EcoEKY: Green News from Eastern Kentucky

from WYMT News:

24 Hour Recycling Center

Reporter: Matt Barbour
Email Address: matt.barbour@wymtnews.com

The city of London and Laurel County now has a new 24 hour recycling center.

The public works director says it will save the city thousands of dollars.

People using the new recycling center in Laurel County say it's easy and convenient.

“It's just one of them things if I don't I have to pay for the garbage truck when I can bring it here on the trip to town,” Bennie Smith said.

The city of London opened the new regional recycling center Monday and the city's public works director says it's a big improvement from the county's old center.

“It can only help them, with the roadside litter and with the way they had to process it, it was labor intensive,” Steve Edge said.

Edge says in the first year alone he expects the facility to process about 3,600 tons of material that would normally be going to a landfill and that will save the city about $75,000.

Robby Blair is the center's supervisor and says everyone should make an effort to recycle.

“What happens, ten years from now? You know, there's not going to be many landfills left,” Blair said.

He says they've designed this center to be more user friendly.

The old one had dispensers that were much higher off the ground.

Just ask Zelma Rice, “Well, if you've got a bag of papers, they're heavy. They get heavy. and it's harder for older people especially, or short people to reach up and put those in there.”

She says hopefully the convenience will encourage others to make a difference in their community.

Blair says curbside recycling service could be provided within the next two years.

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from the Lexington Herald Leader:

School project generates student interest in 'green' jobs

The Associated Press


RUSSELL, Ky. -- An eastern Kentucky school is generating student interest in "green jobs" by using more alternative energy sources.

The Russell Area Technology Center plans to install six solar panels on the roof of an outbuilding next week, teacher Doug Keaton said. Students installed a wind turbine at the school a year ago.

The wind and solar systems will be wired into the school's electrical system and will supply enough power to light the technology center building, Keaton said. It is expected to cut about $6,000 per year from the district's electricity bills, Keaton said.

Although the savings is nice, Keaton said the interest generated for students in alternative energy careers is more important.

"These guys are being trained for the green jobs of the future," he said.

Senior Shawn Stephens said he was impressed by what he learned about the cleanliness and cost effectiveness of solar and wind energy.

"This has helped me choose my career path," said Stephens, who plans to attend Shawnee State University and become an environmental engineer.

Junior Jaren Bowen said he learned that alternative energy systems are practical for home applications.

"I didn't think it would work on a small scale," he said. "I thought it would have to be like the huge wind farms. But it's really cost-effective."

which are about the size of a couple of sheets of plywood

Keaton said he plans to share details of his energy science program with educators from technology centers in other Kentucky counties.

Meanwhile, he has been working with physics and science teachers at Russell High School and plans to work with math teacher Carol Stephens in the fall.

Stephens said she will teach trigonometry, which can be used to design and build wind turbines.

"I can associate the math with the practical applications," she said.

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from the Ashland Daily Independent:

Solar saving

Panels at Russell ATC will save big bucks in district

By MIKE JAMES
Published: May 21, 2008 11:03 pm

RUSSELL — All together, the six solar panels on a workbench at the Russell Area Technology Center are about as big as a couple of sheets of plywood.

But once they’re installed on the roof of an outbuilding, they’ll start saving money for the Russell School District.

Together with a wind turbine students installed a year ago, the panels are expected to cut about $6,000 per year from district electricity bills, said Doug Keaton, a teacher at the school.

The wind and solar systems will be wired into the school’s electrical system and will supply enough juice to light the ATC building, he said. In terms more familiar to homeowners, it will be enough electricity to power a 1,000-square-foot house.

The solar arrays — two sets of three panels each — should be ready to install Monday and the entire system should be up and running by Sept. 1.

Keaton’s records show that in the year since the wind turbine was installed, the breeze has blown briskly enough to generate usable electricity on 320 days.

The combined solar and wind project is generating one thing that is even more important than electricity. That is interest in alternative energy careers, Keaton believes. “These guys are being trained for the green jobs of the future,” he said.

“This has helped me choose my career path,” said senior Shawn Stephens, who plans to attend Shawnee State University and become an environmental engineer. He’s impressed by what he has learned about the cleanliness and cost effectiveness of solar and wind energy.

Also impressive, said junior Jaren Bowen, is that alternative energy systems are practical for home applications.

“I didn’t think it would work on a small scale,” he said. “I thought it would have to be like the huge wind farms. But it’s really cost-effective.”

Keaton plans to meet at Russell with educators from area technology centers in several other Kentucky counties to walk them through his energy science program. His guests will then launch similar programs in their schools.

