tax" because "it's society collecting back what it's given to somebody."

"It's an incredible phenomenon how the very wealthy are a small segment of the population, but the implications of the revenue they generate with the estate tax are enormous," he said. "It would allow the country to afford Social Security and Medicaid. I don't see that there's anything left to say."

But there was plenty more to talk about. Mr. Gates also discussed the historic $30-billion gift that Warren Buffett, chairman of Berkshire Hathaway, recently made to the Gates Foundation, which focuses its grant making on global health and public education.

The donation, which Mr. Gates said that he learned about only six weeks ago, will more than double the foundation's annual grants, which already amount to $1.36-billion a year.

"It makes us a $3-billion grant-making organization, and that's daunting," he said. "We've been thinking hard about this and looking at additional goals. We're doubling what we're doing in terms of global health and education, but we will unquestionably begin to make grants to other areas."

Some of those areas may include agricultural initiatives around the world. Mr. Gates said that it is harder to predict how the money would be used in the United States.

Mr. Gates predicted that Mr. Buffett's donation would affect wealthy people's dispositions of their estates. "I think that any time Warren Buffett does something, it influences people," he said.

Mr. Gates also noted that the nexus of philanthropy and higher education is key for the United States to remain competitive. "I don't ever remember thinking until about 10 years ago that we'd be competing to be the pre-eminent nation," he said. "One of the great attributes that we have is competent higher education."

No educators left behind?
Writer: Greg Toppo
7/11/2006 USA TODAY

Worried that the USA could lose ground in global competitiveness, a group of academic and business leaders wants to increase the pay of public school teachers immediately by as much as 20% and up to 50% in the foreseeable future.

The proposal is being announced today by The College Board's Center for Innovative Thought, which proposes a national "Teachers Trust" paid for by federal, state and local governments as well as private enterprise. The goal: to retain capable veteran teachers and entice more bright young people into the classroom.

It would finance the trust through matching public grants, similar to those that helped build the U.S. interstate highway system. A special assessment on corporate windfall profits would provide more money. Direct private contributions would tempt teachers into hard-to-staff schools and disciplines such as math and science.

"If we don't have great people going into teaching, we don't have world-competitive schools," says former West Virginia governor Gaston Caperton, who heads The College Board, the non-profit that owns the SAT and the Advanced Placement program.

Several blue-ribbon panels over the past few years have proposed innovative ways to pay teachers, but the idea of a national trust is unique, as is the push for private-sector contributions to supplement salaries.

With its promise of higher pay, the trust could persuade young people that there is "real economic opportunity as a teacher," says former U.S. senator Bob Kerrey, now president of The New School in New York.

"Local school districts on their own, where there are shortages, are going to have a very difficult time recruiting unless there's some source of funding to raise those salaries," he says.

Acknowledging that salary isn't the only factor in teacher turnover, the group also wants to improve working conditions and foster mentoring of younger teachers.

Among other recommendations:

* In return for higher salaries, teachers would work 11-month contracts and accept more pay -- or less -- based on school and subject assignment, professional development and student performance.

* Teachers would work through a three-tier career ladder -- roughly delineated as "beginning teacher," "professional teacher" and "instructional leader." The last would require a master's degree or professional board certification and require mentoring younger teachers.

That makes sense, says Marcy Vancil, an award-winning veteran elementary school teacher in Urbana, Ill. "It is absolutely critical that we spend a great deal more time mentoring new teachers. I don't think we have powerful programs that really allow a teacher to work alongside a master teacher."

The group also pleads for a "cease-fire in the holy war" between traditional and alternative teacher-preparation programs, allowing candidates to enter teaching from teachers colleges, alternative school district programs or non-profit training through groups such as Teach For America.

Though Vancil likes many of the proposals, she says other problems, such as class size and school leadership, are just as important. She also balks at a few proposals, such as extending teachers' contract year to 11 months.

"I work an 80-hour week as it is," she says, "and I spend much of my summers bettering my skills, (on) new strategies, searching for new materials.

"There doesn't ever seem to be enough time for that."

Tom Blanford, associate director of the National Education Association's teacher quality department, applauds the proposed trust. "We would love for people to be beating down the doors to become a teacher. ... We would like to have 10 applicants for every position."

But he warns that tapping unpredictable windfall profits could create "a graveyard of school reform initiatives" whose funding ends when profits evaporate.