He has been collaborating with physics and science teachers at Russell High School and this fall will also collaborate with math teacher Carol Stephens as well.

Among other things, Stephens said, she will teach trigonometry, useful in such technical applications as designing and building wind turbines.

“I can associate the math with the practical applications,” she said.

MIKE JAMES can be reached at mjames@dailyindependent.com or at (606) 326-2652.

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from the (Pikeville) Medical Leader:

EKSC to construct permanent exhibit: Governor OKs $400,000 grant for energy-themed project

By: Mary Music - mary.music@pikevillehospital.org, Staff Writer
Published: 05/16/2008

PRESTONSBURG — The Eastern Kentucky Science Center is a step closer to constructing a new interactive energy exhibit after Governor Steve Beshear recommended his approval of a $400,000 grant.

Beshear and Tony Wilder, the commissioner of the Governor’s Office for Local Development, toured the center on May 6 with students and teachers from Jackson Independent Schools. Area officials were also present, including former Governor Paul Patton and his wife, Judi.

Beshear also announced his recommendation for the approval of a $400,000 Appalachian Regional Commission grant that will fund the construction of Energy Transformations, a permanent interactive exhibit that will interest students in careers in science, technology engineering and mathematics. The Floyd County Fiscal Court has already allocated $100,000 in coal severance money for the exhibit.

In constructing the exhibit, the center hopes to decrease its dependence on expensive traveling exhibits and, promote interest in math and science. Once completed, the exhibit will be on display for half the year and then it will be stored on campus or leased to other institutions.

An advisory group consisting of center staff, teachers and volunteer patrons developed the concept for Energy Transformations. The Cincinnati Museum Center designed the initial exhibit concept in collaboration with the advisory group, the Floyd County Fiscal Court, Chesapeake Energy, Interstate Natural Gas and the Toyota Motor Manufacturing Corporation.

The exhibit pieces are workstations that explore aspects of different types of energy. Students who see the exhibit will learn what energy is, where it comes from, how it moves through systems, where energy is found, how it impacts the environment, were new energy sources can be located in the future and how to wisely use energy resources.

The East Kentucky Science Center draws in students from surrounding Kentucky counties and other states, he said. Each year, more than 10,000 people from over 22 Kentucky counties and 16 states visit the center.

The center opened in 1998 as a reaction to low student test scores in math and science, Beshear said.

“With the addition of a permanent Energy Transformations exhibit to the East Kentucky Science Center, we see the alignment of three key issues critical to Kentucky’s future,” he said. “First, improving the math and science skills of our children. Second, promoting the public’s understanding of energy production, supply, conservation and use. And finally, drawing additional tourism to this region.”

Appalachian Regional Commission grant applications are submitted to the Governor’s Office of Local Development for review. The grants can not be awarded without a recommendation from the governor. No project activity can begin until the ARC gives final federal approval.

During the Governor’s visit to the science center last week, the Pikeville Rotary Club donated $5,000 to the center’s student access program. Dr. Seema Sachdeva, president of the Pikeville Rotary Club, said her daughters visit the center and come home “beaming” about what they learned.

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from the Richmond Register:

Saving the river

Students working to help preserve Kentucky River

Ronica Shannon
Register News Writer
Published: May 12, 2008 08:25 am

The final exam for several Eastern Kentucky University students is more about just getting a good grade.

For a group of eight students under the leadership of professor Alan Banks, director of the EKU Center for Appalachian Studies, their final exam could result in saving the Kentucky River.

Students Ivy Brashear, Christopher Mullikin, Kelley Davidson, Ashley Evans, Ashley Hallis, Warren Oliver, Jeremy Roberts and Gary Underwood have worked to compile survey questions that are being distributed to elected officials representing the 41 counties located along the Kentucky River watershed.

The students met Wednesday at The Waterfront restaurant to discuss their initiative with local elected officials.

The Center for Appalachian Studies partnered with the Kentucky Riverkeepers to do a survey to get an idea of what is important to local elected representatives.

The surveys are a part of the project’s first phase which eventually will include a filmed documentary about the importance of saving the Kentucky River. It will be a two-year process, said Kentucky Riverkeepers and Berea artist Pat Banks.

“It’s going to be a great process,” said Kentucky Riverkeepers Pat Banks. “We hope to use these surveys to write grants, to bring resources to our region to make things happen.”

The 45-question survey asks officials what they consider important and relevant to their respective communities. Categories include community assets, problem areas in their communities and what they think about several issues related to the use, marketing and preservation of the Kentucky River.

The experience of compiling questions for the survey was a learning experience in itself for Brashear.

“It was a team effort,” she said. “I learned a lot about activism and how you get things done in an organized fashion. We also learned how to get results and how to reach the goal that you’re working toward in a civil manner.”

Richmond Mayor Connie Lawson expressed her love and appreciation for the Kentucky River at Wednesday’s meeting, but also said she was aware of its deterioration.

“The river, as we have known it, is gone,” Lawson said. “It breaks my heart.”

Rules and regulations have been put in place that many ignore, according to Pat Banks.

“There are laws in place for clean water, but we can’t swim in our river or eat our fish,” she said.

The Kentucky River was a large part of Mullikin’s childhood, but he has seen the decline in the community’s interest in the river, he said.

“The (Kentucky) river needs more publicity,” he said. “When was the last time you saw a commercial for the Kentucky River? I think we need to change people’s opinion about the river.”

The main goal of the EKU/Kentucky Riverkeepers relationship is to identify ways to find resources that can help increase community awareness about the needs of the Kentucky River and create a vision for the river’s future, Banks said.

The Kentucky Riverkeepers is a non-profit organization and is sponsored by the EKU Center for Appalachian Studies.

Send an e-mail to kyriverkeeper@eku.edu or call 622-1622 for more information about the project or the Kentucky Riverkeepers organization.

Ronica Shannon can be reached at rshannon@richmondregister.com or 623-1669, Ext. 234.

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from the Mountain Association for Community Economic Development (MACED) website:

MACED Launches Energy Efficient Enterprises Project

May 8, 2008

Berea, Ky — The Mountain Association for Community Economic Development announced recently the launch of Energy Efficient Enterprises (E3) to enhance the financial strength of businesses and organizations and to benefit the natural environment. The program helps enterprises realize cost savings through the use of energy efficient equipment and systems or through renewable energy sources.

With rising energy prices, many companies are paying more for natural gas, propane and electricity. These vital inputs are cutting into profit margins and weakening the ability of businesses to invest in their futures.

In addition, growing awareness of the effects of carbon dioxide on climate change has spurred many people to seek ways to reduce emissions through greater energy efficiency and the adoption of other energy sources such as wind, solar and low impact hydro-electric power.

In response, MACED developed the E3 program. It begins with an on-site energy assessment, followed by recommendations for change and assistance with identifying and choosing an independent installation company. MACED provides financing for identified improvements at low rates and flexible terms for each enterprise.

According to Joshua Bills, MACED’s energy specialist, “Businesses and organizations that seek to be successful financially and which are careful to protect the natural world around them are the cornerstone of a vibrant Appalachia. By investing in energy efficiency, enterprises can be more profitable, improve working conditions and reduce negative effects on the environment. With the money saved from energy efficiency measures, enterprises may then choose to invest in renewable energy sources, further reducing their environmental impact.”

MACED is a 31-year-old nonprofit organization that works in eastern Kentucky and Central Appalachia to create economic opportunity, strengthen democracy and support the sustainable use of natural resources. To find out more about MACED’s E3 project, visit www.maced.org or contact MACED’s energy specialist, Joshua Bills, at 859-986-2373 or jbills@maced.org.

The Kentucky Solar Energy Guide

The Second Edition of The Kentucky Solar Energy Guide is now available through ASPI Publications. The Kentucky Solar Energy Guide is a comprehensive resource for those interested in using solar energy in Kentucky. The Second Edition contains updated chapters on financial incentives, renewable energy and green building professionals in Kentucky, a new case study, and an updated cover!

The Kentucky Solar Energy Guide can be purchased from ASPI Publications for $13.95 plus shipping and handling. Due to our commitment to the environment, the Guide is printed on high-quality, 100% post-consumer, process-chlorine free recycled paper.

Appalachia - Science in the Public Interest
50 Lair Street
Mount Vernon, KY 40456
Phone (606)256-0077 (9am-4pm EST)

Shipping and Handling:

1-5 copies......$4.00
6-10 copies....$6.00
11+copies......please call for rates.

For more information (including excerpts from the Guide) visit the Kentucky Solar Partnership website.

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from the Kentucky Solar Partnership website:

Low-Interest Loans for Solar Water Heaters

The Kentucky Solar Partnership (KSP) and the Mountain Association for Community Economic Development (MACED) are partnering to offer low interest loans for the installation of solar water heaters. Loans cover the full equipment and installation cost. Interest rates are fixed at 6.0%. All loans are to be repaid in monthly installments, with a fixed term of six years.

Who can apply?

Residents and businesses in Eastern Kentucky are eligible to apply. A credit check is required before final loan approval. Click here to see a map and list of the 51 counties in MACED’s service area.