"To the degree that there is soft money involved, what can be given can be taken away," he says. "That's not good for kids and it's not good for teachers."

Senate Panel Approves Generous Budget Rise for NSF, and NASA Might See an Extra $1-Billion
Writer: SAM KEAN
7/12/2006 The Chronicle of Higher Education

The federal agencies that sponsor most physical-sciences research at American universities received good news on Tuesday, as the Senate subcommittee that oversees most federal spending on science voted to increase the budget of the National Science Foundation by 8 percent in the 2007 fiscal year, and two senators said they supported a surprise $1-billion emergency grant to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.

The science foundation's proposed budget for the next fiscal year, which begins on October 1, would rise to $5.99-billion, $410-million more than in the current fiscal year and just under the $6.01-billion that President Bush requested and the House of Representatives approved.

NASA did not fare as well during Tuesday's session of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, and Science -- at least not at first. Citing restrictive fiscal conditions, the panel approved an increase of only $126-million over the agency's $16.7-billion budget for 2006, a rise of less than 1 percent.

However, that nominal increase would be ameliorated by a one-time $1-billion grant that two senators -- Barbara A. Mikulski, a Democrat from Maryland, and Kay Bailey Hutchison, a Republican from Texas -- plan to introduce when the full Senate Appropriations Committee meets on Thursday.

Senator Mikulski cited a recent conflict between NASA's goals and means as her motive in proposing the grant. On the one hand, NASA's budgets remained relatively flat throughout the administrations of President Bill Clinton and Mr. Bush, she said. On the other, the agency was pushed to resume space-shuttle launches after the Columbia exploded, in 2003. She said that a lack of funds had forced the agency to "forage" for money, and that the $1-billion in relief would allow NASA to offset cuts in space and aeronautics research. Without the grant, such research would receive $10.5-billion in 2007.

The subcommittee also would shift money that the House had designated for NSF research to educational initiatives. For instance, historically black colleges and universities would receive $32-million for education efforts, up $6-million from the current fiscal year. The science foundation's research budget would still top $4.5-billion, and funds for research equipment and facilities would rise to $237-million. Over all, the Senate panel approved $835-million for education grants, $3-million more than the House had.

Sen. Richard C. Shelby, a Republican from Alabama, also mentioned that the subcommittee planned to provide the funds President Bush has requested for the American Competitiveness Initiative, a measure intended to improve American scientific research and technical education (The Chronicle, February 1). If the initiative receives the full amount requested, that would double the budget of the NSF and other federal science agencies over the next decade. Many senators cited the perceived economic benefits of improving the scientific infrastructure in the United States as the reason to support the initiative.

Diners can drink their wine and take it too - Public breastfeeding also among 200 new laws
Writer: Elisabeth J. Beardsley
7/12/2006 Louisville Courier-Journal

Frankfort dentist Will Renshaw loves a glass of wine with a restaurant meal -- the more obscure the vintage the better.

But he's not much of a drinker, so a glass or two typically does the trick -- leaving him with a half-empty bottle that might have cost a bundle but can't be finished off without becoming too tipsy to drive.

Starting today, Renshaw and other wine enthusiasts around Kentucky can have their merlot to go under a new law that allows restaurants to re-cork bottles of wine and send them home with patrons.

The law is one of more than 200 passed this year by the General Assembly, most of which take effect today.

The laws deal with everything from military benefits to public breastfeeding, and from cracking down on sex offenders to shooting attackers in self-defense.

For Renshaw, the so-called merlot-to-go law couldn't come soon enough.

"It gives those of us who really enjoy wine the ability to experiment with a label we haven't seen before, and do it in a very safe manner and be able to take the bottle home," Renshaw said.

At the Bristol Bar & Grille, wine and beverage director Scott Harper said he's stocked up on hundreds of sealable wine doggie bags that will fit the state's requirements for tamper-proof packaging for opened bottles. A receipt also has to be attached.

Harper said he expects to sell more and better wine, with less liability, under the new law, approved as Senate Bill 56.

"It's the way it should have always been," Harper said. "Wine is a temperate, moderate drink."

Other start dates
Some of this year's new laws took effect immediately when signed by Gov. Ernie Fletcher. They include laws restricting protests at military funerals, allowing the public posting of the Ten Commandments under some circumstances and providing emergency winter heating assistance to poor people.