What does a solar water heater cost?

Installing a residential solar water heater in Kentucky will typically cost $3,000 to $6,500 and will save a family about $150 to $400 or more per year on their utility bills. The price range for installing a system depends on the amount of hot water used each day, whether a new water storage tank is required, the size of the home, whether the system is installed by the homeowner or a professional contractor, and other factors.

To learn more about this low-interest loan program, visit KSP's website. Click here.

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Press Release from the KY Division of Waste Management:

Recycling organization will meet in June

Press Release Date: Wednesday, May 07, 2008
Contact Information: Fred Kirchhoff, 502-564-6716


FRANKFORT Ky. (May 7, 2008) – The Kentucky Recycling Interest Group (KRIG) will meet June 17 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Eastern Kentucky University campus in Richmond. The meeting is open to members and others interested in recycling in Kentucky.

The statewide networking organization membership includes key players in the recycling industry – collectors, processors, brokers and manufacturers who are end-users of recycled materials. An organization meeting was held earlier this year under sponsorship of the Kentucky Department for Environmental Protection’s Division of Waste Management and the Kentucky Pollution Prevention Center (KPPC).

Attendees will have a chance to review draft mission and vision statements written by a steering committee from information developed at the initial meeting:

Mission Statement – “The Kentucky Recycling Interest Group promotes ‘zero waste’ through resource conservation, increased recycling, and waste reduction.”

Vision Statement – “The Kentucky Recycling Interest Group (KRIG) will identify and recommend practices to develop sustainable and economically viable recycling and waste reduction policy. The primary goal of this initiative is ‘net zero’ waste output for the Commonwealth of Kentucky. This will be achieved through the examination, demonstration, and implementation of conservation, resource recovery, and waste reduction practices. KRIG will promote economically viable, safe, energy-conserving, sustainable recycling and waste management practices through public/private partnerships.”

To register for the June 17 meeting, go to the KPPC Web site -- www.kppc.org -- and look for KRIG under Upcoming Events. The registration page has a map and directions, and an agenda will be posted later.

For more information about KRIG, contact Fred Kirchhoff or Dara Carlisle at the Division of Waste Management, 502-564-6716. Their e-mail addresses are Fred.Kirchhoff@ky.gov and Dara.Carlisle@ky.gov

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from the Corbin Times Tribune:

Cumberland Falls Clean-up is May 17

Special to the Times-Tribune

Published: May 12, 2008 09:05 am

Cumberland Falls State Resort Park is looking for volunteers to help clean up around one of Kentucky’s most scenic areas on Saturday, May 17.

Spring floods bring large amounts of trash down the Cumberland River and that garbage collects around Cumberland Falls. The park is asking volunteers to wear boots and bring work gloves to help clean up this area.

Registration will be at 9 a.m. at the gift shop near the falls. Trash bags will be distributed and areas will be designated for volunteer work. All participants will be able to take part in a cookout at noon. All volunteers will get a free T-shirt at 1 p.m.

For more information, contact Bret Smitley at 1-800-325-0063 or at bret.smitley@ky.gov

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from the Harlan Daily Enterprise:

Guided hike through Blanton Forest set

By JOEY WILLIAMS
Staff Writer
Published: Saturday, May 10, 2008 12:54 AM CDT

The beauty of Blanton Forest will be on full display May 24 as the Kentucky Natural Lands Trust (KNLT) will host a guided hike through the forest.

Hikers will be able to enjoy the strenuous trails of Knobby Rock and Sand Cave Loops. It is recommended that anyone looking to hike the trails should be in good physical condition and also bring a lunch and plenty of water.

The hike is scheduled to last for several hours. Merrill Flanary, KNLT Forest Steward, will be the guide. Donna Alexander, program manager for KNLT, says the hike draws a lot of attention from people all over Kentucky.

“A lot of people don’t realize the beautiful scenery that we have here in our state. Once people have the chance to get out here and see how beautiful nature can be, they’re really impressed, “Alexander said. “We have people hike from southeastern Kentucky, Frankfort and also Louisville. Over the years, people from those areas have shown great interest in the hike.”

*
Alexander also pointed out that this year’s hike will make history as a family from Washington, D.C., will come to Harlan to go on the hike. She says that’s a great example of growing interest in Blanton Forest.

“I think that really shows how interested people really are in the forest. When you see people coming from that far away just to visit this forest, you know interest level is high. This is a really exciting thing for people to see, so, hopefully, we can continue to draw great interest. This is a way that people can see things that the early settlers probably saw hundreds of years ago. So it really is an exciting and unique thing to do.”

Blanton Forest is the largest known old-growth forest in Kentucky. It is home to several distinct natural communities, including the mixed mesophytic forest. This forest normally includes a large variety of canopy trees such as sugar, maple, beech, tulip, poplar and several other species of oak and magnolia trees.

KNLT is a nonprofit organization celebrating 13 years of working to preserve Kentucky’s diminishing natural places. Since 1995, KNLT’s activities have been focused on the protection and preservation of Blanton Forest. For more information about KNLT, visit KNLT.org.

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One more eco-conscious perspective in eastern Kentucky.

Today's Breathitt County Voice contains an interesting opinion piece by Andy Mitchell on "greenwashing." In it, he states:

I completely agree with being environmentally friendly. I believe that we have a responsibility to not only ourselves and the planet that provides for us everything we need to survive, but to the coming generations of people that will be affected by our actions forever. It makes perfect sense to conserve the resources we have, search for alternative, renewable, and less polluting forms of energy, and to be aware of our impact upon the Earth. I came across an ad for a powerful energy company recently. It stated that they were finding alternative fuels, creating less of an impact upon the Earth, and “going green”. On the surface, this looks great. Then I thought, “Why would they all of a sudden care so much about the environment?” It seems to me that if they were truly interested in the health of the planet and its peoples, they would have been doing this from the very start. I know, as companies, their main goal is to make a profit. I understand this. However, if being environmentally friendly is so expensive, why would they ever do it, unless it’s just a scheme to get people to buy their products or to improve their image as a “green” company? And if it is not hurting them financially and is cheap to go “green”, why haven’t they done it since the start? It seems to me that all these companies are jumping on the bandwagon of public fear and feeling over global warming.

Click here to read the whole piece.

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from the Pikeville Appalachian News Express:

Be air quality aware

May. 4, 2008

The Kentucky Division for Air Quality works hard every day to help ensure clean air for all Kentuckians — inspecting air pollution sources, responding to complaints from citizens, and maintaining a statewide monitoring network. But individuals also have a role to play in keeping our air clean. Every time you use energy — whether burning wood, gasoline, diesel, or electricity — you are contributing to air pollution in your community and those downwind of you.

Ozone and particle-forming pollutants come from a number of sources. Mobile sources like cars and trucks account for over 25 percent of air pollution in the United States. In Kentucky, power plants, industry and open burning are the largest sources of pollution. Illegal backyard burning is estimated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to be the largest non-point source of dioxin pollution in the United States. Dioxin is a toxic air pollutant that has been associated with cancer, birth defects and nervous system damage, and is released when anything containing chlorine, like plastic, is burned. Natural sources like wildfires also contribute to particle pollution.

Saving energy helps your pocketbook as well as your lungs. Here are a few tips to help you get started:

* The Division for Air Quality will be giving away energy-efficient compact fluorescent light bulbs at the Governor’s Derby Breakfast in Frankfort on May 3; come by to get yours.

* Purchase ENERGY STAR- rated products, from light bulbs and appliances to home entertainment systems.

* Conserve electricity and set your air conditioner at a higher temperature.

* Keep your vehicle maintained and your tires properly inflated.

* Mow your lawn and refuel your vehicle during cooler morning and evening hours.

* Combine errands and reduce car trips whenever possible.

* Avoid burning trash, which is illegal and highly polluting.

National Air Quality Week, April 28 - May 2, 2008, creates an opportunity for Kentuckians to “Be Air Aware.” Information on air quality is available at the division Web site, www.air.ky.gov.

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from the Ashland Daily Independent:

Buses to connect Tri-State

Published: May 04, 2008 11:25 pm

Two routes to service Lawrence

By CARRIE KIRSCHNER - The Independent

ASHLAND — For the first time in almost three decades the Tri-State will be linked by bus service.

Beginning July 1, the Tri-State Transit Authority, under contract with the Ironton-Lawrence County Community Action Organization, will begin running continuous bus service from Lawrence County to Huntington and Ashland.

There will be two fixed routes serving Lawrence County, according to Mike Payne, director of public transportation within the Lawrence County Port Authority. The port authority was the designee of the state and federal grants funding the service and is working with the CAO and TTA to provide the service.

The first fixed route will run from Proctorville to Ironton along the river with destination stops in Huntington including Marshall University, St. Mary’s Medical Center and Pullman Square and the TTA bus center at 13th Street and Fourth Avenue. It will also make stops at the Wal-Mart and Sam’s in Burlington and at Ohio University-Southern and the Ironton Hills Plaza. That route will run continuously from east to west all day long, Payne said.