Others have staggered start dates, such as three laws aimed at improving highway safety.

A "quick clearance" law, which takes effect next week, requires drivers in accidents without injuries to move their vehicles off the road.

Starting next Wednesday, police can begin pulling people over solely for seatbelt violations, although they won't start issuing citations until Jan. 1.

And teenagers will have to wait longer and take more training before receiving full driving privileges, under a law that kicks in Oct. 1 and creates a graduated licensing system.

Public breastfeeding
Kentucky mothers who breastfeed their babies will no longer have to fear being asked to leave restaurants, malls and other public places. Approved as SB 106, the new law makes it clear that breastfeeding in public is not a crime.

Ginny Delaney, a Louisville mother of three who's breastfeeding her 15-month-old, said the fear of public condemnation prompts many women to quit nursing long before the one-year period recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

"Hopefully it will mean that the public will see nursing mothers more and it'll become more of a natural, common, typical thing to see. And hopefully in the end, ultimately it will encourage more people to nurse their babies if they don't feel like they have to hide it," said Delaney, a leader with La Leche League of Kentuckiana, a chapter of an international support network for nursing moms.

New road rules
The intermediate licenses for teenagers, which take effect Oct. 1, last for six months between the learner's permit and the full license. The licensing law means that teenagers 16 and 17:

May not drive between midnight and 6 a.m.

May have no more than one non-family passenger under 20.

Have to attain 60 hours of supervised driving with an adult before being granted an unrestricted license.

Middletown resident Susan Smithson said she wishes the test were tougher but said she's glad her 15-year-old son will get more supervised time behind the wheel before receiving full privileges. She said she began driving farm implements at 12.

"Being comfortable behind the wheel was a big advantage to me when I took my driver's test," Smithson said. "But I think maybe they need to have more realistic driving situations for their testing."

Gregory Smithson, who will enter his sophomore year at Eastern High School this fall, called the new law "pointless." Teens could still get hurt under an intermediate license, he said.

ATV helmets
Starting next week, a new law requires children under 16 to wear helmets while riding on all-terrain vehicles.

With 106 deaths, Kentucky recorded the nation's fastest-growing death rate for ATV users from 2002 to 2004, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Keith Stillwell of Campbellsville, whose son John was nearly killed in an ATV wreck last summer, said he would advise people to wear helmets not just while on ATVs but also on motorcycles, skateboards, bicycles and rollerblades.

"Drop an egg from six foot and that's about what happens to your head," Stillwell said. "Once you lose your brain, that's it."

John, now 13, left his helmet at home last August when he went riding with a friend, then crashed and suffered a brain injury, a fractured skull, a broken leg and three crushed vertebrae. He has spent the past year re-learning how to walk, talk, feed and dress himself.

Year of the veteran
It was the year of the veteran in the legislature, which passed more than a dozen bills offering various benefits and supports to soldiers and their families. New benefits include a:

Personal loan program for veterans.

Two-year state income-tax exemption for soldiers killed in the line of duty.

Military family assistance fund to provide grants of last resort to help families of deployed soldiers cover such necessary expenses as housing, utilities, groceries and health insurance co-payments.

Retired Sgt. Maj. Mary Peyton, whose husband, Sgt. Maj. Donald Peyton, is serving in Kuwait, said the income-tax exemption is a "big relief."

"That was a burden I didn't have to worry about," she said.

Peyton, who volunteers with the family readiness group for her husband's unit, said she and families struggle to pay the bills, mow the grass, and otherwise hold the household together while their loved ones are deployed.

Peyton said she also likes one directive contained in the budget that requires the Department of Military Affairs to develop a "welcome home program" to greet returning soldiers and help them re-assimilate into civilian life. Her husband, a Vietnam veteran, is likely to be one of the first beneficiaries when he comes home.

"The treatment he is getting now," Peyton said, "is the treatment they all should have got when they came back from Vietnam but they didn't."

Music in the Mountains
7/4/2006 Thousandsticks News, Hyden

The second annual Music in the Mountains performance at Hazard Community & Technical College on June 15 brought together talented singers including, from left, Karen Eash, Mari Cornett, Scott Clark, and Ethan Hamblin. The show followed a music camp led by John and Debbie Stegner with Bobbie Bevins as the accompanist. Middle school performers also were part of the show. On Sunday, the adults performed following intense practices led by Mr. and Mrs. Stegner.
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