The second fixed route will serve the city of Ironton and will go to Our Lady of Bellefonte Hospital in Russell, the Ashland Wal-Mart, Ashland Town Center and King’s Daughters Medical Center, along with the Ashland Bus Depot. That route will run four times a day.

Buses will run from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. weekdays. Initial fares are expected to be 75 cents but Payne said it may increase based on fuel prices that could increase even before buses begin running July 1.

Five buses have been purchased using federal funds, Payne said. Three will carry up to 20 passengers and the remaining two up to 30 passengers. All are handicap and wheelchair accessible.

Mike Rogers, superintendent of Ashland’s Bus System, said the addition will be an asset to both Ohio and Kentucky residents.

Payne said the routes will “connect the Tri-State.” Ohio riders will get to destinations in Ashland and Huntington, while riders from those areas will also be able to get to Ironton and Ohio destinations, although the routes will not be direct, he said.

Payne said there is a possibility that some express runs to major employers and area colleges could be added in the future. “We want to establish the basic fixed service now and grow from that,” he said.

CARRIE KIRSCHNER can be reached at ckirschner@dailyindependent.com or (606) 326-2653.

From the Breathitt County Voice:

35th year for Conservation Awards banquet big hit for first-timers

By Jeff Noble

Voice Editor

Since its inception back in 1974, hundreds of families have come to the annual Awards Banquet held by the Breathitt County Conservation District (BCCD).

Their children are rewarded for the essays they write, and the pictures they draw, which honor the works in land conservation and preserving wildlife.

Their parents are also honored for their work in farming and environmental quality, along with beautifying their homes and property.

But the best part of all? It’s watching those students who come to the event for the very first time.

And win.

Last Friday’s edition of the awards banquet - the 35th Annual one - was no exception.

For Tabitha Roark, her first time in the contest landed her a First Place prize in the 3rd Grade Art Contest. And she was totally excited about her drawing. “It was about nature and what’s in the forest. There were grizzly bears, eagles, robins, ducks and elk in the picture!” said Tabitha, an eight-year-old student at Marie Roberts-Caney. Along with her mom Wendy, the two were dressed “pretty in pink”, as they discussed the evening ahead. “It’s my first time here, and I’m looking forward to winning. And some good food.”

The theme this year for the contest was about wildlife. “Kentucky’s Backyard - Where Life Is Wild”, to be exact. Tabitha and Wendy were among some 280 persons who came to the Breathitt High School Cafeteria to enjoy the awards, to eat fried chicken and ham, and to see if they had the lucky ticket to win them a door prize later that evening.

But there was one first-time winner who already has bright plans for the future. And he loved to let people know about those plans. Dressed for success with a dark blue shirt and tie, ten-year-old Austin Hudson was a hit with everyone he talked to. “I want to be a famous artist in Breathitt County. I want to make cartoons. And my role model is Whistler, who did a painting.”(artist James Whistler, who painted the classic “Whistler’s Mother” back in the 1870’s). The 4th Grader at LBJ had won 1st Place in his school’s Art Contest, and after introducing everyone in his family who were at his table, got up and showed visitors his winning picture. There, on a post in the cafeteria, was his drawing, which featured a ferret, a black bear in hiding, and a scarecrow with some crows hanging on its arms. “I patterned this scarecrow after the one in “The Wizard Of Oz”, Austin proudly exclaimed. On the picture he also wrote, “We must feed the animals. Whatever food they like”. Walking back to his table with Sherry Mullins of the Natural Resource Conservation Services (NRCS), an pumped-up Austin was ready to start the festivities. “This is awesome. I’m looking forward to getting that award, and watching everyone get lots and lots of awards. And I get a ten-dollar prize, too!”

Over a thousand students in four school districts entered this competition. And when the key awards were given out, the winners were Travis Arrowood, of Jackson City School, who was the County Winner of the Art Contest. His winning entry, “Ky’s Backyard, Where Life is WILD” was featured on the programs given out to the audience, as well as on a big video screen, and on a billboard on Route 15 in Jackson. Rousseau Elementary student Jackie Howard was the County Runner-Up in the Art Contest.

For the Writing Contest, another Jackson City School student - Alexandria Herald - took the top prize, as she read her essay about wildlife conservation and keeping our environment free of garbage and litter. Breathitt High School student Brayton Fugate was the County Runner-Up in the Writing Contest.

In addition, scholarships were awarded to two students - Faith Stewart of Breathitt High, and Randi Barnett of Jackson City. Then, awards and prizes were given out to scores of students from the schools that participated, beginning with Highland-Turner, continuing with Jackson City, LBJ, Marie Roberts-Caney, Mount Carmel, Riverside Christian, Rousseau, SMS, and ending with Breathitt High.

Carrie Banks liked being one of the winners from her school. “I wrote about deer and wildlife, and what we can do to help them have a happy balance with nature,” said the Sophomore at Riverside, who was the Overall School Winner in the Writing Contest. While waiting in line to get a bite to eat, Carrie continued. “Like several students here, this is also my first time at this awards banquet, and I think it’s pretty cool.”

“We’ve got around ten participating this year, which is a little bit down from last year,” noted Lawrence Monroe, a science teacher at Riverside. Later in the ceremony, Monroe himself would be honored, as he received one of the Outstanding Assistance Awards for conservation work with his school. Ogelle Parks was given the “Conservation and Beautification Around the Home Contest” Award for her work on her farm that began the same time as the banquet began - 35 years ago.

This year’s “Outstanding Breathitt Countian” Award was given to Roy Spencer. Involved in youth, agricultural development, water conservation and recreation for 55 years of his life, Spencer told the Voice afterwards, “There’s more who deserve this award, but I’ll just say, ‘How sweet it is.” I feel pretty good getting it.”

But even the drawings of birds, critters and grizzly bears growling had to take a backseat to the stomachs growling of those getting their awards for the first time. Before they got in line to eat, nine-year-old Krista Back quickly described her drawing. “I drew a squirrel on the tree. I had blue skies, and lots of land,” said the Second Grader at LBJ who won 2nd Place in her school’s Art Contest. Sitting with her sister Haley and her Grandma, Nadine Back, Krista painted a colorful picture of her artwork on paper, of the picture of it in her mind, and of the awards banquet itself.

“I like the whole thing.”

From the London Sentinel Echo:

Memorial, family trees bring much-needed Releaf

By Tara Kaprowy
Staff Writer
Published: April 29, 2008 10:22 pm

Skip Little has his own green space in London now. On Wednesday, Little’s family members, friends and members of the new Releaf London committee gathered at A.R. Dyche Cemetery to plant a yellow wood tree in honor of the former attorney, who died 10 years ago.

Getting more leaves growing in a meaningful way in Laurel County is the goal of the new committee, a subset of the London Downtown organization. Ultimately, they want to expand London’s urban forests.

People can donate $150 to the committee and get a tree planted in memory of a loved one or even as a family tree.

The tree — which will be hand-selected according to the habitat where it will be planted — will be marked with a permanent hang tag.

“The plaque will identify the tree and the name of the family,” committee member Chris Robinson said.

The donation will pay for the cost of the tree, the cost to plant it and guarantees the tree’s survival.

The idea for the committee was spawned thanks to feedback given to London Downtown by America in Bloom, a nationwide beautification program that judged the city last year.

“Urban forestry and environmental awareness were our two lowest scores,” Robinson said. “Releaf London is a way of developing an urban forestry plan.”

Robinson said committee members are in the process of assembling a recommended tree list.

“We want to make sure the trees are in a proper location for the growing conditions they need and the space they need,” Robinson said.

Robinson expects trees like yellow wood, kousa dogwood, pin oak and flowering cherries to be on the list.

“These are good, easy to love trees,” Robinson said.

Staff writer Tara Kaprowy can be reached by e-mail at tkaprowy@sentinel-echo.com.

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from the Middlesboro Daily News:

Looks like a Yellow Jacket, but doesn’t sting at the pump

Published: Wednesday, April 30, 2008 12:12 PM CDT

Smart Car gets 36 MPG in the city, 40 on the highway

By Andrea Schneider/Staff Writer



Photo: Lynn Jones’ chose yellow for the color of her Smart car because yellow says “caution I’m here don’t hit me,” but mostly because yellow and black are the school colors of the Middlesboro Jackets. (ANDREA SCHNEIDER)

MIDDLESBORO— It is very likely that several people who have been driving through Middlesboro over the past month have seen a little yellow flash pass them by on the roads.

Most drivers do a double-take in order to see exactly what that little yellow flash is. With a second look, drivers notice the tiny car.

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This tiny car is Middlesboro’s first Smart Car. Lynn Jones, owner of the car, says it gets “a lot of looks, stares and questions.”

The Smart Car, by Daimler AG, was designed as a compact fuel efficient car. It has a one liter, 71 horse power, three cylinder engine and travels at a maximum speed of 90 miles per hour. The nine feet long car is a two seater and can be driven in either manual or automatic. However, the best feature has to be the 36 miles per gallon the car gets in the city. It gets 40 plus miles per gallon on the highway and only has an eight gallon tank.

“I followed the car for six years,” said Jones who found the car online. “It has been very popular in Europe, and in January of 2008 it was released in the United States.”

Once Jones found out it was going to be released in the U.S. she knew she had to have one. She reserved her custom made car— in Middlesboro Yellow Jackets yellow— a year in advance.

“In April of 2007, I paid $99 and reserved my car online at the Smart Car website,” said Jones. Then on April 2, 2008 she traveled to a Mercedes dealer in Knoxville, Tenn. to pick up her car.

“I wanted the car because it was small and fuel efficient and I knew the gas prices were not going to go down, even a year ago.”

Jones was driving a Chevrolet Trail Blazer at the time and said she felt she did not need a big car just to drive around town.

By driving the Smart Car, Jones has saved quite a bit of money. Jones says she fills up the eight gallon tank every two and a half weeks and even though the car runs on premium gasoline she still only spends around $27 per fill up. She said that in her Trail Blazer she would spend around $60 per tank of gas.

“I get a lot of questions about the car,” said Jones. “I feel like I am an ambassador of the car. So maybe with mine there will be more people aware of it.”

The car comes with every modern comfort feature including heated leather seats, a six CD sound system and a sun roof. For more information on the Smart car visit www.smartusa.com.

Andrea Schneider is a Staff Writer for the Middlesboro Daily News. She can be contacted via e-mail at aschneider@middlesborodailynews.com

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from the Corbin Times Tribune:

Farmer's Market opens Saturday

Published: May 01, 2008 11:46 am

Spring has sprung and Laurel County farmer’s are kicking off another growing season this weekend.

The farmer’s market located in downtown London will open for the season Saturday at 7 a.m. The market is located on the corner of Dixie and Main streets, across from the London Community Center.

The London-Laurel County Farmers Market is proud to promote local farmers and the products they produce. Selections range from fruits and vegetables to jams and jellies and live plants.

The London-Laurel County Farmer’s Market is open at 10 a.m. to sell-out Tuesdays and Thursdays and at 7 a.m. to sell-out Saturdays through October.

For more information call (606) 864-4167.

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from the Harlan Daily Enterprise:

Local students honored at soil conservation banquet

By JOEY WILLIAMS
Staff Writer

Published:Wednesday, April 30, 2008 2:05 AM CDT

Students throughout Harlan County were recognized Tuesday by the Harlan County Conservation District for their efforts in an essay and poster contest. Nearly 200 Harlan Countians gathered for the Soil Stewardship and Awards Banquet at the Harlan Baptist Church.

This year’s contest featured 620 participants. In all, 28 winners were honored during the banquet.

David Howard, chairman of the Harlan County Conservation District, said the event is a positive experience for local students.

“This event gives students an opportunity to be recognized for a job well done. That is something that is a great initiative for children because they’re getting credit for working hard and doing an important thing,” said Howard. “This also gives us as board members a great opportunity to show off soil stewardship week. I think this really gives us a great spotlight to showcase what we are all about.”

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The theme of this year’s contest was “Kentucky Wildlife,” an appropriate title considering how much wildlife in southeastern Kentucky has been discussed over the past few years, as well as the arrival of the Hemlock Wooly Adelgid — a bug that surfaced in southeastern Kentucky several years ago and has recently infested over 200 hemlock trees in Camp Blanton alone.

During the banquet, the HCCD provided a $3,000 grant designed to treat the infected trees of Camp Blanton with an insecticide. Howard says the money should go a long way to help combat the threat to hemlock trees.

“This money will be used solely to deal with this growing problem. This is a bug that has caused a lot of problems to a very important tree. Hopefully, this money will go a long way in solving the problems these bugs have caused,” Howard said.

Also presented during the banquet was the J. Clark Metcalfe Memorial Scholarship. The scholarship is for $1,000 and is named in the honor of Jerry Metcalfe, who served on the HCDD board of supervisors for many years until his passing in 2002. This year the scholarship was presented to Derek White.

White is a senior at Evarts High School and maintains a 3.975 grade point average. He plans to begin his college studies at Southeast Community College where he will pursue a degree in science and biology.

James Lacy was the guest speaker during the banquet. Lacy, who is the chairman of the stewardship committee and is the executive board member for the Southeast Region of the National Association of Conservation Districts, emphasized the importance of young people.

“The future depends on children getting active. Years from now it’s gonna be the children who are gonna run the conservation district. So getting the youth involved and educated is the key to our future,” said Lacy. “Education is without a doubt what needs to be stressed.”

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